PakMag Cairns - Dec 2017 Issue 126

ISSUE: Dec 2017

126

CAIRNS

24 DAYS OF CHRISTMAS HOUSE GUESTS: BE PREPARED

SCHOOL HOLIDAY GUIDE

TEACHING RESILIENCE 7 END OF YEAR RITUALS $1000’s WORTH OF PRIZES INSIDE

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CONTENTS 06 Entertainment: Check It Out 09 The Thing Is...

With Bree James 10 Feature: House Guests are You Prepared?

13 Parenting: 7 End of

Year Rituals 15 Buy Local Produce 17 Parenting: Teaching Resilience 21 Education: Keep Them

Learning These School Holidays 23 24 Days of Christmas 27 Principal’s Pen 35 Dreaming of a

Family Holiday?

36 Bump, Bub and Beyond 39 What’s On Guide 41 Mini Mag 47 Cairns Vet 48 AFL Cairns Juniors Snapped 50 Simple Christmas Recipes

Tis the time for tradition, so in traditional PakMag style, we’ve got you covered with a whole load of ideas on how you can keep the kids entertained, how you can get prepared for a great Christmas and how you can keep your sanity whilst doing it. Make sure you get down to our PakClub morning tea with Santa at Brothers on 2 December from 9.30am – 11.30am to kick off your December with us!

One thing that many of us experience over the holidays is visiting family, so be sure to check out our ‘How to Deal With Visitors’ feature on page 10 for an interesting insight the different personalities you may encounter, and how you can deal with them.

Our 24 Days of Christmas will give you some great ideas on what you can do in and around Cairns in the lead up to the big day to get in the Christmas spirit and our ‘Home’ and ‘Celebrate’ pages show you how you can make your home merry and bright!

Plus, our brand new feature “Principal’s Pen” starts this month, which we think you’ll love. The Principal’s Pen gives local schools a platform to let the community know about their exciting news, amazing students and excellent teachers.

From all of the PakMag team and I, we wish you all a very merry Christmas and a Happy New Year. We’d love to see all of your photos of the things you and your family get up to over the festive season, so make sure you post them to our Facebook page.

52 Home with Caro & Kingi:

Pool Perfection 54 Tropical Christmas Home 57 Harvey Norman: Computers

For Kids 58 Business 62 Mega Summer Giveaway!

64 Sunbird Orthodontics Snapped 67 Young Entrepreneur 68 Celebrate: Festive Fun 71 Camping and Glamping

Top 10 73 School Holiday Guide 82 Boredom Buster

Grand Publishing Founder and Editor-in-Chief Bree James Operations Manager Rose Foster Graphic Designer Clare Winter

Bree James Grand Publishing Founder and Editor-in-Chief On the cover Louise Struber and Jack Struber-McDermott with Santa Cover Photography Blueclick Photography e veronica@blueclickphotography.com Louise wears Broderie Jumpsuit in ink $149.99 from Bardot // Bronze swing tassel earring $17.99 & rose gold twist cuff $13.99 from Lovisa Jack wears Gingham shirt in lemon $44.95 & navy/white cargo short $39.95 from Country Rd // Baby converse runner in white $34.95 from Hype DC Stylist Pip Addison Contact Us: p 4053 3331 f 4053 3350 e admin@grandpublishing.com.au a Po Box 7433 Cairns Qld 4870 / Unit 5, 78 Anderson St, Cairns fb facebook.com/pakmagcairns t #pakmag

Marketing to Families Experts Lisa Gillman Steph Bartram Janelle May Sub-Editor Kate Moloney

Supply & Distribution Manager Gleisy Meireles Media Intern Monique Saggers Social Media Intern Kalisha Fitsch

Accounts Trent Stievano

Disclaimer: No part of this magazine, including the advertisements within it may be reproduced, in part or in whole without the expressed permission of the editor. Whilst the greatest of care is taken to ensure that the information in the magazine is correct at the time of going to press, readers are advised to check details before visiting. The publishers cannot accept responsibility for errors, inaccuracies or omissions. The expressions expressed within PakMag are not necessarily the views of the publishers, but those of individual writers.

Net Distribution Per Issue 10,000 CAB Publisher Statement Period ending 30th July 2018

www.pakmag.com.au | November December 2017 5

Entertainment

CHECK IT OUT Taipans Home Games When: 2, 9, 14, and 31 December 2017 Where: Cairns Convention Centre More Info: www.taipains.com Get behind your Cairns Taipans as they start their 2017/2018 season.

During December, the Taipans will be playing four home games:

PakMag’s Santa Morning Tea When: Saturday, 2 December 2017, 9.30am to 11.30am

Saturday, 2 December, 4.30pm – Sydney Kings Saturday, 9 December, 6.30pm – Melbourne United Thursday, 14 December, 6.30pm – Brisbane Bullets Sunday, 31 December, 6.00pm – Perth Wildcats Tickets are on sale now.

Where: Brothers Cairns More Info: www.pakmag.com.au Join Santa and the PakMag Team for games and festive family fun with prizes galore!

Tea and coffee available - FREE muffins for the kids (while stocks last)!

Beauty and the Beast: A Pantomime When: Friday, 1 December - Saturday 16 December 2017 Where: The Rondo Theatre More Info: www.therondo.com.au Get along to the rondo for the traditional tale of beauty and the beast, but not as you know it. This pantomime performance will have you laughing and cheering. Don’t miss out, book your tickets at ticketlink.com.au

Carols by Candlelight When: Sunday, 10 December 2017, 5.30pm to 8.30pm Where: Fogarty Park, Cairns Esplanade More Info: www.cairns.qld.gov.au Bring the entire family, your rug and chair to one the biggest annual community events in Cairns. Carols by Candlelight attracts residents and visitors for a feast of Christmas cheer featuring carols performed by vocal groups, dance schools and soloists, culminating with a fireworks finale.

Free family event.

6 December December2017 2017 | | www.pakmag.com.au www.pakmag.com.au

T’was the Night Before Christmas: A Pantomine When: Saturday, 16 December 2017, 7.00pm (Gates Open 5.00pm) Where: Munro Martin Parklands More Info: www.cairns.qld.gov.au Cairns Regional Council presents A Box Jelly Theatre Co. production “'Twas the Night Before Christmas” by Ken Ludwig by arrangement with ORiGiNTM Theatrical, on behalf of Samuel French Inc. Head down to Munro Martin Parklands for this festive pantomime. BYO blankets or chairs, food / picnics and soft drinks only. Strictly no BYO alcohol, a licensed bar is available, and food is also available for purchase.

Book your tickets at Ticketlink or call 1300 855 835.

NQ Christmas Festival – Stable on the Strand When: Monday, 18 to Friday, 22 December 2017, 5.30pm to 9.30pm Where: Strand Park Townsville More Info: www.stableonthestrand.com Experience the Christmas story of the birth of Jesus.

Enjoy free entertainment for all ages and interactive activities for children.

New Year’s Eve When: Sunday, 31 December 2017, 5.30pm and 9.00pm Where: Cairns Esplanade More Info: www.cairns.qld.gov.au Entertainment starts at 5.30pm with activities for families and children. From 9.00pm the program focuses on music entertainment including a DJ for teenagers. There will be free rides, onstage entertainment, face painting, roving characters and arts and crafts activities. Two major fireworks at 9.00pm and midnight.

The Thing Is

The Thing Is...

STORY Bree James

It’s the month of overeating, over drinking, overextending and overspending for many of us and by the time Christmas is here, we are, how do I say it nicely – ‘over’ it! As parents, we work so hard this month, there’s teacher gifts, class gifts, and family gifts to get, there’s food for class breakups to bake (cough… ready baked from Coles), charity work or work parties to attend.

The thing is, most of us bring this insanity upon ourselves. There is always an easier, more simple way.

And this year, I am going to do my best to make this a special day without all of the fuss and without killing my ‘mojo’.

When I grew up, Christmas always had a tinge of sadness, hostility and resentment. My parents divorced when I was two, so I always spent it with one parent on alternate years. My mum always said to us as kids, “We are on the borderline of poverty” and you could tell she always wanted to do more, but she always somehow pulled out a special day for us on her year. We’d always have a real tree, so the house smelt like Christmas and our gifts were always practical and few, but we would mostly get one thing that we really wanted. I remember one year when I was five and my sister was about three years old, and she wanted a Cabbage Patch doll. She opened her gift from Santa, and it was a cheap version, one kids would call ‘a dud’ because it didn’t have the signature on the bottom. She burst into tears calling it ‘a flood’ and stormed to her room and spent most of the day crying, “It’s a flood”, every time she saw the doll. I even offered to put a signature on its bottom, but she wouldn’t have it.

I remember this day clearly as it broke my mum’s heart a little, not being able to provide the life she wanted for us kids. But thankfully, Santa was to blame that he brought the wrong one, and the anger from my sister went to him for the rest of the day. But there was a lesson there for me in that moment, and it was:

“You’re not always going to get what you want, even from Santa.”

It was a really important lesson to learn, and one that in my opinion our kids don’t learn enough.

Learning comes from hard times, from not winning, from not getting. Drive and ambition come from these things being in your life. If you get everything you want, if you always win and the good times are always in your life as a child, you may grow up with no drive, no ambition and an attitude of ‘I deserve’.

Picture this, a little sea eagle in the wild, he has to fight other birds and search for his food, he becomes a great little hunter, self-sufficient and every day knows that he has to work hard to live, that there is danger, and that some days he will go without because today wasn’t his day, but tomorrow he will try harder. Then picture a sea eagle that grows up with parents that are seagulls. They hang around the bins to get free feeds every day, he is never encouraged out of the nest, he is never put in danger, he is cared for and nurtured, and every demand is met so that he never goes without. This sea eagle will never have the ability, strength of character, drive or ambition to ever leave the nest and fly amongst the sea eagles because life was safer and easier being a seagull, but this bird will live a life thinking “I know there is a sea eagle inside me, there has to be more to life than this, but this is all I know”, or worse “I hate sea eagles, I am not lucky enough to be one”.

As awful as it is to see the people we love the most, our children, be in any sort of pain, it is a very important part of their life that you must not deny.

So, during this festive time, take some time to think of ways you are nurturing your sea eagle without making them a seagull, and let’s make this next generation of kids unstoppable.

www.pakmag.com.au | December 2017 9

Feature

10 December 2017 | www.pakmag.com.au

Feature

House guests Are you prepared for their arrival?

STORY Kate Moloney

What do you get when you combine our tropical North Queensland paradise, school holidays and Christmas?

House guests! And generally, in plague proportions.

While we are never surprised by the fact that everyone wants to visit us in what is arguably one of the most beautiful parts of the world, what we may at times be surprised by is the behaviour of our house guests. Family and friends, whom we think we know so well when placed in our home, under our roof, can scarily morph into a species of person that we may have never seen them be before.

To assist you in preparing for the possibility of a plague of house guests at your place this festive season, here are five of the more common species of house guests that you may encounter and how to handle each breed: 1. The resort guest.

Whilst we all want to ensure that our guests feel like they are being well looked after when they come to visit, this species, takes it a step further; they treat you like you are an employee at a resort. They often have that amazed look on their face when informed that no, you don’t have bathrobes available or that dinner will be served when it is ready, regardless of their earlier ‘reservation request’ time.

To deal with this species, it is imperative that you do not let them near a bell or they will be ringing for your service nonstop! You need to be polite but firm with them. Try to crack them out of their ‘expectations’ by inviting them to partake in helping with household chores like cooking.

Beware, if given the opportunity to be waited on, this species won’t lift a finger for the entirety of their stay.

2. The constant preener.

A tricky one to tackle as this species is often unaware, or worse, uncaring of the disruption their prolonged bathroom preening causes to the rest of the household. If you are a one bathroom household, then this species can wreak havoc on your family’s routine when they come to visit.

Dealing with this species can sometimes be a little confronting as who wants to question another’s use of bathroom time. However, for the sake of your family, it does need to be tackled. Try during conversations to stress the importance of routine in the running of your family, and how there are set bath times that need to be adhered to. If this species continues to ignore your subtle hints, send in the little army!

3. The messy guest.

After all the work you have no doubt put into ensuring your place is looking the best it can be for when your visitors arrive, there is nothing more disheartening than the messy guest species. Of course, we want our guests to relax on their stay with us, but this species tends to take it to the next level, appearing to create a trail behind them from the moment they enter the front door.

This species requires polite encouragement to get them to engage in assisting with everyday chores. Like children, this species responds well to obvious but subtle hints.

Questions like, “Is this shirt on the floor here going to be worn again today?” or you could mention how food scraps quite quickly turn into maggots in the tropics!

4. The busybody.

Your home is your castle, and when we invite guests into our castle, we are letting them into our inner sanctum.

While this is not an issue with most guests, with the busybody species, a few additional precautions may need to be put in place prior to their arrival. They really just do not have any personal boundary filters; their behaviour is not intentionally malicious, it is just who they are. If they see a computer on, without a second thought, they have opened your photos file and are looking back over your memories. They won’t hide the fact as they bellow to you, “Oh, I didn’t realise you went to XXX this year?”

With this species of guest, the reality is that they really see no wrong in their actions, thus talking to them regarding their actions is futile, the only course of action is preventative.

Ensure you have your computer programmed to close after the shortest amount of time and have it password protected.

If you have anything that you do not want them to see, ensure you lock it away very safely!

5. The industrious guest.

This species generally arrives already dressed in their King Gee workwear with their toolbox in one hand and a very tiny backpack (as it only contains more singlets) in the other. This species thrives on being helpful and useful, and they generally are, particularly for those households where handy DIY skills are nonexistent.

Dealing with this species is generally quite easy as long as you are well prepared with the list of jobs of what you want done and a very well stocked fridge. Be prepared though to stand your ground as the industrious species can tend to get overzealous at times, and if you aren’t overseeing them, you may find you have extensions underway that you had never planned on. Also, be ready for the sound of power tools very, very early in the morning!

There are numerous other house guest species that love to holiday in our tropical paradise that you may encounter this festive season too including the shadower, the complainer, the over-inviter and the over-stayer. And while I think it is true to say that every house guest comes with their own set of intricacies to be dealt with, if we are all truly honest we know it is always worth it (even if we aren’t able to admit it until a few days later!).

This year, as your house guests arrive on your doorstep just remember how fortunate you are to have family, friends and loved ones to share your life with and I’m sure all their little idiosyncrasies will be all just that little bit easier to deal with.

www.pakmag.com.au | December 2017 11

Parenting

7 end of year rituals STORY Kalisha Fitsch

As 2017 comes to a close and the kids finish school for the year, you may be wondering what sort of activities you can partake in together as a family these holidays.

Here are seven brilliant end of year rituals to get everyone involved this December: 1. Pick out a Christmas tree and decorate it together.

This may even involve getting crafty and breaking out the paint and glitter to make your own ornaments.

2. Do some seasonal baking. This can be an exciting and even educational activity for the kids! Christmas cookie recipes are delicious and easy, and the kids can help out doing simple tasks such as kneading the dough or cutting it into shapes using snowflakeshaped cookie cutters.

