Regal Rogue Product Review

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Review Regal Rogue

Regal Rogue
Average Ratings (from 211 ratings)
Overall star Rating
I love that Regal Rogue is Australian made.
Regal Rogue has a wide variety of flavours to choose from.
I like that Regal Rogue sources native botanicals from indigenous communities.
I like that Regal Rogue is easily available to purchase at Dan Murphy's.
I would recommend Regal Rogue.
Regal Rogue :
4.56 out of 5 based on 211 reviews.
Post your review

Elevate the everyday with Regal Rogue.

Australian made, Regal Rogue blends 100% organic Australian wine from Orange NSW with Native Australian Botanicals, to create a fresh, natural range of Australian aperitifs for all occasions.

The beauty of an aperitif is that it can be used in so many different combinations to create the perfect drink for you, whether you like a refreshing ginger base or something sweeter, with four different Regal Rogue flavours on offer – the options are endless.

The Regal Rogue range includes the four following variants:

  • Lively White a citrus and floral – semi dry
  • Daring Dry a savoury and umami – extra dry
  • Bold Red an aromatic spice and dried fruit – semi dry
  • Wild Rose a tropical fruit and fruit spice – semi dry

Regal Rogue operates with their environment in mind, and is constantly evolving under the guidance of the aboriginal philosophy of having as little impact as possible on the environment. They source their native botanicals from the indigenous communities of Australia, their grapes from an award-winning organic winemaker and they use recycled paper and glass on every bottle.

For the Regal Rogue review, we’re asking selected reviewers to take the Regal Rogue Cocktail Challenge at home. We’ll send reviewers into Dan Murphy’s to purchase one of the two Regal Rogue variants below, and then we’ll ask you to create your own delicious cocktail and share it with us here on Mouths of Mums – we can’t wait to see what you think of Regal Rogue.

Marrying in grassy Orange, NSW, organic Sauvignon Blanc with native anise myrtle, quandong, and native thyme is followed by notes of white pepper, olive leaf, and juniper. This combination delivers an earthy, savory, and lightly salted flavour profile, culminating in an umami finish.

Regal Rogue Daring Dry Australian Aperitif

Regal Rogue Daring Dry
Marrying organic Sauv Blanc from Orange, NSW with native anise myrtle, quandong, and native thyme that’s followed by notes of white pepper, olive leaf, and juniper. This combination delivers an earthy, savory, and lightly salted flavour profile, culminating in a umami finish.

For cocktail inspiration, visit Regal Rogue to discover the ‘Dripping Wet Martini,’ which combines Daring Dry with vodka (or a dry gin) to create a well-rounded martini. Alternatively, try the ‘3-Step Aperitif‘ that blends Daring Dry with Indian tonic, an olive, and thyme, served over ice.

Regal Rogue Bold Red Australian Aperitif

Regal Rogue Bold Red (150 x 200 px)
Marrying organic Shiraz and unwooded Chardonnay from Orange, NSW, this vermouth is led by aromatic spice and rich dried fruit. It is followed by native pepper berry, wattleseed, and native thyme, and finishes with cinnamon, star anise, nutmeg, and ginger. This is the world’s first dry red vermouth.

For cocktail inspiration, visit Regal Rogue to discover the ‘Rogroni Cocktail,’ which combines Bold Red, gin, and Aperol, or the ‘3-Step Aperitif,’ that blends Bold Red with ginger beer, fresh orange, and ginger.
Regal Rogue is available to purchase at Dan Murphy’s. Discover Your Rogue at Dan Murphy’s today.

 

*You must be 18 years or older to consume the products from Regal Rogue.
Drink responsibly.

Published 19th September 2023

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  • Native flavours and excellent cocktails!

