PakMag Cairns - February 2014

pakmag FEB 2014

Cairns

EzEine FMRaga

ISSUE 80

magazine of choice for local families

Sports

Sign-up

Sporting Club sign-on days

Kids

MINI MAG Inside

Event

Guide

Local company making waves in the food scene!

CLASS

of 2014

Cover photo: Cheeky Monkey Photography

Local Preppies at BIG School

Complete Guide of February Events

Basket

BALL

Young Girls on the Ball

win Create & Play with Peppa Pig Rocket Dough Set

Details page 28

17

publisher

09

56

Contents

notes

Hello and welcome to our February edition. Well, it's finally happened, my little boy is all grown up and I had to get the tissues out to send him off to BIG school. This is such a big family milestone that we've featured a few preppies from around the region on pages 14-15. It's so cute hearing what they're looking forward to about school so I asked Jordan what he was most looking forward to and all I got was “I don’t know.” So it’s already kicked in and soon it'll be “what did you do at school today?” and the response will be “Nothing”, I just know it!

The beginning of the school year also means it's sports-sign on time so we've brought you a handy little guide on pages 46-47 and some stories on local activities to get your kids involved in.

Until next time, enjoy this edition and remember to tell everyone you read it in PakMag.

Bree pakmag

FEB

parents 02 What’s New 05 Show & Tell 09 Paleo Café 10

Education Report Card

13

Psychological First Aid

14

Class of 2014

17

Living with Duchenne

19

PakHealth

20 Nutrition

27

Kids MiniMag

babies 35 Baby News: Safe Sleeping

things to win

23 PakRecipes 25 What’s On 27

Mini Mag

35 PakBaby

28 WIN a Peppa Pig Rocket Dough Set 36 WIN a Dreambaby® Savannah Gate 52 WIN a bag of Hill's Pet Food

39 Ages & Stages 40 HOME: Living Rooms 43 DIY Home 45 TRAVEL: Heaven for Kids

Publisher: Bree James Editor: Elaine Seager What’s On/MiniMag: Robyn Christensen Sales & Biz Development: Angelina Mortley Design & Layout: Trina Jensen Articles: Elaine Seager, Amanda Cranston & submitted writers

46 Sign up for Sports

Phone: 4053 3331 Fax: 4053 3350 Email: info@pakmag.com.au Address: Level 2, 68 Abbott Street Virginia House, Cairns QLD 4870 Postal: PO Box 7433, Cairns QLD 4870

55 Out & About

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.

kids

49 On the Ball

cover Model: Abigail Horspool Photography: Thanks to Cheeky Monkey Photography

51 Tumbling into 2014 52 Fav Pets / Prize Winners 53 Cairns Vet Clinics 56 First Steps to Dancing

Find PakMag exclusively in:

www.pakmag.com.au

1

February what’s new

inBRIEF BOOST Your Business

Chinese New Year Festival PAK Panel

FREE

EVENT

Coffee & Cake

Cairns Central

Voucher

As part of the next Mummy Central on 11 February PakMag is hosting a PakPanel near the Coffee Club.

We’ve invited three people to come and speak on a range of topics as follows: • Nathan Bridge, a chiropractor from Chiropractic Works, will be discussing children’s health and school bag weights

Street Festival 1 February (4-9pm) This year is the year of the horse and our local Chinese community will be celebrating once again with music, dance, cultural performances, food stalls and a parade featuring traditional Chinese lions and dragon. The whole event will be spread over a 2-week period until midFebruary but the Street Festival is on 1 February (4-9pm) on Grafton Street. It is a free event and a great evening out for the whole family.

Cake Decorating

MUMMY CENTRAL CLUB MEMBERS

• Rebecca McKenna, dietitian and our resident nutrition expert, will be talking about healthy food for hungry tummies

FREE coffee & cake voucher Present this voucher and your Mummy Central Card at The Coffee Club between 9-10am on 11 February to redeem your free coffee or tea with a choice of sweets including cakes, muffins, scones, slices and biscuits. (One coupon per person)

• Kristy Vallely, founder of the Imperfect Mum, will be there to share her knowledge on what to expect for mums with preppy’s and how to deal with bullying There will be FREE facepainting and balloon animals from 9am-12pm and story telling from 10am to entertain the kids. FREE Coffee and Cake for Mummy Central members is available 9am-10am. Guests speakers will begin at 10am.

LEARN to Sew

b

Mummy Central Clu

11 February (9am-12pm)

14 February (9.30-11.30am) Brothers Leagues Club

This month PakMag is hosting a special networking event for Cairns business owners to come along and listen to some speakers and get inspired for 2014. Kicking off will be Kim Kelly, business advisor and owner of The Business Booth, who will be talking about the importance of branding, identifying your target audience and putting together marketing plans. We have also invited the owners of Paleo Café to come along and speak about their experiences since launching their highly successful business less than two years ago (read more about them on page 9). The event is free to all business owners. To register go to

Offer is for Mummy Central Club members only.

If you are not yet a member it is very simple to join. All you need to do is fill out an application form from the Customer Service Desk or sign up online at www.cairnscentral.com.au Check out the Exclusive offers & discounts from various Cairns Central retailers. See www.cairnscentral.com.au for this month’s offers.

pakmag

www.pakmag.com.au to register or call 4053 3331 for more information.

Poodlepie Studio Poodlepie Studio in Bayview Heights is a new business that offers fun sewing classes to kids aged 7-14 years.

If you've been finding it tricky to decorate cakes in our tropical climate why not sign up for

Classes are available every day after school and are

some classes with an expert cake decorator at Cake Rescue. They are running a range of

limited to four students. They run for 90 minutes with

different classes throughout February and March including a very special two night Valentines

activities based on a curriculum set by Sydney business

event for the romantics amongst you who want to create a special surprise for your loved ones

The Sewing Spot. If you would like to find out more call

this month. Dates: 11 & 13 February (6-8.30pm). Cost: $145 (inc. gift box and bow). For more

Julie on 0458 280 150 or email juldvans@yahoo.com.

information and bookings call Sue on 4031 4864.

au. She will be holding an open day later in February.

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Show &Tell

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

NEW BOOKS The latest kids books Amelie and Nanette: Sparkly Shoes and Picnic Parties

by Sophie Tilley A gorgeously girlie book with beautiful illustrations about two best friends who love dressing up, dancing, going on picnics and enjoying wonderful adventures together.

RRP $24.99

Dragon Loves Penguin

by Debi Gliori A lovely story about a dragon looking for an egg and an egg looking for a mummy. When the egg hatches and a baby penguin is born a very special relationship emerges between two unlikely creatures. RRP $24.99

The Coat

by Julie Hunt A delightful tale about

A financial whizz who runs her own business by day, Karen Donato is also mum to three active boys.

[1] Tell us a bit about your business.

never seems enough when you’re juggling

I started KD Financial in July last year

running a business and a home with three

after several years of working as a finance

sporty children.

broker. I help first homebuyers all the way through to commercial clients. I work really hard to provide a personalised service for every client and often help them save substantially on the price of their loans.

[2] What are your tips for healthy family

[4] Where are you going on holiday this

a magical coat that starts off in a paddock full of strawberries then goes on a journey with the man who wears it. RRP $29.99

Breakfast in a Bag

year? We’re going to embark on a snow skiing holiday.

[5] What was your favourite subject in school? Maths and PE.

finances? There’s no magic formula – just

[6] What do you enjoy doing outside of

be organised and prepared and know how

work? As a family we enjoy water skiing

much income comes into your house and

and spending time with family and friends.

what expenses need to be met. Plan for things you want to buy and start saving.

[3] What’s your big goal for 2014? To

For more information call Karen

These quick on-the-go breakfasts made by the

stick to my schedule instead of putting

Donato on 0402 023 693 or visit

Monster Health Food Company are great for busy

myself under pressure to squeeze one more

www.kdfinancial.com.au

families as you can add milk or yoghurt straight to

thing into an already crazy day - 24 hours

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the breakfast bag and eat on the run. www.pakmag.com.au

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Show &Tell Got something to share or shout about?

GAIa Juice Detox Still feeling a bit bloated after the festive season?

Email us at elaine@pakmag.com.au

If you’ve set yourself a goal to lose some weight this year then try the 3-day Juice Cleanse Kit from Gaia

BOOK Review

Detox & Wellness Cairns for a great kick start. To make it super easy for you they deliver all the raw cold pressed juices to your door. It’s a great way to detox after the festive season and give your health goals a boost. For more info call Arlene on 0419 921 974 or email gaiacairns@gmail.com

NAME Your Stuff Fed up with your kids losing stuff? www.namemystuff.com.au sells products that are permanently marked so there’s no need for labels and textas. The product range includes Vorgee goggles, Sistema lunchboxes, fridge-to-go lunch bags and drink bottles with USB sticks to come so you don’t have to worry about lost assignments. All the products are BPA, Lead and Nickel-free and all

Blending the Cultures

GIFT Idea

by Tanya Bartolini

complies with Australian Safety Standards.

spy Kits

Ingham-based mum Tanya Bartolini has published a book of her family’s Italian recipes. “I took my heritage for granted growing up – I thought everyone knew about gnocchi and cannoli and that everyone’s Nonna made rich tomato passata. This book is my attempt to share a part of the Australian story that isn’t widely documented and to both preserve and share these beautiful recipes,” says Tanya. Available on Booktopia, PalmerHiggs.com.au

Lots of kids seem to be into spies and secret agents at the moment so these Crime Catchers Spy Science Kits are very well timed, and they are awesome! Guaranteed to keep your 007’s entertained for hours! RRP $23.65 from www. toyuniverse.com.au

and bookstores. RRP $39.95

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By Michelle Dryburgh

Becoming a first-time mum usually makes for a busy life, but for one Cairns mother it was the catalyst for an even busier schedule. Marlies Hobbs, the woman behind the fast growing Paleo Café brand, started her own business, became a national franchise owner and published a cookbook – all within the past two years.

