NRFM Summer 2014

FR

SUMMER 2014

EE Your Local Parenting Guide for the Northern Rivers Region

Champion Ironman

Why Don't young womEn know how beautiful

Zane Holmes

hits Australias beaches for the

2014 Medibank Wave

Warriors Junior

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contents Summer Issue 2014

16 10

30

BeYOUtiful

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Wellness Health & Fitness Beauty

31 9

Craft Family Hot Spots Play Family Favourites Lov2shop

9 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 Sean Tonnet Rachael Kane Peace Decle Amanda Clark

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

F amily Fun

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20 Lifestyle Food Home Design Organise

PROOF READER: Emily Handley

ADMIN: Grace Battese

ADVERTISING: Cortnei Laird Lauren McKenzie sales@nrfamily.com

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

NEXT ISSUE DEADLINE: 1st March 2015

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 Peace Decle FAMILY LAWYER

LLB(Hons)/BSc, GDLP Peace Decle has been a lawyer for 14 years and but has been working solely as a family lawyer for 9 years. Peace specialises in complex children's matters but also has a strong interest in formalising effective property settlements for clients. Peace has a proven track record in using non-court based dispute resolution methods to resolve legal problems.

Peace regularly appears for children, parents and extended family members in the Children's Court in children's care and protection proceedings and in the Local Court, Federal Circuit Court and Family Court in family law proceedings. Peace is currently completing a Masters in Applied Law (Family Law) to consolidate and extend her experience in this field. Peace has two sons (aged 10 and 6) and with her family has been living and working in the Northern Rivers for 10 years.

Rachael Kane SINGER/SONGWRITER

Rachael Kane is a singer, songwriter and singing teacher from Melbourne. She teaches, writes and presents on the importance of true self-expression for children and adults. She is a presenter of the Girl to Woman Project and is a part of many other ongoing initiatives that support a true inner quality of health and well being for all people.

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 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.

Amanda Clark

Advanced Accredited Practising Dietitian Amanda Clark is an Advanced Accredited Practising Dietitian and creator of Portion Perfection - a visual weight control plan incorporating actual portion plates and bowls. Amanda’s practice is Great Ideas in Nutrition at Coolangatta, offering Skype and in person consultations for weight management, Type 2 diabetes, irritable bowel syndrome and pregnancy / fertility.

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Family Mail

INBOX

The best place on the northern rivers.

Evans head main Beach. This is my daughter Abbie making the most of the brilliant weather we have had lately.

Big thanks to NR Family magazine for the prize of Infinity on the Gold Coast! Felix Davies of Coolgardie and his cousins had a ball!

-Kim

This is my son and my father having fun feeding the animals at the Macadamia Castle.

-Emma Rixon

POLL RESULTS If you had to choose, which do you think is the one thing that most determines whether you are happy in life?

Rewarding Career Good 12.5% Health 12.5% Something Else 12.5%

How many people did you have in the hospital during labor?

Baby #1 my mum my partner and my mums friend who acted like our doula. Baby #2 my mum my aunty my partner. Baby #3 my partner. Baby #4 about 20 doctors and nurses only as my baby came at 28 weeks and I was interstate and had a very quick labour so my partner didn't make it.

-Kailie

Hetherington

Close to Family 62.5%

Join the conversation

Rebecca Yourell Only one person with me. My hubby. But I was induced and knew I had a high chance of cesarean birth so was not a day to have extras with me lol..

-Rebecca Yourell Just my husband each time, in addition to Dr and midwife.

-Jade

Zwiers

This is a photo of two of my children, Abbie and Jacob, enjoying a swim and paddle before school last week in the Evans head river.

-Rebecca Yourell

Like us on Facebook & Subscribe to our monthly newsletter

I only had my hubby ( partner at the time) and Im glad I did, as I didn't handle childbirth too well and was very "loud" lol . I would of probably scared off anyone who was in the room anyway.

-Carly Stewart

My first 2 children it was just me and my husband....3rd my sister joined us also & 4th, was a c-section so just my husband and a big team of medical staff. I love visitors in hospital, but don't need heaps at my birth!

-Jodi

Morris

NORTHERN RIVERS FAMILY magazine

5

GIVEAWAYS

WIN 2 nights’ accommodation in a

Win a $600 Voucher for

jewellery and crystals at the Crystal Castle & Shambhala Gardens.

Hold and behold the beauty of crystal from gigantic formations to exquisite jewellery. Walk among gods through stunning gardens and rainforest. Touch the World Peace Stupa, Indulge in delicious views, coffee and food. Ignite the senses, enrich your spirit. Discover the jewel of Byron.

WIN a copy of 4

Week Weight Loss Menu Plan Book *ONLY 3 TO GIVEAWAY Amanda Clark is an Advanced Accredited Practising Dietitian with over 25 years experience. She is the author and creator of the bestselling Portion Perfection - a visual weight control plan using actual portion plates and bowls. Amanda's new 4 Week Weight Loss Menu Plan provides the recipes and plans that close the gap in wondering what to eat for weight control.

1 Bedroom Riverview Suite with sofa bed and free wifi total value $500.

The Ramada Hotel & Suites Ballina Byron is situated on the banks of the picturesque Richmond River in the heart of Ballina. Surrounded by beautiful beaches, lush rainforests and fantastic places to dine and shop, the hotel is the perfect location to enjoy all our region has to offer.

With 115 rooms you can choose from a luxurious Hotel Spa Room, Self-contained 1 and 2 Bedroom Suites or one of our 2 and 3 bedroom Penthouses. Open 24 hours the Hotel offers guests complimentary access to our gymnasium, undercover parking and has an outdoor heated swimming pool with shaded children’s pool.

Ramada Ballina Byron Be Surprised.

WIN a EnviroChill Maxi from the Pack & Go Collection.

Envirotrend are excited to release their new Pack & Go Collection just in time for Summer. Featuring 5 stylish, practical and lightweight bags in two unique prints, the Pack & Go Collection takes you from a family day out to a trip away. Whether you’re going on a family picnic, planning a camping trip with friends, travelling or just need space-saving bags, the Pack & Go Collection is a musthave! Now available in two eye- catching designs, Apple Blossom & Stripes. Visit www.envirotrend.com.au

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 February 15th 2015.

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Family Buzz

UPDAT

NEWS

E ON...

oser!

EAT of cancer cl

Bringing the DEF

R

ecently, local communities across Northern NSW united for Pink Ribbon Day, so far successfully raising tens of thousands of dollars towards prevention, research, advocacy and support for women’s cancers.

The Cancer Council thanks all volunteers from the Far North Coast who passed on their infectious passion, effectively encouraging others to make the biggest possible difference in the fight against cancer. Pink Ribbon Day Coordinator says “So far the region has fundraised a very generous $13,000, which is hugely

attributed to the men, women & young people who worked tirelessly all day in the heat last Friday 24th October”.

“Pink Ribbon Day allows volunteers to harnesses the support and power of the community to drive positive change and ultimately, we will beat cancer!”

Interested in participating in Pink Ribbon Day next year?

Contact Sarah on 6639 1303 / sarahro@nswcc. org.au.

It’s not too late to host a PINK Ribbon Event or to donate online, visit www.pinkribbon.com. au or call your local office on 6639 1300.

T

he Wiggles are joining forces with Olympic champion Libby Trickett and SwimFin Australia, to support keeping children safe in the water this summer.

The Wiggles and SwimFin Australia have produced a series of videos aimed at children and their parents. They include 5 key safety messages and a catchy tune, ‘Swim Like a Fish’, to drive home the importance of being safe around water.

A large part of being safe in the water is learning to swim and Libby is

WELCOME

Skylah Jade Adams Born 20th October 2014 Weighing 8 pound 9 ounces Length 54cm She is a beautiful an happy baby that has brought nothing but joy to our lives with her amazing smile.! :)

recommending the use of SwimFin, the unique, selfadjusting swimming aid for all sizes and abilities and for anyone aged 2 and above. Libby, who is a SwimFin ambassador in Australia and New Zealand, is passionate about children being safe and confident in the water as they learn to swim, and believes SwimFin gives them that. “I'm so excited that SwimFin Australia is partnering with The Wiggles this summer,” says Libby. “With drowning the leading cause of accidental death in children under five in Australia, it’s so important to educate children and their parents and carers on water safety. Having The Wiggles involved means we can get the message across to

young children in a fun way.” “It’s a real delight to be working with the legendary Libby Trickett and SwimFin Australia to promote water safety.

Australians love their beaches and pools and we fully endorse teaching children to be safe around water from an early age,” said Blue Wiggle Anthony Field.

