PakMag Townsville - January 2014

pakmag JAN 2014

To w n s v i l l e

EzEine FMRaga

ISSUE 38

magazine of choice for local families

Summer Fun!

Your Guide to School

Kids

MINI MAG Inside

Holiday Activities

Return

to Work

Tips for Mums returning

Event

Guide

Complete Guide of January Events

Cover photo courtesy of Little Details Photography

to the workforce

win a McDonalds Party for 14 of your friends

Details page 28

37

40

49 welcome

Tourism and Events Queensland

Contents

note

JAN

Happy New Year and welcome to our very first edition for 2014!

I hope you’re all enjoying spending time with your families.

There’s heaps going on around Townsville this month so if the kids start to complain about being bored check out our school holiday guide and what’s on guide.

parents 02 What’s New 04 Show & Tell 08 Mums Returning to Work

Good luck to all those families with new preppies starting school this year. If you’re one of those mums thinking about returning to work check out our feature story on pages 8-9 for some tips.

11

Back to School

13

Catholic Education

Until next time, remember to tell everyone you read it in PakMag.

20 Nutrition

Nat pakmag

15 Saver Plus 16

Bossy Boots

19

PakHealth

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.

27

Kid’s MiniMag

babies 35 Baby News: Baby Sign Language

things to win

23 PakFood

06 WIN a Family Organiser Calendar

25 What’s On

06 WIN a TMNT Pillow Pet

27 Mini Mag

28 WIN a McDonald’s Kids Party

35 PakBaby

50 WIN a mystery prize

39 FASHION: All about Aztec 40 HOME: Playful Gardens

Publisher: Bree James

kids

43 HOME: Stop, Drop & Go 45 School Holiday Activity Guide 48 Magnetic Island 50 Fav Pets / Prize Winners 51 Salt Therapy

cover ModelS: Tilly and mum Chloe Westwood Photography: Thanks to Little Details Photography

52 Biz Directory 53 Cool for School 54 Out & About 56 Mummy Laughs with HotFM

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

1

inBRIEF Lego-Lovers

Australia Day 26 January (6.45am-4pm) Riverway Arts Centre

This year’s Australia Day celebrations will be held by the Townsville City Council again at Riverway so grab your flags and Aussie-themed costumes and head

January what’s new

Festival of the Heart Families Week 28 February - 2 March Airlie Beach

down there for a day of fun that starts with a Fun Run at 7.30am. Throughout the day the other events include a Citizenship Ceremony, Australia Day Award Ceremony and a Welcoming Babies Ceremony plus lots of free family entertainment. And for all the dads there will be an Australian Car Display along the Village Green thanks to NQ Performance Ford Club and Townsville Early Holden Club.

Love is in the Air-lie with the Festival of the Heart during February with the Families Week kicking off from 28 February to the 2 March. So save the dates and make

Tropic T-Shirts

a plan for taking your family and friends to join in the colourful celebrations. Stay tuned for next month’s issue and find out more at www.festivaloftheheart.com.au

It’s almost back to school time! Tropic T-shirts have

Dino-Tastic

Mummy Funday

been providing quality uniforms in Townsville for 24 years and have some of the best prices in town. Their Primary School polos are $22 and their Secondary School polos are $22-$25. They also offer a large

12 January (9am-12noon)

range of skirts, dresses, blouses, skorts and micro

Stockland Townsville

© The LEGO Group, 2013. All rights reserved.

Brick by Brick Exhibition This month’s Mummy Funday at Stockland Townsville

Perc Tucker Regional Gallery

will be another morning of fun for mums and kids with

mesh shorts. Find them at Castlemaine St, Kirwan.

SCHOOL Ready

free face painting and lots of special offers for members (sign up at the Customer Care Desk). February’s Mummy Funday will feature our quarterly Pak Panel of expert speakers so save the date – 10 February.

Stinger Safety

If you didn’t have time to check out this exhibition at Perc Tucker before Christmas, make sure

For those who want a little more reassurance that

you do so during the holidays (it will be on display until 23 February). LEGO-lovers will be in

their new Preppies or Grade 1’s are ready for school

heaven since this is the largest LEGO exhibition ever seen in Townsville. Using materials and

this year, Launch into Learning are running a ‘Get

information provided by The LEGO Group, it features heaps of historical items that have been

Ready for School’ intensive Program which involves

sent over from Denmark so you can explore their early products. During the holidays there

ten short small group sessions in the lead up to the

will also be lots of associated activities for the kids to have fun with including a LEGO building

start of school to build confidence. Cost: $130. Call

room, video games in a display of large-scale LEGO sculptures.

Melanie on 0404 472 337.

Make sure your family stay safe at the beach this summer. Teach your kids to: • Always swim at patrolled beaches between the flags

1-27 January Museum of Tropical Queensland

• Obey safety signs • Enter the water slowly to ensure stingers have time to move away • Wear a stinger suit or wet suit for extra protection

Don’t miss the fantastic ‘Dino-Rassic Park’ summer holiday exhibition at the Museum of Tropical Queensland these holidays. They have turned it into a dinosaur wildlife park with real life

• If you see one washed up on shore, don’t touch it as they can still sting you.

dinosaurs from a lost world in the heart of the Congo. You can meet the team of scientists

In the event of a sting, call Triple Zero (000) and lie in the

and keepers who look after them, listen to live presentations and keeper talks, visit the fossil

cool. Relieve pain by dousing with vinegar for at least 30

preparation lab and have fun doing Dino craft and digging in the fossil pit.

seconds (do not rub it or wash it with fresh water).

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www.pakmag.com.au

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Show &Tell

TOP pakmag

5

PakMag Top 5 Picnic Spots

Tourism and Events Queensland

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

[1] Bluewater [2] Rollingstone Creek [3] Little Crystal Creek [4] Paradise Waterhole [5] Lake Paluma

Allergy Free Tracey Patterson and her family are the hosts at the award-winning Kurrimine Beach Holiday Park. The Park has been undergoing some major improvements over the last six years, which has just been topped off with a brand new water park.

[1] What brought you to Kurrimine

friend’s houses and play on the beach. If

Beach? We stumbled into Kurrimine Beach

they muck up, we know about it before

quite by accident when we were travelling

they get home!

around the country in our caravan. We only booked into the park for two nights but two years later we are still here!

[4] What can visitors expect from a holiday at there? This is a good oldfashioned family holiday destination where

[2] What do you love about running a

families can enjoy each other’s company.

If you’re looking for help in choosing ‘additive-

caravan park? We love the fact that, unlike

There’s so much for the kids to do that the

free’ options for school lunch boxes, check out

a motel or resort, we actually get to meet

mums actually get to relax. Our returning

the Additive Free Shopping Guide available at

and mingle with our guests. Everybody is

guests always say they appreciate not being

www.additivefreepantry.com. It is very helpful

out and about and there is always a ‘happy

bombarded all the time with “I want’s"

for any parent who is keen to provide food free

hour’ to attend.

[3] What do you love about living in Kurrimine Beach? Kurrimine Beach is in a time warp. The kids have the freedom to

4

ride their bikes in the street, walk to their www.pakmag.com.au

from harmful food additives which may cause For more information about Kurrimine Beach Holiday Park call 4065 6166 or

hyperactivity, sleeplessness, learning difficulties and asthma, just to name a few.

go to www.kurrimine.com.au www.pakmag.com.au

5

Show &Tell

SAFETY Initiative

Got something to share or shout about?

Email us at elaine@pakmag.com.au

Get Organised Great Idea

Hi-Viz Kids A new program was recently launched to ensure all kids are highly visible to road users in and out of school zones.

As a consequence of this, these high visibility (fluorescent) ergonomic backpacks have been designed to keep kids safe.

They have also been endorsed by spinal health professionals.

Available at www.schoolbags.com.au/hi-viz-kids.html

NEW Pillow Pets If one of your goals for 2014 is to get more organised maybe you need one of these family organiser calendars.

They are perfect for busy families since there is space for up to six family members to record what they are up to on any given day.

The latest characters to be turned into cute and cuddly Pillow Pets

WIN a Family Organiser Calendar

are the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles. These super soft stuffed animals double up as pillows and not surprisingly are very popular with kids.

For your chance to WIN a Family Organiser Calendar thanks to www.smartcalendars4u.com.au go to www.pakmag.com.au and tell us the name of the owner of Smart Calendars 4 U?

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WIN

For your chance to WIN one of these Pillow Pets simply go to our website (www.pakmag.com.au) and tell us the names of the four turtles?

www.pakmag.com.au

7

R

By Amanda Cranston

eturning to work can be a daunting

highlights time away from the workforce.

and overwhelming experience for

Sally Mlikota, director of a recruitment

many mums who feel they have

company, says it is also incredibly important

been out of the workforce for too long or

for mums to update their skills. “You need to

that their skills are out of date. They worry

be totally on top of your game, have strong

about how employable they are, about

data entry and typing skills if applying

finding work that will fit in around school

for office work, demonstrate flexibility in

hours, how childcare will affect their kids,

the hours you are willing to work, be well

separation anxiety, changes to routine and

groomed, professional and have a positive

how they will juggle work and family life.

attitude,” she says. “Unfortunately many

But with a little preparation and a positive

mums miss out on job opportunities because

attitude, rebuilding a career doesn’t have to

they are inflexible and will only work during

be stressful.

school hours and are not willing to work

Psychologist Jutta Dempsey says mums need to let go of their guilt and look at returning to work as a positive step forward. “According to an Annual Child Care Survey, many parents feel that “mother guilt” is the hardest thing about returning to work,” she says. “However, I think a mother who loves her work and gets excited about it is a good role model and teaches her children a good work ethic,

a few extra hours when needed or during school holidays.” Sally says mums who want to return to the workforce should do online courses or TAFE classes if necessary to update their skills. She also recommends a short, concise and professional resume. As a mum herself, Sally says it is possible to juggle work and family and just takes good organisation and communication within the family unit.

whether she chooses to be a stay-at-home

Jutta says returning to work doesn’t have

mum or work outside the home.” She adds

to be a stressful transition and can actually

that if a mum feels happy and fulfilled the

be a positive experience for everyone. She

family as a whole will benefit and function

suggests mums consciously plan regular

better and more harmoniously.

family time so everyone still feels connected

So where do mums start? The first step is to update your resume and look at focusing on skills and experience in your CV rather than laying it out chronologically, as this only

emotionally. “Mums need to let go of something, usually some of the household standards so that they have time left for family without distractions, especially once they go back to work,” she says.

