NRFM Spring 2014 by NR Famiy Magazine

FR EE

What About

Us? A couples guide to having a baby

The Block's

Darren Palmer ON LIFE, CAREER & EASY LUXURY

Single woman one day

SPRING 2014

step mom

the next

Infertility? Explained Adolescent Mental Health Worrying about worrying.

N! I W

PRIZE

K C A

contents Sring Issue 2014

Lifestyle

Food Home Design Organise

Craft Family Hot Spots Play Family Favourites Lov2shop

28 6 GIVEAWAYS 18 WHATS ON GU IDE 33 FAM ILY CONTACTS

The Team...

EDITOR/PUBLISHER: Cortnei Laird publisher@nrfamily.com ABN:24 741 924 946

EDITORIAL CONTENT: Cortnei Laird Sally Sharman Dr Gary Swift Joanne Sweeny Sean Tonnet Patricia Di Tullio

F amily Fun

EDITORIAL CONTENT: Dr. Vicki Liu Dr. Dan Ewald ART DIRECTOR: Cortnei Laird design@nrfamily.com

BeYOUtiful 30 PROOF READER: Emily Handley ADVERTISING: Cortnei Laird Angie Barnier sales@nrfamily.com

Wellness Health & Fitness Beauty

ALL ENQUIRIES TO: (02) 6622 3260 enquiries @nrfamily.com P O Box 5344, East Lismore NSW 2480

NEXT ISSUE DEADLINE: Summer 15th November 2014

www.nrfamily.com

No part of this magazine may be reproduced or copied in any form without the written consent of the publisher. Content in Northern Rivers Family Magazine is for general information only and is not intended to be a substitue for professional advice. The views expressed in Northern Rivers Family Magazine are not nesseccarily the views of the publisher. The publisher believes all information to be true and correct at the time of printing. Whilst every care has been taken in the preparation of Northern Rivers Family Magazine, no liability can be accepted for errors or omissions. Please check information directly with advertisers or venues listed before making arrangements. The Advertsiers accept all responsibilty for the consent of their advertisements and agree to indemnify the publisher against claims or proceedings arising from breech of relevant laws and regulations. Provision of material for publication constitutes acceptance by the advertiser of this condition.

Locally owned & operated in the Northern Rivers Region

Contributors Dr Gary Swift

MBBS (QLD) FRANZCOG MReprodMed(UNSW) Infertility Specialist Virtus Health Dr Gary Swift is an Obstetrician & Gynaecologist specialising in IVF, infertility and advanced laparoscopic surgery. He graduated from Queensland University in 1988, completed specialty training in Obstetrics and Gynaecology in 1999 and a Masters in Reproductive Medicine from the University of New South Wales in 2011. He has been a senior clinician with QFG Gold Coast now part of the Virtus Health Group since 2001. To seek an expert opinion with regard to Infertility and IVF treatments contact the Gold Coast rooms on (07)55646017.

Sally Sharman

Dip. Child, B.Ed EarlChild, MGest Therapy Sally Sharman (Dip. Child, B.Ed EarlChild, MGest Therapy) believes all stepmums can find their place and be at ease with who they are in their stepfamily, no matter how they choose to be, or the role they choose to take. She inspires and supports stepmums, to unpack their role and their feelings to achieve a sense of fulfillment, confidence and empowerment. She has been working with Children and Families for over 15 years and has vast experience with family issues. She is a psychotherapist and Early Childhood Teacher and runs a private practice in East Lismore, NSW. www.sallysharman.com

Sean Tonnet Psychotherapist

Based in the northern rivers, Sean Tonnet is a psychotherapist, supervisor and group facilitator specialising in couples and family relationships. He is a husband and father of two and his work with families has been recognised nationally through radio and television.

Dr Dan Ewald

GENERAL PRACTITIONER Dr Dan Ewald is a GP who lives and works in Lennox Head. He is also Clinical Advisor for North Coast Medicare Local.

Dr Vicki Liu General practitioner

Dr. Vicki Liu is a doctor and mother of three - an 8 year old, a 6 year old, and recently a new baby. She lives on a farm near Alstonville, NSW and is currently on maternity leave from working as a General Practitioner in the region.

Jo Sweeney

AIF PERSONAL TRAINER Jo Sweeney is a qualified AIF Personal Trainer and owner of FIT COMPLETE Personal Training & Fit Mums N Bubs – the everybody fitness solution. Offering gym access, personal training, group fitness, 13 week transformation challenge and of course Fit Mums N Bubs. www.facebook.com/fitcomplete or www.facebook.com/fitmumsnbubs “I love helping people feel good about themselves both internally and externally. I believe that healthy mums raise healthy babies that grow into healthy adults. My goal is to help mums understand the importance of a healthy yet balanced lifestyle, whilst enjoying the hardest yet most rewarding job ever……motherhood”.

Patricia Di Tullio INTERIOR DESIGNER/D'ART INTERIORS

Patricia Di Tullio is the owner and operator of D'Art Interiors. Recently re-located interior design business to the Northern Rivers. Many years experience in residential homes and commercial fit-outs. Assisting home owners and builders with colour and finish selections from concept to completion. Professional colour consultation, specification, custom furniture, drapes etc. www.dartinteriors.com.au

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Family Mail

INBOX

Last weekend we took our boys to the Macadamia Castle at Knockrow. They had a wonderful time exploring the whole park. They got to see animals that they never knew existed. The food was also top of the class. I highly recommend Macadamia Castle to anyone who is looking for a family friendly and adventure for the day. And I would love to say a huge thankyou to the team out there for all the hard work that goes into the upkeep of the park.

When we picked up our first copy of NRfamily we didn't realise how special this magazine would be to our family and our new little star Marilyn. Thank you so very much for adding to the delightful first 6month's of her arrival and making us feel so special. As new parent's all the support and encouragement mean's everything, again, Thank you for the joy of winning the "AROMABABY" prize package.. Photo's of the wonderful time's Urshla Vedda & Marilyn Buttercup, Tuntable Falls, Nimbin. (6months old)

POLL RESULTS

Which type of nappies do you use?

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Cloth Nappies

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Disposable Nappies

Carly Stewart

Should kids drink coffee? If so what age?

Dear NR Family, My family really likes your magazine. Your magazine is fun and colourful. I just want to thank you for my favourite part is the kid page. My mum likes the cooking and competitions to.

P.s I have sent you a picture

Join the conversation

Like us on Facebook & Subscribe to our monthly newsletter

16! My son started drinking weak tea at around 8, we had a close family friend that introduced him to it. The novelty wore off after a few months. Coffee - no go for kids. I've seen the reactions when parents have let them drink it. Throughout the day you see the ebbs and flow of their energy, their little bodies just don't handle the buzz well, same goes for the energy drinks.

Given that neither my husband or I drink coffee, I I would prefer coffee don't think it is an issue in this house, but we don't replacement until 16 like Ecco, let our kids drink coke or diet coke etc due to I don't allow my kids caffeine the caffeine in it, and our children are well aware drinks -Tiph Stephens that caffeine stunts your growth so given I am short and they want to be tall, they stay away no kids don't need to have from all caffeine LOL. As a general, I thin it is up coffee why can't they have a to each household but children should not be hot chocolate encouraged to drink coffee until they are adults.

-Marina McHutchison

-Rebecca Yourell

-Wendy Dahlene Johnson

It's a no for me. -Ron Cahill

I don't see a reason for kids needing to drink coffee. I'm surprised they even like the taste of it at a young age. -Emmylou Herman

I'm wondering, what are some crazy things that kids say? when feeding my newborn, my 3 yr old says " mum..is she hungry for your pimple" lol meaning nipple, just cute -Kim Walton

My two year old said to her dad, " I command you to get my breakfast your majesty" haha! Jade Powell

My 14 month old comes out with some really funny stuff the other day her dad said something to her which she replied with "wait a second dad" and we were like whaaat but a common one for her is "there you go chicken" cause apparently we say that to her a lot lol -Kailie Hetherington

7.5months my pirate baby says "Arrr dad dad dad." Jade Zwiers

my 3 year old yesterday asked where his sister was ( he only has a 10 month old brother) which i replied you dont have a sister you have a brother, he started to cry because he doesnt want a brother... um its WAY to late now buddy!

Every time we go to Ballina my three year old son yells out 'the big corn mummy'. We tried to tell him once that it was a prawn but that ended in tears so now we just go with it... Kym Scotcher

My one year old says to his brother and sister bad luck Donna Roberts

My almost 4yo son and my husband were getting their bikes ready for a morning ride. My husband commented that his bike had a bit of rust. My 4yo looked at his own bike and said "hmm i have some rust on my handlebars too Daddy. Gee Santa didn't do a very good job of painting this did he!" lol Danielle Smith

Felicity Jay

NR FAMILY magazine

GIVEAWAYS Win!

A Beetle Bottoms Prize Pack

Over $500 Value!

Created in Byron Bay the Beetle Bottoms books and products encourage play, creativity and imagination. Children relate to the Beetle Bottoms - tiny people who live in gardens all over the world. They are just like us only they are tiny! Beetle Bottoms promote learning through play, which is, we believe, the most effective and fun way for development and learning. To find our more about us you can visit our website www.beetlebottoms.com or find us on facebook! The luck winner will receive: All 8 of our Wall Decal Packs All 8 Beetle Bottoms Dolls Where is Pip? Beetle Bottoms and the Sticky Situation Beetle Bottoms and the Eyes in the Night Beetle Bottoms Story Play Cards Memory and Snap Game

WIN A 4-piece single bedding set worth $185

Kids love going to sleep when their bed is a giant chocolate bar! Discover Bed Toppings imaginative, unique sheets for kids and babies. Our hand drawn nursery collection is sewn locally here in the Northern Rivers. Enjoy free delivery when you order online at www.bedtoppings.com.au Special deal: enter the discount code NRFamily to get 10% off your next purchase

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WIN 8 Full Size Testers Of Each Tub Teas CinnaMint Tub Teas are aromatic, invigorating & unique way to bathe. Each organza bag is filled with an array of herbs, flowers or fruit to give the consumer a memorable, fragrant experience each time they are used. Tub teas can be used a maximum of 2 times before they lose all nutrients. www.cinnaminthome.com or on facebook. Fragrances are: Apple Crumble, CinnaMint-sation, CinnaMint's First Aid, L'Orange, Orange You Gonna Eat That?, Summer Breeze, Sweet Aroma & Tropical Crunch. To be in the draw to WIN one of our giveaways just email us a contribution - either a photo, letter, drawing, recipe, favourite hot spot, your tips and tricks on kid rearing or fun ideas for the home. We want to hear from you! Email enquiries@nrfamily. com. Prizes drawn on November 15th 2014.

Family Buzz

NEWS New Rainbow Club in Byron Bay

ainbow Club believes that learning to swim is important for all children, including those with a disability, and we recognise that concentrated and individual focus helps those with a disability acquire the skills needed to stay safe in an aquatic environment.

Rainbow Club offers heavily subsidised, one on one swimming lessons for children with a physical or intellectual disability, from preschool to high school age A new Rainbow Club is being established in Australians are being encouraged to save Byron and classes will begin in September the date and join the rest of the country on September 12 in raising vital awareness 2014, on a Saturday, at Byron Pool. and funds for Australian children affected We are now looking to register children by sexual assault. who would like to participate. We are also looking for parent committee members to #whoRUprotecting is a national campaign encouraging Australians to act for the assist in running the club. protection of the children in their lives. It It would also be great to hear from might be your son or daughter, niece or interested corporate sponsors, to ensure nephew, grandchildren, students, a friend’s the club can continue to operate in the child or all Aussie kids. As a White Balloon years to come. Day supporter, step forward and showcase your support for child protection. For further information: EMAIL:byronrainbowclub@gmail.com PHONE: Lorissa on 0409 028 153 WEBSITE: www.rainbowclubaust.com.au

Find out how you could be involved visit www.whiteballoonday.com.au

BLUE SEPTEMBER IS ABOUT FIGHTING CANCER IN MEN! • 1 in 2 men will be diagnosed with cancer by the age of 85. • 1 in 4 men will be diagnosed with prostate cancer by the age of 85. • Men are 33% more likely to be diagnosed with cancer and 30% more men die than women. • 50,000+ men are diagnosed with cancer every year - and almost half of that number die from it.

