PakMag Mackay & Whitsundays - Jan & Feb 2021 - Issue 81 by Grand Publishing

ISSUE: JAN & FEB 2021

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School Holiday Guide • Back to School • Extracurricular Activity Guide Huge Prizes • Harmful Vs Nurturing Communication • Kids Activities

Welcome Hello and welcome to a brand-new year, and a brand-new edition of PakMag.

The Thing Is with

Bree James

Playing Small -

Stop Shrinking Yourself to Fit

Places You’ve Outgrown

STEAM Activities

Harmful vs Nurturing

Usually, this time of year we are off visiting family or holidaying somewhere. This year, like many NQ families we’ve decided to stay put and enjoy all the beauty of our region. I’m looking forward to the sound of rain, relaxing in our beautiful swimming holes, wearing my PJ’s all day and taking each day as it comes.

Communication 15 The PakMag Experts 16 All Things Health

We’ve found lots of great programs and ideas to keep the family occupied for the summer break, and you’ll also find lots of great after school activities to enrol in too.

19 The PakMag Experts 21 Tricky Toilet Training 22 Bump, Bub and Beyond 24 Parent’s Colouring In 25 Mini Mag 28 Back to School Giveaway 31 Back to School: Starting the

We’ve survived 2020 and the festive season with our family, now I hope you have a bit of RnR planned and some time to focus on yourself to recharge those batteries.

Year on the Right Foot

35 Extracurricular Activity Guide 39 The Power of a First Impression

I truly hope you have an amazing start to the New Year. I wish you and yours; health, joy, abundance and contentment in all areas of your life. Until next time, happy reading and don’t forget to tell everyone, you read it in PakMag.

Bree Bree James PakMag Founder and Editor-in-Chief Contact Us: p 4053 3331 e admin@m2f.com.au a PO Box 7433 Cairns Qld 4870 www.pakmag.com.au www.m2f.com.au

43 School Holiday Guide 47 Daddy Diary 48 Get Out and About

PakMag Founder and Editor-in-Chief Bree James

Creative Team Leader Clare Winter Graphic Designer Sara Williams

Digital Team Leader Lawrence Fox Content & Marketing Team Leader Bec Dent Marketing and Events Coordinator Alyssa Marino

Videographer & Podcast Producer Monique Saggers

Design & Client Support Blair King

Content Creators Annamarie Booysen Jenna Galley

Marketing Assistant Emily Bremner

Accounts Trent Stievano

Our North Queensland Channels PakMag Mackay Parents of North Queensland pakmag_nq Parents and Kids of North Queensland Our Global Parenting Channels PakMag Online pakmag_online PakMag The Give It A Go Group For Parents The PakMag Parents Podcast PakMag TV

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 ideas expressed within PakMag are not necessarily the views of the publishers, but those of individual writers. We have done our best to ensure all events and information was correct at the time of going to print. Please check with individual businesses and authorities during these uncertain times. We encourage recycling. Please keep this issue for future reference, pass onto your friends and family, use for craft projects or place into the recycling bin.

families www.pakmag.com.au | January / February 2021 3

The Thing Is

The Thing Is with Bree James A new year filled with fresh beginnings. Usually I love to plan out my year, set my goals and standards I am going to live by, and have absolute clarity about what the ‘plans’ are for the year. As I write this, it’s at the tail end of a messy 2020. ‘Current Bree’ thinks ‘future Bree’ is silly to waste time planning for 2021 after all her grand plans changed rapidly in 2020. The thing is, life the past twelve months was all about surviving. One thing I know for sure - is that change is inevitable, except from a vending machine. Goals, plans, trips, dreams, and celebrations went completely out the window, and life was literally living in the moment. Special occasions were very hard to make and stick to, and every celebration was cherished even if it looked different to what you had planned - many done via a screen to include those that couldn’t be with you. I am not sure about you, but I regretted a lot of plans I made whilst I was in a five-minute extroverted mood. It took a lot of positive self-talk of; “you should go, get dressed up and talk to people - you haven’t been social in months!” to get me out the door. Having plans sounds like a great idea until you have to put on clothes and leave your house. I think many of us got used to being at home a lot more, and enjoyed it way more than we thought we would. So, with that said, I have decided that 2021 is the year ‘of space.’ I’m giving myself room for my plans to change, for time to chill out and to see what happens. In the words of John Lennon – ‘life is what happens when you are busy making other plans.’ One thing 2020 taught me is that we can’t take life too

seriously, we don’t know how much time we have and things can change in an instant. So, it’s time to go with the flow and lose the ‘control-freak’ a little, okay - a lot. As they say; ‘the only constant - is change,’ so 2021… I have no expectations of you. I will still set my goals, but I will release my expectations, and as a result the pressure we so often put on ourselves. The extra covid-kilos I have accumulated, the nonexistent travel plans and concerns about money… I am just going to go all ‘Elsa’ and let it go. What will be, will be. Sure, I hope that the health, wealth and adventure in my life and those I love, is abundant but often, when chasing these goals, we put more pressure on ourselves and don’t enjoy the process of getting there. This year is about being a little gentler on myself and enjoying the journey - laughing, loving, living more and spending time with those I adore. 2021, I don’t know what you have in store- but please be kind… to us all. Take the time to really consider what you are grateful for and what you want your 2021 to look like. And, as you set those goals, don’t forget to allow for ‘room to move’ and kindness for yourself, as we navigate this new year together with hope.

Bree www.breejames.com www.myvisionbook.com.au

www.pakmag.com.au | January / February 2021 5

Feature

Playing Small Stop Shrinking Yourself to Fit Places You’ve Outgrown WITH Dr Gail Saltz

What would you do if you knew you could not fail? Fear of failure holds us back from doing what we truly love and what we are capable of - because it matters more if we fail at our passions or our purpose - than something you’re doing for duty or as the safe or comfortable alternative. If you don’t really care about what you are doing, it doesn’t matter if you fail at it. But then, we get caught in a pattern of living a watered-down version of our lives, not rising to our potential, but rather playing small going through the motions - more as a passenger than a pilot. Once you’re in that pattern it can be hard to break. But the good news is – you can. You have the power to rewrite your story and eliminate the messages you keep telling yourself that keep holding you back.

a tape of what your telling yourself that’s driving a lot of your behaviour, like self-defeating stories, or your need to be a super-achiever, the competitor, a person that is dependant or passive. All your stories have a theme. For example; why you keep picking the same person - either as a friend or in a romantic capacity. These relationships tend to follow the same path, leading to the same outcome. If you were able to be introspective about what was going on in your mind during that process, you would find a story that says: ‘I have to go for that person, because that’s the best I can do’ or ‘I have to go for that person, because they’re here now and I have to have someone, because it’s too scary to be on my own.’ How can we break those patterns and take control of our life and our course?

But how? Dr Gail Saltz - acclaimed Psychiatrist, Psychoanalyst and best-selling Author, joins us to help.

“The first and the hardest part is awareness and the ability for self-observation. And, a willingness to investigate internally and self-analyse - even when it’s painful.”

Firstly, why do people play small?

How do you do that?

“There’s a comfort in repeating what you know. It’s scary for most people to break out of a pattern and do something differently, seeing the uncertainty of what the outcome will be.”

“Pick something that’s not working for you. What are the repetitive thoughts you have around that issue? Once you’re aware of that, question the thoughts. What does it mean? Where did I get that Idea? Allow yourself the space and the time to conduct a ‘mental investigation’, to uncover the origins of that story. Does it really still fit for you? Are the things you’ve based that story on accurate or current? Are you that same person, or a different person? As you question, you move toward re-writing that story.

In your best-selling book - Becoming Real: Defeating the Stories We Tell Ourselves That Hold Us Back, what are those stories? “They range from person to person, between biological givens combined with our environment and life experiences that evolve our personality, our way of thinking and relating to others. Think of the ‘stories’ as

6 January / February 2021 | www.pakmag.com.au

It is possible to do this work on your own, but sometimes we need an objective outer party - like a

Feature

psychotherapist to help bounce things off in order to get a clearer perspective on the thoughts and feelings we tell ourselves, because we are too close to them. This psychodynamic work is the process of taking unconscious material and making it conscious for yourself; questioning it, analysing it, looking at the roots of it, then reforming it. The knowledge of what’s going on in your unconscious mind - is the power to undo it, because your unconscious thoughts and feelings drive behaviour. Once you’re aware of those thoughts and feelings – you can change them, and your story.

Knowing who you are and how you want to live your life is also key to taking back control. In your book you discuss the five qualities of becoming ‘real’: Authenticity, Personal Freedom, True Strength, Self-Acceptance and Intimacy. What are those qualities and how can we develop them? “Authenticity is really knowing who you are, how you really got there and being at peace with that. It’s understanding devoid of self-blame. To build real relationships, real trust and achieve true intimacy you need to be able to be vulnerable. It’s being seen and accepted for who you really are, and seeing and accepting others the same way. If you’re a secret from yourself, you can’t be an open book to someone else. Personal freedom: behaviours are driven from unconscious thought and unconscious intense emotions. When we make that unconscious material conscious – it frees you from being forced into repetitive behaviours.