    I loved this product! It was easy to purchase at Dan Murphy's and came in a beautiful bottle which looks lovely on a spirit shelf. I made a '3-step-apertif' as recommended on the website with Regal Rogue Bold Red, ginger beer, fresh orange and a slice of ginger...it went down a treat with all my friends! The spirit is a wine replacement for gin, so is very versatile and has beautiful native flavours to it - pepperberry, wattle seed and native thyme. I would love to try the other flavours this range has to offer and would definitely consider purchasing this product again.
    I love that Regal Rogue is Australian made.
    Regal Rogue has a wide variety of flavours to choose from.
    I like that Regal Rogue sources native botanicals from indigenous communities.
    I like that Regal Rogue is easily available to purchase at Dan Murphy's.
    I would recommend Regal Rogue.

  • Regal Eogue, my go to for summer

    I had never tried an aperitif before and I am so glad I did. It’s a staple in my cocktail cabinet now and my go to for a summer drink. A simple addition to so many drinks and for someone who isn’t a lover of an overly sweet drink I really enjoyed the flavour. I can’t wait to try the others.
    I love that Regal Rogue is Australian made.
    Regal Rogue has a wide variety of flavours to choose from.
    I like that Regal Rogue sources native botanicals from indigenous communities.
    I like that Regal Rogue is easily available to purchase at Dan Murphy's.
    I would recommend Regal Rogue.

  • My New Home Bar Staple

    Regal Rogue Bold Red Vermouth is a winner for sure. I'm enjoying trying new cocktails with it. The flavour of the Bold Red Vermouth is so my style and love mixing with items such as Aperol and orange wedges. So summery and fresh. I will be heading out to buy more once finished, which is not too far away.
    I love that Regal Rogue is Australian made.
    Regal Rogue has a wide variety of flavours to choose from.
    I like that Regal Rogue sources native botanicals from indigenous communities.
    I like that Regal Rogue is easily available to purchase at Dan Murphy's.
    I would recommend Regal Rogue.

  • Perfect Summer Drink

    This is my second review of Regal Rogue. My first review concentrated on the Regal Rogue Bold Red but as I've also bought and loved the Regal Rogue Daring Dry I thought I should add a second review. While I enjoyed making negronis with the Regal Rogue Bold red, with the Regal Rogue Daring Dry I've been adding tonic water and ice. It's another refreshing drink that is absolutely perfect for Summer and great for enjoying when friends come over. Once I finish this bottle i think I'll try the Regal Rogue Wild rose variety next.
    I love that Regal Rogue is Australian made.
    Regal Rogue has a wide variety of flavours to choose from.
    I like that Regal Rogue sources native botanicals from indigenous communities.
    I like that Regal Rogue is easily available to purchase at Dan Murphy's.
    I would recommend Regal Rogue.

  • I enjoyed it

    This is my second review as I enjoyed the product. Would highly recommended especially now that it’s getting warmer!
    I love that Regal Rogue is Australian made.
    Regal Rogue has a wide variety of flavours to choose from.
    I like that Regal Rogue sources native botanicals from indigenous communities.
    I like that Regal Rogue is easily available to purchase at Dan Murphy's.
    I would recommend Regal Rogue.

  • Regal Rogue Bold Red- 5 star taste & flavour

    I recently had the pleasure of trying Regal Rogue Bold Red, and it was a very satisfying experience. Having never tried red vermouth before, I was pleasantly surprised by its rich and complex flavours, with a perfect balance of sweetness and spice. Marrying organic Australian Shiraz and unwooded Chardonnay with native Australian botanicals, it offers a warming yet refreshing taste that I thoroughly enjoyed. My preference was for sipping chilled and neat to really appreciate the botanicals and flavors of the vermouth, but I will say it was fantastic in cocktails too. So much so that it will likely become a regular purchase. Regal Rogue Bold Red is a fantastic choice for those new to red vermouth, and it has certainly piqued my interest in exploring more in this category.
    I love that Regal Rogue is Australian made.
    Regal Rogue has a wide variety of flavours to choose from.
    I like that Regal Rogue sources native botanicals from indigenous communities.
    I like that Regal Rogue is easily available to purchase at Dan Murphy's.
    I would recommend Regal Rogue.

