PakMag Townsville - December 2013 by Grand Publishing

pakmag DEC 2013

To w n s v i l l e

EzEine FMRaga

ISSUE 37

magazine of choice for local families

Precious Gift

Family Harmony

Kids

MINI MAG Inside

at Christmas

Christmas

TIME Decorating, Craft & Cooking Ideas

Event

Guide

Guide to Christmas Events & Activities

Trucks& Tutus

Cover photo courtesy of Little Details Photography

Gender Stereotypes

win a Sony Xperia Z1 Phone thanks to Telstra

Details page 44

49 08

welcome

Contents

note

Hello everyone and welcome to our 2013 Christmas edition. We are getting into the spirit this month with lots of ideas for Christmas. Plus, for a bit of fun with the kids, we’re also running our ‘12 Deers of December Promotion’ where you can win a new mobile phone from Telstra and other prizes. Last month we celebrated three fantastic years of PakMag with a party at SK8WAY Townsville. Thank you to everyone who came along and a special big thanks to Mick and all his crew as well as Amusements Plus for providing the face painting. I hope to see you at our next event on 21 December at the Northern Beaches Leisure Centre where I will be showing off my awesome singing voice with a few carols! Santa may even make an appearance and there will be lots of entertainment. Have a very Merry Christmas and remember to tell everyone you read it in PakMag! See you in 2014.

Nat x pakmag Publisher: Bree James Editor: Elaine Seager Publication & Sales Manager: Natalie Griffiths NQ Sales & Biz Development: Angelina Mortley Design & Layout: Trina Jensen Articles: Elaine Seager, Jutta Dempsey, Amanda Cranston and submitted writers Phone: 4053 3331 Fax: 4053 3350 Sales Phone: 0407 831 962 Email: info@pakmag.com.au Postal: PO Box 761, Hyde Park QLD 4812

Disclaimer: No part of this magazine, including the advertisements within it may be reproduced, in part or in whole without the expressed permission of the editor. Whilst the greatest of care is taken to ensure that the information in the magazine is correct at the time of going to press, readers are advised to check details before visiting. The publishers cannot accept responsibility for errors, inaccuracies or omissions. The expressions expressed within PakMag are not necessarily the views of the publishers, but those of individual writers.

DEC

parents 02 What’s New 04 Show & Tell 08 The Most Precious Gift 11

Hearing Matters

Catholic Education

Performance Jitters

Trucks & Tutus

PakHealth

20 Nutrition

kids 27

Kid’s MiniMag

babies 35 Baby News: Hidden Dangers

things to win

23 PakFood

06 WIN the latest Kids DVD’s

25 What’s On

06 WIN Kid’s Old Fashioned Games

27 Mini Mag

28 WIN Movie Tickets

35 PakBaby

29 Two mystery prizes to WIN

39 Beauty

36 WIN a $50 Voucher

40 HOME: Outdoors

37 WIN a Pregnancy Book

45 How to make a Christmas Stocking

50 WIN a mystery prize

Driving Holidays

49 TRAVEL: Bali Holiday 50 Fav Pets / Prize Winners

cover

52 Biz Directory 53 Budding Artists 54 Out & About 56 Mummy Laughs with HotFM

ModelS: Donna, Danika and Tate Turner Photography: Thanks to Little Details Photography

Find us exclusively in your local: www.pakmag.com.au

December what’s new

inBRIEF Family Events

Christmas PakClub Stable on the Strand

21 December (4pm-6pm) Northern Beaches Leisure Centre

Come along and get into the Christmas Spirit with some carol singing and a visit from Santa. Make sure you come dressed in your best Christmas gear and you could win prizes. There will also be a movie on the big screen and free pool entry. Proudly brought to you by The Good Guys, Queensland Country Credit Union, 4TO,

Townsville Turf Club (7 & 29 December)

Stockland Residential and PakMag.

This month the Townsville Turf Club are hosting two specifically family focused events: Jupiters Jolly Christmas Race Day (7 December) - This will be a fun Christmas themed day with live horse racing, free rides, bouncing castle, face painting and a visit from

Great Value Package

18-22 December (5.30-9.30pm)

Santa who will be walking around meeting and greeting children and giving out free gift bags. Cost: Adults $10, kids FREE. Family Picnic in the Park (29 December) - A family friendly $2 day – $2 entry, $2

Stable on the Strand is Townsville’s Christmas Festival and is one of Australia’s largest and most spectacular Christmas

sausage sizzle $2 soft drink and lots of other $2 items being planned. In addition to live horse

are expected to attend can expect:

• 17 December (10.30am) - Palm Frond Weaving

picnic along and make a day of it.

• 19 December (10.30am) – Make a Table Runner

NEW Toddler Class

• The brilliant talents of children’s entertainer Colin Gymnastics Townsville is running a new Toddler Gym Parent & Child class on

(Thursday 19 December).

Fridays 10.30am-12.30pm. The format of the class is free play where the children learn

• Free rides on the “Ripper Dipper Giant Slide”

Re-Cre8tiv (0414 647 709) • Four different Christmas workshops a day from 17-19 December (90 minutes each). Contact Sandra for more information.

Buchanan who will be appearing for one night only

• Free Christmas colouring-in book for every child

The Cultural Centre (4772 7679):

racing there will be free rides for the kids, a bouncing castle and face painting. Take your own

events. The theme for this year is ‘Colour Your Christmas’ and the 45,000 people who

Holiday Activities

Conservation Volunteers (0428 533 078)

coordination and fine motor skills. It is a casual class where you can stay for 30 minutes or

• Tuesdays and Wednesdays up to 20 December -

the full two hours. Cost: $10 per child (1 – 3 year olds) and $5 per child for children under

go along and catch bugs and fish and test the

12 months. To enrol or for more information email info@gymtsv.com.au

water in local creeks.

and the opportunity to play laser skirmish on Strand Park beach • The Town of Bethlehem to come alive with the story of the birth of Jesus using live actors who play

Special OFFER

the parts. You will see the wise men with their camels, the shepherds and their sheep, the Roman Soldiers, King Herod, tradespeople (baker, fishmonger and a carpenter), an Eastern bazaar market, and of course Mary, Joseph & baby Jesus. • Lots of baby animals to pat (camels, chickens, goats, sheep, donkey) for the children to pat and for you to

Family visiting over the holidays? Holiday Inn Townsville is offering a Christmas school

take photos, for wonderful memories. Entry is free!

holidays package that includes up to 20% off the best flexible rate, complimentary

Stable on the Strand is sponsored by The Combined

breakfast, $25 hotel credit, plus Kids Stay and Eat for free with a full paying adult! See

Churches of Townsville and the Townsville City Council.

page 47 for more info. For bookings call 4729 2011 or visit www.holidayinn.com/townsville

Entry is free. For info: www.stableonthestrand.com

www.pakmag.com.au

Show &Tell

Product NEW

Vanilla Mozi

The latest news, products and tips in the world of families and kids Get to Know

If you’re looking for an alternative to the toxic mozzie sprays on the market, check out natural insect repellent Vanilla Mozi.

Made from natural plant oils, beeswax, shea butter and essential oils, it was developed by an Australian mum. The Vanilla Mozi range includes skin cream and candles. To find out more visit their website: www.vanillamozi.com

As the owner of Little Details Photography Angela van Dinter is known for her beautiful family portraits and for shooting many of PakMag’s front covers. She is also mum to Lachlan (13) & Zoe (11). [1] How did you get into photography?

I remember telling mum that I wanted to

I fell in love with scrapbooking when the

own a shoe shop so I could buy as many

kids were born and soon realised that I

shoes as I wanted.

needed great photography so I started playing with cameras and lighting. I opened Little Details Photography in 2008. [2] What inspires you/what do you love about your business? Inspiration is everywhere, I am always looking for new locations and Zoe is usually happy to be my model if I want to try out new concepts.

[4] What sort of child were you? I’m one of four kids and the only girl so I did what most other girls with brothers do...ride BMX all weekend or go fishing! [5] What are you hoping Santa will bring you this year? Santa, can the elves please make a veggie patch for me???

I love the creativity and flexibility of my business but I really enjoy a challenge and children are always challenging to photograph. [3] What did you want to be when you

www.pakmag.com.au

grew up? Oooh, that’s a tough one.

