PakMag Mackay & Whitsundays - Jul & Aug 2021 - Issue 84

ISSUE: JUL & AUG 2021

84

MACKAY & WHITSUNDAYS

FREE

Over

100

Family-Friendly

7THRIVE Ways to

as a Family During the

TEEN YEARS The Benefits of an Inclusive Education Bringing the Olympic Spirit into Your Home

HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO US! $1000’s Worth of Prizes Inside!

EVENTS How to Nurture Healthy Friendships How to Raise an Inclusive Child

20 SCHOOL Mackay

+

HOLIDAY Activities to Enjoy

18 Tips for Stress-Free Birthday Parties

Welcome “Happy Birthday to Me!” – PakMag

5

The Thing Is

6

Developing and Nurturing Healthy Friendships

8

Bringing the Olympic Spirit into Our Homes

11

Raising an Inclusive Child

15 Thriving as a Family During

the Pre-Teen and Teen Years 19 The Benefits of an

Inclusive Education 22 Bump, Bub and Beyond 23 Understanding What Your

Baby’s Cries Mean 24 Relax and Unwind:

Adult Colouring

As parents you know how quickly the years fly past, and as the ‘parent’ of this PakMag ‘baby’ it’s all grown up and turning 14! At the start we had the customary sleepless nights and teething issues, before we learned to walk and then run. Since then, we have been growing up with you and your families – THANK YOU for being part of our amazing PakMag Community and being the reason, we do – what we do!

We truly appreciate every single person who takes a copy home, comments and ‘likes us’ on Facebook, follows us on Instagram, heads to our websites or listens to our podcast. We know your time is valuable and we appreciate you spending time with us each month, bringing PakMag into your homes and making us part of your lives. We hope we’ve been able to give you moments of joy, helpful advice, sanity-saving tips and entertainment along your parenting journey.

We truly believe we are all in this together. That’s why I started this magazine all those years ago.

25 Mini Mag 28 PakMag’s HUGE 14th

Birthday Giveaway 31 Simple Tips for Stress-Free

Birthday Parties 33 All Things Health 34 Redefining Success for Us

and Our Young 37 Connecting Men and Boys to

Cultural Perspectives 39 The PakMag Experts 41 School Holiday Guide

So, as we step into the other side of the ‘Financial Year’ – officially half-way through 2021, (with hopefully a little tax-return on its way so you can treat yourself this Festival Season) – we wanted to celebrate with you. Don’t forget to head to www.pakmag.com.au/win to enter to WIN with our Huge Birthday Giveaway. It’s our little way of sharing the love.

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.pakmackay.com.au • www.pakmag.com.au • www.m2f.com.au

47 Daddy Diary 48 What’s On 50 Regular Markets

PakMag Founder and Editor-in-Chief Bree James

Graphic Designer Sara Williams

Content & Marketing Team Leader Bec Dent Creative Team Leader Clare Winter

Design & Client Support Blair King Amanda Kane Videographer & Podcast Producer Monique Saggers

Marketing and Events Coordinator Alyssa Marino

Content Creator Annamarie Booysen

Sales and Business Development Tracy Couper

Accounts Trent Stievano

Our North Queensland Channels PakMag Townsville Parents of North Queensland pakmag_nq Parents and Kids of

North Queensland Our Global Parenting Channels PakMag Online pakmag_national 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 | July / August 2021 3

The Thing Is

The Thing Is with Bree James One of the things I have heard a lot over the years is “how do you do so much?” My answer was always “my incredible team”. Which is very true, I’ve been super fortunate to have some incredible people with me over the past 14 years since starting PakMag. But genetically, I’ve been blessed with boundless energy and I have always been a go-getter, full of enthusiasm to do my part to make the world a better place, totally fuelled by passion.

We could call it a midlife crisis, or maybe it’s the fact that my body has decided that it can’t run on full steam forever and it’s time to slow down a little.

To make matters worse, when I see doctors they are now mentioning things like peri-menopause, arthritis, and “you’re not getting any younger - you need to slow down” comments. I guess it’s no worse than the back handed compliments you get from girls half your age.

One told me the other week “You give me hope that when I am a mum and turn 40 that I will still be able to ‘insert activity’- you are so inspiring”. *SIGH*, turn off or at least turn down that so-called music you’re listening to - what is W.A.P anyway?! AHHH I really am getting older. Most of my wrinkles are from laughter. Except those lines between my eyebrows - they are my WTF lines, and those wrinkles are deep. Especially when I hear songs like that.

The thing is, being middle-aged means, I am finally getting my head together - but my body has started to fall apart! The fact my entire body cracks like a glowstick when I get up in the morning, yet refuses to actually glow is very disappointing.

I know I am still a while off the hot flushes yet - but I am well aware that they are likely to be timed so it’s the perfect storm. Mother Nature really didn’t think things through when she planned menopause to start kicking off for women at the same time she is raising teenagers.

Even though I still think I am in my late twenties, my body reminds me that I can’t do the things I used to.

So yes, I have realised I am aging. And whilst it’s still a bit of a shock to the system as my mind and body aren’t in sync yet with these changes, I am very confident that most of my body’s aches and pains and my lack of cognitive ability has come about because I’ve accumulated more stress over the years than my body has been able to process. My nervous system hasn’t been reacting to things in the same way and it’s time to make some changes so that I can do my midlife crisis right and start an extreme sport or something. So, for now, I am going to drink my tea, have my nana naps and early nights, and take care of myself.

But then I turned 40.

At gigs, I now drink lemon and hot water instead of lemon and tequila.

‘A good night out’ is now ‘a good night in’ that has me in bed by 9.00pm.

And my cognitive ability? Don’t ask. If my memory gets any worse, I’ll be able to plan my own surprise party.

I fell in the creek the other day just trying to put my dog in for a swim while I was talking on the phone to one of my girlfriends.

And the tiredness - I have never been more tired in my life, it’s like I have had a hangover since partying ‘til 4.00am on my 40th which was now six months ago. What has happened to me!? I felt more energised getting woken every two hours to feed a newborn and still had the energy to do a full day’s work in the office with a baby on and off my body 24 hours a day for I don’t know how many years.

As they say, don’t let aging get you down, it’s too hard to get back up again.

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

www.pakmag.com.au | July / August 2021 5

Feature

Developing and Nurturing Healthy Friendships STORY Dr Jenny Brockis It’s good to have friends and good friends are wonderful. They are good for our health, raise our level of resilience, our mental wellbeing and boost our overall level of happiness. Studies have shown having friends at work or in school is linked to higher performance and more effective learning.

As humans we are highly social, we thrive in the company of others, especially those we consider like ourselves, who we like and believe like us back.

Friends come in all shapes and sizes. You may have a best friend - someone you feel closest to, a small group of very good friends who you socialise with a lot, others you call friends and associate with sometimes and the more peripheral friends who you know and like through shared contacts or work.

Friendships also naturally wax and wane. Life events such as getting married, having a family, moving away

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or changing jobs can loosen previously close bonds or you may find you no longer have the same interests.

Living in a time of a global pandemic has highlighted just how important our social connections are.

Being required to self-isolate, to work from home and maintain physical distancing has resulted in many more people experiencing loneliness, though thankfully we’ve had technology to help. While not as good as a hug or a handshake - being able to see each other on a screen will boost oxytocin levels; our social bonding molecule released when we are in the presence of those we like or love.

What Does a Healthy Friendship Look Like?

A healthy friendship makes you both feel good.

It’s founded on mutual trust and respect where you keep your word, do what you say you will do, look out for each other and keep a shared confidence.

Feature

Healthy friendships are about appreciating each other, offering support when you see it’s needed, being a good listener, giving your full attention to what is being shared, celebrating the good times and supporting each other through the bad times.

A healthy friendship brings you joy, because you have fun together. You look forward to spending time with your friend, they bring a smile to your face and you both laugh often.

How to Create Healthy Friendships Friendships take time to establish. If you’ve recently moved to a new area, started a new job or your children have started at a new school, it helps you to feel more settled when you’ve established some new friendships.

You have to meet people first and it’s during those first interactions where we size each other up, looking for common shared interests.

Then it’s about getting to know each other better by making a point to stop and chat when you meet and showing your interest in them as a person, asking about their family, their day or making friends with their dog.

A warm smile, a cheery hello and an open question helps to break down any social barriers and shyness.

Opportunities to interact more can look like: • Organising play dates for your children.

• A kind gesture at work - such as bringing in food to share • At work; asking if you can join them at their table for lunch.

• Asking for help, such as a recommendation for a restaurant for a celebratory dinner.

• Offering to help out at a function or work project • Showing your appreciation – thanking them for meeting you for coffee or buying a small gift.

Healthy friends are not like Stepford Wives.

You don’t have to agree on everything and there will be times when your friendship will be tested.

It’s about staying true to yourself, your values and beliefs and understanding friendship is always a two-way street.

How to Be a Good Friend We’re human, which means we’re all fallible, vulnerable, sometimes irrational and we make mistakes. None of us are perfect. If a friend lets you down because they forgot they were supposed to meet you, says something you know not to be true or makes you feel small in front of other people, it’s OK to call them out for it, to talk about it and to share how your feelings were hurt by their actions.

A good friend will apologise, and you can forgive.

A good friend is about being observant to when a friend isn’t themselves, and you show you care by asking what’s wrong and how you can help.

It’s about seeking to empathise and to show support without judgement.

It’s recognising when your friend needs space; to be alone, to think or just be.

Friendship is the key to a longer, happier and healthier life, and essential to our ability to thrive.

Dr Jenny Brockis is a medical practitioner, board-certified lifestyle medicine physician and Chief Wellbeing Officer of Brain Fit - a workplace-based health consultancy, author and global authority on brain health, mental wellbeing and psychological safety. www.drjennybrockis.com

For more on this topic with Dr Jenny Brockis, tune into episode 102 of the PakMag Parent’s Podcast at www.pakmag.com.au

www.pakmag.com.au | July / August 2021 7

STEAM

Bringing the Olympic Spirit into Our Homes STORY Bec Dent Since 1896 the world has come together for the modern Olympic Games. We all wish we could be there; cheering on the athletes and enjoying the atmosphere and excitement that comes with the games. Unfortunately, with travel restrictions, we’ll be cheering from afar from the comfort of our loungerooms – but this doesn’t mean we can’t create the spirit of the Olympics in our own homes.

“Olympism’ refers to the spirit or philosophy of the Olympic games, as outlined in the Olympic Charter.

The founder of the International Olympic Committee (IOC) and ‘father’ of the modern Olympics, Pierre de Coubertin conceived ‘Olympism’ and described it as ‘a destroyer of dividing walls. It calls for air and light for all.”

torch relay? There are great resources at The Olympic Museum’s website olympics.com/museum .

Learn about the Tokyo Games: • Discuss the design of the new stadium – built to be eco-friendly, with the motto ‘bring back nature into the cities.’

