At the heart of the Sunshine Coast University Hospital, the Birawan Midwifery Group Practice Team stands as a beacon of dedicated care and cultural connection for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander families.
Led by passionate clinicians like Clinical Midwife Genevieve, known as Gen, this team provides a deeply personal and supportive service for families throughout their pregnancy, birth, and postnatal journeys.
“We provide care throughout their entire pregnancy, through the birth, and for a couple of weeks after they have their baby,” Gen explains.
Each family is assigned a dedicated midwife who becomes their constant guide throughout the experience.
Alongside this, the involvement of Aboriginal health workers ensures cultural support and understanding are seamlessly integrated into the care process.
“You always have someone familiar, someone you’re comfortable with and can trust during appointments, ultrasounds, or any interactions at the hospital,” Gen shares.
This approach creates a safe and comforting environment, empowering families to feel confident and supported every step of the way.
The relationships formed within Birawan often go beyond a single birth.
“We’ve been very fortunate to have women come back to us for their second or third baby.
“It’s so special to see the family again, to see their little ones grow and know we've been a part of their story.”
These ongoing connections highlight the trust and love that families feel within the Birawan program.
Wishlist has played a vital role in enhancing the services offered by the Birawan team through the generous donations they receive.
“Over the years, the donations from Wishlist have allowed us to provide care in the community setting with some of the equipment we’ve received,” Gen shares.
One particular initiative close to her heart is the creation of custom wraps featuring the stunning design of their cultural shirts.
“These gorgeous wraps, which we’re able to gift to our families, are so meaningful.
"They always felt really special receiving that gift from us at the end of their journey.”
Gen also acknowledges how community contributions foster greater connections between the program and the families they support.
“Your donations have allowed us to provide an even more special service for our families – it’s made such a difference,” she emphasizes.
Gen and her team express their heartfelt gratitude to everyone who has contributed to this vision.
By supporting Wishlist, you’re not just giving to a program – you’re helping create a legacy of care, connection, and belonging for families across our community.
Watch Gen explain how the Birawan Midwifery Group Practice Team works
