Maternal and Child Health Service New Parents Group
Published on 12 February 2026
Supporting families with children from birth to school age, the Southern Grampians Shire Maternal and Child Health (MCH) Service provides a free, comprehensive range of health and wellbeing support for local community.
Running across a six-week program, families are invited to join Maternal Child Health Services revamped New Parents Group which offers a safe and inclusive space for parents to connect, share experiences and access professional guidance alongside other local families.
Maternal Child Health Nurse Clare said Council’s services play an important role in supporting families across the region during the early years.
“Delivered in six-week blocks, the New Parents Group provides a weekly opportunity for parents of newborns to access professional advice, while building meaningful local connections with others who are navigating the same exciting, and sometimes challenging journey of early parenthood,” Clare said.
Across the program, participants will take part in discussions covering topics such as sleep and settling, first aid, nutrition, and finding balance while adjusting to life with a new family member.
“Hosted on Thursdays at various venues, first time parents will have access to our experienced Maternal and Child Health nurses and facilitators who will guide participants through essential topics.
“Families will also have the opportunity to hear from subject matter experts who provide evidence-based information as well as a safe space for questions and discussion,” Clare concluded.
2026 program start dates include:
•Thursday, 5 March 2026
•Thursday, 23 April 2026
•Thursday, 4 June 2026
•Thursday, 16 July 2026
•Thursday, 27 August 2026
•Thursday, 8 October 2026
Invitations to join are sent out to every parent upon the birth of their first baby and each session is entirely free for our community. For more information about the Maternal and Child Health Service contact the friendly reception team on (03) 5551 4360 or email mch-admin@sthgrampians.vic.gov.au .
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