The franchise has exploded in the past 12

on the table, fresh sheets on the beds. But I’m

experience Marlies Hobbs had in hospitality

months, with cafes opening across Australia

slowly learning not to put so much pressure on

when she opened Paleo Café in Cairns 16 months

and plans to take the brand overseas. The Paleo

myself and it’s important for all mums to realise,

ago. But her four-month-old son’s diagnosis with

Café Lifestyle & Cookbook will be released mid

there’s only so much one person can do.”

a dairy intolerance was all the motivation she

February and has already received national

and husband Jai needed to build what is now a

media attention and critical acclaim from

fast-growing empire.

industry leaders.

A switch to dairy-free formula quickly turned

With Jai taking over full-time management of

takeaway meals from the café and has called on

sleepless nights and hours of crying, to baby Troy

Paleo Café HQ this year, Marlies is enjoying more

the help of a weekly cleaner at home.

sleeping soundly through the night. Marlies and

flexibility with work hours, and more time at

Jai also discovered and adopted the naturally

home with their now two-year-old son. But as a

dairy and gluten-free Paleo, or ‘Caveman’, diet,

self-proclaimed ‘perfectionist and control freak

consisting of meat, vegetables, fruits, nuts and

who loves being busy’, she admits finding a

seeds.

healthy work-life balance has been a challenge.

Juggling life as a new mum with a busy career

“Despite creating a comfortable routine for Troy

as a lawyer, Marlies soon recognised a gap in the

at home and with a mix of family and day care I

market for access to convenient Paleo meals. Six

felt immense guilt about the time I was missing

months later the couple opened the first Paleo

with him,” she says.

Waiting tables as a teenager was the only

Café on Grafton Street. “I was passionate about Paleo and I really wanted the café for my family’s convenience, health and happiness,” Marlies says.

“My greatest blessing was that I really had no idea what I was getting myself into.”

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Marlies is now taking more time to enjoy her hobbies and the simple things in life like going to the beach. She is also taking advantage of

“I find that by taking better care of myself, I am able to give more – both personally and in business,” she says. “It’s important to set goals for your ideal work-life schedule and take active steps to achieve those goals. Anything is possible to a willing heart.”

The Paleo Café Lifestyle & Cookbook, will

“And like many mums, I have a habit of putting

available in store mid-February. Marlies and

myself last. When I’m busy, I forget to eat or fall

Jai will be speaking at PakMag's 'Share the

off the exercise bandwagon and don’t take time

Love' Networking Event on 15 February.

out for myself. On top of the business demands, I like to keep a clean house, home cooked meals www.pakmag.com.au

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By Julie Chin

I wonder what my grandparents used to

mean average in the OECD world rankings.

say about the education system when I

It’s not rocket science and I’m particularly

was in primary school? Could they see

surprised that this idea hasn’t already

a decline or a difference in comparison

occurred to Education Minister Christopher

to their own education decades before?

Pyne who has two dyslexic children of

Australia’s OECD rankings are in decline

his own.

and I can think of many reasons why this is the case, but the reason I see every day is that in a typical classroom, we expect all children to learn the same content at the same time and at the same rate. I believe that our OECD rankings will continue to slide if the State and Federal governments keep ignoring the fact that a one-size-fits all education doesn’t actually ‘fit all’.

applications and going back to basics?

Research tells us that these children learn best in a multi-sensory way so let’s do what we used to do and bring out all those concrete materials and…teach! them because again, research tells us

difference. Whether or not these children

that repetition, repetition, repetition is

have an official diagnosis, they still exist

important. The sad thing is that all children

in every classroom. Teachers know who

would learn better this way, not just those

they are. They are the kids that need

with a learning difference.

The kids that can’t read or comprehend texts at their grade level. The kids that never finish their work on time. The kids that are naughty – because being naughty and being sent out of the room is better than having to do the work. The kids that complain of being sick and need to go to the sick bay. They are the kids that are quiet and unassuming who always have

As an educator and grandparent Julie Chin is in a unique position to compare her own education with today’s students and sees many reasons for the decline in standards.

out the interactive whiteboards and ipad

and more children present with a learning

kids that keep counting on their fingers.

Report Card

teacher ratios or how about throwing

Let’s teach all the basics and keep revising

get their ideas down on the paper. The

Education

classrooms perhaps, with lower student

For whatever reason, we are seeing more

instructions repeated. The kids that can’t

Education

So where do we start? Specialised

‘blank’ looks on their faces because they don’t know what’s going on. The kids that try their best but keep getting that slap across the face on each report card in the form of D’s and E’s.

Like it or not these are the kids with dyslexia, dyscalculia, central auditory processing disorder, dysgraphia, Irlen syndrome or some other condition that means they learn differently from a neurotypical student.

I can hear the tech heads yelling now about preparing these kids for a technological future but in my experience, future generations are still going to need the basics in reading, writing and mathematics as a foundation to build upon. To those who say that writing will become obsolete, I suggest they do some research on handwriting and how forming letters and symbols with pen and paper make better connections in the brain than simply pushing a button with a ‘t’ on it. Sure, technology has its place but technology’s place is getting bigger and bigger in primary schools at the expense of a solid grounding in the good old fashioned tools that I grew up on.

Let’s take learning difficulties out of the ‘too hard basket’ and ask the true experts – teachers – to share their ideas on what changes need to be made in the classroom to make education equal for all.

It’s no secret. This ever-growing group of students is doing poorly and until we

Julie Chin is an Education Consultant

start to meet the needs of this group their

and co-owner of an Education Centre.

achievement levels are going to affect our

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By Robert Gronbeck

70 Russell Street, Edge Hill

ENROL

NOW for

Learning to Swim is a gift for life...

PsychologicalFirstAid

2014

Sports and extra curricular activities provide challenges and opportunities for children but when the experience is less than positive some ‘psychological first aid’ may be needed.

Spraining an ankle at basketball, fainting at the

Applying a bit of Psychological First Aid has

can assist them in learning about their emotions,

musical recital, suffering a mental block or lapse

been shown to be most effective. Rather than

learning new methods of problem solving,

of concentration at a crucial point of a game or

rehashing the event or having a good cry, the

promoting helpful thinking and rebuilding social

Cairns leading learn to swim school has recently renovated and now offers undercover facilities, heated pool, airconditioned parent viewing room, great coffee, daily newspapers and free WiFi.

performance - these are just some of the many

best approach can be remembered as LOOK,

connections (often the cause of embarrassment

experiences that can leave lasting affects on our

LISTEN, and LINK. Look for ways to offer practical

in these scenarios).

children. As parents it can be tricky determining

care and check for serious distress or shock

the best way to handle our children’s mistakes

reactions. Listen to their needs and concerns and

and embarrassments in order to help them

stay close to help them to feel calm. Link with

recover quickly.

basic needs (i.e. broken ankle, ER department)

EDUCATIONAL AQUATIC PROGRAMS for children aged 5 months through to PERFORMANCE SWIMMING.

stereotypes, most children are actually quite

The good news is, that despite society’s resilient and bounce back easily from adversity.

However, for a small percentage, these physical, social and intellectual ‘disasters’ can leave our

or support (physio, healing time frame) to build their confidence for the future. It is important to ensure they don’t withdraw from the club or activity or their friends after a failure of any kind since isolation is a risk factor.

that provide them with social, physical, emotional and intellectual challenges which build them up and through which they make social connections, enjoy play and discover more about their bodies and abilities. Most children respond to accidents, injuries, social embarrassments and other unfortunate experiences as water off a ducks back, but occasionally they may need just a little

OPEN NOW To book phone 4053 2549

young people with negative beliefs about their abilities and self-image. A child’s level of resilience

There will always be a small but substantial

Email: bookings@cmeswim.com.au Web: www.cmeswim.com.au

can vary though so they may respond differently

proportion of children affected by performance

to failure according to the situation. For example,

mistakes, especially when on a big stage

a child may bounce back easily from mishaps on

or important game, and even with caring,

For more information about how to help your

the sports field but struggle emotionally when

supportive parents these children may continue

child overcome performance setbacks, go to

they under-perform in school tests.

to languish for a prolonged period of time after

www.masterfulperformances.com.au or

the event. If your child seems to be finding it

call Robert Gronbeck on 0405 245 608.

Download our FREE “C Me Swim“ APP to your smart phone now!

So if your child is struggling to bounce back from a perceived failure, what can you do to help them

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and help them connect to information, resources

Our children are involved in all sorts of activities

www.pakmag.com.au

get over it?

bit of psychological first aid so that it doesn’t damage their future enjoyment or self esteem.

difficult to recover from an event like this, it may be worthwhile consulting with professional who www.pakmag.com.au

13

Class of 2014 Starting big school is a major milestone in any child’s life. It’s also an emotional time for many parents as they proudly watch their baby move on from early childhood in to school life. Here are some of this year’s new prep students from around our region:

Name: Oliver Parnaby

Name: Mason Ham

Name: Frankie Burke

School: Candlenut Steiner School

School: Yungaburra State School

School: Mother of Good Counsel

Most looking forward to:

Most looking forward to:

Most looking forward to:

“Looking after the guinea pigs, felting,

“Reading because in Prep they help you

“Playing in the playground.”

playing in the gardens and sandpit,

read trickier words.”

cooking and gardening.”

Name: Ellie Eden

Name: Amy Fawkes

Name: Ella Bellman

School: St. Francis Xavier

School: St. Andrews

School: Miallo State School

Most looking forward to:

Most looking forward to:

Most looking forward to:

“Wearing my new shoes and uniform,

“Going to school with my older sisters and

“Being able to read by myself.”

playing on the classroom iPads and going

playing on the playground.”

to the school library.”

Name: Roman Della Bosca

Name: Noah Douch

Name: Nicolas Maynard

Name: Claudia Shugg

Name: Miya Macfarlane

Name: Jonathan Galea

School: Whitfield State School

School: Redlynch State School

School: St. Therese’s, Bentley Park

School: Peace Lutheran

School: Edge Hill State School

School: Trinity Anglican School, Kewarra

Most looking forward to:

Most looking forward to:

Most looking forward to: “Meeting

Most looking forward to:

Most looking forward to:

Most looking forward to:

“Playing with my friends and meeting

“Seeing my Kindy friends again and

my new teacher and learning how to read

“Making new friends.”

“Meeting new friends, learning how to

“Painting.”

new people and learning.”

making some new friends.”

but I’m not looking forward to having to

read, becoming a big girl and doing lots

wear shoes and socks all day!”

of sports.”

