PakMag Mackay & Whitsundays - Jul & Aug 2022 - Issue 90

Parents and Kids Magazine

BIRTHDAY EDITION Celebrating

15

ISSUE: Jul & Aug 2022

90

MACKAY & WHITSUNDAYS

FREE

Years of PakMag

Mega Birthday Giveaway!

What’s On in Mackay

100

+

Family-Friendly North Queensland Festivals Guide

EVENTS

The Power of Heartfelt Apologies Winter School Holiday Guide The Truth About Happy Marriages How to Talk to Children About Blended and Diverse Families

Welcome

5

The Thing Is

Hello and welcome to our very special 15th birthday edition!

6

15 Years of PakMag

9

The PakMag Experts

10

Improving Your Child’s

When I first started PakMag, I didn’t have children, I just had a strong desire to help parents connect to their community. PakMag was my first baby and I couldn’t be prouder of what this incredible business has achieved.

Concentration 12

The Truth About Happy Marriages

14

Why You Should

17

Talking to Children

Plan a Maplemoon About Blended and Diverse Families 21

All Things Health

22 Bump, Bub and Beyond 24 Parent’s Puzzle 25 Mini Mag 28 The Cookie Monster 29 Birthday Giveaway 30 STEAM: Science Party 33 All Things Tweens and Teens 34 The Healing Power of Saying Sorry 36 NQ Festivals Guide 41

School Holiday Guide

If PakMag was a human, it would be your best friend. It’s been the first local friend for many new families to our regions. It’s been a constant source of parenting, education, relationship advice and local information, given hundreds of thousands of dollars worth of gifts and prizes away, and put a smile on thousands of families faces at our wonderful events.

The flow on effect to local families, businesses and communities is immeasurable and I think that is pretty cool.

When I was 25 years young, ambitious and full of enthusiasm to make a difference, I never dreamed PakMag would be what it is today. I am so grateful for such an incredible business that allows my team to work with so much freedom and passion, and do our best to support the most important role on the planet - being a parent.

Thank you to all of the businesses that support PakMag and enable us to do all the things we do for free for the community - without you none of this would be possible. A huge thanks to all our readers, and for those who tell everyone, “I read it in PakMag” - that small gesture helps us more than you will ever know. To my team past and especially present, I am so grateful for your contribution, passion and commitment. You are amazing.

Until next time, happy parenting and remember to tell everyone, you read it in PakMag.

Bree

45 Daddy Diary 47 What’s On

PakMag Founder and Editor-in-Chief Bree James Creative Team Leader, Designer and Editor Clare Winter Marketing and Events Coordinator Alyssa Marino Sales and Business Development Tracy Couper Videographer, Designer and Podcast Producer Monique Saggers Writer and Content Coordinator Lis Rooks Accounts and IT Support Trent Stievano

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

Our Global Parenting Channels PakMag Online pakmag_national PakMag The Give It A Go Group For Parents PakMag TV The PakMag Parents Podcast

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

PakMag would like to acknowledge the First Nations people within the Mackay, Whitsunday and Issac Region. The first storytellers of country in which we work, live, and enjoy. PakMag would like to pay our respects to Elders past, present and emerging.

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.

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 2022 3

The Thing Is

The Thing Is with Bree James Having kids is one of life’s blessings. Some would say parenting is the gift that keeps on giving.

One of the challenging things about parenting is when your children start to have an opinion.

Then they not only start to outnumber you, but they also start to break your brain as you have to become the world’s best manager.

The thing is, your kids never want the same thing, or they want the same thing. It’s enough to drive any parent “up the wall” as my mum would say. My mum takes serious delight in every phone call now, listening to me go through all the things she went through and attributes it to karma.

I don’t know how it’s possible for two kids who have the same parents and are brought up in the same environment can end up as total polar opposites but for the most part ours have achieved it.

One child wants to go swimming, the other wants to stay home and read. One child wants spaghetti, the other hates spaghetti. One child is happy to go out to dinner, the other child wants to stay home.

It’s like they do and like the opposite just so they can keep you on your toes.

I mean, how easy would it be to say “let’s go to the park” and both kids say “YAY!” Or, “let’s have spaghetti for dinner”, and both kids say “YUM!”. Imagine our parenting world if our kids were on the same page and loved doing the same thing. There would be one sports drop off, no alterations to meals, easier agendas, and family outings wouldn’t have to start with negotiations.

