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Stanthorpe Hospital has celebrated a significant local milestone, with three babies born within hours of each other in one day, highlighting the strength of its Midwifery Group Practice and regional maternity services.
Stanthorpe Hospital welcomes between 80 and 100 babies each year, making the arrival of three newborns in one day a rare occurrence for the community.
Darling Downs Health Medical Superintendent, Dr Claire Walter said the milestone highlighted both the capability of the local maternity service and the confidence regional families place in giving birth close to home.
“For a small rural hospital like Stanthorpe, three births in one day is incredibly special and a reflection that families feel safe having their babies here,”
Darling Downs Health Medical Superintendent, Dr Claire Walter
“Our Midwifery Group Practice is built on continuity and teamwork, and days like this show how adaptable and committed our staff are to ensuring every woman has a safe and positive birthing experience.”
Two of the babies were born to close friends, Ella McEvoy and Sarah Dimitrios, who shared their pregnancy journeys and, ultimately, the same unforgettable birth day.
Second-time mum Ms McEvoy said giving birth on the same day as her long time friend, in a small community hospital, made the experience even more meaningful.
“It was still very surprising when it actually happened, and knowing our babies will grow up together here in Stanthorpe, and share that story, is really special.”
Ms McEvoy praised the Midwifery Group Practice for the support she received throughout her pregnancy and birth.
“I fully trusted the midwifery team and felt incredibly supported every step of the way. That makes such a difference, especially in those big moments.”
Fellow mum Sarah Dimitrios, a registered nurse and Stanthorpe local who was herself born at Stanthorpe Hospital, described the milestone as surreal.
“For a small hospital where there isn’t even a baby born every day, having three in one day is pretty special,” Ms Dimitrios said.
“The continuity of care through the Midwifery Group Practice is incredible. Knowing your midwife, having that trust and relationship, and then being supported at home afterwards is so reassuring for families in regional areas.”
First time mum Gabrielle Edwards, who welcomed the third baby on the historic day, said the care she received helped her through the birthing journey.
“The Stanthorpe team was amazing and incredibly kind throughout my pregnancy, birth and afterwards,” Ms Edwards said.
“Having that ongoing support, including home visits, made such a difference, especially as a first time mum.”
Dr Walter said milestones like this reinforce the value of maintaining strong maternity services in Stanthorpe.
“This milestone shows what’s possible when you have dedicated staff, strong models of care and a community that believes in its local hospital,” she said.
“We’re incredibly proud of our team and honoured that families choose to welcome their babies here in Stanthorpe.”