When you know your stories, you have the opportunity to defeat them and feel free to make your decisions, life choices and behaviours - based on all the information. True Strength: I think true strength is having the courage to really know yourself. ‘It takes great courage to see the world in all its tainted glory, and still to love it. And even more courage to see it in the one you love’ - Oscar Wilde The same theory applies to yourself. Self-Acceptance is knowing all of the things about yourself (some of them may be not so great), and being willing to work on them - but accepting that they’re there. One of the biggest defence mechanisms that people run up against is denial; ‘knowing this about myself makes me very anxious, so I’m just not going to know.’ Seeing it, accepting it, working on it -that’s self-acceptance. Intimacy - with yourself as well as with others. Remember it’s a two-way street. Be willing to accept others and love them as they are. If you find yourself being judgemental of other people- you’re probably judgemental of yourself. If you can’t be selfcompassionate, chances are it’s hard to do the same for other people.” The new year presents fresh opportunities. We’d love for you to be truly, vibrantly, unashamedly you in 2021, and feel empowered to be the pilot in your life, knowing you have the ability to change your story and live your best, most authentic life. If we have learned anything in 2020, it is to not take a day of our lives for granted. Be brave for yourself, in the words of Nelson Mandela; “I learned that courage was not the absence of fear, but the triumph over it. The brave man is not he who does not feel afraid, but he who conquers that fear.” We hope you can step away from the shackles of whatever you are telling yourself that is holding you back and do what you would do if you knew you were not going to fail.

Dr. Gail Saltz is a Clinical Associate Professor of Psychiatry with The New York Presbyterian Hospital and psychoanalyst at The New York Psychoanalytic Institute. She is a bestselling author of numerous books including her most recent, "The Power of Different: The Link Between Disorder and Genius," serves as a Medical Expert for the Physicians for Human Rights, and is host of the “Personology” podcast from iHeart Radio. www.drgailsaltz.com

If you’d like to listen to our full conversation with Dr Gail Saltz, head to www.pakmag.com.au and tune into Episode 86 of the Pakmag Parenting Podcast.

www.pakmag.com.au | January / February 2021 7

STEAM

Fun Activities to Get the Kids STEAM Ready for School

www.raisinglifelonglearners.com

www.desertchica.com

Design a Paper Plate Maze

Solar Oven Smores

What You Need

Marbles Large paper plates Straws (alternatively you can use rolled up craft paper or a similar item). Hot glue gun and glue sticks Scissors

Empty and clean pizza box (or cardboard box in a similar size that has a lid) Aluminium foil Black paper Hot glue gun and glue stick

Cling wrap Scissors Stick or skewer Craft knife Tape Smore ingredients

Method Cut up straws into different sized pieces. You may need to use a pencil to sketch out the maze on the paper plate beforehand, to use as a guide and to make sure the maze will work. Glue the pieces of straw down to create the walls of the maze, making sure to leave roughly a 1.5cm space between the walls for the marble to roll through easily. There will need to be one or multiple maze entrances and exits so the marble can enter at one point and exit at another, as well as different paths and corners. Once the glue is dry take a marble and place it at a maze entrance. Now it’s up to you to help the marble roll out! Gently tilt and turn the paper plate to get the marble rolling in the direction you choose.

www.desertchica.com

Method Use a craft knife to cut out three sides of a square from the box lid, leaving the top of the square connected to the box so it lifts up like a flap. Tape a sheet of aluminium foil over this flap (see pictures). Then glue a black sheet of paper inside the box, on the bottom, completely covering it. Place your smores inside and use a sheet of cling wrap to cover the box and smores (see pictures). Use a length of cardboard or a skewer (a stick from the garden will also work!) to hold the flap open, taping it in place. Put the oven in the sun and watch the smores slowly cook through solar power! When the marshmallow is puffed up and your chocolate has melted – they’re ready to eat.

www.raisinglifelonglearners.com

8 January Month 2021 / February | www.pakmag.com.au 2021 | www.pakmag.com.au

Tip: Decorate your solar oven with felt tip pens.

WIN the Math Wizard and the Magical Workshop Game or the Math Wizard and the Secrets of the Dragons - Worth $99.99 Each! Maths can be stressful enough as it is, especially in the foundational years of a child’s schooling. Osmo’s new Math Wizard series aims to quell the anxiety around maths to prevent delayed learning and understanding of the subject, by allowing kids aged 6-8 to learn at their own pace - experiencing maths through fun, hands-on, narrative- and adventure-driven games, where kids actually learn maths by touching, manipulating, and experimenting how it is used everyday. The self-paced nature of the Osmo Math Wizard series allows kids to build confidence and understanding in what they are learning, a confidence that they can take to the classroom, homework or maths test. The Math Wizard series acts as your kids’ personal maths tutor, but more affordable and available anytime. www.jbhifi.com.au For your chance to win visit www.pakmag.com.au/win Competition closes 31/01/2021

Life, Love and Parenting

Your Relationship with Your Children: Harmful vs Nurturing Communication STORY Julia Nowland Sticks and stones may break their bones, but the words you use will shape them. Your words become the inner dialogue that your children will use to describe themselves and their world. Are you a champion, compassionate, critical, harsh, or apathetic? All these styles of communication will colour the relationship you form with your child and ultimately the relationship they have with themselves. The quality of the relationship you have with your child will help shape them in many ways throughout their life. From the way they see themselves, engage in school, solve problems, and their ability to form friendships and romantic relationships in years to come While most people focus on the behaviour of children, it’s important to understand that even if you use the ‘best behavioural modification’ skills in the world, unless you have a strong, warm and clear relationship with your child, your behavioural skills training is only going to get you so far. In a study that was conducted by relationship expert Dr John Gottman, he discovered that children thrived socially and emotionally best when they had parents who responded to them positively. Gottman realised there are four parenting types:

The Dismissing Parent disengages from the relationship with the child, often feeling uncertain about how to handle ‘negative emotions’ and fears feeling out of control. These parents’ resort to using

distraction techniques and hope that the passing of time will ‘cure’ the issue. Example: When a child is upset and crying because they can’t get what they want. The parent roles their eyes, and says “don’t be ridiculous, go play with your brother.” Effects: Children learn that there is something wrong with them, cannot regulate their emotions, interpret that what they are feeling is not appropriate, not right, and ridiculous.

The Disapproving Parent is like the dismissing parent but harsher. They can be negative, critical, and overly concerned with discipline. Example: When a child is upset and crying because they can’t get what they want. The parent becomes angry and says “You’re just being manipulative. Stop crying!” Effects: Similar to the dismissing parenting techniques, children learn that there is something wrong with them, cannot regulate their emotions and fear upsetting others.

The Laissez-Faire Parent is often permissive of behaviour they don’t set limits on, or gives in to certain behaviour in order to ‘keep the peace.’ They offer little to no guidance about problem solving or understanding emotions. Example: When a child is upset because they can’t get what they want. The parent gives in and gives the child what they want to keep the peace.

www.pakmag.com.au | January / February 2021 11

Life, Love and Parenting

Effects: Kids can’t concentrate, can’t get along with other others or form friendships and can’t regulate their emotions in a healthy way.

The Emotion Coaching Parent

This is a critical step in deescalating the situation. It’s important to take your child’s emotions seriously by showing them you understand what they’re feeling and that it’s okay for them to feel that way. Avoid criticising, judging, and dismissing the emotions.

The fourth category of parent was created from a culmination of positive parenting interactions that Gottman observed. He looked where the parents were able to respond to their child in ways that helped the child calm their emotions and problem solve together. They were clear, warm, and created boundaries or rules which were fair. This parenting style Gottman called ‘Emotion Coaches’. The important element for this style of parenting has to do with how the parent relates to their child. The words they use, their body language and most importantly, an understanding of their own emotional state. There are five steps that you can follow to ensure that you are an emotion coaching parent:

The Five Essential Steps of Emotion Coaching Step 1 – Get familiar with your own emotions and pay attention to the child’s emotions. Understand that emotions are a natural, normal, and valuable part of life. It’s important to be familiar with all our emotions; from hurt, sadness, anger, fear, joy, happiness and love. The best way to start to understand your child’s emotions is to be familiar with your own. Then, observe your child and watch how they express their emotions. Knowing that they don’t have the knowledge of what they’re feeling like adults do. So, their feeling ‘powerless’ might come out as aggression for example. First start with their facial expressions, body language, posture and tone of voice.

Step 4 – Help your child become familiar with emotions by naming them. It’s easy to tell your child what they should be feeling or what you want them to be feeling; “don’t be sad”, “oh, I don’t like it when you’re sad - be happy for me.” Instead, identify the emotions the child is experiencing by simply naming the emotion you’re helping the child to soothe. It also helps your child build a vocabulary of different feelings. Step 5 - Help your child solve a problem by finding a solution together.

Step 2 - Connect with your child by using emotional moments as opportunities to connect.

It’s important to help children recognise that their feelings are separate from their behaviour. You can encourage expression of emotion, but put limits on behaviour. Start to help your child think through possible solutions, however, be mindful not to expect too much from them, too soon. Catch the child doing lots of things right and praise them for it. There should be five positive interactions for every negative.

Once you start to pay close attention to your child’s emotions, there will come a time where you can either avoid or dismiss them, or, you can see them as an opportunity to connect and use these moments as opportunities to teach.

Being an emotion coach means that you are sensitive to your child’s emotions. You’re responsive - in a caring and compassionate way, that allows your child to understand their emotional world and learn to regulate their feelings and find solutions to problems.

Recognise the emotion and encourage your child to talk about their emotions too, and give guidance before the emotions escalate and turn into misbehaviour.

However, we are human as well and with that comes our own stresses and mistakes. It’s important to remember that the ideal is to be a ‘good enough’ parent. That is a parent who is able to emotionally attune to your child 30-50% of the time.

Step 3 – Listen to your child and respect their feelings by taking time to listen carefully.

Julia Nowland is the founder of Whole Heart Relationships. She specialises in helping parents of young children prioritise their relationship and strengthen their love. www.wholeheartrelationships.com

If you’d like to hear more on this topic with julia, head to www.pakmag.com.au and tune into Episode 84 of the Pakmag Parenting Podcast.