Top Tips for Returning to Work

kids

work

house

chores

rted school Whether your youngest has just sta re are or money is a little tight at home, the back to many reasons mums decide to go the whole work and this transition can affect financially. family emotionally, logistically and 8

www.pakmag.com.au

Mumso

Returning t the Workforce

[1] Make a plan and actively start

looking for a job

[2] Put yourself out there and refresh

your skills and update your CV

[3] Stay in the loop and attend

networking events

[4] Believe in yourself

www.pakmag.com.au

9

By Jutta Dempsey

Advance your child’s learning these Holidays Ava is just 5-years-old and is already benefiting from being an advanced learner.

Now able to understand maths and English work often studied by students two years above her, Ava is embracing the opportunities that her learning at the Kumon Kirwan Education Centre brings.

Her mother, Talissha, says her daughter is achieving great things at school too. “She is so far ahead of everyone in her class that she goes to a reading room to do more one-on-one work with the teachers. She helps everyone with their reading and even her cousins who are the same age. Ava will say to them, ‘Let’s read this book.’”

Talissha, a nurse, first heard about Kumon at work. “All of my colleagues’ children do Kumon and they were doing really well. A

lot of my friends and family think, ‘Oh, it can’t be that good’, but when they see Ava reading books and doing sums in her head, they want to enrol their children too!”

For Talissha and her husband who both work long hours, Kumon gives them peace of mind that they are giving their children the best opportunities. “I know Ava will want to keep learning because it comes easy to her now. I wouldn’t make Ava do it if she didn’t like it but Ava loves it; she loves going to the Kumon Centre and working through her worksheets with her Instructor, Peta.”

Talissha’s son, aged 3, is also enrolled in Kumon as she aims to have both her children finish the Kumon English and Maths Programmes.

KUMON KIRWAN EDUCATION CENTRE tel: 0417 070 826

Back to School

KUMON TOWNSVILLE FULHAM ROAD EDUCATION CENTRE tel: 0401 608 445 Visit http://au.kumonglobal.com

Getting a new school year off to a good start is important to your child’s attitude, confidence, social emotional and academic success. Every child is different but there are many ways to start preparing them for getting back into the rhythm of school life.

Between Now and When School Starts: • Re-establish routine. Plan to re-establish the bedtime and mealtime routines including bedtime reading and household chores.

• Turn off the Technology. Encourage your child to play quiet games, do puzzles, colour, or read as early morning activities instead of watching television or using the ipad.

• Check physical and mental health. When was the last time your child’s hearing, sight and dental health was checked?

• Arrange play dates. Try to arrange get-togethers with some of your child’s classmates to help your child re-establish positive social relationships with peers.

• Review all of the information from the school.

Mark your calendar for important dates.

• Buy school supplies early. Involve your children in getting these ready.

Pickerings Jeep

07 4726 5576 10

www.pakmag.com.au

LMCT3192679

• Visit school with your child if your child is young or in a new school. Just walking around helps to ease pre-school anxieties.

Sturt Street, Townsville www.pickerings.com.au

• Organise one place to do homework. Involve your child in setting this area up. Older children

can study in their room or a quiet area of the house but younger children usually need an area set aside in the family room or kitchen to facilitate adult monitoring, supervision, and encouragement.

• Organise a central place to keep school items.

Explain that emptying their backpack each evening is part of their responsibility, even for young children.

• Let your children know you care. If your child is anxious about school, send personal notes in their lunch box. Reinforce the ability to cope.

Children absorb their parent’s anxiety, so model optimism and confidence for your child. Let your child know that it is natural to be a little nervous anytime you start something new but that they will be just fine once he or she becomes familiar with classmates, the teacher, and school routine. And if the first few days are a little rough, try not to over react. Give your child a few strategies to manage a difficult situation on his or her own.

• Plan to volunteer. Involve yourself in the school community and plan to volunteer periodically since this shows your child that school life is important.

• Talk about Extracurricular Activities. Go for quality, not quantity. Too much scheduled time can be stressful for both children and parents.

• Clear your own schedule. To the extent possible you want to be free to help your child become accustomed to the school routine.

The day before school starts: • Make lunches the night before school. Older children should help or make their own.

• Set alarm clocks. Have school-age children set their own alarm clocks to get up in the morning. Praise them for prompt response to morning schedules.

• Leave plenty of extra time. Make sure your child has plenty of time to get up, eat breakfast, and get to school.

• Freeze a few easy dinners. Make life easy on yourself by having a few dinners prepared for the first week of school.

Creating a smooth start to the school year begins early in January and reinforces to your child the importance you place on their ‘job’ – learning to the best of their ability and involving themselves in the school community. www.pakmag.com.au

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By Catholic Education

Enrol now for Kindy If your child turns four years of age on or

• St Mary MacKillop Early Learning Centre,

Once your child begins their learning journey with

before 30th June, 2014, they are able to start

Rasmussen (Next to Good Shepherd Catholic School)

Catholic education, whether it is at one of our

kindergarten this year (2014).

Kindergarten is offered at the following sites:

Ingham (Across from Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic School)

• Ryan Catholic College, Kirwan

• St Mary MacKillop Early Learning Centre,

• St Joseph’s School, The Strand

Mount Isa (Next to St Kieran’s Catholic School)

• St Anthony’s Catholic College, Deeragun • St Clare’s Catholic School, Burdell (North Shore) • St Joseph’s Catholic Primary School, Mount Isa Kindergarten is also offered at the St Mary MacKillop Early Learning Centres:

is a great idea to connect with us on social media to keep up to date with news and events.

More than 13,000 students attend Catholic schools in the Townsville Diocese. Our social media sites

• St Mary MacKillop Gooddo Early Learning

are a great way to share news and keep updated

Centre, Palm Island

with important information during your journey

Enrolments for Kindergarten in 2014 are invited,

with Catholic Education.

with parents/carers encouraged to apply early to avoid disappointment. Enrolment application forms are available on the Townsville Catholic

We welcome you to our growing Catholic

Mundingburra (Next to St Joseph’s Catholic School)

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

Education community. For more information

kindergarten or by contacting the office on

visit www.tsv.catholic.edu.au

(Across from Ryan Catholic College Snr campus)

www.pakmag.com.au

early learning centres, kindergartens or schools, it

• St Mary MacKillop Early Learning Centre,

• St Mary MacKillop Early Learning Centre, Kirwan

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• St Mary MacKillop Early Learning Centre,

kindergarten@tsv.catholic.edu.au

www.pakmag.com.au

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By Louise Costanzo

Saver Plus It’s at this time of year, just after Christmas and with a new school year approaching, that some families struggle to make ends meet.

The start of a new school year is exciting but it also brings with it a lot of extra expense - new uniforms, new school shoes, new bags, new stationery supplies and all the other things required for school. For those families living on a low income or those already dealing with debt, it can be difficult coming up with the extra money.

The good news is that you know this is expense is going to occur every January so with a little bit of planning you can make sure you have money put aside. However, if you’re not very confident about managing your families’ finances in this way, there is help available within the community to help you learn these important money skills.

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The Smith Family is a national independent children’s charity that is dedicated to supporting children from disadvantaged homes to get the most out of their education. They believe that the key to improving financial capability amongst families is to encourage the development of a savings habit so one of the many programs they provide is a money skills program called Saver Plus. Saver Plus is a ten month financial education and matched savings program that www.pakmag.com.au

helps families gain financial skills, establish a savings goal and develop long term savings habits. As an incentive to save, participants receive up to $500 in matched savings (dollar for dollar) when they complete the program, which can be used for education-associated costs.

For lower income families, the benefits of saving, even small amounts, provides protection from financial surprises and builds confidence in managing money and dealing with banks and other financial institutions.

Emily is a single parent of two children, aged 13 and 11, living in Townsville. She works two jobs in an effort to make ends meet but following recent changes to government funded single parenting payments she realised she needed some help. So she approached The Smith Family organisation and joined the Saver Plus program.

Emily says she has learnt a lot about budgeting and that “ the workshops have helped me save in a structured manner - something I have never done before. It has given me a whole different way of thinking about money and made me

much more money conscious. It has been really empowering.”

The real success of this program is measured by the fact that its participants seem to successfully continue with their new money habits after the program is finished. Findings from recent independent research has found that 87 percent of Saver Plus participants were still saving the same amount of money, or more, up to 12 months after completing the program and 79 percent of all participants said they were better equipped to deal with unexpected expenses following the program.

If money causes your family a lot of stress, make 2014 the year that you take control of your finances.

