The Banham family of Margaret River had a very special reason to celebrate New Years this month, when their newborn daughter Emma Grace became the very first baby to arrive at the Margaret River Hospital for 2017.
“I was due on the 29th, so I started thinking it could be a New Years Eve baby,” mum Melissa Banham told the Mail.
“I didn't realise I was the talk of the hospital, because I was 5 days over, so every shift a midwife would say 'I wonder if she'll be in today!’”
“I knew there wasn’t another baby due in the area for a while but to be honest once the labour started I didn’t think much about it!”
Ms Banham, who is originally from the East coast, moved to Margaret River to be closer to husband Justin who is from Perth.
“We chose Margaret River for the strong sense of community, and for the surf for Justin,” Mrs Banham said.
“Justin is a local volunteer firefighter and works FIFO, and when I’m not full time mum I’m volunteering at the Margaret River Community Playgroup which has been my sanity, my lifesaver and where I’ve met all my good friends.”
Mr and Mrs Banham’s 22 month old son Noah was excited to meet his new baby sister.
“He loves to kiss and cuddle Emma lots already, Noah is a super chilled little guy who has been a bit of a dream so hopefully little Miss follows the same path!”
Mrs Banham said the community spirit of the town extended to the care the family received during her pregnancy and delivery.
“We would love to thank from the bottom of our hearts Dr Verelle Roocke who delivered Emma, and beautiful midwives Katie and Cheryl who looked after me throughout my labour and the delivery.
“Thanks must also go to the wonderful midwives Mel, Anita, Marina, Veronica, Lauren and Leanne who looked after me while I was in hospital for two days.
“All the staff and the whole experience of giving birth in Margaret River made it amazing.”
Nicky Lefebvre
I am a journalist, photographer and content creator based in the beautiful Margaret River wine region, covering all aspects of our community including local news, sport, entertainment and events, as well as providing a platform for our readers to share their voices direct from regional Australia.
I am a journalist, photographer and content creator based in the beautiful Margaret River wine region, covering all aspects of our community including local news, sport, entertainment and events, as well as providing a platform for our readers to share their voices direct from regional Australia.
