Kids on the Coast Magazine - Gold Coast - Issue 64. September/October 2016

ISSUE 64 September/October 2016 GOLD COAST

www.kidsonthecoast.com.au

FREE

Family

TRAVEL

TO TAKE HOME

Your ULTIMATE guide to family holidays

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Travel with a PURPOSE Changing lives in Cambodia

GLAMPING IT UP! Australia’s best luxury camping spots

SAILING QUEENSLAND A family adventure on the open sea

L O C AT E D O U T S I D E N E A R THE FOOD COURT

H E L E N SVAL E

[WELCOME]

[CONTENTS]

Delilah, 4 years

Boys jeans and shirt, and the girls scarfe from Teepea Kids Collective, Peregian Beach www.teepeakids.com.au

Hi everyone!

Welcome to our September/October issue!

With the onset of spring (yippee!) we are off on an adventure this issue, exploring the wonderful world of travel!

Lucas, 4 years

Our cover feature brings you the ultimate guide to family holidays. From budget weekends away to the best in luxury kids' clubs, we venture far and wide to bring you everything you need to know to book your next family trip.

For the tent-shy amongst us (I'm definitely in that camp!), we delve into the luxurious world of family glamping. We also take an ocean adventure with one brave family who set sail along the Queensland coast, and we talk to three globetrotting families for their tips on successfully travelling the world with young children in tow.

In our Education section we investigate why travel is one of the best forms of education for your kids, and we experience travel with a purpose as one school heads off for a life-changing adventure in Cambodia.

As well as being bitten by the travel bug, with Father's Day in the calendar this month we look at the importance of the male role model in our children’s lives. And for our Teens section this issue we hand the pages over to the teenagers, where they give us an insight into the lives of the misunderstood, telling us everything they wished their parents knew!

Plus, with our Check This Out page bringing you the latest in travel gadgets and games, as well as all the regular news, reviews, and event listings for your area, there is something for every adventurous spirit this issue.

As always, if you feel anything is missing or have any suggestions for the magazine, just drop me a line at publications@mothergoosemedia.com.au. And don’t forget to sign up to our weekly What’s On newsletter, so you don’t miss out on all the local events happening in your area.

3 FROM THE EDITOR

22 EDUCATION: Travel with a purpose—a

4 WHAT’S ON: All your local events for

26 TALK: Seasoned globetrotting families share

September and October 6 SOCIAL: What's trending on our social pages 8 WHAT’S NEWS: The latest news in your area 10 NOTICEBOARD: All the news and achievements from our local schools 12 FEATURE: Your ultimate guide to family holidays 19 CHECK THIS OUT: Seriously cool products to educate and inspire

Happy travels!

school's life-changing adventure in Cambodia

20 FATHER'S DAY: The fatherhood, and the importance of the male role model

their wisdom 28 TRAVEL: Glamping it up across Australia 32 TEENS: Insight into the misunderstood 34 HOME: Back to basics in the kitchen 36 WEB WRAP UP: The latest from online 38 DESTINATIONS: Sailing Australia—one family's adventure on the open sea 40 LOCAL LIFE: From Surfers to Hollywood Jordyn Yarker 42 REVIEWS: Movies, books and apps

EDITORIAL CONTRIBUTORS: Kerry White, Leah Squire, Jaymie Bennee, Darren Lewis, Carly Moore, Alyssa Davis, Cassandra Fenaughty, Martina Collins Angela Sutherland, Editor

COVER PHOTOGRAPHY: Verve Portraits Printed with vegetable/soy based inks on paper supplied using pulp sourced from sustainable forests and manufactured to environmentally accredited systems. WE ENCOURAGE RECYCLING. Please keep this issue for future reference, pass onto your friends and family, use for craft projects or place into the recycling bin.

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WHAT'S ON Visit ou r website to see more events!

SEPTEMBER 27 & 29 LAH-LAH SING IT LOUD!

Image courtesy: Tourism and Events Queensland

The National Tour 2016 is the new live musical extravaganza from Lah-Lah’s Big Live Band. The Stars of ABC Kids will be playing up a storm in their biggest musical show ever in Brisbane September 27 and Gold Coast September 29. Hurry tickets selling fast! www.lah-lah.com/live-shows

SEPTEMBER 27 TO OCTOBER 1 SLEEPING BEAUTY See the Fame Theatre Company perform the timeless classic Sleeping Beauty during the school holidays, with amazing costumes, dances and songs that will keep the entire audience entertained. www.fametheatre.com.au

SEPTEMBER 3 OCEANWAY RIDE This new annual event will attract thousands of budding cyclists, families, first-timers and more experienced riders of all ages. www.oceanwayride.com.au

SEPTEMBER 27 TO 30 PEPPA PIG LIVE! BIG SPLASH

SEPTEMBER 1 TO OCTOBER 9 DINOSAUR DISCOVERY

Join all the familiar characters in this beautiful theatrical production and interactive performance filled with singing, dancing, fun games and, of course, muddy puddles! www.theartscentregc.com.au

This Queensland Museum exhibition allows kids to get up close with these titans of the Cretaceous and see more than 20 animated, life-size dinosaur models, including the fearsome T-Rex! www.qm.qld.gov.au

SEPTEMBER 4 FATHER’S DAY STEAM TRAIN SUNDAY It's BIG LOUD FUN as you board the steam train at Roma Street station for a one hour trip through the City and relive the splendour of a bygone era. www.theworkshops.qm.qld.gov.au

SEPTEMBER 9 TO 18 SWELL SCULPTURE FESTIVAL Certain to delight every member of the family, with a full program of free live entertainment, kids activities, artist talks, masterclasses, and yoga experiences, all complementing the 1km beachside display of installations. www.swellsculpture.com.au

TOP 5

SECRET

GARDENS

Tallebudgeera Creek Currumbin Valley Rock Pools Tamborine Mountain Botanic Gardens Gold Coast Regional Botanic Gardens The Wishing Tree Track

SEPTEMBER 17 TO NOVEMBER 5 PETER PAN See the classic story of the little boy who never grew up, Peter Pan, in this live on stage musical production featuring John, Michael and Wendy along with all the characters who live in Neverland! www.artstheatre.com.au

SEPTEMBER 19 TO 23 FLIPSIDE CIRCUS’ WORKSHOPS From little ones aged 2 to 4 in the Kindy camp, right up to teens with the 5 day Circation Workshop, with a chance to tackle the trapeze, harness the hula hoop or perfect performance skills, your kids are sure to have a blast! www.flipsidecircus.org.au

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OCTOBER 1 TO 27 LITTLE DAYS OUT A range of exciting kids activities including everything from animal farms to craft, gardening, sport, drama, science and music workshops, dancing and much more hosted by amazing companies, changing each week and free to attend! www.visitbrisbane.com.au

SEPTEMBER 17 TO 23 KIDS WEEK! With seven days of free, family-friendly entertainment the bumper program will feature daily live shows, amusement rides, interactive workshops and more spread throughout the Surfers Paradise precinct! www.surfersparadise.com

JUNE TO OCTOBER SEA WORLD WHALE WATCH This premium whale watching experience is close to SeaWorld, provides luxury seating and is environmentally friendly!

Refund provided if your tour fails to sight a whale between this period. www.seaworldwhalewatch.com.au

kidsonthecoast.com.au | kidsinthecity.com.au

SEPTEMBER 17 TO OCTOBER 2 WATERWORLD CENTRAL Australia’s first portable water theme park will feature giant inflatable pools and slides to splash and play around in including the gigantic twin slides. www.waterworldcentral.com.au

OCTOBER 2 TO 3 GOLD COAST RENAISSANCE FAIRE Over 50 costumed performers delight and entertain you all day long with stage comedies, dashing swordplay, jousting, court music, Royal processions, children's entertainment and more! www.fairego.com

* We publish information based on what is supplied to us - to the best of our knowledge all details are correct at the time of printing, however we do recommend you check event details with the organisers

DON'T MISS OUT ON ANY EVENTS! Sign up at www.kidsonthecoast.com.au or www.kidsonthecity.com.au for our weekly What’s On guide.

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Stay up to date with your local community news. If you have any unique news that you’d like to share, please contact our editor at publications@mothergoosemedia.com.au

Whats news » Visit our website for more news

TIGER ISLAND IS HAVING A MAKEOVER Dreamworld’s Tiger Island will reveal it’s multimillion dollar makeover in September. The redevelopment will provide new stadium seating, as well as all new shops and food outlets.

The new cubs will also be making a big splash on the all-new Tiger Island. The new cubs will be moving from Cub Kindy to start Cub College on the Island, where they will start learning the ropes from the big cats.

ROBINA TOWN CENTRE TO OPEN NEW FOOD PLAYGROUND

Robina Town Centre will open a new food playground late 2016, called The Kitchens.

The $160 million development aims to transform the Gold Coast dining scene with the arrival of 55 new retailers to the new urban marketplace.

The Kitchens is being designed as a community epicentre where food lovers can come together to celebrate fresh, local produce, and sharpen their culinary skills through a series of tastings, workshops and open kitchens.

DID

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The pressure to be a perfect mum is negatively impacting the health of Aussie mothers, a recent study claims, with more than nine out of 10 saying they sacrifice their health and nutrition due to the burden of being a good mother.

YOU

According to findings by Bellamy's Organic, 86 per cent of Australian mums have been made to feel like they are a bad mum, and 38 per cent reported this was down to comments made by strangers in public. Whilst 83 per cent said they feel judged by strangers when their children misbehave in public and 68 per cent feel badly judged for having time away from their children.

The world’s first Labor government took office in Queensland in 1899

Paediatric nutritionist, dietitian and mum Susie Burrell urged new mums to ignore pressures and judgements, and prioritise their own health and nutrition to avoid longer-term health concerns. “We must look to practical strategies to ensure mums prioritise their health and nutrition, which is essential in the first 12 months of having a baby.”