• Explore the significance and meaning behind their emblem design and mascots.

• Try drawing the mascots and even try to create your own mascot. There is a great downloadable Educational Kit from The Olympic Museum available at www.olympics.com/museum with loads of information and activities to participate in.

“Olympism is a philosophy of life, exalting and combining in a balanced whole the qualities of body, will and mind.

Blending sport with culture and education, Olympism seeks to create a way of life based on the joy found in effort, the educational value of good example and respect for universal fundamental ethical principles.” – www.olympics.com

Explore and Embrace Japanese Culture:

The Heart of the Olympic Spirit is Friendship, Solidarity and Fair Play.

• You may even want to learn some Japanese words and sayings, or even how to write in kanji or hiragana characters.

Here’s some fun activities to combine sport, culture and education and bring the Olympic Spirit into your home: Host a mini-Olympics styled activity day with family and friends. You can participate in a variety of novelty sports and summer sports. As part of the lead up, teams can design their own uniforms and flags. You can also make your own Olympic torch, medals, podium and even plan an opening / closing ceremony if you like.

Learn more about the Olympics and Olympism. E.g. What is the symbolism of the Olympic Rings, the torch and

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• Learn about Japan’s national sports including Judo and Sumo Wrestling.

• Try making some origami pieces.

• Make some sushi rolls for dinner, and try eating with chopsticks.

• You could also learn about J-POP – Japanese Pop Culture; Manga, animated films, Kawaii fashion etc.

Why not try drawing yourself as a Manga character?

Novelty ‘Mini-Olympics’ Ideas • Hug-a-Balloon Relay - where pairs have to keep a balloon off the ground by squishing it between them.

• Balloon between the Knees Race • Tug of War • Egg and Spoon Race • Balloon Volleyball • Discus Throwing (with paper plates) • Javelin Toss (with pool noodles or paper aeroplanes) • Balloon Tennis (with fly swatters)

• Nerf gun ‘shooting’ with a bullseye for a target.

• Ping Pong Basketball – place a bucket in the middle of the room, each competitor has 10 table tennis balls to try and bounce into the bucket.

Fun Tokyo Olympic’s STEAM Fact “What if your old mobile phone could become an Olympic medal? Wanting to engage more residents in the Games and be respectful of the environment, the organisers had an original idea that captured the spirit of the times: reduce the environmental impact of the Games by making use of recycled materials. Athletes’ clothing has been made from used clothes, the podiums from plastic waste, and the medals from recycled metals collected from old cameras, phones and computers. The Japanese got on board with this initiative, depositing many of their used devices in collection containers. In total, 5,000 medals, featuring the famous chequered design, have been produced.” – Eva Bensard, Experiencing & Discovering the Olympic Games : Special Tokyo 2020, TOM SCHOOLS Education kit. www.olympics.com/museum Over six million smartphones have been recycled to create the Olympic medals for Tokyo - How cool is that?

Parenting

Raising an Inclusive Child STORY Julia Nowland, Relationship Therapist and Founder of Whole Heart Relationships Diversity is a fact of life, however teaching children about differences can feel tricky. As adults we can be a little unsure if we’re sending the right message or how to start that conversation and that puts us off from going there in the first place. Maybe like me, you were taught as a child that asking questions and pointing out differences is rude.

Regardless of our awkwardness it’s an essential task, that we, as parents - teach our kids about diversity and inclusion, not only through conversations but also through our actions as well.

Children will naturally pick up beliefs about differences along the way. They may quickly start thinking badly about someone before they even know them just because of their differences (prejudices) unless we spend time as parents teaching them about inclusion.

Teaching kids about similarities and differences is the cornerstone of empathy. This can help them understand their own identity within society and ensure that they grow up to be well-rounded, accepting and kind individuals.

When kids learn from a young age that prejudices should not be tolerated, it allows them to grow up to

be respectful individuals who will stand up for their friends and call out unfair behaviour.

Studies have shown that children who feel accepted in the school environment have stronger motivation, greater engagement in classroom activities and higher academic achievement overall. Of course, the opposite is true too. Those who don’t feel a sense of belonging can have poorer attendance and achievement.

Here are eight ways that you can help your kids internalise the value of inclusivity:

1. It All Starts with You This would be the most important step of them all.

Children learn best from observing the adults who are around them. They’re little sponges watching, listening, and learning. It’s not always easy, but it’s important to be the type of person you hope your child becomes. Take a moment to examine your own approach to others.

Are you accepting of family members, neighbours, friends, and work colleagues who may be different to you? Do your conversations with your spouse include statements of understanding, compassion, and empathy for those who are different?

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Parenting

Can you celebrate differences, use respectful language when talking about people from all backgrounds, and avoid reinforcing stereotypes? If you treat all people with kindness and respect, your child will too.

2. Remind Them that Diversity is a Trait When teaching your children about diversity, it’s important to let them know that it is a trait and not a defining feature of their personality. Or as I say, “It’s one slice of the pizza - not the whole pizza”. You can use simple language for younger children “Johnny has two dads because not all families have a mum and dad” or “That man is in a wheelchair because his legs don’t work properly”. Remember you’re teaching them that diversity is just a part of life.

3. Don’t Discourage Questions Kids are naturally curious and aren’t aware of all of the negative meanings that can come with it. If we shut down the questions or avoid them, we are teaching them that it’s not okay to talk about diversity and there is something uncomfortable about being different.

When they open the conversation, be curious and ask what they would like to know or what made them think of the question. Provide them with an honest and age-appropriate answer and if you don’t know - you can say so.

Allowing kids to ask the questions from a curious and respectful place deepens their learning about themselves and the world around them.

Asking questions in public can be awkward and leave you silently begging for the world to swallow you whole.

It’s great if you can teach your child to ask questions in private, in order to not cause offence. It’s important to apologise for your child if they have been offensive and provide a simple and positive answer.

5. Language is Important At different ages, your child might start to think differences are “weird”. Why do they do that weird thing? It’s important to emphasise that there is no “normal” and “weird;” just “different”. As humans we like categories, however this can cause polarities.

What we don’t want is to start an “us” versus “them” mentality.

6. Diversify Your Media Media is a great way to subtly teach inclusion to kids. Take the initiative to include books, television, music and movies that reflect real life. Depending on the age, streaming service Netflix has a goal over the next five years to become more inclusive, whilst Sesame Street has also included an increased number of diverse characters.

7. Talk About Stereotypes For older kids, start exploring stereotypes. Sweeping generalisations about a whole group of people are often inaccurate and negative.

To start, use stereotypes that are simple and would fit their lives. Even if it’s “girls love the colour pink” or “short people aren’t good at basketball”. Once they start to notice that general sweeping statements don’t always fit their lives, they will be able to apply this to others.

8. Create Experiences

4. Emphasise Similarities

Creating a sense of “otherness” can lead to fear and prejudices. Exposing your children to diverse experiences normalises these differences. Giving children the opportunity to be surrounded by people from diverse backgrounds is a great way to create these experiences. These experiences include cultural events in your local area or at museums.

I will never forget a disability awareness poster that was in the halls of one of my first jobs that said; “Don’t judge what I can do, by what you think I can’t” and it’s so on-point. While it may feel easier to notice differences, there can be many similarities that get overlooked.

Charlie is Deaf and loves to surf, Kim has ADHD and loves music.

The act of inclusivity is a value which we learn through observation of those around us. All of these examples listed are really about choosing to shape the way your kids think about differences - that they are a natural part of life. Once we plant the seed, we can watch our kids grow into respectful and compassionate little beings.

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

For more on Raising an Inclusive Child - Julia Nowland joins Bree on Episode 105 of the PakMag Parents Podcast. Listen in at www.pakmag.com.au

12 July / August 2021 | www.pakmag.com.au

Parenting

Thriving as a Family During the Pre-Teen and Teen Years STORY Dr Vanessa Lapointe In our current parenting pop culture, it has become a common stereotype to “dread” the pre-teen and teenage years. I cannot count how many times I’ve heard someone say to a parent whose toddler is confidently walking UP the slide or is refusing to comply with a request, “Well, just wait until she’s a TEENAGER!” It’s as if our society has decided that adolescence is when your sweet, cherub-cheeked child will transform into some sort of teenaged monster, making your life an absolute misery.

Take it from me, currently in the trenches of parenting two teenagers: the truth is that the pre-teen and teenage years are NOTHING to fear. In fact, they are a time to savour – to enjoy, even! Adolescence is a wild ride for our kids. It’s an exciting, confusing, overwhelming and beautiful time, and as parents, we must count ourselves lucky to be invited along for the journey. When we better understand what our children need during this time of great change and big adventures, we’re able to support them whilst remaining close and connected.

Our Kids REALLY Need Us During this Time The teenage years can be perceived as the time when we, “mama and papa birds”, need to boot our little fledglings out of the nest. But wait! Before we do any booting of ANY kind, we must remember that our teens still need us during these crucial moments of development. When they “learn to fly” with only their peers as their guides, they won’t have the security of knowing that they can return to their nest.

Now that I’ve sufficiently dragged out that extended metaphor for all that it is worth, the nuts and bolts of it is that our children WANT to foster a relationship with

us. That instinct that was kindling inside of them as tiny infants still exists in that man-sized body standing in front of you. They yearn for connection, and if they don’t feel that reciprocity coming from the home front, they will be forced to seek it out in their peers - and we know that kids cannot raise kids. We must reach out to our teens and keep reaching out. That extended hand must always be there.

Marching to Their Own Beat The teen years are when our kids start to explore exactly who they are. This may mean that your teen wants to do their own thing and not what YOU want them to do. It can be challenging – but necessary – to explore why we may have a strong reaction to our child quitting the baseball team, for example, or no longer wanting to go on long family hikes, etc. We must dig into why these decisions bother us. Is it because we really believe that the baseball team will change our child’s life, or is it because our child is making choices that rebut how we were raised, or our hobbies? Growing up teens means that we also have to do a heck of a lot of growing ourselves.

Adolescence is a time of discovery and can create adventures and experiences that we boring adults wouldn’t ordinarily expose ourselves to. Take an interest in your child’s hobbies. Your engagement shows your teen that you’re still showing up for them – that you want to make the time and the space to get to know them and their passions. Your active presence in these conversations helps your child to further flesh out their ideas and work through any challenges. It can mean stepping outside of our comfort zones, but this is where the real growth happens.

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Parenting

Show Up for “Work” Even if You Aren’t Put to Work Our teens and pre-teens are not very likely to schedule time in their iCal for meaningful chats with their parents.

We have to make ourselves available, so that when the spontaneous conversations or “asks” come forward we are there. It is so important for our pre-teens and teens that we are available to them, even if the timing isn’t always right. I make a point of hanging in my kitchen most evenings, as that’s where my boys, now 14 and 17, can often be found. There are nights where we just banter or don’t say much at all, and then there are other evenings where we sit at the island and chat – about life, love, school – because the moment just happened to be right.

after you graduate?” - and it’s enough to set anyone on edge. So, this is a gentle reminder to give your pre-teen or teen a bit of leeway. You are their safe space, and so you are lucky enough to be where all these big feelings get to land. Do you know the saying, “It’s not personal, it’s business”? Well, we should amend that one for the teen years: “It’s not personal, it’s adolescence.”

