Celebrating our midwives across Logan and Beaudesert Hospitals
Midwives across Logan and Beaudesert have been recognised for their exceptional contribution to families and the community, during recent International Day of the Midwife (IDOM) celebrations.
The annual celebration shines a light on the vital role midwives play in supporting women through pregnancy, labour and the early days of a newborn’s life. This year’s theme, One Million More Midwives, highlights the global need to strengthen and grow the profession.
Across Metro South’s three birthing hospitals, around 15 babies are born every day, with midwives caring for more than 6,000 babies and their families each year.
LBHS Director of Nursing and Midwifery Jacqueline Smith said our midwives were at the heart of delivering safe, compassionate and high-quality care to a diverse and growing community.
“Logan Hospital has one of the busiest maternity units in Queensland, while Beaudesert Hospital offers comprehensive maternity services to women across the region,” she said.
“We have seen significant investment in maternity services across our facilities, making care more accessible, closer to home and improving the experience for families.
“As the service continues to grow, so too does its role in shaping the future workforce.
“Logan and Beaudesert Health Service is recognised as a leading place to train and develop midwives, with educators and clinical teams supporting the next generation of professionals.”
As part of IDOM celebrations colleagues were called upon to nominate midwives and teams for their exceptional contributions to their profession.
Congratulations to this year’s facility winners. These winners will join finalists across Metro South Health to compete for the prestigious MSH Nursing and Midwifery Awards:
Beaudesert Hospital
Midwife of the Year - Natalie Newman
Natalie consistently demonstrates compassion and a strong understanding of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander women’s business and cultural needs. She plays an important role in bridging cultural perspectives, ensuring care is respectful, inclusive, and responsive for every woman she supports.
Natalie’s calm and reassuring presence helps patients feel safe and welcomed and supported.
Logan Awards
Midwifery Team of the Year - Maternity Inpatient Unit
The team demonstrates strong teamwork and collaboration. Team members consistently support one another, working cooperatively to ensure continuity of care and uphold professional standards.
Midwife of the Year - Vanessa Symes
Vanessa consistently demonstrates compassion and professionalism, even in challenging situations. She takes time to understand women's needs, builds strong rapport, and supports a safe and respectful care environment for both women and staff.
Graduate Midwife of the Year – Josie Duff
Josie consistently goes above and beyond to support women, delivering care that is compassionate, respectful, and women centred. She is a true asset to the team, demonstrating genuine empathy, strong clinical judgement, and a calm, supportive presence for women and their families. Josie’s passion for midwifery is evident in her daily practice and in the positive way she contributes to and collaborates within the team.