12 January / February 2021 | www.pakmag.com.au

Expert Advice

The PakMag Experts Katrina Peters

Adam Patuwairua

Statewide Family Law

Harvey Norman Computers Mackay

Dear Katrina,

Dear Adam,

What are three important things I should do before leaving my marriage?

How can I be safe on the internet?

Deciding to separate is a hardenough decision in itself, but it also comes with having to make significant life changing decisions which you probably never thought you would have to face. So, what sorts of things should you think about and organise before you leave? Firstly, make sure that you have all of your legal, financial and personal documents together. This will include documents such as your birth certificate, passport, bank statements and tax documents. In addition, it will include personal documents such as photographs, awards and the like. If the separation turns acrimonious, it can be extremely difficult and expensive to get these documents back from your former partner. Secondly, talk with your banker about steps that can be taken in relation to joint bank accounts. Things such as limiting the other party’s access to the joint account or asking the bank to freeze the account for both account holders are two options available. You should then establish your own bank account into which your own money goes into. This will also tie into having a conversation about who is then going to be paying the bills. Thirdly, consider what parenting arrangements will need to be put in place. If an agreement can be reached then we recommend that parties enter into a Parenting Plan or ideally have a Consent Order approved by the Court. If no agreement can be reached, then mediation should be arranged with a family dispute resolution practitioner as soon as possible. At Statewide Family Law we can assist clients to navigate their way through one of the most stressful times of their lives and provide advice specific to them and their circumstances. Give us a call on 4963 0800. a 34 Wood St, Mackay www.swc.net.au

Banking, booking appointments, and ordering food and products are steadily becoming easier thanks to the internet. In fact, it’s common for people to have their details saved into their device so they can easily order online from the same sites. This isn’t just limited to information like your address – you can even pre-save your bank card details into websites. But, as our lives are becoming easier (thanks to what the internet allows us to do), it also poses a lot of risks. It puts information out into the world that is easily accessible to those who know how to get it. Children and people who aren’t familiar with the internet are even more at risk. They can easily fall into traps, scams and harmful activities online. Everyone should have some form of security on their devices. Fortunately, there are many ways to keep your family safe from harm online. Internet Service Providers (ISPs) will often provide parental-control options so you can control your kids’ access to adult material online. In addition, antivirus software is perfect for all devices, no matter who uses them. They are a great tool for detecting, preventing and disarming malicious software, as well as blocking access to unsecure sites. Another option is a VPN, which secures your public internet connection. VPNs are great for shielding your online activity from online criminals and even your own ISP, making it very difficult for others to gather information about what you do online and track your activity. At Harvey Norman we can provide expert advice on how to be as safe as possible online and help you determine what the best safety methods are for you and your family. Visit our friendly team in store for more information. a Cnr Heaths Rd and Bruce Highway, Mackay www.harveynorman.com.au

www.pakmag.com.au || January January/February www.pakmag.com.au / February2020 2021 15

Health

All Things Health The Importance of a Good Night’s Sleep A good night’s sleep is something that many of us don’t realise the importance of. In fact, it’s just as important as eating well and getting enough exercise. It allows our body and brain to rest, repair and reset. When we get enough sleep, it can improve our concentration and productivity. In addition, our energy levels are usually higher when we get a good night’s sleep, and sleep is even shown to improve immune function. However, poor sleep is linked to depression, weight gain, higher risk of heart disease and much more.

Interesting Facts about Sun Protection You need sun protection even if it’s not sunny outside. Ultraviolet Radiation is always there during the day, which is what causes skin cancer.

Humans cannot survive if we don’t sleep because our brains are a muscle that work very hard every day. They need to rest in order to be able to work just as hard the next day. That’s why people who don’t get enough sleep can be grumpy, have trouble focusing, and likely won’t perform as well as usual - whether it be at work, school, sports etc. Good sleep hygiene habits can help you fall asleep faster and have better quality of sleep. To learn more about good sleep hygiene and how you can practice it, read our blog at www.pakmag.com.au You should use sunscreens that are ‘Broad-spectrum’ as they can protect you from both UVA (Ultraviolet A) and UVB (Ultraviolet B) radiation. Most sunscreens work by reflecting, absorbing or scattering light. Chemicals within them interact with the skin to help protect it from UV rays. Exposure to UV radiation during your first 15 years of life greatly increases the risk of developing skin cancer later on.

16 January / February 2021 | www.pakmag.com.au Consult your local health practitioner, doctor or pharmacist for advice on these topics first to ensure the best health outcomes.

Expert Advice

The PakMag Experts Dr Graeme Cumming

Marie Wilcox

Mackay Skin Clinic and Shakespeare Medical Centre

Pioneer Medical Centre, Registered Nurse

What’s the importance of using great skincare?

New Year Reflection

We often forget that our skin is the largest organ in our bodies and provides many valuable functions; it’s a waterproof barrier – preventing pathogens from entering the body and protecting vital systems, it regulates body temperature, shields us from UV radiation and warns us of pain. Being so important, you can see why taking care of it matters to support your overall wellbeing. As one of our first lines of defence and the first thing people see – investing in great skincare enables it to perform at its peak. At Mackay Skin Clinic, we focus on working with the skin, giving it the elements it needs, rather than breaking it down. Which can happen when harsher, more acidic products are used. We believe in a gentle solution for better skin. Which is why we use Dr Spiller products. Dr Spiller Biomimetic, takes ‘natural skincare’ to another level of gentleness, effectiveness and results. It’s formulated in a way that imitates the conditions found on your healthy skin. What’s the difference between water-based and oilbased products? As the name suggests, the base (or main ingredient) of these skincare products is either oil or water. In general, water-based products suit almost any skin type (normal, combination, dry), whereas oil-based products are best for dry skin. Dr Spiller skincare is both! After noticing that water-based skincare creams evaporated too quickly and even though the skin is waterproof - it still needs to retain moisture, Dr Spiller spent ten years discovering how to encase the water molecule in oil – so the skin can receive better, longer lasting protection, without being heavy on the skin. Always remember your skin is as unique as you are, so it’s important to see a specialist who will help you find what works best for you. p 4953 3122 www.mackayskinclinic.com.au

With 2020 behind us we are looking forward to this year and moving on with our lives. Whether that means a new career, children returning to or starting school, or just focusing on our New Year’s resolutions, it’s a good opportunity to both reflect and plan ahead. So, take a few minutes, make a coffee and think about what you would like out of 2021. Would you like to improve your general health? Or just have more energy every day? Have a chat with your GP. They can help you set goals and put you in touch with allied health services; such as dietitians, exercise physiologists and physiotherapists. If you have a chronic health condition then our friendly Care Plan Nurse and GPs would be happy to assist you with a Care Plan to help you treat and manage your condition. This can be done yearly, with 3-6 monthly reviews to make sure that you’re receiving the help you need to live your best life. Are you needing help with your mental health? 2020 was a very stressful year for all of us and it might be beneficial to look into counselling or other support services. Book an appointment with your GP to see what the best course of action is for you. If you are in need of help now, contact the Lifeline Crisis Support hotline on 13 11 14 - it is open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. If you’re thinking of taking that delayed trip overseas then make sure your travel vaccinations are up to date. If you’re unsure then you can phone our friendly nurses who would be happy to help guide you. a 19 Palmer St, North Mackay www.pioneermedicalcentre.com.au

www.pakmag.com.au || January January/February www.pakmag.com.au / February2020 2021 19

Bump, Bub and Beyond

Tricky Toilet Training Toilet training can be a tricky thing. When do you start? Do you start with a potty or go straight to a normalsized toilet? When can they start wearing undies? There is no right or wrong way to potty train your child and there are various ways to go about it.

Signs They are Ready One thing to remember is that not all kids are ready at the same age, but there are a few signs that indicate they are ready to start toilet training. Makes the connection – Once they make the connection between the urge to pee or poo and using the potty. Pulls down their pants – If they can pull down their pants on their own, this is another good indication. Shows an interest in toilet training – They may start to make comments about wanting to use the toilet or wanting to wear underpants.

Time to Start Toilet training isn’t an overnight task (if only it was). It generally takes between three to six months, but every child is different, and some may take less time or more time. First, be prepared with either a potty or a step for your toilet and smaller seat that fits securely inside the existing toilet seat (some children feel uneasy about

falling in). Also, have on hand plenty of clean underpants (or pull-ups). Sit your child on the potty or toilet when they get up in the morning, straight after a meal or snack and after their afternoon nap. If your child is showing cues of needing to go potty, such as crossing their legs or squatting, take them to the toilet too. You may notice a regular pattern of when they need to “go”. Timing is key! During the toilet training process, avoid clothing that is hard for your child to take off, such as overalls or rompers. Make sure all caregivers, such as grandparents, babysitters or childcare staff know that you’re in the process of toilet training, so they can use the same approaches to avoid confusing the child. When it comes to bedwetting, remember that it is a normal part of childhood and will take longer for your child to get under control. It’s important to stay positive and patient throughout the process. Reading books together about toilet training and providing small rewards such as stickers can help the process along. Praise any achievements, no matter how small, and ignore behaviour you don’t want. When accidents happen (and they probably will), don’t make a big deal out of them. It’s normal for toilet training to regress a little, and your child will be back on track before you know it. If things get a little too stressful, it’s okay to take a break from toilet training.

www.pakmag.com.au | January / February 2021 21

Bump, Bub and Beyond

Bump, Bub and Beyond Featured products, reviews and prizes. Visit www.pakmag.com.au/win for your chance to win!

A Little Love Neon Heart Sign

Tipper Toy Mat

$169.00 - www.customneon.com.au

The Tipper Toy Mat lays flat to put all your toys on. When it's clean up time you pick it up from the corners, hold it like a sack over the toy box and open the bottom flap for all the toys to fall out quickly and easily. All machine washable and easy maintenance. The perfect solution for play and pack away time.

