A premature baby has continued to progress after being moved into Caboolture Hospital’s new neonatal unit located near his family home.
Early Arrival and Initial Care
Finley Maximus was born at 29 weeks on 28 July 2025 at the Royal Brisbane and Women’s Hospital after his mother, Clare, went into early labour. His early arrival meant he required specialised neonatal support from the outset.
Following his birth, Finley spent more than six weeks receiving respiratory support through CPAP as his lungs developed. After that initial stage, he underwent a further three weeks on high-flow oxygen to help him continue stabilising while receiving care from clinical teams.
Transfer to Caboolture’s New Facility
Finley was transferred last week to Caboolture Hospital’s new Neonatal Unit (NNU), where he and his parents are now based in rooming-in rooms close to their home. The move marked a significant shift for the family, who had previously been travelling daily between Caboolture and Brisbane.
The transfer occurred soon after 14 October 2025, when Caboolture Hospital officially opened its expanded neonatal unit. The new facility, which is four times larger than the previous one, was designed to support premature and unwell babies with a wider range of specialised care options.
Features of the Upgraded Unit in Caboolture
The expanded space includes three single isolation rooms built to improve infection control and provide privacy for families. A modern procedure room equipped with current technology supports clinical needs, while switchable privacy glass separates high-dependency bays from isolation areas.
The upgrade also includes a dedicated reception and waiting area for families, two rooming-in rooms for step-down care, and areas that promote family-centred care by allowing parents to remain close to their newborns throughout treatment.
Progress Since the Transfer
Since arriving at Caboolture, Finley has started transitioning off high-flow oxygen and has begun breastfeeding. His parents have described feeding as challenging, and the support available in the new unit has helped them manage this stage more comfortably.
Reduced Strain on the Family
Prior to the transfer, Clare relied on public transport to travel between Caboolture and Brisbane every day due to problems with her car. Work commitments also limited Finley’s father’s ability to visit frequently. Having Finley cared for in Caboolture has eased those pressures, enabling the family to spend more time together while remaining close to home.
Preparing for Home
Finley is expected to be discharged in the coming days, where the family’s dog, Peanut, is waiting to welcome him home.
Published 4-Nov-2025
Photo Credit: Metro North Health
CLICK ANY LOGO TO SEE PUBLICATION