The water safety videos are available at the following links, as well as on The Wiggles’ Official YouTube Channel, www. thewiggles.com and www.swimfin.com.au LINKS: Swim Like A Fish (140 seconds): http:// www.youtube.com/ watch?v=YfxGeyPBIXg Five important tips to be safe in the water (71 seconds): http://youtu. be/veRD3j7OzUA

Hello New Baby

Chance James Flanagan Born 23rd October 2014 Weighing 7 pound 12 oz

Mother’s name: Emma Watts Father’s name: Blake Flanagan NORTHERN RIVERS FAMILY magazine

7

Local Story

Introducing Gibson Gorilla B

yron Bay local, Pam Briggs, has spent 40 years dedicated to education and has spent time as both a Primary School Teacher and an Early Childhood Director.

With her experience nurturing children and as a self-described ‘…Aquarian and ambitious and productive dreamer’ Pam has created ‘Gibson the Gorilla’. To really understand who Gibson is and why he is so special we need to go back to his ‘Dad’Gilbert.

Bags of donated toys are common occurrences in childcare settings, and it was in one such bag at a Lismore Preschool that Pam discovered a brighteyed plush gorilla. Envisioning a special role for the endearing cuddly the preschool staff worked to kit him our with his very own backpack, clothes, toothbrush and a name- ‘Gilbert’ meaning ‘bright promise’.

Children attending the service were able to take turns hosting Gilbert in their homes. They waited, eagerly checking the calendar, for their turn to take Gilbert home. Families documented their adventures with Gilbert in his own special journal creating an important

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link between home and preschool.

The journals grew fat and vibrant over the years, sharing and celebrating the children’s diverse and multi-cultural homes.

With the introduction of the EYLF (Early Years Learning Framework) Pam could see that through Gilbert, the children were already very much engaged with the spirit of the new curriculum: Belonging, Being, and Becoming. With her experience, creativity and work ethic Pam envisaged putting together a kit that would provide everything a teacher needed to recreate the Gilbert Gorilla experience in other Early Childhood and Primary years environments. Gibson (whose name means ‘son of Gilbert’) was born.

The Gibson Gorilla Kit contains Gibson, along with his very own backpack, monogrammed t-shirt, jeans, pajamas, dressing gown, toothbrush and his very own bedtime story! He also has his own song ‘Who’s taking Gibson Home’ which is on CD in the kit, along with his all important calendar for scheduling visits and of course the journal, ready to be filled with adventures! The kit box is a bright and colourful jungle and not to be disposed of! The box becomes Gibson’s treehouse! Aware of the tragically shrinking habitats of Gibson and Gilbert’s live counterparts Pam was keen to support the protection of the last 800 mountain gorillas surviving today, so directs 1% of all profits to Gorilla Fund.

Gibson isn’t just for educational settings.

Slowly the idea grew and now there are many different incarnations of the lovable little Gorilla. Parents can purchase the basic ‘Parent kit’, loved by children whether they’ve had previous exposure to Gilbert or not! Pam says that children

with their own Gibson will still delight in taking one home from school- their own little gorilla will have a playmate!

Also available is the ‘Two-Homes’ kit, Gibson provides a beautiful way to help children feel comfortable moving between Parent’s homes in shared care arrangements. They can see on Gibson’s calendar which of their homes they will be at each night and have a special friend who travels with them. There is even a ‘Grandparents Kit’ offering a beautiful platform for Nan’s and Pop’s to interact with their grandchildren.

This story comes with a poignant twist.

What Pam didn’t know, when she first discovered Gilbert in that donated plastic bag was who had owned the toys previously. She eventually learnt that they had belonged to Monique Clarke, the much beloved local teacher from the Parish Preschool who has lost her battle with cancer at only 23. Monique’s mother, Lyn Clarke, has been touched that her daughter’s memory has been honoured through the love generated by her donation of that little gorilla, and her legacy of love being multiplied with so many Gibson’s going out into the world.

Find out more about Gilbert here: www.gibsongorilla.com Help support the Gorilla fund here: www.gorillafund.org

Sun protection

and babies

Slip on clothing that covers as much of the infant’s skin as possible.

Slop on broad spectrum water resistant sunscreen with a sun protection factor (SPF) of 30 or above to any small areas of skin that cannot be protected by clothing.

Slap on a broad-brimmed, bucket or legionnaire style hat so the infant’s face, neck and ears are protected.

Seek shade. Make use of any available full shade and provide shade for the infant’s pram, stroller or play area.

I

t is important to ensure infants are well protected from the sun. Childhood sun exposure contributes significantly to your lifetime risk of skin cancer, and babies’ skin is sensitive and can burn easily. Plan daily activities to minimise time outside during the middle hours of the day during the summer period when UV levels are at their strongest.

Whenever UV Index levels reach three and above, Cancer Council Australia recommends using a combination of sun protection measures, including to:

Slide on some sunglasses, if practical, to protect the eyes.

There is no evidence that using sunscreen on babies is harmful, although some babies may develop minor skin irritation. Try sunscreen milks or creams for sensitive skin which are less likely to irritate the skin. As with all products, use of any sunscreen should cease if any unusual reaction occurs.

If you require further information about skin cancer prevention call Cancer Council 13 11 20 (a local call from anywhere in Australia). *Courtesy of Cancer Council

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

NORTHERN RIVERS FAMILY magazine

9

WHY

DON’T Young

WomenKnow How Beautiful they are?

By Rachael Kane Edited by Rebecca Baldwin & Shannon Everest

A

t a recent 8 year old girl’s karaoke birthday party, a group of young girls stood in front of a mirror, singing into microphones, pouting, flicking their hair and dancing to a popular song, with the telling lyrics – “You don’t know you’re beautiful, that’s what makes you beautiful”.

It is easy to pass this off as just another teen pop song, but what do these lyrics really mean? And what effect do they have on girls and young women? Sadly, they imply that having a lack of selfconfidence, is what makes a girl beautiful.

Effectively, they celebrate a girl not knowing how beautiful and amazing she really is. This is quite astounding.

Misguided song lyrics aside, a girl not knowing she is beautiful is unfortunately nothing new, it feels eons old. Here are some alarming statistics that reveal how girls actually feel about themselves.

7 out of 10 girls believe that they are not good enough or don't measure up in some way. This includes how they look, their academic results, and relationships with friends and family members.

75% of girls with low self-esteem reported engaging in negative activities like cutting, bullying, smoking, drinking or disordered eating.

Taking all of this into consideration, I’m wondering - is it possible that as a society we are encouraging a lack of self worth in girls, without even consciously knowing it? And why is it that we are not comfortable when a young woman knows how beautiful she is? Why would we not encourage and support her to develop this loving connection and relationship with herself? Is there a way we can support girls to truly know that they are

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beautiful from within, and imagine if we actually encouraged them to know that it’s ok to share this with the world? Even in the face of the ‘tall poppy syndrome’ reactions they might encounter.

About a year ago, I received a call from a friend of mine, Sara Harris who is a Complementary Women’s Health Practitioner. She had recently begun a project called the Girl to Woman Project that was all about supporting the true health and well being of girls in the transition into womanhood. I was instantly interested and wanted to know more. Sara asked if I had a song or could write one that would support the project. Then Sara showed me some interview style footage she had taken of girls speaking about how they feel about themselves and about life, I stopped dead in my tracks. It suddenly occurred to me that I had never fully felt how deeply precious girls and young women really are. When I looked into their eyes all I could see was exquisite tenderness and beauty. A wave of sadness came over me, because I could feel that I had not honoured this in myself as a young woman and that as a society we don’t fully appreciate and nurture these true inner qualities of girls and young women.

Not long after, I sat down with my guitar and the Girl to Woman song was born, it’s a song that holds the same preciousness and beauty that I felt in these young women’s eyes.

‘She’s a delicate flower, blooming day by day and hour by hour, as she takes her next steps, she knows how glorious she is – and she’s turning into a beautiful woman’.

Rachael Kane – G2W Song

When I look at what is out there for girls at the moment, there is very little that supports this level of beauty and

reflects it back to them. There is so much out there in the media, in music and in role models that is the exact opposite and influences girls to override their natural inner qualities and to be anything but themselves. It makes sense that if a girl knows how deeply beautiful and precious she is and is confirmed in this as she’s growing up, she will take this with her into womanhood, making choices that are in line with this and be unlikely to engage in the many destructive behaviors we are now seeing in young women. But we have to be willing to know and except our own preciousness and beauty if we are to be role models to our young. There is a way to be, that reflects to a young woman that it is natural to embrace her beauty and her power and that shows her that she is indeed worth celebrating. And this starts with us. It might be with a song, it might be simply with a word or a look, but when we know our own beauty, our connections come with the fullness of this and we make a new normal and a new mark for the young people in our lives.

Rachael Kane will be presenting and singing at The Girl to Woman Festival, which will be held on the 18th of January 2015 at the Lennox Head Community & Cultural Centre.

It is a community event for the whole family to celebrate and support girls and young women in their beauty and preciousness.

The festival has been inspired by The Girl to Woman Project and aims to support girls by addressing topics such as low self-confidence, self-esteem, body awareness, puberty, media messages, role models and healthy relationships. The festival will be offering presentations, workshops, music, exercise, yoga, meditation, a True Beauty tent, free massages and facials, Nourish Café and promises to be a fantastic and enormously valuable day out.