Getting everyone’s personalities on the same page for the simple things in life is not simple at all. In fact, it’s one of the things that yes, Mum, drives me up the wall now too!

I truly savour those rare moments when the whole family is in sync - when we all have the same desires and things are in flow. #Bliss.

But just when you think you are nailing this everyone being on the same page business, the kids really get on the same page. Your kids want the same thing.

Like badly. So much so that you have to become a referee. And I don’t know what is worse as a parent, the energy and exhaustion trying to get everyone on the same page and wanting the same thing, or the energy and exhaustion telling your kids to stop arguing over wanting the same thing.

My kids have been known to argue over a glass of water and whose it is, even though there are plenty of glasses and a tap that has magical water that just flows out of it on command… They argue over socks, toothpaste, who has the most food, who gets to serve themselves first, who is doing what chore, who made a mess and didn’t clean it up, where they sit in the car… Shall I go on?

Yep. This is daily life as a parent.

It’s total mind games and groundhog day repeating yourself with statements like “please do as I have asked of you”, “please work it out together”, “please don’t fight over things like this, there is plenty for all” on a good day, to “OMG You kids are driving me mental” and realising why your mum did things like put her car keys in the fridge, called you the wrong name and was often a frazzled mess. Baby brain turns to mum brain, and I am sorry to say, there is no cure.

I see you mums, and through weary knowing nods at the shops, we know that one day this time will pass.

Until then start taking notes to share for when your kids are calling you about your grandkids, and enjoy your sweet long awaited revenge.

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

www.pakmag.com.au | July / August 2022 5

Celebrate

PakMag Turns 15 This Month and I Couldn’t be Prouder STORY Bree James When I first started PakMag, I had never worked in print, I’d never sold advertising and I’d just failed my English exam at University where I was studying to be a primary school teacher… and I didn’t have children.

I never dreamt PakMag would be what it is today, and I am so grateful for all the wonderful experiences and opportunities. It’s been an amazing journey filled with twists and turns, so here are 15 life lessons I’ve learnt whilst growing PakMag to what it is today.

1. Purpose Gets you Through the Hard Times With a big enough ‘why’, you can overcome any ‘how’.

We’ve survived cyclones, the GFC, floods, Covid shutdowns, theft and so much more, yet we’ve never missed a print deadline. We’ve had many unfavourable situations, but have always trusted our purpose.

2. Your Support Network Makes or Breaks You Every person in your life should be appreciated. Do not take people for granted. Surround yourself with people who you can rise with. Make friends with people who want the best for you, and have a great team. And of course, if you take care of your team, they will take care of your customers, and that’s key to a great business.

3. Your Heart Will Get Broken (and You’ll Break Some Too) Even when people do the wrong thing, try and do the right thing. I haven’t always dealt with things to the best of my ability, I know I have also hurt people’s feelings

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by having to do what’s best for the business and team, but I have always done things to my morals and values.

If you lose your morals, you lose yourself.

4. Evolve, Learn and Grow by Investing in Yourself and Others You have to step out of your comfort zone, the greatest threat to success is not failure but boredom. Your business can never outgrow your mind so investing in learning for you and your team is imperative for success. Never be afraid to grow and evolve, even if you have to outgrow people along the way. The tighter we cling to an identity, the harder it is to grow beyond it.

5. You Can’t Please Everyone and You Can’t Make Everyone Like You Worrying too much about what people think of you will only cause you pain. You can’t please everyone.

Your self esteem is not dependent on the validation of others. Compare yourself to who you were yesterday, not who someone else is today. I have held myself back for so many years worrying about people’s judgements, but I’ve learnt that when someone blows out someone else’s candle, it doesn’t make theirs shine brighter.

6. Slow Progress is Still Progress One of the most satisfying feelings is progress. It is better to do less than you hoped, than to do nothing at all. Write one line, do one sit up, make one phone call,

Celebrate

it’s better than nothing. Try not to get frustrated when things take longer and obstacles arise.

