PakMag Mackay - Jan & Feb 2018 Issue 63

ISSUE: Jan & Feb 2018

63

MACKAY

SCHOOL HOLIDAY GUIDE TINY TOTS GUIDE NEW YEAR, NEW SKILLS

AFTER SCHOOL ACTIVITY GUIDE

INTRODUCING NAOMI RAYS

$1000’s WORTH OF PRIZES INSIDE

FREE www.pakmag.com.au | January & February 2018 1

CONTENTS 04 Entertainment: Check It Out

So, 2018? How did that happen!?

07 Introducing Naomi Rays

Welcome to the first edition of PakMag Mackay of the New Year (the January and February edition). I really hope you all had a wonderful festive period. There’s nothing like spending quality time with your family… but there’s something rather pleasing about “back to school” time too, I’m sure you’ll agree!

08 Feature: Kidpreneurs

Killing it in FNQ

11

Extracurricular Activities

15 Exploring Play: Why Play

is so Important

17 Health 19 Bump, Bub and Beyond:

Grab The Bag

20 Bump, Bub and Beyond: WIN 23 What’s On Guide 25 Mini Mag 31 The Thing Is...

With Bree James

33 School Holiday Guide 37 After School Activity Guide

We’re in our 6th year of running this wonderful publication in Mackay and we feel (and we hope you do too) that we’ve been getting bigger and better each month. This year will be no exception, and that will be in part due to our wonderful new PakMag Mackay owner, Naomi.

Yes, that’s right, from the next issue onwards (March edition), I will be handing over PakMag Mackay into the very capable hands of Naomi Rays.

This incredible woman will be taking the reigns and helping PakMag grow into the best magazine it can possibly be, providing Mackay with an even more amazing resource each month. You can read all about her on page 7.

So, this will be my last publisher’s note to you in Mackay. I will still be at PakMag events and Naomi will be working very closely with our team in Cairns but it’s time to have someone on the ground in Mackay, and Naomi is the perfect fit.

I’m so excited for Naomi to begin her PakMag journey, and I trust you will all welcome her with open arms and hearts.

So, it’s not goodbye from me, it’s see ya soon! Don’t forget to tell everyone you read it in PakMag!

41 Tiny Tots Activity Guide 43 Adult Education:

New Year, New Skills

44 Mackay Snapped 46 Sizzling Summer Giveaways 48 Celebrate: Aussie

Aussie Aussie

50 Daddy Diary

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 Naomi, Livia and Heidi Rays, www.raysandco.com.au Cover Photography Sweet Fields Photography, www.sweetfieldsphotography.com.au Cover Homewares Gypsy and the Bowerbird, www.gypsyandthebowerbird.com.au Cover Outfits Op shop finds and Myer, Caneland Central, www.canelandcentral.com.au 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/pakmagmackay 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 | January & February 2018 3

Entertainment

CHECK IT OUT Summer Reading Club When: Monday, 1 to Friday, 19 January 2018 Where: Local Library More Info: www.summerreadingclub.org.au Encourage a love of libraries, recreational reading and ongoing multi-literacy skills development in children and young people during the summer holidays.

Contact your local library for further details.

Deadly 60 Down Under When: Wednesday, 10 January, 2.00pm and 5.00pm Where: MECC More Info: www.themecc.com.au Steve Backshall, the star of the hit TV show Deadly 60 is back in Australia with his brand-new stage show. This time there is a big difference, this summer he will appear live on stage with some of Australia’s deadliest animals! Plus, there will be loads of audience participation and lots of on stage fun!

Family event / Adult $49.00 / Family (two adults and two children) $179.00

Women’s Big Bash League & Mini Eat Street

Australia Day When: Friday, 26 January 2018 Where: Andergrove, Glenella, Habana, Northern Beaches, Pioneer Valley, Seaforth, Town Beach and Walkerston.

More Info: www.mackay.qld.gov.au With 13 council run Australia Day events to choose from, you’re bound to find one to suit you and your family.

Choose from “A Day at the Beach” at Eimeo Surf Life Saving Club with games (including thong throwing and a vegemite eating competition), or try Barefoot Bowls and BBQ at Northern Beaches Bowls Club.

When: Friday, 12 to Saturday,13 January 2018 Where: Harrup Park More Info: www.harruppark.com.au Head down to Harrup Park to catch all the action of the Women’s Big Bash League as Brisbane Heat take on Melbourne Stars from 6.30pm each evening. Plus, a mini Eat Street will also take place on Field 2, with food vendors starting from 4.30pm each day.

FREE entry to the cricket for the whole family.

Gold coin donation entry for eat street.

4 January & February 2018 | www.pakmag.com.au

Check out the website for more information on the fun things happening this Australia Day!

International Pro Darts Showdown Series When: Saturday, 27 and Sunday, 28 January 2018, 6.00pm Where: MECC More Info: www.themecc.com.au For the first time ever in Mackay, you will have the chance to see international champion dart players up close and personal!

Join the action of one of the fastest growing sports and see for yourself why audiences are hailing pro darts as one of the best nights out by far.

Tickets on sale.

The Pirates of Penzance When: Saturday, 10 February 2018, 2.00pm Where: MECC More Info: www.themecc.com.au This beautifully sung show tours with a full set and costumes and is the complete production but beware in 2018 it will have nuts and Donald Trump additives.

Hilarious! A true family musical comedy is what lies ahead, with the pirates clashing swords and trading barbs in this modern take.

Tickets $22 Adult / $15 Child under 12

2018 Sports Expo & Sign-On Day When: Sunday, 11 February, 9.00am - 1.00pm Where: MECC, Alfred Street, Mackay More Info: www.mackay.qld.gov.au An opportunity for community members to engage with over 100 clubs, sporting groups and active leisure groups across Mackay, all in one place. A great chance to discuss the benefits of sport and to find a club that suits every member of the family. There will be demonstrations from various sports and active groups across the day.

www.pakmag.com.au | January & February 2018 5

Naomi Rays

Introducing Naomi Rays: The New Face of PakMag Mackay For many loyal readers, you’ll know that we are all about keeping it local, but with the PakMag office located in Cairns, sometimes it’s hard for us to be 100 per cent across what the Mackay community needs, wants and loves. Don’t get us wrong, we have a team who keep their fingers on the pulse, but sometimes, local knowledge is second to none.

In late November, Bree and the PakMag team decided that we needed eyes and ears on the ground in Mackay to make sure that we were delivering a publication in line with our ethos. We put the call out to find someone remarkable in the community, somebody who shared our vision, somebody who loves Mackay and somebody who would help PakMag Mackay empower parents to raise incredible kids.

Naomi’s appointment is one that will help PakMag Mackay grow and thrive, and provide the community with a publication bigger and better than ever before.

Enter, Naomi Rays.

For you as readers, this change simply means you’ll have more local content and a better resource for helping you keep connected with your community.

For local businesses, it means that they will have a closer relationship with PakMag where they are able to collaborate more on how they can show PakMag readers their products and services in a way that resonates with them. And for PakMag as a whole, it means that we have an arm of our business that is stronger, better and more in line with who we are; Naomi will work closely with the team in Cairns, but she will be the spearhead for making PakMag Mackay the best it can be.

Naomi is PakMag Mackay’s new owner, and this issue’s cover star, and from January 2018 she will be the voice behind our local stories, the creative brain for local businesses wanting to share their products and services with our readers, and the point of contact for all things PakMag Mackay.

Her love for and knowledge of the local area will stand her in good stead to provide an amazing resource every month with local content and information that the community will love.

“I absolutely love Mackay,” says Naomi. “I have lived in Mackay since 1996 with my husband of 10 years, and we’ve raised our two beautiful daughters, Livia (11) and Heidi (9) here. This community provides everything for us, with the diverse people, food and activities. We even love it so much that my husband ran for Mayor in 2016.

We regularly enjoy camping, Airbnbing, bushwalking, and, of course, eating around the region.”

With a background in design and marketing, and a belief that family is an integral part of any community,

Owning her own social media management company, Rays+Co Creative, Naomi says, “I love the excitement of putting together elements to create a whole and elevating a brand.”

Learning the ropes at PakMag is a big job, so, to ensure that we give Naomi as much support as possible, the current edition of PakMag is a January and February edition. You’ll be able to pick up the first issue under Naomi’s lead in March.

So, we hope you’ll join us in welcoming Naomi to the PakMag family. You will be able to meet her at our Easter event, so make sure you check our Facebook page for updates.

www.pakmag.com.au | January & February 2018 7

Feature

Kidpreneurs KidpreneUrs killing it in FNQ STORY Bree James

It's no secret that kids are becoming more entrepreneurial as the years roll on, and some are killing it. Take Moziah Bridges from the USA for example. At the age of nine, he couldn't find any bowties he liked, so he started making them at home with the help of his grandmother. At 16, he now sells over half a million dollars’ worth annually and just secured a seven-figure deal with the NBA to make bowties for the players.

