Dr Hoolahan passed away in December 2016, aged 78, and in his 50 plus year career it is estimated the man affectionately known as Hooly,  delivered 20,000 babies, including more than 10,000 in the Shoalhaven.

Despite his passing he will continue to keep a watchful eye over expectant Shoalhaven mums to be with a state-of-the-art CTG machine for obstetrics being donated to Shoalhaven Hospital in his honour.

A special presentation was made at Shoalhaven District Hospital recently where the machine was given to staff.

The modern piece of equipment (affectionately named Brian) will enhance the birthing experience for mums-to-be who require monitoring when in hospital.

The $10,000 price tag was met through a $5000 donation from the late Dr Hoolahan’s estate, made by his wife Julie, together with another $5000 matching donation from the Shoalhaven Medical Association (SMA).

Mrs Hoolahan and members of the SMA attended the ceremony, where memories were shared of Dr Hoolahan and his amazing contribution to the hospital and local mums and babies.

Maternity staff also gave a demonstration of the machine and its many benefits.

“We’re thrilled to have received donations enabling us to purchase the Avalon monitor, which will give birthing mums the freedom to walk around, while having their own heart rate and the babies heart rate monitored independently,” said acting Director of Nursing and Midwifery, Brad Scotcher

“The new device also gives us the opportunity to externally monitor fetal heart rates and movement, affording new mums peace of mind, while also providing increased diagnostic confidence for our caregivers.  

“We‘re very grateful for donations allowing us to purchase the new monitor, which will not only support the care being provided by our midwives and obstetricians, but also help enrich the experience for birthing mums.”