Families Magazine - Brisbane Summer Days Out & Clubs Classes & Activities issue 19

Issue 19: December 16/January 17 www.FamiliesMagazine.com.au

Brisbane

TM

LOOKING FORWARD TO SUMMER? Over 100 ideas for the best summer holidays ever Over 100 clubs & classes for 2017 Discount vouchers & competitions

The Clever Resource for Thinking Parents

Buy Ethically, Sell Ethically,

Own More Than Stuff There is an increasing focus on the adage “every dollar you spend is a vote for the world you want’. More companies are aware that consumers are looking to corporate responsibility and social entrepreneurship when selecting what to purchase. Companies like Who Gives A Crap provide recycled paper products and give a portion of the profit to Water Aid so you get your toilet paper and help developing countries. Now Mahindra, an Indian multinational automobile manufacturing organisation with a strong Australian presence (headquarters in Brisbane) in agricultural and automotive sectors, is supporting young Indian girls access education.

You Can’t Go To School, You’re Getting Married An intersection of poverty, a social hierarchy that values men and a social ‘tax’ on being female mean in Indian states like Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, Uttar Pradesh and Haryana girls rarely make it past Year 5 at school and often leave into marriage. Recent statistics suggest 1 in 6 Indian women are forced into child marriage. There is also a disconnect culturally that age 12 and 13 is still considered a child by international standards.

Mahindra has established the Nanhi Kali project to deliver education to 110,000 girls in 10 Indian states and redress their inequality through education. K.C Mahindra Education Trust trustee and executive director Sheetal Mehta has gone into the tribal project areas to consult with community and overcome the social and cultural barriers to investing in girls.

“The girls get up at around 4am and start with the housework. They cook and clean and then they do half an hour of studies,’’ Ms Mehta explains.

“Another big issue in India - especially in the rural areas - is the fetching of water. There’s no running water in the homes so that becomes a priority and that task falls only to the girl child.”

“Then they spend their whole day at school and then come back again in the evening, back to cleaning, back to cooking and helping in the house. If there is someone sick in the house - where there is an older person - they stay back and don’t even go to school.”

“So these are the things that we try and change through the Nanhi Kali project. It’s about changing mindsets. It’s about giving girls a chance to reach their potential.”

Making Cars, Driving Change Anin Mahindra, the chairman and managing director of the Mahindra Group, studied in America and returned to India with plans to support Indian families educate their girls. He was at the vanguard of corporate responsibility, donating 1 per cent of his company’s net profit to social initiatives before Corporate Social Responsibility was legislated in India. His business perspective also informs his belief that women are an underutilised workforce and India’s GDP as a whole benefits when the are educated and working. Educated women have fewer children, reinvest their incomes back into their families and support the education of their own children- both male and female.

“To my mind, the education of children - girl children specifically - is what really creates an enlightened society. It creates a liberal society,’’ Anand Mahindra says. “And it creates one which addresses the population problem too. You want educated women if you are going to have a modern society.”

To find out more or donate money go to nanhikali.org Mahindra Automotive have recently launched the XUV500 7-seater family car.

See www.mahindra.com.au for more details.

December 2016/January 2017

Contents 4-6

Welcome to the summer holidays issue IT’S SUMMER HOLIDAYS AGAIN! I’m in a super positive mood this year because my kids are finally aging out of the ‘rub sunscreen and sand all over me before plunging headfirst into the ocean’ phase. We have a few sweet years of watermelon, sandcastles and splashing in the shallows before puberty hits!

I remember the endless summers of my childhood as dreamy all day beach adventures followed by ice cream and burnt feet from hot sand and concrete. My kids are lucky to have 15 minutes of solid play tops by the time we lug all the gear down, set up, apply sunscreen, dole out food and water and then pack up before the heat of the day hits. Sooo relaxing.

This year I’m working on an acapella carols troupe so we can go from door to door and spread the joy of us leaving with other families. Alas the kids are much more passionate about Halloween so the level of chicanery they are concocting for the ‘trick’ will be confusing for the neighbours - “It’s CAROLS not TRICK OR TREAT, no lollies just tidings and good cheer”. Dispelling Santa myths isn’t the only way to bring down Christmas in our house!

Did you know there are 100 weeks in the Summer school holidays? Or 100 days? It feels like a lot anyway so once you burn out in the pre Christmas preparation feel free to check our choc full calendar for things to do (website and Facebook). Tag me so I can come too! Or pick up my kids, I’ll pack $20 - I’m not ungrateful!

Simone Eclair

Simone Eclair insists she is a Brisbane comedian (but you can decide for yourself ).

Follow her on Facebook/Twitter/Instagram (simone.eclair) if you are inclined or enjoy her blog and videos at simoneeclair.com.

Find out what is happening locally for Families

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Education How learning another language can benefit your child

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Parenting Tips for the BEST school holidays ever

10-16 Clubs, Classes & Activities Over 100 local clubs, classes, activities and venues designed specifically for children aged 0 - 17.

18-29 Families Fun Summer Feature Over 100 family friendly events & ideas for your family. Circle the events you plan to do during the summer holidays and visit our online calendar for regular updates and additions

30-31 Discounts Vouchers &

Competitions

Discounted and free products and services from some of our favourite companies

Cover Image: Roma St Parkland are looking forward to the summer and beyond. Check out what’s new in our story on page 20 & 21.

Next issue February/March 2017 – Deadline Monday 9 January 2017 Focus on Back to School

CONTACT US: Families Magazine, PO Box 1018, Brighton 4017

☎ 07 3265 5738

Families News

Editor@FamiliesMagazine.com.au

Readership over 100,00 every issue. Published 6 times a year.

For families in Brisbane, Ipswich, Redlands, Logan and the Moreton Region. © Families Magazine 2016

www.FamiliesMagazine.com.au

Today Sunshine

TODAY SUNSHINE

todaysunshine @today.sunshine

Australian designed and made contemporary art for home and child.

Custom artworks make beautiful birthday & new baby gifts!

todaysunshine.com.au Your Local Families Magazine December 2016/January 2017

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Families News

LOCAL FAMILIES NEWS

Sponsored by

Looking for the latest local news and views? We've got it covered!

ARE YOU THE NEXT FAMILY TO BE ON OUR

FAMILIES MAGAZINE FRONT COVER? Families Magazine are looking for a family photo to be the ‘face’ of Families Magazine Apr/May 2017 issue.

Could you family be out next front cover and be seen on 40,000 copies across the area?

We are asking local families to email us a photo of their family for us to consider.

However, there are a few ‘rules’…

• The photo doesn’t have to be from a professional photographer • Professional photographers are welcome to enter

Sponsorship Opportunities

• All photos become our property and we may use them in future issues, but we will never use them without the owner’s written permission

IS YOUR SCHOOL HOLDING

• You don’t have to like our Facebook page – but it’s useful, relevant, local and inspired – just like our print magazine!

• The photo must be portrait in shape • The photo must have room at the top for our logo

Deadline for submission is Friday 30 December, 2016. Send to Editor@ FamiliesMagazine.com. au or find out more www. familiesmagazine.com. au/competition/familiesmagazine-front-covercompetition

• The photo must have room at the bottom for an advert or banner • The photo must be in high resolution (minimum 300 dpi, A4 page) which basically means the original photo from the camera.

TINY ART CELEBRATES FIVE YEARS OF KIDS’ ART Brisbane-based children’s art school, Tiny Art, is celebrating five years of helping kids discover the world of art in a fun and educational environment.

From her Morningside studio, Creative Director Deb Bryant has painted, sculpted, printed and collaged her way into the hearts of budding Brisbane artists keen to explore art and design.

Deb and her team at Tiny Art offer unique art classes and workshops for kids aged 2 – 12 dedicated to helping them learn, play and express themselves through art.

Tiny Art’s school holiday workshops are a fun introduction to art, giving pint-sized Picassos the opportunity to develop their creative skills in a small, social setting.

‘We offer a one-of-a-kind service where children can learn and have fun with art,’ she said.

Art parties are perfect for creative kids, not to mention mums on the hunt for a hassle-free party.

Tiny Art come to your house to deliver an art party with a difference, where every kid goes home with a mini masterpiece.

‘Our qualified teachers work hard to devise art projects to suit the individual, allowing kids to develop their own artistic style and learn fun and exciting techniques used by real artists.’

Help Tiny Art celebrate five years – book a workshop or party to inspire your kids’ imagination and ignite a love of art. Find out more here: www.tinyart.com.au

SCHOOL HOLIDAY VOUCHERS

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A FETE, FESTIVAL OR FUNDRAISER IN 2017?

We believe in giving back to the community in which we live. Each year we offer 5-10 sponsorships free of charge to catholic, independent and/or state primary and/or P-12 schools in our magazines distribution areas in Brisbane/Ipswich. We will provide schools with a collection of prizes to raffle, sell, give away at their discretion at their fete, fair, quiz night as appropriate.

If you would like to apply to be considered for one of our sponsored schools in 2017 please contact our Editor - Editor@ FamiliesMagazine.com.au or find out more www.familiesmagazine.com.au/partners But be quick - applications close 31 January 2017.

STAY 4 AND PAY FOR 3

AT THE BUNYA MOUNTAINS THIS SUMMER!

Escape the heat and enjoy the cool green Bunya Mountains this Summer. Hike the iconic national park and swim at Coomba Falls. Take a horse and cart ride, book a rejuvenating massage or just be and do absolutely nothing while you soak up the magic of your time in the Bunya Mountains.

This summer you can choose from over 100 holiday houses and chalets at the majestical Bunya Mountains and when you book 4 nights, you only pay for 3!

Check out page 30 & 31 of this magazine. Movie tickets at the Dendy, babysitting discounts, cheap parking at South Bank and more.

Read our review on why the Bunya Mountains are your next family holiday here: www. familiesmagazine.com.au/bunya-mountains

Or download them from our website anytime: www.familiesmagazine.com.au/vouchers

And then book your next family holiday here: www.bunyamountains.com.au.

Your Local Families Magazine December 2016/January 2017

SUBURBAN CHRISTMAS LIGHTS – LOCAL ROUTE MAP FOR FAMILIES We know that looking at Christmas Lights in your local areas is almost a rite of passage for kids as they grow up. We also know that compiling the list and figuring out which lights to see in which order before the kids get too tired can be quite the chore – and how do you find the NEW participants with lights this year? Fret none! Families Magazine has hunted high and low and compiled a list of suburban Christmas lights for your neighbourhood and your family. Not just any list – but a map and

Families News

a list that is downloadable from our website with the streets in order of the BEST route to take to see them. We will highlight the 4KQ winners for 2016 in early December, in case you want ‘just the highlights’ and it is all freely downloadable from our website NOW! Just head to: www.familiesmagazine.com.au/christmas-lights-brisbane to download your family friendly guide.

Your Local Families Magazine December 2016/January 2017

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Families News Summertime Families Fun – save our calendar app to your phone’s desktop now!

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Now you can have ‘fun things to do with the kids’ at your finger-tips! Add our Families Fun Calendar to your iphone or android phone with these super simple steps.

STEP 2

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Type in www.familiesmagazine.com.au Click the blue Go button.

When the page loads click on the big red ‘Families Fun Calendar’ button

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After it loads you will see at the bottom of the screen a square box with the arrow pointing up. Click on that...

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Type in Families Fun. And click Add

To find out how to save our Families Fun Calendar to your android phone visit our website www.familiesmagazine.com.au/families-fun-calendar-app

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Your Local Families Magazine December 2016/January 2017

Education

HOW LEARNING ANOTHER LANGUAGE CAN BENEFIT YOUR CHILD Learning a language other than English (LOTE) broadens young growing minds and introduces them to other cultures, traditions and society's ways of life in general. This experience and understanding is invaluable for students particularly considering Australia's strong multicultural makeup. Many students learn languages through singing, dancing, craft, books, technology and mainstream teaching methods. Students in lower school years focus on 'fun' based learning, while older grades place more emphasis on language, writing, reading, listening and speaking in languages other than English.

Have you ever heard of children referred to as “sponges”? That statement couldn’t be more accurate when it comes to a child learning a foreign language.

BETTER LINGUISTICS Children’s brains are developmentally ready to accept and learn a foreign language, and fluency comes easily and rapidly. Contrary to popular belief, learning a foreign language doesn’t inhibit the child’s English language proficiency, it enhances and improves it!

COGNITIVE BENEFITS Research shows students who learn another language also benefit in these ways: • better problem solving skills • better critical thinking skills • more creativity • better flexibility of mind • enhanced memory • better multi-tasking abilities

ACADEMIC ACHIEVEMENT Students who learn another language often demonstrate higher academic achievement.

This is due to creative and critical thinking skills and mental flexibility.

CULTURAL AWARENESS

Learning a foreign language opens doors.

Those students who work to become fluent in a second language have access to resources, people, places, and things that the rest of us do not. Not only can a foreign language provide a competitive edge in the workforce, but it creates a deeper understanding of and appreciation for humanity and culture, which enriches one’s life and personal experiences in the world.

As with any learning, supporting, encouraging and perhaps learning alongside your child can enhance these learning opportunities.

TIPS TO SUPPORT YOUR CHILD IF THEY ARE LEARNING ANOTHER LANGUAGE 1. B ecome involved in the curriculum your child is learning. Take opportunities to meet with their specialist teacher and find out ways to reinforce skills at home.

2. Create some flashcards using key words or

vocabulary and display them around the house. This assists in reinforcing the lessons that the child is learning in the classroom.

3. I f your child is learning a second language, it

is a good idea to expose them to individuals that speak that language in a native manner.