As much as I googled, I could only really find success stories of children from around the globe, but very few from children in Australia. Sure, many kids in Australia are becoming entrepreneurs, and we shouldn't measure the success of their venture just financially, but it made me realise we have a long way to go to catch up with the rest of the world when it comes to our kids and entrepreneurialism.

With the tech revolution, our world is changing, and many jobs of the future will not be available to our children.

Heck, we may even get out of having to teach them to drive because of driverless cars! So, it's imperative that, as parents, we nurture our children’s entrepreneurial spirit, and see where it takes them. At the very least, they will learn skills to be great employees and support an entrepreneur which is a vital role too.

Here are some local kids that we need to nurture, support and encourage to keep reaching for success. It's a tough journey, but one they are learning so much from and they are also inspiring other kids in our community.

Introducing: Harry AND JOSH Tottle At the tender age of nine, Harry has already started his first business, Art by Hazzy. He creates original artwork gift cards that he sells online and at the school fair. Harry’s business was born when his mother, who was tired of seeing his artwork on paper all around the house, bought him some cards and said, “Draw on these and then we can sell them.” So, that’s just what he did! Harry started doing his mazes and fun designs on the cards and then he started a Christmas range.

8 January & February 2018 | www.pakmag.com.au

Feature

Harry is the artist and designer, his brother Josh is the sales and marketing guru, and his mother is their accountant and their biggest support. Harry says, “She understands our crazy minds and helps us with how to achieve our goals and keeps us working.”

Harry says he has learnt that business takes up a lot of your time and while some days he may want to be playing or watching TV he knows he needs to draw. He has also learnt that you don’t get all the money from the sales, you need to pay for the business costs; you can’t expect mum and dad to pay for that, so now, he and his brother are paid a wage.

The one piece of advice Harry has for other kidpreneurs out there is to, if you can, get your mum and dad to help, especially with things like Facebook. Harry’s vision for the future is to have a website selling his cards and his mazes and board games, that he also designs.

How You Can Help Get behind Harry and check out his Facebook page Art

by Hazzy. You are sure to find the perfect card or, if you can’t, Harry can custom make whatever you’d like.

Harry is well on his way to achieving his dream of oneday being a game designer. He’s already halfway there.

Introducing: Jade Abrahams

Fourteen-year-old Jade Abrahams has been running her business, Licorice Allshorts, which is a range of kids exercise Lyrca pants, bike pants, dance pants and skins, for four years now. Jade started out just making things for her friends as presents but that grew to taking orders, then to selling at the Strand Night Markets. For the last two years, her range has been stocked at the Renegade Gift Shop at Warrina. She also sells online through Facebook and Instagram.

Jade loves the creativity involved in sewing and how many possibilities there are. Jade said that her mother’s support, encouragement and belief in her has been paramount in her having the courage to take on new challenges.

The biggest lesson that Jade said she has learnt is that starting and operating a business takes hard work and commitment. She said, “You need to meet deadlines and deliver a quality product every time, and you can’t confuse sales with profit.” Jade has also learnt that she also needs to commit to her school work and co-curricular activities.

When asked what her advice to other kidpreneurs would be, Jade said, “Have a go. Start off small; I started by making Loom band bracelets and selling to my extended family. Have an idea and follow through with it. The most successful businesses are ones that find a gap in the market or a solution to a common problem. Ask mum and dad for help in getting started; it can be really rewarding.”

Jade has a strong vision for her future which includes studying fashion and design at RMIT in Melbourne and expanding her fashion label and mentoring young entrepreneurs. Jade certainly seems to be on the right path to achieving this.

How You Can Help If you would like to see what Licorice Allshorts is all about, pop in and check out Jade’s range at Renegade Gift Shop or contact Jade through Facebook or Instagram to place an order.

www.pakmag.com.au | January & February 2018 9

Education

Enrich your child’s learning through extracurricular activities.

STORY Mr Luke Baills, Head of Junior School, The Cathedral School, Townsville

Life contains much more than just work and study, so it is important that every child’s school years provide the foundations for a rich and diverse life experience.

Extracurricular activities give children countless opportunities to explore and broaden their experiences while developing skills and attitudes that will lead to lifelong participation in healthy and fulfilling recreational and cultural activities.

Involvement in activities outside the classroom can give children the chance to enrich their learning within school hours and helps to develop a variety of skills.

Extracurricular activities can help children make new friends and experience a sense of belonging that comes with being a part of a team or group. They can get the chance to learn new skills or expand their knowledge in areas of interest and have the opportunity to improve their self-confidence, develop leadership qualities and independence.

There are many extracurricular activities that children can participate in whilst at school and after hours such as music, sport, drama, community involvement, competitions and clubs. There are a whole range of benefits that come from involvement in these programs.

Music and Performing Arts Music is an incredibly powerful learning tool. Children can learn literacy and maths skills, and by joining a group music activity such as a choir or a band, they are gaining social skills at the same time.

Most schools also offer a variety of instruments for students to learn, with specialist teachers available for private or group tuition. Depending on the instrument, there is usually the option of participating in ensembles and bands in addition to tuition. Private lessons often involve preparation for the Australian Music Examinations Board (AMEB) exams, which provide nationally recognised qualifications in music, speech and drama.

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Education

Schools often hold productions, such as musicals or plays, that allow students to perform on stage, play as part of an orchestra or even help out behind the scenes with the technical aspects of the production (lighting and costume, for example).

Sport There are many studies suggesting students who participate in sporting activities are more likely to achieve academically, have healthier lifestyles and develop greater social skills. Scientists believe there is a strong link between physical activity and increased brain growth factors, which have been shown to stimulate learning. These can be team sports such as cricket and netball, or individual and group activities like dancing, martial arts and athletics.

Interhouse carnivals for swimming, cross country and athletics are common at most schools, with the opportunity for top athletes to go on to represent their school at district, regional or state levels. Students can also participate in interschool sport, competing against nearby schools in sports such as rugby, netball, soccer and cricket.

There are also a variety of local sporting clubs and organisations that children can join outside of their school. Sign ons for these activities usually take place in January so keep an eye out for details.

Clubs, Competitions and Games Just like sporting students measure their success through competition, academic students also need competition. There are many academic competitions open to students in areas such as Maths, Science and English, as well as in more specialised subjects such as Information and Communications Technology (ICT) or Economics. Debating competitions and public speaking are other great options (available in most schools), allowing students to compete against other schools in competitions. This helps students develop their public speaking skills, as well as improving their confidence performing in front of an audience.

Strategy and logic games, such as chess, stimulate a child’s brain and help them with problem solving and maths.

12 January & February 2018 | www.pakmag.com.au

Community Service Clubs and Leadership Most schools allow students to apply for leadership positions or a place on a student committee such as the Student Representative Council. There is usually a wide variety of leadership positions available from the general school and house captains to more specific roles such as sporting, arts or faith captains.

Community service opportunities are also common, with students able to join groups such as Rotaract or Leos. This allows students to get involved in service projects and fundraisers. Group organised activities, such as Scouts or Guides, help children learn practical skills, such as map and compass reading. These activities also promote problem-solving, independent-thinking and social skills.

If your child isn’t interested in any of these options, check with their school to see what else is available, or alternatively, check what types of activities your child can get involved with outside of school. You can see PakMag’s After School Activity Sign On Guide on page 62.

There really are enough activities to fill every hour outside of the school day, so it’s important to balance the demands of school work and extracurricular activities as well as socialising with friends and family.

Here are some ways you can help: •• Set up a weekly routine and try to stick to it. A routine will help with managing competing priorities.

•• Try not to commit to too many extracurricular activities; this can help get the right balance between their responsibilities and leisure time.

•• Keep checking in with your child. Everyone is different. Some are natural multi-taskers and manage to take extra responsibilities in their stride. Others may feel overloaded when they have too many demands on their time.

•• Keep an eye out for signs of stress, talk to them about how they are feeling, use your judgment about how many extracurricular activities you think they can handle, and work with them to manage their time effectively.

Your child does not need to cram their days with many extracurricular activities, but a couple of activities out of school hours can certainly enhance their learning.

Exploring Play

Why play is so important STORY Kait Cummins, Occupational Therapist, The Play Project Play is, ‘to engage in activity for enjoyment and recreation rather than a serious or practical purpose’.

Children learn best through play, and the best kind of play is unstructured, outdoor play, where adults are in the background and kids make up the rules and learn for themselves. Playing in nature provides the sensory input to keep them feeling calm whilst inspiring their creativity, encouraging risk-taking and getting their bodies moving, all of which are essential to healthy development.

Two to three hours of active play (huffing and puffing) every day is important for healthy development, and the best toys are everyday objects that kids find around the house or yard as these inspire creativity and imagination.

Keep it simple, they may find it hard at first but learning to play independently is a skill that will set them up for life.

