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August is still in the winter months in the New England Region of NSW Australia. And as the name implies, it's cold.

Especially when you are more used to the warm balmy climate of the Tropical Northern regions of Australia. But I came south for the birth of my second child because my Husband was in the Australian Defence force and was due to go on an Air Traffic Control course. Rather than leaving me on my own or my Mother having to come North to look after my first born while I was in Hospital, it was decided it would be better for all if I went South.

Besides, August on the property was always a busy time anyway so by me coming south, Mum was able to look after everyone.

In hindsight, this decision probably saved my life.

I went into labour early on the Saturday night of September 29th, 1976. My Husband was with me as he had received 'special' leave from the R.A.A.F to be with me for the birth. This early onset of labour was worrying because we were 26 miles out on a rough dirt road from the nearest hospital. The Doctor said for me to come in as soon as possible. In the bush, the country Doctors are called out at inconvenient times.

I was hospitalised on the Saturday night but by Monday morning, nothing had eventuated. So the long day started early. I was induced and the labour pains intensified. At 2PM they broke my waters and the first thing I saw of my child was a clump of jet black hair where the forceps had torn a piece accidentally from her head. At this stage, no one knew that she was stuck.