PakMag Mackay - March 2014 by Grand Publishing

pakmag MAR 2014

M a c k ay

EzEine FMRaga

ISSUE 17

magazine of choice for local families

Home Schooling

When mum's the teacher

Tech

Talk

News & Reviews

Green

living

Cover photo: Photography by Anjeanette

SAVING your wallet and the Planet

Kids

MINI MAG Inside

Event

Guide Complete Guide of March Events

Fun for Tots Local activity guide for our Under 5's

win Two night stay in beautiful Mission Beach

Details page 38

03 welcome

Photo thanks to Ron Darlington

Contents

note

MAR

Hello everyone and welcome to our March edition. Did you know the average four-year old asks between 430–450 questions per day? My son’s latest is “Did you know...?” This mornings question was “Did you know aliens live in outer space?” Small

parents

kids

people have very curious little minds so if you’re looking for some activities

02 What’s New

around town to keep them stimulated,

04 Sibling Wars

check out our list on page 37 of all the activities dedicated to the under 5’s

07 Mackay Christian College

around Mackay.

09 Purple Day

We’ve also got a story about home

10 Home Schooling

schooling for those of you who are

Tech Talk

And with Earth Hour coming up later

PakHealth

this month the focus in our home

Nutrition

PakRecipes

mad enough to even think about it!

section is all about “Going Green”, and it’s easier than you think!

23 Kid’s MiniMag

babies 33 Baby News: Keeping the Cord

things to win

20 Top 5 Things To Do

24 WIN a That!™ Product Pack

everyone you read it in PakMag.

21 What’s On

38 WIN a 2 Night Mission Beach Stay

Angela

23 Mini Mag

Until next time, remember to tell

30 Out & About 33 PakBaby

pakmag Publisher: Bree James Editor: Elaine Seager Publication Manager: Angela Julian NQ Sales & Biz Development: Angelina Mortley Design & Layout: Trina Jensen Articles: Elaine Seager, Jutta Dempsey, Amanda Cranston and submitted writers Mobile: 0427 725 624 Head office Phone: 4053 3331

37 Fun for Tots 38 TRAVEL: Island Views 40 Vet Page / Fav Pets

cover ModelS: Rob & Ella Miller Photography: Thanks to Photography by Anjeanette

41 Kids Artwork 43 HOME 44 HOME: Green Living 47 HOME: Eco Conscious 48 HOME: Painted Plates

Email: mackay@pakmag.com.au Postal: PO Box 1922, Mackay Qld 4740 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.

Find PakMag exclusively in:

www.pakmag.com.au

March what’s new

inBRIEF Biggest Playgroup

Mackay Marina Run Lolly Trees

MEAL Deal! Local mum Carrie Williams has recently started a new

24-28 March

WIN

National Playgroup Week

National Playgroup Week is back this month with playgroups across the State being encouraged to participate through interactive competitions and fun events. Playgroup Queensland is encouraging all Playgroups across Queensland to participate in a creative

business called The Lolly Tree Factory, offering these

Harrup Park Country Club has a special offer for

cool and unique custom designed gifts for any occasion.

PakMag readers - purchase any meal in The

For something a bit different she will create a tree

Bistro during March and receive one

for you made out of whatever products you choose

free meal of up to equal or lesser value.

whether they are lollies, chocolates or tea bags! Go to

You must present your voucher when ordering -

her facebook page (facebook.com/thelollytreefactory)

voucher available on page 14.

to check out some of her other creations. Orders and enquiries can also be made by messaging via the facebook page.

1 June 2014 Raising funds for the Leukaemia Foundation

Cardboard Challenge so unleash your inner child and build something awesome from cardboard boxes for a chance to win a prize pack valued at $1500. To register your Playgroup, visit www.playgroupqld.com.au and complete the online form.

Purple Day Ball

Looking for an excuse for your family to get fitter together?

Baby Welcome Ceremony Sunday 16 March Botanic Gardens

BMA Kidspace

22 March

Registrations are now open for the

• 5km Corporate Challenge

Mackay Marina Run on 1 June which is

• 5km Fun Run

MECC

raising funds for the Leukaemia Foundation,

• 3km Junior Dash

Council’s next special ceremony to welcome new

and there’s an event for everyone to

For more information call Janelle on

babies to the Mackay community is taking place from

participate in:

0400 997 432 or Sandy on 0418 185 344.

10am until noon at the Mackay Regional Botanic

• Mackay Half Marathon

To register online go to their website at

Gardens. Registrations close Friday, 7 March. For more

www.mackaymarinarun.com

information visit www.mackay.qld.gov.au/baby

This bi-annual event raises funds for Epilepsy Services, Education and Research. It is a black tie event with a charity auction, comedy hosts, keynote

• 8km Run

speakers and live entertainment. Tickets cost $150 and include a three-course meal and drinks. Call 4961 9777 for more information.

SANDS Memory Bags 25 March (10am-2pm)

Sands Queensland is seeking donations and volunteers to help produce memory bags that will be given to parents and families grieving after the death

The first major kids and family event of the year at BMA Kidspace is on Tuesday 25 March. In

of their baby.

addition to the creative art activities designed especially for toddlers and their adults, there

If you’ve been directly affected by the death of a baby,

will be live entertainment for the kids from 12pm-1pm. Take your children along for a free fun

contact Sands on 1300 0 sands (1300 072 637) or visit

day of art-making, singing and dancing.

www.sandsqld.com

www.pakmag.com.au

By Jutta Dempsey

#?!%

he researchers found that the effects

[2] Establish rules of behaviour that are not

of mental health distress due to mild

crossed in your home. These should include

sibling bullying tended to be more

putting other people down by using labels

profound for younger kids under nine years

such as ‘dumb’ or ‘hopeless’. Any form of

old - their measures of anxiety, depression and

physical aggression such as hitting or kicking

anger were much higher. A similar study in

must also be a no-no. When the line is crossed,

2012 showed that teens that fought with their

additional consequences need to be in place

brothers and sisters also showed more anxiety,

for the perpetrator, such as loss of technology

depression and/or self-esteem issues.

privileges for the rest of the evening.

Parents are well aware of the affects of bullying

[3] Parents should not be referees in the

on children and consequently when a child is

disputes between their children but allow for a

bullied at school most parents seek and expect

verbal discussion of the problem if the children

intervention by the school to eliminate the

are old enough. A ‘bickering’ table is a great idea

problem. Therefore, rather than dismissing

until the children work it out or 10 minutes is

conflicts at home as ‘part of growing up’, they

up. Conflict resolution skills are taught in this

must question whether their children’s bickering

manner for the children to use independently

really is harmless or whether the conflict is

next time.

crossing over in to chronic verbal and physical abuse.

to feel jealous sometimes, and although Adam

siblings cross over into bullying when:

had a great game, you had a great art exhibit

– there is no to and fro. • The aggression is intended to cause harm and humiliation. • A ‘bully-victim’ dynamic has been established where the weaker sibling will say things under their breath or set up scenarios to get revenge because they cannot stand up to the stronger sibling. • Jealousy festers between siblings due to parents labelling one child in a positive light due to a talent or ability, such as the athlete or brighter one.

Sibling

WARS More

serious than you might think

www.pakmag.com.au

#&@?!%

characteristics of both children i.e. “it’s normal

Normal rivalries and jealousies between

• One child is consistently the victim of another

Brothers and sisters have been taunting and trading blows since Cain and Abel and most families see it as a normal part of growing up. However, new research amongst a sample of 3,600 children aged 17 and under has shown that 32 per cent reported being bullied by siblings. Other studies have revealed the figure to be as high as 78 per cent.

[4] Defuse jealousy and point out the positive

last week.” [5] If there is a cycle of bullying going on in your household, start by setting up a positive reward system where the siblings all get a reward point for cooperating. Children these days have many privileges that they should ‘work’ for by displaying positive behaviour such as being kind to others. Choose privileges that will entice the bully sibling but also motivate the victim so that the victim sibling doesn’t try to undermine the bully. Sibling rivalry gives you an insight into how your child will cope when pushed to the limit or when they are under extreme pressure. You can use these sibling fights to help your children

• One of the siblings needs to be the ‘boss’

learn to manage their emotions and develop

and control others to the point of getting

effective conflict resolution skills.

aggressive and demeaning.