Stay Focused on Family and Routine As humans, we love routine. We crave it. And so, it’s important that we keep traditions going in our family units. Maybe it’s Sunday dinner together, without phones, TVs, or interruptions. Perhaps it’s a family game night, or getting together with extended family, or how you celebrate birthdays and big occasions. When we hold these routines and traditions as essential, it solidifies the significance of the family as the center of it all. This helps to anchor our teen; it promotes feelings of connection and belonging. Our adolescents may look and sound just like adults, but we cannot forget that they are still children, and they crave that family time just as much as they did when they were small.

Don’t Retire too Soon Find Ways to Schedule Time Together While I joked about how our teens are not very likely to schedule in “Deep Conversation with Mum” in their phones, scheduling time together is a necessity.

You don’t need to have big splashy plans, but can choose something as simple as a one-on-one outing – a dinner or a walk together. Despite their groans, our preteens and teens look forward to these special moments together. Another great opportunity for spontaneous connection is while driving. I find that some of my best conversations with my boys happen when I’m driving; there’s something about being in the car and not having to have continuous eye contact that sets the stage for some truly great chats.

Don’t Let the Mood Get You Down Adolescence is an emotional time. The brain is changing rapidly during these years, while also being at the mercy of surging hormones, the demands of a peer group, school, extra-curriculars, work, and more! Add in a wacky sleep schedule and being faced with universealtering questions such as, “What are you going to do

This is the most important advice that I could offer any parent who is parenting, or will be parenting, a pre-teen or teen: don’t retire too soon.

Don’t give into the hype that our children need to “figure it out” or get kicked out of the nest to become independent, well-rounded people. We are our child’s foundation, and for them to feel safe enough to take a leap, they need to know that we will be there to catch them should they fall. They might roll their eyes at family game night or give you monosyllabic answers when you pick them up from school, but inside of that chest is the same heart that beat for you when they were three, and eight, and 11 years old.

Make time for your teen. Take an interest, ask questions, be around. Offer to drive, or to get out and go for a walk or a bite to eat. Don’t assume that your pre-teen or teen would rather hang out with friends; chances are, they’d love a bit of your time and to share what’s going on in their world. You’ll soon see that the teen years aren’t that scary after all. Rather, they are an invitation to get to know who this remarkable human is growing up to be and to learn a little bit about ourselves along the way.

Dr. Vanessa Lapointe is a mum, registered psychologist, parenting educator, best-selling author, international speaker, and a regularly invited media guest. Founder and Director of The Wishing Star Lapointe Developmental Clinic, she has been supporting families and children for almost 20 years, and has previous experience in community mental health and the school system. Dr. Vanessa is known for bringing a sense of nurturing understanding and humanity to all of her work. Her passion is in walking alongside parents, teachers, care providers, and other big people to really see the world through the child’s eyes. She believes that if we can do this, we are beautifully positioned to grow up our children in the best possible way. www.drvanessalapointe.com

Tune into Episode 103 of the PakMag Parents Podcast to hear more from Dr Vanessa Lapointe on how you can thrive as a family during the tween and teen years.

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Education

The Benefits of an Inclusive Education STORY Kimberlee Lynch

What is Inclusion?

Inclusion recognises the rights of every child to participate meaningfully in all aspects of community life. In a nutshell, it is about equality and fairness.

The practice of providing equal access to opportunities and resources for everyone. Inclusion ensures no one is disadvantaged.

Creating workplaces, schools and communities that put inclusion into practice is essential for people who have a lived experience of disability or belong to a minority group. Inclusion celebrates human diversity and views every child as unique.

Across the globe, students with disabilities are increasingly educated alongside their non-disabled peers in a practice known as inclusion. Inclusion happens when children are viewed as capable and valued contributors.

Education and Learning Should Be Accessible to All Firstly, let’s establish - all students learn differently.

There is no ‘one’ teaching approach that everyone will understand. Modern schools now implement various teaching strategies to help all students learn their best way. ‘Different’, shouldn’t be a term to be feared, but embraced. Different is normal - we are all a little different and there are so many ways to learn and teach to accommodate for these differences.

Barriers to inclusion can come through fear or a lack of confidence, understanding or attitude, however - it is everyone’s responsibility. Helping children understand how they learn best is empowering and provides a positive relationship with learning and schooling.

Research shows children feel and learn to the best of their abilities when their whole learning environment acknowledges, respects and views diversity positively.

Inclusive education is not a passing fad. It is a legallysupported, evidenced-based way to ensure the educational needs and rights of all learners are catered for. Inclusion is prominently featured in a number of international declarations, national laws and education policies.

The United Nations Committee in the Convention on the Rights of a Person with Disabilities states that every person with a disability has a right to education – ‘without discrimination and on the basis of equal opportunity.’ Our governing bodies need to ensure ‘an inclusive education system at all levels and lifelong learning directed to: (a) The full development of human potential and sense of dignity and self-worth, and the strengthening of respect for human rights, fundamental freedoms and human diversity; (b) The development by persons with disabilities of their personality, talents and creativity, as well as their mental and physical abilities, to their fullest potential; (c) Enabling persons with disabilities to participate effectively in a free society.’

The Disability Discrimination Act (1992) and the Disability Standards for Education (2005) require education and training service providers to support the rights of students with disability to access the curriculum on the same basis as students without a disability. Students with disability are entitled to rigorous, relevant and engaging learning opportunities drawn from age equivalent Australian Curriculum content on the same basis as students without disability.

However, an inclusive education it not limited to children with disabilities. It is also about ensuring the diverse learning needs of all students are met, including; students that have English as a second or additional language or dialect, Aboriginal students who have Aboriginal English as a first language (PETA) and students identified as gifted and talented (Gagne).

These are not homogeneous groups of students, and some students have characteristics across one or more of these elements.

Given this push towards accountability and successful outcomes for all, the topic of creating and maintaining effective inclusive schools is at the forefront of the education discussion.

Peter Stower, Director Learning and Teaching at Townsville Catholic Education (TCE) said that inclusive

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Education

education is not just ensuring that all students are able to participate in curriculum with the same opportunities as their peers, but also considers how schools are developed and designed, including learning environments and activities so that all students can learn and participate together.

• all aspects of the learning process.

Physical environments that are accessible.

“One of the most important things you can do for your child is find a school that can support their individual needs, and promotes an environment that is inclusive.

Inclusive environments help students of all abilities.”

Mr Stower said.

Benefits

“Effective inclusive schools have a strong understanding of the individual strengths and requirements of every student and ensure they can fully participate in the same environment as their peers, learning the same age-equivalent curriculum, with necessary support and adjustments,” said Mr Stower.

Using Universal Design for Learning principles and quality first, differentiated teaching establishes a school environment that assumes participation and belonging. Teachers in inclusive classrooms cannot target the curriculum towards the average student, they provide students with multiple ways to engage, multiple representations of curriculum concepts and multiple means for students to express what they have learnt. Inclusive schools are dynamic and respond to the evolving needs of students.

Schools are a community and should create a sense of belonging and a safe and welcoming environment for all students. Wellbeing and care are critical to positive communities of learning as are the education and coaching of teachers, leaders and school staff around the best practices and the way of thinking about people, diversity, learning and teaching.

The functional needs of students may require adjustment to one or more of the following areas within a school: • Teaching and learning – curriculum and pedagogy to provide opportunities for each student to engage in age-appropriate learning • Communication – pedagogy and technology to support the way each student receives, processes, and communicates their learning • Personal care, health and safety – support for self-care, health management and specialised support staff • Access – the learning environment to optimise student participation and engagement with

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Decades of research shows clear and consistent evidence that inclusive educational settings provide substantial short and long-term benefits for students with and without disabilities, including higher rates of attendance, more positive attitudes towards diversity, better social skills, less disruptive behaviours and more developed personal values and ethics. As adults, students with disability who have been included are more likely to enrol in post-secondary education, be employed or live independently.

Several recent reviews have found that being educated alongside a student with a disability does not lead to negative consequences for non-disabled students.

The researchers noted that in inclusive schools that have successfully implemented inclusive practices, teachers employed strategies and teaching techniques that catered to the needs of all learners.

“A successful model of inclusion thoughtfully arranges the learning environment, designs curriculum and instruction to meet the needs of all students and delivers evidence-based intervention through quality learning and teaching.” Mr Stower said.

References: Hehir T., Grindal T., Freeman B., Lamoreau R., Borquaye Y. & Burke S. (2016). A Summary of the Research Evidence on Inclusive Education.

Head to www.allmeansall.org.au for resources and further information on inclusive education from the Australian Alliance for Inclusive Education.

Kimberlee Lynch is an experienced inclusive educator and leader. Driven by a strong sense of social justice she takes pride in leading systemic change to support inclusive practices in the education sector. As an Inclusive Education Coordinator her goal is to ensure all students can authentically engage in learning in spaces where they experience a true sense of belonging.

When not working, Kim can be found working on her PhD or road tripping and camping in destinations around Australia.

Bump, Bub and Beyond

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

Mustard Kikadu Rabbit Teether with Towel $59.95 www.growingkind.com.au The rabbit teether made of natural rubber with Muslin is a great relief when teething. It is also the perfect toy for your baby.

Due to the low weight it can be held easily by their little hands.

Hand washable. Made in Sri Lanka. Age: 3 months +

ergoPouch Cocoon Swaddle Bag 1.0 TOG $49.95 - www.ergopouch.com.au These Cocoon Swaddle Bags are designed to be both easy to use and difficult to escape from.

This zip-up swaddle is TOG rated for warmth to keep a baby snug and securely swaddled without the need for complicated wrapping from day one.

Being TOG-rated means that the 1.0 TOG can be used on its own in room temperatures between 21-24°C with no blankets in the bassinet or cot to make this a safe sleep option for a newborn or baby.

The Baby Card $50.00 - www.egiftit.com.au Gifts are supposed to be a joyous experience, yet somehow this has become less personal for both the giver and receiver when it comes to digital gift cards. eGift it was created to bring the joy and surprise to digital gift giving.

Shower new parents and bub with gifts galore from the best baby brands out there. The BABY digital gift card can be used at their favourite baby and maternity retailers. Personalise your digital gift by adding a personalised e-greeting card, digital wrapping, music and an animation – give your loved ones the ultimate digital gift card experience!

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Bump, Bub and Beyond

Understanding What Your Baby’s Cries Mean STORY Sonja Preston, National Dunstan Baby Language Trainer for Australia The Dunstan Baby Language (DBL) is a proven system which teaches the parents of newborns to tune in to their babies and to easily identify what their baby’s cries mean.