This gorgeous LED neon light is small enough to sit on a table, in the corner of the room, or be used as wall decor. Available in a range of gorgeous colours it will compliment your little one's room perfectly. Used with the dimmer, you can set the ideal ambience. Low light for those nighttime feeds and a little brighter for bedtime stories. They also make a perfect photo shoot addition!

$40.00 - www.mummaslittlehelpers.com.au

Hinkler Baby Prize Pack $130.00 - www.hinkler.com.au Celebrate your new baby or growing toddler with this exciting prize pack of books and learning kits from Hinkler. My Baby Record Book lets you cherish every baby keepsake. As they grow, share the fun and learning with the My Little Library set of books, bright Alphabet, Bedtime and Numbers books and special Toilet Training books to help every parent along the way!

22 January / February 2021 | www.pakmag.com.au

Bump, Bub and Beyond

Positive Goodbyes STORY Director of Operations Nicole Hanlon, Childs World Early Learning Centres The first day at childcare or kindergarten is quite a milestone, both for your child and yourself. The transition from home to an early learning environment is a big one, and many parents worry whether their little one is ready or if they will like the new environment. The first day usually brings some mixed emotions; there’s excitement and uncertainty about the new experience, and there are often some tears involved (sometimes from the parents, too). Here are some ways to make the first day easier on both your child and yourself. Visit the centre. For your own peace of mind, visit the centre and talk with the staff to gain as much information as possible. Come ready with a list of questions you’d like to ask. Orientation visits are great to allow your child to get used to the environment. Take them shopping. Prior to their first day, take your child shopping to pick out the items needed,

Toilet Training Tips Toilet training is a different story for each child, but most will start around two years of age. You can (hopefully) make the process a bit easier by establishing a routine such as putting them on the toilet every half hour, offering them a little treat or gift when they do it right or helping them feel comfortable going potty.

such as a bag, hat and lunch box, if applicable. Establish a routine. Routines are so important for young children and will make the transition process much easier. When the big day comes… it’s easier said than done, but don’t worry. Inform your child of what’s going to happen, leave them with a comforting object if needed, give them a kiss goodbye and let them know you’ll be back later to pick them up. If they cry, they will be comforted by the staff and be playing happily in no-time. Remember to bring some tissues in case you cry yourself!

Toilet Training Fact More than 80 percent of children experience setbacks when it comes to toilet training, so don’t worry if it takes time. It typically takes three to 12 months from the start of training to daytime toilet independence, and most children are capable of independent toileting by the ages of two and a half and four.

Sometimes, a brightly-coloured potty, a themed seat on top of the toilet or a good bribe does the trick. Keep at it, and they’ll get there – remember that accidents will happen, and it’s all normal.

www.pakmag.com.au | January / February 2021 23

Relax and Unwind: Adult Colouring

WIN a Wrinkles Schminkles Prize Pack worth $50.00! Revealing the latest innovation from Wrinkles Schminkles; Wrinkles Schminkles Liquid Exfoliation Peel Pads. Single use exfoliating pads that literally wipe away dull, dead skin cells and reveal beautiful glowing skin in two new formulas designed specifically for the Neck and Decolletage and Face. Peel and reveal! www.wrinklesschminkles.com.au Visit www.pakmag.com.au/win for your chance to win! Competition closes 31/01/2021

24 January / February 2021 | www.pakmag.com.au

IN CINEMAS NEW YEARâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S DAY Pull-out kids activity mag!

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WIN a Fun Craft Pack by Hinkler worth $85.00! This fun pack of activities will have little hands busy and wildly creating thanks to Hinkler! Prize pack includes; Make It Your Own kits, Inkredibles Art Packs with Magical Colouring Pens, Paint by Numbers Kit and SunCatcher Kit. Happy crafting! www.hinkler.com.au Visit www.pakmag.com.au/win for your chance to win! Competition closes 31/01/2021

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1. Wrap’d - $21.95 each ($43.90 for the pack of 2) - www.biome.com.au Wrap, store and serve lunch wraps in this handy, reusable, peel-to-open silicone pouch. Peel down each side like a banana, little by little, to keep the wrap together as you eat. Shop waste free, toxin free and ethically at Biome Eco Stores. 2. Big Bundle by Doodle Dents™ Australia - $52.00 www.doodledentsaustralia.com.au - Doodle Dents™ is a brand new colouring activity, with a difference. Standard colouring books have their pictures in black lines, however, these designs are indented in the page. Grab your textas or gel pens and fill in the Dents. 3. Leap into Literacy - $99.00 www.leapintoliteracy.com - Ignite a love of lifelong learning through fun. Leap into Literacy is a PhD designed program that helps children become engaged in reading and writing. Their goal is to instil a lifelong love of reading and writing for all students. 4. Ginnie & Pinney ‘Learn and Grow’ Book Set - $18.99 each ($57.96 altogether) - www.ginnieandpinney.com.au - Ginnie & Pinney ‘Learn and Grow’ is an award-winning series of books and animated videos promoting emotional development and well-being. With their delightful characters, engaging stories and whimsical approach the eight book set encourages ethical thinking, empathy and emotional intelligence in young children. The Learn & Grow set includes ‘Flight of the Kite’, ‘Pinney the Winner’ and ‘Roll Up, Roll Up, Clean Up’.

5. Postix Sticker Club - $50.00 - www.postix.club - Stickers can be loved by all ages and Postix have packs designed for kids, young adults and busy professional ladies. Join our sticker club to get $50 worth of exclusive stickers in your letterbox each for only $19. 6. Numbers Stencil - $30.00 - www.fairyfuntoys.com.au - This handmade stencil will guide your little one, one step at a time. Learning to write numbers, help improve their fine motor skills, number recognition and create muscle memory in those cute tiny hands. Recommended for children 3+. 7 . sHEROes 5 Pack of Girl’s School Underwear - $41.95 per pack - www.sheroes.com.au - sHEROes girl’s school undies keep your daughter covered, comfortable and confident, even when she is wearing a dress. - They’re the wedgie-proof, superhero size underwear that stays in place when she’s cartwheeling or sitting cross-legged on the floor. Made from super soft bamboo, they feel great, breath well and last for ages. 8. Litter Free Lunch Kit - $40.00 - www.sinchies.com.au - Not only will you save $100s every year compared to buying pre-filled yoghurt pouches, you can also save even more by ditching single use ziplock bags and glad wrap. Includes 5 x Reusable Sandwich bags, Reusable Snack bags, Reusable Wrap bags and 150ml Top Spout reusable pouches in the design of your choice. 9. Grin Kids Fluoride Free Oral Care Pack - $39.00 - www.grinnatural.com.au - Grin’s formulation uses the very best of what nature has to offer to improve your oral hygiene and provide you with a healthy flora balance - because toothpaste needs to get the job done. Their toothpaste is natural with NO sodium lauryl sulfate, NO added sugar, NO preservatives, NO artificial colors, NO artificial flavours, NO fragrance and NO harsh abrasives. 10. jude&moo Yellow Bus Bag - $35.00 - www.judeandmoo.com - These durable, custom made bags are roomy enough to fit all the essentials, and comfy to wear with the padded back and shoulder straps. Perfect for daycare, kindy and school, plus, overnight stays and adventures with friends.

Education

Back-to-School: Starting the Year on the Right Foot STORY Dr Rosina McAlpine Are you worried about getting yourself and your child ready for back-to-school time? Do you want more than the same tips on getting uniforms ready, saving money on school supplies and creating routines? Are you interested in helping your child develop life skills that will help them socially and academically? Then you’ll enjoy Dr Rosina’s back-toschool guide with a difference.

Encouraging your child to be open to diversity in their friendships and to befriend different kinds of people, some who share their own interests and culture and others who don’t, holds many advantages. A final tip for your child; is to explain that a child on their own is more likely to want a friend than a child who’s already in a group – so that is a great place to start to make new friends – it’s a win-win!

Friends

Interacting positively with teachers is so important for you and your child, so take the time to get to know your child’s teachers.

Did you know that studies have suggested that approximately 75 percent of your child’s time at school is spent in social interactions? So, the quality of your child’s interactions with their teachers, peers and their friends has a significant impact on their success at school. While you can’t pick your child’s friends, you can provide them with strategies that will help them select their friends wisely. You can start by helping your child understand that the idea of just one ‘best friend forever’ can lead to a lot of disappointment and unhappiness, as arguments and change are inevitable. Instead, encourage your child to enjoy having a number of friends. This is a good strategy as it is less likely to result in your child feeling isolated and alone when disagreements between children arise.

Meet Teachers As you get closer to the back-to-school date, organise for an onsite or virtual tour of the school with your child and meet with their teachers. Opening the lines of communication and building a friendly relationship with your child’s teacher will support your child in many ways. You can share any special needs your child may have and discuss any difficulties they may be experiencing. Your child is more likely to feel more confident on the first day of class if they have already met their teacher in a video chat or in person. You can also understand more about the activities and new classes for the year and how much (and the type of) homework to expect.

www.pakmag.com.au | January / February 2021 31

Education

Having a dedicated quiet place at home for children to read, write, draw, be creative and complete homework - helps them to continue their learning. Completing homework can play an important role in your child’s learning journey and teaches them about responsibility and perseverance. While most children don’t ‘love’ the idea of doing homework, there are ways to help make it easier.

Homework Area Prepare a special area for your child to study and complete their homework after school. Ideally, this is a clean and quiet space with no access to internet or television. Involve your child in the design so they feel part of the process and it is inviting for them. Let them know you’ll be available to help with homework once school starts and have their special homework space ready to go by the first day of school with all the school supplies they might need. To encourage reading, create a comfy place to sit back and enjoy a book. A timer helps motivate children to complete their homework on time as they know it once it’s done - they can play!