HELP US RAISE FUNDS FOR CANCER RESEARCH AND EARLY DIAGNOSIS if YOU DON’T LiKE OUR MOUSTACHES WE DON’T LiKE YOUR LAWS

www.blueseptember.org.au

Proudly Supporting

ountry Girl Australia is a national search focused in rural and regional areas across Australia. The Country Girl team is very excited to be visiting Lismore thanks to our major sponsor Lismore Shopping Square providing life changing opportunities Country Girl to your local youth. Australia National The Country Girl Lismore winner & Lismore Local Liberty preliminary will be held at The Lismore Shopping Square on Friday 26th and Saturday 27th September. There is now a variety of categories to enter which provides fantastic opportunities for the local youth not only in the modelling industry but also in education & building careers. The recently launched Career Girl category is open for those girls who would like to build a career in the ‘behind the scenes’ side of the fashion industry. The event aims to provide a fun supporting environment that opens opportunities in many fields to country girls. We hold rehearsals and a motivational experience to build self-confidence throughout all contestants. The Country Girl founder, scout & ambassador Katie Jones will also be present to speak with the girls and to help send the positive message to all involved to DREAM, BELIEVE & ACHEIVE. Thanks to our major sponsor the Lismore Shopping Square Country Girl is able to bring these life changing opportunities to Lismore & provide the locals with an entertaining event for the community to congregate and support their local youth. It is through regional events that National Finalists are selected and welcomed to join the prestigious annual event synonymous with glamour, sophistication and style. The National Final & extravagant star studded evening is set up to allow contestants the opportunity to discuss their futures with leading industry professionals. Since 2009 thousands of girls have entered this competition which has launched many careers both nationally and internationally. Contestants can enter online at www.misscountrygirlaustralia.com.au NR FAMILY magazine

Infertility?

Dr Gary Swift

MBBS (QLD) FRANZCOG MReprodMed(UNSW) Infertility Specialist Virtus Health

Access to infertility and IVF services will become that much easier from August 2014 when Dr Gary Swift from the Virtus group starts consulting regularly from rooms in Bangalow. Chosen as a centrally positioned and easily accessible location, specialist consultations, testing and some treatments will commence regularly. The Virtus group includes Queensland Fertility Group, IVF Australia (Sydney), Hunter IVF and Melbourne IVF and is the largest reproductive services group on the east coast of Australia. To seek an expert opinion with regard to Infertility and IVF treatments contact the Gold Coast rooms on (07)55646017. 8 NR FAMILY magazine

nfertility or subfertility affects one in six couples for a variety of reasons, both male and female, and often a combination of both. Some lifestyle factors contribute and these are often the easiest to treat. Medical problems in women can lead to infrequent or absent ovulation (egg release) or pelvic disease, which reduces the chance of pregnancy. Blocked tubes after infection, endometriosis, fibroids, advancing age, genetic and endocrine problems can all interfere with successful pregnancy. Male factors are not always evident. Some men just don’t produce enough sperm or they may not swim well enough or not be formed normally. Other problems include congenital issues, such as undescended testes, accidents or illnesses (mumps), trauma, surgery or swollen veins in

the scrotum (varicocoele). Genetic conditions affecting chromosomes are rare but occasionally explain poor sperm counts and can affect offspring. Generally speaking couples under 35 years of age should conceive a pregnancy within 12 months of trying if periods are regular and no other obvious problems are present. If they haven’t conceived in this time frame investigation is appropriate. If the female partner in a couple is over 35 years of age investigations are started after 6 months ideally. This is because the monthly chance of pregnancy declines noticeably after 35 and treatments if required need to be considered sooner rather than later. Risks of miscarriage and genetic problems such as Down’s syndrome become more common as women age.

For women a thorough history and physical examination is required initially and an ultrasound to check for anatomical problems. Certain preliminary blood tests help us check “egg reserve” and X-rays can check for “tubal patency”. Some women may need exploratory surgery (Laparoscopy) to diagnose and treat conditions such as endometriosis, fibroids and adhesions. Men are generally much easier to assess, with a semen analysis after three days abstinence generally indicative of male fertility. Some adverse lifestyle influences can still affect the function of sperm even if numbers are adequate. Other testing is generally reserved for men with significant abnormalities on the semen test. A particular issue occurs for men wishing to father children again after vasectomy. When the time from this operation approaches ten years we know reversals are rarely effective and

'Infertility or subfertility affects one in six couples for a variety of reasons' IVF with testicular sperm retrieval is required. Treatments for infertility vary with the underlying diagnosis, duration of infertility and ages of the couple. Some couples may need lifestyle adjustment and advice while others may need treatments such as ovulation induction with timed insemination which will suit some conditions while more serious problems and those with advancing age will require IVF with or without ICSI (when the sperm is injected into the egg).

Women in their forties often prove the greatest challenge as “take home baby rates” will be between 10 and 20% per IVF attempt and success rates fall to nearly zero after women turn 44. This occurs because women’s ovaries fill with eggs (oocytes) before they are born and these will progressively age and reduce in number and quality, most noticeably after 35. In a perfect world all women would have their babies between 18 and 30 years of age when they are most fertile, however the reality is often far from this. Careers, lack of a suitable partner during optimal fertile years, economic factors, second marriages and many other circumstances lead to deferral of childbearing plans. There are many underlying causes of infertility, which can be overcome with the appropriate use of Assisted Reproductive Technologies that can lead to couples fulfilling their dreams of having a family. It all starts with the first step.

Leading Specialist in Reproductive Medicine and Surgery Fertility & Reproductive Specialist Laparoscopic Surgery Gynaecology Obstetrics

Dr Gary Swift

www.drgaryswift.com.au

MBBS (QLD) FRANZCOG, MReprodMed (UNSW)

Suite 4, Level 1 Pindara Place

Leading Specialist in Reproductive

13 Carrara Street, Benowa, 4217

Medicine and Surgery

Ph: (07) 5564 6017 Fax: (07) 5564 7940

NR FAMILY magazine

Hand, foot & mouth disease -Dr Dan Ewald

What is it

HFMD is a mild viral infection which causes blisters on the hands and feet, in the mouth and often in the ‘nappy’ area. It generally lasts seven to ten days. It occurs mainly in kids under 10 years of age but can affect older kids and adults. HFMD is more common during warmer weather and spreads easily between children. It is nothing to do with the foot and mouth disease of sheep.

Symptoms

Common symptoms include high temperature (fever), sore throat, small blister-like lesions on mouth, sides of tongue, palms of hands, fingers, soles of feet and ‘nappy area’. It is a usually a clinical diagnosis and tests are generally not needed. Many cases are so mild it is not noticed and those that get symptoms are usually recovered within a week. Children with HFMD should be excluded from school and childcare until all the blisters have healed. The public health interest in limiting spread is because it rarely can progress to a viral meningitis.

How it's spread

HFMD is spread by direct contact with fluid from the skin blisters, nose and throat discharges (including saliva, sputum or nasal discharge), droplets from sneezing, and faeces (poo). The blisters are infectious until they become crusty and without fluid. The virus may also be shed in the faeces for several weeks after the blisters resolve.

Treatment

HFMD is mild and there is no specific treatment. Use paracetamol or aspirin for fever and discomfort. Offer plenty of fluids, but not orange juice which may upset mouth ulcers. Allow blisters to dry naturally – do not pierce them as the fluid is infectious. If a severe headache or fever persists, contact your GP immediately. If you need advice about this or any medical matter after hours, phone the GP Helpline on 1800 022 222.

Prevention

Good personal hygiene is essential to prevent the spread of FHMD in others: ◊ Wash hands carefully with soap and water after contact with blisters, after handling nose and throat discharges and after contact with faeces. ◊ Use separate eating and drinking utensils. ◊ Avoid sharing towels, washers, toothbrushes and shoes and socks. ◊ Thoroughly clean soiled clothing or surfaces and toys that may be contaminated. ◊ Teach kids cough and sneeze etiquette, including immediate disposal of tissues and washing their hands afterwards. The Nature of the advice Dr. Dan Ewald gives in this column is general only and does not replace the care of your regular GP. If you have any concerns about your family's health, please visit your doctor.

OUT OF THE MOUTHS OF BABES... WE ASKED “What does love mean?” “When my grandmother got arthritis, she couldn’t bend over and paint her toenails anymore. So my grandfather does it for her all the time, even when his hands got arthritis too. That’s love.” Rebecca – age 8

“When someone loves you, the way they say your name is different. You just know that your name is safe in their mouth.” Billy – age 4 “Love is what makes you smile when you’re tired.” Terri – age 4 “Love is when my mummy makes coffee for my daddy and she takes a sip before giving it to him, to make sure the taste is OK.” Danny – age 7 “Love is when you kiss all the time. Then when you get tired of kissing, you still want to be together and you talk more. My Mommy and Daddy are like that. They look gross when they kiss.” Emily – age 8 “Love is what’s in the room with you at Christmas if you stop opening presents and listen.” Bobby – age 7 (Wow!) “If you want to learn to love better, you should start with a friend who you hate.” Nikka – age 6 “Love is when you tell a guy you like his shirt, then he wears it everyday.” Noelle – age 7 “Love is like a little old woman and a little old man who are still friends even after they know each other so well.” Tommy – age 6

Free Dentistry* for kids *As part of the Australian government child benefits dental schedule, Bytes is offering bulk billing dentistry to eligible kids under 18 years old. Just bring your medicare card.

6681 6680 Ballina Central Shopping Centre 44 Bangalow Rd Ballina 2478

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HOW TO BUILD F U L FI L L I N G RELATIONSHIPS

W I T H Y O U R STEPCHILDREN

Single Woman One Day,

Step Mum The Next

-Sally Sharmen Here are 5 tips to help stepmums form fulfilling relationships with their stepchildren;

et’s step back in time. You fell in love. Bliss swept you off your feet as you delighted in the beginnings of a new relationship. You were focused on the blossoming union while the rest of the world took a back seat. Together you revelled in romantic walks along the beach, candle lit dinners for two, interstate trips on the weekend and the list goes on. Though, before long the honeymoon phase was overcome by the reality of family life as your new partner is also a devoted parent.

Stepping into stepmotherhood can be both exciting and daunting. Becoming a stepmum yields an opportunity for transformation. It is a journey that will change you, that will be tough, that will touch your shadows and sprout unimaginable possibilities. Despite it being challenging one of the many gifts you can experience as a stepmum is the joy and satisfaction you gain by partaking in the lives of your partner’s children.

Forming relationships with your stepchildren will take time, effort and perseverance. It’s important to understand from the onset that step-relationships are unique. In our wider world ‘first families’ are idealised and often stepmums try to create relationships which replicate biological bonds. This often leads to women feeling disheartened, guilty and not worthy. While stepmums can hold an intention of love in their hearts, the aim for these women is to establish mutual respect. Love can most certainly grow in time. RESOURCES Stepfamilies Australia: http://www.stepfamily.org.au/ Essential Kids: http://www.essentialkids.com.au Raising Kids Network: http://raisingchildren.net.au/

Find out what your stepchildren enjoy doing and join them. Have fun, be curious and invite them to tell you about themselves. Children love having people interested in them.

