Families Magazine - Brisbane - Winter Day Trips & Children's Parties Issue 2019 by Families Magazine - Brisbane

Issue 34: June / July 2019 www.FamiliesMagazine.com.au

Brisbane Brisbane

From North Lakes and Samford in the north to the Redlands and Logan in the south and out through the western suburbs of Brisbane

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50 Day Trips to do around Brisbane with kids

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June / July 2019

Contents 4

Welcome to our Winter Day Trips and Children’s Parties Issue! I’ve had my Ugg boots for so long I think they are becoming sentient. Through summer they hibernate, overwhelmed by the humidity, but around April I start to notice them poking out from under the bed, or alertly propped up in the back of the wardrobe, and I suspect they are beginning their migration to my feet. We rent and suffer from impatience so unfortunately we can’t have pets. I’m thinking this winter I surprise the kids, turn my old slippers inside out and attach googly eyes. I’ll tell the kids they are ‘Winter Guinea Pigs’ and occasionally pull one along with a string. Perhaps I can convince guests they have crossbred with my ‘good’ Ugg boots (they still have the soles attached) and that is why we have giant dust balls under all the furniture - they are actually the young of our winter hybrid pets. As if - we have three kids, we never have guests. If you have more ambition than my “Winter Guinea Pig” scam then feel free to investigate land-based whale watching in this issue. I hear whales make terrible pets so it’s your call. As for parties, set up your little angels around an LED candle, give them a marshmallow on a stick and tell them not to bother you until it’s roasted to perfection!

8 - 11

Families News

Find out about local news for families

Winter Day Trips Land Based Whale Watching North Stradbroke Island

12 - 13

Families Health Family Cycling

14 - 17

Party Time Party Fun for Little Ones Children’s Party Ideas

20 - 21

Families Travel 10 Things To Do in Penang with Kids

22 - 25

Clubs, Classes & Activities

Find a local Club, Class or Activity for 2019

26 - 30

Families Fun

Circle the family events you plan to do during June/July

Yours in benign neglect and a fluffy dressing gown which has never been washed.

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 www.simoneeclair.com

☎ 0437 866 869

Editor@FamiliesMagazine.com.au

www.FamiliesMagazine.com.au

Cover Photo: Bike Ride, Deposit Photos Next issue August/September 2019 Deadline by 5pm on Friday 5 July 2019 Focus on Brisbane Schools & Education Brisbane and Ipswich readership over 80,000 every issue. Published 6 times a year. Local magazines for families in Brisbane, Ipswich, Redlands, Logan and the Moreton Region. © Families Magazine 2019

Your Local Families Magazine June / July 2019 www.familiesmagazine.com.au

Families News

LOCAL FAMILIES NEWS

Looking for the latest local news and views? We've got it covered! CELEBRATE 30 YEARS OF THE ABBEY MEDIEVAL FESTIVAL – THIS JULY!

The Abbey Medieval Festival has been an annual Moreton Bay Region highlight since 1989. Each year it attracts over 1000 enthusiastic reenactors who bring the Dark Ages, Middle Ages and early Renaissance Period to life. Held at the Abbey Museum in Caboolture, the festival is one of Australia’s premier living history events, with the highly anticipated 30th Tournament Weekend happening this year on July 13 and 14. Visitors are invited to immerse themselves in a world of medieval villages and encampments recreating the life of ordinary peasants, Vikings, Ottoman Empire Turks, campaigning knights and travelling entertainers. There will be craftsmen and women demonstrating their skills, historical re-enactments and competitions, jousting, markets, entertainers and so many things you can experience for yourselves. Visit www.familiesmagazine.com.au/abbey-medieval-festival to find out more. Tickets on sale now! Turn to page 31 to see how you could win one of two family day passes to The Abbey Medieval Festival Tournament Weekend!

FAMILIES NEEDED TO JOIN THE WONDER TEAM!

The Children’s Hospital Foundation is calling on families to join The Wonder Team and register for the 2019 Sunday Mail Bridge to Brisbane. Held on Sunday, August 25, Brisbane’s biggest community event will see around 30,000 participants take part in a 5km or 10km fun run or walk from Roma Street, across three iconic bridges, before finishing at South Bank. Every day around 300 children and young people from across Queensland and northern New South Wales arrive at the Queensland Children’s Hospital with an injury or illness. The Children’s Hospital Foundation is there to make their stay as easy, welcoming and fun as it can be. The little things can make a big difference for sick kids and their families; someone to play a board game with in bed, a helping hand or a shoulder of support in anxious moments, or some entertainment to help them forget the challenges they face and just be kids again. Around these ‘little things’, they also fund the ‘big stuff’, like lifesaving medical equipment, world-class research that delivers faster diagnoses, new and improved treatments and, ultimately, cures that have the power to change lives and create better, healthier futures. Those who join and fundraise with The Wonder Team will help work wonders for sick kids and their families. Visit childrens.org.au/ active to start fundraising today!

DISCOUNT EKKA TICKETS! If you’re thinking of heading to The Royal Queensland Show this year, we have some great news for you: the cost of entry has been frozen at 2018 prices! The adult and child pass is still $45, concession tickets still $25, and the Family Pass still $80 for 2 adults and 2 children. Even better, you can save an extra 10% off the price by entering the code FAMILIES10 at the online checkout! (Applies to full priced general admission tickets only, until 11:59pm July 31). We have 4 family passes to the Ekka to give away. For your chance to win, visit www.familiesmagazine.com.au/competitions

Your Local Families Magazine June / July 2019 www.familiesmagazine.com.au

Have You Seen…?

Families Online

Families Magazine has literally thousands of informative and entertaining articles on our website, and we bet you’ve only just scratched the surface of them! Go on a journey of discovery today and find out what’s under the tab!

The cold weather is coming and that means Winter Camping! Find the best places to snuggle around the campfire under the Holidays – Camping & Cabins tab.

It’s almost a rite of passage in childhood, but what should Kids Feed Ducks? Find out the good and the bad under the Health & Parenting – Parenting Aides & Ideas tab.

www.familiesmagazine.com.au/wintercamping-brisbane

www.familiesmagazine.com.au/kids-feed-ducks

If your child is about to turn one, a cake smash is a great way to celebrate. Find out how to Plan A Cake Smash under the Parties – Be Your Own party Planner tab.

Do your kids love dinosaurs? Find out the best Places To Take Kids Who Love Dinosaurs under the Things To Do – Days Out tab.

www.familiesmagazine.com.au/cakesmash-brisbane

www.familiesmagazine.com.au/places-take-kidswho-love-dinosaurs

Your Local Families Magazine June / July 2019 www.familiesmagazine.com.au

Education

S I X WAYS

to inspire children TO W R I T E

Writing forms a vital part of communication, but in an increasingly technology-driven world, opportunities to write can sometimes be hard to find.

Here are six tips to inspire your child to write. 1. Nurture a love of reading Regular reading is an integral stepping stone to developing and improving writing skills. It helps to develop a child’s language, equipping them with a rich written and oral vocabulary. Through regular reading, children see the characteristics of writing come to life; things such as structure, sequence, characters, setting and plot. Reading also provides children with an opportunity to learn about people, places and events outside of their own experiences. Famed author Dr Seuss once wisely wrote: “The more that you read, the more things you will know. The more that you learn, the more places you’ll go.” Through books, children can be transported to exotic places and different times, taken on adventures, even to another world. They can be captivated by interesting characters and riveting storylines. It is through these opportunities to escape that children gather inspiration to generate ideas for their own writing.

2. Putting pen to paper Parents can offer young children a variety of tools to practise their handwriting skills, other than the trademark pen or crayon to paper. Get creative with what you invite your child to explore. Perhaps they can draw letters in the sand with their finger or a stick. Tracing letters in shaving cream is always fun, as is finger painting. Chalk is another great alternative and forming letters with playdough is great for little hands. These fun activities provide opportunities for children to develop the fine motor skills required for handwriting.

3. Encourage writing around the home Inspire your child to write through authentic opportunities around the home. Get their assistance in writing shopping lists or lists of things to do. They could write a friend an invitation to play or a thank you note. Even writing emails or text messages, providing they use correct spelling, are opportunities to practise writing. For younger children, parents can role model writing in front of their child and discuss the value of what they are writing.

4. Establish a writing routine

fundamental aspects of grammar provides children with the essentials to help them continually improve and raise the level of their writing. Create a colourful display to prompt your child with examples of words, punctuation, opening phrases and conjunctions appropriate to their learning goals. Encourage your child to revise and improve their vocabulary as they go; for example, the sentence ‘She entered the room’ might be improved with the use of a “wow word” to lead the sentence to say ‘Cautiously, she entered the room’. Starting a journal is a great way to encourage regular writing that can be slotted into the daily routine, and a holiday diary is a memento they will have for life.

5. Talk about writing Writer’s block can be a huge stumbling block, so to speak. Children need a strong command of oral language to be a good reader and writer. When parents engage in active discussions about a writing task they are helping their child to generate ideas, plan, and build vocabulary and are modelling the way language is structured. It also provides opportunities for their child to verbally plan and organise their story structure before putting pen to paper. St Margaret’s Head of Primary Mrs Angela Drysdale says quite often children will have an idea but won’t know what they are going to do with that idea. “Each week we set our students “talk homework” in which they are encouraged to discuss and share a writing stimulus with family members at home, mentally preparing themselves for their weekly Big Write,” she said. Parents can mimic similar opportunities at home by creating a story box. “Start a story box of old calendar pictures, pictures of animals and pictures cut from magazines and use them for discussion about how to structure a story, what might happen at the beginning and at the end,” she said.

6. Literacy enriched play Young children love dramatic role play. Creating a dramatic play space or prop box at home is a great way to encourage and inspire children to explore and experiment with writing. An office themed setup, for example, might include materials such as a desk, stationery, paper, scissors, a stapler, a telephone, a computer or keyboard and folders to spark little imaginations.

For older children, establishing a regular block of time designated to writing provides helpful practise opportunities.

For these opportunities to be worthwhile it’s important to be responsive to the interests and emerging abilities of your child. Quite often they might be stimulated by a certain occupation and you can build upon that.

Students at St Margaret’s Primary School routinely participate in a weekly ‘Big Write’ session where they are encouraged to write at length, in addition to regular shorter writing activities throughout the week.

So, if an office setup I does not ignite your child’s interest, then perhaps try a police station, veterinarian, hair salon or post office, depending on where your child’s passions lie.

An approach to teaching writing developed by British educator Ros Wilson, the Big Write methodology incorporates the teaching of VCOP (vocabulary, connectives, openers and punctuation). Learning these

Article contribution by St Margaret’s Anglican Girls School. Find out more about the school at www.stmargarets.qld.edu.au.

Your Local Families Magazine June / July 2019 www.familiesmagazine.com.au

Education

SCHOOL OPEN DAYS LIST 2019

Brisbane and Ipswich’s most comprehensive For prospective students & parents

JUNE/JULY

To promote Your School Open Day in the next issue (Aug/Sep 2019) contact our Editor. Email: Editor@FamiliesMagazine.com.au Tel: 0437 866 869 Please check the details of the events listed before setting off in case anything has changed since going to print.

Anglican Church Grammar School (East Brisbane) Anglican Boys’ School Reception-Yr 12. Personalised tours at all times and an interactive tour on their website. www.churchie.com.au Brisbane Bayside State College (Wynnum West) Indep Co-Ed Yr 7-12. Open Days: Thur 6 June, Thur 25 July, Thur 10 Oct, 9am-10.30am. www.brisbanebaysidesc.eq.edu.au Cannon Hill Anglican College (Cannon Hill) Co-ed Prep-Yr 12. Open Day: Fri 2 Aug 9am-12pm. www.chac.qld.edu.au

Ormiston College (Ormiston) Indep Co-Ed, Non-Denominational Christian, Prep-Yr 12 with an Early Learning Centre. Showcase Day: Sat 20 July, 10-4pm. Headmasters Tours throughout the year and personal tours may be arranged. www.ormistoncollege.com.au Prince of Peace Lutheran College (Everton Hills) Co-ed Kindy-Yr 12 Junior Campus Open Morning: Thur 8 Aug, Thur 17 Oct, 8.45-10.30am. Senior Campus Expo: Tue 13 Aug 3:30–6:30pm. www.princeofpeace.qld.edu.au

Canterbury College (Waterford) Indep Co-ed Kindy–Yr 12. Tours Morning: Wed 7 Aug 8am-12pm. Canterbury@Twilight: Wed 16 Oct 4-6.30pm. www.canterbury.qld.edu.au

Rochedale South State School Co-ed Pre-prep-Yr 6. Talk & Tour: Tues 23 July, Fri 18 Oct, Tues 12 Nov, 9.15-10.15am. Information evening: Tues 6 June 6-7pm. www.rochedalesouthss.eq.edu.au

Clayfield College Independent School (Clayfield) Co-ed Pre-Prep to Year 6, Girls Pre-prep-Yr 12. Clayfield Fair: Sun 4 Aug 10am-3pm. www.clayfield.qld.edu.au

Sheldon College (Sheldon) Indep Co-ed, non-denominational. Childcare-Yr 12. Every Day is Open Day 07 3206 5555 to book a tour at a time that suits you. www.sheldoncollege.com

Faith Lutheran College (Thornlands & Victoria Point) Co-ed Kindy-Yr 12 Prinicpal’s Tours: Thur 5 June 1.45-3pm (Secondary Campus). Thur 13 June 9am-10.30am (Junior Campus) www.faithlutheran.qld.edu.au

St Peters Lutheran College (Indooroopilly) Indep Co-ed Prep–Yr 12 Open Day: Sat 8 June 10am–2pm. www.stpeters.qld.edu.au

Moreton Bay Boys’ College (Manly West) Boys’ College Pre-Prep-Yr 12 Head of College Tours: Fri 7 June, Fri 19 July, Fri 30 Aug, Fri 11 Oct. www.mbbc.qld.edu.au Moreton Bay College (Wynnum West) Girls’ College Pre-Prep-Yr 12 Open Day: Fri 9 Aug 9-11am. www.mbc.qld.edu.au

St Peters Lutheran College (Springfield) Indep Co-ed Prep-Yr 12. Open Day: Sat 1 June 9am-12pm. Group Tour: Wed 23 Oct 9-10am. www.stpeters.qld.edu.au Stuartholme School (Toowong) Catholic Girls’ Yr 7-12. Action Tour Mornings: 10 June, 19 July, 15 Aug, 16 Sept, 11 Oct. Register to attend: www.stuartholme.com/actiontours

Your Local Families Magazine June / July 2019 www.familiesmagazine.com.au

Winter Day Trips

The HumpbacK Highway Land-based whale watching

One of the most exhilarating sights to behold on our coastline is the annual migration of the humpback whales. As the weather turns colder, the humpback whales leave their home in Antarctica and begin their journey north to warmer seas to calve before returning south again to show off their offspring. From May to October they can often be seen in local waters putting on a spectacular display of breaching, tale fluking and fin slapping, and it can be well worth a day trip to see! LAND BASED WHALE WATCHING If you haven’t got the time or the sea-legs for a whale watching cruise we’ve found the best places to go land-based whale spotting, so grab your binoculars and camera, pack some snacks and the kids, and get ready to follow the whales north along the humpback highway.