  • Apertif Delight

    Regal Rogue Bold Red Vermouth is like a fun twist on the classic vermouth. It's packed with organic Shiraz, Chardonnay, and a bunch of Aussie botanicals and spices that make it stand out.

    What makes it even cooler is its lower sugar content, only 80gms per liter (64% less than the usual). So you can mix it with all sorts of things like oranges, ginger, figs, cherries, or just enjoy it on its own.

    It's not just a drink; it's an adventure in a glass! Regal Rogue Bold Red Vermouth is your go-to for spicing up your cocktails or making relaxed evenings extra special. Cheers to the good times with Regal Rogue! ????????
    I love that Regal Rogue is Australian made.
    Regal Rogue has a wide variety of flavours to choose from.
    I like that Regal Rogue sources native botanicals from indigenous communities.
    I like that Regal Rogue is easily available to purchase at Dan Murphy's.
    I would recommend Regal Rogue.

  • Sweet authentic drink

    I tried Regal Rogue Bold Red which is an aromatic spice and dried fruit. It’s a semi dry type of vermouth. I found it quite sweet though with the fruity taste. Looking at suggestions on what cocktails to try with it. I decided to make my own creation and add a non alcoholic seltzer with it. It had quotes of lemon and ginger spice in it. I found it complimented the alcohol quite well. All in all this vermouth is of premium quality.mi would highly recommend.
    I love that Regal Rogue is Australian made.
    Regal Rogue has a wide variety of flavours to choose from.
    I like that Regal Rogue sources native botanicals from indigenous communities.
    I like that Regal Rogue is easily available to purchase at Dan Murphy's.
    I would recommend Regal Rogue.

  • Soothing for a summer day perfection

    I tried the Daring Dry and my husband and friends love it. We mixed it with Sprite and a dash of lemon, tried a cocktail with tonic water and fresh mint leaves and a drop of mint syrup.

    Also, we mixed fresh squeezed orange juice and a dash of lime.

    It's really versatile in all sort of mixes and goes well in a lot of cocktails.

    I highly reckoned it - it's so refreshing even on its own, just chilled.

    Love it!
    I love that Regal Rogue is Australian made.
    Regal Rogue has a wide variety of flavours to choose from.
    I like that Regal Rogue sources native botanicals from indigenous communities.
    I like that Regal Rogue is easily available to purchase at Dan Murphy's.
    I would recommend Regal Rogue.

  • Sophisticated, different and very nice!

    I’m a huge fan of red wine so I really enjoyed this twist on a nice cocktail with the Shiraz vibes.

    I made the aperitif with the regal rogue bold red, ginger beer and orange slices. It was really nice, so different to what I’d usually have.

    I’ll definitely be buying other flavours in their range for cocktail nights with the girls!
    I love that Regal Rogue is Australian made.
    Regal Rogue has a wide variety of flavours to choose from.
    I like that Regal Rogue sources native botanicals from indigenous communities.
    I like that Regal Rogue is easily available to purchase at Dan Murphy's.
    I would recommend Regal Rogue.

  • Native flavours and excellent cocktails!

    I loved this product! It was easy to purchase at Dan Murphy's and came in a beautiful bottle which looks lovely on a spirit shelf. I made a '3-step-apertif' as recommended on the website with Regal Rogue Bold Red, ginger beer, fresh orange and a slice of ginger...it went down a treat with all my friends! The spirit is a wine replacement for gin, so is very versatile and has beautiful native flavours to it - pepperberry, wattle seed and native thyme. I would love to try the other flavours this range has to offer and would definitely consider purchasing this product again.
    I love that Regal Rogue is Australian made.
    Regal Rogue has a wide variety of flavours to choose from.
    I like that Regal Rogue sources native botanicals from indigenous communities.
    I like that Regal Rogue is easily available to purchase at Dan Murphy's.
    I would recommend Regal Rogue.