3. Go for a drive at night and marvel at all the decorated houses in your nearby neighbourhoods.

Many families all around Australia decorate their front porch and lawn in anticipation of Christmas, creating a spectacularly bright display of colourful lights once the sun goes down. Why not load everyone in the car after dinner one night and go Christmas-light exploring?

4. Build a gingerbread house together. If you’ve made one of these before, you may find that they look much easier to put together than they actually are; but it’s all part of the fun! Buy a gingerbread house kit

(or make one from scratch) and get your kids’ hands dirty making one of these adorable edible creations.

5. Sit down with your family and look back at this year’s memories. Talk about that time you went camping at the beach or that time the eldest child pranked Dad by putting salt in his coffee. This is a lot of fun in the form of a photo album or family video, but could also be something as simple as a journal.

6. Take a cheesy family photo. This is an excellent annual idea, and you’ll be able to see how your family changes over the years. You could even get imaginative with matching outfits and a creative backdrop!

7. Snuggle up on the couch together and watch a movie.

There are many holiday-themed family favourite movies out there, or maybe there already is one that your family watches every year as a tradition.

Alternatively, get nostalgic and pick up a movie you haven’t seen in many years to be reminded of what life was like back then.

We Want To See Your Rituals!

Do you have any end of year rituals? Email your pictures to admin@grandpublishing.com.au of your family doing your end of year rituals by 10th December, and we might just feature your ritual in our “Families of PakMag: End of Year Rituals” Christmas video!

www.pakmag.com.au | December 2017 13

Buy Local

BUY LOCAL PRODUCE They say you are what you eat, so you’re going to want to know where the food you’re eating is coming from, right? Buying local produce is not just important because you’re getting the freshest food, you’re also supporting local small business and your local economy. So, where can you buy your local produce for your Christmas dinner and beyond? Check out our top tips for picking up fresh food, and great deals too.

THE SOURCE BULK FOODS The Source Bulk Foods brings back the good ole days with friendly personal service and a zero waste shopping experience.

You are welcome to buy as little or as much as you like from their great selection of organic, conventional, gluten free and paleo products. Select from over 400 bulk whole foods including; nuts, seeds, grains, herbs, spices, cereals, flour, rice, paleo products, superfoods, honey, oils, confectionary, yummy snacks, cleaning products, personal care products and so much more!

It is waste-free shopping at its best! Remember to take in your own bottles, containers and bags for refill as The Source is proudly plastic bag free. They also have a great selection of paper bags to use as well as bottles and jars to purchase.

Located at 10/85 Lake Street and open 7 days.

Ph: 4031 5698 Fb: thesourcebulkfoodscairns

RUSTY’S MARKETS Extended Christmas Hours

Bulk and custom orders, cut and packaged to your liking are available and they can arrange delivery to your door.

Contact Shane and Fiorina Solinas from JohnBull Farming for your organic beef needs: Ph: 0407 598 052 E: johnbullfarming@bigpond.com Fb: johnbullfarming

MUNGALLI CREEK The Watson family from Mungalli Creek Biodynamic Dairy support nine Tableland family farms and is North Queensland’s only Organic Dairy.

They offer a great range of Biodynamic Milk, Lactose Free Yoghurts, Cheese, Bio-Eggs and Australia’s Healthiest Flavoured Milks. Look out in stores for their new Probiotic Kefir and Farmhouse Cheddar.

Why not visit their Farmhouse café over the holidays?

Set in a stunning location and home to the world’s best cheesecakes, yummy gelato and a great selection of snacks and cheese platters.

Open from 10.00am to 4.00pm daily (closed Christmas and Boxing Day) and located just 10 minutes from the famous Millaa Millaa Waterfall Circuit.

Thursday 21 Dec – 9.00am to 5.00pm Friday 22 and Saturday 23 Dec – 5.00am to 6.00pm Sunday 24 Dec – 5.00am to 3.00pm Friday 29 and Saturday 30 Dec – 5.00am to 6.00pm Sunday 31 Dec – 5.00am to 3.00pm

Ph: 4097 2232 E: info@mungallicreekdairy.com.au www.mungallicreekdairy.com.au

Rusty’s is renowned for its carnival atmosphere, colourful stall holders, sumptuous displays of exotic fruit, vegetables, exotic flowers, bric-a-brac, delicatessens, specialty products and an excellent selection of food and beverage stalls.

•• A Silly Sausage in Raintrees for delicious hams, gourmet sausages and even sauces.

Don’t forget there’s also two hours FREE parking!

•• The Swiss Cake Shop on Grafton Street and at Stockland Earlville for amazing cakes and desserts.

Ph: 4040 2705 www.rustysmarkets.com.au

JOHNBULL FARMING JohnBull Farming is a Certified Organic, family-run farm located in Malanda, on the beautiful Atherton Tablelands. Their certified organic beef is 100 per cent free from pesticides, chemical fertilisers and hormone growth promotants, guaranteeing traceability from paddock to plate.

Also check out: •• Oceanwild Café and Prawn Sales (outside Armour and Artillery Museum) to pre-order your prawns for Christmas. Visit facebook.com/Prawnsalescom.

•• If you’re looking for a statement cake this Christmas, Cakes Annietime is the perfect choice.

•• For a cultural twist on the traditional Aussie, why not head to Le Crouton in Freshwater for some French delights or Loaf on Mulgrave Road for some Japanese sweet treats.

Do you know of a local producer that PakMag readers should know about? Let us know about them on our Facebook page.

www.pakmag.com.au | December 2017 15

Parenting

Why resilience is one of the most important things we need to teach our kids STORY Bree James

No parent wants to see their child in pain, and most will do everything in their power to protect their children from any sort of pain or suffering. But are we creating a generation of ‘soft’ kids who can’t handle the pressures of being an adult in the future? The sad truth is, quite possibly, yes.

Most adults have plenty of war stories about the tough times in their childhoods, and most of us, if we were honest, are pretty grateful for most of it as it’s shaped us into the awesome humans we are today. The only problem is, it’s made us so strong that we are robbing our children of building their own growth and resilience.

The big one for me is, I’ve been protecting my kids from toxic relatives because I don’t want them to emotionally scar my children. But I have realised, I am making a big mistake. As a child, I certainly learnt what I think is good and bad and what I do and don’t want in my life.

And I have been very motivated to live a different life to how I was raised, and I have certainly built up a huge

resilience to life’s down moments. But I worry that my kids have not been learning these skills because I have been protecting them so fiercely.

Sure, I in no way will put my children in any sort of danger, and it’s going to be challenging for me, but as they say, strength and growth only comes through continuous effort and struggle. And this is why we have to watch our kids struggle, even if we can fix it, in some cases we really shouldn’t.

We aren’t born with resilience; you can only grow resilience through (I hate to say it) pain and suffering.

Think of resilience as a rubber band. A rubber band can spring back and forth many times and hold things together. But if a rubber band is never stretched until it’s older, then often the very first time the rubber band is stretched, it will snap.

In a nutshell, we need to get comfortable with making our kids uncomfortable.

Story continues on P.18

www.pakmag.com.au | December 2017 17

Parenting

So how can you help your child build resilience, problem-solving skills and the ability to deal with the uncertainty of life?

happen again?” Hopefully they respond, “I’ll ensure I shut the gate next time.” ‘How’ questions are much more productive than ‘why’ questions.

Here are 10 ways:

7. Encourage them to make mistakes.

1. Don’t solve all their problems.

Your kid loses their teddy that you said to leave at home, or forgets their drink bottle on a day out, the only way they will learn, and not do it again, is if we don’t fix it.

2. Don’t overprotect.

The only way they will learn is if they work things out themselves. Kids, within reason, need to be able to make their own decisions.

3. Don’t satisfy their every need.

Going without, and working towards things is the only way our children learn the value of a dollar. If they are like caged lions then they will laze around licking themselves expecting everything to fall at their feet.

If their every need isn’t being met, they will hunt, and learn skills to live and thrive.

4. Teach them about risk.

Marbles, Pokemon cards and board games are all great ways for kids to learn about risk. If your kids always play it safe, they will never push themselves. Pull out some board games and teach them how to take risks and lose, as well as take risks and win and the lessons in both.

5. Teach them to problem solve.

Baking, homework and Lego have been great ways for my kids to learn problem-solving skills. The pancakes aren’t fluffy, what do you think we got wrong? You got these questions wrong in your homework, do you know why? When they ask a question, don’t just give them the answer, answer with “Why do you think?”

6. Ask “How” instead of “Why” questions.

Ask “Why did you...?” and the child responds, “I don’t know.” Instead ask, “You forgot to shut the gate, and now the dogs have run away, how are you going to fix that?” To which hopefully they respond, “I’ll go look for them.” “And how are you going to make sure it doesn’t

18 December 2017 | www.pakmag.com.au

We always learn more from failing than we do from succeeding, and we learn how to fix the problems created and make better decisions next time. We need to get them comfortable and excited about failing because if they are failing, it means they are pushing themselves. If they are cruising, then life is too comfortable.

8. Teach them how to manage their emotions.

It’s the key to resilience. Teach your kids that it’s ok to feel sad, angry or any emotion but then get them to think about the next step. “You lost the soccer match and you are sad, I understand you are sad, I’d be sad too. But now you have to figure out how to improve for next time. Have you got any ideas?”

9. Don’t over sensationalise.

We’ve all done it. “If you don’t take this medicine I will have to take you to the hospital because you will get sicker!” Stick to the facts.

10. Be a great role model.

My kids have seen me knocked down, hurt and in tears more times than I’d hoped. But we always talk it through, and they know that I try my hardest and that sometimes it doesn’t pay off, or that people don’t always treat me right. This shows our kids that even adults hurt sometimes and that we too have to get back up again and try harder.

Resiliency helps kids navigate the inevitable trials, triumphs and tribulations of life, and gives them the tools and confidence to know that they can handle whatever life throws at them.

So, it’s imperative we get rid of the obsession with giving our kids the perfect childhood, because resilient kids become resilient adults that are able to survive and thrive in the face of life’s ups and downs. And that should be one of the number one aims for all parents to teach their kids.

Education

Keep them Learning ThESE School Holidays STORY Matt Moloney

Christmas holidays in Far North Queensland means heat, humidity, bored kids, stretched purse-strings, and the added social pressure for parents and carers to use holidays to expand children’s knowledge.

Fortunately, Cairns has many things to do that are educational without the kids even realising, or you having to worry about playing teacher!

Flecker Gardens have a series of audio tours where kids explore our native flora and fauna. The detailed pamphlets make self-guided tours easy, but remember to tailor your tour to your family and encourage them to ask questions as they go (take your phone so you can google any answers you don’t know!). The mangrove boardwalks at the airport are unguided, but well signed, as are the Barron River falls and numerous other natural highlights of our region.

Why not venture off dry land? Attending Reef Teach, or going diving or fishing on the reef opens up the underwater world that surrounds us.

For art, Cairns Art Gallery is excellent, as is Kick Arts, COCA and professional galleries. Visit the Cathedral in Abbott Street to view paintings and the stained-glass windows. At 11.00am daily, a recording of the artist explaining the windows is played. Get kids to look at the use of colour, shadow, discuss the emotion and appreciation of beauty that art invokes.

If you’re shopping at Rusty’s, learn how to say hello in each store owner’s language. Our kids now greet the baker in French, the fruit sellers in Filipino and the food vendors in Thai.

It sounds unusual, but the cemeteries are well worth a visit. The Pioneer Cemetery has the oldest graves in Cairns, with different styles of graves for different religions and peoples from all over the world.

Gravestone motifs are a subject in themselves and worth Googling for fun. For example, Acorns on a grave mean the person was English and a Harp, Irish. At the new Cairns Cemetery there is a beautiful section specifically for service people which includes those from other allied nations. And, once you’ve taught the kids about our armed services at the cemetery, you can head into town. At the Cairns RSL, besides the cenotaph and artillery, there is also a contextualised display of militaria.

The above activities are free but there are many other low-cost options throughout Cairns.

Attend different sports you’ve never tried like croquet and bowls. Teach sport history, like Francis Drake and his link with bowls (Google ahead of time!). The Cairns Museum and Tjapukai are an excellent cultural experience which delve into the North’s diverse history. And speaking of culture, Cairns and District Chinese Association Inc has excellent children’s cultural activities that are open to all, as does Alliance Francaise de Cairns.

For parents with the time and inclination, pre-prepared worksheets are a great technique. Age and subject appropriate worksheets are easily obtained off the internet. Worksheets can be posted or emailed to grandparents. They can be used as the basis for presentations where children teach the family about what they learnt, which is itself a learning activity for all involved. Film these presentations to post on Facebook for relatives and friends.

You are their first, most important and influential teachers. Give structure to simple activities and learning will come. You may not have subject knowledge but if you demonstrate that you value learning, they will learn the most important lesson, valuing education.

www.pakmag.com.au | December 2017 21

Christmas

24 DAYS OF CHRISTMAS Looking for fun things to do this Christmas with your family? There’s plenty of local events and things you can do at home this year, and here’s our guide of things to do every day until Christmas!

1st - Christmas Tree Lights Switch On.

6th - Write a Letter to Santa.

Gather around the Christmas tree at the Esplanade Lagoon and watch the lights glow up to start off the month! At Cairns Esplanade Lagoon, 5.30pm to 8.00pm.

Help your children write a letter to Santa asking for whatever it is that they would like. Photocopy the letter for a keepsake, it’ll make a great memory for them to look back on in adulthood.

2nd - PakMag’s Santa Morning Tea. Come and have morning tea with the PakMag team and the jolly man in red himself. There will be festive games, fun and prizes galore! At Brothers Cairns, 9.30am to 11.30am.

3rd - Put up the Christmas Tree.

That is, if you haven’t done so already! Getting the whole family involved in decorating the tree with glittery ornaments and glowing lights never gets old. (Check out our Home feature on page 55 for some decoration inspiration).

4th - Make Christmas Cards.

We may live in the age of iPhones and social media, but a homemade, handwritten card still goes a long way.

Break out the glitter and cardboard and get crafty!

5th - Donate to the Annual Mayor’s Christmas Cheer Appeal.

This appeal raises funds to buy hampers for older members and families in the Cairns community who may need a helping hand. Why not donate and help spread the Christmas cheer this December?

7th - Create a List of Your Favourite Christmas Songs.

Collect all those timeless, nostalgic songs onto a CD or playlist and listen to them wherever you go. Music is one of the best ways to get into the festive spirit, and if you’ve picked out the tunes together, you’ll all be bopping along together!

8th - Get Your Picture Taken with Santa.

Head down to Cairns Central, Smithfield Shopping Centre, Stockland Earlville or Mount Sheridan Plaza to meet Santa Claus and the elves and have your child’s picture taken. Photos available daily until Christmas Eve. 9th - Redlynch Christmas Festival.

A fun-filled evening featuring amusements, kids’ activities, food stalls, and a parade! At Xavier Herbert Park, Redlynch Valley, 4.00pm to 9.00pm.

10th - Carols by Candlelight.