7. Family First The greatest thing you’ll ever do is love and be loved.

There have been times when PakMag and my team got the best of me, and my family got the rest of me. Trying to raise a business and a family takes dedication, but also self-control. I’m so grateful that I’ve been able to live a life and love what I do, even though at times I’ve struggled to find balance. At any moment your business, health, or life could end. But your true family are the ones that will always be there.

8. Look After Your Clients Without clients, you have no money. Without money, you have no business. Look after the people who spend money with you. Try your best to innovate and grow with your clients needs, but always stay true to your core business, and don’t burn yourself out doing more and earning less. Be loyal to those that are loyal to you.

9. Look After Your Health You cannot buy good health. A lack of self-awareness is poison, but reflection and review is the antidote. Take a good look at your health, give yourself a review - is there anything you can do better? Being in a constant state of stress, good or bad, will eventually catch up to you. Without good health, everything suffers.

10. What You Focus on Grows If you want to focus on the negative, you will see more negativity. If you want to focus on the positive, you will see more positivity. Do your best to be grateful, and try your best to focus on the positive - what you focus on grows.

11. There is No Perfect Time to Start If you want to start something, act now. Don’t wait for a better moment, it’ll never come. When I started PakMag, I had the thought, then went to print 6 weeks later… If I had really thought about it and created a business plan, I’d likely never have gone through with it. Vision with action creates a powerful reality. “When is now a good time to start?” as Tony Robbins would say!

12. Success Equals Perseverance Don’t give up. Stay dedicated to your dreams. It’s like a marriage - you don’t just give up when you hit a tough time. You learn, you grow, you persevere.

13. Deal with Negativity Hate, resentment, distrust and anger are the beginning of a disease, like cancer, it may kill your enemy but it’ll also destroy you in the process.

This goes for toxic staff, clients and people in your life too. I’ve learnt to hire for attitude and values over skills. Skills can be learnt, but attitude is very hard to change. If people bring you more pain than pleasure, the short term pain of removing them from your life is better than the long term pain of keeping them - be it staff, friends, family or clients.

14. Money is Only as Good as What You Do with It Being poor is not having too little, it’s wanting more.

Kindness, generosity and faith in your fellow man cost nothing, and some of the happiest people on earth have very little. Life is meant to be lived, and enjoyed. Make your money, and enjoy it too, don’t wait till you are too old to do all the things you want to do. And don’t waste your life just focusing on making money, otherwise you may just end up with lots of money but be depleted of health and happiness.

15. Be Grateful No matter how good you are at what you do, it can all be gone in an instant. Be truly grateful for the lessons you have learned, the growth you have experienced and the blessed life you have, even if you desire more.

Ask yourself “If I had everything in my life that I really need, what would that be?”. For me it’s my family, people to love, good health, a place to live and food to enjoy the rest is just a bonus. As The Happiest Man on Earth, Eddie Jaku, says - “May you always have lots to share, lots of good health to spare, and lots of good friends who care”.

In the Past 15 Years We Have…

• Printed more than 4 million magazines.

• Published and distributed over 411 magazines across North Queensland.

• Run over 150 free family events attended by over 300,000 local families.

• Donated over $150,000 to local charities.

• Donated more than $1 million in advertising to support a host of local events and not for profit organisations.

• Contributed millions of dollars into the local economy.

• Given away more than $800,000 in prizes to families ranging from movie tickets to family holidays.

• Helped over 1,000 Small Businesses to grow their share of the family market.

• Created the PakMag Mobile Parents Room (the first of its kind in Australia).

• Published over 30,000 articles all written and published to help families.

• Achieved millions of page views of our content.

www.pakmag.com.au | July / August 2022 7

Expert Advice

The PakMag Experts Katrina Peters

Kelley Borg

Statewide Family Law

Teacher Education Support, TAFE

Dear Katrina,

Dear Kelley, What are some career options for busy parents?

How can you change an existing parenting order?

The Court will not agree to changing an existing parenting order unless it is satisfied that there has been a significant change in circumstances which makes the change necessary.

If the changes are agreed upon then: • the parents can sign draft Consent Orders which the Court can then make into orders. This is a relatively time saving and cost effective way of changing the order. Neither parent needs to appear in Court.