CAPE BYRON A great place to spend a whole day whale watching, with plenty of other things to do here too. Start by finding the Cape Byron Roving Ranger Cart (call 02 6620 9300 for location), which provides maps, reference books, and even a few whale bones to give the kids an insight before you begin your search. Then head up to the lighthouse for spectacular panoramic ocean views. You can grab a coffee from the café before starting the 3.7km loop walk around the headland for more viewing opportunities, where you won’t just see whales – look out for dolphins and other wildlife too.

NORTH STRADBROKE ISLAND – POINT LOOKOUT North Stradbroke Island is the closest point to Brisbane for land-based whale watching. Catch the ferry from Cleveland and head to Point Lookout on the eastern side – the most easterly point in Queensland. From there the water is often clear enough to see not only whales, but dolphins, turtles and manta rays too. North Stradbroke Island is a great place to spend the whole day.

GOLD COAST If you’re lucky enough to have access to one of the high-rise buildings along the shore you are bound to spot whales, but even a stroll along The Spit should see you rewarded with more than a sighting or two. The Gold Coast is fairly central to the migratory route so it’s the perfect place to see whales for the whole of the whale watching season as whales heading north will often be passing whales returning south.

MORETON ISLAND – CAPE MORETON Start your day trip with a ‘cruise’ across to the island aboard a comfortable ferry, then head to Cape Moreton Lighthouse – the oldest lighthouse in Queensland – for a breathtaking coastal view. Looking down from the cliff, there is a good chance you will also see dugongs grazing in the sea grass below. Access to the lighthouse is only suited to 4WD and requires an uphill walk from the carpark. You will need a permit to take your own 4WD onto the island, but there are 4WD tour operators who will take you out in their vehicles to see all the sights of this beautiful island.

COOLUM – POINT PERRY You can drive right up to Point Perry Lookout or take a leisurely stroll up the hill from the Coolum surf club. This elevated lookout has picnic shelters, public toilets and a viewing platform, but it’s a very popular spot and can get busy.

NOOSA – DOLPHIN POINT Dolphin Point is part of the Noosa Coastal Track, along a section of sealed pathway. Starting from the Noosa National Park entry on Park Road, the sealed path takes you 1.2km to Dolphin Point. The path is suitable for assisted wheelchair users though gradients can be steep in places, and there are toilet facilities along the way. Beyond Dolphin Point the path becomes gravel, but if you continue a further 1.5km you will reach Hell’s Gates where the ocean view is simply stunning. The great thing about Dolphin Point for families is that you can head down to the famous Hastings Street for welcome refreshments after your walk.

Your Local Families Magazine June / July 2019 www.familiesmagazine.com.au

BURLEIGH HEADS Tumgun Lookout in the Burleigh Heads national park is an elevated vantage point with great views to look down upon the whales. There are a couple of walking tracks under 3km that will take you to the

hWinter Day Trips

FAMILIES MAGAZINE TIP: If you’re a super-organised parent try planning a game of whale-watch bingo in advance and give each child a score card of tale flukes, water spouting, breaching, calves spotted and other wildlife. The first to see gets the point, and the first to fill their card is the winner. Extra bonus points if you spot Migaloo – the famous WHITE humpback whale!

lookout, and sheltered picnic areas, barbecues and toilets are all nearby. The walk to the lookout can be steep and tiring in places for younger children, but there are plenty of scenic and ocean views along the way to compensate those who can’t quite make it to the top.

Wherever you choose for your whale watching experience, follow these handy tips to be prepared:

GUARANTEED WHALE SIGHTING?

• Get as high as you can for the best views, but with such expansive beaches and headlands along the Gold Coast, Sunshine Coast and larger bay islands you can spot whales from almost anywhere

While we can’t guarantee that you will see whales on your land-based whale watching day trip, you can be assured of spectacular scenery, invigorating sea air, and other wildlife to guarantee a great day out. For a guaranteed up-close whale watching experience we recommend taking one of the many organised boat tours available from various locations between the Sunshine Coast and the Gold Coast. Visit our website for reviews of our favourite tour providers.

• Choose a clear calm day when no rain is expected. Rain or heavy cloud will make it difficult to spot whales

• Take binoculars – the higher the power the better. • Pack sunscreen and plenty of snacks and drinks • Get comfortable – a whale can hold its breath for around 20 minutes before surfacing again and you don’t want to miss its play when it comes back up

Your Local Families Magazine June / July 2019 www.familiesmagazine.com.au

Winter Day Trips

NORTH STRADBROKE ISLAND A subtropical paradise situated on Brisbane’s doorstep, North Stradbroke Island is the second largest sand island in the world, offering crystal lakes, towering lookouts, cliff-side journeys, secluded beaches, fascinating wildlife, a captivating cultural side, and a friendly community. If you’re looking to explore a variety of stunning natural landscapes practically on Brisbane’s doorstep, Straddie delivers! How To Get To North Stradbroke Island From Brisbane

Cylinder Beach

If you take the car across, sealed roads offer access to the three towns of North Stradbroke Island: Amity Point, Dunwich, and Point Lookout. 4WD tracks are available for those looking for a more adventurous way to get around (permits required).

One of North Stradbroke Island’s most recognised beaches, Cylinder Beach is the perfect spot for a swim or a fish. Visitors can enjoy the cool water or head up to an adjacent rocky hill to admire ever stretching views of the beach, lush bushland looming in the distance, and the clear water. To top it off, the area hosts shady campgrounds and is conveniently located near fishing spots, general stores, markets, and much more.

Public Transport On North Stradbroke Island

The Gorge Walk

Buses operate hourly between Dunwich and Point Lookout, with a stop at Amity Point. Adult single fares vary between $2.30 and $4.90, with concession prices available.

The Gorge Walk of Point Lookout is highly acclaimed among North Stradbroke Island visitors. The hike guides travellers along the edge of a towering cliff and above powerful waves. If you continue the journey, you’ll be led to the other side of the gorge, past the unique rock formations and the ‘Blow Hole’, finishing conveniently close to the initial starting point. Overall, the entire hike is very easy to follow with the majority of the journey extending over a boardwalk. The Gorge is also the perfect place to keep an eye out for pods of dolphins, sea turtles, and whales. As for land-dwelling creatures, you may be lucky enough to cross paths with a kangaroo. Prepare for the hike by packing a hat, sunscreen, and plenty of water.

Located approximately 30 km southeast of Brisbane, North Stradbroke Island is easy to reach. Water ferries depart from Cleveland every day, all year round, making the island very accessible for vehicle and pedestrian traffic. The trip itself is a pleasant 50 minute journey on the air-conditioned ferry and there’s a cafe on board. Alternatively, leave the car in Cleveland and take the water taxi for a quicker crossing.

The Stradbroke Cab Service is also available to take you to various places of interest. This option can be slightly more expensive than the bus though the journey will be much quicker.

Exploring North Stradbroke Island With Kids With a diverse range of vibrant landscapes to explore, Stradbroke Island truly is a natural playground for the entire family. There are peaceful beaches to lounge upon, cliff-top views to marvel, or exciting hikes among lush bushland – in fact, something for every little adventurer to enjoy.

Flinders Beach If you’re looking for beachfront camping grounds to extend your visit to North Stradbroke Island, Flinders Beach can deliver. The campgrounds are situated in natural settings and can only be accessed via bush tracks, or from the beach outside of high tide times. The area is dog-friendly, offers fishing locations, bushwalking opportunities, and is the perfect spot for whale watching.

Brown Lake A brown-tinted body of pure rainwater, Brown Lake is a tranquil natural haven on North Stradbroke Island. Stradbroke Island is a sand island, but Brown Lake retains its water due to the many leaves lining the floor of the lake. The brown colour is due to the native tea trees surrounding the lake. This secluded destination is located only 10 minutes from Dunwich, and delivers perfect swimming conditions, along with picnic and BBQ areas. Alternatively, rent a paddleboard and explore the vast lake from above. If you’re visiting in Spring, you’ll be treated to the view of countless wildflowers surrounding the entire lake.

Point Lookout A peaceful social hub of Stradbroke Island, Point Lookout has everything you’ll need. The area is home to various eateries, accommodation options, spas, beaches, markets, grocery stores, camping facilities, and much

Your Local Families Magazine June / July 2019 www.familiesmagazine.com.au

hWinter Day Trips more. Not to mention, Point Lookout also offers cliff-top views to admire and the famous Gorge Walk. While you’re exploring North Stradbroke Island, you’ll likely find yourself visiting Point Lookout time and time again due to its convenient location, sheer beauty, and abundance of facilities.

Terra Bulla Leumeah Conservation Area Stretching across 1.5 hectares of bushland, the Terra Bulla Leumeah Conservation Area is the perfect spot to gain a deeper understanding and appreciation of Stradbroke Island’s cultural background. The area has a link back to the past of the local Aboriginal people as it was once the old Myora Mission site. Aboriginal elders often tell stories of their grandparents living on this land and using it as a gathering place. The park is home to bush tucker and a garden trail and also houses cultural exchange programs, including talks and dance performances.

Frenchman’s Beach While standing above Point Lookout you’ll notice a peaceful, secluded beach below: Frenchman’s Beach. The 500m sandy stretch faces east and sits between two towering cliffs, and below a dense field of vegetation. To access the beach, simply follow the stairway down from the main road and through the vegetation. When you reach the

bottom you are welcome to relax upon the sand, explore the nearby rock pools, and admire the surrounding cliffs from below. However, swimming at Frenchman’s Beach is not recommended as the beach is unpatrolled, averages large waves, and is home to permanent rips (against the dune rocks). That being said, it’s the perfect spot to lounge upon the sand and embrace the serenity.

Blue Lake Located within the Naree Budjong Djara National Park, Blue Lake is a treasure of North Stradbroke Island. The lake holds a cultural significance among the Quandamooka people, who refer to the lake as the ‘deep silent pool’. Compared to Brown Lake, Blue Lake is much more secluded. To reach the lake, hike through dense bushland for 5.2 km (return trip), among towering eucalyptus trees and vibrant shrubbery. Once you reach the lake, relax in the shade and admire the clear water. Out of respect for the Quandamooka people, guests are asked not to swim in the lake. As the track is quite sandy, good walking shoes are recommended, along with plenty of water, a hat, and sunscreen.

Neembeeba Lookout Those looking for some impressive views overlooking Blue Lake can venture over to the Neembeeba Lookout. The track is approximately 6 km (return), winding among lush, colourful vegetation, with slight glimpses of the ocean peeking through the trees. Once the lookout is reached, appreciate the stretching views over the Pacific Ocean and the Gold Coast. As the walk itself involves a gradual climb, taking approximately 1.5 to 2.5 hours to complete, good fitness level, quality walking shoes, a hat, sunscreen, and plenty of water is recommended. Editorial supplied by Nicholas Hastie, Creative Director at creator.net. Discover more ways to enjoy North Stradbroke Island as your next day trip or holiday destination in the full article online at www.familiesmagazine. com.au/north-stradbroke-island-with-kids

Your Local Families Magazine June / July 2019 www.familiesmagazine.com.au

Family Health

Let's go for a family bike ride! Can you remember the thrill of riding your bike as a child? Feeling the wind in your face as you flew through your neighbourhood with friends, your bike transformed by imagination into a noble steed or jet-propelled aircraft - the exhilarating feeling of freedom and independence, before time forced you to grow up and the morning commute took over. If you’ve ever longed to go back to those carefree days of your childhood, it’s time to turn back the clock and rediscover those feelings – and the multitude of benefits to be found in family cycling.

Cycling for the very young

Cycling improves balance, muscle tone and coordination, and is great for getting blood pumping and little bodies oxygenated.

The joys of cycling can be discovered from as early as 12 months old. Guidelines state that your child must be able to support their own head and neck whilst wearing a correctly fitted helmet and sit safely in an Australian Standards approved bike seat or trailer.

Cycling is wonderful exercise for children of all ages, and many studies have shown that children who cycle to school are more focussed and ready to learn after their morning exercise.

There are a range of bike seats available to suit children from 12 months up to four years old (20kg). Babies and toddlers often find the movement of the bike soothing and fall asleep during the journey, so consider a bike seat that reclines or offers a place for baby to rest their head. Remember that sometimes the ride can be bumpy so you must consider your child’s level of development and always get a professional to recommend and install the right bike seat for your bike. Another option when taking young children cycling with you is the bike trailer. Bicycle trailers can be used by children from one to 10 years old and offer the added advantage of covered weather protection. A tag-along bike is a great option for young children (recommended age 4-6 years) who want to cycle with their parents but who may not be able to keep up independently on a long bike ride. The tag-along bike is like a regular bike, but without a front wheel. The front of the tag-along bike extends over the back wheel of the bike it is attached to, so the child can stay close to their adult whilst still enjoying the bike riding experience.

Cycling is also a great independent hobby for older children. BMX (bicycle moto-cross) can take the form of dirt-track racing (like traditional motor cross) or Freestyle, which involves tricks, somersaults and stylised routines. There are lots of registered BMX clubs across Brisbane and SE QLD for children who want to take their outdoor hobby seriously. Visit the BMX Queensland website to find your nearest. Mountain bike riding is also great fun for older children and thrill-seeking adults. Many local councils have caught on to the popularity and health benefits of mountain biking and have created mountain bike tracks and courses in their local parks and bushland, complete with obstacles, challenges, and even bike cleaning and maintenance stations to help you get back on track after mishaps. You can download maps of these tracks, which detail their level of difficulty and skill required, from your local council website.

The health benefits of cycling in adulthood

The health benefits of cycling in childhood

If you feel you’ve let your health and fitness slip over the years, cycling is a great introductory exercise, and potentially far more enjoyable than a gym membership!

Children who learn to cycle from a young age, whether on balance bikes, tricycles or traditional bikes, can expect to see a number of health benefits.