For eligibility and other information on the Saver Plus program, or to find out how you can help The Smith Family, visit the website at: www.thesmithfamily.com.au

www.pakmag.com.au

15

By Amanda Cranston Many parenting experts suggest bossiness is

• Focus on sharing and turn-taking at home to

quite common in the younger years as social

help develop patience and sharing.

skills are still developing and children haven’t yet learnt how to negotiate or compromise.

Rules

Children start to practice sharing and taking turns at playgroup, daycare and kindy, as well and personality also play a part in whether

others, show they can share or consider the

your child is shy, reserved, outgoing or bossy.

feelings of their friends during play.

harness their behaviour rather than quash their leadership spirit.

• Teach them to use the word ‘you’ in conversation as much as possible, such as asking family and friends What do YOU think?, Which game do YOU want to play? and What

Negotiating play in the schoolyard requires a

do YOU want to do first? This helps them

little more maturity than kindy so prep gives

consider the feelings of others and include

kids an opportunity to develop their social skills

friends in the decision-making rather than

while adjusting to school life. Bossiness is still

dictating what everyone should play.

fairly prevalent at this age, but it is also a time when kids become more independent and assertive so they don’t appreciate being told what to do by their peers. This often means that bossy kids get rejected or left out.

Many kids are unaware that they are bossy because their friends are more likely to say “I don’t want to play with you anymore” rather than explaining the real reason. Nigel Latta, author of Politically Incorrect Parenting and new book The Modern Family Survival Guide, says bossy behaviour can often affect friendships

• Teach them how to use decision-breakers when playing with friends to determine who chooses the game and who goes first, such as tossing a coin, playing rock paper scissors, using the ‘eenie meenie miney mo’ rhyme or guessing a number between one and 10.

• Teach them the ‘cake sharing rule’ or ‘grandma’s rule’ as it is sometimes referred to. This entails everyone having a turn so for instance, one person chooses the game, another gets to go first etc.

as peers find it ‘annoying’ and start spending

• Encourage one-on-one play dates with friends

less and less time with the bossy individual.

to help your child develop friendships and

“Children need to be taught how to drive their

practice sharing, turn-taking and their social

bossy behaviour in other ways,” he says. “Even if

skills.

parents have to enforce consequences to help

• As a last resort, introduce consequences

their child change their behaviour.”

So how can parents help?

Parents firstly need to talk to their child about their bossy behaviour and the way it makes others feel.

• Try pointing out to them every time they are being bossy and help them come up with alternative ways of expressing how they feel.

Play

well as learning skills to curb bossy behaviour.

• Praise them whenever they play nicely with

strong leaders so it is important to help them

Bossy Boots

learn what it feels like to be bossed around, as

as at home with siblings, but temperament

Bossy children can actually grow up to be

Friend

• Try role-playing at home so your child can

and rewards if bossy behaviour continues. For example, bossy behaviour may result in an early bedtime, no television or a toy being confiscated for a length of time. A reward may be getting to stay up an extra hour on the weekend, an extra book at bedtime or even a play date.

Bossy children are often very bright and go on to become great leaders, they just need a little

• Model by example and stay calm when your

help learning the difference between being

child barks demands and ask them to repeat

assertive and being bossy.

their request in a polite manner. Make sure all family members do the same.

Dictate

Does your child constantly try to dictate their play with friends and keep telling everyone what to do? If so, there are many ways parents can help them overcome bossy behaviour.

Signs your child may be bossy • Constantly tries to dictate play • Rarely wants to compromise • Wants to play by HIS or HER rules

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• Often rejected by friends in the playground because of bossiness www.pakmag.com.au

• Doesn’t often show empathy or acknowledge how other’s feel during play • Overly assertive, wilful and inflexible during play www.pakmag.com.au

17

Health pak

Antibiotic Resistance

news

Epilepsy New Approach Neuroplasticity (a person’s ability to change their brain) promises exciting potential in the treatment of epilepsy as well as memory and learning problems often associated with the condition.

Neuropsychiatrist, Professor Harry McConnell, says a growing understanding of neuroplasticity is making experts in epilepsy think differently about the

Where all students can be

STARS

Pet Heaven NQ Townsville’s Pet Crematorium & Cemetery

• FATD Jazz & Tap • FATD Classical Ballet • Hip Hop • Flexibility • Wiggles & Giggles

Kennel oR Pet CaReR RemembeR if heading away, advise youR unexPeC tedly Pass Pet of youR Requests should youR

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

Compassionate & kind

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Affordable options

www.pakmag.com.au

Local family owned & operated

One in four Aussie parents have kept left-over antibiotics or unfilled antibiotics prescriptions to use ‘next time’, according to research released recently during Antibiotic Awareness Week.

condition, but now we are seeing it as a dynamic

Students prepared for • FATD Examinations • Eisteddfods

ENROl NOw!

Now taking enrolments for 2014 (Children 2½ years & upwards)

“We have always thought of epilepsy as being a static condition that changes over time because of different treatments and environmental stimuli. We are just now beginning to appreciate ways we can modify the brain and influence neuroplasticity for positive outcomes for people with epilepsy.

“It is not just about suppressing seizures, but changing the connections that the brain is using.”

Classes available in

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

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

Parents can lead the fight

condition and consider new approaches to treatment.

In the survey of 1000 people NPS

“If you or your child is prescribed

MedicineWise found that one in 10 people

antibiotics, take them exactly as directed

have taken left-over antibiotics without first

by your doctor. And if you have an unfilled

speaking to their doctor or pharmacist, and

script or any unused antibiotics, return

that parents are more likely to hold on to

them to your pharmacist for safe disposal.”

the medicines for next time they or their

Swimmers Ear As children spend more time in the water in

NPS MedicineWise says whilst most people

the summer months there is a greater risk of

know that bacteria are becoming resistant

developing outer ear infections (Tropical Ear) and

Pharmacist and manager of NPS Medicines

to antibiotics, too few recognise the extent

middle ear infections. If your child seems to be

Line, Sarah Spagnardi, says while it can

of the problem in Australia and most are

suffering from the following symptoms see your GP:

be tempting to keep and use left-over

putting their faith in health professionals

medicines, the misuse and overuse of

to solve it.

children get sick.

antibiotics contributes to the spread of antibiotic-resistant bacteria or ‘superbugs’.

“When we use an antibiotic incorrectly,

However by using antibiotics correctly parents can help protect their kids from the future threat of superbugs.

• Tropical Ear - itching in the ear canal, redness, discharge, fever and pain.

• Middle ear infections – rapid onset, varying degrees of pain, irritability, reduced response to sounds, fever, discharge, pulling at ears, crying

For all enquirieS & enrolmentS contact Katrina or laura

or when it’s not needed, bacteria have a that antibiotic in the future. Just because a

Learn more about antibiotic resistance

Children who are prone to ear infections can reduce

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

certain antibiotic worked for you or the kids

and appropriate use of antibiotics at

their risk by using Aqua Ear or custom-made ear

last time, doesn’t mean the same antibiotic

www.nps.org.au/antibiotics

plugs. Ear wraps are also good for extra protection

& 0413 197 370

www.reflexionsdancestudio.com.au

and even vomiting.

greater chance of becoming resistant to

will be appropriate next time you get sick.

for younger children. www.pakmag.com.au

19

Nutrition pak

FOCUS on Fats

by Connie Eales

Product news

Sun Rice Food

review

Many of us are scared of fat because most of us have been influenced by the low fat (often energy and sugar laden) products of our generations.

We may have updated our knowledge so we know logically that we should be including good fats in our diet, but we cower at the sight of an avocado or oil based dressing!

However it is important that we don’t pass on these old habits to the next generation so here’s a refresher on what you need to know: • Saturated fats are found in meat, dairy, coconut oil and palm oil and are linked to increasing levels of bad cholesterol.

• Unsaturated fats are found in many vegetable oils, olives, avocados and oily fish. These fats are linked to decreasing levels of damaging cholesterol and increasing levels of protective cholesterol.

• Look for ways to decrease the saturated fats in your diet and replace them with unsaturated fat alternatives.

Tips for improving kids fat profile: • Include two serves of low fat dairy in their diet each day such as low fat cheese cubes in their lunch box or a glass of low fat milk after school.

• Choose lean meats with fat trimmed before cooking.

• Swap butter for an olive oil based margarine.

• Swap mayonnaise for avocado or hummus.

• Eat oily fish twice per week (this can be tinned fish in dishes such as salmon patties or tuna pasta).

• Go vegetarian one night a week and include legumes and nuts. Good examples are chickpea curry or Mexican bean tacos.

20

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Rice is a staple in most households. Parents eat it, kids eat it and even dogs will finish any leftovers.

Unfortunately, staple = boring sometimes so Sun Rice have introduced a new range of health and wellbeing rice products. My pick of the bunch is the brown rice and quinoa mix. This is a perfect way to introduce quinoa to kids, with it making up only 15% of the mix. It is a low GI, higher protein and fibre mix.

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

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Q&A

nutritionadvice

Rice & Quinoa Mix

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21

pakfood

with TROY WILLIAMS

THE GOOD GUYS

pakmag TEAM Favourite Lamb & apricot pilaf

By Bree James (Publisher) 1 tbs olive oil 1 onion, finely chopped 1 x garlic clove, crushed 2 x tsp morrocan seasoning 400g lamb leg steak

pakmag

TEAM recipe

1 1/4 cup of basmati rice 2 cups of beef stock 1 tomato chopped 400g can of chickpeas

Join our Super Team!

