One baby was born at a service station, another in the carpark of a wildlife sanctuary.
These are just two of at least 160 babies who entered the world unexpectedly so far this year, according to NSW Ambulance figures.
Among them was a woman who delivered her baby boy in Riverstone with the assistance of NSW Ambulance Triple Zero (000).
While such a prospect might seem daunting, both for the expectant mum and any bystander called upon to deliver a child, NSW Ambulance Triple Zero (000) assured callers they were highly skilled in guiding women through labour until an ambulance arrived.
NSW Ambulance Control Division director Jamie Vernon said each year their call-takers play a direct role in the safe delivery of hundreds of babies who catch their mothers unawares.
Between January 1 and May 31, 96 babies were born in the Sydney Metropolitan region, followed by 41 in the state’s north, 13 in the south and 10 in the west.
Mr Vernon said the figures showed any person could be suddenly called upon to deliver a baby.
“Dialling Triple Zero (000) and asking for an ambulance will ensure an ambulance is immediately dispatched,” Mr Vernon said.
“In the meantime, the caller will be asked to stay on the phone and be guided with instructions from the call-taker until paramedics arrive.
“In many cases, our highly experienced call-takers have assisted people through the baby’s delivery, and are there at the other end of the line to celebrate the happy occasion.”