This will assist in increasing their proficiency.

4. L earn the

language alongside your child. This will prove to be highly motivational for both you and your child and may help you both in achieving success in that language.

5. A ccess technology (such as apps, YouTube, audio recordings, games) to make learning fun and interactive.

6. C onsider opportunities to host students

from other countries (if your school provides these opportunities).

Grace Primary has a strong LOTE program and many students who are keen to pursue the learning of Japanese and other languages beyond their primary education. The school’s community has also enjoyed a Japanese homestay experience with students from Tokyo's Aoyama Gakuin Elementary School visiting this year.

To hear from students talking about language learning and to see a quick insight into a LOTE lesson visit our website and watch the video. www. familiesmagazine.com.au/ benefits-learning-language or scan this QR code.

Your Local Families Magazine December 2016/January 2017

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Parenting

Tips for the BEST School Holidays EVER! from our Gifted & Talented writer Michele Juratowitch

Holidays, without daily school routines, fewer extra-curricular activities, less structure each week, should be a relaxing experience for everyone in the family. Holidays are usually relaxing in the immediate post-school period as everyone draws breath and steps away from daily time pressures; however it may not take long for the novelty of free time to wear off and for children to become bored and irritable. Time away on holiday in a different location can provide a period of stimulation for children and some respite for parents, but time away rarely takes up the whole school holiday period. Being away from home can also generate different issues, with children missing familiar routines, places, people and belongings.

Different challenges for parents and children High ability children are intensely curious and have a voracious appetite for learning, especially within their areas of interest. Their brains act like heat-seeking missiles, intensely searching for stimulation if sufficient challenge is not presented to them. Whether attending vacation care or holiday programs, spending time at home, staying with friends or relatives, high ability children need appropriate levels of intellectual stimulation, high-level challenges and opportunities to be creative. The main challenge for parents is to identify ways to provide a range of sufficiently stimulating activities for gifted children during holiday periods while ensuring they also have sufficient time to rest, relax and engage in free, unstructured play.

Some activities, such as reading, writing, jigsaw puzzles, making models, art and craft, provide opportunities for a quiet, physically restful experience while simultaneously providing an engaging intellectual activity. Counterintuitively, these activities are relaxing but also stimulating. Each activity provides an opportunity to develop specific skills. Persistence brings a sense of accomplishment when the activity is completed. When undertaken by an individual, the child may be personally absorbed but disengaged from interaction with others while involved in these tasks. Alternatively, the same activities provide an opportunity for siblings or friends to be engaged in an activity together if their stage of development is similar. Allowing children at significantly different stages of development to undertake the same task at the same time without parental involvement and support often results in conflict.

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Your Local Families Magazine December 2016/January 2017

Selecting from the range of museum exhibits, holiday programs, newly released children’s movies and live theatre productions available can be a challenge for parents’ schedules and finances. Once calendar and financial guidelines are established, it can be a useful exercise for gifted children to undertake research and propose suggestions for activities during the holidays. They will be gaining research skills, learn to consider others’ interests, prioritise, negotiate, develop and propose a plan. Some items on a list might be given as Christmas presents by extended family members, providing memorable, shared experiences instead of another toy.

Activities for physically exuberant children Some children are physically exuberant; they need activities to allow them to channel their energy appropriately. Summer holidays provide lots of opportunities for outdoor activities such as swimming, climbing, formal and informal sporting activities. Traditional beach or backyard cricket for all the family can be a prelude to a sports camp towards the end of the holidays. Energetic children, who are also be intellectually advanced, may find it useful to investigate anatomy and the physics of sports to incorporate this knowledge into their physical activities. Because of the physical and mental health benefits associated with exercise, some form of regular, light physical activity should be planned for more sedentary children, perhaps as a whole-family activity to provide support, encouragement and a feeling of inclusion.

Parenting Adults can consider a balanced approach to screen time access and then discuss this with children. An agreed schedule could allow for greater access at the beginning of the holidays with a graduated reduction of time as the new school year approaches so a sudden cessation of access upon a return to school routine is not experienced. An agreement determined, signed and posted prior to the holidays might help to reduce the frequency of requests, demands and conflict surrounding electronic access.

Time and content matters One of the greatest challenges for parents is determining (and limiting) the amount of access to technology that children should have during the holidays. Some gifted children incessantly ask to play electronic games and want to binge on this one activity. Other children want to watch YouTube videos, television programs or movies. Electronic gaming is an active process; whereas watching a screen is a more passive experience; each engages different cognitive functions. These activities can be undertaken individually or involve others. With the exception of some modes of gaming, most screen time experiences involve parallel participation rather than interaction when others are present.

The American Academy of Pediatrics has replaced the earlier statement that no child under two years of age should have access to electronics with a range of more nuanced recommendations about all children’s access to screen time. The APA stresses that content matters. Research about the impact of violent games is compelling; access to such games should be strictly enforced by parents. Sensitive gifted children can be more

Benefits of unstructured play Away from the constraints of term-time schedules, gifted children have more time to immerse themselves in their personal interests, developing strengths, knowledge and skills in these areas. Children benefit from the many delights and creative opportunities associated with unstructured playtime. Adele Diamond, Professor of Developmental Cognitive Neuroscience at the University of British Columbia and Deborah Leong, Professor of Psychology at Metropolitan State College of Denver, stress the importance of unstructured playtime for children when they can engage in imaginative, social play. Executive functions such as working memory, cognitive flexibility and inhibitory control are strengthened through pretend play. Imaginative, creative play, using recycled materials at no cost, can engage children in co-operative play for hours while building a number of cognitive, personal and social skills.

At the end of the holidays, the aim is to have children benefitting from a range of experiences, feeling rested, energised and ready for a positive return to school.

forcefully impacted by the content of books, movies and games. Parents should carefully monitor content to ensure children are stretched but not stressed through exposure to content via any medium. Thoughtful, sensitive children may need opportunities to discuss issues and concepts following exposure.

Michele Juratowitch, Director of Clearing Skies, provides counselling for gifted children and the parents of alert, developmentally advanced children of all ages. Michele was awarded a Churchill Fellowship. She is conducting the Stuartholme STEAM Residential for gifted girls in Years 5 & 6: www.stuartholme.com/event/steam-residential/ E: michele@clearingskies.com.au P: 3378 0888 www.clearingskies.com.au

Your Local Families Magazine December 2016/January 2017

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2017 Local Clubs & Classes Directory

A huge round-up of the BEST

Clubs, Classes & Activities

around Greater Brisbane for adults and children aged 0 - 17.

Remember to tell them that you saw them listed in Families Magazine!

If you would like a listing for your club, class or activity in our next issue’s inclusive directory, contact us now!

Email: Listings@FamiliesMagazine.com.au Compiled by Regina Gleeson NS = Northside SS = Southside

CLASSES FOR ADULTS Hands On Brisbane (NS) Their arts and crafts workshops are conducted by some of Brisbane’s finest artisans to give you a hands on approach to learning your new skill. With many classes also providing the materials you need to start straight away, all you need to do is turn up and start creating!

Workshops are held in Brisbane City at The Gardens Club, in the heart of the Brisbane City Botanic Garden.  3012 9606  www.handsonbrisbane.com

CareerSmart Mums (NS) Struggling to find your way back to work? CareerSmart Mums is a proven program which gives you the skills, confidence and support to revitalise your career.

Engage in a flexible online course, or in-person workshop over 4 sessions at Everton Park.

Participants receive a comprehensive career guide, ongoing support, monthly newsletter and Facebook network to accelerate your successful return to work. The program is delivered by qualified career coach and mum, Donna Thistlethwaite. Next in-person workshop starts 31 October.

Call Donna to learn more on 0419 120 601 or visit CareerSmart Mums on Facebook and www.careervitality.com.au.

Flipside Circus (NS) Leave your dramas, inhibitions and spandex at the door and avoid crowded gym rooms and repetitive workouts. Achieve fitness goals in a supportive and encouraging environment.

Learn circus tricks that will amaze your friends (and yourself!) All circus activities are scalable to suit your individual goals.  3352 7233  www.flipsidecircus.org.au Forum Communicators (NS & SS) Be a better speaker. Toss your speaking fears out the window and come along to Forum. You will improve your public speaking skills in a supportive and encouraging atmosphere, and even enjoy yourself. The WILL to become a confident speaker is all you need, the time to join is now.  3266 3521  www.forumcommunicators.asn.au

Paediatric First Aid Courses Injury prevention and first aid instruction (NS & SS)

Recommended for pregnant couples, parents, grandparents, babysitters and other carers of children, this 4.5hr programme includes an in depth injury prevention talk followed by practical paediatric first aid including CPR for babies and toddlers.

Kidsafe QLD  3854 1829  www.kidsafeqld.com.au

session for babies through to 6 year old children put together by early childhood professionals.

With a huge range of themed activities in different zones including sensory, construction, messy zone, problem solving, Arts and more your child will love this casual class held in Kallangur on Thursdays with Neighbourhood Creche for just $15 each time. Spaces are limited. please book online at www.neighbourhoodcreche.com.au or email info@neighbourhoodcreche.com.au Group discounts available.

Kids First Aid (NS & SS) The only first aid

courses delivered exclusively by experienced paramedics, designed to teach parents and caregivers how to respond calmly and confidently to 10 of the most common first aid emergencies situations.  1300 138 133  www.kidsfirstaid.com.au

CLASSES FOR CHILDREN Arts & Craft Fox Blocks (NS) Fox Blocks is an innovative creative construction programme that uses a variety of materials such as Lego, Duplo, K’nex, and Fischertechnik, as well as everyday objects. There are 4 different age levels for children from 3.5 years to Grade 7. Each term has a different theme, and each class builds new proficiencies.  3855 1528  www.flyingfoxstudios.com.au Mum & Me (NS) Art classes Pullenvale art studio, classes for children (Ages 5 to 12) and adults. School holiday programs, evening adult classes and art parties available. Delivered by an experienced art teacher, with unique programs that ignite your creativity within. All materials supplied  www.artsubject.biz or call Teresa  0410 652 450

Men’s Shed (NS & SS) An organisation that is accessible to all men and whose primary activity is the provision of a safe and friendly environment where men are able to work on meaningful projects at their own pace in their own time in the company of other men. A major objective is to advance the well-being and health of their male members.  1300 550 009  www.mensshed.org

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Creative Children Arts and Construction (NS) Is the perfect

Your Local Families Magazine December 2016/January 2017

Tiny Art (NS & SS) Brisbane based art school for children 2-12 years help children learn, play and express themselves creatively through the world of art. Tiny Art’s enthusiastic and passionate degree qualified art teachers nurture children’s creativity igniting a love of art. From beginner to extension and in a safe and fun learning environment Tiny Art offer weekly classes, holiday workshops, unique art parties, Kindy and school workshops and teacher Professional Development. Give your child a head start with Art and create special memories by contacting us today. For more details and learn about our special promotions  0421 844 508  www.tinyart.com.au deb@tinyart.com.au

ZoomArt for Kids (NS) Art classes for children in a fun and friendly environment. 6 different age levels from 2 yrs to Grade 12. Designed for the intentional development of the child’s skills, observations, thinking, and experiences in the visual arts.  3855 1528  www.flyingfoxstudios.com.au

Cooking Classes Come and Cook (NS) Stop in and Drop off your mini-chefs for an action-packed Make Bake and Take cooking workshop. Eager cooks?

Fussy-eaters? Creative kids?

7-12 year olds / Teenagers After-School classes and School Holiday workshops with vacancy in January 2017. Personalised cooking birthday parties priced on request. Join our commercialclass kitchen in The Gap which is run by a passionate and highly experienced teacher (and mum) who previously ran a London-wide food education business within schools for 7 years.

Benefits: Hands-on learning, practical life-skills, kitchen confidence, exciting recipes and fun themes. All dishes and recipe books to take home. Food allergies and additional requests catered for.  0488 249 595  www.comeandcook.com.au

2017 Local Clubs & Classes Directory In My Own Kitchen (NS) With 15 years of professional cooking under her belt, Chef Luisa brings her talent, joy and passion for cooking to the young and young at heart. In My Own Kitchen Jnr is designed to teach kitchen confidence and fun to children from 6-15. Taught by a professional chef, the classes are designed to be easy and safe, one-on-one or in groups. Classes can be held in your own kitchen or in a professional classroom kitchen in Brisbane North.

Each lesson aims to bring food from the garden to the table, educating kids about how their food grows, how to make delicious recipes from fresh ingredients.  0423 450 363  www.inmyownkitchen.com

STEM CLASSES Science Education Australia (SS) Curiosity is a brilliant thing. A child with a passion and curiosity for science has the world at their fingertips.

With the right guidance, this curiosity develops into a thirst for the adventure and wonder that comes with the discovery of the workings of the surrounding world. The result?

