FAMILIES MAGAZINE - BRISBANE ISSUE 45 APR/MAY 2021

Issue 45: April / May 2021 www.FamiliesMagazine.com.au

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

FAMILY HEALTH, BUMPS & BABIES KIDS IN THE KITCHEN PLAN A SUCCESSFUL THEATRE TRIP TALKING TO KIDS ABOUT MENTAL HEALTH FAMILY FUN THINGS TO DO IN BUNDABERG

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The Clever Resource for Thinking Parents

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FRONT COVER COMPETITION Our fabulous family finalists

East Walker Family - Mount Gravatt e Photography Credit: Jessica Seddon, Jayle

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- Cab e Family unn-Ros

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Manoj Family - Kelvin Grove Credit: Nadia Photography

ne ily – Brisba Witton Fam traits or P e rv Credit: Ve

Hall Family – Carina

s Elrose Family – Springfield Lake

angur kins-Munro Family - Kall

Jen Credit: Mad as the Sun Photography

Irvin/Grayson Fam

WINNER!

ily - Scarborough

Porter Family - Springfield Lakes

APRIL MAY 20/21

McKenna Family - V irginia Credit: J ust Rebec ca Photo graphy

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Jirarnuttaruj Family - Rock

Aljary

Family -

Walloo n

Regala Fa

mily - Loga

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White Family - Strathpine Credit: Jessica Jay Photography

Kitchin Fa mily - Cam p Hill Credit: T he RHP Project

Brown Family – McDowell

Visit our website to enter our Front Cover Competition for 2022 www.familiesmagazine.com.au/competitions

APRIL / MAY 2021

Contents 4-5

Families News

Find out about local news for families

Welcome to our Family Health, Bumps & Babies issue!

I have terrifying news: I’m starting to find babies adorable again. I noticed it the other day when I saw a fresh toddler amble to a glass cabinet and start molluscing the glass with their chubby face and tongue. Instead of ‘ewwww’ I felt ‘awwww’ and my left ovary twitched. Then I saw a 6 month old suctioned onto its mothers shoulders and when our eyes met it detached and gave me a glorious gummy grin - oh no! I’m either really into babies or limpets, but I think it’s babies.

Luckily, the antidote to baby fever is right there in front of me: the parents.

One look at the total exhaustion in their eyes is enough to bring back the desperate fatigue of new parenting. By about 10am I’d really feel it kick in and then it was a marathon struggle till the end of the day. If you see a new parent, offer them soothing words and a chair. If you are a new parent, the struggle is real. “Sleep when the baby sleeps!” is great advice for a) parents with staff who manage all the household duties and b) parents with babies who actually sleep.

Family health includes mental health so do what you need to do to keep it together. Sometimes that means one more episode of your favourite show even though you are exhausted and need an early night. Sometimes it’s a pedicure with the last $50 in the account. Sometimes you might throw an egg at the wall; it’s all valid.

Whatever your dreams may be, don’t delay in achieving them! Leaf through this magazine for better advice from competent professionals who don’t accost you in supermarkets!

6-7

Parenting

8 - 13

Education

How to have a successful trip to the theatre with kids The power of family-school partnerships

14 - 20

Family Health Ideas for cooking with kids Talking to kids about parent’s mental health Where do friends fit in after children

22 - 23

Families Travel

24 - 29

Families Fun

30 - 31

Clubs, Classes & Activities

Things to do in Bundaberg with kids Circle the family events you plan to do during April and May

Find a local Club, Class or Activity for 2021

Yours in hot coffee and mid-morning naps, Cover Photo: Front cover competition winner, Jenkins-Munro Family – Kallangur

Simone Eclair

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

A Kamilaroi woman raising her five grandchildren in north Brisbane. The grandchildren are connected with the Gamilaraay and Djabugay people.

Next issue June / July 2021 Deadline by 5pm on Friday 7 May 2021 Focus on Winter Day Trips and Children’s Parties

Families Magazine, PO Box 1018, Brighton 4017

☎ 0437 866 869

Editor@FamiliesMagazine.com.au

www.FamiliesMagazine.com.au

Brisbane 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 2021

Families News

LOCAL FAMILIES NEWS

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

WIN! A FAMILY PASS TO ICEWORLD™

Get ready to chill out with the family at Iceworld™ Boondall & Acacia Ridge!

We’re giving TWO lucky winners a family pass (admit 5) to your preferred Iceworld™ venue. Your prize includes • Skate hire • Food and drink combo for each person (choose from dagwood dog, chicken nuggets or pie served with chips and a drink) • Heaps of cool family fun on an Olympic sized rink!

Iceworld™ Olympic Ice Rinks have been part of the Brisbane landscape for over 30 years. Whether you’re a beginner or an expert Iceworld™ will soon be your favourite entertainment venue!

Competition closes Sunday May 30. For details of terms & conditions and to enter, go to www.familiesmagazine.com.au/competitions.

THE PREMIER’S READING CHALLENGE IS BACK! The Premier’s Reading Challenge is not a competition but a way to encourage children to love reading for life.

It is an annual event for all Queensland students from Prep to Year 9, and children (aged up to 5 years) enrolled in an early childhood centre.

Kids are encouraged to read or experience a number of books for their age category over a set time period.

Upon completion, their efforts will be recognised with a Certificate of Achievement signed by the Premier of Queensland. How awesome is that?!

The Premier’s Reading Challenge is not a compulsory activity, but if your child would like to participate, registrations open on April 27. Find out more at www.familiesmagazine.com.au/premiers-readingchallenge

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Your Local Families Magazine April / May 2021 www.familiesmagazine.com.au

Families News

SIENNA IS RUNNING

FOR A CURE

13-year old Sienna Veivers from the Redlands will run 100km in 10 weeks to raise funds for a cause close to her heart.

Over the past year several of Sienna’s family members and a close friend have received devastating cancer diagnoses. After seeing the challenges they are facing, Sienna is showing her support with a challenge of her own – running 100km to raise funds for Australian Cancer Research Foundation. What makes this personal challenge even more remarkable is that Sienna has only recently recovered from a broken ankle, but she is determined to go the distance. Go Sienna!

While cancer treatments can do a lot to improve quality of life for those with a cancer diagnosis, there is still much research to be done to find a cure. If you would like to help Sienna raise funds for cancer research, show your support by donating via her Personal Challenge fundraising page on the link below.

All donations go directly to Australian Cancer Research Foundation. personalchallenge.gofundraise.com.au/ page/Natalie-73781809

BLESSY’S AMAZING

ATAR RESULT When Our Lady’s College Annerley 2020 Dux Blessy Mathew learned her final school result, she was stunned into disbelief.

EASTER

HOLIDAY FUN

Looking for things to do with the kids over the Easter school holidays? We’ve taken the hard work out of searching for budget-friendly activities for your family, from days out, to treats, gifts, crafts and Easter recipes.

Find your inspiration at www.familiesmagazine.com.au/ brisbane/easter Blessy achieved an Australian Tertiary Admission Rank (ATAR) of 99.9, which places her in the top 60 students in Queensland.

The final year of school can be challenging, and that is without the additional stress of a global health pandemic. Blessy said she kept motivated during lockdown by working to the school

schedule and prioritising subjects that had assessment due.

She is now studying a Bachelor of Advanced Finance and Economics (Honours) at the University of Queensland and has been awarded the UQ Vice Chancellor Scholarship.

Blessy acknowledged all the teachers at Our Lady’s for inspiring her to do her best and said the Our Lady’s College motto “Ad Altiora – ever higher” was a guiding light through her high school years. www.ourladyscollege.qld.edu.au

Your Local Families Magazine April / May 2021 www.familiesmagazine.com.au

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Parenting

How to Have a Successful Trip to the Theatre with Kids.

A trip to the theatre is a magical experience for children of all ages.

Live performances are high energy, engaging, and often interactive – a totally different experience to cinema! There are family-friendly shows throughout the year in Brisbane’s theatres. Follow these tips to make sure your trip to the theatre is a memorable success!

Set the scene Talk with your child about live theatre. Explain that it is a little like cinema but with real people there to entertain you. Actors and singers might encourage your child to shout out, sing along, clap or dance, which is great for children who struggle to sit still and quiet.

There might be an interval, providing opportunity to chat about what you have just seen, and what might happen next.

Great theatre for young children is something that is vibrant, engaging, fun and expands curious minds Redlands Performing Arts Centre (RPAC)

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Make your visit to the theatre fun and exciting by getting in the mood for the show – read the book, watch a clip or listen to the story so even the youngest audience members know the story & the characters. Ipswich Civic Centre

Build excitement Talk about your trip to the theatre often in the weeks and days leading up to the show. If the play you are seeing is based on a book, read the book together several times beforehand and ‘wonder’ how the producers might recreate some of the characters and scenes with costume, puppetry, lighting, and colourful stage

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Parenting sets. There might also be a movie adaptation you can watch together for reference.

If the show you are seeing is not based on a book, encourage your child to imagine what might happen on stage. It might be a silly show full of raucous snorts and giggles, a story about helping, or a magical journey of light, sound, movement and music.

TIP: The theatre’s website will have a synopsis and images to guide you.

We love having children at our concerts! We’re committed to sharing the world of live orchestral music with the next generation. Queensland Symphony Orchestra

Turn your theatre trip into an event Make the whole day a day to remember! Dine out at a café or have a picnic lunch in a park before the show, and chat about what you will see.

Theatre has the unique ability to dazzle the senses and bring true magic to anyone who experiences it; give your kids that gift today. Brisbane Arts Theatre

Finally, go often!