NEW Books

For more info about Little Details Photography’s family portraits call Angela on 0418 865 028 or go to

Terry Denton’s Bumper Book of Holiday Stuff To Do and Bumper Book of Silly Stuff To Do Perfect books for the holidays – full of activities, maps, lists and silly games to entertain kids for hours on end. Penguin Books, RRP $16.95 each.

www.littledetailsphotography.com.au www.pakmag.com.au

Show &Tell

New DVD's

Got something to share or shout about? Email us at elaine@pakmag.com.au

Gift Idea

On Trend

Littlest Pet Shop This brand new animated series features a girl called Blythe as she embarks on an unexpected adventure. After moving to a new city she discovers that she can talk to the animals in the Pet Shop underneath her new apartment. Littlest Pet Shop: Blythe’s Big Adventure and Littlest Pet Shop: Sweetest Pets is available on DVD and iTunes. RRP $19.95

Transformers Rescue Bots Created for pre-school boys, Transformers Rescue Bots

Gift Idea

follows the adventures of four young Transformers and their human counterparts and teaches kids about the importance of teamwork and friendship. Transformers Rescue Bots: Hot Shots and Transformers Rescue Bots: Cody on Patrol are available on DVD and iTunes. RRP $19.95

Old-fashioned toys that you might remember as a kid are making a comeback and luring kids away from screen games. Elastics, a favourite playground game with girls is back (www.daju.com.au ) and

WIN

Pocket Cricket a dice game developed by a local Cairns

For you chance to win copies of these DVD’s simply go to our website (www.pakmag.com.au) and tell us the name of Santa’s reindeers?

business is also proving popular (www.pocketcricket. com.au). Wondering about Rubik’s Cube and Slinky’s?

NEW Pet Planner App

You can get those at Australian Geographic.

WIN

For your chance to WIN Elastics or

Keep forgetting to give your pet their medications? Just in time for Christmas,

Pocket Cricket games for your kids

The Pet Health Planner is the complete pocket health care advisor for your Pet! Designed

simply go to www.pakmag.com.au

by Veterinarians and tailored to your pets’ individual needs, The Pet Health Planner leads

and tell us the name of the reindeer

you through all your pets’ health care requirements in an easy step-by-step fashion and then

who guides Santa’s sleigh?

sends reminders to your phone when they are due. It costs $1.99 from iTunes store.

Want Fun For $1? Heaps of arcade Games priced at $1 per Game • FREE Jumping Castles • Laser Tag (from $8) • Kids Parties available • BYO healthy food • Café with coffee, cake & hot snack foods • Fun for all ages For more inFo call 4728 3913 or visit www.i4Fun.com.au

www.pakmag.com.au

i4fUN www.pakmag.com.au

By Louise By Jutta Costanzo Dempsey

The Most Can you remember the presents that you received as a child for Christmas? What most of us remember are the traditions, the feasts eaten together and the games played with family and friends. The greatest gift that we can give children is positive and loving relationships, writes psychologist Jutta Dempsey.

Tips for those co-parenting following a separation:

says, “I care” can be the starting point if you

• Try to be flexible about arrangements and

• Siblings can often become disconnected

keep your child’s happiness as the central

through judgemental communication. It is

consideration of any change. They will notice

important to remember that common history,

this and remember when they are older.

values and genetics form a bond that is unique.

conflict and poor communication cause stress in

• Your ex-partner’s parenting style may be

• Reach understandings rather than agree with

family relationships.

different to yours. Children can adapt to these

everything – people perceive events in different

differences, so if you can’t agree with, adapt to

ways and family can just support rather

the difference.

than judge.

we include de facto relationships), Christmas

• Be prepared for some negative feelings and

• Avoid gossip because it will always be

festivities and traditions often become strained.

put on a positive face for the children. You are

misconstrued and it puts a barrier up for

Sometimes Christmas is the only time the

teaching them good thought processes in a

meaningful communication.

family get together and being with people

difficult situation – a ‘glass half full rather than

you don't see often, especially when there are

half empty’ is a great attitude for resilience.

hildren are often the focus of Christmas festivities - we watch as their excitement builds in anticipation

of Santa arriving and we share their joy as they open new and special gifts. But just as they may be important in many get-togethers, they are usually hapless observers when underlying

With between 43% and 50% of all marriages ending in divorce in Australia (more when

undercurrents of disharmony, can be stressful. Children want and need positive, loving relationships with parents and extended family. The quality of those relationships is ten times more powerful in explaining levels of wellbeing than the nature of the family structure. If the family is separated by distance or circumstance, children’s wellbeing is not affected. However, if the family is in conflict, it affects their social and emotional growth. In a survey in the UK,

straight”. Good communication comes from

• Make new traditions if your old ones have been

understanding where the other person is and

disrupted due to visitation arrangements.

how they can move forward. Insights need to

• If you had an aggressive relationship with your

be communicated well.

ex-partner, prepare well in advance and keep

• Develop the skills to make your family stronger

contact to a minimal. Now is the time to change

by reading or doing a course.

communication patterns and let the conflict go. You are connected through your child, so it is better to have a positive relationship for the next 20 or so years than to ‘win’.

Stepping back from the need to “be right”, “have the last word” and “winning“ is the greatest gift of all to give your children this Christmas. A harmonious gathering of family around a

• There is some excellent help available for co

Christmas feast, with many old tales, games and

well together had a wellbeing score of 8 out of

parenting so if you’re not able to sit together

companionship will be remembered forever and

10 compared with 5 out of 10 for those who did

and discuss what is in the best interests of your

form part of who they are.

not agree.

child, it’s time to get some assistance.

Children are very sensitive to poor

Tips for those with family disharmony:

make a change and give the gift of positive communication and relationships. www.pakmag.com.au

• Listen rather than feeling the need to “tell it

children who agreed that their family got along

communication in the family so this Christmas

have lost contact.

• Involve extended family as much as you can – a simple Christmas card or special little gift that

Jutta Dempsey has worked with families and children for over 30 years and is the principal psychologist at Directions Learning

www.pakmag.com.au

Hearing Matters Eva Hewitson is thirteen years old. She loves gymnastics, animals, arts and crafts, cooking and dressing up, but most of most of all, she loves activities that don’t rely on her hearing. Eva is profoundly deaf in her left ear, but she

hearing aids. Now she is happy to wear them for

conversation.” Sport can also be quite challenging

has some hearing in her right ear. Although

school but she still needs to be coached to wear

since some sporting codes require the removal of

early intervention is encouraged, Eva’s diagnosis

them outside of that environment. The hearing

hearing aids, and hearing aids may also not pick

was not discovered until her fifth birthday. Her

aids amplify every little sound so when there

up long distance sounds across a sporting field.

mum Jodi says, “The only reason we found out

is a lot of background noise or multiple people

was because her preschool teacher suggested

speaking, it makes it difficult to hear. And it’s a

we send her for a hearing test.” Previous to this

tinny sound, not very natural, so it’s not pleasant

the Hewitson’s knew something wasn’t quite

to listen to.”

right and Eva had been undergoing numerous

lived on the Gold Coast. “There is certainly more on offer up here for hearing impaired children. We’ve met a lot of wonderful deaf people in

encourage communication and connection in

Townsville and the support from the community

their home. “Every night, we always eat dinner

has been greatly appreciated. Eva has also

at our dining room table with designated spots

flourished since she started at Annandale State

“We were going to the hospital every month

to sit at, so Eva is in the best position to hear the

School; their support is incredible. She has

and nobody ever suggested a hearing test. I

conversation, and we always talk about how our

an interpreter five days a week and increased

was shattered. I thought of all the times I’d been

day was. The TV is off, everything is off, so there

assistance in the classroom.

cranky with her for not listening to me, when she

is no sound interruption, so that Eva can clearly

didn’t answer me or when her back was turned. I

hear us.

at the local hospital, but they were shocked when they got the diagnosis.

felt terrible.”

www.pakmag.com.au

purposes sixteen months ago, having previously

The Hewitson family have adopted strategies to

therapies through a health community program

The Hewitson’s relocated to Townsville for work

“I hope one day that all children are taught sign language. We always require a middle person

“I think Eva’s greatest challenge is friendship.

for Eva to have a conversation so it would be

Eva was fitted with hearing aids at five and a half

Girls her age now talk more and play less and it’s

wonderful for the deaf community if we could

years of age. “Initially she didn’t want to wear the

a lot more challenging for her to keep up with

remove that barrier.” www.pakmag.com.au

By Catholic Education

Enrol now for Kindy Enrolments for Kindy at Catholic school sites are now welcomed. Catholic kindergarten programs area available at

with parents/carers encouraged to apply early

More than 13,000 students attend Catholic schools

St Clare’s Catholic School (Burdell), St Anthony’s

to avoid disappointment. Enrolment application

in the Townsville Diocese. Our social media sites

Catholic College (Deeragun), Ryan Catholic

forms are available on the Townsville Catholic

are a great way to share news and keep updated

College (Kirwan) and St Joseph’s School, The

Education website www.tsv.catholic.edu.au/

with important information during your journey

Strand (North Ward) and St Joseph’s Catholic

kindergarten or by contacting the office on

with Catholic Education.

