Summary
Central Queensland Health was proud to host a community session at Biloela Hospital this week, bringing together healthcare leaders, project teams, and local residents to share progress and future plans for the reintroduction of birthing services in the region.
Around 50 community members attended the session, including local mothers, families, and stakeholders, eager to hear updates and ask questions about the path forward.
Chief Executive Lisa Blackler was thrilled to introduce Clinical Midwifery Consultant Diane Tamariki who has been engaged to lead the next phase of planning. With more than 27 years of experience as a midwife, Diane brings deep expertise and a strong commitment to culturally safe, community-led care.
“Diane is the perfect person to lead this important project as we navigate the return to this vital service for the Biloela community. She will continue to meet with key stakeholders and ensure community members remain informed.”
The session included open discussion and a question-and-answer session, with feedback from attendees helping to shape the development of a safe and sustainable model of care.
Ms Blackler found it extremely valuable to hear from community members ahead of the development of a suitable model of care that will enable a safe and sustainable maternity service for the community.
“We are listening to feedback before developing options for an appropriate model of care that we will have in place before we reintroduce birthing.
“Central Queensland Health remains absolutely committed to reintroducing birthing in Biloela, and we believe this will happen by mid-2026, depending on the recruitment of suitably qualified staff.”
Ms Blackler emphasised that any future model will include clear escalation pathways to ensure the safest possible care for women and babies.
“We want to establish a sustainable service that meets the needs of consumers and ultimately a service that is safe for our community.
“In the meantime, our dedicated team of midwives continues to provide antenatal and postnatal care at Biloela Hospital, ensuring continuity of care for local families.”
Community members interested in staying up to date with the project are encouraged to visit the Central Queensland Health website or email BiloelaMaternityProject@health.qld.gov.au