To book your tickets go to www.girltowoman.com.au

Advertisement.

Growing Australia’s best children’s health system.

Branching out across the state Queensland is growing Australia’s best children’s health system and at its heart is the new Lady Cilento Children’s Hospital near South Bank in Brisbane. The Lady Cilento Children’s Hospital opens its doors on 29th November 2014, combining the staff and services from the Royal and Mater children’s hospitals to offer one of the best paediatric facilities in the country.

To ensure your child gets the best possible care in an emergency, you should call 000 or go to your closest hospital.

If necessary, your child will then be treated and transported to the Lady Cilento Children’s Hospital.

To find out more about improvements in children’s health in Queensland, visit health.qld.gov.au/childrenshealth

Authorised by the Queensland Government, Brisbane.

The seven events in the series are: • Mullaloo WA, Saturday 22 Nov, 2014 • Greenmount QLD, Saturday 6

and Sunday 7 Dec., 2014 • Henley SA, Saturday 13 Dec, 2014 • Newport NSW, Friday 16 Jan. 2015 • Torquay VIC, Saturday 14 Feb. 2015 • Wanda NSW, Sunday 18 Jan, 2015

The national finale will be held on: • Noosa QLD, Saturday 21 Feb, 2015

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Champion Ironman Zane Holmes

and junior lifesavers hit Australias beaches for the 2014 Medibank Wave Warriors Junior Challenge

C

hampion Ironman Zane Holmes’ dedication to Surf Lifesaving led him to create the Medibank Wave Warriors Junior Challenge, an annual event now in its 5th year which attracts competitors from across Australia and New Zealand.

building health habits from a young age. Our For Better Health focus spans Australia and New Zealand and it is pleasing to find a partner who echoes our sentiments, connecting with the community, families and being active,” said Cotsios.

Junior lifesavers (Nippers) from across Australia are keen to hit their local beach with one of their heroes and a legend of the sport to develop their skills and have fun in the water.

We chat to Zane who has a 40 year family history in surf lifesaving, beginning as a Nipper and now at the pinnacle of his sport. He is the most successful Ironman in Surf Lifesaving history.

Open from under nine to under fifteen year old competitors, Medibank Wave Warriors Junior Challenge is a beach and surf spectacular, set up to mirror the famous Kellogg’s Ironman series and promote further development for junior lifesavers in this iconic Aussie sport.

“My goal was to create a unique ocean and beach spectacular for junior lifesavers (Nippers) so they can come together from around Australia to participate in an exciting competition,” said Holmes.

The Medibank Wave Warriors Junior Challenge has events across all surf sports disciplines with individual events such as beach sprint, beach flags, surf race, board race and iron person and team events including surf teams, board relay, warrior relay and a two kilometre all age beach relay.

The competition is about participation and fun - encouraging our youngest athletes towards a healthy and active lifestyle and encouraging them to continue their participation in the sport and to become future volunteer patrolling lifesavers at their local surf lifesaving clubs.

“Medibank is proud to be the naming rights sponsor for the Wave Warriors Junior Challenge,” said Laz Cotsios, Chief Customer Office, Customer Centred Healthcare, Medibank.

“We love Wave Warriors because the events reflect so much of what we are about – families, community connectedness, being active, and

What motivated you to create Medibank Wave Warriors Junior Challenge?

I wanted to provide a really fun and organised event for the kids to compete in. Nipper events haven’t changed much over the past 20years and have the tendency to be very slow and boring. There is nothing else out there like Wave Warriors.

What can we expect from each event?

A great family atmosphere, really fun and competitive races, a spectacular arena for the kids to compete in. We also have the Medibank # GenBetter Active Zone which has something fun for everyone to do, siblings and parents included!

How do you enter? Online at www. wavewarriors.com.au What would you like to see a child personally achieve from participating in wave warriors?

I just want to see the kids come away from the event saying they have had the best experience they have ever had at a nipper carnival. So far we have delivered on this going off all the great feedback we receive.

What are some safety tips when dealing with the surf?

It is important to learn to read the surf conditions. Know where the sandbanks are, where the rips are and where the water is moving across the beach or out to sea.

What should you do if you ever get caught in a rip current?

You should always be swimming between the red and yellow flags. This ensures the lifesavers and lifeguards can see you and you can simply raise your arm in the air for assistance.

If you’re in a rip and there are no lifesavers on duty you need to swim at a right angle to the way the water is moving in the rip. This will take you into calmer water where you can swim to shore. Never try and swim directly into the rip current.

What do you love about Surf Lifesaving that has kept your keen interest for all these years?

It’s really the healthy environment of being in the ocean which is my number one passion.

What advice would you give to young kids who want to be an Ironman?

Train hard but you also need to have fun. Sometimes the best training is just getting out in the surf and catching waves and improving your skills.

How much training is involved?

At the elite level I used to train 6 days a week, 2-3 times each day for 1-2hrs.

Congratulations on winning the ‘Best Sporting Event for QLD & WA 2014’ from the Australian Events Awards.

What is the next goal for Wave Warriors?

We are constantly working on improving the event from an organisational side and also increasing the “fun” aspect for the kids. We have some exciting new things in store this summer!

For more information about Wave Warriors go to www.wavewarriors.com.au.

For more information on Medibank go to www. medibank.com.au.

NORTHERN RIVERS FAMILY magazine

13

Familiarisation

the

ABC of

preparing your child for

big

school

By Sadie Hunt There will be tears in kindy classrooms across the Northern Rivers region this January as some 5000 new five-year-olds step up to the challenge of a new school life. However in most cases it’s only the parents who will shed a sentimental tear.

Some children will be anxious and daunted by the new challenges of school life and some will greet the opportunities with excitement and enthusiasm.

So what can parents do to ensure the transition from pre-school to ‘big school’ is as smooth and trouble-free as possible and that it is only their tears being shed on day one of school? Family Magazine’s Guide to Starting School has all the answers.

When to start

In NSW children have to be five before July 31st to be eligible to

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start school. Most children will already be five when they start school and it is compulsory to be at school by the age of six. Many four-year-olds are not ready for school and benefit from an extra year at home before starting school. If you feel your child is not ready to start school discuss it with your child’s pre-school teacher or with the kindergarten teacher at the school of your choice.

Before school

Your child will need either an up-to-date certificate of immunisation status or a conscientious objection form (should you chose not to vaccinate your child) to enrol at school. If he is vaccinated he will need to have had the four year old before school ‘booster’ vaccinations. Unvaccinated children may be asked to stay away from school during outbreaks of vaccine preventable diseases.

Children can also undergo before school health assessments which involve checking vision, hearing, speech and general development before starting school. These can usually be arranged free through your local community health centre.

If your child still has an afternoon sleep try to eliminate these during the December/January school holidays prior to the start of the school term.

Take your child to visit his or her new school as often as you can in the months before school starts. This may involve attending ‘orientation’ visits and transition programmes or just simply driving past or stopping for a play in the playground from time to time.

If possible introduce your child to the kindergarten teacher and make sure your child knows where important places such as the classroom, loos, canteen, pick-up/drop-off spots and school office are.

Talk to your child as much as possible about starting school – tell them positive stories about your school days and answer their questions honestly. Do all you can to reassure them about the challenges that lie ahead.

Make sure you know the basic facts about your child’s new school and its routine. This includes: • What time school starts and finishes • Where to drop-off and pick-up children • The teacher’s name • What supplies they may need (including uniform, hat, sunscreen, lunch, books and pencils)

or she can find it easily at lunch and break time.

At Home

Your child will need to get used to a whole new set of skills and rules at ‘big school’. These include paying attention, sitting still, taking turns, working with others and working independently.

Here are some top tips for developing and teaching these skills at home in the months prior to starting school in a fun and informal way: • Play ‘schools’ with your child and her favourite toys - take turns being the teacher and taking the class roll, teach children to put up their hands to ask and answer questions, tell them about the school bell and how to drink from a water fountain.

• Read stories - try reading for longer periods each day. Start by getting them to sit still for 10 minutes at a time and build it up to 20 or 30 minutes if you can.

• Practice writing, drawing and talking – get your child to write his or her own birthday cards for friends by copying letters from a chart. Encourage your child to draw pictures and talk about themselves with confidence.

• Play counting and measuring

" Starting school for the first time is a big step even for the most confident of children."

• Where and when to get the school uniform from When purchasing the school uniform choose a size that will last a couple of years but not look ridiculously large. If there are lots of different uniform choices try to involve your child in the decision making process - check out what other children are wearing in the school playground so that you can help your own child to fit in with their classmates.

Remember to label all clothing, lunchboxes, bags etc to limit the amount of lost items. It helps to attach something distinctive to your child’s school bag so that he

games – play ‘shops’ and practice counting and measuring fruit or other shopping items.