The biggest annual carolling event in Cairns! Bring a chair or blanket and sing along to your favourite Christmas songs. At Fogarty Park, Cairns Esplanade, 5.30pm to 8.30pm.

www.pakmag.com.au | December 2017 23

Christmas

11th - Bake Christmas Cookies.

18th - Go Thrill Seeking.

This is the perfect time for seasonal baking. Get the kids involved in the kitchen and bake some delicious gingerbread men or cinnamon-spiced cookies.

Bad Fishy is operating it’s thrilling jet boat rides daily during the December and January school holidays. With spins, slides, speed and stunts that are loads of fun and perfect for kids 1.1m tall and above. Local discounts apply! Gift vouchers available.

12th - Create Christmas Tree Ornaments.

Personalise your ornaments by adding names, dates or your child’s handprints to your home-made decorations.

You could even hang your child’s school photo on the tree.

13th - Throw a Christmas Party.

What better way to get together with your friends (or the kids and their friends) than a Christmas party? Lots of games, hot chocolate and cookies, perhaps exchange some small gifts, too!

14th - Christmas Lights Bike Ride.

Bring along your festive cheer for a bike ride down the Cairns Esplanade and through Edge Hill to admire the warm glow of the Christmas lights in the area. At Cairns Esplanade, 5.00pm to 8.00pm.

Visit www.cairnstickets.com.au for more information.

15th - Prepare forHolloways Beach Carols by Candlelight.

Tomorrow evening enjoy the family-friendly Christmas Carol concert with Santa arriving on a motorbike! At Holloways Beach Sporting Complex, 5.30pm to 10.00pm, Saturday, 16th December 16th - T’was The Night Before Christmas...

Bring your own chairs and snacks and come view this magical theatrical performance to bring the Christmas cheer to your heart! At Munro Martin Parklands, 5.00pm to 8.30pm.

17th - Donate to a Local Animal Shelter.

Buy some doggy or kitty treats and toys and head down to the nearest animal shelter. The furry friends will appreciate your kindness.

24 December 2017 | www.pakmag.com.au

They have 20% off adults and kids tickets - Adults $55.20 (usually $69), Kids (under 16) $36 (usually $45) and 10% off Family tickets at $175.50 (usually $195).

19th - Read a Christmas Story.

Your kids will love this special time with you. You can even extend this and read a different story every night before bedtime, leading up to Christmas.

20th - Watch a Christmas Movie.

Or if your family is up for it, extend it to a marathon!

Snuggle up on the couch with pillows and snacks and watch some Christmas classics.

21st - Play Board Games Together.

An old-fashioned board game is a simple way to bring the family together. Scrabble, Checkers, Monopoly, whatever you can find in your house.

22nd - Have a Barbecue at the Beach.

Nothing’s better than a delicious barbecue lunch at the beach on a hot summer’s day, and you get to spend quality time with the family.

23rd - Head down to Rusty’s Markets.

Your big Christmas lunch and dinner is bound to taste amazing when you buy fresh local produce! Open every Friday and Saturday, 5.00am to 6.00pm and every Sunday, 5.00am to 3.00pm.

24th - Leave Some Snacks out for Santa.

He’s clearly going to be having a very busy night and could probably do with some snacks! Leave out homemade cookies, hot chocolate, and reindeer food (oats mixed with glitter).

PRINCIPAL’S PEN Good GOOD Counsel COUNSEL SCHOOL, Innisfail INNISFAIL

ST ANTHONY’S SCHOOL, DIMBULAH

Liam Kenny

Kath Porter

As this year comes to a close, and students, parents and teachers prepare for a well-earned Christmas break, I reflect on the year we’ve had at Good Counsel Primary with great fondness and immense pride.

When you enter the grounds of St Anthony’s School in Dimbulah you very quickly experience a feeling of happiness, peace and tranquillity. From the immaculately kept gardens and grounds to the cheerful greetings you receive from the students, staff and parents.

This year, our students have achieved so much and made many happy memories in the process. We’ve met many amazing people including the CSIRO scientists (who told us all about their project to reduce the mosquito population in the Far North), the PBR cowboys (who taught the students about their unique careers in the rodeo) and Jeff Horn (World Champion Boxer), and have partaken in some wonderful initiatives including the National Day for Action against Bullying in March and our Day for Daniel fundraiser in October.

The school prides itself on promoting a family friendly, community orientated setting. Being a small rural school of only 46 students, it is easy to quickly get to know all the students, families and staff and know personally what their needs are and how best to meet those needs.

We also celebrated our amazing staff with Mrs Lynch and Mrs Croatto reaching their 25 and 20 years of service to Catholic Education.

To all of our students, parents and staff, I wish you a very merry Christmas. To all leaving students, we wish you well on your journey to High School and to all of our new Prep students, we can’t wait to welcome you in January.

As a first time Principal, just new to the school, one of the first things I noticed was the difference that Catholic Education’s values makes to the wellbeing and happiness of the students in the school. Nothing is ever a bother and our students are always more than willing to help out when asked. They are actively engaged and connected with the Dimbulah community and the school spirit of our foundation Sisters of St Joseph of the Sacred Heart is very alive in the school.

“Never see a need without doing something about it”.

e gcounsel@gcc.qld.edu.au www.gcc.qld.edu.au

e principal.dimbulah@cns.catholic.edu.au www.sta.qld.edu.au

ST Therese’s THERESE’S SCHOOL, St School, BENTLEY Park PARK Bentley

ST RITA’S SCHOOL, SOUTH JOHNSTONE

David Adams-Jones

Brad Williams

What a year 2017 has been! It’s been filled with events, achievements and excitement, and I am so proud to have been able to share all of these moments with students, staff and parents.

As the 2017 school year draws to a close and the anticipation of Christmas and school holidays grows, I pause to reflect on the many joys and successes experienced at St Rita’s School during the year.

Our students have achieved a lot this year and have shown true enthusiasm, compassion and positivity during day to day life at the school, during special events, and even outside of school, where many have achieved accolades in their extra-curricular activities.

This year, we’ve supported some great causes and charities, like Rosie’s, where the St Therese’s Faith and Justice squad hand over 50 boxes of donated items to help people in our local community.

We’ve also had some great support this year from local businesses and organisations; Rotary donated a Buddy Bench and Piccones Supa IGA in Edmonton who supplied us with fresh fruit for several events, to name a few.

Overall, we have had a fantastic year, and I can’t wait to continue the journey and to lead, learn, listen, pray, sing, laugh and walk side by side St Therese’s Primary School community in 2018. e secretary.bentleypk@cns.catholic.edu.au www.stthereses.qld.edu.au

Our school has continued to flourish in so many aspects, from exceptionally strong academic results, to brilliant individual and team success on the sporting arena and the ongoing focus on developing the improvement agenda for student learning and wellbeing.

Our P & F Committe and wider parent body have been outstanding in their commitment to raising money to help purchase a new playground. The staff have been unwavering in their quest to provide exceptional learning experiences to our students, who have continued in their life-long journey as learners and upstanding citizens.

2017 has been a remarkable year for all involved with St Rita’s.

I would like to wish all our staff, students, parents and wider community a happy and healthy Christmas and New Year. e principal.johnstone@cns.catholic.edu.au www.stritascps.qld.edu.au

www.pakmag.com.au | December 2017 27

PRINCIPAL’S PEN ST JOSEPH’S PARISH SCHOOL, ATHERTON

MACKILLOP CATHOLIC COLLEGE, EDMONTON

Re. Deacon Michael

We are three years old … and growing strong!

As the afternoon storms begin to crank up again here in Atherton (usually around pick-up time!) and classes start to wind things up for another year, both the students and the staff certainly feel the excitement build. The Christmas holidays are rapidly approaching now.

The genuine warmth of our welcome, the empowerment of our kids as learners, the care and professionalism of our staff and our fresh innovative facilities are just what our families are looking for; and our local community is responding enthusiastically.

As I reflect on the year that has been - with all the various and impressive student achievements along the way - the St Joseph’s community also looks forward to the opening of its brand-new classroom block in early 2018. From demolition of the old building and excavations for the new foundations, to the brickwork for the first floor, many students have been captivated by the buzz of all types of machinery. I dare say many a boy dreamt of being in the construction site operating machinery, instead of sitting in a Maths or English lesson!

As a Catholic school, MacKillop Catholic College delivers quality, real-world education in a community whose spirit is characterised by a family-like belonging, love, forgiveness and reconciliation. These are the ‘cultural settings’ that underpin learning, growth and wellbeing for every student.

So, as we break up for another school year, the construction of our brand-new classroom block has us looking towards 2018 and the new possibilities that year will bring.

To all of our families, I wish a blessed Christmas and a happy New Year. e principal.atherton@cns.catholic.edu.au www.stjoeys.qld.edu.au

ST CLARE’S SCHOOL, TULLY Narelle Harney As 2017 draws to a close, we reflect on our celebrations and achievements as a school community.

In May we celebrated the blessing and opening of the Heart of St Clare’s Garden, bringing together our school and parish community. Term 3 bought our school community together with our Saint Clare’s Feast Day which was celebrated at Wongaling Beach this year, commencing with a whole school Mass, followed with a fun-filled day of games, a sausage sizzle and celebratory cake.

Our very active Parents and Friends Association once again organised a very successful annual fete which drew the Tully community together. Amid our celebrations, our students have been successful in District and Peninsula sporting events and been busy with rigorous learning in the classroom.

Luke Reed

To meet demand, we have added additional classes to all year levels for 2018 (Prep to Year 5), and Secondary education is planned for 2020 with the introduction of Year 7, growing to Year 12 in 2025.

A Catholic education is surprising affordable, with significant concessions available. Drop by to say hello or take a tour via our website.

You’re welcome at MacKillop! e office.mountpeter@cns.catholic.edu.au www.mackillopcatholiccollege.qld.edu.au

ST Michael’s MICHAEL’S St SCHOOL, GORDONVALE Greg Hoare As many of you will know, the 2017 school year marks the end of my position as Principal of St Michael’s Parish Primary School. It is a bitter sweet time for me as I will dearly miss the amazing students, staff and parents, but I’m also happy in the knowledge that they will be in great hands with the arrival of their new Principal, Mr Greg Recklies.

After an eight-year tenure as Principal of St Michael’s Catholic School on Palm Island, Mr Recklies’ experience in the delivery of a quality education for students stands him in good stead in ensuring that students of St Michael’s Parish Primary School have the opportunity to flourish.

Mr Recklies is keen to embrace new responsibilities and is very attuned to the characteristics of the local community. His faith commitment, sensitivity to the needs of others and natural leadership style will be a great asset for the school community.

We give thanks for a fulfilling 2017 year and look forward to celebrating our 90th Anniversary in 2018.

2018 will be an exciting year indeed for the school. Until then, I wish a very merry Christmas and happy New Year to students, staff, parents and the wider community.

e secretary.tully@cns.catholic.edu.au www.stclares.qld.edu.au

e secretary.gordonvale@cns.catholic.edu.au www.stmichael.qld.edu.au

28 December 2017 | www.pakmag.com.au

Advertorial

New Non-Surgical Weight Loss Procedure PART II In PakMag’s November edition, we discussed the “huge” and “growing” problem of the obesity epidemic in Australia. So, what are the specific conditions associated with obesity? There appears to be an unending list but here are some of the more common ones.

Type II Diabetes: The majority of Type II diabetes is caused by obesity and its severity increases with weight.

Reflux: Reflux is caused by unhealthy weight gain and higher grades of obesity.

Obstructive Sleep Apnoea (OSA): The “snoring” disease is increasing in line with the obesity epidemic, causing day time sleepiness, high blood pressure, reflux and heart failure.

Osteoarthritis (OA): OA of the knee, hips and ankles and back pain are caused and accelerated by excessive weight.

Hypertension: High blood pressure is closely associated with obesity. This leads to complications like heart attacks or failure, poor circulation and strokes.

people with young children can feel like they are missing out because they can’t keep up with the young ones.

Social effects: Obese people are more likely to suffer discrimination and prejudice in some situations such as employment opportunities, travel, healthcare and retail.

In warmer climates such as tropical North Queensland and the NT, personal hygiene is also an issue. Fatty folds are extremely difficult to ventilate and keep sweat free.

Economic effects: Obese patients are known for trying all sorts of therapy and gimmicks over their lifetime in a futile bid to lose their excess weight. They could spend a small fortune on slimming herbs, diet shakes/meals, gym memberships and personal trainers. However, the vast majority of people cannot lose enough weight purely through dieting and exercise.

Endoscopic Sleeve Gastroplasty (ESG) is the latest nonsurgical procedure that is revolutionising the treatment of obesity and is now offered by the doctors at Cairns Gastroenterology.

Fertility: Obesity reduces the fertility of women.

It increases the irregularity of periods, reduces response to fertility treatments, increases miscarriages and is associated with Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome.

ESG is a day procedure with complication rates reported to be at only about one per cent, with no patients requiring surgery to correct any problems. Patients typically leave the hospital the next morning and are back to normal activities within three days.

Psychological effects: Obesity can directly cause mental health issues such as depression and anxiety. Obese

For more information on this exciting new procedure contact Cairns Gastroenterology.

www.pakmag.com.au | December 2017 31

Health

HEALTH New Cervical NEW CERVICAL Screening SCREENING STORY Dr Elizabeth Jackson On the 1st December, 2017, a new cervical screening program will begin in Australia. The test is collected the same way, using a speculum examination, but the test performed will be a different one. The old test was the Pap smear which was a sample of cells from the cervix smeared on a slide. The new test is a HPV test which tests for the virus which causes most cervical cancers.

There are over 200 strains of the virus, but only the high risk strains which may go on to cause cancer are tested for. If you do not have a high risk strain, you can be reassured that if you do not have abnormal bleeding, pain or discharge, a repeat smear is not required for 5 years. Some women with immunosuppression (eg. on chemotherapy or previous transplants) may need a 3 year test.

If you do have a high risk strain, you will be more closely monitored for pre-cancer changes to your cervix. The test will now be for women from the age of 25 until the age of 75. If you want to be screened outside of these ages or more frequently, you can ask your GP to perform a HPV test.

The HPV test is great news for women! It is more accurate and lasts for a longer period of time. For more information, go to www.cancerscreening.gov.au

SPA IN A JAR Spa in a Jar is a locally made and truly natural range of skin and wellness products. The artisan, 100% natural and beautifully scented Bath Salts and Magnesium Sprays are handcrafted in small batches from ethically sourced ingredients, organic and free from harmful chemicals and synthetic additives. Stocked at all Calanna Whole Health Pharmacies, this is the perfect gift this Christmas.

What does the mask of childhood anxiety look like?

STORY Laura Adams, Author of My Anxiety Monster.

Childhood anxiety can be complex, and considering that children often have little understanding of what is happening to them, diagnosis can be a lengthy process.

Anxiety can look like a number of things including anger, challenging behaviour, school refusal, negative behaviour changes, withdrawal, selective mutism, selfmedicating in older children (drugs, alcohol, self-harm), emotional outbursts for seemingly no reason, sudden anxious attachment to one parent, constant selfcriticism or psychosomatic symptoms.

