Victorian politician Georgie Purcell has announced the arrival of her first child, a daughter, with her partner, federal Labor MP Josh Burns. The couple, whose relationship has been a subject of political intrigue, shared the joyful news on social media this week.
A Joyful Announcement on Social Media
The Animal Justice Party MP took to Instagram on Monday to introduce her newborn to the world. She posted a series of candid and intimate photographs from the hospital and their first days at home, capturing the raw and emotional moments of new parenthood.
"Meet Lilah Poppy Purcell," she wrote in the caption, accompanying the post with a purple heart and a sparkle emoji. She revealed that her daughter made an early entrance, arriving on Friday morning. "She's definitely my daughter (impatient) and insisted on bursting into the world a little bit sooner than planned," Purcell joked.
Intimate First Glimpses of Baby Lilah
The photos shared by the couple offer a touching glimpse into their new life. One image shows Purcell in a hospital bed, cradling her swaddled newborn against her chest. She is wearing a black singlet, with her signature platinum blonde hair tousled, gazing at the camera with tired but radiant eyes.
Another powerful snapshot captures the moment just after the birth. Purcell wears a blue surgical cap as her partner, Josh Burns, leans in to kiss her forehead. Their newborn daughter, wearing a delicate pink knitted beanie, rests peacefully on Purcell's chest beneath a hospital blanket.
The couple also shared a sunlit picture from their home, both beaming with happiness as they cuddle their baby. Close-up shots show Purcell tenderly kissing Lilah's cheek and the infant fast asleep, her rosy cheeks and tiny features on full display.
The Meaning Behind the Name and a Look Ahead
In her heartfelt post, Purcell explained the significance of her daughter's name. Lilah Poppy represents purple and red flowers and is also a nod to the child's Jewish heritage, which will be an important part of her upbringing alongside her sister, Tia.
Purcell described becoming a mother as "the best thing ever" and said it has strengthened her resolve. "It's also made me more determined than ever before to fight for a future that is kind, equal and just," she stated.
She added that Lilah's arrival brought light at a crucial time, noting, "arriving at a time that her dad needed some light in the darkness." The outspoken MP, who has been candid about her past career before politics, confirmed she would take time to recover before returning to parliament for a major year ahead, which includes an election. "I'll be spending the next few weeks resting and preparing for another huge year in parliament plus an election - just this time with a +1 alongside me," she wrote.