Specialised care for your little Super Hero Your child’s health is their greatest asset. Childhood is such an important time for growth and development of the spine and nervous system. By the age of seven, a child is likely to have had hundreds of falls some more serious than others. Regular chiropractic check-ups may help uncover any underlying problems and can assist your child to be their healthiest and happiest.

Bree's Fave “I love this meal as it’s a one pot wonder, quick, tasty, healthy and an affordable meal that can be made in less than 15 minutes.”

1/3 cup apricots, chopped 1 x tbs toasted pinenuts 1/4 cup mint leaves

In a deep frypan, heat the oil and cook the garlic, onions. Add spice, stir for 30 seconds until coated, then add lamb. Stir in rice and coat in spice mix. Add stock and tomato and bring to the boil, then simmer stirring occasionally until rice cooks (8-10 min). Mix in chickpeas, mint, apricots and pinenuts and serve with toasted flatbread.

Our chiropractors are trained in paediatric care and use gentle and safe techniques that are modified for your child’s body.

43 Fulham Rd, Pimlico

4779 1604

wellspringchiropractic.com.au Preferred Defence Provider

Dr Gordon McPherson-Rayner BSc Chiro (NZCC), BSc (Honours)

22

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Garrison Health Services

Dr Suzanne Jarschke DC (USA), NBCE

www.pakmag.com.au

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NOW OPEN 72 Hervey Range Road thuringowa Central

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PHONE: 4755 4422 www.sk8way.com.au

green = kids

JAN

blue = adults

Check out the latest family entertainment & events guide

guide

pink = family

yourGUIDE

JAnuary 2014 entertainment & events DATE 1/1/14

VENUE Sk8way

ENTERTAINMENT/EVENT NAME Family Get Together

TIME

FOR MORE INFO

4.00pm

2/1/14

Re - Cre8tiv Recycled Art

Art Classes

3.30pm

2/1/14

Sk8way

Tot on Skates

9.00am

COST $10

0414 647 709

Cost Free

3/1/14

TECC

Townsville Crocodiles vs. Melbourne Tigers basketball

7.30pm

www.crocodiles.com.au

Cost

3/1/14

Annandale Hotel

Future of the Left

7.00pm

au.5gig.com

Cost

3/1/14

Rock Paper Scissors

Fishing Tips and Lunch With Scott Hillier

11.30am

4779 7800

$5

4/1/14

Bunnings Warehouse Townsville

Kids D.I.Y Workshop: D.I.Y Project Weekend

10.30am

4726 9000

Free

4/1/14

Bunnings Warehouse Fairfield Waters Kids D.I.Y Workshop: D.I.Y Project Weekend

10.30am

4758 9100

Free

4/1/14

Bunnings Warehouse Townsville North

Kids D.I.Y Workshop: D.I.Y Project Weekend

10.30am

4412 0200

Free

4/1/14

Harolds Phillips Park Creek Garbutt

Landcare Activities

4.00pm

5/1/14

Plantation Park Markets, Ayr

Plantation Park Markets

8.00am

5/1/14

Bunnings Warehouse Townsville

Kids D.I.Y Workshop: D.I.Y Project Weekend

10.30am

4726 9000

Free Free

Free Free

5/1/14

Bunnings Warehouse Fairfield Waters Kids D.I.Y Workshop: D.I.Y Project Weekend

10.30am

4758 9100

5/1/14

Bunnings Warehouse Townsville North

Kids D.I.Y Workshop: D.I.Y Project Weekend

10.30am

4412 0200

Free

6/1/14

Aitkenvale Libraries

Baby Rhyme Time

10.00am

1300 878 001

Free

0439 265 230

Cost

au.5gig.com

Cost

6/1/14

203 Kings Road, Pimlico

5 week Beginner Qi Gong Class

6.30pm

7/1/14

Sk8way

Tot on Skates

9.00am

7/1/14

Annandale Hotel

Hanni El Khatib White Denim

7.00pm

Free

7/1/14

The Culture Centre

Boomerang Painting

10.30am

4772 7679

$14

7/1/14

203 Kings Road, Pimlico

ChiBall

9.30am

0439 265 230

Cost

8/1/14

Rock Paper Scissors

Fishing Tips and Lunch With Scott Hillier

11.30am

4779 7800

$5

8/1/14

Townsville RSL Stadium

Townsville Fire vs. Sydney Uni Flames

7.00pm

4727 9797

Cost

8/1/14

Aitkenvale Library

Messy Play in The Park

9.30am

1300 878 001

Free

8/1/14

Thuringowa Central

Storytime

10.00am

1300 878 001

Free

8/1/14

Aitkenvale Library

Computer Basics A

10.00am

4727 8310

Free

9/1/14

203 Kings Road, Pimlico

ChiBall

6.30pm

0439 265 230

Cost

9/1/14

Annandale Hotel

DeafHeaven ( Band)

7.00pm

au.5gig.com

Cost

9/1/14

Re - Cre8tiv Recycled Art

Art Classes

3.30pm

0414 647 709

Cost

9/1/14

Strand Park The Strand

Boomerang Throwing

10.30am

4772 7679

10

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

24

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i4fUN

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25

pink = family

DATE 9/1/14

green = kids

VENUE Sk8way

blue = adults

ENTERTAINMENT/EVENT NAME Tot on Skates

TIME

FOR MORE INFO

9.00am

COST Free

10/1/14

203 Kings Road, Pimlico

ChiBall

9.30am

0439 265 230

Cost

11/1/14

Bunnings Warehouse Townsville

Kids D.I.Y Workshop: Nature Workshop

10.30am

4726 9000

Free Free

11/1/14

Bunnings Warehouse Fairfield Waters Kids D.I.Y Workshop: Nature Workshop

10.30am

4758 9100

11/1/14

Bunnings Warehouse Townsville North

Kids D.I.Y Workshop: Nature Workshop

10.30am

4412 0200

Free

11/1/14

Townsville RSL Stadium

Townsville Fire vs. Dandenong Rangers

7.00pm

4727 9797

Cost

12/1/14

Anzac Park

Parkour Lessons

4.00pm

12/1/14

TECC

Townsville Crocodiles vs. Perth Wildcats

7.30pm

www.crocodiles.com.au

Cost

12/1/14

Bunnings Warehouse Townsville

Kids D.I.Y Workshop: Woodwork

10.30am

4726 9000

Free

12/1/14

Bunnings Warehouse Fairfield Waters Kids D.I.Y Workshop: Woodwork

10.30am

4758 9100

Free

12/1/14

Bunnings Warehouse Townsville North

Kids D.I.Y Workshop: Woodwork

10.30am

4412 0200

Free

13/1/14

Aitkenvale Library

Baby Rhyme Time

10.00am

1300 878 001

Free

14/1/14

The Culture Centre

Little Men's Business

10.30am

4772 7679

$14

14/1/14

Sundalah House

Zumba Yoga and Crafts

9.30am

0401 401 446

Cost

1300 878 001

Free

0439 265 230

Cost

14/1/14

PCYC Townsville

PCYC Fun Day

10.00am

14/1/14

Aitkenvale PCYC

Fun Day

10.00am

14/1/14

Sk8way

Tot on Skates

9.00am

14/1/14

203 Kings Road, Pimlico

ChiBall

9.30am

Rock Paper Scissors

Fishing Tips and Lunch With Scott Hillier

11.30am

4779 7800

$5

Woodlands Park

Get Active in Parks

3.30pm

1300 878 001

Free

15/1/14

Aitkenvale Library

Computer Basics B

3.30pm

1300 878 001

Free

15/1/14

Aitkenvale Library

Messy Play

9.00am

4727 8310

Free

15/1/14

Thuringowa Library

Storytime

10.00am

1300 878 001

Free

15/1/14

Aitkenvale Library

Catch Up TV

3.00pm

4727 8310

Free

16/1/14

Sk8way

Tot on Skates

9.00am

16/1/14

Re - Cre8tiv Recycled Art

Art Classes

3.30pm

0414 647 709

Cost

Free

16/1/14

Sundalah House

Zumba Yoga and Crafts

9.30am

0401 401 446

Cost

16/1/14

The Culture Centre

Little Women's Business

10.30am

4772 7679

$14

0439 265 230

203 Kings Road, Pimlico

ChiBall

6.30pm

Rollingstone Community Centre

Rollingstone Dreamtime stories and celebrations

12.00pm

Jan2014

Free

15/1/14

16/1/14

MINI MAG

Free

15/1/14

17/1/14

Kids

$10

Cost Free

17/1/14

Castle Hill PCYC

PCYC Fun Day

1.00pm

4772 3883

Free

18/1/14

St Helen's Anglican Church Hall Ayr

St Helen's Old Time Dance

8.30pm

4782 1624

$8

18/1/14

Bunnings Warehouse Townsville

Kids D.I.Y Workshop: Back to School

10.00am

4726 9000

Free

January FUN Activities Colour in and you could WIN a party for 15 kids 26

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WIN

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

27

colour IN & Win!

Colour in and you could WIN a party for 15 kids

To enter colour-it-in & mail to:

Name:

PAKMAG, Colour-it-in January 2014

Parent/Guardian:

PO Box 761, Hyde Park QLD 4812 & you could WIN a Party for 15 kids at McDonalds! We also have 15 runner up

prizes be WON! (Comp Closes 18/01/14) 28 towww.pakmag.com.au

Age:

Address: Phone: Email:

www.pakmag.com.au Competitions close 18 January 2014 29

See it on youtube

If you would like to see Oli's tutorial on how to make a toy parachute go to the PakMag Cairns youtube channel.

pink = family

green = kids

yourGUIDE

How to make parachutes to take your toys on adventures You Will Need:

We’re going to make some

some help from your mum or

[4] Now you are ready to go.

parachutes to take our toys on

dad because it’s a bit hard.