Great minds and even greater possibilities for the future. Science Education Australia delivers an interesting, exciting, hands-on, content specific science curriculum extension program for primary students, years 1 to 6. This is fun science education, delivered by passionate, highly qualified professionals. This program runs on Saturdays in the Sunnybank area as well as at selected schools throughout Brisbane, from 3.00pm on week days.  0427 644490  scedau@optusnet.com.au

LANGUAGE & BABY DEVELOPMENT Calm Bubs Infant Massage (SS) delivers the 'First Touch Program' to parents of babies from birth to 12 months. The Program consists of 5 sessions each lasting 1 - 1 1/2 hours a week. Classes are limited to 8 families so parents and carers receive In depth one-on-one attention from a fully qualified instructor.  0407 031 746  www.calmbubsinfantmassage.com.au Flipside Circus (NS) Flipside circus offers classes for people aged 1 and up! Their Wriggles and Giggles classes introduce toddlers and parents to the world of circus through fun, interactive workshops designed to improve gross and fine motor skills, social development and physical abilities.  3352 7233  www.flipsidecircus.org.au LCF Fun Languages (SS) Designed over 25 years, their methodology teaches French, Spanish, Mandarin, Italian, English and German with a fun and active approach that will get your child using the language quickly and naturally.  1300 707 28  www.lcfclubs.com.au

Sign Language Deaf Services Queensland (SS) offers a range of Community Auslan classes aimed at introducing basic Auslan conversational skills to participants. The community courses are informal and relaxed, follow the school terms, and run for two hours per week for a total of 8 weeks. DSQ has a wonderful team of experienced teacher who are all fluent users of the language and who make the classes engaging and fun. DSQ also offer accredited courses in Auslan for those wanting a more formal qualification in the language.  3892 8500  www.deafservicesqld.org.au/services/ education

ACTIVITY CENTRES

Bounce Inc (SS) 100% Pure Awesomeness every time! Bounce is a world where the wall becomes the floor, a slam dunk is within your grasp and the rules of gravity no longer apply.

It’s packed with lots of things to do with kids and the family, it takes the rush of getting airborne and adds a bunch of new dimensions – from aerial manoeuvres to slam dunking, wall running and dodgeball warfare. The best part is it doesn’t matter if you’re under 5 or an action sports junkie in training – you’re never too old or too young to have an awesome time.  1300 000 540  www.bounceinc.com.au Bay Play (SS) Bay Play Cleveland is an Australiana themed, indoor play centre, with a difference. No other play centre will offer you the opportunity to interact and play with your children the way Bay Play Cleveland does. Catering for ages 6 months - 16 yrs (and beyond!) their array of activities, events and attractions is fun for the whole family.  3821 7772  www.bayplaycleveland.com.au Chipmunks Playland & Café (NS & SS) Visit Chipmunks for unlimited play for kids aged 0 – 11 years old and relax over a coffee or lunch with friends and family at their café in one of their 3 Brisbane locations. They feature state of the art equipment and are fully air-conditioned, clean and comfortable.

They also have party facilities.  www.chipmunks.com.au Crank Indoor Climbing - Macgregor (SS) The largest indoor kids climbing area in Brisbane. Great for your next kid’s party (5yrs+). Filled with colourful creative fun climbs, a cargo net, a slackline and a mini caving tunnel. At $20 for 2 hours (min.10 kids) it is great

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2017 Local Clubs & Classes Directory value (no climbing experience is necessary as one of their friendly staff will show you the ropes). For the older kids they also have after school classes in both rock climbing and Parkour. With the best instructors in Brisbane they will be trained safely to overcome any obstacle.  brisbaneclimbing@gmail.com Flip Out (NS) It’s a flipping fun activity that is taking the world by storm. And now it has come to Strathpine. This trampoline arena includes a main arena, mini arena (under 10s), slam time (basketball), wall runners, foam pit & Olympic trampolines, mini foam pit, inflatable (under 5s), party rooms and a café.  3205 9994  www.flipout.net.au/flip-out-indoortrampoline-arena-strathpine

Rainbow City Children’s Playcentre & Cafe (SS) Rainbow City offers unique services especially for children under 8 years old. Not only do they offer soft play and big play structures, but they also offer young children a place to have fun – they have their imaginative and innovative play in mind. Air conditioned and free Wi-Fi.  3290 0434  www.rainbowcplaycentre.com.au Skyzone Indoor Trampoline Park (SS) Sky Zone Macgregor isn’t just any indoor trampoline park.

It is hundreds of trampolines, connected to form a single massive trampoline that literally allows you to jump off the walls. And if that’s not enough excitement for you Sky Zone Macgregor has Skyland - a 3 storey laser tag arena that holds up to 40 players battling it out in a cloud-filled wonderland.

That’s right, you read correctly. A trampoline park with laser tag! So what are you waiting for?  13 75 99  www.skyzone.com.au Tiddlywinks Dance & Play Café (NS) Tiddlywinks Dance and Play Cafe is a family owned and operated entertainment venue, providing a unique dance and play experience for children up to 11 years old. They also have dance programmes and party facilities.  3266 8484  www.tiddlywinks.com.au

Flipside Circus (NS) Go to Flipside Circus on Sundays to play, train and amaze! Sunday Circus is Flipside’s open space to explore the different circus apparatus they have, play with your friends, learn new tricks and amaze yourself and others with the fabulous things you can do. 9am to 12pm for Beginners and those very new to circus.  3352 7233  www.flipsidecircus.org.au

We Play (SS) are the best family fun centres in Australia, offering entertainment, games and activities for children of all ages, facilities for corporate events and parties for children and adults alike. Our locations offer a huge soft play structure, exciting ball and laser games, mini-golf, ride-on cars and a gourmet cafe, all in a fully air-conditioned, clean and safe environment.  www.weplay4fun.com.au

Inflatable World (NS) It’s all about having fun, so bring the whole family and bounce on in to Inflatable World. It’s not just for the kids.  3266 569  www.inflatableworldoz.com/qld Lollipop’s Playland & Café (NS &SS) Are great kids party venues or giving kids a treat while parents relax over a cup of coffee and a treat from their quality cafe. Their indoor play centres are safe and secure where kids can have hours of fun climbing, sliding, jumping and spinning. 4 Brisbane locations.  www.lollipopsplayland.com.au

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Your Local Families Magazine December 2016/January 2017

MUSIC Kindermusik at Flying Fox Studios (NS) Music and movement classes from newborn to 7 yrs.

Kindermusik classes encourage babies & children to develop language, social, emotional, & physical skills as well—all in the context of joyful, musically rich play!  3855 1528  www.flyingfoxstudios.com.au

Queensland Show Choir (NS & SS) With programs for babies up to adults, QSC provides quality music education and choral experiences for the whole family. The benefits of early childhood music can be seen in many areas from language development to social skills, not to mention it’s great fun!  3257 4905  www.queenslandshowchoir.com.au

e Make M We u si c Wee Make Music (NS & SS) Classes are essential early development sessions where age appropriate activities using beat, rhythm, language and movement empower a love of music and learning in babies through pre-prep age children. So much fun and so beneficial for general cognitive, musical and social development. Free visit class for all. Bulimba, New Farm, Wilston.  0434 357 764  www.weemakemusic.com.au Young Conservatorium (NS & SS) Operating under Open Conservatorium Queensland Conservatorium Griffith University, this is the program of choice for families seeking a pedagogically sound music education. Positions are available in Early Childhood Music, Young Beginner, Developing Musician and Senior Tuition in classical / contemporary; Wind, String, Chamber, Vocal, Jazz and Symphonic Ensembles; and composition.  www.griffith.edu.au/music/youngconservatorium

2017 Local Clubs & Classes Directory Life Stream (NS & SS) Facilitates a wide range of opportunities specifically in South East Queensland for people with an intellectual disability to participate, develop skills and be active members of their communities. Life Stream believes that through participation in community activities, recreation, leisure & sport and having friendships and responsibilities, people develop skills and lead healthy, active and meaningful lives.  3394 4399  www.lifestream.org.au

SPORTS & EXERCISE Brisbane Basketball (NS & SS) Basketball is a noncontact sport and provides a safe and enjoyable opportunity for players of all age groups.  3371 0200  www.brisbane.basketball.net.au Brisbane Martial Arts (NS & SS) Whether Taekwondo, or Brazilian Jiu-jitsu is your preferred martial art, if you’re looking to start martial arts training, or take your training to the next level, there’s only one place to go, the home of martial arts in Brisbane.  1300 303 583  www.brisbanemartialarts.com.au Dipadees (NS) From their beautiful Baby Bubble Classes through to squads their professional teachers make learning fun while developing correct stroke technique and developing a lifelong love of water.

Concentrating is easier in the comfort of their heated, indoor pool and 25 meter lanes develop skills over distance as children progress. What better way to help fitness and coordination needed for swimming than by joining their other fitness activities. Kids LOVE their TumbleTastics Kind Gym program, embracing all aspects of development and with new and exciting themes kids are always engaged while they learn. Dipadees Dance – learn to dance without the fuss of rehearsals and concerts. Just plain and simple learn to dance well.  3355 1550  www.dipadees.com

Flipside Circus (NS) offer a wide range of classes from beginners to experienced from ages 0 - 100. There is something fun and suitable for every age and every ability. The classes are fast moving and full of action – never a moment to spare. Go and learn all the skills of the circus including tissu, static trapeze, lyra, juggling, hoops, acro balance and tumbling.  3352 7233  www.flipsidecircus.org.au Gymnastics Queensland (NS & SS) Gymnastics is one of the most fundamental and exciting of all physical activities. Basic gymnastic skills develop attributes that are perfect stepping stones for other sports, activities and life in general.  3036 5600  www.gymqld.org.au Hockey Queensland (NS & SS) Hockey is a team sport, children learn the value of working with others. They figure out how to rely on teammates and understand that cooperation is key to success.  3399 6577  www.hockeyqld.com.au

Little Athletics Queensland (NS & SS) A uniquely Australian sport for children 5-16 years. Based upon the sport of athletics (track & field) the events are specially modified to suit the ages and abilities of children. A wide range of running, jumping, throwing and walking events is conducted.  3255 9436  www.qlaa.asn.au Netball Queensland (NS & SS) For young children interested in playing netball for the first time, there is NetSetGo! This program is for children (girls and boys) aged 5-10 and is designed for teaching the basics of netball while fostering fun and friendship in a team environment.  3848 6330  www.netballq.org.au PCYC (NS & SS) Gym fun, kids dance, tiny tots, cheerleading, boxercise, teen yoga karate, tumble and stunt, glee club, circuit and gymnastics is just some of the activities at PCYCs. Please contact your local club to see what is on offer for you and your children.  3909 9555  www.pcyc.org.au

First Swing Golf (NS & SS) is grassroots golf for all ages (starting at 3 years) and all abilities. Their programs are the perfect mix of fun, physical activity, and instruction all in an inclusive environment teaching the basic golf FUNdamentals Sessions are 45 minutes in blocks of 6-10 week terms. MacGregor, Windaroo & Loganholme with new locations added regularly.  0432 740 073  www.firstswing.com.au

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2017 Local Clubs & Classes Directory Queensland Cricket (NS & SS) These days, cricket offers some new and exciting formats for kids that won’t take up your whole weekend. Kids can take part in the Milo in2Cricket program, a fun way to get a taste of the sport. As their skills develop, they can transition into Milo T20 Blast and on to club cricket to continue a lifelong connection with the game.  3292 3100  www.qldcricket.com.au

Ready Steady Go Kids is Australia’s most reputable multi-sport and exercise program for pre-schoolers (aged 2.5-6 years). They have been operating since 2004 and currently run classes at Oxley, Tennyson, Bray Park and North Lakes with new classes added regularly. It is a physio-designed program teaching children the fundamentals of 10 different sports in a fun, non-competitive, team-based environment. Classes are 45 minutes covering 5 sports per term. The program has a structure that is repeated each week so children become familiar with the routine. Ready Steady Go Kids seeks to develop lifelong passion for physical activity and sport.  www.readysteadygokids.com.au  1300 766 892

Rugbytots (NS & SS) is a specifically designed play program for children aged 2 to 7 using the multiple skills of both rugby codes to create a fun and enjoyable environment whilst also developing social and psychological skills Divided into three age groups, Rugbytots combines the key aspects of team sports with a fun first interactive approach.  0404 343 02  www.rugbytots.com.au Tennis Queensland (NS & SS) Tennis Queensland Registration is automatically included when you join your local affiliated club as a member. This will also give you access to all the exclusive benefits that the club chooses to offer. Find a club near you.  3120 7900  www.tennis.com.au YMCA Bowen Hills caters for all ages and abilities.

From walking to adults they deliver classes designed to maximise fitness, fun and gymnastics skills. They

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offer competitive MAG and WAG up to Level 8. Their passionate and experienced coaches ensure everyone has the opportunity to reach their full potential  3851 8800  www.ymcabrisbane.org YMCA Acacia Ridge is a specialist gymnastic centre focussed on giving your child the best possible gymnastic experience. From 10 months to teens we cater for beginners and up to Level 7. Our friendly and experienced coaches ensure every child has the opportunity to reach their full potential.  3276 7793  www.ymcabrisbane.org

Horseriding Cherbon Waters (SS) Cherbon Waters’ facilities include a new fully lit 60m x 20 indoor arena (with an undercover viewing area), riding trails, round yards, stabling area, wash bays, safe fully-electrified paddocks.  0417 704 671  www.cherbonwaters.com.au Dalson Park Indoor Equestrian Centre (SS) Horse riding lessons are well priced and cover the use of Dalson Park ponies, tacked up by capable stable hands; the use of arenas, tack, saddles, helmet and boots and expert and encouraging instruction.  0448 034 514  www.dalsonpark.com.au

YMCA Enoggera is a specialist gymnastic centre focussed on giving your child the best possible gymnastic experience. From 3 years to teens their friendly and experienced coaches ensure every child has the opportunity to reach their full potential.  3355 7176  www.ymcabrisbane.org

Gumnuts (SS) Gumnuts is a 140 acre horse farm located in the Biddaddaba Valley. They offer a farm stay experience as well as horseriding, which is their primary focus. They have expanded to include day & ½ day riding tours operating from both the Gold Coast and Brisbane.  5543 0191  www.gumnutsfarm.com.au

YMCA Jamboree Heights caters for all ages and abilities. From walking to adults they deliver classes designed to maximise fitness, fun and gymnastics skills. They offer competitive MAG and WAG up to Level 8. Their passionate and experienced coaches ensure everyone has the opportunity to reach their full potential.  3376 4266  www.ymcabrisbane.org

Heritage Riding (SS) It does not matter if you are a “first timer” or you are a current Junior Rider wanting to gain more competitive skills in Dressage or Jumping. They have a Horse/Pony and Qualified Instructor that will suit your needs, and give you a safe, fun, and enjoyable experience  3206 3951  www.heritageriding.com.au

YMCA Victoria Point caters for all ages and abilities.

