Mother Dani Fitzgerald and baby Ally Osborne
West Moreton Health is celebrating the rare and culturally significant birth of baby Ally Osborne, born 'en caul' at Ipswich Hospital on 2 September 2025.
Ally was born still inside her amniotic sac, which is a rare occurrence that happens in fewer than one in 80,000 births.
It means when mum Dani Fitzgerald’s gave birth naturally, her 'waters' never broke.
Dani, a proud Kooma woman with cultural ties to Bollon, Cunnamulla and St George, said learning of the birth’s significance was deeply spiritual and moving.
"An Aboriginal Elder told me that being born 'en caul' means Ally is connected to the ancestors and came into the world with their protection to heal. It gave me instant chills," she said.
Ally is the third child in the family, joining siblings Olivia, 10, and Lachlan, 7, who are thrilled with her arrival.
Along with dad Daryl Osbourne, Olivia has taken on a nurturing role, while Lachlan is enjoying being a big brother in his own laid-back way.
The birth was supported by the Jaghu Maternal and Infant Care team, with midwife Jazz Turner.
Dani said the continuity of care through Jaghu’s Midwifery Group Practice (MGP) program made a profound difference.
"I didn't realise there was a First Nations-specific program until a friend told me," she said.
"I applied and couldn’t believe I got in. I cannot speak highly enough of the Jaghu team. I had the birth I wanted and felt supported every step of the way."
Having experienced multiple miscarriages, Dani said the reassurance and cultural safety provided by the Jaghu team helped ease her anxiety throughout the pregnancy.
"I could message Jazz at any time and she'd reply. That kind of support is so important for women."
Jaghu Midwifery Unit Manager Nicole Moller said the program expanded in January this year, with three midwives joining the team to deliver MGP care to more First Nations families.
Jaghu offers holistic, culturally safe care from pregnancy through to two years, supported by a dedicated Child Health Nurse, Social Worker, Aboriginal Health Worker and Social Emotional Wellbeing Officer.
Dani and baby Ally joined 38 other families at the recent Welcome Baby to Community ceremony, hosted by Jaghu, to connect with Elders and celebrate new life in the region.