Live theatre has been shown to have many benefits for kids. It promotes reading and communication, fuels the imagination, develops creativity and problem-solving skills, and helps children build empathy and make connections with others. A life-long love of theatre starts with the very first show!

For more on the benefits of live theatre for kids, venues across Brisbane, and age-appropriate shows, go to www.familiesmagazine.com.au/kids-theatre

Dressing up as a favourite character from the play is fun and helps your child engage with what they are seeing on stage, and dressing up isn’t just for the kids - there’s no reason why the whole family can’t get into character and share the experience too!

Some larger stage show productions might have merchandise or souvenir programs available to purchase before, during or after the show. The program will give you an exciting pre-show glimpse into what is to come, and a souvenir toy or item of clothing provides opportunity for discussions and ‘remember when…” afterwards.

Perfect for families, schools and vacation care programs, theatre excursions are fun, educational, and a wonderful experience shared with others.

Logan Entertainment Centre

Your Local Families Magazine April / May 2021 www.familiesmagazine.com.au

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Education

The power of family-school partnerships The start of the school year is always a whirlwind for children and families.

New classrooms, classes, teachers and routines. By the time families draw breath Term 1 is almost over.

According to Queensland Independent Schools Parents Network Executive Officer Justine Cirocco, once everyone settles into the rhythm of the school year, Term 2 presents a perfect opportunity for schools, teachers and families to build their partnerships and the best ways to work together to support student learning.

More than 50 years of national and international research shows that when schools and families pool their collective expertise to support student learning – what experts call “parent engagement” the impact on student outcomes and wellbeing can be significant.

Countless studies have shown that parent engagement in student learning can lead to: improved skills academically, socially and emotionally increased motivation, achievement and success at school more regular school attendance higher rates of retention, graduation and uptake of tertiary studies

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strengthened belief in the importance of education heightened aspirations for learning in school and beyond.

So what is “parent engagement”?

The answer is as much about “what it isn’t” as “what it is”.

Parent engagement is not about parents signing up for reading groups or tuckshop duty. Although this is very important for building community, parent engagement extends beyond “involvement” in school life to parents “engaging” in and supporting their child’s learning at home.

When learning moved from the classroom to the dining room for the majority of Queensland students for part of Term 2 in 2020, many parents and carers became engaged in their child’s education like never before. Learning became visible. Technology gave teachers and parents a front-row seat into each other’s roles and lives. Parent-teacher interviews moved online, schools engaged

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Education parents in school challenges or undertook regular wellbeing checks.

An issues paper commissioned by the peak body representing Queensland’s more than 220 independent schools – Independent Schools Queensland – found this short-term period could have longterm benefits for school-family partnerships and student outcomes.

But how and where do you start with parent engagement?

According to experts, the first step is parents making themselves known to their children’s teachers.

“First impressions are really important,” according to one of Australia’s leading parent engagement voices, Griffith University’s Dr Linda Willis.

“Building a mutually respectful relationship with your child’s teacher from day one – and viewing each other as partners in the education process – builds a wonderful base for future communication and trusting relationships,’’ Dr Willis says.

Through her statewide research with Griffith colleague Professor Beryl Exley, Dr Willis has seen first-hand the great outcomes for students when schools and families respect each other’s unique contributions to a child’s education.

Simple examples of how schools engage parents in their child’s learning include regular emails to parents with updates on classroom learning so parents can talk about and extend on these topics at home and running workshops for parents that upskill them in key areas such as reading, study strategies, or new education software being used by the school to arm parents with the knowledge and tools they can use to support consistency in student learning.

Respected parent engagement academic and former school principal Dr Linda Kaser says a productive and healthy relationship requires both parties - school and family - to play their parts.

“In some schools, teachers fear parent involvement and only call home when they need to report a problem,” Dr Kaser says.

“But when teachers send a very short text every Friday afternoon to two parents with a ‘this is something that went well for your

child this week’ information item – that can really help foster connections.”

Parents can also adopt some simple behaviours to strengthen the school-home relationship.

Key ones include showing your child how much you value education through activities such as reading with them, encouraging good study habits and creating a stimulating home environment.

Dr Kaser also offered these additional tips for families: Be genuinely interested in creating a daily dialogue with your child about what is being learned at school.

Teachers are people too! Thank them for their work. A quick text describing the impact on your child can be a big boost.

Share information with your child’s teacher about your child such as their interests and engage with your teacher about their interests too so that you can make a personal link.

You are your child’s first and continuing teacher. Make your skills “visible” to your child and talk about when you learned them and how you are applying them.

Use the word YET when your child is learning something new or finding something hard; that they haven’t mastered it “yet”.

Encourage your child to do the same when they are describing their own learning progress.

This article was compiled by Independent Schools Queensland – www.isq.qld.edu.au - and the Queensland Independent Schools Parents Network – www.parentsnetwork.qld.edu.au - featuring expert comment from leading national and international education researchers.

Your Local Families Magazine April / May 2021 www.familiesmagazine.com.au

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Education

Homework Tips Homework is still expected in most schools, but it doesn’t have to be a cause of conflict and resistance. Developing a healthy homework habit can help your child feel accomplished and in control.

1 Pick a place

Have a dedicated homework area (if space permits) that sets kids up for success. This can be a desk of their own or the same area of the kitchen bench given up to homework each evening. Make sure it is well lit (natural daylight bulbs are best if the sun has gone down) and reasonably quiet.

2 Get organised

Set a time that is “homework time” and remove distractions such as television, loud music, electronic devices and social media (though connecting with friends can help if children are discussing homework with their classmates). Have everything that might be needed ready at hand; pencils, calculator, glue, erasers, laptop/iPad charger etc.

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3 Find a focus What works for your child? Does your child work better with a little quiet background music, a scrap of paper to scribble thoughts on, an elastic band to twist through their fingers? Or does your child prefer the challenge of beating the clock to answer questions, or ticking off a list of completed tasks? Every child has different cues that help them maintain focus and concentration; discover what works best for your child.

4 Make a plan For high school students with a heavy homework load, an action plan can help keep homework from becoming overwhelming. Consider getting small quick

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tasks out of the way first so that proper attention can then be given to bigger tasks.

Break large assignments into manageable chunks, spread over several nights if time allows. Factor in break times but make sure study is returned to after 10 minutes.

5 Don’t delay!

Start homework early, as soon as possible after it’s given. Leaving homework until the night before it is due is a huge cause of stress, but completing it days in advance will give your child a sense of accomplishment and allow opportunity to review and improve before submission.

For more homework help and advice, go to www.familiesmagazine.com.au/ brisbane/homework

Education

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Education

APRIL/MAY 2021

BRISBANE AND IPSWICH’S MOST COMPREHENSIVE

SCHOOL OPEN DAYS FOR PROSPECTIVE STUDENTS & PARENTS All Hallows School (Fortitude Valley) Catholic Girls’ Yr 5-12 Open Day: Sun 30 May. www.ahs.qld.edu.au

Grace Lutheran College (Rothwell) Co-ed Secondary College Yr 7-12 Open Day: Sun 23 May 1pm-4pm. www.glc.qld.edu.au

Anglican Church Grammar School (East Brisbane) Anglican Boys’ Reception-Yr 12. Open Day: Wed 28 Apr. Personal tours by request.

Interactive tour online. www.churchie.com.au

IES College (Spring Hill) Indep, Co-ed Yr 11 & 12, local and international students. Open Day: Sat 29 May www.iescollege.com

Brisbane Bayside State College (Wynnum West) Indep Co-ed Yr 7-12. Open Day: Wed 19 May. Open Mornings: Thursdays 6 May, 3 Jun, 22 July, 7 Oct. www.brisbanebaysidesc.eq.edu.au Canterbury College (Waterford) Indep Co-ed Kindy–Yr 12 Principal’s Tours: Thu 29 May 9am-11am. Personalised tours upon request. www.canterbury.qld.edu.au

Lourdes Hill College (Hawthorne) Catholic Girls’ School Yr 7-12. Open Day: Fri 8 Oct 3:30pm-7pm. College Tours: Mondays 12 Apr 9am, 10 May 3:30pm, 7 Jun 3:30pm, Mon 5 July 9am, 2 Aug 3:30pm, 6 Sep, 3:30pm, 11 Oct 3:30pm, 1 Nov 3:30pm, 6 Dec 9am. www.lhc.qld.edu.au

Clairvaux MacKillop College (Upper Mt Gravatt) Catholic Co-ed Yr 7-12 College Tours: F ​ ridays 7 May, 18 Jun, 30 Jul, 8 Oct. All tours 9am-11am. www.cvxmck.edu.au

Marist College (Ashgrove) Catholic Boys’ Yr 5-12. College Tours: Fridays 14 May, 30 Jul, 15 Oct. All tours 9:15am–11:30 am. www.marash.qld.edu.au

Genesis Christian College (Bray Park) Indep Co-ed Prep-Yr 12. Open Mornings: Tue 18 May (Primary focus), Tue 17 Aug (Secondary focus), Tue 2 Nov (Secondary focus). 9am-11am. www.genesis.qld.edu.au

Mary MacKillop College (Nundah) Catholic Girl’s Yr 7-12 Open Day: Sun 16 May 10am-1pm. www.mmc.qld.edu.au

Grace Lutheran College (Caboolture) Co-ed Secondary College Yr 7-12 Open Day: Fri 7 May 3:30pm-7pm. www.glc.qld.edu.au