TOYS FOR EXPLORING PLAY 1 3 5

2

4

1. Maracas Djeco - RRP $9.99 2. Balance Bike Blue Chalkboard by Kinderfeets - RRP $150.00 3. Wooden Story Heart Teether - RRP $44.95 4. Forklift Truck by Goki - RRP $98.95 5. Quadrilla Cyclone Marble Run 198 Pieces - RRP $269.00 - www.playmackay.com.au

www.pakmag.com.au | January & February 2018 15

Health

HEALTH Survive the summer STORY Kalisha Fitsch With summer now in full swing, you may be wiping the sweat from your forehead just reading this. Summer happens every year, and yet it still surprises us with just how hot it can get. In some instances, it can even be dangerous; pregnant women, breastfeeding mothers, babies, children and the elderly are at a high risk.

Here are some top tips to beat the heat: Re-schedule activities - Plan your activities around the weather; play sports or walk the dog early in the morning or later in the afternoon. Summer days are longer than winter days and it’s time to take advantage of it!

Rehydrate - Drink lots of water, and then when you’ve had enough, drink some more. You probably need more than you think. Ideally, an adult should consume 2.5 litres of water on a hot summer day, while children should drink between 1-1.5 litres per day.

Summer clothing - Wear light-coloured thin clothing to prevent excessive sweating, but make sure you cover exposed parts of your body to protect your skin from sunburns.

Remember - NEVER leave your children or pets in a hot car. Even if it’s only for a short time or if the windows are down, the temperature in a hot car rises extremely quickly.

Living in North Queensland, it’s easy to get used to the warmth and forget how dangerous it can be. Did you know sunburn can happen from just 15 minutes of being in the sun? Take care this summer, remember your sunscreen, and most of all – have fun!

GET School ready: ready kid’s health checks STORY Dr Nicole Higgins, Health on Central.

Starting Kindy and school is an exciting, emotional and stressful time for many parents and their kids.

A trip to your family doctor before your child starts is a great way to ensure that they are physically healthy and developmentally and emotionally ready.

So, what does your GP check at a kid’s health check?

•• Growth check - Height, weight and BMI. A great opportunity to include a discussion of eating habits and physical activity.

•• General check.

•• Eye check – Checking for a squint which may cause problems with near and distance vision.

It’s also a great idea to visit an optometrist too.

•• Ear check.

•• Dental health check – Check up and dental hygiene advice.

•• Toilet habits check – Nocturnal enuresis (bedwetting) and constipation are common in kids, with one in six five-year-olds still wetting their beds. Effective management prior to school can save both parents and children considerable distress.

•• Allergies – Discuss how an allergy will be managed in a school environment. Do you need an anaphylaxis management plan or advice from a specialist?

Sometimes food challenges are done prior to entering school to minimise restrictions on the child and their peers.

•• Speech and language development Communication is important for learning and can affect the relationship between your child and their teacher.

•• Fine and gross motor skills.

•• Behaviour, mood and sleeping patterns.

•• Emotional maturity.

For older children who have already started school, a check-up with your GP over the school holidays is also a great way to chat about their growth, healthy eating, exercise, emotional health and body changes.

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Bump, Bub and Beyond

Grab the bag STORY Midwife Rebekah Barrie, Mater Health Services North Queensland

I can hear Mummy on the phone to her midwife; she thinks it’s time to go. The midwife is asking lots of questions, like “Are you leaking fluid?” To which Mummy replied, “Yes! Will it ever stop leaking?” It’s getting tight in here all of the sudden, and I’m getting pushed down, I think it’s time to go!

I hear Daddy in the background yelling, “The bag isn’t packed!” Mummy has been telling him for weeks she needs to get it packed, but he told her that there was plenty of time. But I’m a baby, and I’ll come when I please, and today’s the day.

“Nappies!”, Daddy screams. “Got them”, Mummy puffs as it gets tight all around me again. “Onesies, singlets, wipes, wraps, pads, undies, pyjamas, slippers”, I hear Nanny listing. She just got here. Daddy is freaking out and my big brother, Oscar, is going to stay with her today. Oscar will be so excited when I come, he doesn’t know it yet, but we’re going to be best friends. I’m a boy too; Oliver will be my name, Mummy says. I’ve been in here for 37 weeks, and I’ve decided to come before my due date. I don’t like it much in here. Mummy should have packed the bag a little earlier this time because Oscar came before his due date too. We babies are at term at 37 weeks; the other three weeks are just for fattening us up. So, it’s always good to have some sort of bag ready to go; we are unpredictable. Silly Mummy!

I can hear Daddy in the fridge; not the time for a beer Dad! “I’ve got the ice to keep your expressed breast milk cold until we get there”, he says. Ohhhh, smart Daddy.

That’ll come in handy on night two when Mummy’s

milk isn’t in yet, and I’m up partying all night with the other babies. Mummy started expressing from 36 weeks and has kept it in syringes she got from her midwife in the fridge. She remembers how much she wishes she had known to do that last time. My big brother had been trouble from the start, and no one had told her how hard breastfeeding would be! The talk of breast milk must trigger her memory because she orders Daddy to get her Lansinoh ointment and gel pads from the bathroom.

Mummy is already playing her labour playlist; at least she’s had that ready for weeks. I heard Daddy last week say he had added Johnny Cash’s classic, Burning Ring of Fire to the mix. He had laughed and laughed, but Mummy hadn’t found it as amusing.

Daddy is telling Mummy that he just put his swag in the car, he’s never going to sleep on one of those fold out beds again! Mummy huffs and puffs about how she’ll show him what really uncomfortable is if he doesn’t hurry up! He stops talking quickly after that one. Go Mummy! Keep breathing; we’re going to meet soon.

They’re saying goodbye to Oscar, but he couldn’t care less. He gets to play with Nanny and Pa all day.

Mummy’s voice sounds sad; she’ll miss him. She can’t be sad for long though because here comes another contraction, and it’s big! Daddy tells her it’s time to go.

“Grab the bag!”, she shouts.

Let’s do this Mummy; I can’t wait to meet you.

www.pakmag.com.au | January & February 2018 19

Bump, Bub and Beyond

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

Toddler's sandals RRP from $85 - $125, www.makoku.com.au

Tuutu Baby Box RRP $169, www.tuutu.com.au Tuutu Baby Boxes are a sustainable, organic and ecofriendly sleeping space.

Australian summer can be really hot so your child needs perfect shoes to protect their delicate feet.

These are great sandals for a playdate at the beach or a stroll in the park. They are breathable and lightweight, made from finest materials and support your child's proper foot development.

Comfortable and stylishly designed will suit every child and their wardrobe.

Essentials Tuutu Baby Box Includes: •• Tuutu Baby Box

Itchy Baby Co Loving Bundle

•• Mattress with waterproof cover sheet

RRP $55.00, www.itchybabyco.com.au

•• $10 gift voucher for another Tuutu Baby Box purchase

Pharmacist-developed natural products for parents of little ones who have eczema. This includes keeping their skin healthy too. Itchy Baby Co is all about supporting families to manage their children’s eczema. Julia Simmonds is a pharmacist whose personal journey with eczema is the reason behind Itchy Baby Co.

•• Bubba Blue bamboo cot sheet •• Bubba Blue bamboo swaddles x 3 •• Bubba Blue Bib & Burp pad •• Little Innoscents Paw Paw Baby Balm •• Little Innoscents Baby Wipes •• Natural wooden Teething Ring •• 125 ml Tuutu Baby Massage Oil •• 10 x biodegradable Bamboo Nappies by LuvMe •• Baby Change Kit that includes disposable mat, nappy, nappy bag by The Apple of Your Eye •• Discount voucher from Perfect Pelvic Floor •• Gidget Foundation and Tresillian information packages

20 January & February 2018 | www.pakmag.com.au

Bump, Bub and Beyond

Physiotherapy can assist What to look out with pregnancy pain for on a childcare STORY Emily Davies & Marilla Morrey, Proactive Physio centre tour?

There is a multitude of musculoskeletal issues that can occur during pregnancy and following birth. Fortunately, these can be helped with treatment from an experienced women’s health physiotherapist. Pelvic girdle pain (PGP) can be one of the more severe and disabling.

The pelvic girdle is a ring of bones at the base of your spine. Pelvic girdle pain can be experienced in the hips, lower back, pelvis, pubic bone, groin, lower abdomen and legs. PGP affects one in four pregnant women. Pain when you are walking, climbing stairs, turning over in bed, getting in and out of a car, are common symptoms of PGP. PGP arises from excessive movement of the pelvis during pregnancy. Excessive movement of the pelvis is caused by: •• Hormonal changes which alter the stretchiness of your ligaments.

•• Postural and loading changes from your tummy growing.

•• Pelvic floor muscles being stretched with the weight of the baby.

STORY Goodstart Early Learning Recent research in brain science has revealed some stunning facts about children’s developing brains. In a baby’s first year, for example, their brain will double in size with more than 1,000,000 new neural connections formed every second!

It really highlights the vital role that parents and carers play and the importance of choosing a high-quality childcare centre. Knowing what ‘high quality’ looks like can be tricky for parents.

