RBWH’s real-life Christmas angel

Royal Brisbane and Women’s Hospital (RBWH) is lucky to have its very own Christmas angel in the form of beloved midwife Bernie McMain, who each year goes above and beyond to make the birth suite a festive space for patients and staff to enjoy.

For the past 25 years, Bernie has brought her craft kit to work and encouraged her colleagues to spend a lunch break making a Christmas angel for their Christmas tree or to hang wherever they wish.

Affectionately known as ‘Bernie’s Angels’, Bernie comes up with a different design every year and purchases all the materials using her own money. She has even been known to bring her craft kit to the work Christmas party so she can target anyone who has yet to craft their angel.

Bernie said she enjoys seeing the ideas and creativity from her colleagues and bringing the festive spirit to her workplace.

“Some staff take to it more than others, but it’s always interesting to see what they come up with!” Bernie said.

“Staff love to talk about the different angels they have made over the years.

“It’s a great team building activity and helps to boost morale, especially during such a busy period.”

Bernie has been a midwife at RBWH for more than 50 years, and during this time has delivered tens of thousands of babies and cared for countless mothers.

“I’ve always loved getting to know the patients and caring for them as they learn to look after bub,” she said.

“It’s mostly an extraordinarily happy job. It does have its sad days too, but overall it’s a really lovely profession.

“I also like teaching the young midwives, doctors and students as they come in. Sharing that experience is so important for the future generations of healthcare workers.”

Some of Bernie’s Angels are currently being displayed on a Christmas tree in the Birth Suite work area.