US freebirthing business linked to death of Melbourne woman
A Guardian investigation has uncovered connections between a US-based freebirthing business, the Free Birth Society (FBS), and the death of Melbourne wellness influencer Stacey Warnecke. Warnecke, a 30-year-old nutritionist and first-time mother, died from complications of a massive postpartum haemorrhage after a freebirth. The birth was attended by Emily Lal, an unlicensed birth attendant and student of FBS founder Emilee Saldaya.
During Saldaya's tenure at FBS, a multimillion-dollar organisation linked to baby deaths globally, she repeatedly claimed no knowledge of maternal deaths after freebirth. Months after that interview, Warnecke's death occurred. A year-long Guardian investigation identified 48 cases of late-term stillbirths, neonatal deaths, or serious harm involving mothers or birth attendants linked to FBS.
Extent of ties revealed
The inquest into Warnecke's death is ongoing, with no findings yet. For the first time, the Guardian reveals the full extent of Lal's ties to FBS. Lal is the central witness at the inquest. The investigation highlights the risks associated with unassisted childbirth practices promoted by FBS.
World Cup updates
Paraguay secured a spot in the last 16 of the 2026 World Cup after defeating Germany in a sudden-death penalty shootout following a 1-1 draw. Paraguay's José Canale scored the winning penalty, marking Germany's first World Cup shootout loss in 50 years. Morocco also advanced after beating the Netherlands in a shootout. Brazil beat Japan 2-1 with an added-time winner. Meanwhile, Socceroo Cristian Volpato discussed his journey from Italian football to Australia ahead of their last-32 match against Egypt.
Rescue at sea
Junior Apiuta Apiuta, a 42-year-old fisherman, was rescued by the New Zealand air force after surviving eight days adrift in the Pacific Ocean. His boat's engine failed during a solo fishing trip. Apiuta said, 'I didn't lose hope. Big waves, way higher than the boat, slammed me from both sides… but I wasn't scared because I never lost faith and stopped praying.' He was found about 1,140km northwest of Rarotonga.