Primary School (Mount Isa). Kindergarten is also

kindergarten@tsv.catholic.edu.au

offered at the St Mary MacKillop Early Learning Centres which are supported by Townsville Catholic Education, in Mundingburra, Kirwan, Rasmussen, Ingham, Palm Island and Mount Isa. Enrolments for Kindergarten in 2014 are invited,

www.pakmag.com.au

Once your child begins their learning journey with Catholic education, whether it is at one of our

We welcome you to our growing Catholic

early learning centres, kindergartens or schools, it

Education community. For more information

is a great idea to connect with us on social media

visit www.tsv.catholic.edu.au

to keep up to date with news and events.

www.pakmag.com.au

By Robert Gronbeck

Performance Jitters As the end of the school year nears Robert Gronbeck looks at ways in which parents can help their children overcome anxiety over end of year performance situations It is perfectly normal for children to experience fearfulness and anxiety about performance situations such as sports games, dance performances or school tests. Whilst it can be uncomfortable watching our children deal with nerves, these are great opportunities for them to learn important coping skills that will help them in life. As a parent though you may feel unsure about the best way to support them. In the early nineties a field experiment was conducted whereby two groups of baseball coaches attempted to reduce competition anxiety in their youth sports people. One group had been trained in Coaching Effectiveness Training, which uses the Mastery Approach to Coaching, while the other group used their own individual approaches. In the end both groups has the same win-loss record but the teams being coached by the MAC trained coaches showed much lower levels of anxiety and reported having more fun. This research highlighted four ways in which parents and coaches can reduce the level of preperformance nerves in children:

[1] Be empathetic It has been proven that social support reduces anxiety. Being empathetic, willing to listen and

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prepared to give your children the time for some kind attention can really help allay their fears. The key is to take their concerns seriously and to simply listen rather than trying to ‘fix’ it for them or give them advice.

[2] Encourage personal effort The human mind can only pay attention to so many things at once so it can really help if you can occupy or divert your child’s minds away from thoughts that make them feel anxious. One especially useful strategy is to get them to focus their attention on areas where they have some personal control, for example, on the personal effort they put in rather than on winning. The more you do this the less mental space there will be for fearful thoughts that cause them to feel anxious.

[3] Highlight personal progress When children give greater attention and effort to their own progress and skill development rather than on winning they will soon come to rival their competitors because hard work does always pay off. Being focused on selfimprovement rather than the ‘result’ also reduces their fear of failure and improves their confidence.

[4] Emphasise fun When children are simply trying new things, discovering what their bodies can do, imagining new moves or plays and trying them out with friends, a sense of timelessness occurs. This is commonly referred to by sportspeople as being in the zone. When this happens, athletes report feeling the love of the game, being focused on the present moment only, having almost no thoughts, and being able to perform effortlessly. When your child is focused on enjoying the moment, stress melts away. Even children who are seemingly self-confident and enjoy the limelight can experience preperformance anxiety and jitters so for those who are more naturally timid in temperament it can cause nervous tears and stage fright. Ultimately the best thing you can do for your children is to redefine what it means to win – it’s not about who has the trophy at the end but how much individual effort was put in. Robert Gronbeck is a Sports Psychology Consultant at Masterful Performances.

www.pakmag.com.au

Kids Issues Story thanks to Shannon du Plessis

Trucks& Where all students can be

STARS

While we all aim to let kids be kids, it’s important not to influence them with gender stereotypes Before I had children I hoped I would one day

choose how we act and behave. We can behave

be shunned by her friends. Finding a balance is

have a daughter. Having come from a family of

like the stereotypes and act out gender roles in

certainly not easy.

mostly boys, I worried I would end up with a

relationships, or we can challenge our children

• FATD Classical Ballet

football team, and no opportunity to indulge in

to view their parents as equals. For example, if

• Hip Hop • Flexibility

playing with dolls, and becoming a “ballet mum”.

Dad does some of the cooking and Mum mows

• Wiggles & Giggles

However, why should I have worried about these

Classes available in • FATD Jazz & Tap

Students prepared for • FATD Examinations • Eisteddfods

ENROl NOw!

Now taking enrolments for 2014 (Children 2½ years & upwards) For all enquirieS & enrolmentS contact Katrina or laura

things, when playing with dolls and dancing is

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www.reflexionsdancestudio.com.au

the lawn, then his son will see that it is a perfectly normal thing for both parents to do.

The problem children face is that gender expectations are firmly rooted in our culture. With this in mind, the best way to parent boys and girls is to counteract the negative messages that society sends them. Girls need to learn that there

perfectly fine for boys as well as girls? Now I’ve got

So if your daughter wants to ride a motorbike, or

is more to life than meeting a prince, that dump

two daughters who love pink, dolls, dancing and

your son wants to wear a tutu, it’s okay, and it’s

trucks are cool, that maths and science can lead to

all things girlie, and I’m clearly guilty of gender

not going to cause them long term damage. In

great careers, that while it’s okay to be pretty and

stereotyping. It worries me that I’m not passing on

fact, it may well be healthy as boys who play with

nurturing, you can also be strong and smart, and

a message of equality between the sexes.

dolls will learn to be more nurturing and verbally

that no one is allowed to hit them ever.

Children learn gender stereotypes from adults, the media, religion, toys, clothes, books and their

expressive, while girls who kick a soccer ball around will learn spatial skills and confidence.

Boys need to learn that it is okay to cry and express your emotions, that it’s okay to like

peers. Right from the start, parents are painting

Although we want our children to feel free

flowers, pretty colours and cute furry animals,

the nursery in blue or pink, and from then on

to express who they are and follow whatever

that they can play with dolls, that they can be

the gender differences carry on throughout their

interests them, we also have a duty to protect

stay-at-home fathers, that women are people

childhood.

them from potential backlash. A boy wearing a

not objects, that while it’s okay to be strong, you

pink hat to school may be teased by his peers;

can also be nurturing, and that violence is not

while a girl who cuts her hair really short may

acceptable ever.

ADDRESS: 2/743 Riverway Dr, Thuringowa Central • EMAIL: reflexionsdancestudio@bigpond.com

& 0413 197 370

Tutus

Finding gender-neutral clothes and toys is not always easy, but what we can do as parents is

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Health pak

Get the vet to your pet Mobile veterinarian servicing the Townsville area

AvAilAble by Appointment 7 dAys

• Vaccinations • Microchipping • Health checks • Flea, tick, worm control • Arthritis management • Minor illness or injury • Pet euthanasia • Plus more

Mozzie Repellents

news

discounts for: MulTiPle PeTs, Pension cArd Holders, Jcu sTudenTs

For info call 0408 423 068 or visit www.townsvillemobilevet.com

Are You Ok this Christmas? The hype of the silly season can put an additional strain on those struggling with mental illness so this is a good time to check in on those you know may be struggling.

It was recently announced that researchers believe they have discovered four natural mosquito repellents that could take over from DEET as the primary insect repellent.

Heightened loneliness, social isolation, financial stress, and other stressors associated with Christmas often result in a higher use of crisis and support services such as Lifeline. Support services report that suicide and self-harm rates are also typically high over the Christmas period. Signs of mental illness to look out for include: • Complaints of continued poor sleep • Observations that a person is easily overwhelmed • Use of drugs or alcohol

DEET was first used in World War II but

brings back the virus to our resident

it has serious limitations – it needs to be

dengue mosquito population from

applied frequently to be effective, it’s

overseas. Dengue mozzies live around

expensive (and therefore of no use in third

homes/buildings and bite during the day.

• Startling easily and declining invitations for social engagements

The symptoms of mosquito-borne viruses

• Increased or unreasonable irritability

world malarial countries) and it is so toxic that it dissolves plastics, synthetic fabrics and painted surfaces. Mosquitoes are also starting to show some resistance to it. There are several mosquito-borne viruses but most common in Australia and FNQ are: • Ross River Virus - spread by a variety of mosquito species throughout the year but mostly February-May. The recovery time can be prolonged in some people but those infected develop lifelong immunity. • Barmah Forest Virus - similar to Ross River Virus but the illness is usually

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• Problems performing at work

and joints, headaches and fever or chilly sensations. The best way to avoid them is to avoid being bitten in the first place by:

HPV Update

• Covering up (especially in peak hours) • Using mozzie nets • Using insect repellent

Australia’s HPV vaccination programme is already causing the rates of genital warts to decrease according to new data and is expected

• Using deterrents such as coils

to also slash rates of cervical and other genital

• Emptying pools of water to remove

and throat cancers. It was recently expanded to

potential breeding sites

include school-age boys – the first and only country

If, in the event of a dengue outbreak, you

in the world to do so.

are unwell see your GP immediately. The

The ongoing programme offers free vaccination to

only way to confirm whether your illness is

girls aged 12-13 years in schools. The vaccine has

• Dengue - Most years there are localised

caused by a mosquito-borne virus is via a

now been offered to boys aged 12-13 years, with a

Dengue outbreaks in NQ when someone

blood test.

catch-up program that includes boys aged 14-15.

shorter lived.

are flu-like and include pain in the muscles

• A pattern of withdrawing from family and friends

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Nutrition pak

Product news

Broccoli Feeding for Fertility

by Rebecca McKenna

Whatever age you are, if you’re planning to conceive nutrition is an important factor to consider. There is no magic pill, food or nutrient that will ensure conception, but ensuring your body is in good physical health is a vital factor. Be a healthy weight If you are too thin or carrying a bit too much weight, your chances of falling pregnant and then carrying to full term may be reduced. Ideally you should aim for your body fat percentage to be between 20% and 40% to maintain regular menstruation and an increased chance of conception. If you are carrying a little extra weight, even losing a small amount will improve your chances. Start with 10% and work to maintain this while trying to fall pregnant. Fertility Nutrients When it comes to fertility, each and every vitamin and mineral is as important as each other, for both women and men. Being deficient in any nutrient can decrease your

fertility but the following nutrients have specific roles: • Female fertility depends on having good quality eggs so women need a diet that is adequate in vitamin B6, vitamin B12, folate, iron, calcium, zinc, iodine, magnesium, arginine, chromium, vitamin E, monounsaturated fats and omega 3 fats. • For men, healthy sperm production, development and protection depends on a diet that is sufficient in protein, zinc, vitamin C, vitamin E, selenium, CoQ10 and monounsaturated and omega 3 fats. And, did you know that men who regularly eat processed meat have a lower sperm count than men who eat fish regularly. So get off the bacon and into the salmon!