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By Michelle Dryburgh

KIDS Issues

Living with Duchenne

“Until the age of two he developed normally, he took his first steps on his first birthday and he was walking a couple of months later. It wasn’t until he was three we noticed he wasn’t running or jumping, even climbing stairs was hard. We began to ask questions. Nothing could prepare us for the answer...”

These are the words of a Cairns mother whose

an early age. The Duchenne Foundation aims

“If you feel something isn’t right, keep asking,

young son was diagnosed with Duchenne.

to ensure this happens by raising money for

investigating, and get the answers you need.

It’s a form of muscular dystrophy that causes

innovative equipment, medical seminars and

Looking back at some of the early signs we had, it

progressive muscle degeneration in young

further research into the condition. It also works

all makes sense now.”

children, leading to the inability to walk and

to raise the profile of Duchenne with several

eventual death. The condition affects one in 3500

charity events.

boys, and one in 50-million girls. Few will live to

encourages them to be ambitious and avoid

she wants to help raise awareness of Duchenne,

the temptation to spoil them or treat them

But Duchenne Foundation co-founder and Cairns

but has asked to remain anonymous as her

differently to their siblings.

mother of three Deborah Robins says it doesn’t

son doesn’t yet understand the gravity of his

have to be a life sentence. Her youngest son

condition.

Douglas is living proof.

“These young men are living longer than ever before because of better care. It’s very different

“He knows he has weak muscles, and he knows

to the past where you were told to simply enjoy

Doug is now 25, and despite being almost

he won’t be able to play football or do a lot of

what time you had,” she says. “A child with

paralysed from the debilitating condition, he

things his brother or other kids can do, but we

Duchenne must be treated like any other. It

has never let Duchenne slow his pathway to

want him to still have hope.

doesn’t have to define your son or your family.

success. He was school captain at high school, graduated from university with a theatre arts degree, became a marriage celebrant and this month stars in a play about his own life at the Jute Theatre.

Deborah says boys born with the condition today have a high chance of even greater outcomes if given the appropriate care and support from www.pakmag.com.au

children with Duchenne to remain optimistic,

The Cairns mother quoted in this article says

their 25th birthday.

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Deborah agrees. She also urges the families of

“Since his diagnosis we have been going through different stages of grieving and frustration and facing new issues along the way. This is just

You need to have hope, and help the world community work towards a stronger, brighter future for our boys.”

another new phase.”

She encourages all parents to seek medical

For more information about Duchenne go to

attention and a second or third opinion if their

www.duchennefoundation.org.au

children show any signs of developmental delays. www.pakmag.com.au

17

Health pak

HEART Fitness

news

Eye's on Stye's Stye’s are sore red lumps that occur near the edge of an eyelid. It is caused by an infection in the eyelash follicle, usually caused by the staphylococcus bacterium.

Most styes get better within a few days even if no treatment is given. Hot ‘compresses’ (eg. cotton balls soaked in hot water) placed on the eye for several minutes can help relieve pain and possibly help get rid of the infection. Do this several times a day with a fresh compress each time and make sure you wash your hands after each one.

If the stye doesn’t get better by itself within a few days see your GP. In some severe cases antibiotic ointment or professional lancing and drainage may

There have been increasing concerns for some time that today’s children are not getting enough exercise and a new study, led by researchers at the University of South Australia, recently released it’s findings after analysing

be needed. Don’t rub a stye or try to squeeze the pus out as you may spread the infection.

Asthma Product

the fitness levels of millions of children around the world.

NEW

product The studies measured how far children

and possibly North America but fitness

could run in 5 to 15 minutes and how

continues to fall in China. Japan never had

quickly they ran a certain distance, ranging

much falloff - fitness has remained fairly

from half a mile to 2 miles (3.2 kilometres).

consistent there. About 20 million of the

The researcher’s concluded that today's

25 million children in the studies were

kids are about 15 per cent less fit than their

from Asia.

parents – they can run less far and less fast than their parents did as children.

a role, since it makes it harder to run or

A new digital device has just been launched that

According to lead researcher Dr Tomkinson,

do any aerobic exercise. Too much time

will provide peace of mind for parents of children

"The changes are very similar for boys and

watching television and playing video

with asthma. Called AirSonea, it monitors and

girls and also for various ages," but differed

games and unsafe neighbourhoods with

measures a child’s wheeze and then sends an sms

by geographic region.

not enough options for outdoor play also

message to mum or dad’s smartphone. There’s an

may play a role, they said.

app that goes with the device to remind kids when

The decline in fitness seems to be levelling off in Europe, Australia and New Zealand,

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The researchers said obesity likely plays

to take their medications. To find out more go to www.airsonea.com.au www.pakmag.com.au

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Nutrition pak

Review Food

Beetroot

Food

review

Healthy Fast Food?

by Rebecca McKenna

In the 1990’s there were two words that were previously never heard in the same sentence… ‘healthy’ and ‘fast food’. Now, it’s all the rage!

Most fast food is loaded with calories, saturated fats, sugar and salt. When children eat too many of these foods it can lead to a decrease in energy levels, an increase in weight and an increased risk of developing diabetes and heart disease later in life.

So, how do you spot the healthy choices when Friday night swings around and the kids are begging for some takeaway? A good recipe for making a good choice is a dash of nutrition education mixed with a generous serve of common sense. Now you are probably thinking “I don’t have time to stand around and ponder menus with three hungry kids in tow”! So let’s keep this nice and simple.

Remember the letters V.C.P. When choosing a takeaway meal.

V is for vegetables. Check whether the meal has vegetables or salad (and no, chips are not vegetables!). Vegetables help provide kiddies with nutrients, fibre and a feeling of fullness.

C is for cooking methods. It is best to choose foods that are baked, steamed, grilled or cooked in the microwave. Little bodies have to work really hard to get rid of all the junk that comes along with frying foods which slows down their energy and health.

P is for portion size. If you want to give the kids a treat of takeaway food – go ahead! Just remember what an appropriate serving size for a child is so avoid upsizes!

20

www.pakmag.com.au

Rebecca McKenna is an Accredited Practising Dietitian at Health Management Cairns (www. healthmanagement.com.au) You can connect with Health Management and ask questions on Facebook.

. many milks out there to choose from READER QUESTION: There are so What is the best choice for children?

It is a seems to be expanding each week!

The milk section of the supermarket low ced/ redu fat, full ; e main types of milk hard area to navigate. There are thre ce. choi best s of age, full fat milk is the fat or skim. For children under two year a to it is fine for them to change over Once your child is over the age of two t for often higher in calcium, which is grea reduced/low fat milk. These are also high is milk ured flavo ly drink plain milk growing bones. Children should main as a treat. in sugar so it should only be drunk

Q&A

nutritionadvice

Beetroot is my favourite vegetable. So vibrant and exciting! It is a natural source of folate, manganese nitrate and betaine (currently being studied because it may reduce heart disease risk). Beetroot can be used boiled, roasted or grilled, and it can be served hot or cold. It can be used to make any salad look exciting and tastes great with some other foods – try it with a small amount of goats cheese. You will not regret it!

www.pakmag.com.au

21

Pakmag Team

Potato Puffs

By Robyn Christensen (PakMag Accounts) Ingredients

pakmag

• 3 cups of mashed potatoes

TEAM

• 2 eggs

recipe

• 1/3 cup sour cream (optional extra for serving) • 1 heaped cup shredded cheddar cheese • 2 tbsp grated parmesan cheese • 2 tbsp chopped chives or parsley • Salt and black pepper, to taste

Robyn's Fav "These Potato Puffs are a family favourite. They are easy to make and are delicious even for the fussiest of eaters."

Method Preheat oven to 200oC. Lightly grease a non stick muffin pan. In a medium mixing bowl whisk the eggs, then mix in the sour cream. Stir in both cheeses and the chives. Add mashed potatoes and mix well. Spoon them into the muffin pan filling the cups to slightly below the top. Bake 25-35 minutes until they pull away from the sides of the pan and are golden brown. Remove from the oven and let them cool for 5 minutes in the pan. Serve with sour cream if desired.

22

www.pakmag.com.au

www.pakmag.com.au

23

Dutchy'S PICK

"I might try pole dancing this month at Pole Play Studios 4 to 5 February."