  • Great quality and full of flavour

    Great product and would recommend to others. It’s handy to always have available in case you feel like a cheeky drink.
    I love that Regal Rogue is Australian made.
    Regal Rogue has a wide variety of flavours to choose from.
    I like that Regal Rogue sources native botanicals from indigenous communities.
    I like that Regal Rogue is easily available to purchase at Dan Murphy's.
    I would recommend Regal Rogue.

  • Organic craft regal rogue

    I tried it with ice and a piece of garnish orange and ginger beer I did not really like the taste, I'm not really into organic drinks or food
    I love that Regal Rogue is Australian made.
    Regal Rogue has a wide variety of flavours to choose from.
    I like that Regal Rogue sources native botanicals from indigenous communities.
    I like that Regal Rogue is easily available to purchase at Dan Murphy's.
    I would recommend Regal Rogue.

  • Embarking on a taste adventure with Regal Rogue's Lively White was a delight.

    The blend of citrus and floral notes created a refreshing and invigorating experience. As I trialed it, I couldn\'t help but appreciate the craftsmanship that went into this Australian aperitif—each sip carried a hint of sophistication. The Cocktail Challenge at home added a fun element, allowing me to explore different ways to savour the lively essence of Lively White. If you\'re seeking a refreshing and elegant choice, Regal Rogue is a definite win. Cheers to a truly enjoyable experience!
    I love that Regal Rogue is Australian made.
    Regal Rogue has a wide variety of flavours to choose from.
    I like that Regal Rogue sources native botanicals from indigenous communities.
    I like that Regal Rogue is easily available to purchase at Dan Murphy's.
    I would recommend Regal Rogue.

  • Not easy to find, but a refreshing summer drink

    I was hoping to try the Bold Red or the Wild Rose, but unfortunately after several trips to my local Dan Murphy’s I could find either of them, so had to settle for the Daring Dry. Even though it was my preferred option, it was quite enjoyable. I tried it with tonic, soda & cranberry juice. Tonic was my favourite with a wedge of lime.
    I love that Regal Rogue is Australian made.
    Regal Rogue has a wide variety of flavours to choose from.
    I like that Regal Rogue sources native botanicals from indigenous communities.
    I like that Regal Rogue is easily available to purchase at Dan Murphy's.
    I would recommend Regal Rogue.

  • Regal Rogue, Charm in a bottle

    This was a fabulous drink that was enjoyed by all who shared the bottle with me. Was great tasting, was easy to drink, didn't give me terrible lasting side effects like most alcoholic drinks.
    I love that Regal Rogue is Australian made.
    Regal Rogue has a wide variety of flavours to choose from.
    I like that Regal Rogue sources native botanicals from indigenous communities.
    I like that Regal Rogue is easily available to purchase at Dan Murphy's.
    I would recommend Regal Rogue.

  • Something i’d never considered trying until now.

    A delicious burst of flavour. You could definitely taste the spices but they were by no means overwhelming. Just added to the party in my mouth. A very refreshing drink to enjoy on a hot summers day. id never considered buying anything like this but im definitely converted!
    I love that Regal Rogue is Australian made.
    Regal Rogue has a wide variety of flavours to choose from.
    I like that Regal Rogue sources native botanicals from indigenous communities.
    I like that Regal Rogue is easily available to purchase at Dan Murphy's.
    I would recommend Regal Rogue.

  • Regal Rogue

    Daring Dry is made with an Australian Organic native Australian herbs and spices, including native Anise Myrtle, Quandong and Native Thyme.Regal Rogue Darling Dry Vermouth is fantastic! It's not too strong or sweet, just right. The flavors are like a mix of fruits and spices that blend perfectly. You can use it in lots of cocktails or just on the rocks. I'm very happy and i will recommend to all my friends to buy Regal Rogue Daring Dry. Give it a try, you won't be disappointed!
    I love that Regal Rogue is Australian made.
    Regal Rogue has a wide variety of flavours to choose from.
    I like that Regal Rogue sources native botanicals from indigenous communities.
    I like that Regal Rogue is easily available to purchase at Dan Murphy's.
    I would recommend Regal Rogue.