Poor old broccoli is a super healthy food, but unfortunately it doesn’t have a very glamorous image. There are lots of “hip” green vegies out there that we love to knock back by the bucket load in smoothies, but we often forget that some simple steamed broccoli can be just as good. Broccoli is chock-a-block full of vitamin C and other nutrients, which can help repair DNA in cells, and in some cases, reduce the risk of cancer. It is available all year round and is a great ingredient in stir-fries, soups, frittatas and of course simply steamed with a side of lean protein.

Rebecca McKenna is an Accredited Practising Dietitian at Health Management. You can connect with Health Management and ask Rebecca questions on Facebook.

e supplement, fall pregnant and am taking a folat READER QUESTION: I am trying to high in folate? but was wondering what foods are uate intake of stages of pregnancy as having an adeq Folate is very important in the early e can be consumed cts. On top of supplementation, folat folate can prevent neural tube defe coli, Brussels ‘organic’ bread), asparagus, bran, broc in the diet through bread (except for folate. There of ces These are all excellent food sour sprouts, legumes, lentils and spinach. cereals. ces such as fruit juices and breakfast are also many folate fortified food sour

www.pakmag.com.au

Q&A

nutritionadvice

Food

review

www.pakmag.com.au

pakfood

with TROY WILLIAMS

THE GOOD GUYS

pakmag TEAM Favourite Mini Christmas pUddings By Angelina Mortley (Sales/Biz Development Manager) Ingredients: • 100g Milk Chocolate 'Melts' • 50g White Chocolate 'Melts' • 350g Fruit Cake (crumbled) • 2 Tablespoons of Orange Juice

pakmag

TEAM recipe

• Petit Four Cases • Lollies to decorate (Spearmint Leaves and Jaffas)

[1] Mix crumbled fruit cake and the orange juice together.

Ange's Fave “We published this recipe from one of our readers several years ago and I've been making it ever since. They're easy to make and delicious!”

[2] Melt milk chocolate ‘Melts’ as per pack instructions and then mix in with the cake and juice mixture. [3] Place in the fridge until cool. [4] Take a tablespoon of chilled mixture, roll into ball and place in petit four case. Repeat until all mixture is used. [5] Melt white chocolate ‘Melts’ and spoon a little on top of each pudding to resemble brandy sauce. [6] Chill for 30 minutes and decorate - you may need to chop the lollies into smaller pieces to fit on top of puddings. [7] For extra decadence, melt extra milk chocolate ‘Melts’, dip balls into chocolate, chill to set and then decorate.

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green = kids

DEC

blue = adults

Check out the latest family entertainment & events guide

guide

pink = family

yourGUIDE

December 2013 entertainment & events DATE

SkatiNg RiNk

NOW OPEN

• Mini Golf & Jumping Castle fun

Book now for Xmas

• Children, Teen & Adult Party Packages • Special Group Booking Packages available • Kiosk offering hot food, cold drinks & snacks • Fully licensed & catering available

Kings Road, West End (opp Showgrounds) PHONE: 4771 3999 OPEN: 7 DAYS

www.pakmag.com.au

VENUE

ENTERTAINMENT/EVENT NAME

TIME

FOR MORE INFO

COST

1/12/13

Events Cinemas

Grease - Sing a Long

1/12/13

RSPCA Shelter

Santa Paws - Take Your Pets Photo with Santa

9.00am

1/12/13

Warrina Ice Skating Rink

Colour Ice Australia - Slice Ice Show

7.30pm

www.townsvilletickets.com.au

Cost

1/12/13

Perc Tucker Regional Gallery

Story Book Creations

10.30am

4727 9011

Free

Cost alertz@rspcaqld.org.au

Cost

3/12/13

Townsville RSL Stadium

Street Soccer

2.00pm

0415 305 705

Cost

3/12/13

Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre

Playgroup

9.30am

4783 4243

3/12/13

The Venue Townsville

Belinda Carlisle - Heaven on Earth Tour

7.00pm

4724 2800

$63

3/12/13

22 Ridley Rd Kirwan

Smile Time Playgroup for Children with Autism

9.30am

4721 2304

Cost

3/12/13

Watermark Townsville

Business, Beers & Bubbles

5.30pm

www.townsvilletickets.com.au

Cost

3/12/13

Pinnacles Gallery

Art-Box for the Under 5's

10.00am

4773 8871

Free

4/12/13

Early Years Information Service

Messy Play - Playgroup (bookings required)

9.00am

4727 8371

Free

5/12/13

2 Flinders St West

Re-Cre8tiv Kids Art Class

3.30pm

0414 647 709

$20

5/12/13

Events Cinemas

Cloudy with a Chance of Meatballs 2

5/12/13

Townsville Civic Theatre

Snow White (Ann Roberts School of Dance )

6.30pm

4727 9797

Cost

6/12/13

Old Courthouse Theatre

Open Mic Night

5.00pm

4724 5235

Free

6/12/13

Jupiters Townsville Hotel & Casino

Giant Christmas Party

7.00pm

www.townsvilletickets.com.au

$110

6/12/13

Townsville Civic Theatre

Snow White (Ann Roberts School of Dance )

6.30pm

4727 9797

Cost

6/12/13

TECC

Townsville Crocodiles vs. Adelaide 36ers

7.30pm

www.crocodiles.com.au

Cost

6/12/13

Gymnastics Townsville

Toddler & Parent Gym Class

10.30am

info@gymtsv..com.au

Cost

7/12/13

Reid Park Townsville

Carols by Candlelight

5.50pm

7/12/13

Rock Centre - Cathedral School

Reflexions Dance in Rockin The Big Top

6.30pm

www.trybooking.com/DXNI

1.00pm

4726 9000

7/12/13

Bunnings Warehouse

Prepare for Christmas

7/12/13

Cluden Park

Jupiters Jolly Christmas Race Day

Free

Cost Cost

7/12/13

Townsville Civic Theatre

Snow White (Ann Roberts School of Dance )

1.00pm

4727 9797

Cost

7/12/13

North Shore Townsville

North Shore Farmers Markets

6.00am

0459 588 009

Free

72 Hervey Range Road thuringowa Central

• Skating • inline Hockey • artiStic Skate • roller Derby • roller Hockey & More gENERal SkatE: thu 4-6pm, Fri 7-10pm, Sat & Sun 10-12pm & 2-4pm • $12 entry • Skate Hire $3 all agES lEaRN tO SkatE: tue 4-5pm ($7 inc skate hire), Sat 9.30-10am ($12 inc skate session afterwards until 12pm, skate hire $3)

PHONE: 4755 4422 www.sk8way.com.au www.pakmag.com.au

pink = family

DATE

green = kids

VENUE

blue = adults

ENTERTAINMENT/EVENT NAME

8/12/13

Horseshoe Bay Foreshore

Magnetic Island Sunday Markets

8/12/13

Anzac Park Ayr

Community Christmas Carols in the Park

TIME

FOR MORE INFO

COST Free

6.00pm

4783 9800

Free

8/12/13

Pet Café - Duckworth St

Santa Paws - Take Your Pets Photo with Santa

9.00am

alertz@rspcaqld.org.au

Cost

8/12/13

Rock Centre - Cathedral School

Reflexions Dance in Rockin The Big Top

2.00pm

www.trybooking.com/DXNI

Cost

8/12/13

Bunnings Warehouse

Prepare for Christmas

11.00am

4726 9000

Cost

9/12/13

Stockland Townsville

Mummy Funday

10.00am

4779 6033

Free

10/12/13 Townsville RSL Stadium

Street Soccer

2.00pm

0415 305 705

Cost

10/12/13 22 Ridley Rd Kirwan

Smile Time Playgroup for Children with Autism

9.30am

4721 2304

Cost

10/12/13 Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre

Playgroup

9.30am

4783 4243

10/12/13 Cleary St Kirwan

4TO Christmas Street Party

6.00pm

Contact 4TO

Free

11/12/13 Early Years Information Service

Messy Play - Playgroup (bookings required)

