PAKMAG - March 2010 Edition by Grand Publishing

Issue 33 March 2010 Photography

! t NLYou S Ome KuIDLL

Cover Photo: Anya Ka rmansky from Cheeky Mo nkey

Kid’s mini mag inside!

Booming Mummy Blogs

Affordable family reef trips Advice for expecting multiple babies • Did you know ? • Loads of Comp s • Heaps of Prize s • PAK review

What’s On March

what’s stacked in pak this month

Are you expecting to bring a little one into your world? The teams at Calanna Pharmacy are here to assist you in any way we can, to ensure the health & well-being of both mum and child are at their best.

parents 02

What’s new

Kid’s Mini Mag

Sea FM’s daddy diary

Colour it in & win

editor’s note

Mummy bloggers

Healthy kids

Raising positive kids

Pak activities

Getting involved in school life

Bopstars bulletin

Hello and welcome to the 33rd

14 1000 Backpacks for Aussie kids

Animal facts

edition of PakMag. I can’t believe it’s almost Easter, time just flies doesn’t it!

Pak Health - Calming anxious kids

17 Pak Health - Sugars 19 Kids in the kitchen

for me to say the least. Jordan is

19 Parents in the pantry

getting faster and faster, and I seem

Out & about photos

What’s On October

Out & about photos

Everything takes so long to do and being a working mum, every minute of my day is about saving time, and doing the most I can with every single minute. Consequently I decided feed time would be done outside with the

GIFT with purchase, for the month of March for your little bundle of joy!

This month has been quite challenging

to be getting slower and slower.

FREE

kids

35 PakBaby

baby & toddler 35

PakBaby

Win a ‘designer dummy’

Win a apple&bee prize pack

40 Weekender 42 A trip to… 44 Prize Winners/Fav Pet Shots

Things to Win

Kids Money

dogs to save on cleaning the floor five

times a day. I’m happy to report it’s

46 Business Directory

Win a double movie pass

working a treat. In fact it’s working so

47 Easter holiday fun

Colour it in & win

well, I’m considering letting them clean

48 Kids activities

Battle of the brains

Jordan up at the end too!

Face behind the talent

Word scramble

Jordan has also taken to throwing

Movie of the month

Win a Nanny McPhee prize pack

everything he can get his hands on. I

52 Time for a break

Win tickets to Hi-5

was recently extremely embarrassed

Win a ‘designer dummy’

in the Stockland food court when he

Win a apple&bee prize pack

got hold of a jar out of the shopping when I wasn’t looking and smashed

See in-store for details

it on to the floor. Some days are very challenging but he’s is so cheeky and

While stock lasts

has everyone wrapped around his little finger that I can’t be mad at him for long.

FEEL ALIVE Woree  600 Bruce Highway

OPEN 8am TO 8pm - 7 DAYS A WEEK

 FEEL HEALTHY

 FEEL GOOD

 North Cairns 355 Sheridan Street  Innisfail 75 Edith Street

I’m also pleased to tell you that he’s been taking his first big steps although he still tends to favour holding on to my leg like a koala bear which makes gettting around a bit tricky! Enjoy this edition of PakMag and your little bundles of joy, and don’t forget to tell everyone you read it in PakMag! Bree

Editor: Bree James Sub Editor: Elaine Seager Website, What’s On & MiniMag Manager: Trent Stievano Graphic Design & Layout: Trina Jensen from Intrinsic Creative Articles: Elaine Seager, Shannon du Plessis, Nerissa Healey & submitted writers Phone: 4031 9915 Fax: 4031 9916 Email: info@pakmag.com.au Address: Level 2, 68 Abbott St, Virginia House, Cairns Q 4870 Postal: PO Box 7433, Cairns Q 4870 Sales & Advertising enquiries: sales@pakmag.com.au Stories, events, distribution to: info@pakmag.com.au Accounts to: accounts@pakmag.com.au Photos to: photos@pakmag.com.au Disclaimer: No part of this magazine, including the advertisements within it may br 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 advsied to check details before visiting. The publishers cannot accept responsibility for errors, inaccuracies or omissions. The expressions expressed within PaK Magazine are not neccessarily the views of the publishers, but those of individual writers.

www.pakmag.com.au

what’s new! Baby Competition Positive Parenting

Local photographer Kristy Campbell will be holding a photographic baby competition at Mount Sheridan Plaza on 18, 19 & 20th March at 10am-2pm and the following week on 25, 26 & 27th March. The competition is being held to raise funds for the Cairns Base Hospital’s special care baby unit. Entry fees are $10, Kristy will take 10 photos of each baby and then you can decide which one is submitted to the judging panel. The winning photo will be published in PakMag. A free seminar about how to deal with your child’s behaviour and develop positive relationships for parents with kids 2-12 yrs is running on 10 & 11 March at Smithfield Community Centre, 3-5pm. For more info and books call 4038 9900.

Girl Power

A two day workshop for girls 12-15 yrs will be running on 13 & 20 March (10am-3.30pm) focused on developing self esteem $160pp. For more info call Donna on 0414 480 934

Multiples Week

March 14th-21st is Multiple Birth Week and the local association will be celebrating with a walk on the Esplanade on Sunday 14th of March. Starting at the lagoon at 9.30am, it will finish at the Pirate Ship so if you have twins or triplets and would like to meet other parents of multiples, go along and join in the fun. They will also be having another family fun day on 28th of March from 10am until lunchtime at the Pirate Ship.

Working Mums

Do you know of a mother’s group in Cairns that specifically caters to working mums? ie. it meets outside of normal business hours. If so, please email us where and when it meets so that we can publish the details in PakMag.

Open Day Sailing Regatta

Cairns Yacht Club will be holding an open day at Ellis Beach on Sat. 13th March 11am-3pm. It’s open to all ages who want to give sailing a go – take a ride with an instructor and get some basic information and instruction. There will also be a free sausage sizzle and kids entertainment. Don’t forget to take sunblock and stinger suits! Register your interest at sailing.ellis@hotmail.com.au

what’s new in entertainment! Easter PakClub

Hi-5 Surprise

Come along for our Easter Egg Hunt and meet the Easter bunny. Lots of entertainment for the kids – Bopstars, arts & crafts, games and more. Have a quiet drink whilst your kids are well and truly entertained!

One of the world’s biggest entertainment phenomena will be Cairns on 27 & 28 March at the Civic Theatre. Haven’t got your tickets yet? There’s still time to book through ticketlink.com.au

MAR 2010 Movie RELEASES

thanks to Birch carroll & Coyle Cinemas Alice in Wonderland 3D In cinemas Mar 4

Pandorum In cinemas Mar 4

Dear John In cinemas Mar 4

Green Zone In cinemas Mar 11

The Vampire’s Assistant In cinemas Mar 11

ACADEMY OF TELEVISION

Remember Me In cinemas Mar 11

Cop Out In cinemas Mar 18

The Bounty Hunter In cinemas Mar 18

The Rebound In cinemas Mar 18

Drama Build your confidence and discover yourself through Drama!

Film &TV

Acting Workshops

For Juniors (7-11) Teenagers (12-16) and Adults (17+) FOR MORE INFORMATION

CALL 4059 1141

How To Train Your Dragon 3D In cinemas Mar 25

Have you got something new that Cairns families should know about?

2 Email us at: info@pakmag.com.au or go to our website www.pakmag.com.au and add in your event

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daddy diary #11 Potts, one half of the Sea FM morning crew, continues his chronicles of first time fatherhood Noah celebrated his 6 month

when we put him to bed in only a

birthday at the end of January and

nappy and singlet because it’s so

we were told the other day he looked

hot. I guess you know what’s coming

like a 1 year old. Isn’t it funny that

next! Yep, you can imagine mum’s

up until the age of 18 we want to

surprise when she walked into

be told we look older but after that

Noah’s room one morning to sounds

we’re mainly concerned with looking

of giggling and a not too pleasant

younger. Noah looks older because

smell.

brand new Sunday 14 March 5-7PM CazaLyS FunCTion Room

he’s a big boy and loves his food. He’s well and truly into the solids as

Yes, it seems Noah got into his

well as a bottle every 3 – 4 hours.

nappy on this particular morning

His solids consist of a vegetable

and ripped out the surprise left by

mash followed by a fruit mash to

the poop fairy. He was quite the little

keep him “regular.” And boy, is he

artist smearing it around his white

“regular”

cot and sheets and he even gave it a taste test. After the obligatory photo

The high fibre diet took a twist a

for evidence and embarrassment to

couple of weeks ago when Noah

use at his 21st, Kylie spent the next

learnt a new trick. He is at the age

15 minutes trying to clean and bath

where he enjoys using his hands and

him, when all Noah wanted was a

is grabbing everything, especially

bottle. This was one of those days

mummy’s hair and daddy’s fat rolls.

I was glad I was up early and at the

He’s even learnt how to rip off the

radio station. The little man now

side of the nappy. This doesn’t

goes to bed in a jump suit or pyjama

pose much of a problem because

bottoms as we think that is just a

we normally see him do it, except

little too much fibre.

• Prizes for best dressed Easter Theme • Easter Egg Hunt • Easter Bunny visit • Lots of prizes for the whole family • Kids raffle and lucky door prize • Cooking Demonstrations from Thermomix • Easter craft • Play Stations • Jumping castle and heaps of dancing and games for the kids

Come and join us for this free Party!!!

Potts & Pacey

Bookings are strictly limited so call for your table now!!!

Kids eat free from the buffet* Buffet $15 for members and $17 for non members *under ten year olds eat free from the buffet with each paying adult.

t he SeaF M Morn i ng C r e w

Phone 4054 1464!

weekday MorningS FroM 5.30aM

Proudly brought to you by:

on the loCal you know,

facSiMile: 4033 2038 • eMail: promo@cazalys.com.au • WeBSite: www.cazalys.com.au terms & conditions apply: You need to be a member of Cazaly’s to enter due to the Qld Liquor Act 1992, which is $5 for the year, Pak Club visitors get $5 venue cash back on the spot.

99.5 SeaFM CairnS. 4

Eggciting Easter Pak Party!!!

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Mummy bloggers Self confessed blogger Shannon du Plessis reports on the growing business of Mummy-blogs WHEN PakMag contacted me to do an article about mums who blog, I realised I was probably the right person to write about this topic. Not just because I love to write & have at one time ran an online business, but because I have not one, but three blogs. The first one was started in March 2006, a month after my daughter was born. It’s a blog dedicated to my children with lots of pictures, a journal of their milestones and events, height and weight records, and other “baby” stuff. My second blog was started last year as an outlet for my creative side. It’s my “diary of nice things” free for all to read and peruse at their leisure, but also a place for me to show off what I like to do in my spare time. Sadly, this is also the most neglected blog on my blogroll. My third blog is Mumologues and is essentially my thoughts on parenting and my strategies for being a better mum. With this blog I hope to inspire, inform, encourage and entertain other mothers about issues we all face at one time or another.

written by a mum who finds time to post six times a day (she has a nanny), and juggles this with TV appearances and other newspaper columns while living in a waterfront mansion in Sydney. Mia is hardly the sort of woman who can relate to the everyday mum who is still in her pyjamas at midday changing dirty nappies, and has on her “to-do” list to clean the ring around the bathtub because it looks like the filthy tub in the Easy-Off Bam commercial.*

Mums blog about all kinds of issues from cooking, crafts, gardening, travel, fashion and creative pursuits, to politics, health, relationships, finance, sex, dieting, religion, parenting and matters of the heart. Mamamia.com.au, former Cosmo editor Mia Freedman’s blog, attracts about 300,000 hits every month, the vast majority of them women who engage in debates on everything from Madonna to tuna casserole.

Blogging in Australia is booming, following the lead of US mummy blogs which have become a cultural and marketing phenomenon. BlogHer, for example, is one of the largest online blogging communities for women which hosts an annual conference attracting 1500 people. US marketers are keen to link up with popular mummy bloggers to promote their products to their loyal readers although this type of product endorsement has stirred up debate about ethics.

