Bringing a new life into the world is one of the most special moments a family will ever experience. Thanks to the generosity of our community, families in Goondiwindi can now welcome their babies in a modern, calming, and family-friendly environment following the recent refurbishment of the hospital’s birthing suites.
The upgrades were made possible through the support of the Goondiwindi Hospital Auxiliary Committee, which raised funds locally, together with the Toowoomba Hospital Foundation. Thanks to the generosity of community donors — including a significant $25,000 contribution from NRG Services — this project has become a reality for families in the region.
The upgrades were made possible through the support of the Goondiwindi Hospital Auxiliary Committee, which raised funds locally, together with the Toowoomba Hospital Foundation. Thanks to the generosity of community donors — including a significant $25,000 contribution from NRG Services — this project has become a reality for families in the region.
Designed with families in mind
Listening to the voices of both local staff and the Goondiwindi community was central to shaping the new birthing spaces. The result is two upgraded suites that feel warmer, brighter, and less clinical, while still providing the highest standard of care.
The changes include:
- Fresh, modern cabinetry that conceals equipment, creating a less intimidating environment.
- New flooring throughout the suites.
- Improved lighting to better support mothers and their birthing experience.
Already, at least five families have welcomed their babies in the new spaces — a sign that these changes are already making a difference.
A community effort
For Goondiwindi Midwifery Unit Manager Kerryanne Maddox, incorporating staff feedback into the design was key.
“Part of the feedback we received was the need to improve the lighting and visual amenity of the rooms. Through the refurbishment, we now have better lighting, which is more conducive to helping mothers give birth,” she said.
Toowoomba Hospital Foundation CEO Jude Wills said the project was a reflection of the region’s generosity.
“The Toowoomba Hospital Foundation is proud to have supported the Goondiwindi Hospital with these important upgrades. This project is a wonderful example of community spirit in action and directly improves care for families across the region.”
For Alysha Sweeney, who recently gave birth in one of the new suites, the upgrades made a meaningful difference.
“I liked the dim light. It was nice having it darker,” Alysha said. “I had my first son in Ipswich, and then I had George here in the old suites. It felt much nicer this time around, having it darker and everything hidden away — a bit less overwhelming. It’s nice knowing the smaller towns are still included in the big stuff. Thank you very much to everyone who made it possible.”
NRG Services, a key donor for the project, highlighted the importance of supporting local hospitals.
“I think it’s a good thing for the community. They needed updating. We’ve been here working on the hospital, and it was definitely worth the time,” Mick Cumminings from NRG Services said. “As a local business, NRG is proud to support local hospitals. It was good to keep that relationship and work with the community and the public.”
Suncorp Bank, a key supporter of the project, shared their perspective on the impact of the upgrades.
“What inspired our team to get behind the upgrade? The fact that it’s giving back to the community and providing Goondiwindi regional residents with facilities they much need in our hospital,” Cheryl Brownlie, Relationship Manager, said. “It’s great to be involved in a community initiative and then see the results come through to everyone. It’s rewarding to see what it’s doing to families — and seeing a young mum with her baby today, happy to have something new and fresh, is the best part. It’s a reward to see it pay off and benefit our community.”
With finishing touches still underway, including artwork to further brighten the rooms, the suites are ready to provide a warm welcome for many more families in the years to come.
How you can help
Community support makes projects like this possible. Every donation to the Toowoomba Hospital Foundation helps fund vital upgrades, equipment, and patient services across our region’s hospitals.
If you’d like to make a difference for families in Goondiwindi and beyond, you can donate today. Together, we can continue creating spaces where care feels as comforting as home.