I can remember having panic attacks at age ten.

Only, I did not know what they were back then; I just knew that I felt nauseous, unexplainably terrified of everything around me, fearful of my own body and what was happening to it, and I was convinced that I was dying.

My instinct, even at a young age, was to avoid the places that I thought had made me feel like that.

School was a place of fear for me, and I tried my best to avoid it.

My Anxiety Monster uses illustrations to portray the intensity of anxiety; as the anxiety dissipates, so does the appearance of the monster. The book explains what anxiety feels like, what feeds it, how to overcome it by playing the anxiety challenge game and includes two relaxation exercises.

I am a qualified counsellor who has worked with children for over ten years. I have a passion for helping children understand what anxiety is, and this was the driving force behind my children’s book. For more details check out www.innerpeacebears.com For your chance to win a copy of My Anxiety Monster visit www.pakmag.com.au

www.pakmag.com.au | December 2017 33

Bump, Bub and Beyond

Dreaming of a family holiday?

STORY Kalisha Fitsch

Travelling with a baby may seem like a daunting experience. Making the travel arrangements, deciding what to pack, and planning the everyday actual travel logistics can fill new parents with dread. Whether you’re travelling by car, train, or plane, the change to a baby’s routine can cause distress to both baby and to you.

But there are things you can do to make your life easier, and your holiday the relaxing or adventurous time it is meant to be. Here are some helpful tips: Necessary Preparations It’s important to consider some extra points when booking flights. Are there any regulations on bringing breast milk through airport security? Will you need to book an extra seat for your baby? Are you allowed to take the stroller onto the plane? Airlines often have different regulations on these, so it would be a good idea to double-check before booking anything. When booking accommodation, be sure to let the staff know that you’ll require a cot in the room.

Take Breaks If you’re travelling by car, while it’s recommended for all drivers to take frequent breaks regardless, with a baby on board, it’s recommended that you take a break every two hours for nappy changes and feeds. Make sure you factor this time into your plans.

Sleep Tight Some babies have difficulties falling asleep in an unfamiliar cot. To help them adjust to their home away from home, bring some familiar blankets, soft toys and sheets from home. The aim here is to make their sleeping space feel as cosy and homely as can be, which

typically helps them settle and doze off. Still having troubles? Taking your baby for a stroll or a car ride can help lull them off to sleep.

Prepare for Messes Babies are messy! Spit ups happen, nappy leaks happen.

When travelling it’s a good idea to always have easily accessible clothes for both bub and yourself; sitting on a long-haul flight covered in vomit really is no fun! If your baby is eating solids too, then be sure to carry bibs and wipes with you at all times!

Have you Considered the ‘Travel Nanna’ Option?

According to a survey of a nationally representative, independent panel of 1,076 Australian parents commissioned by HotelsCombined.com.au, one out of two Australians are paying their parents or parents-in-law to come with them on holiday with the main purpose of keeping a watchful eye on the kids.

Approximately 59 per cent of parents with kids under four years of age would prefer to take grandparents on holiday with them to watch their child rather than pay a babysitter.

After all, children are generally more comfortable having a caretaker who is familiar to them rather than a hired babysitter they’ve never met before. It also gives parents peace of mind while they’re travelling knowing their children are under the care of somebody they trust. This is also excellent bonding time for the child and the grandparent!

Don’t let the worry of travelling with a baby stop you from enjoying a break away from reality. The key really is in being informed and prepared. Do this and travelling with a baby really doesn’t need to be such a daunting concept.

www.pakmag.com.au | December 2017 35

Bump, Bub and Beyond

BUMP, BUB AND BEYOND Featured products, reviews and prizes. Visit www.pakmag.com.au for your chance to win!

Seriously Milestones RRP $29.95, www.seriously.net.au Seriously Milestones produces milestone cards for parents who realise that parenting is not always fun and games but still want to have a laugh!

Our Preggo Pack, Newborn cards and Toddler Edit will ensure that you never miss out on snapping those important moments, and that you can remind your kids how annoying they were for years to come.

Dreambaby® Cosmopolitan Security Gate RRP $49.95, www.dreambaby.com.au Baby Loves Sleep Sleepy Hugs Sleepsuit RRP $59.95, www.babylovessleep.com.au Our Sleepy Hugs® gives comfort and security to your baby to encourage long, deep sleep.

Its unique design allows for full arm movement with just enough security to combat their ‘startle’ reflex, keeping them asleep for longer. And gives parents back their sleep.

The SLEEPY HUGS sleep suit gives comfort and security to your baby when they have outgrown swaddling, allowing them to sleep deeper, for longer.

36 December 2017 | www.pakmag.com.au

Dreambaby® has over 20 child safety gates in their range and continues to launch new models every year. Why? Because every family has different needs and homes come in all shapes!

The Dreambaby® Cosmopolitan Security Gate is a popular gate in their range and is regularly chosen for both its features and affordability. Indeed, this gate’s one-handed operation (great when you’re carrying a load) coupled with its stylish design and sturdy construction makes it a must-have for young families looking to help keep their little ones safe, all day, every day.

Bump, Bub and Beyond

Exploring the benefits of sensory play

Tackle incontinence early

STORY Sally Galloway, Senior Occupational Therapist, Goodstart Early Learning.

STORY Dr Naomi Gleadow, North Shore Well Women’s Clinic

From birth through to early childhood, children use their senses (taste, touch, smell, sight and hearing) to explore and try to make sense of the world around them. Providing opportunities for children to actively explore their world through ‘sensory play’ is crucial for brain development. This leads to a child’s ability to complete more complex learning tasks and supports cognitive growth, language development, gross motor skills, social interaction and problem-solving skills.

As a women’s health practitioner and general practitioner, I often hear about and see several conditions which most of you keep to yourselves.

One of the most common of these problems is urinary incontinence. It is often mentioned at the end of the consult as a ‘side problem’ or only declared when prompted.

However, there are two other less common senses that are vital to early childhood development that we commonly miss: body awareness (also known as proprioception) and balance. Sensory play includes any activity that stimulates these senses and facilitates exploration, encouraging children to use scientific processes while they play, create, investigate and explore.

It is important for children to have a range of sensory play activities and spaces available to them at home.

Tips for parents: •• Organise physical indoor and outdoor areas for your child, so they have flexible spaces that include quiet, active, wet and dry areas that help to calm or alert them in their play.

•• Ensure your child has access to materials they can shape and adapt, such as play dough.

•• Use lighting and soft furnishings such as cushions and blankets to create separate spaces.

We need to discuss this embarrassing problem as there are many treatments and most of these treatments are more effective if tackled early. Most women feel that the only option is surgery and this is not the case. Sometimes the answer is simple, such as finding a solution for constipation or treating a urinary tract infection.

We also know that obesity and constipation double the chances of having urinary incontinence. So, by encouraging a good diet and regular exercise, we are not only promoting a healthy lifestyle, we are treating the incontinence. A good women’s health physiotherapist can also assist. They work with you to assist in the strengthening and training of the pelvic floor muscles which provides support for your internal organs. This is extremely important, as most of us are doing our pelvic floor muscle training incorrectly.

The assistance of a good physiotherapist to ‘coach’ you on correct technique can make a major improvement to your symptoms.

Remember by confronting the problem early you are not only reducing your chances of needing invasive treatments, but you are also learning techniques to protect yourself from a condition that can have a significant impact on your life.

www.pakmag.com.au | December 2017 37

WHAT’S ON DEC DEC FRIDAY 1 Christmas Tree Lights Switch On Esplanade Plaza www.cairns.qld.gov.au 5.30pm / Free / Family Beauty and the Beast Runs until 16 December Rondo Theatre www.therondo.com.au 7.30pm / Cost /Family Spread Christmas Cheer - Win Runs until 17 December The Pier Cairns www.thepiercairns.com.au Check Website Santa Photos Cairns Central Runs until 24 December Centre Court, Cairns Central www.cairnscentral.com.au Check Website Santa Photos Mt Sheridan Plaza Runs until 24 December Mount Sheridan Plaza www.mtsheridanplaza.com.au Check Website Santa Photos Smithfield Shopping Centre Runs until 24 December Smithfield Shopping Centre www.smithfieldcentre.com.au Check Website Santa Photos Stockland Cairns Runs until 24 December Stockland Shopping Centre www.stockland.com.au/cairns Check Website Left Right No Wrong “Colour Pop” Painting pARTy Studio www.paintingparty.com.au 6.00pm / $45 / 18+

Party Games Cazalys Kids Room www.cazalys.com.au 12.00pm / Gold Coin / Kids World AIDS Day Ball Pullman Hotel Cairns 4041 5451 Call For More Info Hannah Parker and Claire Freer - After Hinchinbrook: A Year in the Making Runs until 3 December Tanks Arts Centre 0437 024 172 Hannah 2.30pm / $40 / Youth+ Cairns Show 2018 Tickets Discounted Prices Sale Runs until 14 December Cairns Show Grounds www.cairnsshow.com.au Check Website Francoise Lane and Christy Van Der Heyden - Fusing Sands Runs until 19 December Tanks Arts Centre www.tanksartscentre.com 9.00am / Free / Family SATURDAY 2 PakMag’s Santa Morning Tea Brothers www.pakmag.com.au 9.30am to 11.30am / Free / Family Cairns Taipans Vs Sydney Kings Cairns Convention Centre www.taipans.com 4.30pm / Cost / Family Limbo Fun Cazalys Kids Room www.cazalys.com.au 12.00pm / Gold Coin / Kids

With Triple M’s Maddi

Josh Pyke 10 Years of Memories and Dust Regional Tour 2017 Tanks Arts Centre www.tanksartscentre.com 7.00pm / $42 / PG SUNDAY 3 Paddington 2 Charity Screening - FNQ Hospital Foundation Event Cinemas www.eventcinemas.com.au 11.00am / $12 / Family

Edmonton Community Carols by Candlelight Ravizza Park Edmonton www.cairns.qld.gov.au 5.30pm / Free / Family Summer Holiday Drama Programs The Young Company Theatre www.theyoungcompany.com.au 9.00pm / Cost / Ages 5-17 THURSDAY 7

Cinebuzz Crew Screening - Coco Event Cinemas www.eventcinemas.com.au 2.00pm / Cost / Family

18+ Paint n Sip “The Smart Owl” Painting pARTy Studio www.paintingparty.com.au 6.00pm / $45 / 18+

Clifton Beach Race Run, Series 3 Race #1 Deadmans Gully Park info@dynamicrunning.com.au 6.00am / Gold Coin / 18+

FRIDAY 8

TUESDAY 5 No Stone Unturned - Cairns Mineral and Lapidary Club Inc Runs until 22 January Tanks Arts Centre www.tanksartscentre.com 9.00am / Free / Family 18+ Paint n Sip “Christmas Bauble” Painting pARTy Studio www.paintingparty.com.au 6.00pm / $45 / 18+

White Christmas December Luncheon Pullman Reef Hotel Casino www.cbwc.org.au 11.30am / Cost / Adult Family Movie Night - Coco Event Cinemas www.eventcinemas.com.au 6.30pm / Cost / Family Group Games Cazalys Kids Room www.cazalys.com.au 12.00pm / Gold Coin / Kids

WEDNESDAY 6

Gordonvale Carols in the Park Norman Park www.cairns.qld.gov.au 5.00pm / Free / Family

Cinebuzz Seniors Screening - Wonder Event Cinemas www.eventcinemas.com.au 10.30am / $9 / Seniors

Free Mulch Giveaway Runs until 11 December Portsmith www.cairns.qld.gov.au Free / Family

www.pakmag.com.au | December 2017 39

WHAT’S ON DEC DEC Brian Cassey - A Photographer’s Life - Part One Runs until 30 January Tanks Arts Centre www.tanksartscentre.com 9.00am / Free / Family Sarah Jane Botham Travelling Light Runs until 30 January Tanks Arts Centre www.tanksartscentre.com 9.00am / Free / Family John Eaton - Locus Pocus Runs until 30 January Tanks Arts Centre www.tanksartscentre.com 9.00am / Free / Family SATURDAY 9 Cairns Taipans Vs Melbourne United Cairns Convention Centre www.taipans.com 6.30pm / Cost / Family Cinebuzz Crew Screening Ferdinand Runs until 10 December Event Cinemas www.eventcinemas.com.au 10.30am / Cost / Family Movie Night - Free Popcorn and Cordial Cazalys Kids Room www.cazalys.com.au 12.00pm / Gold Coin / Kids Redlynch Christmas Festival Xavier Herbert Park www.cairns.qld.gov.au / rvcgsecretary@outlook.com 4.00pm / Free / Family

SUNDAY 10

THURSDAY 14

Twister Fun and Elastics Out Cazalys Kids Room www.cazalys.com.au 6.00pm / Gold Coin / Kids

Limbo Fun Cazalys Kids Room www.cazalys.com.au 6.00pm / Gold Coin / Kids

Carols by Candlelight Fogarty Park www.cairns.qld.gov.au 5.30pm / Free / Family

Cairns Taipans vs Brisbane Bullets Cairns Convention Centre www.taipans.com 6.30pm / Cost / Family

TUESDAY 12 Santa Sack Draw Cazalys Kids Room www.cazalys.com.au 6.00pm / Gold Coin / Kids Paint Club Runs until 20 December Painting pARTy Studio www.paintingparty.com.au 10.00am / $45 / Ages 12+ WEDNESDAY 13 Cinebuzz Seniors Screening - The Man Who Invented Christmas Event Cinemas www.eventcinemas.com.au 10.30am / $9 / Seniors Christmas Colouring In Competition Cazalys Kids Room www.cazalys.com.au 6.00pm / Gold Coin / Kids Foam Printmaking Cairns Art Gallery www.cairnsartgallery.com.au 10.00am / $18 / Kids Creating Pictures with Wool Cairns Art Gallery www.cairnsartgallery.com.au 1.00pm / $19 / Kids

40 December 2017 | www.pakmag.com.au

Reindeer Sculpture Cairns Art Gallery www.cairnsartgallery.com.au 10.00am and 1.00pm / $18-21 / Kids FRIDAY 15 Start Christmas Decorating the Kids Room Cazalys Kids Room www.cazalys.com.au 12.00pm / Gold Coin / Kids Painting pARTy Christmas Party Painting pARTy Studio www.paintingparty.com.au 6.00pm / $50 / 18+ Metal Embossing Cairns Art Gallery www.cairnsartgallery.com.au 10.00am and 1.00pm / $18-21 / Kids SATURDAY 16 A Christmas Pantomime: Twas the Night Before Christmas Munro Martin Parklands www.cairns.qld.gov.au 7.00pm / Cost / Family

With Triple M’s Mark

Arts and Crafts Cazalys Kids Room www.cazalys.com.au 12.00pm / Gold Coin / Kids Holloways Beach Carols

by Candlelight Holloways Beach Sporting Complex www.cairns.qld.gov.au 5.30pm / Free / Family SUNDAY 17 Construction Night Cazalys Kids Room www.cazalys.com.au 6.00pm / Gold Coin / Kids MONDAY 18 North Queensland Christmas Festival Runs until 22 December Strand Park Townsville www.stableonthestrand.com 5.30pm / Free / Family Botanical Sculptures Cairns Art Gallery www.cairnsartgallery.com.au 10.00am and 1.00pm / $18-21 / Kids TUESDAY 19 Printmaking Cairns Art Gallery www.cairnsartgallery.com.au 9.30am / $28 / Kids WEDNESDAY 20 Organic Sculptural Paper Lanterns Cairns Art Gallery www.cairnsartgallery.com.au 10.00am and 1.00pm / $18-21 / Kids

FUN COMPETITIONS INSIDE! ENTER FOR YOUR CHANCE TO

FERDINAND FERDINAND FERDINAND A PRIZE PACK AND FAMILY PASS

FERDINAND TM & © 2017 Twentieth Century Fox Film Corporation. All rights reserved.

