Origami storks to take flight in honour of premature babies

THOUSANDS of origami storks will take flight across the country in tribute to premature babies and their families.

Melanie Gray, the artist behind Fremantle business Twenty Two Folds, has created 2500 paper-folded storks for an in-flight installation at Sydney’s Parliament House for World Prematurity Day.

A collaboration with not-for-profit Miracle Babies, each stork in the Our Miracle Flock installation will represent 10 of the 25,000 babies born prematurely in Australia each year.

Ms Gray said the symbolism of origami birds such as cranes and stalks were significant, especially in her own life.

“I am lucky enough to have three very healthy, born at full term babies,” she said.

“I have been touched deeply through my business by a family who have experienced both loss of a child and a premature child.

“Their strength and courage shown throughout this time has been extraordinary and my motivation in my business is to do something where I can give back.

“When approached by Miracle Babies foundation, it was an instant yes.”

She said she felt humbled and honoured to be involved in the project.

“My hope is that our intention is met and that it brings great public awareness to this amazing foundation, and that they raise the funds they need to make a real difference to families affected by premature birth in Australia,” she said.

Wold Prematurity Day is on November 17.

Visit www.ourmiracleflock.org.au or www.twentytwofolds.com for more information.