It takes a 'virtual' village to raise a bush baby

On a rural sheep and cattle station, Laura Hewitt begins her mornings much like any other mum – only her nursery spans hundreds of kilometres.

For Laura, the RFDS has never been just a lifeline – it’s been a constant companion throughout her life, beginning before she even took her first breath.

“Mum was flown out with the RFDS and I was born five weeks premature,” she said.

“Ever since, the service has been key throughout my childhood and entire life.”

Now a mother herself to six-month-old Ava, Laura and her husband Ben manage Pernatty Station, a sheep and cattle station where the nearest health clinic is hours away in Port Augusta.

The RFDS is a vital part of their lives, connecting them to midwives, nurses, and health professionals who support them every step of the way.

“It’s that peace of mind when you’re not next to an emergency department and there are so many things that can go wrong and go downhill quite quickly,” Laura said.

While pregnancy can feel isolating when living remotely, with the support of the RFDS Community Health Team, Laura has never felt alone.

“As soon as you get that positive pregnancy test, you’re on the phone and Caitlyn [midwife] is there, stepping you through bit by bit,” Laura said.

“Then, once you have your baby, Tarnya [nurse] steps on board and is there through all of Ava’s appointments and developmental milestones.”

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