  • Regal Eogue, my go to for summer

    I had never tried an aperitif before and I am so glad I did. It’s a staple in my cocktail cabinet now and my go to for a summer drink. A simple addition to so many drinks and for someone who isn’t a lover of an overly sweet drink I really enjoyed the flavour. I can’t wait to try the others.
    I love that Regal Rogue is Australian made.
    Regal Rogue has a wide variety of flavours to choose from.
    I like that Regal Rogue sources native botanicals from indigenous communities.
    I like that Regal Rogue is easily available to purchase at Dan Murphy's.
    I would recommend Regal Rogue.

  • Delicious

    I really enjoyed trying out Regal Rogue Vermouth. Gin is usually my drink of choice but I was pleasantly surprised with regal rogue and its botanical infusions. Its has similar qualities and pairs will with soda or tonic and fruit.

    It also makes a delicious addition to many cocktail recipes. I enjoyed dry vermouth with cranberry juice and gingerale. We also purchased the Bold Red after this trial to taste. It really is very good with ginger too
    I love that Regal Rogue is Australian made.
    Regal Rogue has a wide variety of flavours to choose from.
    I like that Regal Rogue sources native botanicals from indigenous communities.
    I like that Regal Rogue is easily available to purchase at Dan Murphy's.
    I would recommend Regal Rogue.

  • Regal Rogue Daring Dry

    I tried the Regal Rogue Daring Dry, I mixed it with soda and lime juice, it was a very refreshing and delicious drink, a great drink for a hot Summer day. I also tried it with tonic water and I could really taste the Australian native botanicals which were highlighted with the tonic water.
    I love that Regal Rogue is Australian made.
    Regal Rogue has a wide variety of flavours to choose from.
    I like that Regal Rogue sources native botanicals from indigenous communities.
    I like that Regal Rogue is easily available to purchase at Dan Murphy's.
    I would recommend Regal Rogue.

  • New favourite

    After trying the Regal Rogue Daring Dry I am telling all my friends about my new favourite summer drink. Mixed with tonic and lemon it’s simply delicious. Smooth, tasty and refreshing. The only problem is I can only get it at Dan Murphy’s which is not super close to us. Need it sold at other retailers.
    I love that Regal Rogue is Australian made.
    Regal Rogue has a wide variety of flavours to choose from.
    I like that Regal Rogue sources native botanicals from indigenous communities.
    I like that Regal Rogue is easily available to purchase at Dan Murphy's.
    I would recommend Regal Rogue.

  • Still Loving It!

    This is my second review and I'm loving it even more! It's so refreshing and now the weather is heating up it great with ice and soda! The botanicals give it an earthy, Aussie hit and I highly recommend it to all!
    I love that Regal Rogue is Australian made.
    Regal Rogue has a wide variety of flavours to choose from.
    I like that Regal Rogue sources native botanicals from indigenous communities.
    I like that Regal Rogue is easily available to purchase at Dan Murphy's.
    I would recommend Regal Rogue.

  • HARD TO FIND, GOOD BUT NOT SHOW STOPPING

    I found this item extremely hard to find in stores around me, though all of them would have the shelf space/ticket, it was usually unavailable on shelves/sold out, so it took a while to find, but I was committed & keen for a cocktail so I persevered.

    Upon purchasing, I trialled with the 2 recommended cocktails; Rogroni & 3 Step Apertif, both of which were very quick/easy to make, even for those inexperienced in mixology of drinks. I liked the aspect of making my own drink, as opposed to buying an RTD; as though it wasn’t hard or time consuming to do, it did make me feel a bit ‘fancy’.