From walking to adults they deliver classes designed to maximise fitness, fun and gymnastics skills. They offer competitive MAG and WAG up to Level 8. Their passionate and experienced coaches ensure everyone has the opportunity to reach their full potential.  3820 5300  www.ymcabrisbane.org

Your Local Families Magazine December 2016/January 2017

Indarra Equestrian Centre (SS) provides a safe riding environment with qualified, professional staff so you can enjoy your love of horses. You can choose either group (max 4 riders) or private lessons. Indarra also hold fun filled day and overnight camps during each school holidays  0409 475 040  www.indarraequestrian.com.au Kiah Park (SS) Offers 7 day horse riding farm stays for children ages 6yrs - teens every school holidays.

Includes full accommodation and each child is given their own pony/horse to love, care for and ride twice

2017 Local Clubs & Classes Directory Wattle Creek Riding School (NS) At Wattle Creek, they specialise in one on one lessons. This gives 100% of the Coach’s attention to the rider. This allows the experienced and inexperienced to work at their optimum pace. No riding experience is needed to start as they teach from the first riding lesson to the highly experienced rider.  3300 6422  www.wattlecreekridingschool.com.au

Swimming

a day. Includes full accommodation, arena lessons, horse care – grooming & tacking up, trail rides and gymkhana. Fun night activities include night walk, talent show, camp fire with stories and marshmallow roasting, bingo and movie night.  5486 6166  www.kiahpark.com.au Nag Nanny (SS) Nag Nanny & Equine Resolutions is passionate about teaching all aspects of looking after horses. Children will not turn up to a horse that is saddled and ready to go, do their lesson and leave.

They will teach them all about getting to know a horse.  www.nagnanny.vpweb.com.au Riverside Equestrian Centre (SS) Riverside Equestrian Centre is located at Moggill in a park-like setting on the banks of the Brisbane River. It is a short drive from Brisbane City. They offer lessons for groups and single riders from junior to senior riders.

Each lesson runs for 2 hours instead of the normal 45mins.  3202 6526  www.riversideequestriancentre.com.au Slickers Horse Riding (NS) Their lessons are conducted in either an enclosed yard or out on one of their trails depending on which the rider requires.  3285 1444  www.slickershorseriding.com

Aquatic Achievers Swim Schools (NS & SS) specialize in teaching babies through to stroke correction and squads. Their innovative SOLO-1 teaching program advances skills in easy, achievable progressions. The pinnacle of their SOLO-1 program is for children to swim One Kilometre unassisted.  www.aquaticachievers.com.au Dipadees (NS) The have four programs for babies from 4 months to children aged 18 years.  3355 1550  www.dipadees.com Grace Swimming (NS) a swimming environment that is friendly and family-oriented. Situated at Grace Lutheran College, this state-of-the-art swimming facility boasts experienced and renowned swimming instructors that cater for all swimming levels.  3204 2725  www.graceswim.org.au North Lakes Aquatic Centre (NS) Concentrates in infant water familiarization, safety and personal development. Their swim program in conjunction with the Royal Life Saving Society caters for children from 6 mths through to Junior Squads. Their instructors pride themselves on their wealth of experience, understanding and enthusiasm.  3886 2022  www.northlakesac.com.au  northlakes@belgravialeisure.com.au

Sam Riley Swim Schools (NS & SS) Dedicated, qualified and experienced instructors know the importance of balancing the professionalism required to teach your child to swim, whilst maintaining an element of enjoyment, so your child has fun while learning.  3050 7341  www.samrileyswimschools.com Shapland Swim Schools (NS & SS) Learn to swim in small classes of three that give children more one-on-one attention. With free make-up lessons and easy online bookings, Shapland Swim Schools makes learning to swim easy and fun! Baby classes available from 3 months of age.  www.shapland.com.au

Yoga Brisbane Yoga Space (NS & SS) An invaluable tool of fun, learning, health and growth for kids and teens. Through yoga, young people can have fun while developing health, fitness and self-confidence.  0430 158 826  www.brisbaneyogaspace.com.au Calm For Kids Relaxation Classes (NS & SS) Calm for Kids hold yoga based relaxation classes for children throughout Australia. The Calm for Kids classes consist of balance, concentration and co-ordination exercises, breathing exercises and games, peer massage, children’s relaxation and visualisations and positive affirmations.  3343 3285  www.calmforkids.com.au Inna Bliss Yoga Studios (SS) Bliss kids yoga classes are a fantastic way for your child to enjoy the many benefits of yoga in fun and friendly environment. The instructor guides the children through an interactive & themed practice of song, movement, yoga poses, creativity, story-telling and relaxation.  3162 2188  www.innablissyoga.com.au

Tamborine Mountain Trail Rides (SS) A 300 acre farm, Tamborine Mountain Trail Rides has ponies available for parties, as well as trail rides from a half hour through to whole day trips, and they offer lessons, too.  0434 011 826  www.horseridingqld.com Trevena Glen Farm (SS)Trevena Glen Farm is only a 45 minute drive from Brisbane. They provide a variety of farm experiences for your Brisbane Family.They also provide riding lessons that cover everything from learning to ride to all aspects of looking after a horse. So you can book in to have a very real horse experience, before you commit to buying a horse!  3289 4257  www.grookea.odoo.com

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2017 Local Clubs & Classes Directory

FILM & TV, THEATRE & PERFORMING ARTS Brisbane Arts Theatre (NS) Their training enhances children’s performance skills and stagecraft knowledge with acting techniques, improvisation, voice (including singing – solo, chorus and harmonies) and movement training (theatre, dance and mime).  3369 2344  www.collegetheatrepractice.com.au Flipside Circus (NS) Performance Program Flipside Circus Trainers support students in every step of the way ensuring each student is ready as they take the steps from performing in small in-house shows to roaming performances at fetes and festivals to touring large scale performing works in major festivals!  3352 7233  www.flipsidecircus.org.au Helen O’Grady Drama Academy (NS & SS) They help children develop essential life skills and explore their creative side through developmental drama programs while providing them with the necessary life skills to prepare them for life after school.

Helen O’Grady is the world’s foremost provider of developmental drama programs for children aged between 3 and 17 years of age in over 25 countries worldwide. 1300 647 239  www.helenogrady.com.au Stagecraft Acting School (NS & SS) Focus is on helping kids become happy, confident and successful people not just successful actors. They pride themselves in teaching kids the skills they need to become professional actors in the real world by making learning fun.  0417 118 006  www.actingacademy.com.au

The TV Training Academy (NS) has designed a unique One Day Kids TV Presenter Workshop for ages 10 to 15yrs. Filmed in a studio and on camera with some of the industries finest trainers, TV presenters and directors, this is a one-day workshop kids love.

Places are limited. Book today!  wwww.tvtraining.com.au/kidstv

DANCE Attitude Dance Academy (NS) Attitude Dance Academy offers a safe, fun, learning environment where your child can study a variety of dance styles from highly experienced, professionally trained instructor  3349 0391  www.attitudedanceacademy.com.au Brisbane Academy of Dance (NS) A wide range of qualified teachers in all areas of dance. An energetic approach to teaching encourages students to achieve their personal best. 3356 5880  www.brisbaneacademyofdance.com.au Elite Dancers (NS) Their many different classes are structured to suit the needs of every dancer, whether you want to dance for a career or for fun and fitness.

We have classes for ages 3 and above on a registered or casual basis.  0427 999 909  www.elitedancers.com.au Kick Dance (SS) Structured programs in dance run by professional teachers with excellent qualifications and extensive industry experience. Classes which facilitate enjoyment, confidence, develop students at a very high technical level and allow a ‘kick’ start into the performing arts. Classical Ballet, Jazz, Tap, Hip Hop, Contemporary, Musical Theatre, Irish Dancing, Creative Movement for tiny tots.  0414 308 248  www.kickdance.com.au

Movements Academy of Dance (NS) A wellestablished, friendly, family based studio that believes in teaching students to be all that they can be. They handpick their teachers who are qualified, encouraging & inspiring so that every student can have the very best dance education possible.  3886 4098  www.movementsdance.com.au Seriously Dance (SS) They truly believe their philosophy of respecting each student for their individuality & challenging each student to obtain personal excellence.  0416 477 703  www.seriouslydance.com

HEALTH, WELLBEING AND SCHOOL SUPPORT ABC Reading Eggs (For ages 3-13) Join over 3.4 million users worldwide to teach your child to read with ABC Reading Eggs, the multi-award winning online reading program that makes learning to read fun.  www.readingeggs.com.au/fam Get Real International (SS) Get Real has been working with young people, carers and industry professionals for 10 years. Using pioneering process work and techniques they’ve changed the way young people live, engage and lead in their communities.  3388 1207  0402 556 711  www.getrealinternational.com Kumon (NS & SS) The Kumon Method is an individualised learning method. The starting point for each Kumon student is determined individually.

Students start with the level where they can attain a perfect score by studying on their own  1800 458 666  www.au.kumonglobal.com Unlocking Your Life (NS) What STOPS YOU from living your life to the fullest? Your Emotions do…

Their workshops unlock what holds you back from living fully, letting go of the blocks that restrain you and building stronger ones where you want/need them.  0421 047 34  www.unlockingyourlife.com.au

If you would like a listing for your club, class or activity in our next issue’s inclusive directory, contact us now!

Email: Listings@FamiliesMagazine.com.au 16

Your Local Families Magazine December 2016/January 2017

#FamiliesMagFun

3-2-1…

ACTION! 5 Steps to get your Kids into Film and TV!

Have your kids expressed dreams of being the next Chloe Grace Moretz or Jaden Smith? Perhaps your young one is a little entertainer and displaying the makings of a star! Creativity rears its head in many forms, and for some the dazzle of lights and the opportunity to be a story teller after the call of ‘3-2-1 ACTION!’ is something that can’t be ignored.

As a parent or guardian of a budding entertainer, and perhaps one that has not been exposed to the entertainment industry, it is difficult to know how to nurture this gift and how to help it grow. Queensland has a small TV and Film community which are supportive, but highly competitive, and breaking into the fold is half the battle.

To make it a little easier – here are 5 steps to help get your kids into Film and TV! Make the decision and adopt the mindset; The things you need to think about and the questions you need to answer are ‘How much of their life will you allow for this to consume’? ‘What is the end goal’? ‘Is the intention for it to be a casual outlet where they use the experiences to build their confidence? Or, do they want to be the next Daniel Radcliffe? These answers will help determine the mindset you and they need to adopt, the boundaries you will set for the experience, provide expectations on the money and time you are willing to invest, and provide measures of success.

Get training; Like anything, one’s ability as an actor is a journey of self-discovery and continual learning and honing of a skill. This commitment is not always cheap, and pending your decisions from Step 1, will determine how much you are willing to invest to unlock their full potential. There are a number of skills to learn which include; the technical side of on-camera communication and the auditioning process; the rules of etiquette within the industry and while on-set; the art of improvisation; an understanding and some experience in practicing various acting techniques and presenting as part of their skillset. Attend workshops, enrol in programmes, and learn the fundamentals. Watch and learn from other great actors. Most importantly, use their training to help build their confidence.

Confidence is key!

Get experience; While they are learning and building their confidence, the next step is to get experience. Kids are natural improvisers, but as they grow older this ability can fade. Maintain their natural abilities, and allow them to practice their skills by providing them with many opportunities to act. You could join them into a theatre group, a drama school or programme, and search for student films that they could audition to be part of. The more practice they get, the more experience and the better they will be.

Actors need to exercise their craft continually, and by surrounding them with other young actors, provides them with the opportunity to collaborate and practice.

Put together a portfolio/showreel; Take any opportunity to collect examples of their work on film. Pay someone to professionally put a showreel together so that you can use it to showcase their talent to future casting directors or agents. Having a comprehensive showreel shows to casting directors not only their acting depth, but also that they are current in the industry, and continually practicing their skills.

Agents and casting directors favour actors who display commitment and a good work ethic.

Get an Agent; Once you think they are ready – get an agent. Shop around!

Get an agent that casts for the type of work that you and your child want to work in. A lot of agents take talent on their books and only ever give them the opportunity to be ‘extras’. Fine if that’s the decision you made at step 1, but, if you want an actual role, then

you have to find the agents who are known for having their talent cast for roles. Once you have found such an agent the challenge then becomes getting onto their books, and included into the select few who get put forward for the roles. At this point your child will have a good showreel, an understanding of the business, experience and a good work ethic. Use these to showcase them and provide them with the best opportunity to be taken under management by a good agent who will provide them with real opportunities. The harsh reality is that casting directors have all the power, and for big roles, they don’t have time to waste by auditioning bad talent. An agent wont risk their reputation and the years of hard work put into building these relationships by submitting talent they are not 100% sure will deliver in the audition room, and on the job. An agent is after talent they can trust to best represent them, and to win the jobs.

