Title: The Tasmanian Breastfeeding Coalition - an audit of activity
Authors: Williams Julie1; *Escott Ros2; Maarseveen Jane3; Howarth Helen4
Affiliation: 1Community Nutrition Unit, Department of Health and Human Services, Tasmania; 2Australian Breastfeeding Association and Baby Friendly Hospital Initiative, Tasmania; 3Family, Child and Youth Health, DHHS, Tasmania; 4Pharmaceutical Society, Tasmania.
Contact: escoa@netspace.net.au *presenting author

Abstract:
Background
The Tasmanian Breastfeeding Coalition comprises a coalition of stakeholder groups.
Aim: To demonstrate the benefits of collaboration to increase the capacity for breastfeeding promotion.

Method
This poster describes the range and amount of activity generated by the Coalition since its inception in 1996.

Results
1997 "Its OK to breastfeed. anywhere" community attitudes survey and social marketing poster campaign.
1998 "Tasmanian Businesses Supporting Breastfeeding" Project.
1999 and 2001 "Great Breastfeeding Challenge" media and promotional event to compete with other states attempting World Record for greatest number of women breastfeeding at one time.
2000 "Breastfeeding - Breaking Down the Barriers" project. A qualitative research and marketing campaign targeting barriers to breastfeeding, as perceived by young women especially in rural areas. TV advertisement developed and screened nationally across Australia.
2001 "Mum's the Word" 3-year peer education project to improve breastfeeding rates, especially in young mothers in rural and remote areas.
2003 "Prepare to Succeed" marketing campaign, using billboards and bus posters to encourage pregnant women to contact the Australian Breastfeeding Association through their website.

Conclusion
The Coalition's activities demonstrate the benefits of working collaboratively with respect to successful grant applications, the outcomes achieved, and the resources mobilised to progress breastfeeding promotion in Tasmania.