Breastfeeding photo competition
Winner: India Curtis overlooking Fifeshire Rock
Nelson’s beauty has been showcased in winning photographs from the Ministry of Health’s breastfeeding photo competition.
India Curtis from Christchurch has won the Upper South Island category of the competition, with a photo taken while on holiday in Nelson. Second place went to Nelson’s Tia Andrews.
Nelson breastfeeding advocate Ruth Brodbeck said the competition aimed to celebrate and support breastfeeding and in particular, breastfeeding in public. Over 360 entries were received nationwide.
“We’re thrilled that so many mums showed their support for breastfeeding by entering photos, and that our beautiful region helped these mums to win! The entrants are sending a strong message to other women that breastfeeding in public is entirely natural. The proud looks on the faces of the mums who entered shows just how far we have come.”
India’s photo shows her feeding baby Tilly against the backdrop of Fifeshire Rock and Haulashore Island.
India says she has had to overcome challenges to breastfeed, but has been supported all the way.
“At the start it wasn’t easy, but I was lucky enough to be surrounded by supportive, pro-breastfeeding friends and family. I thought the competition would be a good opportunity to show breastfeeding in a completely natural and contemporary way. I am part of the new generation making breastfeeding more socially acceptable and a natural part of a child’s up-bringing,” she said.
“I know that breastfeeding has been the best decision for me and my daughter because she is the epitome of a healthy baby.”
The breastfeeding competition had a regional flavour, with women invited to enter photos of themselves or their friends breastfeeding in public locations. Winners from eight regions have been selected by public vote and receive a prize pack and vouchers.
Runner up: Nelson's Tia Andrews
The competition is part of the Ministry of Health’s breastfeeding education initiative, which includes the display around the country of pictures of women breastfeeding.
Ruth said breastfeeding gives baby a great start in life.
“It helps them develop physically and emotionally and helps build immunity. Breastmilk can give babies a perfect blend of nutrients,” she said.
“It’s best for mum too. It reduces the risk of some breast cancers and may reduce the risk of ovarian cancer, osteoporosis and hip fractures later in life.”