To get a better indication of a centre’s quality, here are some questions to consider asking: •• Does the centre have a happy and energetic vibe?

•• Are the staff passionate, qualified and experienced?

•• How does the centre provide families with communication about their child’s development?

•• Does the educational program cater to the needs of children at different stages of development?

Certain activities will continue to aggravate PGP until you gain good control of movement in the pelvic joints. These include pushing loaded shopping trolleys, standing on one leg to dress, running, prolonged walking, walking on uneven or soft ground, carrying a toddler on your hip, getting in and out of the car, vacuuming and mopping.

•• How is child safety managed?

Thankfully you can get help through physiotherapy and evidence supports this. A patient-specific clinical Pilates program is also very effective at managing PGP during pregnancy, with the use of stabilisation and stretching exercises.

Quality is about much more than how a centre looks and asking these questions will help you dig a little deeper, beyond your first impressions.

For the sake of your child’s development, it’s worth the extra effort.

•• Is the environment designed to stimulate learning?

•• How does the centre work with families to understand needs, routines or cultural practices?

•• Do staff receive regular professional development opportunities?

If you would like more information on how you can manage PGP, contact your local pelvic health physiotherapist to discuss.

www.pakmag.com.au | January & February 2018 21

WHAT’S ON JAN JAN

With Star’s Rob

MONDAY 1 JAN

TUESDAY 9 JAN

THURSDAY 11 JAN

SATURDAY 13 JAN

Summer Reading Club

Get Your Game On! Walkerston Library www.eventbrite.com.au 10.00am / Free / Ages 5 - 12

The Nut Job 2: Nutty by Nature Event Cinemas www.eventcinemas.com.au Check website

Naruto Run Around Canelands Caneland Central Facebook/CheeseHatCult 1.00pm / Free / Family

Get Your Game On! Dudley Denny City Library www.eventbrite.com.au 10.00am / Free / Ages 5 - 12

MONDAY 15 JAN

Runs until 19 January Mackay Regional Council Libraries www.summerreadingclub.org.au Check website FRIDAY 5 JAN

Get Your Game On! Mirani Library www.eventbrite.com.au 2.00pm / Free / Ages 5 - 12 WEDNESDAY 10 JAN

Bliss Morning Caneland Central www.breastfeeding.asn.au 9.30am / Free / Adult SUNDAY 7 JAN Thirsty Merc Mount Pleasant Tavern liveatyourlocal.oztix.com.au 6.00pm / $29.60 / 18+ MONDAY 8 JAN Meet Pepper Dudley Denny City Library www.mackay.qld.gov.au 2.30pm / Free / Family Birdwatching School Holiday Quiz Mackay Regional Botanic Gardens www.mackayregional botanicgardens.com.au 8.00am / Free / Family

Deadly 60 Downunder MECC www.themecc.com.au 2pm and 5pm / $49 / Family Meet Pepper Dudley Denny City Library www.mackay.qld.gov.au 2.30pm / Free / Family Get Your Game On! Gordon White Library www.eventbrite.com.au 10.00am / Free / Ages 5 - 12 MGI Annual Working Bee Mackay Gymnastics Facebook/MackayGymnastics 8.00am / Free / Family MGI School Holiday Fun Days Runs until 19 January Mackay Gymnastics Facebook/MackayGymnastics 9.30am / $16.50 / Ages 5 - 12 MGI School Holiday Fun Days Runs until 19 January Mackay Gymnastics Facebook/MackayGymnastics 9.30am / $11 / Ages 2- 4

Family Night Out Gordon White Library www.eventbrite.com.au 5.30pm / Free / Family Nature’s Recycler’s Craft Session Botanic Gardens 4952 7300 2.00pm / $5 / Kids

Meet Pepper Dudley Denny City Library www.mackay.qld.gov.au 2.30pm / Free / Family TUESDAY 16 JAN Game on Robotics Walkerston Library www.eventbrite.com.au 10.00am / Free / Ages 5 - 8 Game on Robotics Walkerston Library www.eventbrite.com.au 11.00am / Free / Ages 9 -12

FRIDAY 12 JAN Meet Pepper Dudley Denny City Library www.mackay.qld.gov.au 2.30pm / Free / Family Rebel Women’s Big Bash League - Brisbane Heat Vs

Game on Robotics Mirani Library www.eventbrite.com.au 2.00pm / Free / Ages 5 - 8 WEDNESDAY 17JAN

Melbourne Stars Harrup Park Country Club www.brisbaneheat.com.au 6.30pm / Free / Family

Meet Pepper Dudley Denny City Library www.mackay.qld.gov.au 2.30pm / Free / Family

Get Your Game On! Sarina Library www.eventbrite.com.au 10.00am / Free / Ages 5 - 12

Game on Robotics Gordon White Library www.eventbrite.com.au 10.00am / Free / Ages 5 - 8

www.pakmag.com.au | January & February 2018 23

WHAT’S ON JAN ++ FEB JAN FEB

With Star’s EJ

THURSDAY 18 JAN

FRIDAY 26 JAN

SATURDAY 10 FEB

The Shape of Water

The Pirates of Penzance

Check website

Australia Day Celebrations Various www.mackay.qld.gov.au Check website

Maze Runner: The Death Cure

SATURDAY 27 JAN

Event Cinemas www.eventcinemas.com.au

Event Cinemas www.eventcinemas.com.au Check website Game on Robotics Dudley Denny City Library www.eventbrite.com.au 10.00am / Free / Ages 5 - 8 FRIDAY 19 JAN Meet Pepper Dudley Denny City Library www.mackay.qld.gov.au 2.30pm / Free / Family Group Discussion Mackay Women’s Centre www.breastfeeding.asn.au 9.30am / Free / Adult SATURDAY 20 JAN Pop-up Loose Parts Playground Mackay Community Gardens Facebook/ MackayCommunityGardens 9.00am / $15 / Kids

International Pro Darts Showdown Series Runs until 28 January MECC www.themecc.com.au 6.00pm / Cost / Family

MECC Auditorium themecc.com.au

SUNDAY 11 FEB 2018 Mackay Regional Sports Expo Sign-On Day MECC Plenary Halls themecc.com.au 9.00am / Free / Family WEDNESDAY 14 FEB

Ferdinand - Sensory Movie Day BCC Cinemas Facebook/ SensoryMovieDayMackay 10.30am / $6 / Family

Ash Grunwald

30th Anniversary Bob Wood Cultural Hall Sarina Cultural Hall www.mackay.qld.gov.au Check website

MECC Auditorium themecc.com.au 8.00pm / $45 Adult / Youth+ FRIDAY 16 FEB Canadian Bobby Bruce in Nearly Neil MECC Auditorium themecc.com.au 11.00am / $15 / Family

TUESDAY 30 JAN

SATURDAY 17 FEB

Back To The Future Event Cinemas www.eventcinemas.com.au Check website

2018 Helloworld Travel Expo

24 January & February 2018 | www.pakmag.com.au

SUNDAY 18 FEB

2.00pm / $22 Adult / Family

SUNDAY 28 JAN

MONDAY 29 JAN

Elvis: An American Trilogy MECC Auditorium themecc.com.au 7.30pm / $67 Adult / Family

MECC Plenary Halls themecc.com.au 10.00am / Free / Family

The Nut Job 2 - Sensory Movie Day BCC Cinemas Facebook/ SensoryMovieDayMackay 10.30am / $6 / Family FOR REGULAR EVENTS SEE P. 30

www.pakmag.com.au | January & February 2018 25

Mini Mag

A MYSTERY PRIZE!

FOR YOUR CHANCE To WIN, COMPLETE & mail TO:

Name

PakMag Colour In January 2018 PO Box 7433, Cairns QLD 4870

Address

Win a mystery prize!

Competition closes 31/01/2018

Age

Parent/Guardian

Postcode Phone Email

Mini Mag

A MYSTERY PRIZE!

FOR YOUR CHANCE To WIN, COMPLETE & mail TO:

Name

PakMag Colour In January 2018 PO Box 7433, Cairns QLD 4870

Address

Win a mystery prize!

Competition closes 31/01/2018

Age

Parent/Guardian

Postcode Phone Email www.pakmag.com.au | January & February 2018 27

Mini Mag

KIDS IN THE KITCHEN For a fun activity that you can do together, why not get the kids to help you in the kitchen? Introduce them to cooking with this easy recipe.

Check It Out: Out VIDEO REVIEWS WITH BREE JAMES

Bree reviewed some awesome toys and books this month, so go and check out the videos below on the online version of the magazine at www.pakmag.com.au Easy Jam Drops Ingredients 1 egg 1 3/4 cups self-raising flour 1/2 cup sugar 6 tbs butter 1/2 tsp vanilla essence Pinch of salt 1/2 cup jam (strawberry or raspberry) Method

WATCH THE REVIEW IN THE ONLINE MAG

1. Preheat oven to 180°C and cover 2 baking trays with baking paper 2. Mix butter and sugar in a bowl 3. Add vanilla and egg and mix well 4. Mix in flour and salt 5. Roll balls of batter (approx. 2cm in diameter) and place 2-3cm apart on the tray.