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John Paul College (Daisy Hill) Co-ed Early Years-Yr 12. Open Days: Secondary: Thursdays 27 May, 21 Oct, all 9am-11am. Primary: Thursdays 10 Jun, 7 Oct, all 9am-11am. Whole School Open Day: Wed 11 Aug 9am-12pm. www.johnpaulcollege.com.au

Moreton Bay Boys’ College (Manly West) Indep Boys’ College Pre-Prep-Yr 12. Open Day: Wed 9 Jun. Head of College Tour: Fri 30 Apr. Register to attend. www.mbbc.qld.edu.au

Your Local Families Magazine April / May 2021 www.familiesmagazine.com.au

Education Mount Alvernia College (Kedron) Catholic Girls’ Yr 7-12 Open Day: Sun 16 May 10am-1pm. www.mta.qld.edu.au

Southern Cross Catholic College (Scarborough) Catholic Co-ed Prep-Yr 12. Open Day: Sun 23 May, 10am-1pm. Please register attendance. www.sccc.qld.edu.au

Mt Maria College (Mitchelton) Catholic Co-ed Yr 7-12 Open Day: Wed 12 May. www.mtmaria.qld.edu.au Northside Christian College (Everton Park) Co-ed Kindy–Yr 12 Prep Open Morning: Wed 5 May 9am–11am. Principal’s Tour (Junior School): Tue 9 Jun 9am–11:00am. Principal’s Tour (Prep Focus): Tue 24 Aug 9am–11am. Principal’s Tour (Secondary School): Tue 7 Sep 9am–11am. www.northside.qld.edu.au Our Lady’s College (Annerley) Catholic Girls’ Yr 7-12. Open Day: Sat 15 May 10am-1pm. College Tours: Fridays 30 Apr, 28 May, 25 Jun, 30 Jul, all tours 8am. www.ourladyscollege.qld.edu.au Padua College (Kedron) Catholic Boys’ Yr 5-12. Open Day: Sun 16 May 10am–1pm. Rector’s Tours: Tuesdays 20 Jul, 7 Sep. www.padua.qld.edu.au

St John Fisher College (Bracken Ridge) Catholic Girls’ Yr 7-12 Open Day: Thu 20 May 3:30-6:30pm. Online regustration is essential. www.sjfc.qld.edu.au St John’s Anglican College (Forest Lake) Indep Co-ed Kindy-Yr 12 Open Days: Wed 26 May (Middle and Senior); Tue 1 Jun (Junior School); Sat 7 Aug (Kindergarten); Wed 8 Sep (Twilight Prep–Yr 12). www.stjohnsanglicancollege.com.au St Joseph’s Nudgee College (Boondall) Catholic Boys’ Day & Boarding Yr 5-12. Open Days: Sat 22 May & Fri 6 Aug. www.nudgee.com St. Joseph’s College, Gregory Terrace (Spring Hill) Catholic Boys’ Yr 5-12. Open Day: Mon 10 May 3:30-6pm. www.terrace.qld.edu.au

Prince of Peace Lutheran College (Everton Hills) Co-ed K-Yr 12 Senior Open Morning: Wed 5 May 8:45-10:15am. Personal tours by arrangement. www.princeofpeace.qld.edu.au

St Paul’s School (Bald Hills) Indep Anglican Co-ed Pre-prep-Yr 12 Junior Open Days: Saturdays 22 May, 7 Aug, 11 Sep, 23 Oct, all 9-11am.

Yr 7 Open Mornings: Fri 21 May, Wed 14 Jul, Wed 15 Sep, all 9-10:45am.

Headmasters Tours throughout the year. www.stpauls.qld.edu.au

Queensland Academies (Kelvin Grove, Southport) Yr 10-12.

(Toowong) Yr 7-12. Kelvin Grove Open Day: Sat 29 May, 10am-3pm qa.eq.edu.au

Stuartholme School (Toowong) Catholic Girls’ School Yr 7-12 Action Tour Dates: Fri 28 May, Mon 9 Aug, Tue 17 Sep, Mon 11 Oct. Register to attend: www.stuartholme.com

Redeemer Lutheran College (Rochedale) Co-ed Prep-Yr 12 Senior Open Morning: Fri 7 May. Personal tours by appointment. www.redeemer.com.au

The Lakes College (North Lakes) Indep Co-ed Prep-Yr 12.

Open Mornings: Tue 18 May, Wed 11 Aug, Tue 19 Oct. www.thelakescollege.com.au

Somerville House (South Brisbane) Indep Co-ed Pre-Prep & Girls’ Prep-Yr 12 with Boarding Yr 6-12. Tours: Thu 29 Apr, Tue 18 May, Thu 17 Jun, Tue 20 Jul, Thu 26 Aug, Tue 12 Oct, Thu 25 Nov. All tours 9am-10:30am. www.somerville.qld.edu.au/events/somertours

The Springfield Anglican College (Springfield) Indep Co-ed Anglican Kindy-Yr 12. Open Days: The Tiny Tartan Kindergarten – Sat 7 Aug 9:30am–11am. Open Day: Secondary - Fri 28 May 3:30pm-6pm. www.tsac.qld.edu.au

To promote Your School Open Day in our Back to School issue (Jun/Jul 2021) 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.

Your Local Families Magazine April / May 2021 www.familiesmagazine.com.au

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Family Health

Ideas for Cooking with Kids

KIDS in the KITCHEN

Cooking with kids encourages an interest in nutrition, healthy eating habits, and skills for life.

Learning to gather, prepare and cook your own food is a basic survival skill that all parents naturally want their children to learn. However, in the modern age of fast food and convenience, it can be hard to introduce cooking skills to children, and even harder to get them regularly involved in cooking!

Properly portioning, handling, chopping and cooking ingredients are essential skills for your children to survive outside of home. When your children eventually move out, you’ll want to know that they can prepare their own affordable healthy meals without injury or incident.

Let’s take a look at a few great tips for getting your kids involved in the kitchen.

INCENTIVISE One of the best ways to motivate children to start cooking is to offer it as the only means for them to get their hands on a yummy treat.

It doesn’t necessarily have to be a cake or tray of cookies; as long as it’s a meal your children sincerely enjoy, you should go for a healthy option wherever you can.

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If your kids do not want to make anything healthy, don’t fret as the goal is to get them to start making something. Once you coach them and spark their interest in the cooking, they will naturally want to experiment themselves, and this is where you can introduce new and healthy recipes.

Your Local Families Magazine April / May 2021 www.familiesmagazine.com.au

Family Health MAKE MEAL PREP EASY The main thing that turns many people off home cooking is the time and effort required to create something that is quickly devoured.

People don’t like to spend a long time waiting for a meal, and it can be especially daunting to cook more elaborate dishes that require dozens of ingredients and steps.

For children used to a fast world and frequent instant gratification, this slowing of pace can be doubly hard to handle. Kids are often more easily distracted than adults, so put on some lively music and make all the boring parts of cooking as fun as possible for your kids.

A good idea is to ask the kids what they want to make and preportion the ingredients for them ahead of time. Draw up a recipe plan for them with easily followed steps directing them to pour, stir and (if they are old enough) chop ingredients. You also need to be careful to pick quick, simple recipes on weeknights when kids are tired from school and you’ve spent the day at work.

SHOW THEM A RESTAURANT KITCHEN

This method may sound a little strange at first, but it actually makes a lot of sense. While we wouldn’t expect your children to learn anything directly from a busy commercial kitchen, they’ll get to see professional chefs in action and may develop an interest as a possible future life career.

Even if your kids haven’t expressed an interest in becoming a chef, taking them to a kitchen lets them see lots of adults working with food and gives them a greater appreciation of what you do for them at home.

The next time you take the family to a restaurant, ask one of the staff members if it would be okay for one or more of your children to see what the back of house is like. Very young children may be frightened by the hustle and bustle, so this method is for kids who are a little more mature.

Alternatively, go to a Teppanyaki restaurant, a restaurant with an open kitchen, or one where customers are involved in cooking some of the food. A Korean barbeque restaurant, for example, will allow you and your kids to cook the food just how you like it, and Teppanyaki chefs cook with a theatrical flair that will get your kids excited to have a go themselves!

EXPOSE THEM TO COOKING SHOWS

Another great way to motivate kids is with the power of celebrity, and TV chefs offer plenty of great material to get your kids interested in cooking. Competitive cooking shows like My Kitchen Rules and MasterChef are great examples of shows that make cooking exciting and almost sport-like.

Your kids may not be interested if you try to force them to watch, so leave the program on in the background while doing other things and see if your kids gravitate towards it. Children gain and lose interest in things very quickly, so it is best to slowly expose them to cooking in as many ways as you can without being too obvious.

IF ALL ELSE FAILS…

When all else fails, use your parental authority and insist that your children learn some basic cooking skills. Your child will learn grudgingly, but they will still learn and thank you later in life when they find their independence.

Your Local Families Magazine April / May 2021 www.familiesmagazine.com.au

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Family Health

Talking With CHILDREN ABOUT THEIR PARENT’S Mental Health

Parents often worry that talking openly with their children about mental illness will make things worse. However, when parents and families are supported to have these conversations and offered accurate information, the opposite is true.

Rose Cuff, Executive Director of Satellite Foundation offers some ideas on how parents, carers, and family members can discuss mental illness or mental health challenges with their children.

Parenting, mental health and shame All parents struggle in their parenting role at some point. Life throws up big challenges and can test parents, their relationships inside and outside the family and their life goals. Experiencing mental health challenges is often accompanied by feelings of shame, judgement, blame and fear. This can be amplified if they are also a parent – assumptions can be made that they will automatically not be a ‘good enough’ parent. Their strengths and the uniqueness of their experience with mental health challenges can be lost, misunderstood and miscommunicated.

