PakMag Mackay - November 2012

pakmag NOV 2012

M a c k ay

EzEine FMRaga

ISSUE 01

magazine of choice for local families

Good Job! How to praise kids effectively

Step family

MINI MAG Inside

Mum’s

event

planner

Making it work

For November

Mackay’s

Baby

New Mag

Cover photo courtesy of Dream Capture Photography

Kids

For local Mums

win

Seats Get the right restraint for your baby

2 night cabin stay at BIG4 Adventure Whitsunday

08 welcome

16

Contents

note

nov

Hello everyone and welcome to our first edition of PakMag Mackay.

We are so excited to be able to support local families by bringing you news and information about services, business and events that are relevant to the families in our region.

Every month we will include a comprehensive listing of all local events in Mackay, so if you’ve got an event that you would like included email us at mackay@pakmag.com.au We will also be running free family events – our first one will be a Christmas party in November, see page 10 for details.

parents 02 What’s New 05 Step Families 07 Mackay Christian College 08 Good Job 11 The Family Law Centre 13 Women & Finance

kids 23 Kid’s MiniMag

babies 31 Baby News: Gaga for Gadgets

15

PakHealth

We would love to hear from you so please send us your ideas and feedback and connect with us on facebook, search PakMag Mackay.

16

Nutrition

19

PakFood

20 Top 5 Things To Do

19 WIN a $20 Meat Voucher

Make sure you tell everyone you read it in PakMag! Until next time,

21 What’s On

24 WIN a mystery prize

23 Mini Mag

25 4 mystery prizes to WIN

31 PakBaby

30 WIN 2 nights in a luxury villa

Ange pakmag Publisher: Bree James Editor: Elaine Seager Publication Manager: Angela Julian Sales & Biz Development: Angelina Mortley Design & Layout: Trina Jensen Articles: Elaine Seager, Jutta Dempsey, Amanda Cranston and submitted writers

43

things to win

35 The Imperfect Mum 36 Musical Instruments 39 Sarina Sugar Terminal 40 BIG4 Adventure Whitsunday Resort 43 Porters DIY Tips 45 Mackay Pet Superstore 46 Out & About

cover Models: Angela Julian and son Patrick Thurkettle Photography: Thanks to the team at Dream Capture Photography

48 Local Laughs

Mobile: 0439 555 515 Head office Phone: 4034 3331 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

1

inBRIEF Zumba - 4, 11, 18 Nov

Christmas Fair

November what’s New

Gift Wrapping

10 November (4-9pm) The Victoria Park State School Christmas Fair is on 10 November (4pm-9pm). This fantastic community event is open to everyone to go along and enjoy.

There will be rides, games, a cake stall, Mini Cent Sale, Ham Wheel plus food stalls and an early appearance from Santa. Everything you need for a fun family

Santa’s Coming!

night out! Check out their Facebook page “Victoria Park State School Christmas Fair 2012” or contact Michelle on 0438 576 784 for more information.

PHOTO: Cr Greg Martin and Cr Paul Steindl try out Zumba at the Bluewater Quay

Trop Jr 2013

Zumba has taken the world by storm in recent years as a great way to combine exercise

Don’t like gift wrapping your Christmas presents?

with socialising. It’s a great way for mums to get fit and you can now join in the fun for FREE thanks to the Council’s free Active in the City program. There will be Zumba sessions on Sunday 4, 11 and 18 November at Bluewater Quay (10-11am).

Service (SES). Look for the volunteers outside Woolies.

New Welcome Centre 16 November The Regional Social Development Centre (RSDC) has announced that the Welcome to Mackay Centre will be opened on Friday 16 November. Located at Old Town Hall on Sydney Street, this one-stop-shop for information and services is intended to become a

Entries close 3 January

hub for all new residents coming to the area. It will be

at the following shopping centres this month.

• Caneland Central - Arriving Saturday 17 November (10am), you’ll be able to meet Santa 10.30am. He will then be available everyday until

Ultrasound Photos

to do a portrait session, check out If you can’t wait until your baby is born Dream Capture Photography have the new ultrasound photo sessions the opening of their new Baby Bond on offer. They have just announced located directly across the road from 3D/4D maternity ultrasound studio, have the opportunity to have an the Mackay Base hospital. You will now The new baby and the rest of the family. early bonding experience with your This rnity and newborn photography. new studio will also incorporate mate ral is needed. The optimum time for is non-diagnostic so nodoctor’s refer s can be done later than this. To book ultrasounds is 22-29 weeks, but scan call Dream Capture on 0439 461 479.

Christmas Eve.

baby news

coin donation that will be donated to the CQ Rescue

and get in a few early requests. He will be appearing

at Centre Court with photo’s commencing from

Why not get someone else to do it for you at Canelands from 17 November. All it costs is a gold

Yes, it’s time to get your photo’s taken with Santa

• Mount Pleasant - Santa will arrive on Sunday 25 November with celebrations starting from 11am with face painting, balloon modeling and a parade of other characters. Santa Photo’s will begin from 12noon. Thereafter he will be available during morning and afternoon sessions most days of the week.

• Centro Whitsunday - Santa will be arriving on a big red fire truck on Saturday 8 December (10am) to meet and greet all the kids. Photo’s will start from 10.30am. He will then be in his Whitsunday home in front of Woolies from 10 December until Christmas Eve (10am-4pm).

open Monday-Friday (10.30am-5pm) and Saturdays (11am-2pm). For more info call 4957 7757 or go to www.welcometomackay.com.au

opportunity for budding filmmakers.

Entrants must be 15 years old or younger, all entries must be 7 minutes or less, be a world premiere and contain the Trop Jr Signature Item, which for 2013 is ‘JUMP’. Entries will close on January 3, 2013.

Tie & Dye Day 5 November The Mothers Empower Group are organising a fun

Entries are about to open for Trop Jr 2013,

Trop Jr will take place at venues across

Tie & Dye Day on 5 November (10am-12.30pm) for

the largest short film festival in the world for

Australia on 17 February, 2013. Visit

mums and kids to go along and splash some colour

kids. With a massive pool of prizes, including

www.tropjr.com for entry information

onto a garment of your choice. It costs $5 per family

the chance to have your film screened

and subscribe to Trop Jr News for regular

and there will be a BBQ lunch afterwards. Numbers

to thousands of people, Trop Jr is a great

updates.

are limited so call 4957 7222 to book your place.

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3

Step Families

modern

Families Story thanks to Amanda Cranston

In 2010 stepfamilies outnumbered first families in Britain and America, with one in every three people being a ‘step’ of some kind whether that be a stepparent, step-brother, step-sister or step-child. One of Australia’s highest profile psychologists and author of Surviving Step Families, Michael CarrGregg, says that by 2020 Australia will reach a parity with America and Britain.

M

ichael says the simplest definition of

tricky and unfortunately there is no one-size-

both their biological parents, and parents need

a step family is one where either one

fits-all rule. Michael points out that many step

to sit down with their children and make them

or both members of the married

mothers also have to contend with the negative

understand that just because they don’t love

couple have pre-existing children who live with

evil step mother stereotype that we all read

each other anymore, they still love their children

them, and he defines a blended family as one

about while growing up. Stories like Cinderella,

and make them understand that the break-up

in which the husband and/or wife’s children

Snow White and Hansel and Gretel all had evil

had nothing to do with them. Many children also

plus their combined children live together. He

step mothers. “Anyone familiar with fairytales

harbour fantasies that their parents will get back

explains that when it comes to step families we

knows that stepmothers are depicted as wicked,

together and parents need to be upfront and let

often tend to think of the Brady Bunch and the

cruel and uncaring. They steal the father’s

their children know this isn’t going to happen so

harmonious way their families blended. “I call this

attention from the children or are so jealous

everyone involved can move on.

the Brady Delusion as it lulls many unsuspecting

of their stepchildren’s beauty that they banish

would-be couples who decide to embark on this

them,” he says. “In order to thrive, stepfamilies

endeavour into thinking it is a lot easier than

need to acknowledge and challenge these

it looks,” Michael says. “This book was actually

deeply entrenched and astoundingly common

born out of my own stuff ups because I too am

stereotypes.”

a stepfather and even with all my qualifications I

communication has broken down and children are stuck in the middle, but both parents need to put their children’s needs first and remember

Michael suggests couples move into a new

that kids generally cope better when they have easy access to both parents. Parents also need to

and a fresh start for both of them. He says

be aware that undermining the other parent or

Michael says the first two years are always the

parents also need to be patient and give all the

bad-mouthing them to their children only ends

hardest as everyone is adjusting to their place

children in the family dynamics time to adjust

up hurting the children in the long run.

within the family, and his advice is that couples

and to make sure each child has a space of their

should put their relationship first so they are

own within each biological parent’s home. “Kids

united and strong. He also suggests leaving the

need their own space in each house whether it

discipline to the biological parent and the step

is their own cupboard or their own room, as it

parent supporting and backing up that parent

gives them a sense that someone cares about

and only stepping in when the biological parent

them,” Michael says. He explains that many

is not present. He says step parenting can be very

children struggle with conflicting loyalties for

and a disciplinarian and it didn’t work.”

www.pakmag.com.au

biological parents have a hostile relationship,

home together that is physically neutral territory

made all the mistakes. I tried to be an instant dad

4

Michael says things can get difficult when

For anyone wanting to read more about the dynamics of step-families, pick up a copy of Michael Carr-Gregg’s book or log on to www. michaelcarr-gregg.com.au . Surviving Step Families, Penguin Books, Rrp $19.95

www.pakmag.com.au

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____________ MATHEMATICS ____________

____________ GEOGRAPHY ____________

Choosing Schools

Christian Education Check out the latest with Mackay Christian College

Mackay Christian College

At this time of the year many families are making

which determine the nature of a school. After all,

decisions about what school to choose for their

anyone can make a list of values; values are only

children and we are fortunate in Mackay that

effective when they are an integrated part of the

we have many good schools to choose from.

very fibre of the school and its community.