• Visit new places – such as museums, children’s theatre etc to teach your child about different sets of rules and behaviour • Set chores - such as laying the table, tidying their room and making the bed to develop independence • Practice using a computer – get pre-school CD ROMs from the library • Practice putting on the school uniform • Have a ‘school picnic lunch’ – make sure your child can open

Gallery

Little miss Ella Maree is super excited for summer fruit season, especially mangos! It is her favourite food! And as I was cleaning up her mango, I turned around and she's biting into the watermelon! Obviously she couldn't wait for me to cut it up :)

Hello, I love your magazine. Our family had the best day walking the Cudgen Creek Boardwalk at Kingscliff this month. .we even saw a stingray!

-Kasey Zendler

My eldest having a great time on the boat ride as part of the Tropical Fruit World tour a few weeks ago!

-Samy

their lunch box and peel own fruit etc.

• Read books about other children starting school • Find out the names of some of the other children who will be attending the same school as your child and arrange some play dates • Rehearse your morning routine so that you know how long it will take.

On the big day

Make sure your child has had a few early nights prior to the big day so that they are starting school refreshed and full of energy. Stick to a set routine each morning so that the day is relaxed and calm: • Give your child a good nutritious breakfast • Help them get dressed in their uniform • Pack the school bag - lunch, sunscreen, hat, books, pencils etc.

A spare pair of knickers is often a good idea too in the first few

The best dad a boy could ask for.

Dom 7, Jasper 5, Dad David & Flynn 11.

- Nicole Duverge

weeks as accidents can happen. If this happens reassure your child that’s it perfectly normal and tell them what to do if it does happen.

• Walk or drive your child to school in plenty of time • See them to their classroom and help them to put away their school bag • Say goodbye quickly – give them a cuddle and tell them you’ll be back later and leave. Prolonging the goodbyes makes it harder for everyone.

At the end of the day pick your child up on time and make some special time to ask them about their day – some children will chat away for hours whilst others may be quieter preferring some time alone. Don’t ask too many questions – children will talk when they are ready.

Go straight home and allow your child to wind down slowly by getting changed into their own

We live on a property in Wardell and my daughter Ella Maree loves getting into the gardens. We have a goldfish pond, a big duck pond (with ducks of course) and the other evening we found a turtle going for a walk in the rain.

-Sarah Schweizer

clothes, having a snack and a quiet play. Try to avoid doing chores or going to after school activities for the first few weeks - your child may be very tired and irritable after school as they adjust to their new school routine.

They may not make it until dinner time to eat so try to be as flexible as you can with your evening routine.

Bedtime is a good time to ask about their day if they haven’t been forthcoming so far. Some children can be disillusioned if they haven’t learnt to read on day one or worried about returning to school the next day. If this happens listen to your child and do your best to reassure him or her that all will be well.

If your child’s fears persist and he or she starts making excuses to get out of going to school, try to act calmly and do not let them know that you are worried. Simply continue your preparation for

the school day and say: “A lot of children's tummies hurt when they go to school but they still have to go to school. I know you will have a great day and I will be there to pick you up later.”

Sometimes getting another parent to do the drop-off or taking something small of yours to school with them can help.

If matters don’t improve over a matter of weeks talk to your child’s teacher about the best way to help your child.

Starting school for the first time is a big step even for the most confident of children. Every child will react differently to the challenges and excitement of this great, new adventure.

The best way to ensure that your child positively thrives in their new school environment is to provide reassurance, support and patience to your child in the weeks before school starts as well as when the big day arrives.

NORTHERN RIVERS FAMILY magazine

15

Navagating Changes Following a Separation

S

eparation is one of the biggest stressors that a couple can go through. In addition to the emotional pain that comes with the breakdown of a significant relationship, each party often struggles with questions about how to separate years of accumulated income and property, and what about the children!

Every family situation is unique and there is no one solution to navigating the changes that need to be made following a separation. Following are some of the more common issues: Children The parents of a child each have ‘parental responsibility’ (including biological, adoptive and non-biological parents who have undergone artificial conception). This responsibility includes the making of major and long-term decisions about a child, such as where the child will attend school, where the child will reside, and what religion the child will follow. Parental responsibility does not change after separation, and if parents start living in separate homes they need to make decisions together about which home a child will live in.

If parents can’t agree, then they are required to attempt formal mediation called ‘family dispute resolution’. If no agreement is reached either parent may apply to a Family Law Court asking for a decision to be made by a Judge.

When a Judge makes a decision in the place of parents, they must decide what outcome is ‘in the best interests of the child.’ The decision is made after considering things like the nature of the relationship between the child and each parent, how old the child is, which parent was the primary carer of the child during the relationship and whether there are

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By Peace Decle any safety issues for the child in either parent’s care. The Judge is required to prioritise a child’s safety when making parenting orders.

Child Support Parents can work out a private arrangement for child support if that suits their situation. Alternatively, the Australian Government has created the ‘Child Support Agency’ (CSA) which manages child support issues after parents separate. The amount of child support payable is worked out by the CSA using a complex formula. The 3 critical factors relevant to child support are: the amount of nights the child spends in each parent’s care, the level of income of each parent, and the age of the child. Parents can access a calculator on www.csa.gov. au to determine what child support is payable.

Property Settlements De-facto and married couples can have a property settlement that divides the assets and liabilities of the relationship (including property and superannuation which is jointly owned or which is owned solely by either party). Although couples can have an informal agreement, most couples choose to have their settlement formalised with the help of lawyers to protect themselves from the other party coming back later and wanting to change the agreement.

The distribution of assets will depend upon factors such as what each party had at the start of their relationship, the financial contributions made by each party during the relationship (including income, inheritances etc.), any significant role played by a party caring for children, the ages and health of the parties, as well as whether one party will have a greater

role caring for children into the future.

If one party does not have the capacity to earn an income post separation (not including Centrelink income) and the other party has the capacity to support them, then it is possible to seek ongoing spousal maintenance.

Divorce If one party to a marriage decides that they no longer want to be married, they can apply for a divorce. To be granted a divorce, the couple must have been separated for at least 12 months (it can be tricky to show this if the couple has been separated but living in the same house). If the couple have children the Court must be satisfied there are suitable arrangements in place for the care of the children.

For some people, getting advice from a specialist family law solicitor can be enough to receive the confidence necessary to traverse separation. In other cases, where there are issues of urgency, intractable disagreement, joint property, family violence or other risks of harm, getting ongoing advice, assistance and representation from a specialist family law solicitor will be invaluable. This column will be going into more detail about some of these areas in upcoming editions of NR Family Magazine.

The information in article is offered for general information purposes and is not intended to be legal advice or the giving of a legal opinion. If you want to understand how these issues affect you and your family, you should consult a family law solicitor. A list of solicitors who practice in family law in your area can be found on ‘Finding a Solicitor’ on www.lawsociety.nsw.gov.au.

TINTENBAR

20 Phoenix Drive Open 7.30 am - 6.00pm 52 weeks a year Children from 6 weeks - 6 years Air Conditioned premises Nappies & Linen provided All children receive a welcome pack on enrolment

Phone: 6687 8770

tintenbar@bhchildcare.com.au

NORTHERN RIVERS FAMILY magazine

17

WHAT' S

ON

GUIDE DECEMBER

Summer 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.

14 Dec to 15 DEC 2014 Salt Carols by the Beach Central Park, Kingscliff

4 Dec 2014

Richmond Valley's Community Street Party, Town Centre Casino.

4 Dec 2014

Fiona O'Loughlin Christmas Comedy Ballina RSL Club 240 River Street , Ballina 07:45pm to 11:59pm

4 Dec 2014

International Day of People with Disability - Kyogle Support Group 11am-1PM, Thursday Grove house geneva st, Kyogle mellissa_smyth@hotmail.com

7 Dec 2014

Lennox Head Carols in the park Williams Reserve, Lennox Head 05:30pm to 09:00pm

11 Dec 2014

Lions Club of Kingscliff Carols by the Coast Kingscliff 2487, NSW Kingscliff

12 Dec to 13 Dec 2014

DoubleMask Youth Theatre's 'The Jungle Book' Murwillumbah Civic Centre 10-14 Tumbulgum Rd, Murwillumbah NSW 2484 Murwillumbah

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14 Dec 2014

Shopbaby carols by candlelight 6pm-9pm. Gates open at 4:30pm Free event Oakes Oval 144 Magellan St, Lismore 02 6625 0500 tourism@lismore.nsw.gov.au

19th Dec 2014

school breaks up for chiristmas

25 Dec 2014 Christmas Day

26 Dec 2014

Lismore speedway hernes freight service Mr modified 50 lapper round 1 – demo derby Lismore Showground, Alexandra Pde, Lismore

30 Dec 2014 - 03 Jan 2015

The Falls Music and arts Festival 2014 Byron, NSW http://www.fallsfestival.com.au/

JANUARY 1 Jan 2015

new years day

10 Jan 2015

peggy popart kid's art tour lismore 10.30am - 11.30am Free: Donation Lismore Regional Gallery 131 Molesworth St 02 6622 2209 artgallery@lismore.nsw.gov.au www.lismoregallery.org

16 Jan 2015 to 25 Jan 2015 Toyota country music festival Tamworth http://www.tcmf.com.au/

16 Jan 2015

Alice in Wonderland Ballina Players 24 Swift St Ballina Ballina New South Wales http://www.ballinaplayers.com.au/ performance/alice-wonderland/

18 Jan 2015

The Girl to Woman Festival Lennox head Cultural & Community Centre www.girltowoman.com.au

26 Jan 2015

Lismore skating and putt putt Aust Day BBQ 2pm-5pm 21 Bridge st North lismore

FEBRUARY Until 28 February 2015

Before School Screening Ballina Community Health Service, 50 Fox Street, Ballina NSW 2478

Whats on Calendar

MARKET GUIDE

SANTA

Northern Rivers Markets Weekend of the Month

PHOTOS!