The ramifications of ignoring sibling bullying

It is vitally important for any child’s mental

include an increased risk of psychological

wellbeing that they feel safe and secure in their

problems in your children. Sometimes it may

own home environment so if you’re concerned

be a red flag to indicate underlying disorders

that the sibling bickering going on between

such as Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder,

your children may be crossing over into bullying

Oppositional Defiance Disorder or Generalised

it is important to take immediate steps, just as

Anxiety. In these cases professional assessment

you would expect a school to do.

and therapeutic intervention may be necessary.

Here are some things you can do: [1] Hold both kids accountable for the behaviour by putting them both in time out.

Jutta Dempsey is a psychologist with

This is important because you probably will

over 30 years experience working with

not have seen everything that occurred prior

families and children.

to the altercation and by singling one out for being at fault you may inadvertently cause more resentment. www.pakmag.com.au

Written by Dr Craig Murison

TechnologySafe? The rapidly increasing role of technology in education has caused concern for some parents. Many schools now not only encourage students to have an electronic device for use in the classroom, they actually require it. Notebook computers, iPads, or some sort of Tablet are often on the school’s booklist. When Personal Computers (PC’s) were the device

advantages for learning through rapid access to

[2] Have a clear curfew for mobile phones and

of choice in most homes, parents could locate

information almost anywhere anytime, it is also

other devices. Most phones now come with a

the computer in a central location in the home

true that there is a dark side to technology and

data package. Your child can create a connection

and easily monitor what their children were

parents need to be vigilant in their supervision of

to the internet using their mobile phone. Get

doing on it. Children were not able to move

the use of technology.

your children to surrender their phones to you

Some advice we give parents include:

them in your bedroom with you.

[1] Don’t purchase a 3G or 4G plan for your

[3] Talk to your children about their internet use.

it somewhere more private if they wanted to continue using it after parents had told them to stop, or to go to sites their parents would not approve of. However, the advent of much smaller and more portable devices, coupled with the reduced purchase price of these devices, has made it easier for children to potentially hide what they are doing from parents.

www.pakmag.com.au

child’s device. If they can connect to the internet anywhere without your knowledge it is much more difficult for you to know what they are doing. Instead use a wireless modem or external

at a set time each night. Collect them and keep

Educate them about the dangers and encourage them to let you know about anything they are unsure of.

4 or 4G device to provide internet connection.

[4] Make sure your children understand not to

While there is no doubt that information

Then all you have to do is turn the modem or

put personal information on the internet.

technology has created huge potential

device off to stop internet connection.

www.pakmag.com.au

By Michelle Dryburgh

PurpleDay Forget black tie – the dress code will be purple at this month’s Purple Day Ball in Mackay. The Purple Day Ball on 22 March will raise much-

a professional, but sometimes all you need is

seizure and you’re standing there not knowing

needed money and awareness for epilepsy.

someone to talk to.”

what to do.”

Beryl admits she knew very little about epilepsy

Beryl recommends Epilepsy Queensland as a first

when her infant daughter had her first seizure,

port of call for anyone recently diagnosed with

and she turned to the internet for answers. But

epilepsy. She also encourages people to contact

as Charlotte grew older and medication failed to

her at the Mackay Epilepsy Support Group

Beryl says it’s her way of ‘giving back’ and

control the condition, Beryl suspected doctors

Facebook page or phone 0417 362 093 for local

showing gratitude for the support her daughter

were missing something.

support and information.

“I had a gut feeling that something wasn’t right,

And anyone wanting to help support the group’s

but all of the doctors disagreed,” she recalls. “I had

mission to raise money and awareness for

Charlotte, now seven, had been seizure free for

to get a second opinion so when she was five I

epilepsy research can dress in purple and attend

18 months until January, when extreme heat

went around them all to see a different specialist.

the ball at the MECC on 22 March.

triggered an attack. Her seizures occur suddenly

Charlotte was re-diagnosed in 15 minutes. I burst

and without warning, meaning she can’t be

into tears, but we changed her meds on the day

left unattended, but Beryl says her daughter

and her seizures stopped almost straight away.”

Tickets are $150 and include a three-course

Beryl says she hears of similar situations all too

meal, drinks, live music by Mango Junction

often, and encourages parents to trust their

and entertainment by the Desperate

instincts and seek a second or third opinion if

Housewives. There will also be a number of

they feel something is wrong. “The goal is to stop

silent and live auctions on the night.

It’s the second time co-ordinator Beryl Nielsen has staged the event, following on from the successful inaugural ball in 2012 which raised $11,000 for Epilepsy Queensland.

Charlotte has received since being diagnosed with epilepsy at just four months old.

enjoys a normal, happy childhood. She believes Charlotte’s condition would be far worse without the treatment and ongoing care she has received from medical professionals. “The doctors have done amazing things for

the seizures, and you will stop at nothing to do

us and I felt as though I wasn’t giving enough

that, you can’t give up,” she said.

back,” Beryl says. “So I decided to take on a ball and set up an epilepsy support group. I’m not

www.pakmag.com.au

“It’s very daunting, especially for young mums

Tickets are available at the MECC or online at www.mackayecc.com.au

with babies. They could be having a 45-minute www.pakmag.com.au

By Michelle Dryburgh A growing number of families are choosing an

son, he has a very high sensitivity to visual and

alternative education for their child, and home

auditory stimulation, which adds a lot of stress

schooling is a popular choice for many of them.

and if a child is experiencing high stress levels,

Petra Creutziger is a home schooling mum from

they’re not in a good space for learning.

Townsville and she says it’s the best option for her young son, who has Asperger syndrome.

able to interact with people of different ages

special needs. Petra is part of support group

and backgrounds in a safe and less intimidating

which consists of 75 home-schooling families

environment is far more beneficial.”

could be many more.

Employment reminds parents they are required by law to enrol school-aged children in a state or

home schooling is to establish why they want

non-state school, including distance education,

to do it, and admits it isn’t for everyone. “You do

or register them for home education. Deputy

have to consider your intentions when starting

Director-General, Policy and Programs Nick

home schooling, it’s not enough to want it

Seeley says parents are not required to disclose

just to make your mornings easier,” she says.

their reasons for choosing home education

“Some people home school because of religious

when registering with the department.

to travel, or perhaps a mainstream school hasn’t met their expectations. Once you’re clear on the reason why, everything else will fall into place.”

“The Department of Education, Training and Employment neither encourages nor discourages home education, but recognises home education provides choices to parents

Families then need to decide if they will enrol

in determining the appropriate educational

their child in distance education, or provide the

outcomes for their children,” he says. “The

home schooling themselves. Distance education

department can offer guidance and some

provides children with structured class work

resource information to assist parents with the

and deadlines under the same curriculum as

registration process. However, parents who

mainstream schools, as well as interaction

choose to home educate their children are

with teachers and other students by email and

responsible for planning, implementing, and

phone.

evaluating their child's learning.”

Home schooling is led by the parent or guardian

To register a child for home education, it is a

and can follow a range of teaching styles. Petra

condition that parents provide the department’s

has chosen natural learning for her son. “I am

Home Education Unit a summary of the

quite free to provide an education to my child

educational program or learning philosophy to

the way I want to,” she says. “We tried distance

be used for the home education of the child that

education but found it was too structured.

shows evidence of a high-quality education.

Natural learning allows my child to explore topics more freely. For example he loves movies, so we utilise that interest to cross into other

Schooling

The Department of Education, Training and

She says the first step for families considering

reasons, or to provide their family the freedom

Home

classroom of 30 children of the same age. Being

But home schooling isn’t just for children with

from across the region, and she believes there

subjects, like exploring geography by discussing where movies are set.

