PakMag Mackay & Whitsundays - July & Aug 2019 Issue 72

ISSUE: JUL & AUG 2019

72

MACKAY & WHITSUNDAYS

Celebrating NAIDOC WEEK

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JOHNATHAN THURSTON UP CLOSE

www.pakmag.com.au | July/August 2019 1

WELCOME 4 Entertainment 7

The Thing Is

8

Johnathan Thurston

11

Indigenous Culture & History

15 Spotlight on Special Needs 19 Special Cuddles after Baby 20 WIN – Bump, Bub & Beyond

This month, we’re celebrating NAIDOC and we’ve had the honour of interviewing Johnathan Thurston about all the awesome things he does for not only North Queensland, but Australia. We are truly grateful to have his beautiful family gracing our front cover, it’s been something my team and I have hoped for for nearly 5 years so we are very excited!

It’s so important that we teach our children about the culture and history of our beautiful country, and I hope this edition encourages you to get your family involved in all of the wonderful NAIDOC events happening in our region.

23 What’s On Guide 25 Mini Mag 31 Finger Food for Your

Hello and welcome to the NAIDOC Edition of PakMag. I would like to acknowledge the traditional custodians of the land. I would also like to pay respects to their elders both past, present, and emerging and extend that respect to other Indigenous Australians who are reading this edition of PakMag.

There’s so much happening this month, I hope you get out and enjoy it.

Remember to use the hashtag #pakmag and #pakmagshare and you could win a mystery prize.

Next Party

32 Health

I truly hope you enjoy this edition, have a wonderful month and don’t forget to tell everyone you read it in PakMag.

35 What Is LOTE? 39 School Holiday Guide 42 Home with Caro and Kingi –

Loving NQ Outdoor Living Bree James PakMag Founder and Editor-in-Chief

44 1300 SMILES Snapped 46 Ultimate Slumber Party 48 All Things Tweens and Teens 50 Daddy Diary

On the cover Johnathan, Samantha, Frankie, Charlie, Lillie and Remie Thurston Cover photography Josephine Carter Photography www.josephinecarterphotography.com Contact Us: p 4053 3331 e admin@grandpublishing.com.au a PO Box 7433 Cairns Qld 4870

Grand Publishing Founder and Editor-in-Chief Bree James

Senior Graphic

Our North Queensland Channels

Designer

Marketing to Families Expert Dan Kendrick

Graphic Designer Sara Williams

PakMag Mackay Parents of North Queensland pakmag_nq Parents and Kids of

North Queensland

Marketing and Events Coordinator Alyssa Marino

Videographer

Our Global Parenting Channels

Monique Saggers

Media Interns Blair King Emily Bremner

Content Creator

PakMag Online pakmag_online PakMag The Give It A Go Group

For Parents The PakMag Parents Podcast PakMag TV

Clare Winter

Kalisha Fitsch Accounts

Journalist Jenna Galley

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 ideas expressed within PakMag are not necessarily the views of the publishers, but those of individual writers.

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.

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Entertainment

CHECK IT OUT Supercars Watpac Townsville 400 When: Friday 5th - Sunday 7th July Where: Reid Park, Boundary St, Railway Estate More info: www.ticketek.com.au North Queensland’s largest annual sports event is happening these school holidays. If you’re a fan of Supercars, this is an event you absolutely cannot miss. The days will be jam packed with exhilarating races, a range of family entertainment and free trackside admission for kids 12 and under. The rivalry between Supercars teams has never been more intense, so make sure you’re there for it. Book your tickets now and get excited.

G&S Engineering Wine and Food Day When: Saturday 20th July, 10.30am - 5.30pm Where: Queens Park More info: www.themecc.com.au The G&S Engineering Wine and Food Day is back! The event will fill Queens Park with live music, art and craft stalls, local produce, food stalls and a sense of community fun in the sun.

Bring a picnic blanket, find a spot on the grass and get ready for a great day out with the family. FREE entry.

Mackay Festival of Arts When: Saturday 20th July - Sunday 28th July Where: Various locations in Mackay More info: www.themecc.com.au/festivals Fancy a drive down the coast? The Mackay Festival of Arts is a fantastic celebration of colour, fun, food and music, and is an event not to miss. It triumphs the exuberant, the elaborate and the delicious, and transforms the Mackay region in the best of ways.

Wolfgang’s Magical Musical Circus When: Tuesday 23rd July, 6.30pm Where: The MECC, Alfred St, Mackay More info: www.themecc.com.au To those who know him, he is Wolfgang, the dart-playing, pun-loving ratbag. To those who are watching and listening, he is the wigged genius Mozart. He appears ready to throw musical madness into a crescendo of dives, swoops and twirls as a pair of mischievous acrobats and a multi-skilled musician reinvent the composer’s manic and magical music.

Wolfgang’s Magical Musical Circus has been designed to amaze people from ages three and up. It’s a show not to miss!

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The Festival consists of the G&S Engineering Wine and Food Day, Local Long Table Farmers Brunch, Festival Club, Illuminated art creations, Loose Ends, Wolfgang’s Magical Musical Circus, Festival Club, Opera Australia’s National Tour of Madama Butterfly and dozens more shows, exhibitions and events that are sure to appeal to everyone.

Loose Ends When: Sunday 21st July 2.00pm - 5.00pm and Tuesday 23rd July 10.00am - 1.00pm Where: Pinnacle Playhouse (Sunday 21st) and Bob Wood Cultural Hall (Tuesday 23rd) More info: www.themecc.com.au Dive into a theatrical adventure that feels like the magic box of a bygone trickster. Loose Ends tells the story of a man who thinks he can organise his life into boxes and has a knack for getting into mischief. Can he learn enough about real friendship to keep him out of trouble?

Possum Magic When: Monday 29th - Tuesday 30th July Where: The MECC, Alfred St, Mackay More info: www.themecc.com.au Mem Fox’s Possum Magic has enchanted young people all over Australia for more than 30 years, and now you can see the story come to life on stage.

Grandma Poss loves making magic. One day, danger arrives in the form of a snake, and Grandma uses her most magic spell to turn Hush invisible. Hush goes on many exciting adventures, but eventually, she longs to see herself again - but Grandma Poss can’t find the spell to make her visible again.

Spencer When: Wednesday 21st August, 7.30pm Where: The MECC, Alfred St, Mackay More info: www.themecc.com.au A brand new comedy-drama following a gloriously dysfunctional Australian family. Told over the course of a weekend in a suburban Australian home, Spencer is the story of a tight-knit family led by single mum Marilyn and her three adult children, Jules, Ben and Scott.

About to meet the young son - Spencer - he never knew he had, Scott and the family return home to mark the occasion, with the surprise appearance of their father Ian, the family is forced to work together to clean up both the house and their relationships before Spencer’s arrival.

Roald Dahl’s The Twits

NAIDOC Events Mackay NAIDOC Craft Tuesday 2nd July, 10.00am – 11.00am, Walkerston Library Tuesday 2nd July, 2.00pm – 3.00pn, Mirani Library Wednesday 3rd July, 10.30am – 11.30am, Gordon White Library Thursday 4th July, 10.00am – 11.00am, Dudley Denny City Library Friday 5th July, 10.00am – 11.00am, Sarina Library NAIDOC Week Performance and Craft Activities Monday 8th - Friday 12th July, 10.00am - 1.00pm daily, Caneland Central Flag Raising Ceremony and Morning Tea Monday 8th July, 10.00am, JCC Foyer Indigenous Language Stamping Drop-In Activity Monday 8th July, 10.00am – 3.00pm, Artspace Mackay Storytelling with Aunty Deb Tuesday 9th July, 10.00am – 11.00am, Gordon White Library Tuesday 9th July, 1.00pm – 2.00pm, Dudley Denny City Library

When: Friday 13th September, 11.00am, 1.00pm and 6.00pm Where: The MECC, Alfred St, Mackay More info: www.themecc.com.au Mr and Mrs Twit, the most horrible people to ever live on the stage of the earth, spend their days playing dirty tricks on each other. Mr Twit is training Muggle-Wump, a poor monkey he’s holding captive, to perform death defying stunts in The Great UpsideDown Monkey Circus.

But, Muggle-Wump’s fate changes with the arrival of Roly-Poly, a bird full of grace and pomposity - and they work together to punish The Twits forever.

