Hours-long queues for PCR tests are nothing new, but spare a thought for mums-to-be like Amy Attwood.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
The Balgownie woman had to get a test to see her midwife, after she was struck with unusual tiredness at 34 weeks.
She has no other COVID symptoms, but was told she would have to return a negative PCR test before her appointment - and an RAT was not an acceptable substitute.
"It's amusing but it's annoying," she said.
"I took the kids to three testing sites when I was first told and two were closed. I didn't make it in to the third one.
"On New Year's Eve I asked mum to stay home with the kids while I went to the testing clinic.
And we're all in the same boat. But surely it's possible to work something out.
"I got there at 8am an after two hours I really needed to wee, but I couldn't have left the line if I wanted to, I was blocked in.
"There were no public toilets open, and as I was waiting for a test I couldn't go to a nearby business and put them at risk.
"I had to get my husband to come so we could switch cars and I could drive home to wee while he waited in the line.
"A few people gave me funny looks and I had to yell that I was pregnant."
After three hours Ms Attwood was able to get her test and return home.
Although she could see the lighter side, she did have serious concerns for other pregnant women, the elderly, and those with bladder problems.
She said priority testing for those who were physically unable to wait in line, or portaloos at testing sites could be the answer.
"It's not pathology's fault, they're doing an amazing job," she said.
"And we're all in the same boat. But surely it's possible to work something out.
"I think the baby is fine, but f something were wrong and I wasn't able to see the midwife because I hadn't been able to get a test ... that's a real concern."
The Illawarra Mercury newsroom is funded by our readers. You can subscribe to support our journalism here.