A new program tailored to supporting First Nations women and their families from conception to childbirth has welcomed nine beautiful babies.
Jaghu Midwifery Group Practice, which was launched in January, delivers culturally safe, respectful care for First Nations families on Jagera, Yuggera and Ugarapul Country.
Identified Midwife and Wiradjuri woman Casey Morgan feels privileged to be welcomed into the lives of women and their families.
“It’s an absolute honour to support women at such intimate times in their lives,” she said.
“I’m from Wiradjuri country in central New South Wales, and I like to be able to provide care to mob.”
Before, during and after giving birth, the same midwife will support the mother and child’s journey to deliver care that involves the whole family.
The team expect to support more than 80 women each year.
For mum, Chantelle Manttan, the bond with her midwife made her feel safe and supported in pregnancy.
“You feel a lot closer (to your midwife), it feels like they really do care about you,” she said.
“I would definitely recommend having the same midwife, you can talk to them about anything.”
She said she spent less time repeating her needs and was more confident to ask questions.
Chantelle gave birth to her second child, Weston, on 6 January 2025 and has been receiving postnatal care.
What is Jaghu?
Jaghu launched in 2023 for mums, bubs and their families to get extra health care and support through the Jaghu Maternal and Infant Program.
The word Jaghu in Yuggera language means ‘all together’ and as a service, Jaghu sets out to ensure First Nations babies thrive.
The team provide support for each child until they are five, including supporting children in kinship care, such as those living with grandparents, or children not placed with their families.
The team includes midwifes, child health nurses, First Nations Health Workers, and social and emotional wellbeing officers.
The service is provided on Jagera, Yuggera and Ugarapul Country at Bremer Medical Centre, but can also be provided in the home, or somewhere else where that feels safe and comfortable. The team can also join appointments at Ipswich Hospital.
As well as the Midwifery Group Practice, the team runs a Jaghu child health clinic, a playgroup, and a yarning group for dads.
The Jaghu team is led by Clinical Midwife Consultant Nicole Moller and Assistant Director of Midwifery, Diane Tamariki, and supported by Clinical Midwife and Team Leader Casey Morgan, and midwives Clare Crawford and Bethany Salter. Kyleigh Brown-Lolohea provides additional antenatal and postnatal care.
How to join the Jaghu MGP program
Ask your GP to refer you to Jaghu MGP or contact the team directly via wm-jaghu@health.qld.gov.au