I’m amazed by the number of hits this blog receives, particularly since it is

Nevertheless, blogging is big business and can become very profitable for many women if you have the knowhow, and can write in an informative and entertaining manner (no text talk to be found here thank you).

Sharing experiences brings people together and the blogosphere has become especially popular with mothers because they are often the ones feeling isolated when a baby won’t sleep at 3am. Once we could call on our neighbours, and treated them as extended families, whereas now women are finding their own sense of “community” online. When you’re going through a crisis and post it on your blog, it’s amazing to watch the flood of other women going through the same thing, offering support and advice. To find out that you’re not the only one who lets your child watch a little too much TV (OK, a lot) and admit you’re often bored by the sight of your newborn baby, takes away some of the mother guilt. This shift in ways of communicating in our digital world makes life easier in many ways. We can find out what books to read, restaurants to go to, what to cook for dinner, how to grow tomatoes or toddler taming techniques. The expanding world of the mummyblog proves that women are talented, funny, sensitive, supportive, creative and fantastic at both time management and time wasting.

*Please note that this is not a subtle way to advertise a cleaning product, besides, I use Enjo!

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Mummy bloggers - continued... How to start your own blog: • You don’t have to be tech-savvy to start a blog, as there are free platforms such as blogspot, wordpress or typepad which are easy to set up and navigate. • Write honestly and passionately but don’t reveal any personal information that might risk your safety. Also, don’t write too much (in other words, don’t write monologues like me!). • Over time, advertisements on your blog can make a bit of money, but go in with a passion to share your thoughts, not dollar-signs in your eyes. • Take great pictures. Some of the best blogs I have found come illustrated with wonderful photographs. Start small with your little digital camera and experiment with light and colour to

achieve something unique. Family happy snaps where everyone says “cheese” are not very interesting. • Try blogging about something different to the mainstream. Parenting is a classic example. There are thousands of parenting blogs, but if you’ve got 10 kids and live in a shoe, then you’re more likely to stand out and get noticed. • Make your headlines snappy, then proofread and edit your posts. And check your facts. • Include lots of links to other sites. • Write lists with bullet points – everyone loves lists as they’re easier to read. • Be topical, be funny or be controversial... just be yourself and imagine you are talking to your reader.

Get fit the fun way KINDY CHEER

Friday morning classes for kids 2-5 Saturday morning classes for kids 3-5 Vacancies now available in our Friday Class! Kindy Cheer Program available for 3-5 year olds. Combination of song and dance + fun, fitness & friends!

Classes starting from only $10 For more information contact Tamara 0402 225 630 or email info@awesomecheerleading.com or visit www.awesomecheerleading.com

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AWESOME

Raising positive kids Youth violence in the community seems to be on the rise. Mike Friganiotis reports on how parents can safeguard against their children being a part of this worrying trend. There is no gene for violence, we don’t ‘inherit’ it, it is a learned behaviour, and it is often learned in the home or the community from parents, family members, or friends. It has been estimated that before a child reaches the age of 18, he or she will see nearly 100,000 violent images and this can be very damaging, especially if children are not being raised in a strong positive environment. The American Psychological Association says that “Children are more aggressive and grow up more likely to become involved in violence – either as a victimiser or as a victim – if they witness violent acts”. So, what to do? Even as an infant, children are involved in moral growth and development. An infant can think and act morally; mostly from the response he or she gets from their authority figures. Infants quickly understand that he or she should do the things that elicit approval from their authority figures rather than pain or disapproval. Authority figures don’t just include Mum and Dad, it can also include the characters a child sees on TV or in video games so, whether it’s Batman, Spiderman, or violent criminals in police dramas, children absorb their actions. Our children have enormous appetites. If we put junk food in front of them, without providing restrictions or helping them make sound judgements about what to eat, they will begin to suffer ill effects, such as obesity. Likewise, if we constantly keep exposing them to negative and violent images, they may begin to behave accordingly. However, there are some important skills that parents can teach on a practical level, to tip the odds in favour of them behaving in the positive way we want.

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[1] Encouraging a positive sense of self Good self esteem and a strong sense of self worth provide the foundation for good positive behaviour. If you respond with warmth and affection to a child’s physical and emotional needs, you’re off to a good start. If a child behaves in a negative way, it’s important to point out the negative consequences that result. More importantly, reinforce positive actions by pointing out positive consequences as well.

children to be in full self-control by the age of 7! [3] Assessing decisions Adolescents and teenagers in particular, underestimate risks, as evidenced by the high incidence of car accidents involving young drivers. So, it’s important for parents to regularly discuss decisions and choices made by their children to help them realistically assess potential risks and outcomes.

[2] Problem solving

[4] Negotiating conflict

Youngsters may try socially unacceptable forms of problem solving e.g. to obtain a toy they want, they may forcefully take it from another child. This is where parents, ideally present and engaged with their children, can actively teach the child that certain actions are unacceptable. Part of the teaching includes teaching children how to recognise the feelings that precede unacceptable behaviour (e.g. I want something someone else has) and to replace such automatic actions with less automatic ones (e.g. instead of taking it, I’ll find another toy to play with until the other child has finished playing with the one I wanted). Related to this is self-control – the ability to manage behavioural and emotional reactions appropriately – which is also an important skill to develop. Many violent acts are impulsive – children just don’t stop and think – and parents often have too high expectations, expecting their

Disagreements and conflict are not necessarily a problem, its how children respond to these situations that’s important. Non-aggressive children are able to use social skills to handle conflict and to negotiate positive outcomes. This is a skill that parents can teach but it’s also important to allow young children the opportunity to learn about handling conflict for themselves rather than always stepping in to stop arguments (unless they get too aggressive!). [5] Reflecting positive moral beliefs Children often mirror their parents’ actions whether it’s positive or negative. Thus, compassionate parents with high standards of social behaviour will find their children emulating positive behaviour whilst children with parents who demonstrate anger, violence and negligence are at greater risk of adopting negative social behaviour.

Raising positive kids - continued... [6] Positive social engagement Making sure your child is socially engaged in a number of positive areas provides a safeguard against possible negative behaviour. This means monitoring what the child does outside the home – at sport, school, when shopping, at entertainment venues etc. For example, students need to feel welcome and connected to their school – participating in extra-curricular activities will help, as will being able to talk to teachers, being proud of their school and its achievements, participating in decision-making, and perceiving that school rules and discipline are enforced in a fair manner. Children who feel engaged and connected will be less likely to use alcohol or illegal drugs, less likely to use violent or anti-social behaviour, and less likely to experience emotional distress.

The development of empathy for others is very important and parents can help facilitate this throughout their formative years by engaging with them constructively and guiding them so they understand and consider how their behaviour affects others. If we don’t, we are not only failing them, but ultimately failing our society.

The Australian Psychological Society ‘Parent Guide to helping children manage conflict, aggression and bullying’ contains useful information about how to manage a child’s behaviour effectively by using logical consequences, time out etc. It is freely available at:

If you need help with your child’s behaviour, contact the Family Relationship centre on 4041 6063 and arrange for an appointment with their Child Consultant.

www.psychology.org.au/ publications/tip_sheets/bullying/

Getting involved in your child’s school life When my children were growing up, I was very aware of how they reacted when I became ‘involved’ in their ‘school things’. They were noticeably proud and appreciative to have me at their sports days, swimming carnivals, crosscountries, school musicals, presentation nights etc. By Kerry Bird Obviously, I could not attend every single function, but I always discussed this with them and although they may have been disappointed, they appreciated my communicating this to them.

Mike Friganiotis is the Community Education & Development Officer at the Cairns Family Relationship Centre

So here are 10 ways to be more involved in your child’s school life: [1] Focus on the value of learning. Take some time each day to ask what your child learned in school. Don’t just focus on Math, English and Social Studies. Ask how your child gets along with other students and how he or she feels about school. Learning is for life, not just school. Talk about what you yourself may have learned in the course of a day.

[3] Set up a school bulletin board at home. Display the school calendar and other flyers from the school. Decide as a family which school events you will attend. Help your child get involved in interesting and worthwhile school activities. [4] Listen when your child talks about school. Pay attention to what they say about school. If your child is happy, write or call the teacher to say thank-you. If your child seems frustrated or bored at school, call a teacher to see what can be done. [5] Help your child with homework but don’t do it for them. Assist them in setting priorities for schoolwork. For example, encourage your child to tackle the difficult assignments first while he or she has the most energy.

[2] Focus on creating a positive learning environment at home. Make regular times and provide a quiet, well-lit place for homework. Limit the amount of TV. Decide with your child about rules for dealing with interruptions such as phone calls or visitors. Make sure your home has plenty of books, magazines and newspapers. 1/4 Page Pakmag Ad

2/12/09

[6] Take advantage of school meetings. Finding the time to attend school meetings can be a challenge. Many schools offer alternative times and places for parents to ask questions and discuss solutions to common problems. Sometimes these meetings may provide child care. Make of meetings a priority. 7:51 AM these Page kinds 1

[7] Volunteer at school. By volunteering in the classroom, you can better understand how to support your child’s learning at home. Even parents who work full-time can visit their child’s school at night functions or on weekends. Create opportunities if they don’t exist. [8] Attend school activities. Whenever possible, attend your child’s play, sports events, or science fairs. Your presence shows that your child’s interests and work are important to you. It can also give you a chance to meet other parents and school staff. [9] Join or create a “Social and Emotional Learning Book Club.” In some communities parents have created book clubs to learn how they can encourage their children’s social and emotional development. [10] Encourage good communication with the school. Good communication is basic to supporting your child’s education. Ask your child’s teacher to provide suggested home activities to support skills the children are learning at school.

If you’re looking for:

Tel: (07) 4050 9700 Chances are, you started thinking about your child’s future school long before he or she was born. 12

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• Your child to fulfil their potential in life • Respect and discipline conducive to quality learning • Christian values • A caring, safe and nurturing environment • A school that is affordable and welcoming to all

Then it’s time you considered a Catholic school for your child.

www.cns.catholic.edu.au 13

1000 Backpacks for Aussie kids

pak health

A few months ago we ran a story about a remarkable Innisfail reader called Despina Parakas who has undertaken the enormous task of gathering donated items to put together backpacks for foster children in Australia. These backpacks are filled with essential personal items for children in care.

Calming anxious kids

As a new foster parent Despina was startled to discover just how few belongings many children have with them when they are taken in to care. Some children are relocated from their home by strangers (usually the police or Department of Child Safety) and they leave with nothing but the clothes they’re wearing. At most they may have a hastily packed rubbish bag with a few odd bits and pieces. Often they are being uprooted from their familiar surroundings to stay with complete strangers with nothing for comfort or to call their own. Despina was motivated to find a way to make sure every child taken in to care had the bare essentials to take with them. I felt that something could be done to

improve this situation and I set about gathering donations and items of use such as backpacks, nappy bags, pyjamas, toiletries, activities, clothing and toys. Each backpack is given to a foster child and remains their property, something they can travel with and call their own. So what can we do to help? PakMag and Themevents have joined forces to support Despina’s cause and we’re asking you to help us generate more donations to create backpacks for foster kids. You can drop a donation to the PakMag Abbott Street office anytime, or you can make a cash donation on Despina’s website www.backpacks4aussiekids.viviti.com If you would like something in return you can attend the Expo on Saturday 6th or

Sunday 7th March, 2010 at the Cairns Convention Centre. Donate something suitable and you will receive a voucher for one free adult ticket to the Expo. Despina is also looking for an accountant to donate their time to help her become incorporated and she also needs help with freight from Brisbane. So come on FNQ, get behind this great cause and help Despina reach her target! 1000 Backpacks for Aussie Kids!