It’s a business after all!

This journey is not easy, and not for the faint hearted. Nothing is fool proof, but, with the right plan, mindset, training, experience and determination– your kids have a much better chance of making it to the big screen!

Cherie Kelly – QLD Regional Manager at the TV Training Academy. www.tvtraining.com.au

Your Local Families Magazine December 2016/January 2017

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#FamiliesMagFun

Tween and Teen Activities your child won’t hate you for suggesting!

Compiled by Regina Gleeson

We know that occupying tweens and teens over the school holidays can be challenging so we’ve rounded up our favourite activities so you can leave these pages ‘lying around’ for them to find for themselves….

LEGO WORKSHOPS & CODING

What: Build on your electronics, engineering and robotic interests with these great workshops and school holiday programs, including Legoand coding.

When: Term time classes and school holiday workshops Where: Building Block Studio, 75 Rainbow Street, Sandgate Contact: 07 3869 0885; info@ buildingblockstudio.com www.buildingblockstudio.com

ARTS AND CRAFTS WORKSHOPS What: Enhance your artistic flair and get creative with Tania’s arts and craft classes specifically designed for children aged 11-17, including Pizza & Paint Nights, Pokémon Art and more!

When: After school art classes and school holiday workshops Where: Tania’s Art House, level 1, 119 Bloomfield Street, Cleveland Contact: 0422 497 627; taniasarthouse@gmail.com www.taniasarthouse.com What: Tiny Art Workshops for children aged 9-12 inspire creativity and introduce unique techniques and media where children can explore and create their own artworks in a nurturing environment. Lots of fun and educational workshops to choose from such as: Flamingos, Palette Knife Painting, Watercolour Rabbits and Andy Warhol Trees.

When: After school art classes, Saturday classes, school holiday workshops and art parties Where: Tiny Art, The Scout Den, Jean Howie Drive, Morningside and they also offer a mobile service Contact: 0421 844 508; deb@tinyart.com.au www.tinyart.com.au

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GET ACTIVE!

SCOOT, SKATE, RIDE & GLIDE

What: Keep fit, healthy and de-stress at UQ Sport. There’s an activity to suit every taste with team sports, tennis, track and field, swimming and pool parties!

When: Term time and school holidays Where: UQ Sport, University of Queensland

What: The best fun you can have on two wheels or four; streetscapes, bowls, ramps, vertical walls and a foam pit, open to inlines, skateboards, scooters, BMX and mountain bikes. School holiday scooter and skateboard camps, plus term time lessons also available.

When: Open daily Where: Rampattak, 393 Bilsen Road, Geebung Contact: 07 3265 6185; info@rampattak.com.au www.rampattak.com.au

https://uqsport.com.au

GO KART KRAZY! What: Grab your mates or be a solo challenger for a full-throttle adrenalin rush at Kingston Park Raceway. Satisfy your need for speed on the tracks and enjoy the amusement rides when you take advantage of the school holiday bonus offer.

When: Daily except Christmas Day Where: Kingston Park Raceway, 20 Mudgee Street, Kingston Contact: 07 3826 2222 info@kingstonpark.com.au www.kingstonpark.com.au

TREETOP CHALLENGE What: Australia’s largest guided zip line tour and high ropes adventure park. Get amongst the treetops and traverse a course of rope bridges, swings and flying foxes with 6 courses of varying difficulty. You’ll need to leave your fear of heights at home!

When: Daily except Christmas Day and Boxing Day Where: Thunderbird Park, Cedar Creek Falls Road, North Tamborine Contact: 1300 881 446 www.treetopchallenge.com.au

INDOOR ROCK CLIMBING

TAKE A SEGWAY TOUR What: Glide alongside the river and through South Bank Parklands on a fun mini Segway tour. Tours last from 15 mins to 60 mins and tweens (12 and under) ride at kids’ prices.

When: Daytime and sunset tours available Where: Russell Street, Brisbane (next to The Wheel) Contact: 0419 000 575; sales@xwing.com.au www.xwing.com.au

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What: A test of strength and skill on the indoor rock climbing and bouldering walls. No prior experience needed.

When: Open daily Where: Three great locations!

Unit 2, 220 Montague Road, West End 5 Morse Street, Newstead 17 Roy Street, Milton Contact: 07 3844 2544; info@urbanclimb.com.au www.urbanclimb.com.au

INDOOR ROCK CLIMBING & PARKOUR What: Develop fitness, strength and agility on the indoor rock climbing walls and parkour (freerunning) courses at Crank Fitness.

When: Classes and courses throughout the year, see website

#FamiliesMagFun Where: 2/537 Kessels Road, Macgregor Contact: 0413 891 229; info@crankclimbing.com.au www.crankclimbing.com.au

ESCAPE ROOM CHALLENGE What: Find hidden clues and solve the puzzles in a race against the clock to escape a locked room.

Different themes and experiences available at a number of locations.

Strike Bowling, Wintergarden: When: Open daily Where: Level 1, Wintergarden, Queen Street Mall, Brisbane Contact: 1300 787 453 www.strikebowling.com.au Escape Hunt: When: Open daily Where: 77 Russell Street, West End Contact: 07 3217 2482; Brisbane@escapehunt.com www.brisbane.escapehunt.com Puzzled Room Escape: When: Open daily Where: 5/1177 Logan Road, Holland Park West Contact: 0411 440 035; contact@puzzledroomescape.com.au www.puzzledroomescape.com.au Fort Locks: When: Open daily Where: 12/887 Ann Street, Fortitude Valley www.roomescapelive.com.au

BRISBANE GHOST TOURS What: Spend an evening touring some of Brisbane’s most haunted sites, from cemeteries and old buildings to Boggo Road Gaol. A guaranteed thriller!

When: Evenings except Mondays and Tuesdays Where: Various locations around Brisbane and the Redlands www.brisbaneghosttours.com.au

LASER TAG

Golf Central Brisbane Airport When: Open daily, no need to book Where: 40 The Circuit, Skygate, Brisbane Airport Contact: 07 3087 7800; info@golfcentralbne.com.au www.golfcentralbne.com.au Albany Links Golf Course When: Open daily Where: 638 South Pine Road, Brendale Contact: 07 3264 2557; albanylinksgolf@gmail.com www.albanylinksgolf.com

INDOOR SKATING What: Timeless fun for all ages, indoor rollerskating and inline skating. Don’t forget to limbo!

Available at these locations: Stafford Skate Centre When: Friday evenings to Sunday afternoons Where: 280 Stafford Road, Stafford Contact: 07 3357 4444 www.staffordskatecentre.com.au Skateaway Indoor skating plus inline hockey and figure skating When: Open daily Where: 700 Albany Creek Road, Albany Creek Contact: 07 3325 1711 www.skateaway.net.au

INDOOR ICE SKATING What: Escape the summer heat and chill out with friends at an ice rink, suitable for beginners to advanced figure skaters. Also offering speed skating, ice hockey, curling and synchronised skating.

When: Open daily Where: Iceworld, 1179 Beaudesert Road, Acacia Ridge and 2304 Sandgate Road, Boondall Contact: 07 3277 7563 (AR); 07 3865 1694 (B) www.iceworld.com.au

What: Tag your friends before they tag you!

Laser tag is a hide and seek with a difference as you hunt down your opponents and tag them with your laser phasers. But watch your back because the hunter is also the hunted!

When: Tuesday to Sunday, plus every day in school holidays Where: 561 Gympie Road, Lawnton Contact: 07 3205 4141; Brisbane@laserzone.com.au www.brisbane.laserzone.com.au

MINI GOLF What: Navigate the hazards to get around the 18-hole course in the fewest moves in this lively, fun, miniaturised golf game.

INDOOR TRAMPOLINING What: You’ll be literally bouncing off the walls but it won’t be through boredom! Each centre has huge areas of interconnected trampolines and foam pits to practice your aerial skills.

Several locations to choose from: Sky Zone When: Open daily Where: 544 Kessels Road, Macgregor Contact: 1375 99; touchthesky@skyzone.com.au www.skyzone.com.au Bounce Inc. When: Open daily Where: 40 Enterprise Place, Tingalpa www.bounceinc.com.au Flip Out When: Open daily Where: 130-134 Gympie Road, Strathpine Contact: 07 3205 9994 www.flipout.net.au

JUST JUMP What: Trampolines and inflatables all in the one place, with indoor and outdoor bounce areas.

When: Open daily Where: 235 Smiths Road, Redbank Contact: 07 3437 8588 www.justjumpqld.com.au

CIRCUS SKILLS What: From juggling to acrobatics and highflying aerials and trapeze - you don’t have to run away to the circus to learn these fun skills!

When: Classes all year round plus school holiday workshops Where: Flipside Circus Training Centre, 117 Mina Parade, Alderley Contact: 07 3352 7233 www.flipsidecircus.org.au

INDOOR GOLF What: Play on courses all around the world with this amazing real action simulator. Line up your shots using real clubs and balls and take a swing – the screen will pick up the action and follow the ball’s flight.

When: Open daily Where: 655 Toohey Road, Salisbury Contact: 07 3493 0143; info@thegolfspot.com.au www.thegolfspot.com.au

Aspley 10 Pin Bowl When: Open daily except public holidays Where: 149 Albany Creek Road, Aspley Contact: 3263 8848 www.www.aspley10pinbowl.com.au

TEN PIN BOWLING What: No ‘three strikes and you’re out’ rule applies here: the aim of the game is to get 12 strikes in a row to score the perfect 300! Most bowling alleys have a disco atmosphere and offer arcades and other entertainments too. Find your centre below: AMF Bowling When: Open daily Where: 8 QLD locations, see website Contact: 1300 368 067 www.amfbowling.com.au

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#FamiliesMagFun

C I T Y P L AYS C A P E S

Brisbane City’s Best Playgrounds WRIT TEN BY JOANNE CRANE

Do you ever look back on your own long summer holidays and reminisce about days spent at your local playground? Sure we had fun, but do we really miss the hot metal slides, swings with no soft-fall, and the roundabouts that flung you off in all directions (a great early lesson on centrifugal force!). Today’s playgrounds are scientifically, architecturally, and artfully constructed with the highest consideration given to safety, and with the ‘fun’ element ratcheted up to maximum! These little worlds allow your child to explore their imagination and develop their physical and social skills, and are great places to get together with family and friends for an active day out.

We’ve explored the BEST City playgrounds for you. Grab your sun hats and your sunscreen and take your little — and not so little — ones off on a playground adventure tour!

C I T Y B OTA N I C GA R D E N S The City Botanic Gardens (Alice Street, Brisbane) is a fabulous all-abilities inclusive play area providing wheelchair accessible play equipment alongside, and integrated into, the regular playground essentials.

The playground has been imaginatively designed and features multi-use rockers, spinners and a roundabout, swings, interactive sensory elements, sand diggers, and more. It makes a bright, fun, and challenging playground where children of all abilities can safely play and interact with friends and siblings, sharing in the same fun and exciting experiences. The upgraded facilities in the park

are excellent and include new toilet facilities, drinking fountains, electric barbecues and shady picnic areas. The Botanic Gardens span 45 acres with ponds, sculptures, and fascinating sights, so pack a picnic, bring along your bikes or scooters, and take a self-guided tour of the 24 highlighted points of interest.

If you feel like going on an explorer’s multi-playground adventure, a pleasant stroll across the Goodwill Bridge will take you from the City Botanic Gardens right into South Bank and to the first of three playgrounds there.

Brisbane’s best bike paths – why not cycle along the Brisbane River to get to the City Botanic Gardens? Find out how here: www.familiesmagazine.com.au/bike-paths-brisbane/

B R I S B A N E B OTA N I C GA R D E N S The Brisbane Botanic Gardens is fun for big and little kids alike with a specially designed ‘Hide’n’Seek Trail’ and The Kuta Kids Playground.

Pick up your Hide’n’Seek Trail map from the information kiosk, or download it from the Brisbane City Council website, and begin your adventure at the Japanese Garden. There are 17 objects hidden along the wheelchair accessible trail so be sure to look up, down and all around to find them all!

The Kuta Kids Playground invites imaginative play and exploration in a beautiful nature-inspired setting.

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Opened in May 2015 after the completion of the Northern Link Tunnel project, the area features swings, a slide, climbing frames, stepping stones and other natural elements with shade shelters for picnics, and toilets and drinking fountains close by.

The Brisbane Botanic Gardens is a great place to relax and explore after playing, so be sure to leave a little extra time to make the most of this wonderful area before heading home.

#FamiliesMagFun

SOUTH BANK Located right in the city on the south bank of the Brisbane River, this family-friendly parkland area covers 17 hectares with a great range of facilities, so there’s plenty to keep the whole family busy here all day.

Aside from its beautiful gardens and eateries, South Bank has THREE great playgrounds to explore!

Picnic Island Playground (Corner of Little Stanley and Tribune Streets, at the Maritime Museum end) is a peaceful adventure park suitable for all ages. Part of a major upgrade to the River Bend Project in 2011, Picnic Island Playground features a basket swing, futuristic climbing slide, talking tubes, and a fishpond all set under the shade of a giant fig tree.

Riverside Green Playground opened in October 2015 and is a bright and popular playground catering for children from 2-15 years old. It has lots of fun, challenging activities including a skywalk with bridges, an all-abilities

pirate ship fort, a mouse wheel to run in, and so much more. The play doesn’t have to end when the sun goes down because this playground is fully lit!

