b'from theeditorW ith the end of a year comesseries, as ever. Registrations are now open on the ABA website. a time for reflection andAmanda Donnet, who will deliver two talks as part of this potentially for change. Theseries, has also kindly written a feature for us in this issue of festive season is also a time when many families comeEssence about supporting mothers and the psychological together for celebrations and gatherings. Unfortunately,and emotional skills needed for breastfeeding.some breastfeeding mothers find that these occasions mayWe must say a big thank you to Tricia Head, Tessa Gillespie also lead to unwanted comments or criticism. We hopeand Lizzie Stafford for their work on the design of this issue. that Lauren Threadgates article may offer some helpfulThank you for taking on this important role at this busy time of suggestions and encouragement to those in that situation. year.Dr Lara Stevens has written a fascinating and thought- On behalf of the Essence team, I would like to wish our provoking article reflecting on her performance Not Now,readers and their loved ones a very happy and safe festive Not Ever at the ART+CLIMATE=CHANGE 2019 festival earlier thisseason, and a wonderful new year.year and the broader context in which she developed it. Dr Julie Smith has also written about the National Breastfeeding Strategy, released earlier this year, calling for further fundingKathryn Barwick // EDITORto fully implement the aims of the strategy.Michelle Kovacevic shares a heartfelt and touching account of her experiences seeking out donor milk for her baby boy and some of the mothers she met on her journey. We also introduce a few more of our amazing volunteers, explore exciting initiatives by Greater Shepparton Council to increase local breastfeeding rates, share experiences of the early days of parenting, celebrate 45 years of ABA in Mackay, and more.ABAs annual Health Professionals Seminar Series in early 2020 will focus on the theme Breastfeeding: Sustaining a healthy future. It promises to be an interesting and engaging Spoil somebody this Christmas with a gift fromPetals FloristOrder online at www.petals.com.au/abfa and ABA will also receivea donation of the sale!Petals Florist delivers nationally and overseas.December 2019 A ustralian Breastfeeding Association | Essence |5'