Share your own personal interests/hobbies with the children and invite them to join you. For example, if you like gardening they might like to plant some seeds with you and in time you can watch the plants grow. Ask your partner to hold the parental reins while you simply channel all your energy into getting to know the children. Over time this may change, though for now that’s their job and your job is to build a rapport and get to know his/her children.

Be warm and empathetic as some children may feel overwhelmed, unsure and nervous about a newcomer stepping into their lives.

Take your time. You have all the time in the world. Stepchildren are adjusting to so much change. The slower a new relationship can form the better the outcome as this gives time for all the foundations and history to develop. Being a stepmum is life changing. The connections which grow between stepmum and stepchildren can be deeply satisfying and add incredible fulfilment to a woman’s life. Her partner and the children are incredibly fortunate to have such a woman woven into the tapestry of their family. Stepmums bring many gifts to their new family and with the help of their partner she has the capacity to create happiness and new memories for all.

ENROL NOW!

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20 Phoenix Drive Children aged 6 weeks - 6 years Welcome pack on enrolment LARGE GYMNASIUM ONSITE allowing for gross motor activities and Fitness Kidz program WE PROVIDE Air-conditioned premises, nappies & linen, parent & community involvement

(02) 6687 8770

tintenbar@bhchildcare.com.au NR FAMILY magazine

School

The Holy Family Catholic Primary School senior boys’ rugby union squad – winners of the Lismore diocese rugby 10s championship in Coffs Harbour.

LOCAL BOYS TO BE TRAINED BY NSW WARATAHS

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squad of 15 Lennox Head school boys will head off to Sydney in August to compete in the state finals of the Catholic Primary Schools rugby 10s series. Part of the two-day carnival will involve an exclusive training session with the NSW Waratahs rugby team. The senior boys from years five and six at Holy Family Catholic Primary School won their place at the finals by taking out the Lismore diocese primary rugby championships at a recent carnival in Coffs Harbour. They won all five games on that occasion against teams from Lismore, Coffs Harbour, Sawtell and Port Macquarie regions. The state finals take place at the prestigious St Joseph’s College at Hunter’s Hill, Sydney in August. A travelling party of more than 30 boys, coaches and parents will travel to Sydney from the Gold Coast airport and stay at St Joseph’s for the duration of the carnival. School principal Murray Deeps said: “I am immensely proud of this achievement by our senior boys, especially since some of them had never played rugby

union before this competition. The school has not won this competition since 2009 so it’s an honour to get this opportunity now. “However, accolades such as this do not come without hard work, determination and passion - and this group of boys certainly has bucket-loads of those attributes. They have trained twice a week before school for many months and will continue to do so in the weeks ahead. “The boys’ passion and determination can largely be attributed to their fabulous volunteer coach Aaron Matenga (of Lennox Head caravan park) who has given freely of his time for many training sessions and competitions in the past couple of years and the coaching and managing support of year six teacher Peter Cassidy. “I’d also like to thank the boys’ parents who support the team by getting the boys to training each week and transporting the team to competitions up and down the coast.” To take out the title of Lismore diocese champions the team beat St Carthage’s, Lismore (gold) 36-5, St Carthage’s, Lismore (blue) 19-14, St Augustine’s, Coffs Harbour 31-28, St Joseph’s, Kempsey 45-5 and Mary Help of Christians, Sawtell 22-5. The Holy Family Catholic School rugby union 10s team consists of Joseph Hunt-Medley (captain), Rowan Allsopp, Jeremy Fox, Jack McDermott, Darcy Kelly, Solomon Power, Kurt Orlanno, Harry Venn, Jared Lofts, Finn Mantel, Charlie Scotcher, Will Radburn, Joe Rutledge, Flynn Gibbs and Jack Breen.

Extracurricular Activities

o, your child is beginning to get restless and make you restless. He has got more time than is good for him, and you are now considering extracurricular activities - anything that will keep him busy for a few life-saving hours! Most after school activities can be broadly classified into three - recreational, educational and society-oriented. The last bit usually comes in when your child is already a bit grown up and can voice his own interests. Educational activities aim at furthering the knowledge of your child. His general awareness, his understanding and his memory are targeted and he is given various techniques that will help him improve one or all of these. Programs such as intensive memory training and speed mathematics are educational after school activities. There are academic programs that will go over your child's homework and class work and help the child gain more in-depth knowledge in the various subjects. Thus academic programs have a definite edge over the fun and games, especially if parents feel that their child has a lot of catching up to do. Recreational activities include sports and games, fine arts, painting etc. The main thrust here is to have fun. Of course, classes become more competitive as the child climbs up the ladder. Many sport events, competitions, stage performances etc are held to encourage the child. Recreational programs provide a welcome break from the monotony of learning and studies. The mental challenge and the physical exertion make the child feel a renewed zest and a pleasant sense of fulfilment. Group activity teaches him social skills, discipline and patience. It is a proven fact that children involved in extra curricular activities get better grades than others. Sometimes closing the textbooks and playing a game may be the best way to handle your studies.

Whatever program you choose for your child, regular evaluation is the key to success. You will have to measure the child's progress. If progress is unsatisfactory, shift your child out of the program. The child should also have the freedom to reject an activity if and when he feels bored with it. Generally, programs that combine the educational with the recreational are best suited especially for younger children. This way, children can have fun while they learn.

Learn to Dance E

stablished in December 2012, DANCE LAB AU is an umbrella organization incorporating the partnership and teaching talents of directors Natalia Jonasson and Monique Feain where we nurture dancers and inspire dreams.

Both Natalia and Monique bring many years of professional expertise and industry experience to their chosen dance genres. Monique having been a professional Ballet dancer in Europe for 12 years before commencing teaching 20 years ago, and Natalia having worked as a commercial dancer as well as working extensively in Television. Together they have founded DANCE LAB AU to ensure a seamless opportunity in which children can receive safe and professional tuition in a variety of dance genres, with a shared goal of nurturing dancers and inspiring their dreams. Monique & Natalia share the same dance upbringing in culture, ethics in training, technique, artistry, dedication and performance and have a vision to grow a culture of intelligent, artistic dance students with a firm commitment to professional development and safe dance practice. DANCE LAB AU gives local children the opportunity to reach their full potential, in a fun and dedicated environment. The teachers are committed to fostering the joy and love of dance in students, while advancing the studentâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s knowledge of ground breaking safe dance techniques. DANCE LAB AU nurtures a sense of personal best and achievement as well as promoting a healthier lifestyle and outlook for students. Students from DANCE LAB AU have recently performed in another successful community production with Byron Ballet of Les Sylphides and Rite of Spring at Byron Community Theatre and and Twin Towns on the Tweed and DANCE LAB AU students are excited to be entertaining the guests at Candy Lane's upcoming Tickled Pink High Tea for Breast Cancer Fundraiser in Alstonville. DANCE LAB AU facebook.com/DanceLabAustralia photoÂŠKimene Slattery Ching

NR FAMILY magazine

Adolescent Mental Health Worrying about worrying.

dolescence is a time of transition from childhood to adulthood in physical, cognitive, emotional and social development.

Unfortunately, during this period of change, about 1 in 5 teenagers in Australia experience a diagnosable mental health disorder each year. Mental illness can have negative short and long-term effects, including: • Poor social functioning • Poor educational achievement • Unemployment • Substance abuse • Self harm • Violence • Suicide Early stages of mental illness can present as a period of nonspecific but increasingly severe symptoms that cause distress, including:

can start with simple curiosity or It peer pressure, but teen smoking can become a lifelong habit that will

eventually be hard to quit. As a parent, helping teens resist taking that first puff will help their children live a healthier life ahead. Sometimes, teen smoking can be a form of rebellion, or a way to fit in with the crowd. Some teenagers light up in an attempt to lose weight or feel better. Other teens tend to smoke so that they can be cool or feel independent. For a concerned parent, asking the teen about his or her thoughts on smoking

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-Dr Vicki Liu

• Depressed mood • Irritability • Anxiety • Withdrawal from social activity • Lack of interest in things they normally enjoy • Poor concentration • Constant worrying or preoccupation with certain thoughts • Sleep or appetite disturbances As up to 75% of young people with mental illness do not access treatment, it is important to maintain an open dialogue with your teenager and let them know that seeing a doctor for emotional health is just as important as physical health. Teenagers may not feel comfortable discussing emotions with their parents and may not realize they can attend a GP alone. It is important to inform teenagers that staff at medical centres can help with applications for medicare cards, and

can start them on a conversation about quitting or preventing the start of such a habit. It is also good to have a friendly discussion with teenagers about the power of choice, and how their choices could eventually make or break them in the future. Even if parents feel that their children are not listening, say it to them anyway. Simply tell them that smoking is not allowed, and that your disapproval would have more impact than they or even you think. According to one study,

they are generally able to be bulk-billed to avoid any costs if presenting to the GP alone. Although legally a minor, confidentiality can be maintained with their GP however family involvement is encouraged and confidentiality may be broken if there is a serious risk of harm to themselves or to others. Check out these resources for teens and parents for further information: www.headspace.org.au http://au.reachout.com/ www.youthbeyondblue.com/ Kids Helpline Lifeline – 1800 55 1800 (24h free counselling service for young people aged 5-25yrs) Reference: McGorry, PD; Goldstone, S. Is this normal? Assessing mental health in young people. Australian Family Physician March 2011.

The Nature of the advice Dr. Vicki Liu gives in this column is general only and does not replace the care of your regular GP. If you have any concerns about your family's health, please visit your doctor.

teens who think that their parents disapprove of smoking were less than half as likely to smoke as those who thought their parents wouldn’t care. In the event that your teenager has already begun smoking, avoid threats and ultimatums. Rather, figure out why your adolescent is smoking — and talk about approaches to help your teen quit. For more information contact Quitline on 137848.

NR FAMILY magazine

What About

Us?

A couples guide to having a baby

tarting a family is an exciting time for couples and bringing a baby into the world can bring you closer together. However, itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s also a time of trepidation and changes, which can have a big impact on a relationships health. Many couples find the transition into parenthood more complex and difficult to navigate than assumed. For some couples these pressures can become too much for the relationship to handle and can, sadly, manifest in heightened anxieties, conflict and even separation. Undeniably, a relationships health pre-dates babies- our relationship blue prints are linked to our own births, childhood and families. From these experiences (the good, the bad and the ugly) we have each developed strategies and behaviors that help us survive and thrive when we feel emotionally vulnerable. These sets of behaviors are fundamental to the boom or bust of our adult relationships. You may already be aware of how you and your partner have patterns of conflict, tension or distance that seem repetitive? When we consider that bringing a baby into the world is often a trigger for feeling vulnerable it becomes very important to understand this concept. The stress of adjusting to life with a new baby can create vulnerabilities within a relationship: A partnerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s feeling of rejection, disconnection, or loneliness and for both parents and increased risk of depression, to name but a few. In reality families hinge on the capacity of the couple to prioritise their relationship: its health is paramount. There are a myriad of ways to do this, remember that good relationships take effort.

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-Sean Tonnet

Here are some go-to ideas to keep your relationship on track:

he Golden Rules: Two 'golden rules' in relationship are 'everything is co-created' and 'changing you is all you can do'. You may be able to influence your partner, however any strategy to force, blame or manipulate is a fast burn to separation. If you want a different relationship stop trying to change your partner and start changing!

ouples Time: Many couples think that 'couples time' means date nights, kid free days, or weekends away. That's true, but often as parents we are so exhausted that a night together can mean flaking out in front of the TV. Try committing to prioritise a minimum of 30 minutes together one, two or a few nights per week. The critical part is the intent and how you use this time. It needs to be nurturing, caring and respectful. It can be a time to talk, connect, touch, resolve and share.

et's talk: At some level relationship woes are always about communication and many eminent specialists have written on this subject (E.g. John Gottman, Susan Johnson, Stan Tatkin, and others). John Gottman talks about the need for couples to delineate which issues are solvable and which are perpetual. Understanding core skills in active, non violent, connecting and conflict resolving communication is essential. Look at learning these skills as an investment in your life. They will influence not only your relationships health but also your sense of self, your parenting and work.