February 2013 DATE

pink = family

VENUE

eventGUIDE green = kids

ENTERTAINMENT/EVENT NAME

TIME

blue = adults

FOR MORE INFO

COST

1/2/14

Jute Theatre Company

Propelled

7.30pm

4050 9444

Cost

1/2/14

Cairns Regional Gallery

Free Entry Saturday

10.00am

shop@cairnsregionalgallery.com.au

Free

1/2/14

Dunwoody's

Flip Ripley - Tropical Magician

6.00pm

1/2/14

Brinsmead

Kindermusik with Nicole

9.00am

0418 772 258

Cost

www.backstreetdance.com.au Free

1/2/14

Backstreet Dance Studio

2014 Open Day for Dance Classes

10.00am

1/2/14

Cairns Regional Gallery

Exhibition Launch - Takara

2.00pm

1/2/14

Grafton St

Chinese New Year Street Festival

Free

shop@cairnsregionalgallery.com.au

Free

0407 761 700

Free Cost

1/2/14

Brothers Leagues Club

Dan England

8.00pm

4053 1053

1/2/14

Balaclava Hotel

Balaclava Babes - Face painters & World Body Artist Professional

6.00pm

www.entertainmentcairns.com

Free

1/2/14

Babinda Munro Theatre

The Secret Life of Walter Mitty

7.30pm

4067 1438

$8

1/2/14

Nexus Combined Martial Arts

Family Classes

9.30am

www.nexuscombinedma.com.au

Cost

1/2/14

Nexus Combined Martial Arts

Women's Self Defence 6 Week Course

10.30am

www.nexuscombinedma.com.au

Cost

1/2/14

Trinity Beach Hotel

Nikki the Clown Face Painting

5.30 pm

0408 183 032

Free

2/2/14

The Pier Cairns

Sunday Funday

9.30am

4053 3331

Free

2/2/14

Babinda Munro Theatre

The Secret Life of Walter Mitty

7.30pm

4067 1438

$8

1800 622 888

Free

10.30am

4067 1112

Free

2/2/14

AJ Hackett Cairns - Sunday Arvo

Live Band - Funky Love Tank

3/2/14

Babinda Library

Free Disaster Awareness Workshop

4/2/14

Jute Theatre Company

Propelled

6.30pm

4050 9444

Cost

4/2/14

Earlville Library

Baby Rhyme Time

10.30am

4044 3766

Free

4/2/14

Gordonvale Library

Storytime

10.30am

4056 1365

Free

4/2/14

Manunda Library

Classroom Cannies

4.00pm

4044 3781

Free

4/2/14

Pole Play Studios

Michelle Stanek Dance Workshop – The Hot Seat

6.00pm

www.poleplaystudios.com

Cost

4/2/14

Pole Play Studios

Michelle Stanek Workshop – Floorwork & Flexibility

7.15pm

www.poleplaystudios.com

Cost

5/2/14

Pole Play Studios

Michelle Stanek Pole Dance Workshop – Master Class

5.30pm

www.poleplaystudios.com

Cost

5/2/14

Pole Play Studios

Michelle Stanek Workshops - Contemporary/Modern Group Fusion

7.15pm

www.poleplaystudios.com

Cost

5/2/14

Little Diggers Community Centre

Playgroup

9.30am

4053 9305

$3

5/2/14

12 Bar Blue

Bluey's open mic

8.00pm

4041 7388

Cost

5/2/14

Jute Theatre Company

Propelled

6.30pm

4050 9444

Cost

5/2/14

Manunda Library

Storytime

10.30am

4044 3779

Free

School holiday ProgramS 3 hour Sessions plus 1 & 2 day riding camps

• Group/Private Riding Lessons for Children and Adults (beginners to advanced) • Pony Rides for Children under 5 years of age

BookingS eSSential CALL 4039 3143 Lot 626 Intake Rd, Redlynch • www.crystalcascadeshorsepark.com.au

24

www.pakmag.com.au

www.pakmag.com.au

25

MARK'S PICK

"Cheer the Taipans on against the Townsville Crocs on 8 February."

February 2013 DATE 6/2/14

pink = family

VENUE Edmonton Library

green = kids

ENTERTAINMENT/EVENT NAME Storytime

TIME 10.30am

blue = adults

FOR MORE INFO 4044 3735

6/2/14

Jute Theatre Company

Propelled

7.30pm

4050 9444

Cost

7/2/14

Mount Sheridan Tavern

Facepainting

6.00pm

4053 3331

Free

7/2/14

Jute Theatre Company

Propelled

6.30pm

4050 9444

Cost

7/2/14

Cairns Indoor Sports

Tiny Tots

9.00am

4032 2844

$7

5.00pm

7/2/14

Cairns Indoor Sports

Milo In2 Cricket

7/2/14

Trinity Beach Hotel

Nikki the Clown Face Painting

7/2/14

Little Diggers Community Centre

Playgroup

8/2/14

Dunwoody's

Nikki the Clown Face Painting

9.30am

4032 2844

Cost

0408 183 032

Free

4053 9305

$3

0408 183 032

Free

8/2/14

Cairns Convention Centre

Taipans vs Townsville Crocs

6.00pm

4052 1152

Cost

8/2/14

Smithfield Conservation Park

Poker Trail Run

4.00pm

0450 324 637

Free

8/2/14

Cairns Civic Theatre

Phantom of The Opera

6.30pm

1300 855 835

Cost

8/2/14

Jute Theatre Company

Propelled

7.30pm

4050 9444

Cost

4067 1438

8/2/14

Babinda Munro Theatre

The Hobbit

7.30pm

8/2/14

Trinity Beach Tavern

Flip Ripley - Clowning

5.30pm 7.30pm

9/2/14

Babinda Munro Theatre

The Hobbit

9/2/14

AJ Hackett Cairns - Sunday Arvo

Live Band - Vikarious

Kids MINI MAG

COST Free

$8 Free

4067 1438

$8

1800 622 889

Free

11/2/14

Stratford Library

Storytime

10.30am

4044 3733

Free

11/2/14

Manunda Library

Classroom Canines - a reading confidence program for kids

4.00pm

4044 3785

Free

11/2/14

Earlville Library

Family History for Beginners (basic computer skills are required)

10.30am

4044 3766

Cost

11/2/14

Cairns Central

Mummy Pak Panel

9.00am

4053 3331

Free

12/2/14

Little Diggers Community Centre

Playgroup

9.30am

4053 9305

$3

12/2/14

City Library

Storytime

10.30am

4044 3720

Free

12/2/14

Mount Sheridan Tavern

Trivia Night

6.00pm

4053 3331

Free

13/2/14

Smithfield Library

Storytime

10.30am

4044 3711

Free

4053 3331

Free

14/2/14

Brothers Leagues Club

PakMag's 'Share the Love' Networking Event for business owners

9.30am

14/2/14

Cazalys Cairns

Valentines Day Band Sweet K

6.00pm

14/2/14

Cairns Civic Theatre

The Umbilical Brothers

7.00pm

ticketlink.com.au/events

$44

14/2/14

Cairns Indoor Sports

Tiny Tots

9.00am

4032 2844

$7

Free Peppa Pig Š Astley Baker Davies Ltd / Entertainment One UK Ltd 2003. All Rights Reserved.

February FUN Activities Colour in and you could WIN a Peppa pig prize!

26

www.pakmag.com.au

WIN

Fun activities & prizes to win

Crackles "JOKES" www.pakmag.com.au

27

page 30 For a great laugh go to

colour IN & Win!

Colour In & you could WIN a Create and Play with Peppa Pig Rocket Dough Set Top of Form $29.99 RRP This fun filled set includes 2 pots of dough, 2 Peppa Pig character moulds, 2 cutting tools and dough shooter.

Available now at all ABC stores and online at shop.abc.net.au

Peppa Pig © Astley Baker Davies Ltd / Entertainment One UK Ltd 2003. All Rights Reserved.

To enter colour-it-in & mail to:

Name: Age:

PAKMAG, Colour-it-in February 2014

Parent/Guardian:

PO Box 7433, Cairns QLD 4870 & you could WIN a Create and Play with Peppa Pig Rocket Dough Set Top of Form $29.99 RRP

28

(Competition Closes 18/02/14) www.pakmag.com.au

Address: Phone:

Email: Peppa Pig © Astley Baker Davies Ltd / Entertainment One UK Ltd 2003. All Rights Reserved.

www.pakmag.com.au

29

CHRIS'S PICK

[1] So you and your family have

[4] Do you like trying new things? Do

come out to Australia. What are

you ever get scared? It's fun to try new

you looking forward to doing when

things! Sometimes I get a bit scared

you're here?

but it's alright because Daddy Pig and

My friend Kylie Kangaroo lives in

Mummy Pig and George are with me!

Australia, I'm excited to see her, and

[5] Have you come across any muddle

make lots of new friends!

Exclusive Interview

[2] What do you like best about

very much here like it does at home, so

travelling? It's fun to see new places

there aren't that many muddy puddles.

and meet new people! I like sending postcards to Granny and Grandpa Pig and Goldie the fish too!

[3] Does your brother George go

Peppa Pig Š Astley Baker Davies Ltd / Entertainment One UK Ltd 2003. All Rights Reserved.

Crackles "JOKES" Q: What did the boy octopus say to the girl octopus?

A. Can I hold your hand, hand, hand, hand, hand, hand?

Q. Do skunks celebrate Valentine's Day? A. Sure, they're very scent-imental!

WIN!

30

puddles down-under? It doesn't rain

[6] Do you have anything you'd like to say to Australia's boys and girls?

Um...hello! I hope you like my show!

And if you do see any muddy puddles

everywhere with you? Yes, and Mr

that you want to jump up and down in,

Dinosaur goes everywhere with him.

remember you must wear your boots!

Q: What do farmers give their wives on Valentine's Day? A. Hogs and Kisses!

Q: What did the chocolate syrup say to the ice cream?

"Get your kids to sign on for the AFL Juniors on 16 February."

DATE 14/2/14

VENUE Cairns Indoor Sports

ENTERTAINMENT/EVENT NAME Milo In2 Cricket

eventGUIDE TIME 5.00pm

FOR MORE INFO 4032 2844

COST Cost

14/2/14

Smithfield Library

Classroom Canines - a reading confidence program for kids

3.30pm

4044 3736

Free

14/2/14

Mount sheridan Tavern

Facepainting

6.00pm

4053 3331

Free

14/2/14

Trinity Beach Tavern

Flip Ripley - Clowning

5.30pm

14/2/14

Little Diggers Community Centre

Playgroup

9.30am

4053 9305

$3

0408 183 032

Free

15/2/14

Mareeba Leagues

Barbary Coasters Duo

7.00pm

15/2/14

Dunwoody's

Flip Ripley - Tropical Magician

6.00pm

15/2/14

Craft n Sewing Studio

Card Making

9.30am

16/2/14

AJ Hackett Cairns - Sunday Arvo

Live Band - Big Noise

Free

Free enquiries@craftnsewing.com.au

Cost

1800 622 889

Free

16/2/14

Yorkey's Knob Boating Club

Barbary Coasters Duo

1.00pm

0408 183 032

Free

16/2/14

North Cairns Watsons Oval

AFL Cairns Juniors Sign On Day

10.00am

0410 042 687

Free

16/2/14

Central TB: Crathern Park

AFL Cairns Juniors Sign On Day

10.00am

0418 990 481

Free

16/2/04

Pyramind Power : Power Park Gordonvale

AFL Cairns Juniors Sign On Day

9.00am

0417 736 891

Free

16/2/14

Cairns City Lions : Redlynch Sporting Complex

AFL Cairns Juniors Sign On Day

10.00am

0448 736 891

Free

16/2/14

Cairns Hawks: Hawks Bar Cazalys

AFL Cairns Juniors Sign On Day

10.00am

0409 469 230

Free

16/2/14

Port Douglas Sporting Complex

AFL Cairns Juniors Sign On Day

10.00am

0437 290 507

Free

16/2/14

South Cairns : Fretwell Park

AFL Cairns Juniors Sign On Day

10.00am

0447 332 614

Free

16/2/14

Cairns Saints : Griffith Park

AFL Cairns Juniors Sign On Day

10.00am

0457 236 561

Free

16/2/14

Cairns Recreation Centre

Junior Roller Derby

11.00am

0424 657 018

$15

18/2/14

Babinda Library

Storytime

10.30am

4067 1112

Free

18/2/14

Smithfield Library

Storytime & craft

10.30am

4044 3711

Free

18/2/14

Manunda Library

Classroom Canines - a reading confidence program for kids

4.00pm

4044 3785

Free

19/2/14

Mount Sheridan Tavern

Trivia Night

6.00pm

4053 3331

Free

19/2/14

Gordonvale Library

Family History for Beginners (basic computer skills are required)