Whether Government, Catholic or Independent we are blessed with some wonderful education options.

values stated by schools are actually integrated into the schools culture?

one is best for your child? It should not really be about whether one school is ‘better’ than another

Most parents ask around and talk to other parents about their experiences before making their decisions about which school to send their children to and this is probably the most

Several studies are conducted each year,

effective way for parents to find out what schools

nationally and within Queensland, about how

are really like beyond the brochures. We would

parents choose schools for their children. This

certainly advise any parents to do this and to ask

research consistently shows that what parents

questions that will help you discover if the values

want most for their children is that they are safe

that are important to you in a school are actively

and happy whilst at school. Most of the top five

demonstrated in that school.

characteristics parents say helped them make a choice of school directly relate to the values of the school – relatively few believe academic performance is critical to their choice of school.

It is the values of a school, and the degree to which a school can live out its stated values,

www.pakmag.com.au

moving to Mackay, how can you be sure that the

disposal how do you go about deciding which

better for your child.

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student or you’re one of the many new families

So with such a good selection of schools at your

but more about whether a particular school is

With so many good schools in the Mackay area how should parents decide which one is best for their children?

If you’re new to the school system with a Prep

Remember, there will always be parents who have negative experiences with a school to tell for varying reasons, so always remember to talk to a few different people to get a more unbiased perspective.

www.pakmag.com.au

7

praise, such as “well done”, “you’re so smart” and “great win” may actually be doing more damage than good to a child’s self-confidence, resilience and independence

better than last week and I noticed that you worked on your spelling every day”, is more likely to make them pay attention and try harder.

Researchers have discovered three important results of the increased praise movement:

[2] Give descriptive praise

[1] When children were praised for being intelligent or smart they were more likely to blame poor performance on a lack of ability and gave up sooner. However, children who were praised for their effort performed roughly 25% better on a set of problems as they persisted longer and enjoyed the challenge more.

(1) Dweck and Mueller [2] Evaluative praise makes the child dependent on the approval of others rather than increasing their independence. “You are so generous” makes the child dependent on the judgement of the person who praised. (2) Joan LeFebvre Uni. Of Wisconsin [3] “Over-focus on self-esteem over the last 30 years has produced more young people who are low in empathy and high in narcissism” (3) Professor McGarth, RMIT

Awesome Try

So where does this now leave us as parents?

This research may leave some parents feeling lost after thinking they were doing the right thing for their children. However, this research has now given us some useful insights into how to do even better as parents.

Great Effort Well Done!

Good Job

The process of praising children effectively has a lot more nuances to it than you may realise, writes Jutta Dempsey Over the last few decades there has been a movement in parenting towards giving our children increased praise in order to protect and build their self-esteem. However, how we praise our children has recently been put under scrutiny

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with different researchers and experts finding that indiscriminate praising may make our children more dependent, egocentric and selfabsorbed as well as making them more prone to bullying behaviour.

There is no doubt that praise from parents, the most important people in their lives, is crucial to all aspects of a child’s development, from academic and sporting achievements to social and emotional functioning. However, some

Instead of evaluating what they’ve done, tell them what you’ve observed them do so they can recognise the truth and credit themselves.

For example, “when you saw Sue forgot her hat and you played with her under the shelter so she wasn’t alone I could see she was much happier.” This comment helps your child see how their actions have had a positive effect.

The key question to ask yourself here is: does my praise make my children more dependent upon me and my approval or do I help them see a clear picture of their strengths, abilities and accomplishments?

[3] Be Sincere Children are experts at reading body language and tone of voice. They know whether you’re being sincere or not so when you’re genuinely pleased with their behaviour allow your child to see it. Give them a hug or a smile.

[4] Role Model

Here are some tips to start using in the way you praise your children:

Whatever skills, attitudes and behaviours you want to see in your children, must be role modelled at home. Giving yourself a break when something does not go perfectly and articulating that “its okay that I make mistakes because I learn so much from them” heightens children’s risk-taking and persistence.

[1] Provide specific feedback

[5] Ask Questions

Children will see general comments like “you’re so smart” as something they can’t change so they are less likely to make an effort to get better. Making specific comments about something they’ve done well is more effective.

For example, saying something like “you did

Show an interest in what your children are working on and foster discussions and an evaluation of what they have done. For example, “you’ve worked on that project all afternoon – can you tell me about it?”

great advice Whilst parents may need to develop and adapt the way they praise their children as a result of this recent research, there will still never be any evidence to support being negative and critical. Comments such as “you’re so stupid” go right to the core of who a child is and lasts for a lifetime. It has been said that it takes six positive statements to undo one negative one but labels like “stupid” just stick forever. www.pakmag.com.au

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pakclub fun for parents & kids

FREE monthly Club

separating

Christmas Party Come and join us for this FREE Family EvEnt

Parents How to make arrangements for the children work during parental separation

M

aria recently separated from

Each child has their own needs and so each

her husband and wanted to

family therefore needs to find their own unique

know how to put a parenting

solution.

arrangement in place for their two children aged nine and six.

In Maria’s case, if she wanted to spend more time with the children, she clearly needed to

It certainly helps if separating parents can find

re-organise her working life. Since she also

a way to be co-operative when it comes to the

wanted to be involved in her children’s school

welfare of their children. In this situation Maria

life, she proposed having the children every

began by arranging a mediation session to work

second weekend from after school Thursday until

out what parenting arrangements were in the

Monday morning. In the other week the children

children’s best interests. Prior to this session,

would spend time with Maria each Wednesday

Maria and Alex each met with their own Lawyers

evening and she would take the children to

to learn more about the process and find out

school on the Thursday morning. This would be a

what they needed to consider in order to put a

total of five nights per fortnight.

formal parenting agreement in place.

Alex agreed to the proposal, the mediator

Ideally they both wanted to parent the children

endorsed it and then, after a short trial period,

on an equal shared parenting basis but this was

Alex got his Solicitor to prepare a Consent

impractical since Maria ran a busy café which

Order that was signed by both parents and

required long hours, while Alex was a self-

filed in the Court. Once this happens it means

• Heaps of games, Christmas Carols & dancing

employed gardener. Since the date of separation

the agreement is turned into a binding and

the children had been living with Alex and they

enforceable order, without the need for Alex and

• Sausage Sizzle, food and drinks available

spent every second weekend with Maria but the

Maria to go through court proceedings. Both

children wanted to spend more time with her.

parents came together to work cooperatively in

Both parents understood this but were unsure

the interests of the children.

• Free Entry • Special Santa visit • Prize for best dressed • Lots of prizes, activities & fun for the whole family

• Spin Our Good Guys Wheel of fortune to Win a prize worth $10-$1000 Local businesses and organisations who want to showcase their business can have a free stall. Fore more information email promotions@pakmag.com.au or call 4953 5575

Sat 17 nov 4Pm-6Pm Kidz life play centre

how to manage their children’s wishes with Liability limited by a scheme approved under professional standards legislation

Maria’s workload.

The Family Law Centre is a Division of McKays Solicitors. For more information call 4963 0880,

When it comes to parenting arrangements there

email inquiries@thefamilylawcentre.com.au or

is no such thing as a ‘normal’ arrangement.

go to www.thefamilylawcentre.com.au

FREE info evening about your property rights Tuesday 20 Nov 6pm-7.30pm - McKays Law Centre (34 Wood Street) Come along to a free information session with Cathy Krieg and find out how you can gain control and get on with your life. The session will cover questions like:

Cathy will also explain the different steps involved when cases proceed through the Family Court in simple, easy to understand language.

• How to avoid common property disputes

To reserve your place call Sam Harris at the Family Law Centre on 4968 5427.

• Whether you get more if the children live with you • The laws regarding superannuation • How you can avoid costly court disputes

There will also be a similar seminar held in Airlie Beach on Monday 19 November. Please call for details.