Gallery

This is Nikola-4 yrs old with her doting dad Nick Astone. -Sheila Astone

water er when the to do in wint lands ing ad th he ite e ur th vo Our fa r walks along fo whales go r to fo is ng is too cold We love looki . ox nn from Le e d ur ina an In this Pict between Ball ving picnics. ha d k. an ac J , ins d er an and dolph is Max, Harp left to right -Jude Ford

My dad an d I. Pregna nt with my firs t son. - Tara Le e Buggy

Above are pictures of my little girl Lakey Nell. I wanted to share a few photos of her jorney in life so far!! She turns 2 next week!! The first photo is from the day she was born and life changed forever for me in the best way possible. The second picture is of her at 6 months old in the bath when she finally could sit up in the bath without me and I could go back to having showers alone!! The third picture id of Lakey and I at her amazing 1st Birthday Party that we had at The Macadamia Castle. It was such a special day for both of us. The forth picture is of Lakey enjoying a tea party on our varandah with her big cousin Bonnie. This is Lakey now, almost 2 years old!! Motherhood is the most amazing journey possible! -Sarah

Article continued...

upport team and network: There is no doubt that it takes a village to raise a child. Nurturing relationships around your family that promote children's wellbeing can help new parents relax back into prioritising their intimate relationship. Cast the net wide and consider a support team to include family, friendships, mothers/father groups, community groups, health care providers and professional family services.

Wall-E and Fa iry Fun -Kim D avies

My boys lov e walking al ong the wall in Bal lina . We sometimes see dolphins and fish sw imming along in th e water. -Carly Ste wart

Timeless interiors for your life style • Unique solutions for drapery, furniture and re-upholstery • All aspects of interior design and decoration • Residential Commercial Hospitality Contact Patricia ph 6688 4768 m 0417 336 816 patricia@dartinteriors.com.au www.dartinteriors.com.au

It's normal that relationships aren't always a bed of roses. However, striving to grow your couple hood is the most important gift you bring to each other and your family. Ample research shows that children thrive in a family that has a loving, functional parental relationship. They will do better at school, are less likely to be bullies, abuse drugs and alcohol or suffer from mental illness. Healthy relationships are a strong indicator for longer life expectancy and without doubt the pillar of a strong community. Its a convincing argument don't you think?

Resources: ‘Hold me tight’ by Susan Johnson, Little Brown & Co. 2008

‘Wired for love’ by Stan Tatkin, New Harbinger Publications 2012 http://psychcentral.com/blog/archives/2012/01/08/7-research-basedprinciples-for-making-marriage-work/ NR FAMILY magazine

WHAT' S

GUIDE

Spring 2014 Your complete reference guide to everything that's happening in and around the Northern Rivers area over the next three months. If you have an event to feature on our What's On Guide, please email the details to enquiries@nrfamily.com.

September October

November

7tH

1st- 2nd

3RD

Kyogle Billycart Bonanza 07 Sept 2014 / 7.15am-3.00pm Kyogle, NSW

13th Sample Food Festival 2014 Saturday 13 September 2014, 8am - 4pm Bangalow Showground, Bangalow

19th Spring Circus Cabaret Friday September 19 from 7pm to 9pm Circus Arts Byron Bay, Byron Bay

14th

The Summerland House Farm Country Fair â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Sunday September 14 Sunday September 14 from 9am to 3pm 253 Wardell Road, Alstonville

28th 2014 Walk to Cure Diabetes in Tweed Heads Sunday 28 September 2014 Jack Evans Boat Harbour, Tweed Heads, NSW

30th Choices for Childbirth Information session for expectant parents about all birthing choices in our region. 4:30-6:30pm Tuesday 30 September at Red Tent Yoga, Byron. $5 donation.

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Ballina Coastal Country Music Festival Friday October 3 www.ballinacountrymusic.com/

12th The Caniaba Springtime Country Fair on the 12th October from 9am - 2pm Caniaba Public School 387 Caniaba Road Caniaba 2480 contact: 0266 214 309 A new film - Microbirth Screenings are Murwillumbah on 12 October Lismore on 1 November www.chuffed.org/project/2021

17th- 19th 2014 North Coast National Thursday October 16, Friday October 17 and Saturday October 18 9am Lismore Show Grounds, Lismore www.northcoastnational.com.

24th Byron Bay Surf Festival 24 October 2014 to 26 October 2014 Byron Bay, Byron Bay NSW 2481 Circus Oz // NORPA Friday October 24 - 25 from 7.30pm to 9.30pm Lismore City Hall, Lismore boxoffice@norpa.org.au

31ST - 1 NOV. Murwillumbah Show 2014 31 Oct to 1 Nov 2014 Murwillumbah Showground, Queensland Rd, Murwillumbah, NSW

Byron Latin Fiesta Saturday November 1 Sunday November 2 www.byronlatinfiesta.com.au/

8th Freedom Mountain Bike Marathon Saturday, 8 November Nightcap National Park Newton Drive, Nightcap NSW 2480

9th Freedom Trail Run Another great running event for the Northern Rivers Region. 40km, 22km, 13km and 5km runs. 9 Nov 2014 Nightcap National Park, Byron Bay Hinterland, NSW

15th Woodburn Bridge to Bridge 2014 15 Nov to 16 Nov Woodburn Riverside Park Ballina Prawn Festival 2014 Saturday, 15 November Missingham Park

19th Tweed Foodie Fest 2014 19 Nov to 23 Nov Murwillumbah

20th - 23rd Mullum Music Festival Thursday November 20, Friday November 21, Saturday November 22, Sunday November 23

www.mullummusicfestival.com

Whats on Calendar

MARKET GUIDE Northern Rivers Markets Weekend of the Month

Location

1st Saturday

Brunswick Heads Riverside Market Memorial Park, Fawcett Street 7.30am – 2pm

1st Sunday

Byron Bay Community Markets Butler Street Reserve 8am – 2pm

1st & 3rd Sundays

Lismore Cr Boot Market Lismore Shopping Square 8am – 2pm

1st & 3rd Sundays

Ballina Market , Canal Road 7am – 1pm

2nd Sunday

Alstonville Community Market Alstonville Showground 8am – 12.30pm

2nd & 5th Sunday

Lennox Lakeside Market Lake Ainsworth 8am – 2pm

2nd Sunday

The Channon Craft Market Coronation Park 9am – 3pm

3rd Saturday

Mullumbimby Market Stuart Street 7.30am – 2pm

3rd & 5th Sunday

Nimbin Market Community Centre 8am – 2pm

Last Saturday

Woodenbong Yowie Country Market Woodenbong Public Hall 8am – 3pm

4th Sunday

Bangalow Village Market Bangalow Showground 7.30am – 2pm

4th Sunday

Evans Head Market Park Street Reserve 7.30am – 2pm

Weekly Farmers Markets

Every Tuesday

Rainbow Region Organic Market Lismore Showground 7am – 11am

Every Thursday

Byron Bay Farmers Market Butler Street Reserve 7am – 11am

Every Saturday

Bangalow Farmers Market Bangalow Pub Car Park 7am – 11am

Every Saturday

Lismore Farmers Market Lismore Showground8am – 12pm

KID'S HOLIDAY

ENTERTAINMENT These school holidays we are hosting Miss Country Girl Australia one of Australia’s largest talent searches - and welcoming spring by creating some stunning Sun Catcher art!

Week 1: Miss Country Girl Australia Competition (see www.lismoresquare.com.au for more details)

Week 2: Sun Catcher Art Activity When: Monday 29th Sept to Friday 3rd October Where: Outside Big W Cost: FREE!

Every Saturday Kyogle Craft & Farmers Market Kyogle Memorial Hall, Cnr Summerland Way & Stratheden Street 8am -12noon Every Sunday

Ballina Missingham Farmers Market Kingsord Smith Drive 6am – 12noon

NR FAMILY magazine

Family Fun

Craft PAPER ROLL OWLS

ART CLASS To Finish the Drawuing, use the grid to draw the other half. Then colour it in.

What you need:

Toilet rolls Paint Paint brush Scrap booking/colourful Paper Owl template Glue Scissors

Instructions:

Fold the top of the toilet paper rolls down toward the middle to form the owls ears. Paint the tiolet roll in your favourite colour and leave to dry. Cut out the eyes from the template. Then cut out the beak, feet, feathers and wings from any colourful paper. You can view our downloadable template from www. nrfamily.com Once the paint is dry, firstly glue the feet (upside down heart) 1/2 way at the bottom of your toilet roll. The feet sould hang a little over the base. Now its time to glue the feathers (circles), overlap them a little (approx.3mm) as you glue them down. Next Glue the beak (triangle) & wings (tear drops). Lastly, glue on the eyes and any other decorations you want to use. Now the little owls are ready to be displayed.

Craft Family Hot Spots Play Family Favourites

Lov2shop

20 NR FAMILY magazine

TIPS

A circle hole punch or any scrap booking hole punch is much quicker than cutting the feathers out indivually.

Add the eyes last, then they really stand out.

Family Hot Spots

Family Hot Spots CASINO - Visit Windara on Sextonville Road and explore the maze, stroll through the beautiful gardens and enjoy lunch at the tea rooms. MURWILLUMBAH - If you have older children and are feeling energetic try to climb Mt Warning (1157 metres). The track is strenuous, steep and rocky in parts and will take about four hours return. Knox Park in the centre of Murwillumbah is a beautiful spot for afternoon tea afterwards. There's a big pond with fountains, play areas, a rainforest walkway and skate park. On the Numinbah Valley Road is the rock archway known as Natural Bridge. At night the caves are alight with glow worms. BALLINA - Thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a great network of flat bike tracks in Ballina. Try walking, rollerblading or cycling from the Ballina Wall at Shaws Bay to Shelley Beach and back with fish and chips at the end. Alternatively just take your swimmers down to the fabulous natural rock paddling pool at Shelley Beach for a morning of splashing and making sand castles. POTTSVILLE - Tweed Bicentennial Environmental Park has great walking and cycling trails of varying lengths (some suitable for littlies). There's also a large grassed area, barbeques, picnic tables and an amenities block. LENNOX HEAD - Lake Ainsworth is a popular swimming, sailing and canoeing spot. Donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t swim if there are signs up notifying of the presence of blue-green algae. The Lake Ainsworth Sport and Rec Centre runs school holiday programmes for children aged seven to twelve.

S KIDS LESSON ATES FAMILY PRIV RE & MUCH MO Phone 02 9365 1800 / 02 6685 4878

byronbay.letsgosurfing.com.au

Tell us your favourite places We love staying at Fingal Head caravan park, the beach is amazing, the lighthouse walk is beautiful and the river is fun for fishing! The kids have made so many friends there as the same families keep going back every year! Kasey Zendler Walking the headland between Evans Head lookout and Chinamen's Beach, so much for kids to explore, rock pools, small beaches, and a few headlands to climb. Rebecca Yourell We love riding bikes at Wade park. Fantastic children's park! Ashleigh Kerr Our family loves reading your magazine, we never miss an issue. Our tip for a great day out would be a bush walk at Minyon Falls, where you can take in the scenery while enjoying a picnic. TRose NR FAMILY magazine

Match the pairs of zigzag shapes to make the six squares.