FERDINAND TM & © 2017 Twentieth Century Fox Film Corporation. All rights reserved.

FERDINAND TM & © 2017 Twentieth Century Fox Film Corporation. All rights reserved.

FERDINAND TM & © 2017 Twentieth Century Fox Film Corporation. All rights reserved.

FOR YOUR CHANCE To WIN, COMPLETE & mail TO: PakMag Colour In December 2017 PO Box 7433, Cairns QLD 4870 Win a Ferdinand prize pack and a Family Pass.

Competition closes 15/12/2017

Name Parent/Guardian Address Postcode Phone Email

42 December 2017 | www.pakmag.com.au

Age

MIGUEL IN CINEMAS BOXING DAY

©2017 DISNEY•PIXAR

MIGUEL MIGUEL A DOUBLE PASS

IN CINEMAS BOXING DAY IN CINEMAS BOXING DAY

Name FOR YOUR CHANCE WIN, BOXING DAY IN To CINEMAS COMPLETE & mail TO: Parent/Guardian PakMag Colour In December 2017 PO Box 7433, Cairns QLD 4870 Win a double pass to Coco.

Competition closes 15/12/2017

©2017 ©2017 DISNEY•PIXAR DISNEY•PIXAR

Age ©2017 DISNEY•PIXAR

Address Postcode Phone Email

www.pakmag.com.au | December 2017 43

A FAMILY PASS

#JUMANJI

IN CINEMAS DECEMBER 26 ©2017 Columbia TriStar Marketing Group, Inc. All Rights Reserved.

FOR YOUR CHANCE To WIN, COMPLETE & mail TO: PakMag Colour In December 2017 PO Box 7433, Cairns QLD 4870 Win a Family Pass to Jumanji Welcome to the Jungle.

Competition closes 15/12/2017

Name

Age

Parent/Guardian Address Postcode Phone Email

WHAT’S ON DEC DEC THURSDAY 21

SATURDAY 23

FRIDAY 29

Making Santa Stockings Wish Lists from Pictures Cazalys Kids Room www.cazalys.com.au 6.00pm / Gold Coin / Kids

Christmas Card Making Cazalys Kids Room www.cazalys.com.au 12.00pm / Gold Coin / Kids

Movie , Free Popcorn & Cordial Cazalys Kids Room www.cazalys.com.au 6.00pm / Gold Coin / Kids

SUNDAY 24

Cotton Bud Painting Cazalys Kids Room www.cazalys.com.au 12.00pm / Gold Coin / Kids

Paint Club Christmas Party Painting pARTy Studio www.paintingparty.com.au 10.00am / $45 / Ages 12+ FRIDAY 22 Chicks at the Flicks Pitch Perfect 3 Event Cinemas www.eventcinemas.com.au 7.00pm / Cost / Family Christmas Scavenger Hunt Cazalys Kids Room www.cazalys.com.au 12.00pm / Gold Coin / Kids

REGULAR MARKETS Esplanade Markets Date: Every Saturday Time: From 8.00am - 4.00pm Location: Lagoon, Cairns Herberton Markets Date: 3rd Sunday of the month Time: From 7.00am - 12 noon Location: Wondecla Sports Ground Night Markets Date: Every Day Time: 5.00pm - 11.00pm Location: 71 - 75 The Esplanade Port Douglas Markets Date: Every Sunday Time: From 8.00am - 2.00pm Location: Anzac Park

Construction Night Cazalys Kids Room www.cazalys.com.au 6.00pm / Gold Coin / Kids TUESDAY 26 Charades Fun Cazalys Kids Room www.cazalys.com.au 6.00pm / Gold Coin / Kids

SATURDAY 30

Cairns Taipans vs Perth Wildcats Cairns Convention Centre www.taipans.com 6.00pm / Cost / Family Palm Cove New Year’s Fireworks Palm Cove Foreshore www.cairns.qld.gov.au 9.00pm / Free / Family SAVE THE DATE: SATURDAY, 7 JANUARY

SUNDAY 31 New Years Masquerade Lucky Ducks Cazalys Kids Room www.cazalys.com.au 12.00pm / Gold Coin / Kids New Year’s Eve Fogarty Park: 5.30pm - 9.00pm Esplanade: 9.00 pm - 12.00am www.cairns.qld.gov.au 9.00pm - 12.00am / Free / Family

Palm Cove Market Date: 1st Sunday of the month April to December (not September) Time: 8.00am – 2.00pm Location: Foreshore at Palm Cove

Mount Sheridan Plaza Markets Date: 2nd and 4th Sunday of the month Time: From 9.00am - 3.00pm Location: Mount Sheridan Plaza

Malanda Markets Date: 3rd Saturday of the month Time: From 7.30am - 12.30pm Location: Malanda Showgrounds (opposite Jack May Park)

Ravenshoe Markets Date: 4th Sunday of the month Time: 8.00am - 12 noon Location: Tumoulin Railway Station

Mossman Community Market Date: Every Saturday Time: 7.00am - 12 noon Location: St David’s Anglican Church, Under the Raintrees

Rusty's Markets Date: Every Friday and Saturday Time: 5.00am - 6.00pm Date: Every Sunday Time: 5.00am - 3.00pm Location: 57 - 89 Grafton St, City

Holloways Beach Markets Date: 2nd Sunday of the month Time: From 8.00am - 1.00pm Location: Holloways Beach Foreshore

Atherton Lions Club Indoor Markets Date: Every 2nd Sunday Time: From 7.00am - 12 noon Location: Merriland Hall (Robert St)

Clifton Beach Race/Run, Series 3, Race #2 Deadmans Gully Park info@dynamicrunning.com.au 6.00am / Gold Coin / 18+ FRIDAY, 20 JANUARY Dynamic Running Club Sign-On Muddy’s Café, Esplanade info@dynamicrunning.com.au 8.30am / Free / Youth+

Tanks Art Centre Markets Date: Last Sunday of the month (Apr to Nov excluding Aug) Time: From 9.00am - 2.00pm Location: Tanks Art Centre, Collins Avenue, Edge Hill Tolga Markets Date: 1st Sunday of the month Time: 7.00am - 12 noon Location: Morrow Park Racecourse Yungaburra Markets Date: 4th Saturday of the month Time: From 7.30am - 12.30pm Location: Bruce Jones Park

Email your event or market to admin@grandpublishing.com.au to be included. Spaces are limited.

www.pakmag.com.au | December 2017 45

REGULAR EVENTS CAIRNS INDOOR SPORTS

Location: Stratford Library

Location: City Library

Active Living Beach Volleyball

In2soccer

Days: 2nd Tuesday of the month

Days: 4th Thursday of the month Times: 10.30am - 11.00am

Days: Tuesdays

Times: 10.30am - 11.30am Location: City Library

Free first5forever Program

Location: Volleyball courts

Days: Wednesdays

Bopping Babies Parents and

Active Living Zumba Fitness

Times: 10.30am - 11.30am

Bubs aged 3 - 12 months.

Days: Tuesdays

Location: Babinda Library

Bookings required.

Time: 5.30pm - 6.30pm

Days: 3rd Monday of the month

Movers and Groovers Parents

Location: Lagoon Deck

Times: 10.30am - 11.30am

and toddlers aged 1 - 5 years.

Active Living Mumbalates

Location: Smithfield Library

Bookings required.

Days: Tuesdays

Hartbeeps Babies Parents and

Time: 9.30am - 10.30am

Times: 10.30am - 11.30am

bubs aged 6 weeks - 12 months.

INFLATABLE KINGDOM

Location: Muddy’s Playground

Location: Earlville Library

Bookings required.

Days: Everyday

Days: Thursdays

Hartbeeps Toddlers Parents and

Times: 9.00am - 12.00pm Tiny Tots

Times: 10.30am - 11.30am

toddlers aged 1 - 5 years.

Days: Mondays (During school term) Time/Cost: 4.30pm, rego: $15, term from $65. (6+ years) Days: Wednesdays (During school term) Time/Cost: 4.30pm, from $65 (10 wks) (3 - 6 years) Milo In2cricket Days: Fridays (During school term) Time/Cost: 4.30pm, from $45

during school term.

Monday Read Club

Bookings required.

9.00am - 4.00pm all inflatable on

Location: Smithfield Library

Storytime Parents and

weekends, public holidays and

Days: Mondays during school term

school holidays.

Times: 3.30pm - 4.30pm

Location: Cairns Indoor Sports, 164 Mayers St, Manunda

Baby Rhyme Times Location: Earlville Library

LIBRARIES

Days: 1st Tuesday of the month

Storytime

Times: 10.30am - 11.00am

Location: Edmonton Library

Location: Smithfield Library

Days: 1st Thursday of the month Times: 10.30am - 11.30am

pre-schoolers aged 3 - 5 years.

No bookings required.

More info: www.first5forever.org.au www.cairns.qld.gov.au/library, or email f5f@cairns.qld.gov.au FREE FITNESS ON

Time: 5.30pm - 6.30pm

Days: Wednesdays

Active Living Aqua Zumba Days: Wednesdays Time: 5.30pm - 6.30pm Location: The Lagoon Active Living Boxfit Days: Thursdays Time: 6.30am - 7.30am Location: Fogarty Park Sahaja Yoga Meditation Days: Saturdays Time: 7.30am - 8.30am

THE ESPLANADE

Location: Western Event Lawn

Days: 2nd Thursday of the month

Active Living Fitness Playground

Active Living H.I.I.T

Times: 10.30am - 11.00am

Days: Mondays

Days: Saturdays

Location: Gordonvale Library

Location: Stratford Library

Time: 5.30pm - 6.30pm

Time: 8.00am - 9.00am

Days: 1st Tuesday of the month

Days: 3rd Thursday of the month

Location: Aqua Café by the Lagoon

Location: Aqua Café by the Lagoon

Times: 10.30am - 11.30am

Times: 10.30am - 11.00am

Active Living Pilates

Active Living Aqua Aerobics

Location: Manunda Library

Location: Manunda Library

Days: Tuesdays

Days: Saturdays

Days: 1st Wednesday of the month

Days: 4th Tuesday of the month

Time: 6.30am - 7.30am

Time: 9.00am - 10.00am

Times: 10.30am - 11.30am

Times: 10.30am - 11.00am

Location: Lagoon Deck

Location: Cairns Esplanade Lagoon

46 December 2017 | www.pakmag.com.au

Advertorial

Don’t give your pet a trip to the vet this Christmas STORY Jane Quinn

We all love our pets, and the temptation to share with them all the Christmas goodness from the dinner table can sometimes be overwhelming. But this year, please don’t!

Over the festive period, veterinarians are too often treating pets whose common cause for their health problem is purely due to them having been given inappropriate foods and being overfed.

This year follow these tips to keep your best mate happy and healthy: Treat with them love rather than food.

Christmas is the time for treating ourselves and indulging in our favourite foods, but make sure your sweet and salty treats don’t harm your pet. Feeding your pet your leftovers is never a good idea; you may know about the common foods that are toxic for pets such as chocolate, onions and garlic, but did you know your old leftovers can make your pet ill too. Best to put it in the composter!

Decorations while pretty can be hazardous.

Ensure your tree is stable, especially if you have a cat that is a climber and avoid traditional Christmas plants such as poinsettias, holly and lilies which are toxic to pets. Consider your electrical cords and Christmas lights; they need to be kept out of their reach.

Keep their Christmas ‘cool’.

Keep your pets cool by ensuring a constant supply of fresh water, exercise them early morning or late evening and introduce water play into their daily activities. ‘Pupsicles’ and frozen treat blocks (Google has some great recipes) are a great way to keep your pets occupied and cool over summer.

Prepare now if they suffer anxiety.

Speak with one of our veterinarians now to discuss what you can do to relieve their anxiety if you know that your pet will suffer from things like fireworks that can be very stressful. Make sure your pet is kept safe and secure especially if being left alone.

Make sure they can ‘check in’ while you ‘check out’.

To ensure a protective level of immunity is reached, all boarding facilities require your pet’s vaccinations to be up to date, and their vaccine course must be completed two to three weeks prior to you checking them in. The hot, humid weather of the festive season also brings an increase in fleas so ensure you keep their flea preventative treatment up to date.

For more information on these points and a list of foods to avoid feeding your pet at any time of the year, visit www.pakmag.com.au Keep an eye on our Facebook page for some more information about preventing common Christmas pet hazards. Cairns Veterinary Clinic wishes you and your pets a very Merry Christmas and a healthy and happy 2018.

www.pakmag.com.au | December 2017 47

SNAPPED

48 December 2017 | www.pakmag.com.au

AFL Cairns Snapped

www.aflcairns.com.au/juniors

www.pakmag.com.au | December 2017 49

SIMPLE CHRISTMAS RECIPES BREE’S RUDOLF COOKIES

ANDREA’S SCALLOP Scallops

Bree James, Founder of PakMag

Andrea Gregory, Catholic Education Diocese of Cairns

Ingredients: 1 packet arrowroot biscuits 1 jar nutella 1 bag pretzels for antlers 1 bag mini marshmallows for whites of eyes 1 bag chocolate buds for eyes.

1 packet jaffas for nose

Ingredients: 1kg scallops 2 cups dry white wine 90g butter 120g sliced mushrooms 8 chopped shallots 3 tbspns flour

How to: Set up all ingredients in the order above for easy reach.

Spread Nutella on biscuit then make the Rudolf face with Antlers, eyes, and a nose. Voilá! Awesome biscuits ready to go.

How to: Bring wine to boil, add scallops, reduce heat, simmer 3 mins.

Set aside, reserving liquid. Melt butter in separate saucepan, add shallots and mushrooms, sauté 5 mins. Add parsley, salt and pepper.

Remove from heat, stir in combined curry powder and flour, cook a few mins. Off heat, gradually add 2 cups of reserved liquid. Return to heat, stir sauce until it boils and thickens. Add scallops and cream.

