Baby boom brings first parents’ group in years

A SURGE in births across Anglesea and Aireys Inlet has prompted the launch of a new first-time parents’ group.

Located in Anglesea, it is the first in the area for more than two years and follows 31 births in the area during the 2024-25 financial year, an increase of almost 30 per cent on the previous year.

Run by the Surf Coast Shire and facilitated by staff, it is the region’s third dedicated first-time parents’ group, with similar groups operating in Torquay and Winchelsea.

New Aireys Inlet mum Belinda is thrilled she doesn’t have to travel to Torquay to get access to a first-time parents’ group.

“It’s nice to meet up with other local mums and see how their bubs are growing. Hopefully they’ll all grow up together,” she said.

To accommodate for the growing demand, a new community playgroup has also recently been set up in Aireys Inlet, offering local families an opportunity to connect.

The first for the area in more than five years, the playgroup is supported by the Surf Coast Shire and a partnership between the local Country Women’s Association and Meli.

Cr Leon Walker said the groups provide an important network for new parents as they navigate the highs, lows and everything in between.

“Becoming a parent for the first time is life-changing and having a local network makes a world of difference.

“These groups are all about building friendships, swapping tips, and knowing you’re not alone in the journey.

“It’s also a place where lots of life-long friendships are formed.

“It’s exciting to see a mini baby boom in Anglesea and Aireys, and I’m so please that these first-time parents have easy access to this group, which will serve as a wonderful support for them.”

Moriac also saw an almost 45 per cent increase in births in the 2024-25 financial year, rising by 12 compared to the previous year. Lorne recorded four births, down by one, while Winchelsea recorded 49 births, down by four.

The Torquay area recorded the most births for the shire in the 2024-25 financial year with 253, down by 27 on the previous year.