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

Santa photos at the Square with our BRAND NEW SANTA PALACE until Christmas Eve! Monday to Saturday: 10.30am – 1.30pm

1st & 3rd Sundays Lismore Cr Boot Market Lismore

Shopping Square 8am – 2pm

PLUS 4-7pm on Thursday nights!

1st & 3rd Sundays Ballina Market , Canal Road 7am – 1pm 2nd Sunday

Alstonville Community Market Alstonville Showground 8am – 12.30pm

SANTA PAWS Petbarn and Lismore Shopping Square present a pet photo night on 11th December from 7.30-9pm.

Head to Petbarn on the night!

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

Please have pets on a leash or in cage.

Lismore Shopping Square

Lismore Shopping Square

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

Creative holiday fun for kids at the Tweed Regional Gallery Create a bookplate and read in the Gallery 10 Dec – 8 Mar | Free | No booking required | All ages

Kids’ Summer Art Treasure Map & Trail

21 Dec – 26 Jan | Free | No booking required | All ages

History of swimwear — Paper Dolls

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

Paper Clay Creations with Marie-France Rose

Every Saturday

Lismore Farmers Market Lismore Showground8am – 12pm

Storytelling & Collage with Michelle Dawson

Every Saturday

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

19 Jan | $25 | Bookings contact Gallery | Ages 6+

Every Sunday

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

20 Dec – 15 Feb | Free | No booking required | All ages

Storytelling session

8 Jan | Free | No booking required | All ages

Zine Making extravaganza with Jesse MacIntosh 12 Jan | $25 | Bookings contact Gallery | Ages 10+ 13 Jan | $35 | Bookings contact Gallery | Ages 6+

18 Jan | Gold coin donation | No booking required | Ages 6+

Painting on Canvas with Digby Moran Illustration with Tamsin Ainslie

15 Feb | $45 | Bookings contact Gallery | Ages 7+ 2 Mistral Road, Murwillumbah South, NSW 2484 T: (02) 6670 2790 | W: artgallery.tweed.nsw.gov.au Open: 10am-5pm (DST) Wednesday to Sunday | Free admission Tweed Regional Gallery & Margaret Olley Art Centre is a Tweed Shire Council community facility

NORTHERN RIVERS FAMILY magazine

19

Family Fun

CRAFT

TOOLS: * Jar * Cotton wool * Red cardboard * String * Glue & Sticky Tape METHOD: 1. Draw a silhouette of a christmas tree on the red cardboard.

2. Cut out the Tree silhouette.

3. Trace around that tree as a template on the red cardboard and cut out again. You will now have two red trees the same.

4. Add Cotton Wool into the jar, you can also add some glitter if desired.

5. Take a long piece of the string and place in one middle of one of the trees. Then glue both trees together, this will hide the string and create one Tree.

6. Measure the string so the tree hangs just above the cotton wool, dont forget to leave some extra string to tape to the inside of the jar.

7. Take the inside of the jar lid, stick the end of the string in the middle with tape.

8. Place lid back on the jar.

And there you have it, a beautiful Christmas decoration!

Craft Family Hot Spots Play Family Favourites

Lov2shop

TIPS You can fold the red cardboard in half and cut the tree silhouette out once to save time.

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Little Mini Biscuit Houses INGREDIENTS: * Biscuits - Such as Arnotts Nice biscuits * Icing (thick as possible) * Things to decorate - Smarties, chocolate dots, gummy bears and coloured sprinkles METHOD: Use a chopping mat for each child and have the biscuits, icing and decorations close by in bowls.

The goal is to create a triangle using 3 biscuits, at each side edge of the buscuit place a good amount of icing and attach the other side at an angle, do this again to complete your triangle shape.

Once triangle is completed decorate any way you wish, have fun.

Help the icing set, by placing the houses into the fridge or freezer for a short time.

NORTHERN RIVERS FAMILY magazine

21

Match the pairs.

Spot the odd one out.

Play Activities

Join the dots & then colour in.

This is a zigzag word search puzzle.

Words go left, right, up down but not diagonally, and can bend at a right angle.

There are no unused letters in the grid, everyletter is used only once.

PLAY ACTIVIES: 3-6mths

PLAY ACTIVIES: 6-12 mths

PLAY ACTIVIES: 1+ yrs

Round and Round the Garden Do the actions as you say the rhyme.

Round and round the garden, like a Teddy Bear.

Trace finger in a circle around child's palm One step, two step Walk your fingers up child's arm Tickle you under there!

Tickle under chin, under arm or tummy

This Little Piggy Touch one of your child’s toes for each of the “piggies” and then tickle your child when you get to the last line.

This little piggy went to market, This little piggy stayed at home, This little piggy had roast beef, This little piggy had none.

And this little piggy went...

"Wee wee wee" all the way home...

Head, shoulders, knees and toes Head, shoulders, knees and toes, knees and toes Head, shoulders, knees and toes, knees and toes And eyes and ears and mouth and nose Head, shoulders, knees and toes, knees and toes

Row Row Row your boat Sit opposite your child and hold their hands, or put your baby on your lap facing you "Row" back and forwards in time with the music Don’t forget to squeak, scream and roar when you see the mouse, crocodile or lion!

Row, row, row your boat Gently down the stream Merrily, merrily, merrily, merrily Life is but a dream Row, row, row your boat Gently down the stream If you see a crocodile Don't forget to scream!

The grand old duke of York Sit your baby on your lap. When the men march up to the top of the hill, lift your baby up in the air, and then back down again.

Oh the Grand old duke of York He had ten thousand men He marched them up to the top of the hill And he marched them down again And when they were up they were up And when they were down they were down And when they were only halfway up They were neither up nor down Source: http://www.wordsforlife.org.uk

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Dingly Dangly Scarecrow When all the cows are sleeping And the farmer's gone to bed Up jumps the scarecrow And this is what he says!

I'm a Dingly Dangly Scarecrow.

With a flippy floppy hat.

I can shake my hands like this.

I can shake my feet like that.

FAM ILY HOT SP OTS Murwillumbah:

Tropical Fruit World (signposted from the Murwillumbah exit of the highway) grows more than 500 varieties of fruit. There are train rides, a children's play facility, boat cruises, tractor safaris, an animal park, fruit tastings and a restaurant. 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.

Mullumbimby:

There's a two kilometre walking track through the Brunswick Valley Heritage Park and along the banks of the Brunswick River. Crystal Castle, near Mullumbimby, features a great playground with a magical crystal dragon, as a well as a café, Buddha walk, crystal maze and rainforest walk.

Byron Bay:

Best 'park' in Byron has to be the Cape Byron Lighthouse. Allow a couple of hours to do the complete 5km walk or just park at Watego's and do the last bit. Rocky Creek Dam in the Byron hinterland is also a great place to visit for a play and a picnic

Ballina:

Missingham Bridge offers a shaded playground and plenty of grassy areas to kick a ball with barbecues and a skate park next door. Ballina has a great network of flat bike tracks. One of the easiest to navigate is Ballina North Wall. It's also great for strollers and rollerblading.

Knockrow:

Macadamia Castle, just off the highway, has a great animal park, an 18 hole mini-golf course, a miniature train, playgrounds, barbecues and a café. Don't forget to up-grade to a six-month locals' pass for a little extra before you leave!

ALSTONVILLE:

Amaze ‘n’ Place on Wardell Road has a great latticed maze, a coffee shop and a wide selection of puzzles to browse through.

The House With No Steps on Wardell Road has a fully fenced water park and playground area which is free to visit (but make a donation if you can). There's a great café and manicured gardens.

LISMORE:

Visit the fabulous Heritage Park for a family picnic or barbecue. There's plenty of swings, seesaws, climbing frames etc. and lots of shady areas too. During the holidays a miniature train offers inexpensive rides around the park. Next door is the skate park for older children. If you fancy giving rollerblading or mini golf a go visit Lismore Skating and Putt Putt.

