Special reception at Government House for WIRF

15Nov2024

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In recognition of World Prematurity Day, Mrs Darrilyn Dawson hosted a special reception for the Women and Infants Research Foun...

In recognition of World Prematurity Day on 17 November, Mrs Darrilyn Dawson hosted a special reception for the Women and Infants Research Foundation (WIRF) at the Government House Ballroom.  The Governor of Western Australia, His Excellency the Honourable Chris Dawson AC APM and Mrs Dawson are Joint Patrons of WIRF.

The event was attended by Her Excellency the Honourable Sam Mostyn AC, Governor-General of Australia, who joined in highlighting the critical need for awareness and action around preterm birth and its impacts on families, together with WIRF Ambassadors Amy and Mike Hussey.

The reception served as an important platform to raise awareness about the potentially devastating effects of preterm birth and to celebrate WIRF’s achievements in preventing preterm births and improving pregnancy outcomes.

During her address, Mrs Dawson emphasised WIRF’s pivotal role in advancing scientific research to prevent preterm birth and improve treatments for preterm babies.

“Preterm birth is the leading cause of death and disability in children under five,” Mrs Dawson said.

“It's reassuring to know that we have some of Western Australia's brightest minds at WIRF, who are working so hard to find innovative ways to support babies and families with health challenges associated with premature birth.”

Each year, around 13.4 million babies are born prematurely worldwide, with around one million tragically passing on the day of their birth.

In Australia, nearly one in ten babies - around 26,000 - are born prematurely each year, and the rates are almost double in Aboriginal and disadvantaged communities.

Those who survive often face lifelong challenges such as cerebral palsy, chronic lung disease, blindness, diabetes, and developmental delays.

WIRF’s contributions in preterm birth prevention have made it a global leader in the field. Its pioneering programs have successfully reduced the rate of preterm birth in Western Australia by 8 per cent, and these programs are now being implemented nationwide, showing early signs of success in reducing preterm birth across Australia.

WIRF also continues its groundbreaking research, which includes artificial womb technology and antenatal steroid studies to enhance outcomes for preterm babies.

WIRF CEO Deb Portughes extended her gratitude to Governor Dawson, Mrs Dawson, the Governor-General, and WIRF’s supporters for championing awareness of preterm birth and its global impacts.

“The support we receive from our Patrons and the wider community is invaluable,” Ms Portughes said.

“Together, we are making strides toward a future where more babies can be born at full term, giving them the healthiest start in life.”

If you would like to read the Governor-General’s speech please visit the Governor-General’s website here
 

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