9.00am

4727 8371

Free

12/12/13 2 Flinders St West

Re-Cre8tiv Kids Art Class

3.30pm

0414 647 709

$20

12/12/13 Townsville Civic Theatre

TAPA - Music Made Visible

6.30pm

4727 9797

Cost

13/12/13 Townsville Civic Theatre

TAPA - Music Made Visible

6.30pm

4727 9797

Cost

13/12/13 Perc Tucker Regional Gallery

Lego Workshop - Bookings required

10.30am

4727 9011

Free

13/12/13 Gymnastics Townsville

Toddler & Parent Gym Class

10.30am

info@gymtsv..com.au

Cost

14/12/13 Aitkenvale State School

Renegade Handmade Marketplace

8.00am

14/12/13 North Shore Townsville

North Shore Farmers Markets

6.00am

0459 588 009

Free

14/12/13 TECC

Townsville Crocodiles vs. Melbourne Tigers

7.30pm

www.crocodiles.com.au

Cost

Kids

MINI MAG Dec2013

Free

14/12/13 Townsville Civic Theatre

TAPA - Music Made Visible

6.30pm

4727 9797

Cost

14/12/13 Perc Tucker Regional Gallery

Build Lego™ Townsville

10.30am

4727 9011

Free

14/12/13 Museum of Tropical Queensland

Dino-rassic Park

9.30am

www.mtq.qm.qld.gov.au

Cost

14/12/13 Willows Shopping Centre

Willows Community Santa Parade

6.30pm

4799 9100

Free

14/12/13 Bunnings Warehouse

Christmas Gift Workshop

11.00am

4726 9000

Cost

15/12/13 Long Tan & Kokoda Memorial Pool

Free Family Swim Day

9.00am

4727 9576

Free

15/12/13 Tobruk Memorial Baths

Free Family Swim Day

9.00am

4727 9576

Free

15/12/13 Northern Beaches Leisure Centre

Free Family Swim Day

9.00am

4727 9576

Free

15/12/13 Bunnings Warehouse

Christmas Gift Workshop

11.00am

4726 9000

Cost

in cinemas Jan 1

December

FUN Activities Colour in and you could WIN movie Tickets

www.pakmag.com.au

WIN

Fun activities & prizes to win www.pakmag.com.au

colour IN & Win! Colour in and you could

Mini MAG FUN

WIN movie Tickets

Activities

SPOT THE Difference Spot the 5 differences and you could win a great prize! Email your answers to: pakcompetitions@pakmag.com.au

maze

FUN

To enter colour-it-in & mail to:

Name: Age:

PAKMAG, Colour-it-in December 2013

Parent/Guardian:

PO Box 761, Hyde Park QLD 4812 & you could WIN tickets to Walking with Dinosaurs the Movie (Comp Closes: 15/12/13)

www.pakmag.com.au

Solve the maze to find out which animal character catches which item of food and you could win a prize! Email your answer to: pakcompetitions@pakmag.com.au

Address: Phone: Email:

www.pakmag.com.au Competitions close 15 December 29 2013

If you would like to see Oli's tutorial on how to make a candy cane head to the PakMag Cairns youtube channel.

pink = family

DATE

n o i t a r o c e as D

Christm

Story Thanks to: Oliver Standen

• Plasticine or Modelling clay (You can get modelling clay from BigW for $2. Playdough is too heavy and squishy for this.) • Christmas spirit and 4-5 minutes of your time

[1] You’ll need two strips of your clay or plasticine. Two different colours, any colours.

and wrap it around like a ribbon wrapping around a pole starting with a little at the top.

but not for too long, you still want it to be hard enough to bend and hold at the top.

[2] Pinch a small bit off one end on one colour to make it a bit smaller than the other one.

[7] Gently press it in as you go. Once you’ve got the first bit wrapped around put it back down on a flat surface and roll it.

[10] Then once it has all come together, pick it up curve and bend over the top just like the top of a Candy cane and you have a candy cane to hang on your tree. If it is a bit soft from all the rolling – don’t worry it gets harder overnight so just lay it out somewhere for tomorrow.

[3] Roll your main colour out onto a flat surface to make it a bit softer. [4] Now roll the other shorter colour in the same way. [5] Hold the shorter one up against your main colour and if it is still a bit too long just pinch some more off and roll again. [6] Bring the shorter colour together with the longer colour

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DEC

blue = adults

yourGUIDE

y d n a C e n A C

You Will Need:

green = kids

guide

makE & Do

See it on youtube

[8] Now bring it back up and keep taking the rest of the strip round and round. [9] Just keep squishing when you go around. It doesn’t have to be perfect just try your best. [9] Once you have it wrapped all to the bottom put it down and roll it out again. Pressing down and rolling to bring it together

VENUE

ENTERTAINMENT/EVENT NAME

TIME

FOR MORE INFO

COST

15/12/13 Pinnacles Gallery

Townsville Artist Market

3.00pm

4773 8871

Free

15/12/13 Perc Tucker Regional Gallery

Family Fun Day

10.30am

4727 9011

Free

4727 9011

Free

15/12/13 Perc Tucker Regional Gallery

Build Lego™ Townsville

10.30am

16/12/13 Stockland Townsville

Christmas Wonderland Activity Room

10.00am

Free

16/12/13 Castletown Shopping Centre

Santa Claus is Coming to Town

11.00am

www.castletown.com.au

Cost

16/12/13 Perc Tucker Regional Gallery

Lego Workshop - Bookings required

10.30am

4727 9011

Free

17/12/13 Townsville RSL Stadium

Street Soccer

2.00pm

0415 305 705

Cost

17/12/13 22 Ridley Rd Kirwan

Smile Time Playgroup for Children with Autism

9.30am

4721 2304

Cost

www.castletown.com.au

17/12/13 Castletown Shopping Centre

It's Santa time - Photo Session

10.00am

17/12/13 Stockland Townsville

Christmas Wonderland Activity Room

10.00am

Cost Free

17/12/13 Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre

Playgroup

9.30am

4783 4243

17/12/13 The Cultural Centre Townsville

Palm Frond Weaving - School Holiday Program

10.30am

0478 227 738

$14

4727 9011

Free

10.30am

4727 9011

Free

4727 8371

Free

17/12/13 Perc Tucker Regional Gallery

Art-Box for the Under 5's

17/12/13 Perc Tucker Regional Gallery

Lego Workshop - Bookings required

18/12/13 Early Years Information Service

Messy Play - Playgroup (bookings required)

9.00am

18/12/13 Stockland Townsville

Christmas Wonderland Activity Room

10.00am

Free

18/12/13 Strand Park

Stable on the Strand

5.30pm

0407 231 690

Free

18/12/13 Castletown Shopping Centre

It's Santa time - Photo Session

10.00am

www.castletown.com.au

Cost

18/12/13 Perc Tucker Regional Gallery

Lego Workshop - Bookings required

10.30am

4727 9011

Free

0414 647 709

19/12/13 2 Flinders St West

Re-Cre8tiv Kids Art Class

3.30pm

19/12/13 Stockland Townsville

Christmas Wonderland Activity Room

10.00am

$20 Free

19/12/13 Perc Tucker Regional Gallery

Lego Workshop - Bookings required

10.30am

4727 9011

Free

19/12/13 Castletown Shopping Centre

It's Santa time - Photo Session

5.00pm

www.castletown.com.au

Cost

19/12/13 The Cultural Centre Townsville

Make a Table Runner - School Holiday Program

10.30am

0478 227 738

$14

19/12/13 Strand Park

Stable on the Strand

5.30pm

0407 231 690

Free

20/12/13 Stockland Townsville

Christmas Wonderland Activity Room

10.00am

20/12/13 Jupiters Grand Ballroom

Christmas Rock n Roll Dinner Dance

6.30pm

www.townsvilletickets.com.au

$60

20/12/13 Castletown Shopping Centre

It's Santa time - Photo Session

10.00am

www.castletown.com.au

Cost

Free

Remember you can have a go at doing different ones too with dots or stripes as well just ask your parents for some help.