Outside The Area:

The Pet Porpoise Pool at Coffs Harbour is well worth a visit for a real hands-on marine experience. The award-winning park features dolphins, seals, fairy penguins, turtles, a range of fish, a Port Jackson shark, emus, kangaroos, cockatoos, peacocks, a pet pelican, a picnic area and café. The Woodford Folk Festival, held just north of Brisbane between Christmas and New Year each year, is one of the most family friendly and affordable festivals in Australia. Visit www.woodfordfolkfestival. com for more info.

NORTHERN RIVERS FAMILY magazine

23

Family Favourites

FAMILY FAVOUR ITES With BuggyLOVE there are no more grotty stroller excuses! Whether it’s the stroller, car seat, bouncer or sofa, by the time they have eaten, mashed in, thrown up and had any number of other little accidents most of the things they use can only be described as, ahem, grotty. But now there is no excuse! BuggyLOVE is a range of 100% organic cleaning products made by parents, for parents, is especially designed to clean up your children’s little messes! www. coolkidz.net.au

Unbored Games

by Joshua Glenn and Elizabeth Foy Larson RRP $19.99 Paperback The Best games bookever- for kids and the whole family, from the team that brought us the critically acclaimed, award winning, best selling UNBORED: The Essential Field Guide to Serious Fun. Featuring more than 70 games, from the traditional Highland Games and old fashioned parlor contests to Google earth challenges and the best game apps.

The Anti-Bordom Book of Brilliant Things To Do

by Andy Seed Ages 5-10yrs RRP $14.99 Paperback Pick awhich pet is worse: a Vampire bat, a dead worm or GODZILLA; decide what you would do if you were Prime Minister; discover some yucky things that people eat around the world...and much more! This witty and wacky book is bursting with laugh out load facts, games, quizzes and things to do for hours of FUN. As soon as you roll into the little town of Bangalow, you quickly realise this is no ordinary rural town. Nestled in the hills behind Byron Bay, the allure and enchantment of this hinterland village is unmistakable. It’s a diverse community of people from all walks of life: professionals, creativetypes, self-employed, business-owners, local farmers and those who work

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Chu's First Day of School

by Neil Gaiman & Adam Rex Ages 3 -5 yrs RRP $24.99 Hardback Chu is a little panda with a BIG sneeze and when his first day at school approaches he is nervous. Will the other boys and girls be nice? Will they like Chu? A fabulously warm and funny story about little Chu and his enormous sneeze!

from home.

The Bangalow Banquet has been produced to raise much needed funds for the two local schools in Bangalow.

The Bangalow Public School provides high quality 21st century education to 275 local children and the Bangalow Community Children’s Centre, set in a tranquil, rainforest area and bordered by a beautiful creek, offers early childhood education for

children from birth to age 5.

Bangalow Banquet contains many stories of the famers, the families and the history of the area and over 150 simple family type recipes. It is about people coming together to celebrate, support each other, and share in the bounty of the region. It is akin to a country BANQUET – a joyous celebration of two simple pleasures in life: good food and good company.

Noni the Poni Goes to the Beach

by Alison Lester RRP $24.99 Hardback Noni the Pony is friendly and funny. She loves going down to the beach when it's sunny.

With her two very best friends Dave Dog and Coco the Cat, and the cows from next door, It's going to be a wonderful day.

Noni the Pony Goes to the Beach is a delightful rhyming story for young children.

How are you feeling today?

by Molly Potter Ages 9-11 yrs RRP $22.99 Hardback A delightul book that parents and children can use as a way of exploring everyday emotions and talking about different ways of coping with them.

Lov2Shop

BUBBA DUDGE

Lov2

Shop

P: 0400 486 620

Promote your product with LOV2SHOP. We share innovative inspiring products and services that cater to Northern Rivers Families. If you are an interested business who would like to showcase your brand in this section - call today!

These wooden teethers are natural and non-toxic. The rings are made from raw maple and have a bees wax coating with colourful designer fabric "ears", backed with 100% white Cotton Chenille, great for babies little hands to play with and hold onto while chewing. Wood is a natural anti-bacterial material and is ideal and safe for teething and for soothing tender gums.

E: bubbadudge@hotmail.com

Toy Kingdom Lismore & Byron Bay

SwimFin

www.swimfin.com.au

P: (02) 6621-3473 SwimFin is a unique, self-adjusting swimming aid for all ages and abilities, set to change the way Aussie kids learn to swim.

SwimFin is endorsed by four-time Olympic gold medal swimmer Libby Trickett in Australia and New Zealand. SwimFin is suitable for all ages, abilities and sizes and can be used on all four strokes!

Available in many colours $39.95

Indigo Jamm Retro Camper Van $69.99.

A retro camper van complete with wooden peg Mum, Dad, 2 children and a dog. This beautifully finished, timber camper van has a removable roof to allow easy access to the inside where the peg people can be put into their matching coloured seats. 1 yrs+.

Karla on 0405638768 www.karlamorrison.norwexbiz.

Cheeky Chops Shop

www.cheekychops.com.au

What could be more magical for a child than inviting fairies into the home ? Beautifully designed and available in a range of gorgeous colours, Lil Fairy Doors will open a world of imagination and magic to your home. Hand made and hand painted, each little fairy door comes beautifully packaged and contains a bottle of lil Fairy Dust and a Lil Fairy Pack, containing mounting supplies and a note to the fairies to get you started. Perfect for Boys and Girls !!

The NORWEX antibacterial microfiber Enviro cloth removes dust, dirt and grease from all washable surfaces using only water NO chemicals!

Our super absorbent Enviro cloth picks up dust particles and traps them in the cloth until you rinse it out. Then Baclock in the cloth - our micro silver antibacterial agentgoes to work to self purify and inhibit bacterial odours, mould and mildew growth within the cloth. NORWEX will save you time, money, your health and the environment.

Hand Made by Suzie J Suzie on 0449251820 www.envirotrend.com.au Envirotrend are excited to release their new Pack & Go Collection just in time for Summer. Featuring 5 stylish, practical and lightweight bags in two unique prints, the Pack & Go Collection takes you from a family day out to a trip away.

Whether you’re going on a family picnic, planning a camping trip with friends, travelling or just need space-saving bags, the Pack & Go Collection is a must-have! Now available in two eye- catching designs, Apple Blossom & Stripes.

The bootees are $5.00 a pair for standard bootees or can be personalized with a small name or initial embroidered on them for Hand Made by Suzie J is a home based business that originated from a love of sewing and handicrafts. We specialize in newborn and baby specific items. Suzie crochets cot blankets, wraps and beanies as well as sewing feeding pillows, nappy wallets and baby wraps.

NORTHERN RIVERS FAMILY magazine

25

Food Home Design Organise

Lifestyle

AUSTRALIANS LOVE PRAWNS With Christmas rapidly approaching, here are some ideas for the humble prawn. Try a prawn cocktail – simple, delicious and it looks fabulous. Alternatively serve cooked prawns on a platter with an easy seafood sauce. But as Australians, you can’t go pass BARBEQUED CHILLI GARLIC TIGER PRAWNS

Ingredients:

2kg Giant Tiger Prawns FOR THE PASTE: 3 Green chillies - coarsely chopped including pips 3 Red chillies - coarsely chopped including pips 6 chopped garlic cloves 1 cm chopped ginger +- 15ml coarse salt FOR THE MARINADE: 250g Salted butter 250ml Olive oil Juice of 1/2-1 lemon 250ml Knorr Italian salad dressing

Method:

Put all paste ingredients in a pestle & mortar and grind into a paste. Amount of salt used must be enough to help grinding into a paste. Take care of using too much salt.

Soften butter in microwave for +- 30 seconds (do not boil) add lemon juice to taste . Add rest of ingredients incl. paste and combine well. Taste and add salt if needed.

Clean prawns by cutting through the top of the shell from the tail right through the head with a small pair of scissors. Take a sharp knife and split the meat in half taking care not to cut right through the meat. Remove all intestines and wash under cold water. Flatten prawn and loosen meat from the shell but leaving the meat still attached at the head and tail. Dry prawns on kitchen paper and place in marinating dish Pour small quantities of marinade between meat and shell of prawn and the rest over the top. Marinade for 1-2 hrs in fridge Arrange prawns shell down on a folding grid. Braai over hot coals, turning twice until just cooked. Serve with fried rice & sauces of choice. ENJOY! Courtesy of www.bbcgoodfood.com/recipes/1035635/christmas-prawns

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Food

Couscous-Stuffed Apples With Honey Syrup

Courtesy of www.taste.com.au/recipes/17449/couscous+stuffed+apples+with+honey+syrup

Ingredients: 30g (1/4 cup) walnuts 70g (1/3 cup) couscous 80ml (1/3 cup) boiling water 1 1/2 tablespoons toasted slivered almonds 30g butter, melted 1 1/2 tablespoons brown sugar 1 1/2 tablespoons currants Large pinch of ground cinnamon 6 large apples Greek style yoghurt, to serve Honey syrup 330ml (1 1/3 cups) water 125ml (1/2 cup) honey 2 tablespoons caster sugar 1 teaspoon cardamom seeds 1 x 6cm cinnamon stick Method: Step 1 Place the walnuts in a small frying pan over mediumlow heat and cook, stirring, for 4 minutes or until toasted.