1-2-3 MAGIC® & EMOTION COACHING PARENT COURSE A three-session program for parents and carers at Evans River School on Tuesdays September 2nd, 9th, and 16th from 9-11:30am. Learn:  How to discipline without arguing, yelling or smacking  How to sort behaviour  How to handle challenging and testing behaviours  Choosing your strategy, the three choices  Using emotion coaching to encourage good behaviour  7 tactics for encouraging good behaviour Parents will receive:  A 1-2-3 Magic & Emotion Coaching Parent Workbook Registration Fee? The course costs [$] FREE!!! Register for this course contacting Tressa Kennedy at Mid-Richmond Neighbourhood Centre 66824334 or Deb Franklin at Community Health on 66824899. What people are saying… What a relief to come across a program that preserves the dignity of the child, maintains the self control of both the parent and the child and is actually easy to remember when memory is the first thing to go!

use to avoid raising a child, who later down the line, needs excessive discipline or grows out of control

I realized quickly that the 1-2-3 Magic can be a magnificent preventative measure that any parent can

For more information contact Tressa Kennedy on 66824334 • An end to the arguing and yelling! • It saved our lives • Simple, sane, effective This course is being run by a Parentshop® licensed practitioner.

22 NR FAMILY magazine

www.parentshop.com.au

Help the monkeys to get to the coconut tree.

Learn to manage difficult behavior in children 2-12 years old

Play Activities

Healthy Mumma Healthy Bubba

Homemade Playdough 2 Cups Plain Flour 1 Cup Salt 4TBSP Cream of Tartar 2 Cups Water 2TBSP Baby Oil 1/2 Bottle Food Colouring 1. Combine dry ingredients in a large pot. 2. Mix Water, Oil & Food Colouring together. Then add to dry ingredients. Stir well. 3. Stir mixture constantly over a medium heat. When the mixture thickens & you find it difficult to stir with your wooden spoon, it's done! 4. Remove from heat, cool slightly & knead. 5. Store in a sealed container or in a snap-lock sandwich bag. Don't store this Playdough in the fridge.

Find 10 Differences in the pictures above.

PLAY ACTIVIES: 3-6mths

PLAY ACTIVIES: 6-12 mths

PLAY ACTIVIES: 1+ yrs

Knee Ride Games

Jack in the box:

Firefly in the dark

Play Knee ride games whilst saying nursery rhymes like:

Let one of the parents climb into a the large box and let someone bring the baby towards the box whilst asking:

Cut the shape of an insect out of a card board and use tape to paste it on a flashlight. Switch of the lights and shine the torch beam onto the wall, then tell baby to catch the firefly.

Humpty Dumpty Humpty Dumpty sat on a wall, Humpty Dumpty had a great fall. All the king’s horses and all the king’s men, Couldn’t put Humpty together again. To Market, to Market To market, to market, to buy a fat pig, Home again, home again, jiggety-jig. To market, to market, to buy a fat hog, Home again, home again, jiggety-jog. One, Two, Bounce My Shoe One, two, bounce my shoe; Three, four, tap the floor; Five, six, give a kick; Seven, eight, legs stand straight; Nine, ten, start again.

“Where’s daddy?”- Slowly jump out of the box and surprise your baby. This is a fun game to play with baby and other siblings. You can also sing the Jack in the box song: Jack-in-the-box, you’ve gone away, Won’t you come out and play? Jack-in-the-box, you’re hidden away, Pop out so we can play! ( Once you get to this part, pop out of the box!) Tip: The idea is to surprise your baby, not to scare him!

Move the light around to give the impression that the firefly is flying around.

Little interview Talk to your baby and encourage her to talk back or to make baby sounds. Use a tape recorder to record the conversation and play it back to baby. Some babies simply can’t get enough of hearing themselves and their mother talking. If you have a video recorder you can do the same but play the “interview” back on the television.

Sourced from www.gamestoplaywithbabies.com

NR FAMILY magazine

Family Favourites

REV IEWS There's a Lion in my cornflakes By Michelle Robinson Illustrations by Jim Field RRP: $14.99 Paperback

Happy Birthday Royal Baby By Martha Mumford Illustrations by Ada Grey RRP: $14.99 Paperback

In Happy Birthday Royal Baby, the palace is in chaos preparing for the Royal Baby’s birthday! There's the cake to think about, balloons, presents - and don't forget the bouncy castle and the Royal Baby's favourite game of Pin the Tail on the Corgi. The Queen may even do a spot of parachuting - it is a special occasion, after all. This delightful book will be enjoyed by every little prince and princess – royal or not.

Have you ever collected coupons from a cereal box? Maybe you were saving them up for a book or a toy. Well, me and my brother Dan are collecting 100 coupons so that we can have our very own lion. That's right, a real lion! A wildly wacky story where anything can happens there's a lion in my cornflakes brings together bestselling author Michelle Robinson and awardwinning illustrator Jim Field for the very first time, with hilarious results.

A humorous ‘operating guide’ for fathers, the Toddler’s Owner's Manual is sure to bring a smile to any dad facing the challenge of raising a toddler. Written by best-selling author and comedian Steve Bedwell (Holden Vs Ford, Naughty Number Plates), the book likens a toddler to the other love in a man's life - his car! Set out like a retro car manual, the Toddler’s Owner’s Manual covers the difficult ownership period of your Mother Nature Heavy Industry child from 18 months to three years. This out of warranty period can be difficult and the manual will help fathers navigate such vexing stages as solid food consumption, child selfwaste disposal training, tentative first steps as well as long term servicing and immunisation issues and maximising the usefulness of your toddler.

In her new book, Natural Remedies: An A-Z of cures for health and wellbeing (Rockpool Publishing, $29.99), Mim provides readers with a comprehensive, practical and easy-to-use reference to assist with over 200 common ailments, including the common cold, burns, arthritis, premenstrual tension, infertility and menopause. There are also strategies for losing weight, boosting the immune system, increasing energy levels and dealing with stress. Each condition is listed alphabetically clearly identifying symptoms, causes and the suggested natural cures. And best of all, many of these natural remedies are found in the family home and in our backyards.

The Feast Goes On By Monday Morning Cooking Club RRP: $49.99 Hardback

Toddler’s Owner’s Manual Father’s Edition By Steve Bedwell RRP: $

It's always about the food." A generous, warm-hearted book, The Feast Goes On features the best-loved and most delicious recipes and stories from the heart and soul of the Jewish community right across Australia. Created by the same six women - the 'sisterhood' - of the bestselling Monday Morning Cooking Club cookbook, it speaks of a community drawn together by food, telling intimate and moving stories of sharing and survival, love and hope, friendship and family. From precious family recipes that have been lovingly handed down the generations, right through to new classics that will become instant family favourites, The Feast Goes On contains over 100 recipes to suit every occasion. From everyday eating to feasting, light lunches to fressing, comfort food to traditional dishes, this is a cookbook of rich, wonderful ideas and flavours to nurture, nourish and inspire. The Feast Goes On will feed you, body and soul. Praise for Monday Morning Cooking Club: 'Having this book at home is pure cosy joy.' Nigella Lawson 'To see these recipes handed down like this with such spirited generosity, is real food for the soul.' Sean Moran Praise for The Feast Goes On: 'Collecting and saving family recipes is a vital undertaking, almost (but not quite) as important as eating.

ADOPT A PET!

BAILEY is a 9 year old male Rottie x Kelpi. BAILEY is a handsome dog, medium in size and fully grown. His chocolate and tan coloured short coat is very attractive. He has a very affectionate nature, loves company and just wants to please.

TIGGER is 1 year old male DSH Silver Tabby.

BILL & BEN are two 6 month old Black & White DSH brothers with almost mirror-image nose-markings. They will make a family a pair of wonderful companions with their friendly natures.

JULIUS is a 1 year old male DSH Ginger & White. JULIUS is a very friendly boy who is pleased to now be in a safe environment until he is adopted.

BENJI is a 5 month old male Collie x small shepherd. BENJI had been abused and needed urgent vet care which we arranged. He is an attractive Collie x Shep with black and tan markings and a shortish coat. Benji will be small to medium in size when fully grown. He gets on with other dogs as his confidence grows and is learning to trust humans again. He deserves to go to a Forever Home where he is loved.

BOOFY is a 3 year old male Dachshund x Staffie x Foxie. BOOFY is small to medium in size, fully grown and very solid. He has a short black and white coat. Boofy has the most lovely and happy nature, loves people and affection and gets on with all the other dogs. BUNDY is a special-needs 6 year old male Cattle x. BUNDY is BLIND and needs to be adopted by a special family who are prepared to cater to his special needs. He is small to medium in size with a short tan coat. Bundy is a very playful dog and well behaved and loves cuddles. JET is a 1 year old male Collie x. JET is small to medium in size and fully grown with a medium length black and white coat. He loves all the good food and attention and gets on with other friendly dogs plus obedient.

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NATURAL REMEDIES An A-Z of cures for health and wellbeing By Mim Beim RRP: $29.99

ll our animals are vaccinated, microchipped and desexed and wormed. An Adoption fee applies of $200 for dogs and $180 for cats. A trial period of 10 days is included to ensure they settle in to their new home. All our dogs and cats would ideally go to a home with another friendly dog or cat for company and playtime. Or go to a stay-at-home dog/cat loving person/family with lots of time to exercise, love and care for them for the WHOLE of their lives. For more information about these animals or about the many others call our centre Monday - Friday 10am - 3pm on 6622 1881 or 6622 1020. You can view our animals at www.animalrights.org.au or on our Facebook.

Lov2Shop

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The Girl Lamp

Little Polli and the Blackbird $69.50 littlepolli@gmail.com

Cupcake & Artisan Goatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Milk Soaps by PlanetYum.

Shop Baby

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Embroidered Baby Set

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Pure Silk Dress

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Wooden Stacking Toys

Nic Nac

$32.95 www.nic-nac.com.au

NR FAMILY magazine

Lifestyle

FRESH FOR SPRING

SUSHI

Food Home Design Organise

INGREDIENTS

1 packet nori sheets (2 sheets per person) 2 -3 cups sushi/short grain rice soy sauce/sushi dipping sauce 400g tuna, drained or salmon 1 avocado strips 1 cucumber sliced into long strips mayonnaise

Rice Seasoning

125ml rice wine vinegar 30g caster sugar 5g salt

MAKING

To make the sushi rice seasoning, place the vinegar, caster sugar and salt in a saucepan and stir over low heat until the sugar and salt are dissolved. Cool to room temperature. Cook the rice according to the packet. Once cooked, fluff the rice with a fork to separate the grains. Add the rice seasoning over the top of the rice - to taste and mix it all together while still fluffing the rice. Now lay a piece of nori down flat on your bamboo mat. Top with 1/2 cup of cooked rice and spread it out over 2/3 the nori. Best tip: have wet hands. Now top with some tuna that has been drained and mixed with some mayo. (You can use salmon instead of tuna & mayo). Place some avocado and cucumber on top of your tuna and roll tightly away from you. When your all done making your sushi, use a serrated knife and slice each roll into 8 bite sized pieces and serve with soy sauce. There are many types of fillings to try. This is a simple & healthy meal, so have fun with it. If You have a recipe you want to share email us at enquiries@nrfamily.com

26 NR FAMILY magazine

FILLING IDEAS Avocado & Tuna Ham & Cheese Cream Cheese, Salmon & Avocado Ham, Carrot & Cucumber Cream Cheese, Cinnamon & Honey Hummus, Cucumber & Chicken They look so cute, and small enough for the kids to pop them in their mouth, no fuss!

Food

For the Kiddies, try a sushi sandwich. They are easy to make and are great for a little variety in a school lunch! Use any filling you like, it is totally versatile. Ingredients 2 x Bread slice (1 serving) Finely chopped fillings of your choice MAKING 1. Roll the bread with a rolling pin until thin. 2. Spread your filling over it. 3. Roll tight (just like sushi) and slice.