Donations welcome To make a cash donation go to: www.backpacks4aussiekids.viviti.com

Anxiety is something that most people have experienced during their life at some point. Children are also faced with fears and anxiety as they grow and develop and sometimes they can be quite overwhelming. These might be about specific places, things or events or the anxiety may be quite general in nature. By Kylie Cloney How do you recognise anxiety in your child and what can you do to help them it? Some common signs associated with anxiety include: • Diarrhoea or constipation • Stomach pain and upset • Loss of appetite • Breathing difficulty • Crying and clinging • Anti-social behaviour and shyness • Difficulty sleeping or aversion to sleep • Night waking and night terrors • Tantrums • Muscular Tension and pain It is worth remembering that children are very open and sensitive and often pick up emotional tension and stress from other people around them. They are far more susceptible to this than adults. If children are not yet able to communicate clearly and describe their emotions their anxiety may manifest as what you perceive as irrational or bad behaviour. As parents, its important to be conscious of the emotion that could be lying behind and causing their behaviour. Treating children for anxiety also involves managing the stress levels of the parents.

When the parents are stressed or find it challenging to express themselves, it makes it more difficult for children to have the opportunity to express their upset and to be understood. Caring for your own stress and anxiety is the first step towards helping your child deal with their anxiety and it will enable you to be more responsive to their emotions rather than getting more stressed yourself. From a physical perspective, there are several nutritional influences which may change the nervous system and contribute to anxiety. These include excessive sugar in the diet, food allergies or sensitivity, chemical exposure, vitamin and mineral deficiencies. Ideally sugars and refined carbohydrates such as white flour should be eliminated from the diet. Possible food triggers, heavy metal or chemical settlement in the body can be determined through non-invasive hair testing. Calming and warming foods such as organic whole oat porridge are great for the nervous system and are encouraged in the diet. Tools to help with anxiety [1] Communication – talking openly and honestly with your children about changes

and assuring them of your love and understanding is an effective tool. [2] Breathing – teaching your child to deep breathe and relax gives them a valuable coping skill in situations which cause them anxiety. Doing this together with your child will help you both calm down. [3] Aromatherapy – this is a gentle, yet effective method of calming the nervous system and creating a safe and relaxing environment. Try adding 4-6 drops of pure chamomile oil to a warm bath or add to an oil burner. There are several herbal medicines available under the supervision of a naturopath which focus on supporting the nervous system and calming the child such as chamomile, passionflower and oat seed. Magnesium and calcium powders may help to relax tense muscles and also to moderate a firing response of the nervous system which is associated with anxiety. Massage and Energy Healing can help a child to feel comforted and let go of tension. Kylie Cloney is a Naturopath, Herbalist and Nutritional Therapist at Cairns Naturopathic. For more information call 0421 982 952.

VEday SAver y

There’s a store near you Woree - 600 Bruce Hwy PHONE: 4054 2440 Nth Cairns - 355 Sheridan St PHONE: 4031 4222

E: sales@calannapharmacy.com.au W: www.calannapharmacy.com.au

OPEN 8AM TO 8PM - 7 DAYS A WEEK FEEL ALIVE

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FEEL HEALTHY

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FEEL GOOD

pak health

Sugars:

Joanna Whitton explains the different types Organic (or non-organic) Raw Sugar, Turbinadao and Muscavado sugars are all refined, though not as much as white sugar. They are the product of heating cane juice at high temperatures until crystals form, then spinning it in a centrifuge so the crystals are separated from the molasses. The crystals are then reunited with some of the molasses in artificial proportions. The molasses contain vitamins and minerals, and is recommended for a healthy diet, but the crystals themselves are pretty much â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;empty carbs.â&#x20AC;&#x2122;

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product called rapadura. Rapadura is made by extracting the pure juice from sugar cane, evaporating it over low heats, then sieve grinding it to produce a grainy sugar. It is produced organically, does not contain chemicals or anticaking agents, and the vitamins and minerals have been retained. It is high in protein, calcium, magnesium and iron. It still has the natural balance of sucrose, glucose, and fructose, and contains components essential for its digestion.

White sugar is refined much further, until any lingering goodness has completely disappeared! It is pure sucrose and contains no nutrients beyond calories. Brown sugar is white sugar mixed with molasses.

Rapadura is metabolised more slowly than white sugar so it doesnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t affect blood sugar levels as much as refined sugars. Most people who get headaches from refined sugar are not affected by Rapadura, because it provides you with vitamins and minerals instead of leaching them from your body.

I prefer to use the much healthier traditional South American sugar cane

Rapadura can be used in the same way as regular sugar. You can buy it through

www.pakmag.com.au

health food shops and online. It is more expensive than refined sugar, but it is grown organically through Fair Trade programs. To try some recipes using Rapadura, check out my website: http://quirkycooking.blogspot.com/ Joanna Whitton is a Thermomix Consultant on the Atherton Tablelands.

kids in the kitchen

parents in the pantry

patty cakes

banana cake

with Olivia

Ingredients 2 cups self-raising flour 3/4 cup caster sugar 3/4 cup milk 125g butter, melted, cooled 2 x 59g eggs, beaten 1 teaspoon vanilla essence Sprinkles and lollies, to decorate Icing 1 1/2 cups pure icing sugar Food colouring 1 to 1 1/2 tablespoons water

• 1/2 cup butter • 2 eggs • 3 small bananas • 1 tsp vanilla • 1 tsp bicarb soda • 50ml milk

Preheat oven to 200°C. Grease a muffin pan. Combine flour and sugar in a bowl. Make a well in the centre.

• 1 and 1/2 cups s/r flour

Make icing: Sift icing sugar into a bowl. Add food colouring and water. Stir until smooth and well combined. Ice cakes and decorate.

www.pakmag.com.au

Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup caster sugar

Spoon mixture into muffin pan. Bake for 12-15 mins. Stand for 5 mins before placing a wire rack to cool.

www.pakmag.com.au

a family favourite

Method

Add milk, butter, eggs and vanilla. Stir gently to combine.

with Lisa Cullen

Method: [1] Cream the butter, sugar and vanilla together.

Win a double Movie Pass Send in your reader recipe for the chance to win a double pass to the movies. Email your recipe to: competitions@pakmag.com.au

Entries close: 18/03/10

[2] Add the eggs and beat. [3] Mash the bananas and add to the mixture. [4] Dissolve the bicarb soda in the milk. [5] Add the flour and milk alternatively. [6] Spoon the cake mixture into a greased pan and bake 180o for approximately 35 minutes. [7] Serve with lemon or lime frosting or cream cheese frosting, the choices are endless!

! t NLYou S Ome KID

ll u P

out & about

Alexander at the

mmer Reading Clu

Jessica at the Cairns Lib

Finn at the Cairns

Ella, Alexander, Jessica

, Finn, Akira and Kier at

Cazalys 1st PakC

lub

g Club

raries Summer Readin

Cairns Libraries Su

Libraries Summer

Reading Club

SRC

Cazalys 1st PakClub

www.pakmag.com.au

• Did you know? • Loads of Comps • Heaps of Prizes • PAK review

Healthy kids

To enter this fantastic competition just colour-it-in and mail to: PAKMAG, Colour-it-in March, PO Box 7433 Cairns Q 4870 and you go into the draw to WIN a Prize! Closing Date: 18 March 2010 For more copies of the colour-it-in and win download from our website

Laughing is great for your health Have you ever heard that Laughter is the best medicine? Well, it’s true! Laughing keeps us happy, gives our bodies a little exercise and it’s quite contagious. Do you know how many muscles in our faces we use when we laugh and smile? I bet you didn’t guess that the number of muscles is 15! Wow, that sounds like a lot doesn’t it…

hormone, as it makes us very happy. Researchers have also found, that laughter can help our immune system work better, which means we can fight disease better.

with, and make laugh. Being a good friend is a wonderful gift, and friends are there to look after one another, and to keep each other happy – so laugh lots, stay fit and be healthy

When we laugh, a chemical called serotonin is released into our brain – often referred to as the ‘feel good’

Friends are important for each of us, as well as our family. Friends are often the people we can really laugh

Joke: “Why is 6 afraid of 7? Because 7 8 9…. Enjoy life!

Question 1: Where was the first PakClub held in Cairns? Question 2: Answer this equation: 4 + 2 + 7 + 1 = Question 3:

March 27 & 28, Cairns Civic Theatre 1300 855 835 or ticketlink.com.au www.hi-5.com.au

Answer all the questions and you could win a fantastic prize pak!!!

What date is the NQ Baby Expo held in 2010? Question 4: How many grams in a kilogram? Question 5: How many legs does a spider have?

Name:_________________________________________________________________Age:________________________________________ Parent/Guardian:____________________________________________________________________________________________________ Address:__________________________________________________________________________________________________________ Phone:_________________________________________________________________Email:_______________________________________ Post entry form to PAKMAG, Colour-it-in March, PO Box 7433 Cairns Q 4870 or you can drop it off at reception - Level 2, 68 Abbott Street.

www.pakmag.com.au

Entries close: 18 March 2010 Email your answers to: competitions@pakmag.com.au Or post your answers to: Battle of the Brains, PAK MAG, PO Box 7433 Cairns Qld 4870

www.pakmag.com.au

JOKES 1

Joke 1: My uncle said, ‘My cat got first prize in the budgie show.’

6 5 2

4 4

did you know? • Snakes are true carnivorous becau se they eat nothing but other anima ls. They do not eat any type of plant material. • The world’s largest amphibian is the giant salamander. It can grow up to 5ft in length. • 100 years ago: The first virus wa s found in both plants and animals. • 90 years ago: The Grand Canyo n became a national monument and Cellophane was invented. • 80 years ago: The food mixer and the domestic refrigerator were invent ed.

DATE

Mon 1st Tue 2nd Wed 3rd

Thu 4th

My uncle said, ‘No, a budgie got the prize and my cat ate the budgie.’

Joke 2: This cannibal caught a

I said, ‘That’s impossible. Cats don’t get prizes in budgie shows.’

RED = FAMILY

missionary in the jungle. He said to him, ‘What’s the best way to eat you? Boiled or roasted?’

Fri 5th

Sat 6th

The missionary said, ‘To tell you the truth, I’m a friar.’

word scramble ON THE FARM (1) heeps

_____

(2) oatsg

_____

(3) Igp

___

(4) roshe

_____

(5) wco

___

(6) ehatw

_____

(7) artorct

_______

(8) iralter

_______

(9) gdo

___

(10) tca

___

Sun 7th

Mon 8th

Tue 9th Wed 10th Thu 11th

Fri 12th

www.pakmag.com.au

blue = adults

ENTERTAINMENT/EVENT NAME

$8 Monday's for Students Canoe Polo Dr Seuss's Birthday Road Runners: 3k & 5k NEW RELEASE: Alice in Wonderland 3D NEW RELEASE: Pandorum NEW RELEASE: Dear John NEW RELEASE: Alice in Wonderland 3D NEW RELEASE: Dear John Parlay - trio Vikarious Exhibition Launch: Max Dupain on Assignment Community Kids Club DRUM UP BIG Free First Saturday - FREE ENTRY NQ BABY & CHILDREN EXPO International Women's Day Breakfast Kids Art Day Live Music - WOMEN IN SONG with Clare Bowditch Esplanade Markets Matt Kirsch Duo SOULJAH CBC Staff Selection #2 Live Music: Tunes With Trent NQ BABY & CHILDREN EXPO Clean Up Australia Day The Hit Fanatics - Trio $8 Monday's for Students International Women’s Day - Feat. Prodigal Sistas Hillbilly Goats Duo Pauline Bradshaw Duo FREE Seminar - ‘how to deal with your child’s behaviour’ Road Runners: 3k & 5k Shells – Local Female Soloist Shelley Cusiter FREE Seminar - ‘how to deal with your child’s behaviour’ Worlds Greatest Shave NEW RELEASE: Green Zone (M) NEW RELEASE: The Vampires Assistant (M) NEW RELEASE: Remember Me NEW RELEASE: Green Zone (M) NEW RELEASE: The Vampires Assistant (M) Relay Rockers - Rock N Roll Dance Group Live Show: Acrobatic Allstars Community Kids Club Live Music: 'Short Stack' supported by Die for You Suave Swing – Local Female Lead vocalist Maggie Nelson MARKS AUSSIE ANIMAL SHOW

