I thought the other thread was way too long for everyone on dial up and its such an important issue that everyone needs to read it.
I hope you dont mind Mel and Kath

Carol 34 DH Milton 41
DD Taylor 6/9/93
DS Ethan 30/6/02
DD Brielle 31/12/04 Mosaic Down Syndrome <ahref="http://www.snugglepie.com"><img border="0" src="http://www.snugglepie.com/ezb/122702.png"></a>

I proudly b/f my baby where ever and whenever she needs it that is what DEMAND feeding is about. b/f is the most natural act a woman can do and i am proud that i am able to nourish my child. I couldnt care less what others think about me b/f in public it is their problem not mine.

This message was edited by catalyst on Saturday, 30 July 2005 @ 10:52 PM

congrats on 1300 posts carol

i think we should have a boob flashathon just because hehehe

I totally agree Carol, if someone thinks BFing is disgusting, that's their problem!



This message was edited by catalyst on Saturday, 30 July 2005 @ 10:53 PM

It took me a lot of guts to actually feed in front of people as I know others have trouble with it as well. Once I did it; it became very easy to do. I certainly didn't do it to make myself feel good; I did it so that my baby could be fed when he needed to be fed. I don't like to go hungry so therefore when my baby needed it; he got his meal. It now gives me pleasure that people hate it as much as Maria... hmmm, wonder if Harley wants to go back to breast feeding.

I actually crack myself up...

edited to add about the boob flashathon; count me in!

Thanks

Rohan & Harley 1 Oct 02




This message was edited by Dino-Mite on Saturday, 30 July 2005 @ 8:41 PM

Thanks Karen i hadnt even noticed TBH
A boob flashathon, now thats an interesting idea, out the front of the establishment in question of course then everyone can join in regardless of whether they are b/f or not. LOL

Just in case anyone missed my diatribe on The RiotACT, some more people weighed in with very powerful comments in support of the mums!

http://the-riotact.com/?p=849

Hi GoateeCat,

I liked the reply about Club Stink changing their story and
backpedalling. It is so true! It is making them look ridiculous.
Not that they needed much help in this department.

Leanne, that made me laugh.

I was thinking that maybe she is the one that told them that they couldn't b/f... you know; thinks the baby's stink but then can't tell the boss the truth.

Yep Rohan. That was my first thought too....Maria79 is a CP manager. I also had a good read of the 'Your Say' in the C Times and some of the posts in there were fishy to say the least

Susana & DH Chris[size=1] aka GoateeCat
DD Delia Jade 13/11/02 & DS Darcy Cole 2/11/04

How did that double post 10 minutes later...?

This message was edited by LeanneP on Saturday, 30 July 2005 @ 9:26 PM

Just in case anyone is interested in keeping abreast of the latest (ahahaha), here is Club Pinks paid ad in Todays Times. The file is big.

http://users.tpg.com.au/adsl62dg/pink.jpg

The last dot point is the corker given Marias rampage. Insincere moi? Surely not!

This message was edited by GoateeCat on Saturday, 30 July 2005 @ 9:33 PM

They just don't get it, do they?

I can't believe they have so graciously set aside 3 places for women to breastfeed their little ones. what a generous gesture.
Seeing as Harry is so concerned about the kitchenette not meeting ABA accreditation standards, I would love to see what sort of accreditation the ABA would give to a place where mothers need to breastfeed whilst SITTING ON THE FLOOR! (I can't believe you had to do that Carol) How is that safe or comfortable?

i support Mel n Kath 110% and i bottle feed my DS and i am also in perth, Keep up the fight girls and those people like maria are very envious of you as you have the confidence to to right by your kids while she leaves hers to starve while she get hot and smelly...

this is what i have posted on the roitact site thingo


[quote]
I have read the gym account of where they were and they say. THe babies were in an area that isn't safe,, WELL if it isnt safe for to infants that cant move (ie roll, or walk) then WHY is it safe for anyone.. As another said would you like to sit in a changing area to eat, or wait till a stranger siad it was time to feed you, i think not..

