Swim champ Susie Maroney joins beastfeeding campaign

To celebrate World Breastfeeding Week, August 1st - 7th marathon swimmer and breastfeeding mum Susie Maroney OAM, has announced her involvement in Queensland Health's new breastfeeding campaign.

The 12+ months on the breast, normal, natural, healthy promotional campaign aims to encourage breastfeeding duration, something Susie can personally relate to.

"I'm excited and honoured to be the ambassador for the campaign," Ms Maroney said.

"Breastfeeding is one of the greatest gifts a mother can give to their child. I love breastfeeding Paris, my 12-month-old daughter and want to do it as long as I can." The aim of the campaign is to arm new mothers with the confidence to breastfeed for at least 12 months.

Queensland Health sourced scientific research from around the globe in developing the campaign materials, including key studies which have shown that breastfed babies are less likely to suffer from gastro-intestinal, chest and ear infections, and diabetes and obesity later in life.

A guide to breastfeeding published as part of the campaign provides easy to read advice and facts on the benefits of breastfeeding, how to breastfeed, common problems with solutions and contacts for further advice and support.

Susie, famous for her marathon swims including crossing the English Channel at the tender age of 15, went on to break six world records and complete an historic swim from Cuba to the USA. She is currently preparing for a swim from Sydney to Wollongong in November.

For more information on the campaign and guide visit http://health.qld.gov.au/breastfeeding/ or call the Australian Breastfeeding Association Breastfeeding Helpline 1800 mum 2 mum (1800 686 2 686), or 1800 686 2 68 to VoIP phones for 24/7 advice and support.