START TIME

All Day 7:00 PM All Day 5:30 PM All Day All Day All Day All Day All Day 12:00 PM 12:00 PM 6:00 PM 7:30 PM 7:00 PM 10:00 AM ALL DAY 7:00 AM 10:00 AM 6:30 PM 8:00 AM 11:00 AM 3:00 PM 5:00 PM 7:30 PM ALL DAY All Day 3:00 PM All Day 12:00 PM 12:00 PM 12:00 PM 3PM-5PM 5:30 PM 12:00 PM 3PM-5PM All Day All Day All Day All Day All Day All Day 7:30 PM 7:30 PM 7:30 PM 7:30 PM 12:00 PM 7:00 PM

FOR MORE INFO:

www.birch.com.au (07) 4044 3715 0450 324 637 www.birch.com.au www.birch.com.au www.birch.com.au www.birch.com.au www.birch.com.au (07) 4044 3715 (07) 4044 3715 www.cairnsregionalgallery.com.au

0418 758 326 (07) 4044 3715 www.cairnsregionalgallery.com.au

www.nqbabyexpo.com.au

www.ticketlink.com.au www.cairnsregionalgallery.com.au

(07) 4032 6601 (07) 4044 3715 (07) 4044 3715 (07) 4044 3715 0450 324 637 0428 741 576 www.nqbabyexpo.com.au

(07) 4044 3715 www.birch.com.au (07) 4044 3715 (07) 4044 3715 (07) 4044 3715 (07) 4038 9900 0450 324 637 (07) 4044 3715 (07) 4038 9900 www.worldsgreatestshave.com

www.birch.com.au www.birch.com.au www.birch.com.au www.birch.com.au www.birch.com.au (07) 4044 3715 www.cct.com.au 0418 758 326

COST:

$8 Free Free Free Cost Cost Cost Cost Cost Free Free Cost Donation

Free Free Cost $30 $20 $25/$30

Free Free Free Free Free Cost Free Free $8 Free Free Free Free Free Free Free Donate Cost Cost Cost Cost Cost Free $15/$25 Donation

www.brotherscairns.com.au Cost

(07) 4044 3715 (07) 4044 3715

Free Free

Building… digging… hauling…

Bob the Builder™ is always ready to tackle any project. See Bob and Wendy live at Expo 2010! For more information, visit:

www.nqbabyexpo.com.au

!! Win a Mystery Prize! the Simply un-scramble the words and send answers + your name and contact info to email competitions@pakmag.com.au or post them to PO BOX 7433 Cairns. Entries close: 18/03/10.

VENUE

Birch Carroll & Coyle Cinemas Esplanade Lagoon SPECIAL DAY Muddys Playground Cairns Central Cinemas Cairns Central Cinemas Cairns City Cinemas Earlville Cinemas Earlville Cinemas City Place City Place Cairns Regional Gallery Cairns Revival Fellowship Esplanade Cairns Regional Gallery Cairns Convention Centre Cairns Colonial Club Cairns Regional Gallery Tanks Art Centre Esplanade Esplanade Esplanade Holloways Beach Cazalys Cairns Convention Centre SPECIAL DAY Esplanade Birch Carroll & Coyle Cinemas City Place City Place City Place Smithfield Community Centre Muddys Playground City Place Smithfield Community Centre SPECIAL DAY Cairns Central Cinemas Cairns Central Cinemas Cairns City Cinemas Earlville Cinemas Earlville Cinemas City Place Cairns Civic Theatre Cairns Revival Fellowship Brothers Leagues Club City Place Esplanade

Green = kids

Bob is coming!

SAGD11206

sudoku 3

pak’s what’s on guide march

6th –7th 10 March 20 Cairns n Conventio Centre

Subscribe online for our FREE NQ Baby and Child eNews and you could wiN a FREE FAMiLY EXPO TiCKET! P r o u d ly s P o n s o r e d by

Exhibitor bookings now open. Contact the Themevents Office on 4039 2725 or email jodie@nqbabyexpo.com.au for an Exhibitor Information Package.

pak’s what’s on guide march RED = FAMILY DATE

Sat 13th

Sun 14th

Mon 15th

Tue 16th Wed 17th Thu 18th

Fri 19th

Sat 20th

VENUE

JUTE Theatre SPECIAL DAY Cairns Yacht Club - Ellis Beach Call Donna for details Cairns Regional Gallery Cairns Civic Theatre Esplanade Esplanade Esplanade Smithfield MTB Car Park JUTE Theatre SPECIAL DAY Esplanade Esplanade Lagoon Cairns Yacht Club - Ellis Beach Yorkeys Knob Boating Club Cairns Civic Theatre CAZALYS Birch Carroll & Coyle Cinemas SPECIAL DAY JUTE Theatre Muddys Playground Muddys Playground City Place Mt Sheridan Plaza Brothers Leagues Club JUTE Theatre Cairns Central Cinemas Cairns Central Cinemas Cairns City Cinemas Earlville Cinemas Earlville Cinemas Earlville Cinemas City Place Mt Sheridan Plaza Esplanade Cairns Regional Gallery Tanks Art Centre - Tank 5 Cairns Revival Fellowship JUTE Theatre Main Street, Innisfail Esplanade Call Donna for details Mt Sheridan Plaza Esplanade Esplanade Cairns Civic Theatre

Green = kids

pak’s what’s on guide march

blue = adults

ENTERTAINMENT/EVENT NAME

Live Show: "MacBeth" Worlds Greatest Shave Sailing and Yachting Open Day Two day ‘self esteem’ workshop for girls 12-15 Exhibition Launch: Glen O'Malley, The Pet Show Live Show: Acrobatic Allstars Esplanade Markets - International Womens Week Shine - Local female duo

START TIME

7:00 PM All Day 11:00 AM 10AM-3.30PM 2:00 PM 7:30 PM 8:00 AM 11:00 AM McMenamins - Local award winning duo feat. 'Fleur McMenamin' 3:00 PM AJ Hackett Poker Run 5:00 PM Live Show: "MacBeth" 7:00 PM Worlds Greatest Shave All Day Budding young star, Heather Angell, local to Cairns 3:00 PM FNQMBA Multiple Birth Week Walk 9:30 AM Sailing and Yachting Open Day 11:00 AM Live Music - Barbary Coasters 1:00 PM David Scheel - The Art of the Pianist-Composer 2:00 PM PAKCLUB: Kids Club with info stalls, prizes and heaps of FUN 5:00 PM $8 Monday's for Students All Day St Patricks Day All Day Live Show: "MacBeth" 7:00 PM Road Runners: 3k & 5k 5:30 PM Choice Australia - Cassowary Cup 5:30 PM Rand Blade 12:00 PM Baby Photographic Competition 10AM-2PM Live Music - Barbary Coasters 7:00 PM Live Show: "MacBeth" 7:00 PM NEW RELEASE: Cop Out All Day NEW RELEASE: The Bounty Hunter All Day NEW RELEASE: The Rebound (M) All Day NEW RELEASE: Cop Out All Day NEW RELEASE: The Rebound (M) All Day NEW RELEASE: The Bounty Hunter All Day Heaven & Soull Duo 12:00 PM Baby Photographic Competition 10AM-2PM FORESHORE FIRESHOW - CYCAS CIRCUS 7:00 PM Exhibition Launch: Face to Face: Portraiture in a digital age 6:00 PM Live Music - Angus & Julia Stone 6:30 PM Community Kids Club 7:30 PM Live Show: "MacBeth" 7:00 PM Feast your Senses All Day Esplanade Markets 8:00 AM Two day ‘self esteem’ workshop for girls 12-15 10AM-3.30PM Baby Photographic Competition 10AM-2PM The Venus Project 11:00 AM I & I Tuala - Trio 3:00 PM Wild World - The Cat Stevens Story 7:30 PM

RED = FAMILY FOR MORE INFO:

COST:

www.ticketlink.com.au

$17-$30

www.worldsgreatestshave.com

Donate

sailing.ellis@hotmail.com.au Free

0414 480 934 www.cairnsregionalgallery.com.au

$160pp Cost

www.cct.com.au (07) 4044 3715 (07) 4044 3715 (07) 4044 3715 0450 324 637 www.ticketlink.com.au

$15/$25

www.worldsgreatestshave.com

Donate Free

(07) 4044 3715

Free Free

Free Free $17-$30

Sailing.ellis@hotmail.com.au Free

(07) 4057 8019 www.cct.com.au www.pakmag.com.au www.birch.com.au

www.ticketlink.com.au 0450 324 637 0450 324 637 (07) 4044 3715 (07) 4036 3150 (07) 4057 8019 www.ticketlink.com.au www.birch.com.au www.birch.com.au

www.birch.com.au www.birch.com.au www.birch.com.au www.birch.com.au (07) 4044 3715 (07) 4036 3150 (07) 4044 3715

Free $10/$20

Free $8 Free $17-$30

Free Free Free Free $17-$30

Cost Cost Cost Cost Cost Cost Free

www.cairnsregionalgallery.com.au

Free Cost

(07) 4032 6601 0418 758 326 www.ticketlink.com.au

$38/$43 Donation $17-$30

www.tropicalnorthqueensland.com.au

Free Free $160pp

(07) 4044 3715 0414 480 934 (07) 4036 3150 (07) 4044 3715 (07) 4044 3715 www.cct.com.au

Free Free $18/$26

DATE

VENUE

JUTE Theatre Main Street, Innisfail Sun 21st Atherton Tablelands Goldsborough JUTE Theatre Main Street, Innisfail Mon 22nd Birch Carroll & Coyle Cinemas Main Street, Innisfail Tue 23rd Main Street, Innisfail JUTE Theatre Wed 24th Muddys Playground JUTE Theatre Main Street, Innisfail Thu 25th Cairns Central Cinemas Mt Sheridan Plaza Cairns City Cinemas Earlville Cinemas Earlville Cinemas Cairns Convention Centre JUTE Theatre City Place Vertigo Bar, Reef Casino Main Street, Innisfail Fri 26th Cairns Revival Fellowship Mt Sheridan Plaza City Place Cairns Colonial Club Mareeba Leagues Club Vertigo Bar, Reef Casino JUTE Theatre Mondos Main Street, Innisfail Cairns Convention Centre Sat 27th Cairns Civic Theatre Mt Sheridan Plaza Esplanade City Place Esplanade Holloways Beach Tanks Art Centre - Tank 5 Vertigo Bar, Reef Casino JUTE Theatre Cazalys Cairns Convention Centre Main Street, Innisfail Sun 28th Cairns Civic Theatre Esplanade

Green = kids

blue = adults

ENTERTAINMENT/EVENT NAME

Live Show: "MacBeth" Feast your Senses Bush Rogaine Pete's Bridge Triathlon Live Show: "MacBeth" Feast your Senses $8 Monday's for Students Feast your Senses Feast your Senses Live Show: "MacBeth" Road Runners: 3k & 5k Live Show: "MacBeth" Feast your Senses NEW RELEASE: How to Train Your Dragon 3D Baby Photographic Competition NEW RELEASE: Nanny McPhee And The Big Bang\ NEW RELEASE: How to Train Your Dragon 3D NEW RELEASE: Nanny McPhee And The Big Bang Cairns Home and Lifestyle Show Live Show: "MacBeth" Omid Master Live Show: 100% Kylie Feast your Senses Community Kids Club Baby Photographic Competition Relay Rockers - Rock N Roll Dance Group "What we can achieve…Together" Live Music - Barbary Coasters Live Show: 100% Kylie Live Show: "MacBeth" Live Music: 3's A Crowd Duo Feast your Senses Cairns Home and Lifestyle Show Hi-5 SURPRISE Baby Photographic Competition Esplanade Markets EARTH HOUR 2010 - Entertainment and Film Competition Junior See Poy - Trio CBC Staff Selection #3 Live Music - Toni Childs Live Show: 100% Kylie Live Show: "MacBeth" Live Music: Tunes With Trent Cairns Home and Lifestyle Show Feast your Senses Hi-5 SURPRISE Claire & de Loons

