2026 Governor's Benefit Ball support helps Moort Boodjari Mia create stronger beginnings
Beneficiaries presentation, pictured left to right: Mrs Darrilyn Dawson, Governor Chris Dawson, St John of God Health Care Board Chair Kerry Sanderson, St John of God Foundation CEO Bianca Pietralla.
We are incredibly grateful to have received $145,350 from the 2026 Governor's Benefit Ball, recognising the meaningful impact Moort Boodjari Mia (Family Pregnancy House) is having for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander mothers, babies and families.
This marks the second consecutive year that Moort Boodjari Mia (MBM) has been selected as a beneficiary of the Governor's Benefit Ball, reflecting an ongoing commitment to improving outcomes for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander mothers, babies and families across Western Australia.
We extend our sincere thanks to His Excellency, the Honourable Chris Dawson AC APM, Mrs Darrilyn Dawson, and the many sponsors, donors and supporters whose generosity made this contribution possible.
Moort Boodjari Mia provides culturally responsive pregnancy and postnatal care for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander women and families through St John of God Midland Public Hospital. This funding will strengthen the program's ability to deliver care where it is needed most.
In February, we launched the Moort Boodjari Mia Outreach Van, a fully equipped mobile clinical space delivering culturally safe care on Country and to communities in the Midland catchment and Wheatbelt. More than 35 families have already accessed the service, and Moort Boodjari Mia mothers attend 40% more antenatal appointments than the national average.
The importance of the MBM service is highlighted by one family’s experience. When a mother facing transport challenges asked whether outreach support was still available, the answer was simple: we brought care to her. Removing barriers to care is at the heart of Moort Boodjari Mia's mission.
As shared by CEO St John of God Foundation, Bianca Pietralla, at the presentation reception, "You didn't simply fund a van and outreach service. You gave families and babies a stronger beginning."
Thank you to everyone involved in the Governor's Benefit Ball for helping create lasting impact for Aboriginal and Torres Strait mothers, babies and families across Western Australia.