Inquest into Melbourne influencer’s death following freebirth halted after new phone evidence discovered

An inquest into the death of a Melbourne wellness influencer following a 'freebirth' has been paused due to the discovery of significant new evidence on her mobile phone. The deceased had paid a non-medically trained 'birthkeeper' to assist with the home birth, which resulted in a fatal postpartum hemorrhage.
Why it matters
The case highlights the legal and safety risks associated with unregulated alternative birthing practices and the role of influencers in promoting them.
Stacey Warnecke and her husband Nathan Warnecke. Stacey Warnecke died in September in Frankston hospital in Melbourne after a freebirth. Photograph: gofundme View image in fullscreen Stacey Warnecke and her husband Nathan Warnecke. Stacey Warnecke died in September in Frankston hospital in Melbourne after a freebirth. Photograph: gofundme Melbourne Inquest into Melbourne influencer’s death following freebirth halted after new phone evidence discovered Coroner tells freebirth inquest new material ‘of such significance’ any findings must be postponed so information can be analysed
The report provides a factual account of an ongoing legal proceeding without taking a stance on the individuals involved.
Get smarter about the news
Sign up free for a feed built around what you actually care about, Dive Deeper research on any story, and the full text of every article.
Create free accountAlready have an account? Sign in