WIRF is proud to introduce its new Art of Birthing workshops – an innovative training program designed to enhance the skills and confidence of healthcare professionals managing complex childbirth scenarios.
Building on the success of the internationally delivered Difficult Vaginal Delivery (DVD) workshops, developed by WIRF in collaboration with the National University of Singapore, this new program brings world-class, hands-on training to clinicians across Western Australia.
Designed for professionals involved in birth – such as midwives, obstetricians, patient representatives, students, anaesthetists, paediatricians, and ambulance crew – the Art of Birthing workshops provide structured, practical learning in a supportive environment. Participants gain experience across a range of complex birth situations, including instrumental deliveries (forceps and vacuum), breech births, twin deliveries, and obstetric emergencies – all while maintaining a strong focus on woman-centred care, dignity, and informed choice.
Through realistic simulations and multidisciplinary collaboration, participants are able to refine both their technical skills and build their clinical confidence, which in turn may lead to improved outcomes for women and infants in the community.
Importantly, the program also integrates research to evaluate both clinical and experiential outcomes. These insights will help shape future training approaches and support ongoing professional development across the sector.
Accredited by ACM, ACRRM, RACGP and RANZCOG, the Art of Birthing workshops provide a high-quality, accessible program for advancing skills in maternity care. WIRF Clinical Education and Development Lead Dr Mathias Epee said he is particularly excited about the potential impact of the program across regional Western Australia, where opportunities to gain experience in complex births can be limited.
“By bringing advanced training closer to clinicians, WIRF is helping to further build the skills, confidence, and clinical judgement needed to manage complex birth scenarios.”
The first Art of Birthing Workshop is being help at Manjimup General Hospital in June.
Stay tuned to our website and social media channels for details on upcoming workshops.
