IPSWICH is once again turning compassion into action, with the annual “Pay It Forward” Birthing Kit Assembly Day bringing the community together to support mothers and newborns in some of the world’s most vulnerable regions.
Led by Zonta Ipswich, the event, held on the eve of Mother’s Day, has become a powerful local tradition, transforming a moment of reflection into practical, life-saving support.
Zonta Ipswich President Jane Reid said the timing of the event was intentional, encouraging people to think beyond their own experiences.
“Living in a country like Australia, we’re incredibly fortunate when it comes to access to safe healthcare,” she said.
“This event is about recognising that not every mother has that same opportunity and doing something tangible to help.”
What began locally through school-based projects with Ipswich Girls’ Grammar and St Mary’s College expanded in 2024 into a full community event, opening the door for more residents to get involved.
“We wanted to create something that the whole community could be part of,” Ms Reid said.
“The response has been incredible. People really connect with the idea that such a small action here can have a life-changing impact somewhere else in the world.”
At the centre of the event are the birthing kits themselves – simple, low-cost packs containing essential items including soap, gloves, a sterile blade, gauze, cord ties and a clean plastic sheet.
“In many of the regions these kits are sent to, women are giving birth without access to basic medical supplies,” Ms Reid said.
“Infections like sepsis are a major risk, and something as simple as having clean equipment can dramatically reduce that danger.”
The concept of the birthing kit dates back to 1995, when Adelaide doctor Joy O’Hazy identified the need for improved hygiene in low-resource birth settings.
In Ipswich, the program was championed by former Zonta president Margaret Llewellyn, helping establish it as a key focus for the local club. Since then, Queensland Zonta clubs have packed more than 630,000 kits, contributing to over 1.6 million assembled nationally.
Saturday’s community assembly day at Ipswich Catholic Community Parish Centre has a target of 1000 kits, with the event free to attend, and donations encouraged to help cover the $5 cost per kit.
“It’s a very hands-on way for people to give back,” Ms Reid said.
“It really shows the power of community that when people come together, even small actions can create meaningful change.”