IT WOULD TAKE A SLOTH ONE MONTH TO TRAVEL ONE MILE

RELIGIOUS EDUCATION CLASSES TO BE REVIEWED

KNOW OF THE 10% WORLD’S POPULATION IS LEFT HANDED

Curator of The Kitchens, Mr Daniel West, said the opening of The Kitchens would stir up the Gold Coast’s culinary landscape.

“We are delighted to announce the launch of our brand new fresh food and dining experience, The Kitchens, which is set to open in late 2016.

Globally inspired but locally focused, The Kitchens will unite our community through a shared love of food as we take consumers on a culinary journey of discovery.”

MANY MUMS OVERWHELMED

BY PRESSURE TO BE ‘PERFECT’

BUTTERFLIES TASTE FOOD WITH THEIR FEET

QUEENSLAND’S COASTLINE SPANS MORE THAN 7,400KM kidsonthecoast.com.au | kidsinthecity.com.au

The Department of Education will review how religious education is taught in some state schools in Queensland, following a complaint from a school principal. Windsor State School principal Matthew Keong cancelled religious education classes at his school as he believed the ‘Connect’ tutors were trying to convince students to become Christian. “Connect's lesson materials go beyond imparting knowledge of biblical references, and extend to soliciting children to develop a personal faith in God and Jesus to become a Christian or ‘Kingdom Kid’,” Mr Keong wrote in a letter to parents, which was subsequently published by Brisbane Times. “In the teacher's manuals, the Connect authors remind instructors that most of their audience is not yet Christian, and the whole program appears to be based on that premise of trying to solicit them for a decision to become the kind of Christian prescribed in the materials,” he added. Education minister Kate Jones promised a review of Connect’s materials.

Spring

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SCHOOL HOLIDAY GUIDE

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SEP/OCT 2016

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NOTICE BOARD All the news and achievements from ou r local schools

QUEENSLAND WELCOMES FIRST SCHOOL FOR CHILDREN WITH ASD Queensland’s first full-time school for children with Autism Spectrum Disorder will open next year. The Sycamore School’s founders, Cindy and Cameron Corrie, came up with the idea for the school when they struggled to find a suitable school for their son.

“He has been going to a special school which has been fantastic for him in his early years,” Mrs Corrie told Quest Newspapers. “We had looked at mainstream schools and really felt he wouldn’t be given the opportunities he needed to be able to succeed, and grow his interests and academic abilities.”

The school will provide education for Prep to Year 6 and will use a range of different teaching methods to assist each student throughout their learning journey.

ST RITA’S NETS OLYMPIAN WATER POLO COACH

BRISBANE PHYSICS STAR REPRESENTS AUSTRALIA

Water polo at St Rita’s College is about to get a new look, with the appointment of Olympian Jodie Stuhmcke as head coach.

Kathryn Bird, a Year 12 student at Brisbane Girls Grammar School, represented Australia recently at the International Young Physicists’ Tournament (IYPT) held in Yekaterinburg, Russia.

Stuhmcke competed in the 2004 Olympics in Athens and will use her years of experience as both a player and coach to build the program, foster talent and continue her passion for coaching.

“I love coaching, I find it so rewarding and so satisfying seeing the girls improve, watching the growth,” she said. “First and foremost it is a school sport so I want them to have fun. But I also want to target players into the QAS, maybe Queensland and Australian teams. I think there’s a lot of potential there, and I want to bring to the girls the attention that other schools enjoy.”

Stuhmcke began playing water polo at the age of 14 and climbed the ranks, making Queensland and national teams, progressing into the Queensland Academy of Sport followed by the Australian Institute of Sport.

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At the school, girls have the opportunity to take part in Extended Experimental Investigations (EEI), beyond the standard curriculum. Kathryn said: “I particularly enjoyed the EEI last year, for which our assignment was to write a report on an IYPT problem of our choice.

“I appreciated the opportunity to research an area of physics that was not part of the standard curriculum (our problem was based in fluid dynamics), and I enjoyed the challenges of the problems, which eventually lead me to sign up for IYPT.” 29 countries participated in IPYT where teams presented, discussed and defended their solution against an opposing team, with the presentation and discussion graded by a jury of international experts. kidsonthecoast.com.au | kidsinthecity.com.au

“What’s unique about us is we don’t stick by one method,” Mrs Corrie added. “We respect that each child is very different. We really feel they should have access to a variety of ways of learning. We will use an eclectic mix of intervention therapy and teaching methods.”

For more details, visit www.thesycamoreschool.qld. edu.au/about-us

FORMER BRISBANE SCHOOL GIRLS WIN GOLD IN RIO Brisbane swimmers Bronte and Cate Campbell have won gold and set a new world record for the 4x100m relay. The former Kenmore State High School students, along with teammates Madison Wilson and Brittany Elmslie, set a new record of 3:30.65 in a race that saw them top the podium.

Their mum, Jenny Campbell, told The Courier Mail: “They have had this dream for so long of standing together on the Olympic podium and it has come true—there are very few people that can say they have done that so it is a really special time.”

Earlier in the year, Cate smashed another swimming record, clocking an impressive time of 52.06 seconds in the 100m freestyle at a race meet in Brisbane before she headed to Rio. Cate’s achievement saw her become the first Australian in seven years to break an individual world record.

SPRING CAMPS 17 - 24 September 24 Sept - 1 Oct

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EXPERIENCE THE GRACE WAY OPEN DAY ROTHWELL CAMPUS : SUNDAY 16 OCTOBER

Please join us at our OPEN DAY at Grace Lutheran College Rothwell. Spend time to talk to our teachers one-on-one about the academic curriculum offered. Learn about our support services, pastoral care program and wide range of co-curricular opportunities available. Enjoy entertaining displays, interactive activities and a multitude of performing arts groups.

Experience The Grace Way and how your child can develop with GRIT, GROWTH and GRACE. Anzac Avenue, Rothwell 07 3203 0066 grace@glc.qld.edu.au gracecollege.com.au

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SEP/OCT 2016

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[FEATURE]

Your ultimate guide to

FAMILY HOLIDAYS

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SEP/OCT 2016

kidsonthecoast.com.au | kidsinthecity.com.au

[FEATURE]

Family

TRAVEL

IF THE COLD BLAST OF THE PAST FEW MONTHS HASN’T BLOWN THOSE COBWEBS AWAY, PERHAPS A HOLIDAY WILL! WE HAVE SEARCHED OUT THE BEST RESORTS, PLACES AND EXPERIENCES TO ENSURE YOUR WHOLE FAMILY HAS A TRIP TO REMEMBER. GET YOUR PASSPORTS READY!

by KERRY WHITE

AUCKLAND, NEW ZEALAND

CITY BREAKS A city break offers a great selection of activities for the whole family. So many cities, so little time. But here are a couple of suggestions for very different budgets: PARIS, FRANCE Paris is a truly scenic city with awe-inspiring architecture everywhere you turn. Aside from its wondrous restaurants and obvious tourist hotspots, like the Eiffel Tower and the ChampsElysées, the city is full of things to do with the kids. Head to the Jardin du Luxembourg, a 25 hectare garden with fountains, statues, puppet shows and children’s rides (http://en.parisinfo.com/parismuseum-monument/71393/Jardin-du-Luxembourg) or the Musée de la Poupée, a private museum and doll hospital (http://www. museedelapoupeeparis.com). Or for something a little different, head to the Egouts de Paris – the city’s sewers (equipement.paris. fr/musee-des-egouts-5059)! Learn the history of Paris’ underground sewers over a 500m journey through, quite possibly, the smelliest museum in the world. For something a little more pleasing to the nostrils, head to Stohrer, the oldest pastry shop in Paris (stohrer.fr) or wander down the Marché Bastille's food market (http://en.parisinfo.com/shopping-paris/73869/Marche-Bastille).

The Crowne Plaza Paris Republique has rooms for four people from $278 per night. See http://www.ihg.com/crowneplaza/hotels/gb/en/ reservation for details. Price: $$$$

Photo courtesy: Gareth Lee

For somewhere a little closer to home, consider Auckland. The city is only three hours away by air, perfect for those with younger children, or kids (and adults!) who hate to travel. And there really is something for everyone here. Butterfly Creek allows you to get up close to many different species of butterfly and it is also home to Dinosaur Kingdom, an interactive themed attraction with more than 30 dinosaur models (http://butterflycreek.co.nz/). Or if your kids prefer their animals more cuddly, take them to Sheepworld where they can feed calves, pigs, lambs, goats and more and watch the sheep dog shows (http://www.sheepworldfarm.co.nz/). Auckland has many cycling trails, from scenic boardwalks to mountain bike tracks, and 26 regional parks to explore. Add some great restaurants, like Pirates Kitchen (pirateskitchen.co.nz), the Rainbow’s End theme park (rainbowsend.co.nz) and some great shopping, and you have the makings of a truly enjoyable family holiday. The Waldorf Tetra Apartments has serviced apartments that sleep four from $166 per night. See www.waldorf-tetra.co.nz for details. Price: $$

SAFARI Nature enthusiasts in the family will love a safari, and there are safari camps out there that make such a holiday a breeze for those travelling with children.

LEOPARD SAFARIS, SRI LANKA If your kids love camping and wildlife this could be the holiday they’ll compare all future holidays to. Leopard Safaris have made safari adventures easy for families. They have big family tents that sleep up to two adults and three children, offer discounted rates to younger children and, in between safari outings, offer kids’ activities back at base camp. Parents can relax while the kids enjoy amateur photography walks, animal identification checklists and wildlife footprint games. The animals you can expect to see include elephants, monkeys and, of course, leopards. Children must be three years or over to join this safari. The cost for two adults and two children per night in a family tent, inclusive of all meals and drinks, starts at $1,697.

For more details see www.leopardsafaris.com. Price: $$$$$

kidsonthecoast.com.au | kidsinthecity.com.au

SEP/OCT 2016

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[FEATURE]

CRUISE Like floating playgrounds, cruise ships have lots to entertain the whole family. And if you thought the chances of having a bit of alone time on a cruise were slim, think again. With kids’ activities to keep the little ones entertained and sundecks, pools and spa treatments galore, you should be able to find your own private slice of paradise.