Spoon into dishes. Melt a little butter in saucepan, add breadcrumbs, sauté ½ min. Sprinkle breadcrumbs and cheese over dishes. Brown in moderately hot oven or under moderate griller. Serves 8

CALANNA’S XMAS CAKE

SUNBIRD’s Cranachan

Matthew Calanna, Calanna Whole Health Pharmacy

Dr Bobby Griffin, Sunbird Orthodontics

Ingredients: 1 cup water and 1 cup of rum/brandy 6 cups mixed fruit 2 cups brown sugar 4 tspns spice (combination of mixed spice, cinnamon, nutmeg and cloves)

Ingredients: 2 tbsp medium oatmeal 300g fresh berries A little caster sugar

300g butter 4 eggs 4 cups self-raising flour 2 tspns bicarbonate of soda

How to: Preheat oven to 180°c. Prepare a 23 cm square or round tin lined with baking paper. Place liquid, fruit, sugar and spices in a saucepan and let stand overnight. Add butter and soda; bring to the boil and stir for 3 mins. Remove from heat and allow to become cold. Stir in well beaten eggs and flour. Spoon into prepared tin. Bake for 65 mins in middle shelf of oven. Test in centre with a fine skewer. When cooked, skewer should be free from cake mixture. Allow to cool completely in tin.

50 December December2017 2017 | | www.pakmag.com.au www.pakmag.com.au

1 1/3 tspn curry powder 2 tspns chopped parsley 1 cup cream Fresh breadcrumbs Extra butter Grated cheese for topping

350ml double cream 2 tbsp heather honey 2 - 3 tbsp whisky, to taste

How to: Spread the oatmeal out on a baking sheet and grill until it smells rich and nutty. Set aside to cool. Make a berry purée by crushing half the fruit and sieving. Sweeten this to taste with a little caster sugar. Whisk the double cream until just set, and stir in the honey and whisky, trying not to over-whip the cream. Taste the mix and add more of either if you feel the need. Stir in the oatmeal and whisk lightly until the mixture is just firm. Alternate layers of the cream with the remaining whole raspberries and purée in 4 serving dishes. Allow to chill slightly before eating.

ANDREW’S Rum BallS Andrew Garbett, Harvey Norman Ingredients: 1 packet plain sweet biscuits 3 tblspns cocoa powder 1 cup desiccated coconut 1 can sweetened condensed milk 2-3 tblspns rum (optional) 1 cup extra coconut How to: Finely crush biscuits in a food processor (or you could put them into a zip lock bag and crush with a rolling pin). Add cocoa power, 1 cup coconut, condensed milk and rum to crushed biscuits.

Combine all ingredients well (you should end up with a stiff mixture).

Take large teaspoons of mixture and roll into balls using your hands, then roll balls in extra coconut to coat. Place in a single layer on a baking sheet or shallow plastic container and put in freeze.

ASHLEY’S LAVA CAKE Recipe by Ashley Alexander @gatherandfeast, with thanks to The Source Bulk Foods Ingredients: 45g butter 150g coconut sugar 4 eggs 1 ½ tsp vanilla powder 50g spelt flour

1 tsp sea salt 350g dark chocolate Extra butter for greasing Cacao powder for dusting

How to: Preheat oven to 220°C. Grease 6 small pudding moulds with butter. Dust with a generous amount of cacao powder coating the inside of the moulds. Place moulds on baking tray. Melt chocolate and set aside to cool slightly. Mix the butter and sugar together until combined and beat the eggs in one at a time. Add vanilla and salt.

Fold through the flour and then the melted chocolate. Divide mixture into prepared moulds. Bake for 10 mins. Remove from oven and let sit for one min. Turn out onto plates and serve immediately.

1

POOL PERFECTION With the Block’s Caro and Kingi

It’s summer! That means hot days and no school, making the pool one of the most favourable spots to hang out. It’s a way to cool off, exercise and have fun!

Is your backyard pool in need of a makeover?

Here are some great tips to help transform your backyard into your very own little tropical hideaway: Outdoor kitchen Turn your backyard into an outdoor kitchen by adding a barbecue, storage unit and dining table. Home-cooked burgers, grilled prawns and icy cold soft drinks after a day of swimming are hard to beat!

A personal waterpark Turn your pool into an exciting personal miniwaterpark by installing a slide or a waterfall to the side of the pool. The kids will be thrilled and will have hours of entertainment sliding that will continue years down the track, and it keeps them active!

Lazy lounging

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Not up for a swim? Consider taking your usually-indoor activities outside. Reading a good book in the shade can be just as satisfying as a swim on a warm day. Purchase a brandnew table setting for family board games or treat yourself to a cosy hanging loveseat for the ultimate in relaxation and enhanced ‘me-time’.

Tropical flora A backyard simply isn’t complete without an array of plants to give the place some life. Put some time aside for gardening. With just a little bit of TLC, gardens will thrive. Whether you’re planting them into the ground lining the fence or decorating the tables with potted cacti; the greener, the better!

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52 December December2017 2017 | | www.pakmag.com.au www.pakmag.com.au

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1. Beautiful Bondi backyard - www.harrisonslandscaping.com.au 2. Bluewater Pools Cairns - www.bluewaterpoolscairns.com.au 3. Valley 4 Piece Outdoor Lounge Setting - Contact store for price www.harveynorman.com.au 4. Zakkia Round Pot Sky 15cm tall RRP $25.00 - www.korufurnitureandhomewares.com.au 5. Byron Bay Hanging Chairs 70’s Love Seat 2 Seater - RRP $900 www.korufurnitureandhomewares.com.au 6. Check out the S.R.Smith slide collection at Swimart. You’ll find quality, safety and features that’ll keep the fun rolling for years to come - Available in store only www.swimart.com.au

Home

TROPICAL CHRISTMAS HOME Living in the tropics our chances of a white Christmas is, well, zero. But that doesn’t mean we can’t enjoy the holidays in our own unique way! Why not put a tropical twist on your festive home decorations this year?

Here are some unique ideas: Decorating the tree. Glittery baubles and sparkly tinsel give that cosy, festive feeling but have you ever considered adorning your tree with flowers instead?

Make a day out of it and take the kids on an adventure to collect flowers of all shapes, sizes and colours to give your tree some ‘life’. These unique trimmings will be sure to inspire and impress your guests!

Tropical homewares. You can also bring the tropics into your Christmas decorations in other ways. Decorate your tree with lively golden wattle baubles, or place bright lotus pink decorative pillows around or freshen your home with ginger lily and mango-scented candles.

Additionally, get crafty with some wire and loose greenery and create a summery wreath for your home.

Floral tabletop. Turn your tabletop into a bouquet of festivity for the big day with bright native flowers and floral-patterned plates. Add bowls filled with colourful seasonal fruit, healthy and refreshing snacks for your visitors!

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1. Holly Floral Headband - RRP $14.95 - www.ellej.com.au 2. Gingerlily & Mango Candle by Sohum - RRP $32.00 - www.prettylittlesomething.com.au 3. Set of four Australian Golden Wattle Christmas Baubles - RRP $30.00 - Etsy Store: CraftedOnCowrie 4. Tee Pee Wooden Shelf - RRP $39.95 $15.00 - www.ellej.com.au 5. Summer Wreath - www.stylemepretty.com 6. Bonnie & Neil Cushion in Lotus Pink - RRP $148.50 - www.korufurnitureandhomewares.com.au 7. Summer Tabletop www.ablognamedscout.com 8. DIY Floral Tree - www.honestlywtf.com

54 December 2017 | www.pakmag.com.au

Home

COMPUTERS FOR KIDS

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1. HP Pavilion X360 11-AB047TU 11.6” 2-in-1 Laptop - RRP $698.00 - Driven by a powerful Pentium quad-core processor for smooth program handling and with a responsive touchscreen, the HP Pavilion X360 11-AB047TU 11.6” 2-in-1 Laptop is an adaptable device for any situation 2. Lenovo Ideapad 120S-8S 14” Laptop - RRP $394.00 - Sleak, lightweight and efficient - the Lenovo Ideapad 120S-82 14” Laptop is ideal for on the go use 3. Lenovo Yoga 520-3K 14” 2-in-1 Laptop - RRP $898.00 - Whether it’s for work or entertainment, this laptop lets you power through day-to-day tasks smoothly. With its 1366x768 resolution and 14” touchscreen display, you have a wide platform for navigating or watching content 4. HP Pavilion X360 14-BA008TU 14” 2-in-1 Laptop - RRP $1098.00 - The HP Pavilion X360 14-BA008TU 14” 2-in-1 Laptop is a performance powerhouse, utilising an Intel Core i3 CPU for seamless program execution and SSD storage for faster boot-ups. Running on the Windows 10 operating system, it has access to advanced security features, intuitive digital assistance, and wider range of connectivity across other devices 5. Acer Spin 5 SP513-52N-33SN 13.3” 2-in-1 Laptop - RRP $1197.00 - Whether you’re looking to play games, browse the net, or work on projects, the Acer Spin 5 SP513-52N-33SN 13.3” 2-in-1 Laptop’s capable Intel processor and preloaded software provide the flexibility needed to keep you in the loop. Showcasing style and substance, it’s a great companion for the modern trendsetter 6. Lenovo Yoga 520-4N 14” 2-in-1 Modern PC Laptop - RRP $1597.00 - With the Lenovo Yoga 520-4N 14” 2-in-1 Modern PC Laptop you can be sure that you’ll have the power needed to undertake even complicated tasks thanks to a fast processor and enough storage to keep all of your important files in the one place 7. Lenovo Yoga 720-4A 12.5” 2-in-1 Modern PC Laptop - RRP $1994.00 Featuring a 7th Gen Core i7 Intel CPU, 8GB RAM, solid state storage and a 12.5” touchscreen, The Lenovo Yoga 720-4A Modern PC is a portable productivity powerhouse.

4050 0300 • 101-103 Spence Street, Cairns www.harveynorman.com.au www.pakmag.com.au | November December 2017 57

WHAT’S NEW IN BUSINESS Meet Kristina Cone author of CHRISSIE the Curious Christmas Cassowary

Have you heard?

If you want a taste of the country not far from the city, then Malanda Falls Caravan Park is for you.

Tell us about yourself and your family. I live in Cairns and am married with two teenagers. I am an ex-early childhood teacher, and I write my books, sincerely hoping that my beautiful children’s animal stories will positively affect and inspire parents and children alike.

My first book was called, TIMMY the Terribly Tired Tiger Cub and was about how Timmy became terrifically fun.

What is special about your children’s books? My books focus on providing positive messages that can be such a help with empowering children to be able to help themselves with all sorts of personal challenges.

What is your latest book CHRISSIE the Curious Christmas Cassowary about? This is an Australian story about a family of Cassowary’s living in Mission Beach and is for anyone who’s ever been crazily curious to find out what’s under their Christmas tree before Christmas day! The story focuses on how the oldest cassowary chick overcomes her overwhelmingly curious nature to become caringly considerate and avoids spoiling her whole family’s Christmas.

If you would like a copy of Kristina’s latest book in print or as an e-book contact her via email, ma.cone@bigpond.com or phone 0432 685 524, or you can purchase online via www.amazon.com or www.barnesandnoble.com For your chance to win a copy of CHRISSIE the Curious Christmas Cassowary visit www.pakmag.com.au

Rob and Janine have managed the park since February 2015 and love that they get to live in paradise and still experience the enjoyment that travelling brings to their guests.

Having travelled around Australia for three years themselves, and having their first two children on the road, Rob and Janine know about parks. Janine said, “This park is so unique and different to any we’ve stayed at, it just has so much natural beauty, and it gives children the opportunity to explore using their imaginations.”

Set on 17 acres, five minutes’ walk from town, with private access to the Malanda Falls, this park has it all. Enormous pet-friendly sites, with campfires allowed year-round and self-contained units and villas with a view over the ever-green oval make this park a real winner.

Children love the huge amount of space and the petting zoo that Rob and Janine introduced with goats, sheep, a pony, calves, piglets, turkeys, chooks, ducks and guinea pigs.

With cooler temperatures than on the coast, enjoy an ideal family escape to the Malanda Falls Caravan Park.

To make a reservation give them a call on 4096 5314 or visit www.malandafalls.com.au

58 December 2017 | www.pakmag.com.au

Business

BUSINESS NEWS Spa in a Jar – Delicious, addictive bottled up ‘love’

Modern Pantry – teaching children the joy of food and cooking.

As a crazed food lover and a mother of two, Marion from Modern Pantry totally appreciates the frustrations of trying to feed a family with fussy eaters. Being a qualified cook with a diploma in Hotel Management, she decided to teach her children cooking, hoping that they may learn to appreciate and eventually love food like she does.

Passionate about everything she does, Redlynch artisan skincare developer, Sabine Schroeder believes in throwing kindness around like confetti and in harvesting nature’s nourishing power. This single mum scientifically formulates and hand makes 100 per cent natural skincare and magnesium products designed to make a real difference.

From this Modern Pantry was born. A brand-new concept to Cairns, offering hands-on classes for kids that are educational and fun. Modern Pantry also offers workshops and birthday parties, plus they are completely mobile so they can come to you!

Sabine is driven to make your life that little bit better, more relaxed, restored and deliciously rejuvenated in body, mind and soul and is on a mission to change the world, one ethical product at a time. Her products transform lives without costing the earth. Visit spajar.com.au for more info.

BUSINESS INDEX Abacus by Wallis

Garden Sparkle

Skills for mental calculation. Sums, multiplication and division through abacus skills. 5 year olds + p 0437 600 229 facebook: Abacus by Wallis

Fairy gardens with heart. Kits and fairies, unicorns and accessories.

Shop at 54 Shield St, Cairns. p 0420 234 776 www.gardensparkle.com.au

Nikki the Clown

Modern Pantry

Facepainting, puppets, balloons, games, music, fun party entertainment by established, professional performer. p 0408 183 032 entertainmentcairns.com/nikkitheclown

Fun and educational classes that teach children the joy of food and cooking. p 0405 039 199 www.modernpantry.com.au

Spa in a Jar

PhyxMe Physio & Fitness

Locally developed natural skin and health care products to relax, restore and rejuvenate. p 0451 182 425 www.spajar.com

Specialised pre and post natal physiotherapy and group fitness delivered by experienced professionals. p 4053 4343 www.phyxme.com.au

60 December 2017 | www.pakmag.com.au

Business

PRODUCT FAVES 2

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1. Oracle Print Dress - RRP $149.95 - www.famazing.com.au 2. Clodhopper House - RRP $60.00 - www.gardensparkle.com.au 3. Christmas Collection - RRP $35.00 - www.cakesannietime.com.au - Gift boxes available starting from $20.00 per box 4. Love Heart 2 Mug Set - RRP $4.00 5. Christmas Cookie Plate - RRP $3.00 6. Rainbow Snack Time Set of 2 - RRP $6.95 7. Fairy Picnic Basket - RRP $7.80 - www.gardensparkle.com.au 8. Tropical Wishes Gift Box - $80.00 - www.prettylittlesomething.com.au 9. Go Plus Magnesium Sprays - RRP From $39.00 - www.spajar.com.au

BUSINESS INDEX FAmazing Fashion & Beauty Boutique

Pretty Little Something

Instore and online. Catering for teen girls through to the mature lady, plus much more! p 4045 0573 www.famazing.com.au

Online gift boutique inspired by tropical North Queensland.

