Becoming Australia’s youngest metropolitan prime-time newsreader at the age of 22, rising to anchor on Sky News and Channel 7, and hosting the popular chat show, 11AM, Christine Kininmonth was a familiar face on Australian tv screens.

Then came her first pregnancy; “I was demoted and subsequently made redundant – and it was the best thing that could have happened to me.”

Struggling to find maternity clothes that suited her on air profile, Christine had created a prototype of her now-famous Belly Belt. Attaching to button or slide fasteners, the kit automatically turns suits, skirts and jeans in to maternity wear. “My idea was a huge help to me, and I thought others might benefit from it.”

With no business experience, but a big dose of passion and commitment (and a savvy business partner) Christine’s enterprise grew. The company, Fertile Mind, still boasts Belly Belt as its core product, but the kit is now sold in 25 international markets from Kuwait to Burma, and it sits in a stable of  maternity and mothering products alongside 8 sister brands.

Her genetic love of inventing (born and raised on a sheep grazing property, Christine’s great-great uncle H.V. McKay invented the Sunshine Harvester after tiring of working the wheat thresher on his family’s farm) made her a great choice to sit on the panel of ABC TV’s New Inventors programme – a role she’s loved for six years.

But of course the role she cherishes most is mum. The bump she sported when launching the Belly Belt was just the beginning – now she has  four amazing daughters. Without a doubt, Christine is an inspiring mum – not only does she nurture the individualism in each of her children, she ensures the family share special life experiences – this year, the entire family has decided to learn Mandarin!

The team here at Mouths of Mums are still trying to find out the secret to Chrissie’s amazing energy levels, and when we do we’ll let you know. In the meantime, check out some of the very clever and quite lovely products available for bumps and bubs at www.fertilemind.com.au, including the gorgeous 6 Way Dress we’re giving away this month.

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