ADVENTURE TOURS For the family that likes to consider itself adventurous, there are plenty of options out there. Think trekking in Everest or Nepal, a tour of Patagonia, or a journey to a glacier.

Head to www.worldexpeditions.com for some more inspiration or read on for a couple of suggestions – one from each end of the temperature scale!

ROYAL CARIBBEAN INTERNATIONAL CRUISES With family entertainment such as surf simulators, rock climbing, ice skating and a fantastic choice of shows, you’ll be spoilt for choice on board a Royal Caribbean International cruise. Kids can also get up close and personal with their favourite Dreamworks characters from Madagascar, Shrek, Kung Fu Panda and more. Family friendly is a buzzword. The Adventure Ocean Youth Program keeps kids aged three to 11 entertained with age-appropriate activities. The staff will even pick the kids up after they’ve had dinner so parents can enjoy a night out on deck—explore the nightclubs and lounges, or enjoy a comedy show. An 11-night Brisbane to Singapore cruise, via Cairns and Darwin, costs from $872 per person.

Visit www.royalcaribbean.com.au for details. Price: $$$

CHRISTMAS IN LAPLAND Ditch the bonbons and Pavlovas this Christmas, rug up and head to Santa’s home country. With a 17-day Lapland Fantasy tour you will explore Sweden, Finland and Lapland and get to meet the big bearded man himself. Tour highlights include snowmobile rides, husky and reindeer safaris, a visit to an amethyst mine, snowshoe walking and, of course, a visit to Santa’s secret cottage.

A magical holiday that you and the children will never forget, you’ll be as excited as the kids on Christmas morning! The tour costs $6,595 per person based on a twin share and includes all flights, accommodation, an overnight cruise from Sweden to Finland, nine dinners, including Christmas and New Year, plus lots more. See www.thetravelagent.net.au/guided-touring/lapland-tours for more details. Price: $$$$$

WESTERN FAMILY DISCOVERY, USA This American camping adventure holiday takes in the best of the West, travelling from Las Vegas to San Francisco. Enjoy a sunrise or sunset at the Grand Canyon, swim in Lake Powell, explore the trails of the Zion National Park, walk across the Golden Gate Bridge and take in the wondrous neon sights of the Las Vegas strip. You will camp out for nine nights, while other accommodation includes an alien themed hotel in Nevada and a traditional mud Hogan in Monument Valley. Children must be eight years or over to join this tour. Tour prices start from $2,384, departing Las Vegas, and includes all accommodation, meals and transport in a private vehicle. See www.grandamericanadventures.com for more information. Price: $$$$

HOW TO GET THE MOST FROM A FAMILY HOLIDAY Find the right mindset

Decide prior to planning what you want out of your trip. Do you want it to be relaxing, educational, or a family bonding experience?

Plan for everyone

Be sure to plan activities to cater for everyone, including a little relaxation time for yourself.

Be organised

If you fail to plan, you plan to fail. Planning is essential. Don’t put off the important stuff, such as renewing passports, and don’t leave packing until the night before.

Keep an open mind

A holiday won’t always go as planned, no matter how foolproof you think it is. It’s easy to get caught up in any problems that occur but this will affect the outcome of your holiday. So be open-minded, don’t expect too much and just go with the flow.

Leave time to relax

Understandably you’ll want to get the most out of your family holiday and as a result, there can be a tendency to overbook yourself. Bear in mind that sometimes less is more.

Experience the local culture

Encourage the kids to have an open mind – get out and relish in the diverse environment.

Adapted from Jaymie Bennee for www.kidsonthecoast.com.au

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kidsonthecoast.com.au | kidsinthecity.com.au

[FEATURE]

SKIING HOLIDAYS

Family

TRAVEL

Photo courtesy: Voyages - Indigenous Tourism Australia

Whether you are an advanced skier or have never hit the slopes before, the kids are bound to enjoy messing around in the snow. Most ski resorts offer lessons for children, and who doesn’t love a nice hot chocolate in the resort village after the end of a great day’s skiing!

THREDBO, NEW SOUTH WALES Thredbo has a range of runs for beginners to advanced and lessons to suit everyone. It is great for children who have never skied before—it has a beginner’s area for kids and an awardwinning ski program that will teach them everything they need to know. There is also a free snow play area and a child care centre for children aged six months to six years so the adults and older children can spend more time on the trickier slopes. Kids also ski free in June and September and child’s prices apply to everyone under 18, leaving plenty of spending money for the fantastic range of shops, restaurants and bars. Lodge or hotel accommodation is available from $551 per family, per night, for seven nights including lift passes. See www.thredbo.com.au. Price: $$

NISEKO, JAPAN Set in the scenic foothills of Mount Yotei, Niseko offers all the facilities of a first-class ski resort. With luxurious apartments and chalets and Michelin Star restaurants, the resort offers some of the most extensive and fun runs in Japan. And with lessons for children and adults at all levels, there is no excuse to get out in the powder. When the kids tire of lessons, take them on a snow mobile or strap on some snowshoes and explore Mount Yotei. And after a day on the slopes, immerse yourself in a glorious hot spring. Lodge accommodation costs around $2,900 for four people for seven nights. For more information see www.japanskiexperience.com. Price: $$$

CAMPING Australia has some of the best campsites in the world and glorious weather to boot. If you are on a budget, camping is often the smart choice and the kids will probably think it beats any other type of holiday hands down!

HAPPY WANDERER HOLIDAY PARK, HERVEY BAY Hervey Bay is only a couple of hours drive north from the coast or Brisbane. It is a great spot for whale watching and has easy access to Fraser Island, with its dingoes, turtles and sharks, so the wildlife lovers in the family will be happy. Hervey Bay has lots of great familyfriendly restaurants, some awesome ice cream parlours, and plenty of parks, including a huge waterpark right on the bay. The Happy Wanderer Holiday Park is set on eight acres of sub-tropical gardens and caters for tents and caravans, and also has a range of lodges. It also has playgrounds, giant chess and a swimming pool to keep the kids entertained and a family bathroom to make cleaning up after a day on the beach easier. A pitch for a four-man tent costs around $60 a night. See www.happywanderer.com.au. Price: $

AYERS ROCK CAMPGROUND, AYERS ROCK Get away from it all and submerge yourselves in the serenity of Ayers Rock. Ayers Rock Campground is located 15km from Uluru and is in the Ayers Rock Resort so all facilities and supplies are on hand. The campsite has pitches for tents and motorhomes and there are also cabins available. There is a swimming pool, playground and BBQ facilities on site and a supermarket, restaurants and bars in the Ayers Rock Resort, a short complimentary shuttle bus ride away. Guests can take part in free daily activities such as guided walks and Indigenous bush yarning. Children five years and under stay for free. A family of four can camp from as little as $96 for three nights. Visit www.ayersrockresort.com.au/accommodation/ ayers-rock-campground for more details. Price: $ Image courtesy Destination NSW. www.destinationnsw.com.au

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SEP/OCT 2016

15

[FEATURE]

USEFUL WEBSITES Flights www.skyscanner.com.au www.cheapflights.com.au Accommodation www.booking.com.au www.airbnb.com.au Visas www.australia.gov.au/information-and-services/ passports-and-travel Health smartraveller.gov.au/guide/all-travellers/health Currency www.oanda.com/currency/converter

BEST KIDS’ CLUBS If all you really want to do on holiday is relax, consider a resort with a top-notch kids’ club.

Knowing that they are having fun will give you peace of mind while you have some downtime.

THE ST. REGIS, MAURITIUS The St. Regis is a stunning five-star luxury resort in the Indian Ocean. With 172 guest rooms and suites, nine restaurants, fitness club and excellent swimming pools and entertainment facilities, this resort has it all. Oh, and there’s a great kids’ club too so you don’t need to feel guilty about sneaking off to the spa for a spot of relaxation. The Kite Flyers Club arranges a vast array of activities for children aged four to 12. The kids can go on a supervised nature walk, take part in a cooking class or sail on a glass-bottom boat. Indoor activities include arts and crafts, musical games and watching movies. The club is open every day from 9am until 8pm and younger children can also join in, provided they are supervised by an adult. A Deluxe Garden View Room sleeping two adults and one child costs around $480 a night, including buffet breakfast and complimentary butler service. For more details, visit www.stregismauritius.com. Price: $$$$

CLUB MED, PHUKET Club Med takes kids’ clubs to the next level. Like, Flying Trapeze School level. Yes, along with the usual activities you’d expect at a kids’ club, such as craft, sports and games, your little ones can perfect their aerial circus skills while on holiday. Club Med Phuket is a beautiful resort on over 60 acres next to the beach of Kata Bay. It has 305 rooms and you can unwind with activities such as Yoga, snorkelling and golf, or head to the spa. One of the resort’s two restaurants also has a baby corner where parents can prepare their baby’s meals. Two interconnecting Garden View rooms cost around $3,000 for two adults and two children for seven nights, all-inclusive.

To find out more, visit www.clubmed.com.au/r/Phuket/y. Price: $$$

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SEP/OCT 2016

Leah Squire, owner of family-friendly travel company BYOkids, shares three of her top picks for a great family holiday.

CLUB MED RESORTS Club Med resorts have great kids’ clubs. Activities include circus schools, sailing, tennis, archery, rock climbing, kayaking… the list goes on and on! The resorts are all-inclusive and are always in stunning locations including Indonesia, Malaysia, Mauritius and the Maldives. They also offer ski resorts in Japan and France. See www.clubmed.com.au and our write-up on Club Med Phuket.

CRUISES Carnival Cruise Lines (www.carnival.com.au) are really popular with families as they have great features such as waterparks and waterslides on board, very family-friendly food options, kids’ clubs and great tropical island destinations like Fiji, Noumea, Isle of Pines and Vanuatu. But there lots of other options for families out there, such as Captain Cook Cruises Fiji (www.captaincookcruisesfiji.com). You fly first to Fiji then take the boat from there. They are amazing cruises, visiting some really super islands and remote villages, and the snorkelling is fantastic. For people visiting America, perhaps to do Disneyland, it’s very easy to add on a Caribbean cruise, which offer great island destinations and interesting cultures, history and sites. See www.byokids.com.au/cruise for some inspiration.