AS for this ""2nd - The ladies were provided with terms and conditions of membership upon joining, terms which indicate they are not allowed to breastfeed in the club pink area of CISAC. The Club’s decision to not enforce those conditions until now is irrelivant."" THat there is saying they are discriminting agianst it, by not allowing it.. If you think babies stink and are offensive, then i say look at yourself doing your work out and then me yourself , i bet others find that a gross smell and sight..
GO GIRLS...
[quote]

ME 29,DH 26,DD 24/1/97,DS 7/3/05

<IMG SRC="http://troyreynolds.com/photos/kids250705-small.jpg">

We need to that thread locked.. cause then she might just log out.

Ohh...EB have such a great weekend this time. Let's see how long she can keep up with us LOL.

Edited to add: Mel & Kath...pls don't take all those rubbish into your heart. You know that's not true. All the best and biggest hugs for you and your family.

Yani

This message was edited by Yani77 on Saturday, 30 July 2005 @ 10:25 PM

omg, I am sooo slow,
i have been hearing 104.7 saying all week
'if you want to breastfeed while you work out, weve got an exercise bike in the studio' comment and i never got it.
but i just got it, It refers to the uproar with Club Pink,
hahaha.

Hi Mel and Kath,

I don't post very often, but I've been following what's been going on, and just wanted to let you know that we're another family that's right behind you (and who will be taking their swimming lesson business elsewhere).

Heard this little gem on ABC Radio - "What sort of mothers are they to go to the gym at feeding time anyway?" !!!! If your babies are anything like mine were, they didn't come with a timer and set feeding schedule! And as far as the people who have been wondering if there's anywhere left they can get away from babies and children ... what if someone said they wanted to be able to go somewhere where there were no disabled people, or blind people, or skinny people? They would be howled down in two seconds flat!

Good on you - you have loads of support

Karen

Hello again,

We have locked the previous thread and done some editing in both this thread and the previous thread we will not be pming those members who we have edited as there are too many but ask you to understand our reasons, a situation like this is obviously going to carry a lot of attention, both positive and negative, we ask that we remember that members are all entitled to have their say as long as it stays within a respectful realm, we cannot put someone down because of their beliefs. Please try to stay respectful in what you post regardless of the beliefs of anyone who has posted before you.

Just a quick note as well to remember that this is the worldwide web and whatever we post here is open to anyone to search on the net and can be used by them in any fashion they choose, for or against the ladies in question who have been dealing with this situation.

Thank you for all being so understanding and I hope that it settles down for you both soon and that all goes well.

Maria,

It really is such a shame that we live in a society with people who are so narrow minded. You are however entitled to your opinion, however wrong we may find it.

You have said that you believe that the women are being selfish. Well lets not forget the fact that they are thinking about their babies' needs, where as people like you are thinking purely about YOUR OWN comfort. I would say that is the selfish attitude to take.

Perhaps you have not been following the media closely. If you had, you would have noticed that both women are articulate, intelligent women who care first and foremost about nurturing their babies. Why should they have to do this in an environment that is not comfortable? What about the safety aspect of a wet pool floor whilst carrying an infant baby. Surely CISAC should be more concerned about that then a "kitchen tables corner edges".

If you followed this thread in the first instance you would see that the women tried to resolve this issue the minute it cropped up. They did not run to the media the day it happened, in fact it was 10 days after the event. Perhaps if management at CISAC had been more concerned about customer service this issue would never have been allowed to get this far. Also, if you read back, you will note they have both been fending off the media for quite some days now, surely this is a clear indication of their desire to resolve this issue before resorting to this method.