Cycling is a non-weight-bearing exercise that can burn up to 600 calories an hour. A one-hour family bike ride can leave your metabolism performing at a higher rate for several hours after, and regular cycling increase lung capacity, heart health and mental well-being. One of the immediate benefits you will feel from cycling is a reduction of stress. Your higher riding position opens you up to noticing things about your neighbourhood and environment that you just don’t see when travelling by car. Surrounding yourself in the sights and sounds of nature, clean fresh air and natural daylight works wonders for your mental health, and doing all that with your family by your side is a fabulous way to spend time with your kids and set a healthy example.

Safety benefits of family cycling A family bike ride is a great way of familiarising your child with their local neighbourhood. With you as guide your child can learn local landmarks, the safest and easiest route from one place to another, and benefit from improved road and traffic awareness.

Your Local Families Magazine June / July 2019 www.familiesmagazine.com.au

Family Health Environmental benefits of family cycling Our children are developing a far greater awareness of our planet’s health than previous generations and are concerned enough to actively seek ways to lessen negative human impact. Cycling is an environmentally friendly and sustainable form of transport. It uses no fossil fuels and cycle tracks require less heavy maintenance (and space) than roads, and, according to the Department of Transport and Main Roads, cycling 5km each way to school saves 1500kg of greenhouse gas emissions per year as opposed to being driven there by car.

With this knowledge and awareness comes independence. Having modelled the safest way to and from a friend’s house, grandparents place, school or park, your child will be equipped with the skills needed to navigate their own way to these regular destinations – once old enough, of course - without your guidance, or the need to get the car out. Cycling regularly can make the transition to driving much easier for your teenagers too. They will already be familiar with road rules and may have a greater sense of spatial awareness. Being a cyclist themselves, your teenager will likely be far more considerate of other road users, less of a risk taker, and more confident behind the wheel.

Tips to consider

Quality family time A family bike ride is the perfect opportunity to spend quality time together. Cycling opens up opportunities for conversation and discussion, shared memories, and the joy of simply being actively involved in the same experience. You don’t have to restrict your cycling to within your own neighbourhood. Queensland Rail permits bikes to be taken on trains outside peak hours, or you can invest in a bike rack for your car to discover new areas. For inspiration, enter ‘bike’ in the search bar at www.familiesmagazine.com.au to see which cycle paths we recommend.

For a handy guide to Queensland road rules for cyclists, go to www.bit.ly/QLDCycleRules

Your Local Families Magazine June / July 2019 www.familiesmagazine.com.au

Party Time

PARTY FUN

F O R L I T T L E O N E S !

Birthday parties for toddlers and little children are such exciting times. Your child is grown-up enough to be filled with anticipation of the event, and with their developing social skills you just know you are in for some wonderful photo opportunities as they play with their friends. You’ve got the presents, the decorations and the cake, but have you planned enough games to keep those short little attention spans entertained? Here are some cute ideas for a party to remember! BIRTHDAY PARTY GAMES FOR TODDLERS AND THE PRE-PREP CROWD

HIDE AND SEEK

They’re little and they’ve got attention spans to match. What you are definitely going to need are some crowd-pleasing ideas with minimal fuss.

Go easy on the pre-prep crowd during a game of Hide and Seek. Make sure that you establish safe parameters and then let the game take

The party is a celebration for you as well. It’s your chance to reflect on how your beautiful child is growing. The last thing you want to do is be up to your eyeballs in complicated party bits and bobs when you could be having fun instead. These party games for toddlers and pre-prep kids require a bare minimum of material and planning. They’re spontaneous, they’re loud and they’re lovable – just like your little one!

FOLLOW THE LEADER This is a fabulous game for small children to play. It’s great for communication, listening and concentration skills – plus it looks SUPER cute! You’ll have a little line up of cuties following you around the garden in no time. Swap in different adults or older children to extend the game for longer. Get inventive! Editor’s tip: My little ones had the most fun when The Leader did funny animal walks: channel your inner bear on hands and feet with stiff straight legs; waddle like a duck; hop like a frog; be a dog with your nose to the ground following a trail; prance like a show pony, and make all the silly animal noises that go along with it. Have you ever tried Follow The Leader with land-based synchronised swimming? Hold your nose and start with a big splash, then get ready to waft and glide around the garden kicking your feet as you go.

“Ready or not, here I come!”

care of itself.

“WE’RE GOING ON A BEAR HUNT” Do we all know the words? We’re not scared! This is a great game to close a party and provides the BEST alternative to party bags! Instead of giving your guests a bag full of lollies and little toys that will soon be forgotten, your guests will love finding their very own little bear to take home! Your local variety store is a great place to find cute little bears, and often at less than the cost of the contents of a lolly bag. Before the party, or while the kids are eating, hide the bears around the garden for the ultimate kid-friendly bear hunt. For a party of younger children, allow them to keep the first bear they find (they’ll be so proud of their achievement that they won’t want to let go!). For a party of slightly older children who are learning to read, find swing tags in the craft section

Your Local Families Magazine June / July 2019 www.familiesmagazine.com.au

Party Time to label each bear with the name of their child and gently explain the rules; that they have their very own bear to find and if they find a bear with someone else’s name on it they must carefully put it back where it was hidden and not tell.

BALL PIT / BALL TRAMPOLINE Hit up your local discount variety store or toy shop and stock up on cheap plastic balls. Fill a little paddling pool or enclosed trampoline and let the fun take over! This is an example of gorgeous chaos when it comes to party games for toddlers. Editor’s tip: These little plastic balls make great ‘eggs’ for an egg and spoon race, and the little spades from a beach play set are the perfect ‘spoons’.

DUCK, DUCK, GOOSE!

BUBBLE BLAST! Easier to tidy up than a ball pit, a bubble machine can provide hours of gentle entertainment for little ones. Bubbles are fun to run through, dance in, catch, blow away, and poke. Can you dodge the bubbles before they burst on you? Set up 2 or 3 machines to create plenty of bubbles for all, add some music or disco lights, then sit back and watch while the bubbles work their magic. Editor’s tip: Bubble machines are best used on grass because burst-bubble residue can make some floors and surfaces slippery.

DANCE PARTY This is one of our favourite party games for young children. Get the dress up costumes out, set up a play list of popular songs and let the good times – and the camera – roll!

PASS THE PARCEL (CONSIDER YOUR CROWD)

Consider the age and capabilities of your party crew before beginning a game of Duck, Duck, Goose.

Pass the Parcel is a perennial party favourite but this one definitely comes with a caveat for younger kids. If you think that the children at the party will be alright with passing on a gift to the next person then you’re welcome to try it. Many a game of Pass the Parcel has ended in tears – approach with caution!

Have all the children sit in a circle and nominate one child to be the caller. The caller travels the outside of the circle tapping each child on the head in turn and saying duck, duck, duck until suddenly choosing a child to be GOOSE! The goose must jump up and chase the caller all the way around the circle in the hope of catching him or her. If the caller manages to reach the vacated spot and sit down without being caught, the goose becomes the new caller. If caught, the goose is allowed to sit down and the caller has to start again.

STEAL THE CHEESE For this game one person is chosen to be the cat (who guards the cheese), and all the other children are the mice.

MUSICAL STATUES This excuse to bop will really get the party started! Modelling is key with tiny tots so show the kids what to do for the first few rounds. Crank the music up and get those little butts moving! There’ll be giggles galore when they topple over after they try to ‘freeze’. Little children don’t necessarily like to be ‘out’, so a variation to try is Musical Bumps. When the music stops the children must sit on their bottoms as fast as they can. The first one down is the winner of that round and gets to take a bow – or run around and high-five all the other players – before the music starts again.

The object of the game is for the mice to tag the cat to “Steal the Cheese” without being caught. The cat stands at one side of the room or garden facing away from the mice, and the mice at the other. Then very stealthily the mice must creep up on the cat. If the cat turns around all the mice must freeze. If the cat sees a mouse move it can pounce and chase the mice away! If a mouse is caught it becomes the new cat, but if all the mice make it safely back to their base, the game starts again. If a mouse is clever enough to tag the cat it gets the cheese (a small prize) and becomes the cat. Be prepared for lots of squeals and giggles!

Your Local Families Magazine June / July 2019 www.familiesmagazine.com.au

Party Time

At Families Magazine we’re party people, and we know the people who know parties! If you’re planning a children’s birthday party in the next 12 months (and that’s probably most of you), jump on the websites of these great stylists, entertainers and venues, or give them a call and tell them you saw them in Families Magazine!

BE YOUR OWN PARTY PLANNER

Brisbane Party Foods Your one stop shop for self-catering your next party or event. 175 Redland Bay Road, Capalaba. 3823 3883 www.brisbanepartyfood.com.au

Once Upon A Slumber Party Transform your room into a whimsical wonderland and make your child’s slumber party an unforgettable experience for your child and their guests. They decorate your room with specialised teepee tents, lighting and accessories to create a unique slumber party experience, where giggles, whispers and imagination come to play. They set up and pick up rental items after your party is completed. That’s right! It’s that easy. 0401 346 617 www.onceuponaslumberparty.com.au

as your party host you get the full disco set-up your kids will rave about! 0431 549 747 www.funkyfrogdiscos.com.au

Mischief Kids Face Painting Mischief Kids brings colour and celebration to your next event. We can paint anything you imagine and bring cheeky playfulness to the party. Book us early! Want to try before you buy? FREE kids entertainment at The Brat Cave, 47 Balaclava St, Woolloongabba every Sunday. Check out the Facebook page! www.mischiefkids.com.au

PARTY ENTERTAINERS Drace Illusionist Little Kingsman Little Kingsman Party hire have a huge range of party hire equipment, themes, decorations and styling items to create that WOW factor at your child’s next birthday party. Themed birthday parties are a great and fun way to celebrate and with the right decorations and furniture, you can turn your backyard into an enchanted wonderland to delight your child and their friends. Little Kingsman is based in Brisbane and offer free delivery and pickup within Brisbane metro area. lauren@littlekingsman.com.au www.littlekingsman.com.au

For a magical birthday party you need a magnificent magician! Drace Illusionist has a number of birthday party packages to suit your budget, from 45 minutes to 2 hours in duration. Packages on offer include magical stage shows, magic and circus skills workshops, balloon twisting, and even magic gift bags. Nominated for the 2019 Best Kid’s Party Entertainer, Drace can also perform close-up roving (walk around) magic at your next family event. 0437 222 217 www.draceillusionist.com Funky Frog Discos Light up the room and light up the party with a funky mobile disco! Funky Frog Discos knows that your child’s birthday party is about so much more than just marking the passage of time. With DJ Kaz

Your Local Families Magazine June / July 2019 www.familiesmagazine.com.au

Street Science Let the Street Science team take the worry out of your kid’s party this year by providing entertainment and a hands-on workshop to keep the kids busy. We arrive early, bring everything, and clean up once we’re done. Choose one of our party options or contact the Street Science team to discuss a custom party for your ‘little scientist’. Our parties are fun, educational, safe and provide you with a day your child will never forget! Treat your kid this year with a Street Science Party! 0432 647 702 www.streetscience.com.au Magic Glen If you are looking for fun birthday party ideas, then Brisbane’s ‘Magic Glen’, the specialist kids magician, has the solution. Discover how to make your child’s birthday

Party Time one of the happiest and most memorable days of their life. 3300 1741 www.kidspartymagician.com.au Meké Jewellery For a fun activity for your daughter’s birthday, why not hold a jewellery making party? Your little lady and her guests will have a great time making themselves some beautiful jewellery from the huge selection of beads. Even better, Marianne looks after them all for a while so you get a break! Book now! 0404 859 008 www.meke.com.au

PARTY VENUES

Bricks 4 Kidz Gold Coast, Logan City, Redlands, Springfield, Sunnybank. Does your child dream of being the next LEGO® Master? Bring their dreams to life with an awesome Bricks 4 Kidz® birthday party! Hosting only one party at a time, you will have exclusive run of the venue – or they can bring their mobile party to you! Choose from a selection of party packages and themes to create the perfect party for your child. BRICKS 4 KIDZ® hosts the BEST LEGO® parties in Queensland! www.bricks4kidz.com.au/queenslandbrisbane-redlands; /brisbane-logan-city; / brisbane-sunnybank; /brisbane-springfield; /queensland-currumbin Flipside Circus How often will kids get to hang upside down on a trapeze, walk on a tight wire, or learn to juggle from a professional? Now is their chance. Flipside Circus will take the stress and guesswork out of arranging the party, so you can sit back, relax and enjoy yourself, too! 3352 7233 www.flipsidecircus.org.au

Funkateers Pizzeria & Gelato Pizza plus playground equals pizza party! This funky family-friendly pizza restaurant in Chermside West welcomes you to their undercover playground area, where your little party guests can have fun creating their very own pizza party food! But it’s not just pizza – there’s yummy gelato, craft beer, wine and barista-made coffee. 7 days. 3189 5395 www.facebook.com/funkateerspizzeria

Sky Zone Inflatable World Toombul

Kids and their adults will have a blast on the amazing array of inflatables at Inflatable World Toombul. Taking jumping castles to whole new level, you’re invited to bounce, fly, roll, tumble, squeal and ricochet – parties here are off the wall! Flexible party options to suit any budget; choose from BYO everything to fully catered with cake, decorations and party bags. All ages welcome with a designated under 5’s area as well as a big kids section. Book one table or book the whole venue – the choice is yours! 3266 5699 www.inflatableworldoz.com.au/stadiums/ toombul

Sky Zone kids trampoline, Enduro and rockclimbing parties are next level fun! This indoor trampoline park in MacGregor has hundreds of trampolines connected to form a single surface, plus rock climbing walls, a ninja warrior course and a 3-storey laser tag arena. They take the stress out of planning for the best anti-gravity celebration. With jumping, Enduro warrior, climbing, laser tag and dodgeball on offer, they’ve got the fun covered so you don’t have to worry about a thing. 13 75 99 www.skyzone.com.au

Urban Xtreme

Jindalee Jungle Welcome to the jungle! Party animals of all ages are welcome to go wild at this amazing party jungle! It’s a jungle gym for toddlers to tweens, it’s a disco for all ages, and it even has an interactive games wall and floor – think iPad on a GIANT scale! Choose your party package and themed room or book out the whole venue for an exclusive after-hours nerf/disco/glow-in-thedark party that teens will love! 3162 0790 www.jindaleejungle.com.au

Laserzone Lawnton Head to Laserzone for the ultimate laser tag party with games and carnival rides, done your way! Choose a catered party package with food, rides and games included or simply buy a session pass and BYO food. Laserzone parties are easy, low-fuss and great value. From the time you arrive to the time you leave, your party people will be busy enjoying the centre and having the time of their lives. 3205 4141 www.brisbane.laserzone.com.au/kids-parties

Our brand new ULTIMATE PARY is here! Get the ultimate birthday experience at Brisbane’s best Adventure Park; with 3 hours of active FUN, there’s an adventure for everyone! Fully catered and hassle free. Includes dedicated 30min ninja experience, party host with photography, T-Shirt for the birthday child and reserved party table. Activities include trampolines, dodgeball, ninja parkour and laser tag. You invite the guests and bring the cake, we’ll do the rest! Don’t delay, book the ultimate party experience today. 1300 872 269 www.urban-xtreme.com.au

Victoria Park Golf Complex This beautiful venue in Herston hosts parties in their Bistro for children up to 12 years old. Choose a breakfast, lunch, morning tea or afternoon tea package and let the children play in the open spaces, outdoor games area, and playground. For even more fun, add a round of putt putt to your party! Check out our Families Freebies page to win a children’s birthday party at Victoria Park! www.victoriapark.com.au/bistro/#kids

Your Local Families Magazine June / July 2019 www.familiesmagazine.com.au

Parenting

The Positive Side to Shannon Louise is a mother of five and blogger at My Rainbow Tribe. She shares her story of how she came to realise the positives to her children having two homes after a relationship ends. I have spent years feeling guilty. Guilty for making my eldest three children live two distinct lives, at two different houses. Guilty that they have to traipse themselves and all their belongings between the two places, and negotiate with two sets of parents all the rules and regulations at each location.

them so that we can sleep in, or at least have a little peace and quiet. She prepares the vegetables for dinner at night, does her homework independently, and generally organises herself and her siblings in any way she can. With the hustle and bustle of working full-time, running the household and ferrying everyone around to where they need to go, it is easy to take Miss D for granted and to rely on her more than we should, given her age. She rarely complains – in fact she loves spending time with the kids. This, however, isn’t the point. The point is that as a thirteen-year-old girl, she should not have to concern herself so regularly with what the little ones are up to, whether someone has started dinner, or whether there is washing to be done.