Find a high spot from a verandah

an adventure.

[1] Cut your plastic into a square

• String, wool or dental floss • Plastic (from a bag or wrapper or the stuff they wrap stuff in to keep it from breaking) • Scissors • A ruler (if you are fussy) • Lego man, squinky, or miniature action figure

or rectangle. Don’t make it too small because the bigger it is, the better it will fly.

[2] Now pull out a bit of string to about the length of a ruler.

Cut four bits of string this length and tie them to the corners of the plastic (pinch the corner between your thumb and finger, wrap the string around it and tie

just wrap the string around the arms and the back – but you can

it into a knot). You might need

just tie it to the head if you like.

Crackles "JOKES" Q. Why did the boy eat his homework?

A. Because the teacher said it was a piece of cake.

or your bed and put your hand or finger up in the centre of the

DATE

VENUE

ENTERTAINMENT/EVENT NAME

TIME

FOR MORE INFO

COST

parachute, throw it up and watch

18/1/14

it fly. If there is a breeze outside

18/1/14

Bunnings Warehouse Townsville North

Kids D.I.Y Workshop: Back to School

10.00am

4412 0200

Free

18/1/14

Upper Ross PCYC

Youth and Community Fun Day

3.00pm

1300 878 001

Free

4773 8811

go race them, it's lots of fun.

Bunnings Warehouse Fairfield Waters Kids D.I.Y Workshop: Back to School

10.00am

18/1/14

Thuringowa Library

ABC Open-Writing and Photography Workshop

9.00am

18/1/13

Upper Ross PCYC

Hunger Games Fun Day

3.00pm

4758 9100

Free

Free Free

19/1/14

Perc Tucker Regional Gallery

Family Fun Day

10.30am

19/1/14

Bunnings Warehouse Townsville

Kids D.I.Y Workshop: Back to School

10.00am

4726 9000

Free Free

Free

19/1/14

Bunnings Warehouse Fairfield Waters Kids D.I.Y Workshop: Back to School

10.00am

4758 9100

19/1/14

Bunnings Warehouse Townsville North

Kids D.I.Y Workshop: Back to School

10.00am

4412 0200

Free

19/1/14

Townsville Barra Fun Park

Junior Fishing Clinic

9.00am

0404 068 396

$20

20/1/14

NQSEC Building, JCU

CSIRO Petal Papers

10.00am

www.trybooking.com

$15

20/1/14

Pinnacles Gallery

Art Escape

10.30am

4773 8871

$15

20/1/14

Jabiru Park

Get Active in Parks

3.30pm

1300 878 001

Free

20/1/14

Aitkenvale Library

Baby Rhyme Time

10.00am

1300 878 001

Free

20/1/14

North TSV Community Hub

Recre8tiv Kids - 4 classes - start times 9am, 11am, 1.30pm, 3.30pm

9.00am

0414 647 709

$15

21/1/14

Pinnacles Gallery

Art Escape

10.30am

4773 8871

$15

21/1/14

Sk8way

Tot on Skates

9.00am

21/1/14

Sundalah House

Zumba Yoga and Crafts

9.30am

0401 401 446

Cost

Free

21/1/14

City Library Flinders St

D.I.Y Spy Kit

9.00am

4727 9666

Free

21/1/14

The Cultural Centre

Aboriginal Dance workshop

10.30am

4772 7679

$10

21/1/14

North TSV Community Hub

Recre8tiv Kids - 3 recycled art classes - start times 9am, 1.30pm, 3.30pm

9.00am

0414 647 709

$15

22/1/14

Pinnacles Gallery

Art Escape

10.30am

4773 8871

$15

Q. How did the teacher knit a suit of armor?

22/1/14

Woodlands Park

Get Active in Parks

3.30pm

1300 878 001

Free

22/1/14

Aitkenvale Library

iPads - Photos

10.00am

4727 8310

Free

A. She used steel wool!

22/1/14

Aitkenvale Library

iPads - Tablets Basics

1.00pm

4727 8310

Free

22/1/14

Thuringowa Library

Loud Lounge - Girls Night Out

6.00pm

4773 8811

Free

Q. When is a blue school book not a blue school book?

22/1/14

Aitkenvale Library

Messy Play

9.00am

4727 8310

Free

22/1/14

Thuringowa

Storytime

10.00am

1300 878 001

Free

22/1/14

Rock Paper Scissors

Fishing Tips and Lunch With Scott Hillier

11.30am

4779 7800

$5

22/1/14

North TSV Community Hub

Recre8tiv Kids - 4 classes - start times 9am, 11am, 1.30pm, 3.30pm

9.00am

0414 647 709

$15

4773 8871

$15

0414 647 709

Cost

23/1/14

Pinnacles Gallery

Art Escape

10.30am

23/1/14

Sk8way

Tot on Skates

9.00am

23/1/14

Re - Cre8tiv Recycled Art

Art classes

3.30pm

Free

A. When it is read!

Q. What tools do you need for math?

Q. What do you call a boy with a dictionary in his pocket?

A. MultiPLIERS.

A. Smartie Pants!

WIN!

30

[3] You will then have string hanging down from all four corners. Bring them all together half way down and tie into a knot (about halfway down or a bit more). If you poke your finger up in the middle of the plastic it helps you bring all the string together. Then you just need to tie the bottom half of the string to your toy. With the Lego man

JAN

blue = adults

guide

makE & Do Oliver Standen's

Submit your best joke and you could WIN a "Student Money Saver" account with an opening balance of $15 to kick start your savings. Email your joke to: mkycompetitions@pakmag.com.au www.pakmag.com.au

www.pakmag.com.au

31

green = kids

JAN

blue = adults

guide

pink = family

yourGUIDE DATE

VENUE

ENTERTAINMENT/EVENT NAME

TIME

FOR MORE INFO

COST

23/1/14

Sundalah House

Zumba Yoga and Crafts

9.30am

23/1/14

The Yoga And Fitness Studio

10 week pregnancy yoga course

7.00pm

www.theyogaandfitnessstudio.com.au

Cost

23/1/14

Thuringowa Central Library

Storytime

10.00am

1300 878 001

Free

0401 401 446

Cost

23/1/14

Thuringowa Central Library

D.I.Y Spy Kit

9.00am

4773 8811

Free

23/1/14

North TSV Community Hub

Recre8tiv Kids - 4 classes - start times 9am, 11am, 1.30pm, 3.30pm

9.00am

0414 647 709

$15

24/1/14

Pinnacles Gallery

Art Escape

10.30am

4773 8871

$15

24/1/14

TECC

Townsville Crocodiles vs. Cairns Taipans

7.30pm

www.crocodiles.com.au

Cost

24/1/14

Woodlands Park

Get Active in Parks

3.30pm

1300 878 001

Free

24/1/14

Thuringowa Central Library

D.I.Y Spy Kit

9.00am

4773 8811

Free

24/1/14

North TSV Community Hub

Recre8tiv Kids - 3 recycled art classes - start times 9am, 1.30pm, 3.30pm

9.00am

0414 647 709

$15

25/1/14

Upper Riverway Lagoons

Back to School Celebrations

9.00am

25/1/14

Bunnings Warehouse Townsville

Kids D.I.Y Workshop: Australia Day Workshop

10.00am

4726 9000

Free Free

Cost

25/1/14

Bunnings Warehouse Fairfield Waters Kids D.I.Y Workshop: Australia Day Workshop

10.00am

4758 9100

25/1/14

Bunnings Warehouse Townsville North

Kids D.I.Y Workshop: Australia Day Workshop

10.00am

4412 0200

Free

26/1/14

Riverways Arts Centre

Australia Day Celebrations

6.45am

1300 878 001

Free

26/1/14

Burdekin Memorial Hall

Australia Day Celebrations

11.00am

4783 9800

Free

26/1/14

Townsville RSL Stadium

Townsville Fire vs. Bendigo Spirit

1.00pm

4727 9797

Cost

26/1/14

Bunnings Warehouse Townsville

Kids D.I.Y Workshop: Australia Day Workshop

10.00am

4726 9000

Free

26/1/14

Bunnings Warehouse Fairfield Waters Kids D.I.Y Workshop: Australia Day Workshop

10.00am

4758 9100

Free

26/1/14

Bunnings Warehouse Townsville North

Kids D.I.Y Workshop: Australia Day Workshop

10.00am

4412 0200

Free

26/1/14

Jupiters Casino

Potbelleez at Jupiters Annual Australia Day Pool Party

3.00pm

4722 2333

$39

26/1/14

Anzac Park

Parkour Lessons

4.00pm

26/1/14

Warrina Ice rink

Australia Day Party

10.00am

29/1/14

Aitkenvale Library

Messy Play in The Park

9.30am

$10 $10 1300 878 001

Free

29/1/14

Thuringowa Central Library

Storytime

10.00am

1300 878 001

Free

30/1/14

Thuringowa Central Library

Baby Rhyme Time

10.00am

1300 878 001

Free

30/1/14

Re - Cre8tiv Recycled Art

Art Classes

3.30pm

0414 647 709

Cost

31/1/14

TECC

Townsville Crocodiles vs. Wollongong Hawks

7.30pm

www.crocodiles.com.au

Cost

31/1/14

Perc Tucker Regional Gallery

Renegades Outsider Art Touring Exhibition

10.00am

4727 9011

Free

31/1/14

Aitkenvale Library

Storytime

10.00am

1300 878 001

Free

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

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

32

www.pakmag.com.au

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

www.pakmag.com.au

33

By Shannon du Plessis

BabySignLanguage Frustrated by a screaming baby? Try sign language to help your baby communicate their needs, writes Shannon du Plessis Children pick up new words and develop their

Baby sign language stimulates brain

resources for you to try out before buying books,

language and communication skills at an

development, provides a strong foundation

posters, flash cards or DVDs. However, if you do

incredible rate. They go through many different

for early literacy, helping to advance a child’s

plan to implement baby sign language in your

stages, and each child is different, but there is

vocabulary, spelling and reading ability and also

routine, I recommend books based on Auslan

always a frustrating stage as babies are trying to

can accelerate the speech process.

sign language such as Tiny Talk or Australian Baby

express their needs but are not yet able to speak.