Why do you think the law is on the mothers' side in this case? Because the World Health Organization and the Australian Breastfeeding Association recognises that due to attitudes like this, the rate of breastfeeding is on the decline. No one, even bottle feeding mothers, will deny the fact that most mothers desire to breastfeed their babies as nature intended. This does not always work out, but for most of us we all respect the rights and needs of mothers and babies to feed and be fed in an environment where society supports this relationship be it breast or bottle.

If you feel uncomfortable seeing a baby being breastfed, how do you think mothers feel knowing there are people like you staring at them as they do it? All the more reason why the facilities provided are inadequate. Regardless of the fact that breasts were intended for feeding babies, they are still attached to our bodies. Women feed discreetly because it is their body and the act of breastfeeding is not for the sake of public display. It is PURELY for feeding the baby.

I think it is fairly obvious you are connected with the Club and family in question. I think that you would be better off keeping your posts out of here though as with attitudes like that you will come off second best every time. And, as Chris (Goatee cat) said, you and they, will lose this fight as the law is NOT on your side and the women ARE NOT giving up!

Chloe

Edited to correct typo

This message was edited by New2ACT on Sunday, 31 July 2005 @ 12:43 AM

Before I had children, I must admit I was unable to connect with such an issue and believed when stories such as this surfaced (ie. Kate Lanbrook on My Rest. Rlz) that what would be the problem accomodating people around you as well as the child.

Now however, I feel very different on the subject having fed my boys and hopfully fed my next baby, I understand the demand!

This is one issue hard to resolved or something that can be seen "eye to eye" on until all women and men can brestfeed.

We all know when that will happen....NEVER

Lauren




url=http://lilypie.com][/url]

I am so disappointed to read the negative comments about breastfeeding in public and our rights to breastfeed whenever and wherever we like. There is nothing disgusting about breastfeeding, it is a mother taking care of her baby. How can that be wrong?

Hi,
Just wanted to pop in and congratulate and lend my support to the two wonderful women defending the rights of breastfeeding mothers and babies everywhere.
I do not reside in the ACT, but that is irrelevant; this is an issue that affects women and babies worldwide.

Unfortunately, as a new mother, I too have been subjected to discrimination whilst breastfeeding my child in public. However (unfortunately) I was blissfully unaware at the time!

As my husband and I sat in a busy cafe, lunching out together for the first time with our two week old at our regular spot (which I might add is fine with BFing), two men, one elderly and one middle aged, repeatedly made remarks under their breath about my breastfeeding being 'in very poor taste'! Can you believe it!

I could not hear the comments, but my husband who was closer to them could. He didn't tell me until after the men left the cafe as he knew I would be ropable and would confront them regarding the matter. I wish he had actually stood up for me himself and confronted them, but sadly, he is not the confrontationalist type!

Had I known that they found a 2 week old fulfilling a biological need in such a natural and discreet way so offensive, and if I was of a similarly small mind, perhaps I could have commented that I found it offensive to sit and watch an elderly person eat, as he was dribbling a little and chewing quite noisily. Did I comment though? No, as I am not ageist and I respect the right for all to receive nourishment where and when they require it.

I was especially disappointed at the remarks from the other middle aged man, whom I know to be homosexual. Of course, he has every right to be so, and I would support him fully in his decision, but I would also expect that as a member of a minority group that is often victimised and under attack on the basis of personal choice, that he would be the last person to discriminate against others in such a similar way.

My husband informed me that they both repeatedly returned their gaze to me and stared whilst muttering their displeasure. Why, I ask, do people stare at a breastfeeding pair if they find the act so very offensive?!!! Perhaps, had I known, I could have offered to allow them to take a photo as it would last longer!!!

Sorry for my ramble, I suppose most people have such a story to share, but I just wanted to thank the two women involved for fighting the good fight for those too weak (or unaware!) to do so themselves.

Onward, breastfeeding soldiers! (Oh no, I can hear the cries of 'militant, politically motivated, feminist hippy' already!) LOL!