Making gifting easy and beautiful. p 0410 519 790 www.prettylittlesomething.com.au

Cakes Annietime Cake Shop and Café

Studio Pilates Cairns

Elegant, child friendly café. Custom cakes and cupcakes. Vegan, Gluten and Dairy Free options available. p 0408 727 420 www.cakesannietime.com.au

You won’t settle for an ordinary workout again. Discover your new favourite way to workout. p 4041 4140 www.studiopilates.com

Gift of the Gab

Curry D’lites

Call Kathy for quality creative unique and affordable wow factor for your next party or event. p 0488 972 789 www.giftofthegab.com.au

Authentic Indian cuisine food bar in the Cairns Central food court. Gluten and dairy free options available. p 0437 717 846 www.pakmag.com.au | December 2017 61

MEGA SUMMER GIVEAWAY! Visit www.pakmag.com.au for your chance to win!

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1. Mindfulness Colouring with Affirmations Book for kids and adults - RRP $29.95 - www.kyliejohnsonart.com - Mindfulness colouring with affirmations for kids and adults promotes positive thinking and self-belief and provides the perfect opportunity to connect with children more in the present moment. Artist, Kylie invites you to indulge in a wonderful daily habit together with kids, to share instant feelings of gratitude, positivity, love and connection while practising mindfulness and noticing the difference this brings to your day. 2. Pink Poppy Summer Mermaid Pack - RRP $85.00 - www.pinkpoppy.com.au - This season, enter the magical world of Mermaids with Pink Poppy and be enchanted by the current collection of mermaid dresses, tea sets, gifts, accessories and more. The Summer Mermaid pack includes: 1 x Mermaid dress (size 3-4 or 5-6), 1 x Mermaid drawstring bag, 1 x Mermaid wand and 1 x Mermaid headband. 3. Magformers Funny Wheel Set - RRP $69.90 www.magformers.com.au - For ages 3+. The set include squares and triangles and WHEELS! A pack of Learning Cards is included in the set with 2D puzzles, 2D to 3D 1:1 building activities as well as 20 different car designs that they can make. There are no step by step instructions so children can develop their spatial awareness, problem solving and rotational skills! 4. The Lunchbox Range by H2coco - RRP $4.50 3 x 200mL, $4.70 for H2melon - www.h2coconut.com - H2coco’s new range gives parents peace of mind, with 100% natural fruit juice alternatives that are hydrating, full of flavour, and contain less than half the sugar content of some other Australian juice boxes. Packaged in convenient 200mL three-packs, the Lunchbox Range is perfect for on-the-go and a great addition to any lunchbox. The Lunchbox Range includes five different flavours, including two delicious new flavours formulated for kids - Troperiffic and Wildberry. Available in Coles and Woolworths nationwide.

62 December 2017 | www.pakmag.com.au

WIN!

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5. Elf on the Shelf - RRP $69.99 - Available: Myer, Dymocks and Speciality Stores - The magical story that explains how Santa’s scout elves help him manage his naughty or nice list – each beautifully illustrated children’s hardback book comes as a part of a keepsake boxed set including one of Santa’s scout elves. When a family adopts a scout elf and gives it a name, the scout elf receives its Christmas magic and can fly to the North Pole each night to tell Santa Claus about all of the day’s adventures. Each morning the scout elf returns to its family ending up in a different place to watch the festive fun, creating a unique family moment. Children love to race around the house and see where their scout elf has landed. 6. Aussie Mozi - RRP $18.95 - www.archernaturals.com.au - 100 per cent natural insect repellent with no nasties. Free from DEET and citronella, and is safe for pregnancy and children. 7. OPPO A57 in Black or Gold, for the kids - RRP $269 - Available: Telstra - Calling all parents! Don’t burn a hole in your pocket this Christmas. If you’re after leading smartphone capabilities at a fraction of the cost, the A57 should be top of your gift list. With rapid fingerprint Touch Access, a 16MP flagship-level front camera, 13MP rear camera, full HD video and features such as palm-activated shutter, the A57 is one stocking filler that’s sure to keep the kids entertained this Christmas! 8. Globber EVO 4-IN-1 - RRP $160 - www.globber.com.au - The award-winning Globber EVO 4-IN-1 offers pushchair, ride-on and scooter mode all-in-one is suitable for all children 12 months to 6+ years. Thanks to its screw-less design, it’s super easy to change between modes. The EVO 4-IN-1 comes with Globber’s patented steering lock button which locks the wheels to only move forward and backward, helping children learn to balance while first scootering.

www.pakmag.com.au | December 2017 63

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WINNERS! Sunbird's Smiles of the Month wins a mystery prize!

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1. Margaret and Belenda-Hope - Pirate Ship, Esplande 2. Makayla and Xanthe - Sugarworld Waterpark 3. Luca and Laylah -Sugarworld Waterpark 4. Chet, Hadley and Keelan Pirate Ship, Esplanade 5. Ashleigh and Harrison - Lagoon 6. Finn, Harriet, Sam, Toby and Amanda - Pirate Ship, Esplanade 7. Livitikus, La-Tuhra and Jonah - Paradise Palms 8. Azariah, Ethatn, Nevaeh, Cameron, Jacob, Keanu, Tyler, Krysta-Lee & Aaliyah - Ravizza Drive Park 9. Therese and Neilla - Ravizza Drive Park

64 December 2017 | www.pakmag.com.au

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Sunbird Orthodontics Snapped

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Photography thanks to: Captured by Catherine - 0407 588 361 www.catherinecoombs.com

10. CJ, Brok and Joey - Pirate Ship, Esplanade 11. Zara, Emily and Isabella - Lagoon 12. Chelsea and Hollie - The Pirate Ship, Esplande 13. Caitlin, Sophie, Kalila, Tahani - Pirate Ship, Esplande 14. Zia, Tanaya, Rasharna and Zei - Paradise Palms 15. Samuel and Felicity - Sugarworld Parklands 16. Esta-Ann, Samantha, Abigale, Eva, Jude and Hope - Sugarworld Parklands

www.pakmag.com.au | December 2017 65

Photography: Kate Stoter

YOUNG Entrepreneur BUILDING Big Web Presence FOR Small Business Elijah Ibell has always been fascinated with technology and computers. “As a kid, I used to play for hours in mum’s home office. Little did I know, that what I saw as fun was actually building my skills for my current business”.

Attending school in Mareeba, Elijah loved playing sport, particularly rugby league, and he went on to captain the Mareeba Rugby League team. He also played in the U18’s Northern Pride team.

And it wasn’t just rugby that Elijah loved. In his younger years, and although he did not yet know it, Elijah’s passion for learning new things, such as technology and chess, was helping him build a wealth of knowledge that would help him in his future business ventures. And now, the skills he began fostering as a youngster, combined with his love of helping small business owners and entrepreneurs, has seen him launch a business that he loves.

His company, Mainark, specialises in creating websites, building app prototypes and managing web presence.

“I think one thing that sets me apart is my deep interest in people. I like to build and manage tech solutions for people and understand what makes them, and their business, tick.”

Sometimes tech-people aren’t known as people-people, however Elijah believes that people are what make technology great. “People’s businesses often stem from their personal values or passion, I can help them represent this in their web presence”.

So far, Elijah has built websites for entrepreneurs with big tech ideas, businesses in the fitness industry, retail businesses, hospitality businesses and for NGOs. He manages web presence for a number of clients, and likes to offer a feeling of having an in-house tech person, without the expense.

At 21, Elijah decided to go into self-employment. His big ideas make him excited about developing his business, and himself. “Being self-employed means that I can do work that I’m passionate about and have the flexibility to attend events and take advantage of development opportunities.”

Elijah’s young entrance into the business world stands him in good authority to provide some tips and advice on how other youngsters can get their business up and running.

Elijah suggests: •• Set up a website! There are a number of ways that you can do this yourself, and at no or a small cost.

•• Learn! As a child, I was always learning about technology and it has vastly helped me in my business.

•• Do something you love. If you choose to start a business, make sure it’s something you’re passionate about.

•• Get involved in the tech community. Feel free to reach out to him to find out more on elijah@mainark.com or visit www.mainark.com

www.pakmag.com.au | December 2017 67

Celebrate

FESTIVE FUN Christmas is undoubtedly the best time of the year for many people. Family and friends get together to give gifts and eat delicious food, laugh, and reflect on the year behind them. After all, who doesn’t love the smell of glazed ham and barbecued prawns and playing backyard cricket?

If you’re hosting this year’s Christmas lunch (or dinner), here are some brilliant ideas for your festivities.

Setting the table When decorating the table, ‘Aussie-fy’ the traditional Christmas decorations by adding some Australian-inspired touches. Spray paint some native Australian animal figurines with gold paint, add some small eucalyptus branches, baubles and string lights to turn your setting into a festive bushland!

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1. Table Setting - www.buildhousehome.blogspot.com.au 2. Large Bucket Brass by Lightly - RRP $120.00 - www.korufurnitureandhomewares.com.au 3. Hal Leonard Christmas Carols Ukulele Chord Songbook - RRP $27.95 - www.harveynorman.com.au 4. EKO Primo Ukulele in Yellow - RRP $33.00 www.harveynorman.com.au 5. Down to the Woods Gold String Light 10m - RRP $73.00 - www.korufurnitureandhomewares.com.au 6. Pavlova Wreath www.thecakebar.tumblr.com 7. Gracie Baby Christmas Fairy in Pink and Gold - RRP $39.95 - www.ellej.com.au 8. Ella Frill Neck Wrap Maxi Dress in Red RRP $179.00 - www.gypsett.com.au 9. Reed Diffuser, Mint Tea - RRP $34.95 - www.prettylittlesomething.com.au 10. Drinks - www.en.julskitchen.com 11. Gold Heart Earrings by Holiday - RRP $14.95 - www.prettylittlesomething.com.au 12. Down to the Woods Reindeer Santa Sack - RRP $80.00 www.korufurnitureandhomewares.com.au

68 December December2017 2017 | | www.pakmag.com.au www.pakmag.com.au

Unique snacks Surprise your guests with easy home-made refreshing ginger lemonade or impress them with a wreath-shaped pavlova. These delicious sweet treats will have the whole family wanting more!

Time for gifts If you (or Santa) are feeling lost on what to get the family, remember that you can never go wrong with some stylish summer clothing, gleaming jewellery, exciting new toys or cosy home decorations.

On Christmas day, carry the gifts out in an adorable Santasack and spread the Christmas magic with everyone in the family, young and old!

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Camping

Camping and Glamping Top 10 Summer is here and what better is there to do than pack up and head off for some quality family time either camping or glamping it up together in a caravan? Unsure about where to go? Check out our pick of the ten best spots in our beautiful Cairns region:

Creek, Fong-on Bay, Kauri Creek and Curri Curri bush areas. Lake Tinaroo is popular with people of all ages, whether you want to light a campfire and watch the sun setting over the lake or swim around in the cool water. The lake is also a popular area for anglers and water sports.

1. Kurrimine Beach

6. Etty Bay

Kurrimine Beach Holiday Park offers a variety of entertainment options for kids young and old with their water park, huge pool, giant inflatables, jumping castle, giant chess, flying fox obstacle course, and playroom.

They also have glass bottom kayaks and Surrey bikes, and all this is located just a short walk from the beach.

It’s difficult not to be amazed by the crystal-clear waters of Etty Bay. Besides the camping site, the area also features a café, children’s playground and BBQ area. You can wake up to the beautiful view of the ocean, and if you’re lucky, you may even see the local cassowaries foraging for food.

2. Malanda Falls

7. Speewah

Located in the Atherton Tablelands, Malanda Falls Caravan Park is hidden away in the rainforest and is home to many native animal friends. The park has plenty of facilities to keep the family entertained including a camp kitchen, campfires, a petting zoo, BBQ facilities, walking tracks and private access to the Malanda Falls.

Fringed by tall trees, the Speewah camping grounds are perfect if you’re looking to escape into the tranquillity of the rainforest. Picnic tables, BBQ areas and walking tracks are situated nearby.

3. Fitzroy Island If you’re up for something a little different, consider camping out on this tropical island. Beachfront BBQs, modern shower blocks and covered eating areas are available at the camping sites, as well as the option to explore the scenic island.

4. Ellis Beach Who doesn’t love camping on the beach? Located just north of Cairns, camping at Ellis Beach lets you safely swim in stinger nets or watch the sunrise over the ocean (a wonderful view for those early morning wake ups!).

5. Lake Tinaroo Lake Tinaroo is undoubtedly a favourite with Cairns locals. There are numerous campsites available all hugging the lake’s edge, including Platypus, Downfall

8. Lower Davies Creek Camp in a peaceful area nestled between granite boulders and the clear, cooling waters of Davies Creek.

Stunning features such as Davies Creek Falls and the Clohesy Fig Tree are close by, boasting stunning lookouts and picturesque sceneries.

9. Granite Gorge Nature Park Up for an adventure? Hike the short or long trails winding through the area, make friends with colonies of wallabies or splash around in Granite Creek’s refreshing waters. The campsite itself is peaceful and pet-friendly, so feel free to take your pup along on your next camping trip.

10. Your backyard Here’s an idea - why not have a camp out in your own backyard? Pitch up a few tents, get everyone into their PJs, cook up a delicious BBQ dinner and sit around on blankets telling each other stories!

www.pakmag.com.au | December 2017 71

School Holiday Guide

SCHOOL HOLIDAY GUIDE THE YOUNG COMPANY

MODERN PANTRY

Enchanted Escapades: Tales of Sherwood Forest…

Kid’s cooking classes! Fun, educational and hands-on

Monday, 4 to Thursday, 7 December

classes teaching children the joy of cooking.

Ages: 5 - 12

All inclusive and the kids take home everything they

From: 9.00am to 3.00pm

cook plus a recipe folder.

Showcase: Thursday, 7 December, 2.15pm to 3.00pm

$45.00 per child for a two-hour class.

Cost: $220.00 - $275.00

P 0405 039 199

Curtain Call: The Stage Is Calling…

E info@modernpantry.com.au

Monday, 11 December

www.modernpantry.com.au

Ages: 5 - 12 From: 9.00am to 5.00pm Showcase: Monday, 11 December at 5.00pm Cost: $220.00 - $275.00 Galaxy Defenders: Battle of the Last Sun! Tuesday, 12 to Friday, 15 December Ages: 5 - 12 From: 9.00am to 3.00pm Showcase: Friday, 15 December from 5.00pm to 5.45pm Cost: $220.00 - $275.00 Acting For Film Tuesday, 12 to Thursday, 14 December Ages: 13 - 17 From: 3.30pm to 6.30pm Cost: $140.00 - $175.00

FRANKLAND ISLANDS REEF CRUISES Looking for something fun for the whole family this school holidays? Join Frankland Islands reef cruises tour.

They take care of everything on the day, including transfers from the centre of Cairns. They also provide all your snorkelling gear and do a guided snorkel with you. Meals are provided, including morning and afternoon tea, as well as a delicious tropical buffet lunch.

Snorkelling locations are protected and suitable for all ages, with great snorkelling spots straight off the beach.