Choosing the right school for your child can be a difficult decision and mainstream schooling isn’t the only option. Some parents decide against a school environment and take on the role of teacher at home.

“Socialising is not about being boxed in a

Everything I teach him focuses on life skills. He has difficulty understanding the unwritten rules of society, like facial expressions and body language, as well as the concept of time. So we focus on all of these in a natural way.”

To meet this condition, the parent is required to provide documentation about the proposed educational program or how the learning philosophy will be implemented in the coming year. Planning and application assistance is available at http://education.qld.gov.au/parents/homeeducation/index.html and Petra’s website www. simplyeducation.com.au

Petra is often asked about the lack of social interaction resulting from home schooling her

Petra Creutziger has also launched a

child. But she says a quiet, private environment

website (www.simplyeducation.com.au)

is most conducive to her son’s learning.

and Facebook page to help guide families

“A crowded, noisy classroom is a very stressful environment for any child, with or without

either considering or already providing education at home.

Asperger’s or autism,” she says. “In the case of my

www.pakmag.com.au

Easter pakmag

Extravaganza FrEE EvEnt

TECH Talk NEW App

Think Before You Click

A recent Telstra Cyber Safety survey of our first generation of adult digital natives has discovered that most of them have regrets about things they’ve posted online and that they didn’t realise what the long-term implications would be. Almost all of those surveyed felt that it was vital to educate children and teenagers about social media and its pitfalls. Many also wished their parents had taught them to think about the content of what they’re posting and consider the consequences before posting it. Other research has shown that teenagers prefer to learn about this from parents and teachers rather than their friends.

Hop along to our pakmag easter extravaganza at Caneland Central and join in our easter egg Hunt

Tablets on the Booklist

• easter Bonnet parade • annual easter egg hunt thanks to Dalrymple Bay Coal terminal

Recently launched by Australian business Bizzibrains,

• Visit from the easter Bunny

I Imagine is a unique book app for kids aged 3-8

• Great prizeS for the best dressed easter theme

themselves into it by typing their name, taking a

• Parent & kids lucky door prize

years. They can engage with the story by putting photo and choosing hair and clothing. It has lots of fun interactions and it has educational features too. For more about I Imagine go to www.bizzibrains.com

The PEBBLE™ Smartstick portable battery charger is very handy for those

Sunday 6 april 9.00am

Meet at Caneland Central at 9.00am Sharp (Downstairs outsiDe myer near the escalators)

moments when you’re out and about and your tablet has a flat battery. It charges your portable device on the move without the need for mains power and slots easily into your bag. It charges most popular devices.

Call 4053 3331 or www.pakmag.com.au

visit www.pakmag.com.au

It’s not just pencils and exercise books in the school bag this year – a growing number of schools are introducing ‘Bring Your Own Device’ (BYOD) into the classroom. And, while tablets and laptops may have positive uses in the classroom, parents need to understand the potential risks too. Recent research by Softlink^ revealed that 30 per cent of all Australian schools encourage students to bring their own devices, while 14 per cent of Australian schools encourage the use of personal mobile devices in and outside the classroom. However, most don’t have a formal BYOD policy in place so parents are expected to ensure that children look after them and understand how they should be used. www.pakmag.com.au

Health pak

FLU Shots

news

Epilepsy Purple Day – 26 March An epilepsy awareness campaign will be running later this month to raise awareness of the world’s most common brain function disorder and raise funds for research. Epilepsy comprises a diverse range of disorders with many types of seizures and no single cause. It can be caused by structural abnormalities in the developing brain, infections such as meningitis, a lack of oxygen to the brain during birth. For young children, genetics also play a part since it appears that some people are more prone to developing epilepsy than others. There is currently no cure but 70 per cent of those with epilepsy will be able to control their seizures

Between 10-40 per cent of young children are infected with influenza each year, with almost 1500 needing to be hospitalised.

with medication and live a normal life. For the others it can be severely debilitating.

Biological Clock With the average age of people starting a family

And with widespread reports of influenza in

contracting influenza. The vaccine contains

increasing over the last few decades there has

the northern hemisphere winter this year,

dead influenza virus that can’t give you the

been a lot of attention on how a mother’s age

parents may want to consider vaccinations

illness. In rare cases, a person’s immune

can affect the health of the baby. But researchers

in March or April before any outbreaks

system reacts and they may feel a little

are now beginning to see links between a father’s

occur.

off-colour and get minor symptoms during

age and an increased risk of the child developing

the 24 hours after the vaccine but this is not

certain neurological conditions such as autism and

influenza.

schizophrenia.

Children can become very unwell with influenza. They have the highest rates of admission to intensive care units due to

For more information about

having babies earlier since there are many other

spreaders of influenza within households.

influenza and the influenza vaccine

factors that are a greater risk than age. Improving

go to: www.flusmart.org.au or the

diet, getting more exercise and cutting down on

Influenza Specialist Group’s Facebook

cigarettes and alcohol improve the chances of

Page https://www.facebook.com/

conceiving and having a healthy child for both

InfluenzaSpecialistGroup?ref=hl

parents.

The 2014 flu vaccine is different to last year, as is often the case, because influenza viruses change. It is a myth that having the vaccination can result in a person

www.pakmag.com.au

This doesn’t mean that couples need to start

the infection and they are also the main

www.pakmag.com.au

Nutrition pak

Review Food

Breakfast Bag Food

review

KING of Meals

by Haley Cremer

Breakfast Crowned Most Important Meal I’m sure you have heard the age-old saying

fruit and dairy. For those kids that aren’t the

If your school mornings are hectic Monster Health

‘breakfast is the most important meal of the

biggest fans of breakfast cereals, there are

Food Co. have got the solution for you with their

day’, but how true is this? VERY! This crucial

lots of other options like:

recently released ‘Breakfast in a Bag’ product. You

morning meal packs a punch in regards to childhood nutrition. Aussie kids eating breakfast consume more vitamins, minerals and dietary fibre, and less cholesterol and fat, than those going without. In the last survey of Aussie kids it turns out that one in four are leaving home without eating breakfast but sending an unfed child to school is like not feeding a shark for a

• Fruit smoothie • Home-made wholegrain muffin • Leftovers (i.e. pasta, meat & veggies) – mix

They could also be used as a quick and easy, post school, pre-sport pep up. The berry, sports, tropical and high fibre options

fancy frittata

are all good with good levels of energy, fat and

• Toad in a hole (use egg ring to cut hole in multigrain toast, crack egg in and cook) Parents also need to remember to be a good

of little fish around!

role model and take the time to sit down

child a good start to the day typically

from the bag so it’s perfect for the trip to school!

with an egg and bake in muffin tin for a

month and expecting it to behave with lots

Healthy breaky options that will give your

can add milk or yoghurt or just eat it plain, straight

and enjoy your breakfast too. Those watchful eyes are taking in everything your do!

fibre (4-7g) and they provide more than 5g protein per 60g serve (without milk/yoghurt).

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

include fibre, nutrient rich whole grains,

www.pakmag.com.au

kfast, lunch and loves fruit and would eat it for brea READER QUESTION: My little one day? I’ve heard have too much fruit throughout the dinner if he could! Is it possible to it has sugar in it? Is this true? some people say it’s bad because in this tropical amount of fruit we consume, especially It’s easy to get carried away with the fruit and two of n datio men with the national recom climate. You are most likely familiar serves two only , tose) (fruc r suga contains natural five vegetable serves per day. As fruit food r othe the all from g eatin little fruit bat is are recommended. In your case, if your them go is in a healthy weight range, then let and ach stom t upse an groups, doesn’t get an make can you t, doub in If ps. of other food grou for it! If not, try to encourage intake appointment with a dietitian.