BIG4 HOLIDAY PARKS Australia’s BIG4 Holiday Parks offer a great choice for families who don’t want to travel overseas. Parks such as the BIG4’s Renmark and Adventure Whitsundays offer amazing facilities and have accommodation ranging from camping through to large family villas. See www.big4.com.au For more family-friendly holiday inspiration, head to www.byokids.com.au

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SEP/OCT 2016

19

[FATHER’S DAY]

by DARREN LEWIS

THE FATHER’S ROLE IN CHILDHOOD DEVELOPMENT IS OFTEN OVERLOOKED. BUT RESEARCH NOW SHOWS THAT A STRONG MALE ROLE MODEL IS VITAL TO A CHILD’S WELLBEING. Author David Blankenhorn, speaking as a social scientist, said this: “Fatherlessness is the most harmful demographic trend of this generation. It is the leading cause of declining wellbeing in our society. It is also the engine driving our most urgent social problems, from crime to adolescent pregnancy to child abuse to domestic violence against women. Yet despite its scale and social consequences, fatherlessness is a problem that is frequently ignored or denied. Especially in our elite discourse, it remains largely a problem with no name.”

The impact of father absence is immense…

• 63 per cent of teen suicides come from fatherless homes.

That’s five times the national average.

(Source: US Department of Justice.)

• 85 per cent of children with behavioural problems come from fatherless homes. That’s 20 times the national average.

(Source: Centre for Disease Control.)

• 75 per cent of all adolescent patients in chemical abuse centres come from fatherless homes. That’s 10 times the national average. (Source: Rainbows for all God’s children.)

• 85 per cent of all youths in prison come from fatherless homes. That’s 20 times the national average.

(Source: US Department of Justice.)

What does this mean? Research from over the last two decades shows that we as a society must begin to recognise the importance of fathers, and their involvement in raising boys, and raising girls.

A U.S. News and World report, entitled “Why Fathers Count”, back in February 1995, began with the following two sentences: “Dad is destiny. More than virtually any other factor, a biological father’s presence in the family, will determine a child’s success or failure.”

Now sometimes, for whatever reason, it’s simply not possible for a child’s biological father to be present, and there are even times,

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SEP/OCT 2016

where it would be even more harmful for the child, if he was present.

The good news for families in either of those situations is that being a real father has nothing to do with biology. My definition of a father is as follows: “A father is a man who loves, delights in, teaches, mentors, nurtures, trains, and affirms a younger person. His role is crucial in the younger person's physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual development. He may be a biological father, a stepfather, an uncle, a grandfather, a mentor, a teacher, or a coach.”

Many fathers I meet are either confused about, or have a very limited vision, of what it means to be a father. In most cases, it’s because they didn’t have a father themselves who modelled their role well. And it’s not about assigning blame upon our fathers. The truth is, that most of them never had a good father or healthy male role model either, and that dysfunction has continued to repeat itself, generation after generation, since the onset of the industrial revolution centuries ago.

Good, healthy, true fatherhood has been lost, and we as a society must do all we can, to bring that back.

So what is it that a father, or significant male other in the absence of Dad, ultimately provides a child with? First and foremost it’s his or her identity. When fathered well, a child knows that he or she is loved, accepted, valued, adored, delighted in, through the messages the father intentionally sends—by the one-on-one time he invests and the words of life he chooses to speak. And at an appropriate age, these messages usher a child into young manhood or young womanhood, and again at the appropriate time, into authentic manhood or authentic womanhood. He or she has a clear and compelling vision for what it means to be a man or a woman, and has experienced a rite-of-passage, a significant moment in time, where he or she crossed the threshold, that separates adulthood from childhood. As Australian psychologist and author Steve Biddulph explains, so that they can begin to make their unique way in the world.

kidsonthecoast.com.au | kidsinthecity.com.au

[FATHER’S DAY]

“A father is a man who loves, delights in, teaches, mentors, nurtures, trains, and affirms a younger person…

He may be a biological father, a stepfather, an uncle, a grandfather, a mentor, a teacher, or a coach.”

In the same way, when a child is not fathered well, either overtly, or passively, he or she will either have received a very negative identity from his or her father, or not receive an identity from his or her father at all, leaving him or her identity-less, and left to his or her own devices, to establish an identity for him or herself. Neither of those situations make for a healthy foundation for the rest of life.

For those reasons, ‘Fathering Adventures’ was founded back in 2008. The mission, in its simplest form, was to experientially equip, empower, and encourage men, to be intentional fathers, achieved through the facilitation of adventure experiences. Throughout each of those experiences, father–son or father–daughter pairs get to experience real fun together—the beauty of the outdoors, group adventure activities, intimate one-on-one moments and conversations, and significant life-changing and relationshiptransforming moments together. And, of course, the appropriate blend of preparation and equipping necessary, to ensure success throughout the experience and beyond.

FATHERING ADVENTURES WEEKEND EXPERIENCES FATHERING BOYS: Father–son adventure weekend experiences for boys aged 7–13 years inclusive, and their dads or significant male others.

FATHERING GIRLS: Father–daughter adventure weekend experiences, for girls aged 7–13 years inclusive, and their dads or significant male others.

PREPARED FOR MANHOOD: 4 night, and 5 night, father– son adventure experiences, for boys, young men, and mature-age men, aged 13 years and over (no maximum age limit), and their dads or significant male others.

PREPARED FOR WOMANHOOD: 4 night father–daughter adventure experiences, for girls, young women, and matureage women, aged 13 years & over (no maximum age limit), and their dads or significant male others.

BEING A GOOD FATHER One of the must dos for a man to be a good father is to spend regular one-onone time together, not just family time.

Dads should try to pencil in 10 minutes every day with each child, to simply maintain a relationship. As for what to do during that time, that's best decided by simply asking each child for their input. Every child is different but every child desires the dad to be interested in, and enter into, their world. The dreaming of how they're going to spend 10 minutes with Dad each day is exciting in itself. Some simple suggestions include: 1. Play some table tennis.

2. Pass or kick a football in the backyard.

3. Play some cricket, shoot some hoops, or play some other sport, either in the backyard or out front.

4. Go out together and have an ice-cream or a milkshake, and just talk about the day.

5. Go for a walk down the beach, or down at the park.

6. Go to the park and play on the swings.

7. Play some games that you haven't played in a while, like hide and seek.

8. Play a game of cards, or a board game.

9. Play a game on the computer.

10. Read a story at bedtime.

Perhaps once every three months, each child can get to do something special with Dad that is longer than 10 minutes such as: 1. Go camping.

2. Go fishing.

3. Try a new experience together: rock-climbing, abseiling, canoeing, high ropes.

4. Hike to a waterfall and go for a swim.

5. Work on a project together: build a cubby-house, or a billy-cart, or a vegie garden. Be sure your child plays an active part in the project too. It may be quicker and more efficient to build it yourself but relationships and efficiency don’t mix well.

Article authored by Darren Lewis of ‘Fathering Adventures’ (www.fatheringadventures.com.au ) .

Darren and his wife Melissa have been married for more than 25 years. They are parents to four children, ranging in ages from 22 to 13 years, and they reside in Townsville, in Tropical North Queensland.

Darren was awarded the honour of being named Queensland Father of the Year in September 2011.

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SEP/OCT 2016

21

[EDUCATION]

Travel with a purpose

by CARLY MOORE

WALKING DOWN THE DUSTY FOOTPATH, MATT TIGHTLY HELD THE HAND OF HIS SIX-YEAR-OLD SON AS THEY TOOK IN THE UNFAMILIAR SIGHTS AND SOUNDS THROUGH JETLAGGED EYES. RYAN’S VOICE SUDDENLY INTERRUPTED HIS THOUGHTS “DADDY, DO WE HAVE TO STAY HERE FOR TWO WHOLE WEEKS? IT SMELLS!” Here began the epic family adventure of travelling to Cambodia with two small children (ages three and six), making memories to last a lifetime and learning the phrase ‘travel with a purpose’.

22

malaria, losing the kids in a crowd—we just focused on getting organised. Before we knew it we were there.”

Mr Moore, as he is better known, is the Chaplain at Gold Coast Christian College. A number of years ago, the College admin team caught a vision for service on an international level. Every class, from Year 2 onwards, had been sponsoring a friend in Cambodia through International Children’s Care, raising the monthly funds through creative fundraising projects and sometimes foregoing their own pocket money. It had been great to form a relationship with their sponsor friends over the years, and it had taught students so much about generosity and thinking about others… but the admin team had a crazy dream. A dream that maybe somehow, someday, students from the College could meet their sponsor friend face to face.

Cambodia is a country of contrast. Looking down a street with a Lexus dealership right next to a tin-roofed slum, it is very easy to start thinking about how big and unfixable the issues are. Exhausted children sleep at their roadside shops and it is a rarity to see locals over the age of 50 due to the genocide that occurred throughout the reign of the Khmer Rouge. Taking a group of students to a foreign country was at best scary; knowing it was a third world country only heightened the sense of responsibility Matt felt to make sure it was safe. However, being there with his family and coming back with a different outlook on life was reassuring, and more than he expected.

“Having experienced the culture in-country, I knew this was an experience that I didn’t want my students to miss. A trip like this could be defining for these young people.”

This is what lead Matt to Cambodia. His family went along too because they didn’t want to miss the opportunity. “It was pretty nerve wracking, taking two small boys and my wife to a third world country. We had discussed doing something like it before, but it seemed too hard, too scary. This time though, I was booked and set to go alone, and my wife said she was coming too! We tried not to dwell on all the things that could go wrong—food poisoning,

So, late in November 2014, 28 students and staff from Gold Coast Christian College took off on a flight bound for Cambodia, leaving schoolies week behind. At the end of their school year, these young people had one thing on their mind and it wasn’t drinking or lying on the beach, it was serving. When they arrived, many students experienced a huge culture shock as they found themselves immersed in the busy hum of everyday life in Phnom Penh.

