We are delighted to report our success!
Back in late September,Parents’ Voice member, Lynne Scouller, got in contact via Facebook. She had seen some promotion for the Splash Festival at Sydney Olympic Park Aquatic Centre and was greatly concerned by the pictures of children enjoying their leisure time, sliding down between two giant Coca-Cola bottles.
https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=1109363619075562&set=o.111753535541539&type=3
We agreed with Lynne that a water slide featuring two giant Coca-Cola bottles was out of step with current community expectations and, in the case of Coca-Cola Amatil, incompatible with their stated Advertising and Promotion to Children Policy.
On Friday 25 September we wrote to Barry O’Connell, Coca-Cola Amatil and Alan Marsh at Sydney Olympic Park Authority. We asked that the promotional items be removed and that the drinks retailer and venue immediately cease promoting sugary drinks to children who attend the event.
We pointed out that one in four Australian children are obese or overweight and that sugary drinks play a major part in weight gain and tooth decay in children. Venues such as Sydney Olympic Park should be a safe space where children are not subjected to this type of promotion.
This week we received letters from both Barry O’Connell and Alan Marsh. They have both affirmed their commitment to not market sugary drinks to children, and that would immediately cease the use of the slide.
Lynne, thank you for sharing your concern with us. Together we have created positive change.
Is there something in your local community bothering you? Contact us for advice and assistance on how to create change for our kids’ futures.
Media Release: Victory for parents as Coca-Cola slide gets the push