Cathy Krieg Associate

www.familylawcentre.com.au

For more information visit our facebook page:

www.pakmag.com.au 10www.facebook.com/PakMagMackay

www.pakmag.com.au

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$

aND

Women Finance

The latest news and tips in the world of women, families and finance

Loan Consolidation?

News QCCU

Change for Debit Cardholders Visa Debit cardholders can now choose the ‘credit’ option at the register when shopping at stores in the Woolworths group.

This new change applies to purchases at stores including Woolworths supermarkets, Big W, Safeway, Woolworths Liquor, BWS, Dan Murphy’s, Dick Smith, Thomas Dux and Caltex Woolworths petrol outlets.

Woolworths and Visa have recently come to a commercial agreement to enable the acceptance of Visa Debit across all Woolworth’s group brands. This

Should you consolidate your loans?

With interest rates remaining low, now may

The reduction in your payment would be

be a good time to consolidate your debts

$18 a week. This may not sound like much

to save some money on interest expenses.

but over the course of five years you would

Most providers will agree to you doing this

save yourself $4,805 in interest. If your

but you need to remember that their main

bank won’t allow a separate line of credit

objective is to make profits. The reason

make sure you increase your home loan

they would allow you to transfer a credit

repayments by the necessary amount.

card balance with a 20% interest rate to your homeloan with a 7% rate for example is because they’ll make more money in the long run.

There are plenty of loan calculator tools on the internet to do comparisons so be sure to consider the above to ensure you’re doing the best thing for you and

The most common trap in consolidating

your family. Also try to make home loan

debt is not increasing repayments. A five-

repayments weekly as this will save you

year loan ends up being paid over the full

interest over the long term as well.

term of your house loan and costing you a lot more money.

Brad Gordon is a Financial Adviser and Principal of Maven Capital Pty Ltd. To

This table below shows how the figures

find out more, call 4957 2177 or visit

would look if you consolidated a $30,000

www.mavencapital.com.au

car loan into a home loan.

Loan Type

Loan Amount

Interest rate

Loan Term

Car Loan

$30,000

12.5%

5 years

weekly Interest repayment cost $154

will give customers the choice to pay with any card they wish. All stores are now able to accept the new credit function.

FINANCE News Get your finances in order

By Robyn Leach r fast approaching it’s With the end of the yea catch up with family, not only a great time to ssess your life goals it’s also a good time to rea order. It may sound and get your finances in dn’t be. In particular, like a heavy task but it nee ough your insurance, take some time to sort thr n statements. If you superannuation and loa then why not book an find this task confusing ncial planner? Most appointment with a fina a complimentary first financial planners offer ting someone else to appointment and by get may help motivate you look at your finances it to put them in order.

$10,380 Robyn Leach is a representative of Ord Minnett Limited Mackay, AFS licence 237122.

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Car Loan via home loan www.pakmag.com.au

$30,000

7.0%

5 years

$136

$5,575

This article contains general financial advice only and does not consider your personal circumstances. Before acquiring a product you should determine its suitability to you by reading the relevant product disclosure statement.

www.pakmag.com.au

13

Health pak

Doctor pak

Hangovers New Light on Sunscreens The incidence of skin cancers, particularly melanomas, has continued to increase in Australia despite 30 years of the ‘Slip, Slop, Slap’ sun protection campaign.

By Dr Julia Driscoll This is a medical column but since the year is rapidly drawing to a close the subject of hangovers may become more topical over the next few weeks.

A hangover is the body’s way of trying to rid itself of the poison in your body – alcohol. It affects the whole body including the brain, kidneys, liver, heart, stomach, metabolism of glucose and dehydration.

According to Associate Professor Jan

(UVB) radiation, but we now know that

The symptoms you experience will depend upon

Hanrahan at the University of Sydney

it is just as important for them to block

your genetics, your weight and your size (for this

this is partly due to the fact that the

ultraviolet A (UVA) radiation, which can be

sun protection factor rating, or SPF, in

more damaging to the skin. It is therefore

sunscreens is biased towards protection

best to use the newer broad-spectrum

drinks consumed.

from UVB rays and prevention of sunburn,

sunscreens that block both wavebands.

Avoiding Hangovers

New Australian and New Zealand standards

• Drink responsibly – remember that you are always

now permit sunscreens to have an SPF

setting an example for your children no matter

Sunscreens were originally developed to

rating of up to 50+. Previously, only SPF

what age they are. Even if you arrange for them to

prevent sunburn caused by ultraviolet B

30+ was available in Australia.

be babysat they will still observe your hangover the

but does not measure how effective a sunscreen is at blocking UVA.

reason women generally are prone to a hangover earlier than males) and the type and amount of

following day and think “that must be normal” for a celebratory night out.

Healthy Attitude Researchers from the University of Melbourne have found a direct link hy between personality types and healt de attitu lifestyles with a positive ‘can do’ and h being seen as the key to good healt wellbeing. and Analysing data on the diet, exercise people, 7000 personality type of more than their ve they found that those who belie ns life can be changed by their own actio ed ate healthier food, exercised more, smok less and avoided binge drinking.

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Meanwhile, those who have a greater faith in ‘luck’ or ‘fate’ are more likely to lead an unhealthy lifestyle. Professor

• Alternate drinks with something non-alcoholic. policy Deborah Cobb-Clark says “The main been response to the obesity epidemic has but on, mati infor r bette the provision of ge information alone is insufficient to chan the ding rstan people’s eating habits. Unde n’s psychological underpinning of a perso is ts eating patterns and exercise habi central to understanding obesity.”

en The study also found men and wom of fits bene hold different views on the ical phys ed a healthy lifestyle. Men want while results from their healthy choices,

women were more receptive to the hy everyday enjoyment of leading a healt

• Eat first – try to avoid drinking on an empty stomach.

• Minimise fizzy drinks – fizzy alcoholic drinks like champagne tend to raise your blood alcohol level more quickly.

• Minimise cogeners - researchers have implicated cogeners as another causative factor of hangover.

They are high in some spirits so minimise your intake of whiskey, brandy, bourbon and red wine.

Gin and vodka have less cogenors.

Dr Julia Driscoll is a doctor and is also the author of “My Story”, an interactive children’s book to reduce sibling rivalry. For more information go to www.juliaschildrensbooks.com

lifestyle.

www.pakmag.com.au

15

Nutrition pak

By Ally Crofton, APD

upping the Vegies According to the governments guide on healthy eating, children aged 4-12 years should be eating an average of three to five serves of vegetables per day. Vegetables are fantastic for the whole family because they

Dinner Whatever’s on the menu, there are lots of different ways to whip up some quick vegies to go with dinner. For example:

are a low energy food with lots of vitamins,

• Microwave – green beans, peas, snow

minerals, antioxidants and other goodies

peas, broccoli, cauliflower (hot tip: buy a

that are absolutely essential for maintaining

steam container from the supermarket)

good health and a healthy weight. The more ways you can find to add vegetables to the family diet the better. Here are a few quick and easy tips:

Breakfast If your kids love eggs you can easily add a few extra vegies like some grated carrot and zucchini. You can also turn them into

Product news

Sunsweet

Snack Packs

product

review

• Fresh salad – carrots, cucumber, capsicum, lettuce, cabbage, bean sprouts, celery, mushrooms, spinach, zucchini or tomato • Canned vegies - bamboo shoots, water

These delightful little snack packs are ideal for kids’

chestnuts, sweetcorn, beans or lentils

lunchboxes. One snack pack is the equivalent of one

• Pan-fried vegetables – onion, tomato, eggplant or asparagus

serving of fruit, and with approximately 3-4 prunes per pack they are a perfectly portion-controlled snack size. Prunes can also be of benefit if your

delicious Spanish-style eggs by adding

• Oven-roasted – potato, sweet potato,

child is constipated, as they are an excellent source

chopped up tomato, mushroom and Spanish

pumpkin, beetroot, squash or onions

of both soluble and insoluble fibre to help regular

onion topped with coriander. Baked beans

If you’re concerned about wasting money

are another vegetable option for breakfast

on uneaten fresh vegetables or find yourself

and can be served with some nice grainy

running short on time in the evenings, buy

bread for extra nutritional value.

frozen vegetables instead. Bird’s Eye, Heinz

Lunchboxes

and Woolworths Select even have different

If you have a nutrition related question, post

combinations of individually portioned

it on the Nutrition Guru’s facebook wall and

Add vegetable leftovers to lunchboxes or

steam fresh vegetables that only take a

a dietitian will answer one of our reader’s

sliced fresh carrots, cucumber and capsicum

couple of minutes in the microwave.

questions to feature in PakMag each month.

bowel movements. Signs of constipation include dry, hard stools and possibly pain when having a bowel movement.

pakmag magazine of choice for local families

with some dip or tomato salsa.

advice

Reader Question: My son always wants twominute noodles as an after school snack – is this okay for him to have? ly Whether it’s their funny looking wigg some for ess, saltin ctive addi shape or their les mysterious reason two-minute nood kids! are a common favourite among