Palm Frond Weaving Wednesday 10th July, 9.00am – 11.00am, Dudley Denny City Library Bark Art Workshop Wednesday 10th July, noon – 2.00pm, Dudley Denny City Library Mackay NAIDOC Family Day Friday 12th July, 11.00am – 4.00pm, Queens Park

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The Thing Is

The Thing Is...

STORY Bree James Patience. I have two extremes, I am either really patient, or I am really impatient.

Patience is not the ability to wait, but the ability to keep a good attitude while waiting.

I learnt patience from a young age. Mostly in the old Kingswood outside the T.A.B waiting for my dad, or the countless hours I spent at the hospital when my little sister had suffered yet another asthma attack. My impatience is usually with technology not doing what it’s meant to do, waiting in lines that I don’t want to be in, and watching my children look for their shoes in the morning. As an adult, some say I am way too patient or tolerate too much, but I think my patience has been my saving grace many times.

Sure, trying to keep a good attitude whilst waiting for your kids is annoying.

Sure, trying to help your parents with their tech problems is frustrating.

Sure, trying to be patient with your elderly relative as they tell you the same story again is not easy.

Sure, trying to get that tired baby or child to sleep when they don’t want to is tiresome.

Sure, trying to get your family to clean up after themselves is repetitive.

The thing is, without patience we will learn less, we will see less, we will feel less, we will hear less, and life will mean less.

There are so many things on a daily basis where our patience is tested.

So, it goes without saying, patience is one of the most important skills we can role model and teach our children.

Maybe that story from your elderly relative will finally have meaning once you hear it for the 100th time.

Learning to walk, learning to tie their shoes, learning to ride a bicycle, learning to drive their first car are all times that our children’s patience, and even that of our own, will be tested. We somehow navigate this part of their life and remind our children that they need to be patient and persistent.

But the older we get, and the more setbacks we have, the more our resilience and patience are tested.

We get sad, frustrated and demotivated because things aren’t happening at the speed we believe they should.

We haven’t got our dream job, car, partner or house.

Our life just isn’t where we thought it would be and this is a tough place to be.

Very few people are living the life of their dreams.

Or are they? Have you ever asked yourself the question, “if I had everything I ever wanted in my life, what would it be?” You may be surprised that you are closer than you realise.

This is life.

Maybe you will learn something having to teach someone else.

Maybe you will see something amazing whilst waiting.

Maybe you will feel more connected to your children as you cuddle them to sleep.

Maybe it’s these little moments of extreme patience where we grow and we realise the importance of these times.

Patience will always achieve more than our force.

When we are feeling impatient, you have three choices.

Leave the situation, change the situation or accept the situation and be patient.

Remember, the best things in life are worth waiting for.

So, be patient.

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Feature

Josephine Carter Photography

Johnathan Thurston: PROVIDING OPPORTUNITIES FOR THE COMMUNITY & OUR YOUTH He’s an NRL legend, a TV presenter, a Townville local, a loving father-of-four and a passionate advocate and ambassador for Indigenous Australians. But, for Johnathan Thurston, there are always more ways to make a difference.

This is why, just last year, JT launched JTAcademy, a central point where young Australians and businesses could connect to allow youth access to employment, training and education they would not otherwise have.

“There are a lot of young Australians living in isolated or remote communities who just don’t have the opportunities we would like them to have,” JT said in a recent interview.

“And sadly, those in urban communities can face

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just as tough a time from it depending on their community, and what they have been taught to believe about what they can hope for and dream of being.”

This is exactly why JT launched the JTAcademy – to connect youth and these opportunities. Johnathan, who lives in Townsville with his wife, Samantha and their four young daughters – Frankie, 6, Charlie, 4, Lillie, 2 and Remie, four months, is fully aware of just how important it is to provide opportunities for our youth.

Josephine Carter Photography

Feature

Get involved in the JTAcademy The JTAcademy is a resource for all Australians.

Businesses can help by advertising their jobs through the JTAcademy and on the JTJobBoard. They are also encouraged to speak about corporate partnerships with companies who share values and ethos.

“We have already seen thousands register for the JTJobBoard, and have successfully delivered school programs,” JT explains.

Schools can help by running JTAcademy programs designed to help kids believe from an early age that they can have a bright future and achieve incredible things. The more JTAcademy can partner with schools, the more they can work together to help youth and, by extension, the larger community.

Kids can help themselves by getting on the website and having a look. They may be too young to start applying for jobs but there are online courses they can do to help build confidence and self-esteem. There are also courses to teach them about job hunting, resume writing and interviewing.

There are a number of portals within the JTAcademy that cater to specific groups. For example, the JTWomenToLead program provides mentoring and support for girls aged 14-17 encouraging confidence, courage and self-belief.

“By developing a website where employers can post jobs, apprenticeships and training programs Australian kids can see and apply for is providing opportunities which we believe will change the future.”

“The work we are doing is far-reaching because it has to be,” JT said. “We want young Australians to believe they have a future and to believe that they have the power within themselves to reach for it.

These programs have all been designed specifically to do that and to give them the additional tools and connections to achieve what we hope will be positive and productive futures which inspire others within their communities.”

The JTBelieve program has been designed to boost self-esteem and confidence through a series of online resources and the JT Employment Program provides additional support and training to get individuals into work.

Families and the community can also help by encouraging young kids, believing in them and spreading word of initiatives such as the JTAcademy which are designed with the sole purpose of helping them.

Of course, this isn’t the first time Johnathan has made a difference in his community. The legendary NRL star was awarded the Australian Human Rights Commission Medal for his work with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders in 2017. He also won the Queenslander of the Year award and in 2018 was nominated for the Australian of the Year award.

Fittingly, Johnathan has just been recognised in the 2019 Queen’s Birthday Honours, and made a Member of the Order of Australia for his off-field contributions to the community. A massive congrats to JT on this incredible honour.

Josephine Carter Photography

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Image credit: Krista Eppelstun

Celebrating NAIDOC

Indigenous Culture and History NAIDOC Week celebrates the history, culture and achievements of the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples. This year, NAIDOC Week will run from 7th – 14th July. Every year it rolls around, but how much do you really know about NAIDOC Week and the history behind it all?

What is NAIDOC Week?

Simply put, NAIDOC (National Aborigines and Islanders Day Observance Committee) Week marks an occasion for Australians from all walks of life to come together and celebrate the achievement of the oldest continuing culture on the planet, the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.

Each year, the week has a different focus, with 2019’s being “Voice. Treaty. Truth. Let’s work together for a

shared future.” Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples have always wanted an enhanced role in decision-making within Australia’s democracy, and is reflected in this year’s celebrations.

Voice, treaty, truth were three important elements to the reforms set out in the Uluru Statement from the Heart, representing the unified position of First Nations Australians.

Indigenous Culture and History in Australia Having lived here for over 40,000 years, Indigenous Australians are the first known human inhabitants of the Australian continent, including its nearby islands.

It’s estimated that there were around 250 different languages spoken, and while some have survived, many are in danger of disappearing.

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Celebrating NAIDOC

Values which were taught in a traditional society included sharing, respecting the wisdom of age, looking out for the young, gentle treatment, fulfilment of kinship obligations and close observation of plants and animals.

There are still various places around Australia where you can get in touch with Indigenous culture such as the well-known Uluru, the ancient rock paintings at Flinders Range in South Australia and the Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park in New South Wales.

Today, many public meetings begin with an “Acknowledgement of Country,” where those attending the meeting acknowledge the Traditional Owners of the land they stand on.

Indigenous Culture and History in Mackay The Yuwibara People – The Yuwibara people inhabited the Mackay region and are very passionate about preserving the land and sea for future generations.

What is now known as Cape Hillsborough is of particular significance for several reasons, including that it was a hunting and gathering ground for food. Remains such as a stone fish trap, stone fireplaces, pieces of ochre and stone axe heads have been found over the years.

The Gia People – The Gia People inhabited the mainland of the Whitsunday region. The Gia spoke Giya/ Bumbarra, with their lands extending over some 4000 square kilometres.

The Ngaro People – The Ngaro people inhabited the Whitsunday Islands, and included some coastal areas around what is now known as Cape Conway. They were noted for their distinctive three-piece canoes, and their knowledge of surrounding reefs intimately.