Guilty that nothing is as simple as when there is only one house, and only one set of circumstances to consider. More than anything, guilty that my separation affected them so very much and that we only get to spend half of our lives together. I am slowly learning to let go of some of this emotional baggage, although it will never completely disappear. Over the years, however, I have come to see that there are certain advantages for my kids in having two homes. My most placid and easy-going child, Miss D, fits seamlessly into any situation. She moulds herself around people and enjoys nothing more than making others feel good. She is happy, kind, giving and willing to help in any way possible. In our house, she is the ‘Mother Hen’, nurturing and loving the little ones, and looking for ways to make the lives of everyone around her easier. No, she is not perfect – she has her faults like the rest of us – but she is a naturally selfless person and tends to put her own needs second to those of the family. It is nothing for me to get up in the morning and find that Miss D has made breakfast for the little ones, changed Miss L’s nappy, and entertained

Your Local Families Magazine June / July 2019 www.familiesmagazine.com.au

Parenting

Having Two Homes D is, he benefits from spending time in both environments. He is learning to be more tolerant, and to appreciate the many demands we face in raising young children and managing a large family. Whilst so far this has worked to show him exactly what he doesn’t want for himself, he has the opportunity to make an informed decision when planning his own family many years down the track. He has also learned the importance of living on a budget, and not to simply expect that his concerns are put before those of others around him. At his other house where he is the eldest of two, Master Z gets the chance to dress himself up in his beloved brand label clothing, and to spend his time as he chooses, whether it be socialising or watching all his favourite Netflix shows en masse. Once his set chores are completed, his time is his. At our place, there is so much activity in the form of sport, extended family catch-ups and other family outings that he rarely gets the chance to do this. Jobs seem to randomly ‘pop up’ and life, overall, is just far more busy.

At our house though, she does. She loves it and draws so much joy and satisfaction from feeling both needed and appreciated. At the same time, Miss D has her own room at our house – her own space – that the other children are not allowed to enter without her permission. We are careful to respect her privacy and ensure she has the option of retreating when she wants time away from the noise and chaos. She is starting to pull away somewhat – as teenagers tend to do – but she won’t do this if she thinks she is needed. In contrast, at her other house Miss D is the baby. Theirs is a calm, quiet environment where her time is spent concentrating on activities she enjoys. She explores interests she would otherwise not have time to, and she has the chance to spend time in ways she perhaps wouldn’t when with us. Master Z, too, gets this balance between his two houses. Although he is not as keen on the noise and chaos created by his younger siblings as Miss

Master M, who is eight, is an only child at one house and the middle child of five at ours. He adores his older siblings, however he and Master C fight like cat and dog. It is a typical sibling relationship for my two young boys. I have no doubt at all that they will be best mates – when they are older. For now though, time at his other house gives him a chance to have a break from brotherly squabbling and invasion of his personal space, where he can play independently without being interrupted or antagonised by younger siblings. Being an only child at one house, he gets more oneon-one time than most children, and at the same time, benefits from the balance of learning how to fit in and play cooperatively with others at ours. It is difficult to feel anything other than guilt when your kids’ lives are adversely affected by relationship breakdowns. But in time, once the dust settles, there are positives that can be found, particularly when parents are able to work together and put the individual needs of kids first. To read more from Shannon Louise, follow her blog at www.myrainbowtribe.com

Your Local Families Magazine June / July 2019 www.familiesmagazine.com.au

Families Travel

10 Things to do in Penang with Kids Malaysia is hot right now! And I don’t mean hot as in temperature (although it is that too!), but it is the hottest place for families to visit with young kids. With a flying time of approximately 8 hours, Malaysia is only a short flight from Brisbane. Add to that the excellent exchange rate for the Aussie dollar, warm weather, friendly people and amazing food, it’s easy to see why families are flocking to this fantastic Asian destination. Editor Janine and her 11 year old son spent 3 weeks in Malaysia in February this year and fell in love with Penang Island. With the heart of island located in George Town, they discovered there is more to this island than first meets the eye.

Here are their top 10 things to do in Penang with Kids: 1) Youth Park Penang is home to Youth Park, the City Park found near the Botanical Gardens. This park is suitable for all ages from toddlers, teens and adults. Youth Park is an urban park that was opened in 1972 as a recreational area and a green lung for the city’s residents. With amenities such as huge playgrounds, a skating rink, multiple splash pools and a swimming pool, reflexology paths, a giant chess board, cafe and an outdoor auditorium you will be able to spend a full day here.

Adults and children alike will love the world famous and interactive street art. You can find them located around the central Georgetown streets of Muntri Street, Weld Quay, Lebuh Leith, Armenian Street, Ah Quee Street and more. Take the opportunity to ‘get in the picture’ to become part of the art yourself.

The park is free to enter and use and is maintained by the Penang Island City Council.

4) Wonderfoods Museum

2) Penang Botanic Gardens The Penang Botanic Gardens (otherwise called the Waterfall Gardens) is the perfect destination for a simple family morning venture. Located conveniently close to George Town, the gardens are home to an intriguing combination of native and exotic plant-life to admire, such as the Sengkuang Tree, Cannonball Tree, Black Lily, and much more. You can also keep an eye out for a few different creatures, such as squirrels, butterflies, and even monkeys. The Botanic Gardens also contains a path that leads directly to Penang Hill and takes approximately 1 hour to complete. The path is called Monkey Gardens due to the variety of Macaque Monkeys scattered throughout the trek. Although they can be very entertaining to watch, it’s important not to feed them as they can bite back. The gardens can be effortlessly accessed, with public transport options available.

3) Penang Street Art In 2012 Penang’s municipal council hired London-trained Lithuanian artist, Ernest Zacharevic and charged him with breathing new life into some of the atmospheric Chinese shop-houses around George Town. Later, additional artists have been asked to add their works. It has created

beautiful and interesting decorative features to the inner city area.

Gain insight into Penang’s extensive food culture at George Town’s Wonderfoods Museum. The facility houses large displays of classic foods and is split into three diverse galleries. First is the Info Zone, with over 100 popular street foods of Malaysia displayed within a glass case. The Wow Zone offers tourists the perfect photo opportunity, with plenty of giant food replicas to pose with, including curry see, char key teow, rojak, and much more. Finally, the Education Zone educates its guests on various dining choices and how these choices can bring about negative effects.

5) Escape Theme Park Those looking for a bit more thrill can make their way down to the Escape Theme Park, located about 30 minutes from George Town and toward the Penang National Park. The park is comprised of a variety of thrilling attractions that both parents and children can enjoy.

Your Local Families Magazine June / July 2019 www.familiesmagazine.com.au

Families Travel

FAMI L

diverse sections to explore – The Chamber Of Comic Book Heroes, Hall Of Beauties, Fields Of Combat, The Star Wars Collection, The Cave Of Dinosaurs, The Chamber Of Monsters, The Chamber Of Horrors, and The Chamber Of Fantasy. Stretching over approximately 7000 square feet, the Penang Toy Museum makes for an entertaining half-day trip.

There are activities such as the AeroBat, AirBag, AK Academy, AK Splash, A-Maze, Atan’s Jump, Banana Flip, Coco Climb, Dunk Tank, Discovery Dig, a Family Trail, Flying Lemur, and heaps more on offer. There’s surely a little something for everyone to enjoy. If you can’t reach the Escape Theme Park via car, public transport options are also available.

IES M

AGAZ INE

TRAV E SERIE L S 6) Penang National Park

10) Ride the Funicular up Penang Hill

Those looking to escape the bustle of George Town can turn to Penang National Park for a natural adventure. The park is located on the north-western tip of Penang Island, only 30 minutes FAMfrom the city, with public transport options ILalso IES available. M

Scattered throughout the park are other attractions for tourists to explore, such as the Penang Turtle Sanctuary, Kerachut Beach, the Muka Head Lighthouse, and more. Penang National Park can be explored free of charge.

The Dark Mansion is the first and only glow-in-the-dark museum in Malaysia. It’s really just a bit of fun for visitors but little kids will enjoy the special effects and adults may like the 3D ‘insta worthy’ photo opportunities. Not at all a huge location, the Dark Mansion consists of a number of rooms that incorporate science and technology and glow in the dark paint for a highly visual experience. We spent around an hour in here taking photos and laughing. The staff are kind and will help you through the experiences giving you tips on the best places to stand or sit for the best photos. It’s a cute experience that kids particularly would enjoy.

YOUR T

ICKET

Those looking for the best views of George

TRA SER VEL IES

Spanning over 1,200 hectares, the parkland houses a range of remarkable creatures, plant-life, and exciting attractions. Embark on one of the two main hiking treks, through a lush jungle, along the coastline, to either Monkey Beach or other secluded beaches.

7) The Dark Mansion

‘If you’ve not been up Penang Hill, you’ve not been to Penang!’ Or so the saying goes!

ATown GAZcan’t look past Penang Hill. Ride the INupE to the top, the kids will love it! funicular

The area offers up to 6 peaks, with the tallest standing tall at 833 metres. This is the perfect spot to admire the stretching views of the mainland and adjacent island. Those looking to get a culture-fix are in luck, as Penang Hill is also home to the Penang Hill Mosque and the Sri Aruloli Thirumurugan (both open 24 hours).

YOU R

There’s a little something for everyone to enjoy at Penang Hill, with a collection of alternative attractions on offer. This includes the Henna and Spa, Love Lock, Earthquake and Typhoon Pavilion, Little Village, Dinosaur and Avery Garden, and Owl Museum. Penang Hill is conveniently located near Kek Lok Si and is only 20 minutes west of George Town.

TIC

KET

There are actually many, many more than 10 things to do in Penang with kids… you can read the full article on our other website: www.getoutwithkids.com.au/things-to-do-in-penang-with-kids/

8) The China House The China House was an absolute FIND! Simply put, this cafe is all about cakes, coffee and board games (and a little bit of drawing on the table!) An absolute delight of a calm oasis in the busy streets of George Town, add this cafe to your Penang bucketlist!

9) Toy Museum While you’re visiting Penang, grab the kids and check out the self-titled largest toy museum in the world. The facility earns the reputation, housing a vast assembly of toys and collectibles great and small. The entire collection is comprised of 100,000 different toys.

To see more of Jan Alex’s ine & adven tures them fo familie on Instag llow ram s_ma gazin e_trav els

The museum is split up into extremely Your Local Families Magazine June / July 2019 www.familiesmagazine.com.au

Local Clubs & Classes Directory

Clubs, Classes & Activities

around Greater Brisbane for adults and children aged 0 - 17. 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 2Ballerinas (NS) They welcome people of all ages, and all levels of experience to Queensland’s first ballet school for adults. They offer classes in Ballet, Contemporary, Jazz, Tango, Tap, Stretch and Fit Barre. Combining their wealth of knowledge and experience in the art form of ballet and contemporary dance, they have designed the adult dance classes to give you strength, flexibility and fitness in a fun and supportive environment. 0428 672 920 www.2ballerinas.com

about your own personal journey based on your skill level and desire for sewing knowledge. With a range of courses, workshops and events Sewing Adventures has something for all ages and levels of experience and they have amazing teachers who will share their experience with you. 0417 591 438 www.sewingadventures.com.au

Paediatric First Aid Courses BLS First Aid Training (NS) BLS First Aid Courses

with your partner or on your own - in a relaxed, social and fun environment, where the instructor welcomes you by name. They are a Brisbane-based dance studio offering Latin dance and fitness classes. 0415 818 983 www.boogiecamp.com.au

may be one of the most important courses you will take in your life. You never know when someone who may be close to you will need First Aid. They will teach you how to administer confident first aid in the event of an emergency until experienced medical help arrives. Your help may save a life. 0433 604 041 www.blsfirstaid.com.au

Brisbane Painting Classes (NS) Housed in a large,

Brisbane First Aid Courses (NS & SS) Brisbane

Boogie Camp (NS & SS) You can learn to dance -

light-filled warehouse in Albion, Brisbane Painting Classes offers a wide range of courses and workshops across a variety of mediums including oil, acrylic, watercolour, drawing, charcoal and pastel, at a range of levels from absolute beginners through to those seeking to refine and extend their practice. 3262 1808 www.brisbanepaintingclasses.com

Code9 Parent Code9 Parent is an online service for parents who want, or need, to have an active role in managing and supporting their children using social media and online gaming platforms. By becoming a Code9 Parent, you will learn what your kids already know, what kids don’t want you to know, and how to stay one step ahead, keeping your children safe. www.code9parent.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