Q&A

nutrition

lly Unfortunately, they are not a nutritiona noodles adequate snack option. Two-minute h are high in simple carbohydrates (whic ry hung be ably prob means that your son will and m, sodiu soon after his noodles), high in e buying low in quality nutrients. Unless you’r ably the 99% fat free noodles they’re prob Some well. as fat ated high in overall and satur de a inclu healthier after school snacks could popcorn, handful of nuts, a cup of air-popped cheese. or some rice crackers with reduced fat

Mackay’s NEW MAG for parents of “Beans to Teens” 3 rEAsoNs To AdvErTisE iN PAkMAG: [1] pakmag is the only publication 100% dedicated to local families [2] pakmag distribution is reader friendly. Most copies are actively collected by our readers within days from any McDonalds, Coles, Healthpoint Chemist, Mackay Wholesale Meats, daycares and anywhere else families frequent from Sarina to Bowen [3] pakmag rates start from as little as $80 per edition For further info call Angela Julian now on 0439 555 515 or email mackay@pakmag.com.au

16

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Angela Julian

ay Publication Manager Mack

opportunities exist

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17

Recipes Reader

kitchen Kids Beef Stroganoff

pantry Parents Recipe thanks to: Madeline James

Simple Lamb Shanks

• 1kg rump steak, sliced thinly

• 8 lamb shanks

• 4 tbsp vegetable oil

• Plain flour

• 2 onions, sliced

• 2 tbsp olive oil

• 4 tbsp tomato paste

• 2 onions, sliced

• 2 tsp beef stock powder

• 4 cloves garlic

• 2 garlic cloves

• 1 cup red wine

• 500g button mushrooms

• 2½ cups beef stock

• 1 tsp sweet paprika

• 400g can crushed tomatoes

• 200ml light sour cream

• 1 tbsp rosemary

• 4 tbsp flat-leaf parsley

• 2 tbsp flat-leaf parsley

Method

Recipe thanks to: Lyn Johnson

Method

In a frying pan heat a tablespoon of oil and fry the beef strips in small

Toss the shanks in flour. Place oil in a casserole dish over high heat. Add

batches until brown. In the same frying pan cook the onions with

shanks and brown. Remove and set aside. Add the remaining oil to the

the garlic, tomato paste, stock powder, paprika and mushrooms until

pan and cook the onions and garlic. Return the shanks to the pan. Add

the onions are translucent. Add the water and beef and simmer for 5

the wine, stock, tomatoes and rosemary and bring to the boil. Reduce

minutes. Stir through the sour cream and parsley. Serve with fettucine.

the heat, cover and simmer for 1 hour. Remove the shanks and continue to simmer the sauce, uncovered, for 10 minutes or until reduced. Return the shanks to the dish and add the parsley. Serve with mashed potato.

WIN

18

www.pakmag.com.au

Send in a recipe to www.pakmag.com.au for your chance to WIN a $20 meat voucher! Entries close: 18/11/12

www.pakmag.com.au

19

November what’s on

1

Baby&Kids

Market

3 November (8.30am-1pm) The Mackay Baby and Kids Market is back! Located at the “Powerhouse Centre”, Mackay Christian College Junior Campus, Evans Avenue North (off Glenpark St), Nth Mackay. Entry fee is $2 for adults (free for kids).

2

Bluewater

Lagoon

pink = family

green = kids

blue = adults

Check out the latest family entertainment & events guide

yourGUIDE

Mackay’s focal point for families is perfect for a relaxing summer day. With three age-appropriate pools, a waterslide, water

November 2012 entertainment & events

park, undercover areas, barbecue facilities and

DATE

VENUE

ENTERTAINMENT/EVENT NAME

TIME

FOR MORE INFO

COST

picnic tables, what more

1/11/12

Anglican Church, Nebo Rd

Mainly Music

9:00 AM

4952 3434

$5

could you want? And it’s

1/11/12

Mackay City Library

Story time

10:30 AM

4961 9387

Free

FREE.

2/11/12

Mackay Entertainment Centre

Peter Powers - Live on Stage

8:00 PM

www.mackaytix.com.au

$60

facilities) in case you find some

2/11/12

St Francis Xavier School

Christmas Fair

6:00PM

4953 4079

Free

great Christmas gifts!

2/11/12

Gordon White Library, Mt P

Storytime

9:30 AM

4961 9300

Free

3/11/12

Mackay Christian College Junior Campus

Nth Qld Babies & Kids Market

8:30 AM

www.nthqldbabiesandkidsmarket.com

$2

3/11/12

22 Dutton St Walkerston

St John's Parish Christmas Fair

6:00PM

vassalloflowers@yahoo.com.au

Free

4/11/12

Ooh La La Pet Day Spa, Andergrove

Mackay Animal Rescue Society Adoption Day

9:00 AM

0407 353 301

Free

4/11/12

Mackay Table Tennis Hall

Craft and Hobby Day

9:00 AM

bluerivermackaylions@gmail.com

$2

4/11/12

Mackay Entertainment Centre

John Paul Young 40th Anniversary Tour

7:30 PM

www.mackaytix.com.au

$55

4/11/12

Muller Park, Boundary Rd

Miniature Train rides

10:00 AM

Take plenty of cash (no card

Things to do in Nov

5 5

Eungella

Platypus Spotting

When was the last time

3

TropoTreasure

Market

11 November (7.30am-12noon)

Gordon White Library

Baby Bounce - Sap sit program (Child under 18 mths)

9:30 AM

4961 9300

Free

Mackay City Library

Baby Bounce - Sap sit program (Child under 18 mths)

11:00 AM

4961 9387

Free $5

5/11/12

Shakespeare Street Child & Family Centre

Tie and Dye Day. BYO garment to dye

10:00 AM

4957 7222

5/11/12

Meet at City Fitness Health Club

Lazy Riders Club Beginners

5:30 PM

www.mackaycitycentre.com.au

Free

6/11/12

Artspace Mackay

BMA Kidspace

10:00 AM

4961 9722

Free Free

6/11/12

Memorial Swim Centre

QLD Keep Fit - Aqua Aerobics

5:45 PM

4944 2482

7/11/12

Meet at City Fitness Health Club

Lazy Riders Club Intermediate

5:30 PM

www.mackaycitycentre.com.au

Free

markets turn Sunday into Fun-Day and will keep you coming back with

7/11/12

Memorial Swim Centre

Multi Fit - Swimming and Dry-land Exercises

6:00 AM

4944 2482

Free

their never-ending variety of items for sale and plenty of entertainment.

7/11/12

Salvation Army Mackay City

Mainly Music

10:00 AM

4957 3576

$3

Cost: gold coin donation.

7/11/12

Gordon White Library - Mt P

Storytime

10:30 AM

4961-9300

Free

4

kidz life

8/11/12

Anglican Church, Nebo Rd

Mainly Music

9:00 AM

4952 3434

$5

8/11/12

Mackay City Library

Story time

10:30 AM

4961 9387

Free

9/11/12

Gordon White Library, Mt P

Storytime

9:30 AM

4961 9300

Free

10/11/12 MECC Plenary Halls

Andrew "KO" Keogh v Billy "The Kid"

7:00 PM

www.mackaytix.com.au

$80

10/11/12 Airport Road Proserpine

Whitsunday Motor Sports Go Kart Race Day

8:00 AM

www.wmsc.org.au

Free

Play Centre

Located at 75 Evans Ave, Nth

Mackay, Kidz Life Play Centre is

a drive to Eungella?

the only indoor play centre in Mackay.Slides, and interactive

Situated an hour’s drive

playground for the kids, great

west of Mackay, this park

café and coffee for parents and

sits 686 meters above sea

once you pay you can stay as

level and has spectacular

long as you like. Open Tue-Fri

views of the Pioneer Valley.

(9am-2pm) Sat (9am-4pm) & longer

There’s plenty of camping,

in school holidays. PakMag will be holding their

accommodation facilities

Christmas PakClub event at the Play Centre on 17 November

and bush walking tracks.

(4pm-6pm). Everyone is welcome, even Santa will be there. Free entry.