Q&A

nutritionadvice

www.pakmag.com.au

pakmag Guest

pakmag TEAM Favourite Eggplant parmigiana By Hannah Robertson Ingredients 2 large eggplants pakmag 3/4 cup plain flour 3 eggs lightly beaten 2 cups fine breadcrumbs 4 cups tomato passata 1 cup grated parmesan 200g mascarpone 4 anchovy fillets diced for flavour Approx 10-12 square slices of cheese of choice 3/4 cup of chopped oregano and basil leaves

Guest recipe

Hannah'sFav "It is meat free week 24 to 30 March and this is the favourite vegetarian meal in our house. Try it it's delicious!"

www.pakmag.com.au

METHOD Cut eggplant lengthways into 1/2cm slices, dust with flour, dip in egg then breadcrumbs. Begin frying in batches with a little olive oil until golden. Drain on paper towel. Combine the mascarpone, anchovies and half the parmesan. In a lasagna dish layer 1/3 pasata and sprinkle with 1/2 of the parmesan, then a layer of eggplant and top with a few dolloops of the mascapone mixture, a layer of sliced cheese and a sprinkle of herbs. Repeat these layers finishing with a layer of cheese sprinkled with herbs. Cover with foil. When ready bake with foil 25 mins, remove foil and bake for another 15 mins. YUM!!

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Dive in Movie

a Turtle’s Tale

8 March

Pioneer Swimming Pool

K Courtneybab'SiesPIC along “Take your new to the Baby Welcoming Ceremony 16 March”

Mackay Talent

Auditions

eventGUIDE

1 & 2 March (11am-3pm) Community Solutions, 70 Sydney Street

MARCH 2014

pink = family

green = kids

blue = adults

Never been to a dive in movie? You’ll love it! Pioneer

Has the 12-17 year old in your household got a talent to

Swimming Pool will be showing “A Turtle’s Tale - Sammy’s

showcase? Budding singers, dancers, musicians, magicians

Adventure” for the kids. Gates open at 6.30pm. Food and

and comedy artists are all welcome to go along and strut

drink available at the canteen. Tickets available for purchase

their stuff. Successful participants from the auditions will

online at www.starlightscreeningsmackay.com.au

be invited to take part in the Mackay’s Got Talent Final on

1/03/14

BCC Mt Pleasant

Disney Princess Film Festival - Brave

4942 4066

Friday, April 5 at the MECC from 2pm. Mackay’s Got Talent

1/03/14

PCYC Mackay

Drive In Movie - Grease

7.15pm

0428 198 212

$25

Cost: $10 Adults, $6 Children, $28 Family Pass

is presented by PCYC, Headspace Mackay, Community Solutions and Mackay Regional Council.

Things to do in MKY

5 5

Small Explorers

Botanic gardens

17 March (9.30am-11am) Botanic Gardens

Fun and educational opportunities for kids aged 18 months to 5 years. Visitor Services Officer, Maya Harrison, takes you to special areas of the Botanic Gardens to explore! Book the date with them on 4952 7300 or email botanic@mackay. qld.gov.au to let them know you are coming. Meet at the

MakerSpaces

Mackay

4, 11 & 18 March (3.30pm)

DATE 1/03/14

VENUE 70 Sydney Street

ENTERTAINMENT/EVENT NAME Mackay’s Got Talent Auditions

TIME

FOR MORE INFO

11.00am

COST Free

1/03/14

4 George St

Mackay Toy Library

9.30am

0427 489 382

1/03/14

Milton St

Showground Markets

7.30am

4957 3916

2/03/14

70 Sydney Street

Mackay’s Got Talent Auditions

11.00am

Free Free

2/03/14

Criterion Hotel Grounds

Finch Hatton Markets

9.00am

4958 3504

Free

2/03/14

Palm Ave, Seaforth

Seaforth Markets

8.30am

4959 0332

Free

4942 4066

9.30am

4961 9300

Free

2/03/14

BCC Mt Pleasant

Disney Princess Film Festival - Brave

3/03/14

Gordon White Library

Baby Bounce - 0 to 18 months

3/03/14

Mackay City Library

Baby Bounce - 0 to 18 months

11.00am

4961 9387

Free

3/03/14

Mirani Library

Baby Bounce - 0 to 18 months

9.30am

4961 9231

Free

4/03/14

Mirani Library

Storytime - 2 to 5 years

9.30am

4961 9231

Free

4/03/14

Sarina Library

Baby Bounce - 0 to 18 months

9.30am

4961 9297

Free

Sarina Library

4/03/14

Sarina Library

Makerspace Sarina - 9 to 16 year olds

3.30pm

4961 9297

Free

4/03/14

Walkerston Library

Storytime - 2 to 5 years

10.30am

4959 2545

Free

5/03/14

Gordon White Library

Storytime - 2 to 5 years

10.30am

4961 9300

Free

MakerSpaces Mackay is a mobile portable, technology

5/03/14

Sarina Library

Storytime - 2 to 5 years

10.00am

4961 9297

Free

based, innovative space aimed at 9-16 year olds. Promoting learning through play and tinkering with technology, anyone is welcome to attend. This month it will be at the Sarina Library on 4, 11 and 18 March (3.30-6pm).

Disney Princess

6/03/14

Harrup Park Country Club

Kids eat FREE with a paying adult every Thursday (see voucher pg12) 5.00pm

4944 0000

Cost

6/03/14

Mackay City Library

Storytime - 2 to 5 years

4961 9387

Free

10.30am

7/03/14

BCC Mt Pleasant

Bring Your Baby Movie - Winter's Tale

10.30am

4957 3515

$10

7/03/14

Gordon White Library

Storytime - 2 to 5 years

9.30am

4961 9300

Free Free

7/03/14

Metro Café

Layzee Runners Club

5.45pm

0417 747 712

8/03/14

4 George St

Mackay Toy Library

9.30am

0427 489 382

7.30am

8/03/14

Milton St

Showground Markets

4957 3916

Free

8/03/14

BCC Mt Pleasant

Disney Princess Film Festival - The Little Mermaid

4942 4066

8/03/14

BCC Mt Pleasant

Crew $6 movie - Cloudy with a Chance of Meatballs 2

4957 3515

Film Festival

1 & 2 March

Birch Carroll & Coyle The Disney Princesses are back at Birch Carrol and Coyle cinemas this month and kicks off with Brave on the weekend of 1 & 2 March. Cost: Tickets are just $8 each! For more details jump onto the Birch Carroll and Coyle Facebook page.

meeting room.

www.pakmag.com.au

JOHNNO'S PICK

Kids MINI MAG

“Check out the 2 FOR 1 Meal Deals at Harrup Park Country Club during March”