10.30am

4056 1365

$2.50

19/2/14

Little Diggers Community Centre

Playgroup

9.30am

4053 9305

$3 Free

20/2/14

Stratford Library

Baby Rhyme Time

10.30am

4044 3733

20/2/14

Cairns Regional Gallery

Exhibition Talk - To The Islands

6.00pm

shop@cairnsregionalgallery.com.au

Free

20/2/14

Manunda Library

Email Basics B (completion of Email Basics A is required)

10.30am

4044 3779

$2.50

20/2/14

Earlville Library

Facebook 101 (basic computer skills required)

10.30am

4044 3766

$2.50

21/2/14

Trinity Beach Hotel

Nikki the Clown Face Painting

6.00pm

0408 183 032

Free

21/2/14

Cairns Convention Centre

Taipans vs Sydney Kings

6.00pm

4052 1152

Cost

21/2/14

Cairns Indoor Sports

Tiny Tots

9.00am

4032 2844

$7

21/2/14

Cairns Indoor Sports

Milo In2 Cricket

5.00pm

4032 2844

Cost

A. "I'm sweet on you!"

Q: What kind of flowers do you never give on Valentine's Day? A. Cauliflowers!

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: competitions@pakmag.com.au www.pakmag.com.au

www.pakmag.com.au

31

eventGUIDE February 2013 DATE 21/2/14

pink = family

VENUE Smithfield Library

green = kids

ENTERTAINMENT/EVENT NAME Classroom Canines - a reading confidence program for kids

TIME 3.30pm

blue = adults

FOR MORE INFO 4044 3736

COST Free

21/2/14

Little Diggers Community Centre

Playgroup

9.30am

4053 9305

$3

21/2/14

Mount Sheridan Tavern

Facepainting

6.00pm

4053 3331

Free

22/2/14

Craft n Sewing Studio

Beading & Jewellery Making

10.00am

enquiries@craftnsewing.com.au

Cost

22/2/14

Dunwoody's

Nikki the Clown Face Painting

6.00pm

0408 183 032

Free

22/2/14

Trinity Beach Tavern

Flip The Clown

5.30pm

Free

23/2/14

Cairns Convention Centre

Flip Ripley Rainbow Clown

9.00am

Free

11.00am

23/2/14

The Pier Cairns

NQ Wedding & Formal EXPO

23/2/14

AJ Hackett Cairns - Sunday Arvo

Live Band - Tallpoppies

4053 4577

Free

1800 622 889

Free

23/2/14

Cairns Convention Centre Flight Centre Expo

Nikki the Clown Face Painting

9.00am

0408 183 032

Free

25/2/14

Manunda Library

Baby Rhyme Time

10.30am

4044 3779

Free

25/2/14

Mount Sheridan

Vision Board Workshop

6.30pm

0414 480 934

$45

26/2/14

City Library

Baby Rhyme Time

10.30am

4044 3720

Free

26/2/14

Stratford Library

Internet Basics - for beginners (basic computing skills required)

10.30am

4044 3733

$2.50

26/2/14

Mount Sheridan Tavern

Trivia Night

6.00pm

4053 3331

Free

26/2/14

Little Diggers Community Centre

Playgroup

9.30am

4053 9305

$3

27/2/14

Earlville Library

Storytime

10.30am

4044 3766

Free

27/2/14

City Library

Computer Basics - new computer users

10.30am

4044 3720

$2.50

28/2/14

Cairns Indoor Sports

Tiny Tots

9.00am

4032 2844

$7

28/2/14

Cairns Indoor Sports

Milo In 2 Cricket

5.00pm

4032 2844

Cost

28/2/14

Cairns Civic Theatre

Roy Orbison & Del shannon ( Dean Bourne & Fallon)

8.00pm

1300 855 835

Cost

28/2/14

Smithfield Library

Classroom Canines - a reading confidence program for kids

3.30pm

4044 3736

Free

28/2/14

Mount Sheridan Tavern

Facepainting

6.00pm

4053 3331

Free

4053 9305

$3

28/2/14

Trinity Beach Tavern

Flip Ripley Clowning

6.00pm

28/2/14

Little Diggers Community Centre

Playgroup

9.30am

Free

Go to pakmag.com.au for more events and market info

32

www.pakmag.com.au

www.pakmag.com.au

33

By Jill Green

SIDS

&Kids

Safe Sleeping Babies spend a lot of their time sleeping. But some sleeping arrangements are not safe and can increase the risk of sudden unexpected death in infancy (SUDI), which includes sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS) and fatal sleeping accidents.

Fortunately, researchers have identified certain

from birth, on a firm, flat (not tilted or elevated)

of sudden infant death. Remove pillows, doonas,

risk factors that, when removed, create a safe

surface. It is also important that all baby sitters

loose bedding or fabric, lambswool, bumpers

sleeping environment for babies. There are six

are instructed to sleep your baby on their back

and soft toys from the cot.

ways to reduce the risk of SUDI:

too since babies who are used to sleeping on

[1] Sleep baby on the back from birth, not on the tummy or side [2] Sleep baby with head and face uncovered [3] Keep baby smoke free before birth and after [4] Provide a safe sleeping environment night and day

to reduce the risk of SUDI. SIDS and Kids recommends sleeping baby in their own sleeping

Your baby’s face and head also needs to stay

place in the same room as an adult caregiver for

uncovered during sleep as this reduces the risk of

the first six to 12 months.

SUDI. Research shows that soft bedding or loose bedding may cover the baby’s face and lead to airway obstruction, carbon dioxide re-breathing or overheating. A good way to ensure your baby’s

Breastfeeding has also been shown to reduce infant illness and death worldwide. The evidence that breastfeeding has a protective effect against SUDI has been gathering over many years and

face and head stay uncovered is to put their feet

the same room as an adult caregiver for the first

at the bottom of the cot so they can’t slip down

six to twelve months

under the bedding. You might decide not to

[6] Breastfeed

use blankets at all and instead use a safe baby

[7] The safest position to sleep your baby is on

and no hood.

Jill Green is the National Co-ordinator of

To provide a safe sleeping environment use a

Health Promotion and Bereavement Support

of SIDS and fatal sleeping accidents. The chance of babies dying suddenly and unexpectedly is greater if they sleep on their tummies or sides so always place your baby on their back to sleep, www.pakmag.com.au

tummy or side are at an increased risk of SIDS.

Room sharing with a baby has been shown

[5] Sleep baby in their own safe sleeping place in

their back for every sleep. This reduces the risk

34

their back and are placed to sleep on their

recent studies show that there is now strong evidence that breastfeeding reduces the risk of sudden and unexpected infant death.

sleeping bag – one with fitted neck, arm holes

safe cot (it should meet current Australian New

at SIDS and Kids Australia. For more

Zealand Standard AS2172), a safe mattress – firm,

information on infant safe sleeping, visit

clean, flat, right size for cot, and safe bedding.

www.sidsandkids.org/safe-sleeping

Soft surfaces and bulky bedding increase the risk www.pakmag.com.au

35

Baby

Baby books

WATER Safety

review

February 2013

NEW Book

WIN with Dreambaby®

ADOPTION Changes Many would-be parents were thrilled to hear the government recently announce that they intended making it easier for Australians to adopt children from overseas orphanages.

The Prime Minister has ordered the

the lowest adoption rates in the world.

Department of the Prime Minister and

We also have a very low rate of children

Cabinet to establish an interdepartmental

in foster care being adopted. There are

committee on overseas adoption.

currently over 20,000 children in out-of-

Speaking at a press conference he said,

home/foster care in Australia but only 100

"The committee will consult extensively

were adopted out of care last year despite

and report to me in March 2014 including

the fact that it has been proven to provide

on the immediate steps that could be

better outcomes for the children.

taken to make inter-country adoption easier and faster for Australian couples."

Given that the state and federal governments failed to implement the

Campaigners have criticised Australia’s

recommendations from Coalition MP

"anti-adoption culture" with bureaucratic

Bronwyn Bishop’s review in 2005, it

hurdles and invasive processes being

remains to be seen whether our adoption

blamed for the fact that we have one of

laws will actually change.

Gift

idea

Toddler water safety has been back in the headlines after several drownings occurred this summer.

With natural fibres and wood back on trend for home interiors, Dreambaby® has launched a new range of wooden-inspired gates that are in keeping with this trend and offer parents a stylish safety option for their homes. The Dreambaby® Savannah Gate is a mix of new and old, with a metal frame and timber door construction. This gate is pressure mounted with features that include: • Extendable to 167.5cm (66”) • Easy close system • Opening direction can be restricted • Swings opens in both directions • One-handed opening • 2 step handle – push and lift • Product code F2009. RRP $149.00

The Royal Life Saving Society’s 2013 Drowning Report also showed an increase in drowning deaths in toddlers, a reversal of the consistent downward trend in previous years.

Babies can drown in as little as 5cm (two inches) of water and Royal Life Saving says a

WIN

Dreambaby® are giving you the chance to WIN a Savannah Gate! To enter go to www.pakmag.com.au and tell us what Dreambaby® are experts in?

Safety Tips: [1] Never leave young children alone in the

bath tub.

[2] Empty the bath as soon as you’ve taken

your child out.

lack of adult supervision is still the number

[3] Make sure your pool or ponds are securely

one issue in child drowning. Falls into water

accounted for 81 per cent of all drowning deaths in the under five age group.

