Welcome baby Arthur Vermeulen, the first child born at Geraldton hospital in 2023

2023 kicked off in a very special way for a Geraldton family as they celebrated the birth of their first child, who happened to be the first baby born at Geraldton Health Campus this year. Arthur Vermeulen was born at 11.28am on January 2. Mother Jacia Vermeulen said she hadn’t even realised Arthur was the first baby born in Geraldton until she was told later. Arthur was born six days early, so it wasn’t something the young family were expecting. “It didn’t even cross my mind; it was a surprise to find out and it’s quite honouring in a way, it’s quite special,” she said. The new mum said she was so happy to have her first child. “It’s crazy, it’s amazing to see his little face,” she said. Arthur’s father, Pete Vermeulen, said the hospital staff who spent their New Year’s Day working did an amazing job. “They were really supportive and understanding; they really took care of Jace,” he said. Mr Vermeulen said having Arthur hadn’t fully sunk in yet. “It’s surreal. Every now and then I catch myself staring at Arthur and wondering what life is going to be like now,” he said.