Just two days after welcoming their baby boy Creedence into the world, proud parents Cassandra and Dillon brought him back to Beaudesert Hospital for another special milestone, a Welcome Baby to Country ceremony on Mununjali Country.
For Cassandra, a proud Wanyi woman, and Dillon, a proud Kamilaroi man, it was important that Creedence's cultural journey began from the very start.
"We wanted him to be involved in his culture early, and it's very special to have this locally," Cassandra said.
The family joined other parents, babies, Elders and community members for the ceremony, which celebrated culture, connection and belonging while welcoming newborns to Country.
After having their older daughter at Beaudesert Hospital, Cassandra and Dillon said they were grateful to once again experience the care and support of the local health service.
"We had such a great experience at the Beaudesert Hospital with both our older daughter and Creedence," Cassandra said.
The event created an opportunity for families to connect with culture, community and Country, celebrating the newest generation of jarjums born on Mununjali Country.
"The whole experience has been wonderful. Everyone made us feel welcome here, like family," Dillon said.
Families were welcomed to Country by Elder, Aunty Geraldine, and the Mununjali Ngari Dance Group, who shared culture and traditions with those gathered for the celebration.
The ceremony was coordinated by Uncle Dave Bestmann, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Hospital Liaison Officer at Beaudesert Hospital, in partnership with hospital executives, Elders and community members.
Uncle Dave said the event provided a meaningful way for families to strengthen cultural connections and acknowledge the significance of Country from the very beginning of a child's life.
"This is a wonderful opportunity to offer our jarjums guidance and protection on Mununjali Country and connect families with Aboriginal culture," he said.
For Cassandra and Dillon, watching Creedance be welcomed to Country surrounded by family, community and culture made the experience one they will always remember.