The earliest archaeological evidence of habitation in the area has been found at Nara Inlet on Hook Island, which consists of cave openings with paintings of what is often presumed to be sea turtle shells and more.

The Wiri, Barada Barna Kabalbara and Yetimarla, Yuibera, Birri-Gubba and Kungalburra peoples all have strong associations with the Sarina area south of Mackay.

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Dreamtime The Dreamtime is the Aboriginal understanding of the world and its creation. Dreaming stories tell of ancestor spirits who created the land and everything on it, from the mountains we see around us to the bright colours of our native birds.

The Rainbow Serpent – At the beginning of the Dreamtime, the earth was flat and dry and empty, until the Rainbow Serpent woke from his sleep and crossed Australia from East to West and North to South, creating mountains, rivers, and waking animals along the way, turning the land into the beautiful scenery we know today.

Tiddalick the frog – Tiddalick was the largest frog in the entire world. One warm morning, he woke up very thirsty and drank all the fresh water in the entire billabong; leaving no more for the other animals. The animals knew that if they made Tiddalick laugh, all the water would come spilling out of his mouth back into the billabong. The animals worked together, figuring out all sorts of ways to make him laugh.

How the Water got to the Plains – Way back in time, two greedy men stole the last supply of water from their own community. The warriors followed their tracks, leading them down into the big plains where they could see the men in the distance. Spearmen threw all the spears they had, one hitting the water carrier (eel-amun) leaking out almost all of the water.

Using very strong magic, the two men were punished by being turned in to the very first emu and blue-tongued lizard. Wherever the water had leaked onto the plains, there were now beautiful billabongs, grass and flowers, meaning there was now enough water for all.

Looking to get involved with this year’s NAIDOC Week celebrations? There is plenty happening throughout the Mackay region. Take a look at the Check It Out section on page 4 for a list of events happening locally this NAIDOC week. Let’s work together for a shared future.

Photography: Jo Crane

Special Needs

Spotlight on Special Needs This month, we’re putting the spotlight on special needs families. We asked several local families to share their stories and offer advice to parents in similar situations. While raising children with special needs is rarely a smooth road, the bumps along the way teaches wonderful lessons and proves that it’s possible to lead an amazing life despite the impact a medical condition can have.

Juliet Forrester Juliet is twenty months old and lives with her mum Amy, dad Chris and siblings Bodhi, 14 and Lily, 11.

Juliet has an extremely rare condition called Koolen De Vries Syndrome (KDVS). The condition was only first discovered ten years ago and there are only 350 confirmed cases worldwide. Despite the ups and downs, Juliet is a cheerful, happy little girl.

“Juliet's condition affects our family dramatically because she does not develop as typical kids do and has many health problems,” mum Amy told PakMag. “She has had two surgeries and is set to have at least four more at this stage. She has therapy weekly to help with her delays.”

Amy explained a little more about what Juliet’s condition entails. “Children with KDVS can have many health anomalies and congenital conditions, including distinctive facial features, developmental delay, epilepsy, significant speech delays, congenital heart defects, fused vertebrae… the list goes on.”

When asked what it’s like to be a parent of a child with special needs, Amy said, “It’s difficult to adjust, mostly.

It can feel like a type of grief. You assume that you will have a healthy baby and then everything changes.”

the world, as Juliet has been the biggest gift and I truly feel as though I’ve won the lottery being her mum.”

“You begin to quietly grieve for the child you thought you would have, because you don’t want anyone to think you don’t love them. But I wouldn’t change it for

Amy and Chris’ advice for parents of children with special needs is to “find a support group and surround yourself with people that love you and your child.”

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Special Needs

Grace RUPERT Four-year-old Grace lives with her mum Tori, stepfather Connor and baby brother Lincoln, six weeks.

Although Grace is always smiling and laughing, she also deals with a rare form of genetic epilepsy, Dandy Walker Syndrome and cortical vision impairment.

William and Lance Noonan Brothers William, three, and Lance, eight months, come from a happy family consisting of mum Mary, dad Anthony and sisters Katie, seven, and Eva, five.

William and Lance both have a genetic condition called oculocutaneous albinism, which is also known as being albino.

“The boys have to be careful in the sun as they burn very easily and suffer from photophobia,” mum Mary explained. “The condition also causes the boys to be significantly vision impaired.”

When asked what it’s like to be a parent to children with special needs, Mary said, “It is a lot of hard work with the constant medical appointments and therapies.

Your hopes for your child’s future becomes a full-time job that you work at constantly so they can become the best person they can be.”

“It is also extremely rewarding as you celebrate every little milestone as a massive achievement. William didn’t really smile that much as he couldn’t see a lot in the first year of his life, but when he would give me a smile, it was a massive celebration and the greatest feeling.”

However, it’s not always been a smooth road, and the family has faced some challenges such as giving equal time to other siblings, fitting in a multitude of appointments each week and judgement from strangers.

“My daughter has regular seizures and developmental delays,” mum Tori told PakMag. “She has just had a full genetic screen back which has showed a rare form of genetic epilepsy which is extremely difficult to control on medication. She also has a brain malformation which was developed in utero.”

When asked what it’s like to be parent to a child with special needs, Tori said, “It’s amazing and heartbreaking in so many different ways. I was angry and frustrated, and questioned why this had happened to her and us as a family. Over time, I changed my way of thinking and now I like to think that she has been given to us because we are strong, and able to give her a good life.”

Tori went on to explain that controlling her daughter’s seizures is the hardest. “When she seizes, she turns blue and stops breathing. It is terrifying. We are currently fundraising for a seizure dog for Grace, because usual seizure monitoring does not work for her.”

“I am also trying to work a full-time job as an emergency nurse, and now we have a six-week-old baby too.”

Despite everything, Grace melts hearts everywhere she goes. “My daughter makes me brave and strong as a mum, and has made me a fierce advocate for her needs,” Tori adds.

Tori and Connor’s advice for other parents of children with special needs is to “stay strong and listen to yourself. If you know that something is not right, then make sure you have it investigated. Also, remember to ask for help.”

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Mary and Anthony’s advice for other parents of children with special needs is to “find good therapists who can help your child achieve their goals and will work with your family how you see best. Don’t let medical professionals put your child in a box and set limits of what they can achieve, and don’t take what strangers say to heart.”

Bump, Bub and Beyond

Special Cuddles After Baby STORY Jenna Galley Let’s talk about sex, baby... or shall we say, after baby.

If you’re a new mum, it’s probably the last thing you want to think about. You’re squishy in the stomach, you’re mushy in the brain and you’re leaking from the breasts. You probably feel as sexy as a toilet seat, and this is perfectly normal.

But there will come a time when sex returns to the table.

Your libido may return straight away, it may take a few weeks or it could take several months (all completely normal). When the time does come to return to the bedroom after giving birth, here are a few facts and figures to keep in mind.

When Can We Do It Again?

Experts suggest that new mums wait until after they have stopped bleeding before getting intimate. This is generally around four to six weeks but it can be earlier or much later.

40 per cent of first-time mums tried having sex by six weeks postpartum.

80 per cent of first-time mums tried having sex by 12 weeks postpartum.

“But I Don’t Want To” This is a pretty common response for new mums.

And there could be a number of reasons for this.

You’re feeling tired, hormonal and all touched out, you’re mentally or physically recovering from birth, you’re worried about falling pregnant again, you would rather take a shower than ‘cuddle’ during baby’s naptime, you’re nervous about your new after-baby body, or you just don’t feel sexy - all valid reasons!

Before you have sex, talk to your partner about how you’re feeling. More likely than not, your partner will be happy to wait until you’re ready. After all, it takes two to tango.

Do’s and Don’ts of Doing It DO expect a bit of discomfort the first time around. Your body has been through a massive change and things are bound to be a bit sore and strange down there.

DO use lubricant, as this can help with soreness and dryness.

DO consider contraception, even if breastfeeding.

Even if you’re exclusively breastfeeding day and night, there is still a risk of falling pregnant.

DO ease your way into it. If you’re just not ready, take it slow with other intimate activities such as massage.

DON’T do anything you’re not comfortable with.

DON’T be ashamed if you’re not ready. There is no schedule when it comes to being intimate.

DON’T be alarmed if things feel a bit different or if you happen to leak breast milk during the action. It happens to the best of us!