Crying is early communication. Your baby telling you that they are hungry, or tired, or perhaps they have wind. These early cries are reflex based. For example, when the baby is hungry, the sucking reflex

is stimulated. Their tongue goes up to the top of the mouth as if there is already a breast or bottle there, and when sound is added, we hear it as a ‘neh’ sound.

As new parents we spend a lot of time guessing what they want, and in the time it takes us to correctly guess, their crying has intensified and our stress levels have increased.

What if you spoke their language? If you understood the difference in sound between a hungry cry as opposed to wind cry? How much easier would that make your life?

Our on-line classes teach you the five cry sounds which all parents of newborns need to know; for hunger, tiredness, wind, being uncomfortable, or lower wind pain. In just two sessions you will not only know the sounds, but why they happen and what to do.

With DBL • •

babies cry less, as their needs are met; there is reduced incidence of colic as parents know when to burp them and

• parents report feeling happier in their parenting.

The end result is a content baby and parents who feel confident in their parenting!

Find out more about Dunstan Baby Language and courses by visiting theparentingcafe.com.au/ dunstan-baby-language/ Sonja Preston is the founder of ‘The Parenting Café’, creator of ‘Me Do story cards,’ a Dunstan Baby Language (DBL) Educator and Australia’s National DBL Trainer. Sonja has had extensive experience as a classroom teacher, with qualifications in Special Education, Gifted and Talented children, behavioural difficulties and Field Studies. Sonja is also a highly soughtafter Parenting Consultant and has worked as International Trainer with the ‘Parents as Teachers’ program for Macquarie University and as a Parent / Family Support Worker for the Tasmanian Aboriginal Centre and Save the Children.

WIN For your chance to WIN The Dunstan Baby Language (DBL) Course to learn what your baby is trying to communicate with you, head to www.pakmag.com.au/win Please note the prize is for a DBL class (two sessions) for a parent(s) of a newborn. Prize is suitable for mothers in their third trimester of pregnancy or parent(s) of a newborn in the first 3 months of age. The prize is valued at $149.00

www.pakmag.com.au | July / August 2021 23

Relax and Unwind: Adult Colouring

WIN a Naroku Prize Pack Worth $70.00 Treat yourself with Naroku. This gorgeous selection includes Bath Crumble 50g, Fizzy Bath Salts 250g, Whipped Soap 200g, Detangling Spray 125ml and Laundry Crystals 500g. All of Naroku’s products are hand made in Melbourne using quality ingredients. www.naroku.com.au Visit www.pakmag.com.au/win for your chance to win! Competition closes 31/07/2021. No need to submit colouring in to enter. *Scents will be sent at random.

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Pull-out kids activity mag!

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Competition closes 15/07/2021. No need to submit drawing to enter.

Celebrating Tokyo 2020

Use the following steps to help create it: 1. Its main quality is...

2. It makes me think of...

An animal? A plant? An obect? A colour?

Something else?

3. Draw your mascot.

4. What is your mascot’s name?

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© IOC, The Olympic Museum, Lausanne

WIN an Australian Olympic Committee (AOC) Official Olympic Merchandise Pack Worth $50.00 Get in the Olympic Spirit with this incredible prize pack from the AOC Store. Train like a pro and showcase your Aussie pride with this AOC Iconic Football. Robust machine stitched PVC panels are complimented with SR bladder and two polycotton liners. The ball features a traditional panel shape outer and an iconic Australian design that proudly displays your love of the Australian Olympic Team. The cute and cuddly Boxing Kangaroo is a must have for any little AOC fan. The Kangaroos are ready to take on their opposition with their Boxing Gloves. Dress like the athletes and find more merchandise to purchase and proudly show your support for the Aussie Team in Tokyo from shop.olympics.com.au.

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G I V E AWAY

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Visit www.pakmag.com.au/win for your chance to win!

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1. Moochies SmartWatch - $249.95 - www.moochies.com - Moochies is a wearable mobile device for children whose parents deem them too young to be given a mobile phone, but still want peace of mind while giving them healthy doses of independence. Moochies features currently include 4G, voice and video recording, text and voice messaging, GPS tracking and safe zones, SOS alerts, class mode, a camera with gallery and a pedometer. Parents love Moochies because of its safety features but kids love it for its cool factor with its sleek and high-tech design. Kids can have fun accessorising with Moochies mixing and matching colours and various patterned straps. Kids 5 -12 years. 2. Ugg Express - Australian Shepherd Short Zipper Ugg Boots - $186.00 - www.uggexpress.com.au - The Australian Shepherd Short Zipper Boots are made with the highest quality premium Australian sheepskin and with a convenient zipper function, you can easily jump in and out of them. Available in four classic colours: chestnut, grey, chocolate and black. Boasting an option to fold down the edge to turn into a shorter style, these boots are bound to be your new favourites! 3. Wahu Pool Bopper - $39.95 www.wahu.com.au - Team up with up to three of your mates and take the fun to the water with the Wahu Pool Bopper! The huge, lightweight floating mat can fit up to four players one player in the middle hole at the ready with bopper, while the other three players try to pop out of the water as fast as they can without getting hit. It’s fast and fun pool action! For ages 6+ years. 4. Blue Snowball iCE - Silver - $97.00 - www.bluepowered.com.au - Snowball iCE is the fastest, easiest way to get high-quality sound for recording and streaming. Powered by a custom cardioid condenser capsule, Snowball iCE delivers crystal-clear audio quality that’s light-years ahead of your built-in computer microphone.

It’s even Skype and Discord certified, which guarantees great-sounding results no matter how or where you use it — at home or the office. 5. Victorinox Cheese Master $105.00 - www.victorinox.com.au - Exceptional cheese and exacting engineering are just two of Switzerland’s finest exports. Introducing the Cheese Master, the pioneering compact pocket knife that fuses both of these national passions. Part cheese knife, part fondue fork, this clever hybrid effortlessly slices through holey Emmental and nutty Gruyère then doubles to tackle your cheese fondue. Created in collaboration with the Switzerland Cheese Marketing AG, this knife will give your board some global clout.

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6. KIDS eGIFT Card - $120.00 - www.egiftit.com.au - Gifts are supposed to be a joyous experience, yet somehow this has become less personal for both the giver and receiver when it comes to digital gift cards. eGift it was created to bring the joy and surprise to digital gift giving. Personalise your digital gift by adding a personalised e-greeting card, digital wrapping, music and an animation – give your loved ones the ultimate digital gift card experience! The KIDS digital gift card is the ultimate gift of choice. Whether they want a new pair of kicks, or to see the latest blockbuster, this gift card has it all! 7. MX Anywhere 3 - $ 129.95 - www.logitech.com/en-au MX Anywhere 3 is ultimate versatility with remarkable performance. The compact mouse is designed for mobile work – from the home office, to the cafe, to the airport lounge.

8. Crayola Ultimate Prize Pack - $104.44 - www.crayola.com.au - The Crayola Ultimate Prize Pack includes their new Colors of the World range of art tools. The new Colors of the World range hopes to promote and support a more inclusive world for children from all ages, races, cultures and ethnicities. 9. Glambini Crossbody Bag - $64.00 - www.glambini.com.au Designed in Italy, the Glambini Crossbody Bag is stylish, lightweight and versatile. Glambini Crossbody Bags are highly durable and water-resistant which makes them perfect for travelling, overnights, kindy, school and recreational activities. Each Glambini Crossbody bag has been engineered with two exterior mesh elasticized side pockets, a secure section for iPads (large size only), a zipped secure front section, plus inside pockets to store snacks, toys, crayons, stickers and on-the-go essentials and includes a convenient key ring attachment. The adjustable strap length was designed for both comfort and style. The supportive shoulder straps can be adjusted to suit all children. 10. Magic Door Pillows Set - $49.00 - www.magicdoorpillows.com - Magic Door Pillows Sets include the storybook - ‘The Sleepy Wizard, The Dream Fairy and The Magic Door Pillow’, Dream Fairy OR Sleepy Wizard plush toy, glow-in-the-dark Magic Door Pillow, colouring and activity book, audiobook, video storybook, the first two letters from The Dream Fairy OR The Sleepy Wizard and step-by-step instructions. Read the storybook to your children and watch the magic unfold as they discover real Magic Door Pillows on their beds, just like the children in the book! This soothing and magical bedtime routine will make any child love going to bed and keep them sleeping soundly the whole night through.

Party

Simple Tips For Stress-Free Birthday Parties Sometimes the thought of a kid’s party, with all the planning, politics and pressure can be overwhelming.

So, to make the process simple and help you focus on the fun - here are our top tips to fill your kid’s special day with joy and laughter. Birthdays are meant to be a time of celebration – not stress.

A Little Planning Goes a Long Way The biggest trick is being organised and setting a budget. Decide at the beginning how much money you are willing to spend and stick to it. It’s so easy to splurge when it comes to our kids. Include all costs - cake, food, decorations, party favours, entertainment and games.

Establish what kind of party it will be – at a specialised party venue (less hassle for you), at a location away from your home (park, beach), or a home-based party.

You may even decide to host a sleep-over. Each involve varying levels of organisation – there is no right or wrong way to party – it’s about what works for you time-wise and budget-wise.

Involve your child in the planning – what options do they have to choose from? Would they like a theme? How many friends can they invite? What sort of cake would they like? Etc. Start early and make a list of everything you need to do to get the party ready and tick completed tasks off one by one. Organising a party is all about ‘task portion control’, be realistic about how much time you need and what you can take on and break up the tasks into achievable chunks. Taking on a little at a time is more achievable than trying to do it all at once.

Similarly, having a list of things to do on the day to be ready for when guests arrive can help. You can also split up the list and ask family members to help – so it’s not all on you. If you also have a plan of how the party will roll out (e.g. a general timeline of events) it can also help you avoid stress.

Have a party game box with everything you need in one place – ready to play on the day.

Party Guests Set a guest limit and stick to it (you don’t have to invite the whole class).

Specify on the invites: • if siblings are not invited, to avoid uninvited extras.

• if parents are welcome to stay, or if it’s a drop and go party.

• if there is anything they need to bring (socks, swimmers etc) • if there is a cost to parents (roller-skating, swimming, etc)

Also ask guests to inform you of any dietary requirements when RSVP’ing so you can plan accordingly.

Party Food Don’t be too hard on yourself when it comes to catering – we can go ‘all gourmet’, but the kids go for the party pies and cheerios anyway. Do what’s achievable for you.

If any of your guests have flagged dietary requirements with their RSVP - keep that in mind and provide options.

Supermarkets offer a variety of platters that also make party catering easy.

Don’t forget the water – keep a dispenser or jugs of water handy with cups nearby as well as a marker to write the kids names on their cups.

Don’t stress over the cake if you’re not a baker. Storebought cakes are fine – and DELICIOUS! If parents are staying at the party, then remember to cater for them too.