Aquativity Playground, (image) as the name suggests, is a wet area playground and heaps of fun on a hot summer’s day. Designed to be both exciting AND educational, Aquativity highlights native river species and provides an understanding of the water cycle and our relationship with the river, all while the kids splash and play in fountains, get drenched by water-tip buckets, and explore the wading pool and rocks.

All the parks at South Bank are well serviced with nearby food outlets and BBQ facilities, picnic areas, toilets, and lots of shade, and are within easy reach of public transport and parking facilities.

Check out our review and video of South Bank’s playground on our website! www.familiesmagazine.com.au/southbank-playground

ROMA STREET PARKLAND Located right next to the Roma Street train station, Roma Street Parkland is delightful haven in the heart of the city. The Children’s Garden and playground was opened in August 2015, and converted the area around the existing Gazebo into a space where children were encouraged to run through garden beds, climb trees and explore bamboo archways as well as use more traditional playground equipment, which include slides, rope bridges, and lots of things to climb.

The 'kitchen garden' adjacent to the playground enables children and adults to touch, smell and taste herbs and vegetables and learn about Queensland’s agricultural industry.

The focus at Roma Street Parkland has now moved to Stage 2, which will extend the ethos of the new Children’s Garden into the existing

playground that has served the parkland well, but is coming to the end of its natural life.

Stage 2 will focus on expanding the educational and botanical inspired play that is so popular in Stage 1. The new playground design incorporates a series of rope bridges and nets connecting bird’s nest cubby houses amongst tropical trees and shrubs. As well as providing a fun network of climbing, navigating and sliding experiences, the cubby structures will offer a birds-eye view of the garden and colourful plants below. In addition there will be palm groves, bamboo arches, passion fruit vine tunnels and orchard fruit trees to play amongst. Work will begin in mid-2017 and should be completed towards the end of the year.

Check out our review and video of Roma Street Parkland on our website! www.familiesmagazine.com.au/roma-street-parkland-review/

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FAMILIES FUN

Listings for everyone in every family!

To promote your local family friendly event including school fetes and fairs, community groups, get-togethers and local festivals in the next ‘Families Fun’ listings (Feb/Mar 2017) send your entry by 5pm on Friday 9 January 2017. Email Regina – Listings@FamiliesMagazine.com.au Listings in this section are FREE for most non-commercial ventures. Please check the details of the events listed before setting off in case anything has changed since going to print.

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2016 Fri 18 Nov – Sun 22 Jan Lollipop Land, Whiteside Lollipop Land a Magical Christmas Wonderland, is re-created annually with love and imagination by Visual Display Artist Jule Barten and Original Doll Artist Chris Boston. Set in the beautiful Old Petrie Town it is a beautiful display that will spark your children’s imagination. www.familiesmagazine. com.au/event/lollipop-land-whiteside/

Fri 25 Nov The Lighting of the Christmas Tree, Brisbane Gather in King George Square at sunset with family and friends to celebrate the Lighting of the Christmas Tree. A Brisbane tradition, this event marks the beginning of the festive season, with carolers and free entertainment from 5.30pm.

When the sun has set, special guests will join Lord Mayor Graham Quirk to officially flick the switch to light up the Brisbane City Christmas Tree at 6.30pm.

This free event is the perfect way to kick off Christmas in Brisbane with your family. www.familiesmagazine. com.au/event/lighting-christmas-tree-brisbane/

Sat 26 Nov Jimboomba Christmas Carols 2016, Jimboomba Held at the Jimboomba State School Oval from 6:30pm to 8:30pm and ending with a spectacular fireworks display! With lots of prize giveaways, a visit from Santa, face painting and guest performances from local schools, various artists and the JC Family and Music Spot choirs, it’s a fantastic family event. www.familiesmagazine.com.au/event/ jimboomba-christmas-carols/

Sat 26 Nov Carols @ Multicap - Share in the magic of Christmas, Eight Mile Plains Carols @ Multicap is an annual event held to celebrate Christmas with Multicap families and the local community. Free entry, sausage sizzle, monster raffle draw, face painting, Monte Lupo Christmas gifts, Santa is coming to visit, carols, accessible bathrooms onsite. 5 – 7.30pm. www.familiesmagazine.com.au/ event/carols-multicap-share-magic-christmas/

Sat 26 Nov Margate Festival, Margate Fun for the whole family! Live entertainment, lighting of the Margate Christmas tree, visit from Santa, food & drinks, market & business stalls, face painting | Jumping Castle | Fairy Floss | Snow Cones | Roving Entertainment and much more... 1 – 7pm. www.familiesmagazine.com.au/event/margatefestival-margate/

Sun 27 Nov Pine Rivers Park Christmas Carols, Strathpine Sit back, relax, and join in the carolling fun with local community groups, schools and dance groups, and a marquee carolling performance from 7pm. Don’t miss meeting Santa at Santa’s Village or jumping in the giant snow globe.

Mum and Dad can wander through the twilight markets and the kids will love the free Christmas

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activities and workshops. The evening will also feature a huge fireworks display. 3 – 8pm. www.familiesmagazine.com.au/event/pine-riverspark-christmas-carols-strathpine/

Sat 12 Nov – Sat 14 Jan Charlotte’s Web, Petrie Terrace Join Charlotte the spider in E.B. White's beloved childhood classic, as this gentle but extraordinary creature weaves an enchanting tale of love, friendship, and the cycle of life. Brisbane Arts Theatre. Bookings Essential. www.familiesmagazine. com.au/event/charlottes-web-petrie-terrace/

Wed 23 Nov – Wed 14 Dec Brickman Wonders of the World, South Brisbane Ever dreamed of visiting the Empire State Building, Arc De Triomphe, the Great Wall of China and other world-famous landmarks without having to go overseas? Thanks to Ryan ‘The Brickman’ McNaught you can explore a world of epic LEGO® masterpieces, where some of humanity’s most amazing achievements from all over the globe come together in a world first, fully interactive experience. Brisbane Convention & Exhibition Centre. www.familiesmagazine.com.au/ event/brickman-wonders-world-south-brisbane/

Fri 25 Nov – Feb 2017 Matilda the Musical, South Bank Matilda The Musical is the multiaward winning musical from the Royal Shakespeare Company, inspired by the genius of Roald Dahl.

With book by Dennis Kelly and original songs

by Tim Minchin, Matilda The Musical is the story of an extraordinary girl who, armed with a vivid

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imagination and a sharp mind, dares to take a stand and change her own destiny. Matilda The Musical arrives at the Lyric Theatre, QPAC in November for a strictly limited season. www.familiesmagazine.com. au/event/matilda-the-musical-south-bank/

Tue 29 Nov – Sun 18 Dec The Very Hungry Caterpillar Show, South Bank Don’t miss seeing one of the most read and famous children’s books of all time emerge off the page and onto the stage in a masterful theatrical experience for those aged 2+.

QPAC. Bookings Essential. www.familiesmagazine. com.au/event/hungry-caterpillar-show-south-bank/

Throughout Dec/Jan Measure Island, South Brisbane This is not your usual island: on Measure Island every step takes you to a new puzzle or exhibit waiting to be explored. Sciencentre 9.30am – 5pm daily. www.familiesmagazine.com.au/events/ measure-island-south-brisbane

Throughout Dec/Jan Reel Bubs@Dendy, Portside REEL BUBS a program exclusively for parents and carers with children. These screenings are tailored to meet their needs and includes the availability of night lights (on request) and sound levels that suit the parent/carer and child. www.familiesmagazine.com.au/events/reel-bubsdendy-portside

#FamiliesMagFun Sausage Sizzle, Face Painting and Photo Booth (ALL FREE). The Carols start from 7pm bringing a range of our favourite Christmas Carols to the stage! 5 – 8.15pm. www.familiesmagazine.com.au/event/braypark-community-christmas-carols-bray-park/

Sat 3 Dec Burpengary Christmas Spectacular, Burpengary This free family festival has everything to help make the lead up to Christmas just that little bit more exciting! With rides, entertainment and market stalls, culminating carols and incorporating Burpengary’s got talent competition, Burpengary Christmas Spectacular will be sure to get you in the Christmas spirit! 3 – 8pm.

Burpengary Community Centre. www.familiesmagazine.com.au/event/burpengarychristmas-burpengary/

Sat 3 Dec Carols on the Oval, Belmont

Throughout Dec/Jan Mirror Mirror, South Bank To coincide with 'Sugar Spin: You, me, art, everything' and to celebrate the tenth anniversary of GOMA, the Children's Art Centre will present an interactive exhibition by New York-based, Icelandic artist Hrafnhildur Arnardóttir (aka Shoppy). In this immersive installation children can engage with the artist's ideas and working methods through hands-on activities. Young visitors will be invited to create their own extraordinary paper hairstyle using specially designed templates and be encouraged to help style a wall of artificial hair-like material. FREE! www.familiesmagazine.com.au/event/mirror-mirrorsouth-bank/

Throughout Dec/Jan 2017 Cirque du Soleil – KOOZA, Skygate Cirque du Soleil rediscovers its origins with the company’s eighth Big Top show to tour Australia. A return to the intimate and fundamental human elements of circus, KOOZA combines thrilling acrobatic performance with the art of clowning. Bookings Essential. www.familiesmagazine.com.au/event/cirque-dusoleil-kooza-skygate/

Fri 2 Dec Upper Mount Gravatt Christmas Market, Mount Gravatt UMG Community Market will have a Christmas Twilight Market from 4pm to 7.30pm. They aim to have an assortment of stalls to showcase a variety of handmade and unique products to offer shoppers some great Christmas present options. Upper Mount Gravatt State School. www.familiesmagazine.com.au/event/upper-mountgravatt-christmas-markets-mount-gravatt/

Fri 2 Dec WorldFiesta Christmas Craft, Brisbane Go along and celebrate the festive season with the kids at free Christmas craft workshops. The hands-on workshops for children aged 5-12 will provide an opportunity for kids to create Christmas symbols from around the world including Spain's God's eye, Finnish Himmeli decorations, Japanese origami Christmas Trees and woven stars. 4 – 8.15pm.

King George Square. www.familiesmagazine.com.au/ event/world-fiesta-christmas-craft-brisbane/

Fri 2 & Sat 3 Dec Symphonic Santa, South Bank A QSO Kiddies Cushion Concert with Jay Laga-aia. It just wouldn’t be Christmas without QSO’s musical tribute to the festive season. Sing along to the songs of Santa with all the traditional trimmings of fun and frivolity. Ho! Ho! Ho! The Courier Mail Plaza. www.familiesmagazine.com.au/event/symphonicsanta-south-bank

Sat 3 Dec A Very Hipster Christmas, Moorooka Hey Southsiders! You are wanted at this free family friendly event. If you are interested in getting ride bands, you can purchase them online through their website and on their Facebook page!

They are looking forward to seeing you all at 3pm on the Alexander Oval in Moorooka! 3 – 8.30pm. www. familiesmagazine.com.au/event/rather-hipsterchristmas-moorooka

Sat 3 Dec Bray Park Community Christmas Carols, Bray Park Bray Park Community Church Christmas Carols is a free family friendly event, hosting an array of activities and entertainment. The schedule includes a Petting Zoo, Jumping Castles,

Carols on the Oval is back for another exciting year!

However, with one slight difference - IT'S ON A SATURDAY! Activities 4PM-7PM - Free Rides, Christmas Markets and food!!! Carols start 7PM, Fireworks 8.15PM. Belmont State School Oval. www.familiesmagazine.com.au/event/carols-onthe-oval/

Sat 3 Dec Gruesome Yarns, New Farm Gruesome Yarns features Brisbane’s funniest improvisers spinning disgusting family-friendly tales, all completely made up on the spot from your suggestions. Expect improbable plots, hilarious characters and plenty to keep the grownups entertained! Brisbane Powerhouse. 3.30pm. Bookings Essential. www.familiesmagazine.com.au/event/ gruesome-yarns-new-farm/

Sat 3 Dec Scouts Christmas Carols, Brisbane Join the Scouts Queensland Performing Arts Team and the Brisbane Regional Youth Orchestra to sing and dance to your favourite Christmas Carols and share the Christmas Cheer with a series of Pantomimes written and performed by our budding artists and seasoned performers. Roma Street Parklands. From 6.30pm. www.familiesmagazine. com.au/event/scouts-christmas-carols-brisbane/

Sat 3 – Sun 18 We Wish You a Creative Christmas! Aspley All children are welcome to come along and enjoy a range of FREE Christmas craft workshops held on the first three weekends of December from 11am - 2pm. All materials will be provided and children will be able to take home their unique creations. The Christmas craft workshops will be held on the following weekends and conclude with a meet and greet with Rudolph on Christmas Eve. 11am – 2pm. www.familiesmagazine.com.au/ event/we-wish-you-a-creative-christmas/

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#FamiliesMagFun Sun 4 Dec Christmas By the Sea, Brighton Under the water themed Christmas by the Sea extravaganza with song, dance, comedy and finishing with Christmas Carols and Santa. This is not just an audience watching a show, it's a totally engrossing, engaging and wonderful experience - Under the Water themed and then onto the beach. 1 – 3pm.

Brighton Health Campus. www.familiesmagazine. com.au/event/christmas-sea-brighton/

Sun 4 Dec Centenary Community Carols. Middle Park Celebrate Christmas at the Centenary Community Carols with a live nativity scene, markets and a fireworks finale. From 4pm.

