Lylah makes history as first baby born in new hospital

For Isabelle Lugg, the birth of her daughter Lylah marked a joyful family moment and a historic one for the Central Goldfields community.

Baby Lylah is the first baby born at the new Maryborough and District Hospital, marking the beginning of new chapter in local maternity care for women and families.

“I was really hoping I’d be the first one in the hospital. It’s a really nice thing to look back on — knowing she was the first one born there,” said Isabelle.

Isabelle and partner Jack Broad are now proud parents of two, with Lylah joining big brother Arden, who was born in the old Maryborough Hospital, just like his mum.

Having grown up in Maryborough, the decision to give birth locally was easy for Isabelle.

Lylah arrived quickly after going a week past her due date. Just two hours after Isabelle called her midwife to let her know she was on her way.

“Everything went smoothly. The birthing suite was just really calm and spacious. It was just a nice, quiet room to be in and to welcome a baby,” she said.

Isabelle has been supported throughout both pregnancies by the Midwifery Group Practice (MGP) at Maryborough District Health Service (MDHS).

The service connects local women with a known midwife during pregnancy, birth and beyond.

“I’ve had the same primary midwife through both of my pregnancies. Even though she wasn’t on shift for the births, the care has always been consistent,” said Isabelle.

For Lylah’s birth, trusted MGP midwives Kylie and Penny were by her side, offering gentle guidance and support.

“Kylie pretty much just let me take control of everything. She was just there to catch her. The midwives were just always checking in while giving us space to become a family of four,” she said.

The continuity of care extended beyond the birth room, during Isabelle’s overnight stay after Arden’s birth, during a short day stay with Lylah, as well as home visits.

Kylie visited the family a few days later to weigh baby Lylah and complete a routine heel prick test — returning again on Mother’s Day for a follow-up visit.

The MDHS Midwifery Group Practice is built on a continuity of care model. This means women are supported by the same midwife, or small team, from early pregnancy through to postnatal care at home.

This approach builds trust, supports informed decision-making and is known to improve outcomes for mothers and babies.

At MDHS, the maternity team includes experienced midwives, GP obstetricians and a network of healthcare professionals working together to ensure every woman receives safe, personalised and supportive care.

MDHS MGP Midwife Kylie Cole reflected on the significance of Lylah’s birth.

“I feel very privileged be part of the first birth in our new hospital. It’s been such a lovely and exciting time, and I’m proud that we’ve created a beautiful, calming space for women to birth and recover,” said Kylie.

“As an MGP midwife, I love being able to meet and walk alongside women and families throughout their journey – from pregnancy to after birth. No matter where or how they birth, I just hope their experience is a positive one.”

For Isabelle and Jack, having their children born locally, with the support of familiar midwives and family nearby, has been a reassuring and positive experience.

Now settling in at home, Isabelle is embracing life as a family of four.

“I’m just getting used to being a family of four and soaking it all in.”

Thank you for sharing your story Isabelle. Baby Lylah’s arrival marks a happy beginning for one Maryborough family, and a meaningful milestone in the story of local healthcare.

The first of many new beginnings to come in the new hospital.

To find out more visit maternity services.