Entertainment Your entertainment options and requirements will depend on what style of birthday party you have gone with. For example, booking a party at a specialised party venue will generally mean there’s not much more for you to do. However, if you have gone with a DIY party – there’s a lot of options to consider, such as: inflatable jumping castles, petting zoos, yard game hire, face painters, balloon artists, clowns, magicians, craft etc.

If you’re on a budget, traditional party games never go out of fashion! All kids love playing pass-the-parcel, Pin the Tail on the Donkey, musical chairs / cushions, statues and limbo.

Keep a big bowl of treats handy with lollies, little chocolate bars, plastic jewellery, cheap toys, etc, wrapped in newspaper and when kids win a game they can choose a prize from the prize bowl.

Allow time for the kids to entertain themselves. Set up play areas around the yard where they can play with different toys you already own. If it’s a warm day, let the kids play with water balloons, water guns and the sprinkler.

Above all – never underestimate how special the simple things can be and the memories that are made – by just being in the moment. There is no greater gift than a ‘present’ parent - take moments throughout the day to soak it all in, participate and share some oneon-one time with your child to tell them how much you love them and how proud you are of them – that’s one memory that will live on, long after the decorations have been taken down.

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Health

All Things Health Growing Pains

Vitamin C

If achy legs are keeping your child awake at night, they’re not alone. They may be experiencing growing pains; defined as achy, cramping muscle pains that many pre-schoolers and pre-teens feel. It’s thought 25 – 40 percent of children experience them, and it most commonly occurs in the late afternoon or evenings. Some children may experience a lot of pain while others may not.

Vitamin C, also known as L-ascorbic acid, can help reduce the severity of colds and the decrease the length of them, though it does not prevent colds altogether. It is also helpful for healing wounds faster and preventing infections.

The vitamin has anti-aging properties, smoothing out wrinkles and increasing collagen production a protein that is found all throughout our bodies, including our skin.

Citrus fruits are famous for containing Vitamin C, but it is also found in peas, strawberries, broccoli, brussels sprouts, capsicum and potatoes.

Vitamin C also helps your body absorb iron – a very important mineral that we all need.

Despite the name “growing pains”, there is no evidence that the pains are linked to growth spurts.

In fact, no one really knows what exactly causes them. However, growing pains can occur due to the activities children take part in that may tire out their muscles. Excessive running, jumping and climbing is sure to cause some muscle strain, as can a full day of playing sports. The pains usually occur in the front of the thighs, back of the legs and behind the knees, and often quickly disappear by the time morning comes.

Growing pains are normal and nothing to worry about. However, if your child complains of pain in their legs and you notice swelling or areas that are tender, red, or warm, it’s probably something else and you should take them to see a doctor.

Consult your local health practitioner, doctor or pharmacist for advice on these topics first to ensure the best health outcomes.

www.pakmag.com.au | July / August 2021 33

Parenting

Redefining Success for Us and Our Young STORY Dr. Tom and Emily Davis How do you define success?

When we are young, we are taught that success will make us happy.

We may not have been told this directly but we likely received this message from parents, teachers, coaches, social media, advertising, and modern culture. Being successful is what is often applauded the loudest. If you are successful, then you will be happy.

But what is success? What are we actually applauding?

What do you believe makes you and your young truly successful?

Does outward success (trophies, grades, top schools, top jobs, physical beauty) equal success? And does this equal happiness?

Most of us interchange the words happiness and success. With one goes the other. But is this the case?

Yes, outward success can mean happiness. But happiness is largely related to emotions and feelings. It is passing and can be shifted by "happenings" outside of our control. Outcome-based happiness is like a campfire that will always need to be rekindled.

When we reflect deeper... what most of us really want is to flourish and thrive holistically (mentally, emotionally, physically, relationally and spiritually). For example, most of us wouldn't want our kids to finally achieve their "dream job" and be miserable day in and day out because they only chose that path to "be successful". They may appear to be successful to others and we can brag to our friends and family - but are they thriving holistically?

There's nothing wrong with visions and goals of academic and career success. Achievement is one important pillar needed for thriving. But for many, it would seem - it is THE pillar.

What we DO is exactly that - a doing. And we are a BEING. It is important that we unhook outward achievement from our intrinsic value and worth.

Especially because in modern culture, the emphasis on the external is lopsided everywhere we and our children look. When you define yourself based on what you do -

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it’s about performance. When you define yourself based on who you are - it’s about character.

Countless parents push and forge their young based on uncultivated, fragile definitions of success that are outcome driven. We often feel pressure about outcomes and achievements and transfer this pressure to our kids.

This over-emphasis on external achievement as THE measure of success comes at a price. Why? Externally focussed definitions of success often fuel a perpetual sense of not arriving at happiness (as promised). The underlying message is that when I "arrive" at this destination (job, relationship status, top school, nice things) then I will finally be happy and successful.

While these things aren't bad, many enormously successful people have demonstrated that, in and of themselves, they are fleeting and can leave us feeling empty. Especially if we expected them to fill us up.

When success becomes about the external (above all else), then we should not be surprised if ourselves and our kids develop unhealthy coping mechanisms to deal with the broken expectations that never end.

After all, when we cheer the loudest for achievement and performance, the tendency will be to hide or numb struggle so we can always appear successful.

This can become a vicious cycle of hustling for worthiness and wondering why we don't feel settled in our own heart, mind and body.

What gets undervalued when we overvalue external markers of success - is actually the most important aspect of success - our deeper character. The "us" we take with "us" wherever we go and in whatever we do.

It is the steady work and the things we ARE that most people don't see - things like our authentic character, our love and connectedness with and towards others, and our persistence towards long-term goals. Those outcomes emerge from our character. This behind-thescenes "becoming" is a bunch of little successes that are linked to who we are and who we will become holistically.

These last years we have raised five American-born kids (raised mostly in the U.S.A. and then for five years in Spain). Our kids have had adventure, privilege, and lots of struggle.

Parenting

These kids all played / play high-level sports. We've had two make their respective national teams at the youth level. Without a doubt, we have emphasised lopsided and ego-centric success on our journey. We've watched ourselves and others march like robots to the drumbeat of an exterior achievement definition of success. We've also watched this backfire.

We learned to chase down the slow and subtle.

An oxymoron to be sure. We were determined to re-define success with our actions and words and live into the cultivation of long-term, broad-based success.

We aren't profound parents. We read profound things and listened to profound others and grew in honesty with ourselves first and as a lifestyle. We apologised a lot which eventually gave our young freedom to own their own human struggles as well.

Our truest definition of success is reflected in what we actually value most in our words and actions.

We began to applaud “the becoming” - the leaning into vulnerability and facing hard things with courage and showing up to our lives imperfectly.

At times we've pushed our kids towards these external goals, never noticing the spark had gone out of their eyes. It can happen to all of us.

There is great news though!

We all get opportunities to wake up, humble ourselves and rethink what end goal we are trying to create. What do we value and what are we aiming for?

What is authentic success for us?

Are we clear on our own values? Do they align with what we applaud, prioritise and enjoy about our kids? If not, then we need to do a bit of slow work to gain clarity and reset.

When we align our definition of success with our most important values, we can authentically experience success whether the scoreboard tilts in our favour or not. We begin to live FROM our values into the external happenings and not the other way around.

In our case, we realised that the external is just that... external. We were grateful for the events, the scores, the blue ribbons and trophies and we would enjoy these things. But, living for outcomes is like wind, snow, sun and rain. Outcomes are affected by many things within and outside of our control and cannot be relied upon as a core value for our family.

As parents, we began to be honest about our subconscious need to imprint our expectations over our kids. This is not easy work but it is freeing work. We began to emphasise connection (being deeply seen and heard) and intentionally expressing that we were proud of the character growth we observed. We went on more walks, we stayed at the dinner table longer when possible. We listened to podcasts, talks, and music that fed the spirit, soul and mind. We made all the athletes do art and music for the health / joy of it and not to be competitive or THE BEST.

As parents, we took responsibility to imagine what our children's future selves would likely be most proud of. What would the future "them" be so thankful we emphasised in their youth? Would it be the achievement or goal itself or the fact that they deeply like and respect themselves because of all the becoming behind the scenes?

Faster than we imagined, our preoccupation with toxic striving and emphasis on external markers of success came into better balance. And without a single exception, everyone became more connected and confident and therefore s u c c e s s f u l.

To our surprise, everyone began doing better in their "performing" activities without the toxic pressure. It has been a win / win.

We learned to unearth, acknowledge and heal from what had driven our lopsided definition of success.

We surrendered "how we were raised" or "what we didn't get as children" or what the “neighbours are doing or not doing" and build ourselves and our family FROM WITHIN, from our values.

We learned to emphasise “becoming” and “overcoming” as “top shelf” measures of success.

Give yourself grace and permission to slow down. Give this to your kiddos too. Re-collect and return to what really matters the most.

Lean into your values and what success authentically means to you and your family. Let this guide what you applaud.

Above all else, laugh more and choose building connected bonds and enjoying the young you are privileged to raise.

A deep sense of belonging is the opposite of hustling for worthiness and THIS belonging is the foundation for all present and future, holistic thriving - i.e. SUCCESS.

Dr. Tom and Emily Davis are parents to a truckload of kids ages 15 and older. Originally from Texas and Colorado, U.S.A., they have lived in Barcelona, Spain since 2015. They are the founders of www.leaderselevate.com. Emily Davis launched a blog in October of 2019 called www.barcelonamama.com. Tom has written five books and Emily is in the throes of completing her first manuscript on being orphaned to becoming a thriving parent and person. Together they do consulting, leadership training, writing and content creation for young people, parents, top companies, and non-profit organisations.

www.pakmag.com.au | July / August 2021 35

Expert Advice

Connecting Men and Boys to Cultural Perspectives STORY Namarca Corowa, Founding Director, Reconcile Life Pty Ltd We all hear of teen crime, high risk behaviour and sadly the deaths that result. It is no mystery to the average community member that there is something amiss within young people and in particular young males.

This does not cease with young males but also extends into a man’s adult life.

At Reconcile Life Pty Ltd, we aim to provide our local community with opportunities to come alongside men and boys and help them see life from a different perspective. Our perspectives are based on cultural and spiritual insight which we see time and time again impact men for the better.

For millennia, the art and tradition such as rites of passage of leading males to respect and ultimately take responsibility for themselves and of the those around them was a necessary element, not only for personal growth but positive societal integrity. Traditions which were evidently celebrations of development, provided opportunities to steer males into considerate and accountable manhood as the primary objective.

Not every male is going to get it on the first go.

They are not going to get it automatically without proper guidance. That’s why we have invested our time and energy into our community elders and male mentors in who have been through a life struggle or two. Those who didn’t come down in the last shower, but those who know where to shelter from the storm and even perhaps build a boat to help give a lifeline to others.

