Hospital’s 1000th baby

Janelle and Steve Overall with son Archie, the 1000th baby born at Epworth Geelong.

By Luke Voogt

Archie Overall was the 1000th baby born at Epworth Geelong last Wednesday.

Lara couple Janelle and Steve Overall welcomed their new bub into the world at a weight of 3.9kg.

“When I was in labour, the midwife told us there was a good chance that Archie could be baby 1000 at the hospital,” Janelle said.

“We thought that was exciting and would be something nice to look back on as part of Archie’s story.”

Archie’s four-year-old sister Piper had yet to meet her younger brother on Sunday, due to visitor restrictions, but said hello via video chat instead.

“We’ve been re-assured by the doctors and midwives that the hospital had all of the right protocols in place [during COVID-19] but are disappointed that our daughter Piper hasn’t been able to visit due to restrictions,” Janelle said.

Before Archie’s birth Piper asked if her baby brother might make the news, according to dad Steve.

“Last week we were watching the news and saw a baby on TV,” he said.

“Piper asked whether her baby sibling would also be on the news. We laughed and naturally said no. Now we have to take that back.”

Epworth Geelong acting director of clinical services Lisa Garber described the milestone as a special occasion for the hospital.

“It’s lovely news for the parents and the community during the challenging times brought about by the COVID-19 pandemic,” she said.