Groove Therapy (SS) So what exactly is Groove

Therapy? They have three main divisions – a beginner dance class series, a talent/performance agency and a community programme series. Each class follows the same premise – non-dance studio vibes, with dim lights, no mirrors and a community feel. www.groovetherapy101.com

Healthstream QUT (NS) Healthstream QUT offer

several adult swimming programs, ranging from beginner through to advanced squad training. Stroke correction and learn to swim classes are also available. 3003 1779 www.healthstreamqut.com.au/ swim-programs

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

Orchard’s Dance Studio (NS) Ballroom dancing will touch your mind, body and soul. Age is no barrier and there has never been a student that couldn’t be taught! Their twenty years’ experience includes seven years of high-level international competition and education under the finest dance gurus in the world. 0422 967 267 www.orchardsdance.com

Sewing Adventures (SS) Sewing Adventures is all

First Aid offers nationally accredited first aid courses to provide, renew, refresh, or upgrade participants’ qualifications as providers of first aid. www.brisbanefirstaidcourses.com.au

CPR Kids (SS) So much more than first aid! Let their

expert critical care paediatric nurses and midwives, who are also mums and dads, empower you with the knowledge and skills of CPR, First Aid and recognition of the sick child, that could save the life of a child. 1300 543 727 www.cprkids.com.au

Kids First Aid (NS & SS) Kids First Aid offers the only

for you and your kids! They have an extensive Primary school and kindy program, and their in-house studio program in West End runs awesome after-school and holiday programs. 3844 4296 www.rawart.com.au

Scattered Arts (SS) Scattered Arts, established

in 1967, is Brisbane’s oldest exhibiting art and craft gallery with studio space for both adults and children’s art classes. www.scatteredarts.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

STEM CLASSES Fox Blocks (NS) is a unique and innovative engineering and construction program for kids. Developed by Flying Fox Studios educators, and run in Brisbane since 2009, Fox Blocks is one of Brisbane’s longest running STEM focused kids extracurricular activities. Fox Blocks classes combine STEM concepts in a fun and creative way, with weekly classes for children from 3.5 years of age to Grade 7. The Fox Blocks program is so much more than one single branch of the STEM tree. Whether it be learning about physics by building a theme park, discovering historical engineering with the wonders of the world, or coding an arduino powered traffic light, Fox Blocks is unique in every way. 3855 1528 www.flyingfoxstudios.com.au

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/brisbane

LANGUAGE & BABY DEVELOPMENT

Queensland First Aid (NS & SS) Since 1975,

Baby Massage By Design (NS & SS) Baby

Queensland First Aid has been serving individuals and corporations in a professional, efficient and friendly manner. Whether you or members of your organisation need to undertake a First Aid Course or you need to purchase a First Aid Kit for your home or office, they have you covered for all your First Aid requirements. www.qldfirstaid.com

Massage by Design offers a unique, tailored service to help parents learn and understand the scientific reasons behind their instincts, giving you the confidence to respond appropriately and positively to your baby’s needs while improving their overall health, wellbeing and happiness. 0405 463 899 www.babymassagebydesign.com.au

St John Ambulance First Aid (NS) Whether it is

Baby Sensory (NS & SS) Specifically designed from

for workplace or individual needs, St John provides a full range of best practice certified, customised and online first aid training with flexible delivery options available throughout Australia. St John can also assess your first aid workplace needs by arranging a Best Practice First Aid Readiness assessment. 1300 360 455 www.stjohn.org.au/first-aid-training

CLASSES FOR CHILDREN Arts & Craft Art Shed Brisbane (SS) They help students achieve

their artistic goals by guidance in the acquisition of sound knowledge of the visual world and the practical skills to convey these phenomena. 3846 1330 www.artshedbrisbane.com.au/learn/art-class

Brizart (NS) Brizart was founded by Jennifer Andrews in 1999 and continues to offer art education for children, teens and adults in the western suburbs of Brisbane. The fundamental aim of Brizart is to foster creativity in the visual arts while covering essential skills and techniques in a safe, supportive and flexible learning environment. 3720 2077 www.brizart.com.au Raw Art (SS) Whether you are a teacher or a parent, RAW Art has a fantastic range of workshops on offer

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birth, to aid your child’s development, the classes are packed with an incredible variety of sounds, smells, sights, textures, music, dance, singing and more - plus you’ll never experience the same class twice. www.babysensory.com.au

Beer & Bubs (NS) Beer and Bubs is a one–night session at the pub where expectant dads learn how to support their partner through the birth of their baby. Childbirth is daunting for men too and this session prepares fathers for an active, caring role. www.beerandbubs.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 Hush Little Baby Music (SS) Hush Little Baby Early

Childhood Music Classes are based in Brisbane and provide music classes for children aged 0-5 and their caregivers, as well as childcare centre music programs, consultancy and professional development. www.hushlittlebabymusic.com

Making Rainbows (NS & SS) Parents participate

with their children in the program, singing and playing instruments and other fun props. It’s a lovely

Local Clubs & Classes Directory way to bond with your child and excite their natural love of music in a relaxed and fun atmosphere. 0467 668 535 www.makingrainbows.com.au

ACTIVITY CENTRES Bay Play Cleveland (SS) Bay Play Cleveland operates within the heart of Redland City, located within Cleveland Junction; a lifestyle cornerstone allowing Bay Play Cleveland a conduit to promote the wellbeing of children. Established in 2014 in Redland’s Bayside suburb of Cleveland, Bay Play Cleveland promises you will play safe, eat well and laugh loud. 3821 7772 www.bayplaycleveland.com.au

BOUNCE Inc (SS) BOUNCE Tingalpa is a massive

indoor adventure playground in Brisbane that provides an adrenaline rush for all ages. Imagine more than 50 interconnected trampolines with the Big Bag, Slam Dunk and Dodgeball courts rolled in. It’s also home to the famous BOUNCE X-Park obstacle course so you can get your ninja on! www.bounceinc.com.au/venue-tingalpa-qld

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

Crocs Playcentre (NS) Crocs Playcentre is one of a chain of playcentres across Australia that is bringing air-conditioned, indoor playcentre fun to a new generation of families with small children. www.crocsplaycentre.com.au

Flipside Circus (NS) has a professionally appointed circus training facility that is available for individuals or small groups to use during our open training sessions. Open training is perfect for industry professionals and advanced students who wish to work on enhancing their skills or developing new acts. 3352 7233 www.flipsidecircus.org.au Inflatable World Oz (NS & SS) It’s all about having

fun, so take the whole family and bounce on in to Inflatable World. It’s not just for the kids – they encourage the parents to have fun with their children. Sessions are for two hours per single entry fee – you will be tired by then anyway! www.inflatableworldoz.com.au

Laserzone Lawnton (NS) Brisbane’s No 1 multi-level laser tag arena, arcades, prize counter and rides will blow your mind! Laserzone offers the best value family entertainment on Brisbane’s north with a variety of packages to suit most ages and abilities. Laser tag is a camouflaged sport, perfect for getting kids away from their screenbased games and into an active game scenario with real people. Points are accumulated by tagging opponents, bases and targets throughout a tri-level futuristic maze. Arcades and rides are played between missions, adding even more excitement and variety to your visit. Laserzone is perfect for all occasions especially birthday parties. 3205 414 https://brisbane.laserzone.com.au

Lollipops Playland & Cafés (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

Sky Zone Indoor Trampoline Park

(SS) Sky Zone Macgregor isn’t just any indoor trampoline park. It’s hundreds of trampolines, connected to form a single massive trampoline that literally allows you to jump off the walls. If that’s not enough excitement for you, Sky Zone Macgregor now has Sky Climb! Over 20 different climbing obstacles for you to reach new heights on...but wait...there’s

more...Skyland Laser is a 3-storey laser tag arena that holds up to 40 players battling it out in a cloudfilled wonderland. That’s right, you read correctly. A Trampoline park with a climbing arena and 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

Urban Xtreme (NS) in Hendra is making active adventure sports accessible, achievable and affordable for all. Their unique mix of activities is suitable for all ages & abilities. Simulated skiing & snowboard, laser tag, jump, playland and fun climb is now open with more activities to come! They do 1300 [URBANX] 872 269 birthday parties too! www.urban-xtreme.com.au

MUSIC Annette’s Music Studio (NS) (formally Little

Munchkin’s Music) offers Violin, Piano, Singing, Guitar, Viola, and Cello lessons to children from approximately 3 years of age right up to adults. Lessons are in small groups or private lessons. 0417 762 362 www.littlemunchkinsmusic.com.au

Brisbane Music Studio (SS) BMS are passionate about teaching. They believe that everyone can learn music and that, with practice and great training, everyone can grow in skills and confidence, and they would love to be a part of that journey with you. Lastly, and importantly, they believe that your lessons should be fun! 0410 489 559 www.brisbanemusicstudio.com.au Do-re-mi Music for Children (NS & SS) Do re mi classes are run by highly qualified, trained teachers who use their extensive knowledge of child development and music education to design programs specific to the needs of the children in each music class. www.do-re-mi.com.au

Young Musicians Academy (NS & SS) Your

children will be in great hands, learning with one of their qualified music teachers. All of their teachers hold a blue card and have had working with children checks. They are all great with children and attend professional development training sessions every 3 months. 0437 170 260 www.ymacademy.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

SPORTS & EXERCISE Ants in your Pants (NS) multisports program

offers the opportunity for children to explore the wonderful world of sport in a fun and entertaining way. Offering 9 different sports on a 4 week rotation and presented in playful programs, the classes are designed specifically for 2 year old through to prep age children. Parents are always amazed at the amount of skills and life lessons their children are learning whilst laughing and playing in the great 0449 146 272 outdoors. www.antsinyourpants.com.au

Cheeky Monkeyz (NS & SS) The goal is to teach the kids all skills involve with the sport, classes provide a lot of fun and help kids socialise with other kids their own age and make friends. It’s designed to build the kids self-confidence and co-ordination and most of all its FUN! Learn a different sport every month, and only pay per sport so you’re not tied down for a whole 0421 251 002 term. www.cheekymonkeyz.com.au/sport-classes

CrossFit Kids (NS) ) CrossFit Kids emphasises good

movement throughout childhood and adolescence. Consistency and good mechanics translate to physical literacy, enhanced sports performance and fewer sports injuries for kids. www.crossfitmitchelton.com.au/crossfit-kids

Forte School of Music (NS & SS) Their multisensory approach is one of a kind and you child will learn music as the language that it is. Forte kids develop an amazing range of musical skills from improvising to composing, music reading and playing, theory, memorising, playing by ear, concert performance skills and more! www.fortemusic.com.au

Flipside Circus (NS) offer a wide range of classes

KeyboardKidz (NS & SS) Every child is different and at KeyboardKidz, they believe that one-on-one piano lessons are by far the best and only way to teach piano. Each child learns at different rates and in different ways to other children. A private lesson ensures that your child has 100% of the teacher’s attention and a tailored approach to their piano education. 3219 0808 www.keyboardkidz.com.au

Gecko Sports (NS & SS) GeckoSports offer kids a

Kids Music Beat (NS & SS) is Brisbane’s original and

longest running Music Early Learning Program. Their program nurtures development, fosters a love of music and helps you to use music in the home. Having fun through musical play and taking joy in your child’s musical expression is central to their program. All music is played live and is voice led. This is because research supports the use of live voice-led music with children under 5 years of age. Come learn how making music supports your child’s social, cognitive, physical, emotional, and musical development. To book visit www.musicbeat.com.au

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

Music Masters (NS) Music Masters is a sequential music program developed by Christine Masters. The classes are designed not only to foster a child’s natural musical ability, but to extend them so that their musical education is fully developed. 3357 9646 www.musicmasters.com.au

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 fun and interactive start to sport and fitness for life. They give children the inspiration and confidence to be more physically active and try their hand at playing different sports through their scientifically designed 1300 432 565 programs. www.geckosports.com.au

Go Sports (NS & SS) Go Sports provides a range of children’s sports activities and children’s sports coaching classes to primary school children in over 60 public and private schools throughout Brisbane 0417 614 509 and surrounds. www.gosports.com.au Kelly Mini Sports (NS & SS) Their fun and energetic approach delivered by expert coaches in a safe and fun environment, allow children aged 1-5 years old to discover sport while developing their fundamental motor skills, confidence and social skills. www.kellyminisports.com.au

Golf @ Victoria Park

(NS) Learn to play golf for kids at Victoria Park with their junior programs during school term and school holidays. Their classes are fun and interactive for kids aged 4–14, no experience required. Play exciting games, learn great sports skills, all while making new friends. For more information and bookings contact Victoria Park 3252 9891 www.victoriapark.com.au

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Local Clubs & Classes Directory 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. www.gymqld.org.au 3036 5600

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.laq.org.au

My First Gym (NS & SS) MyFirstGym is a

destination for kids to fall in love with movement and fitness, a place that supports skill development and inspires kids to move their bodies through their most important developmental years. www.myfirstgym.com.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 3426 9500 www.netballq.org.au environment.

PCYC (NS & SS) Gym fun, kids dance, tiny tots,

cheerleading, boxercise, teen yoga karate, tumble and stunt, glee club, circuit and gymnastics are 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

Pocket Rocket Sports (SS) Book your trial now!