Cheers

Just wanted to add - you girls are doing a great job for BF mother's rights, all be it as unwilling champions due to the discrimination you have faced! I don't know if I could do at as well and handle myself like you both have in the face of such a media uproar. Btw I am in Vic and have not heard anything about this here, have only read about it on EB.

I have seen many mothers BF in public at my local shopping centre, despite the provision of parents rooms - these are often very small and very crowded, esp when you get a couple of prams in there...and NOT ONCE have I ever seen a 'boob flashed'. My observation is women are very discreet and I barely ever even see skin at the side if the top is pulled up IYKWIM. I always admire to myself how covered up they actually are! I do believe the people who disapprove are actually in the minority, or others are to shy to speak up, well and good, but as usual the squeakiest wheel gets the most oil. WE have to squeak louder!

I am expecting a bub in 3 months and hope to demand BF in public if needs be, and this will require great courage (and no doubt practice) from me, so thanks girls for keeping up the cause, stay strong!

Ally

I haven't gotten in on this matter much because everyone's just about covered it, but I did want to say I'm behind you 100%. As I said in another thread, I made a brief attempt to BF in the pool baby change area, but gave up because it was uncomfortable and quite frankly the room stunk! I had a hard enough time changing a nappy! I haven't been back...
Mel

mothers breastfeeding in public is disgusting and should be limited to the bedroom (when home) or in the car (when out and about)

Thinking happy thoughts. Did everyone have a lovely
weekend? The weather was lovely wasn't it?

Aha...here we go again! Are you sure breastfeeding in public is disgusting? Perhapas you should ask your mum to make sure she never breastfed/bottlefed you at public places :confuse:. Oh..btw...are you sure your DH isn't Harry Potter or something similar :quest: ???

Thanks for your entertaining post. It's such a "pleasure" to know there is people like you even exist .

Ladies and gentlemen, let her welcome to EB playground and play nicely ok ;p ??

Yani[color=white]

This message was edited by Yani77 on Sunday, 31 July 2005 @ 8:14 PM

Oh yes...Tinka. Perhaps we should do more outdoor exercises rather than indoor so noone can smell and complain of our odours LOL. And it's free too!!

Oh Yani you're priceless my girl. Thanks for the laugh I needed that!

Hmmm, now what will I do today? I think I might really shock some people and breastfeed my son in the lounge! AARGGH! The scandal of it all. Girls, pass me the smelling salts, it's just so... indecent... :eg:

Hahahah too funny ladies, i wont even go into where i have b/f would be way too much for some people to handle. Lets not even go into the fact that i b/f Ethan for 25 mths and while i was pregnant.
I wouldnt want to offend anyone.

*putting hand up as worst mother and indecent person awards*

Gee you obviously haven't been a breast feeding mother! By your standards a BF mum with a young baby would end up spending the majority of their day in the bedroom or in the car. BF a young baby takes up alot of the day. Forget about having a life girls, you may just offend someone!

Susana & DH Chris[size=1] aka GoateeCat
DD Delia Jade 13/11/02 & DS Darcy Cole 2/11/04

We will def. be in competition for that award Carol Although you did feed Ethan longer than I fed Delia. So you win the award. ROFLMAO.

Sue thats all i do all day everyday sit at home and feed or sit in the car and feed LOL
Lets not forget the 3 yr old i also have he just sits calmly next to me and has no life either. All because i chose to give my baby the best nutrition possilbe.

Have pmed you Carol.

Yes I too wondered what we were doing with our other children while we spend all our time in the bedroom or the car?

Ah maybe Sue i should hand it over to someone who is *big gasp* Tandem feeding imagine doing that in public certain people on here would have a coronary LOL
wondering if the 'certain person' even knows what tandem feeding is.....

You girls crack me up.. haven't you all worked out that we are ALL wrong... and the girl; Maria is the superior one.. We should ALL dob ourselves into the Moral police and go to jail; that would be better for our children

Maria, thanks for making me wake up to myself! Only 2 lines; and all that was mentioned was said last night. Can't you come up with anything new! I am very disappointed.