START TIME

7:00 PM All Day 8:00 AM 8:00 AM 7:00 PM All Day All Day All Day All Day 7:00 PM 5:30 PM 7:00 PM All Day All Day 10AM-2PM All Day All Day All Day All Day 7:00 PM 12:00 PM 9:00 PM All Day 7:30 PM 10AM-2PM 7:30 PM 8:30 AM 7:00 PM 10:00 PM 7:00 PM 6:00 PM All Day All Day 11:00 AM 10AM-2PM 8:00 AM 2:00 PM 3:00 PM 5:00 PM 6:30 PM 10:00 PM 7:00 PM 7:30 PM All Day All Day 11:00 AM 3:00 PM

FOR MORE INFO:

COST:

www.ticketlink.com.au

$17-$30

www.tropicalnorthqueensland.com.au

0450 324 637 0450 324 637

Free Free Free

www.ticketlink.com.au

$17-$30

www.tropicalnorthqueensland.com.au

Free $8 Free Free

www.birch.com.au www.tropicalnorthqueensland.com.au www.tropicalnorthqueensland.com.au

www.ticketlink.com.au 0450 324 637 www.ticketlink.com.au

$17-$30

www.tropicalnorthqueensland.com.au

Free Cost

www.birch.com.au (07) 4036 3150 www.birch.com.au www.birch.com.au www.birch.com.au

Free $17-$30

www.cairnsconvention.com.au

Cost Cost Cost Cost

www.ticketlink.com.au

$17-$30

(07) 4044 3715

Free Free Free

0404 848 666 www.tropicalnorthqueensland.com.au

0418 758 326 (07) 4036 3150 (07) 4044 3715 (07) 4051 6560 (07) 4057 8019

0404 848 666 www.ticketlink.com.au www.tropicalnorthqueensland.com.au

www.cairnsconvention.com.au

www.cct.com.au

(07) 4036 3150 (07) 4044 3715 (07) 4044 3715 (07) 4044 3715 0450 324 637 (07) 4032 6601 0404 848 666 www.ticketlink.com.au 0428 741 576 www.cairnsconvention.com.au www.tropicalnorthqueensland.com.au

www.cct.com.au (07) 4044 3715

Donation

Free Free Free Free $17-$30

Free Free Cost $33/43 Free Free Free Free $50/$55

Free $17-$30

Free Cost Free $33/43 Free

pak’s what’s on guide march RED = FAMILY DATE

Mon 29th Tue 30th Wed 31st

VENUE

Green = kids

blue = adults

ENTERTAINMENT/EVENT NAME

Tanks Art Centre - Tank 5 Main Street, Innisfail Cairns Convention Centre Birch Carroll & Coyle Cinemas Cairns Convention Centre Cairns Convention Centre Muddys Playground

START TIME

Live Music - Toni Childs Feast your Senses Cairns Home and Lifestyle Show $8 Monday's for Students Cairns Home and Lifestyle Show Rhythms of Ireland Road Runners: 3k & 5k

6:30 PM All Day All Day All Day All Day 8:00 PM 5:30 PM

FOR MORE INFO:

COST:

(07) 4032 6601

$50/$55

www.tropicalnorthqueensland.com.au

www.cairnsconvention.com.au

Free Cost $8 Cost

www.ticketlink.com.au

$55-$75

0450 324 637

Free

www.cairnsconvention.com.au

www.birch.com.au

regular weekly events

Sam Powers EXTREME ILLUSIONS

Specials on all month for adults, kids, birthdays and groups! (07) 4053 3497. Super Special Sunday Sessions - 3pm till Late ($13.95 p/p for 3 games) Cairns Recreation Centre MON > Boot Camp 9.15am ($10) Teen/Kid Fitness 4pm ($7) Enduro Trg 9.15am ($10) TUE > Boot Camp 6.30am ($10) Tiny Tots Fitness 5.30pm ($7) Teen/Kid Fitness 4.30pm ($7) Turbo Fit Session 5.30pm ($10) WED > Boot Camp 9.15am ($10) Inline Hockey 4.30pm ($9) THU > Boot Camp 6.30am ($10) Circuit Trg 9.15am ($10)

Tiny Tots Fitness 11am ($7) Teen/Kid Fitness 5.30pm ($7) FRI > Boot Camp 6.30am ($10) Teen/Kid Fitness 9.15am ($10) SAT > Heaps of activities all day Call 4053 5353 for further info SUN > Heaps of activities all day Call 4053 5353 for further info Esplanade Lagoon Mon - Aqua Aerobics @ 6.30am & Walk / Run Circuit @ 5.15pm Tues - YOGA @ 6.30am Wed - Sarge’s Army Boot Camp @ 5.30pm Wed - Beach Volleyball Clinic @ 5.30pm Thurs - Pilates @ 7am & Petanque @ 10am Thurs - Aqua Aerobics Class @ 6.15pm Thurs - Esplanade Learn to Run @ 5.30pm Fri - Aqua Aerobics @ 6.30am Fri - Mums & Bubs @ 8am (meet at funship)

Atherton Markets

Cooktown Markets

Nov at Marcs Park

Gordonvale Cottage Markets

- every Saturday from 7am - noon under the raintrees in Mossman

starring Sam Powers at Velvet underground - Every Mon through to Sat @ 7.30pm

GO Bowling Cairns

Sat - Sahaja YOGA @ 7.30am, Aqua Aerobics @ 8.30am & Boxercise @ 8am

CAZALY’s

Wed throught to Sat - Live Music @ 7.30pm

Brothers Leagues Club

Tues - Seniors Morning “Club Gold” @ 9.30am

Brothers Leagues KIDS Club

Every Sun - Kids Disco 3.30pm-6pm (ages 3-12yrs)

Cairns Indoor Sports

Multi Sport Madness @ 1pm - 3pm everyday (07) 40322 844 The SANDS Support group meets on the second Friday of each month 10am-2pm at the Marlin Coast Neighborhood Centre in Smithfield (45 Cumberland Ave). If you would like more info call Nerissa on 4098 3089 or Kelly on 4033 7917. The 24/7 phone listeners line is 1800 228 655.

regular markets

- the first Saturday of each month from 7am at Platypus Park, Herberton Rd

Babinda Markets

- the first Saturday of each month, except January, from 8am, Munro Street

Rusty's Markets

- All day Friday, until 2pm Saturday and Sunday, Grafton Street, Cairns

- every Saturday from 8am - noon at Lions Park

Mossman Markets

- on the first Saturday of each month from 8am - noon at Norman Park

Port Douglas Markets

Innisfail Red Cross Markets

- every Sunday from 8.30am - 2pm at Anzac Park

- held the 3rd Sunday of each month at Anzac Memorial Park

SPeewah Markets

Kuranda Markets

- Every Saturday from 8am - 4am at Fogerty Park, Cairns

- every Wednesday, Thursday, Friday and Sunday at 9am - 3pm in Therwine St

- Every Sunday 8am-2pm Carpark of the Speewah Tavern, Speewah Road. 6ks past Kuranda

Mt Sheridan Markets

Malanda Markets

- the first Sunday of each month at Morrow Park Race Course

Mareeba Markets

- every 2nd and 4th Saturday of each month at the Tully Showgrounds.

Esplanade Markets

- 2nd Saturday of every month

Tolga Markets

- the 3rd Saturday of each month from 6am - noon at Jack May Park

Night Markets

- Everyday from 4.30pm-11pm, Entry from Espanade or Abbott Street, Cairns

Northern Beaches Markets

- the 3rd Sunday of each month from 9am - 3pm, Smithfield Shopping Centre

Tanks Art Centre Markets

- the last Sunday of each month from 9am-1pm, Cairns

Tully Markets

- the 2nd Saturday of each month at Centenary Park, Byrnes Street

Win tickets to Hi-5

Yungaburra Markets

- Held the 4th Saturday of each month from 7.30am - 12.30pm in the Main Street

Mission Beach Markets

- 1st and 3rd Sunday of each month from 6.30am - noon, Opposite Hideaway

Stay tuned to SeaFM this month for your chance to Win VIP Tickets

Swap Meet @ Rodeo Drive-in Mareeba

- open every Sunday from april til september, Highway 3 (Near Bremerton Airport)

Monster Markets

- the last Sunday of each month from 8am - 2pm, April til

Easter comes early at the North Queensland Baby and Children’s Expo… The must-do family event of the year!

6-7 March 2010

Cairns n Conventio Centre

Daily from visits the

Eas Bunnter y

r Easte g-In n i r u Colo petition Com

Join in our

Easter Hunt Egg of Loadses!

A channcd a e to

WIN a visi

from E t a Bunnyster and lo ts eggs o of easter n SundaEaster y!

SAGD11207

priz For more information, visit: nqbabyexpo.com.au P r o u d ly s P o n s o r e d by

You will get to see Hi-5 live in concert on the 27th or 28th of March at the Cairns Civic Theatre and best of all you will get to meet them! Exhibitor bookings now open. Contact the Themevents Office on 4039 2725 or email jodie@nqbabyexpo.com.au for an Exhibitor Information Package.

www.pakmag.com.au

Bulletin #28 The totally amazing, incredible, fantastic adventures of Bopstar, Bree and the Boppers! Bulletin: Part XXVIII

replied. “Yes, we were enjoying the beautiful surroundings until the most astonishing thing happened…the Tinaroo Dam has collapsed!” puffed Trent, still regaining his breath after the rafting episode. “OH NO!” cried Bopstar, with a very surprised look on his face, continuing, “I will start sending the word out! It won’t be long before Mareeba is submerged with the water so we must act fast! You make sure to get back into the Bobopstar Mobile and reach the centre of Mareeba so that you can start evacuations. Be safe, take care and I will be in touch. Bopstar out!”

LAST EDITION: Closer and closer, the boppers neared the high bridge that they needed to cling to. Trent began to count them down, “Alright, on my mark. We all need to jump as high as we can. Wait for it………Wait for it………..READY, SETTY……………..JUMP!” yelled Trent. At once all three boppers jumped as high and hard as they could, stretching out as far as they could to grab the bridge ledge. “YES!” Bree shouted excitedly, as all three boppers climbed onto the bridge, stood up and watched as water raged down the normally steady riverbed. “Good work boppers! I can’t believe how close that was.” said Trent, puffing from paddling the raging waters. “Alright, we need to alert Bopstar at headquarters to send out a message to Mareeba, Cairns and Kuranda. There is A LOT of water coming there way and it won’t be long before it reaches them.” stated Trent, dialling headquarters on his bop-phone. “Come in Bopstar, Trent to Bopstar, come in.” “This is Bopstar here, how is your holiday going? I hope you are all relaxing!” Bopstar

This was all so surreal and the Bopstars were stunned at what had just happened. “Quickly, remotely guide the Bobopstar mobile to us and we need to get to Mareeba, and FAST!” squawked Bree. And with the quick press of the button and a few turns on the dial, the Bobopstar mobile swooshed into view and landed in front of the 3 boppers. The boppers entered the bobopstar mobile and took off to ready the residents of Mareeba, Kuranda and Cairns. As they flew overhead, they could see the enormous amount of water engulfing farm houses, sheds and pastures, leaving a trail of destruction in its past. “If only we could do something to help all those poor farmers.” Sighed Trina, as she watched the tractors and harvester floating across the fields. “What can we do though?” asked Trent, also gawking out the window at the amazing sight that could be seen. What could they have done… they were not prepared for such an experience and they had to now go into the town centre and warn as many people as possible. “Wait!!!” yelled Bree, with a figurative ‘light bulb’ above her head, continuing “I have an idea!” To Be Continued…

Where there’s a SHOW that needs a GLOW, a SMARTY that needs a PARTY, Bree and the boppers are ready to entertain the people of Cairns! But when Trouble arises and there’s no one else to call, The Bopstars use their Super Special Powers and embark on Exciting Expeditions to protect and preserve.

FOREVER! TOGETHER! BOPSTARS! 30

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out & about

Blue Tongue Lizard Proudly brought to you by

Cazalys 1st PakClub

Cazalys 1st PakC

lub

PAK Facts Did you know? DID YOU KNOW? Blue-tongue lizards give birth to live young?

