NEWBORNS at Mater Hospital Springfield are being welcomed into the world as the Brisbane Lions’ newest supporters, with every baby born at the hospital now receiving a complimentary membership to the AFL club.
The initiative is expected to see around 1700 babies join the Lions’ “Lion Cubs” program each year, creating what the club hopes will be a lifelong connection with Queensland’s reigning AFL powerhouse.
Each newborn will receive a free Brisbane Lions membership along with a baby pack containing a beanie, socks, rattle toy and supporter scarf.
Among the first to benefit from the initiative was baby Isabella, born at Mater Hospital Springfield last week to proud parents Emma and Kyle.
“Kyle and I welcome Isabella as a young supporter of the Lions,” Emma said.
“We are very much looking forward to creating memories as a family when she is old enough to come and watch the games and enjoy the atmosphere as much as we do.”
Adding a unique local touch to the partnership is Brisbane Lions AFLW player Natalie Grider, who also works as a midwife at the hospital and helps welcome many of the newborn Lion Cubs into the world.
“I love working as a midwife and getting to bring new babies into the world each week,” Grider said.
“Knowing they’re becoming part of the Lions family from day one makes it even more special. Hopefully we’ll see plenty of new Brisbane fans among them, and maybe even some future AFLW and AFL players.
“I always keep an eye out to see if they’re left or right footed!”
Mater Hospital Springfield General Manager Suzanne Hawksley said the partnership highlighted the shared commitment of both organisations to supporting Queensland families.
“This record-breaking moment is a fantastic opportunity to recognise the partnership between two organisations committed to improving the health and wellbeing of Queenslanders,” Ms Hawksley said.
The initiative comes as the Brisbane Lions continue to enjoy strong community support, having surpassed 75,000 members for the second consecutive year and edging closer to breaking the club’s all-time membership record.
The program is another milestone for Springfield’s growing health precinct, with Mater Hospital Springfield opening earlier this year and expected to welcome about 1700 births annually.
