Australian wellness influencer Stacey Warnecke (née Hatfield) passed away at the age of 30 in September 2025 due to complications during a home birth.
Her husband, Nathan Warnecke, announced on October 19, 2025, that Stacey died nearly three weeks earlier following an unexpected complication during childbirth at their home in Melbourne. The couple had chosen a “freebirth,” where no medical professionals are present.
“It is with a heavy heart that I share the unexpected passing of my beautiful wife, soul mate, and best friend, Stacey Warnecke (Hatfield),” Nathan expressed on Instagram.
Details emerged that Stacey and Nathan were reportedly assisted by an unregistered doula during the birth. At a coroner’s hearing in December 2025, it was revealed that Stacey had refused all medical care, including ultrasounds, due to concerns about COVID-19 mandates in Australia.
Who Was Stacey Hatfield?
Stacey was known as a “low tox nutritionist” and “food content creator” through her Instagram brand, Natural Spoonfuls, which had over 21,000 followers by December 2025. She promoted a “chemical-free” diet as part of her platform.
When Did Stacey Hatfield Pass Away?
Stacey died on September 29, 2025, after complications arose during a home birth in Melbourne.
How Did Stacey Hatfield Die?
According to lawyer Rachel Ellyard at the Victorian Coroners Court on December 10, 2025, Stacey likely died from a postpartum hemorrhage, as reported by 9News.
She was assisted by her husband Nathan and an unregulated doula, Emily Lal. After delivering her son, Axel, Stacey’s condition deteriorated, and paramedics were called around 4:30 a.m.
Paramedics found Stacey in critical condition, with yellowing skin and breathing difficulties. She was taken to Frankston Hospital, where doctors attempted an emergency hysterectomy and used all available blood supplies to save her.
The Herald Sun reported that she experienced multiple cardiac arrests before passing away.
What Followed Stacey Hatfield’s Death?
Two days after Nathan’s announcement, the Coroners Court in Australia confirmed to Us Weekly on October 21, 2025, that her death was under investigation.
A December 10, 2025, hearing at the Victorian Coroners Court provided more insights into the circumstances of her death, as reported by 9News.
During the hearing, lawyer Ellyard explained that Stacey’s pregnancy decisions were influenced by her concerns over COVID-19 mandates. She reportedly avoided all healthcare, including ultrasounds and consultations with medical professionals.
Nathan provided a statement to the police, but Lal declined. The day after Stacey’s death, Lal had reportedly cleaned the home extensively.
The Health Complaints Commissioner of Victoria announced an investigation into Lal in October 2025, alleging her involvement in home births that could endanger mothers and babies. Lal, who calls herself “The Authentic Birthkeeper,” was temporarily barred from providing healthcare during the investigation.
The public was advised against engaging with Lal for health services and urged to contact the Health Complaints Commissioner with any concerns.
The next hearing is scheduled for March 2026, with investigators seeking to interview Lal before then.
Nathan Warnecke’s Statement on His Wife’s Passing
Nathan shared on Instagram on October 19, 2025, that Stacey died from an “unforeseen and extremely rare complication” after giving birth to their son, Axel.
“Hospital staff did everything possible, but ultimately, nothing could be done despite their best efforts,” Nathan wrote.
He described Stacey as his “soul mate and best friend,” adding, “I knew Stace for nine amazing years, and she was the light of my life.”
“Words can’t express the devastation felt by myself and everyone who knew and loved her. She was my lighthouse in the storm, and the world is less bright without her,” he continued.
Nathan added, “As her husband, I couldn’t ask for a better partner. She made me the man I am today, and everything I have is thanks to her.”
He found some comfort knowing Stacey was “the happiest [he’d] ever seen her” after Axel’s birth.
“Her memory will remain with those who knew her as the cheerful, green-eyed, blonde-haired girl whose smile could light up a room,” Nathan concluded.
Family’s Reaction to Stacey Hatfield’s Death
Nathan’s uncle, Jon Downie, established a GoFundMe to cover funeral expenses, baby supplies, and household bills, raising over $87,000 by December 2025, close to the $90,000 goal.
“Nathan is not one to ask for help, but he will need support. With love, we know he will succeed as an amazing father to Axel,” the GoFundMe page stated.
The Instagram account for Natural Spoonfuls encouraged followers to donate on October 19, stating, “Nathan was Stacey’s rock. He is now raising Axel, their beautiful son who carries Stacey’s spark.”
The statement concluded, “Stacey and Nathan lived a quiet, love-filled life. They never would have asked for help, so I am asking on their behalf. Nathan is stepping into fatherhood with unimaginable strength and grace. Supporting him through this GoFundMe would mean the world.”
