8.1 Birthing Reborn: A Year in Review of Weipa’s Birthing Service Revival
Tracks
Crown Ballroom 1 & 2
| Thursday, October 23, 2025 |
| 3:55 PM - 4:25 PM |
| Crown Ballroom 1 & 2 |
Details
Format: Non-academic verbal presentation (60-minute)
Speaker
Dr Claire Arundell
FACRRM / RDAA
Birthing Reborn: A Year in Review of Weipa’s Birthing Service Revival
3:55 PM - 5:00 PMAbstract Overview
After 25 years without birthing services, a remote mining community in Far North Queensland took the bold step to reopen its local birthing facility, co-designed with First Nations women to ensure culturally safe and empowering care. It took three years of collaboration, planning, and overcoming challenges—but the first 12 months have been a resounding success. This presentation will share the inspiring journey of restoring birthing services, allowing First Nations women to give birth on country, close to family and community and include testimonials from these women and their families.
We’ll discuss the community-led approach, the role of Indigenous leadership, and the remarkable outcomes seen in the first year of service. Participants will gain valuable insights and a roadmap for how other rural and remote communities can undertake similar initiatives. Join us to learn how doctors, communities, and First Nations leaders can work together to revive essential services, ensuring culturally appropriate care for all families.
We’ll discuss the community-led approach, the role of Indigenous leadership, and the remarkable outcomes seen in the first year of service. Participants will gain valuable insights and a roadmap for how other rural and remote communities can undertake similar initiatives. Join us to learn how doctors, communities, and First Nations leaders can work together to revive essential services, ensuring culturally appropriate care for all families.
Biography
Here's a punchy, fun version of John’s bio:
Dr John Hall has been shaping rural healthcare since 2001 as a member of ACRRM, with leadership roles including past President of the Rural Doctors Associations of Australia and Queensland, and a founding member of the Queensland Rural Generalist Program. Currently, as Director of Medical Services for Western Cape York, he’s leading the charge to reopen birthing services in Weipa.
A passionate advocate for rural maternity, hospitals, and private practice, John has earned numerous awards for his advocacy and dedication. He’s also a facilitator for ACRRM’s training courses, a devoted medical educator, and a supervisor shaping future rural clinicians.
When he's not busy saving lives, you’ll find John fishing, camping, off-roading, skiing, or whipping up something delicious in the kitchen. Oh, and he’s a big fan of wine—cheers to that!