March 2014

MARCH 2014 DATE 8/03/14

VENUE Pioneer Pool

ENTERTAINMENT/EVENT NAME

TIME

Dive In Movie Night - A Turtle's Tale

6.30pm 8.30am

9/03/14

Palm Ave, Seaforth

Seaforth Markets

9/03/14

BCC Mt Pleasant

Disney Princess Film Festival - The Little Mermaid

FOR MORE INFO 0428 198 212

COST $10

4959 0332

Free

4942 4066

$8 Free

9/03/14

MECC Plenary Halls

Flight Centre Travel Expo

9.00am

4961 9700

9/03/14

Mt Pleasant Carpark

Troppo Treasure Market

7.30am

0447 876 778

Gold Coin

9/03/14

BCC Mt Pleasant

Crew $6 movie - Cloudy with a Chance of Meatballs 2

4957 3515

10/03/14 Gordon White Library

Baby Bounce - 0 to 18 months

9.30am

4961 9300

Free

10/03/14 Mackay City Library

Baby Bounce - 0 to 18 months

11.00am

4961 9387

Free

10/03/14 Mirani Library

Baby Bounce - 0 to 18 months

9.30am

4961 9231

Free

10/03/14 BCC Mt Pleasant

Bring Your Baby Movie - Winter's Tale

10.30am

4957 3515

$10

11/03/14 Mirani Library

Storytime - 2 to 5 years

9.30am

4961 9231

Free

11/03/14 Sarina Library

Baby Bounce - 0 to 18 months

9.30am

4961 9297

Free

11/03/14 Sarina Library

Makerspace Sarina - 9 to 16 year olds

3.30pm

4961 9297

Free

11/03/14 Walkerston Library

Storytime - 2 to 5 years

10.30am

4959 2545

Free

12/03/14 Gordon White Library

Storytime - 2 to 5 years

10.30am

4961 9300

Free

12/03/14 Sarina Library

Storytime - 2 to 5 years

10.00am

4961 9297

Free

12/03/14 BCC Mt Pleasant

Bring Your Baby Movie - Winter's Tale

12.30pm

4957 3515

$10

13/03/14 Harrup Park Country Club

Kids eat FREE with a paying adult every Thursday (see voucher pg12) 5.00pm

4944 0000

Cost

13/03/14 Mackay City Library

Storytime - 2 to 5 years

4961 9387

Free

10.30am

14/03/14 BCC Mt Pleasant

Bring Your Baby Movie - Non Stop

10.30am

4957 3515

$10

14/03/14 Gordon White Library

Storytime - 2 to 5 years

9.30am

4961 9300

Free

15/03/14 Milton St

Showground Markets

7.30am

4957 3916

Free

9.30am

0427 489 382

15/03/14 4 George St

Mackay Toy Library

15/03/14 BCC Mt Pleasant

Disney Princess Film Festival - Snow White

4942 4066

15/03/14 BCC Mt Pleasant

Crew $6 Movie - Walking with Dinosaurs

4957 3515

15/03/14 PCYC Mackay

Tradies Fight Night

4.30pm

4961 9700

$35

16/03/14 Botanic Gardens

Baby Welcoming Ceremony

10.00am

1300 MACKAY

Free

Slurp Island

Visit www.thatdairysnack.com.au and facebook.com/ThatSnack

MARCH FUN Activities Colour in and you could WIN a That!™ Product pack! 22

www.pakmag.com.au

FUN

Try out our fun fruit skewers recipe!

WI N! Colour in and you could WIN one of 10 That!™ Product Packs

ter go to page 28 23 To en www.pakmag.com.au

colour IN & Win!

Fruit Skewers with That! Dairy Snack Dip

Colour in & you could WIN one of 10 That!™ Product Packs – that’s 18 pouches of That!™ Milkshake & That!™ Dairy Snack $32 RRP

Ingredients:

Method:

• 4 Grapes

[1] Use the cookie cutters to cut shapes out of

• 4 slices of Watermelon (2cm thick)

• 4 slices of Banana (2cm thick)

[2] Place one grape on a skewer, then one

• 1 Chocolate/Banana/Strawberry That! Dairy Snack

You will also need: • 4 wooden skewers or lolly pop sticks

That!™ is fun-packed goodness in a handy pouch that needs no refrigeration. Made from the goodness of Aussie milk, That!™ is low in fat and high in calcium. Available in 3 great flavours – Chocolate, Strawberry and Banana. That!™ Dairy Snack is available at Coles and Woolworths in the dessert aisle alongside the jellies and puddings. That!™ Milkshake is available exclusively at Woolworths in the chiller with the flavoured milk. Visit www.thatdairysnack.com.au

To enter colour-it-in & mail to:

Name:

PAKMAG, Colour-it-in March 2014

Parent/Guardian:

PO Box 1922, Mackay QLD 4740 & you could WIN one of 10 That!™ Product Packs $32 RRP (Comp Closes 18/03/14)

www.pakmag.com.au

Address: Phone:

Email:

the watermelon slices.

watermelon shape and then one slice of

banana. Do the same with the other 3 skewers.

[3] Squeeze That! Dairy Snack into a small bowl. [4] To eat, dip the fruit skewers into That! Dairy

Snack and enjoy!

• Cookie cutters e.g. star, heart, flower etc

Tip: You can choose any flavour of That! Dairy Snack you like and any of your favourite fruit too e.g. strawberries, rockmelon, pineapple, blueberries etc.

Age:

Visit www.thatdairysnack.com.au and facebook.com/ThatSnack

www.pakmag.com.au

Crackles "JOKES"

Q. What do you call cheese that isnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t yours?

eventGUIDE

A. Nacho cheese!

Q. What do you call a pig that knows karate?

Q. If a crocodile makes shoes, what does a banana make?

A. A pork chop!

A. Slippers!

pink = family

DATE

VENUE

16/03/14 Palm Ave, Seaforth

Q. How do you make a strawberry shake?

Q. What kind of keys do kids like to carry?

A. Put in the freezer

A. Cookies!

WIN!