Thanks

Rohan & Harley 1 Oct 02

Hi Sue have replied to your pm

Eeek I also once had to BF my baby in the living room, with the curtains open too - what *would* the neighbours think!? And I wonder what the resale value of our car will be with all those breastmilk stains all over the upholstery! ;p PMSL!

PS. I never fart .

PPS. If you don't like the BFing culture in this country - and remember it is supported by LAW - then feel free to emigrate.

Steph

Rohan you are right!!! how could i have missed that simple little fact. LOL
On that note i am off. Til tomorrow ladies have fun.

Maria Oh mighty one, my DH agrees with you...........he thinks all women should remain in the kitchen.......including you!!!!! . and something about "being seen and not heard".

Nope, sorry got it wrong, he just doesnt want to hear you.

Good on you sticking up for Mums rights. Well done to Fernwood. I think all Mothers should take these dispicable acts (like breastfeeding) elsewhere, maybe they should all cancel their club pink membership and slum it with the rest of the parents.

Hope everyone picked up on the sarcasm lol.

Sarah 21/02/2003
Emily 10/05/2004
Munchkin 3 04/01/2006-ish

Ahhh...Julie...you can get it from the gym ;p . It's gross LOL.

Oh..btw...haven't hear from you for a while. Ahh...so boring now. Girls...let's play hide and seek now ;p . I'm bored ;p .

Maria, reading back through your posts, you stated that your views where absent from this discussion, thread and country. We just wanted to thank you for the compliment. It is good to see that your views are not widely accepted by the Australian Culture and civillised people in general.

I am sure other forward thinking Westernised nations agree with our stances.

Count me in for the breast fest. I will be there.

Sarah 21/02/2003
Emily 10/05/2004
Munchkin 3 04/01/2006-ish

Dh took dd to Gold Creek pool this afternoon. One of the other children asked why they didn't go to Belconnen, and my lovely ds1 piped up and said 'Because they don't like breastfeeding there so we don't like swimming there anymore'.

They're being very brave, because we really do like the slide and whirlpool, but with those archaic health and safety policies I think we'll take our custom elsewhere.

Oh, and my dh thinks he knows why breastfeeding mothers would be discouraged from spending any additional time in a public kitchen - it's because we eat more than our fair share!

Kristen
previously tandem breastfeeding Mum who's breastfed four wonderful babies anywhere she's been entitled to be (and there've been some great places!).

I don't believe "Maria79" is for real, I reckon it's just a troll trying to start an argument. The ridiculous "only in the bedroom/car" line is the giveaway.

zeezee, I know where all the good T-shirts are! The "Mother Sucka" one is from www.moppit.com.au and they're currently on sale for $25 (or $20 if you want it in pink).
Here's some others I like:
www.rockyourbaby.com.au - "I love Boobies"
www.bubbaj.com.au - "Breastmilk is better than any udder milk" and "Grown with mummy's milk" - $12 bargain! And they're 20% off next week to celebrate International Breastfeeding Week.
www.mothersdirect.com.au - "Mums milk 4 me" for baby, and "I Make Milk" for mum.

Ladies, can we please move on from Maria, who is no longer a member here at Essential Baby. She has beend dealt with by Admin so can we now move on and not mention her anymore.

Yes, gotta agree with you Em, this Maria *person* is just trying to rock the boat without realising that s/he is the only one left behind in the proverbial creek without a paddle while we are off cruising the high seas! Maybe s/he should try advertising those *opinions* on the ABA forum LOL!

Those shirts sound so gorgeous. I will have to check them out for my STILL breastfed DD who has enjoyed her breastmilk on planes, in airports, in foreign countries... even in the loungeroom of our home in suburban Canberra! Oooh what a disgraceful person I am! And I never knew!

Veronica