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[EDUCATION]

“Having experienced the culture in-country, I knew this was an experience that I didn’t want my students to miss. A trip like this could be defining for these young people.”

As Matt reflected on the two trips, one with small children, one with young adults, he recognised that each had its own unique challenges, highs and lows. “When we went with our kids, there was a real sense of ‘what can we do?’ there was so much poverty and it seemed overwhelming. However, we were still able to buy lunch for a bunch of locals one day, in a spur of the moment purposeful act of generosity. Our kids saw that; they gave out food. Sure, we didn’t make a dent in world hunger, but the few we bought lunch for were not hungry that day. With the College trip, we were a lot more intentional from the get go and we were able to complete a lasting project. At the end of the day, both trips have helped me personally to re-frame the idea of travel. I’m not sure I will ever travel with the same mindset again!”

Student Naomi remembers the noise, the unusual smell and humidity that hung in the air. On the very first day, once they checked into their hotel, she recalls standing on the small balcony, overlooking the streets where half-dressed kids happily ran, tuk tuks and motorbikes all jammed the road, and power lines formed a mass of snaking spaghetti that somehow didn’t burst into flames.

“It was almost as though time had stopped and there I was, recognising in an instant how much I had taken for granted in my life. This was not a normal Gold Coast holiday. It was only Day One, with 13 more days of life-changing experiences to follow.”

Over the course of the next 13 days, students experienced the local markets, the history of Cambodia at the S21 genocide museum, and the ADRA adventure park. They visited a local organisation that helped children who lived in the slums adjacent to the rubbish dump and spent time with SeeChange International, helping to teach students English. They took in the sights and history of Ankor Wat, and enjoyed learning the art of bartering while shopping for souvenirs.

An extended period of days were also spent in the rural province of Kampong Thom, where students built a playground at a local primary school and where they met their sponsor friend at the International Children’s Care (ICC) village. Matt described how students reacted to this amazing experience. “Before we even met Orn Bunya and Kaun Pov, students were really impressed to see that their ongoing sponsorship had helped to give their sponsor friends an education, a nice place to live, and a family of sorts.”

The playground project happened in a rural primary school, taking four days to complete, with a swing set, slide and monkey bars.

Emily, Isabella and Naomi agreed that building the playground had been a tangible and lasting project that left a sense of satisfaction, knowing there would be laughs there for years to come.

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SEP/OCT 2016

The trip also made a lasting impression on last year’s College Captain Brayden Hiscox, who said the trip was “One of the greatest trips of my life and possibly the most influential and eye-opening experience I have had. Meeting our sponsorship friend was amazing, it really hit home how big an impact you can make even with smaller gestures over time.” Brayden’s family went on to continue sponsoring Orn Bunya, enabling him to undertake tertiary studies.

Another student, Emily, has now commenced studies in Peace and Conflict, a degree she says has become a passion since leaving Cambodia. “The trip changed the way I saw things and made me realise that I want to be a part of the solution. Now I am learning skills that I hope will help shape a better future for all those I met, and the ones I didn’t as well.” Students came back with a fresh perspective, with many describing the trip as ‘life changing.’ They all echoed the sentiment that they would go back in a heartbeat, and by the sounds of recent conversations, another trip may be in the pipeline already.

So, next time you plan a family holiday, think outside the box. It doesn’t need to be a huge trip to make an impact, you can simply add value to the trips you already do. Be intentional–meet your camping neighbours by sharing some cookies with them. Find out if there is a soup kitchen at the destination you are travelling to, and offer to help. If you are wanting an international experience, there are organisations who take groups on project based holidays, such as ICC’s Big Build, or ADRA’s Connections Trips. Travel can be fun, it can be rewarding, and it can make an impact that lasts a lifetime.

Carly Moore is the Marketing and Communications officer at Gold Coast Christian College. When she is not busy chasing her two boys and her work, she loves to write, spend time in the garden and enjoy a good cup of tea.

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[TALK]

TRAVELLING THE GLOBE AS A FAMILY SOUNDS IDYLLIC, BUT THE THOUGHT OF HEADING OFF WITH LITTLE ONES IN TOW CAN SOMETIMES DETER THE MOST CONFIDENT OF TRAVELLERS. We asked three seasoned globetrotters to share their tips of wisdom to ensure your next trip is a success!

EMMA LOVELL

BEN ALCOCK

MICHELLE TUPY

A travel stroller is essential. Take one in which she can still lie down in, as bub will probably spend more time in it than usual.

Airports can be boring for kids, especially if you have a tonne of time to kill. Though it might be easy to just leave them to their own devices (the electronic, wifi-enabled kind) here are a couple of fun ways to keep them occupied and looking up, not down:

Consider the children's interests: we travel to many destinations that often have a lot of history, are full to the brim with museums or perhaps even have some ruins to visit.

But we don't make that the main part of our focus as sometimes the kids don't want to spend all their time doing that. So in order to keep us all happy we mix it up a lot. It could be a visit to a park, a whimsical garden, or a double-decker bus ride around the city we happen to be in. Travel for us means finding something that we all enjoy and sometimes that means plenty of compromise. So if it means visiting the mall, stopping at a water park or visiting the local cupcake store then so be it. At least we know the kids will be only too happy to visit the local museum when we suggest it.

Michelle Tupy is a copywriter and blogger who loves nothing more than travelling. Michelle and her family are currently on a road trip from Peru to Canada with her husband and two children.

You can find her at www.andoffwewent.com

Also take a baby carrier. I love having mine on the plane so I can walk around during unsettled times and perhaps get bub to sleep. They're great at airports to carry and stay hands-free.

For the plane, I pack one nappy and four wipes into a plastic nappy bag and prep a dozen of them inside my hand luggage so you can just reach in and grab one at nappy change time. The plane toilets are tight and the less you need to carry, the better.

Always pack a change of clothes for you and bub. My daughter managed to throw a glass of red all over me at the start of a 24hour trip and I didn't have a spare top!

If you use lullabies to get bub to sleep, make sure you download them on to your phone so you can play them on the plane.

The more familiar stuff you have with you, the better, such as a favourite blanket or teddy.

Take baby Panadol in your hand luggage.

Have some pawpaw on hand for dry lips and nose, the aircon often dries them out.

Don't stress too much and go with the flow—it's an adventure for everyone and bub will be excited too! They pick up on your angst if you get worked up.

Emma Lovell, mum of two young kids and Creator of Fly Babee, www.flybabee.com.au

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• Put them in charge of navigating the route from arrival to aircraft. Give them the info they need (airline, destination) to get started, and then let them do the rest. They'll have to find the check-in counter, lead you through customs and immigration, follow signage to the right terminal or pier, the gate, then onto the aircraft and into your seats. They'll love the responsibility, and learn a thing or two about how airports are put together—a good skill for future travels.

• So, let's assume they've done a great job and they've guided you through the various airport hoops without incident. Now you're in transit with time on your hands and there's quite possibly not a great deal to entertain the kids. Another way to get them off their devices and engage with the real world is to wander about the terminal for a few minutes taking photos of random things then return to the kids, show them the first object on your camera roll and send them off on a treasure hunt to find them. The first one back with photographic evidence gets, well, usually a high-five will do. Repeat as required!

Ben Alcock is a travel writer and content marketer, and can be found at www.disarmdoors.com.au, or Instagram @DisarmDoors.

kidsonthecoast.com.au | kidsinthecity.com.au

C OM E C ATC H M E , I ’M T H E G I N G E R B R E A D M A N !

The Ginger Factory promises a great family day out with something for everyone.

Set sail on the Overboard boat ride or climb aboard Moreton, the 115 year old ginger train. Enjoy hours of fun in the Ginger Factory gardens or sit back and relax whilst the children play in the undercover playground.

E E R F RY ENT YS A 7D

Rides and tours incur costs.

DSA GF9178a

Free entry and a café boasting a wide range of delicious meals and cakes makes this an ideal spot for the whole family. Come and see for yourself.

 F R E E C A L L 1 8 0 0 0 6 7 6 8 6  t h e gi n g e r fac tor y 5 0 P I O N E E R R D, YA N D I N A , S U N S H I N E C OA S T, Q U E E N S L A N D kidsonthecoast.com.au | kidsinthecity.com.au

 gin g e r fac to r y. co m . a u

SEP/OCT 2016

27

[TRAVEL]

glampinH it up!

By ANGELA SUTHERLAND

DO YOU LIKE THE IDEA OF CAMPING BUT HATE GOING WITHOUT LIFE’S COMFORTS? GLAMPING OPENS UP A WHOLE NEW WORLD, MAKING CAMPING ACCESSIBLE TO EVEN THE MOST TENT-SHY OF ADVENTURERS.

For many Queensland families, camping is a cherished activity—a chance to reconnect with nature and escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life. However, for others it is an experience quickly discounted due to the lack of basic creature comforts and the hassle factor of organising.

Combining luxury with the great outdoors, ‘glamping ‘ (glamourous camping) opens up a whole new world of adventure to the noncampers amongst us.

A hassle-free, comfort-focused approach to camping, glamping provides a back-to-nature holiday where the kids can experience camping but the parents don’t have to worry about cramming the gear into the car. You can be happily toasting marshmallows and relaxing in the fresh air within moments of arrival, without any of the stress of setting up camp! And providing all the fun experiences of camping without any of the discomfort, glamping is fast becoming a favourite holiday choice amongst many families.

There is a huge range of glamping options and packages available—from basic pre-erected tents to luxury yurts with log fires and on-site swimming pools (some of the tents seem better than a hotel!). Some sites also offer vegie gardens, communal cooking and on-site restaurants. Here are some of the best glamping spots around Australia.

RIVERSHORE RESORT, MAROOCHYDORE, QLD With 15 spacious, 5-star safari tents available, the recently opened Rivershore Resort on the Maroochy river offers a private setting with nature right outside your door. Each self-contained tent has an ensuite bathroom, kitchenette and a four-poster bed, and there is a fully licensed bar and restaurant on site.