www.pakmag.com.au

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

ENTERTAINMENT/EVENT NAME Seaforth Markets

16/03/14 BCC Mt Pleasant

Disney Princess Film Festival - Snow White

16/03/14 Anzac Ave, Marian

Marian Markets

16/03/14 BCC Mt Pleasant

Crew $6 Movie - Walking with Dinosaurs

17/03/14 Botanic Gardens

Small Explorers Wildlife in the Botanic Gardens

green = kids

TIME

blue = adults

FOR MORE INFO

COST

8.30am

4959 0332

Free

4942 4066

8.00am

4954 3424

Free

4957 3515

9.30am

4952 7300

Free

17/03/14 Gordon White Library

Baby Bounce - 0 to 18 months

9.30am

4961 9300

Free

17/03/14 Mackay City Library

Baby Bounce - 0 to 18 months

11.00am

4961 9387

Free

17/03/14 Mirani Library

Baby Bounce - 0 to 18 months

9.30am

4961 9231

Free

17/03/14 BCC Mt Pleasant

Bring Your Baby Movie - Non Stop

10.30am

4957 3515

$10

18/03/14 Mirani Library

Storytime - 2 to 5 years

9.30am

18/03/14 Sarina Library

Baby Bounce - 0 to 18 months

9.30am

4961 9297

Free

18/03/14 Sarina Library

Makerspace Sarina - 9 to 16 year olds

3.30pm

4961 9297

Free

18/03/14 Walkerston Library

Storytime - 2 to 5 years

10.30am

4959 2545

Free

19/03/14 Gordon White Library

Storytime - 2 to 5 years

10.30am

4961 9300

Free

19/03/14 Sarina Library

Storytime - 2 to 5 years

10.30am

4961 9297

Free

19/03/14 BCC Mt Pleasant

Bring Your Baby Movie - Non Stop

12.30pm

20/03/14 Harrup Park Country Club

Kids eat FREE with a paying adult every Thursday (see voucher pg12) 5.00pm

4957 3515

$10

4944 0000

Cost

20/03/14 Mackay City Library

Storytime - 2 to 5 years

10.30am

4961 9387

Free

21/03/14 BCC Mt Pleasant

Bring Your Baby Movie - Vampire Academy

10.30am

4957 3515

$10

21/03/14 Gordon White Library

Storytime - 2 to 5 years

9.30am

4961 9300

Free

21/03/14 MECC

David Strassman - Careful What You Wish For

6.00pm

4961 9700

$60

22/03/14

Purple Day Ball

4961 9777

$150

22/03/14 Milton St

Showground Markets

7.30am

4957 3916

Free

9.30am

0427 489 382 4957 3515

8.30am

4959 0332

Free

4957 3515

22/03/14 4 George St

Mackay Toy Library

22/03/14 BCC Mt Pleasant

Crew $6 Movie - Frozen

23/03/14 Palm Ave, Seaforth

Seaforth Markets

23/03/14 BCC Mt Pleasant

Crew $6 Movie - Frozen

www.pakmag.com.au

eventGUIDE MARCH 2014 DATE

VENUE

24/03/14

pink = family

green = kids

ENTERTAINMENT/EVENT NAME

TIME

blue = adults

FOR MORE INFO

COST

National Playgroup Week

24/03/14 Gordon White Library

Baby Bounce - 0 to 18 months

9.30am

4961 9300

Free

24/03/14 Mackay City Library

Baby Bounce - 0 to 18 months

11.00am

4961 9387

Free

24/03/14 Mirani Library

Baby Bounce - 0 to 18 months

9.30am

4961 9231

Free

24/03/14 BCC Mt Pleasant

Bring Your Baby Movie - Vampire Academy

10.30am

4957 3515

$10

25/03/14 Artspace Mackay

BMA Kidspace

10.00am

www.artspacemackay.com.au Free

25/03/14 Mirani Library

Storytime - 2 to 5 years

9.30am

4961 9231

Free

25/03/14 Sarina Library

Baby Bounce - 0 to 18 months

9.30am

4961 9297

Free

25/03/14 Walkerston Library

Storytime - 2 to 5 years

10.30am

4959 2545

Free

26/03/14 Gordon White Library

Storytime - 2 to 5 years

10.30am

4961 9300

Free

26/03/14 Sarina Library

Storytime - 2 to 5 years

10.00am

4961 9297

Free

26/03/14 BCC Mt Pleasant

Bring Your Baby Movie - Vampire Academy

12.30pm

4957 3515

$10

27/03/14 Harrup Park Country Club

Kids eat FREE with a paying adult every Thursday (see voucher pg12) 5.00pm

4944 0000

Cost

27/03/14 Mackay City Library

Storytime - 2 to 5 years

4961 9387

Free

10.30am

28/03/14 BCC Mt Pleasant

Bring Your Baby Movie - The Monument Men

10.30am

4957 3515

$10

28/03/14 Gordon White Library

Storytime - 2 to 5 years

9.30am

4961 9300

Free

28/03/14 MECC

Peter Powers - Lord of the Trance

6.30pm

4961 9700

$60

29/03/14 Milton St

Showground Markets

7.30am

4957 3916

Free

9.30am

0427 489 382

29/03/14 4 George St

Mackay Toy Library

29/03/14 BCC Mt Pleasant

Crew $6 Movie - Free Birds

4957 3515

29/03/14 Mackay Surf Club

Sunset 5KM Charity Fun Run

6.30pm

0417 747 712

$10

30/03/14 Artspace

Sunday Cinema - Muriels Wedding

10.30am

4961 9722

30/03/14 BCC Mt Pleasant

Crew $6 Movie - Free Birds

4957 3515

30/03/13 Palm Ave, Seaforth

Seaforth Markets

8.30am

4959 0332

Free

31/03/14 BCC Mt Pleasant

Bring Your Baby Movie - The Monument Men

10.30am

4957 3515

$10

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

The Good Guys maCkay

supporting your local community OPEN monday to Friday 9am-5.30pm saturday 9am-4pm & sunday 9am-3pm 28

www.thegoodguys.com.au/mackay www.pakmag.com.au

JohN donnelly Pay less Pay cash

PHONE 4963 1500 North PoiNt retail WiNdmill CrossiNg www.pakmag.com.au

out&about

submit your photos

email to: photos@pakmag.com.au

Penny & Charlotte at a local beach

Tate hanging out at a local beach Taij hitting the surf at a local beach

Zane at a local beach

Penny at a local beach

Kobi at a local beach

Montanna at a local beach

Out & About photos thanks to Jodie Grosskreutz > For info call 0412 873 557

www.pakmag.com.au

Slater & Angus at a local beach

Matthew at a local beach

Imogen at a local beach

Tyler at a local beach

Jacob at a local beach

Out & About photos thanks to Jodie Grosskreutz > For info call 0412 873 557

www.pakmag.com.au

By Shannon du Plessis

Outdoor movie screens & event hire

experience watching movies under the stars. available for hire for fundraisers, sporting events, concerts, weddings, anniversaries, backyard parties and more. You provide the location, audience & power, we provide the rest.

Book a Big screen

for your next event

34 Alan St • Phone 0428 198 212 • Web www.starlightscreenings.com.au

Baby Issues

Keeping the

Shannon du Plessis discovers why many families are choosing to store their baby’s umbilical cord

Want to sell your home for the highest price? Make the right move.

During pregnancy, expectant parents spend

that these cells are immediately available if ever

network of trained obstetricians, midwives and

many months planning ahead for when their

needed. There are two ways to collect and store

healthcare professionals available to perform

new bundle of joy arrives. While all parents will

cord blood: public and private.

the collection. If you don’t choose to store your

consider items for the nursery, car seats and packing a hospital bag, there are some parents who are also considering what they will do with

Testimonial: “I would recommend Emma to anyone, because you could not meet a more hard working, honest, reliable, friendly person to assist you in achieving your goal of selling your home and achieving the highest price.” Dianne Murdoch, Blacks Beach

Emma Elliott 0413 925 122

CT-02 Northern Beaches Central, 10 Eimeo Road, Rural View QLD 4740 tel 4954 8700 fax 4954 8733 | emma.elliott@raywhite.com | raywhite.com

www.pakmag.com.au

Cord

their baby’s umbilical cord.

Currently there are only two public cord banks in Queensland where parents can donate their baby’s cord blood to a government funded, nonprofit, public bank for use by anyone needing a

baby's cord blood, it will be discarded as medical waste after the birth. There are currently three main organisations offering private cord blood collection and storage (Cell Care, Cryosite and StemLife).

Umbilical cord blood is the blood that remains

transplant. Unfortunately they are both in South

in your baby's cord and placenta after the birth.

Queensland so women who have their babies in

The chance of a child needing therapy using

The cord blood contains a potent mixture of

NQ only have private options available to them.

his or her own stem cells is around one in 2700,

cells, including stem cells, which are the “building

These allow you to retain ownership of your

while the chance of an individual needing stem

blocks” of all cells in the body.

baby’s cord blood, but there is a fee for collection

cells (either their own or from someone else) over

and storage.

the course of their lifetime is estimated to be

These include specialised stem cells such as haematopoietic stem cells (HSCs), which have the

The reasons for storing cord blood vary and can

unique ability to develop into all of the different

include having a family history of disease, having

blood cell types, as well as other types of stem

a baby of an ethnic minority or mixed race

cells. Cord blood is also a source of unique

where there may be great difficulty in finding

populations of immune cells, called regulatory

a matching donor through the public banks,

T-cells, which are important in controlling the

or as insurance for their child’s future health.

immune system and may have therapeutic

Cord blood stem cells are a perfect match for

potential in the treatment of immune disorders.

the baby that they were collected from, so the

Collecting the umbilical cord blood is not harmful to the baby or mother and ensures

risks of rejection are eliminated. Private cord blood collections can take place at any time

about one in 217. For most parents, storing cord blood is a luxury they cannot afford, but if money is no object, cord blood collection and storage is something you might want to consider before baby arrives.

For more information on private cord blood collection and storage in NQ contact Cell Care, Cryosite or StemLife.

and in most hospitals Australia-wide with a www.pakmag.com.au

Baby

NEW BOOKS

GREEN Babies

Reviews

MARCH 2014

Spider Sandwiches

LITTLE Backpacks

By Claire Freedman Bloomsbury Publishing RRP $14.99

Baby NEWS

Boys will especially love this book as it is all about the disgusting treats that Max the Monster likes to eat including beetle biscuits, slug milkshakes, moon-goo globs and lice rice. His absolute favourite is spider sandwiches.

The Wombats Go On Camp By Roland Harvey Allen & Unwin

'I Immunise' Campaign

RRP $24.99

Vaccinations are back in the news as a new health campaign was recently launched in areas of the country with low vaccination rates. This is in response to concerns about

BABIES Need Books

percentage of the population being

Australia’s decreasing immunisation

immunised against it. If the rate drops

rates. We have now fallen behind many

below the herd immunity threshold, there

developing countries in terms of the

is a greater risk of disease outbreaks with

percentage of the population vaccinated.

newborn babies most at risk.

Public health policies depend on

Australia’s immunisation rate has fallen

achieving a vaccination threshold to

behind those of many developing

maintain ‘herd immunity’. In other words,

countries and members of the medical

the community’s widespread protection

community believe that we are taking

from disease is dependent upon a certain

widespread immunity for granted.

