Kelly Dredge and Julia Toivonen are organising the Knox Cutest Kids Competition to raise money for the hospital and increase awareness about premature babies. Along the way, they're hoping to have a bit of fun.

The Knox mothers came together after Ms Dredge read an article about Julia - a winner of a Local Hero Award - in the Knox Journal. Both have given birth to premature babies.

''I never knew about premature children until I had one of my own,'' Ms Toivonen said.

''There just hasn't been much support there over the years.''

But things are changing. There is now more awareness, and Julia's website - Lil Aussie Prems - which supports mothers with premature babies, has had visitors from not only Australia, but internationally, including the United States, New Zealand and Ireland.

''It's really just coming to a head now,'' Ms Toivonen said.

''We're trying to show people there is a lot more support now for parents.''

She said it was difficult when she had her son, because no one seemed to understand.

''With premature children, they need extra special help.'' All three of Ms Dredge's babies were premature.

She said it was a bit ''touch and go'' at one stage for one of her children, Jack.

''He was six weeks early and [had] breathing difficulties. He was in hospital seven weeks all up.'' Ms Dredge said that not a lot of people realised the amount of equipment needed to keep babies alive, and hoped the competition could raise funds and awareness.

The Knox Cutest Kids Competition will run from May till July. People wanting children's pictures taken should contact 97582780 or visit http://www.lilaussie

prems.com. au/ A $20 sitting fee applies, with half the proceeds going to the hospital. An 8x10 portrait is included.