Super kid-friendly, the resort has a playground, heated pool with waterslides, and mini golf. It also has a wide range of activities and equipment—you can kayak up the Maroochy River, try your hand at SUP (stand-up paddleboarding), or hire a bike and explore the surrounding area. On the doorstep there are also the many outdoor activities of the Sunshine Coast, with stunning beaches, watersports, and a myriad of treks through the national parks and hinterland. There is also free WiFi available, but shhhh, don’t tell the kids! Find out more at www.rivershore.com.au

CASTAWAYS, MORETON ISLAND, QLD Just 100 metres from the beach on Moreton Island is Castaways—a collection of nine tents, each furnished with a queen-size bed (and bunks in a 4-person tent), ensuite bathroom, solar powered lighting, and verandah. There is a communal camp kitchen with barbecues, microwave, fridge and all the cooking utensils, and an on-site café if you’d prefer not to cook! Moreton Island has plenty of adventures to keep everyone entertained, including extreme sandboarding, four-wheel driving, snorkeling the crystal clear waters and hiking.

Find out more at www.moretonislandadventures.com.au

CASTAWAYS RIVERSHORE RESORT 28

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Image courtesy Destination NSW. www.destinationnsw.com.au

[TRAVEL]

TARONGA WESTERN PLAIN ZOO

PAPERBARK CAMP, WOOLLAMIA, NSW

COCKATOO ISLAND, SYDNEY, NSW

2½ hours drive south of Sydney, near the pristine beaches of Jervis Bay, Paperbark Camp is a collection of 12 canvas safari tents, thoughtfully placed amongst the soaring eucalypts. Perfect for families, their King Deluxe safari tent accommodates up to six people and has an ensuite bathroom, separate outdoor bush shower, hotel amenities (slippers, soaps and gowns), solar-powered lighting and a large wraparound timber deck. There is also an onsite restaurant and communal lounge built high off the ground amongst the treetops (keep an eye on little ones, as it really is high!). There are three national parks in the area that are home to a plethora of walking trails, idyllic beaches and wildlife. Find out more at www.paperbarkcap.com.au

Possibly the ultimate location for any break, Cockatoo Island is situated in the middle of Sydney Harbour and offers one and two-bedroom pre-erected tents. Tents are basic, with a camp bed (bedding is provided), cool box, toiletries and outdoor chairs, you just need to bring cooking utensils, cutlery and plates. There is a communal camp kitchen with barbecues, fridges, microwaves and boiling water, and all guests have access to the hot showers.

Barbecue and breakfast food packs can be preordered and delivered to you on the island. Find out more at www.cockatooisland. gov.au/camping

TARONGA WESTERN PLAIN ZOO, DUBBO, NSW For an amazing Aussie safari experience, the Zoofari Lodge at Taronga Western Plains Zoo comprises of 15 luxurious Africanstyle lodges, nestled behind the African Savannah, that overlook a paddock where the giraffe and zebra roam. Each with a king-size bed, mini-bar, fridge and ensuite bathroom, there are lodges for either for four or six people. There is also a guesthouse nearby, with a saltwater pool, restaurant and bar. Find out more at www. taronga.org.au/taronga-western-plains-zoo

RAMADA ECO BEACH RESORT, BROOME, WA 120km north of Broome, this award-winning eco resort, comprises of 30 luxurious safari-style eco tents nestled amongst the untouched Kimberley backdrop. The Family Eco-tent offers shower, free toiletries, outdoor furniture, toilet, fan, and outdoor furniture. Or if you want something even more luxurious, there are also family eco-villas available with a full kitchen, dining area, refrigerator and sofa. There are plenty of tours and activities available—whale watching, turtle monitoring, and complimentary yoga each morning, as well as yoga retreats held throughout the year. There is also an on-site restaurant and bar where you can indulge in the finest cuisine overlooking the stunning ocean views. Find out more at www.ecobeach.com.au

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SEP/OCT 2016

29

[TRAVEL]

SAL SALIS, NINGALOO REEF

KARIJINI ECO RETREAT, WA

SAL SALIS, NINGALOO REEF, WA

An environmentally friendly site, in the heart of the world class Karijini National Park, the Karijini Eco Retreat offers a huge range of accommodation, from basic campsites, to upmarket eco tents with ensuite bathroom and king beds. There is also an alfresco restaurant on site. The park itself is an iconic unspoilt landscape, offering dramatic landscapes, spectacular gorges and home to a huge variety of wildlife—red kangaroos, rock wallabies, goannas, dragons, snakes and more. Find out more at www.karijinicoretreat.com.au

Tucked away in the dunes of WA’s Cape Range National Park, an hour’s drive from Exmouth, this remote beach-side safari camp comprises of 16 eco-friendly wilderness tents situated just 50 metres from the beach that offer inspiring views of the natural surrounds. See breaching whales, swim in the crystal clear waters of the reef, go kayaking, spot kangaroos in the dunes, and take in the stars at night, being in one of the best places to see the Milky Way. The main lodge houses a lounge area and deck overlooking the Indian Ocean, as well as the bar and dining area, where the resident chef serves up seasonal, local mouthwatering meals. Sal Salis is remote and there is no mobile coverage or WiFi, but being completely unplugged is, for many, is the highlight. It caters for children aged five and over. Find out more at www.salsalis.com.au

WILDMAN WILDERNESS LODGE, ARNHEM, NT The Wildman Wilderness Lodge is situated on the Mary River Wetlands, between Darwin and Kakadu. Comprising of 15 fan-cooled safari tents, all with private bathroom, it is a luxurious escape from the world in the Northern Territory sun. With all the modern comforts, constructed from materials that reflect the surrounding environment, it is the perfect base to explore the incredible region that is teeming with wildlife. Take a self-guided ride around the property on one of the fat-wheeled mountain bikes (free for in-house guests), take part in one of the many cultural activities provided—aboriginal painting, yoga, basket weaving—or explore the billabong and local flora and fauna, where you can spot crocodiles, rare birds, buffalo and dingoes. The main lodge has a bar and restaurant and infinity pool.

The lodge operates between April and November (closed for wet season). Find out more at wildmanwildernesslodge.com.au

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CHOOSE YOUR OWN LOCATION If you have your heart set on a particular campsite, but still want the luxury of glamping, there are also now places that will, in particular regions, set up the luxury tent for you at your site of choice.

Soul Camping – Busselton to Margaret River region Pitch Luxury – From Noosa to Byron Avant Garde Camping Company – Greater Sydney area and Blue Mountains Happy Glamper – Mornington Penninsula

kidsonthecoast.com.au | kidsinthecity.com.au

[FEATURE]

12 insp irational family #travel Instagrams to follow WONDERING WHAT IT’S LIKE TO TRAVEL WITH KIDS? HERE ARE 13 OF THE BEST INSTAGRAM FAMILY NOMADS, SHARING THEIR ADVENTURES IN GORGEOUS TECHNICOLOUR. WARNING: SEVERE WANDERLUST MAY FOLLOW!

@courtneyadamo This mama of four has had the travel bug for as long as she can remember. As a family, they are aiming to immerse themselves into different cultures and explore what the world has to offer.

@tshoxenreider Tsh caught the case of itchy feet after graduating college and backpacking through Europe with a friend. Almost two decades later she is now experiencing it with her family of five.

@wyld_family_travel The insta account of Mark Wyld and his gaggle of city wanderers, country explorers, history junkies and castle seekers tells the story of the Wyld family and their fun and fabulous travels.

@globetrottinggrommets Globe Trotting Grommets takes you on a journey from Bali to Broome and everywhere in between!

@mylittleadventures.com.au Curated by Kelly, a Mornington Peninsula mama, who is a self confessed travel addict and lover of sunsets capturing her travels. Follow her to see how she gets on!

@ytravelblog Caz and Craig Makepeace say “Life is about accumulating memories, not just possessions, and now we're creating those precious memories with our two daughters."

@jetsettingkids Offering family fun travel ideas from around the globe, and based in Australia, this insta is the ultimate inspiration if you are thinking of booking a trip!

@travelwithbender This Aussie couple have successfully proven that life doesn’t end after having kids, leaving their home in Perth with their children four years ago they have been living nomadically ever since.

@tatnasworldtour Ever thought of travelling off the grid? That is what this family of six does! Check out their amazing images as they share what they see.

@jeanatravels Mum, Jeana, has been globetrotting with her husband and son collecting stories, memories and striking images. This trio has been everywhere – from Thailand to Jamaica to Canada and more.

@adventure.baby Navigating the world and parenthood at the same time surely deserves some snaps! Off to the USA next, with a stop at Fiji on the way, mama Christine Knight shows the world through her eyes.

@smithsholidayroad Sharing inclusive family travel photos with 2016 to be spent in Japan, Sri Lanka, Bali and Tokyo, this family is enjoying every moment the sun shines (and when it doesn't!)

Any family travel instas that you love? kidsonthecoast.com.au | kidsinthecity.com.au

SEP/OCT 2016

31

[TEENS]

INSIGHT into the misUNDERSTOOD

by ALYSSA DAVIS

LIFE AS A TEEN CAN BE A TOUGH JOURNEY. THERE ARE FRIENDSHIPS TO NAVIGATE, THE PRESSURE TO ACHIEVE, ALL WHILST TRYING TO FIND YOUR PLACE IN THE WORLD AND GAIN SOME INDEPENDENCE. In today’s society teens can, more than ever, become engulfed in an aura of self-doubt and insecurities caused by this generation’s social media frenzy.

Consequently, young millennials have developed a defence mechanism to avoid any intrusion into their personal life, through guarding any life issues with secrets and barriers. For parents, breaking down those walls and continuing the open relationship they had when their kids were younger feels an impossible task.

Particularly when, for most teenagers, reminiscing about their life troubles with their parents becomes more of a chore than a bonding experience.