Bringing Sexy Back When you become a mum, your baby becomes your number one priority. Everything else, including intimacy, takes a back seat to your little bundle of joy.

Taking care of yourself by eating right, sleeping (as much as you can) and indulging in a bit of me-time (and a shower!) can all help you feel more like yourself again. Once your energy returns, your libido will follow.

And if not, your GP is only a phone call away!

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Bump, Bub and Beyond

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

Crumpler Baby Bag RRP $249.00 - www.crumpler.com You’re going to start or grow your family and now it’s time to get a bag that will fit all those bottles, clothes, spare nappies, soiled nappies and containers filled with snacks. The Crumpler Baby Bag is complete with super comfortable padded straps, storage compartments, a wet zone, a padded laptop sleeve, a mixture of pockets and a padded change mat. No matter how much you’re carrying, it will be easy to get around with the Crumpler Baby Bag.

Mister Fly Giraffe Playmat RRP $109.95 - www.annieandislabean.com.au

LeapFrog My First Scout Book

The Mister Fly Giraffe Playmat will be your baby’s new favourite play space. Perfectly padded for squishy thighs and baby bums, yet stylish enough for modern mama’s and nurseries. The playmats are a generous 1m wide, perfect for tummy time or leg wriggles. The best part of these gorgeous playmats is that they are machine washable for when those little unavoidable spills happen.

RRP $24.95 - www.bigw.com.au

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There’s something to learn on every page of My First Scout Book. Each page of the touch-and-feel book will delight your baby as they explore the shiny pond, crinkly flower, peek-a-boo flap and baby-safe mirror.

Press the music note button to hear an adorable welcome song and four singalong songs that introduce your little one to numbers, letters, colours and shapes. Babies can grasp the handle and take it everywhere they go.

Bump, Bub and Beyond

ALL ABOUT BABY RASHES Rashes are very common during infancy, and most children experience them at one time or another. Many aren’t a sign of an underlying condition and disappear on their own, but some can be a sign that something concerning is going on. Let’s go over some common childhood rashes.

Nappy rash – Inflammation of the skin in the nappy area that looks red, sore and inflamed. To avoid nappy rash, keep the nappy area clean with frequent nappy changes and nappy-free time. If it’s persistent, it can be treated with a medicated cream available from the pharmacy.

not contagious and usually clear up on their own within a few weeks.

Eczema – A condition causing itchy, red and dry skin. Eczema is long-term but can be managed with moisturisers and creams to reduce inflammation.

Certain soaps or food may trigger symptoms.

Heat rash – Living in the tropics, chances are you’re familiar with heat rash yourself. The rash looks like tiny red bumps or blisters on the skin, and may be very itchy.

Heat rash usually clears without treatment.

Baby acne – Some babies get acne on their cheeks and nose in their first few months of life. This usually clears up without treatment in a few months.

Meningitis rash – Symptoms of meningitis in infants can include a purple-red skin rash, fever and vomiting.

Meningitis is a medical emergency, so if you have any suspicions, take your child to the emergency department immediately.

Milia – Caused by blocked oil glands and appear as tiny white lumps on the face, especially the nose. They are

If a rash is accompanied by a fever, or if your parental instinct alarm is sounding, don't hesitate to seek medical advice. It's better to be safe than sorry.

HELPFUL TIP At one point in pregnancy, you might be peeing so often that you want to stop drinking water altogether. Trick yourself into staying hydrated without constantly chugging water by eating foods with a high H2O content.

Incorporate ingredients such as cucumber, watermelon, strawberries, and peaches into your meals.

DID YOU KNOW? During the 18th century, Russian mother Shuya gave birth to 69 children – the most in recorded history according to Guinness World Records, Shuya had 27 pregnancies, including 16 pairs of twins, seven sets of triples and four sets of quadruplets.

www.pakmag.com.au | July/August 2019 21

WHAT’S ON JUL JUL -- AUG AUG WEDNESDAY 3 JULY

FRIDAY 5TH JULY

NAIDOC Craft Gordon White Library www.mackay.qld.gov.au 10.30am / Free / Prep - Year 6

Watpac Townsville 400 Runs until 7 July Reid Park www.ticketek.com.au 8.00am / Check Website / Family

School Holiday Fun Day! Mackay Indoor Sports Arena www.isamackay.com.au 10.00am / $15 / 5-15 Yrs THURSDAY 4 JULY NAIDOC Craft Dudley Denny City Library www.mackay.qld.gov.au 10.00am / Free / Prep - Year 6 SATURDAY 6 JULY Queensland Ballet Presents Dangerous Liaisons The MECC www.themecc.com.au 7.30pm / $42 Adult / Adults Mackay Blues Rock Sessions Mackay Turf Club www.mackaytickets.com.au 11.30am / Check Website / Adults Bus Tour - Mackay Day in the Clouds Farm and Food Tour The MECC www.sarinasugarshed.com.au 8.00am / $158 Adult / Family Saturday Public Open Day Makerspaces Mackay, Inc Makerspaces Mackay, Inc 1.00pm / Free / Family

SUNDAY 7 JULY Unicorn Festival Mackay 2019 Mackay Showgrounds Unicorn Festival 9.00am / $2.50 Entry / Family MONDAY 8 JULY Flag Raising Ceremony and Morning Tea for NAIDOC Week 2019 JCC Foyer www.mackay.qld.gov.au 10.00am / Check Website / Family Indigenous Language Stamping Drop-In Activity Artspace Mackay www.artspacemackay.com.au 10.00am / Check Website / Family TUESDAY 9 JULY Storytelling with Aunty Deb Gordon White Library www.mackay.qld.gov.au 10.00am / Free / Family WEDNESDAY 10 JULY DBCT Illuminate Free Lantern Making Workshops Runs until 14 July

With Star’s Rob Kidd

Mackay Regional Botanic Gardens Mackay Festival Various times / Free / Family Palm Frond Weaving Dudley Denny City Library www.mackay.qld.gov.au 9.00am / Check Website / Family Bark Art Workshop Dudley Denny City Library www.mackay.qld.gov.au Noon / Check Website / Family FRIDAY 12 JULY Mackay NAIDOC Family Day Queens Park www.mackay.qld.gov.au 11.00am / Free / Family Dustier Than Ever Harrup Park Country Club Harrup Park 7.30pm / $20 / Family

The Handmade Expo Market Mackay Mackay PCYC The Handmade Expo NQ 9.00am / Free / Family The EMS Mackay Motor Show The Mackay Rod & Custom Club The Mackay Rod & Custom Club 9.00am / Check Website / Family SUNDAY 14 JULY BOHO On the Lawns Breakwater Bar & Restaurant Mackay Breakwater Bar & Restaurant Mackay 12.00pm / $85 / Adults TUESDAY 16 JULY

SATURDAY 13 JULY

Mackay - Free safeTALK Suicide Prevention Training Quest in Mackay www.grapevinegroup.org.au 6.00pm / Free / 15+ Yrs

Taylors Solicitors Mackay Cup Mackay Turf Club www.mackayturfclub.com.au 11.00am / Check Website / Adults

Bus Tour - Mackay Fruits of the Region Farm & Tastings Tour The MECC Greater Whitsunday Food Network Inc 8.00am / $143 Adult / Family

Johnathan Thurston Live 2019 Encore Tour - Mackay The MECC www.themecc.com.au 7.30pm / Check Website / Family

Expressing and Storing Breastmilk Mackay Women’s Centre Mackay Group Australian Breastfeeding Association 10.00am / Free / Family

www.pakmag.com.au | July/August 2019 23

WHAT’S ON JUL JUL -- AUG AUG

With Star’s Macca

THURSDAY 18 JULY

SUNDAY 21 JULY

THURSDAY 25 JULY

MONDAY 29 JULY

Karise Eden ‘Up Close and Personal’ Tour Mount Pleasant Tavern www.oztix.com.au 7.00pm / $24.50 / 18+ Yrs

Loose Ends Pinnacle Playhouse www.themecc.com.au 2.00pm / Free / Family

Manic Mandy Runs until 26 July The MECC www.themecc.com.au 6.00pm / Check Website

Possum Magic Runs until 30 July The MECC www.themecc.com.au 6.00pm / $15 / Family