Palmer Darren Home

Interview with

the Interior Design industry Darren Palmer has become a household name. He runs his own interior design studio and has contributed to magazines such as Belle, GQ Australia, Luxury Home Design, Real Living, Renovate and Grand Designs Australia. You may recognise him as a judge on Channel Nine's successful television franchise The Block.

Whatever expands your experience of life expands your creativity too.

Have there been houses from your childhood that have been influential? I think all the houses from my childhood were influential, but not necessarily informing my aesthetic or passion for design. My nan's house had a staircase in the middle of it we'd love to jump off and play around, my Aunty June lived on a cattle property next to a big river made of huge boulders that we'd play in and my folks lived in the same house for all of my childhood and school years which hold a lot of good memories for me playing in trees and roaming around the bush.

On the eve of his new book release 'EASY LUXURY' available September 2014, Darren answered some questions from NR Family's Cortnei Laird about his work and life. Check out the Q&A interview below to get a glimpse into Darren's new book. How did you start in interior design? Sounds like a cliche to me now as I've said it so many times before but it stands nonetheless as true, From the time I realised people worked for money I wanted to create houses. I thought that meant being an architect but I didn't focus enough on my studies to do that at university so i followed my creativity into graphic design. It was at 27 I realised I was in the wrong line of work because all i thought about, read about and what occupied most of my mind was interiors. In my head I'd rejig the interiors of friend's houses or my rented flat and I realised that I should probably make a career change. At that point I had several mortgages and my own graphic design business so I just did my own apartment, over a year's worth of weekends to get it to a point I was happy. The transformation was huge and it was published in belle magazine's renovation issue. I also was able to convince a friend to mentor me as he considered our aesthetics to be aligned, which is a massive compliment as he's much more talented than I am. It was a great starting point and I haven't looked back. What is your design philosophy? There are several philosophies. I like Coco Chanel's statement that "Luxury must be comfortable, otherwise it is not luxury". Easy Luxury is about providing

28 NR FAMILY magazine

the fundamentals of good design so that anyone, in any income bracket with any lifestyle can learn what works, what has impact and how to create a home that is perfectly suited to them. This is my ethos in my work and I wanted to be able to share the foundations of great design so that everyone has the information they need to live in the most beautiful home they can. Which designer, artist or creative, are you inspired by? Christian Liagre is one of the most refined interior designers. Tom Ford's brand is pure class. Tom Dixon has such a refined eye everything he creates is an instant design classic. Can you name your top 3 ‘Go To’ resources for creative inspiration? Nature, Travel and White noise. That last one might seem a bit odd, but when I'm on a plane with the white noise hum of the wind and engines I think really clearly. The same can be said for when I'm in the shower. My palette is a natural one, inspired by the colours, forms, textures and materials in nature. Leather, wood, stone. the colours of nature really can't be beat in my opinion. Travel, I think, just broadens your horizons.

Thinking about past projects, is there one that stands out? And Why? The one the immediately springs to mind is that of a friend of mine, who became a friend by me doing his home. It strongly reflects my own personal aesthetic and I still love everything in the place to this day. It's featured toward the end of Easy Luxury and without it the book would not be nearly as beautiful or well rounded. What was your inspiration for your new book, ‘Easy Luxury’? I wanted to let people know that design is not the sole domain of the wealthy, that good design fundamentals can assist anyone, with any style and any budget to make their home the best version it can be to suit them. I think there's a great deal of power in having a beautiful space to live in and a beautiful home creates a prosperous feeling for its occupants. There are beautiful and opulent pictures throughout your book, did you showcase your own home among them? There are 2 of my previous homes in there, the first is the Potts Point apartment at the beginning of the book, the other is my last apartment in North Bondi. I will hopefully do another book featuring my current house after I've renovated it and it looks in reality the way it looks in my imagination.

Design

How to hang art

or framed

photographs Patricia Di Tullio

rtworks, whether originals or prints, or your favourite photographs customize your home. They communicate an insight into your personality. More importantly a sense of joy and appreciation on a daily basis of that special piece you acquired, or a reminder of pleasant times in your family history. The dilemma is how to hang to the best advantage. If your artwork is placed in an entry or corridor, hang like galleries do –

Interview continued... What advice would you give to someone trying to define their personal style? Look for commonality in the things you love. It wasn't until I did this that I realised that it was nature that gave me the most inspiration. I love the palette, colours and materials of nature and I see it repeated in my work. Look at what inspires you or is often shown through your work or the work you love. It could be colours, patterns, materials, a style, a period or any blend of these that will inform you of your style. Once you have it, stick to it. You don't have to keep rolling out the same thing. Style is more flexible than that. It should change from environment to environment, property to property adapting the location and geography. Much advice to expecting parents suggests that you should not have nice things when you have children, we know you’re a family man, please share your secret on maintaining a child friendly home?

that is the centre of the artwork should be approx 153cm from the floor. The best way to appreciate art is at eye level. You should not have to look up at it. When it comes to the living areas (where you are mostly seated), this changes. As a general rule, hang the piece approx. 20cm above the sofa. Note that scale comes into play here as well. The artwork or groups of frames should not be longer than the piece of furniture it hangs above (sofa/ console etc) The most common mistake is hanging the images too far apart. I often see art hung at each end of a wall. As soon as they are placed above a piece of furniture or centered on the wall – the art virtually breathes. If you have large pieces, hang 5cm apart.

I designed my home and it's inclusions to withstand the barrage of destruction my family can throw at it on a daily basis. Everything is either spray and wipeable or can have the covers removed and washed. The pieces that aren't washable or cleanable are so low cost I don't have to be precious with them. There's no point living in somewhere so pristine and beautiful that you are freaking out every time your family interacts with it. What would we find you doing on a Sunday morning? There's been 2 Sundays recently where I've rushed out to pick up Sunday Style in the telegraph as they've been kind enough to feature an extract of the book, and also did a story on me and my family! Pretty exciting time at the moment. Otherwise I could be doing anything from taking Hugo to swimming lessons to flying to Melbourne to film the block, otherwise it's just an early start being woken up by the cat waking the dogs up, which wakes our son so it's all on from very early in the morning.

If you have several smaller pieces, reduce this to 2 or 3cm apart. Not sure where to place each piece? Engage a friend to help you by holding the art up. That way, you will get a sense of it on the wall. Groups of oils and acrylics work well together. As do groups of watercolours. It’s not so much the composition of the art, but the execution, which creates a balance and focus on each piece. Family photographs are collected over time, some may be sepia, mono or full colour. Make sure the frames are similar in style – ie, timber, aluminium or a painted finish, and keep the matt boards surrounding the photos neutral in colour. If it all gets too hard, professional picture hangers are worth their weight in gold!

What’s next for you? I have a few things in the pipeline. I'd like to write another book at some stage when time permits. There's ongoing work with Carpet Court, LJ Hooker, The Kitchen Group and a few other great companies. I love aligning myself with strong business so there will be more of that. I have the flooring range and would like to roll out a few more products in different categories plus there's work on the next Block and fingers crossed, the ones beyond. I'm also completing 3 residential projects in Sydney's eastern suburbs in the coming months as well as an apartment building in Melbourne. I have 2 of my own houses to renovate so between all this I'm pretty busy but very grateful to be doing what I love.

GET THE BOOK!

EASY LUXURY by darren palmer PRICE: $39.99 PUBLISHED BY Murdoch Books RELEASED Sept 2014 ISBN: 9781743361023 NR FAMILY magazine

HEREâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S HOW YOU CAN REDUCE YOUR BIGGEST RISKS. QUIT SMOKING Smoking is a known carcinogen that increases your risk of many cancers, including cervical cancer and cancer of the vulva. There are immediate health benefits as soon as you quit smoking. Contact the National Quitline: 13 QUIT (13 7848) for more information. GET CHECKED Finding cancer early improves your chances of successful treatment and long-term survival. Have a Pap smear every two years from the age of 18, or within one to two years of becoming sexually active. Pap smears can detect early changes in the cells of the cervix, so that they can be treated before cancer develops. Mammograms, which look for early breast cancers in women without symptoms, are most effective in 50-74 year-olds. If you are in this age group, you will receive an invitation from BreastScreen Australia to have a mammogram every two years.Contact Cancer Council on 13 11 20 to learn more. BE SUNSMART Reduce your risk of skin cancer and sun damage by using a combination of these five steps: Slip, Slop, Slap, Seek (shade) and Slide (on sunglasses) when the UV index is 3 or above. MOVE YOUR BODY Try and be active every day. Just 30 minutes of moderate exercise daily improves your health, and 60 minutes can help to reduce your risk of developing some cancers. Why not attend a fitness class at your local Curves gym? LIMIT ALCOHOL Alcohol is a significant risk factor for some cancers, including breast cancer. MAINTAIN A HEALTHY WEIGHT You can reduce your risk of cancer by enjoying a healthy diet, being physically active every day and maintaining a healthy body weight. EAT FOR HEALTH Choose a balanced diet with plenty of whole grains, fruit and veg. A moderate amount of lean red meat is fine, but limit or avoid processed meat, salty, fatty food and sugary drink.

Wellness Health & Fitness Beauty

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Information found from the 'Fundraising guide' located at www.pinkribbon.com.au. For your chance to help contact pinkribbon.com.au or cancer.org.au or phone 1300 656585.

Health and Fitness

Unite in Pink and support women affected by breast and gynaecological cancers

very day in Australia, around 50 women are diagnosed with breast or a gynaecological cancer and will need our help and support. This is why Australians come together each October to show their support for Cancer Council through Pink Ribbon Day (Monday 27th October), Girls’ Night In and other Pink Ribbon Fundraisers. There are so many ways you can get involved to support those affected by women’s cancers.

Host a Girls’ Night In or Pink Ribbon fundraiser

Shape up in minutes

Get ready for summer with a quick and easy workout, brought to you by personal trainer jo sweeney.

Buy or Sell merchandise to show your support for Cancer Council and raise awareness of women’s cancers Donate and turn your dollars pink this October. Big or small, your donation will help beat breast and gynaecological cancers.

Bicep Curls on Swiss Ball

Basic bicep curls with the addition of a Swiss ball. When you sit up straight on the ball, you have to engage your abs and keep a good posture throughout. 1. Sit on top of the ball with a weight in each hand, arms down by your sides, palms facing outwards. Sit up straight and draw the belly button towards the spine. 2. Slowly bend your elbows and rotate your palms bringing the weights up to shoulder height - palms facing your shoulders. The ball should not move. 3. Slowly lower the weights back down and repeat 3 x 15 times.

Volunteer your time and join thousands of generous volunteers across the country The foundation of lower body training!! will work together to help beat cancer this Why? They work the quads and hamstrings Pink Ribbon Day (Monday 27th October). (front and back of leg) glutes (butt) and Getting involved is easy. Contact Pink Ribbon Day believe it or not the back (erector spinae) Coordinator Sarah Royall on 6639 1303 or email and core. They are great for toning the sarahro@nswcc.org.au. Or simply call us on 1300 butt and legs, strengthening the core and increasing flexibility through the joints 65 65 85 or visit www.pinkribbon.com.au Stand with your head facing forward and your chest held up and out. Place your feet shoulder-width apart or slightly wider. Extend your hands straight out in front of you to help keep your balance. Sit back and down like you're sitting into an imaginary chair, or as I say “public toilet”. Keep your head facing forward as your upper body bends forward slightly. Lower down so your thighs are as parallel to the floor as possible, with your knees over your ankles, but you can still see your toes. Press your weight back into your heels. Keep your body tight, and push through your heels to bring yourself back to the starting position, squeezing everything (butt, stomach and thighs) on way up, but don’t lock the knees. Do 3 sets of 15 and enjoy.