Have a Merry Christmas www.pakmag.com.au

green = kids

DEC

blue = adults

guide

pink = family

yourGUIDE DATE

VENUE

20/12/13 Jupiters Grand Ballroom

ENTERTAINMENT/EVENT NAME

TIME

FOR MORE INFO

Festive Luncheon with Jeff Salter

11.30am

www.townsvilletickets.com.au

20/12/13 Strand Park

Stable on the Strand

5.30pm

0407 231 690

21/12/13 Northshore

Christmas PakClub

COST Cost Free Free

21/12/13 North Shore Townsville

North Shore Farmers Markets

6.00am

0459 588 009

Free

21/12/13 Bunnings Warehouse

Christmas Gift Workshop

11.00am

4726 9000

Cost

21/12/13 Castletown Shopping Centre

It’s Santa Time - Photo Session

9.00am

www.castletown.com.au

Cost

21/12/13 Strand Park

Stable on the Strand

5.30pm

0407 231 690

Free

11.00am

4726 9000

Cost

22/12/13 Horseshoe Bay Foreshore

Magnetic Island Sunday Markets

22/12/13 Bunnings Warehouse

Christmas Gift Workshop

Free

22/12/13 Castletown Shopping Centre

It's Santa time - Photo Session

10.00am

www.castletown.com.au

Cost

22/12/13 Strand Park

Stable on the Strand

5.30pm

0407 231 690

Free

24/12/13 Castletown Shopping Centre

It's Santa time - Photo Session

10.00am

www.castletown.com.au

Cost

24/12/13 Northreach Baptist Church

The Shining Star Christmas Pageant

6.30pm

www.northreach.org.au

Free

24/12/13 22 Ridley Rd Kirwan

Smile Time Playgroup for Children with Autism

9.30am

4721 2304

Cost

25/12/13 Jupiters Townsville Hotel and Casino

Christmas Day Lunch - Aqua Restaurant

7.00am

www.townsvilletickets.com.au

Cost

25/12/13 Coutts Hotel Ayr

Christmas Day Lunch - Bookings Required

11.30am

www.couttscommercialhotel.com.au

26/12/13 Events Cinemas

Frozen

Cost Cost

28/12/13 North Shore Townsville

North Shore Farmers Markets

29/12/13 Cluden Park

Family Picnic in the Park

31/12/13 22 Ridley Rd Kirwan

Smile Time Playgroup for Children with Autism

31/12/13 Jupiters Casino

New Years Eve - Black and White Ball

6.00am

0459 588 009

Free $2

9.30am

4721 2304

Cost

www.townsvilletickets.com.au

$150

31/12/13 Reid Park Townsville

New Years Eve Celebrations

7.00pm

31/12/13 Townsville Civic Theatre

New Years Eve with Attori and Friends

8.15pm

4727 9797

Cost

31/12/13 TECC

Townsville Crocodiles vs. Adelaide 36ers

7.30pm

www.crocodiles.com.au

Cost

31/12/13 Strand Park

Family Fireworks

8.00pm

Cost

Free

This is a free listing. Submit your event info to: admin@pakmag.com.au

Cupcake school holiday

D E C o r at I n g

Book your child in for a Xmas Decorating Class

Regular Markets COTTERS MARKETS 8.30am-1pm every Sun at Flinders Mall STRAND NIGHT MARKETS 5-9pm 1st Fri of the month (May-Dec) at Strand Park WILLOWS MARKETS 7.30-11.30am every Sun at Willows Shopping Centre BALGAL BEACH MARKET 3.30pm-7pm 1st Sat of the month Fisherman’s Landing Café MOUNT VIEW PLAZA MARKETS 8am-2pm every Saturday

SUNDAY MARKETS – CASTLE HILL PCYC THURINGOWA COMMUNITY MARKETS 8am-1pm 1st Sunday of each month HORSESHOE BAY MARKETS (MAGGIE ISLAND) 9.30am-1.30pm last Sun of every month at Horseshoe Bay Foreshore CHARTERS TOWERS SHOWGROUND MARKETS 7.30am-11.30am 2nd Sun every month CHARTERS TOWERS STOCK EXCHANGE MARKETS 8am-12.00 noon 1st & 3rd Sun every month on Mosman Street

INGHAM MARKETS 3rd Sun every month at Rotary Park AYR MARKETS 8.30am-12.00 noon 1st & 3rd Sun every month at Plantation Park FARMERS MARKET 6am-12.00noon every Saturday at North Shore Town Centre SATURDAY NIGHT MARKETS Every Saturday from 2-9pm at 87 Ingham Road, West End (opposite Showgrounds) 1st market kicks off on the 10th November

• Decorating Workshops • Edible gifts for the whole family • Unique custom made cakes that taste as good as they look 169 ChartErs toWErs roaD (opposite Mitre 10) PhonE 4740 4551 • VIsIt www.sweeterthansugar.com.au Follow us on facebook: www.facebook.com/sweeterthansugar

www.pakmag.com.au

By Shannon du Plessis

HiddenDangers Is your home safe for a mobile tot? Here are some tips on protecting your children from potential dangers in the home, reports Shannon du Plessis

alk into most homes with young children, and you’ll often see gates of various sizes, padded corners on coffee tables and kitchen cupboards that need a degree in engineering in order to open them. This is a great sign of not only “child-proofing” your house, but also protecting your children from potential dangers. Children are curious creatures and when they start becoming more mobile, they find more joy in pulling out Tupperware from your cupboards than many of the toys you have bought for them. It’s a good idea to “get down on all fours” to search the house for potential hazards. You’ll be surprised at what you might find when seeing the world from your child’s perspective. There are many risks associated with products in the home, particularly since children have a higher chance of having a reaction to a substance because they are still growing. Their bodies consume more air, food and liquids per kilo of body weight than adults, so their organs and developing immune systems are not as able to combat hazardous substances as adults. Common household products such as bleach, washing powder, dishwashing liquid, bug spray,

www.pakmag.com.au

flea collars, garden/weed pesticides, cigarette smoke, oven, toilet and drain cleaners, and paint products can contain toxic chemicals. Air pollution, such as dust and tobacco smoke, is also harmful to children.

Tips for child-proofing your house: • Use covers on electrical outlets and hide electrical cords behind furniture. • Use childproof latches on kitchen and bathroom cabinets. • Set the temperature of your hot water system to 50oC. •

Prevent poisoning by keeping household cleaners, chemicals and medicines out of reach and always store them in their original container. Know the Poisons Hotline number – 131 126. Also, buy and use products with child-resistant caps.

•

Make sure that used or hand-me-down equipment, such as car seats, strollers, toys and cribs haven’t been recalled for safety reasons. Phone Product Recalls Australia on 1300 302 502 or visit www.recalls.gov.au

• Use stair gates. • Make sure your child’s toys have no buttons, eyes, beads, ribbons, or other pieces your child could pull off and choke on. • Install smoke detectors, fire extinguishers and a fire blanket in the house and use flame retardant sleepware. • Tie cords of blinds, curtains and appliances up out of reach. • Do not carry hot liquids or food near your child and do not allow your child near stoves, heaters or other hot appliances. • Empty all water from bathtubs and nappy pails. Never leave a child unattended in the bath. • Secure furniture that can topple (bookcases, chests of drawers and TV’s) to the walls. •

Remove the hood and neck drawstrings from your child’s jackets and other clothing, as they can get caught in school bus doors, handrails and playground equipment.

• Consider enrolling in an first aid course.

www.pakmag.com.au

Baby

Car Seat Guidelines

December 2013

Baby books

review

Christmas Swimmers

Gift

idea NEW

book Our awareness of safe car travel for children has improved over the years so current laws state that children must travel in a child restraint until they are seven years old.

Exercising Brains

In Australia there is a widespread problem with women gaining too much weight during pregnancy. It is estimated that as much as 74 per cent of women gain more than the recommended guidelines. Obese mothers have double the chance of miscarriage and stillbirth, double the risk of their baby having a birth defect, triple the risk of

It seems as though exercise is not just good for mums during pregnancy since a new study recently found that mums who exercised regularly through their pregnancy had newborns who showed higher levels of brain activity that those who didn’t.

If you’re looking for some cute new swimmers for Christmas check out these from NQ business Angelfish Dragonfly. There are some classic red and white spotty swim pants for baby girls ($36.99) and a selection of pretty red and white

While obstetricians used to tell mothers to avoid exerting themselves too much during

[4] Is the lap belt sitting low across the hips

Kidsafe and Neuroscience Research

touching the thighs?

Australia are recommending that children stay in booster seats until at least 8-10 years of age or even older unless they meet ALL requirements of this Five-Step Test:

one-piece swimmers for girls aged 2+. Perfect for Christmas

[1] Can your child sit with their back against

day. For more info go to www.angelfishdragonfly.com.au

the vehicle seat back?

pregnancy, experts now know that inactivity may be more detrimental to both the

[2] Do their knees bend in front of the edge

mother and the baby's health. A lack of exercise can lead to more complications during pregnancy, while staying active has been linked to a lower risk of obesity for the child

However new guidelines released by

WIN

For your chance to WIN a $50 VOUCHER to

of the seat?

gain to be as damaging as smoking and drinking.

the whole trip?