20

5/11/12 5/11/12

In an undercover carpark at Mount Pleasant Shopping Centre, these

you took the family on

www.pakmag.com.au

Gold Coin

The Good Guys maCkay

Pay less Pay cash

supporting your local community OPEN monday to Friday 9am-5.30pm saturday 9am-4pm & sunday 9am-3pm www.thegoodguys.com.au/mackay

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

21

pink = family

DATE

green = kids

VENUE

blue = adults

ENTERTAINMENT/EVENT NAME

TIME

FOR MORE INFO

COST

10/11/12 1 Ivers Street Bakers Creek

Highway No1 Country Music Family Night

7:30 PM

4942 5254

Free

10/11/12 Birch Carrol and Coyle Mt Pleasant

Family Flicks - The Adventures of Gumball

10:00 AM

www.eventcinemas.com.au

$15

10/11/12 Victoria Park State School

Victoria Park State School Christmas Fair

4:00 PM

0438 576 784

Free

11/11/12 Airport Road Proserpine

Whitsunday Motor Sports Go Kart Race Day

8:00 AM

www.wmsc.org.au

Free

11/11/12 PCYC Norris Road

PCYC Down Syndrome Fun Day

1:30 PM

4959 5173

Free

11/11/12 Mt Pleasant Shopping Centre car park Troppo Treasure Markets

7:30 AM

0447 876 778

Gold coin

12/11/12 Meet at City Fitness Health Club

Lazy Riders Club Beginners

5:30 PM

www.mackaycitycentre.com.au

Free

12/11/12 Birch Carrol and Coyle Mt Pleasant

Family Flicks - The Adventures of Gumball

10:00 AM

www.eventcinemas.com.au

$15

12/11/12 Gordon White Library

Baby Bounce (0-18mths)

9:30 AM

4961 9300

Free

12/11/12 Mackay City Library

Baby Bounce (0-18mths)

11:00 AM

4961 9387

Free

13/11/12 Memorial Swim Centre

QLD Keep Fit - Aqua Aerobics

5:45 PM

4944 2482

Free

14/11/12 Meet at City Fitness Health Club

Lazy Riders Club Intermediate

5:30 PM

www.mackaycitycentre.com.au

Free

14/11/12 Memorial Swim Centre

Multi Fit - Swimming and Dry-land Exercises

6:00 AM

4944 2482

Free

15/11/12 Anglican Church, Nebo Rd

Mainly Music

9:00 AM

4952 3434

$5

15/11/12 Mackay City Library

Story time

10:30 AM

4961 9387

Free

16/11/12 BC's Bistro, Buffalo Club,

Trivia Night

7:30 PM

4957 2180

Gold coin

16/11/12 Gordon White Library, Mt P

Storytime

9:30 AM

49619300

Free

17/11/12 Town Beach, Binnington

Street SUP (Stand Up Paddle Board)

8:00 AM

info@adrenalinrush.net.au

Free Free

18/11/12 Mackay Regional Botanic Gardens

Sunday In the Park

2:00 PM

mky406@bigpond.com

19/11/12 Meet at City Fitness Health Club

Lazy Riders Club beginners

5:30 PM

www.mackaycitycentre.com.au

Free

19/11/12 Gordon White Library

Baby Bounce - Sap sit program (Child under 18 mths)

9:30 AM

4961-9300

Free

19/11/12 Mackay City Library

Baby Bounce - Sap sit program (Child under 18 mths)

11:00 AM

4961-9387

Free

20/11/12 Memorial Swim Centre

QLD Keep Fit - Aqua Aerobics

5:45 PM

4944 2482

Free

21/11/12 Meet at City Fitness Health Club

Lazy Riders Club Intermediate

5:30 PM

www.mackaycitycentre.com.au

Free

21/11/12 Memorial Swim Centre

Multi Fit - Swimming and Dry-land Exercises

6:00 AM

4944 2482

Free

21/11/12 418 Shakespeare Street Mackay

Mackay Mother's Group

9:30 AM

4953 1788

Free

22/11/12 Healthpoint Day & Night Chemist

Clarins Facial EVENT over 3days

8:00 AM

4842 2402

$30

22/11/12 Bunning's Warehouse

DIY Kids Workshop

9:00 AM

4944 3400

Free

22/11/12 Anglican Church, Nebo Rd

Mainly Music

9:00 AM

4952 3434

$5

WIN

prizes

Kids

MINI MAG

Win

one of five $ 20 kick starts to a QCCU Stu den t Money Saver Accou nt See page 24 fo

r details

Nov 2012 fun activities

22

www.pakmag.com.au

Find the hidden words!

Match the words and pictures!

Colour it in and you could WIN a prize!

www.pakmag.com.au

23

Page prize

colour IN & Win!

Dot to Dot

Unscramble these words and you could win!!!

Join the dots, name the item & win a great prize!

[1] thpnleea

_ _ _ _ _ _ _ _

[2] ynkmeo

_ _ _ _ _ _

[3] epa

_ _ _

[4] thhceae

_ _ _ _ _ _ _

[5] rwat gho

_ _ _ _ _ _ _

[6] ffbluao

_ _ _ _ _ _ _

[7] rbzea

_ _ _ _ _

[8] ksbrpniog

_ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _

[9] peordla

_ _ _ _ _ _ _

[10] vlhcure

_ _ _ _ _ _ _

Simply email us the words at the end and you could win a prize! Send to: mkycompetitions@pakmag.com.au

Simply email us the words at the end and you could win a prize! Send to: mkycompetitions@pakmag.com.au

Zoo animalSearch word search Word

Zoo animalWords word search Match & Pictures

Find all of the words and when complete circle the remaining letters left to right, top to bottom to learn an interesting fact about Apes and you could win a great prize!

24

To enter this great competition just colour-it-in and mail to:

Name:

PAKMAG, Colour-it-in November 2012

Parent/Guardian:

PO Box 1922, Mackay QLD 4740 and you

Address:

could WIN a $20 Money Saver Account.

Phone:

Competition closing date: 18/11/12.

Email:

www.pakmag.com.au

Age: Signature:

All Competitions close: 18 Nov 2012

Win one of five $20 kick starts to a QCCU Student Money Saver Account

Word Scramble

WORDS Advanced Brain Africa Asia Broad Chest Chimpanzee Colour Vision Forest Dwellers Gibbon Gorilla Handlike Feet Knuckle Walk Long Arms Mammal No Tail Opposable Thumbs Orangutan Primate Stereoscopic Swing Tree

Simply email us the words at the end and you could win a prize! Send to: mkycompetitions@pakmag.com.au

Match the word with the right picture and win!!!

Aligator Lion Gorilla Hippo Elephant Zebra

Send in your entry and you could win a mystery prize!

Send to: Competitions, PO Box 1922, Mackay QLD 4740 Name:

Phone: www.pakmag.com.au

25

Activities Pak

Spot Difference Can you spot the five differences between these images?

Maze Mania

November what’s on

pink = family

green = kids

blue = adults

yourGUIDE DATE

VENUE

ENTERTAINMENT/EVENT NAME

TIME

FOR MORE INFO

COST

22/11/12 Mackay City Library

Story time

10:30 AM

4961 9387

Free

23/11/12 Gordon White Library, Mt P

Storytime

9:30 AM

4961 9300

Free $15

24/11/12 Birch Carrol and Coyle Mt Pleasant

Family Flicks - Tinkerbell and the Secret of the Wings

10:00 AM

www.eventcinemas.com.au

26/11/12 Meet at City Fitness Health Club

Lazy Riders Club beginners

5:30 PM

www.mackaycitycentre.com.au

Free

26/11/12 Gordon White Library

Baby Bounce

9:30 AM

4961 9300

Free

26/11/12 Mackay City Library

Baby Bounce

11:00 AM

49619387

Free Free

27/11/12 Memorial Swim Centre

QLD Keep Fit - Aqua Aerobics

5:45 PM

4944 2482

28/11/12 Meet at City Fitness Health Club

Lazy Riders Club Intermediate

5:30 PM

www.mackaycitycentre.com.au

Free

28/11/12 Memorial Swim Centre

Multi Fit - Swimming and Dry-land Exercises

6:00 AM

4944 2482

Free

29/11/12 Anglican Church, Nebo Rd

Mainly Music

9:00 AM

4952 3434

$5

29/11/12 Mackay City Library

Story time

10:30 AM

4961 9387

Free

30/11/12 Gordon White Library, Mt P

Storytime

9:30 AM

4961 9300

Free

This is a free listing. Submit your info to: mackay@pakmag.com.au PlayGroups Playgroup - Anderson Grove Community Centre. Fridays 9.30am. Cost $4. Call 4955 2674 Multi Cultural Playgroup - Shakespeare Family Centre. Fridays 9.30am. Cost $2.

Call 4957 7222 Bucasia Mums Group - Jivoli Café, Bucasia Esplanade. Fridays 9.30am. Cost: Free Jivoli Mothers Group. Tuesdays 10am.

Mummy Mondays Playgroup - Double Portion Café, Bucasia Gardens Complex. Mondays 9.30am.

Cost: Free Lilly Pilly Steiner Playgroup - Holack St. Community Hall. Wednesdays 9.30am. Cost $5.

Call 0422 308 698 Beaconsfield Playgroup - Church of Christ.

Tuesdays 9am. Cost: Free. Call 4942 3321

Suntots Playgroup - Shakespeare Child & Family Centre. Wednesdays 9.30am. Cost: $3 MOPS Mothers Group (0-5 yrs) - St. Pauls Uniting Church. Alternate Mondays 9.30am.

Call 4957 3557 PATCH Playgroup - Shakespeare Family Centre.