Squats

Can produce a meditation DVD to help women deal with the side effects of chemotherapy.

Can help pay for an Information Pack for women coping with the aftermath of surgery.

Can help fund a call to a cancer nurse on 13 11 20, to inform and reassure a woman about her cancer diagnosis.

Can help provide accommodation for a woman who needs to stay away from home while accessing treatment.

Can pay an overdue bill for a mum who hasn’t been able to work.

Can support new research into breast and gynaecological cancers.

Can recruit new participants into a study to understand the causes of cancer.

*Services may vary between states/territories.

PENS SEE WHAT HAP IN PINK TE WHEN WE UNI THOSE TO SUPPORT BREAST AFFECTED BY GICAL AND GYNAECOLO CANCERS.

Alternating Lunges

Alternating lunges are a great exercise that not only strengthens the muscles in the lower body, but also helps to stabilize the abdominal and oblique muscles. Step your right foot out in front of your body. Make sure your foot is facing forward. Look down at your right leg. Ideally, your knee should be bent at a right angle with your thigh parallel to the ground. As you exhale, push off the ground with your right foot, coming back to the starting position. Now, perform the same move, but this time step out with your left foot. Repeat this exercise ten times on each leg before taking a short break. Do 2 sets of 15 reps for best results.

Disclaimer: The information provided within our Wellness section featured in Northern Rivers Family Magazine is for educational purposes only and IS NOT intended as a substitute for professional advice or training. Always seek professional medical advice from your physician before starting any exercise programme or other qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding your health & Fitness.

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NR FAMILY magazine

Beauty

FAST & FURIOUS FACIAL

doesn’t matter if you are a stay at home mom, or a corporate professional. You need to keep your appearance at it’s best all the time, and that can be a hard job. But what if you don’t always have the time to go to a Spa for a professional facial? I’ve got just the solution for you.

What Skin Type R U?

ne of the most important things a woman can do to look good is to take care of her skin. This begins by getting to know your skin type. Firstly to determin your skin type, wash your face with a gentle cleanser and pat dry. This cleans the oil and dirt from your skin, try not to over wash. Wait for about an hour as your skin will return to it's natural state, this will determine your skin type. Try not to touch your face during this time. Now dab your face with a tissue. The major areas to focus on is the T-Zone. The T-Zone is your forehead, nose and chin. It's called the T-Zone because when connected, the forehead nose and chin form a T. Now lets determine your skin type. Ideally skin falls into four types Normal, oily, dry and combination.

Normal Skin shows no oil on the tissue or dry patches, it should feel smooth, elastic and supple. This is the

32 NR FAMILY magazine

least problematic type. Lucky you!

Oily Skin is portrayed by the spots of facial oil on the tissue. It is common for a person with oily skin to have large pores and a shine. Dry Skin may feel dry, tight or rough due to flakes of dead skin. It is very important to moisturise for this skin type. Combination Skin is that of most

woman. It incorporates the above three skin types. Leaving traces of oil usually on the T-Zone with normal to dry zones located on the cheeks. One of the best things that you can do is consult a dermatologist to figure out the best beauty regimen for your skin type. With all of the wonderful beauty products and anti-aging products on the market, as well as some knowledge about nutrition and preventative skin care, your skin can look its best for a very long time.

Today, many Spas provide what is know as MicroDermaBrasion. With this technique, a Spa technician exfoliates the dead layers of skin from your face by using a system similar to sandblasting, but on a much, much smaller scale. With the dead layers of skin removed from your face, it now reveals the fresh new skin underneath. This can give you the appearance of a face lift, without the cost or the surgery. So what can you do for yourself that’s just as effective, is quick, and not expensive at all? It’s called a lemon salt scrub. Here’s what you will need. Ingredients: One Small Lemon Four Tablespoons of Fine Sea Salt If you don’t have a lemon, 2 tablespoons of lemon juice is fine, and if you can’t get hold of finely ground sea salt, table salt will do as well. Cut the lemon in half, and squeeze the juice of one half into a small bowl. Then put the four tablespoons of fine sea salt in, and mix well. You want a solution with the consistency of oatmeal. Then take a few fingertip full of the solution and rub in into your face and pores, making sure to scrub gently as you go. Leave on for five to ten minutes, then wash off with cold water. You will find your skin is softer and smoother than before, with a nice warm glow, and it cost you less than a few dollars, and no more than 15 minutes from start to finish to obtain. Now you can duplicate at home, or anywhere for that matter, what the Spas charge so much money to provide, at a fraction of the cost, and look great doing it!

ABORIGINAL MATERNAL & INFANT HEALTH

Ballina Community Health Centre Tel: 6686 8977 Free 3 week course for expectant fathers Men & Family Centre, Lismore Phone: 6622 6116

BUILDING BETTER DADS

Course for expectant fathers Mon 6.30-8.30 for 3 weeks Bangalow Community Health Centre Tel: David Hughes 66870008 or 0401 145078

HOME BIRTH GROUP

LENNOX HEAD

6683 2019

Community Health Centre, Old School Site, Woodburn St Every Fri Call for appointment 6682 4899

KINGSCLIFF

Community Health Centre, Turnock St Call for appointment 6674 9500

KYOGLE

Community Health Centre, Summerland Way (nr hosp.) Call for appointment 6632 1522 Tel: Taneal 6688 2331

NIMBIN BIRTH & BEYOND Fri 11-12.30

Community Health Centre, Surrey St Four days per month Call for appointment

EVANS HEAD

BUILDING BETTER DADS

Alternate Mondays Cook Pioneer Hall Gordon St, Mullumbimby (Behind the Civic Centre) 10:30-12:30 am

CORAKI

Tel: Kirrah 0429 308851

NORTHERN RIVERS CHILDBIRTH EDUCATION St Vincent’s Hospital, Lismore Mon 6.30-9pm six week course

Tel: 6627 9600

NURTURE BIRTH & BEYOND

Tues 9.30-11.30 Lismore Pregnancy yoga & birth prep Tel: Kirrah 0429 308851

PREPARATION FOR CHILDBIRTH CLASSES

Ballina Community Health Tel: 6686 8977 Byron Community Health Tel: 6685 6254 Mullumbimby Community Health Tel: 6684 1677

GIRL GUIDES/SCOUTS GIRL GUIDES

There are local groups at Alstonville, Bonalbo, Brunswick Heads, Ballina, Clunes, Kyogle, Lismore & Tweed Heads Tel: Jacki 0427 728269

SCOUTS

There are local groups at Alstonville, Ballina, Bangalow, Brunswick Heads, Cape Byron (Rovers), Casino, Chinderah, Goonellabah, Kyogle, Lennox Head, Lismore, Mullumbimby and Murwillumbah Tel: Scouts Australia 1800 726887

LENNOX HEAD

ALSTONVILLE

6684 1677

6670 9400

OCEAN SHORES

Parent Resource Centre, Rajah Road Tues (Appointments 9am-3pm) Call for appointment

6684 1677

WOODBURN

6682 4899

IMMUNISATION CLINICS ALSTONVILLE

Tel: 6628 3901

BALLINA

Community Health Centre, Oliver Ave Mon-Fri 8.30-5 Tel: 6625 0111

CASINO

Community Health Centre, Canterbury & North Sts Call for appointment 6662 4444

Community Centre 4th Thurs every month

Tel: 6685 6254

BYRON

Community Hospital 2nd Thurs every month Tel: 6685 6254 for appointment

CASINO Pratt Street (next to Scout Hall) Tues & Fri 10-12 Tel: Kate 6662 2113

Community Health Centre, Surrey St 3rd Tues every month Tel: 6683 2019

GOONELLABAH

Cudgen Primary School Tues at 9

Senior Citizen’s Venue, Lismore Fri 10-12

Presbyterian Church, Ballina Wed 3.15-4.30

Tel: 6686 2083

KYOGLE PRESCHOOL PLAYGROUP

62 Fawcett St, Kyogle Thurs 9.30–11.30 (term time only) Tel: 6632 1338

LENNOX HEAD PLAYGROUP

Lennox Head Community Centre Tues 10-12 Wed 9.30-11.30 Tel: Debbie 6687 5360 MANY VOICES For culturally and linguistically diverse families YWCA, 101a Rous Rd, Goonellabah Mon 10- 12 (term time only) Tel: Zoe 6625 5809

MOPS Alstonville

(Mothers of Pre-schoolers) Alstonville Baptist Fellowship 2nd Fri (school term only) 9.15-11.30

Tel: 6628 5387

DADS AND KIDS PLAYGROUP

120 Glenock Rd, Uki Tues 9.30–11.30 $5 – incl. morning tea

DADS AND KIDS PLAYGROUP

MUM & ME TIME Presbyterian Church, Park Ave, E. Lismore Tues 10-12 Tel: 6621 3655

Scout Hall, Wilson St, South Lismore Mon 10-12.30 Gold coin donation Tel: Glenn 6622 6116 Baptist Church, Raja Road, Ocean Shores Mon 10-12

EAST LISMORE PLAYGROUP Baptist Chruch, Rotary Dr. Tues 10-12

Tel: Lisa 6629 0215

Tel: 6679 5313

MUMMULGUM PLAYGROUP Mummulgum Public School Tues 9.30-11.30

Tel: 6664 7205

MUMS & BUBS

EUREKA

Scout Hall, Cherry St, Evans Head Fri 10-11.30 Tel: Tricia 6682 4334

FAMILY CENTRE PLAYGROUPS

Baptist Church Hall, Ocean Shores Thurs 10-12

Eureka School Wed 9.30-11.30

MUMS’ SUPPORT GROUP

Banora Point - Mon & Thurs 9.30-11.30 Cabarita - Tues 9.30-11.30 Murwillumbah - Wed 9.30-11.30 Tel: 07 5524 8711 41 Wilson St, South Lismore Wed 10-12 (term time only) Fri 10-12 (term time only) Nimbin Family Centre Tues 10.30-12.30 new babies Fri 10.30-12.30 toddlers

PLAYGROUP 20 Spring Ave Fri 10-12

NIMBIN FAMILY CENTRE

81 Cullen St. Tues 10-12 (under 2s only) & Fri 10-12 (ages 2-5 only) Tel: Sarah 6621 2489

OCEAN SHORES PLAYGROUP

Baptist Church Hall, Rajah Road Wed 10-12 (term-time only) Tel: Johanna 0423 202623

Tel: 6621 2489

GOONELLABAH COMMUNITY PRE-SCHOOL Tel: 6625 0111

JELLYBEANS

MT WARNING COMMUNITY PRE-SCHOOL PLAYGROUP

CUDGEN KIDS PLAYGROUP

FAMILY SUPPORT NETWORK PLAYGROUPS

CORAKI

Child & Family Health Centre 2nd and 4th Wed of month

Buddha Bar at the Piggery Wed 10-12.30 Tel: Suzanne 0402 590725 Pippies Early Childhood Centre Wed 9.30-11.30 Tel: Jacqui 6676 2694

Community Health Centre, cnr Wollumbin & Nullum Sts Call for appointment

CWA rooms Alt. Fri afternoons Call for appointment

Tel: Belinda Smith 6663 5204

CABARITA BEACH PLAYGROUP

MURWILLUMBAH

Bunjum Aboriginal Co-Op, 44 Tamar Street, Ballina Tues 10-12.30 Tel: Isobel 6686 5644

BEANIES GOORIE

BYRON MUMS AND BUBS

Community Health Centre, Azalea St Call for appointment

JARJUM PLAYGROUP

KIDS CLUB Tel: Sue 6687 8664

Tel: 6620 7687

MULLUMBIMBY

Tel: 6672 3324

McCarthy Hall, St Joseph’s School, Alstonville Tues 9.20- 11 More info: sjpalst@lism.catholic.edu.au