If we, as a community, want to recover what has been lost in terms of positive male interaction and positive direction for men and boys, then we need to re-evaluate things which do not work and be prepared to step into what does. As intimidating as that sounds, the outcome of no input into men and boys’ purpose or rites of passage will continue to see males in our community take deeper and deeper dives into turmoil and despair.

Reconcile Life deliver three-day Healthy Relationships Camps and Workshops for men and for boys which also coincide with their 12-week Behavioural Change Programs from cultural perspectives. Remember, this is not just for indigenous folks, this is for any male seeking help within our Mackay region. We work with primary and high schools, support services, government and non-government agencies and general members of the public. You do not need a referral to work with us.

Developing integrity in relationships should be the elementary principle, not only for males, but any human being interacting with others in our society. To some it may seem too hard or perhaps too outdated, but in reality, it is the missing link in helping men navigate life and all of the personal struggles and challenges that come with it.

If you have a young male who needs older male guidance in life that is positive and encourages growth, or you are an adult male yourself who would like a little more support in your life, then simply contact us at admin@reconcilelife.com.au or go to our website www.reconcilelife.com.au. You can also find us on Facebook, Instagram and YouTube @reconcile_life

www.pakmag.com.au | July / August 2021 37

Expert Advice

The PakMag Experts Katrina Peters

Jasmine Lowry

Statewide Family Law

MADEC CEO

Dear Katrina,

Do you have a disability and want to know what NDIS Home and Living options are available to you?

What should I avoid when communicating with my ex-partner after separation?

This is the opening quote in a judgement handed down in the Family Court of Australia.

In this case, the Court was determining final parenting arrangements for a seven year old boy: “Listen here you fat (blank)”…“your bogan (blank) can play happy families on Facebook with her kids as [X] is no longer available for you to use. He is my son and not your paycheck, you bludging junkie filth.”...“you are as weak as piss and a completed moron if you think I care if you are alive or dead (blank)”.

This was a parent’s Facebook post quoted by the Judge to demonstrate how NOT to communicate after separation.

With social media having invaded almost every part of our lives, it’s always tempting to jump onto the keyboard and offload your anger at your ex-partner, the “system” or society in general. This isn’t helpful to your parenting relationship, your children or your case if you happen to be in the unfortunate situation of being involved in the family law court system.

The old adage, “If you don’t have anything nice to say, don’t say anything at all,” is a mantra to be recommended when separated parents are communicating about parenting matters. The other thing that you should keep in mind is that it’s likely that everything that you write via social media, text message or email is being recorded for future use. Therefore, it’s important that you keep your communication respectful, concise and child-focused.

If parents are finding it difficult to communicate regarding parenting matters, then a more formal approach may be needed. There are many great online communication tools for co-parents including Coparently, Our Family Wizard, Coz and the most popular amongst our clients - Talking Parents. a 34 Wood St, Mackay www.swc.net.au

Are you planning for life transitions such as leaving school or moving out of home?

The NDIS offer a range of Home and Living options.

Specialist Disability Accommodation (SDA): SDA is a specialist housing solution designed to meet the needs of individuals with extreme functional impairment or very high support needs. SDA funding is for accommodation, not supports. Participants still need to contribute to rent and arrange any personal supports they may require.

Supported Independent Living (SIL): SIL funding is used to pay workers to provide assistance with daily living tasks.

The aim is to assist individuals to live independently. Often people living in SIL will have housemates with a disability and support is provided under a 24/7 model. SIL does not cover the cost of accommodation, this is at the participant’s expense. However, NDIS providers may be able to provide low-cost housing options or participants may be eligible for community housing options.

Individualised Living Options (ILO): ILO is a very exciting model of care that is customised to meet individual needs.

It allows people to choose the home they want to live in and set up supports in a way that best suits them. It may be sharing a house with friends, having a housing host or connecting with a community that can provide informal supports. ILO will provide flexible funding for supports but does not cover the cost of accommodation.

Would you like to learn more and have assistance to navigate NDIS Home and Living options?

An NDIS Support Coordinator or ILO Coordinator can assist you to explore your options and design a model of supports and housing that best suits you.

We encourage you to reach out to the MADEC team to discuss how we can assist you. a 3/17 Macalister St, Mackay www.madec.org.au

www.pakmag.com.au | July / August 2021 39

School Holiday Guide

School Holiday Guide 2021 Mackay Festival of Arts The Mackay Festival of Arts celebrates local talent, culture, colour, music and food - with so many events to enjoy this July. Find the full program and book tickets at www.themecc.com.au.

During these school holidays don’t miss Isaiah Spirit - X Factor winner and Top 10 at Eurovision. Isaiah Firebrace is a singer with an incredible voice and story.

7.30 pm, Friday 10 July, MECC Plenary Halls Tickets from $23.00 www.mecc.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!

Cost: From $35.00 for 1 race (10 minutes) + $5.00 Sidetrax License (valid for 12 months). Double seater karts available for those aged 4 - 10 years or with disabilities.

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

Caneland Central Join Caneland Central for their Nature and Wellness Workshops for the school holidays, they’ll be hosting different activities daily. See the list below to find out which Workshops the kids would like to attend.

Thursday, 1 July - Create your own Calm Jar Friday, 2 July - Decorate a Bird Feeder Monday 5 to Thursday 8 July - NAIDOC Week activities Friday 9 July - Rock Art Workshop

A Mangrove Rd, Mackay P 4944 7111 E caneland.central@lendlease.com Caneland Central www.canelandcentral.com.au

Big4 Whitsundays Tropical Eco Resort Nestled in seven acres of shady tropical greenery, Big4 Whitsundays Tropical Eco Resort have plenty to do for families including a playground, jumping pillow, quad bikes for hire, a pool and a brand-new ninja challenge course - making it the perfect school holiday getaway with the kids.

Cost: From $38.00 (unpowered grass sites).

Accommodation options include camping/caravan sites as well as two bedroom apartments, eco lodges, villas, and more.

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

South Leagues Club Mackay Play, eat and enjoy at 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!

A 181 Milton St P 4957 2166 E info@sidetrax.com.au South Leagues Club Mackay www.southsmackay.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 | July / August 2021 41

School Holiday Guide

Sarina Sugar Shed Head along to the Sarina Sugar Shed and learn about the growing, harvesting and crushing processes of sugar cane in a fully functioning miniature sugar mill.

During the one hour tour, see how sugar is turned into a tasty array of products. You will get to try sugar cane juice, Chefs’ Gusto range of chutneys, relishes and sauces, non-alcoholic ginger beer brewed onsite, and fairy floss for big and little kids! Minecraft games, colouring-in sheets and other kids’ activities are also available, as well as slushies and kids meals in the cafe.

Cost: From $13.00 (children under 18 years). Tours run daily at 9.30am, 11.00am, 12.30pm and 2.00pm - 7 Days.

Book in advance.

A Field of Dreams Parkland, Railway Square, Sarina P 4943 2801 E info@sarinasugarshed.com.au Sarina Sugar Shed www.sarinasugarshed.com.au

Mackay Libraries Mackay libraries always offer a variety of events to keep kids busy and having fun during the holidays.

Bedtime Stories - Gordon White Library on Thursday July 1, 5.00pm - 6.00pm.

Dudley Denny City Library on Thursday July 8, 5.00pm 6.00pm. For children up to 8 years old.

Resin-ate - Gordon White Library on Thursday July 1, 10.00am - 12.00pm: Bring anything little (old jewellery, plants, etc) and turn it into a little resin keepsake. For teenagers aged 12 - 18 years.

STEAMPunks - Dudley Denny City Library on Monday July 5, 9.30am - 12.30pm: An immersive STEAM workshop using design-thinking, 3D design, coding and morel. For teenagers aged 13 - 15 years.

Library After Dark - Gordon White Library on Friday July 9, 6.00pm - 8.00pm: The library will be exclusively for teens aged 12 - 18 years, with chill zones, music, snacks and more.

Movies: The Croods - A New Age (PG) - Gordon White Library on Friday July 2, 2.00pm - 4.00pm.

Dragon Rider (PG) - Gordon White Library on Friday July 9, 2.00pm - 4.00pm.

Wild Puppets with Berky - Sarina Library on Thursday July 1, from 10.00am and 2.00pm. An interactive puppet show for children up to 8 years old.

Ukulele for Kids - Dudley Denny City Library on Thursday July 1, from 2.00pm and 2.45pm.

42 July / August 2021 | www.pakmag.com.au

Walkerston Library on Monday July 5, from 10.00am, 10.45am and 11.30am.

Find out more by visiting their website.

A Mackay, Mt Pleasant, Walkerston, Sarina, Mirani P 4961 9387 Mackay Regional Council Libraries www.mackay.qld.gov.au/libraries www.mackay.qld.gov.au/whatson

Family Challenge Month with AmazingCo AmazingCo is here to help with their Family Challenge Month: Winter Edition experience. Available throughout July, it offers young families the chance to get outdoors and create memories while completing fun challenges and games as a team. Aiming to tick off the activities on your ‘nature bingo card’, which you are supplied at the start of the month, you and your family will have the chance to complete weekly activities and challenges shared with you via a link every Thursday of July.

There will be a prize for the competition winners (an epic family holiday, valued at $4,000!) as well as weekly prizes – just be sure to take pictures of all the fun you are having to be in the running! You can also find fun experiences to enjoy as a family on their website.

Cost: $50.00 per family for a lifetime of memories. amazingco.me/aus/experiences/ family-fun-challenge-month

Kidz Life Play Centre 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, or join them racing down the super slide and the jumping castle.

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

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.

School Holiday Guide

Artspace Mackay

Debbie’s Seafood

Artspace Mackay offers drop-in style, family art activities for children and their parents. The program is FREE. Visit the Facebook page for more information and to find out what’s on for these upcoming school holidays.

Don’t worry about the meals these school holidays just go to Debbie’s Seafood! They have Kid’s Meals for just $6.50 as well as All Day Dining with Kids Meals for just $6.50.

A Civic Centre Precinct, 61 Gordon St P 4961 9722 E artspace@mackay.gld.gov.au Artspace Mackay www.artspacemackay.com.au

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.

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, Birdwatching Quiz, 25 Fun Things to do in the Gardens, nature play, spotlighting and more.

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

The Bluewater Lagoon 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 (September - March) and 9am 4:45pm during the winter months (April - mid-July).

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

A 16 David Muir Street P 49554111 E admin@debbiesseafood.com.au Debbie’s Seafood & Deb’s Fish Cafe www.debbiesseafood.com.au

MECC KIDS CLUB - Puppet Workshop New Owner Artist Workshop with experienced arts educator Lisa Roebig Holmes. Create your very own puppets! This free community artist workshop for little people and their adults is proudly brought to you by Dalrymple Bay Coal Terminal and the MECC. All children wishing to create a puppet must register their attendance via a ticket, supervising parents do not need a ticket.

All attendees on the day must check in on the day, via the ‘Check In QLD’ app.