Peter Lightfoot Oval. www.familiesmagazine.com.au/ event/centenary-community-carols-middle-park/

Sun 4 Dec North Lakes Christmas Carols, North Lakes Visit Santa’s Village to meet the main man himself and don’t forget to check out the life-sized snow globe while you’re there. Then finish the evening with a ‘bang’, watching the sky light up with a spectacular fireworks display! North Lakes Town Common. 3 – 8pm. www.familiesmagazine.com.au/ event/north-lakes-christmas-carols-north-lakes/

Sun 4 Dec Variety Santa Fun Run, South Bank You can run, walk, push or roll your way around the 5km, flat and fully accessible course all while enjoying the 'jolly' atmosphere and making a difference to the lives of kids this Christmas! The Santa Fun Run is not a timed event and has been devised to be all inclusive so those in wheelchairs and parents with prams can be involved in the fun! Warm Up: 6:45am Start Time: 7:00am. www.familiesmagazine. com.au/event/variety-santa-fun-run-south-bank/

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Mon 5 Dec – Sun 26 Feb Construction Site, Ipswich Be your own architect and build your dream cubby house! Use giant foam blocks to build whatever you can imagine. Construct a castle or a sky-scraper, or work together as a team to build a whole city!

Then…. Unleash your inner engineer with the return of the popular Ball Run. Create your own run using tubes and recycled materials to send a rolling ball on its way. Ipswich Art Gallery. www.familiesmagazine. com.au/event/construction-site/

play space for kids. Explore the tunnels and slides made entirely from 56,000 metres of packing tape designed and created by artist Eric Lennartson direct from the US! Exclusive to the Ipswich Art Gallery this summer. Don’t forget your socks! Socks MUST be worn on the TapeScape. Bring your own or buy specially designed TapeScape Socks at the Gallery for only $3 a pair – yours to keep! www.familiesmagazine.com.au/ event/tapescape

Mon 5 Dec – Sun 26 Feb Tapescape, Ipswich Be

Thu 8 Dec until Nov 2017 Jurassic Seas, Mooloolaba Adding to the pre-historic experience,

the first in Australia to experience playing in a unique TapeScape — a two-story, 20 metre square, creative

Jurassic Seas will also bring the ocean’s most terrifying dinosaurs back to life with the extraordinary use

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#FamiliesMagFun

of cutting-edge digital technology. Visitors will have a once-in-lifetime opportunity to feed the digital Plesiosaurus, marvel at the giant teeth of the Megalodon and test their bravery in the face of an angry Liopleurodon. Jurassic Seas will educate guests about the evolution of some of the most mysterious sea creatures that ever lived while highlighting important conservation issues surrounding ancient marine life. Underwater World SeaLife. www.familiesmagazine.com.au/event/jurassic-seasmooloolaba/

Fri 9 Dec Greenbank Rural Fire Brigade Annual Christmas Extravaganza, Greenbank There will be Fire Engines, Police, SES, Ambulance and local emergency services informing you on what to do in the event of an emergency.

Activities will include - Santa and Santa’s Cave photos, Christmas lights, fire truck and fireman photos, fire safety and awareness, cheapest sausage sizzle in QLD, followed up with a bigger Fire Works Spectacular than last year. 6 – 9.15pm www.familiesmagazine. com.au/event/greenbank-rural-fire-brigade-annualchristmas-extravaganza-greenbank/

Fri 9 – Fri 23 Dec The Nutcracker, South Bank Take the whole family to enjoy this Christmas favourite. At midnight on Christmas Eve, little Clara begins a magical journey into a wondrous world of toys that come to life. There she meets King Rat, giant mice, and the beautiful Sugar Plum Fairy, who reigns over the Kingdom of Sweets. By the Queensland Ballet at QPAC. Bookings Essential. www.familiesmagazine.com.au/event/nutcrackersouth-bank/

Fri 9 – Sun 18 Dec The Enchanted Garden, Brisbane Roma Street Parkland's Spectacle Garden will transform into the Enchanted Garden in the lead up to Christmas with a spectacular lighting display, taking visitors on a wonderful magical journey from one garden room to another. 6.30 -9pm nightly. FREE! www.familiesmagazine.com. au/event/the-enchanted-garden-brisbane/

Fri 9 – Sat 24 Dec Gold Lotto City Hall Light Spectacular, Brisbane The Light Spectacular features an exquisite, animated Christmas story beaming brightly onto City Hall every 15 minutes between 7:30pm and midnight. This year’s story is a playful, Aussie take on The Night Before Christmas. www.familiesmagazine.com.au/event/gold-lottocity-hall-light-spectacular-brisbane/

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Sat 10 Dec Ashgrove/The Gap Rotary Carols by Candlelight, Ashgrove Rotary’s annual

Sat 10 Dec Lord Mayor's Christmas Carols, Brisbane Join some of Australia’s most renowned

community carols features local choirs and orchestras with guest artists. 5 – 8pm at Dorrington Park. www.familiesmagazine.com.au/event/ashgrovethegap-rotary-carols-candlelight/

singers and entertainers including musical theatre icons Rhonda Burchmore, Luke Kennedy and Naomi Price. Also appearing will be ABC KIDS band Lah-Lah, Lucy Maunder from of the hit musical Matilda, Opera Queensland, The Koi Boys, X Factor winner Reece Mastin, X Factor contestants Jess & Matt and The Voice Kids winner Alexa Curtis. FREE! www.familiesmagazine.com.au/event/lord-mayorschristmas-carols-brisbane/

Sat 10 Dec Giggle and Hoot’s Magical Christmas, South Bank Christmas comes early for children aged 2+ with the live musical spectacular Giggle and Hoot’s Magical Christmas live on the Concert Hall stage for one day only. Starring Jimmy Giggle, Hoot, Hootabelle, Gigglefangs, Pirate Hootbeard and of course Hootoclaws and his dancing Elves. QPAC. Bookings Essential. www.familiesmagazine.com.au/event/giggle-hootsmagical-christmas-south-bank/

Sat 10 Dec Redlands White Christmas, Cleveland Get together with family and friends and celebrate the festive season with the Redlands White Christmas 'Around the World' concert, proudly presented by the Redland City Choir. Enjoy uplifting Christmas songs as you are taken on a beautiful journey of Christmas around the world. Two performances – 2pm & 7pm. Redlands Performing Arts Centre. www.familiesmagazine.com.au/event/ redlands-white-christmas-cleveland/

Sat 10 Dec Christmas in The Grove, Ferny Grove A free family event for the community to join and celebrate Christmas, featuring live entertainment, an animal farm, rides, kids craft, carols and fireworks. Ferny Grove State School. From 5pm. www.familiesmagazine.com.au/event/christmas-inthe-grove/

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Sat 10 Dec The Wiggles Big Show, Boondall The Wiggles are celebrating their 25th birthday in the best possible way! Emma, Lachy, Simon and Anthony are bringing their brand new show Dance, Dance! The Wiggles Big Show! to Brisbane Entertainment Centre.

Bookings Essential. 2 shows – 10am & 1pm. www.familiesmagazine.com.au/event/wiggles-bigshow-boondall/ Sat 10 – Fri 16 Dec Christmas Movies in the Park, Brisbane Christmas Movies in the Park takes on a Christmas theme at Roma Street Parkland throughout December with a range of free outdoor movies for all ages to enjoy each evening. Food trucks will be serving from 5.30pm, with movies starting at 7pm. Sat 10 Dec: Arthur Christmas, Sun 11 Dec: Dr Seuss’ How The Grinch Stole Christmas, Mon 12 Dec: Love Actually, Tue 13 Dec: Miracle on 34th Street (1947), Wed 14 Dec: Elf, Thu 15 Dec: Santa Clause, Fri 16 Dec: Search for Santa Paws.www.familiesmagazine. com.au/event/christmas-movies-park-brisbane

Sun 11 Dec Scarborough Christmas Carols, Scarborough Sing along to carolling from

Your Local Families Magazine December 2016/January 2017

local community groups and schools and a special guest performer. The kids will fall in love with Santa’s Village and our life-sized snow globe, and they will even get to meet Santa himself! Then finish the evening with a ‘bang’, watching the sky light up with a spectacular fireworks display! 3 – 8pm. www.familiesmagazine.com.au/event/scarboroughchristmas-carols-scarborough/

Sun 11 Dec Australian Army Band Christmas Show, Redcliffe Everyone's favourite the Australian Army Big Band will fill the Redcliffe Cultural Centre with its traditional Christmas show, an oldie but a goodie. All ages are welcome to enjoy the fabulous talent of this remarkable and loveable band. Redcliffe Cultural Centre. 11am. www.familiesmagazine.com.au/event/australianarmy-band-christmas-show-redcliffe/

Sun 11 Dec Bracken Ridge Christmas Carols, Bracken Ridge Warm up those voices and get your Santa hats out of storage because the Bracken Ridge Christmas Carols is on again. Starting at 4:30 there'll be dozens of market stalls and food vans on Norris Road State School Oval for you to enjoy. Make sure you take a few chairs and a picnic rug for when the carols start at 7pm. It's a great show this year with plenty of singing, dancing, fireworks and Santa might even drop by. www.familiesmagazine.com.au/event/brackenridge-christmas-carols-bracken-ridge/

#FamiliesMagFun Sun 11 Dec Family Preview Screening - Sing, Portside A koala named Buster recruits his best

Queen Street Mall. It then weaves its way through our vibrant city, culminating at King George Square.

7 – 7.30pm nightly. www.familiesmagazine.com.au/ event/christmas-parade-brisbane-city/

friend to help him drum up business for his theatre by hosting a singing competition. Dendy Portside is hosting the family preview screening of SING. Tickets on sale now or available at the box office.

10.30am. www.familiesmagazine.com.au/event/ family-preview-screening-sing-portside/

Sat 17 Christmas Carnival, Sandstone Point t’is the season to be merry and the CHRISTMAS CARNIVAL has your festive activities all wrapped up!

The family fun day will include fireworks, Christmas carols, markets, kids rides, entertainment, food stalls, and of course a visit from Santa! From 12 noon.

Sandstone Point Hotel. www.familiesmagazine.com. au/event/christmas-carnival-sandstone-point/

Sun 11 Dec Roma Street Parkland’s Family Christmas Concert, Brisbane Join them at Roma Street Parkland for a family friendly Christmas Carol Concert with Brisbane Symphonic Band and BSB Swing performing everyone’s favourite Christmas carols – and maybe a visit from Santa if everyone is good. Food Trucks will be onsite from 2pm, until after 6pm, when visitors will then be able to walk through the Enchanted Garden which opens at 6.30pm or stay on for the evenings outdoor Movie - Dr Seuss’ How the Grinch Stole Christmas. 3 – 5pm. FREE! www.familiesmagazine.com.au/event/roma-streetparklands-family-christmas-concert-brisbane/

Sat 17 Dec The South Pacific Islander Christmas in the Park Festival, Boondall Celebrate Christmas to the sounds of Pacific Islander communities and churches through performances, carols and more. www.familiesmagazine.com.au/ event/south-pacific-islander-christmas-park-festivalboondall/

Mon 19 – Thu 22 Dec South Bank Christmas Carols, South Bank Over four special nights, The

Mon 12 Dec The Kazoos – Search for Santa, Redcliffe Join the Kazoos on a jolly romp around the North Pole to find Santa who has forgotten how many sleeps there are until Christmas! With heaps of laughs, silliness and Christmas carol favourites this show is sure to get everyone in the Christmas Spirit! Redcliffe Cultural Centre. Bookings Essential. www.familiesmagazine.com.au/event/kazoos-searchsanta-redcliffe/

Mon 12 – Fri 16 Bamboo Lantern Workshops, Brisbane Visitors of all ages are invited to get creative and help make a bamboo lantern which will be added to a wonderful lighting installation in the Enchanted Garden, which will grow throughout the week. Suitable for all ages, although younger children may need assistance from adults. Free, The Children’s Garden – Roma Street Parklands. www.familiesmagazine.com.au/event/bamboolantern-workshops-brisbane/

Tue 13 & Sun 18 Dec Sprouts in the Park Christmas workshops, Brisbane Make your own Christmas decoration for your own Christmas tree or your own mini Christmas wreath made from Australian natives with the team from Wild Flora at our popular craft workshops. Roma Street Parklands. $5 per child. www.familiesmagazine.com.au/event/ sprouts-park-christmas-workshops-brisbane/

Fri 16 – Fri 23 Dec Christmas Beach Cinema, South Bank Forget snowmen and make a sandman instead at South Bank’s Christmas Beach Cinema at Streets Beach! Snuggle up on a picnic rug under the stars or dive-in to the cool waters and enjoy Christmas family favourites on the silver screen. www.familiesmagazine.com.au/event/christmasbeach-cinema-south-bank/

Fri 16 – Fri 23 Dec South Bank Christmas Markets, South Bank The South Bank Christmas Markets will return to the cobbled streets of Stanley Street Plaza for eight days this December with dozens of stalls offering food, handmade arts & craft, Christmas gifts and more! 11am – 10pm daily. www.familiesmagazine.com.au/event/south-bankchristmas-markets-south-bank/

Fri 16 – Sat 24 Dec Christmas Parade, Brisbane City Brimming with music and merriment, the Parade comes complete with a nativity scene, Santa and dozens of performers to entertain and delight all ages. It’s on nightly at 7pm from 16-24 Dec and commences at the Edward Street end of the

Courier-Mail Piazza will come alive with Christmas carol concerts guaranteed to have the whole family singing along and tapping their feet. Celebrating Christmas around the world, there will be a visit from Santa, a live nativity scene and twists on everyone’s favourite carols. FREE! www.familiesmagazine.com. au/event/south-bank-christmas-carols-south-bank/

Tue 20 – Fri 23 Dec Christmas Fireworks, South Bank Electric fireworks displays will light up the night sky over four nights this December. Take the whole family along to the Clem Jones Promenade to enjoy a dazzling array of pyrotechnics that will take you on a magical Christmas journey. 7.45 – 8pm. www.familiesmagazine.com.au/ event/christmas-fireworks-south-bank/

Mon 26 Dec – Thu 26 Jan Day Out with Thomas, Ipswich Head to the Workshops Rail Museum for a day of fun. There will be hands-on Thomas activities, meet Thomas & The Fat Controller in person, let off steam in the indoor adventure playground and expansive grounds and see the huge model railway.