Dietitian and weight management expert Melanie

They are urging parents to keep children in each category of child restraint for as long as they fit, rather than transition them as soon as they reach the age requirements by law.

safe in their car seat is to follow all the

before starting an exercise program and focus on low impact activities such as walking

website (www.pakmag.com.au) and tell us two

the middle of the shoulder, not on the neck

manufacturer’s instructions. To find out

and swimming.

brands stocked by this online boutique?

or out near the arm?

more go to Kidsafe.com.au

www.pakmag.com.au

McGrice has just published a new book called The Pregnancy Weight Plan which includes easy eating plans and recipes to help pregnancy women gain the right amount of weight safely. It is available in all good book stores for $29.99.

The best way to make sure your child is

[3] Does the sash (shoulder) belt sit across

Many experts now consider excessive weight

[5] Can your child stay seated like this for

spend with Angelfish Dragonfly simply go to our

and easier postpartum recovery for the mother. Speak to your healthcare professional

pre-eclampsia and a higher risk of caesarean birth.

WIN

For you chance to win a copy of this book simply go to our website and tell us the name of the author of this book?

www.pakmag.com.au

Beauty edition DEC 2013

Fashion Festivities Mums: the silly season is here so book the babysitter and get into the

Christmas party spirit by teaming lush rouge tones with monochrome, layering on some sparkle and adding a pinch of smoky eyes.

11 Pipers Piping

10 Lords-A-Leaping

9 Ladies Dancing

7 Swans-A-Swimming

Fabulously festive and fitted.

Channel Kate Middleton in this

Grab 8 friends and put on your

This spicy, floral concoction actually

Warehouse Piped Skater Dress,

sparkly number fit for a Queen.

dancing shoes!

smells of Christmas!

$83.18, ASOS

Diamond Stimulants Tear Drop

Shoes, $109.99, Betts

Vanderbilt Eu De Parfum 100ml,

Necklace $49.99, Lovisa

$8.99, Chemist Warehouse

5 Gold Rings

3 French Hens

2 Turtle Doves

Partridge in a Pear Tree

This clutch-ring combo is cheaper

Smokey black eyes are the perfect

These earrings will add-up the glam

Every good party dress needs an

than real gold but equally as chic!

plus one to that Christmas party.

factor of your Christmas attire.

equally stunning accessory.

Jewelled Hardcase Ring Clutch,

Chanel Les 4 Ombres Eye Makeup,

Bird Wing Drop earrings,

Black Sassy Feather Hairband,

$39.95, Swirl Ring, $9.95,

$77, graysoutlet.com.au

$12.99, Equip

$14.99, Diva

Colette Hayman

www.pakmag.com.au

Home edition

Outdoor

DEC 2013

TREND Consider vintage benches and aged timber that help to create textures

Design Tips

reminiscent of nature.

outdoortips

Outdoor R o o ms Story thanks to BOLD Interiors Outdoor living is an essential part of the Australian lifestyle and a well-

from Bold Interiors The Man Standing Zone (aka The ‘BBQ’) A BBQ area is obviously a core part of any outdoor design. These days, outdoor kitchens with built-in barbeques, are very

seat is great for concealing everything from kid’s toys to eskys. • Consider vintage benches and aged

plenty of options around if you can’t afford

timber that help to create textures

the luxury of a fully kitted outdoor kitchen.

reminiscent of nature.

Tips for Furniture Selection

• A fireplace/pit is a great addition for the

• Furniture, colour and texture help create a cosy and comfortable space. • Select hardwearing furniture such as stainless steel and natural timbers,

to the enjoyment of your home.

elements.

www.pakmag.com.au

into furniture pieces. The humble bench

popular. They can be costly but there are

designed outdoor space always adds

• Integrate functional storage solutions

especially if they’re exposed to the

colder months. Otherwise choose soft cushions and patterned throws • Create texture underfoot with sisal rugs. They are hardwearing and add warmth in winter.

Design

Ideas

Shading You may need to consider shading depending on your aspect and exposure to the elements. There are a multitude of options available from large umbrellas, outdoor blinds, shading cloth and exterior curtaining. They may not always be practical but flowing curtains cordoning off a private terrace look stylish and romantic. Greenery Making a connection with nature is vital in an outdoor space. Whether it’s hanging fern pots or vertical gardens, greenery helps create a relaxed and harmonious outdoor area. A fragrant herb garden will impress your guests and it can be used in the cooking too. www.pakmag.com.au

Home edition

SPRING CATALOGUE OUT NOW

Member Offers

See us, the paint experts, before you buy paint anywhere else. (note: Men – please bring your wifes permission slip to purchase paint without her being present.) oPening hours

Conditions apply see instore or online.

Chrome SAVE Now $20 $64.95

SAVE $50

monday to Friday 7am-5pm • saturday 8am-1pm

Wholesale Paint toWnsville

72 Pilkington St • Phone 4725 3082 • Visit www.twp.com.au

diyhome

By Sofie Buchholz

Whether you’re a fan of tinsel

Portable Wardrobe Units

PLT002

Quirky Christmas

Jewellery Chest $169 Maxi Organiser $179

SAVE $44 DAD 9

NOW $199

or singing Santa’s, why not

Recycled Materials

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Design Tips

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21 Pair Shoe Rack

Buy an Allure Jewellery BONUS Chest or Maxi Organiser $19.95 and receive a FREE BANGLE KEEPER

PTM1645

if it needs painting, we have the paint.

More great member offers available in our Spring Catalogue.

DEC 2013

think ‘out of the box’ this year and make your own Christmas tree with recycled decorations.

DAD 7

NOW $175

By thinking beyond the traditional green tree and the Howards Domain Central Duckworth St, Garbutt Tel: 4779 9411 hsw.com.au

red and green colours of Christmas, your decorated Christmas tree can become an artistic talking piece for your home during the festive season – a tree which could be themed to complement your existing décor. Recyclable materials such as timber offcuts, tree branches and newspaper will add a rustic feel to your tree as well as being very cost effective. Timber offcuts and other quirky tree building supplies can be sourced at the salvage yards or local tip shop. A ladder shelved with timber off cuts of increasing lengths abstractly resembles the triangular shape of a tree. Alternatively, if you don’t

Pet Heaven NQ

Our friendly staff at Pet Heaven NQ wish readers and their families a Happy and Safe Christmas

central timber piece, like a tree trunk. Numerous examples of paper decorations can be found on the internet and many are easy enough for the kids to make too so the whole family can get involved. To

Kennel oR Pet CaReR RemembeR if heading away, advise youR inCident oCCuRs nate oRtu unf an Case of youR Requests in

add a splash of colour, you could also use old shopping

• Your choice of cremation or burial services • Collection from your home or Vet • Range of ashes boxes and memorial items • Professional and personalised service

to the tree. We chose silver and gold to complement the

For more info call 4751 3220 or email info@petheaven.com.au www.petheaven.com.au

Compassionate & kind

have an old ladder, timber offcuts could be attached to a

Affordable options

www.pakmag.com.au

catalogues or coloured paper instead of newspapers. You can also add more traditional decorations and lights look of recycled timber and the grey of the newspaper decorations.

Presents

Local family owned & operated

www.pakmag.com.au

12 Deers

Make your own

Christmas Stocking

Of December

Get into the Christmas spirit & WIN!

The Christmas stocking is a wonderful tradition for those small gifts from Santa. So why not make one yourself? Designed and constructed by Sofie Buchholz, this stocking is fun and simple to make.

Want to WIN a new Telstra Mobile Phone for Christmas? It’s as easy as follow your nose! We have placed 12 Deers at various family locations around town. Each Deer has a code word on it. All you need to do to enter the competition is to find the Deers by following our clues, make a note of the 12 code words and then submit the code words via our website at www.pakmag.com.au to go into the draw to win. It’s as easy as that!

Decipher these clues to guide your way to the 12 Deers: [1]

I have an eye for fun - do you?

[2]

Duck on in for a world of storage.

[3]

I am King of the world! And King of Bowling.

[4]

Round and round we go, get your skates on and skate away.

[5]

It may be mini but it’s the best way to play golf.

[6]

The home of Mummy Funday on Ross River Road - find the clue at Customer Care.

[7]

I wear my crown when I dine in Palmer Street.

[8]

These guys aren’t on the naughty list - they really are good guys.

[9]

You like Pina Calanna in Kirwan?

GreaT PrIZe

[10] When the wind blows into Willows it will take you to Queensland country. [11] Ring Ring! Pick up the phone! it’s how we connect. Find us in Stockland. [12] It’s so tropical in the north, might be time for a day spa on Charters Towers Road.

ThE WInnER WIll WIN a SoNy XPerIa Z1 PhoNe ThAnKS To TElSTRA How to enter: [1] 12 different locations each with a deer. [2] Each deer has a code word. [3] Deers are not to be collected. [4] Code words need to be obtained. [5] Fill in the code words at www.pakmag.com.au [6] Entries need to be submitted to our website by 24 Dec at 3pm. [7] Winners will be drawn from correct entries by 5pm on 24 Dec and advised on 24 Dec. [8] Additional clues will be posted on facebook in the last week leading up to Christmas. [9] Check venues for opening times.