Why discuss mental health with children?

All parents will come across issues that are challenging to talk about with children. Many issues that used to be taboo such as sex, death, and substance use are more openly discussed and therefore less confusing. However, mental health and in particular mental ill-health are still poorly understood by most. Combined with the stigma of mental illness, this can prevent people from talking about it and asking for help when it might be needed most.

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Children’s understanding Children worry less about something if they understand it. Providing children with opportunities to talk with their parent(s) or other trusted adults about times parents struggle or are unwell, may help reduce their worries. Children often express great relief at knowing that their parent is safe and receiving help, and to know that it is not their fault.

It can be hard to find the right words to explain mental illness to children. A good start is for the adults to find out as much as they can about mental health (and ill-health) and think about how to share this safely with children.

How mental health is described and (mis)understood varies enormously across cultural contexts. Language is used interchangeably throughout this – mental ill health, emotional and social wellbeing, mental health challenges, mental illness, mental distress. Use the language that best fits you and your family and remember that children are better off with simple, accurate, ageappropriate information.

Your Local Families Magazine April / May 2021 www.familiesmagazine.com.au

Family Health Some key messages for children: You are not the cause of your parent’s mental health challenges

You can talk to your parent/family member/teacher/ friend about what is happening at home

It is not your job to fix things

Taking care of and being loving towards yourself is important.

Having fun is important!

All your feelings are OK! It’s important to find ways to express them –through talking, sport, music, art, drama, writing, play

You are loved, strong, and cared about

Setting up and preparing for conversations If children ask questions about their parent’s mental health, this usually means they want answers and offers a good window of opportunity.

• Choose a space and time that is comfortable for everyone involved

Your parent will have ups and downs like any person

You will not automatically have the same mental health challenges as your parent of asthma, like mental illness, is unknown but it is good to know what the triggers are, how to try preventing attacks, and how to help the person. Another helpful analogy is the weather; it is often unpredictable and is something we can’t control. But we can decide how we want to feel about it. While living with and around someone who experiences mental health challenges can sometimes feel like being in a wild storm, it can also be as varied as the colours of a rainbow (after the storm!) Other ways to approach talking with children about mental health include using drawings or puppets.

Checking in

• Involve family members wherever possible • Be realistic about what can be achieved • Check out with children what they think and already know • Reassure (children may feel awkward when talking about these kinds of things) • Listen carefully! Don’t try to ‘interpret’ what they are asking • Ask ‘open’ questions, encourage children to put things in their own words • Be yourself. Use a clear, simple manner and avoid tones that imply pity or sound patronising • Be honest. You may not have all the answers. Reassure your child by saying, “Wow, that is a really interesting question! Can I think more about it and get back to you?”

• Have ready some paper, coloured pencils, modelling clay or playdough, art or craft materials

Using examples Talking to children about mental health using a well-recognised analogy such as asthma can be helpful. Asthma can occur ‘out of the blue’ and can be frightening if the attack is severe. The cause

After using examples like those above, parents/carers/health workers/teachers can elaborate or offer more time for questions.

Keep checking in to make sure the child understands what you are saying, and that you have heard them correctly. Sometimes, even with everyone trying to help, crises can occur, and these times can be very worrying and scary, particularly for children. A Family Action Plan can be created to avoid making last-minute decisions when everyone might be very stressed. It should include 24-hour numbers that a child can call and instructions for their care when their parents are unwell or unavailable.

Children understand things differently at different ages; use your unique understanding of your child to guide you. Find trusted adults to help you. But above all, remember you are the expert in your child’s life and know them best. Take time for yourself, think about self-care and self-compassion as integral parts of your life and celebrate your role as a parent in all its complexities.

Satellite Foundation is a not-for-profit that connects and empowers children and young people where their parent or family member has a mental illness or mental health challenges. Visit www.satellitefoundation.org.au for more information.

Your Local Families Magazine April / May 2021 www.familiesmagazine.com.au

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Family Health

Where do friends fit-in?

By Talking Families

We’d all love the Friends with a capital F situation – a tight-knit group of easy-going mates, free to grab coffee at a moment’s notice. Helping us out with life stuff, no questions asked. Busy schedules and demands not getting in the way of a good time. Adult life doesn’t always look so picture perfect though.

Friends come and go. Schedules clash. And, “Sorry, I can’t. I’m real busy,” can become a catch phrase.

It’s funny how when we were younger, friends were often our priority… but as we get older, no one really teaches us how to figure out all the weird social changes.

Friendships change Being a parent does funny things to our social circles. We grow distant with some mates we had heaps in common with – like, if they’ve taken different paths to us. Or if we’ve got our hands full just figuring out how to parent, let alone meeting a social calendar.

But connecting with others is important for our health. Having a few good friends improves our confidence, enjoyment of life, and can even give us the occasional reality-check when our head is spinning.

that the kids will enjoy too – like a movie, or family-friendly cafes. Joining a Dads group or Mums group with people who are flexible because they’re juggling kids too. Or simply organising a chat over a cup of tea instead of a big outing. As your life changes – find new ways to connect with people that work for you.

If you’re interested in joining a parent group, but not sure where to look visit www.oneplace.org.au and find services hosting parent groups across Queensland.

So, how do we make sure we’re still connecting with mates, and other people in general, when our number 1 focus is parenting?

Communication is key First, knowing it’s okay, and even normal for our circles to change throughout life takes a lot of pressure off. It doesn’t mean it’s forever. If things are busy, spelling out to our mates that they mean a lot, but they have to be patient with us is sometimes a necessary step. Communication is key.

Patience and staying open And if you’ve moved to somewhere new, or lost touch with friends or relatives, be patient with yourself. It takes time to build up social groups and support networks, especially as a busy parent. In the meantime, connecting with people in small ways can add a bit of cheer to your day. Simple things like giving the neighbour a wave, chatting to your local coffee shop owner, or making small talk with another parent at the park. Being open to different cultures, opinions, and ways of life can also enrich your life and widen your network. If you get a bit nervous meeting new people, keep in mind that they are often more like us than we realise!

Bite-sized connections And if you’ve already got a bunch of mates but find it hard to make time – bite size connections are a lot easier than big events. Asking a neighbour to drop by so you can duck to the loo or have a shower (heaven with a new-born!), then using the time to have a quick chat. Calling a mate for ten minutes during lunch if you’ve been out of touch. You could even chat with someone at Parentline. Or maybe it’s about doing stuff with your mates

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Your Local Families Magazine April / May 2021 www.familiesmagazine.com.au

Families Online

Have You Seen…?

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!

May the Fourth is Star Wars Day! If you are – or you know – a Star Wars fan, we have some great ideas for celebrating Star Wars Day under the Health & Parenting – Toys & Learning Aids tab.

Where do you go when YOU need a little TLC, pampering, alone time or you just wanna have fun? We’ve put together a list of the best venues in our Ultimate Guide to Brisbane for Women.

Find it under the Holidays – Mother’s Day tab.

www.familiesmagazine.com.au/how-tocelebrate-star-wars-day

www.familiesmagazine.com.au/brisbane-forwomen

Nothing can be more frustrating than the inability to communicate with your baby.

If only you knew what they were thinking or wanting. Baby sign language can help!

Find out how under the Clubs & Classes – Language & Baby Development tab.

Developmental Language Disorder or DLD, affects 1 in 14 children causing difficulties with speaking and understanding for no known reason. If you suspect your child might have DLD, find out more under the Health & Parenting – Special Needs Support tab.

www.familiesmagazine.com.au/babysign-language

www.familiesmagazine.com.au/what-isdevelopmental-language-disorder-dld

Your Local Families Magazine April / May 2021 www.familiesmagazine.com.au

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Families Travel

Things to do in

BUNDABERG WITH KIDS

Queensland is THE place to be at the moment, and how lucky are we to get to spend the school holidays here! There are many wonderful “staycation” destinations within reach of Brisbane, and we recently explored one of our favourites - Bundaberg - to bring you the tried-and-tested best things to do with kids.

Getting to Bundaberg

Alexandra Park Zoo

Bundaberg is about 4.5 hours north of Brisbane. If you don’t fancy the drive, you can get there in comfort on one of three trains that make the journey from Brisbane daily. The travel time by train varies from 4.5 to 6 hours depending on the route and number of stops, but you will have the advantage of comfortable reclining seats with a drop-down table, a food and drinks service, air-conditioning and – on some services – free wi-fi.

Alexandra Park Zoo is a wonderful small zoo in the Bundaberg CBD, ideally located next to Alexandra Park with its picnic facilities, playground, and riverside walking track.

If you like the flexibility and independence of driving, there are many great places to stop along the way to break up the journey. The following places are great for a quick rest, or make a proper road trip of your holiday by spending several days in each destination.

• Beerwah • Palmview • Noosa Heads • Gympie • Hervey Bay A long drive with the kids can be a challenge. Load hours of movies or music onto their devices for planned quiet stretches or delve back into your childhood to revive those favourite car games; Spotto, I Spy, Number Plate Bingo etc. to ramp up the entertainment value!

The best of Bundaberg There are lots of great ways to fill your time in Bundaberg. History and beaches and parks and animals and islands and… you’ll be spoilt for choice! These are our favourite Bundaberg activities and venues as chosen by kids.

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The zoo is home to numerous animals including reptiles, birds, Australian natives and Cotton Top Tamarins. Some of the residents were donated to the zoo by locals, and others obtained through Zoos interstate.