BANGALOW

Anglican Hall, Ashton Road Tues 10-12 (term time only) $3 per session

Murwillumbah Tues 9.30-11.30

JUMPING JOEYS’ PLAYGROUP

Playgroup House, Regatta Ave Tues, Wed & Fri 9.30-11.30

10am - 12noon

BRUNSWICK HEADS

GOONELLABAH

BALLINA LITTLE PELICANS

BENTLEY PLAY GROUP

Lismore Community Health Level 1, 29 Molesworth Street Mon-Fri 8.30-5

BALLINA

Community Health Centre, Granuaille Road Fri 9-12.30

Solarium, Ballina Community Hospital Thurs 10-12 Tel: Anne/Angela 6686 8977

LISMORE

Community Health Centre, Main Street Tues–Thurs 8.30 - 5 Tel: 6628 3901

BANGALOW

BALLINA COMMUNITY HEALTH

For Aboriginal & Torres Strait Islander families YWCA, 101a Rous Rd, Goonellabah Thurs 11- 1 (term time only) Tel: Zoe 6625 5809

Community Health Centre, cnr Fox & Cherry Sts 2nd and 4th Tues every month 10-11 For appointment Tel: 6686 8977

Community Health Centre, cnr. Fox & Cherry Sts Open clinics Mon 9.30-12 & Fri 9-12 Appointments Mon 2-4, Wed & Thurs 9-12 & 2-4, Fri 2-4 Tel: 6686 8977

PARENTS'GROUPS/PLAYGROUPS

Community Centre, Mackneys Lane Wed 9.30-2.30 appointments only Tel: 6686 8977

3rd Tues of month 1.30-4

EARLY CHILDHOOD CLINICS

Community Centre, Mackneys Lane 3rd Wed of month 10-11 Tel: 6686 8977

Family Contacts

ANTENATAL CLASSES

PLAYPLACE ALSTONVILLE

St Bart’s Church Hall Ages 0-5 Music, craft, games Thurs 9.30-11.30 $3/family Tel: Barb 6628 3089

Tel: 6624 1422

HONEYBEES PLAYGROUP

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Family Contacts

PLAYGROUP NSW

Tel: 1800 171 882

PLAYTIME

Presbyterian Church, Ballina Thurs 10-11.30 (term-time only)

Tel: 6686 2083

PLAYTIME

Tumbletown, Everleigh St, Murwillumbah Wed 9-12 Tel: Gwen 6672 7273

PLAYTIME

Brunswick Heads Mon 10.30 Byron Bay Wed 10.30 Goonellabah Fri 10 & 11 (baby bounce), Tues 10.30 Kingscliff Wed 10.30 Lennox Head Thurs 10.30 Lismore Mon 10 & 11 (baby bounce), Wed & Thurs 10.30 Murwillumbah Wed 11 Fri 11 (baby bounce) Tweed Heads Tues 11 (baby bounce) Wed & Thurs 11

SPORT/ FITNESS

9.30am, Mullumbimby Neighbourhood Centre, 55 Dalley St. Mullumbimby. Tel: 1800 6862686

BALLINA EARLY INTERVENTION

Rainbow Children’s Centre, East Ballina Tel: 6686 6889

BALLINA/BYRON FAMILY SUPPORT SERVICE Home visits, advice, advocacy Mon–Thurs & alternate Fri 62 Tamar Street

Tel: 6686 4109

BDCSA

Pottsville Beach Neighbourhood Centre Mon & Thurs 9.30-11.30 Tel: 6676 4555

BALLINA JUNIOR CRICKET

Youth Drop In Centre

POLKADOTS

BALLINA LITTLE ATHLETICS

BYRONSHIRE EARLY INTERVENTION

YWCA, 101a Rous Rd, Goonellabah Tues 10-12pm (term time only) Tel: Zoe 6625 5809

SNAPPERS PLAYGROUP

Scout Hall, Cherry Street Evans Head Tues 9.30-12.30 Tel: Tricia Cook 6682 4334

SOUTH LISMORE FAMILY CENTRE

41 Wilson St Wed 10-12 & Fri 10-12 (under 2s only) Tel: Sarah 6621 2489

Tel: David 0428 864 189

Quays Drive, Ballina Sat8.30-11

Tel:0402 300490

SUPERMUMS

CLC Roxy, 5 Geneva St. Kyogle Tues 9.30–11 (term time only)

TODDLER TIME GROUP Lismore Anglican Parish Hall Mon. 9.30 - 11.30 Tel: Trisha 0433952360 TINTENBAR PLAYGROUP

Tintenbar Hall, Cnr. of George & Tintenbar Rd Wed 9.30-11.30 (term time only) $3 Tel: Sara 6687 8363

TREGEAGLE PLAYGROUP Tregeagle Hall Thurs 10-12 $4/session

Tel: Melissa 0400 285525

TULLERA/MODANVILLE

BALLINA TOUCH FOOTBALL ASSOC.

CASINO FAMILY SUPPORT SERVICE

Parenting support, home visits & counselling 149 Canterbury Street Tel: 6662 6792

EVANS HEAD DISTRICT JUNIOR CRICKET CLUB

FAMILY SUPPORT NETWORK

Tel: Jenny 6682 4216

EVANS HEAD RUGBY

Tel: Gary Roberts 0418 467053

Primary Campus, Hall Dr., Murwillumbah Mon 9-11.30 (term time only) Tel: 6672 2922 or 0417 604454

WARDELL SUGARBABES

Community Centre, 9 Sinclair Street Mon 10-12 Tel: 6683 4185

WOODBURN PUBLIC SCHOOL PLAYGROUP School hall Tues 9.30-11.30

WYRALLAH CREATIVE KIDS

Wyrallah Public School (off Tregeagle Rd) Wed 9-11.30 Tel: Jenny 0407 281282

YOUNG MUMS GROUP

41 Wilson Street, South Lismore Thurs 10-12

Tel: 6622 3143

PRE-SCHOOL ACTIVIES STORYTIME AT THE LIBRARY Alstonville Tues 11 Ballina Tues & Fri 11

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FAR NORTH COAST CENTRE FOR AUTISM Early intervention programs and resource centre for families of children with ASD

Tel: 6628 3660

Evans River School Oval Wed 4.30-6.30 laansw.com.au ehlac@y7mail.com

FINANCIAL COUNSELLING

MULLUMBIMBY LITTLE ATHLETICS

INTERRELATE/FAMILY RELATIONSHIP CENTRE

Mullum High School oval Fri 4.30pm

RICHMOND VALLEY SWIMMING CLUB Evans Head Aquatic Centre Mon-Fri squad training Club night Fri

Free and confidential advice Ballina Care Centre, Tamar Street 3rd Mon of each month Tel: 6622 2171

Tel: 6682 5885

SURFING MUMS

Buddy up with another Mum & get a surf in Every Tues at Evans head surf club & every Fri at the Pass, Byron Bay 9.30-12 Tel: Roxy 0448 649959

Next to the Cudgen (Kingscliff) Surf Club Mon 9

MURWILLUMBAH

Hundred Hills Estate Park, Cnr Old Lismore Rd & Riveroak Dr. Wed 8-9 Tel: Shanelle 0419 488150

POTTSVILLE

Ambrose Brown Park (nr roundabout with Coronation Ave) Thurs 9

SUPPORT GROUPS ASD PARENTS SUPPORT GROUP

Support group for Autism or Aspergers Wed 9.45-12 Tel: Mullumbimby Community Health on 6684 1677

AUSTRALIAN BREASTFEEDING ASSOC.

Lismore - 2nd Fri of month 10am Lismore Library (downstairs) Ballina - 4th Tues of the month 1pm CWA rooms Mullumbimby - 1st & 3rd Wed of the month

P5 PARENTING PROGRAMME

Promoting pleasurable parenting 6-7 week course Child & Family Health Centre, Goonellabah Tel: 6625 0111 Or Ballina/Byron Family Centre Tel: 6686 4109

SIDE BY SIDE

Support group for Aspergers children and young people 1st and 3rd Sat of month Pottsville Beach Neighbourhood Centre Tel: Debbie 6676 0483

SUMMERLAND EARLY INTERVENTION PROGRAMME

Family focused service for children with delayed development/disabilities Birth to school age Rifle Range Rd, East Lismore Tel: 6621 6421

THE FAMILY CENTRE

South Tweed Heads Parenting support and personal development courses W: thefamilycentre.org.au Tel: 07 5524 8711

THE UNCLE PROJECT

Adult male mentors for boys aged 7-14 Byron Bay Tel: 6680 8582

WOMEN’S RESOURCE CENTRE

Counselling, advice, advocacy and support for women in the Byron Shire Tel: 6684 4299

Lismore (and outreach at Ballina) Counselling, advice, courses, training Tel: 6622 7003

LEGAL AID OUTREACH SERVICE

KINGSCLIFF

TWEED VALLEY ADVENTIST COLLEGE

Home visits, support groups, playgroups Tel: 6621 2489

EVANS HEAD LITTLE ATHLETICS

STROLLER GROUPS

Tullera Hall, Dunoon Road Fri 9.30-11.30

Support for children aged 0-12 with additional needs Tel: 6685 3023

Saunders Oval Wed and Fri evenings 4pm onwards

SUNRISE BEACH SUPPORTED PLAYGROUP

Jacaranda Park, Jacaranda Drive, Byron Bay Thurs 10-12 (during school term) Tel: 6680 4919

Tel: 1300 872281

PASS

Parents of Autism Spectrum Support Tel: Susan 6622 6651

TOY LIBRARIES BALLINA

Court House, Ballina 2nd & 4th Wed every month 9-12 Tel: 6621 2082

Regatta Avenue Tues & Wed 11-1, Sat 10-1 Or by arrangement Tel: 6686 0275 or 0411 719074

MEN & FAMILY CENTRE

BYRON BAY

Monthly fathers support group meeting 1st Wed. of month 6.15-9pm 17e Keen Street, Lismore Cost $5 (includes dinner) Tel: 6622 6116

NILS

Byron Community No Interest Loans Scheme W: byroncentre.com.au or Tel: 6685 6807

NORTHERN RIVERS COMMUNITY LEGAL CENTRE

Free legal advice, info & referrals 16 Carrington Street, Lismore Tel: 6621 1000

NORTHERN RIVERS FAMILY CARE CENTRE

The Cabin, Cnr Jonson & Kingsley Sts Tel: 0424 729942 or 6685 6717 (Denise)

KYOGLE

St James Anglican Church Hall, Campbell Rd Tel: 6632 1057

LISMORE

Ground floor, city library Tues and Sat 9.30-11.30 term time only POTTSVILLE BEACH Pottsville Beach Neighbourhood Centre Mon-Fri 9.30-12.30

YOUTH ACTIVITIES

Day stay help with feeding, unsettled behaviour and sleep issues Tel: 6622 8705

BAT BUS TRANSPORT SERVICE

NORTHERN RIVERS WOMEN’S DOMESTIC VIOLENCE COURT ADVOCACY SERVICE

TUMBLETOWN YOUTH GROUP

OCEAN SHORES PARENT RESOURCE CENTRE

YAXI YOUTH TRANSPORT

Tel: 6621 1044 or 1300 720 606

Rajah Rd Mon-Thurs 10-4 Information, referrals, parent support & programmes Tel: 6680 4919

PARENTEAM

Support for families with children aged 0-12 years Mullumbimby Neighbourhood Centre Tel: 6684 1286

For 12-25-year-olds living in Byron Shire Tel: 6685 8771 Murwillumbah Baptist Church Alt. Fridays 7.30-9.30

For 12-25-year-olds living in Ballina Shire Tel: 6628 7400

Much of the information in this section has been gleaned from public websites and notice boards. No responsibility is taken by Family Magazine for the accuracy of information herein.

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