Even if your child doesn’t have formal homework requirements for school, having a quiet place to read, watch educational videos, listen to podcasts and enjoy creative activities, will create the right environment for exploration and support your child’s ongoing learning. Preparing for homework after being away from school and enjoying the summer holidays can result in back-toschool anxiety.

Relieve Back-to-School Nerves and Inspire Your Child Talking about the upcoming school year and the changes your child might experience can help reduce some of their back-to-school anxiety. You can also motivate and inspire your child by discussing the exciting new classes, activities and events they can participate in during the year. Making time to listen is important. Ask open ended questions and be patient when it comes to waiting for answers. What do you think it will be like when you go back to school? What are the things you’re looking forward to? Is there anything you’re worried about – seeing friends? New teachers?

School is not always a good experience as it can be a source of problems and difficulties.

Exploring Solutions to Potential Problems Can you remember back to your days at school and the difficulties you faced and all things that can go wrong? Imagine, if you had discussed them with your parents beforehand and developed and practised strategies to cope. Take the time to talk about topics like: not knowing anyone, bullying, accidents, drugs and alcohol, strangers and peer pressure. Your child is more likely to cope better if they have discussed these kinds of situations; role-played and practised strategies before a problem actually occurs in real life. Children will look to you for guidance and solutions until they can develop their own strategies.

Set a Good Example Children learn more from what their parents do than what they say. So, it’s up to you to set a great example and be the kind of person you’d like your child to become. You can’t expect them to be organised, tidy and thoughtful if you’re messy, disorganised and inconsiderate. You can’t expect children to be able to resolve conflict peacefully if you yell at them and punish them for making mistakes. Help children learn to regulate their emotions and to try and resolve problems with kind words rather than using their fists or by being mean. You can help your children learn how to manage their emotions and make friends by completing the 12 activities in my life skills e-book www.drrosina. com/communication-and-relationships A little kindness goes a long way.

A Special Surprise for Your Child Prepare a little surprise like a personal note, a special photograph or even a treat and place it in your child’s bag for them to find throughout the day. This little surprise will show you care, reassure your child that they are loved and probably inspire a big smile!

Self-Care is at the Heart of Good Parenting On a final note, remember to take care of yourself not just over the school holidays, but throughout the year, as a tired and grumpy parent is no fun for anyone. Well-rested and happy parents make better decisions, are calmer and more compassionate with the children and each other, which supports a happier and calmer household. It also sets a great example of work-life balance for your whole family. You and your child are now ready to start a new school year with confidence! This will make the transition back to school easier and will also help your child develop the key life skills they need to lead a happy and successful life.

Dr Rosina McAlpine is the CEO and creator of the Win Win Parenting program. Win Win Parenting’s practical and fun programs are delivered across a variety of organisations including early learning, school, corporate and government organisations in Australia, New Zealand and The United States. Dr Rosina is an internationally recognised awardwinning researcher and educator. www.winwinparenting.com

32 January / February 2021 | www.pakmag.com.au

Extracurricular

Extracurricular Activity Guide 2021 Sports Expo and Sign-On

Treble Trouble Youth Choir

This year’s event is going online. View more than 100 sport and recreation options in the Mackay Region on your computer, laptop or mobile device. Running throughout February, find your club from the wide range of sporting organisations, teams and active leisure groups. P 4961 9610 or 4961 9475 E sport@mackay.qld.gov.au www.mackay.qld.gov.au

If your child loves to sing then why not enrol them into an affordable and accessible choir, where music and friendships are created? This non-auditioned choir run by Bee Musical Studio is inclusive and perfect for any child aged 8 – 18 years, male or female, during school terms on Thursday afternoons. Run by a qualified music teacher and experienced vocalist, the choir is a great opportunity for those who want a low-cost extra activity. All music is provided and there are a range of performance and genre opportunities, including concerts and Christmas carolling.

Mackay Indoor Sports

Cost: $25.00 per school term

Offering a fun way to exercise and get fit for children, Mackay Indoor Sports makes it easy to join a team sport, whether it be with your friends or on your own. It’s always time to play - rain or shine! They offer junior indoor netball, soccer and cricket for children during Term 3 and 4 of the Queensland School Term. All game durations are 45 minutes. There is no membership, insurance or joining fees and the cost is $8.00 per player, per game. You can either register a team or choose to join a team. Qualified coaches are on hand. Mackay Indoor Sports has everything you need for a good game, every time! A 225 Harbour Rd, Mackay Harbour P 4957 2672 Mackay Indoor Sports Arena E admin@isamackay.com.au www.isamackay.com.au

P 0404 163 097 E trebletrouble.mackay@gmail.com Treble Trouble

Azure Glass Azure Glass offers eight-week fun and safe craft lessons, using glass materials, for children aged 10 - 16 years old. All materials are provided which children and teens use to design, cut and construct a kiln-formed glass project on Tuesdays or Thursdays, 3.30pm 5.30pm. Each student’s project will be showcased in a planned exhibition at the end of the year, showing off the hard work and fun put into their work. Six students are allowed per lesson and closed in shoes are mandatory. Safety glasses are provided. Cost: $350.00 per student (full eight week course). A 321 Anzac Avenue Marian P 0415 778 609 E sales@azureglass.com.au Azure Glass Mackay QLD www.azureglass.com.au

We have done our best to ensure all events and information was correct at the time of going to print. Please check with individual businesses and authorities during these uncertain times.

www.pakmag.com.au | January / February 2021 35

Extracurricular

With One Voice Mackay

Pat Wright Swim School

With One Voice Choirs are inclusive programs run on Thursdays, aimed at bridging the gap between the fortunate and less fortunate in the Mackay community and reducing loneliness, depression and social isolation. Through the neuro-scientific benefits of community singing, they offer a safe space where people can connect and develop supportive networks with diverse members of the community. Their vision is to create happier, healthier and more inclusive communities. You can visit the website for more information including cost (varies) and more.

Learn to Swim classes are for children aged three years and above, providing them a safe environment to learn in, that builds their confidence. There’s a focus on proper techniques, good form, breathing and body positioning; to allow children independence in the water. Pat Wright OAM and Lee Day have over 40 years of experience, so your child will be in the best hands they can be. There are five levels for different abilities and classes take place weekly. Visit the website for more information.

P 0404 163 097 E withonevoice.mackay@gmail.com With One Voice Mackay & Surrounds Choir www.creativityaustralia.org.au

A 8 Lawson St, Mackay P 4953 1744 E enquiries@patwrightswimschool.com.au Pat Wright Swim School www.patwrightswimschool.com.au

Jump! Swim Schools Mackay

Rugbytots Mackay Region

This boutique swim facility teaches swimming for babies above three months, up to pre-squad. Small, intimate classes provide a safe, comfortable space for every child to learn and make progress.

Rugbytots is a rugby-based play program for 2 - 7 year old boys and girls. Your child will learn basic rugby skills in age-appropriate weekly classes. The benefits reach further with important development skills such as; listening and following instructions, balance, agility and hand-eye coordination. There are also psychological benefits such as encouraging social skills and teamwork, bonding and making friendships, introducing rules and structure, and more. Not to mention that every child has a whole lot of fun!

There’s a strong community feel where they can discuss your child’s swimming progress every class, and get to know the children on a more personal level to help mentor them on their swimming journey. Class prices vary depending on site – visit their website or call for more information. Bookings can be made online. A 6/14 Heaths Rd, Mackay P 4942 8064 www.jumpswimschools.com.au

Dance Express Mackay Dance Express can help your child not only be a great dancer, but also a great kid who is both confident and creative! The high-energy, encouraging classes run from Tiny Tots.

Cost: From $13.00. Runs on various days for different age groups – please visit the website for more information. A Various locations around Mackay P 0409 826 057 E mackay@rugbytots.com.au Rugbytots Mackay Region www.rugbytots.com.au

Aspire Performing Arts Studio

The focus on technicality and skill increases with each class level/age, with Tiny Tots classes for 18 months+ focusing more on fun, singing, activities and getting to know dance. Dance styles for Junior School classes and above - include ballet, jazz, tap, hip hop, yoga, pilates, acrobatics and more!

Offering ballet, tap, jazz, contemporary, hip hop, acro, drama, music theatre, private speech and singing lessons, Aspire Performing Arts Studio serves to help young people achieve. From Mums and Bubs right up to senior performers, there’s a class to suit all ages and abilities, whether you’re a beginner or an avid dancer. Have fun, make new friends and dance it out!

Prices vary and different payment options are available. Visit the website for more information.

Visit the website for the 2021 enrolment form or to enquire about classes for your child.

A 25 Valley St, Mackay P 0407 675 990 E info@danceexpressmackay.com.au Dance Express Mackay www.danceexpressmackay.com

A 1/7 Windmill Crossing, Mount Pleasant P 0468 947 116 or 0404 190 017 E admin@aspireperformingarts.com Aspire Performing Arts www.aspireperformingarts.com

36 January / February 2021 | www.pakmag.com.au

We have done our best to ensure all events and information was correct at the time of going to print. Please check with individual businesses and authorities during these uncertain times.