Thursdays 9.30am. Cost $3. Call 4957 7222

art on show

litit tlttelse L artis artists

ter

Art by Joseph Les

Art by Sarah Jordan

would If you have a piece of artwork that you ent, Little like featured in PakMag’s new segm ce, erpie mast Artists, email a photo of your with your name, age and address to:

26

line photos@pakmag.com.au. Photo dead on. www.pakmag.com.au editi er emb Sept is 16 August for the

Art by Layla Storm

Art by Jess Bosen

www.pakmag.com.au

27

November what’s on

pink = family

green = kids

blue = adults

yourGUIDE Regular Markets Mackay Showgrounds Markets Every Saturday from 7.30am.

Eungella Markets - Eungella Hall North Street.

First Sunday of each month from 9am.

Finch Hatton Markets - Criterion Hotel Grounds. First Sunday from 9am

Sunday Showgrounds Markets First and third Sunday of the month from 8am.

Midge Point Markets - Stan Camm park Midge Point. First Sunday from 8am.

Troppo Treasure Market - Mt Pleasant Shopping Centre. Second Sunday from 7.30am

Seaforth Markets - Foreshore Parkland Seaforth. Sundays from 8.30am

Louisa Creek Markets - Hector Sports Grounds.

First Sunday from 8am.

Sarina Showgrounds Markets Last Sunday of month from 8am

The Hut Markets - South Sea Islander Hut, The Lagoons Ram. First Sunday of month from 12noon.

The Leap Markets - The Leap Community Hall.

First Sunday of month from 8am.

Twilight Markets - Mackay Surf Club.

First Friday from 5pm.

Regular Events Free Zumba at Bluewater Quay Sundays 10am

New Friends Coffee Morning - Gordon White Library. Fridays 9.30am

Free weekly bike ride at Bluewater Quay Saturdays 6.30am

PCYC Mums & Bubs Fitness Tuesdays & Thursdays 11.15am

Sarina Aqua Aerobics - Sarina Pool Thursdays 9.30am. Cost: Free

Bunnings Weekend Kids DIY Workshops Saturday & Sunday 11.30am

Bucasia Gardens Community Garden Working Bee. Saturdays 2pm

Tots Sensory Circus - 12 Hicks St. Tuesdays & Thursdays 9am & 10am. Cost: $7. Call 0413 506 804

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

28

www.pakmag.com.au

www.pakmag.com.au

29

Gadgets

toddler

News Story thanks to Jemma Nott

Gaga for Gadgets

Shop local this Christmas & WIN!

Have you ever had that experience where you

technology can be a natural learning process,

just wanted to sit your kids down in front of their

but recent media reports on the other end of

favourite TV program and walk away? Well, Senior

the spectrum that argue children are deprived

Psychology Lecturer at James Cook University,

without it are somewhat of an exaggeration.

Alistair Campbell, says that this is not always such a bad thing.

dominant species on the planet. Playing with

the American Academy of Paediatrics and the

technology will only make a child more capable

Raising Children’s Network arguing that young

of using technology in so far as it enhances

children should have little or no screen-time,

adaptive capacity,” he says.

generalisation of a more complex topic.

Simply shop at our list of local retailers and you will get an entry form to win a Grand Jedda Cubby worth over $2,000!

For full terms & conditions and a list of retailers, head to our website www.pakmag.com.au

30

Competition closes: 23 December • Competition Drawn: 24 December

To view Grand Gazebos full product

*Picture used is an example only, basic Grand Jedda Cubby model supplied. Some items are not included like installation, slide, veranda, etc.

range go to: www.grandgazebos.com.au

www.pakmag.com.au

The exception to this is constantly exposing a toddler to extremely violent or sexual images,

“To argue for a blanket ban on TV and

however, Campbell says that in this instance the

technological activity for toddlers is a serious

onus is on the parents or caregivers.

misunderstanding of the evidence we have about a child’s need for care.”

“In my view, the most important question in child development is whether the child has the opportunity to engage with the primary care givers,” he says.

“In my view, exposure to disturbing images can be damaging, but are unlikely to be if the child has good parenting.”

“If the child has exposure (to disturbing images), which leads to reassurance and security (from the care giver), the child is enabled to develop

Campbell says that technology can, in fact, be a

secure and adaptive coping mechanisms. The

useful way of encouraging this engagement.

critical issue here is that it is the response of the

“I well remember watching Telly Tubbies with my

For your chance to win go to pakmag.com.au

use of technology that has made us the most

With recent media reports and organisations like

Campbell says that arguments such as these are a

Exposing toddlers to new and different technologies can be a natural part of growing up, says Dr Alistair Campbell

“Human beings are tool users...It is our adaptive

caregivers that makes the difference,” he says.

girls...in engaging in that activity, watching the

Campbell encourages parents not to feel

TV, they where also engaging with me and I was

overwhelmed or guilty about exposing toddlers

engaging with them.”

to different technologies.

“Sometimes, I would leave them to watch, while

“Don’t panic. Use your common sense. Don’t pay

I went and did something else, but when I came

too much attention to the so-called experts in

back I would have questions and observations.

this. There are major political issues at play and

‘Where is it up too?’ ‘What’s LaLa doing?’” he says.

people’s statements on these ideas reflect (this)”

Similarly, Campbell makes the point that using

he says. www.pakmag.com.au

31

Baby

Baby Seats Child restraints Data was recently released showing that more than 5,400 parents in NSW have been fined and lost demerit points for not using the right restraint for their children since the national laws were introduced in March 2010.

It has raised the question as to whether the message has been getting through and whether we are aware of the responsibilities we have towards our most precious cargo.

Here’s a rundown of the laws: Stage1 (0-6mths) Babies need to be fitted into an approved rearward facing capsule or infant restraint.

Capsules are available for hire from The Queensland Ambulance Service by phoning 1300 369 003.

Stage 2 (6mths–1 year) Depending on size and weight, either a rearward or forward facing child restraint can be used.

Stage 3 (1–4 years)

Parents have the option of a booster seat with either an H-harness or seat belt.

the latest

books New Releases

Unique Gifts

It can take time to get used to being a mum.

According to one recent survey it takes an average of five months for new mums to feel comfortable in their new role but it can take some women up to two years.

If you’re looking for some beautiful unique gift ideas for a new baby or something unique to decorate your child’s bedroom, go and check out Mackay Curtain Making on Lawson Street. It is a real Aladdin’s Cave of goodies and stocks a range of gorgeous nursery items including pillowcases, name and letter canvases, growth charts, wooden letters and names, magnetic and felt boards and co-ordinating room flags. This pillowcase is made with the

However, even though most women in

• Not being worried about dealing with

the survey admitted that they didn’t feel

the baby in public.

capable of being a mother at times, the majority also said they wouldn’t admit this to other mums for fear of being seen

• Always leaving the house with a spare

McKay encourages mums to discuss these

change of baby clothes.

she says “There’s a conspiracy of silence they don’t want to face criticism they

• Being able to change a nappy quickly.

perpetuate the very conspiracy that

• Having the baby sleep through

WIN

the night.

For your chance to win a voucher for

Factors that allow new mums

• Feeling able to keep on top of the

your own uniquely-made pillow case

to feel confident:

housework.

• Getting a good routine sorted.

• Always having a baby toy in their

tell us what swim school is located opposite Mackay Curtain Making?

• Knowing what to do when baby cries.

RRP $24.99

or milk for the baby.

colourways to suit both boys and girls.

go to www.pakmag.com.au and

Rabbit toy and a classic story to keep forever.

• Never leaving the house without food

that isolates mothers, and because

divides and holds them hostage.”

A perfect gift for a new baby with soft plush Peter

has a temperature.

as a failure. Australian baby author Pinky kinds of feelings with other women. As

Tale of Peter Rabbit Book & Toy Giftset (Beatrix Potter)

• Not panicking when the baby is sick or

best quality fabrics and costs $45. They are available in

Children within this age group should progress to a forward facing restraint with built-in harness.

Stage 4 (4–7 years)

mums Getting to Grips

handbag.

Hello Spot! A Puppet Play Book (Eric Hill) A gorgeous interactive book that comes with a soft, plush Spot hand puppet. Readers have to make Spot wave hello, cover his eyes, clap his hands, touch his nose and nod his head. RRP $19.99

Rudie Nudie (Emma Quay) Rudie Nudie, is an adorable board book and a delightful celebration of those nudie moments between bath and bedtime with very cute illustrations. RRP $14.99

isoki nappy bags These designer nappy bags have been seen in the media on the arms of several celebrities. And now, Mackay mums can also make a fashion statement with Isoki’s stylish range of reversible baby bags.

Modern yet practical, these bags are available at Healthpoint Day & Night Chemist (65 Sydney St) – the only place in Queensland.

The inner components of the bag include a double-sided storage satchel, insulated cooler bag and large padded change mat, all of which can be used individually or as a complete set.

32

www.pakmag.com.au

WIN

For your chance to win an Isoki Nappy Bag thanks to Healthpoint Chemists simply go to our website and tell us a famous celebrity who has one of these products?

www.pakmag.com.au

33

Imperfect Mum

Mummy Blogger

A

t times my journey through motherhood has felt lonely, isolating and less than perfect. These

experiences made me realise there was a need for a safe place where mums could talk, engage and relate to each other, because I don’t believe I’m the only mum that struggles. I believe many mums silently fear they might not be ‘good enough’ so I created The Imperfect Mum - a place where mums can express their fears without feeling judged and talk about anything from the real heavy stuff right down to toilet training.