Royal Life Saving says many of the drowning incidents occur when adults are distracted attending to other children, watching TV, performing daily chores or mistakenly think

The Mum Who Roared

by Christie Nicholas

fenced off.

[4] Always watch toddlers when they're

This is a fantastic A-Z guide on how to love your

mind, body and attitude after having a baby. For

playing in or with water.

[5] Secure your garden so your children can’t

get into neighbouring gardens where

there may be hazards.

mums who feel overwhelmed, have lost their identity, want their sex life back, want to feel more in control and happier, then this is the book for you. RRP $29.99

someone else is supervising the child.

Redlynch

KINDY

CCB Approved • EnroL today • 3-5 yeAr olds

VotEd “Best Childcare Centre” in PakMag’s Best of Cairns awards

Learning through Play each & every day

For more information visit www.redlynchkindy.com.au or call 4055 1814 or email redlynchkindy@bigpond.com

36

www.pakmag.com.au

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37

Ages &

Making Friends

by Megan Colahan

Stages New Books

New Release Parenting Books

Unbullyable: Bullying Solutions for Parents and Children

By Sue Anderson Sue Anderson works professionally with people affected by bullying (both bullies and targets) and runs workshops for parents and teachers. Her book provides a simple, step-by-step guide to stop the bullying process. Available through Amazon or www.unbullyabe.com.au. RRP $30

Beyond Cyberbullying: An Essential Guide for Parenting in the Digital Age

Kylie Stokes

Personal Travel Manager T: 1300 724 199 E: kylie.stokes@travelmanagers.com.au www.my.travelmanager.com.au/KylieStokes

By Michael Carr-Greg

Specialising in family holidays worldwide License No: QLD: 3168806 ACN: 113 085 626 Member: IATA, AFTA, ICCA Accredited Consultant

A must-have for families with a discussion on laws you need to know about social media, downloading apps, cyberbullying, online predators, online video games, websites and online safety tips. RRP $19.99

Why Can’t I Tickle Myself?

By Gemma Elwin Harris Not sure why the sky is blue or how dreams are made? This reference book has the experts answers to really tricky questions posed by primary school children.

RRP $19.99

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www.pakmag.com.au

Learning to make friendships is a lifelong skill that usually starts around the age of four or five. All children will have friendship problems at some stage in their lives and some children take longer to develop friendship skills.

Although you can’t make friends for your child there are a number of things you can try to help them develop friendship skills: • Provide opportunities for them to socialise with peers outside of school.

Invite children over for play dates and model how to manage conflicts with other children • Think about signing them up for some after school activities that encourage socialising with other children e.g. drama or art classes, team sports.

• Listen and empathise with them about how it hurts to not feel included but help

TEENS & Alcohol

them understand that it takes time to make friends • Talk to your child about their strengths and encourage them to feel confident.

• Show them how to be a good friend.

Model kind behaviour towards others, show a sense of humour, compliment others and display good listening behaviours.

• Some children need extra help developing social skills. If you think this is the case with your child consider talking to his teacher or support staff at the school.

by Denise Bewert

It’s estimated that about 25 per cent of young people aged 15-24 drink alcohol to a level that’s risky for their health. The latest research shows that Year 12 girls are drinking 30 per cent more alcohol than Year 12 boys.

Teens get most of their alcohol from family members. Some parents will be dismayed to discover that their young teens are able to access alcohol more easily at friends places so it may be timely to discuss the legal drinking age and the damage that alcohol does to growing brains, livers and kidneys with them.

If you do find that your teen has a hangover after being in the care of others, discuss your concerns and feelings once your emotions are under control. Regular discussions with teens about alcohol may help them manage their drinking behaviour and avoid some of the pitfalls that can happen with teenagers and drinking. www.pakmag.com.au

39

Home edition

Living Room

FEB 2013

TIP Extra seating can be made available with occasional

Design Tips

chairs or an ottoman.

Functional Stylish Living Rooms

Lounge Room from Bold Interiors

Family h ub

Entertainment/Storage Design Factors

Seating

How you use this area of your home and how you interact within it will dictate how it should be designed. Consider these questions:

Obviously your choice of seating is largely determined by how much space you have. Consider the number of family members who will be using the space and then factor in the number and frequency of guests. Large modular corner lounges are an ideal way to comfortably seat the family, but shop carefully, as some can be visually imposing. For extra seating add an occasional chair or an ottoman.

• How do your family and guests use this living space?

Story thanks to BOLD Interiors

• Do the kids retreat to the living room whilst the parents head to the outdoor room area?

The living room is the hub of the

• Does everyone sit together all at once or is it staggered seating through the duration of an evening?

home where the family can gather to unwind, socialise, watch TV, read or have a comfy afternoon kip 40

www.pakmag.com.au

• Do you have a separate living room area allowing this zone to be used for more formal occasions?

Most living rooms are also media rooms so look for technology that can be integrated into an entertainment unit or joinery so that it is a feature but doesn’t dominate the room. Cleverly designed

Design

Ideas

side tables and coffee tables can also provide additional storage in a living room.

If you want a customised solution that suits your individual cabinetry requirements, talk to an interior designer to save time.

Comfort Comfort should not be limited to seating.

Think about placing a soft rug underfoot introduce textured scatter cushions and add a plush throw. These are a great way to bring pattern and vibrancy to a space. www.pakmag.com.au

41

Home edition

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

Design Tips

Quality built with pride

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.)

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

80 Aumuller St • Phone 4035 2000 • Email sales@cwp.com.au

diyhome

By Sofie Buchholz

Have you got a sports crazed child? Then why not use this passion as the inspiration for some unique sports-themed decoration.

These ideas are fun and cheap to make if you use second hand or recycled equipment. We were inspired by last month’s Australian Open to make this racquet decoration using a $15 shuttlecock set, black spray paint and wool.

oPening hours

Wholesale Paint Cairns

SportThemed Room

• 16 years local building industry experience • FREE QuotEs to the Cairns and FNQ region Call 4056 3089 or visit www.ashleejoneshomes.com.au

To Make: Spray paint each side of the racquet in a well-ventilated area (eg. outside). Two coats are usually required for optimal colour intensity.

Using a single strand of wool, plan out the letter on the racquet string. Count the strings to help position your letter in the middle of the racquet. Once you are happy with your letter shape and position, wind multiple layers of wool through the string to create a thick overall line.

To secure, tie the wool to itself at the back of your letter.

Other Sporting Ideas: If your child’s not into tennis, here are some other DIY sports bedroom ideas.

BMX: Recycle old bike wheels from bikes found at the ‘Tip Shop’ and mount to the wall to create a bespoke pegboard or artistic decoration. You could also mount multiple wheels spray-painted in different colours for an eye catching effect.

Cricket: Use inexpensive cricket bats from Kmart or Big W and mount to the wall, flat side facing up, using metal brackets to create shelves. These could display books and trophies.

Netball: Make a ‘bib’ style wall hanging displaying your child’s initials.

Ballet: Purchase some inexpensive ballet flats or ‘Jiffy’s’ and attach ribbon to the back of the shoe to resemble point shoes. These could be hung as a group from the bedroom ceiling as decoration.

DIY Materials: Shuttlecock set, Big W, $15 • Acrylic wool, Spotlight , $3 - $6 per ball • Black spray paint, Bunnings, $3 - $20 per can

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43

Travel February 2013

guide

Heaven forKids

Travel

ideas

Planning a trip to the Gold Coast this year? Paradise Resort is the gold standard in family accommodation heaven for kids and paradise for parents The Gold Coast is a mecca for action-packed family holidays but if you’re staying at the fantastic Paradise Resort Gold Coast, you may not need to venture outside at all since there’s plenty to entertain the kids right inside the resort. Kids aren’t just welcome here – the whole place has been designed to be a heaven for kids, so much so that it’s also paradise for parents!

When you arrive it won’t take long for the kids to find where the action is. The central area of the resort features a large lagoon pool and two enormous aqua play attractions - a giant bucket tipping water in an enormous splash and an attraction that is three stories high complete with slides and water cannons. As if the Waterpark wasn’t enough to entertain the kids for hours on end – you can also add ice-skating to your itinerary. ‘Planet Chill’ is a permanent ice-skating rink that’s located at the resort all year round.

The family friendly activities don’t stop there. Paradise Resort also has a fully supervised kids club called Zone 4 Kids Club, which allows parents to nip off for kid-free time. Every accommodation package has one free session per day per child. Open year round, Zone 4 Kids Club has age appropriate activities for babies and toddlers through to 12 year olds. It includes a mini-fun park featuring themed play spaces such as Astro’s Space Station with pedal powered space buggies, Underwater World with submarines and slides and Dusty’s Safari where kids can explore the jungles of Asia.

If you’ve still got some energy to burn off after all that, the resort also offers an extensive daily entertainment program

Spec ial OFFER

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www.pakmag.com.au

Right now Paradise Resort has an offer which includes a FREE Family r Pass to Dreamworld & WhiteWate nt World, $100 Resort Credit + discou s. It vouchers with over $180 in saving y is only available for a limited time onl u so visit www.paradiseresort.com.a or phone 1800 074 111 to book.

with something different on every day for kids and families.

Activities include cupcake decorating, t-shirt design, plaster art, rock climbing, pool noodle races, poolside movies, a bingo night, family trivia and a range of live entertainment.

So what can parents do with all their child-free time? You can either pop outside the resort unhindered by ankle biters or, if you want to relax, there is an exclusive Zone 4 Adults outdoor spa area. This features a large heated spa and comfy lounge chairs to soak up some sunshine in peace and quiet.

There is nowhere more family friendly than Paradise Resort Gold Coast and if it’s possible for kids to have too much fun, this place is where it’s going to happen! www.pakmag.com.au

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Sign up for

Sports It’s not too late for your kids to join sports or activities for this term.

Many classes allow new enrolments and trial lessons during term time so if your child wants to try a new activity, sign them up!

