New Year’s Day poolside plans took a turn as baby Sadie arrived earlier than expected. She was born to mother Ashlee Bannan and father Cameron McKenner.
Photo by
JORDAN TOWNROW
Ashlee Bannan had her New Year's Day all planned out: a pool floaty, a cold drink and a relaxing day at home. But her daughter, Sadie May McKenner, had other ideas.
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Born at 2.16 pm on January 1, Sadie claimed the title of Echuca’s first baby of 2026, born to parents Ashlee Bannan and Cameron McKenner.
At just 2.75kg, baby Sadie wasn’t expected to arrive until January 17, so it was a surprise for Ashlee, who had to make a detour from poolside to the maternity ward of the Echuca Regional Health.
“I’d even blew up my pool floaty the day before to relax,” Ashlee said.
“I woke up, had a shower and walked out and went, ‘I think I’m in labour.’”
A week after the birth, mum and bub are doing exceptionally well.
Photo by
JORDAN TOWNROW
After a quick labour and a quicker hospital stay, Ashlee, Cameron and bub Sadie exited the Echuca Regional Hospital on January 2 straight into the arms of their adoring family members.
Among the most excited was Ashlee’s firstborn, Lillee, 11, who not only chose Sadie’s middle name but has already stepped into her new sister role with enthusiasm.
“She wakes up every morning and the first thing she needs is her baby,” Ashlee said.
Ashlee and Cameron said they had been feeling the love from their family members, with the first week with Sadie being a breeze.
“She’s a perfect baby — she sleeps well, eats well — she’s just perfect,” Ashlee said.
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