Designed to improve the health and happiness of tomorrow’s little men and women with sports and fun! See your child’s confidence, skills and knowledge grow, while they enjoy all the benefits that sport has to offer. Understanding good sportsmanship, teamwork and fair play is what Pocket Rocket Sports is all about! No Membership Fees! No Admin Fees! No Long Term Contracts! Owned and operated by experienced children’s sports coach Neil Fairley! Get a taste of a range of different sports every 4 weeks including AFL, Basketball, Cricket, Hockey, Rugby, Soccer, Softball, Tennis, Athletics and more! Classes are restricted in numbers to ensure your child gets 0434 606 516 the proper attention. www.PocketRocketSports.com.au

QLD Cheer Elite (NS) Their classes are a mix of gymnastics, dancing and acrobatics - rolled into one. Combine this with music, performing and costumes and it’s a mix that kids absolutely love. In cheerleading, every student in the team is important and everyone’s strengths are celebrated. Athletes of all shapes and sizes are embraced and everyone has a role to play. Cheer is about team work, encouragement, trust and commitment and it allows everyone the chance to shine. To find out more about our free trial classes for ages 4+ www.queenslandcheerelite.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/qld

YMCA Stafford YMCA Stafford 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 3355 7176 potential. www.ymcagymnastics.com.au

Horseriding 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 3613 9716 Coast and Brisbane. www.gummies.org.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 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 5486 6166 roasting, bingo and movie night. 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 www.nagnanny.vpweb.com.au horse. 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 3202 6641 45mins. www.riversideequestriancentre.com.au

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 3300 6422 the highly experienced rider. www.wattlecreekridingschool.com.au

Swimming Kingswim (NS & SS) Kingswim offers programs for

babies from 12 weeks, right through to graduate level swimmers. Children are progressed as they’re ready, not as terms change to ensure children develop at their own pace. Plus, there’s no lock in contract for mum and dad! Contact Kingswim Carindale, Robina or Lutwyche today for a free introductory lesson. www.kingswim.com.au

Nudgee College Swimming (NS) welcomes

both girls and boys, and is based at St Joseph’s

Nudgee College, Boondall. With both their 25m and 50m pools being heated, it allows them to operate all year round. They have an extensive Learn to Swim Program from 10 months old. This program then filters through to their high-level squads ranging from Junior Development to Age Nationals. They also run an Aqua Fitness program, which includes deep water running, aqua aerobics and adult swimfit. The talent of swimmers is maximised by their quality environment where all swimmers can achieve the many benefits of this sport such as health, self-discipline, fitness and 3865 0516 www.ncswimmingclub.com fun.

Shapland Swim Schools (NS & SS) Learn-to-swim with only 3 per class. Shaplands have been teaching swimming for 3 generations and through that time have trialled many class sizes and found a class of 3 is the most successful for a child to learn their aquatic skills. A class size of 3 allows each child to receive more individual attention and accelerates their learning through less time wasted waiting for their turn to perform a skill and more time spent with the teacher. Shaplands offers a semi-private class where students can progress quickly through the Shapland unique Swim-in-Five program. www.shapland.com.au

Superfish (SS) Free swimming assessment & Free

trial lesson - No obligation! All levels & ages. Under 3’s also includes - free 45Min orientation lesson. Under 6-month bubs also includes – free water familiarisation lessons. 25m heated, indoor pools. Specialist Drowning Prevention Program - babies, toddlers & under 5’s. School age stroke correction program - small, structured classes. Children’s squads. Free pool entry for Superfish families, 6 days/week, once booked in lessons! Sunnybank. 3323 3188 www.superfish.com.au

FILM & TV, THEATRE & PERFORMING ARTS ASPAFTV (NS & SS) Australian school of performing arts, film and television specialises in acting classes for children, drama classes for children, film and

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television classes for children and holiday workshops for kids. www.aspaftv.com.au

Brisbane Arts Theatre (NS) Every Saturday morning, children aged 8 to 16 from all over Brisbane attend Brisbane Arts Theatre’s Performing Arts’ Workshop from 9am – 11am at the Lavalla Centre in Paddington. At each class, there are three specialist instructors teaching singing, acting and dancing in rotation. The children are taught introductory stagecraft, acting techniques, improvisation, singing (solo and chorus) and movement (mime and dancing). Saturday mornings during school term time. Cost $600 per year or $350 for two school terms. Intakes at the beginning of Terms One and Three. 3369 2344 www.artstheatre.com.au/childrensworkshops

Brisbane Junior Theatre (NS) Brisbane Junior Theatre is a youth based not-for-profit theatre company producing Broadway Musicals acted by young performers. Supported by a great team of people who understand performance and production, everything we do aims at producing significant quality productions at an affordable price with the best motives, skills and processes possible. www.brisbanejuniortheatre.com.au

Brisbane Youth Theatre (NS) Brisbane Youth Theatre classes, for ages 7 - 17 are adventurous and playful and provides an exciting and supportive environment for creating theatre and enhancing 0447 467 724 learning for your children. www.brisbaneyouththeatre.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

Genesis Drama Academy (NS) The objective of their Drama Classes is to develop confidence and skills in Speech and Drama through positive and stimulating classes, within a Christian environment. Regardless of the individual student’s experience or goals, they aim to provide a fun atmosphere that creatively engages their young students’ imaginations. 0418 443 220 www.genesisdramaacademy.com.au The Theatre Factory (SS) The Theatre Factory offers a variety of Dance, Drama and Singing classes to students of all ages including: Ballet, Jazz, Tap, Contemporary, Speech, Drama, Acting, Musical Theatre Performance, Group Singing, Part Singing, Solo Singing, Voice Production, Staging etc. 0416 247 220 www.thetheatrefactory.com.au

DANCE Attitude Dance Company (NS) Attitude Dance

Academy offers many styles of dance for ages ranging from three years to adults. They aim to build students’ confidence, creativity and ambition, while improving their strength, technique, coordination and general fitness. 0434 574 757 www.attitudedanceacademy.com.au

Balance Dance School (NS) Balance is a family orientated dance school run by industry professionals. They are committed to empowering children by nurturing creativity and inspiring a love of dance. They specialise in early childhood dance and classical ballet. Offering quality, affordable and expert 0415 729 030 tuition. balancedanceschool.com.au Brisbane Academy of Dance (NS) The Brisbane

Academy of Dance offers a wide range of qualified teachers in all areas of dance. They all always have an energetic approach to teaching and encourage students to achieve their personal best. 3356 5880 brisbaneacademyofdance.com.au

Brisbane Dance Centre (NS) Brisbane Dance

Centre is the place to be if you wish to learn how to participate in the art of “Classical Ballet”. Brisbane Dance Centre also offers many other genres in order

Local Clubs & Classes Directory to give our dancers an overall dance and performance education. They cater for those who are just starting off their dancing journey to those who are on the doorstep of a professional career. From tiny tots to adults. 3262 2277 www.brisbanedancecentre.com.au

Bubs n Beats

Bubs n Beats offers a unique experience and caters to families with children from 10months to 5yrs. Their ‘Dance Adventures’ combine elements of dance, drama and singing to an eclectic mix of songs from throwback hits to the popular music of today. Join Sammie and Frankie as they take you on an exciting adventure that captivates the imagination of the young and young at heart bubsnbeats@gmail.com www.bubsnbeats.com

Kick Dance (SS) in Bulimba provides classes in Ballet, Hip Hop, Jazz, Acrobatics, Contemporary, Tap and Irish and caters for all ages and abilities from toddler to adult. Kick Arts provides classes in Singing and Acting as well as producing biannual musicals. Kick provides a fun and enjoyable class environment that also caters for students wishing to excel in exams, eisteddfods, musicals and concert performances. They are very proud of their students’ national successes and they are recipients of many Eisteddfod titles including Classical Ballet, Jazz and Tap Championships and aggregates. Whether you are keen to have fun or ‘Kick’ start your dance career, Kick Dance and Arts have classes to suit. 0414 308 248 www.kickdance.com.au KJ Dance & Cheer (NS) Their teaching philosophy is for students to have fun while gaining self-esteem and learning valuable life skills. They provide exciting multi-skilled classes at affordable rates. Your child could be learning ballet, jazz, tap, drama, singing, acrobatics and hip hop, all in the one class. 1300 522 624 www.karenjacobidance.com.au Perry’s Dance Academy (NS) Perry’s Dance

Academy has something for everyone offering the best in dancing lessons in Brisbane. They offer ballroom & latin group classes for both adults and children, medal classes, private lessons, wedding dance preparation at their air-conditioned dance school in Stafford. www.perrysdance.com

Promenade Dance Studio (NS) Promenade

Dance Studio was established in 1989 and has since grown to become a well-respected and renowned provider of quality dance education on the northside of Brisbane. They offer a diverse and well-rounded dance curriculum for students from 2 ½ years to young professional, including ballet (RAD Graded and Vocational), tap, jazz, contemporary, singing, musical 3733 0900 theatre, acrobatics and hip hop. www.promenadedance.com.au

Mega Jam (NS) The concept of Mega Jam is to learn Hip Hop dance styles and other styles of commercial street dancing, in a fun and relaxed atmosphere. www.megajam.com.au

S.H.A.K.E Dance Studio (NS) S.H.A.K.E. has been

established for nineteen years and specialises in fun classes for the individual. They have classes available in Jazz, Tap, Classical Ballet, Musical Theatre, Acrobatics and Contemporary for all ages. 0417 193 379 www. shakedance.com.au.

Shilleena’s Dance Academy (SS) At Shilleena’s

Dance Academy it is their mission to provide quality dance tuition and care that encourages and supports the physical, emotional and cognitive development of all their dance students. 0439 763 082 www.shilleenasdanceacademy.com.au

QLD Performers Academy (SS) Why Choose QPA? Their students enjoy a fun learning environment that encourages team work, collaboration and achievement. Every child from 2 years onwards is invited to be part of a supportive and caring community that encourages and fosters individuality and sets students on the journey to personal success. QPA Director Miss Grace Willett believes dance plays an important part in the education and development of children and as such pursues furthering her own knowledge in fields of dance, education, psychology and sports science. Her team of dedicated and qualified teachers share this passion and together strive to make dance a positive and important part of their students’ lives. 0435 355 781 www.qpacademy.com.au Superstars (SS) Your child will experience learning

the joy of dance and, alongside the health benefits, will thrive with improved self-confidence, co-ordination, skills in teamwork and ability to focus. That is the SUPERSTARS difference. This is where everyone gets to shine. www.superstars.net.au

HEALTH, WELLBEING AND SCHOOL SUPPORT 10/10 Educational Services (NS & SS) 10/10

Tutoring implement a variety of effective, explicit teaching practices and strategies in order to match the individual student’s unique profile and needs. Considerations such as the individual’s preferred multiple intelligence, dominant learning style and their current interests and motivations make up the underlying approach to their programs. 0421 114 342 www.1010tutoring.com

Get Grit (NS) Get GRIT empowers kids with the

knowledge and skills to maintain a healthy mind and a positive well-being. The program teaches children how to manage their emotions, how to enjoy healthy and positive relationships, how to develop a growth mindset, how to be resilient and persistent, how to tackle life’s challenges with grit and how to reach their true potential. 0413 245 531 www.getgritprogram.com

Hope Tutoring (NS) Hope Tutoring is for children and adults with learning difficulties or disabilities and/or those seeking help with home-schooling. Justin is a qualified teacher experienced in tutoring adults and children at all levels and abilities. 0407 407 223 www.hopetutoring.com.au Lindamood-Bell (NS) They believe, passionately, that all children and adults can be taught to read, comprehend, and do math to their potential. They

identify strengths and weaknesses that may be affecting school performance. Their instruction is based on an individual’s learning needs. Some students come to them with previous diagnoses such as dyslexia, autism spectrum disorders, or general learning challenges—and they make a difference for each of them. Some students seek their help to enhance their skills or to just make learning easier— lindamoodbell.com and they do.

Northside Tuition (NS) Northside Tuition is a personalised tutoring and education advisory service, supporting children and families on Brisbane’s northside. It is run by Kylie Fedrick, an experienced special education teacher with expertise in teaching primary and lower high-school students with disabilities, learning difficulties and/or giftedness. The motto of Northside Tuition is ‘it takes a village to educate a child’ so let Kylie work with you to support your child’s learning needs through offering advice, advocacy and support in areas such as navigating the school system, motivation and help with homework, social skills and managing complex behaviours. 3269 5859 www.northsidetuition.com.au Pathways to Resilience (NS) Their programs have been developed by their highly skilled team of educators and other professionals based on their work over several years in schools and community settings. The programs are well researched with themes of resilience and wellbeing that are both grounding and empowering. www.pathwaystoresilience.org

Scribble Ink Writing Classes

Brisbane’s Most Dynamic Holiday Writing Course for Students @ Griffith University EVERY SCHOOL HOLIDAY! “My daughter’s writing improved tenfold. She came home beaming! Thankyou!” P. O’Callaghan. “OMG! Went from a B+ to an A+ and TOPPED MY GRADE. Used all your techniques!” Yr 12 student Lourdes Hill College. “I got the best mark in school for the ICAS writing test!” Year 7 Scribbler MSHS. “Best student short story I have ever read.” English HOD BGS. Their Scribblers course and Saturday morning Masterclasses will take your child’s writing to the next level....guaranteed! Using advanced techniques mastered over 29 years of teaching experience, allow the passionate Mister C and his experienced team to take your child on a journey of writing enrichment. It’s fantastic! Find us on Facebook / go to www.scribbleink.com.au

Scooter Tutor (NS & SS) At Scooter Tutor, their tutors

are their heroes. That’s why they spend a significant amount of time interviewing every tutor who applies, and ensuring they have the required experience, skills and qualifications to become a tutor with them. They are proud to employ all of their tutors, and they put in the work upfront to make sure you get nothing but the best. www.scootertutor.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 Compiled by Regina Gleeson

Your Local Families Magazine June / July 2019 www.familiesmagazine.com.au

#FamiliesMagFun

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 (Aug/Sept 2019) send your entry by 5pm on Friday 5 July 2019. 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.

WHAT’S ON IN THE CITY?

- JUNE/JULY 2019 BRISBANE SOUTH BANK PARKLANDS Kids Collective Kids Collective is a free program held every Thursday from 9am to 1pm in South Bank Parklands, suitable for kids aged up to five at all skill levels. Bookings are not required, and classes are re-set at regular intervals, so you can come and go as you please. Brisbane’s picturesque South Bank Parklands, Regional Flavours features free entertainment from celebrity chefs and industry experts, delicious food, beer and wine, live music, kid’s activities and more. A highlight of the event is the Queensland Taste Marketplace, a produce market pulsing with more than 80 stalls selling locally made wine, cheese, chocolate, fruit, jam, cakes and more. 20 – 21 Jul. Luminous Lantern Parade This free event unites government, community leaders, multicultural communities and everyday Queenslanders, capturing our imaginations with its spectacular use of light as it illuminates the South Bank precinct to symbolise hope and create welcome. LUMINOUS 2019 features an array of new lanterns. 7 Jun. Snow4Kids Festival Snow4Kids is back to Brisbane these winter school holidays with the most magical snow event of the year. Experience the excitement of real, fresh snow daily from June 29 to July 14 at the South Bank Piazza. Race down the snow toboggan hills, build a frosty fun snowman, throw snowballs, conquer the snow mountain and meet Wynter the polar bear. There will be more snow than ever before! Le French Festival Don’t miss one of Australia’s biggest French events of the year right here in Brisbane! They promise a variety of French “délicatesses” for you to enjoy. From gastronomy masterclasses to flowing champagnes and French wines or classic French cuisine, they have you covered for a feast “à la Française”. Take a stroll through the famous French market and peruse genuine goods straight from the “Héxagon” before whiling the night away with hours of premier acts and French melodies. 5 – 7 Jul.