The zoo is FREE to enter, so pack a picnic and enjoy a relaxing budget-friendly day out exploring the zoo and park.

The Bundaberg Barrel Bundaberg is famous for its soft drinks, so a visit to the Bundaberg Barrell is a must! This surprisingly turned out to be one of the most favourite things we did.

After your free self-guided tour through the small gallery, you can book a tasting experience. You are invited to sample ALL the soft drink brews and play “guess the flavour” on the smellography wall, and when you leave, you can take home a mixed 6 pack of your favourite drinks!

Day cruise to Lady Musgrave Island You can book a trip out to the Southern Great Barrier Reef to visit Lady Musgrave Island easily from Bundaberg. You will depart from the Bundaberg

Your Local Families Magazine April / May 2021 www.familiesmagazine.com.au

Families Travel

Port Marina - just 20 minutes from the town centre and be out experiencing one of the Seven Wonders of the Natural world in no time

self-guided walking tours for day visitors.

Journey aboard a high-speed catamaran to enjoy 5 hours at the only coral cay island in the Great Barrier Reef that is surrounded by a protected and wildlife-rich reef lagoon. This is the perfect playground for adventurers with complimentary snorkel equipment hire, guided island walks and glass bottom boat rides over the coral reef gardens and marine life all included.

Not only is Splitters Farm a working farm, it’s also a safe haven and sanctuary for rescued farm animals.

The experience also includes a morning tea and gourmet lunch so you can focus on simply enjoying your trip.

TIP: Visit the link at the end of this article for discounted tickets!

Bundaberg Botanic Gardens You might think the kids wouldn’t be interested in visiting gardens, but the Bundaberg Botanic Gardens also has lagoons filled with eels and turtles, a fabulous playground, a steam train to take you on a 15-minute tour, heaps of picnic and play space, and a surprising number of ‘museums’ to visit!

Hinkler Hall of Aviation The Hinkler Hall of Aviation in the Botanic Gardens is all about Bert Hinkler – a local aviation pioneer. In the museum, you will learn about his life and his contributions to modern flight. We love the interactive experiences in the museum. Some of the popular exhibits include the flight simulators, the Globe Theatre, and the Hinkler House virtual tour.

Fairy Mead House Sugar Museum The Fairymead House Sugar Museum is another spectacular attraction at the Bundaberg Botanic Gardens. Built in 1890, this amazing house includes the Sugar History Museum, exploring the development of the local sugar industry from its earliest days.

Splitters Farm Splitters Farm is a wonderful hidden gem just ten minutes north of Bundaberg offering a unique rural camping and farm stay experience, and

The kids loved feeding the animals who were super friendly, and there is a giant playground with a sandpit and diggers to help kids burn off any leftover energy. We noticed there was plenty of room for a picnic, and highly recommended Splitters Farm for a visit as you’ll be supporting a great cause.

Mon Repos Turtle Centre Mon Repos supports the largest concentration of nesting marine turtles on the eastern Australian mainland, and if you time your visit right you can even watch the baby turtles hatch!

Kids can have fun learning all about the turtles and exploring the tools and techniques used to look after them in the Junior Discovery Zone.

Mon Repos Turtle Centre is only 15-minutes outside of Bundaberg in the Mon Repos Conservation Park – make a full day of it and explore the park and beach too!

There is so much to see and do to fill up your itinerary in Bundaberg.

For a full list of all the beaches, parks, playgrounds and venues we visited, head to www.getoutwithkids.com.au/things -to-do-in-bundaberg-with-kids.

Use your phone’s camera to scan the QR code to go to the full article which includes family friendly accommodation suggestions for all budgets!

Your Local Families Magazine April / May 2021 www.familiesmagazine.com.au

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#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 (Jun/Jul 2021) send your entry by 5pm on Friday 7 May 2021. Email Natalie – 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? - APRIL / MAY 2021 BRISBANE -

Due to the ongoing challenges with managing COVID-19 and community events we strongly encourage you to check in with each venue for the most up to date information.

ROMA STREET PARKLANDS The Sound Society Pull up a rug in Brisbane’s biggest sub-tropical backyard, relax and listen to smooth, jazzy tunes at The Sound Society. To satisfy your lunchtime cravings, The Garden Room Café will be creating picnic hampers specially curated for the event. Feel free to pack your own picnic should you not wish to pre-order from the Café. Sun 4 April & Sun 2 May. www.familiesmagazine.com.au/venue/ roma-street-parkland

MUSEUM OF BRISBANE Bauhaus Now: ART+DESIGN+ARCHITECTURE Step into a colourful world of history and design and explore the legacy of the Bauhaus in this amazing FREE exhibition.

Make sure you pick up your take-home activity kit, where you can make your very own Bauhaus inspired creation. Bookings required. Until 18 April.

Climb the Clock Tower An absolute ‘mustdo’ for anyone in Brisbane, get whizzed to the top of City Hall’s famous Clock Tower through an original hand operated lift from the 1930s. Get a bird’s eye view of the city and find out about the amazing history of this Brisbane icon. Then, take a peek behind the scenes of City Hall with a FREE tour of one of Brisbane’s most beautiful buildings.

Bookings required.

The Storytellers Step into The Storytellers, a FREE exhibition, and uncover the hidden

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histories, myths and tales of Brisbane as told by the contemporary writers of our city.

Ever wondered what it would be like to spend a night in Boggo Road Gaol, what Kangaroo Point has to do with kangaroos, or what went on at your Nan’s place during the Second World War? Step into an immersive story book landscape of Brisbane and relax around the kitchen table, or take a seat at the tram stop to discover the personal, funny, inspiring and darker stories of Brisbane. Bookings required. www.familiesmagazine.com.au/venue/ museum-of-brisbane

QUT GARDENS THEATRE

including the star of the show – The Very Hungry Caterpillar – and an Australian cast who bring these beloved books to life on stage. Bookings required. 8-11 April.

Room on the Broom Great news for Julia Donaldson fans! The witch, cat, dog, bird and frog are back! But watch out for the fiery dragon, or he just might get witch and chips for his tea. The award-winning team behind The Gruffalo and The Gruffalo’s Child return with songs, laughs and scary fun for children aged 3 and up. Bookings required. 24-28 April. www.familiesmagazine.com.au/venue/ gardens-theatre-2

QUEENSLAND GALLERY OF MODERN ART

Magic Beach Alison Lester AM’s classic book comes to life on stage in a wonderful world of text, song, light, shadow and movement for children aged 3-8 years. Every year, an everyday family goes on a beach holiday.

This isn’t just any beach – it’s Magic Beach, where everything you can imagine becomes real. But this year is different. As the eldest child begins to grow up, does she have to leave the magic behind? Bookings required.

6-10 April.

The Very Hungry Caterpillar One of the mostread and famous children’s books of all time, The Very Hungry Caterpillar emerges off the page in a masterful theatrical experience for children 18 months+ and their adults. Created by Jonathan Rockefeller, the production features a menagerie of over 75 magical puppets,

Your Local Families Magazine April / May 2021 www.familiesmagazine.com.au

The Motorcycle: Design, Art, Desire This world-exclusive exhibition, only in Brisbane, showcases the art, design and history of one of the most iconic objects of the last 150 years, the motorcycle. Featuring more than 100 innovative and influential motorcycles from the 1860s to present day, it considers the iconic vehicle from the perspective of social history, popular culture, design and technology. Highlights of the exhibition include an 1871 Perreaux, the first steam-powered velocipede and oldest known motorcycle in the world, and the earliest Australian-designed and built machines including a Spencer produced in Brisbane in 1906! Bookings are essential.

Until 26 April. www.familiesmagazine.com.au/venue/ queensland-gallery-of-modern-art

STATE LIBRARY OF QUEENSLAND Cut Copy: Brisbane Music Posters 1977–87 If you love Brisbane’s music scene, be sure to visit Cut Copy. Step back to Brisbane in the 70s and 80s, where the city’s conservative climate sparked youth

#FamiliesMagFun Wild State Gallery & Discovery Centre Showcasing more than 1300 objects, discover, play and have fun in this exciting FREE space. Specialist staff are on hand to answer questions and identify objects – from archaeology to palaeontology, cultural history to earth sciences and of course, questions about insects, reptiles, arachnids and mammals. See live snakes, stick insects and giant cockroaches – along with the Meet the Curator sessions. rebellion, do-it-yourself expression and underground music. Made with whatever was on hand, music posters were a creative outlet for youth and a snapshot into the mood of the era. From The Go-Betweens to The Leftovers, Razar to The Riptides, dig deep into Brisbane’s alternative music past and the design work that took it to the streets at this FREE exhibition. Bookings required. Until 9 May.

www.familiesmagazine.com.au/venue/ queensland-museum

www.familiesmagazine.com.au/venue/ state-library-of-queensland-2/

QUEENSLAND MUSEUM Sea Monsters: Prehistoric Ocean Predators While dinosaurs may have ruled the land, giant marine reptiles hunted the depths of the sea. See some of the largest, fiercest and most successful predators ever that lived in Earth’s oceans. The Sea Monsters exhibition combines real fossils from millions of years ago, gigantic replicas including a 13m long Elasmosaurus and 9m Prognathdon, 180-degree immersive video that puts you right inside the action, handson interactives and much more. Discover the secrets of these monsters of the deep in this exciting exhibition that will delight all ages! Bookings required. Until 3 May.

Sea Monsters: Torchlight Tours As the sun begins to set, and the lights go off, the creatures of the deep come to life in a special tour of Sea Monsters by torchlight.