• the parents can enter into a parenting plan to agree to change the arrangements by a parenting plan (unless the court order says otherwise). This makes it easier for parents to agree on changes without going back to court. Note however, that a parenting plan is not legally binding. If the parenting plan does change an existing parenting order, you may not be able to enforce those parts of your old parenting order that are inconsistent with the terms of your new parenting plan.

If the changes are not agreed but you think that there has been a significant change in circumstances which makes a change necessary, then you need to make an application to the Court. Note however that there are certain pre-action procedures in parenting cases which must be done first.

We do not have an existing order: If there is no current existing order, then the parents may wish to sign draft Consent Orders setting out the parenting arrangements they wish the Court to make on a final basis. This process is similar to the process referred to above.

If there is no agreement, then the same process applies as if there was no agreement to change the existing order.

Balancing family and work can be a struggle, so it’s important to find a career that can work with your lifestyle.

CQUniversity’s TAFE courses can not only support parents’ learning and development, but also provide career pathways to assist those rejoining the workforce.

Family-friendly industries such as education, business administration, health and hospitality can provide flexible hours to accommodate the often busy schedules that parents have.

Education support (qualified teacher aide) is one profession that provides working hours around school and family commitments, and offers strong employment prospects and opportunities for career progression.

According to the Australian Government’s Job Outlook service, education aides are expecting growth with around 85,000 job openings over the next five years.

Certificate III and IV in School Based Education Support are both available online. This enables the flexibility to complete theory components online, while mandatory placement hours are at local schools.

Additionally, CQU can support parents through any stage of their study. You can start with a certificate or diploma before furthering your career when ‘life permits’ by progressing to an undergraduate degree.

Mother of two, Amy Parkinson, is a perfect example.

She began her education journey with a Certificate III in Education Support with a dream of progressing into further studies. “I wanted a job where I could inspire a love for learning, and support students on their education journeys” Amy said. “I enjoy helping my children learn and when my son started kindergarten, I knew I was ready to begin study.

“I now work as a teacher aide in Prep-2 classrooms. I am also completing CQU’s enabling course, Skills for Tertiary Education Preparatory Studies (STEPS) before starting my Bachelor of Early Education in 2023.”

If you would like further information on these processes, please contact our office.

Learn more about CQUniversity’s Certificate III in School Based Education Support (CHC30221) and Certificate IV in School Based Education Support (CHC40221). Contact our friendly customer service team. RTO 40939.

a 34 Wood St, Mackay www.swc.net.au

p 13 27 86 www.cqu.edu.au/tafe

www.pakmag.com.au | July / August 2022 9

Education

How to Improve Your Child's Concentration STORY Mary Kershaw We are all guilty of having poor concentration from time to time. Advertisers know they have less than three seconds to capture our attention or they lose us, and does anyone watch a movie these days without being on their phone at the same time?

Lack of focus and concentration would also be affecting your work too. How often does your mind wander in a meeting or do you walk into a room and forget why you went in there in the first place? Our children are no different, having the ability to sustain concentration is especially pertinent for school aged children as the ability to stay focused and concentrate will not only enable them to retain knowledge but also allow them to apply skills they learn faster.

So how can you help your children become more focused? There are a number of strategies and exercises that you could implement, and depending on your child some may be more effective than others.

However, as a baseline, providing your children with the opportunities to be mindful, healthy and engage in meaningful play will go a long way.

Be Mindful Teaching mindfulness to your kids is about helping them tune into their senses. By becoming self-aware,

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they are also aware of their behaviours and how to regulate them. For example, ask them to eat a snack slowly and describe to you the taste, smell and texture.

Ask them to focus on their breathing by placing their hand on their stomach and breathing slowly in and out. Go for a walk around the neighbourhood and ask them to point out things they’ve never noticed before.

Meditation and yoga are also extremely beneficial in helping children practice mindfulness, and as a result improve their focus.

Be Healthy It might seem an obvious one, but good nutrition, hydration, sleep and outdoor exercise really go a long way in helping your child concentrate.

Good Nutrition and Hydration Maintaining a healthy diet and drinking enough water is important. Much like a plant, if we don’t receive all that we need to survive, we have no chance of thriving.

If you feel that you might need some support in this area, talk to your applicable health professionals about the changes that you could make and the techniques you can implement to help ensure your family is nourished.

Education

Sleep Adequate sleep is important, even the most focused child will struggle to concentrate if they are tired.