FRIDAY 19 JULY

Konvoy 4 Kids Mackay Showgrounds Konvoy 4 KIDS 10.30am / $5 Adult / Family

FRIDAY 26 JULY

TUESDAY 30 JULY

Courses in Colour The MECC www.themecc.com.au 6.30pm / $100 / Adults

BMA Kidspace Artspace Mackay Artspace Mackay 10.00am / Free / Family

Phil Jamieson Seabreeze Hotel www.seabreezemackay.com.au 7.00pm / $30 / 18+ Yrs

THURSDAY 1 AUGUST

Whitsunday Voices Youth Literary Dinner MECC Plenary Halls www.themecc.com.au 6.30pm / $150 / Youth SATURDAY 20 JULY Mackay Festival of Arts Runs until 28 July Queens Park www.themecc.com.au Various Times & Locations / Family

MONDAY 22 JULY DBCT Illuminate 2019 Runs until 26 July Mackay Regional Botanic Gardens Mackay Festival 6.00pm / Free / Family TUESDAY 23 JULY

High Tea Party Mackay Botanical Gardens Cafe Kira Smith Events 10.00am / $55 / Adults

Wolfgang’s Magical Musical Circus The MECC www.themecc.com.au 6.30pm / $25 Adult / Family

G&S Engineering Wine and Food Day Queens Park G & S Engineering Wine & Food Day 10.30am / Free / Family

Loose Ends Sarina Cultural Hall www.themecc.com.au 10.00am / Free / Family

Airlie Beach Running Festival 2019 Airlie Beach www.runairlie.com.au 2.00pm / Check Website / Family

An Unconventional Tour Runs until 27 July The MECC www.themecc.com.au 6.30pm / $30 Adult / Family

WEDNESDAY 24 JULY

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SATURDAY 27 JULY Opera Australia National Tour Madama Butterfly The MECC www.themecc.com.au 7.30pm / $42 Adult / Family Mackay Woodturning & Craft Expo Runs until 28 July Mackay Woodturners Club Mackay Woodturners Club 9.00am / Free / Family SUNDAY 28 JULY Sydney St Medical Beach to Gardens Charity Fun Run Iluka Park, East Mackay www.beachtogardensfunrun. com.au 6.00am / Check Website / Family

Yamato - The Drummers of Japan The MECC www.themecc.com.au 7.30pm / $42 Adult / Family Great Barrier Reef Festival Runs until 4 August Airlie Beach Great Barrier Reef Festival 10.00am / Free / Family SATURDAY 3 AUGUST Sarina Show Runs until 4 August Sarina Showgrounds www.sarinashowsociety.com Check Website / Family WEDNESDAY 7 AUGUST 2019 Mackay Careers Expo Mackay Multipurpose Stadium Mackay Careers Expo 11.00am / Free / Family

2019 WATPAC TOWNSVILLE 400, 5 – 7 JULY

WIN

KIDS 12 AND UNDER GO TRACKSIDE FREE WITH A PAYING ADULT one of five family passes (4 x 3-day trackside tickets with paddock & concert access) and a family merch pack to the 2019 Watpac Townsville 400 (5 - 7 July)! One lucky family will also receive a family helicopter ride at the 2019 Watpac Townsville 400!

Soak up the colour and atmosphere of North Queensland’s largest annual sporting event at the 2019 Watpac Townsville 400, 5 - 7 July 2019.

Check out the SuperKids Zone!

Exciting for kids... relaxing for parents...

The SuperKids Zone is an area designed exclusively for parents and little people to relax, play and test their racing abilities.

Get active on the SuperKids Zone Race Track! Pedal Power to the finish line or have a go at one of the junior driver based skills challenges! From speed to balance activities, control to reaction games, it's your chance to get involved and have some fun. Keen to relax? Then chill out on the seats and bean bags and take five before heading back out to the racing action.

Competition closes 03/07/2019. *Conditions apply

WIN

one of five family passes (4 x 3-day trackside tickets with paddock & concert access) and a family merch pack to the 2019 Watpac Townsville 400 (5 - 7 July)! One lucky family will also receive a family helicopter ride at the 2019 Watpac Townsville 400!

2019 Watpac Townsville 400, 5 - 7 July - Soak up the colour and atmosphere of North Queensland’s largest annual sporting event at the 2019 Watpac Townsville 400. Kids 12 and under go trackside free with a paying adult.

For your chance to WIN one of five family passes and a family merch pack to the 2019 Watpac Townsville 400 (one lucky family will also receive a family helicopter ride at the 2019 Watpac Townsville 400), tell us the four differences between the images above.

Enter at www.pakmag.com.au/win - Competition closes 03/07/2019

Mini Mag

Sphero Specdrums - RRP $109.00 - Specdrums are app-enabled musical rings that make the world your instrument by turning colours into sounds. Tap on clothes, drawings, fruit, or the included playing pad to create and mix any sounds, beats and loops that all play through the connected mobile device. All skill levels, from curious minded kids to seasoned musicians, can create their own masterpieces with hundreds of instruments, loops and sounds - www.jbhifi.com.au For your chance to WIN Sphero Specdrums, tell us what your favorite song is and why.

Enter at www.pakmag.com.au/win - Competition closes 30/07/2019

Mini Mag

COMPLETE THE ROBOT

Build a Bot - RRP $39.99 - Build a Bot Light takes robotics and fun S.T.E.M learning to the next level with light sensors and interaction. Build your own robotic pet night light and discover features including light colours, sensors, and refraction. Finally, complete your pet with cute stickers and name it with your very own build certificate. Build-a-Bot brings STEM learning to young children. Build, customise and play! - www.colorific.com.au & www.buildabot.com.au For your chance to WIN a Build a Bot, tell us what you would name your Build a Bot. Enter at www.pakmag.com.au/win - Competition closes 30/07/2019

What’s On

JUL -- AUG AUG WHAT’S ON JUL THURSDAY 8 AUGUST Airlie Beach Race Week - Festival of Sailing Runs until 15 August Airlie Beach www.abrw.com.au Check Website / Family FRIDAY 9 AUGUST Star101.9’s Fire In The Sky Bluewater Quay Star 101.9 Mackay 4.00pm / Free / Family SATURDAY 10 AUGUST Mackay Big Boys Toys 2019 Runs until 11 August Mackay Showgrounds Big Boys Toys Expo 9.00am / Check Facebook / Family

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 Markets Date: Last Sunday of the month Time: From 8.00am (Mar to Dec) Location: Bruce Highway Sarina

SUNDAY 18 AUGUST

TUESDAY 27 AUGUST

Run as 1 for Cystic Fibrosis Caneland Park Run as 1 for Cystic Fibrosis 4.00pm / Check Website / Family

BMA Kidspace Artspace Mackay Artspace Mackay 10.00am / Free / Family

TUESDAY 20 AUGUST

SATURDAY 31 AUGUST

Xavier Rudd Harrup Park www.xavierrudd.com 6.00pm / Check Website / 18+ Yrs

Mumlife Community Meet Kidz Life Play Centre Kidz Life Play Centre 10.00am / $4 / Family

Beer and BBQ Festival Harrup Park Mackay Beer and BBQ Festival Check Facebook / 18+ Yrs

Lee Kernaghan Backroad Nation Tour The MECC www.themecc.com.au 7.30pm / $74.90 Adult / Family

Spencer by Katy Warner The MECC www.themecc.com.au 7.30pm / $42 Adult / Family

School Fair Walkerston State School P&C Walkerston State School P&C 4.00pm / Free / Family FRIDAY 16 AUGUST

SATURDAY 17 AUGUST Yoga Fest Mackay Mackay Surf Lifesaving Club Yoga Fest Mackay 8.00am / Free / Family

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 Paxtons Night Markets 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

WEDNESDAY 21 AUGUST

SAVE THE DATE FRIDAY 13 SEPTEMBER Roald Dahl’s The Twits The MECC www.themecc.com.au 11.00am, 1.00pm and 6.00pm / $15 / Family

SUNDAY 25 AUGUST Car Boot Sale and Free Community Breakfast Adra Op Shop Car Park wmflourish@gmail.com 7.30am / Free / Family

Seaforth Markets Date: Every Sunday Time: From 8.30am Location: Palm Avenue Seaforth Troppo Treasure Markets Date: 2nd Sunday of the month Time: From 7.30am - 11.30am Location: Mount Pleasant Shopping Centre 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

The Greater Whitsunday Farmers’ Markets Date: Every Wednesday Time: From 7.00am - 11.00am Location: Bluewater Quay, River Street, Mackay City Centre (Best parking - Brisbane Street) Details: Greater Whitsunday Farmers Market Showground Markets Date: Every Saturday Time: From 6.30am Location: Milton Street

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

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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: Wednesdays Time: 9.30am – 10.00am

Mums and Bubs Morning Ride

Location: Dudley Denny City Library Days: Fridays 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

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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 - 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 - 10.00am Location: Shop 2, 176 Victoria Street, Mackay 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.