Thursday 1 July, 10.00 am to 11.00am / FREE / Ages: 7 + MECC Meeting Rooms MECC www.themecc.com.au

MECC KIDS CLUB - Pete the Sheep Artist Workshop Enjoy working with experienced arts educator Lisa Roebig Holmes and create your very own Pete the Sheep craft! This free community artist workshop for little people and their adults is proudly brought to you

by Dalrymple Bay Coal Terminal and the MECC. All children wishing to create a puppet must register their attendance via a ticket, supervising parents do not need a ticket.

All attendees on the day must check in on the day, via the ‘Check In QLD’ app.

Friday 2 July, 10.00am to 11.00am / FREE / Ages: 4 + MECC meeting rooms MECC www.themecc.com.au

Escape Rooms Mackay Enter a themed room and work as a team to solve a series of puzzles, riddles and hints before your 60 minute time limit runs out. Fun for families, friends and groups. Please be advised the rooms are geared more towards mid-teens and adults due to the level of difficulty and themes. Costs from $31.00 per player.

A 344 Alfred Street, Mackay P 0484 ESCAPE (0484 372 273) www.escaperoomsmackay.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 | July / August 2021 45

Daddy Diary

Daddy Diary Why is it that every generation believes the old ways are the best? If we were to listen to our grandparents, parents and these days as parents ourselves, every single problem from pie making to politics can simply be solved by going back to the way it used to be. It truly does seem the only way forwards - is backwards.

Especially when it comes to the wonderful world of entertainment.

I say this after a recent expedition to the circus with my seven-year-old daughter Matilda. We left Charlie our two-year-old son at home with mum - scared he would attempt to scale the high wire or flying trapeze.

So, a D.D.D (Daddy Daughter Date) it was. And off to the circus we went. No older form of entertainment there is.

And dare I say - no better.

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

The whole experience was pure joy not only for my daughter but also for me. Other than Lego Masters on the telly, it is hard for us to find stuff that we truly connect with together. Usually, it’s me pretending to be fascinated by unicorns and Smiggle catalogues. But not at the circus. Under that big top we could not have been more united. The ringmaster, the juggling, the clowns and death-defying stunts had us both on the edge of our seats. So much laughing, gasping and smiling together. All the feels washed down with a frozen slushie and overpriced popcorn. It was amazing.

But as I sit here typing off the back of my post-circus high it suddenly dawns on me. Some of the best forms of entertainment we enjoy (especially as children) are as old as the hills. People have been telling stories and drawing pictures since we lived in caves. We’ve been kicking round things between posts and trying to outrun each other since man could walk. There is not a child on the planet who doesn’t enjoy at least a few things that were enjoyed by our ancestors hundreds of years ago.

So, heads up 2021. You can keep your screens, monitors and general i-Merch. I want a refund. A night at the circus with my little girl is the kind of thing I’ll remember for the rest of my life. Maybe sometimes the old ways really are the best.

Cliffo Hit 100.3

www.pakmag.com.au | July / August 2021 47

Mackay and Whitsundays What’s On THURSDAY 1 JULY MECC KIDS CLUB - Puppet Workshop MECC Meeting Rooms MECC 10.00am - 11.00am / FREE registrations required / 7 + Resin-ate Gordon White Library www.mackay.qld.gov.au/ libraries 10.00am / FREE / 12 - 18 years Ukulele for Kids Dudley Denny City Library www.eventbrite.com.au 2.00pm - 2.30pm / FREE / 8 - 12 years Toddler Playtime Runs each weekday PCYC Mackay PCYC Mackay 9.00am - 11.00am / 0 - 5 years / Members $8.00 , Non-member $10.00, Under 12 months FREE Create your own Calm Jar Caneland Central Caneland Central 9.00am - 1.00pm / G Creative Pen Writers’ Corner Gordon White Library www.eventbrite.com.au 5.00pm / FREE / G STEAM Club Runs weekly Gordon White Library www.mackay.qld.gov.au/ libraries 3.30pm / FREE / Year 3 to Year 6

Continuum - Art Exhibition Runs until Sunday 25 July Foundation Gallery, Artspace Mackay www.themecc.com.au 10.00am / FREE / G

SUNDAY 4 JULY

FRIDAY 2 JULY

STEAMPunks Dudley Denny City Library www.mackay.qld.gov.au/libraries 9.30am / FREE / 13 - 15 years

MECC KIDS CLUB - Pete the Sheep Artist Workshop MECC Meeting Rooms MECC 10.00am - 11.00am / FREE registrations required / 4 + North Australian Festival of Arts (NAFA) Runs until Sunday 1 August Townsville - various locations www.townsville.qld.gov.au Find the program online for all events Decorate a Bird Feeder Caneland Central Caneland Central 9.00am - 1.00pm / G Toddler Time Runs weekly on Fridays Dudley Denny City Library www.mackay.qld.gov.au/libraries 9.30am / FREE - Book online / G (toddlers up to 2 1/2 years) The Croods - A new Age Gordon White Library www.mackay.qld.gov.au/libraries 2.00pm / FREE / PG SATURDAY 3 JULY

Wild Puppets with Berky Sarina Library www.mackay.qld.gov.au/ libraries 10.00am / FREE / 0 - 8 years

Great Barrier Reef Festival - Immerse - Whitsundays Workshops - Animation The Lookout Lounge, Coral Sea Marina www.greatbarrierreeffestival. com.au and Great Barrier Reef Festival 10.00am - 4.00pm / FREE - Book online / G - Children under 12 will need to be accompanied by an adult

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

Mingle at Melba - Wine Tasting experience with a hint of Opera Melba House, Marian www.themecc.com.au 4.00pm / $140.00 - $155.00 / 18 +

Baby Bounce Runs weekly Gordon White Library www.mackay.qld.gov.au/ libraries 10.30am / FREE - Book online / G (babies from birth to walking)

With HIT 100.3’s Cliffo & Gabi

48 July / August 2021 | www.pakmag.com.au

NAIDOC Week Runs until Sunday 11 July www.naidoc.org.au MONDAY 5 JULY

Ukulele for Kids Walkerston Library www.mackay.qld.gov.au/libraries 10.00am, 10.45am, 11.30am / FREE /G Baby Bounce Runs weekly on Mondays Dudley Denny City Library www.mackay.qld.gov.au/libraries 11.00am / FREE - Book online / G (babies from birth to walking) NAIDOC Week Activites Runs until Thursday 8 July Caneland Central Caneland Central 9.00am - 1.00pm / G Baby Bounce Runs weekly on Mondays Mirani Library www.mackay.qld.gov.au/libraries 9.30am / FREE - Book online / G (babies from birth to walking) Toddler Time Runs weekly on Mondays Gordon White Library, Sarina Library www.mackay.qld.gov.au/libraries 9.30am / FREE - Book online / G (toddlers up to 2 1/2 years) TUESDAY 6 JULY Free Workshops at Caneland Central - Create your own lantern or UV arts and crafts creation to be on display at DBCT illuminate Also runs on the 6, 8, 17 and 18 July Caneland Central, next to Myer (ground level) www.themecc.com.au Two sessions each day at 10.00 - 12.00pm and 1.00pm - 4.00pm - Bookings required / FREE / G All ages (Children under 13, must be accompanied by an adult) Baby Bounce Runs weekly on Tuesdays

Sarina Library www.mackay.qld.gov.au/libraries 9.30am / FREE - Book online / G (babies from birth to walking) Story Time Runs weekly on Tuesdays Gordon White, Mirani and Walkerston Libraries www.mackay.qld.gov.au/libraries 9.30am / FREE - Book online / G (2 1/2 - 5 years) Baby Bounce Runs weekly on Tuesdays Walkerston Library www.mackay.qld.gov.au/libraries 11.00am / FREE - Book online / G (babies from birth to walking) WEDNESDAY 7 JULY Story Time Runs weekly on Wednesdays Sarina Library www.mackay.qld.gov.au/libraries 9.30am / FREE - Book online / G (2 1/2 - 5 years) Toddler Time Runs weekly on Wednesdays Mirani Library www.mackay.qld.gov.au/libraries 9.30am / FREE - Book online / G (toddlers up to 2 1/2 years) THURSDAY 8 JULY The Ten Tenors Celebrating 25 Years MECC www.themecc.com.au 7.30pm / $85.00 - $95.00 / All ages Baby Bounce Runs weekly on Thursdays Gordon White Library www.mackay.qld.gov.au/libraries 10.30am / FREE - Book online / G (babies from birth to walking) Story Time Runs weekly on Thursdays Dudley Denny City Library www.mackay.qld.gov.au/libraries 10.30am / FREE - Book online / G (2 1/2 - 5 years) FRIDAY 9 JULY Mackay Festival of Arts Runs until 25 July Various Venues throughout Mackay www.themecc.com.au Download the full program online

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

Heading North (a new musical for North Queensland) Runs until Sunday 11 July MECC - Lynette Denny Space www.themecc.com.au 7.30 pm (Friday and Saturday), 2.00pm (Saturday and Sunday) / $30.00 - $70.00 NTI Townsville 500 Runs until Sunday 11 July Reid Park Complex, Townsville www.supercars.com FREE (Kids Under 12 get trackside FREE with a Paying Adult) - $150.00 / G Rock Art Workshop Caneland Central Caneland Central 9.00am - 1.00pm / G Dragon Rider Gordon White Library www.mackay.qld.gov.au/ libraries 2.00pm / FREE / PG Library After Dark Gordon White Library www.mackay.qld.gov.au/ libraries 6.00pm / FREE / 12 - 18 years Great Barrier Reef Festival - Coral Sea Marina Lantern Workshop Workshop at Lure www.greatbarrierreeffestival. com.au and Great Barrier Reef Festival 10.00am - 2.00pm / Gold Coin Donation / G - for all ages SATURDAY 10 JULY Isaiah Spirit MECC www.themecc.com.au 7.30pm / $23.00 - $25.00 / All ages TUESDAY 13 JULY A Night of Feeling Groovy on the Peace Train - Songs of Simon & Garfunkel and Cat Stevens MECC www.themecc.com.au 7.00pm / $29.00 - $79.00 / All ages WEDNESDAY 14 JULY Paul Kelly With His Band – on the Road Again MECC Auditoruim www.themecc.com.au 7.30pm / $87.00 / PG THURSDAY 15 JULY Anime and Manga Club Gordon White Library www.mackay.qld.gov.au/ libraries 5.30pm / FREE / 12 - 18 years Website Building - HTML

Gordon White Library www.mackay.qld.gov.au/libraries 3.30pm / FREE / 12 - 18 years

FREE / G

FRIDAY 16 JULY

Shaun the Sheep’s Circus Show MECC www.themecc.com.au 10.00am and 1.00pm / $37.00 $62.00 / All ages