Remove distractions that may be keeping them up late at night such as video games and devices from their bedrooms. Create a sleep routine if possible, and try to keep the times that they go to sleep and wake up regular.

Avoid activities that create overstimulation before bed, and instead engage in relaxation exercises instead.

Outdoor Exercise The link between physical activity and academic success is no secret, as is the link between exercise and improved overall health. It is important to find activities that interest your child. You might like to sign them up to play their favourite sport, participate in hiking and orienteering activities, or go for a walk in the afternoons before dinner.

Create Time for Meaningful Play In order for children to focus, we need to create opportunities for them to develop the skills to do so.

Playing not only helps them to understand the world around them but also develops their critical thinking, problem solving, imagination, motor skills, concept formation, classification and concentration.

Providing your child the opportunity to participate in meaningful play allows them to develop and extend these skills in a way that is fun and interesting to them.

There are also some activities that you could do together to help improve concentration.

Card games such as memory or snap are a great option. When driving in the car you might like to play the number plate game where you give them a number plate and they recite it backwards. The key is to create games and activities that align with your child’s hobbies and interests to make it more engaging.

There are plenty of fantastic resources online that you might like to access, but as long as you help your child clear their mind, nourish their bodies, and provide them with opportunities for them to immerse themselves in play and other activities that improve concentration, you will be onto a winning formula.

Mary Kershaw is Head of Trinity Anglican School, Kewarra Beach Campus.

Mary Kershaw joined Trinity Anglican School in 2015, serving as the Head of TAS Kewarra Beach Primary Campus in 2015. Prior to TAS she held a number of senior positions at schools in New South Wales, Townsville, Ayr and Cairns. A dedicated educator, she is committed to creating a positive learning culture that supports holistic and inclusive education.

Facts About Memory and Focus • Scientific research has proven that the human brain starts to remember things from the womb.

• Short-term memory only lasts 20 to 30 seconds.

• The human brain's storage capacity is virtually limitless.

• Caffeine only helps to increase alertness, it doesn't maintain memory performances.

• Sleep is significant to memory. Sleep helps in the retrieval and storage of long-term memories.

• Many people link ageing with memory loss. However, the memory loss people experience as they age is because they tend to exercise their brains less.

• Your memory has the ability to associate a scent with a particular occurrence or event.

• Just like any other part of your body, brain exercise is also important.

• At just 13 years old, Nischal Narayanam claimed his first Guinness World Record for the most random objects memorised. In case you want to beat it, he memorised 225 random objects in 12.07 minutes.

• Close your eyes to remember better. By closing your eyes, you remove outside distractions and allow your brain to focus on the recollections at hand.

• Sugar and fat has been linked to impaired memory.

Things to Help Improve Memory and Focus • Omega-3s play an important role in building brain and nerve cells

• Memory card games • Sudoku • Jigsaw puzzles • Crossword puzzles

• Regular meditation • Fit Brains Trainer APP • Playing games like chess, backgammon and board games

• Learning a language • Listening to music • Exercising • Sleep

Books to Read • Moonwalking with Einstein: The Art and Science of Remembering Everything

by Joshua Foer • The Memory Book: The Classic Guide to Improving Your Memory at Work, at School, and at Play by Harry Lorayne • You Can Have an Amazing Memory: Learn LifeChanging Techniques and Tips from the Memory Maestro by Dominic O’Brien

www.pakmag.com.au | July / August 2022 11

Relationships

The Truth About Happy Marriages STORY Julia Nowland I love walking into bookstores. There’s something about how quiet they are, the smell of ink and paper, and being sorrounded by stories that make me feel at ease.

I’m also a sucker for the self-help section. At a quick glance, the self-help section can provide a wide range of advice on almost anything. It seems like everyone has an opinion on just about every topic and what captures my interest the most is the relationship advice. Who do you trust? Comedians, models, divorce lawyers, advice columnists. Even the latest social media influencer has an opinion on this topic.

These people may have excellent advice, or they might not. Even if their advice produces excellent results (because their wildly successful relationship is the demonstration of that), how do you know if it also applies to your relationship? What do you do when the advice columnist and your best friend (or mother) have conflicting advice?