    Both cocktails were sampled.. to completion, and enjoyed, with the verdict between my partner & I being that the 3 Step Apertif was the winner.

    Personally, I thought it was a great product, that definitely delivered on the botanicals promised, however, it didn’t really seem ‘show stopping’, therefore had me questioning the price point a bit.

    I probably wouldn’t repurchase again, but definitely will finish up what we have.
    I love that Regal Rogue is Australian made.
    Regal Rogue has a wide variety of flavours to choose from.
    I like that Regal Rogue sources native botanicals from indigenous communities.
    I like that Regal Rogue is easily available to purchase at Dan Murphy's.
    I would recommend Regal Rogue.

  • Diverse flavour profile

    The flavour of the daring dry regal rogue is so interesting and have been really loving finding what other flavours of mixers work well with it - it's been really exciting

    Would recommend for a new drink to try
    I love that Regal Rogue is Australian made.
    Regal Rogue has a wide variety of flavours to choose from.
    I like that Regal Rogue sources native botanicals from indigenous communities.
    I like that Regal Rogue is easily available to purchase at Dan Murphy's.
    I would recommend Regal Rogue.

  • My New Home Bar Staple

    Regal Rogue Bold Red Vermouth is a winner for sure. I'm enjoying trying new cocktails with it. The flavour of the Bold Red Vermouth is so my style and love mixing with items such as Aperol and orange wedges. So summery and fresh. I will be heading out to buy more once finished, which is not too far away.
    I love that Regal Rogue is Australian made.
    Regal Rogue has a wide variety of flavours to choose from.
    I like that Regal Rogue sources native botanicals from indigenous communities.
    I like that Regal Rogue is easily available to purchase at Dan Murphy's.
    I would recommend Regal Rogue.

  • Perfect Summer Drink

    This is my second review of Regal Rogue. My first review concentrated on the Regal Rogue Bold Red but as I've also bought and loved the Regal Rogue Daring Dry I thought I should add a second review. While I enjoyed making negronis with the Regal Rogue Bold red, with the Regal Rogue Daring Dry I've been adding tonic water and ice. It's another refreshing drink that is absolutely perfect for Summer and great for enjoying when friends come over. Once I finish this bottle i think I'll try the Regal Rogue Wild rose variety next.
    I love that Regal Rogue is Australian made.
    Regal Rogue has a wide variety of flavours to choose from.
    I like that Regal Rogue sources native botanicals from indigenous communities.
    I like that Regal Rogue is easily available to purchase at Dan Murphy's.
    I would recommend Regal Rogue.

  • Delicious and fresh

    I was a bit apprehensive to try this one - we had already tried the red one and now hubby went out to try the daring dry one (not all Dan Murphy's stock these either, it hard to find). I added a bit of lemon soda into it and some lime and it tasted amazing. I am not a big booze drinker but this is just right for me, especially with the added soda.
    I love that Regal Rogue is Australian made.
    Regal Rogue has a wide variety of flavours to choose from.
    I like that Regal Rogue sources native botanicals from indigenous communities.
    I like that Regal Rogue is easily available to purchase at Dan Murphy's.
    I would recommend Regal Rogue.

  • Give it a try!

    It's not a drink that many would just grab without thinking, but they really should try it!

    Its deliciously herbal & refreshing.

    Pair with a delicious tonic, or if you like it sweeter, a lemon mixer.

    I'd take a fresh pic, but i drank it too fast!
    I love that Regal Rogue is Australian made.
    Regal Rogue has a wide variety of flavours to choose from.
    I like that Regal Rogue sources native botanicals from indigenous communities.
    I like that Regal Rogue is easily available to purchase at Dan Murphy's.
    I would recommend Regal Rogue.