To help provide insight, we spoke to five teenage girls, aged between fourteen and sixteen, and asked them what they wished their parents knew or understood when it came to teen troubles. The overriding three trends were similar to generations passed—the stress of school, friends and appearance. However, the digital age has brought with it new pressures that make those trends far more difficult to navigate.

SOCIAL MEDIA Social media is something that parents never had when they were growing up, so understanding its implications in the school yard is something difficult to grasp for many Gen X and Gen Ys. As one interviewee said, “Times aren’t like they used to be, insults are no longer scribbled in the school girl’s bathroom, yet whispered behind people’s backs, managing to follow them home through the use of social media.

Understandably help is found if anything spirals out of control, but with the technical advantages of the Internet over the past 25 years, would our parents understand our problems not having experienced it themselves?”

As a result of this, many teens feel very protective over disclosure of personal information. Another interviewee supports this statement claiming, “The bitchy comments and overall insults aren’t

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the main goal. All the extra bickering, insults and appearance shaming seems to come with the high school experience and it’s unnecessary but normal. Which is why each bad experience we encounter, isn’t one we want to return home and share.” The advice from all five teenagers interviewed was: “Don’t take it personally when we don’t tell you everything.”

BE THERE, IN THE BACKGROUND

anything surprising and come expected with any new status or image posted.

Usually I avoid sharing this information with my parents to prevent them questioning my whole background story. I wish they just listened to what I was telling them and give me advice on the matter without placing their nose in all my other business.”

Each young adult interviewed held a similar mindset toward their issues regarding communication with their parents. The most frequent request was for the teen to share selected information and be able to focus on one topic without their parent speculating about other issues they may be encountering. “One problem at a time.”

SCHOOLYARD BANTER School is another contributor towards the stress levels of teenage kids, with one adolescent sharing their personal schoolyard struggles. “Anxiety and stress is a given when it comes to high school, If not from the general pressure of receiving a report card that satisfies your parents, then from the unrealistic expectation that comes with looking presentable one hundred percent of the time.” The era of the ‘selfie’ has created a generation of teens more obsessed with looks and appearance than ever before, and they are all feeling the pressure. Another student continues to say, “School shouldn’t be a place of judgement, we are all there for the same reason with graduating being

kidsonthecoast.com.au | kidsinthecity.com.au

From those early baby days, parents are used to being the centre of a child’s world, and vice versa. And thankfully teens don’t want you to disappear completely! But being there in the background seems to be what the interviewees really want from their parents. “If there is any information you want to know regarding your teens personal life, try not to ask questions directly based on the issue. This feels as if you’re intruding into our personal details and expecting an answer by singling us out… the outcome of which is usually a change of topic and a defensive teenager!”

To avoid being shot down in flames, don’t place your teen in the wrong, or suggest they are the root of the problem. Listen to their side of the story first before asking additional questions. When wanting to know any extra information, adopt a casual approach to the situation. Start up a genuine conversation first and ease into the matter. This is a more effective way of sparking an honest conversation and avoiding a barrier being built between you and your teenager.

With all this said, one-on-one time with your teen never goes out of fashion. Lunch dates, shopping and days at the beach are still moments that teenagers of this generation treasure immensely.

Alyssa Davis is a current Year 10 student at Maroochydore High school undertaking advanced English and Media Studies. Her love towards writing was sparked at a young age and has since become a platform where the younger generation are given a voice. Alyssa hopes to pursue a career in print journalism and inspire others to follow their dreams.

We believe your story should be told.

We believe every day is worth celebrating.

We believe everyone should live in the moment.

We believe in celebrating life through art.

VERVE PORTRAITS. ART INSPIRED BY YOU.

kidsonthecoast.com.au | kidsinthecity.com.au

SEP/OCT 2016

33

[HOME]

Getting back to basics IN THE KITCHEN

by CASSANDRA FENAUGHTY

BEING A PARENT INEVITABLY MEANS NAVIGATING THROUGH A LIFE FULL OF CHALLENGES. AND THE MOST BASIC OF TASKS—PREPARING A FAMILY DINNER EVERY NIGHT—CAN OFTEN BE IMPACTED, WHETHER DUE TO TIME CONSTRAINTS, MONEY PRESSURES OR SIMPLY A LACK OF ENERGY AT THE END OF THE DAY! Author and Health Coach Cassandra Fenaughty meets many mums who feed their children frozen chicken nuggets and canned spaghetti because their children are fussy eaters, they feel that they are too busy to cook, or they assume home cooking is difficult and expensive.

“Home cooking can be daunting but has many benefits,” explains Cassandra, who runs cooking demonstration programs to promote easy, healthy meals for busy families. “Comments such as ‘I don’t have the time’, ‘I don’t know how to’, ‘Surely it’s more expensive’ are common.”

However, by the end of her 90-minute class it’s always a different story. By sharing recipes that are quick and easy, meals that can be made in advance, and can save thousands of dollars a year, participants quickly see that getting back to basics in the kitchen really is quite simple. Some recipes are newer, healthier

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versions of everyday favourites, and others are budget-wise recipes that use leftovers to make family life that little bit easier.

“Cooking doesn’t have to be complicated, getting back to basics is a way for all families to feel healthier, save time and spend less.”

“I recommend that families take one step at a time. New parents will find it easier in the long run if they start healthy eating habits with their child’s first meals. However, if families adopt unhealthy eating habits, they should take baby steps towards new, healthy foods slowly. In my classes, students are invited to write a program in their diary which introduces home cooked snacks and meals gradually.”

“It may be difficult at the start, but by encouraging parents to stay strong and persevere, their children’s health and behaviour will improve, and life changing habits will hopefully be passed on to future generations.”

kidsonthecoast.com.au | kidsinthecity.com.au

[HOME]

As well as saving time, getting organised in the kitchen can save a lot of money, too – up to $10,000 a year!

SAVINGS FOR A FAMILY OF FOUR TO FIVE PEOPLE One takeaway meal per week replaced with a home-cooked meal

$2,000 - $3,800 per year

Three bought lunches per week replaced with packed lunches just for two parents

$3,000 per year

Children's packaged snacks replaced with home cooked snacks

$1,000 per year

Cutting out soft drinks, chips and processed packaged foods

$2,000 - $3,000 per year

Total savings

$8,000 to $10,800 per year

TIPS FOR GETTING BACK TO BASICS: 1.

SHOP ONCE A FORTNIGHT and before you go, write a quick menu plan for evening meals and snacks.

2. COOK A FORTNIGHT’S SNACKS IN ONE ‘COOK-UP’ and pop them in a container in the freezer. Two weeks’ worth of snacks can be made easily in 90 minutes—that's just 1.5 hours a fortnight to bake, pack and freeze snacks such as muffins, quiches and muesli and nut bars. Do it while cooking a roast to save money on electricity.

3.

PLAN YOUR MEALS TO COOK LARGER QUANTITIES less often. Batch cook things like bolognaise sauces and casseroles that can be quickly reheated another night, and also plan to use leftovers. For example, cook more rice with your casserole one night and plan to have a quick and healthy fried rice the next evening.

4.

HAVE A CLEAN WORKSPACE, empty sink and/or dishwasher before you start a ‘multi-batch cook-up’.

If you intend to cook a roast with a quiche that you will have for dinner the following night, plus a few slices and muffins for your fortnightly snacks, you need an organised and tidy workspace.

Need kitchen inspiration?

Here's a sample weekly dinner menu that includes baking snacks for the fortnight and using leftovers:

menu

SATURDAY

Roast chicken and vegetables (baked with snacks)

SUNDAY

Roasted vegetable salad and BBQ meat (leftover roast vegetables)

MONDAY

Chicken and vegetable curry and rice (leftover roast chicken)

TUESDAY

Vegetable fried rice with poached eggs (leftover rice)

WEDNESDAY THURSDAY FRIDAY

Grilled meat with steamed vegetables Steamed vegetable and bacon frittata and salad (leftover steamed vegetables) Homemade pizza night (any leftovers available)

Cassandra Fenaughty is an Author and Health Coach who aims to help families create healthy eating habits.

Her Easy Grub Healthy Bub program demonstrates quick, easy and affordable recipes for busy families.

She also has a cookbook, Wholesome Food For Busy Parents. Find out more at www.cassandrafenaughty.com You can also find several of Cassandra’s favourite recipes on our website!

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SEP/OCT 2016

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Visit ou r website!

mother

Sept/Oct 2016

WEB WRAP UP Here’s what you’ve loved on www.kidsonthecoast.com.au & www.kidsinthecity.com.au

m kids on

MEDIA PUBLISHED BY Mother Goose Media PTY LTD PO Box 491, Eumundi QLD 4562 admin@mothergoosemedia.com.au www.mothergoosemedia.com.au Uniquely connected to our local market and with a devotion to our community we exist to bring an abundance of high quality content – news, events, features and lifestyle – to parents across South East Queensland. Fresh, modern and always evolving, this is THE place for local parents to be united, be understood and be inspired.

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37

sailing QUEENSLAND

WHEN MARTINA COLLINS AND HER FAMILY SPENT SIX MONTHS SAILING THE QUEENSLAND COAST LAST YEAR, IT SPARKED A LOVE OF THE OPEN OCEAN THAT WAS HARD TO SHAKE. WE CAUGHT UP WITH HER JUST BEFORE SHE SET OFF ON ANOTHER TRIP UP OUR GLORIOUS COAST. “Having arrived in Australia as an Irish backpacker in 1999 with $400 in my pocket, sailing up the Queensland coast with a husband and two young kids was not something I’d even dreamed about—how things change!

After having tied up the loose ends on a lengthy work issue, we thought, ‘Why not take off for several months?’ After all, we would have plenty of time before our eldest, Sam, would start school. So in July last year, my husband, Ant, sailed with a mate up to Hamilton Island where my five and three-year-old sons and I met him. The plan was to head north as far as Port Douglas and then slowly work our way back home to Mooloolaba.

Three weeks in and I was already getting nervous that I would never want to live on land again! The freedom and the sheer beauty was mind blowing! This was the way to sail... with time up your sleeve. The boys settled into boat life with ease and before long we had some loose daily routines. Obstacle courses on the sand, swimming and just hanging out was now normal life!