Spurred on by the tragic loss of her first baby, Kristy Vallely found a way to reach out to other mums who might be struggling, through her successful new blog ‘The Imperfect Mum’

The focus of The Imperfect Mum blog is to lift the lid on the ‘real stuff’, both good and the bad. I want mothers to know they are not alone. I want there to be a safe place for them to go if they need to.

My own start to motherhood was a very confronting one with the loss of my first baby – he was born prematurely and only lived for half an hour. When I finally got to take my daughter home I recall one day sitting on my lounge room floor holding this absolutely perfect baby in my arms. Unfortunately it was a far from perfect moment -all I could feel was a deep dark feeling of anxiousness. I was completely and utterly overwhelmed; it was like the walls were caving in.

That was a very scary time for me and I will NEVER forget that moment. I also never wanted anyone else to go through that kind of experience alone so, after I finally got through that period, I wanted to set up some sort of advice line for other struggling mothers to call.

Since I was busy juggling motherhood and work it took a while, but the nagging voice in my head

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still kept telling me I had to do ‘something’.

I used to often and (sometimes still do) compare myself to other mothers but the funny thing about the whole ‘comparing’ thing is that I think we all compare ourselves to each other and think, “wow she’s really got it together”, when in actual fact ‘she’ probably goes home and silently cries because ‘she’ doesn’t feel quite adequate herself. Comparing ourselves to others actually prevents us from really connecting and helping each other.

Of course there are some parents who don’t struggle and I’m genuinely very happy for them, but that’s not me and I wasn’t going to pretend it is. I think the more people talk about parenting and the effects it has on them the less isolating it will be.

It wasn’t until June last year that I finally worked out how to help other mums. I started ‘The Imperfect Mum’ blog and Facebook page. It fitted me ‘perfectly’.

I didn’t anticipate such an overwhelmingly positive response. The Facebook page received over 3000 fans in the first six months and the blog was listed as one of the top 5 blogs in Queensland by Dr. Harmon from The Modern Family. It now has over 12,000 fans and seems to have really connected with people and I think its because it allows people to be truthful without the fear of judgment. There seems to be a big sense of relief amongst those who joined.

For more information you can find The Imperfect Mum on Facebook or follow the blog at www.theimperfectmum.com.au www.pakmag.com.au

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musical

Kids

Story thanks to Nicole Tobin-Donnelly

inst r u m e nts When is the right time to start kids playing an instrument, writes music teacher Nicole Tobin-Donnelly

M

[2] Age

with weighted, full-size keys and at least 76-88

Most music teachers don’t like to take on

before you have to make the decision about

fast rules for choosing an instrument although I

students before the end of Grade 1. The reason

buying a piano. Look around for second hand

firmly believe children should not be permitted

for this is two-fold. Firstly, most of the tutor

options by all means but don’t buy anything off

to hop from one to another. You need at least a

books rely on the student to have basic English

the internet unless you’ve discussed it with a

year on an instrument to see if it’s ‘your thing’.

reading ability. If your child doesn’t have this, you

qualified music teacher first (there is no way that

There is now also research showing children

will have to sit with your child for half an hour

pink flute on ebay is a real flute!).

allowed to activity hop then do the same with

every day whilst they complete their practice.

jobs and relationships later in life, so they need to

Secondly, children often don’t have the physical

learn commitment and persistence early on.

ability to play the instrument. If you start them

ost parents would like their child to learn a musical instrument at some stage. There are no hard and

There are a few basic things you need to consider before allowing your child to play an instrument:

[1] Time The key question is how much time do you as the parent have every day to help your child practice? Initially your child may be very selfmotivated but even the most enthusiastic child will experience some waning in their interest after a few months. You need 30 minutes per day during which you can listen with only minimal interruption so you can help them. Even the most dedicated child will need nagging at some point, often for a few months, before they become selfmotivated again.

on an instrument before they are physically ready, it will be too hard for them, and they may not want to play another instrument, ever!

Sometimes it’s best to wait another year.

keys will keep your child going for a few years

[4] Teaching Unfortunately anyone can claim to be a ‘music teacher’ in Queensland. Ask potential teachers how long they’ve been teaching, whether they have a diploma and from what board. It’s easier if you know the teacher is an ex-school teacher

A a general rule, piano or violin shouldn’t start

but playing in a band does not necessarily qualify

until at least Term 4 of Grade 1, flute can start

you to teach.

about the end of Grade 3, but most other wind

[5] Exams

instruments are quite demanding physically so you should wait until about Grade 4. Vocal

Your child does not have to do exams but if they

lessons shouldn’t start until a child is about 8

get to Grade 7 in most boards, it can help boost

years old otherwise you could damage their

their OP at the end of Grade 12. Most children

vocal chords by extending their range too early.

are ready for an exam of some sort after about

[3] Costs

18 months – 2 years of study. There are lots of

These days some music shops offer rent-to-buy

different options, for example, classical and

options. Expect to pay about $3000 for a cello,

modern. Some of the newer boards are making

$175 for a violin and $750-$1000 for a good

exams much more child-friendly. You can pick

student flute. A digital keyboard (not electronic)

and choose which ones best suit your child.

different examining boards these days with

Follow these general guidelines and you will be setting your children up to love music for life.

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pakmag winners are grinners

Simply head to www.pakmag.com.au and enter all of this months fantastic competitions

pakmag competition

win 2 nights in a luxury Villa

winner For your chance to WIN two nights in a BIG4 Adventure Whitsunday Luxury Villa go to our website: www.pakmag.com.au and tell us the names of the two kids workshops during the Christmas Holidays at BIG4 Adventure Whitsunday Resort.

win a 1month gym membership at city Fitness for 2 people For your chance to WIN a 1 month gym membership at City Fitness for you & a friend including personal training sessions & child minding head to: www.pakmag.com.au

Local

outing Story thanks to Holly Moore

www.pakmag.com.au

nQ cAR & tRuck RentAls Explore Mackay and the beautiful Whitsunday’s in a car from NQ Car & Truck Rentals. Our low prices and great service are the reason why we are the first choice of so many visitors to the Mackay and Whitsunday’s area.

Sugar Shed

Low prices, great service Vehicle hire atthe right Price!

Whether you need a car rental from the Marina or at the Airport, we offer a drop off and pick up service.

1800 Rent A tRuck

cARs • utes • 4WDs • buses • tRucks Phone 4953 2353 4 Malcomson Street, MACKAY nicole@nqcartruckrentals.com.au www.nqcartruckrentals.com.au

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Tour

Sarina Sugar E

ven after living in Mackay for seven

wastage as well as water and electricity

years I have to admit that, until

consumption.

recently, I had very limited knowledge

of the workings of the sugarcane industry.

However, since my daughters had been learning about the environment at school I decided to take them on a tour to the Sarina Sugar Shed so they (and me!) could learn a bit more about how sugar makes it from the fields to our table.

After several years of living in Mackay surrounded by fields of sugarcane, it was time for my family to find out a bit more about this important local industry, writes Holly Moore

Next came the fun bit - the tasting test. The Sugar Shed produces a number of culinary products on site and also through a local high schools farming program so we got to try various different sauces, liquors and relishes as well as their own ginger beer. The kids could also try fairy floss with their own choice of flavour, either banana, pina colada,

Sarina Sugar Shed is Australia’s only miniature

vanilla, who knew there were so many options!

working mill and distillery; the tour takes you

We rounded off the tour with a trip to the gift

from the cutting of the cane through to the

shop to stock up on mango sweet chilli and the

miniature mill where each step of the refining

traditional relish.

process is explained and you get to see the machines in action.

Sarina Sugar Shed is great for a family day trip - our kids had a fantastic time. It was both fun

The tour starts with a short DVD that gives a

and educational and gave us a renewed sense of

really good background into the Whitsundays

appreciation for the role that sugar plays in our

sugar industry, its history and its importance to

region.

the local area. We were then shown all the old equipment on display and told how the sugar used to be processed before the use of modern

Sarina Sugar Shed is situated just off the

technology.

Bruce Highway in Railway Square, Sarina

This is followed by a guided tour around the miniature mill which is very hands on with the kids being actively included and allowed to touch, smell and taste the cane in its various stages of production. Given that the kids have been learning about the environment at school it was particularly good for them to hear about

(37 km south of Mackay). It is open all year round Monday-Saturday (9am-5pm).

Tours last approx. one hour and start at 9.30am, 11.00am, 12.30pm and 2.00pm.

