West Moreton Health has marked the culturally significant birth of baby Ally Osborne, who was born 'en caul' at Ipswich Hospital on 2 September 2025.

An en caul birth occurs when a baby is born still inside an intact, un-ruptured amniotic sac.

Also called a "mermaid" or "veiled" birth, it looks like the baby is inside a bubble-like membrane filled with amniotic fluid - a condition which occurs only once in every 80,000 births.

It meant her mother, Kooma woman Dani Fitzgerald, who has ties to Bollon, Cunnamulla and St George, gave birth naturally and without her waters breaking.

Ms Fitzgerald said learning about the cultural meaning of the birth was a spiritual experience.

"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," she said.

"It gave me instant chills."

Ally is the third child for Ms Fitzgerald and her partner Daryl Osborne, joining siblings Olivia, 10 and Lachlan, seven.

The birth was supported by the Jaghu Maternal and Infant Care team with midwife Jazz Turner.

Ms Fitzgerald said the care she received through Jaghu's Midwifery Group Practice made a lasting impact.

"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."

After experiencing several miscarriages, Ms Fitzgerald said the reassurance and cultural safety offered by the 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 with three additional midwives joining to extend care to more Indigenous families.

The program provides culturally safe care from pregnancy through to two years, supported by a Child Health Nurse, Social Worker, Aboriginal Health Worker and Social Emotional Wellbeing Officer.

Ms Fitzgerald and baby Ally were among 39 families welcomed at Jaghu's recent Welcome Baby to Community ceremony, connecting with Elders and celebrating new life in the region.