Parents also get frustrated at not knowing what their child wants.

hearing and hearing-impaired children.

and “bed”. Each time one of these activities takes

Sign language also can be very helpful for

place, you say the word and repeat the sign in

parents of babies with special needs, such as

proven way of communicating with your child

front of your baby. Then, many days, weeks or

children with Down syndrome.

when they are not yet able to communicate

months may pass before your baby starts to sign

verbally. It is most suitable for babies aged

back to you, but when they do, it’s like a big brick

between six months and 30 months. Through

wall comes down and you start communicating

repetitive signing in front of your baby, they

with your child so much more easily.

Many childcare workers also are adopting baby sign language into their centres. One morning at my daughter’s day care centre, a helicopter flew overhead and a group of about four toddlers

If you are still sceptical, just think of the basic

all looked up and started signing “helicopter”.

signs they learn such as waving goodbye,

I was so impressed I started teaching my

By eliminating this frustration and temper

blowing a kiss or clapping hands. If they can

daughter signs for “helicopter”, “car”, “plane” and

tantrums, a stronger bond is developed between

learn these signs, they can learn others in order

much more. From my experience, breaking the

you and your baby. Research has shown that

to communicate with you.

communication barrier will not only help your

can really take its toll on your nerves!

children exposed to baby sign language are generally more self-confident and have increased self-esteem. www.pakmag.com.au

are used, such as “eat”, “more”, “dog”, “cat”, “milk”

Hands. Auslan is also used in schools among both

However, baby sign language is an excellent and

gradually learn to sign instead of scream, which

34

When starting baby sign language, simple signs

There are a number of good baby sign language books available as well as lots of internet

child’s needs, but also save you from constantly guessing. www.pakmag.com.au

35

Baby

Baby books

TOILET Training

review

January 2013

BABY Hats

Starting School

Gift

idea

NEW

book

By Jane Godwin

Get your child Ready For Kindy

Lullabies best medicine You may not think you’re a great singer but when it comes to easing your baby’s pain and discomfort, it has recently been proven that singing lullabies to your baby is the best medicine.

Preparing for the start of kindy or prep can

Teaching young children to wear hats can be a very trying time for parents...

be stressful for parents and it seems that for a growing number of parents there is also the additional stress of worrying about whether their child is completely toilet trained. This reflects the trend towards

A study at Great Ormond Street Hospital

seems to works better than storytelling.

in London found that Twinkle Twinkle

The facial expressions you use while

Little Star, Hush a Bye Baby and other

singing are just as important in distracting

favourite well-known songs actually

your baby from their discomfort.

modern children beginning toilet training So if you’re struggling to find a hat that your baby or toddler will actually keep on their heads, check out the

at an older age compared to previous generations.

hats available at www.bedheadbaby.com.au. Bedhead

According to maternal and child health

Previous studies into the effects of music

create hats made with soft stretch cotton jersey and they

nurse and continence nurse advisor

on children’s health have found that when

have a UPF rating of 50+ so they offer great sun protection.

Janine Armocida, constipation is often the

The researchers also discovered that

lullabies were played to newborns they

Sizes start from newborn and there are a range of styles

overriding problem in delayed or incomplete

children respond best to live singing

put on more weight and were discharged

including bucket hats in a range of colours. For more info or

toilet training, and many children will

rather than a recording and music also

more quickly from intensive care.

to purchase online go to www.bedheadbaby.com.au

continue to use a nappy to poo in, long after

caused children’s heart rates to drop and they were in visibly less pain.

they have learned to urinate in the toilet.

This is a great book for new preppies that follows children getting ready, embarking on their first day, meeting their teacher, making new friends, playing in the playground, learning classroom rules, doing school work, packing up and going home. Published by Penguin Books RRP $24.99

Starting Kindy

"It's a good idea for parents to keep a close eye on children's toilet routines, particularly in the lead up to a new school year to make sure they aren't becoming constipated.

Often a change in routine, such as starting school or kinder, can increase the risk of constipation or even cause regression in children who have been dry for several years."

Speak to your GP if you’re concerned about your child’s bladder or bowel health. You can also call the National Continence Helpline on 1800 330 066 (weekdays) or go to www. continence.org.au

Starting Kindy or Pre-school can be a big change for some kids but there are several ways you can ease their transition.

[1] Start getting them used to being left behind by dropping them off at play dates [2] Start letting them take on a little bit responsibility so they’re used to doing things for themselves like packing their bag [3] Talk to them about how much fun it will be and what Kindy will be like [4] Read books together that are about starting school and kindy.

E

VEday SAver y

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

OPEN 7 DAYS • www.calannapharmacy.com.au FEEL ALIVE

36

www.pakmag.com.au

FEEL HEALTHY

FEEL GOOD

www.pakmag.com.au

37

1

TREND alert 3

1

2 2

all about

4

aztec

3

4 5

by Rachel Holliday Whether you’re headed to Magnetic Island or Morocco this school holidays, turn up the heat and let stunning Aztec prints take

6 7

you from beach to Café.

8

5

Beach [1] Hat: $20, Target [2] Wedge Sandals: $29, Big W [3] Kaftan: $69.95, Zazou at Myer [4] Aztec Print Bikini: $29.99, glassons.com [5] Duffle bag: $25, Boohoo [6] Sunglasses: $29.99, Forever New [7] Beach Towel: $49.99, Ripcurl at City Beach [8] Beach pants: $14.98, Big W [9] Gold Triangle Drop Earrings: $12.99, Lovisa

Café

6

[1] Necklace: $12.95, Colette Hayman [2] Bag: $27.97, Atmos&here [3] Clutch: $19.95, Colette Hayman [4] Dress: $26, Boohoo [5] Necklace: $19.99, Lovisa [6] Ring: $14.99, Design Studio at Myer [7] Sandals: $30, Target

9 7

38

www.pakmag.com.au

www.pakmag.com.au

39

Home edition

Gardens

JAN 2013 Design Tips

TIPS Encourage a love of the outdoors with these garden design tips

Veggie Patch

lazy Time Kids love hammocks in the garden but lazy zones can also be created with some beanbags, mozzie nets hung from a tree, or a picnic rug with cushions.

These Mocka Joey chairs are like a gorgeous hanging beanbag (available from www.mocka.com.au, $59.95-$89.95)

Playful Gardens

Story thanks to Amanda Cranston

Kidding Around

Enchanted Garden

Growing Up

Designate a corner of the garden as a

• Playtime is made extra special in the

Encourage a love of nature by adding

total kids space where they can embrace

holidays with a tepee or playhouse.

a vegie patch. Plant straight into the

the outdoors, play and get dirty. Attach a

Check out www.limetreekids.com.au

ground or into tyres, planter boxes, old

blackboard to the fence or cubby where

($99.95) or the huge collection on

wagon wheels, wheelbarrows, old baths,

they can write messages like “Keep out” or

www.etsy.com

barrels or store-bought raised garden

“Kids Only”.

Fun & Games Swing sets might be the norm for family

Turning your backyard into a playful retreat where the kids can play, explore, create and dream simply requires dedicated space and a pinch of imagination 40

www.pakmag.com.au

backyards but to really entice your kids

• For a little bit of extra magic create a fairy garden with Enchanted Garden Kits from NQ online business Garden Sparkle (www.facebook.com/gardensparkle)

beds. Make it extra fun with a scarecrow, noisy wind chimes and weather station.

Make it Your Own Let your imagination run wild and add

outside, spark some backyard adventures

• Hang sparkly mobiles, wind chimes, red

creative touches to your outdoor space

with rope swings, telescopes, pirate flags,

toadstools with white poker dots and

such as a music station with hanging tins,

steering wheels, binoculars, an old boat,

fairy lights

pots, utensils or wooden signs pointing

tepees, pots and muffin trays for making mud pies and anything else your kids will need to sail the high seas, go on safari or oversee their kingdom.

• Set up a table and chairs for afternoon garden tea parties.

to your fairy garden and vegie garden.

Perhaps cast footprints or handprints of your family members into clay tiles and then lay them in your garden, paint lots

of little birdhouses bright colours and attach them to your fence or hang them around your garden, or make a family of scarecrows to represent each family member and have fun creating their scary look. Whatever you do, making your outdoor space a fun place to be will help nurture a love of the great outdoors and entice your kids away from the TV.

Cubby Houses Kids love cubby houses and the addition of climbing walls, scramble nets, slides and swings gives them opportunities to improve their physical coordination.

Check out NQ business ‘Grand Gazebos and Cubbies’ who provide kit cubbies with a variety of optional extras. www.grandgazebos.com.au www.pakmag.com.au

41

Home edition

JAN 2013 if it needs painting, we have the paint. automotive, house, industrial, marine, texture Coatings, timber Finishes, trade Paint & sign suPPlies markets 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.)