These gorgeous little backpacks by Woddlers are the perfect size for 0-3 year olds. Made and designed in Australia, they come in 10 different designs and so far they are the only brand that is PVC free and lead safe. They are also machine washable so they’re very easy to clean. For more info go to www.thekinderplatz.com

Later this month Earth Hour will be focusing our attention on what we can do for the environment but most families find that the pitter patter of little feet leads to a big ecological footprint.

Bigger cars, more washing and hundreds of

[2] Give modern cloth nappies a go – and, if

dirty nappies heading to the nearest landfill

you can’t afford to buy a whole set

all generate a big hit to the environment,

upfront, buy a couple to use at home

and also your wallet. Reading to your baby from a young age is enormously beneficial and sets them up for pre-reading and school later on. If your child doesn’t seem particularly interested in books yet, check out the personalised books now available to buy online. Well-known stories are reprinted using your child’s name so they become the start of the story. Hearing their name repeatedly is guaranteed to keep them interested. Try www.identitydirect.com.au or www.tinyme.com.au

[4] Avoid plastic toys – babies love to put

Follow these tips so your baby makes less

everything in their mouths so avoid

impact on the planet:

products made from PVC and BPA

[1] Only buy what you need, accept hand

[5] If you’re switching appliances, choose

me-downs and buy second hand items

[3] Switch to less toxic cleaning products –

babies are more vulnerable to toxins

energy efficient models

[6] Go solar and do your washing in the day

This is the first book in a new series by well-loved writer Roland Harvey. Follow the Wombats as they go camping and have the time of their lives building, cooking, climbing, performing and scaring each other.

The Shape of my Heart By Mark Sperring Bloomsbury Publishing RRP $14.99 paperback Children will love spotting all the different shapes on each page as they follow the rhyming story about all the different shapes that make up our lives, that we see every day and that we love.

Mackay’s faMily MaGazine for parents of “beans to teens” 3 reasons to use pakmag: [1] pakmag prints 10,000 copies every month [2] pakmag distributes to every McDonalds, Coles and Healthpoint Chemist in the Mackay region. [3] pakmag targets parents of ‘beans to teens’ 39,989 families consisting of: 3382 babies, 16347 one-five yr olds & 18176 five-fourteen yr olds

check out what we can do for your business Call Deb on 0427 725 624 or visit www.pakmag.com.au to see how we can help your biz in the family market - FREE opportunities exist

www.pakmag.com.au

Fun for Tots By Elaine Seager

Get your monthly copy of pakmag Top 20 DisTribuTion poinTs • Healthpoint Day & Night

• Kidz Life Play Centre

• Pat Wright Swim School

• Events Cinemas

• Coles Supermarkets

• Mt Pleasant Customer Service

• McDonalds

• The Good Guys

• Lagoon Café

• Cherub Child-minding

• Harrup Park Country Club

• Northern Beaches bowls club

• Caneland Parents room

• Porters

• Kookaburra Andergrove

• Good start early learning

• Mackay Christian College

• Bucasia Kindy

• PCYC

• Gloria Jeans

Looking for something active and fun for your under-5 year old to do? Check out the huge choice of classes and activities available around Mackay. [1] Swimming Most swim schools offer baby swim classes that progress through to learn to swim classes.

Or read it on our website www.pakmag.com.au For more information call Head Office on 4053 3331 or email admin@pakmag.com.au

BIZDirectory ads from ONLY $80/MONTH!

BIZDirectory directory

directory

Community Hall. Cost: $5. Call Raylene on

For more information call 0413 506 804 or go to www.sensorytribe.com.au

months to 5 years to explore special areas of the Botanic Gardens. Call 4952 7300 or email botanic@mackay.qld.gov.au

Did we miss your business in this feature? Next month we will be listing

• Mainly Music (North Mackay) – This 30

[5] Kidz Life Play Centre

minute music program followed by morning

Indoor play centre in North Mackay that only

the Easter holidays so please send your

tea and free play time runs on Thursday

costs $7 in the week. Call 4953 5575 for more

information to elaine@pakmag.com.au

mornings (9.30-10.45am) at Holack Street

information or go to www.kidzlife.com.au

school holiday activities and classes for

www.pakmag.com.au

Travel edition

Weekender

NEWS

March 2014

Dunk Island View Caravan Park has a new Café and newly renovated cabins. Book now for your next family school holiday escape.

The Park

Beach The View

Photo thanks to Ron Darlington

Island Views Story thanks to Angelina Mortley

concerned, the choices range from renovated

The Park sits within its own haven of landscaped

one and two bedroom units to powered and

gardens with an attractive pool looking out to

non-powered caravan and tent sites, all set out

the ocean. The pool has a shallow wading area for

amongst newly landscaped gardens.

younger children and there are wonderful lounge

We stayed in a two-bedroom unit and the first thing we noticed was the space! In fact, that

If you’ve been dreaming of an island holiday it may be closer and more affordable than you think. Dunk Island View Caravan Park at Mission Beach is perfectly packaged for a family getaway with all the benefits of an island escape.

is how I would describe every aspect of the

accommodated six people. This type of unit is especially perfect for families with small children or a dog because it has a semi-enclosed grassed area and covered veranda making it very much

along what seems to be an endless stretch of stunning coastline from South Mission Beach all the way up to North Mission Beach where some great rock-hopping awaits. Or you can just sit back trees, swim in the safe netted swim area, collect shells and, well, just be kids. If that is not enough to satisfy you, there are lots of fun activities you can do nearby if you decide

Whether for a long weekend or week-long escape, Dunk

very welcome and metal dog bowls are provided

to get out and about. You can take a trip over to

Island View Caravan Park’s perfectly positioned location

on the veranda of every unit.

Dunk Island or explore local walking tracks like the

making for a fantastic family getaway.

Unlike traditional caravan parks, the sites at the Park allow you to really spread out, and those towards the front of the Park also provide ocean

By the end of our trip we felt as though we had been on an island escape but it was so much easier to get to and far more economical. Dunk Island View Caravan Park is located at 21-35 Webb Road, Wongaling Beach, Mission Beach. For bookings or more info call 4068 8248 or go to www.dunkislandviewcaravanpark.com

and enjoy the magical views while the kids climb

being dog friendly so your furry friends are also

sunsets and lots of great climbing trees for the kids,

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with self-contained kitchen would have easily

the 50 metres across to the beach, you can walk

your own private retreat. The Park prides itself on

offers sandy beaches, crystal clear waters, stunning

Park – spacious! Our fully air conditioned unit

recliners for mums and dads. If you decide to stroll

of restaurants within walking distance of the Park.

one to Lacey Creek, which is great for kids with a 45-minute walk plus a swimming hole. Or for those who like to get a little sporty there are water sports, bicycle hire, kayaking, paddle boarding,

The Park’s new management have given it a fresh new

views. The fully equipped camp kitchen is set out

look with some great improvements including an

more like a restaurant and as well as the fridge,

impressive café that’s able to cater for all your meal needs,

stove, oven and microwave, there are two large,

Nearby there is a local shopping centre with a

as well as providing some grocery items, great coffee

gas barbeques for guests to use as well as a large

Woolworths just a five-minute drive away and if

and home baked cakes. As far as the accommodation is

laundry.

you don’t feel like cooking, there is a good choice

Win a 2 Night Stay! For your chance to win a two night stay in a spacious two-bedroom unit at the newly refurbished Dunk Island View Caravan Park in Mission Beach, simply go to our website and tell us which big bird you might expect to see in Mission Beach?

boat or beach fishing and the list goes on!

www.pakmag.com.au

PET

Reason to By Bianca Pietrzak

Issues

Smile

Imagine what your smile would be like if you never brushed your teeth. Now imagine what it’s like for your pet. We all love coming home to be greeted by our

• Supervised use of uncooked bones and

If you notice any of these symptoms take your

four-legged friends but this experience can be

including biscuits as part of your pet’s balanced

pets in to your vet to be checked as soon as

less than pleasant if their welcome comes with

diet will also help to keep their mouth healthy.

possible. Early detection and correction of dental

bad breath and sore teeth.