Blue-tongue lizards are the largest skinks found in Australia. There are 6 different kinds of blue-tongue lizards; Pygmy Blue-tongue, Centralian Blue-tongue, Blotched Blue-tongue, Western Bluetongue, Eastern Blue-tongue and the Shingleback. These lizards are spread out all over Australia. Mainly ground dwelling skinks, blue-tongue lizards like to hide in bushes amongst suburban gardens. They can be found in veggie gardens, hiding under mulch or leaf litter and love feeding on flowers, fruits, snails, eggs, bugs and beetles. Blue-tongue lizards are well known for their amazing blue tongue. When harassed or threatened by predators they inflate their bodies, open their mouth, hiss and stick out their blue tongue. Blue-tongue lizards, when looked after in the right environment, can live in captivity for up to 20 years.

They are the only Skink to not lay eggs and to bare live young. The mother produces egg cases, which she then caries inside her. The eggs then hatch internally and she gives birth to live young. Some bluetongue lizards can have up to 25 live young.

Cazalys 1st PakC

lub

Bree & Jordy at Cazaly

s 1st PakClub

DID YOU KNOW? Blue-tongue lizards are a reptile? Lizards belong to the reptile family. They are cold blooded animals (their temperature depends on the surrounding temperatures) with dry scales covering their bodies. These lizards can be found sunning themselves during the day to warm up and to help regulate their body temperature to the right degrees. This will allow them to move around and feed regularly when warm. Cazalys 1st PakC

lub

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Cazalys 1st PakClub

pak babies

Early arrival The premature birth of a baby sometimes brings more heartache than joy, writes Shannon du Plessis

When my daughter was born two weeks before her due date I thought: “Great … there go my last moments of rest and relaxation.” I was excited about meeting my baby, but I was put out by the fact that I had made plans for those two weeks involving massages, pedicures and cooking meals to freeze for later. Instead I spent the early stages of labour mopping the floors and packing my bag to take to hospital. For some reason I felt the house needed to be spotless before the baby arrived, as if this little mini-me would be horrified at the sight of a speck of dust. The real reason, of course, was so I would not have to lift a finger to do housework when I came home from hospital a few days later. The “nesting” instinct is really just a term for mothers who plan ahead.

embracing potential

Interested in preparing your child for school?

So my final trimester was cut a wee bit short, but I was prepared for the birth and my husband and I were both ready to meet our baby. Imagine then, if instead of being two weeks early, she arrived two months early.

Help your child discover a love of learning that will last a lifetime by enroling your child in an authentic Montessori program that is owned and operated by a passionate Montessori/Early Childhood Teacher. We offer;

A normal pregnancy lasts for about 40 weeks. A premature or preterm birth is when a baby is born earlier than 37 weeks of pregnancy. It is unknown why many premature births occur, but there are a variety of risk factors that increase the chances of a baby being born too early. Risks include: multiple births, previous premature births, a short period between pregnancies, smoking, chronic illness, recurring infection, abortion, history of premature births in the family,

• A Montessori based kindergarten program implemented by experienced and mature university trained early childhood and Montessori teachers • An exciting and innovative curriculum framework to be introduced in 2010 • Extended day programs for children 15 months to school age (including Prep)

& 4036 1055 • www.cairnsmontessori.com.au 34

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mother’s age (younger than 18 or older than 40), pre-eclampsia, uterine or cervical abnormalities, thrombophilia (clotting disorder), alcohol or drug abuse, and placental risks. Just as there are many risks, there are also many factors that determine whether a premature baby survives. These include the baby’s gestational age and weight at the time of birth as well as the presence or absence of breathing problems, congenital abnormalities or malformations and other severe diseases. Gestational age is important because it determines if the baby’s organs, particularly the lungs, have developed enough to allow the baby to live within the limits of our current technology. Because of this, many premature babies who do survive have additional health complications in the future. These include respiratory problems, pneumonia, infection, hernia and sepsis. The survival rate for a baby born at 23 weeks is less than 10 per cent, 24 weeks 50 per cent, and this gradually improves up to 30 weeks or longer at 98 per cent. However statistics for a major disability among survivors is startling: 30 per cent of babies born at 23 weeks have a major disability, as do 20 per cent born at 24 weeks, and 10 per cent born at 28 weeks and older. It must be incredibly heartbreaking and stressful for parents and families suddenly faced with a premature birth.

These families experience emotional trauma, grief and often ongoing health concerns for themselves and their children. In most cases the mother is discharged from hospital while the baby stays for an extended period of time which often creates a sense of isolation, sadness, guilt, anger, shock and anxiety. The parents are overwhelmed with unfamiliar medical terms relating to their baby’s condition, a variety of specialist doctors, and a ward full of huge beeping machines attached to tiny, helpless babies.

Support for Premmie Families: • The National Premmie Foundation is a non-profit group offering support and information for families, carers and health professionals. Visit www.prembaby.org.au or call 1300 PREMBABY • Queensland-based PIPA (Preterm Infants’ Parents’ Association) which is run by parents of preterm babies and offers practical and emotional support for parents and families whose babies are admitted to Special and Intensive Care Nurseries. Visit www.pipa.org.au or phone Kim Rivers on 3216 5114

pak babies

pak babies Your say on Maternity Care

dummies: yes or no If you are struggling to decide whether or not to use a dummy, you’re not alone. Dummies can be helpful but are addictive. Here are some pros and cons:

Benefits: Comfort – It’s soothing for babies to suck on something when they are distressed or restless. Freedom – Some babies can settle themselves to sleep if they have a dummy to help, giving you more time to yourself.

Disadvantages: Dependence – Like any routine, sucking on a dummy will become a habit. Your baby may become upset and won’t fall asleep until given a dummy.

Have you got a suggestion or would like to share a story about how ante and post natal care can be improved? The Queensland Centre for Mothers is an independent centre based at the University of Queensland and funded by Queensland Health. They are seeking to improve maternity care by listening and talking to mums and mums-to-be about their pregnancy, birth and post-natal experiences and what they really need during these times!

for parents expecting multiples

If you want to have your say, pop in and see them at the Expo or visit them online at www.havingababy.org.au

Infections – Dummies fall out of babies’ mouths and onto beds, floors, or other unclean surfaces. If not properly sterilized, dummies can carry stomach-bug type infections. If you are still debating, try one out on your baby for a few nights. Your baby might even refuse it and save you the trouble of deciding!

TO WIN: We have a pack of 3 ‘designer’ dummies to give away to one

By Karen Bradfield-Keary Being a Mum to multiples is busy, demanding and often chaotic so the more preparation you can do ahead of the big day the better.

apple&bee

lucky reader. Free from BPA, phtalates, lead and PVC, they come in a range with different slogans. Check them out at: www.lots2saybaby.com

Here are a few other tips for those expecting double or triple trouble:

pretty as a picture As the Chinese proverb goes, ‘there’s only one pretty child in the world and every mother has it’. So, if you want to prove that you really do have a gorgeous baby why not help Kristy Campbell raise money for the Hospital’s Special Care Baby Unit and enter your baby in to her competition. Go to Mount Sheridan Plaza 18, 19 & 20 March 10am-2pm or the following week on 25, 26 & 27 March. $10 Entry fee. Your baby’s winning smile could soon be published in PakMag!

Doubly smart tips

There are more and more companies now making eco-friendly products for mums and bubs (watch out for Cairns first eco-friendly baby store coming soon). apple&bee aim to make their cosmetic, travel and baby bags without harming the environment. They are carbon neutral and print on natural fabrics such as organic cotton, bamboo silk and hemp. We have an apple&bee change mat, nappy bag and a small bag to give away to one lucky reader. to win: email us at competitions@pakmag.com.au and tell us why bees are so important for the planet.

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[1] Start stockpiling & take advantage of specials. You will need lots of nappies. I stockpiled 8 boxes of disposables and 4 dozen cloth nappies as well as lots of baby wipes, soaps, creams etc. Also stockpile things for yourself such as dry food, tinned food, toiletries etc. Assume it will take at least 30 minutes to load the babies in to the car and longer if you have other kids. [2] Cook & freeze meals for yourself. Prepare as many meals ahead as possible because there will be nights where you’ll be eating beans or toast or possibly nothing. [3] Baby bouncer/rockers. The old wire frame type are very handy because they’re transportable and you can place one wire foot behind the other and rock them both at the same time with one foot while you eat.

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[4] Big items. Go for a pram or stroller that is lightweight and will hold a max. weight of 18kg or more in each seat. Remember that you are the one that will be lifting and carrying and it strains your back more and more as they get older. Make sure you try them all out before you buy. You don’t need fancy car seats as long as they meet current safety standards. [5] Quantities. You don’t need to buy 2 or three of everything. I managed to sleep my twins in the one cot until 6months of age which helps reduce the washing. [6] Get rest, help and support. It’s very important to follow the old saying about sleeping when the babies sleep. We are not super humans. Take advantage of help from family and friends and get them to help with the housework so you can enjoy your babies or take a nap. Don’t be afraid to ask for help because you will need it. [7] Get both babies in to the same routine. This will help you to rest too.. [8] Get it touch with your local Community Health Centre and find out if they have midwives that do house

calls. I was lucky in that one of my friends had arranged this for me and the midwife would come and visit once a week until I was confident enough and then slowly reduced the visits over time. [9] Get in touch with the Far North Queensland Multiple Birth Association This is a local organisation run entirely by multiple mums that have been or are going through the same experiences as you. You may also be able to pick up some bargains on larger items that are no longer required by their members. Everyone will offer you advice whether you are having one or more, take it all in and do what works best for your situation. [10] Make 5-10mins a day for yourself, even if it means putting two or more screaming babies in their cots and having a cuppa. It’s a lifesaver. Karen is Mum to Jack & Kayla (3 years) and secretary of the FNQ Multiple Birth Association. The FNQMBA will be celebrating Multiple Birth Week (14-21 March) with a walk along the Esplanade starting at the Lagoon at 9.30am on Sunday 14 March.

pak babies

Silent loss:

pak babies

a moment for mum Get Into:

Nerissa Healey reports on the local support available to bereaved parents after pregnancy or infant loss

resentment, failure, despair and desolation. At times, finding a way through this can seem overwhelming. Parents often find themselves feeling isolated from friends, family and the community, as many people find it difficult to understand the intense emotional pain involved in the death of a baby. Anniversaries, birthdays and family gatherings are all very difficult times for bereaved parents. Many people describe the death of a baby or child as the worst tragedy to befall a parent; they lose not only a child but also a whole lifetime of hopes, dreams and ambitions. SANDS (Stillbirth and Neonatal Death Support) has been supporting these families since the early 80’s (including miscarriage support). It is a volunteer community organisation that provides a range of services including local support groups, 24/7 telephone support manned by a SANDS volunteer listener, booklets and pamphlets, monthly newsletters and access via mail to the SANDS Library.

Each year in Australia approximately 58,000 couples experience reproductive loss. Of these, about 55,000 are early pregnancy loss, 1750 babies are stillborn and about 900 die in the first 28 days of life. There are many causes for pregnancy and infant loss. Some die because they were born too early or because of complications of prematurity and others die from serious abnormalities. For many though, the reasons are unknown with as many as 40-50% of stillbirths occurring due to an unknown cause. In Queensland in 2007, there were 619 perinatal deaths (deaths of babies from the gestational period of 20 weeks until the neonatal period). These figures comprised 417 stillbirths and 202 neonatal deaths. This statistic has been increasing over the past few years but researchers are not sure why. These infant losses amount to more than the Queensland road toll each year and yet it is often a silent loss. Few people are prepared for the intensity and duration of grief that follows the tragic death of their baby. Bereaved parents can experience a wide range of emotions including shock, anger, guilt,

The local SANDS group in Cairns provides a very casual coffee morning as a way to link with other families in the area who share the common experience of the death of their baby. Attending a support group can help alleviate the sense of isolation that often seems to occur and it can also bring a feeling of normality when being in contact with other bereaved parents. Connecting with others can be especially important during and after subsequent pregnancies. Having another baby can not only be stressful, it may also bring about a renewal of grief.