Be guided by the museum educators on a journey back in time to explore the huge ancient predators that once ruled the oceans. This intimate experience includes an opportunity to explore the exhibition with the lights on after the torchlight tour concludes. Ideal for children 5 - 12 years.

Bookings required. 6-9 April.

Lost Creatures Get up close to some of Queensland’s long-lost inhabitants, including dinosaurs, giant marine reptiles and megafauna. Featuring some of the most significant fossil finds, including the famous Muttaburrasaurus reconstruction and new 3D modelling of Queensland dinosaurs, this is a larger than life FREE exhibition you won’t want to miss!

mesmerised. Stay on the edge of your seat as showgirls levitate, disappear and fly high in the air. Acclaimed illusionist and Australia’s Got Talent finalist Michael Boyd presents death-defying escapes, cutting edge illusions and so much more. Bookings required. 11 & 12 April.

SPARKLAB SCIENCENTRE Ignite your imagination in SparkLab, an interactive Sciencentre experience where you’ll be free to follow your curiosity and bring out your inner scientist as you question, investigate and wonder about the world around you. Explore 40 interactive exhibits across three zones and discover how science, technology, engineering and maths (STEM) affect your everyday world.

Bookings required. www.familiesmagazine.com.au/event/ sparklab-sciencentre-south-brisbane

QPAC Alice in Wonderland For the first time ever at QPAC, experience Lewis Carroll’s timeless classic with this internationally acclaimed theatre masterpiece. Meet the White Rabbit, the eccentric Mad Hatter, the Cheshire Cat and of course the boisterous Queen of Hearts as a cast of brilliant actors bring over 20 curious characters to life. Featuring breathtaking costuming and puppetry, this production of Alice in Wonderland will thrill children and adults alike. Don’t be late for this very important date! Tumble down the rabbit hole and join Alice on her captivating and magical adventure. Bookings required.

Wed 7 & Thurs 8 April.

Cinematic: Heroes & Heroines The Queensland Symphony Orchestra’s signature Cinematic concert returns for another year this April! Cinematic presents a mix of music from the movies, with a bit of classical thrown in, to create a music experience like no other. The theme of this concert is Heroes and Heroines – a tribute to heroic characters, big and small, super and ordinary, across the ages. From blockbuster classical to blockbuster films, you’ll hear why – when it comes to music of action and inspiration – there is nothing more powerful than a live symphony orchestra. Bookings required. Sat 24 April.

Beauty & the Beast The Victorian State Ballet’s Beauty & The Beast is rich with vibrant colour, virtue, sensibility, grace, intrigue and outstanding skill. Don’t miss all your favourite characters come to life, exhilarating solos and pas de deuxs with a cast of leading classical ballet artists from across Australia and abroad. This is classical ballet at its finest! A memorable experience for the whole family. This event includes a meet & greet with the cast after the show.

Bookings required. Sat 22 May. www.familiesmagazine.com.au/venue/ qpac/

BRISBANE CONVENTION CENTRE

Circus of Illusion – A Truly Magical Show Escape into a world where sawdust and sequins join cutting edge illusions. The ringmaster will take you on a journey where he blends world-class circus artists, and spellbinding magic that will leave you

The Australasian Embroidery Convention Experience three days of stitching bliss with traditional and modern classes focusing on embroidery techniques. The event will include a dedicated expo of retailers selling embroidery supplies for both hand and machine embroidery, competitions to enter, displays of work, and social events. Plus, the three-day class program will include gorgeous projects to stitch guided by top international and local teachers. Bookings required. 16-18 April. www.familiesmagazine.com.au/venue/ brisbane-convention-exhibition-centre

Your Local Families Magazine April / May 2021 www.familiesmagazine.com.au

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#FamiliesMagFun APRIL 2021

Throughout April & May On the Move | Ipswich Enter an interactive transport world created in collaboration with illustrator James Gulliver Hancock in this FREE exhibition. Along the way you’ll discover fascinating facts about different modes of transport and types of vehicles. Construct a paper plane and see how it flies, and build a vehicle of the future to test on the track. Discover how transportation works in busy cities, and how the fuel choices you make can have a positive impact on the environment. Bookings required. Ipswich Art Gallery. www.familiesmagazine.com.au/event/on-the-move Until 12 April Brisbane Cycling Festival | Brisbane Get ready for the ride of your life when the Brisbane Cycling Festival rolls into the river city for 2021! The festival encourages you to hop on your bike with professional, amateur and mass participation events including the very popular Tour de Brisbane and the AusCycling Track Nationals. Events will be held at the celebrated Anna Meares Velodrome and other venues around Brisbane.

This year family friendly cycling activities are included in the festival. Bookings required. www.familiesmagazine.com.au/event/brisbane-cycling-festival

Until 18 April Brickman® Wonders of the World | Dreamworld Visit the Brickman® Wonders of the World exhibit at Dreamworld and see over 45 large-scale LEGO® brick models from across the globe! Some of the models that have appeared at previous exhibits have included a giant Empire State Building with King Kong, Big Ben, Leaning Tower of Pisa and even Michelangelo’s Statue of David all made from LEGO® Bricks. We can’t wait to see what will be on show at Dreamworld! Each model includes a plaque with information about the real place, item or vehicle as well as behind-the-scenes stories explaining how they were built. Dreamworld. www.familiesmagazine.com.au/event/brickman-wonders-ofthe-world Until 18 April Victoria Park Easter Candyland Putt Putt | Herston Make your Easter eggs-tra special and have the ultimate sugar hit at Victoria Park’s Easter Candyland Putt Putt. For the first time ever, they’re dressing the course up as a magical Candyland where you can play amongst giant ice-creams, Easter eggs and lollipops! This year, there will be four feature holes to play including the Fairy Floss Fairway, Easter Eggstravaganza, Sugar Hit and see where the Easter bunny lives at Bunny’s Burrow! Bookings required. Victoria Park. www.familiesmagazine.com.au/event/easter-candyland-puttputt-herston

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Until 18 April Fruit Salad, Tales of a Convent Cat | Brisbane Discover one of Brisbane’s hidden cultural gems, Adderton: house & heart of mercy. There’s plenty of FREE activities to capture the imagination in the Mini Mercy children’s space.

Armed with a free copy of the beautifully illustrated activity book, Fruit Salad, the adventurous tales of a Convent Cat, children can discover simple ways to make a positive difference in the world. Bookings required. Adderton House. www.familiesmagazine.com.au/event/fruit-salad-tales-of-aconvent-cat-brisbane Thurs 1 April Kids Music Beat | Toowong Enjoy the great outdoors with your little ones while you move and make music together at this FREE workshop. You will share a special time with other parents, while helping your little ones learn and grow through musical play and movement. Take home tips for how to keep grooving and creating musical moments at home provided.

Brisbane Botanic Gardens, Mt Coot-tha. www.familiesmagazine.com.au/event/kids-music-beat-toowong Fri 2 April Redcliffe Festival of Sails | Redcliffe This Good Friday, point the steering wheel towards Redcliffe and spend the day by the seaside. Easter Bunny, will make an appearance via water this year and kids will love the FREE Easter Egg Hunt. Plus, there will be a Kids Zone jam-packed with children’s entertainment, stalls and activities. The beach will come to life with LIVE sand sculpting displays, a giant egg and spoon race, beach sports and more! Journey through the Pop-up Ice-cream Fair, dedicated to everything sweet, creamy, and frozen, and set your tastebuds dancing at one of the many food trucks. www.familiesmagazine.com.au/event/redcliffe-festival-sailsredcliffe Fri 2 April Bluewater Festival | Shorncliffe The Bluewater festival is held on the scenic foreshore at Shorncliffe in conjunction with the annual Brisbane to Gladstone Yacht Race.

It’s a perfect vantage point to watch the start of this iconic race plus an opportunity to see the Multihull Yacht race start up close off the Pier. Head to Lower Moora Park, Shorncliffe for FREE entry to the festival with food, markets, and entertainment throughout the day including live bands, kids’ activities, rides, plus fireworks in the evening. www.familiesmagazine.com.au/event/bluewater-festivalshorncliffe Sat 3 April Easter on the Esplanade | Surfers Paradise The bunnies will be coming out of their burrows for Easter at the Surfers Paradise Beachfront Markets. Get eggcited for this FREE Easter event with themed decorations, local handmade gifts, epic beats, sweets and treats and endless amounts of fun and activities for little bunnies. Plus, the Easter Bunny will be bouncing around the 100+ stalls. The Esplanade, Surfers Paradise. www.familiesmagazine.com.au/event/easter-on-the-esplanade Sat 3 – Sat 17 April Rainbow Fish | Brisbane Brisbane Arts Theatre presents Rainbow Fish, the award-winning book live on stage with its wonderful message of friendship and belonging.

With shiny, multi-colored scales, Rainbow Fish is the most beautiful fish in the ocean. When Rainbow Fish refuses to share their vibrant, shimmering scales, the whole ocean seems to turn against the vain creature. Unhappy that no one adores them anymore, the Rainbow Fish seeks out the wise Octopus, who helps them learn that it’s far better to be admired for being kind than for being beautiful. Bookings required. Brisbane Arts Theatre. www.familiesmagazine.com.au/event/rainbow-fish-brisbane Sat 3 – Sun 18 April Circus Train | Ipswich Roll up! Roll up!

Grab the kids to see some of Queensland’s circus train history including real life steam trains, diesel locomotives and more.