Mackay Newmarket/ HL Black Memorial Ooralea Racecourse www.mackayturfclub.com.au Visit the website for more information City Silent Disco Tours Runs until Sunday 18 July Mackay City Centre www.themecc.com.au 6.00pm, 7.00pm, 8.00pm / $18.00 - $65.00 / G SATURDAY 17 JULY

mackayturfclub.com.au 6.00pm / $30.00 / G

SUNDAY 18 JULY

Passport to Airlie - local talent competition to perfrom at the Airlie Beach Festival of Music Runs 18 and 24 July, Grand Final on August 14 Harrup Park www.themecc.com.au / register your interest to perform: airliebeachfestivalofmusic.com. au/passport-to-airlie/ 3.00pm

Shaun the Sheep’s Circus Show Runs until Sunday 18 July MECC www.themecc.com.au 6.00pm, 10.00am, 1.00pm / $37.00 - $62.00 / All ages

Mackay Chamber Music Festival Central Queensland Conservatorium of Music trybooking.com 11.00am / from $10.00 / All ages

Airlie Beach Marathon Festival Runs until Sunday 18 July Airlie Beach Foreshore www.runairlie.com.au 6.00am - 4.00pm / $20.00 $200.00 / G (4 +)

Turn Sunshine into Art Dudley Denny City Library www.mackay.qld.gov.au/libraries 3.30pm / FREE / G

Dads ‘n’ Bubs Baby Bounce Dudley Denny City Library www.mackay.qld.gov.au/libraries 10.00am / FREE / G G&S Engineering Wine and Food Day Incuding The Circus Drop Zone, giving humans of all ages a chance to try circus skills Queens Park , Mackay www.themecc.com.au 10.30am - 5.30pm / FREE entry /G BB Print Main Stage with local and interstate artists including Shannon Noll Queens Park , Mackay www.themecc.com.au 10.30am - 5.30pm / FREE / G Grassroots Stage Queens Park , Mackay www.themecc.com.au 11.30am - 5.30pm / FREE / G Festival Club the After Party MECC Plenary Halls www.themecc.com.au 6.30pm - 11.30pm / $35.00 $40.00 / G Messengers of Mackay six giant Gouldian Finches to spread messages of hope and bring you a smile (Art) Runs until Sunday 25 July Various throughout Mackay.

Workshops and activities are also happening at Mackay Libraries and Artspace. Visit website for details. www.themecc.com.au

TUESDAY 20 JULY

SATURDAY 24 JULY Opera Australia - Bizet’s Carmen MECC www.themecc.com.au 7.30pm / $22.00 - $42.00 / 12 + Coral Sea Academy Protecting the Great Barrier Reef The Lookout Lounge Coral Sea Marina www.whitsundaytickets.com.au 10.00am / FREE / G Mackay Cup Race Day Mackay Turf Club www.mackayturfclub.com.au 10.30am / from $20.00 / G Mackay International Film Festival Also runs 30, 31 July and 1 August at BCC Mt Pleasant Pinnacle Playhouse, BCC Mt Pleasant filmartsmackay.weebly.com 7.00pm / $14.00 - $95.00 SUNDAY 25 JULY

BMA Kidspace - art and music activities Artspace Workshop Room and Foyer Gallery www.themecc.com.au 10.00am - 2.00pm / FREE / Toddlers and their adults

Friends of the MECC Jazz Brunch MECC North Foyer www.themecc.com.au 11.00am / $60.00 - $65.00

WEDNESDAY 21 JULY

Beach to Gardens Charity Fun Run Register as individual, team or dog Iluka Park, Mackay beachtogardensfunrun.com.au 6.30am / Entry by donation to RACQ CQ Rescue /G

DBCT Kids’ Theatre Season Charlotte’s Web MECC Auditorium www.themecc.com.au 9.30am and 12.30pm / $16.50 $60.00 / All ages An Unexpected Tour Runs until Saturday 24 July New Mulherin Park Car Park, Mackay Harbour crossroadarts.com.au 7.00pm / $25.00 - 35.00 THURSDAY 22 JULY DBCT Illuminate Runs until Saturday 24 July Mackay Bluewater Trail, Caneland Park to Forgan Bridge www.themecc.com.au 6.00pm / FREE - Book online / G Spare Parts Puppet Theatre Puppet Making Workshop Also runs on Friday 23 July MECC themecc/festivals 9.00am / FREE - Bookings Essential FRIDAY 23 JULY Mackay Cup Calcutta Mackay Turf Club

SUNDAY 25 JULY

Savour Seaforth Markets and Live Entertainment Seaforth Esplanade www.themecc.com.au 12.00pm / FREE / G THURSDAY 29 JULY Morning Melodies at the Burb Souths Suburban Bowls Club www.southsmackay.com.au 11.00am / FREE entry / G SATURDAY 31 JULY Great Barrier Reef Festival - Immerse - Whitsundays Workshops - Sculpture The Lookout Lounge, Coral Sea Marina www.greatbarrierreeffestival. com.au and Great Barrier Reef Festival 10.00am - 4.00pm / FREE Book online / G - Children under 12 will need to be accompanied by an adult

www.pakmag.com.au | July / August 2021 49

Mackay and Whitsundays What’s On SATURDAY 31 JULY

FRIDAY 6 AUGUST

Great Barrier Reef Festival - Coral Sea Marina Lantern Workshop Workshop at Lure www.greatbarrierreeffestival. com.au and Great Barrier Reef Festival 10.00am - 2.00pm / Gold Coin Donation / G - for all ages

Great Barrier Reef Festival - Coral Sea Marina Resort Lantern Parade Cheer on or Participate Departing from the Garden Bar, along Bicentennial Boardwalk and down to the Foreshore www.greatbarrierreeffestival. com.au and Great Barrier Reef Festival 4.30pm - 7.00pm / FREE / G

Unearthed - Extreme Moments of Science With Dr Karl MECC Auditorium www.themecc.com.au 7.00pm / $12.00 - $40.00 / 13 + SUNDAY 1 AUGUST Unearthed - Dr Karl for Kids MECC Auditorium www.themecc.com.au 9.00am / $10.00 - $35.00 / 7 - 13 years WEDNESDAY 4 AUGUST DBCT Kids’ Theatre Season The Last Great Hunt present ‘New Owner’ by Arielle Gray and Tim Watts Also runs Thursday 5 August at 9.30am MECC www.themecc.com.au 6.00pm / $16.50 - $60.00 / 7 + THURSDAY 5 AUGUST Great Barrier Reef Festival Runs until Sunday 8 August Airlie Beach Foreshore and Main Street www.greatbarrier reeffestival.com.au View the full program and enjoy all the fun!

Fireworks on the Foreshore Night Markets, ‘Eat Street’ food stalls, Sky High Juggling - Fire Show, Carnival Rides, DJ’s, LIVE Music and entertainment at the Beach Music Main Stage including Juzzie Smith.

Fireworks at 8.00pm.

The Esplanade, Airlie Beach www.greatbarrierreeffestival. com.au and Great Barrier Reef Festival 6.00pm - 9.00pm (music until 10.30pm) / Free Entry / G Mackay Big Boys Toys Expo Runs until Sunday 8 August Showground Mackay bigboystoysexpo.com.au 8.30am - 3.00pm / $10.00 $50.00 / G SATURDAY 7 AUGUST ARJ Baker - Comes Clean MECC Auditorium www.themecc.com.au 8.00pm / $49.90 - $54.90 / 15 + SUNDAY 8 AUGUST Anything Environmental Recyclable Regatta Make a raft out of recyclable

Regular Markets The Greater Whitsunday Farmers’ Markets

Eungella Community Markets

Date: Every Wednesday Time: 6.30am - 10.30am Location: Bluewater Quay, River Street, Mackay City Centre (Best parking - Brisbane Street)

Date: 2nd Sunday of the month Time: 9.00am - 1.00pm Location: Eungella Memorial Hall, North Street

Showground Markets

Seaforth Community Markets

Date: Every Saturday Time: 6.30am - 10.00am Location: Mackay Showgrounds

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

50 July / August 2021 | www.pakmag.com.au

With Triple M's Jay and Dave

materials. Two categories: Open Age 13 + and Children Ages 6 – 12 Airlie Beach Foreshore www.greatbarrierreeffestival. com.au and Great Barrier Reef Festival 10.00am - 12.00pm / FREE / G TUESDAY 10 AUGUST DBCT Kids’ Theatre Season ‘Pete the Sheep’ MECC www.themecc.com.au 9.30am and 12.30pm / $16.50 $60.00 / 4 - 9 year olds Create Music in Your Heart!

Gordon White Library www.mackay.qld.gov.au/ libraries 3.30pm / FREE / 12 - 18 years Multiples Chatterplay Gordon White Library www.mackay.qld.gov.au/ libraries 9.30am / FREE / 0 - 5 years THURSDAY 12 AUGUST Airlie Beach Race Week Festival of Sailing Runs until Thursday 19 August Whitsunday Sailing Club www.abrw.com.au $250.00 - $625.00 / G SATURDAY 14 AUGUST Forever Gold - The Ultimate ABBA Show Metropolitan Hotel tickets.avclive.com.au 8.00pm - 10.30pm / $30.10 / 18+ SUNDAY 15 AUGUST Hamilton Island Race Week Runs until Sawturday 28 August Hamilton Island 10.00am / Registration closed / G

Seaforth Mega Market Date: 1st Sunday of every month in place of regular markets Time: 8.30am – 12.00 noon Location: Seaforth Beachfront

Sarina Showground Markets Date: Last Sunday of the month Time: 8.00am - 12.00 noon Location: Sarina Showgrounds

THURSDAY 19 AUGUST Anime and Manga Club Gordon White Library www.mackay.qld.gov.au/libraries 5.30pm / FREE / 12 - 18 years Children’s Book Week Picnic in the Gardens Mackay Regional Botanic Gardens www.mackay.qld.gov.au/libraries 9.30am / FREE / G FRIDAY 20 AUGUST Surf Music in Paradise Featuring Daryl Braithwaite and Richard Clapton Runs until Tuesday 24 August Daydream Island Resort www.surfmusicinparadise.com FREE / $1745 - $2895 (packages incl. accommodation) / PG SATURDAY 21 AUGUST Coral Sea Academy Gourmet Galley Coral Sea Marina www.tourismwhitsundays.com.au 2.00pm / FREE entry / G THURSDAY 26 AUGUST Long Weekend in the Whitsundays Featuring the Living End and Phil Jamieson (Grinspoon.)

Runs until Monday 30 August Daydream Island Resort www.surfmusicinparadise.com $1850.00 - $2995.00 (package incl. accommodation and more) / G SUNDAY 12 SEPTEMBER Mackay Colour Frenzy Fun run John Breen Park, Mackay colourfrenzy.com.au 8.30am / $from 5 / All ages, friendly dogs welcome

Troppo Treasure Markets Date: 2nd Sunday of the month Time: 7.00am - 11.30am Location: Mount Pleasant Shopping Centre Carpark

Paxtons Night Markets Date: 2nd Friday of every month Time: 5.00pm – 8.00pm Location: 10 River St

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