Zumba Local Zumba classes sell out fast and they are fantastic for Mum’s who want to get back in shape and have fun at the same time. Importantly, it also reminds us mums that we are still sexy! Zumba classes combine hypnotic Latin, African and Brazilian dance rhythms with cardiovascular exercise to create a spicy hour of calorie-burning, bodyenergizing, awe-inspiring movement that is more like attending a party than an aerobic class! And, anyone can do it. Zumba workshops ($20) & Zumba 5 week courses ($35) are a perfect way to kick off your Zumba passion. Book online at www.zumbacairns.com or call 0431 911 976. We have four 5 week courses to give away! To win simply email us at competitions@pakmag.com.au and tell us one of the venues the classes are at in Cairns.

Do this:

Try This:

Shop online

Be a kid yourself

Online grocery shopping has finally arrived in the Far North so make your life easier by dropping this one household chore for the week. Go to www.woolworths.com.au, click on shop online, register your details, click on your shopping list items, sit back and relax while Woolies bring them all to your door. Unfortunately they don’t send anyone round to cook dinner and look after the kids but we could get a petition going!

Being a Mum can be so demanding and frantic that it’s easy to lose your sense of humour sometimes but one of the greatest lessons our kids teach us is how to really have fun. So, next time it rains be the first to jump in the puddles and get your clothes all wet. Or why not get stuck in to the play-doh yourself, buy a giant pad of paper and smudge your fingers through paint or try hulahooping. Maybe you should even buy your own colouring-in book – it can be very therapeutic!

FREE mini hand & foot treatments at the Expo! Trilogy Medi Spa is the perfect place to relax and take some time to really look after yourself and they’re open 7 days till late to fit into the busy schedule of those juggling life and children. They will be showcasing their services at the North Queensland Baby and Children’s Expo by offering a delightful selection of mini hand and foot treatments FREE to Expo Visitors. You can also enter yourself into their prize draw to win a 2 hour Spa Results Package including a 45 minute Dr Babor Cosmeceutical Facial, 50 minute Relaxation Massage and Health and Wellness Review! And when you book a treatment in the month of March and mention you read it in PAK Mag you will receive a 25% discount! Don’t miss out! The NQ Baby & Children’s Expo is on 6 & 7 March at the Cairns Convention Centre.

In 2009 SANDS Cairns held a Walk to remember and honour all the babies who would never take their own steps in life. A group of parents, families and friends gathered at the northern end of the Cairns Esplanade and embarked on the steps for their lost babies to a small jetty where they released balloons and afterwards enjoyed a shared morning tea. They are hoping to make this a regular memorial event for Cairns and encourage anyone that wants to become involved to contact them. The SANDS Support group meets on the second Friday of each month 10am-2pm at the Marlin Coast Neighborhood Centre in Smithfield (45 Cumberland Ave). If you would like more information call Nerissa on 4098 3089 or Kelly on 4033 7917. The 24/7 phone listeners line is 1800 228 655.

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weekender

Summit Rainforest Retreat

huge Queenslander style house with a fabulous wide timber deck around 3 sides and a heated swimming pool. There are 3 bedrooms, we stayed in the ‘Pademelon’, which is ideal for families since it has an interconnecting bathroom between two rooms. Each room can be configured in to a king or twin beds. Better still, since the property is nonhosted (the owners live in the Blue Gum B&B) it is possible to hire out the whole house for groups of up to 8 people and have the whole house to yourselves.

Summit B&B: Staying under a roof in the Tablelands

We are blessed with many great places to go camping with the kids in our region but sometimes it just makes a nice change to stay in bricks and mortar. However, despite the amount of families living in FNQ its amazing how few accommodation places are truly family oriented. The Daintree, Mission Beach and the Tablelands have all firmly pitched themselves at the romantic couples market which basically leaves those of

us with ankle-biters with tents! However I’m pleased to say that Helen and John Donovan, owners of the Blue Gum B&B, Summit B&B and Summit Rainforest Retreat in Atherton are very friendly hosts and more than happy to welcome kids to their properties. The fact that they have

8 kids of their own (no blended families, all of their own doing!) makes them all the more appealing for local families to visit.We decided to stay at their new and immaculately built property, the Summit B&B, which has gorgeous views across Atherton and along the valley. It is a

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The Summit is self contained and has everything you could possibly need for a comfortable stay with the kids including a full kitchen (with breakfast ingredients supplied), laundry, central heating (or air-con), Austar and DVD player in your room and lots and lots of space for running around. It is situated right next to an Environmental Park and surrounded by Mabi Rainforest so expect to see kangaroos and other native wildlife hopping around the garden and there’s an actual kids playground close by within walking distance. As far as eating is concerned you can obviously cook in the comfort of the house but relatively nearby there are a few good food options. We had lunch at Gallo Dairyland which is great for kids because there’s a toy box in the corner for littlies and outside there’s plenty of smelly cows and chickens to look at. In the evening we decided to splash out with an ‘early’ dinner (of course!) at Nick’s Swiss Restaurant in Yungaburra. Eating at Nick’s is a bit like eating in the comfort of someone’s house and it’s spacious enough for littlies to do their thing without disturbing other diners too much (hopefully, they thought our daughters rendition of ‘wheels on the bus’ from the stage was cute and entertaining!). If you want to get out and about whilst

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you’re in the Tablelands, the Donovans have made life easy for guests by creating 3 itineraries which splits the Tablelands in to 3 daytrips around the central, north and south Tablelands. Just to prove that there’s plenty to do around the Central Atherton Tablelands, here’s a few of their suggestions: • Walk up to Hallorans Hill Look-Out (just behind the Summit B&B) and then walk in to the extinct volcanic crater with its Mabi Rainforest and native wildlife

16 maximum. The Summit B&B is $180 a night for a couple (children are $20 pp/ pn extra in the pademelon rooms). The whole house can be booked for $450 a night for up to 8 people and $500 for 10 people. For more information go to: www.summitrainforestretreat.com

• Visit Hou Wang Temple – Atherton’s last remaining structure of the original town • Hasties Swamp Bird Hide or Bromfield Swamp for bird watchers • Gallo Dairyland – definitely worth a trip for some cheese and chocolate tasting • Herberton • Irvinebank • Walk to the Crater in Mount Hypipamee National Park and see the spectacular diatreme (volcanic pipe) and then walk along to the Dinner Falls • Aboriginal guided walks from the Malanda Falls Interpretative Centre • Lakes Eacham & Barrine – swimming, boats and bushwalks • Curtain & Cathedral Strangler Figs • Platypus viewing – the Donovans claim to have a 99% success rate with a lovely site that they recommend on the Barron River. The Summit Rainforest Retreat is $400 per night for 1 – 4 persons and $40 a night for each additional person, up to

a trip to... Ocean Spirit Cruises have decided to give the reef back to the locals in a move that gives you and your family access to the reef ALL year round – with their unlimited annual MyReef Family Pass for $350. This pass enables a family of two adults and two children to cruise to Michelmas Cay, Upolu Reef or Oyster Reef as many times as you like on Ocean Spirit- as well as up to the Daintree on Rumrunner cruises. Ocean Spirit General Manager Patrick Bluett has been a keen advocate of locals enjoying the reef for a long time and feels that now is the perfect time to give the reef back to the locals. “MyReef. com.au is for the locals, by the locals – we want young children to explore this beautiful part of the world they are blessed to live in and to know the magic of the reefs. With global warming and coral bleaching becoming more and more problematic for the reef it has never been more important for all people, locals and tourists to learn about the reef and who knows; maybe someone’s child is a potential Marine Biologist who can help save this beautiful ecology!” The affordable one off price means local families (and individuals for $199) can travel on Ocean Spirit or Rumrunner any day of the year, all year round – provided there are seats available. “Some people think the offer is too good

Affordable reef travel for all Cairns families Many of us have lived in and around Cairns for many years and though we live in the backyard of the Great Barrier Reef, this wonder of the world has always been financially off limits, especially to families. That is until now! 42

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to be true” says Patrick “But the fact is, if we have spare seats – and locals have purchased a MyReef pass from MyReef.com.au, why shouldn’t we take them!?. We won’t be bumping MyReef Privilege card holders for Tourists or full paying fares – if you book ahead and the boat is going out...you’ll be on it!” The day out includes all reef taxes and the sensational smorgasbord lunch as well as entertainment on the boats. The only things you will have to pay for is if you decide to do extra activities out at the reefs. So if you’ve always wanted to learn to scuba dive but thought it was too expensive, now’s your chance! There really is no excuse” This is a unique opportunity for local families to get out and explore this natural wonder. If you want to spend quality time with your kids out in the sun, enjoying a snorkel, dive or just playing in the worlds biggest Marine Park – log onto www.myreef.com.au and make sure you book this limited offer. There are only 1000 places available and the offer closes on March 31st.

Remember – 4 Locations, Unlimited Annual Reef Travel and 1 low price – because you’re local. Go to www.myreef.com.au

fav pet shots

Photo of the month wins a mystery prize to the value of $30!

This month’s entries:

FEBRUARY WINNER!

Kids money: Financial Coach Leanda Kayess shows how to use brand awareness to teach children financial lessons playgroups and parties. Word of mouth is the best advertising you can get, and kids are talking constantly about the latest branded toys, clothes, gadgets and entertainment.

ica Lolly-pop & Pip-sueak loved by Jess

Don’t forget that they also absorb Mum and Dad’s buying behaviour and discussions. After much deliberation and shopping around, we bought Dad an iPod for Father’s Day this year. Guess what our daughter now wants from Santa? Heaven help us when she gets to school!

Speedy loved by Kyal

Your money personality will be easily noticed by your kids. If you like to ‘keep up with the Jones’ and regularly over-spend on branded items you don’t really need, chances are the kids will learn to spend like you too. Or maybe you’re the sort that likes to mind the pennies but you’re choking up the landfills with cheap items that don’t last when sometimes it’s better to invest in a better quality item?

Chilli-Pepper loved by Tom

Peppa loved by Brooke

Email your photo, name/s and address to: photos@pakmag.com.au Deadline for photos is 18 March 2010 for our April edition.

prize winners

Brands can be very useful for imparting some great lessons about spending. For example, teaching kids that some brands denote quality and reliability is a useful lesson if they are looking to purchase something for the longer term. Whereas, if they fancy learning to play guitar should they go straight out and buy a Gibson or instead buy a cheaper brand so they can try it out without huge cost?

Congratulations to our March prize winners!!! Colour in to win

Kasey chambers

Time for a break

• Jack Levi Hume • Emily Scott • Luke Powel • Ryan Taifalos • Alexander Moore • Sarah Fitzgerald

Nicola Rowan

Roseanne Scott

Cake Lingerie

Pak review

• Jennifer Morey • Joleene Young

• Samuel Moloney • Curtis Corniaux

Jemma Wright

Expo tickets

Battle of the brains

Twigz

Tracey McCarthy

Kara Bond

• Noleen Redding • Lisa Cullen • Jackie Denison • Chris Corniaux • Belinda Hilton

Merlin

A trip to

Hollie Martin

Mami Osada

Unspoil your Kids

Word Scramble Sonny Christian

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

Brands also allow them to learn about value for money ie. some brands denote good quality for the higher price, others don’t. You can teach useful brand awareness in any shopping situation – comparison shopping is a great way to teach kids about value for money, and branding will often feature in the product mix.

I don’t know about you, but I’m constantly surprised at how much brand awareness has crept into the consciousness of my 4 year old. We don’t eat at fast food restaurants, yet she knows all about McDonalds and Hungry Jacks. She doesn’t see a lot of commercial television, but she can tell me what Barbie she wants next. Marketers and advertisers have become very adept at getting their brand messages across to kids at a very early age. Even if they only watch ABC they can’t escape marketing messages at toy stores, bookshops or through social interaction at day care,

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The best way teach your children about the value of brands and their relative value for money is not to say no to requests, but suggest they can have it if they buy it with their own money. This opens the door for lots of other great lessons like saving towards a goal, earning extra pocket money, and perhaps even buyer’s remorse. Speaking of branding – the Kids Money brand denotes quality resources to help you teach your kids about money at good value prices. Check the range at www.qld.kidsmoney.com.au. Leanda Kayess DFP has over 25 years experience in the financial services industry, and is now dedicating her time to educating Mums and Dads and Kids about money. Contact her via the website, or email leanda.kayess@kidsmoney.com.au.