6. Make a well in the centre of each ball and fill with a little jam.

7. Bake for 10-15 minutes.

WATCH THE REVIEW IN THE ONLINE MAG

What’s On Guide

REGULAR MARKETS Eungella Markets Date: 1st Sunday of the month (Apr to Dec) Time: From 9.00am Location: Eungella Memorial Hall - North Street Sarina Showground Market Date: Last Sunday of the month Time: From 8.00am (Mar to Dec) Location: Bruce Highway Sarina

Marian Markets Date: 3rd Sunday of the month (Excluding May & Dec) Time: From 8.00am Location: Holy Rosary Church Anzac Avenue Paxton’s night markets Date: 2nd Friday of the month* Time: From 5.00pm Location: Paxtons Warehouse Details: *Check their Facebook page as dates subject to change www.facebook.com/ PaxtonsNightMarkets

Twilight Markets Time: 6.00pm - 9.00pm Location: Northern Beaches Bowls Club Details: Please visit Northern Beaches Bowls Club facebook page for dates and theme The Greater Whitsunday Farmers’ Market Date: Every Wednesday Time: From 8.00am to 1.00pm Location: Bluewater Quay Details: www.facebook.com/ greaterwhitsundayfarmersmarket

Showground Markets Date: Every Saturday Time: From 6.30am Location: Milton Street Seaforth Markets Date: Every Sunday Time: From 8.30am Location: Palm Avenue Seaforth Troppo Treasure Market Date: 2nd Sunday of the month Time: From 7.30am to 11.30am Location: Mount Pleasant Shopping Centre

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

www.pakmag.com.au | January & February 2018 29

REGULAR EVENTS MACKAY REGIONAL COUNCIL: LIBRARIES Baby Bounce Location: Gordon White Library Days: Thursdays (During school term) Time: 10.30am - 11.00am Location: Dudley Denny City Library Days: Mondays (During school term) Time: 11.00am - 11.30am Location: Mirani Library Days: Mondays (During school term) Time: 9.30am - 10.00am Location: Sarina Library Days: Tuesdays (During school term) Time: 9.30am - 10.00am Storytime Storytime is aimed at 2 – 5 year olds and their parents and carers and is held weekly during the school term. This half hour program of stories, nursery rhymes, finger plays and songs enhances language and literacy development in an interactive, fun-filled environment. The sessions encourage a child’s love of books and promotes the library environment as an exciting place for the whole family.

Location: Mirani Library Days: Tuesdays (During school term) Time: 9.30am - 10.00am Location: Walkerston Library Days: Tuesdays (During school term) Time: 10.30am - 11.00am Location: Gordon White Library Days: Wednesdays (During school term) Time: 10.30am - 11.00am Days: Fridays (During school term) Time: 9.30am - 10.00am Location: Sarina Library Days: Wednesdays (During school term) Time: 10.00am - 11.00am Location: Dudley Denny City Library Days: Thursdays (During school term) Time: 10.30am - 11.00am

Toddler Time Toddler Time is aimed at little ones who are walking to 2.5 years and their parents and carers and is held weekly during the school term.

This half hour program of lively nursery rhymes, finger plays, action songs and a story encourages language development and social interaction in an interactive, funfilled environment.

Location: Gordon White Library Days: Mondays Time: 9.30am – 10.00am

Time: From 6.00am Ability level: Beginner-advanced More Info: Corry Cycles Facebook page for ride details and updates Bicycle Belles A social riding group just for ladies.

Meeting point: Bicycle Connection, 20 Victoria St, Mackay Days: Wednesdays Time: 6.00am Ability level: Beginnerintermediate More Info: Bicycle Belles Mackay Facebook page for ride details and updates.

Location: Mirani Library Days: Wednesday Time: 9.30am – 10.00am

Mums and Bubs Morning Ride

Location: Dudley Denny City Library Days: Friday Time: 9.30am – 10.00am

Meeting point: Gooseponds car park at the end of Willis Street, North Mackay Days: Wednesdays Time: 10.00am More Info: Bicycle Belles Mackay Facebook page for details and updates.

MACKAY REGIONAL COUNCIL: BIKE RIDERS Social Rides Meeting point: Metro Café, River Street Days: Saturdays Time: 6.30am Ability levels: Team Caffeine (Beginner - intermediate: 15-20km/h), Team Tour de Latte (Intermediate: 25km/h), Team Slipstream (Intermediateadvanced: 30km/h) and Team Titanium (Advanced: 35km+/h) More Info: Visit Rock N Road Cycles Facebook page for ride details and updates.

Lazy Riders Meeting point: Bridges Café, Bluewater Quay Days: Every second Sunday -stay for breakfast after the ride!

Time: 7.00am Ability level: Beginner-intermediate More Info: Corry Cycles Facebook page for ride details and updates Sizzle'n Sausage Sunday Sesh* Mountain bikers of all abilities are welcome to come out for a ride, held every Sunday and followed by a sausage sizzle from 8.30am.

Meeting point: Rowallan Mountain Bike Park, Glendaragh Rd, Farleigh

30 January & February 2018 | www.pakmag.com.au

A social riding group for Mums with children who are not yet at school.

Mountain Bike (MTB) Night Ride* Lights on bike and helmets are a must!

Days: Wednesdays Meeting point 1: Corry Cycles, 5 Kay Court, North Mackay Time: 6.00pm Meeting point 2: Rowallan Mountain Bike Park, Glendaragh Road, Farleigh Time: 6.30pm Ability level: Intermediate-advanced More Info: Corry Cycles Facebook page for ride details and updates, *MAD MTB or MTBA membership is required to use the trails.

Thursday Night Social Ride A weekly evening get together for a ride and catch up.

Meeting point: Metro Café, River Street Days: Thursdays Time: 7.00pm Ability level: Beginnerintermediate More Info: Visit Bicycle Mackay Facebook page for ride details and updates.

MACKAY REGIONAL COUNCIL: RUNNERS Free LayZee Runners Club Days: Saturdays

Time: 5.45am Meeting point: The Metro Market Cafe, River Street, Mackay Days: Tuesdays and Thursdays Time: 5.30am Meeting point: The City Fitness Health Club, Victoria Street.

More Info: www.mackaycitycentre.com.au MACKAY ANIMAL RESCUE SOCIETY Monthly Adoption Day Days: Last Sunday of the month Time: 9.00am to 12.00pm Location: Mackay Pet Superstore, Greenfields Fundraiser Markets Days: Third Sunday of the Month Time: 9.00am - 1.00pm Location: Mackay Marina LET THE CHILDREN PLAY TOYSHOP Free Children’s Book Reading Bring your snack. Coffee/tea will be available Days: Every Wednesday Time: 9.30am to 10.00am Location: 15b Macalister St Cnr Victoria & Macalister Sts Contact: 4944 0180 or email info@playmackay.com.au POSITIVE BIRTH MOVEMENT MEETUPS A support group for parents and parents to be. Discussion theme changes each month.

Days: Last Wednesday or Thursday of every month.

Time: 10.00am and 6.30pm Location: Uneek Industries courtyard - 166 Shakespeare St More Info: The positive birth movement Mackay Meet Ups Facebook page, or call 0458 100 680 DO YOU HAVE AN EVENT YOU WOULD LIKE TO PROMOTE TO THE COMMUNITY? Email your event or market to admin@grandpublishing.com.au to be included. Spaces are limited. Please notify us if there is any updated information for our regular events.

The Thing Is

The Thing Is...

STORY Bree James

Holidaying with kids. Some trips, ok most trips, it’s more like your exact life at home, but in a non-familiar place and without the comforts of your life. Kids don’t seem to care that you have spent a squillion dollars to try and have a break. Let’s face it. You are in no way going to get a ‘rest’ so that you can enjoy your holiday like you did BC (before children). But some trips, despite the tough times, bring your family together to reconnect and make memories for a lifetime. And it makes all of the frustration worth it!

The thing is, most of us wish we had more holidays.

I don’t know anyone that wishes they had less.

Unfortunately for 99 per cent of people reading this article, it takes many months, if not years, of saving for that trip of the year, or better, the trip of a lifetime that’s on your bucket list.

When I was fourteen, I saved up all my money from working in a café to go on the annual school trip to New Zealand. It was my first time on a plane, and it was amazing, and I certainly caught the travel bug. Neither of my parents travelled much, probably because it was so expensive in the eighties. Our trips were always in the car with us kids vomiting in the back seat like a chain reaction. We’d drive for days and sleep in the car to save money. I don’t know how my parents travelled with kids without iPads and air-conditioned comfort like our kids have these days. Probably explains why most of our parents are cray cray!

So, if you are about to travel with kids this January here are my three best tips:

2. Do not travel without spare clothes with you at all times. My youngest son has fallen in more shallow ponds, had explosive undies or ended up in some sort of incident where he has required a whole new outfit and shoes more times than I’d like to count. Be prepared, even for yourself.