• Try to brush your pet’s teeth on a daily or

Despite brushing our teeth (at least) twice a day,

weekly basis (your vet can show you how).

humans still get dental issues. So it’s easy to see

Remember - Never use human toothpaste on

how pets can end up with similar or even worse

pets, the ingredients can be toxic to animals.

problems than us.

disease is best and treatment of dental disease will increase the comfort of your pet’s day-to-day life and reduce the risk of more serious health issues down the track.

Some of the symptoms of dental problems in

Here are a few simple tips for looking after

your pet include bad breath (beyond the usual

Vets at Stabler + Howlett (North Mackay)

your pet’s dental health:

‘doggy breath’), reluctance to eat hard foods,

are available day or night for pet care and

brown or yellow staining on their teeth, red/

treatment. Give them a call on 4942 4255

inflamed gums and frequent pawing/rubbing at

to schedule your next check up.

• Provide your animals with specifically designed dental chews to help control plaque and tartar build up.

the face or mouth.

Pets fav

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

Prize winner

March entries

Bruce the Dragon

Chooky loved by Ella

Dudley loved by Jorja

Pups loved by Brodie & Ayden

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

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Green Home edition Living

MAR 2014 Energy sense

Hot Tips For Cooler Homes

Greener Renovating

eco conscious

GOING GREEN • Invest in LED light bulbs • Go solar • Airflow • Concrete • Replace old appliances

www.pakmag.com.au

Home edition

Going Green

MAR 2014

TIP For more info about sustainable living go to www.livinggreener.gov.au. You can estimate your ecological footprint at www.myfootprint.org

Design Tips

Solar

Recycled Timber

Create airflow [1] Energy Sense

GreenLiving Story thanks to Elaine Seager

Reducing your carbon footprint can have a positive impact on your wallet as well as the planet. And while some strategies for sustainable living require some investment, there are many things you can do that cost little or nothing. 44

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Even though energy bills are going through the roof, Australians are using more and more energy due to the fact that we’re building bigger homes and filling them up with more appliances.

• Change your households energy habits: Teach the kids to switch lights and fans off in rooms not being used - Take shorter showers

Ideas for reducing your energy bills:

- Switch appliances off at the power point (inc. phone chargers)

• Invest in LED light bulbs – The initial outlay may be more but LED light bulbs will last for 25 years

- Wash clothes in cold water and don’t use the clothes dryer

• Go solar – the rates for feeding solar electricity back to the grid have been slashed but it can still seriously reduce your bill. Even replacing your hot water system to solar can reduce your hot water bill by over 60% • Replace old appliances – old antiquated outside fridges and plasma TV’s burn a hole in your pocket. Switch to more energy efficient models.

Shady Micro-Climate

For more ideas on ways to save on your energy bill go to www.ergon.com.au [2] Hot Tips for Cooler Homes The cost of relying on air-conditioning to cool your home can be substantial across the summer months but there are a number of less costly ways of preventing your house turning into an oven: • Top priority - Keep direct sunlight off

glass windows and doors (this is why older homes had wrap-around verandahs or wide roof overhangs) • Airflow – Maximising airflow through your home can prevent you needing to use air-con. Plan new homes so they’re in the best position to capture breezes. Place living spaces in the cooler parts of the house. Use floor to ceiling windows to prevent hot air pockets developing • Shady Micro-Climate – Trees, shrubs, awnings, screens and pergolas can be used to create shade around your home. • Roof ventilation - Prevent your roof space turning into a sauna by installing a cyclone rated ventilation system. Reflective foil insulation in the roof is also effective in the tropics. • Concrete – Keep to a minimum around your home and keep the sun off it

• Colours - Use light coloured paints on both external and internal walls. Reflective roof paints are also now available.

Wrap Around Verandah

[3] Greener Renovating • Windows – Up to 40% of your cool air conditioned air can leak from windows so look for energy efficient versions • Paints – Use low-emission paints to reduce toxic fumes. Some paints are now available that contain all-natural ingredients. • Timber – Source from certified sustainably managed forests but research the many other eco-friendly options available • Use recycled materials – Building materials account for a substantial amount of waste in landfills www.pakmag.com.au

Home edition

MAR 2014

if it needs painting, we have the paint.

Eco Conscious

Smoke Alarms?

by Battery World

It’s been estimated that as many as 58 per cent of Australians forget to change their smoke alarm battery so Mackay Battery World is getting behind the Queensland Fire Service’s campaign to remind householders it’s time for the bi annual smoke alarm battery change. Battery World said the latest research by Duracell revealed only 10 per cent of the country’s households were compliant with Australian fire services recommendations. The survey revealed most fires started in the kitchen yet 96 per cent of Australian mothers surveyed admitted to multitasking while cooking, and 74 per cent admitting to accidently leaving a cooking appliance on while preparing the family meal.” “In the 2013 Duracell Fire Safety Survey of Australian mothers, only 33 per cent of family households with a single smoke alarm tested it properly,” Mackay Battery World’s Sue and Gabe Giannangelo said. Duracell’s research also revealed one in three family households had disconnected their smoke alarm to stop a “false” alarm.

autoMotive, house, industrial, Marine, texture coatings, tiMber Finishes, trade Paint & sign suPPlies Markets

Even hardwired smoke alarms require a back up battery so head down to Battery World at 149 Victoria Street to purchase their 9 volt smoke alarm batteries for just $1.

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.)

Non-skid Flooring

oPening hours Monday to Friday 7am-5pm • saturday 8am-12pm

Wholesale Paint Mackay

65 Archibald St • Phone 4952 2655 • Visit www.cwp.com.au

Lighting Network gets the Green Light! New Zealand based lighting designer David Trubridge has garnered a reputation around the world for green and eco-conscious lights. They use sustainably sourced bamboo and they avoid chemical finishes. Pop along to the Lighting Network to check out this beautiful range of products.

Want to replace some flooring without the installation cost? Check out the new Decoria Loose Lay Planks at Floorzone. They have a backing on them which means you don’t need glue and you don’t need to click them together – all you need to do is lay them down and they’re ready to go. And, if you don’t get it quite right the first time they can also be removed and relayed! They are available in seven colours, are easy to clean and they contain an anti-bacterial armour.

T h aT w o r k s f o r m e

All of your lighting needs covered 118 Wood Street, Mackay • PHoNe: 4951 3266 www.lightingnetwork.com.au

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Home edition

MAR 2014 Design Tips

Painted Plates diyhome

By Sofie Buchholz

Do you love entertaining and setting a ‘wow’ table for your guests? Then why not take it a step further and design the accompanying dinnerware.

Taking inspiration from Finnish design company, Marimekko these painted plates have been created using a porcelain paint pen. We’ve focused on a monochromatic colour scheme and designed them using reparative shapes and lines. Here’s how to make them: As the porcelain and ceramic markers are paint based, you will need to work the paint into the tip of the pen before applying your design to the plate surface. Follow the instructions because they vary between brands. Once the tip of the pen contains a good amount of paint, your design can be drawn directly onto the plate surface. If you’re not a confident drawer, trace an existing image onto the plate using pencil or carbon paper. Paint stencils from craft shops can also be used to create an effective pattern. The colour ceramic markers are great to add a touch of colour. They are also a fun way to involve kids in designing their own plate for meal times. The plates will air dry within 24–48 hours. However, it is best to cure the plates in an oven to ensure your design stays intact. Depending on the brand of pen selected this can be in a 150–180 degree oven for 30-60 minutes. Specific instructions are detailed on the packaging.

DIY Materials • Black porcelain pen, Spotlight, $9 • Coloured ceramic markers, Typo, $14.95 • Loose china plates and cups, Kmart, $1 each Styling Products • Candle sticks, Momi Mt Pleasant, various colours • Flowers, Flowers by Lisa, $10 a bunch • Table cloth, Ikea fabric, from $4/metre • Silver stem wine glasses, Kmart, $15 for 6