BUSINESS DIRECTORY Services

entertainment

school holiday activities

entertainment

Nikki the Clown • Face Painting • Puppets • Balloons • Games • Music • Other costumes available

& 4057 8019 or 0408 183 032 www.nikkitheclown.com

Rachel

Bradley

The Singing Face Painter

Easter holiday fun It’s already time to start thinking about the next school holidays at Easter so here’s a quick review of some of the entertainment and activities that will be available.

Available for themed childrens’ & adult parties

the forthcoming Easter Drama School. Commencing Tuesday 6th April until Friday 9th April (9am-3pm) at their Adventure Theatre on Bunda Street. Participants will develop the essentials of stage performance by exploring Cornelia Funke’s fascinating tale, INKHEART. The program includes improvisation, role-play, characterisation, set and costume design, sound, lighting and cinematography.

as a teenager reconnecting with her estranged father. For the little ones, Nanny McPhee will still be showing.

• Birthday parties • One on one sessions to help with progression of gross motor skills • Special functions anywhere you need children to be entertained • Mobile services available

For more info phone 4041 4066 or email info@theyoungcompany.com.au You can also visit their website: www.theyoungcompany.com.au

Call Lee on 0427 849 775 or 4053 6837

Cairns Regional Gallery

Flip Ripley It’s already time to start thinking about the next school holidays at Easter so here’s a quick review of some of the entertainment and activities that will be available.

The first Saturday of each month is always free at the Gallery so you have an opportunity to explore their exhibitions for zilch (10am-5pm). They will also be holding a ‘Zany Zoology’ kids art day where exhibiting artist Leith Maguire will help children (5-12 years) draw their favourite animal or bird using pen and inks. It costs $20 per child and bookings are essential. Call 44046 4800 or email info@cairnsregionalgallery.com.au

Join the local library this Easter with a FREE interactive reading of the children’s book, The Story of Easter Bunny. This fun workshop encourages creativity as kids are invited to take part in the storytelling by dressing up and acting out the story and making their own Easter themed craft to take home. Dates: Wed 7th April & Thurs 8th April 10am-11am. Suitable for ages 5-12 years. Bookings essential. Call 4044 3720 to book.

Easter Drama School

Birch Carroll & Coyle

The Young Company’s Summer Drama School was fully booked out last school holidays, so if you’ve 8-14 year olds who enjoy drama then book early for

The big cinema release for the Easter holidays will be Clash of the Titans (available in 3D). Disney is also releasing The Last Song starring Miley Cyrus

For bookings cAll 0428 600 213

Kids Moves

entertainment

Magic shows • Characters • Clowning Comedy workshops • Juggling Unicycles • Comic telegrams

By Bree James

4039 0622 or 0410 510 095 flip2@westnet.com.au www.flipripley.com

Art

restaurants

Kids

Brighten your child’s room with personalised art

0407 324 465

DIRECTORY LISTINGS FROM $50 46

PHONE 4031 9915 www.pakmag.com.au

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TO WIN: For your chance to win a pair of cinema tickets thanks to Birch Carroll & Coyle tell us which Avatar star also stars in Clash of the Titans. Email your answer to competitions@pakmag.com.au

Cairns Libraries

Cairns West PCYC Lots of fun, fantastic activities for the kids including laser tag, break dancing, swimming, movies, face painting, fishing and even rides in police cars! Any school age children can attend. Costs to parents are $5 per day (with Centrelink CCB rebate). Morning and afternoon tea included – just bring lunch. For more info call 4032 2109 or visit www.cairnspcyc.org

kids activities

Cairns regional gallery CHILDREN’S ACTIVITIES TINY TACKER TUESDAYS Sessions recommencing in March. More classes! More spaces! More fun!

Ahoy there!

Tel 4046 4888 for further information & bookings. or email programs@cairnsregionalgallery.com.au

KIDS ART WORKSHOP - ZANY ZOOLOGY Saturday 6th March, 10am - 12 noon. For children ages 5 - 12 years. $20 per child. Artist Leith Maguire will tutor children in the technique of pen and ink drawing. BOOKINGS ESSENTIAL FOR CHILDREN’S ACTIVITIES.

EXHIBITIONS KICKING UP DUST: From Grass Roots to Centre Stage Photographer Kerry Trapnell has documented the Laura Dance Festival since the 90’s. Exhibition on display until 14 March.

SENTINELS

Cairns artist Leith Maguire presents an exhibition of exquisite drawings. Exhibition on display until 7 March.

RIVERS RUN

An installation exhibition by Tasmanian artist Julie Gough. Exhibition on display until 14 March.

Tel 4046 4800 E info@cairnsregionalgallery.com.au for further information Cnr Abbott & Shields Sts Open 10am - 5pm Monday to Saturdays 1 - 5pm, Sunday & Public Holiday

With all the attention surrounding Jessica Watson’s attempt to become the youngest person to sail solo around the world unassisted, there may be many parents questioning the wisdom in allowing a 16 year old to take on such a seemingly risky endeavour. But sailing itself is not hard to do. It requires discipline and alertness but it is an activity that anyone can do. Sailing is also a great family activity. Kids can start to learn to sail small boats from the age of 8 but younger kids can also get involved with Mum and Dad on bigger boats as long as they’re wearing life jackets if they can’t swim of course. It is huge fun for kids and they get to enjoy a sense of freedom by being out on the open water with the wind in their hair and salt on their face. There are many benefits for kids in learning to sail including the fact that it teaches them an appreciation of nature. They learn how to read and interact with nature and they learn to rely on and cultivate their common sense. There are also specific skills to master such as how to calculate distance, how to read the weather, how a sailboat works and how

to identify landmarks and sea life. The best part about this learning process is that it is so natural they hardly realize they are learning at all; to kids it just seems like a fun day out on the water. Children from the age of eight and up can join the Cairns Yacht Club to learn one of the world’s oldest and most adventurous sports. Starting in dinghy’s (small one or two man crafts) the children can learn from competent and friendly trainers on the Cairns Inlet. From here they can progress their interest in sailing to the ‘off the beach cat’ (catamaran) division at Ellis beach. Both locations give the opportunity to try different styles of boats. Dinghy training courses are held on Saturday mornings on the waterfront in

Party Plan 1

town. For those of you with a competitive streak, or those who just want to have a go, fun and interactive racing is held on Saturday afternoons.

Party Plan 2 Entry, Skate Hire, Invitations Chips & Lollies, Hot Dogs, Hot Chips, Bottomless Drink, Slushy, Birthday Song, Tea & Coffee for Mum & Dad

Every Sunday the Yacht Club has a social sailing event at Ellis beach with racing every second weekend of the month. Anyone is welcome to go along and take advantage of the breathtaking scenery whether it is on the water or as a spectator from the club house verandah. Cold drinks and snacks are available at the kiosk. Junior yearly memberships are $50 with family rates also available. For upcoming dinghy training courses and race meets log on to www.cairnsyachtclub.com.au For more information about sailing at Ellis beach email sailing.ellis@hotmail.com.au

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$16/person $1 extra during night sessions

Entry, Skate Hire, Invitations Chips & Lollies on table Birthday Song, Tea & Coffee for Mum & Dad

$13/person $1 extra during night sessions

Party Plan 3 Entry, Skate Hire, Invitations Chips & Lollies, Mini Meat Pies Chicken Nuggets, Bottomless Drink, Slushy, Birthday Song, Party Bag, Tea & Coffee for Mum & Dad

• All parties must be booked in $19/person and numbers confirmed 24 hours $1 extra during night sessions prior to your event. • A non-refundable deposit of $50 must be paid on booking. • Minimum number of party guests is 10. • Parents or siblings of party guests wishing to skate must pay session prices.

44 Behan Street, Manunda PHONE 4053 5353 www.pakmag.com.au

Face behind the talent

The local arm of the Academy of Television has been sourcing and training local talent for TV and film productions since 2003. We decided to catch up with Director David Armstrong to find out more. How did the local FNQ Academy come about?

Can you tell immediately when you’ve found a star?

Once I got here I noticed there was a lack of outlets for aspiring actors in the region, which was very similar to why the whole concept of The Academy of Television came about originally almost 23 years ago in Melbourne. Given the amount of TV and film productions now occurring in FNQ, there’s a demand for professional well trained talent so we give local budding actors credible hands-on experience before working professionally.

I can spot talent but star potential is very individual and depends largely upon the dedication of the actor and what makes them unique.

What are you hoping to achieve with the Academy?

How did you become involved in this industry? When I was 16 I was studying with a drama group and was fortunate enough to be approached by Melbourne’s top actors’ agency. Soon afterwards I landed my first acting role on the “Cop Shop” followed by guest roles in Blue Heelers, The Sullivans, Prisoner, Neighbours and Sons and Daughters. So I’ve been fortunate enough to be involved in many of Australia’s top programmes as well as presenting my own chat show called Armstrong Live.

Why did you decide to move to Cairns? I decided to go in search of a sea change in 2003 and ended up in Cairns. I haven’t looked back since, I love it here and I’m pleased to be considered a part of the furniture in this industry in FNQ.

I am passionate about nurturing and promoting new talent and I’m excited by the amazing artists we’ve so far uncovered in the Far North. We have had a lot of success promoting and assisting actors to enter the industry professionally so my goal continues to be to help budding actors get a start in the industry.

What are you most proud of in terms of what you’ve achieved with the Academy? I’m proud of the fact that we’ve managed to establish a good enough reputation that we’ve been able to attract guest coaches like Lisa McCune (Sea Patrol), Jan Russ (Casting Director for Neighbours), Jesse Spencer (House), John Wood (Blue Heelers) and many more. They’ve all conducted workshops with us over the years which is very exciting for local actors. My dedication to what the Academy is all about is continually fueled when current and former students get that first break professionally.

What sort of traits are you looking for in the talent you manage? Actors come in all shapes and sizes. We are always on the lookout for people with a professional attitude who show a true dedication to their craft.

Who’s your latest budding star to hit the screen? Nia Diap, one of our local discoveries, has been cast in a featured role in Peter Jackson’s new movie ‘Sanctum’. There’s strong demand in drama currently for the junior age groups which is why we decided to create our ‘Little Legends’ course.

Have you got any kids? Yes, I have two girls (twins), Marleina and Aneliese who were born in January this year!

The Academy of TV caters for junior’s right through to adults. ‘Little Legends’ drama courses are aimed at children aged 8-12. For more info on courses with The Academy of Television call 4059 1141.

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Time for a break Jokes

More beautiful Two women were old friends. They had both been married to their husbands for a long time. As they sat in the living room one day drinking coffee, as

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Win a mystery PakMag prize!

“I’m so sorry for you,” replied the other, “As I get older my husband says I get more beautiful every day.” “Yes,” the distraught woman looked up, “but your husband’s an antique dealer!”

Down 1. Immerse briefly 2. Playing card 3. Angry dispute 4. Follow from 5. Stead 6. District 7. Small wooded hollow 13. Find a solution 14. Raise trivial objections 15. Chills and fever 16. Encounter 19. Lubricant 20. Country, initially 21. Bronze

“As I get older he doesn’t even bother to look at me!” she cried.

was their custom, one of them expressed concern because she thought her husband didn’t find her attractive anymore.

Tricky Trivia

Across 1. Challenge 5. Man or boy 8. Graphic symbol 9. Anger 10. Church benches 11. Snakelike fish 12. Common 14. Type of brooch 17. Historic period 18. Oaf 22. Regret 23. Passport endorsement 24. Animal companion 25. Flair

1. Courtney Love has a daughter named? 2. “I’m not crazy, I’m just a little unwell” [lyric] 3. “You gotta fight for your right to party” [lyric] 4. Who is the next Daisy Duke in the dukes of hazzard movie? 5. Chris Martin & Gwyneth Paltrow have a daughter named?

Email or post your answers to us: competitions@pakmag,com.au or PO BOX 7433 Cairns 4870. Don't forget to include details. Entries close: 18 March 2010.

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101 Spence Street, Cairns