3. Check your plane tickets before you leave the counter. We were flying once with master 3-year-old, and they put the three of us in separate seats on the plane. As much as I would have loved some stranger to look after my child, see point one, he was still coming down from the Phenergan, so it wasn’t going to end well.

As tough as these times were at the time, I wouldn’t change them. They are certainly the things that we laugh about now, even the time we went through a customs screening seven times due to a runaway toddler. I sure bought one of those kiddy leads after that trip, let me tell you!

So, whether it’s camping at the dam, an overnight trip an hour away or a trip overseas, holidays and weekends away are what make the best family memories. Sure, I’ve got a second job to pay for our trips, and I make sacrifices on purchasing things unless they are a need, not a want, and we rarely go out for dinner, but that’s what us parents do, right? Sacrifice nearly every day to give our families the best life we can give them, and that’s what counts. I’d love to hear your travel horror stories, so feel free to share them with us!

1. Don’t give your child Phenergan for the first time on holiday. When my eldest was a toddler, it had the opposite reaction and turned him into an angry, biting machine that couldn’t sit still. Breastfeeding was over in that moment.

www.pakmag.com.au | January & February 2018 31

School Holiday Guide

School Holiday Guide

SCHOOL HOLIDAY GUIDE MACKAY GYMNASTICS

BOUNCE NOW ENTERTAINMENT

Mackay Gymnastics are having some School Holiday Fun Days.

Water slides, jumping castles, bouncy boxing, gladiator duel, mechanical bull, sumo wrestling, cocktail machines, sticky wall, mini golf and fairy floss!

Wednesday, 10 and 17 January 2018 Friday, 12 and 19 January 2018 For kids aged 2 - 4 years From: 9.30am to 10.15am Cost: $11.00 For kids aged 5 - 12 years From: 9.30am to 11.00am Cost: $16.50 Bookings essential as there are limited numbers and mention you read it in Pakmag.

P 4942 0032 E admin@mackaygymnastics.org.au F www.facebook/MackayGymnastics www.mackay.gymnastics.org.au

MECC: DEADLY 60 DOWNUNDER Steve Backshall, the star of the hit TV show Deadly 60 is back in Australia with his brand-new stage show.

This time there is a big difference; this summer he will appear live on stage with some of Australia’s deadliest animals! Plus, there will be loads of audience participation and lots of on stage fun!

Wednesday, 10 January 2018 2.00pm and 5.00pm Family event / Adult $49.00 / Family(2A & 2C) $179.00 P 4961 9777 E mecctickets@mackay.qld.gov.au F www.facebook/TheMecc www.themecc.com.au

They deliver the FUN! All Ages - All Events.

P 4942 6360 E bouncenow@hotmail.com.au F www.facebook/BounceNow www.bouncenow.com.au

PORTERS COMMUNITY MARKETS Enjoy local handmade crafts, clothing, kids’ entertainment and more! Plus, enjoy lunch at Charlies Cafe and browse at Porters!

For market posts and information, please check out their Facebook Page.

P 4967 3333 E mail@cporter.com.au F www.facebook/Portescando www.porterscando.com.au

SARINA SUGAR SHED Take the tour – taste the action!

Get the kids out of the house this school holidays with a taste-bud-tantalising tour of the Sarina Sugar Shed, a fully working miniature sugar mill and distillery and the only one of its kind in Australia. The interactive tours are a great way to teach your kids where sugar comes from while tasting freshly made sugar cane juice, fairy floss and locally made sauces and chutneys.

MOUNT PLEASANT CENTRE

Open seven days a week, four daily tours are held at 9.30am, 11.00am, 12.30pm and 2.00pm (closed public holidays).

It’s Back to School Time.

Bookings required.

The sky is the limit with the right school kit. Mount Pleasant has got all the gear you need to help your little one excel this school year. Tick off everything on your back to school list, today.

P 4943 2801 www.sarinasugarshed.com.au

For all that’s happening this school holidays, visit their website and like them on Facebook to be kept up to date.

P 4969 2400 E MountPleasant.Centre@vicinity.com.au F www.facebook/mountpleasantcentre www.mountpleasantcentre.com.au

MACKAY CITY LIBRARIES School holiday activities are run during every school break for children aged Prep to Year 6. Activities are also available for high school students.

For more information, visit their website.

F www.facebook/MackayLibraries www.mackay.qld.gov.au/libraries

www.pakmag.com.au | January & February 2018 33

School Holiday Guide

CANELAND CENTRAL Caneland Central are excited to launch the Caneland Kids Club this month with Carly the Croc.

Sand Sculpture This is the unveiling of the Kids Club; the sculpture will be of Carly the Caneland Croc.

Watch the sand art sculpture come to life to reveal a very special character!

Monday, 8 to Thursday, 18 January 2018.

Outside Sportsgirl, ground floor.

Sand Art Activities Make your very own sand art to take home these school holidays.

Monday, 8 to Thursday, 18 January 2018.

10.00am to 2.00pm daily/limited sessions.

Outside Target.

Spendless Shoes Kids Morning Get crafty with Spendless Shoes. Decorate your own library bag these school holidays.

Friday, 19 to Saturday, 20 January 2018.

11.00am to 2.00pm.

Outside Target.

Join the Caneland Kids Club today and stay up to date with all the latest happenings for kids including free activities every Sunday!

For all that’s happening this school holidays visit their website and like them on Facebook to be kept up to date.

For bookings, visit their website. www.canelandcentral.com.au

KIDZ LIFE PLAY CENTRE Kidz Life Play Centre is part of the children’s program run by the New Life Church Mackay. The centre is supported by church members and visitors.

The centre exists to foster healthy interaction between parent and child and supports poor and needy children in developing nations. Kidz Life is not for profit; costs are only charged to recover expenses of running the program.

Programs offered include classes for parenting, raising children and single parent families.

34 January & February 2018 | www.pakmag.com.au

Monday to Friday, 9.00am - 3.00pm.

Saturday, 9.00am - 4.00pm.

Don’t forget to bring socks!

P 4953 5575 E admin@kidzlife.com.au F www.facebook/Kidzlifeplaycentre www.kidzlife.com.au

BIG4 ADVENTURE WHITSUNDAY RESORT Kids Driving You Nuts Package Thursday, 4 to Saturday, 27 January 2018.

It can sometimes be a little bit of a challenge keeping your little treasures entertained throughout the holiday season, so let Big 4 Adventure Whitsunday Resort take over with their popular Kids Driving You Nuts package.

The result is holiday bliss all round – for you and the kids.

The package includes so many freebies including kids stay FREE. P 4948 5400 E salesandmarketing@adventurewhitsunday.com.au www.adventurewhitsunday.com.au

SUMMER READING CLUB The Summer Reading Club program is delivered annually in libraries and online.

Having commenced their ‘Game on’ theme on the 1st of December, kids are encouraged to continue ‘Supercharging their summer’ right through till the 31st January.

Children’s participation in the Australian Summer Reading Club allows them to develop a sense of community with other children across the country.

No matter where they are during the summer holidays, it is envisioned that children and young people will be able to participate in activities aligned to the annual programming theme, discover great Australian authors and illustrators, and share their voice by engaging in literary and creative activities, both online and in libraries. www.summerreadingclub.org.au

School Holiday Guide

After School Sign On

AFTER SCHOOL ACTIVITY GUIDE SPORTS EXPO AND SIGN-ON DAY 2018

MACKAY NETBALL

Sunday, 11 February, 9.00am – 1.00pm

Sign On Day: Saturday, 24 February, 10.00am – 2.00pm

Mackay Entertainment and Convention Centre

Whether your child loves the sport or they’ve never played, joining a netball club is a great way to not only stay fit, but also join a community and make new friends. Junior games are held on Saturday mornings from 8.00am for 9 to 16-year-olds and the Net-Set-Go helps 5 to 10-year-olds gain skills in an introductory netball-style game.

Head down to the MECC on Sunday, 11 February from 9.00am to 1.00pm for The Sports Expo & Sign On Day. This awesome expo aims to increasing participation in sporting, active recreation or active leisure pursuits and is thanks to our major event sponsor Dalrymple Bay Coal Terminal.

It’s a great event for the whole family. Sporting organisations, teams and active leisure groups will be in the one place to provide a ‘one stop information shop’ about the wide range of active opportunities on offer in the region. So for boys, girls, mums and dads, you’ll be sure to find an activity for you.

There will be over 100 exhibitors and the Active Zone will provide a fun and interactive part of the day, including a mascot race!

MACKAY ATHLETICS Sign On and Info Day: Saturday, 24 February, 9.00am – 1.00pm Run, jump, and throw in 2018 with Mackay Athletics!

From running to shot put, high jump to javelin, there’s something for everyone. It’s a club for ages 5 - 99, so why not get the whole family involved? Athletics is for everyone, no matter your skill level. If you are looking to get into athletics in a club that is supportive, fun, and encouraging with amazing facilities, Mackay Athletics is the place for you.