Design Tips

Stop,Drop & Go diyhome

By Sofie Buchholz

Now is a good time to start thinking about creating a ‘family organisation station’ in your home to organise all the books, uniforms, bags and stationery that go back and forth to school.

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

Wholesale Paint toWnsville

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

Creating a single multi use family space where school items are kept and organised will not only help you stay on top of things but will also enable your kids to take ownership of the system too. A little organisation goes a long ways towards easing the morning rush.

• Choose a space to locate your ‘station’. Near the front door is a good choice as things are naturally ‘dumped’ in this area.

42

www.pakmag.com.au

•

Use an old table, shelf or cupboard as your ‘organisation station’. Style it to fit your current décor so it becomes integrated within your home. Adding a pop of colour and working with existing items, such as the purple wall featured, helps determine a colour scheme and saves money.

•

Mount a desk style calendar onto the wall where all important family and school dates can be recorded. It is a quick visual check for all family members’ comings and goings.

•

Give each child in the family their own notice board where timetables and other information can be kept.

Make them look interesting by covering them in fabric and individualising them with each child’s initial.

•

Create a system of in trays - one for all incoming correspondence and homework from school bags and one for each child for things that need to be packed into their bag to go to school eg. signed permission slips. It then becomes the responsibility of the child to pack the contents of that in tray into their school bag.

•

Create a place to store all the school bags. Hooks attached to the wall or table are an easy option.

Baskets under a table are good for storing bulky items like library books and sporting equipment.

www.pakmag.com.au

43

School’s Out for Summer

There is no excuse for boredom these school holidays with a range of local attractions, activities and entertainment available to keep your kids away from the TV.

programmes & Classes

Cupcake school holiday

D E C o r at I n g

[1] Cultural Centre Townsville

[3] Re-Cre8Tiv Art Workshops

[7] Libraries

The Cultural Centre will be running a range of

Re-Cre8Tiv will be holding four sessions a day

Put on your detective gear and head down to the

workshops for school aged children:

(20-24 January at North Townsville Community

Libraries to learn how to break codes.

• 7 Jan – Boomerang Painting (10.30-11.30am) • 9 Jan – Boomerang Throwing (10.30-11.30am) • 14 Jan – Learn how to play the didgeridoo for boys (10.30-11.30am) • 16 Jan – Paint clapsticks and learn a traditional

Book your child in for a Cake Decorating Class

song for girls (10.30-11.30am)

• 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

44

• 14 & 21 Jan (9am & 11am) – Flinders Street

on 0414 647 709 for more information or email

• 16 & 23 Jan (9am & 11am) – Thuringowa

recre8tiv@bigpond.com

• 17 & 24 Jan (9am & 11am) – Aitkenvale

[4] Conservation Volunteers

Cost: Free. Bookings essential.

Join Creekwatch, a community based water quality group, to help collect water bugs and samples and find out about the health

• 23 Jan – Palm Frond Weaving (10.30-11.30am)

of our local environment. Dates: Tuesdays &

All workshops include a light snack. Cost: $10-14.

Cost: Free. Call Wendy on 4721 4077 for more

Wednesdays from 7-22 January (8am-2pm). info or email townsville@cva.org.au

[8] Spoonlickers Learn to play the Djembe at the Old Courthouse Theatre and have fun drumming (ages 6-10 years). Dates: Thursdays and Fridays, 9-24 January (10am & 12pm). Cost: $20. To book call 0416 383 604.

[9] Townsville Mini Golf

[2] CSIRO Double Helix

[5] Art Galleries

• 20 Jan (10.30am & 12.30pm) – Petal Papers

• Pinnacles - Art Escape – 20-24 January

Explore paper making. Age: 5-15 years.

(10.30am-12.30pm each day). Art classes led

• 22 Jan (10am-1pm) – Deconstruction Derby

by local artist. Cost: $15. Call 4773 8871 for

See the inside of a photocopier and build your

more information.

own Robo-Bug. Age: 8-15 years.

• Perc Tuckers – Brick by Brick LEGO

$12). There is also a jumping castle that costs $4

• 24 Jan (10am & 12.30pm) – Dinosaur Dig

exhibition with lots of LEGO activities.

for unlimited play. Call 4771 3999 for info.

fossils. Age: 8-15 years

[6] Sundalah Yoga & Craft

[10] Kingpin Bowling

Cost: $12 members, $15 non-members. Children

Join these fun mornings for 6-11 year olds.

All-Action school holiday passes allow three

Dates: 14, 16, 21 & 23 January (9.30am-12pm).

games of bowling, laser skirmish or an arcade

Cost: $30 inc. morning tea. Call 0401 401 446 for

game card. Cost: $24. For more info call 4408

more information.

0003 or visit www.kingpinbowling.com.au

Learn more about dinosaurs, volcanoes and

under 8 years must be accompanied by an adult.

Bookings essential. Go to www.trybooking.com For more information call 4725 7887.

www.pakmag.com.au

craft pieces using recycled materials. Call Sandra

• 21 Jan – Aboriginal Dance (10.30-11.30am)

Bookings essential. Call Claudinia on 4772 7679.

• Decorating Workshops • Edible gifts for the whole family

Hub where children will be able to create art and

There is now a new Café open at the venue with a great selection of meals, coffee and drinks from 6am-9pm everyday. Even if you aren’t playing mini golf you can eat in or takeaway. Mention PakMag and kids play unlimited mini golf for free! (Adults

www.pakmag.com.au

45

School’s Out

activities for the School Holidays programmes & classes (cont’d)

Fun

Daytrips 5 Family Daytrips [1] Magnetic Island Sealink family passes (2 adults, 2 kids) for $130 include car hire for the day

[11] La Luna La Luna are running lots of awesome workshops

• 16 Jan – Curious Creature art class (7-12 yrs) • 16 Jan – Adventure world building (7-12 yrs)

again at the Riverway Arts Centre (13-24

• 17 Jan – Make play dough animals (3-6 yrs)

January).

• 17 & 22 Jan – Circus class (7-12 yrs)

• 13 & 23 Jan – Tumble & Trampoline (7-12 yrs)

• 17 Jan – Hop It Bop It dance class (3-6 yrs)

• 13 Jan – What a Surprise (7-12 yrs)

• 17 Jan – Create rockstar design shirt (7-12 yrs)

• 13 Jan – Imagine drama class (3-6 yrs)

• 20 Jan – Poi making & twirling (5+ yrs)

• 14 Jan – Bubble Wrap Prints (3-6 yrs)

• 21 Jan – Rhythm Rhymes song & dance (3-6 yrs)

• 14 Jan – Balance workshop (5-8 yrs)

• 21 Jan – Dance clips choreography (7-12 yrs)

• 14 Jan – Hip Hop Express (7-12 yrs)

• 24 Jan – Happy Feet dance class (3-6 yrs)

• 14 Jan – Dancin’ Rhymes (3-6 yrs)

• 24 Jan – Contemporary Dance (7-12 yrs)

• 14 Jan – Make your own polaroid

Cost: $15 (discounts available for multiple

comic book (7-12 yrs)

classes). Call 4773 6377 for more information.

• 14-16 Jan – Intro to circus aerials (10+ yrs) • 15 Jan – Crumple Painting (3-6 yrs)

[12] Museum of Tropical Qld

• 15 Jan – Pirate Party drama class (3-6 yrs)

A must-see for all dinosaur fans! The Museum

• 15 Jan – Winter Snow Scene art class (7-12 yrs)

has been turned into Jurassic Park complete

• 16 Jan – Make a Life Size Robot (3-6 yrs) • 16 Jan – Holiday drama class (3-6 yrs) • 16 Jan – Drumming class (5-8 years)

Shopping Centres

with dinosaurs, keepers and scientists. Go to www.mtq.qm.qld.giv.au for more info.

[2] Billabong Sanctuary Get out of town and meet some native wildlife. Open every day 9am-4pm

[3] Reef HQ Hours of entertainment to be had wandering around the aquarium, watching sharks, hearing about rescued turtles in the hospital and getting involved in the extra school holiday activities

[4] Sk8way Build up your roller skating skills at the new rink. See page 24 for more details.

[5] Warrina Ice Rink Possibly the coolest place to be in Townsville in the summer with school holiday sessions running every day 10am-3pm.

CoolOff Beat the Heat!

FREE Shopping Centre Activities [1] Stockland Townsville Tourism and Events Queensland

Decorate your own hat – every day 20–25 January (10am–2pm)

[1] Strand Water Park [2] Riverway [3] Townsville Rock Pool [4] Kirwan Aquatic Centre [5] Northshore Leisure Centre

46

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www.pakmag.com.au

47

Daytrip January 2014

Magnetic Island

FERRY PASS

special

Sealink Family Pass Take your family over to Magnetic Island for the day and get return ferry trips, car hire and a drink on the ferry for $130.

The Views

Magnetic

Isl a n d Story thanks to Amanda Cranston

Right on our doorstep and made up of 70% national park, Magnetic Island is a tropical paradise that is worth a visit.