  • Proved wrong

    I didn’t think I liked vermouth and was very concerned about the variety of ingredients but with ginger beer this is amazing
    I love that Regal Rogue is Australian made.
    Regal Rogue has a wide variety of flavours to choose from.
    I like that Regal Rogue sources native botanicals from indigenous communities.
    I like that Regal Rogue is easily available to purchase at Dan Murphy's.
    I would recommend Regal Rogue.
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Article ‘Trust Your Intuition’: How To Advocate For Your Child In Hospital

‘Trust Your Intuition’: How To Advocate For Your Child In Hospital

Mother’s instinct is a funny thing. At home, we trust it without question. But put us in a hospital setting with an unwell child, surrounded by doctors, nurses and monitors, and suddenly we start doubting ourselves.

What if I’m overreacting?
What if I’ve got it wrong?

So we stay quiet, even when we know something just isn’t right with our child. I’ve been there myself – when my usually ‘tough’ son was doubled over with stomach pain. I was told in the emergency department that it probably wasn’t his appendix. But I knew he wouldn’t have begged me to take him to hospital unless it was serious. Because I know him better than anyone. Turns out, it was appendicitis.

It’s a really common place for parents to land. You’re grateful for the care your child is getting, but at the same time, you feel this huge responsibility to speak up if something doesn’t feel right.

Here’s the thing though: that instinct you’re feeling? It matters more than you might think.

Why your gut feeling matters more than you realise

According to Paediatric Nurse Unit Manager, Canterbury Hospital, Leticia Jackson, parents bring something to the hospital that no test or machine ever could.

“Parents often say they ‘just know’ when something isn’t quite right with their child, and in a hospital, that gut feeling is incredibly valuable,” she explains.

Leticia Jackson, Paediatric Nurse Unit Manager, Canterbury Hospital

While medical teams rely on observations, tests and equipment, parents know the little details. The way your child usually smiles. How they react when they’re tired. What’s normal for them.

So when something feels “off”, even if everything looks okay on paper, it can actually be an early warning sign.

“When parents trust those instincts and speak up, this creates a powerful partnership that can sometimes catch a problem before it becomes an emergency,” Leticia says.

Worried about speaking up? You’re not alone

A lot of parents hesitate about advocating for their child.

You don’t want to come across as difficult. You don’t want to question the people caring for your child. And sometimes, you just don’t feel confident enough to push the issue.

Leticia gets it.

“It is completely understandable for parents to feel hesitant,” she says. “No one wants to be seen as difficult or to second-guess the hardworking people caring for their child.”

But here’s a helpful way to look at it: you’re not challenging the medical team, you’re helping them.

Parents are the constant. Staff change shifts, care for multiple patients, and rely on snapshots of information. You’re there the whole time, noticing the subtle changes.

“Our medical team doesn’t view a concerned parent as overreactive, but as a partner,” Leticia explains. “Your voice matters.”

Remember, we know our children better than anyone.

What to do if you’re worried: the Raise It process

If you’re in a NSW public hospital or health service and you’re worried about you or your child’s condition getting worse, there is a clear process you can follow called Raise It.

Raise It is designed to help patients, carers and family members get help fast if they’re worried about a change in their loved one’s condition.

Here’s how it works:

  1. Talk: Start by speaking to a nurse, midwife, doctor or health worker about your concerns.
  2. Ask: Still worried? Ask to speak to the nurse or midwife in charge and request a Clinical Review.
  3. Call: If you’re still concerned, you can escalate further using the Raise It process to get urgent attention from a senior health worker.

You don’t need medical knowledge. You don’t need to be certain. If you feel something isn’t right, or your child is getting worse, Raise It. You just need to speak up.

What should you actually look out for?

Sometimes it’s not one big, obvious sign. It can be small, subtle changes that just don’t sit right.

Things like:

  • Changes in breathing (fast, laboured or noisy)
  • Skin looking pale, mottled, or developing unusual rashes
  • Your child being unusually drowsy, floppy, or hard to wake
  • Confusion or behaviour that’s out of character
  • Pain that isn’t improving with treatment
  • Or simply that feeling that your child is getting worse

And sometimes, it’s just that gut feeling you can’t explain.