P 0431 973 129 www.mackayathletics.com.au

P 0418 252 304 www.mackay.qld.netball.com.au

MACKAY LIONS JUNIOR SOCCER CLUB Sign On Day: Saturday, 20 January, 1.00pm – 4.00pm Mackay Lions is a family-friendly soccer club, encouraging all players to succeed and try their best while teaching the ins and outs of the wonderful game of soccer. The aim is to improve yourself, but always have fun! With teams for players from 5 to 16 years old, Mackay Lions Junior Soccer Club invites all children looking to join a great club to head down to Mackay Lions Stadium to sign on, on Saturday, 20 January.

For players ages 3 to 4, the club is looking for expressions of interest for a Squirts Program, so if your little ones have an interest in this exciting game, get down to the Sign On Day. P 4055 2317 www.mackaylions.com.au

www.pakmag.com.au | January & February 2018 37

After School Sign On

MACKAY OZTAG Junior Sign On Day: Monday, 29 January 2018 Senior Sign On Day: Monday, 22 January 2018 OzTag is a high-energy, fun, rapidly-growing sport all around Australia. The object is to score tries, which defenders prevent by tagging the ball carrier. There is no tackling and no grading – just fun.

The Autumn Season of OzTag starts in January, so make sure the kids don’t miss the sign on days. Each junior season lasts for 8 weeks, with no games over the school holidays. Autumn season is $80.00 per child and summer season is $85.00 per child.

P 0431 081 712 www.mackayoztag.com

MACKAY RUGBY LEAGUE Sign On: Online registration now open.

Whether your child is a new player or familiar with rugby, there are various teams across Mackay now accepting registrations for 2018! Rugby is an energetic exciting sport for kids of all ages to get into and enjoy. While there are numerous games for teams to participate in, the main goals are to stay active and have fun!

P 0418 188 069 F www.facebook.com/mackayjuniorrugbyleague

INDOOR CRICKET Sign On: Online registration now open.

Does your child want to get into a new sport, make some new friends along the way, and achieve as a team? Then cricket is the way to go. Playing indoor cricket is 100 per cent sun safe as it is played undercover – no need to worry about sunburns.

No experience is necessary, and everyone gets a go at playing!

Indoor Cricket for U8, U10, U12, U14 and U16 begins in January and runs until March. Check out the website for more information and registration.

P 4944 0000 www.mackaycricket.qld.cricket.com.au

MACKAY TOUCH ASSOCIATION If you have a little aspiring touch player, this is the ideal place to start. The sport is fun, interactive, and teaches

38 January & February 2018 | www.pakmag.com.au

kids to play as part of a team. Touch is a growing sport and it’s easy to learn, and there are lots of opportunities for children of all ages to get involved. Interested?

Junior Registrations for 2018 are open now! Check out the website for more information to register.

P 0409 050 554 www.mackaytouch.com.au

ROBY ROGERS SCHOOL OF DANCING Join the team at Roby Rogers School of Dancing in 2018 for a fun and exciting year of dance and performing! This dance school offers all styles of dance including Ballet, Tap, Jazz, Hip Hop, Contemporary, Musical Theatre, Adults Dance, Little Performers Programs and more!

Email or call the RRSD office to receive the 2018 Enrolment Information Package!

P 4959 3365 www.robyrogers.com.au

A-CHOIR’D PITCH Calling all singers! Rehearsals on Thursday afternoons during school term, from 4.30pm - 6.00pm at the Mackay Choral Society hall in Beaconsfield.

A-Choir’d Pitch’s purpose is to provide the opportunity in the Mackay & surrounding communities for young singers to participate in a community choir. They’ll love joining a new community and exercising their singing voice. $10.00 annual fee, $20.00 term fee P 0404 163 097 E achoird.pitch@gmail.com F www.facebook.com/ACPitch

KIP MCGRATH EDUCATION If your child needs a little assistance to help them excel in their schoolwork, consider after-school tutoring options for them. A little tutoring goes a long way and will help them achieve their academic dreams in the long run. Kip McGrath Mackay offer after school tutoring lessons, including all Primary tutoring, maths, physics and chemistry tutoring and senior English.

Primary lessons start from 3.30pm - 4.50pm and most senior subjects can start from 3.40pm.

P 4942 0424 E mackay@kipmcgrarth.com.au www.kipmcgrath.com.au

Tiny Tots

TINY TOTS ACTIVITY GUIDE Actitities for little ones aged 0 - 5 years

INFLATABLE KINGDOM Inflatable Kingdom is home to a variety of jumping castles and other inflatable play structures. If your kids need somewhere to burn off their energy, this is the place to go! During a two-and-a-half-hour session, your tot can explore and play to their heart’s content. Toddlers will have a ball playing, climbing, and sliding in this bright, inflatable wonderland.

Don’t forget your socks!

P 4957 2672 www.inflatablekingdom.com.au

MACKAY LIBRARIES TINY TOTS PROGRAMS If you’re looking for fun ways to encourage language development and social interaction for your toddler, Toddler Time at Mackay Libraries is the way to go. Held during school terms across three Mackay Libraries including Dudley Denny City Library, Gordon White Library, and Mirani Library. Activities during the sessions include nursery rhymes, action songs, finger plays and a story. Alternatively, Mackay Libraries also offers story time sessions aimed at children aged between two-and-a-half to five-years-old.

P 4961 9387 www.mackay.qld.gov.au/libraries

LITTLE NINJAS & SAMURAIS Want your little one to learn something new that is also useful? Little Ninjas and Samurais Mackay offers introductory programs in martial arts to tots aged three and up. Sessions let kids learn basic martial arts moves under professional supervision, in a tension-free environment. This is also a fantastic way for your tot to get some social interaction, and have fun!

P 0423291979 F www.facebook.com/littleninjasandsamurais

READY STEADY GO KIDS Ready Steady Go Kids has made it their goal to teach young children new skills, build their confidence and encourage positive attitudes towards exercise, all in a fun, exciting way. Programs are available for children

from as young as 18 months. They teach children the fundamentals of 10 exciting sports, including tennis, hockey, AFL, soccer, athletics, cricket, golf, rugby, basketball, and T-Ball. The sports are changed every two weeks to keep kids engaged in the program, and the skills learned will assist them in early childhood development.

P 1300 766 892 www.readysteadygokids.com.au

ROBY ROGERS SCHOOL OF DANCE Does your Tiny Tot love to bop and dance? Join the fantastic Little Performers Program at Roby Rogers School of Dancing. This school offers specialised classes designed just for kids to have fun, enjoy music and dance in an exciting and safe environment.

Baby Boppers: 18 Months - 2 years Little Ballerinas: 2.5 - 5 Years Little Stars: 2.5 - 5 Years Mini Movers Tap & Jazz 5: 6 Years Prep Ballet: 5 - 6 Years P 0407 638 020 E info@robyrogers.com.au www.robyrogers.com.au

JELLY BEAN STREET Jelly Bean Street offer fingerpainting workshops for tiny tots, with a twist! The workshops last for one hour and are ‘small group experiences full of fun and colour’.

The sessions are filled with art activities for children of all ages to create something they can be proud of.

There’s an additional twist to this which is a super-cool concept. Once your child has completed their ‘beautiful mess’, Jelly Bean Street’s graphic artist can create a beautiful piece of art that the whole family will love.

And once you’ve taken your piece home, a copy is also published online for purchase from the general public.

Every sale results in 20 per cent of the profit going to your child and 40 per cent going to a charity of your choice. Cool, right?! www.jellybeanstreet.com

www.pakmag.com.au | January & February 2018 41

Adult Education

New Year, New Skills STORY Kalisha Fitsch

January is all about New Year’s resolutions and starting fresh. Sticking to your resolutions isn’t as simple as some people make it seem; quitting chocolate for some just isn’t that realistic! However, not all resolutions need to be about quitting. In 2018, why not have resolutions that’ll make you much happier than quitting chocolate? Make a resolution to learn something new.

Here are some options that may just inspire a new resolution for you:

Hairdressing and Beauty If making other people happy by making them look great, makes you happy, then this is for you. Gain skills that will improve your self-esteem, by learning how to make yourself look your best, and that could also lead to a new career. You could even start your own business from home with these skills.

Responsible Service of Alcohol (RSA)

Learning first aid and CPR is really something that everyone should do. Not only will you learn skills that could make all the difference in somebody’s life in a time of need, for some jobs it is actually a requirement to hold a first aid certificate.

An RSA qualification is an incredibly popular course as it is required in many work environments. Learn how to responsibly serve alcohol, identifying customers to whom service may be refused and much more. A great course if you might be considering a job in the hospitality industry soon, and having this qualification means you’re a multi-skilled employee who is more desirable to employers.

Cooking

Massage Therapy

Perhaps you love food but are bored with your repertoire of recipes (aren’t we all). Cooking classes are an excellent way to expand your family’s menu options.