Recipes

FINGER FOOD FOR YOUR NEXT PARTY Is a party really a party when there is no food? Whether you’re catering for grown ups or little ones, we’ve got the perfect recipes to make your next party a blast.

EASY CHEESY MINI HAMBURGERS Makes 9 Ingredients 9 slider buns 500g beef mince 1 onion, grated 5 tbsp tomato sauce 2 eggs, beaten 1/3 cup breadcrumbs 1 tomato, sliced

TABLELANDS DUKKAH RECIPE Dorothy Richmond

9 slices of bacon, halved 9 slices tasty cheese, halved 50g gherkins, chopped 8 leaves of curly lettuce 1 tbsp sesame seeds Salt and pepper, to taste

Method Place the beef mince, egg, grated onion, chopped gherkin, breadcrumbs and 2 tbsp tomato sauce in a bowl and season with salt and pepper. Mix until combined.

Roll the mixture to make 18 balls. Flatten and place on a plate, refrigerating for 15 minutes.

Preheat the oven to 180°C. Heat the oil in a pan and fry the beef in batches for 1 - 2 minutes on each side. They will still be a little rare in the centre, fry for longer if desired. Fry bacon until done.

Using the other egg, lightly coat your buns with and add a sprinkle of sesame seeds. Heat the buns for five minutes in the oven to get them golden brown and crispy. Let them cool for five minutes.

Slice open the buns and assemble your burgers using the beef patties, bacon, tomato, cheese, lettuce and remaining tomato sauce. Tuck in and enjoy.

A little something for the adults; simple yet delicious.

A great appetiser or snack for your party or gathering.

Chances are you have all the ingredients in your pantry already.

Ingredients 50g Almonds 50g Macadamias 50g Cashews 50g Pistachios 1 tsp Coriander seeds 1 tsp Sesame seeds 1 tsp Fennel seeds 1 tsp Black sesame seeds 1 tsp Fenugreek seeds 1 tsp Cumin seeds Aussie pepper to taste

Sea salt to taste Pinch Lemon aspen Olive oil 12 Tomatoes 6 slice Turkish bread White balsamic vinegar Balsamic vinegar Fresh basil Coriander Parsley

Method Roast the nuts and seeds in a non-stick pan until fragrant.

Grind nuts with salt and pepper in a pestle and mortar.

Finely chop herbs and warm to soften.

Mix herbs through roasted nuts and check seasoning.

Serve dukkah with oil and vinegars and tomato and bread to dip.

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Health

HEALTH The THE Health HEALTH Benefits BENEFITS of OF Spirulina SPIRULINA

Natural Remedies NATURAL REMEDIES FOR Mouth for MOUTH Ulcers ULCERS

Spirulina is a blue-green algae with a high protein and vitamin content and is often taken as a dietary supplement.

It’s nutrient-dense and packed full of vitamins and minerals, making this green stuff a super-supplement for many reasons.

Let’s explore just a few.

Mouth ulcers are painful sores that occur on the inside of the lip, inside the cheek or on the tongue. In most cases, mouth ulcers are harmless, but they can certainly be annoying. Here are some natural remedies that may speed up the healing process.

Antioxidant and anti-inflammatory – Phycocyanin is the main active compound in spirulina. It gives it the unique blue-green colour we’re familiar with, but it also has powerful antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.

Can lower “bad” LDL – Heart disease is the world’s leading cause of death. There are several risk factors, and spirulina positively impacts many of these. It can lower LDL (“bad” cholesterol) while raising HDL (“good” cholesterol).

May be effective against anaemia – A condition leading to prolonged feelings of weakness and fatigue, commonly characterised by a reduction in haemoglobin or red blood cells in the blood. A study suggests spirulina increased the haemoglobin content of red blood cells.

Boosts energy – People who regularly consume spirulina have reported an abundance of energy, and when you look at the chemical composition of spirulina, it comes as no surprise.

As well as taking spirulina supplements, it can easily be added to smoothies, juices, bliss balls, pesto, and even mashed avocado.

Swish with salt water. Salt water is a natural disinfectant, and therefore can help make your mouth ulcer go away. One teaspoon of sea salt in half a cup of warm water will do the trick.

Eat yoghurt. Make sure it’s cultured probiotic yoghurt, as it’s filled with good bacteria. These replenish your oral flora and may help treat the ulcer.

Consume apple cider vinegar. This may also help maintain healthy oral flora. Incorporate it into your diet through salad dressings or cooking, or mix a tablespoon of apple cider vinegar in a glass of water and swish.

Be sure to rinse your mouth out with water afterwards as vinegar is acidic and can weaken tooth enamel.

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Education

What is LOTE? STORY Hans von Dietze, Japanese Teacher Many people dream of speaking a second or even third language fluently, but not many of us have the time to commit to learning something so huge. One thing everyone agrees on is that it is much easier to learn a second language when you are a child, because when we are young, our brains act like sponges. Nowadays, learning another language is an integral part of the Australian Curriculum.

The acronym LOTE stands for Languages Other Than English and refers to the study of second languages in Australia. There are currently six languages predominantly taught in Australian schools, with Japanese the most popular, followed by Italian, Indonesian, French, German and Mandarin. In Cairns, Mandarin and Japanese are the two most popular languages offered by schools.

The glaring omission is any Indigenous Aboriginal language, of which there are hundreds. The Australian

Curriculum: Languages, which is designed to enable all students to engage in learning a language in addition to English, does have a framework for Aboriginal Languages and Torres Strait Islander Languages.

Why is it important for children to learn another language?

Many Australian parents comment that they studied a language at school, but they cannot remember anything, apart from counting to ten or simple greetings. The comment that usually follows this is that they wish they had learnt more.

This is the reality of language learning: students start with enthusiasm, make quick progress at younger ages, but finally drop the language they are studying when it becomes an elective in high school. They finish their schooling without a second language, and so, whilst Australia proudly promotes itself as multi-cultural, more and more of our young adults are monolingual.

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Education

The Australian Curriculum indicates that despite its status as a world language, a capability in English only is no longer sufficient. A bilingual or plurilingual capability is the norm in most parts of the world.

Learning languages broadens students’ horizons in relation to the personal, social, cultural and employment opportunities that an increasingly interconnected and interdependent world presents.

Young people's brains are wired for language learning and it is a real advantage and an optimum time to start children accessing a second language as young as preschool age.

This is important as it reinforces the acquisition vs. learning theory. Babies undergo a phase psychologists call a “silent period.” As the name signifies, this is the time before babies learn to talk and produce the words in their language, sometimes called the "pre-production stage" of language development.

The goal is not to test, but to repeat over and over so that material moves from the short-term memory to the long-term memory. My belief is that the best way for this to happen is to learn language through songs.

Children like to sing, songs can be played over and over, and the proof is in all the lyrics of pop songs parents remember from days gone by.

•• Learn together. Make this a joint experience, much like practicing sport together.

•• Frequent review of only a minute or two rather than sitting down to ‘study'. Use advertisement breaks during TV shows or the five minutes before bedtime.

•• Make card games, such as memory or snap, to play with vocabulary items.

•• Using online sites together. Many language-focused sites are appearing almost daily.

•• Find and listen to songs in the target language. YouTube and specific teaching songs are available online.

They listen so closely that, in the future, they will soon be able to replicate the linguistic features of the people around them, and when they do, they are greeted with whoops of delight from their misty-eyed parents.

•• My favourite: Hang up words around the home as visual cues. Label the bedroom, living room and kitchen.

No such luck for students learning a second language.

Parents revert to the ‘I don’t know what you are talking about’ routine and sadly, feel that they cannot support the learning of their child.

•• The shower is a great place for students to practice speaking. Get a shower speaker, record language (e.g. a self-introduction) and away you go.