48

www.pakmag.com.au

Tourism and Events Queensland

Tourism and Events Queensland

Tourism and Events Queensland

Beach

Our first stop was to Bungalow Bay Koala Village

Taking in the sights we enjoyed a walk to The

in Horseshoe Bay. We missed out on the popular

Forts which had a lookout over Radical Bay, but

bush breakfast tour as a result of missing the

we didn’t spot any koalas along the walk no

early morning ferry, but we enjoyed a two-hour

matter how hard we looked. And then it was

If you’ve got friends and family holidaying

hands-on tour with everyone getting to touch

onto Alma Bay to spot a rock wallaby. These

in the Townsville area during the January

and hold the wildlife. We held a baby saltwater

gorgeous little animals live amongst the rocks

school holidays let them know about the

crocodile, a wombat, snake, koala, cockatoo and

and if you stand still long enough and put out

accommodation deals available at the

lizards, taking plenty of photos as our tour guide

some kangaroo food they slowly come down to

Holiday Inn Townsville. They are offering

Tony passed the animals around. It was definitely

eat. We were lucky enough to see a mum with a

20% off their best flexible rate.

the highlight of our day on the island. Before we

joey in her pouch, getting some great photos as

It includes a complimentary breakfast and

left we were given a bag of kangaroo food to

the curious joey popped its head out for a look.

kids stay and eat for free with a paying

feed the rock wallabies at Alma Bay, so set off to explore.

Before returning the car we took a drive to the other side of the island past Nelly Bay to Picnic

About two kilometres down the road is the town

Bay. With a population of about 2,500 it was easy

of Horseshoe Bay and it is abuzz with trendy

to see why so many people choose to live on the

The 25 minute ferry ride over on Sealink drops you off

little cafes lined along the waterfront and lots of

island with the limited traffic and the laid back

at Nelly Bay where you can catch a bus or hire a car

adventure activities available from jet-skiing to

lifestyle. In fact, next time we might stay a little

to explore the island and its 23 bays and beaches. We

horse riding. While there, a local suggested we

longer and make a whole weekend of it.

recently took a day trip to Magnetic Island and chose a

head to the Arcadia Hotel for lunch as the kids

little pink topless mini-moke as our mode of transport

could have a swim in the pool and we were easily

for the day and the kids loved it. It was really easy to get

enticed since the weather was so hot. There was

around as the island is only about 10 kilometres long

a Convention on at the Arcadia Hotel for the

with four small towns – Picnic Bay, Nelly Bay, Arcadia and

weekend so it was incredibly busy but the food

Horseshoe Bay.

was good and the pool was even better.

Hotel Deal

adult. For more information call 4729 2011 or go to www.holidayinn.com/townsville

www.pakmag.com.au

49

Pets

By Natalie Griffiths

fav

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

Prize winner

January entries

Fluffy loved by Lillie

Amy loved by Paris

Marley loved by Eli

Zed

SaltTherapy

Email your photo, name/s & address to: photos@pakmag.com.au • Deadline for photos is 18 January for the February 2014 edition of Pakmag.

Winners prize

People have always been drawn to coastlines and invigorating sea air but now it seems that being exposed to salty air has become a popular natural health treatment.

I’ve been curious about Salt Therapy NQ in

sinusitis, allergies such as hayfever, asthma and

to try it and it really was very relaxing (even with

Gulliver for some time since I’d heard that it

bronchitis. It has also been shown to reduce skins

four year old twins!). You don’t need to wear any

was good for respiratory conditions and skin

problems such as eczema, psoriasis and allergies.

special clothing - children are just requested to

disorders. I’ve got a lung condition that both my four year old twin girls have too, so I wanted to find out more about what salt therapy is and

to find out december competition winners please stay in touch on our facebook page or check out our february edition.

The competitions had not closed at the time of going to print.

whether it could benefit me and my family.

www.pakmag.com.au

and state of the art. Not surprisingly, spending

I will definitely be taking the kids back when flu season comes around!

has been operating in the health and wellness

are two rooms - one for parents with children,

industry for 15 years. She decided to open her

one for adults, and sessions last for one hour.

Brisbane and experiencing the health benefits for herself. She explains that salt therapy is a painfree alternative treatment that involves sitting in a specially prepared room and breathing in microscopic fine dry sodium chloride. The salt particles that are inhaled into the lungs have anti-inflammatory and anti-bacterial properties

to tie long hair back.

promoting general wellbeing, even for those who don’t have a specific health complaint. There

own salt ‘spa’ in Townsville after training in

wear clean clothes and a clean pair of socks and

time in here is good for alleviating stress and

Karen Torpelund, owner of Salt Therapy NQ,

that help relieve respiratory problems such as

50

The rooms at Salt Therapy NQ are clean, peaceful

Salt therapy is suitable for anyone to attend

Salt Therapy NQ

whether pregnant, young or old, and since it’s drug-free it can be used in conjunction

Salt Therapy NQ is located at 112-118

with other medications and treatments. Even

Mooney Street, Gulliver. For more

professional athletes around the country have

information or to make a booking

been trying salt therapy to see if it can speed up

call Karen on 4728 3328 or go to

recovery times from injuries.

www.salttherapynq.com.au

I took the girls along with me the day I decided www.pakmag.com.au

51

BIZDirectory ads from ONLY $70/month For more info email Natalie at tsvsales@pakmag.com.au

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Cool for

School!

With a new school year approaching, it’s time to start thinking about back to school products and these are a few new ones coming onto the market.

rides & eNTERTAINMENT for all occasions fetes, festivals, special events, xmas parties & birthdays Quality entertainment & amusements for the whole family. we will travel anywhere!

for more info call 0488 676 701 or visit www.amusementsplus.com.au

Wanted!

5 Key people

To help with the expansion of a new division in the health industry

• No experience needed • Immediate start You can earn • Full training & support provided

$3,000+ per month

Available for: Fetes, Festivals, Corporate Functions, Birthday Parties & Christmas Parties For more inFormation Phone 1800 62 98 36 www.qldamusements.com.au

You could advertise here for as little as $70/month

Call 4034 3331 for more information

52

www.pakmag.com.au

Call or text “HEALTH & YOUR NAME” NOW 0402 543 186

0419 790 534

www.bodybrainbalance.com.au All systems go with kinesiology. De-stress, move & switch on to improve learning outcomes & emotional wellbeing.

1

Plan it! Bag Tags

2

Citrus Zinger

3

Personalised Bags

These Monday to Friday bag tags will help

Designed for citrus fruit you just unscrew the

These gorgeous personalised backpacks come

both you and the kids remember what days

bottom cup, twist and press fruit in to the

in a range of colours and designs. You can have

they need library books, musical instruments

juicer and replace the bottom cup. The pulp,

your child’s first name or full name added.

and sports gear. They attach to a ring and clip

rind and pips stay at the bottom while the juice

Available from www.spatz.com.au

on. Available from www.loubilou.com.au

is released into the water bottle. Available at

RRP $34.95

RRP $9.95 for a pack of five tags

www.beyondcool.com.au RRP $29.95

4

Green Lunchbox

5

Superman Cable

6

Busy Week Chart

Funky environmentally-friendly sandwich

Save time with this funky Superman gadget

This magnetic activity chart helps kids set

wraps, lunchboxes and drink bottles have been

to charge up devices and transfer documents

up a routine with picture tiles that provide

designed by nutritionist Lindy Cook and come

when moving from class to class at school and

reminders for homework, music practice,

in gorgeous patterned designs. Available from

home again. Available from JB HiFi stores

library day, sport and chores. Available from

www.mygreenluncbox.com.au RRP $23.95

RRP $19.95

www.magneticmoves.com.au RRP $29.50 www.pakmag.com.au 53

out&about

submit your photos

email to: photos@pakmag.com.au

Dress up fun at Sk8way PakClub

Cienna & Mum out & about Dress up fun at Sk8way PakClub

Dress up fun at Sk8way PakClub

Dress up fun at Sk8way PakClub

Dress up fun at Sk8way PakClub

Dress up fun at Sk8way PakClub

Out & About photos thanks to Cheeky Monkey photography > www.cheekymonkeyphotos.com.au

Mason out & about

Joey out & about

Alyssa out & about

Wyatt out & about

Charlie out & about

Out & About photos thanks to Cheeky Monkey photography > www.cheekymonkeyphotos.com.au

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By Tianna Graham

Laughs mummy

Eva has just had her first birthday in the last month and it was so much fun! We went to Riverway and had a pool party where she got a ridiculous amount of presents and we let her smash her birthday cake.

This month she also knocked over another

moved into a squat position and then stood up

first birthday. We hadn’t seen them for a few

important milestone - she stood for the first

by herself like she had been doing it for years. I

months and the last time we did their little girl

time. This leads me to the lesson for this month

froze, didn’t breath or speak not wanting to spook

was crawling. We had just finished recanting the

– babies will do what they want, when they are

her in case she fell over. She stood for about 10

story about how Eva stood for the first time, while

good and ready.

seconds and then realised what she was doing

holding our babies on our hips. When we went

and promptly fell over. I was so excited I jumped

to put them on the ground, our friend’s daughter

up wanting to share the news with Dane, but he

stood up and then casually walked away. Dane

wasn’t home, he was away at work.

and I looked at each other dumbfounded and

I have spoken before about my competitive streak and how I have been watching my friend’s babies hit milestone after milestone before Eva. I have relaxed a bit on that front but the beast came

When Dane came home he caught a few glimpses

back to rear its ugly head again this month.

of her standing but nothing like I had seen. We

I witnessed an amazing moment one day when I was home by myself with Eva. I sat down on the floor to play with her and she crawled over and put her hands on my leg to prop herself up. She

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were so proud of her and were telling everyone about how she had progressed and probably would be walking soon. Not long after that moment we went to another friend’s little girl’s

looked back at Eva sitting innocently at our feet and, like an irate soccer mum, said together “Why can’t you do that?!”…. I think I may have some more work to do to wrangle the beast.

Tianna Graham x