Be inspired and learn new skills that will help you to create more scrumptious and nutritious meals. Your family’s health starts with you!

Learn skills that will give you the ability to help family and friends out with injuries and chronic pain issues.

Whether for yourself or for a career, this course will have everyone asking you to work your magic.

First Aid and Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR)

Aged Care Working in aged care and assisting with the specific needs of the elderly is incredibly rewarding. Gaining skills for this industry could see you making a significant difference in the lives of these vulnerable members of our community.

There are so many options available so make sure you choose a course that really interests you and is delivered in a way that suits your life situation. Many offer online options so you can study from home too.

So, whether you’re looking to learn for personal growth or are wanting skills to advance your career, take the leap this year and study something new because you just never know where it might take you.

www.pakmag.com.au | January & February 2018 43

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1. Mackenzie - Balnagowan 2. Katelyn - Koumala 3. Payton - Balnagowan 4. Blakeleigh - Balnagowan 5. Lucas - Koumala 6. Harper - Balnagowan 7. Ruby - Lamberts Beach 8. Clare - Koumala

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Photography thanks to: Sweet Fields Photography, 0451 458 839 www.sweetfieldsphotography.com.au

9. Aurorah - Balnagowan 10. Nathan - Koumala 11. Briella - Balnagowan 12. Koa - Balnagowan 13. Brydie - Mirani 14. Piper - Balnagowan

www.pakmag.com.au | January & February 2018 45

WIN!

SIZZLING SUMMER GIVEAWAYS 1

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1. Smiggle Back to School - RRP: $51.85 - www.smiggle.com - Smiggle has a range of colourful essentials that are bound to make heading back to school that bit cooler! Check out just some of the huge range of goodies, gadgets and gizmos released especially for back to school! This fabulous prize is available in purple, light blue, green and black.

2. Pilot Pen Back to School Kit - RRP $65.00 - www.pilotpen.com.au - Get organised for the new school year ahead and pack up your pencil case with the latest range of pens from Pilot Pen! Each pack contains a range of 13 excellent Pilot pens, an eraser, stamp and pencil case. 3. X-Shot Bubble Ball - RRP $49.99 - Available: Kmart, Target, Big W and Toys “R” Us - X-Shot Bubble Ball is the hottest new item that takes contact sports to the extreme! Run, Crash, Roll and Smash with its durable material and easy to inflate system! The Bubble Ball can inflate up to 1.2m and withstand tremendous impacts! Use it in your backyard or in a sports field and get your game on! Blue team against Orange team! Who will be the last one standing? 4. Grit Fluxx - RRP $180.00 - www.gritscooters.com.au - This cool scooter has a strong skeletonised down tube 4” wide and 18” long alloy deck with integrated grind rails, Grit’s flex brake, soft feel grips, super smooth 110mm alloy core wheels and high-quality bearings. Choose from four awesome designs.

46 January & February 2018 | www.pakmag.com.au

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5. The Mermaid With Pink Hair - RRP: $114.98 - www.wallartprints.com.au - Inspire little minds with beautiful art for kids. ‘The Mermaid With Pink Hair’ by talented Australian artist Kylie Box is printed on premium canvas, delivered stretched and ready to hang. 6. Schick Hydro Silk Summer Pack - RRP $40.00 - www.schick.com.au - Go beyond a close shave this summer with Schick Hydro Silk, clinically proven to provide long lasting hydration. Hydro Silk features water-activated Hydra-Renew serum, formulated with Shea Butter, which hydrates after shaving, keeping skin smooth and refreshed. Hydro Silk, has 5 curve sensing blades that provide an incredibly close shave and unique skin guards that help protect skin from irritation. 7. Yumbox MiniSnack - 3 compartment Ami Green - RRP $26.95 - www.biome.com.au - With three compartments and a single leakproof lid, it is suitable for adults and children who pack healthy snacks. The YumBox MiniSnack is 100% BPA free, Phthalates-free, CPSIA and FDA compliant. Biome Eco Stores provides Australia’s largest range of eco-friendly products in-store and online, offering deliveries nation-wide. From natural skincare and green cleaning to safe, reusable water bottles and food pouches, Biome helps Australians live waste free, toxin free and ethically.

www.pakmag.com.au | January & February 2018 47

Celebrate

AUSSIE AUSSIE AUSSIE Our country is known for its stunning nature, captivating wildlife and our own distinct style of celebrating. We celebrate simply with barbecues in the backyard, swimming in the pool and having an all-around great time with friends and family. So, next time you have an Aussie-style celebration, impress your guests with these simple entertaining tips: Pretty patterns. For a playful summery outfit, adorn yourself in an adorable papaya coloured jumpsuit covered head-to-toe in patterns of palm leaves and berries. Incorporate this theme into your BBQ decorations by laying out some patterned decorative pillows for your guests.

Tabletop décor. Reuse empty Australian beer bottles and sandwich spread containers as a vase for native flora. Not only is this economical but it gives a distinctly Australian feel to your setting, too. For something a little more modern but just as easy, grab some bright flowers from the yard and attach them to the outside of wine glasses with cute little pegs. This will ensure everyone knows which glass is theirs throughout the celebration. Just be sure not to use poisonous plants.

Savoury flag. If you have plans of serving up a classic pie, then make it a rectangular one. Make some small cuts in the pastry to form the stars of the Australian flag. After baking, finish your creation by drawing on the Union Jack with tomato sauce. This takes minimal effort and will have everyone saying, “Wow!” Layered lamingtons and Pavlova topped cupcakes. If you’re looking to make your snacks a little more interesting, with a little more effort, you’ll be sure to impress your guests. Instead of serving regular lamington squares, create lamington cupcakes.

You can even top them with a little cream and jam if you’re feeling extra fancy. Pavlova is an Aussie BBQ staple. While you’re whipping it up, why not whip up a little extra meringue to top some delicious vanilla cupcakes, add passionfruit pulp and seasonal sliced fruits, and voila! These creations are available to buy at Cakes Annietime, so next time you’re in Cairns stop in and try out her delicious range.

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1. Nala Jumpsuit in Papaya - RRP $189.00 - www.gypsett.com.au 2. Australian Flag Pie 3. Pavlova and stacked lamington cupcakes RRP $5.50ea - www.cakesannietime.com.au 4. Zakkia Dot Vase Terracotta - RRP $31.00 - www.korufurnitureandhomewares.com.au 5. Australian classics used as vases 6. Australian flora on glasses www.lenzo.com.au 7. Kelly Koala Dingaring - RRP $20.00 www.ellej.com.au 8. Bonnie & Neil Cushion Daisy Multi - RRP $149.00 / Bonnie & Neil Cushion Heiloom - RRP $158.50 www.korufurnitureandhomewares.com.au 9. Weber Summit E470 Premium LP. Premium Gas Stainless Steel Barbecue. Large 4 Burner BBQ with Side Burner, Sear Station, Rotisserie with Infrared Burner.

Exclusive in Cairns to Turners Home Appliances - RRP $4299.00 www.turnershomeappliances.com.au

DADDY Daddy Diary DIARY What’s a New Year’s resolution between friends? At this time of the year, heaps of people around Mackay and the Whitsundays will be trying to work out what they want to change about themselves this year.

If you think about it though, how many different resolutions have you come up with over the years and how many have you actually fulfilled? Would it be so many that you could fit them all on a postage stamp or even only a small notepad?

Well, now is the time again to think about what you really want. Would you like a few ideas to help you?

Here are a few of my New Year’s resolution suggestions for you.

Why not get a gym membership? You may have one already, but I’ll bet you haven’t had one like this before.

You sign up, fill out all the paperwork, get the gym gear, water bottle and sweatbands and then pop in just to use their café. Honestly, this is one of the best ways to enjoy being a gym member. You get to look at the equipment but not actually use it at all. No breaking out in a sweat or getting hurt. Plus, you get to drink as many coffees as you can while enjoying a chat.

With Star 101.9’s Rob Kidd

Make a resolution to get your kids to do more around the home. Cleaning, sorting, washing and generally picking up after themselves is one of the best resolutions, I reckon, that any parent would love to see fulfilled.

Change things up for 2018 by making a resolution to do more things in the great outdoors. Imagine playing more with the kids in the backyard or even taking them down to Town Beach for a BBQ and a run on the sand too.

That’s surely got to be a great thing.

What about making a New Year’s resolution to create a dinner roster? Work out who’s going to cook dinner each night. Cooking is one of those things that can either make or break a family around 6.00pm each night. Get together with your partner and even put the kids into the equation and work out who will do what to create the feasts that the family will eat. This preplanning about who does the cooking, who makes the gravy (a Paul Kelly reference) and who washes up can all help make a great 2018.

Remember, get the kids involved in all that you do to make your New Year fantastic. They’ll love you for it and before you know it, they’ll be back at school, and you’ll all have forgotten everything you planned to do.

Happy January!

Rob Kidd Star 101.9 Mackay and the Whitsundays

50 January & February 2018 | www.pakmag.com.au