Related updates
Stay up to date on our latest research breakthroughs, community initiatives, events and ways to get involved.
National honour for WIRF CEO Deb Portughes
WIRF is delighted to congratulate Chief Executive Officer Deb Portughes on being awarded a Medal of the Order of Australia (OAM) in recognition of her outstanding service to the community, including her contributions to wildlife conservation and the health of women, babies, and families.
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From fear to hope: Emily’s journey through placenta accreta
Emily Lopes’ pregnancy with daughter Lillian was marked by the life‑threatening diagnosis of placenta accreta. Transferred to specialist care, Emily was supported by multidisciplinary teams across three hospitals, leading to a complex but successful birth. Her story highlights the critical importance of specialised care, research, and early detection in improving outcomes for mothers and babies.
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Midwife-led birth debriefing shows promise for improving maternal mental health
In 2024, Dr Kate Buchanan received a WIRF Research Acceleration Award to evaluate a midwife‑led post‑birth debriefing tool to reduce perinatal depression and anxiety. Implemented at Fiona Stanley Hospital, the project improved trauma‑informed care, strengthened midwifery practice, informed policy, and supports statewide scale‑up.
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WIRF launches Art of Birthing workshops to strengthen complex birth skills
WIRF’s new Art of Birthing workshops deliver world‑class, hands‑on maternity training for healthcare professionals managing complex childbirth. Building on the internationally recognised DVD program, these accredited workshops support midwives, obstetricians and multidisciplinary teams across Western Australia to build skills, confidence and improve outcomes for women and babies.
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