That’s enough.

“You are helping us, not bothering us”

If there’s one message Leticia wants parents to take away, it’s that you aren’t bothering the medical team, you’re helping them.

“In my years as a Nurse Unit Manager, I can say with absolute certainty that many critical changes in a child’s condition have been identified first by a parent. While our clinical staff are highly skilled at performing regular observations and interpreting data, parents are the only constant presence who truly know their child’s baseline behaviour, personality, and what is normal for them.

“I have seen numerous instances where a parent’s insistence that their child is “just not themselves” – despite vital signs appearing relatively stable – has prompted a deeper clinical review that uncovered everything from early signs of sepsis to a life-threatening respiratory crisis.”

The Raise It process exists because healthcare teams know how important parents are in keeping children safe.

“Speaking up doesn’t mean you don’t trust the team,” she says. “It means you’re partnering with us to make sure nothing gets missed.”

And if you’re still worried about being judged?

“Whether your concern turns out to be something or nothing, your instinct to raise it is always valid.”

Find out more, visit health.nsw.gov.au/raiseit

Mouths of Mums is proudly working with NSW Health to bring you this important article.

Share this

  • We need more articles like this one. It is important for us to advocate for ourselves and our loved ones in any situation and work with professionals.

    Reply

  • I have learned many times to always listen to your gut and speak up when you don’t think something is right. This article was a great read, our kids are our world and if we don’t feel they are getting the right help, and we feel it, we need to speak up.

    Reply

  • You should never second guess yourself when it comes to yours or your childs health- or anyones for that matter. Go with your thoughts. It is natural to want to protect a loved one especially when it comes to health situations, and the feeling you get when you think you didnt do enough to advocate or fight for them…it is not a kind or nice way to feel. Many people have ended up being heartbroken and picking up pieces for years because of feeling they didnt do enough.

    Reply

  • A very good and informative article. I have read so many stories about mums just knowing when things are not right and demanding second and third opinions until they got the right answer. Sometimes mums just know. It is our job as care takers of our families. Listen to your gut!

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  • Years ago, I spoke up for my 14-year-old daughter, but my concerns weren’t fully listened to. I’ve always wished I had pushed harder. She was sent home without much testing, and two days later, she passed away.
    So, if you ever have concerns—no matter how minor—please speak up and keep advocating. Trust your instincts; they are there for a reason.

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  • This is so important for parents to know how to raise it further if they don’t think their child is receiving the medical support they need! I know this article refers to the NSW system but other systems have similar procedures just with different names. I know in QLD it’s called Ryan’s Rule.

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  • It’s so important to follow your gut instincts and express your concerns indeed. I have never hesitated to advocate for my children in various situations and I don’t care what other people think about it. Not all doctors and medical staff appreciate it when you question them, I’ve experienced that it may result in angry indignant responses.

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  • How true this is! While nurses and doctors are the medical professionals doing their job on the daily, we know our children better than anyone and what is ‘normal’ for them. I would always speak up if I had noticed any changes in my child’s health and encourage other parents to do so too. No question is silly!

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  • This really is such an important issue and a good topic to discuss with people, I am often surprised that people are worried about being judged. This is not something I care about; the priority is for the care and health of everyone is my family. Parents know their children and need to work with health professionals for the best outcomes for their children.

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  • This is such an important issue to raise, and no one should ever feel ashamed, nervous or that they are being OTT for advocating for their kids, themselves or loves ones in hospital. In QLD we have Ryan’s Rule. A three step process where your concern will be escalated if they believe the patients condition isn’t improving or is worsening.

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  • I have never been afraid to advocate for my children and partner and extended family and also friends. It is so important to listen and to trust intuition. When people have not listened, I have persevered and kept on with insisting on care and making sure they truly listened and took action.

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