The trip out to the reef is just six miles (30-40 minutes)

Directing Credits

in open water, so nice and short! Plenty of extra

Monday, 18 to Wednesday, 20 December

activities available too for the adventurous including

Ages: 13 - 17

diving and kayak and paddle board hire!

From: 3.30pm to 6.30pm

Pakmag readers and locals specials available!

Cost: $140.00 - $175.00

P 4033 0081

Twas The Night Before Xmas: Holiday Hijinks!

E reservations@franklandislands.com.au

Monday, 18 to Thursday, 21 December

www.franklandislands.com.au

Ages: 5 -12 From: 9.00am to 3.00pm Showcase: Friday 22 December, 5.00pm to 5.45pm

JUNGLE JUICE AND

Cost: $220.00 - $275.00

RAINFOREST MINI GOLF

Early Bird Savings Available

Mini golf in the rainforest, nine holes and great fun for

All of TYC programs are designed, created and delivered by their qualified drama educators, professional theatre practitioners and the region’s young and emerging performers.

the whole family. Next to Jungle Juice in the Kuranda

Bookings required.

outdoor dining.

P 4041 4066 E info@theyoungcompany.com.au F Facebook/theyoungcompanytheatre www.theyoungcompany.com.au

Original Rainforest Markets.

Fresh juice, smoothies and allergy friendly foods.

Gluten and dairy free treats and snacks. Family-friendly 9 holes of mini golf - $5.00 per person.

P 0417 999 102 E Info@jungle-juice.com.au www.jungle-juice.com.au

www.pakmag.com.au | December 2017 73

School Holiday Guide

AUSTRALIAN BUTTERFLY SANCTUARY Australian Butterfly Sanctuary is the largest butterfly flight aviary and exhibit in Australia.

Home to over 2,000 magnificent tropical butterflies including the striking blue Ulysses and majestic green Cairns Birdwing. The sanctuary is an all-weather experience in the heart of Kuranda.

You’ll be enchanted by these elusive wonders of nature as you wander through the aviary’s boardwalks and gardens with a picturesque rainforest backdrop.

Our knowledgeable guides will take you through the aviary and our breeding laboratory, detailing a butterfly’s life cycle and its behaviour. Be sure to wear something bright and let these beautiful creatures flutter all over you.

20% discount off retail prices for locals. Local ID must be provided upon arrival.

P 4041 9417 E media@capta.com.au F Facebook/KurandaButterflies

WILDLIFE HABITAT

E media@capta.com.au F Facebook/PortDouglasWildlife

CAIRNS AQUARIUM Keep cool and dry these summer holidays at Cairns Aquarium.

Open everyday from 9.00am, the whole family will have guaranteed interaction with the spectacular beauty and grandeur of over 15,000 fish and aquatic animals from the Great Barrier Reef and surrounding Tropical North Queensland rainforest – without the need to get wet or even leave the city!

Cairns Aquarium provides great value for local families and nature lovers with their Annual Pass. It’s the perfect Christmas gift, or special treat, just because there is someone in your family that loves everything aquatic.

General Admission: Adult (15+) $42.00 and Child (3 - 14) $28.00 Annual Passes from: Adult (15+) $93.00 and Child (3 - 14) $62.00 Discounts apply for local residents - 10% off prices above.

P 4044 7300

The award-winning Wildlife Habitat, located in Port Douglas, provides visitors with a chance to experience the wetland, rainforest, savannah and woodland environments up close in an open and interactive setting.

E vedwards@cairnsaquarium.com.au

Experience a sumptuous Breakfast with the Birds or delicious Lunch with the Lorikeets, and join a guided tour with one of the experienced Wildlife Keepers. You can even cuddle a Koala and get a photo to remember the occasion.

During the school holidays, the Taipans will be playing home games at the Cairns Convention Centre. Tickets are on sale now.

As you make your way through the four environments within the park, you will have the opportunity to handfeed kangaroos and wallabies, observe cassowaries and the Lumholtz’s tree-kangaroos.

Saturday, 9 December, 6.30pm – Melbourne United

20% discount off retail prices for locals. Local ID must be provided upon arrival.

P 4041 3000

P 4041 9417

www.taipans.com

74 December 2017 | www.pakmag.com.au

www.cairnsaquarium.com.au

CAIRNS TAIPANS

Saturday, 2 December, 4.30pm – Sydney Kings Thursday, 14 December, 6.30pm – Brisbane Bullets Sunday, 31 December, 6.00pm – Perth Wildcats E admin@taipans.com

School Holiday Guide

CAIRNS ZOOM AND WILDLIFE DOME Cairns ZOOM and Wildlife Dome is the world’s first challenge ropes course in a wildlife park, situated in the Cairns City on the rooftop of the Reef Hotel Casino.

Experience adventure at varying heights and levels of difficulty on the Mid-ZOOM and Hi-ZOOM courses, with 65 elements of crossings and ziplines – including one which takes you directly over a 4-metre saltwater crocodile!

The Power Jump is a free-fall adventure with a 13-metre drop, whilst the Dome Climb offers spectacular views of the city, the Coral Sea and surrounding landscapes. The recently introduced Pirate Climb and Commando Climb are designed to challenge and are not for the fainthearted.

Be educated about and interact with native wildlife, with daily shows and presentations. The new Wallaby Walk allows up-close interaction with the wallabies and an opportunity to hand feed them.

20% discount off retail prices for locals. Must present local ID upon arrival.

at $2.00.

Minimum age: 7.

Repeat visits during school holidays are half price!

Bookings are essential, and places are limited, so you will need to book.

P 4039 1376 E info@cairnslasertag.com.au F Facebook/CairnsLasertag www.cairnslasertag.com.au

CAIRNS COLONIAL CLUB RESORT To celebrate the school holidays, the Cairns Colonial Club Resort is offering locals the opportunity to cool off with a special “Summer Sizzler” deal available for the month of January only.

Just $230.00 buys a 2-night stay in a newly restored Garden View Room with FREE hot buffet breakfast daily and what’s more, kids 12 years and under stay and eat for free!*

F Facebook/CairnsZoom

Set in 11 acres of tropical rainforest gardens and featuring three lagoon style pools, the resort is the perfect place for families to relax and unwind after the festive season madness. Also available in a Gift Voucher.

CAIRNS WAKE PARK

To secure this discounted rate, please quote code SS002.

P 4041 9417 E media@capta.com.au

Cairns Wake Park offers a unique watersport experience for the young and old. Beginner to advanced can have fun and get a sense of achievement through a well designed and safe activity. All beginner equipment is provided, ranging from kneeboards to wakeboards as well as a life jacket and helmet.

The Wake Park is suitable for ages 10 and above.

Open daily from 10.00am to 6.00pm

*Maximum of 2 adults per room with 2 kids aged 12 years or under.

P 4053 8812 E reservations@cairnscolonialclub.com.au www.cairnscolonialclub.com.au

PAINTING PARTY

1hr Pass - $39.00 Adult | $34.00 Child

Join the first Paint Club for 2017.

2hr Pass - $54.00 Adult |$49.00 Child

www.cairnswakepark.com

Included is everything members will need to paint six beautiful paintings on a 30cm x 40cm canvas with step by step instructions. Each day, bring your snacks and drinks (no alcohol) and discover your ability to paint canvases that you can use as gifts this Christmas or keep and hang them in your home!

LASERTAG CAIRNS

Paint Club is suitable for ages 12 and up plus parents, visiting aunties and uncles and extended families.

P 4038 1304 E info@cableskicairns.com.au F Facebook/cableskicairnspage

Lasertag Cairns are having not one but TWO Mega Sessions these holidays on Sunday, 17 December and Saturday, 20 January.

If you haven’t been to one before, it’s four and a half hours of outdoor Lasertag with longer and more detailed missions than their normal sessions. It’s a great opportunity to use your camo gear if you have it, grab some mates and get outside.

Mega Sessions are $30.00 (only $6 more than a normal 2-hour session).

This includes the 4.5-hour session and a sausage sizzle for lunch. Soft drinks will also be available for sale

Classes Tuesday, 12, Wednesday, 13 and Thursday, 14 December.

Tuesday, 19, Wednesday, 20 and Thursday, 21 December.

From: 10.00am to 2.00pm.

Cost: $45.00 or $225.00 for Membership.

We can’t wait to see you at the Studio!

For bookings, which are essential, and more information: P 4031 2996 E info@paintingparty.com.au F Facebook/paintingpartycairns www.paintingparty.com.au

www.pakmag.com.au | December 2017 77

School Holiday Guide

CAIRNS ART GALLERY

Locals Holiday Special - 2 FREE Kids with each paying adult day or night.

Cairns Art Gallery have some great workshops available throughout the school holidays.

Tjapukai by Day: Adult $62.00

Foam Printmaking

What’s included:

Wednesday, 13 December

* 2 FREE CHILDREN with each paying adult.

10.00am - 11.30am |$18 |Ages 5 - 8

* FREE activities with paying adult.

Creating Pictures with Wool

* FREE lunch with paying adult.

Wednesday, 13 December 1.00pm - 3.00pm | $19 | Ages 8 - 12 Reindeer Sculpture Thursday, 14 December 10.00am - 11.30am | $18 | Ages 4 - 7 1.00pm - 3.00pm | $21 | Ages 8 - 12 Metal Embossing Friday, 15 December 10.00am - 11.30am | $18 | Ages 4 - 7 1.00pm - 3.00pm | $21 | Ages 8 - 12

Night Fire by Tjapukai Adult $123.00

* FREE Night Fire Dinner and Show with paying adult.

Local ID must be shown on arrival.

P 4042 9999 E bookings@tjapukai.com.au F Facebook/tjapukai www.tjapukai.com.au

SUPRIMO Treat the kids over the holidays with kids meals for only $9.90.

Open from 11.00am to late every day.

Botanical Sculptures

10% off when you mention PakMag.

Monday, 18 December

Plus the Pier has 2 hours FREE undercover parking.

10.00am - 11.30am | $18 | Ages 5 - 7

P 4041 5181

1.00pm - 3.00pm | $21 | Ages 8 - 12

F Facebook/Cafesupremocairns

Print Making

www.thepiercairns.com.au/dining-cafes-bars/ caffe-suprimo

Tuesday, 19 December 9.30am - 2.00pm | $28 | Ages 8 - 14 Organic Sculptural Paper Lanterns

GO BOWLING

Wednesday, 20 December

School Holiday Happy Hour

10.00am - 11.30am | $18 | Ages 5 - 8

Saturday, 2 December to Sunday, 21 January 2018.

1.00pm - 3.00pm | $21 | Ages 9 - 13

Between 9.00am - 10.00am and 3.00 pm - 4.00pm.

Metal Embossing

Just $7.00 per game (kids only - includes shoe hire).

Friday, 15 December 10.00am - 11.30am | $18 | Ages 4 - 7 1.00pm - 3.00pm | $21 | Ages 8 - 12 Class spaces are limited. Bookings essential.

P 4046 4800 E Kelly.j@cairnsartgallery.com.au F Facebook/Cairns.Art.Gallery www.cairnsartgallery.com.au

TJAPUKAI Discover where Australia begins at Tjapukai. Explore the rich history of the world’s oldest living culture, dating back over 40 000 years. Whether you visit the park by day or night, you’ll enjoy a unique cultural experience with performance, dance, food and arts.

Tjapukai is an all-weather, wheelchair and pram friendly attraction, offering unique experiences in one location.

Explore the rich history of the world’s oldest living culture through Aboriginal performances and interactive educational activities.

78 December 2017 | www.pakmag.com.au

Accompanying adults $9.00 per game.

Bookings are essential.

Open every day of the school holidays.

P 4053 3497 F Facebook/gobowlingcairns www.gobowling.com.au

INFLATABLE KINGDOM The perfect venue to have a great time for all ages.

Inflatable Kingdom is a high-energy, action-packed environment with inflatables of all shapes and sizes. Open every day of the school holidays, 9.00am to 4.00pm.

To stay up to date with all that’s happening, check out their Facebook page or visit them at 164 Mayers Street, Manunda at Cairns Indoor Sports.

P 4032 2844 E admin@inflatablekingdom.com.au F Facebook/inflatablekingdomcairns www.inflatablekingdom.com.au

School Holiday Guide

PARADISE PALMS

Wrapping for a Cause

Paradise for kids young and old with lots to keep the kids occupied during the school holidays.

Support the Leukaemia Foundation this Christmas by donation a gold coin per gift wrapped.

9 to 24 December, from 10.00am to 4.00pm

There is a swimming pool, an adventure playground and an 18-hole mini-golf course.

Un-Bear-Lievable Workshop

Families can enjoy a full day of fun with unlimited entry to the aAdventure playground, lap pool or mini-golf for a whole day.

11 to 15 December, from 9.30am to 4.00pm

Prices start from just $4.00.

Make your very own Christmas teddy bear for only $7.

Take a Photo in the Mega Snow Dome!

Located outside Oakley

Open daily from 7.00am.

2 to 24 December

P 4059 9924

P 4051 7444

F Facebook/paradisepalmscairns

F Facebook/DFOCairns

www.paradisepalms.com.au

www.dfocairns.com.au

CAIRNS LIBRARY

CAIRNS INTERNATIONAL TENNIS CENTRE

Cairns Library Workshops Cairns Libraries run free activities every school holiday period at various library branches, so if you are looking for something fun and free to do with the kids during the school holidays this is the place to be!

Workshops are designed for children aged 5 and over.

For younger children, see their Storytime and Baby Rhyme Time programs.

Bookings usually open at the hosting branch two weeks prior to the school holidays and are very popular so make sure you book early to avoid disappointment. See their Events page for a full listing of dates and locations.

Tip - Like them on Facebook and you’ll be up to date when bookings open!

P 4044 3720

December School Holiday Program Hot Shots: Ages 5+ Monday, 11 December.

Wednesday, 13 December.

Friday, 15 December.

9.00am to 1.00pm. $50 per session includes morning tea & lunch.

P 4041 3383 E admin@cairnsitc.com F Facebook/Cairns International Tennis Centre www.tennis.com.au/cairnsitc

LASERFUN CAIRNS

F Facebook/cairnslibraries www.cairns.qld.gov.au

Open everyday from 10.00am of the school holidays (closed Christmas day).

DFO CAIRNS

School Holiday Special DFO Cairns is the place to be these school holidays!

With up to 70% off leading brands, a range of tempting food options, an abundance of free parking, centre Wi-Fi and free activities for the kids… there is something for everyone at DFO Cairns.

Every Monday to Friday of school holidays.

1.00pm to 4.00pm.

3 hours of laser tag for $25.00/person.

Places are limited so bookings are essential.

Snap to Win

P 4031 9865

Snap a photo with Santa or at one of the Christmas activities, upload it to DFO Cairns Facebook page and #dfocairnschristmas to go in the draw to win!

F Facebook/LaserfunCairns

E bookings@laserfun.com.au www.laserfun.com.au

DON’T FORGET TO LET THEM KNOW YOU READ IT IN PAKMAG

www.pakmag.com.au | December 2017 81

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BOREDOM BUSTER

82 December 2017 | www.pakmag.com.au