All Things Tweens and Teens

The Power of a First Impression STORY Allan and Barbara Pease We’ve all heard how important it is to make a good impression. But do you really know why or how to make that first meeting magic happen? If it’s so important, we thought we should consult the Body Language and Relationship Experts – Allan and Barbara Pease, to find out and pass on their advice. Here’s their responses:

What’s the Best Way to Make a Good First Impression? During first impressions, our ancient brain searches the other person for signals of aggression or friendliness. Early humans relied on the ability to read the image and body signals of others to work out if they could be trusted or posed a threat. Our brains still operate this way tens of thousands of years later - people form up to 90 percent of their opinion about a new person in under four minutes. And most of that opinion is formed in under ten seconds! It does not matter whether it’s a work or personal meeting – if you screw up that first four minutes by the way you appear, behave or speak then it will be a struggle to win that person over. Fortunately, you can strategically dress to suit the occasion and train yourself to use positive body language and create trust. Your overall body language behaviour continually impacts how well you will or won’t succeed, face-to-face.

The Heart Hello achieves several things; first, it makes the other person feel welcomed and accepted. Second, it maintains physical distancing and it’s germ free. And third, it allows you to read the other person’s full body language signals, which is harder in an upclose handshake.

2. Smile with Your Teeth Visible Smiling is a primate appeasement gesture, showing others that you are non-threatening. Our research shows the more frequently you smile, the closer others will stand to you, the more eye contact they will give you, the more likely they will be to touch you and the longer they want to stay with you. In other words, smiling is great for your work and personal life! Practice your smile in front of the mirror - a genuine smile wrinkles the outer corners of the eyes, lifts the corners of the mouth up and shows the teeth.

3. Palm Power When used correctly, palm power invests its user with a degree of authority and silent command. Palm-FacingUp is a non-threatening gesture that’s been used since caveman times to show that the person is not holding any weapons. If you give a presentation and continually use the Palm-Down position, you’re more likely to suffer rejection from your audience.

Before Covid, people shook hands. Now handshakes are scary due to the risk of germ transmission, so we recommend a germ-free alternative - the Heart Hello.

Avoid finger pointing. The pointed finger is a symbolic club with which the speaker figuratively beats the listener into submission. If you are a habitual finger pointer, practice the palm-up and palm-down and you’ll find that a combination of these positions can create a more relaxed atmosphere and you’ll have a more positive effect on the people you are talking to.

Do the following-

4. Left Hand-Holding

1. Place your hand over your heart.

Practice holding folders, papers and drinks in you left hand. We typically greet each other, open doors, move a chair or wave goodbye with our right hand. So, if your right hand is free of objects you’ll avoid looking clumsy. This strategy may seem obvious at first but few people pay it much attention.

Here are 6 strategies for making a good first impression:

1. The Heart Hello

2. Smile (with your teeth visible) and lean forward. 3. Maintain eye contact with the person you’re greeting (this allows you to be connected to them but not submissive).

www.pakmag.com.au | January / February 2021 39

All Things Tweens and Teens

5. Territorial Respect We each carry a bubble of space around our body called Personal Space. Its width depends on population density and what culture the person is from. If you are standing close to someone and you notice them move back, they’re telling you this is the amount of space they need to feel comfortable with you. Keep your distance and resist moving forward.

6. Dress For Success The secret when it comes to choosing ‘what to wear’ when it comes to work, is to ask yourself how the other person expects you to be dressed. For you to appear credible, approachable, likeable, authoritative, knowledgeable and successful, how would you be dressed in their opinion? You never get a second chance to make a first impression. When you practice these techniques you will become more successful at making a positive first impression every time.

Is There Anything Else I Can Do to Improve the impression I make? Practice mirroring. Mirroring others’ Body Language is what we do when we feel comfortable around them. So, copy the positive body language gestures of the other person to build rapport. Practice in front of the TV with the sound turned off. Take a positive body language gesture, such as someone using their palms visible while talking, wait three seconds, then use the gesture yourself. Make eye contact. Research shows Gen Y and beyond make less eye contact with others, most likely because they’ve been raised with less face to face contact and more screen time. Eye contact is one of the fastest

ways to build rapport, older generations expect it, and you should practice it if you want to make a good first impression. In Western society, we meet the gaze of others for 70 percent of the time and look away for 30 percent.

How Do You Know if You’ve Made a Good Impression? Watch for positive and negative body language reactions from the other person. Crossing arms, looking away, sitting back in the chair or moving their body away from you are all signs they don’t like what you’re saying. If this happens, ask a straight question: ‘I can see you have a question. Would you mind if I ask what it is?’. Then you have an opportunity to respond. If you’re making a good impression, the other person may respond with positive gestures, such as leaning in, smiling, opening their palms as they speak.

If I Have Made a Bad Impression on Someone, How Can I Change Their View of Me? In face-to-face interaction, body language accounts for 60 – 80 percent of the impact of the messages you are communicating. People who understand this and use it are the most persuasive and convincing people in society. When you know how to make people feel relaxed with you, they will be more open to your ideas. Those who don’t understand how this works have difficulty making friends and being convincing. You have an advantage over other people if you understand this. If you do make a mistake or notice the other person is not responding to you the way you’d hoped, pointing out your mistake in a humorous way can break the tension and give you an opportunity to start again. It’s important to remember it won’t happen overnight. These skills take time to develop, and practice will make perfect.

Barbara and Allan Pease are the most successful relationship authors in the business. They have written 18 bestsellers – including 10 number ones – and travelled the world extensively giving seminars in 70 countries. See www.peaseinternational.com

WIN a Belkin Boost Charge Power Bank 10K Stand + Play A powerful, personal and portable power bank that allows you hours of streaming or gaming on the go. It includes a convenient, inbuilt retractable stand to hold your device at the perfect viewing angle while you charge. This 10,000mAh battery offers up to 36 hours of extra battery life for your smartphone*. You can also power up 2 devices at the same time, meaning you can charge both your smartphone and game controller or headphones, while you play. For more details check out www.belkin.com/au WIN a Belkin Boost Charge Power Bank 10K Stand + Play worth $84.95! Visit www.pakmag.com.au/win for your chance to win!

40 January / February 2021 | www.pakmag.com.au

School Holiday Guide

School Holiday Guide Kidz Life Play Centre

Caneland Central

It’s slides, tunnels and ball pits galore at Kidz Life Play Centre. With a triple deck play structure, huge double slide, ball pits, a jumping castle and much more - there is plenty of fun to be had. It’s all indoors and air conditioned, so it’s always playtime no matter the weather, and party bookings are also available. Plus, parents can catch a break in the cafe while the kids play!

The largest shopping centre in Mackay will be holding a variety of exciting, interactive and educational workshops for kids these summer holidays. These fun workshops will take place between 10.00am - 2.00pm every weekday from 11 January to 22 January - with some requiring bookings that you can complete online.

Cost: From $8.50, children under one year FREE. Open from Monday to Friday in the school holidays from 9.00am – 3.00pm and until 4.00pm on Saturdays. Don’t forget your socks! A 75 Evans Ave, North Mackay P 4953 5575 E admin@kidzlife.com.au Kidz Life Play Centre www.kidzlife.com.au

Sidetrax Bring the family for intense fun, adrenaline and competition with go-kart racing in a real kart. Minimum age is seven years and drivers must be 1.23m tall. Please come dressed for racing, closed in shoes, shorts or long pants. No loose clothing, dresses or skirts. The track is indoors, so it’s always race day if you want it to be!

Additionally, keep the kids entertained with games, music, movies and toys from Caneland, or check out the huge number of stores for your everyday shopping needs. A Mangrove Rd, Mackay P 4944 7111 E caneland.central@lendlease.com Caneland Central www.canelandcentral.com.au

Big4 Whitsundays Tropical Eco Resort Fancy an escape these school holidays? Whitsundays Tropical Eco Resort is a family owned and run caravan park in Airlie Beach. Nestled in seven acres of shady tropical greenery, they have plenty to do for families including a playground, jumping pillow, quad bikes for hire, a pool and a brand-new ninja challenge course.

Cost: From $35.00 for 1 race (10 minutes). Family bundle for 4 people, $130.00. Double seater karts available for those aged 4 - 10 years or with disabilities.

Kids who are keen to go green can join in on the Eco Warriors School Holiday Program and Family Lego Masters Night will run twice a week for families who want a night of fun and games (from 6.00pm).

A 275 Nebo Rd, City Gates P 4829 4707 E info@sidetrax.com.au Sidetrax www.sidetrax.com.au

A 2955 Shute Harbour Rd, Flametree P 4946 9388 BIG4 E bookings@wter.com.au Whitsundays Tropical Eco Resort www.big4.com.au

We have done our best to ensure all events and information was correct at the time of going to print. Please check with individual businesses and authorities during these uncertain times.

www.pakmag.com.au | January / February 2021 43

School Holiday Guide

South Leagues Club Mackay Play, eat and enjoy with South Leagues Club. The family can enjoy a delicious meal for dinner or lunch from the affordable, family-friendly restaurant Souths Bistro. You can relax in the gaming room or grab a drink from the sports bar while the kids hang out and play in the kids zone – a room full of games, activities, movies and play equipment. No need for a babysitter at Souths Mackay! Plus, when a member purchases a main meal, they can get one FREE kids meal for either lunch or dinner! A 181 Milton St P 4957 2166 South Leagues Club Mackay www.southsmackay.com.au

Mackay Libraries Mackay libraries all offer a variety of events to keep kids busy and having fun during the holidays, including Bedtime Stories for children up to eight years old, Power Up! Workbook sessions, Movie Matinees, Holiday STEAM, the Tales of Wonder Summer Reading Club and much more. You can check out the activities taking place in the nearest branch to you on the Mackay Regional Council website as well as the Mackay What’s On pages. Get excited to learn! A Mackay, Mt Pleasant, Walkerston, Sarina, Mirani P 4961 9387 Mackay Regional Council Libraries www.mackay.qld.gov.au/libraries

A 9 Lagoon St, Mackay P 4952 7300 Mackay Regional Botanic Gardens www.mackayregionalbotanicgardens.com.au

Artspace Mackay Kids can enjoy free Island Fashion on Tour: Art Activities, from 5 - 17 January (excluding 11 January). Drop in from 10.00am - 5.00pm from Tuesday to Friday and 10.00am - 3.00pm on Saturdays and Sundays for activities inspired by QAGOMA’s Island Fashion exhibition. Parental supervision is required. Sing along and get creative in the comfort of your own home or garden! Young children and parents can have fun with music and easy make-at-home art, specifically designed for 0 – 5 year olds, with the BMA Kidspace ‘in the garden’ online activities. Older children can also enjoy the 3D virtual tours of exhibitions that are available on the Artspace Mackay website. A Civic Centre Precinct, 61 Gordon St P 4961 9722 E artspace@mackay.gld.gov.au Artspace Mackay www.artspacemackay.com.au

Sarina Youth Centre

Whitsunday Segway Tours Whitsunday Segway Tours operate amazing, award winning and Eco Tourism certified, guided Segway tours in the Whitsunday Conway National Park, as well as along the Airlie Beach boardwalk with included dinner over a beautiful sunset. Cost: From $110.00. For families with children 12+ years old.