[1] Brad Hope Family Martial Arts

[4] AFL Cairns Juniors

[6] Little Snappers Swim School

Martial arts tuition for children 3–15 years (as well as adults). Free, no obligation trial lessons available. Cost: $129 enrolment that includes the uniform. Call Brad on 4057 7869 or for more info go to www.bradhopefma.com.au

AFL Cairns Juniors has eight junior clubs with these age groups: Under 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 14, 16 and 18's. The season runs early March-end August. Sign on day is 16 Feb (see our what’s on guide for more details). For more information go to www.cairnsjuniors.aflq.com.au

Learn To Swim classes through to squads specialising in stroke correction. Start anytime.

Cost $16 per class (must book for the term). Call 4038 1241 or go to www.littlesnappers.com.au

[5] Awesome Cheerleading

Hip Hop, Jazz, Funk and Contemporary classes available for kids aged three years and up. Classes start 3 February. Call Deborah on 0407 995 182 or go to www.backstreetdance.com.au

[2] Barron Valley Gymnastics Recreation and competitive gymnastics classes.

Kids can start anytime during term time. Call Kerri on 4055 1711 or go to www.bvgc.asn.au

[3] Cairns Indoor Sports Indoor Cricket, Netball, Soccer, Beach Volleyball and Dodgeball for all ages. For info call 4032 2844 or go to www.cairnsindoorsports.com.au

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American Style Cheerleading, Dancing, Tumbling, Kindycheer, Acrobatics, Sports Aerobics and Open Gym. Classes run during school terms; join anytime. For more information call Tamara Manning on 0402 225 630 or go to their website at www.awesomecheerleading.com

[7] Backstreet Dance

[8] Little Lifesavers Term 1 runs from 8 February- 29 March.

For further information and to enrol email littlelifesavers@lifesaving.com.au

[9] Dancehouse

[15] Nexus Combined Martial Arts

[21] Turning Pointe Dance Studios

Dance classes in classical ballet, jazz, tap & contemporary dance as well as new Mummy & Me classes. There are classes for kids aged two up to adults. Term starts 3 February. Location: 56 Cheviot St, Smithfield. Sign on day is Sat 1 Feb or via their website at www.dancehouse.net.au.

Call Julie on 0409 577 350 for more information.

Martial arts classes available for kids from toddlers upwards. Start anytime. Cost: $40 per fortnight plus enrolment fee. Free trial class available. Call 4038 3348 for more information or email admin@nexuscombinedma.com.au

Classes in Baby Ballet (3yrs), Kinder Ballet (4yrs), Classical Ballet, Tap, Jazz, Contemporary, Acrobatics, Pilates, Vocal Coaching and Hip Hop. Term starts 1 February. Cost: from $9. Call 4031 3390 or 0409 642 446 for more information or go to www.turningpointe.com.au

[10] PCYC Cairns Gymnastics, Kindy Kids, Boxing, Tae Kwon Do and other classes can be joined anytime. For more information call 4053 1532 or go to www.pcyc.org.au/cairns

Learn to Swim and swimming squads run during term time for children of all ages. Cost: $125 for Learn to Swim (10 weeks), squad passes $8 per coached lesson (first trial is free). Call Donna on 4054 1964 for more information or email dmsalecich@gmail.com

[11] FNQ Dance Academy

[17] C-Me Swim

Playdance, ballet, tap, modern, jazz, contemporary and hiphop classes available for kids aged 2+ starting from 3 February. Cost: From $8.50 per lesson. Call Sarah on 4051 4888 or email sarah@fnqdanceacademy.com.au

Learn to swim programs through to squad swimmers. Classes run weekdays (8am-5.30pm) and Saturdays (8am-12.30pm). Babies can start from five months of age. Students welcome to start anytime. Cost: $17.50 per class. Call 4053 2549 or go to www.cmeswim.com.au for info.

[12] Cairns BMX Club Kids as young as two can get involved in the BMX club. Kids classes run every Tuesday: Mini-wheelers (4.30pm), Sprockets (5.15pm) and kids aged 8+ (6.15pm). Cost: membership fees and levy’s apply. For more information contact Deanna on 0407 046 464 or go to www. cairnsbmx.org.au

[13] Dance 2XS

[16] Woree Sport & Aquatic Centre

[18] Junior Roller Derby Suitable for kids aged 7-17 years. Sign on day 16 February (11am-2pm) at Cairns Recreation Centre (you will need to pay $15 entry fee). Take a helmet and any protective pads you have. Call 0424 657 018 for more information.

[19] Aspire Golf

Cheerleading, Funky Jazz, Kindy Dance for 3 year olds and Tumbling & Acrobatics classes are held weekdays at the PCYC and start anytime. Cost: $12-14 per class. Call Kath on 4033 5315 or go to www.dance2xs.net.au

Junior golf coaching available at Paradise Palms for 5-14 year olds. Sign on day and start of the season 3 February. Training days: 4pm Mondays. Cost: $12 per child. Contact Graham at gbolton@pgamember.org.au for more information or go to aspiregolf.com.au

[14] Dancescapes

[20] South Cairns Gymnastics

Dance classes for kids aged 4+ starting Monday 3 February at Redlynch Hall. Cost: $11.50 for juniors, $12.50 for seniors. all June on 0412 576 272 or email jv@dancescapes.com.au

Gymnastic classes for different age groups from KinderGym upward (2+). Trampoline also available for kids aged 8+. Go to page 51 for more info or go to www.fnqgymsports.com.au

[22] Junior NRL New players should make contact with the local club in your area via the www.sportingpulse. com.au website (follow links through to Cairns district and junior clubs). You will need proof of age. Most sign-on days are 9 February. Returning players can sign on online.

[23] Ready Steady Go Kids Multi-sport and exercise program that introduces young kids (2-6 years) to 10 different sports.

Classes run at the PCYC Manunda, Cairns State High School and Fretwell Park Sporting Complex.

Cost: $16.75. Free trial class available. Call 0409 639 455 for more information or email Brenda@ readysteadygokids.com.au

[24] Crystal Cascades Horse Park Horse riding lessons for kids starting from age five. They must have a private lesson first to assess their riding ability and then they’re placed in groups with a maximum of four riders. Weekly lessons recommended. For more information go to www.crystalcascadeshorsepark.com.au for or call 4039 3143.

[25] Go Bowling The Roll ‘n Strike coaching league is a ten week program for kids aged 7+. Cost: $15 per week (first five weeks are free). It includes games, coaching, team t-shirt, discount card & sports membership. Dates: Fridays 4pm & Saturdays 9.30am. Call 4053 3497 for more information.

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47

By Rachel Holliday

12

50

KIDS Sports

On the Ball Is your 6-9 year old little girl full of energy? Then why not put it to the test and enrol them in this exciting basketball program and start the year with a bounce.

As the home of the first grade national Taipans

Girls on the Ball is run by Cairns Basketball

the Cairns Dolphins. The Dolphins are an Under

team, its only fair to expect that Cairns should

with sessions held every Friday night in air-

Twelves team who represent Cairns in inter-

have the best to offer when it comes to

conditioned courts. After joining the program

Queensland competitions and last year took the

opportunities to be involved in the sport of

the girls are assigned to one of the club teams:

Brisbane State Classics by storm, making it all

basketball. And if very tall lanky men come to

Timberwolves, Redlynch, Allstars and Phoenix.

the way to the final. Another highlight for the

mind when you think of this sport - wipe that

The close-knit teams practice together, play

Dolphins came from player Enoler Robin, who

stereotype away, because Cairns Basketball’s

together and most importantly, compete

beat hundreds of girls to be the second highest

‘Girls on the Ball’ program provides a fun, friendly,

together with each of the four club teams taking

scoring player at the Under 12 Queensland

competitive environment for young girls.

part in weekly competitions. This enables players

championships this year.

The Girls on the Ball program was created to promote girls basketball in Cairns and originally stemmed from a meeting of five mums who

training.

The girls in this program have close-knit connections with the Taipans players themselves and even provided half time entertainment at a

Cairns Basketball also offers regular ‘Girls on the

recent game. So if your daughter has a passion

of female participation in this male dominated

Ball Super Camps’ during school holidays. These

for sports, why not enrol her in Cairns Basketball’s

sport, they came up with the idea of training

three-day camps are jam-packed with basketball,

‘Girl On The Ball’ program for a ball of a time!

girls from a young age and ‘Girls on the Ball’ was

fun games and visits from the Cairns Dolphins

born. Coach Myra Donkin believes that “women’s

and Taipans.

throughout the country, whether that be University or professional leagues. By giving girls the chance to train young, they have many opportunities to pursue the sport professionally.” www.pakmag.com.au

together as a team as well as undertaking skills

were all keen basketball players. Seeing a lack

basketball is a sport that has many opportunities

48

to learn positive sportsmanship and how to work

Kids don’t need to be budding pro’s to join in,

For more information visit

since the program accepts girls of all abilities, but

www.cairnsgirlsontheball.com or email

for those that show promise and wish to take it

girlsontheball@hotmail.com

further, this is a pathway towards representing www.pakmag.com.au

49

BIZDirectory

BIZDirectory ads from ONLY $60/MONTH!

Services

entertainment

entertainment

Ready for the next step in Music Education? or Beginner Lessons?

Advertise here for as little as $60/month

By Michelle Dryburgh

Piano Lessons

with Tim Canning & 4053 4145 or 0438 818 668

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IT’S PARTY TIME! PH: 4032 2844

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Manunda EarlvillE WorEE EsplanadE CEntral rEdlynCh sMithfiEld City GordonvalE innisfail

KIDS Sports

Tumblinginto2014

21/11/12 1:31 PM

Cairns’ biggest gymnastics school has jumped head first into the new year with a new name and a fresh new look.

2 Convenient LoCations: Portsmith, 2/79 Fearnley St PHONE: 4035 5054 Trinity Beach, Cnr Aropa St & Cook Hwy PHONE: 4057 8218

South Cairns Gymnastics is the official new title

partnership is already proving to be a success and

developing balance, coordination and body

for the not-for-profit club, formerly known as

is breathing new life into gymnastics in Cairns.”

awareness as well as basic gymnastic skills.

Many of the South Cairns Gymnastics gymnasts

• GymFun - a new class for five to seven year

have their sights set on state competitions this

olds, held after school to help burn off excess

year after competing at regionals in Townsville

energy and ensure a good night’s sleep.