How to bring LOTE into your home and learn together

•• Put lists in public spaces. e.g. on the back of the toilet door. Plenty of time for review!

•• Make videos of your child speaking to keep a record of progress over the years. (much like seeing little Johnny kicking his first football).

Over the years many parents have commented that they want to assist their child with foreign language learning, but they feel they are unable to do so.

•• Provide rewards for successfully remembering word lists. Chocolate usually works!

Nowadays we have more material available to help our children at home than ever before, with online courses, apps and free videos at everyone’s fingertips.

Translation websites are well known, and many learning areas will provide spoken language for correct pronunciation. The philosophy behind language learning is that it requires review in frequent, short doses.

•• Use gestures to reinforce meaning. This works really well with younger learners. If you are learning about animals, for example, act out the word you are trying to learn as you say it.

Practical ideas for parents to help their child learn a language The ideal is to make it part of your everyday home life where children have a n opportunity to access the language frequently and in a non-confrontational manner. You can also ask the language teacher for ideas.

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•• Keep a vocabulary notebook handy, such as in the car glovebox.

•• Another favourite of mine: Learn fixed expressions that can be used frequently, such as ‘I’m not sure’ or ‘Can you repeat that please’ or ‘Thank you very much’.

When language learners are immersed into an environment where their learning is supported, has value and is rewarded, they will thrive. Most parents did not have this advantage as they were growing up, but it is in your best interests to provide this for your children.

They will thank you later.

School Holiday Guide

SCHOOL HOLIDAY GUIDE THE MECC

CANELAND CENTRAL

Got any family outings planned this July? There are plenty of family-friendly events happening at the MECC, so don’t miss out.

Itching to get out of the house? Head on down to Caneland Central and discover the FREE events these school holidays.

Loose Ends, 21st and 23rd July Dive into a theatrical adventure that feels like the magic box of a bygone trickster. Loose Ends tells the story of a man who thinks he can organise his life into boxes and has a knack for getting into mischief. Can he learn enough about real friendship to keep him out of trouble? Showing at Pinnacle Playhouse on 21st July and Bob Wood Cultural Hall on the 23rd July.

Eco-Art Workshops Monday 1st – Friday 5th July

Wolfgang’s Magical Musical Circus, 23rd July The man known as Mozart appears amid a storm of powder, twirling and tumbling in a family show with a circus twist that anyone from the age of three and up is sure to enjoy.

Bring the kids and learn about creative ways to turn plastic into art with three interesting workshops catering to different interests and skill levels.

Jewellery making Monday 1st and Thursday 4th July Wall art Tuesday 2nd and Friday 5th July Sculpture making Wednesday 3rd July Activities run from 10.00am – 1.00pm outside Target.

An Unconventional Tour, 24th July Prepare to be taken down quirky laneways, through hidden car parks and disused shopfronts and become immersed in a performance where the underbelly is revealed and the unconventional embraced.

NAIDOC Week Performance and Craft Activities, Monday 8th – Friday 12th July

Courses in Colour, 26th July An exclusive pop-up dining experience presented in collaboration with the superb MECC Chefs. Prepare to challenge your senses and enliven your tastebuds.

Daily performances run at 11.00am and 1.00pm with Indigenous art workshops in between. Located outside Target.

Opera Australia National Tour – Madama Butterfly, 27th July A man enchanted by the beauty of the East. A woman in love with the promise of the West. Separated by a vast ocean and many years, what will become of their love? A love story across cultures, oceans and time.

Possum Magic, 29th – 30th July Grandma Poss loves making magic. One day, when danger arrives in the form of a snake, Grandma uses her most magical spell to make Hush invisible. But she can’t find the spell to make Hush visible again.

A Alfred St, Mackay P 4961 9777 MECC www.themecc.com.au

The Yarrabah Dancers are back this NAIDOC Week to perform their traditional dance and run some fun activities for the kids.

A Mangrove Rd, Mackay P 4944 7111 Caneland Central www.canelandcentral.com.au

MEMORIAL SWIM CENTRE Make a splash and cool off in the refreshing waters of the Memorial Swim Centre.

Featuring a 50m Olympic-sized pool, extensive grounds ideal for picnics, and a toddler pool with water fountain, this is the place to be these school holidays.

A Milton St, Mackay P 4944 1576 Memorial Swim Centre www.mackay.qld.gov.au

www.pakmag.com.au | July/August 2019 39

School Holiday Guide

MOUNT PLEASANT CENTRE

INFLATABLE KINGDOM

Check out all there is to do at Mount Pleasant Centre these school holidays.

What are your plans for these school holidays?

Notebook decorating, Tuesday 2nd – Thursday 4th July, 10.00am – 1.00pm daily – Decorate your very own notebook to take home. Happening at the Food Court centre stage.

Cookie decoration workshop, Tuesday 9th – Thursday 11th July, 10.00am and 11.00am daily – Learn how to decorate your own beautiful cookies. $5 entry which includes a gift pack and coffee voucher. Call Muffin Break to book 4942 7244.

A Corner Bucasia Rd and Phillip St P 4969 2400 Mount Pleasant Centre www.mountpleasantcentre.com.au

PIONEER SWIM CENTRE Nestled within the gorgeous landscaped gardens of John Breen Park, Pioneer Swim Centre has something to offer the whole family these school holidays.

Featuring a 50m Olympic-sized swimming pool, 15m toddler pool with interactive play equipment, large shaded areas with seating, free use of electric BBQs and a location within close proximity to the skate park, roller hockey court and Gooseponds walking track, it’s all you need for a fantastic day out.

A Malcomson St, North Mackay P 4952 5244 Pioneer Swim Centre www.mackay.qld.gov.au

MACKAY AQUATIC & RECREATION COMPLEX This state-of-the-art sporting facility provides great opportunities for the community in terms of sporting. If you haven’t paid a visit since the opening in March, make sure you head on down and check it out.

Head on down to the Mackay Indoor Sports Arena on Wednesday the 3rd July from 10.00am – 1.00pm for the School Holiday Fun Day. For just $15, your child can take part in netball, soccer, dodgeball, volleyball and Inflatable Kingdom.

They will be provided with a sausage sizzle lunch, drinks and icy pole.

Suitable for children aged 5-15. Pre-booking essential, but you can pay on the day.

A Mackay Indoor Sports Arena, Harbour Rd, Mackay P 4957 2672 Inflatable Kingdom Mackay www.isamackay.com.au

UNICORN FESTIVAL Do you know someone who’s crazy about all things unicorn? Now there’s an event just for them; the Unicorn Festival is coming to Mackay on the 7th of July.

Gallop over to the Mackay Showgrounds for a magical day filled with face painting, glitter tattoos, yummy food, market stalls and plenty of unicorn-related activities the family will love.

A 24 Milton St, Mackay P 0484 362 166 Unicorn Festival

MACKAY REGIONAL BOTANIC GARDENS There’s plenty to do at the Mackay Regional Botanic Gardens for kids. They’ll even learn something!

The following activity sheets can be picked up from the gardens’ administration.

Alphabet I Spy – Can you spot these items with your eyes during your visit to the gardens?

Featuring a 50m FINA pool with heating, 25m warm - up pool, 15min learn-to-swim pool, a synthetic athletics track, multi-use playing field and much more, what more could you ask for?

Birdwatching Quiz – How many of these birds can you spot in the gardens? Keep your eyes peeled…

A 193 Boundary Rd, Mackay P 4847 5400 Mackay Aquatic Recreation Complex www.mackay.qld.gov.au

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

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25 Fun things to do in the gardens – Try one of these 25 activities and you certainly won’t be bored.

Home

LOVING NQ OUTDOOR LIVING With The Block’s Caro and Kingi We live in a gorgeous part of the world full of lush plant life, beautiful wildlife and warm sunny days many days of the year. It’s no wonder that most people enjoy spending time outdoors, but how can you bring a little of this tropical magic into your own home?

Consider looking into an outdoor lounge set or simply get some soft outdoor cushions that fit the style you’re going for. If you really want to step up your game, why not install a hanging chair, swing, or hammock? Make your outdoor area fun to ‘hang out’ in.

Open spaces - A spacious patio overlooking the yard, pool or nearby nature is a great place to start. If you have a small patio, you can make it appear more spacious by sticking to a simplistic décor – less is more.