Fun and educational activities run on weekdays at this centre for kids aged 10 - 18 years, from 10.00am to 2.00pm. Both boys and girls can enjoy a variety of activities including learning to cook, arts and crafts, fun days at the pool, games, movies and more, from 4 January through to 21 January these school holidays. There’s something for every kid and teenager at the Sarina Youth Centre. A Cr Anzac and Broad St, Sarina P 4961 9277 Sarina Youth Centre

The Bluewater Lagoon

A Airlie Beach P 0432 734 929 E fun@whitsundaysegwaytours.com.au Whitsunday Segway Tours www.whitsundaysegwaytours.com.au

Mackay Regional Botanic Gardens There’s plenty to do at the Mackay Regional Botanic Gardens for kids. The following activity sheets can be picked up from the gardens’ administration or downloaded and printed at home: Alphabet I Spy,

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Birdwatching Quiz, 25 Fun Things to do in the Gardens, Nature Play, Spotlighting and more.

This large family-friendly lagoon provides a free swimming area for all ages, safe from stingers and right in the heart of the city. It includes a large water slide, waterfall, children’s playground, as well as BBQ facilities and is open to the public from 9.00am – 5.45pm during the summer months. The Bluewater Lagoon Café is also nearby – a perfect place to relax and enjoy tasty food after playing in the sun. A Caneland Park, River St P 4952 5244 Bluewater Lagoon www.mackay.qld.gov.au

We have done our best to ensure all events and information was correct at the time of going to print. Please check with individual businesses and authorities during these uncertain times.

Daddy Diary

Daddy Diary I’m a bogan. There I said it. It’s something that happens at this time of year, every year. I didn’t want it to happen. It just did. It’s certainly not something I’m ashamed of, in fact quite the opposite. It just is what it is. In the words of Popeye, the Sailor Man “I yam what I yam”. And a bogan it is. Exhibit A, re: my summer bogan-ness. It’s at this time, every year, my “thong tan” makes its return. And for the record I am talking about thongs on my feet. You need to be really careful if telling a friend from the US about your “thong tan”. It means something very different in their neck of the woods. I’ve gotten to the point now where I can kick off my pluggers and it looks like I’m still wearing them. We can put this down to the fact that I

Head to Parents and Kids of North Queensland YouTube Channel to see Bree’s up close interview with Cliffo.

haven’t worn enclosed shoes since I finished up work for the year a week before Christmas. Why would I? Exhibit B: It’s at this time of year (again, every year), that I go back to drinking XXXX Gold tinnies. I don’t know why I always go back to drinking from a tin over summer, I just do. Usually, I’m more of a stubbie-kindabloke. And if I’m totally honest, I’m often the guy taking home a bag of limes from my mate Alan’s tree, so I can put them in Coronas. Fancy beer. Not quite up there with all the craft brew that’s super popular right now, but definitely a step up from the Milton Mangoes in a tin. That’s my summer drink. The third and final piece of bogan-dence (evidence of bogan) I’ll leave you with - is my music taste. Usually I’m a top 40 guy. I host breakfast on HIT after all. But again, not over summer. If you check my Spotify favourites at this time of year, Miley’s replaced by Barnsey (a fact, that no doubt has Jimmy screaming at the top of his lungs). I think my summer transformation is just a reflection of where, and most importantly, who I am now. I have a beautiful wife & kids. I’m well (very well) into my 30’s and for the first time in my life, I’m really settled into who I am as a person. Even if that person is a thong wearing, XXXX drinking, Barnsey-loving bogan. And I wouldn’t have it any other way. Happy New Year Mackay. It’s hard to imagine this one being any stranger than the last. Cliffo Hit 100.3

www.pakmag.com.au | January / February 2021 47

Mackay and Whitsundays Get Out and About FRIDAY 1 JANUARY

FRIDAY 8 JANUARY

Tales of Wonder Runs until 22 January Mackay Libraries summerreadingclub.slq.qld.gov.au FREE / Kids - Family

The Create Experience A Mastermind Retreat Runs until 10 January Karen Jacobsen - Yangaro Retreat www.tourismwhitsundays.com.au TBA / 18 +

New Years Day - Rock the Decades The Pub - Airlie Beach Hotel www.airliebeachhotel.com.au 2.00pm / TBA / 18 + Exhibition: Jabu Birriny [Land + Sea] Runs until 17 January Foyer Gallery, Artspace Mackay www.artspacemackay.com.au 10.00am / FREE / Family Exhibition: Lyn Laver-Ahmat: Light on Landscape Runs until 14 February Foundation Gallery, Artspace Mackay www.artspacemackay.com.au 10.00am / FREE / Family Exhibition: Systematic Runs until 14 February FIELD Engineers Gallery, Artspace Mackay www.artspacemackay.com.au 10.00am / FREE / Family

Alive - Pearl Jam Tribute Show Airlie Beach Hotel www.airliebeachhotel.com.au 2.00pm / FREE (booking required) / 18 + SUNDAY 10 JANUARY The Best of Ramjet Airlie Beach Hotel www.airliebeachhotel.com.au 2.00pm / FREE (booking required) / 18 + MONDAY 11 JANUARY

Board Games Sarina Youth Centre Sarina Youth Centre 10.00am / Kids 10 - 18 years

Colour in Mandalas Sarina Youth Centre Sarina Youth Centre 10.00am / Kids 10 - 18 years

TUESDAY 5 JANUARY

TUESDAY 12 JANUARY

Weaving with Beads Sarina Youth Centre Sarina Youth Centre 10.00am / Kids 10 - 18 years

Mood Boards Gordon White Library www.mackay.qld.gov.au/libraries 10.00am / Free / Kids 12 - 18 years

Lets Cook! - Roast Pork and Gravy Rolls Sarina Youth Centre Sarina Youth Centre 10.00am / Kids 10 - 18 years THURSDAY 7 JANUARY Day at the Pool Sarina Youth Centre Sarina Youth Centre 10.00am / Kids 10 - 18 years

Birdie’s Tree Gordon White Library www.mackay.qld.gov.au/libraries 9.30am / FREE - Bookings required / Kids 5 - 7 years

Video Content Creator Workshop Four week course that also runs on 16, 23 and 30 January - Bookings Required Dudley Denny City Library www.mackay.qld.gov.au/libraries 10.00am / FREE / Kids 15 - 18 years

MONDAY 4 JANUARY

WEDNESDAY 6 JANUARY

www.mackay.qld.gov.au/libraries 9.30am / FREE - Bookings required / 12 +

SATURDAY 9 JANUARY

Interactive, Educational and Fun Workshops Runs until 22 January Caneland Central www.canelandcentral.com.au 10.00am - 2.00pm / Free / Kids

New Year’s Day - Rock the Decades The Pub - Airlie Beach Hotel www.airliebeachhotel.com.au 2.00pm / FREE (booking required) / PG

With HIT 100.3’s Cliffo & Gabi

48 January / February 2021 | www.pakmag.com.au

Mid-week Race Mackay Turf Club Racecourse www.mackayturfclub.com.au Free entry / TBA / Family THURSDAY 14 JANUARY Disaster Resilienc Building - Zombie Apocalypse Gordon White Library www.mackay.qld.gov.au/libraries 2.00pm / Free - Bookings required / Kids 11 - 16 years

Day at the Pool Sarina Youth Centre Sarina Youth Centre 10.00am / Kids 10 - 18 years FRIDAY 15 JANUARY

ABA meeting - Bliss Morning Charlies Coffee Shop www.breastfeeding.asn.au 9.30am / FREE / Breastfeeding Mothers

Fake News - Fight the Fake! Dudley Denny City Library

Let’s Cook! - Crispy Fried Chicken and Rice Sarina Youth Centre Sarina Youth Centre 10.00am / Kids 10 - 18 years

Bedtime Stories Gordon White Library www.mackay.qld.gov.au/libraries 5.00pm / FREE - Bookings required / Kids 0 - 8 years

Blindfold Three Colour Painting Challenge Sarina Youth Centre Sarina Youth Centre 10.00am / Kids 10 - 18 years

WEDNESDAY 13 JANUARY

Power Up! Gordon White Library www.mackay.qld.gov.au/libraries 11.00am / FREE - Bookings required / Kids 8 - 10 years

Movie Matinees - Mulan Gordon White Library www.mackay.qld.gov.au/libraries 2.00pm / FREE - Bookings required / Kids 5 - 12 years Flower Head Crowns Sarina Youth Centre Sarina Youth Centre 10.00am / Kids 10 - 18 years MONDAY 18 JANUARY Holiday STEAM Mirani Library www.mackay.qld.gov.au/libraries 9.30am / FREE - Bookings required / Kids 5 - 7 years

Please check with individual businesses before visiting during these uncertain times.