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“Out of sight, out of mind” sounds logical but “absence makes the heart grow fonder” also sounds romantic and true. You can go on a “date night” as an attempt to reconnect and get the spark back but even that can go down like a lead balloon leaving you fearing for your relationship’s longevity.

Thankfully, rather than relying on opinions I’m here to tell you what we’ve discovered in the world of research.

Where direct observations of thousands of real people, in real relationships, over four decades can offer clear distinct instructions of what makes a happy and successful marriage.

Couples who are happy or at least satisfied in their relationship can have differences in personalities, hobbies and family values. They can argue over the same things as unhappy couples do, such as money, kids, sex, household chores and the in-laws.

Relationships

While no two marriages are the same, the research conducted at Washington State University by Dr John Gottman discovered that happy couples followed the same set of seven principles - even if they didn’t know it. These principles start with building a deep friendship, then fighting fairly and lastly creating a meaningful relationship with intention. Those who weren’t happy usually fell short of one or more of the principles.

Happy marriages are not perfect by any means, the truth is no relationship is happy all the time. However, the marriages that are happy were able to maintain a deep friendship even during conflict. In other words, they were being nice to each other - even when they were disagreeing.

Those who reported happiness behaved in distinct ways during a fight. They demonstrated positive behaviour five times more than negative: • They showed interest in their partner • They asked questions • There was genuine excitement about their partner’s ideas • They were affectionate, humorous, empathetic and understanding The negativity that was sometimes displayed in case you were wondering was: • Being hostile • Feeling disappointed • Hurting each other’s feelings • Feeling sad, anxious, tense and depressed What’s even more interesting is that this ratio (5 positive to every 1 negative interaction) was just during a fight or regrettable incident. During everyday interactions, these happy couples demonstrated these positive behaviours twenty times more than the negative ones. Couples who weren’t happy displayed the exact same low ratio of positive to negative behaviour both in conflict and during peaceful times.

In a nutshell, to have a happy marriage you need to do what satisfied couples do and avoid what unhappy and distressed couples do. Every couple goes through times of tension or feeling hopeless.

If you make changes, you can have a good outcome, that’s why we have the research-based tools for improving your relationship.

So, what does this look like out of the lab and into the everyday life of the couple?

Happy couples are two people who are kind to each other, know each other well and express their fondness through small gestures as part of their day to day lives. They give each other the benefit of the doubt. They know what their partner likes and wants and try to provide it or help their partner achieve it as much as they can. They look out for each other in small and big ways.

They still have conflict and can get angry, the key with happy couples is that they are constructive in their conflict. They work to maintain positive behaviours such as asking questions or remaining empathetic during a disagreement.

In contrast, relationships that tend to deteriorate follow a pattern where irritations stack up, resentment builds, distance follows and they end up in a state where everything their partner does is negative. Even neutral comments are received as an attack “I was just asking what’s for dinner?!”.

Friendship fuels the flame of fun, spontaneity, passion, and variety. It also protects against developing a combative position towards each other and the relationship.

The truth about happy marriages isn’t anything earth shattering or hard to develop; it’s just friendship.

The couples who were the happiest over the span of twenty years were the ones who were also great friends. They had strong, satisfying, and meaningful relationships and this friendship allowed them to negotiate through the maze of differences, disagreements and conflict that still arose.

Julia Nowland is a registered Clinical Counsellor and Couples Therapist, and founder of Whole Heart Relationships. She provides counselling services to individuals and couples to help them prioritise their relationships and strengthen their love.

She runs workshops for couples based on the International Best-Selling Book The Seven Principles for Making Marriage Work. Straightforward in its approach and profound in its effect, this course teaches you strategies for making your relationship work. www.wholeheartrelationships.com

For more on this topic with Julia and Bree, tune into Episode 94 of the PakMag Parents Podcast at www.pakmag.com.au/podcast

www.pakmag.com.au | July / August 2022 13

Relationships

Why You Should Plan a Maplemoon (Your Child-Free Holiday to Reconnect) STORY Bree James We’ve all heard of a honeymoon where you celebrate your love as newlyweds by having an intimate holiday together. Late 2010’s we saw the rise of the babymoon, which for those of you who missed out on the memo like I did, it’s a holiday you have before two become three (or more). The next phase that’s often celebrated is when you become an “empty nester”. That’s a lot of space between having a baby and the kids leaving home, so, I propose we create a new holiday that parents take on an annual basis - a maplemoon.