Have fun in Action Alley playing circus games and testing your skills with hula hoops and stilt walking. Circus entertainment will unfold daily at 10:30am, 11:30am and 12:30pm. Kids can also get creative in the craft area and make their own clown hat.

Bookings required. The Workshops Rail Museum. www.familiesmagazine.com.au/event/circus-train-ipswich

Your Local Families Magazine April / May 2021 www.familiesmagazine.com.au

#FamiliesMagFun Sun 4 April Easter Eggstravaganza | Sandstone Point Hop on over to the Sandstone Point Hotel annual Easter Sunday Eggstravaganza! The Easter egg hunt is back with over 6,000 eggs to find! Enjoy live music, kids rides, entertainment and Australia’s largest inflatable theme park, The Inflatable Factory!

Plus, there will be a visit from the Easter Bunny! Entry to the event is FREE but you must pre-register. Sandstone Point Hotel. www.familiesmagazine.com.au/event/easter-eggstravaganzasandstone-point-hotel Wed 7 April The Magnificent Bubble Show | Redcliffe Everyone loves bubbles! Experience some of the most amazing bubbles, from cute tiny bubbles to stunning giant bubbles so big you may be chosen to go inside one. How about having a bubble volcano on your hand? Space Rocket bubbles, and smoke bubbles are just the beginning. Stay for the bubble workshop after the show!

It’s fun, creative and hands on. Bookings required. Redcliffe Entertainment Centre. www.familiesmagazine.com.au/event/the-magnificent-bubbleshow-redcliffe Wed 7 & Fri 9 April Tinker Lab - Invent Your Own Scrap-Bot | Wooloongabba The motto in the Reverse Garbage Tinker Lab is, “if you can think it, you can build it” - and that’s what they’ll be doing this Easter as they tinker with salvaged scraps of materials to construct the ultimate machine! Whether it be a truck, rocket or a rescue robot, you can build it. These workshops are suitable for children 4-12 years. Bookings required. Reverse Garbage. www.familiesmagazine.com.au/event/invent-your-own-scrap-bot Wed 7- Fri 9 April Autumn Earth Kids | Windsor Earth Kids at Northey Street City Farm is an experiential program of outdoor discovery that supports children to become ‘nature smart’. Kids will learn about the animals and plants at the Farm through observation and supported questioning, explore Indigenous knowledge, experiment with Earth Arts and bushcraft skills, and put permaculture into practice. Bookings required. Northey Street City Farm. www.familiesmagazine.com.au/event/autumn-earth-kids-windsor

Fri 9 – Sat 10 April Escape From Trash Mountain | Cleveland A puppet show with sustainability at its heart, Escape From Trash Mountain is a poignant look at how good relationships and optimism are the key to saving our planet. Watch in amazement as a large mountain of trash transforms into a cave and becomes the epic playground for heroes to fight trash bats, navigate treacherous ravines and outwit hideous trash monsters! The whole family will be captivated as two performers operate 17 different puppets and a transforming trash mountain to bring the show to life. Bookings required. Redlands Performing Arts Centre. www.familiesmagazine.com.au/event/escape-from-trashmountain-cleveland Sat 10 April The New Tales of Quinn | Sunnybank Imagine an interactive theatre show where you help the storyteller spin new tales for their hero, Quinn. It’s up to you to send Quinn on an adventure they’ve never been on before! What new lands will they explore and what mystical objects will they discover? What strange creatures will Quinn encounter and who will they meet – a giant? A pirate? A witch? You decide! This event is provided for FREE by the Lord Mayor’s Children’s Program. Bookings required. SUNPAC. www.familiesmagazine.com.au/event/the-new-tales-of-quinn

Your Local Families Magazine April / May 2021 www.familiesmagazine.com.au

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#FamiliesMagFun Mon 12- Fri 16 April Kids Dig It! Archaeology Family Fun | Caboolture Did you know there is more to archaeology than digging? These school holidays kids can explore the other elements of archaeology including: coprolite investigations, pottery reconstructions, dendrochronology and more. Archery a nd excavations will be included. The Museum will have crafts to try and artefacts to see. Bookings required. Abbey Museum of Art & Archaeology. www.familiesmagazine.com.au/event/kids-dig-it-archaeologyfamily-fun-caboolture

and stories. Using age-appropriate activities based on the Kodaly and Orff teaching methods, children will play percussion instruments and explore the show’s themes of harmony, adventure and acceptance in a fun and multi-sensory approach.

Bookings required. SUNPAC. www.familiesmagazine.com.au/event/hoot-and-meow-inharmony-workshop-sunnybank Sat 24 & Sun 25 April Paw Patrol Live! “Race to the Rescue” | Boondall Based on Nickelodeon’s hit animated TV series, PAW Patrol Live! brings your favourite pups to the stage for an action-packed, high-energy musical adventure. When Mayor Goodway goes missing the day of the Great Adventure Bay Race it’s the PAW Patrol to the rescue! The show features Bunraku puppetry, an innovative costuming approach that brings the PAW Patrol characters to life on stage, along with their vehicles and packs. Bookings required. Brisbane Entertainment Centre. www.familiesmagazine.com.au/event/paw-patrol-live-race-tothe-rescue-boondall

Wed 14 & Thurs 15 April The Owl and the Pussycat | Ipswich Experience an enchanting and intimate theatrical performance for families, based on Edward Lear’s beloved childhood poem. Created by a national team of award-winning artists for children 4-10 years, be swept away in this all-new opera, featuring stunning vocals, interactive theatre, puppetry and a troupe of musical Puffins. You might even meet a honey-hooked Sea Bear, an itty bitty Kitty and a punky Piggy Wig. Bookings required. Ipswich Civic Theatre. www.familiesmagazine.com.au/event/the-owl-and-the-pussycatipswich Fri 16 – Sun 18 April The Pirates of Penzance | Bowen Hills The rollicking band of pirates are back! Lynch & Paterson’s highly acclaimed and all-new production of Gilbert and Sullivan’s classic operetta will make port in Brisbane again in April 2021.

With all new comedy, costumes and choreography, relive all of your favourite Pirate songs with a 25-piece orchestra, Cadenza Chamber Players, and let this “musical masterpiece” blow you away. Bookings required. Twelfth Night Theatre. www.familiesmagazine.com.au/event/the-pirates-of-penzancebowen-hills Sat 17 April The Owl & the Pussycat | Sunnybank In a pea green boat, an owl and a pussycat sail across the sea for a year and a day to fair Bong-tree Bay. Adventure calls, new encounters await and love conquers all in a nostalgic musical journey and irresistible blend of romance and nonsense. Set sail with this charming show for children that explores the universal themes of love, adventure, harmony and acceptance. Bookings required. SUNPAC. www.familiesmagazine.com.au/event/the-owl-and-the-pussycatsunnybank Sat 17 April Hoot and Meow in Harmony Workshop | Sunnybank Explore the magical bong-tree forest and meet the colourful characters of The Owl and the Pussycat. This early childhood workshop is for children aged 4-8 and involves experiencing music through movement, games, singing, rhymes

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Sat 24 April – 19 June 2021 Snow White | Brisbane This Australian children’s musical interpretation of the classic fairytale returns to the original tale of the wicked Queen who is so jealous of her beautiful step-daughter that she orders her into the forest to be killed. When the royal huntsman fails to complete the job, the Queen uses her own evil magic to try to kill Snow White, who is helped along the way by some very unusual dwarfs. Bookings required. Brisbane Arts Theatre. www.familiesmagazine.com.au/event/snow-white-brisbane Tues 27 April – Sat 1 May BANFF Mountain Film Festival World Tour 2021 | New Farm Be captivated at the world’s most prestigious mountain film festival now in its 44th year.

After premiering in the mountain town of Banff, in Canada, a selection of the best short films about adventure tour the globe.

The 2021 tour promises three hours of captivating footage, shot in some of the most wild and remote corners of the world.

Experience incredible highs and agonising lows through the lenses of some of the most accomplished climbers, paddlers, skiers, snowboarders, mountaineers, mountain bikers, explorers and adventure filmmakers alive today. Bookings required.

Brisbane Powerhouse Theatre. www.familiesmagazine.com.au/event/banff-mountain-filmfestival-world-tour-2021-new-farm

Your Local Families Magazine April / May 2021 www.familiesmagazine.com.au

#FamiliesMagFun MAY 2021 Sat 1 May Karate & Self Defence for All | Boondall Learn the discipline of self-defence including confidence, goal setting and personal fitness at this FREE all ages workshop. These sessions will improve your core strength, agility and mobility. The added bonus is that specific karate movements increase your aerobic capacity too.

Get fit and learn a new skill while having fun with the kids. Bookings essential. Mulbeam Park. www.familiesmagazine.com.au/event/karate-self-defence-forall-boondall Wed 5 May Hot Hula Fitness | Calamvale This looks super fun!

Inspired by the dances of the Pacific Islands, the hot hula fitness class provides a FREE total body workout. It’s core focused with easy to follow moves, suitable for all ages and fitness levels and no equipment is needed! Calamvale District Park. www.familiesmagazine.com.au/event/hot-hula-fitness-calamvale Thurs 6 May – Sun 23 May Anywhere Festival | Various Locations Anywhere Festival is 18 days of performances anywhere but in a theatre in Brisbane, Sunshine Coast, Noosa, Ipswich, Moreton Bay and online. You can expect theatre in car parks, comedy in laneways, opera in reservoirs, dance in stairwells and quirky workshops exploring arts and craft. www.familiesmagazine.com.au/event/anywhere-festival

Sat 8 May Ashgrove State School P&C Fete | Ashgrove Take the kids along to one of the oldest and largest fetes in Brisbane.