Holiday STEAM Mirani Library www.mackay.qld.gov.au/libraries 11.45am / FREE - Bookings required / Kids 8 - 12 years

Power Up! Dudley Denny City Libraries www.mackay.qld.gov.au/libraries 11.00am / FREE - Bookings required / Kids 8 - 10 years

Holiday STEAM Sarina Library www.mackay.qld.gov.au/libraries 9.30am / FREE - Bookings required / Kids 5 - 7 years

14+ Movie Day Sarina Youth Centre Sarina Youth Centre 10.00am / Kids 14 + years

Let’s Cook! - Homemade Pasta Sarina Youth Centre Sarina Youth Centre 10.00am / Kids 10 - 18 years

TUESDAY 19 JANUARY

THURSDAY 21 JANUARY

Holiday STEAM Sarina Library www.mackay.qld.gov.au/libraries 11.00am / FREE - Bookings required / Kids 8 - 12 years

Wildlife Rescue Dudley Denny City Libraries www.mackay.qld.gov.au/libraries 9.30am / Free - Bookings required / Kids aged 12 - 18 years

Disaster Resilience Building Zombie Apocalypse Gordon White Library www.mackay.qld.gov.au/libraries 2.00pm / FREE - Bookings required / Kids 11 - 16 years

Holiday STEAM Walkerston Library www.mackay.qld.gov.au/libraries 9.30am / FREE - Bookings required / Kids 5 - 7 years Holiday STEAM Walkerston Library www.mackay.qld.gov.au/libraries 11.00am / FREE - Bookings required / Kids 8 - 12 years Cupcake Baking Day Sarina Youth Centre Sarina Youth Centre 10.00am / Kids 10 - 18 years WEDNESDAY 20 JANUARY Holiday STEAM Gordon White Library www.mackay.qld.gov.au/libraries 9.30am / FREE - Bookings required / Kids 5 - 7 years Holiday STEAM Gordon White Library www.mackay.qld.gov.au/libraries 11.00am / FREE - Bookings required / Kids 8 - 12 years Birdie’s Tree Dudley Denny City Libraries www.mackay.qld.gov.au/libraries 9.30am / FREE - Bookings required / Kids 5 - 7 years

Holiday STEAM Dudley Denny City Library www.mackay.qld.gov.au/libraries 10.30am / FREE - Bookings required / Kids 5 - 7 years Holiday STEAM Dudley Denny City Library www.mackay.qld.gov.au/libraries 11.30am / FREE - Bookings required / Kids 8 - 12 years Anime - Manga Club Gordon White Library www.mackay.qld.gov.au/libraries 5.30pm / FREE - Bookings required / Kids 12 - 18 years Bedtime Stories Dudley Denny City Library www.mackay.qld.gov.au/libraries 5.00pm / FREE - Bookings required / Kids 0 - 8 years Day at the Pool Sarina Youth Centre Sarina Youth Centre 10.00am / Kids 10 - 18 years FRIDAY 22 JANUARY Movie Matinees - Spies in Disguise Gordon White Library www.mackay.qld.gov.au/libraries 2.00pm / FREE - Bookings required / Kids 5 - 12 years

FRIDAY 24 JANUARY Made In Australia Classic Australian Rock Tribute Show Airlie Beach Hotel www.airliebeachhotel.com.au 2.00pm / FREE (booking required) / 18 + TUESDAY 26 JANUARY Australia Day Tribute Show Angels, Divinyls, Midnight Oil Airlie Beach Hotel www.airliebeachhotel.com.au 2.00pm / FREE show (bookings required) Australia Day Citizenship Ceremony MECC www.mackay.qld.gov.au 10.00am A Day at the Beach Sand castle competition, beach flags, vegemite face painting competition, thong throwing, live music. Eimeo Beach www.eimeoslsc.com.au 2.00pm - 6.00pm Australia Day at Sarina Beach BBQ, water slide and fun competitions like fastest man on the sand and wheelbarrow races. Sarina Beach, Sarina Esplanade www.sarinasurfclub.com.au 12.00pm - 6.00pm Aussie Family BBQ at Quota Park Celebrate our diversity and culture at a community BBQ by the beach. Quota Park - Southern end of Binnington Esplanade, Mackay www.mackay.qld.gov.au 11.00am - 3.00pm

www.pakmag.com.au | January / February 2021 49

Mackay and Whitsundays Get Out and About TUESDAY 26 JANUARY Aussie Family Fun Day Zeolla Park AFL Grounds 10.00am - 3.00pm Australia Day Beach Party Mackay Surf Life Saving Club, Harbour Beach, Mackay Harbour mackayslsc 10.00am - 3.00pm Australia Day Scouts Open Day Activities will include rope bridge, low ropes course, crate stacking, thong throwing, damper cooking and more! Sausage sizzle and drinks available for gold coin donation. Banksia Scout Den, Jaycee Park, Andergrove BanksiaScoutGroup 10.00am - 1.00pm Come On Over, We’re Home Celebration Hosted by St Vincent de Paul Society Queensland Iluka Park, Binnington Esplanade E tania.baldacchino@svdpqld.org.au 10.00am - 2.00pm Habana Aussie Party Habana Community Precinct, 1091 Mackay-Habana Rd HabanaProgress 3.00pm - 7.00pm Pancakes and Play in the Park FREE pancakes and loads of fun

With Triple M's Jay and Dave

On the grass area near the Mackay Sugar Bowl, Phillip Street, North Mackay SHEDHappensMackay 10.30am - 2.30pm

www.mackayturfclub.com.au 9.00am / $2.00 / Breastfeeding Mothers

Sarina’s Big Bash Aussie Day Thong throwing competition, big game of cricket, cockroach race, Aussie foods and best dressed competition. Pre sign-up is also available for both AFL and soccer. Brewers Park, Sarina 10.30am - 4.00pm

Island Fashion on Tour: Art Activitis for Everyone Runs everyday until 17 January (excluding 11 January) The Workshop Room, Artspace Mackay Artspace Mackay 10.00am / Free / Kids

St Helens Beach Australia Day Celebration Repulse Esplanade, St Helens Beach 11.00am - 3.00pm

SATURDAY 6 FEBRUARY

Sail Away on Australia Day “Sailor’s corner”, Kinchant Dam Road, KInchant Dam E mackaysailingcommodore@ gmail.com 10.00am - 3.30pm WEDNESDAY 27 JANUARY Mid-week Race Mackay Turf Club Racecourse www.mackayturfclub.com.au Free entry / TBA / Family THURSDAY 28 JANUARY ABA meeting - Return to work/ study & expressing milk Mackay Women’s Centre

Regular Markets

FRIDAY 5 FEBRUARY

The Crowded House / Splitz Ends Experience Airlie Beach Hotel www.airliebeachhotel.com.au 2.00pm / FREE (bookings required) / 18 + SUNDAY 7 FEBRUARY The Full House Band Airlie Beach Hotel www.airliebeachhotel.com.au 2.00pm / FREE (bookings required) / 18 + TUESDAY 9 FEBRUARY Mid-week Race Mackay Turf Club Racecourse www.mackayturfclub.com.au Free entry / TBA / Family ABA meeting - Bliss Morning Bucasia Beachfront Bar & Restaurant www.breastfeeding.asn.au

The Greater Whitsunday Farmers’ Markets

Location: Eungella Memorial Hall - North Street

Sarina Showground Markets

Date: Every Wednesday Time: 7.00am - 11.00am Location: Bluewater Quay, River Street, Mackay City Centre (Best parking - Brisbane Street)

Seaforth Community Markets

Date: Last Sunday of the month Time: 7.30am - 12.00pm Location: Sarina Showgrounds

Showground Markets

Seaforth Mega Market

Troppo Treasure Markets

Date: 1 Sunday of every month in place of regular markets Time: 8.30am – 12.00pm Location: Seaforth Beachfront

Date: 2nd Sunday of the month Time: From 7.30am - 11.30am Location: Mount Pleasant Shopping Centre

Date: Every Saturday Time: 6.30am - 10.00am Location: Milton Street

Eungella Markets

Date: Every Sunday Time: 8.30am – 11.00am Location: Seaforth Beachfront

9.30am / FREE / Breastfeeding Mothers THURSDAY 11 FEBRUARY Rockaria - The Elo Experience MECC Auditorium www.themecc.com.au 7.30pm / $62.50 - $69.50 / Mature SATURDAY 13 FEBRUARY Bluey’s Big Play The Stage Show Runs until 14 February MECC Auditorium www.themecc.com.au 2.00pm, 6.00pm on Saturday 13 - 10.00am, 1.00pm on Sunday 14 / $41.90 - $167.60 / Family SATURDAY 20 FEBRUARY Leaving Jackson - The Johnny Cash and June Carter Show MECC Auditorium www.themecc.com.au 7.30pm / $25.00 - $62.00 / Family Give Me 5 for Kids Family Day Mackay Turf Club Racecourse www.mackayturfclub.com.au TBC THURSDAY 25 FEBRUARY ABA Meeting - Guest speaker Mackay Region Babywearing Try on Slings and Carriers Mackay Women’s Centre www.breastfeeding.asn.au 9.00am / $2.00 / Breastfeeding Mothers

River Street Twilight Market by GWFM Date: 2nd Friday of every month Time: From 4.00pm - 8.00pm Location: Bluewater Quay, River Street, Mackay City Centre

Paxtons Night Markets Date: 13 November Time: 5.00pm – 8.00pm Location: 10 River St

Date: 2nd Sunday of the month Time: 9.00am - 1.00pm

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Please check with individual businesses before visiting during these uncertain times.