Cost: Adults $21, Children $11. For more information call 4943 2801 or go to www.sarinasugarshed.com.au

the ways in which the sugar industry minimises www.pakmag.com.au

39

V

Family

holiday Story thanks to Corrie Gardner

oted in the top 3 best family holiday

times. These classes will be fun and interactive

parks in Queensland and winner

with a different dance style being covered each

of several tourism awards, BIG4

day. The kids will have a blast as they learn some

Adventure Whitsunday has everything you

groovy new dance moves with the help of dance

could possibly need for a successful family

teachers and a DJ. The workshops are free of

holiday. The kids are kept so busy with games

charge but numbers are limited so bookings are

and activities and making new friends that

essentials.

parents actually get to relax as well.

To find out more and make your holiday booking

Set in 10 beautiful hectares of tropical gardens,

go to www.adventurewhitsunday.com.au or

the resort includes Airlie Beach’s largest heated

call 1300 640 587 for more information.

lagoon-style swimming pool, water slides, a full-size tennis court, an impressive 18-hole mini-golf course, outdoor movies, organized social events, modern amenities, free BBQs, camp kitchen, games and recreation room and wireless internet. Offering the only mainland resort Kid’s Club and full-time Activities Coordinator, there’s a year-round Activity Schedule and special holiday workshops to ensure there is plenty to do for every age and visitor.

With the summer holiday period coming up, the resort has lots of extra special activities planned. Starting pre-Christmas, the popular Santa Workshops from 17-21 December provide

Kids following the Fr og Buggy

a chance for the kids to make traditional home made Christmas presents with Mrs Claus and her helpers. If you stay over the Christmas period

Photo courtesy of Tourism Queensland

” k c a b e b l l ’ e W “

BIG4 Adventure Whitsunday Resort 25-29 Shute Harbour Road Air lie Beach, QLD Australia 4802

Already a favourite with Mackay locals the award winning BIG4 Adventure Whitsunday Resort is heaven for children, writes Corrie Gardner 40

V iew over looking W hitehaven Beach

you’ll also be able to enjoy Christmas Eve carols by the pool, an outdoor NYE family disco and the famous pancake recovery breakfast on New Year’s Day. From 7-11 January the ‘Let’s Dance’ workshops kick off for children aged four to 12 years.

Morning and afternoon sessions will be held with two age groups running at consecutive

Kids having a blast in the pool

WIN Big!

WI N 2 Nights in a luxu ry vi lla* Luxury Villa For your chance to WIN two nights in a BIG4 Adventure Whitsunday tell us the names of the (for two adults and up to four children) go to www.pakmag.com.au and e Whitsunday Resort. two kids workshops during the Christmas School Holidays at BIG4 Adventur spa, LCD flatscreen tvs, Finished with designer fittings and furnishings throughout, dishwasher, Adventure Whitsunday sound system, Movielink and a host of other luxury touches, the BIG4 Luxury Villa is sure to surprise and delight!

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41

tips

Paint Time

Bold colours work well in our climate and inject personality into your children’s space. Look for colour hues and tones that already exist in their favourite treasures to highlight in the walls.

STYLE Tips • Room Size: Use lighter hues in small rooms to give the impression of space. Larger rooms or games rooms can hold bright and bold colours • Lighting: Be aware of how the light in a room alters

kids room

your chosen paint colour • Variety: Instead of a solid feature wall try adding some bold vertical stripes in complimentary colours • Special effects: Experiment with Dulux’s great range of special effects paints such as metallic and pearl • Chalkboards: Use Dulux chalkboard water based paint in kid’s rooms so they can create their own blackboard artworks.

DIY Painting Tips • Spend time on preparation for the perfect paint finish.

Wash down your walls with sugar soap (Selleys Blue Sugar Soap doesn’t need rinsing off ), patch plaster imperfections and smoothe off by sanding with 120 grit sandpaper • Gap any corner cracks with gap filler and smooth off with damp rag.

• Dulux Wash and Wear Low Sheen is easy to wash and ideal for interior walls.

Porters Paint Centre located in our main Hardware & Lifestyle section. For more information contact Porters in-store colour

PAINT TRENDS

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consultant on 4967 3372.

• Colours: All colours are ‘in’ right now so

• Eco-Chic: Breathe life into old pieces

if you love colour, run with what makes

of furniture with Dulux Aquanamels range

you happy. Use the wall colour as a

of colours. Use a preplock undercoat to

backdrop to canvases or wall decals.

ensure good paint adhesion.

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43

Itchy Scratchy Fleas thrive in our warm moist environment so if you’re a pet owner there are some basics you should

Want to sell your home for the highest price?

know about the risks,

F

leas are tiny, wingless insects with

Fleas are more than just annoying insects. They

mouthparts designed to suck blood.

are the leading cause of itchiness, scratching and

The flea’s saliva, which contains an

skin irritation in pets. One of the most common

ingredient that softens the pet’s skin for easier

problems caused by fleas is a hypersensitivity

penetration and feeding, is irritating and

reaction that causes pets to become intensely

allergenic for a pet’s skin.

itchy. The areas most often affected are the

Fleas have four main life stages:

When your animal scratches intensely it can

day and up to 600 eggs over several months.

cause a lot of skin damage that can lead to

They usually fall off the animal because they’re

potentially fatal secondary bacterial skin

not sticky and take up to two weeks to hatch.

infections. Even dogs that don’t have flea

• Lavae - once the lavae emerge from the eggs

allergies can develop dermatitis.

they feed on whatever organic material

Fleas can also carry and transmit a number of

they can find such as dead insects, faeces, and

potentially serious diseases as well as being hosts

vegetable matter. They are blind and keep to

for dipylidium caninum tapeworm.

dark places like cracks and crevices, sand and bedding.

With fleas around the home children are also at risk of developing tapeworm infections if they

prevention and treatment

• Pupa - the larvae then pupates and weaves

of fleas, writes Brad Smith

a silken cocoon. Unfortunately the pupa can remain dormant until they receive a signal that heat, and carbon dioxide are all stimuli

Testimonial: “I would recommend Emma

armpits.

• Egg - one female flea can lay up to 50 eggs per

a host is near - vibrations (including sound),

Make the right move.

rump, thigh, tail base, bells, flanks and under the

indicating the probable presence of a host

get fleas into their mouths.

Breaking the cycle Luckily there are many excellent products on the market to get rid of fleas. Comfortis (a monthly tablet) and Advantix and Frontline (topical

• Adult flea – a fully developed adult flea

applications) kill the fleas. Sentinel makes the

then emerges from the cocoon and lives an

flea sterile. It is important to use products such

average of between 30-90 days.

as these continuously to break the life cycle and

to anyone, because you could not meet

thus prevent any further outbreaks.

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

mac k a y

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

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45

out&about

submit your photos

email to: photos@pakmag.com.au

lcoming

ing

lcom Jo-Anne & Benjamin at the Baby We

Courtney & baby Tegan

Tylah, Michael & baby Ava

Jo, Mary, Brianna & Charlotte at the

Toni, Ashley, Shakira & Rickki-Lee

Shannon & baby Zoe at the Baby We Baby Welcoming

Andy, Lee & baby Huijuan

Out & About photos thanks to Dream Capture photography > www.dreamcapturephotography.com.au

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Megan, David & baby Layla

Ashlee, Matthew & baby Mason

Rachel, Charlotte, Toby & Claire at the

The Yates Family

Baby Welcoming

Vinciane with Lander & Arthur

Out & About photos thanks to Dream Capture photography > www.dreamcapturephotography.com.au

www.pakmag.com.au

47

Funny

stories

Have a laugh with a local thanks to SeaFM

Laughs local

There’s always plenty to talk about with kids and parenthood and this month on Facebook we’ve been discussing childish ‘obsessions’. We asked local parents – what is/was your child obsessed with?

our fav Steven Harwood “My son knows iphones and ipods inside out and better than me! I’m like “how the hell did you do that?” and of course he then shows me how to download movies and games to my account! Lil bugger...$63 was my last App bill and he’s not even five!”

Cassandra Chapman “My boys did cars. Everything was a car; even the pegs and peg basket was a car carrying truck!! He’s six and still obsessed with cars.”

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Susan Michelle

Brie Boschker

“Mine is motorbikes. Everything can be turned into a motorbike!”

“My 4 year old daughter has to bang on everything that is metal, like posts and fences and things like that. Luckily I’ve talked her out of doing it on cars.”

Samara Hart “My two year old daughter has a fixation with phones. Sometimes she will even use her plain old hand as a phone but mostly its things with buttons or things that are sort of banana shaped.”

Caroline Brown “My son is mad on dinosaurs. He sings the dinosaur alphabet and he knows a dinosaur starting with each letter of the alphabet...it’s a pretty good party trick!”

Lynnette Avey “My kids pretended to mow the lawn. Now they’re older...they don’t even do that much!”

Rene Latimore “Trucks, trucks and more trucks. He could say their names and knew the difference between a backhoe and an excavator by the time he was two!”

Lee-Anne Bein “My son was into trains. He could tell you the difference between steam trains, how they worked, ran and functioned all before he was three. He’s seven now and his knowledge of trains in general is mind boggling.”

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