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BRISBANE CONVENTION & EXHIBITION CENTRE Lifeline Bookfest Whether you are a book worm, a dedicated reader, a student, a book collector or someone searching for those long-lost books to make your book series complete, Lifeline Bookfest Brisbane is the place for you! At the event you will find over 4km of tables with millions of books, magazines, records, puzzles, DVDs, CDs, vinyl, board games and much more for prices as low as a dollar! 15 – 23 Jun. Professor Brian Cox - Universal World Tour Using state of the art graphics and imagery from ground-based telescopes and space probes, presented using ultra-high-resolution LED screen technology, Brian will explore the latest missions to the planets, the nature of space and time from the Big Bang to black holes and the origin and fate of life and intelligence in the Universe. 19 Jun.

Regional Flavours Experience the Sunshine State on a plate at Regional Flavours, Queensland’s premier free food and wine festival. Held in

Brisbane Pregnancy Babies & Children’s Expo At the Expo you can chat face-to-face with a wide range of expert Exhibitors to gain up-to-date advice and knowledge on pregnancy, newborn care and the early years of parenting. You can also see, touch, try and buy the products and services that best suit your needs. Discover all you need to know for you, your pregnancy or young child, all under one roof! Fri 28 – Sun 30 Jun.

Your Local Families Magazine June / July 2019 www.familiesmagazine.com.au

QUEENSLAND MUSEUM Wild State takes visitors through five breathtaking environments – the arid outback, iconic eucalypt forest, tropical rainforest, sundrenched coastal zones and teeming marine environments. Anzac Legacy Gallery The Anzac Legacy Gallery tells the fascinating story of the First World War in Queensland; the people and the things they held close – objects of war and warfare, and personal items belonging to those on the front line.

#FamiliesMagFun NASA – A Human Adventure Come face to face with NASA’s remarkable achievements in human space flights and space exploration – the greatest adventure that humans have ever undertaken. Discover the exciting history of rocket science and space flight and learn about some of the most extraordinary accomplishments in space technology. Until 9 Oct.

The Young King A cleverly staged immersive entry process brings the audience into the world of the show and casts the audience as the people of the kingdom. The Young King tells the story of a young boy born to a princess and a poor woodland man. Snatched from his parents as a baby, the Young King is raised by a kindly goatherd in a deep forest. 23 – 28 Jul.

After Dark When the sun goes down and the stars come out, uncover the secrets of astronomical observations. Channel your inner Neil Armstrong and explore all the Museum has to offer including NASA – A Human Adventure. Listen to live music and enjoy the expert talks, science demonstrations and displays. 14 Jun.

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Night at the Museum This night-time learning adventure will be one to remember. Get access to the entire museum including new exhibition NASA — A Human Adventure, SparkLab, and meet the locals in Wild State and Discovery Centre! Dance along with live music; see demonstrations, amazing objects, performances, hands-on activities and more. 28 Jun. www.familiesmagazine.com.au/venue/ queensland-museum

QUEENSLAND GALLERY OF MODERN ART APT9 Kids As part of ‘The 9th Asia Pacific Triennial of Contemporary Art’ (APT9), APT9 Kids features 8 interactive artworks, hands-on and multimedia activities created by exhibiting artists, especially for children and families. Offering a rich participatory experience and curated to reflect key themes of the exhibition, APT9 Kids provides meaningful insights into the contemporary art of Australia, Asia and the Pacific. Until 16 Jun. QAGOMA Winter Design Market Your favourite winter market is back and even bigger, with more than 50 independent craft and design artists. Stop by the Gallery of Modern Art Forecourt on Saturday 8 June from 9am to 4pm to shop the fabulous selection of handmade ceramics, jewellery, homewares, textiles and clothing from Brisbane’s best makers. 8 Jun.

MUSEUM OF BRISBANE City Hall Clock Tower Tours Enjoy the oldworld charm of our Clock Tower tours. Step into the original 1930s hand-operated lift, travel past the Art Deco-styled clock face to arrive at the final, 64m-high platform for a bird’s-eye view of the city. There is a reason this has been a time-honoured tradition for Brisbane families for almost 90 years. www.familiesmagazine.com.au/organiser/ museum-of-brisbane

Ben Quilty: Family Portrait As part of the major exhibition ‘Quilty’, the QAGOMA Children’s Art Centre presents ‘Ben Quilty: Family Portrait’. In this interactive exhibition, leading Australian artist Ben Quilty encourages children and families to explore the art of portraiture in an artist studio setting. The exhibition also stars Ben’s children – Joe and Olivia – who appear in a video on display, which takes children inside Ben’s studio in New South Wales and provides insights into his approach to making art. 15 Jun – 20 Oct. www.familiesmagazine.com.au/venue/ queensland-gallery-of-modern-art

ROMA STREET PARKLAND

QPAC Duck - An Out of the Box Production Duck is a simple yet heartfelt story of friendship and love showing us that we need others as much as they need us. Through movement and live music, follow the story of a boy and his best friend as they spend every waking hour together – soaring through the air, before Duck mysteriously goes missing. When the boy ventures to search for him without any luck, we’re left wondering, will Duck ever be found again? 4 – 8 Jun. Queensland Ballet’s the Little Green Road to Fairyland Set in the Australian bush, The Little Green Road to Fairyland takes the audience on a charming journey with colourful sets and costumes that will delight all ages. Inspired by the original 1922 tale by Annie R. Rentoul and Ida Rentoul Outhwaite, this whimsical production will spark the imagination of our youngest audiences with a tale of love, hope, compassion and a touch of fairy magic. 11 – 21 Jul. School of Rock Based on the hit film, this hilarious new musical follows Dewey Finn, a failed, wannabe rock star who decides to earn a few extra bucks by posing as a substitute teacher at a prestigious prep school. There, he turns a class of straight-A students into a guitarshredding, bass-slapping, mind-blowing rock band. 12 – 31 Jul.

The Sound Society The Sound Society delivers a free live music program that will mellow your soul and leave you relaxed as you embrace chilled tunes in the lush green surrounds of Roma Street Parkland. Take your own picnic snacks or grab a bite to eat from one of the food vendors – this will be your new monthly Sunday brunch spot! The Sound Society is held one Sunday morning of each month, at Roma Street Parkland. Entry is free with live music from 9am to midday. Kid’s Collective Kids Collective is a free program held from 9am to 1pm, Thursday to Saturday, during school holidays in Roma Street Parkland. Activities are suitable for kids aged 5 to 12 years old at all skill levels. Bookings are not required, and classes are re-set at regular intervals, so you can come and go as you please. www.familiesmagazine.com.au/organiser/ roma-street-parkland

SPARKLAB SCIENCENTRE

Calling all inventors, thinkers, creatives, the curious and science enthusiasts, Queensland Museum’s brand new science gallery SparkLab, Sciencentre is open. SparkLab includes 40 exhibits in three zones allowing for flexible facilitated learning experiences; it also includes new science shows, a science bar featuring hands on experiments and demonstrations, and a maker space that gives visitors the opportunity to design, make, test and evaluate their creations in response to a ‘big question’ or challenge. www.familiesmagazine.com.au/organiser/ sciencentre

Your Local Families Magazine June / July 2019 www.familiesmagazine.com.au

#FamiliesMagFun JUNE 2019 Throughout Jun/Jul Drawing Machines | Ipswich Swinging pendulums and spinning discs… go and play with the Drawing Machines! Make a frenzy of marks with wind-up mice and chickens. Swing the pendulum table and see magic spirals appear. Experiment with a giant Spirograph to create large geometric designs. Every drawing made by these mesmerizing machines is one of a kind. Take your drawings home or hang them in the exhibition. Ipswich Art Gallery. www.familiesmagazine.com.au/event/drawing-machines-ipswich/all

Throughout Jun/Jul Powerkids: Little Artists at Play | New Farm Join in every Tuesday during the school term to explore the sound of your own voice, adventure to wild worlds and create your own textured soundscapes in this immersive and surprising world. A free half hourly program for kids 5 years and under, this brand-new activation for Powerkids: Little Artists at Play was developed by Amelia Kalifa in an exciting collaboration with QUT Creative Industries students. Brisbane Powerhouse. www.familiesmagazine.com.au/event/powerkids-littleartists-play-new-farm/

Sat 1 Jun Chrome Street Fiesta | Enjoy the array of stalls representing the cultural diversity and unique nature of the local area, including all things tasty, original, arty, crafty, creative and handmade, quirky and interactive, colourful, refreshing and fun! You can join in with activities and workshops presented by local businesses and community groups. For the whole family there will be costume and instrument making in preparation for the parade, storytelling, face painting, lawn croquet, apple bobbing and sewing workshops. 2pm to 8pm. www.familiesmagazine.com.au/ event/chrome-street-fiesta-salisbury

Sat 1 & Sun 2 Jun Old Petrie Town Steam Fair | Old Petrie Town 2019 celebrates the history of transport and the animals and machines which made it possible. It is also the 30th anniversary of the Queensland Steam and Vintage Machinery Society. Go and join the celebrations! www.familiesmagazine.com.au/event/old-petrie-town-steam-fair-oldpetrie-town/all

Sun 9 Jun Bardon State School Mayfair Mayfair is a much-loved fixture in the calendar for families in Bardon and the surrounding suburbs. This family-friendly event will feature live entertainment, rides for big and little kids, laser skirmish, a petting zoo, and all the fair favourites, like homemade cakes, jams, sweets, and craft. 10am to 3pm. www.familiesmagazine.com.au/event/bardon-state-school-mayfair

Sun 9 Jun Briz Chilli Fest | Bulimba Lots to eat, see and do for young and old. Centre Stage will feature fabulous live music and other cultural performances from chilli-loving ethnic groups. It will also see brave chilli heads competing in 6 eating competitions plus there’s two kids’ non-chillirelated eating comps just for fun. Hellfire Alley promises a wide array of quality chilli product. The food vendors all offer at least two chilli-themed offerings across savory and sweet choices. Newstead Waterfront Park. www.familiesmagazine.com.au/event/briz-chilli-fest-bulimba Sat 15 Jun History Alive: A Journey Through Time | Rocklea History Alive is a combination of activities of the Roman, Viking, Medieval, Napoleonic, Colonial, Victorian and Modern eras that appeal to all ages! Witness spectacular battle re-enactments of Crusader Knights, Napoleonic Cavalry, WWI & WWII or learn to fence like a renaissance Spaniard! Children haven’t been forgotten with daily costume competitions, scavenger hunts & a wide variety of children’s immersive encampment activities. www.familiesmagazine.com.au/event/history-alive-a-journey-throughtime-lytton/all

Sun 2 Jun Green Heart Fair | Chermside The Brisbane City Council Green Heart Fair is Brisbane’s biggest FREE bi-annual community and sustainability festival, promoting innovative green living in a fun, family-friendly environment for all residents to come and enjoy. The Fair welcomes over 100 of Brisbane’s leading sustainability organisations, community groups, artisans, foodies, green-thumbs, conservationists, businesses and eco experts to share information and knowledge with Brisbane residents on how to live more sustainably. Fair goers are treated to heaps of fun activities and entertainment throughout the day with a jam-packed schedule. 9am – 2pm. www.familiesmagazine.com.au/event/green-heart-fair-chermside Wed 5 Jun Murrumba Downs Teddy Bears Picnic Grab your favourite teddy bear and head into the woods at the Murrumba Downs Teddy Bears’ Picnic on Wednesday 5 June at John Oxley Reserve. Running from 9am to 12noon, there will be plenty to keep little ones entertained including stage shows, kid’s activities, an animal farm and teddy bear parade. Remember to pack your favourite Teddy Bear and a picnic rug. www. familiesmagazine.com.au/event/murrumba-downs-teddy-bears-picnic Wed 5 Jun The Whale’s Tale | Cleveland A beached whale, a confused navigator, a ridiculous doctor … whatever could be the matter? Watch from the shore or immerse yourself in The Whale’s Tale, a highly interactive spectacle full of slapstick, clowning and a 9-metre whale that can swallow you whole! It’s time to put on your shrimp helmet and take a deep breath. Watch out, you could be Manilayo the humpback whale’s next snack ... or become the hero of the story and live to tell the tale! RPAC. www.familiesmagazine.com.au/event/the-whales-tale-cleveland

Sat 8 Jun – Sat 13 Jul Madagascar - A Musical Adventure Jr.| Petrie Terrace Take a journey out of the zoo and into the theatre with your favourite crack-a-lackin’ friends from the blockbuster DreamWorks film in Madagascar JR. Join Alex the Lion, Marty the Zebra, Melman the Giraffe, Gloria the hip hip Hippo and, of course, those hilarious, plotting penguins as they escape from their home in New York’s Central Park Zoo and find themselves on an unexpected journey to the madcap world of King Julien’s Madagascar. Brisbane Arts Theatre. www.familiesmagazine.com. au/event/madagascar-a-musical-adventure-jr-petrie-terrace/all

Sat 15 & Sun 16 Jun Redcliffe KiteFest | Clontarf Families will get swept away in the fun, colour and excitement of the annual Redcliffe KiteFest where kites of all shapes and sizes fill the sky. 2019 will be the biggest KiteFest yet with a huge contingent of international and domestic kite flyers set to come together in Pelican Park. Redcliffe KiteFest 2019 is the Ultimate Kids Weekend. The whole family will love the markets, huge array of live music and amazing roving performers. 9am – 4pm each day. www.familiesmagazine.com.au/event/the-redcliffe-kitefest/all Sat 15 & Sun 16 Jun Welcome to the Whales | Scarborough Every year, more than 25,000 humpback whales pass through the Moreton Bay Region on their annual migration to the warmer, tropical waters of north-east Queensland. There, they will breed and make their way back down, once again passing our shores, this time with their offspring in tow. Participate in educational and environmental activities, sand sculptures and, of course, the ‘Whale Wishes’ ceremony, where patrons can place a pebble on the gorgeous sand sculpture to wish safe passage to all whales entering Moreton Bay waters. www.familiesmagazine.com.au/event/welcome-to-the-whales/all Sat 22 Jun Winter Solstice Festival | Windsor You’ll get the chance to join others in voice at our Big Singing Workshop before joining a community jam with over 50 African drums and some high energy African