There are few things in this world that I believe can compete with seeing a whale in its natural habitat. And how lucky are we, to have seen so many?! We had the privilege of getting close to lots of marine life. Among them huge Maori wrasse, reef sharks, big stingray and turtles. Sam and I even came across an eel... that was beyond scary!

Among this wonderment of course there were difficult days. Days when things went wrong. Like the day our engines wouldn't engage as we were approaching our berth in Cairns marina. It’s not fun when your best option to stop the boat is to hit the marina! Long story short, we spent about 10 days there before resuming our journey.

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It certainly rattled our confidence but we left feeling grateful that the situation wasn’t any worse. And, of course, even in paradise children can moan—it’s more bearable in paradise though!

Paradise included the outer reefs, Dunk Island, the Whitsundays (I loved Blue Pearl Bay), Percy Islands, Lady Musgrave and so many more wonderful places. The places and wildlife were amazing but so were the people we met along the way. It is enlightening to meet people who don’t feel they must conform to a ‘normal’ way of life. We met several families, some who had lived on their boat for a few months, some for many years.

I am glad that Australia’s home schooling is very highly regarded. It gives me great comfort as we may use these systems in the future.

Sam has since started school and absolutely loves it. So now that we've entered that world, we thought we’d stay put for a while… but no! Ant is already at Hamilton Island after sailing up there again with some mates, and the boys and I are on a plane to begin another trip up north and back home to Mooloolaba in November!

This time we want to spend more time on the outer reef so we will hang around the Port Douglas/Cairns area for four to six weeks before beginning the trip back south. Hopefully my youngest will embrace snorkelling this time as Sam did last year.

We had friends from Melbourne spend their holidays with us last year and those times were some of the best. We already have a few families booked in to join us in August. We know we are immensely lucky to have these opportunities in life and it certainly makes it all the better being able to share it with people we really care about.”

kidsonthecoast.com.au | kidsinthecity.com.au

Image courtesy Tourism and Events Queensland

[DESTINATIONS]

Oaks Oasis Resort The Adventure Zone is ready for summer!

Oaks Oasis Resort on Queensland’s Sunshine Coast is the ultimate family destination.

The iconic onsite water park is now accompanied by a fun filled Adventure Zone featuring an 18 hole putt-putt course, jumping pillow, climbing frame and sandpit. With family rooms, 1, 2 and 3 bedroom apartments to choose from, there is a room to suit every family.

To book go to oakshotels.com or call 13 62 57

BOOK NOW

for summer!

OAS1989

Oaks Oasis Resort 2 Landsborough Parade, Caloundra Qld

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SEP/OCT 2016

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[LOCAL LIFE]

F rom Surfers to Hollywood

Jordyn Yarker Jordyn Yarker is a singer/songwriter and actor who recently swapped life on the Gold Coast for the entertainment capital of LA. She tells us about life in America and her latest projects, and offers some advice to aspiring young talent.

heavy show about a group of high school teens that run an indie record label, NU Skool Records.

WHY DID YOU RELOCATE TO LA, AND WHAT HAS LIFE BEEN LIKE FOR THE LAST 18 MONTHS SINCE YOU MOVED?

There are so many people here from all over the world: it’s a melting pot of so many interesting cultures and characters.

LA is soooo busy, it’s definitely a busy working city. This is the entertainment capital of the world and there is so much talent here.

This means I get access to some of the best in the world—the greatest trainers, coaches, etc—which has helped me add to my skill set in an extremely competitive industry.

I relocated to LA to further pursue my acting and singing career.

The last 24 months have been busy and like a dream. I got the amazing opportunity to play ‘Asha’ in Nickelodeon’s Bella and the Bulldogs and also a lead in a Disney pilot presentation, a music-

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SEP/OCT 2016

HOW IS LIFE IN LA DIFFERENT TO LIFE ON THE GOLD COAST?

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[LOCAL LIFE]

HOW DOES IT FEEL BEING BACK ON QUEENSLAND SOIL, AND DO YOU MISS IT? It’s a bit crazy making the switch from listening to the American accent to hearing such strong Aussie ones—when we land and speak with the immigration officer it makes me smile! When I come to Australia now it feels like I’m going on a holiday. Leaving LA, with its strong work environment, and heading to the relaxed atmosphere of Surfers Paradise makes me feel super calm and it’s always nice to step away from the crazy life of LA.

WHAT IS YOUR FAVOURITE THING ABOUT THE GOLD COAST? My family, friends and the beaches. Whenever I come back to the Gold Coast we go swimming in the surf every morning, it’s much warmer than at LA beaches.

YOU FILMED YOUR RECENT MUSIC VIDEO WITH MATT LITTLE, WOW! HOW WAS THAT? Super exciting! I met some really cool people on set and got the chance to work with horses! I’m now learning to horse ride in America and I’m really enjoying it.

TELL ME ABOUT THE INSPIRATION AND MEANING BEHIND YOUR LATEST SINGLE ‘KEEP IT SIMPLE’?

‘Keep It Simple’ was inspired by a few situations I’ve experienced regarding boys and the games that teens (both male and female) like to play. ‘Keep it Simple’ is about, well, keeping things simple and not playing silly mind games that are really just a waste of time and emotion.

WHAT ADVICE DO YOU HAVE FOR AUSTRALIAN KIDS WANTING TO CHASE A DREAM? When I fell off my horse for the first time it was very scary, but one thing I learnt from it was to get back on no matter what. It doesn’t matter how many times something tries to knock you down, if you want something in life, grab it by the mane and ride it till you’ve exhausted it and worn it completely down. Be brave and do what you love most and don’t worry about what others may think.

WHAT DO YOU DO IN YOUR SPARE TIME? I love to read, write, draw and paint among many other things like video gaming and hanging with friends. I recently uploaded a speed painting video to my YouTube channel which you can check out at www.youtube.com/jordynyarker, along with my other music videos.

WHAT ARE YOU PASSIONATE ABOUT? I’m passionate about equality, especially in the LGBT community.

What happened in Orlando was absolutely tragic and my heart goes out to the lives that were lost and the families going through such a difficult time.

ANYTHING ELSE YOU WOULD LIKE THE READERS TO KNOW? I’m currently writing a two-book series titled Keiko. I have been having meetings with production companies to potentially turn it into a TV series. It’s going to be an action-romance with some wicked twists not set in this dimension! I can’t really say much more.

I’m really excited about finishing it.

YOU ARE BACK HERE FILMING A MOVIE, HOW EXCITING! TELL US MORE! Yes, I can’t wait! I’m filming in September for a movie called Dunamis.

It’s a mix of Romeo and Juliet meets Mad Max. I play the role of ‘Mortecia’, the daughter of an all-female warrior tribe leader and I’m super excited to be working with such an amazing cast and crew.

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Follow Jordyn on Instagram @jordynyarker and Twitter @jordynyarker, or visit her website www.jordynyarker.com

SEP/OCT 2016

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Books KIDS CITY TRAILS – LONDON, PARIS, NEW YORK

Let Marco and Amelia, the Lonely Plant Kids explorers, take you off the tourist trail and guide you through these popular cities. Each book follows 19 fantastic themed trails that reveal these dynamic cities’ best-kept secrets.

Find out how an old parrot hit the headlines in London, why there might be a lost cattle tunnel underground in New York, where Paris keeps its historic underpants, and lots more. Perfect for little travellers ages 8 and up.

THE FRANCES AUDIO COLLECTION An audiobook can be a lifesaver on a roadtrip with kids. This collection of humorous stories about Frances the badger and her daily adventures is a great introduction to audiobooks for kids. With each story playing for less than 15 minutes, these audiobooks are short, sweet and a hit with the little ones.

TOPSY AND TIM GO CAMPING

Jean and Gareth Adamson Perfect for preschoolers (3–5 years old) this book follows young twins, Topsy and Tim on their first camping trip. In the course of their holiday, the family explores the woods, experiences an al fresco supper, learn how to pitch a tent and makes friends with other campers. This book is easy to follow and demonstrates how fun and exciting camping can be—great for kids who might be feeling a little nervous!

apps

Movies THE SECRET LIFE OF PETS

In cinemas Sept 8. Rating G Taking place in a Manhattan apartment building, Max’s life as a favourite pet is turned upside down, when his owner brings home a sloppy mongrel named Duke. They have to put their quarrels behind when they find out that an adorable white bunny named Snowball is building an army of abandoned pets determined to take revenge on all happy-owned pets and their owners.

SEP/OCT 2016

DISNEY’S "PETE’S DRAGON"

In cinemas Sept 15. Rating PG Disney's "Pete's Dragon" is the adventure of a boy named Pete and his best friend Elliot, who just so happens to be a dragon. This re-imagining of the cherished family film, Pete's Dragon is a tale rich in wonder, adventure, humour, and emotion that will make you believe.

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The award-winning WWF Together app brings you closer than you’ve ever been to 16 endangered species. Race a jaguar, out-jump a snow leopard, explore 360° images of 10 species habitats, and pose with each animal to create your own unique shareable photo. Available on iPad, iPhone, android and Kindle Fire tablets.

See more and save more with a BCC and Event Cinemas Family Pass, available for some great family films. Valid for 2 adults and 2 kids, OR 1 adult and 3 kids! Check the website for your local BCC or Event Cinemas Family Pass offer. eventcinemas.com.au

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WWF TOGETHER

MISS PEREGRINE’S HOME FOR PECULIAR CHILDREN

In cinemas Sept 29. Rating CTC From visionary director Tim Burton, and based upon the best-selling novel, comes an unforgettable motion picture experience. When Jake discovers clues to a mystery that spans alternate realities and times, he uncovers a secret refuge known as Miss Peregrine’s Home for Peculiar Children. As he learns about the residents and their unusual abilities, Jake realises that safety is an illusion, and danger lurks in the form of powerful, hidden enemies. Jake must figure out who is real, who can be trusted, and who he really is.