For the Camilleri's of Australind, the recent birth of baby Zahn was a real family affair.
Zahn's mother Rachael did not realise at first that she had gone into labor on Saturday, November 11, initially trying to go back to sleep. But when her waters broke just before 9am, she knew it was time to go to the hospital.
Rachael's partner Ben Quinn scooped up three-year-old son Zekk while Rachael's 17-year-old daugher Zara grabbed the keys and her 'L' plates for the 20-minute journey from the family's home to Bunbury Regional Hospital.
Everything was going smoothly except Zahn had no intention of waiting that long.
"Things started to happen very quickly and before we could arrive at the hospital, I had to get Zara to pull over," Rachael said.
Ben had been supervising Zara's driving while trying to keep Rachael calm. As the group stopped on the side of the road, he realised delivery duties had fallen to him.
"I've never done anything like it before but instinct kicked in and I just did what I could to make sure Zahn was breathing," he said.
"He had a little cry and I wrapped him up in a jumper before placing him on Rachael's chest.
"It was a bit unique but I just focused on making sure everyone was alright."
After Zahn's birth, Zara finished the trip, ensuring both her mother and newborn brother arrived safely at the hospital.
"I couldn't believe it was happening but I went to the emergency and told them my mum had just given birth in the car on the side of the road and they were pretty surprised," Zara said.
Rachael said the staff at Bunbury Regional Hospital including Dr David Waycott, Dr Andrew Kirke, midwife Zita and all the nurses were excellent.
"Everyone at the hospital was really helpful and I'm very grateful to have my happy and healthy new boy with me," Rachael said.
She also thanked her family for their support, noting Ben now gets two mentions on Zahn's birth certificate, as both father and deliverer.
The family also joked they would now have to keep their 'lucky car' and that it may make a good present for Zahn when he is older.