A maplemoon is a child-free holiday that couples take to connect with each other without the distraction of their children. Sure, honey is filled with sweetness, but maple syrup contains more minerals, has more

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depth of flavour and more stable energy levels than honey (and it’s a little bit more fattening...), so I think a maplemoon is the perfect next step after a honeymoon.

Just like getting syrup out of the maple tree takes some effort, so does your relationship. So bring on the passion pancakes and let's look at why we need to get that maplemoon syrup to sweeten up your relationship.

I know many mothers reading this will be thinking “I can’t leave my kids and go on a holiday without them”.

I get it, I’ve only just done my first 10 days without them with my husband and we have been together for 15 years (and our children are 13 and 10)! We never even had a honeymoon as we had kids first… The most time we had spent away from them as a couple was two days.

Relationships

It’s so easy when you are a parent to put the needs of your children first, and the needs of your relationship second. But many relationship experts say that this is not the key to a healthy and happy partnership. Your spouse should not be competing with your kids for attention. But if they are competing, your partner should win every time. This is the consensus of researchers and family experts, and it takes some serious contemplation to fully grasp that this advice should be heeded.

If you think deeply about it, children need to know that their parents love not only them, but each other too.

Their sense of security grows as they see their parents loving each other. When the parental team breaks down, children become the biggest losers. It’s so important that you not only play on the same team, but that you prioritise your relationship and continue growing together. The sleep deprivation and challenge of raising little versions of yourselves is certainly not easy. The days go quickly and it’s easy to fall into the trap of Groundhog Day, merely giving each other tired nods as you cross paths in the kitchen.

Fact of the matter is, your children will be worse off from your healthy partnership ending, than they would be from spending some time away from you for date nights or a holiday.

The largest proportion of couples separating and divorcing are those who have been married for 9 years or less, which is about 43 percent of divorces. Couples who have been together for 20 years or more are now said to be experiencing a "20-year itch". The Australian Institute of Family Studies (AIFS) has found the risk of divorcing after 20 years of marriage has doubled in a generation. The first 10 years of marriage still remains the danger period for most Australian couples - but the latest data points to the 20-year itch as another high divorce time. This trend can be attributed to a number of factors, but one that gets thrown around the most is that parents are staying together “because of the kids”. So, when they become “empty nesters”, the kids and other distractions that have kept them from acknowledging their lack of connection and fulfilment can no longer be ignored.

do together. Think of it as a practice test for when the kids do leave home - what will your life together be like?

What activities do you want to do together? If you don’t have any shared interests - this will be a good time to start finding some. Whether it be hiking, cards, bowling, cycling, fishing, arts… anything you can enjoy together as a couple. It’s great to talk about life after kids and what you want to be doing together, not only once they leave home, but also when your working life ends and you have more free time. It’s a time to ensure that you are on the same page for your future, and work on any areas of your relationship that may need attention. It’s better to start now than to grow apart. A maplemoon is a way to have some time together where you can remember what it was like BC (before children), let your hair down a little and drop some of your usual responsibilities.

As parents, we need to remember that we are our children’s number one role models. Showing them what a healthy and loving relationship looks like is one of the best things we can expose them to. Like preventing illness, we need to prevent complacency and boredom in our relationship by keeping the spark alive. Just as we schedule things like exercise, we need to schedule quality time with our spouse.

Taking time out to 100 percent focus on your relationship with weekly or fortnightly dinners, a walk down the beach, the odd weekend away together, or a maplemoon is vital for a healthy and happy relationship.

Sure, it’s super weird to go on a holiday without the kids.

First thing you’ll notice is how peaceful life is. Second is how much easier it is to get to things on time. Third is the brain space it frees up only having to think of each other. The quality time together to laugh, have fun and be adults (and maybe a little bit childish) is something I highly recommend.

A maplemoon is a holiday (7 days I think is perfect) where you get to reconnect and find new passions to

I hope I’ve inspired you to take some time out and plan your own maplemoon - I’m sure this term will catch on!

1. What's a hobby you think we could get into now and

6. How much money do you think we will need to

continue to do when we retire?