Step 2 Preheat oven to 180째C. Place the couscous in a heatproof bowl and pour over the water. Set aside for 5 minutes or until all the liquid is absorbed. Use a fork to separate the grains.

Step 3 Place the walnuts and almonds in the bowl of a food processor and process until finely chopped. Combine the couscous, butter, and sugar, currants, cinnamon and walnut mixture in a bowl.

Step 4 Line a baking tray with non-stick baking paper. Use a knife to remove the top of each apple and place on the lined tray. Use an apple corer to remove cores from apples. Use a teaspoon to scoop out the flesh to create a 4cm cavity, keeping the cavity narrow at the base.

Cut a horizontal slit around the centre of each apple, being careful not to cut all the way through (this will prevent the apple skin from splitting during cooking).

Place upright in a baking dish.

Step 5 Divide the couscous mixture among the apple cavities.

Bake for 20 minutes. Add the baking tray with the apple tops to the oven and bake with the whole apples for a further 20 minutes.

Step 6 Meanwhile, to make the honey syrup, place the water, honey, sugar, cardamom seeds and cinnamon stick in a small saucepan over medium heat and stir until the sugar dissolves. Increase heat to high and bring to the boil. Reduce heat to medium and cook for 15 minutes or until syrup thickens. Set aside to cool.

Step 7 Place 1 apple and a dollop of yoghurt on each serving plate. Replace the tops. Spoon over the honey syrup to serve.

Simple Table Settings FOR ANY OCCASION

Home

A

s we officially enter the season of festive gatherings, table setting for any occasion can sometimes feel overwhelming and complicated. First you decide on the menu, then your guest list and so begins the colour choices, theme or not to theme. This can all get pretty involved but it doesn’t have to be.

The key to setting the table is giving it a bit of forethought and planning. Just remember that the order of everything on the table is balanced and logical to create simplicity while dining. Follow these simple tips for any occasion.

1. Start with a clean, blank table and have everything you will need on hand.

2. All flatware should be evenly spaced, about a half inch apart. No matter the occasion, make sure the knife’s blade points toward the plate as it is impolite to allow blades to face other diners.

3. People typically reach for water more often than wine, so the water goblet goes above the knife tip, with wineglasses to the right.

4. When it comes to place settings, keep it simple and focus on the details. A simple wooden peg and cardboard is an inexpensive and effective option.

5. If space allows, place the napkin to the far left, so as not to disturb the flatware. Or for a less formal setting, place the napkin in the middle of the plate with flatware on top.

Napkins can also be a great canvas for you to show some creative flare.

6. Take the opportunity to display a bit of personality by mixing and matching textures, patterns, and colours. Small pops of colour can make a big impact.

7. For the food, remember to keep things primarily low and arrange at various heights so that guests can chat and reach everything with ease. Shallow bowls and basic platters are the most user-friendly choices.

8. Fill water glasses at the table before your guests arrive. This is a small luxury that is often forgotten. And be sure to have a filled pitcher nearby for refills.

At the end of the night all that matters is good food and good company. Enjoy!

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Home

5

Steps to Rid your home from clutter

"A pact, according to the Dictionary is “a formal agreement…such as one between nations.”

W

ell, I want you to have A-Pact with your clutter.

Although this turns into more of a battle (that you win)…it’s a great way to remember the steps to organization. Here’s what it means and how it work..

A–>ASK

Ask yourself what you want out of the room or area you’re going to organize. What are the goals of the room? What are you shooting for by getting organized? And the thing is, you want to dig a little deep into how you want to benefit. This

All of your 401K paperwork goes in another. All medical expenses from the present year in another.

will help you get motivated and work towards the final goal.

For instance, if you’re going to start the process of organizing paperwork in your home office, the question is “why do I want to organize this space?” The answer could be “I don’t ever want to have a late bill again” or “I want to find any document in less than two minutes.” Once you’ve answered the question, then move onto step 2…

A—>ANALYZE

Next you go through the piles and break them down even more, this time into two piles of 'treasure' or 'trash'. I like to assign each category with treasure or trash so there’s no in between. No room for “I’m going to decide on this later.”

No, stay strong and decide right there if it’s either staying or going. Remember, no in between.

P—>PILE

What you do in this step is pile “like” items together. In your closet, you make a pile of all your shirts. Another pile of all your pants… Or let’s say we’re in your home office (or wherever you do keep paperwork). Start with your file drawer, or grab a pile if that’s what you’ve got for a “filing system.” Put each piece of paper in “like” files.

For example, all the insurance paperwork will go together.

Now the thing is, the trash doesn’t necessarily mean it’s going to the garbage.That step comes next… and remember the saying, one man’s trash (or junk) is another man’s treasure.

C—>CASH-IN

This is where you go through

Menu Planning unlocking more time in your day I

t’s 5pm and the familiar chorus of “what’s for dinner?” begins. If you find yourself staring aimlessly at the pantry looking for ingredients to make a meal and then ordering takeout instead- you’re not alone. A national study has revealed that fast food has eclipsed vegetables as a dietary staple in Australian households.

As our lives become busier, we often look for the quickest option instead of the healthiest. With a little preplanning you can make sure your family eats nutritious and healthy food every night of the week.

What is required?

Menu planning is organising what you’ll cook before you go to the supermarket to buy the ingredients.

Plans can be made as far in

advance as you like. Creating a comprehensive plan that includes breakfast, snacks, lunch and dinner means you’ll receive the optimal benefits of meal planning.

Don’t forget to place your meal plan on the fridge or noticeboard so the whole family can see it.

On the menu: •Plenty of vegetables, legumes, fruits, cereals, bread, rice and pasta.

•Lean meat, fish, chicken.

•Milk, yoghurt and cheese.

The benefits 1. Stay healthy Taking the time to create a menu will help you become more aware of the portion size of each food group you are eating. By not relying on takeout or prepackaged food you will also be teaching

By Amanda Clark

Dietitian and creator of Portion Perfection and the 4 Week Weight Loss Menu Plan.

younger family members about healthy eating habits.

2. Save money Supermarkets have been designed to encourage impulse buying! By planning your menu and creating a shopping list you’ll only buy what you need, in the right quantity. This will stop you blowing your budget on unplanned items or extra trips to the convenience store.

3. Save time How much time do you waste staring in to your pantry and fridge wondering what to prepare for dinner? Menu planning will free up time for other areas in your life.

Simply look at your menu and you’ll have all the ingredients you need to make an amazing meal at your fingertips.

Reference: www.abs.gov.au/ausstats/abs@.nsf/

the “trash” and break it down once more, deciding what can be donated, what can be sold, and what’s going to the dumpster. Next step is where you get organized…

T—>TIDY UP!

This is where, once you’ve gotten all the “trash” out of the area, you organize the items you’ve decided to keep.

Tidy up, put it back in an ordered, organized fashion.

When you’re organizing, always keep like items together whether on a shelf, in drawers or in any other type of storage you’re using. Have items you use more frequently be more accessible and within reach, too.

Have A-PACT with your clutter these holidays and begin the new year with a smile!

Start your menu plan today with these 5 handy tips:

1. Schedule a time to write out

your menu plan. If you need inspiration choose one recipe book or magazine each week and mark the page number of the recipes you’ll be making on your menu plan.

2. Include a theme night- maybe Mexican Mondays or Thai Thursdays. This is a great way to keep the menu interesting and get the whole family involved.

3. Take into consideration whether you can eat leftovers from the night before for lunch.

4. Structure your shopping list into the aisles where those products are found. Most large supermarkets have an app that does this for you.

5. Be specific with quantities on your shopping list so you only buy what you need. This will reduce wastage, save you money and protect the environment.

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Yoga for relaxation P

eople practice yoga for a variety of reasons. Many yoga practitioners are interested in the health benefits that come from regularly performing the routines.

Others want a state of harmony between inner and outer self. Still others practice yoga primarily to relax.

A State of Harmony

The profound relaxation available through yoga includes a state of clarity of mind, and of harmony with and understanding of the world. If such a state of relaxation is your goal, you will need to use most of the yoga techniques available. Pay special attention to breathing, diet, correctly performing the exercises, and meditating.

The deep, prolonged breath one learns through yoga helps the brain stay oxygenated, which contributes to mental clarity. Diet influences the structure of our body as well as our brain. The exercises (called asanas and pranayamas) were developed thousands of years ago to produce beneficial results.

Wellness Health & Fitness Beauty

To have the desired effects, yoga routines must be carried out correctly.

Poor yoga practices will likely produce disappointing results.

T he Keys

Your attitude and your focus are the

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keys to making your yoga experience deeply satisfying. Entering the profound stage of relaxation and synchronization between your inner and your outer self can occur only with appropriate action.