Your Local Families Magazine June / July 2019 www.familiesmagazine.com.au

#FamiliesMagFun Dancing. They also have a great Family Space that runs all afternoon with loads of Earth Arts and Upcycled Art activities for the kids and teens, lantern making workshops for all and opportunities for the kids to build forts and play games while mum and dad chill out on the grass. The Solstice Ceremony, Lantern Parade and Bonfire will kick off after sunset, so the kids can join in the fun. www.familiesmagazine.com.au/event/winter-solstice-festival-windsor

Fri 28 – Sun 30 Jun Redcliffe Show | Redcliffe With a huge program of events over three days, this year’s Redcliffe Show is good value for money and a fun day out. Each day’s entertainment includes horse judging and show jumping, poultry displays, amusement rides, arts and crafts, schoolwork displays, horticulture, animal nursery, feeding and shearing, cooking, needlework and woodwork, machinery restoration displays, as well as the Lollypop Clown wandering around. There are Fireworks on Friday & Saturday night, plus showbags, sideshow games, showtime food vendors, and a great carnival atmosphere. www.familiesmagazine.com.au/event/redcliffe-show-redcliffe/all

Mon 1 – Fri 5 Jul Kids Dig It! Medieval Family Fun Week | Caboolture Medieval mania has hit the Abbey Museum with the upcoming Abbey Medieval Festival. All of your favourites will be included, like archery, mini archaeological digs, and shield painting. Along with activities and workshops to keep the whole family engaged. www.familiesmagazine. com.au/event/kids-dig-medieval-family-fun-week-caboolture/all

Thu 4 Jul Dr Seuss’ The Cat in the Hat | Cleveland The Cat in the Hat interrupts a rainy afternoon with his unexpected visit to Sally and her brother. Their outspoken and outraged pet Fish is astounded and concerned, but this cat will not be deterred. He will teach us all to make our own fun with nothing but a little imagination. Along with Thing One and Thing Two, the cat will fill the theatre with mischievous humour and madcap style that will be loved by the whole family. RPAC. www.familiesmagazine.com.au/event/dr-seuss-the-cat-in-the-hat-cleveland Sat 6 Jul Bonfire Night | Sandstone Point If you thought last year’s sold out event went off with a BANG, just you wait… Bonfire Night 2019 is firing up to be the BIGGEST yet! They’ve ignited your skies and warmed your winter nights for the last three years with their annual Bonfire Night, but this year you’ll get an even BIGGER BANG for your buck! Food trucks, live music, entertainment, kids’ rides plus a few surprises coming your way! Bonfire Night is the best family friendly event this winter! Sandstone Point Hotel. www.familiesmagazine.com.au/event/bonfire-night-sandstone-point

Fri 28 Jun – Sun 1 Jul Disney on Ice | Boondall See fearless Moana with demigod Maui, follow Dory through the Pacific Ocean, join the Toy Story pals on an exciting adventure and discover true love with Elsa and Anna. Buckle in for the emotional rollercoaster of Inside Out and “Live Your Story” alongside Disney Princesses as they celebrate their favourite Disney memories! Brisbane Entertainment Centre. www.familiesmagazine.com.au/event/disney-on-ice-boondall

Sat 29 Jun – Sun 14 Jul Day Out With Thomas | Ipswich Make a day of it with entry to the Museum and all exhibits included in your ticket! The world’s most loved blue steam engine and his friends are enjoying winter school holiday fun at the Museum. The Workshops Rail Museum. www.familiesmagazine.com.au/event/day-thomas-ipswich

Sat 29 Jun – Sun 14 Jul The Inflatable Factory | Sandstone Point Australia’s biggest inflatable theme park, The Inflatable Factory, returns to Sandstone Point Hotel for the school holidays! Operating from 29th June – 14th July from 9am to 4pm daily! Zorb balls, a mechanical wipe out ride, bubble soccer plus new rides! www.familiesmagazine.com.au/event/ the-inflatable-factory-sandstone-point

Sun 30 Jun Family Fun Day | Upper Mount Gravatt Head along to The Newnham Hotel for their Family Fun Day! Pony rides, jumping castle, face painter, petting zoo & plenty more! Take the entire Family! www. familiesmagazine.com.au/event/family-fun-day-upper-mount-gravatt

Sat 30 Jun Little Jammers LIVE | South Brisbane Children and families are invited to jam out and explore sounds from across the world at GOMA. Start your musical journey by learning how to dance, play and sing with musicians from the Sounds Across Oceans teaching artist collective. The jam session is followed by an interactive performance combining pulsating world rhythms and soundscapes, sensuous strings, a live DJ and a special appearance from the JADE New World Collective. Designed especially for children aged 5-12 years, and their families. This event is part of the Lord Mayor’s Children’s Concerts program. www.familiesmagazine.com.au/event/little-jammers-live-south-brisbane

Sat 6 Jul Wolfgang’s Magical Musical Circus by CIRCA | Cleveland Straight from the score and onto the stage, the man known as Mozart appears amid a storm of powder, tumbling and twirling as musical mayhem and movement fuse in this family show with a circus twist. Designed to amaze people from the age of three and upwards, Wolfgang’s Magical Musical Circus reinvents the composer’s magical music in a skilful and illuminating show featuring Circa’s dexterous daredevil artists and a live accordionist. RPAC. www.familiesmagazine.com.au/event/wolfgangs-magicalmusical-circus-by-circa-cleveland Sun 7 Jul A Magical World Kid’s Magic Show | Pallara Are you ready to be transported to a world of magic and wonder? A world where magic rules and the impossible is made possible? Join Drace Illusionist in his “Magical World” and prepared to be amazed, surprised, and questioning reality with this high energy one-hour family magic show. The first 100 children through the door will receive their very own magic trick...for free!! www.familiesmagazine.com.au/event/a-magical-world-kids-magicshow-pallara Sat 7 Jul Young Historians Festival | Newstead Calling all young historians! Join in for a fun day of performances, discovery and play at Newstead House. Celebrate the wonderous world at Brisbane’s oldest standing residence, Newstead House. Enjoy heritage games, craft activities, musical performances, pop up theatre, circus and dance. The day is a fabulous way to experience life from a time gone by, cultivate curiosity, participate, learn and play. Why not take a picnic and enjoy the tasty food from some of Brisbane’s best food trucks as you enjoy the stunning winter sun. www.familiesmagazine.com.au/event/young-historians-festivalnewstead

Your Local Families Magazine June / July 2019 www.familiesmagazine.com.au

#FamiliesMagFun Mon 8 – Sat 13 Jul Sleeping Beauty | Yeronga A magical, musical pantomime with a cast of 40 talented young performers. Lots of songs and dances, familiar characters, humorous scenes, even acrobatics! Based on the traditions of English Pantomime. LIVE ON STAGE! www.familiesmagazine.com.au/event/sleeping-beauty-yeronga Tue 9 & Wed 10 Jul Flipside Circus - School Holiday Workshops | Cleveland Roll Up! Roll Up! Join the circus workshops for an hour or a day and learn a range of new skills. Whether it’s tackling the trapeze or harnessing the hula-hoop, your kids will have a blast at Flipside Circus workshops. This will be a truly memorable experience for your circus stars. No matter what their skill level is, Flipside Circus trainers will help them learn new circus skills and give them a chance to show off! www.familiesmagazine.com.au/event/flipside-circus-school-holidayworkshops-cleveland/ Wed 10 – Thu 11 Jul Possum Magic | New Farm Don’t miss this brand-new stage adaptation of Mem Fox’s iconic Possum Magic by the extraordinary team at Monkey Baa. Grandma Poss loves making magic. She makes wombats blue and kookaburras pink. She makes dingoes smile and emus shrink. But one day, when danger arrives, Grandma uses her most magical spell to make Hush invisible. Hush has many wonderful adventures but being invisible isn’t all it’s cracked up to be and Hush longs to see herself again. Possum Magic takes you on a whimsical journey to cities around Australia to find the food that makes Hush visible again. Possum Magic has captivated and enchanted readers for generations and now this magical, unforgettable new production will mesmerise children and adults alike. Brisbane Powerhouse. www.familiesmagazine.com.au/event/possummagic-new-farm/all

Sat 13 & Sun 14 Jul Abbey Medieval Festival | Caboolture The Abbey Museum of Art and Archaeology is proud to host the 30th Abbey Medieval Festival! The Abbey Medieval Festival is one of Australia’s premier living history events, providing Festival-goers with an engaging and immersive experience of the Middle Ages. Tickets are on sale now for the Festival’s calendar of events, including the Medieval Banquets, Kids Medieval Family Fun Week and the Tournament weekend. www.familiesmagazine.com.au/event/abbey-medieval-festival-caboolture Sat 13 & Sun 14 Jul The Fairy Doll | New Farm This enchanting one-act ballet will delight all the family, and is sure to create a magical memory for all aspiring young dancers. Brisbane City Youth Ballet at Brisbane Powerhouse. www.familiesmagazine.com.au/event/the-fairy-doll-new-farm/all

Sun 14 Jul Embrace the Hype-Krump Workshops & Battle Night | Cleveland Join in for an afternoon of intense action where krumpers from across Australia and New Zealand go head-to-head as they battle for a spot on the Oceania team for the EBS World Championships. You will be up close to all the action as the competitors battle one-on-one until only the best krumpers are left standing. RPAC. www.familiesmagazine.com.au/ event/embrace-the-hype-krump-workshops-battle-night-cleveland Sat 20 Jul – Sat 5 Oct James and the Giant Peach | Petrie Terrace James and the Giant Peach is back in Roald Dahl’s classic tale, a favourite for young and old, and a great introduction to live theatre. One day James meets a mystical old man who gives him a bag that contains the strongest magic the world has ever known. When James accidentally spills the bag near an old peach tree, the most incredible things start to happen. Brisbane Arts Theatre. www.familiesmagazine.com.au/event/james-andthe-giant-peach-petrie-terrace/all

Sat 13 & Sun 14 Jul Orchid Society Winter Show | Mount Coot-tha This is considered to be one of Brisbane’s premier orchid shows. Displays of species orchids from around the world, our own native orchids and numerous hybrids. Potting demonstrations daily at 10.00am and 1.00pm. Cultural advice all weekend from some of Brisbane’s best orchid growers. Lots of plants and growing accessories available for sale. Brisbane City Council runs a bus service to the venue and there is lots off street parking, plus disabled parking at the front door. Light refreshments and floral arrangements featuring orchids are available at great prices. This is a perfect opportunity for photographers to capture some photographs of amazing orchid flowers. www.familiesmagazine.com.au/event/orchidsociety-winter-show-mount-coot-tha

Wed 24 – Sun 28 Jul Roald Dahl’s Revolting Rhymes and Dirty Beasts | Brisbane A MESSY NIGHT OUT FOR THE WHOLE FAMILY! Laugh, squirm, delight, smile and thoroughly enjoy the smorgasbord of Dahl’s terrific and twisted tales lovingly adapted for the stage at La Boite Theatre this July. Presented by La Boite and Shake & Stir, Roald Dahl’s Revolting Rhymes & Dirty Beasts bursts off the page in a spectacular live show that takes the world’s best-loved fairy tales and rearranges them with surprising and hilarious twists. Tickets from $37. Book now for this delightful production, brought to you from the team behind Fantastic Mr Fox: www.laboite.com.au La Boite is giving away 2 x Family Ticket Packages valued at $125 each. Two lucky winners will receive four tickets to attend the Thursday 25 July, 12:30pm performance! To enter go to www.familiesmagazine.com.au/compeititons

Your Local Families Magazine June / July 2019 www.familiesmagazine.com.au

Es i L i M a F

s e i b ee

iNe! L n O R EnTe

Families Freebies

FaNtAsTiC PrIzEs

for the whole family!

Enter at www.FamiliesMagazine.com.au/competitions

WIN! NEW KIDS TOYS FROM CROWN & ANDREWS Fun, challenging, exciting and … weird! Games night will never be the same again with these on the table! Crown & Andrews are giving away 2 prize packs containing Sequence for ages 7+ (RRP $29), Stuff Happens for ages 13+ (RRP $19), Weird Things Humans Search For for ages 14+ (RRP $25) and Shark Bite for ages 4+ (RRP $25). 2x Crown & Andrews prize packs containing all four games to win.

WIN! A FAMILY TICKET PACK TO SEE ROALD DAHL’S REVOLTING RHYMES AND DIRTY BEASTS LIVE ON STAGE! This spectacular live show takes the world’s best-loved fairy tales from everyone’s favourite author, and rearranges them with surprising and hilarious twists. Frighteningly funny and seriously silly, this show is the perfect family entertainment for children aged five to 105. Don’t miss this multiHelpmann Award nominated production by the world’s number one storyteller - and from the team that brought you Fantastic Mr Fox. Book now for this delightful production at La Boite Theatre from 24 July – 28 July! www.laboite.com.au

WIN! ONE OF 2 FAMILY DAY PASSES TO THE ABBEY MEDIEVAL FESTIVAL TOURNAMENT WEEKEND The Abbey Medieval Festival is an annual highlight, with the breathtaking Tournament Weekend of medieval re-enactment and displays, costume and merriment taking place on July 13 & 14 this year. There’s plenty to beguile young and old, and heaps of activities to keep the kids busy. Transport yourself to a place where history truly comes alive! Tickets on sale now at www.abbeymedievalfestival.com The Abbey Medieval Festival is giving away 2x Family Day Passes for 2 adults and up to 4 children aged 5-15 years, valid for either July 13 or 14.

La Boite is giving away 2x Family Ticket Packages valued at $125 each. Two lucky winners will receive four tickets to attend the Thursday 25 July, 12:30pm performance!

WIN! A KIDS BIRTHDAY PARTY AT VICTORIA PARK Celebrate your child’s birthday at Victoria Park! Your kids and their friends will have a ball whether you choose to play a game of Putt Putt, explore the kids Playground, weekend giant games and jumping castle, or simply enjoy a delicious party package at the Bistro. There are several kid’s party packages to choose from, all recommended for kids under 12 years, including: Breakfast Parties, Lunch Parties or a Morning or Afternoon Tea Party. Find out more at https://victoriapark.com.au/whats-on/ kids-parties/ Victoria Park Golf Complex is giving away a birthday party for 10 children in the bistro including party food and a putt putt game for each child.

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

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UPCOMING ISSUES

Janine Mergler – Editor

August / September 2019

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BRISBANE SCHOOLS & EDUCATION

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Advertising deadline: Friday 5 July 2019

Suzie Porter – Designer

October / November 2019

Stephen Monteith – IT Systems & Support Lou Lavery – Online Content Manager

CHILDCARE & FAMILIES TRAVEL Advertising deadline: Friday 6 September 2019

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Your Local Families Magazine June / July 2019 www.familiesmagazine.com.au