Make a day of it with entry to the Museum and all exhibits included in your entry ticket! www.familiesmagazine.com.au/event/day-thomasipswich/

For more information on these events, please head to www.familiesmagazine.com.au/brisbane-halloween-events/

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#FamiliesMagFun

free parking around the Centre. 5 – 9.30pm www.familiesmagazine.com.au/event/new-yearsevelakeside-victoria-point

Tue 27 Dec – 1 Jan 2017 Woodford Folk Festival, Woodford A family-friendly event, Woodfordia has offerings that suit all audiences of ages and interests.

Primarily known as a camping festival, the event offers an exciting experience for day visitors and is a pleasant drive or train/bus connection from Brisbane. www.familiesmagazine.com.au/event/woodfordfolk-festival-woodford/

Sat 31 Dec New Year's Eve Fireworks Spectacular, South Bank Enjoy an evening of free, family-friendly frivolity as Brisbane’s New Year’s Eve Fireworks Spectacular returns to South Bank.

Featuring movie screenings, food trucks serving up sweet and savoury fare, and two glittering fireworks shows (one at 8:30pm the other at midnight) there’s no better way to welcome in 2017. www. familiesmagazine.com.au/event/new-years-evefireworks-spectacular-south-bank/

Sat 31 Dec Foreshore Fireworks, Woody Point Where will you be this New Year’s Eve ... Bring in 2017 with The Belvedere and join in the countdown in their exclusive family experience. With the most spectacular FIREWORKS display in the Moreton Bay Region with 2 Fireworks Barges this year on the Foreshore as the main feature. There will be food, entertainment, shuttle buses, outdoor cinema, markets, games and rides. www.familiesmagazine. com.au/event/foreshore-fireworks-woody-point/ Sat 31 Dec New Year’s Eve@Lakeside, Victoria Point The summer fun kicks off at 5pm with our High Street Market featuring 60+ Market Stalls with fabulous foods and great shopping, free entertainment and fun for all. The fantastic free Fireworks show over the lake at 9pm. Free entry,

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JANUARY 2017 Throughout Jan Ocean Ranger Program, Mooloolaba Inspire your kids these school holidays with a full or half day Ocean Ranger Program! The Ocean Ranger Program gives kids the exclusive opportunity to feed, touch and meet some of the amazing UnderWater animals! 4th, 6th, 11th, 13th, 18th and 20th of Jan. Bookings Essential. www. familiesmagazine.com.au/event/ocean-rangerprogram-mooloolaba/

Throughout Jan Sleep Under the Sea, Mooloolaba Explore the depths of the all new SEA LIFE Mooloolaba these school holidays with the return of the family sleepovers! Explore the depths of our

Your Local Families Magazine December 2016/January 2017

new ocean walk through and see what the creatures and critters get up to at night! 6th, 7th, 13th and 14th Jan. Bookings essential. www.familiesmagazine.com. au/event/sleep-sea-mooloolaba/

Wed 4 & Thu 5 Jan Steve Backshall's Deadly 60 Pole to Pole, South Bank The new year sees the welcome return of the adventurous wildlife presenter Steve Backshall, with his brand new show Steve Backshall’s Deadly 60 Pole to Pole, in QPAC’s Concert Hall. Bookings Essential. www.familiesmagazine.com. au/event/steve-backshalls-deadly-60-pole-polesouth-bank/

Fri 6 – Sun 22 Jan The Snail and the Whale, South Bank The Snail and the Whale is a critically acclaimed live musical stage adaptation of the modern classic picture book by Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler. From 6 to 22 January 2017 in the Cremorne Theatre, QPAC, audiences aged 4+ are invited to join a tiny snail on her trip around the world.

Bookings Essential. www.familiesmagazine.com.au/ event/snail-whale-south-bank/

Tue 10 – Thu 20 Jan Sprouts in the Park, Brisbane The Sprouts in the Park tent will be set up in Celebration Precinct for you and your children to do some art, craft & Gardening. School Holiday fun for everyone! Cost is $2 per child, per session. There will be – Art, Craft & Gardening, Ginger Sport Soccer, Yogababy and Boppin Babies. www.familiesmagazine. com.au/event/sprouts-park-brisbane/

#FamiliesMagFun Tue 17 - Thu 19 Jan The Magic Faraway Tree, South Bank Brisbane City Youth Ballet presents an amazing adaptation of Enid Blyton's "The Magic Faraway Tree". Be amazed by the sets and costumes designed by the renowned designer, Max Hurley.

Dancers will meet the patrons after each performance.

Conservatorium Theatre. Bookings Essential. www. familiesmagazine.com.au/event/magic-faraway-treesouth-bank/

Tue 17 – Sun 22 Jan Room on the Broom, Brisbane The witch and her cat are flying happily

Fri 13 – Sun 15 Jan Mister Maker, South Bank Returning for 3 days only in the Concert Hall, QPAC, is everybody’s favourite Mister Maker live on stage.

This brilliant, fun, fast-paced and interactive new show, recommended for children 3+, is bound to be a highlight of the summer school holidays. Bookings Essential. www.familiesmagazine.com.au/event/ mister-maker-south-bank/

and more will be answered when TV’s favourite identical twins take to the stage, all in the name of medical science. Brisbane Powerhouse, bookings essential. www.familiesmagazine.com.au/event/ operation-ouch-live-stage-new-farm/

on their broomstick – until a stormy wind blows away the witch's hat, bow and wand. A helpful dog, bird and frog find the witch's lost things, and they all hop on the broom for a ride. But this broomstick's not meant for five and – CRACK – the broom snaps in two! QUT Gardens Theatre. Bookings Essential. www.familiesmagazine.com.au/event/room-broombrisbane/

a sad robot who is lost and far from home. He just can’t remember where he lives! Ideal for children aged eight years and younger. Bookings essential.

Carina Library www.familiesmagazine.com.au/event/ cheeky-monkey-clubs-lost-universe-show-carina/

Thu 19 – Sat 21 Jan Cinderella, South Bank Be swept into a world of enchantment and timeless romance by Ballet Theatre of Queensland’s 80th anniversary production – a breathtaking ballet adaptation of the Charles Perrault fairy tale, Cinderella.

Join Queensland’s premier youth ballet company at the ball, as it celebrates 80 years of ballet magic making, by bringing this beloved fairy tale to life. QPAC. Bookings Essential. Ballet Theatre of Queensland. www.familiesmagazine.com.au/event/ cinderella-south-bank

Tue 17 – Thu 19 Jan Operation Ouch! Live on Stage, New Farm The ABC3 hit children’s series,

Sat 21 Jan – Sat 25 Mar Snugglepot & Cuddlepie, Petrie Terrace May Gibb's beloved gumnut babies

Operation Ouch! is coming to Australia in January 2017. Don’t miss Dr Chris and Dr Xand in their first ever live stage show! How can germs be good for you? How does sneezing work? All these questions

come to life in the best way they can - as part of an adventure! Brisbane Arts Theatre. Bookings Essential. www.familiesmagazine.com.au/event/snugglepotcuddlepie-petrie-terrace/

Tue 17 Jan Cheeky Monkey Club's Lost in the Universe show, Carina Cheeky Monkey meets

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Families Vouchers

Holiday Discount Vouchers Cut out the voucher and surrender to receive the offer. More vouchers available on our website to download and print. Terms & conditions apply.

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Remember to join our Facebook page to enter our Facebook ONLY competitions For full competition terms and conditions and to enter, log on to:

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Your Local Families Magazine December 2016/January 2017

Families Freebies

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Enter Online!

Enter at www.FamiliesMagazine.com.au

WIN A Backyard Cinema Experience

WIN One Family Pass to Steve Blackshall’s Deadly 60 Pole to Pole

We’ve teamed up with the guys at Backyard Cinema HIre to offer you an awesome backyard experience this summer. The great team there is giving you the opportunity to win a 2.5m Backyard Movie Screen System including everything you need for a cinema in your backyard. They are also throwing in a popcorn machine with all supplies needed for 10 people, delivery and setup of everything within the Brisbane metro area and next day collection of everything as well. All you need to do is mow the lawn, invite your (kids?) friends around and order refreshments! What’s not to love?

Following his sold out 2016 Australian tour, adventurous wildlife presenter Steve Backshall will bring his brand new show, Deadly 60 Pole to Pole, to Queensland Performing Arts Centre’s (QPAC’s) Concert Hall on 4 and 5 January 2017, as part of QPAC’s SummerSet program.

Deadly 60 Pole to Pole features footage of Steve and his crew as they encounter some of the world’s deadliest creatures including swimming with Leopard seals.

Live on the Concert Hall stage these January school holidays, don’t miss Steve Backshall sharing his gripping adventures of encounters with deadly creatures from the South Pole to the North Pole. Tickets on sale now. To book go to www.qpac.com.au or phone 136 246.

1 x Family Pass to win

See website for T&C’s regarding location availability. For more information about hiring your own Backyard Cinema experience go to www.backyardcinemahire.com.au and use the voucher on page 30 for a discount when you quote ‘families’ upon booking.

3 x Backyard Cinema experiences to win

WIN One Family Pass to Mister Maker Get ready Brisbane! Following sold out shows in July 2015, Mister Maker & The Shapes are coming back to Queensland Performing Arts Centre’s (QPAC) Concert Hall from 13 to 15 January 2017. Featuring brand new songs, dance moves and makes, the ultimate arts and craft hero, Mister Maker returns with a brilliant, fun, and interactive live show these summer school holidays.

WIN a $300 Gift Voucher to stay in the Magical Bunya Mountains

Bunya Mountains Accommodation Centre is giving one lucky family the opportunity to relax and refuel their spirits with a stay in the magical Bunya Mountains. The winner will receive a $300 gift voucher to spend on their choice of more than 100 homes including cosy cottages nestled in the rainforest, and small, medium and large family homes with panoramic views of the Bunya Mountains National Park. All homes capture the beauty and charm of the Bunya Get ready for a ‘whale of a time’ at the Queensland Performing Arts Mountains and most include a large verandah or deck to take Centre (QPAC) this summer as the charming stage production, The in the stunning scenery and abundant native birds and Snail and the Whale comes to the Cremorne Theatre from Friday 6 to wildlife, and a log fireplace to snuggle up by during the Sunday 22 January 2017 as part of the QPAC SummerSet program. cool Bunya evenings. Kitchens are appointed with modern appliances and some houses have a spa bath or a pool table London based company Tall Stories are proud to present The Snail too. The Bunya Mountains Accommodation Centre is the and the Whale, their latest exciting collaboration with best-selling largest provider of holiday rental homes and chalets in the writer/illustrator team, Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler.

Bunya Mountains. For more details, visit This delightful production combines physical storytelling, live www.bunyamountains.com.au music and sound effects, as well as lots of laughs and is suitable for everyone aged four years and up. To book go to www.qpac.com.au 1 x $300 Voucher for Accommodation to win or phone 136 246.

1 x Family Pass to win Remember to join our Facebook page to

Packed full of arty adventures there’ll be a big ‘make’ to take part in, super songs to sing-a-long with, a fabulous supporting cast and of course The Shapes; Mister Makers colourful all-dancing friends. Part of QPAC’s SummerSet program, Mister Maker & The Shapes promises to be the hottest and most creative family ticket for 2017! To book go to www.qpac.com.au or phone 136 246.

1 x Family Pass to win

WIN One Family Pass to The Snail and the Whale

For full competition terms and conditions and to enter, log on to: www.FamiliesMagazine.com.au and click on ‘Competitions’

UPCOMING ISSUES

Families Magazine is made with love by Janine Mergler - Editor Regina Gleeson – Listings Editor Suzie Porter – Designer Jesse Stanger – IT Systems & Support Dana Flannery-Hayes – Talk About Creative – SEO @ www. talkaboutcreative.com.au

The information contained in this publication and on our website and social media forums is for general information purposes only. The information is provided by Families Magazine and its contributors as detailed on individual articles. While we endeavour to publish information that is up to date and correct, we make no representations or warranties of any kind, express or implied, about the completeness, accuracy, reliability, suitability or availability with respect to the information, products, services, or related images contained in print, on our website or in our social media forums for any purpose. Information received via our publication or online should not be relied upon for personal, medical, legal or financial decisions. You should consult an appropriate professional for specic advice tailored to your need and situation.

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We do not endorse contents or advertisers in our publication or on our web pages and will not responsible for any content of any linked site or any link contained in the link site. In no event shall we be liable for direct, indirect, punitive, incidental, special, consequential damages or any damages whatsoever arising out of or in any way connected with the use of or performance of information, products, services or reliance on the contents of the advertisements.

All material including, but not limited to adverts, editorial, images and part thereof sent to Families Magazine remain the property of Families Magazine. All materials and personal details will be handled appropriately with respect to data protection laws. No material published by Families Magazine in print or online may be reproduce whatsoever without prior written consent.

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