Relaxation is actually a necessary part of every yoga routine. The body needs to relax after practicing the exercises, especially the more demanding ones.

Certain asanas require an unusual positioning of the body, which can result in discomfort if the relaxation stage is omitted.

Bridging Worlds

Yoga connects the spiritual and material worlds, and relaxation is the bridge that brings the practitioner back fully to the present reality.

As a general rule, during relaxation exercises, you will lie down comfortably and meditate. Your yoga trainer will suggest ways for you to gradually move and position your feet and arms. Yoga routines may have different relaxation exercises, but they all have the purpose of cushioning the shock of contact with the surrounding reality. Relaxation also helps to maintain a certain degree of peacefulness created by the routine.

But talk is never enough. The only way to be sure of the relaxation benefits of yoga is to try it yourself. The only thing you have to lose is your tension.

Wellmess

F

amilies are a smorgasbord of emotions and history that can test anyone’s palate. During the festive season emphasised family expectations can be difficult to digest. It's not uncommon for me to hear from couples, parents and young people about the additional strains this time of year brings.

The complex recipe brewing within biological families is challenging enough.

The addition of blended, separated or distressed families can deliver a bitter brew. Additional pressures on finances, social engagements, parenting and work can see the summer disintegrate into a tasteless mess of anxiety, conflict and disconnection.

Sound disastrous? I hope I haven't put you off celebrating with family (or a good feast).

With the right ingredients, the festive season can be a time of connection and fun. Check out these 'recipe' ideas for a taste of something new...

1.

Make a Plan Take some time now to create a festive season plan with your partner. Discuss how you want the season to look, and get into the nitty gritty of responsibilities and roles. This is a good time to talk about broader family complexities that could arise and how you’ll deal with them as a team. Check in with the kids (if they’re old enough) and be prepared to compromise.

2. Budget

It goes without saying that this time of year can be expensive.

Having a budget and sticking to it can really reduce conflict triggers.

3.

Choose Your Engagements Choose which social functions are best for you in terms of merriment and coping, and be prepared to put good boundaries around any obligatory family gatherings.

You can decide who to visit and for how long. This can be the difference between enjoyment or overwhelm.

For some, taking this action may be the first time they have felt empowered around family gathering choices and it's understandable that this could be sensitive. So support each other with care and understanding around difficult family decisions

g n i v i v r u S The festive

season

By Sean Tonnet

4.

The Triple Bottom End I'm not talking corporate lingo… This is about Physical, Emotional and Spiritual. The festive season can drain our reserves around these life indicators. When they’re depleted we’re less likely to cope well. So as much as possible, eat well, watch your alcohol consumption, exercise, be mindful, and, well, see the next point...

5 Prioritise Couple Time It's important not to neglect your coupledom during the festive season. During the planning phase put aside regular times to connect with your partner emotionally to get you through the season.

For families dealing with complex or sensitive issues, prioritising quality couples is often harder but more essential.

My hope is that you can combine some or all of these ideas to get the perfect seasonal flavour that works for you and your family. The recipe isn’t always enough though and if you find yourself struggling please seek help.

Useful contacts: Lifeline - 13 11 14 Men's referral service - 1300 766 491 www.mrs.org.au Parent line - 1300 1300 52 www.parentline.org.au Kids helpline - 1800 55 1800 www.kidshelp.com.au Domestic violence line - 1800 656 463 NORTHERN RIVERS FAMILY magazine

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ANTENATAL CLASSES Ballina Community Health Centre

Tel: 6686 8977

BUILDING BETTER DADS

Free 3 week course for expectant fathers Men & Family Centre, Lismore Phone: 6622 6116

HOME BIRTH GROUP

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

HYPNOBIRTHING AUSTRALIA CLASSES. Lismore, Ballina, Evans Head & surrounding areas.

Tel: Sarah 0423 748 651 NIMBIN BIRTH & BEYOND Fri 11-12.30

CASINO

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

CORAKI

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

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

Birth and Parenting Classes

Wednesday evenings for 7weeks costing $60 Ballina Community Health Tel: 6686 8977 Byron Community Health Tel: 6685 6254 Mullumbimby Community Health Tel: 6684 1677 PRENATAL YOGA Mondays 10.30am-1130am 3 Bentinck st Ballina $10 Tel: Sarah 0423 748 651

GIRL GUIDES/SCOUTS GIRL GUIDES

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

LENNOX HEAD

Community Centre, Mackneys Lane Wed 9.30-2.30 appointments only Tel: 6686 8977 Lismore Community Health Level 1, 29 Molesworth Street Mon-Fri 8.30-5

MURWILLUMBAH

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

WOODBURN

ALSTONVILLE

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

BALLINA

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

BANGALOW

6670 9400

BALLINA COMMUNITY HEALTH

CWA rooms Alt. Fri afternoons Call for appointment

Tel:6682 4899

BALLINA LITTLE PELICANS

JUMPING JOEYS’ PLAYGROUP

BANGALOW

KIDS CLUB Tel: Sue 6687 8664

BEANIES GOORIE

Tel: 6628 3901

BALLINA

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

BRUNSWICK HEADS

Community Centre 4th Thurs every month

Tel: 6685 6254

BYRON

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

Byron Community Health Centre, Shirley St Monday 9 – 3pm Call for an appointment Tel: 668856254

CORAKI

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

GOONELLABAH

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

Presbyterian Church, Ballina Wed 3.15-4.30

Tel: 6686 2083

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

KYOGLE PRESCHOOL PLAYGROUP

BENTLEY PLAY GROUP

LENNOX HEAD PLAYGROUP

10am - 12noon

Tel: Belinda Smith 6663 5204

Buddha Bar at the Piggery Wed 10-12.30 Tel: Suzanne 0402 590725

CABARITA BEACH PLAYGROUP

Pippies Early Childhood Centre Wed 9.30-11.30 Tel: Jacqui 6676 2694 CASINO Pratt Street (next to Scout Hall) Tues & Fri 10-12 Tel: Kate 6662 2113

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

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

Cudgen Primary School Tues at 9

DADS AND KIDS PLAYGROUP

Scout Hall, Wilson St, South Lismore Mon 10-12.30 Gold coin donation Tel: Glenn 6622 6116

MUM & ME TIME Presbyterian Church, Park Ave, E. Lismore Tues 10-12 Tel: 6621 3655 Mummulgum Public School Tues 9.30-11.30

EUREKA

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

MUMS’ SUPPORT GROUP

Baptist Church Hall, Ocean Shores Thurs 10-12

FAMILY CENTRE PLAYGROUPS

Banora Point - Mon & Thurs 9.30-11.30 Cabarita - Tues 9.30-11.30 Murwillumbah - Wed 9.30-11.30 Tel: 07 5524 8711

FAMILY SUPPORT NETWORK PLAYGROUPS

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 PLAYGROUP 20 Spring Ave Fri 10-12

Tel: 6664 7205

MUMS & BUBS Tel: Lisa 6629 0215

Eureka School Wed 9.30-11.30

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

Tel: 6679 5313

MUMMULGUM PLAYGROUP

Baptist Church, Raja Road, Ocean Shores Mon 10-12 Baptist Chruch, Rotary Dr. Tues 10-12

Tel: 6628 5387

MT WARNING COMMUNITY PRE-SCHOOL PLAYGROUP

EAST LISMORE PLAYGROUP

ALSTONVILLE

3rd Tues of month 1.30-4

Senior Citizen’s Venue, Lismore Fri 10-12 McCarthy Hall, St Joseph’s School, Alstonville Tues 9.20- 11 More info: sjpalst@lism.catholic.edu.au

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

DADS AND KIDS PLAYGROUP

IMMUNISATION CLINICS

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

JELLYBEANS

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

Tel: 6672 3324

JARJUM PLAYGROUP

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

CUDGEN KIDS PLAYGROUP

Parent Resource Centre, Rajah Road Tues (Appointments 9am-3pm) Call for appointment Tel:6684 1677

Community Health Centre, Granuaille Road Thursday 1 - 3pm Cal for an appointment Tel:66870000

Community Health Centre, Oliver Ave

Tel: 6620 7687

Community Health Centre, Azalea St Friday 9.30 – 3pm Call for appointment Tel: 6684 1677

SCOUTS

Child & Family Health Clinics

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

BYRON MUMS AND BUBS

MULLUMBIMBY

OCEAN SHORES

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

Murwillumbah Tues 9.30-11.30

LENNOX HEAD

LISMORE

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

GOONELLABAH

6683 2019

Tel: 6624 1422

HONEYBEES PLAYGROUP

PARENTS'GROUPS/PLAYGROUPS

EVANS HEAD Tel: Taneal 6688 2331

Tel: 6625 0111

Tel: 6625 0111

PLAYPLACE ALSTONVILLE

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

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Family Contacts

ABORIGINAL MATERNAL & INFANT HEALTH

Mon-Fri 8.30-5

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

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