Enjoy the food, rides and entertainment on offer and peruse fete favourites such as cake stalls, the humble jumble and the famous second hand toy stall. There will be live and silent auctions on the day, a sideshow alley, lots of performances, and food options to suit the whole family. It’s also a great opportunity to pick up a hamper or a beautiful bunch of flowers for Mother’s Day the following day.

Ashgrove State School. www.familiesmagazine.com.au/event/ashgrove-state-school-pcfete-ashgrove Sat 8 May Mother’s Day Market | Morningside Find the perfect hand crafted, unique gift for mum this Mother’s Day (or gifts for yourself!). Browse the beautiful work of some of Brisbane’s finest artists at this FREE Fine Art Market, which will also include art activities for the kids and live music. Morningside School of Arts. www.familiesmagazine.com.au/event/mothers-day-marketmorningside

Sat 8 May Moreton Bay Running Festival | Clontarf Bring your whole crew along to this inaugural event to enjoy the perfect running conditions and cooler evening temperatures on the gorgeous Moreton Bay foreshore. Distances are available to suit all running (and walking) abilities. For the super fit, why not make a weekend of it and take on one of the Moreton Bay Triathlon events the morning after your run.

With distances from kids and beginners right through to elite athletes, there’s certainly something for everyone. Registrations required. www.familiesmagazine.com.au/event/moreton-bay-running-festival Fri 14 - Sun 16 May Buddha Birth Day Festival | Priestdale The Buddha Birth Day Festival celebrates Australia’s harmony and diversity, and this year the festival will be held at Chung Tian Buddhist Temple. The festival includes unique experiences such as traditional Chinese tea ceremonies, multicultural performances, meditation, vegetarian food stalls, Buddhist talks, Baby Blessing ceremony and much more! Entrance to the Buddha Birth Day Festival is FREE and open to the whole family. Bookings Required.

Chung Tian Buddhist Temple. www.familiesmagazine.com.au/event/buddha-birth-day-festival Sat 15 May Queendom Animalia | Sunnybank Zen Zen Zo presents an original and immersive dance-theatre show for young audiences. In an ecosystem where boys rule, celebrate the powerful leading ladies of the animal kingdom. Meet a parade of majestic and fierce animals, be invited into their nests, their homes, as they stake their claim in an ever-changing world. Entertaining and educational, learn how these matriarchs lead the way through song and hands-on play. Featuring live music and an ensemble of highly skilled physical performers, Zen Zen Zo will wow you with their eclectic style. This event is provided for FREE by the Lord Mayor’s Children’s Program.

Bookings required. SUNPAC. www.familiesmagazine.com.au/event/queendom-animaliasunnybank Sun 16 May The Midnight Gang | Ipswich Each night when the clock strikes midnight, The Midnight Gang go on a series of amazing journeys as they turn the children’s ward of St Crook’s Hospital into the places they’ve always wanted to go and make dreams come true.

The team behind The 13-, 26-, 52-, 78- and 91-Storey Treehouses, Mr Stink and Billionaire Boy bring David Walliams’ bestselling book to life on stage in a celebration of friendship, love and the power of the imagination for children 6+ and their families. Bookings required.

Ipswich Civic Centre. www.familiesmagazine.com.au/event/the-midnight-gang Sun 30 May Green Heart Fair | Chermside Brisbane City Council’s Green Heart Fair is back and will be better than ever! The fair will feature over 120 of Brisbane’s leading sustainability experts ready to share practical tips and tricks to live a more eco-friendly life. You’ll be treated to sustainability displays, expert talks, eco-friendly exhibitors, artisan markets, food trucks and so much more! 7th Brigade Park. www.familiesmagazine.com.au/event/green-heart-fair-chermside

Your Local Families Magazine April / May 2021 www.familiesmagazine.com.au

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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: Editor@FamiliesMagazine.com.au

Superfish

FREE swimming assessment and FREE trial lesson – no obligation! All levels & ages, small structured classes. Redland Bay opening 2021!

Sunnybank 3323 3188 www.superfish.com.au

Conroy Dance Centre

Does your child love to dance? Our qualified and welcoming teachers make learning to dance so much fun through our age-specific programs!

Classes include jazz, ballet, tap and even singing!

ENQUIRE TODAY and Join Brisbane’s biggest dance family in Brendale!

3205 7717 admin@conroydance.com.au

Bayside Hapkido Hapkido is the complete selfdefence martial art, offering classes from 3.5 years to adult. Classes are fun and reinforce discipline and respect for self and others.

Come and join us for a 4-WEEK FREE TRIAL at our purpose-built Redland Bay facility.

0413 327 283

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www.hapkidoqld.com.au

Perform Australia

Acting and drama classes around Brisbane, Gold Coast and Sunshine Coast. Learn acting technique for stage and screen and participate in performances and film shoots. Build selfconfidence, creativity and social skills in fun friendly classes. Enrol online, no audition needed!

1300 908 905

www.perform.edu.au

Kip McGrath

Albany Creek Individual learning programs in maths & English with qualified teachers – book a free assessment today!

0417 864 285 www.kipmcgrath.com.au/albany-creek

Saurabh Cricket

Victoria Park

Saurabh Cricket Coaching offers 1-2-1 coaching and runs holiday clinics for boys and girls (aged 5 -18 years) each holiday. We offer a trial session too! Take action and get your budding Cricket soul registered today. Registrations can be done online at saurabhcricketcoaching.com or call 0422 397 838 to book your spot.

Learn to play golf for kids at Victoria Park with their school holiday kids golf activities. 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. www. victoriapark.com.au/whats-on/

school-holiday-kids-golf-clinics/

Infinity Martial Arts

The largest and first female owned and operated martial arts academy. Modern, family friendly facility in Petrie teaching classes for kids aged 2+ and adults. Classes suitable for people of all skills levels in Brazilian Jiujitsu, MMA, Kickboxing, Boxing, Women-only BJJ, Yoga, Pilates. FIRST CLASS FREE. Mention this ad and receive a 10% discount off each membership.

0431 081 072

infinitymartialarts.com.au

Your Local Families Magazine February / March 2021 www.familiesmagazine.com.au

Advertise your club, class or activity for only $995 +GST per year!

Drama Works

Aqualogan

Aqualogan Laurie Laurence Swim School offers world-leading teaching methods proven over 50 years. FREE swim assessments for all learn-toswim levels. School holiday swim clinics, squads, adaptives and private lessons.

Beenleigh 2803 4102; Logan North 3541 6151 www.loganleisurecentres.com.au/aquatics

Brisbane-based mobile drama school, Drama Works Academy, is passionate about sharing its love of drama & musical theatre. An inclusive approach and encouraging learning environment dramatically develops: communication, confidence, self-esteem and teamwork for all children Book a free trial class today on 1300 822 164 www.dramaworks.net.au/contact-us

IceWorld

Pricing includes skate hire.

Fully stocked cafés on site.

Get the kids having active, indoor fun in a supervised, CovidSafe environment!

Trampolines, foam pits, basketball slam-time, running walls, and a separate area for under-10s and fully air conditioned. Café on site too! Keep an eye out for specials and book in advance. www.flipout.net.au/locations/qld/qldstrathpine/strathpine

www.iceworld.com.au

Kids @ Adderton

Join Fruit Salad on an adventure! Kids love exploring Adderton with their free activity book, Fruit Salad, the adventurous tales of a Convent Cat and discovering ways to make a difference.

Book in for Kids@Adderton holiday workshops book via www.adderton.org.au

Classes in Ballet, Hip Hop, Jazz, Acrobatics, Contemporary, Tap and Irish dancing, as well as singing and acting. Whether you are keen to have fun or ‘Kick’ start your dance career, Kick Dance caters for all ages and abilities from toddler to adult!

0414 308 248 www.kickdance.com.au

Flip Out Strathpine

There’s no better way to beat the summer heat than a visit to one of Brisbane’s IceWorld Olympic Ice Rinks – the coolest place to be in the school holiday!

Public session times available daily, offering hours of ‘sun safe’ fun & exercise!

Online Bookings Essential.

Acacia Ridge Boondall

Kick Dance

Advertise your club, class or activity for only $995 +GST per year!

Bounce Tingalpa

Laserzone Lawnton

BOUNCE Tingalpa has more than 50 interconnected trampolines, the Big Bag, Slam Dunk and Dodgeball all rolled into one - the perfect playground to develop and practice your skills. Whether you’re trying to master your first flip or learn how to run The Wall, it’s the ultimate in Freestyle fun! www.bounceinc.com.au/venue-tingalpa-qld

Brisbane’s No. 1 multi-level Laser Tag arena, Arcade and Bumper Cars will blow your mind!

Offering the best family entertainment with a variety of packages to suit all ages and abilities.

Book your family fun or birthday party now!

3205 4141 brisbane.laserzone.com.au

Families Magazine is made with love by...

UPCOMING ISSUES

Janine Mergler – Editor

June / July 2021

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

WINTER DAY TRIPS & KIDS PARTIES Advertising deadline: Friday 7 May 2021 August / September 2021

LOCAL SCHOOL & EDUCATION Advertising deadline: Friday 9 July 2021 We do not endorse contents or advertisers in our publication or on our web pages and will not be responsible for any content of any linked site or any link contained in the link site. In no event shall we be liable for direct, indirect, punitive, incidental, special, consequential damages or any damages whatsoever arising out of or in any way connected with the use of or performance of information, products, services or reliance on the contents of the advertisements.

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