Southside Swallows. Operated by GymSports FNQ, the Edmonton club also has a new logo,

OPEN: Mon-Fri 7am-6pm & Sat 8am-2pm

new classes and a new coaching team for 2014, Mini day spa theme created for 4-13 year olds Pedicures • Manicures • MakeuP & hair

For more info call Rachel 0431 213 971 or visit www.pupstars.com.au

www.tropicalbeauty.com.au & 0402 482 025

Charity

clowns

Flip ripley

Backyard Magic Show

• Bigger ShowS • Themed CharaCTerS • Jumping CaSTle • Balloon SCulpTing • Juggling • uniCyCling • mini-golf • ComiC Singing TelegramS

& 0410 510 095 www.flipripley.com.au

including international coaches from New Zealand, Russia and Japan.

childcare Services

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few young gymnasts making their way through

Manager Karen Magee says it’s an exciting and

the ranks who could aspire to reach the Olympics

promising time for the club, which has overcome

some day.

major financial hurdles since almost folding two years ago. To avoid closure, GymSports FNQ was appointed to manage the club and introduced a professional coaching program to cater for children and teens of all skills levels. Since then, member numbers have almost doubled to more than 400 students and Karen expects numbers will grow even higher this year.

But the focus for most is on having fun, and there’s set to be plenty of that this year with exciting new classes including XtremeGym. “We’re hoping to get a lot of boys into this class, especially the

develops proper technique introducing gymnastics apparatus including the beam, bars, floor, vault, trampoline, rings and the foam pit.

• GymStars - an invite only class for gymnasts ready for a challenge without needing to commit to the competitive program.

Other fun programs on offer this year will include

gymnastics style class which provides progression

beginner and advanced Trampoline for children

into more extreme sports and teaches skills like

eight and over, AcroTumble for 10 and older and

running up walls and doing backsaults. It’s better

GymFit for adults.

for them to practice in a foam pit before doing it

fabulous team of volunteers but to survive the

on the skateboard.”

tough times and really grow it was decided the

Also on offer this year will be: • KinderGym for two to five year olds and their

• Face Painting • Puppets • Balloons • Games • Music • Other costumes available

“The arrangement between the club and previously unheard of, gyms are usually either

• MiniGym for four to five year olds to learn how

4057 8019 or 0408 183 032 www.nikkitheclown.com

not for profit or private businesses. But this

to listen and follow instructions while

GymSports FNQ is something very new and

• GymSkills for eight to 12 year olds that

skaters and rollerbladers,” Karen says. “It’s a street

“The club has always been supported by a

club needed dedicated management,” she said.

50

and Atherton in 2013. Karen says there’s also a

parents to play together.

Karen says new enrolments are welcome any time and people can visit the gym at 93 Robert Road, Bentley Park to learn more or visit www.gymsportsfnq.com.au

www.pakmag.com.au

51

Pets fav

Fav Pet Shot of the month will WIN a bag of Hill’s Pet Food donated by Hill’s and sponsored by Cairns Veterinary Clinic

Cairns Veterinary Clinic

February entries

Maxu loved by Rie & Lee

Wooly Willy Wally

An annual visit to the vet for a check up is a vital part of pet ownership to help treat or prevent any health problems before they become serious illnesses. Health changes can occur much more rapidly in pets and the risks of cancer, diabetes, arthritis, heart disease and other serious conditions all increase with age.

What to expect during your pet’s checkup: • Physical examination – During your pet’s

PRIZE winner

check up an veterinarian will perform a nose to tail examination: Megatron loved by Lachlan

Penny loved by Caleb

• Nose – The nose is examined for rhinitis (inflammation of the nasal passage), a

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

symptom of many possible diseases.

• Mouth – The mouth is checked for bad breath, tartar, inflammation and infections

the air or through contact with a parasite, a

nodes for enlargement, which can be a sign of

virus or fecal matter which is brought inside

infection or disease.

on your shoes, so even indoor pets should

• Abdomen – It’s more than a belly rub! Your

be vaccinated.

vet will be feeling for tumors, signs of pain and

• Preventative Health Check - left

enlarged organs.

untreated, flea, tick and worm infestations

• Skin & coat – Fleas, ticks, mites, skin infections and lumps and bumps can be detected

increase the risk of development of serious health issues. Your vet can advise you about the best product to prevent and/or control

• Joints & spine – Just like us, pets feel their

these nasty critters to ensure your pet remains

loss. Your vet may recommend dental cleaning

age so your pet’s joints and the spine are

parasite free.

and/or extractions and is able to give advice

checked for signs of pain and tenderness.

and products to rid teeth of tartar buildup and achieve good oral hygiene.

Winners

infectious diseases which can be spread via

vet checks muscle tone, weight and lymph

that can make your pet sick and cause tooth

on good nutrition, tooth brushing techniques

prize

• Body – Your pet will enjoy the rub down as the

• Ears - To ensure your pet can still hear that fridge door opening from a mile away, the ears are checked for wax build up, infections and other problems such as ear mites.

• Eyes – The eyes are checked for signs of infection, jaundice, allergies, glaucoma and cataracts.

Whether it is a question about nutrition, behavior

• Heart & lungs – A stethoscope can help

or exercise, Veterinarians and Veterinary Nurses

detect heart murmurs, irregular beats and

have an abundance of knowledge in animal care

lung congestion.

so make the most of your visit by asking plenty of

• Under the tail – When the vet looks under

questions about your pet’s health and well being.

your pet’s tail, they are checking for any anal gland issues, tapeworms and tumors. Usually a temperature reading is taken at this stage.

For more information visit our website at www.cairnsvet.com.au or contact any of

• Vaccinations - Keeping your pet’s

our three convenient locations to make an

vaccinations up-to-date is important to prevent

appointment.

To claim your prize drop into our office on Level 2, 68 Abott Street between 9-5pm Monday to Friday and collect your prize from reception.

Colour in & Win • Savannah Holmes (major prize winner)

FAMILY ORGANISER CALENDAR

• Michele Du Buisson • Sam Lister

• Emma King

• Shallan Walsh • Mia Sciacca

Win a TMNT Pillow Pet

• Sam Yates-Hore

52

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• Alison Raciti www.pakmag.com.au

53

“Share the Love”

out&about

submit your photos

NetworkiNg

email to: photos@pakmag.com.au

You are invited to an informative business networking opportunitY on why your business should be marketing to women.

Join us on Friday 14th February to “share the love” with our guest speakers who will share with you their business and marketing experience.

Jai and Marlies Hobbs born and bred Cairns locals and founders of Paleo Cafe will share their success with opening their Cairns Cafe and expanding the brand across Australia and soon overseas and the launch of the Paleo Cookbook in January 2014.

Kim Kelly owner of The Business Booth is a Senior Business Advisor and an accredited Finance Broker with over 15 years experience in the Banking & Finance industry working with both small and large business. Kim believes it’s the simple things which make the biggest difference.

Friday 14 February 2014 Register your interest through www.pakmag.com.au > Registration is free

Jordan at Go Bowling Mercedes & Lucas at Go Bowling

WIN a sIgNed CoWboys jersey thanks to Telstra Love your sport?

eNTer

NoW

Lisa & Lilly at Stockland

William & Tom at Stockland

Emma, Jessica & Charlie at the Pier

School Holiday fun at the Pier

Email your photo, name/s & location to: photos@pakmag.com.au • Deadline for photos is 18 February for the March 2014 edition of Pakmag Telstra and PakMag are teaming together to give away a signed and framed Cowboys nrL rugby Jersey for sporting clubs or athletes to use as a fundraising prize.

All you have to do to win is go to www.pakmag.com.au and tell us how you will use the jersey for fundraising, which cause it’s for and why you have chosen this particular charitable cause.

Eligible entries will go into the draw to be picked at random.

For more information on how you can enter this competition head to our website: www.pakmag.com.au

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By Michelle Dryburgh

KIDS Dance

First Steps to Dancing The rise of dance and talent competitions on reality TV programs has sparked a revival in the dance industry, with schools across the nation reporting a rise in student numbers.

But with so many styles of dance on offer, parents

“There was nowhere for kids to go where they

training around the age of five. She recommends

can often find themselves feeling confused and

didn’t have to do annual exams, eisteddfods and

children under 10 start with ballet to gain a solid

overwhelmed by the options.

concerts, and there was nowhere for adults like

grounding for all styles of dance.

If your child has shown an interest in dance, the

me to dance either.”

“It is the most appropriate style for younger

first step is to decide on fun or formal dance

Backstreet Dance offers a flexible program,

children to develop dance steps that are used in

classes.

allowing students to learn a new dance style

all other dance styles, but ballet at these younger

each term, followed by a low-key and affordable

ages is not what it was 50 years ago, you won’t

end of term performance at a local hall – and Deb

find any of our five-year-olds standing at the

promises, “There’s no sewing sequins. Our focus

barre repeating the same four counts over and

is on making a difference, having fun in a positive

over,” she says.

Backstreet Dance in Cairns is just one of the dance schools known for its focus on fun. Specialising in jazz, funk, hip hop and contemporary dance, Backstreet’s team of professional and experienced trainers teach correct technique while encouraging students to have fun in a relaxed and friendly environment.

Director Deb Storer established the school in 2009 as a platform for children and adults

environment and feeling good about yourself, not creating elite dancers.”

contemporary, hip hop, tap or ballet, once

fun and fitness as well as examination syllabus

they’ve learnt the basics they can then branch

classes up to semi-professional level.

out to other styles.”

Teaching ballet, tap, modern, jazz, contemporary,

their passion for dance and develop greater

hip-hop, conditioning and pilates, the school was

confidence, body image and self-esteem. She

established by Cairns local Sarah Thorne in 2012

says it was built on the same foundations as her

and has 400 students, aged from 2 to 72.

Cairns for five years prior to pursuing a career as a life coach.

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the style that most interests them. “Be it jazz,

FNQ Dance Academy provides classes both for

of all ages, sizes, and skill levels to explore

original school, Moondust, which she operated in

Sarah recommends older children start with

Sarah says it is never too early or too late to start

Dance schools across Far North Queensland offer open days and appointments to view studios and classes in action. Go to pages 46 and 47 for more information.

dancing, but most students begin formal dance www.pakmag.com.au

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