What you need

[7] Clip around the curve of your Christmas

some paper or use a pattern from the Internet

stocking and lining pieces. This will help the

as a template. Add a 1.5cm seam allowance

shape to turn through and sit better.

to your template and cut out to create your pattern.

• Stocking template (many websites have free PDF patterns)

[2] Pin your pattern down on your chosen

• 40-50 cm of Christmas fabric for stocking (depending on stocking size)

(making sure they are opposite to each other).

• 40-50 cm of coordinating fabric for stocking lining • Ribbon • Thread • Pins

fabric and cut out two stocking shapes

[8] To the right side of your Christmas stocking add any decorative trims or fabric cuff. [9] To finish your stocking, place it right side facing out, inside your wrong side facing out lining piece. Match the top edge together

[3] Repeat this cutting out process for your

and pin along the top edge. Sew around the

lining fabric and interfacing (optional).

top edge, joining your lining to the stocking

[4] If using interfacing, iron it onto the reverse side of your Christmas fabric. [5] With right sides together, pin together the two fabric stocking pieces. In between the

using a 1.5cm seam allowance leaving a 5cm opening. [10] Pull your Christmas stocking and lining through the opening.

• Scissors

side seam at the back of your stocking place

[11] Top stitch along the top of your stocking,

• Sewing machine

a looped ribbon 2-2.5 cm down from the top

ensuring that the raw edge left from the 5cm

raw edge. This will provide a loop so you can

opening is folded inwards.

• Iron and ironing board • Beads, lace or buttons for decoration • 50cm of medium weigh iron-on interfacing (optional)

www.pakmag.com.au 44 PRouDlY SPonSoRED BY:

[1] Begin by drawing your stocking shape on

hang it up. [6] Stitch around all sides of the stocking, leaving the short top side open. Repeat with lining.

Your Christmas stocking is ready for Santa! HINT: If adding a fabric cuff to your stocking, insert the handing ribbon into the seam of the cuff rather than the main part of the stocking. www.pakmag.com.au

By Elaine Seager

VisitingFamilies Wondering how to accommodate all your visiting family members over Christmas? Holiday Inn Townsville ticks all the boxes for families. It’s becoming more common for families visiting

In the evening families can enjoy a meal, drink

Holiday Inn Townsville is currently offering a

families, to stay in affordable accommodation

and a game of pool in the Brand New Sports Bar.

Great Value Package for the school holidays,

nearby, and it makes sense - everyone gets to

There is even the Inn-2 Coffee café located on-

which includes up to 20% off the best flexible

see each other without feeling uncomfortable

site where guests can sample some of the best

rate, complimentary breakfast and a $25.00 hotel

sleeping on that old sofa bed! However it can

coffee, tea and hot chocolate in town.

credit, plus Kids Stay and Eat for free when dining

be difficult to find family friendly, affordable accommodation during the Christmas period.

To Book a Great Value Package during the

One place that ticks all the boxes for family

Street dining precinct, with family friendly

Christmas & Summer Holidays call 4729 2011

friendly accommodation is Holiday Inn

restaurants like Cactus Jacks, Outback Jacks, Ribs

or visit www.holidayinn.com/townsville

Townsville. Known as the “sugar shaker,” it is

and Rumps and Benny’s Hotwok.

through it’s doors with open arms.

with a full paying adult!

is within close walking distance to the Palmer

an iconic landmark and staff welcome families

With a 4.5 star rating, the 76 metre tower is an iconic landmark, and rooms offer fantastic views

The hotel is within walking distance to popular

across Magnetic Island, Castle Hill and the greater

family hotspots including Strand Water Park,

Townsville region. All the rooms are large and

Reef HQ Aquarium and the Museum of Tropical

have recently undergone a renovation, with new,

Queensland. On Sunday mornings the colourful

modern amenities, comfortable beds and trendy

Sunday markets bustle on the hotel’s doorstep,

interiors. For larger families, adjoining rooms can

with a range of activities and rides for the kids.

be arranged for ease and convenience.

One of the best features about the Holiday Inn

A swim in the rooftop pool is also something not

is that kids stay and eat free when dining with

to be missed. It offers spectacular views over the

adults, and accommodation is very affordable

city, and it’s a great opportunity to have a BBQ

ranging from $120-$170 a night. The buffet

by the pool with the kids (facilities provided at a

breakfast is spectacular, offering an extensive

nominal charge).

range, which is very popular with guests. www.pakmag.com.au

If you want to dine out further afield, the hotel

Things to DO while staying at Holiday Inn Townsville: • Take a swim in the rooftop pool at sunset followed by a BBQ • Go shopping on the doorstep in Flinders Street • Indulge in a buffet breakfast - be sure to try the yummy Pancakes and Eggs Benedict! • Visit the Reef HQ Aquarium and Museum of Tropical Queensland • Splash about at the Strand Water Park www.pakmag.com.au

Travel

December 2013 guide

Travel

ideas

Bali Holiday By Jodie Payne (Travel Managers) Rice paddies tripping down hillsides like giant steps, volcanoes soaring up through the clouds, dense tropical jungle, long sandy beaches, warm blue water, crashing surf, friendly people and a rich culture. Bali has something for everyone.

Some of the best surfing beaches in the world can be found on the western side of the island while the eastern side provides a wonderful haven for families, with beautiful white sand beaches and gentle seas. The eastern side is where most of the resorts are located and you will find accommodation here to suit all budgets. Here’s a rundown of the main areas: Kuta – Kuta is a sprawling metropolis known for cheap shopping, bars and nightclubs. There are lots of cheap hotels, mostly in the maze of alleyways that run between the beach and the shops. Some other great hotels will be found along the beach just to the north and south of Kuta, The Bali Dynasty being one of the best child friendly hotels in Bali. Seminyak – For those who prefer private villas, this is probably the best place to look. Whilst its close to Kuta, its

Tips

much more upmarket with fabulous shopping and restaurants. Nusa Dua – A great destination for families wanting a quiet

[1] If you are attending a wedding or just prefer to have some extra help with the kids, try Bali’s Best Baby Sitting. Run by an Aussie, all the nannies speak English, are police checked and they can swim! http://www.balisbestbabysitting.com/ [2] Take an extra bag for the journey home. Bali is a shopper’s paradise particularly for casual and tailored clothing, locally made jewellery, handicrafts, antiques and artifacts. Leather goods are also a bargain with everything from handbags through to tailor made leather jackets and coats, all at unbelievable prices.

getaway, Nusa Dua is where you’ll probably end up if you’re looking for an all-inclusive type holiday. The Club Med here has the best kids club ever! Close to the airport, almost all of the four to five star hotels are set on the beach and there’s very good shopping too. Ubud – The cultural and artistic heart of the island, Ubud has a range of hotels in the three to five star range set against a stunning backdrop of a river and rice paddies. The shopping is

Things to do with Kids

wonderful up here – especially if you are needing furniture for your house.

• Waterbom – more than 20 world class water slides

Pickerings Jeep

• Bali Treetop Adventure Park – fun high ropes activities

07 4726 5576 48

www.pakmag.com.au

LMCT3192679

Sturt Street, Townsville www.pickerings.com.au

• White water rafting – great for older kids • Art & craft classes in Ubud – everything from painting to wood carving • Bali Safari Marine Park – view the animals from the back of an elephant

Visit: www.my.travelmanager.com.au/JodiePayne www.pakmag.com.au

Pets fav

Fav pet shot of the month wins a mystery prize to the value of $30!

DEcember entries

pakclub fun for parents & kids

Christmas paRty

Alfie loved by Cooper

FREE Monthly Club

• Prizes for best dressed for best Christmas theme • Spin our Good Guys Wheel of fortune to WiN a Great Prize! • Loads of games & prizes to win • Lucky door prize raffle

Nacho snoozing with Ted

SatuRday 21 dECEMbER 4pM-6pM NortherN Beaches Leisure ceNtre for more info call Nat on 0407 831 962 or email tsvsales@pakmag.com.au

Prize winner

Tyson loved by Korbie

Rodney loved by Paula

Email your photo, name/s & address to: photos@pakmag.com.au • Deadline for photos is 15 December for the January 2014 edition of Pakmag.

Winners prize

VEday SAver y

Congratulations to our November prize winners! To claim your prize drop into the 4TO/HOTFM office, 9 Martinez Ave The Lakes, Hyde Park, between 9-5pm Mon to Fri & collect your prize.

MAZE FUN:

COLOUR IN & Win:

• Rominy Kostolanji

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SPOT THE DIFFERENCE: • Genevieve Watson

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There’s a store near you Aitkenvale - 290 Ross River Road PHONE: 4725 5244 Kirwan - 36 Thuringowa Drive PHONE: 4773 4224 Woodlands - Woodlands Shopping Centre PHONE: 4751 6286

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