Magical garden - Add a magical touch to your garden by positioning some clever decorative pieces.

Statues and wind chimes will turn your backyard into a mystical wonderland. Don’t forget to plant lots of native flowers too; you may attract some butterflies.

Create comfort - In order to make your outdoor living space more inviting, add some comfy seating.

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1. Bamboo Salad Servers - RRP $5.00 - www.freedom.com.au 2. Good Lookin Doormat - RRP $24.00 - www.freedom.com.au 3. Weekender Stripe Outdoor Cushion, Navy - RRP $39.00 - www.freedom.com.au 4. Hello Lovely Swaying Palm Print Cushion - RRP $60.00 - www.korufurnitureandhomewares.com.au 5. Torquay 4 Piece Outdoor Lounge Set, Aluminium - RRP $1699.00 - www.freedom.com.au 6. Hookey Red Rings Outdoor Game - RRP $39.00 - www.freedom.com.au 7. Piccolo Bar Stool, Natural - RRP $169.00 - www.freedom.com.au 8. Uniqwa Makeba Hanging Chair - RRP $850.00 - www.korufurnitureandhomewares.com.au 9. Rustic Serving Board - RRP $25.00 - www.freedom.com.au 10. Uniqwa Congo Relax Chair - RRP $675.00 - www.korufurnitureandhomewares.com.au

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1. Luke, Laura and Ned - Pioneer Valley Show 2. Chrissy and Bree - St Catherine’s College Playgroup 3. Vanessa and Addison - Pioneer Valley Show 4. Rosie and Isla - St Catherine’s College Playgroup 5. Kelly, Ryan, Darcie and Dimity - Pioneer Valley Show 6. Nichole, Thomas and James - St Catherine’s College Playgroup 7. Sonia and Mila - Pioneer Valley Show 8. Maddison, Cassie, Zoe and Angela - Pioneer Valley Show

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Snapped

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Photography thanks to: Remember This Photography p 0409 956 373 e rememberthisphoto@live.com.au Remember This Photography www.rememberthisphotography.com.au

9. Angela and Nyah - St Catherine’s College Playgroup 10. Samantha, Brett, Jace, Liam, Nate, Elsie and Jane - Pioneer Valley Show 11. Kriste, Steve, Maddy and Ava - Pioneer Valley Show 12. Alison, Scott and Molly - Pioneer Valley Show 13. Conrad-Murray family - Pioneer Valley Show 14. Jacqui, Max and Bonnie - St Catherine’s College Playgroup

www.pakmag.com.au | July/August 2019 45

Celebrate

ULTIMATE SLUMBER PARTY Some of the best childhood memories are made during sleepovers. Filled with delicious snacks, fun games and giggles all around, what’s not to love about them? There are endless possibilities when it comes to making your child’s next sleepover one they’ll remember forever.

Movie night - Create a hub of pillows, blankets and plushies galore paired with soft lighting and a projector playing their movie of choice, and you’re set up for a fun-filled night. Popcorn is a must (of course). Instead of serving up classic buttery popcorn, why not try some different toppings such as cinnamon, taco seasoning, melted chocolate or salt and sugar?

Awesome activities - Be sure to schedule some activities throughout the night to keep the sleepover guests entertained. Sure, pillow fights are great and fun; but why not try something different? Have your guests decorate a white pillowcase with fabric markers for a great take-home memory, embark on a scavenger hunt or build a blanket fort together.

Breakfast is served - Close off the sleepover with a fun breakfast in the morning. Pancakes or waffles are a great idea, paired with a range of toppings so each partygoer can create their own breakfast. Include a variety of toppings such as seasonal fruit, crunchy nuts and hazelnut spread. Before the sleepover, it's a good idea to check if your guests have any allergies.

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www.freshmommyblog.com

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1 & 2. Cream Empire Cushion Covers - RRP $27.50 ea - www.korufurnitureandhomewares.com.au 3. Storabed King Single Bed - RRP $899.00 - www.freedom.com.au 4. Copper Wire String Lights 24m - RRP $49.00 - www.freedom.com.au 5. Epson EH-TW6700 Home Theatre Projector - RRP $2649.00 - www.harveynorman.com.au 6. Trent & Steel Classic Popcorn Maker - RRP $149.00 - www.harveynorman.com.au 7. Instax Mini 9 Instant Camera - RRP $99.00 - www.harveynorman.com.au 8. Miann & Co Kids Grey Bunny Snuggle Cushion - RRP $91.00 - www.korufurnitureandhomewares.com.au 9. Breville The Crisp Control Waffle Maker - RRP $59.00 www.harveynorman.com.au 10. Felicia Fairy Silver Novelty Cushion - RRP $29.95 - www.harveynorman.com.au

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All Things Tweens and Teens

ALL THINGS TWEENS AND TEENS Code CODE Words WORDS for FOR Safety SAFETY

Essential Life ESSENTIAL LIFE Skills SKILLS FOR Your for YOUR Teen TEEN

A simple way to help your teen stay safe is by developing a family code word which will allow them to easily escape uncomfortable situations.

Time flies, and before we know it our children are becoming fully self-sufficient. The teen years are a fantastic time to start teaching your children the must-have skills in life.

For instance, your family’s code word can be ‘Aunt Susan’ – your child can call you up when they’re in an uncomfortable or unsafe situation and ask how Aunt Susan is going. In reality, they don’t have an Aunt Susan – it’s a code word that alerts you, the parent, that your child would like to be picked up. Simply reply with “She’s here waiting for you, I’ll come pick you up so you can come say hello”, giving your child an easy way out of the situation.

Ensure your teen knows how to do regular household duties.

Teach them to cook a few simple meals, how to work the washing machine and the best ways to clean the different furniture, appliances and surfaces in the home. It’s also important that they learn how to handle minor household emergencies such as a clogged toilet.

To set your teen up for success, help them get a job by showing them how to write a resume and present themselves in an interview.

With this comes learning how to dress appropriately for work, personal grooming and learning how to manage their own money through opening a bank account, knowing how to use the ATM and budgeting their hard-earned dollars.

What Color WHAT COLOR is IS Your YOUR PARACHUTE? For Parachute?

FOR Teens TEENS Does your child have no idea what they want to be? Authored by teen specialist Carol Christen, What Color is Your Parachute? For Teens is your teen’s guide to discovering themselves, designing their future and planning their dream job. The book takes a friendly and fun approach to a big, sometimes intimidating, topic for students who are just starting on the road to university and career.

Help your children discover their interests and passions early so they can turn their dream into a reality and become who they want to be. Suitable for high school students and their parents.

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Daddy Diary

DADDY Daddy Diary DIARY

With Star 101.9’s Rob Kidd

This time of the year is a great one for sport all around Mackay and the Whitsundays.

at Lions on a Saturday morning, but there’s never cash up front to get them there.

As it’s coming into the final few weeks of sports like soccer, rugby league, AFL, hockey, netball and the like, parents all around town are rubbing their hands together. Not because it’s breezy and cold as heck, it’s because real soon kids’ winter sports will be over for another year.

This Mum and Dad Taxi service has been around for years. No marketing strategy, no compensation for late travellers, no cleaning fees, no “I’ll give you $5 from my Maccas shift to help pay for fuel, Mum.” Nope, nothing.

You’re lucky to get a “are we there yet...?” because your star fullback slept in after working late Friday night.

The actual sports part is brilliant; the actual physical activity and social aspect is what they do it all for.

It helps kids develop themselves to really help shape their future and we love that. One thing that comes with it is the Mum and Dad Taxi.

In saying all of this, this ‘old time’ Uber will continue to exist because we love our kids a lot. We want the best for them that’s why we continue to do it.

This “not-for-profit organisation” is something that gets neglected over a six-month period each year. No love, no thanks and certainly no compensation at all.

Sure, there might be a high-five thrown in jest from your 5-year-old after they’ve scored a hat-trick of goals over

I have a suggestion though.

The next time the M&D Taxi service rolls down the driveway, put your hand out for payment before you travel. Payment might be in the form of cash. It may be in the form of bitcoin. It may also be in the form of the words, “thank you”. It may also be in the form of “I’ll mow the lawn later today to say thanks.”

Who knows what it is because as the old saying goes, you don’t ask, you certainly don’t get.

Have fun!

Rob Kidd Star 101.9 Mackay and the Whitsundays

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