2. What are 10 fun things you'd like to do with the kids before they move out of home?

3. What are 10 life skills that you think we should teach the kids before they move out of home?

4. When you think about our days of retirement what does a typical day or week look like for us?

5. What do you think my best trait is?

have to retire?

7. What are some ideas we could do now to build our future wealth?

8. What are ten things we should do before we are too old to do them?

9. What's one thing you'd like to improve in yourself and why?

10. When and where should we do our next Maplemoon?

www.pakmag.com.au | July / August 2022 15

Parenting

Five Tips on How to Talk to Children About Blended and Diverse Families STORY Jennie Guay, Author According to the 2016 census by the Australian Bureau of Statistics, at least one in ten Australian families are children who live with a single parent, a nonbiological parent, a step-parent, step or half-siblings, or grandparents. This figure continues to rise as we live in a world where blended and diverse families are becoming more common.

Thankfully, the conversation we are having as a society has slowly been shifting towards accepting that there is no “family norm”. However, as parents we have a role to play to ensure that this trend continues. It is important for children to understand that every family, be it blended, diverse or LGBTQIA+, is valid. Divorced, remarried, shared children, blended... regardless of race, creed or sexual orientation, the family norm is varied – and every family is mainstream and unique.

As parents and carers, we should not shy away from having the hard conversations about diversity and inclusion with our children just because it feels challenging. It’s necessary to realise that usually it is us that are uncomfortable, not our children.

They see and hear everything, and in many cases they can recognise that their family may look different to their friends’, or that their skin colour is different to some of their classmates.

Teaching our children love, acceptance and inclusion should never be hard conversations. Here are five tips on how to have these conversations.

1. Self Reflection is a Crucial First Step Your children are always watching what you do.

They see how you handle stress, how you treat other people and how you deal with your feelings – they soak it all in like little sponges.

www.pakmag.com.au | July / August 2022 17

Parenting

Before you start having conversations with your children, consider how you have behaved in front of them and ask yourself the following questions: • How am I talking to my kids about our own blended family or blended families we know?

• Have I asked them what they understand of our family?

• Do I undermine my ex, family members or in-laws to our kids?

Avoid shutting down a conversation and don’t lie or ignore questions. It is important for children to feel encouraged to have open conversations with you about families and their uniqueness. Afterwards, always reflect back on your conversation and think about any improvements for next time.

If you feel that you might struggle, it is always helpful to source age-appropriate books or TV shows that explain family dynamics in a fun, less intrusive way.

• Do I purposely try to alienate my childrens’ step parents to serve myself?

4. Tell a Story Through Your Own Family Tree

• Am I being a healthy co-parent or am I creating a divide which negatively impacts my kids?

A rainbow would never be as beautiful if it was all one colour. It’s the different colours that come together that make it so beautiful. The same is true for families and friends.

• How am I currently talking to my kids about diversity in families?

• Am I educating my children on the various ways you can have a family?

• Am I talking to my kids about racial diversity, differently abled children and LGBTQIA+ people?

• Have I equipped my children to engage with their peers in a comfortable, healthy and respectful way?

2. Love is the Common Language To help our children understand family diversity positively, we can use love as an anchor in our communication. Help our children understand that all families may look different, but the love they share is the same.

The foundation of a healthy family unit is unconditional love and that can come in different shapes and sizes.

Every family should be proud of their own unique values as well as understand, respect and accept other families uniqueness.

Whether it’s “natural conception” with a man and woman, or through artificial insemination, egg and sperm donation, adoption, or surrogacy etc, a family is a family. Talk through your family values with your children and give them an understanding of diversity and inclusion. Always remind kids that no family is different, they are all unique and the love we feel for our families is the same.

3. Be Mentally Prepared for Open Conversations Kids are inquisitive and will ask questions, so make sure you answer them in an honest and age-appropriate manner. You might not always have a chance to plan ahead for these conversations as they can happen unexpectedly. So, take some time to mentally prepare yourself, it will help you feel confident about addressing these topics.

It is important for our children to understand that some kids they come across might look different to one or all of their parents. It is important to explain to kids that skin colour and physical “sameness” does not equate to family.

Talk openly and positively about different cultures, communities, and traditions of family and friends.

Do your research and clue up on your family heritage, then share it with your children. You’ll be surprised at how much interest they show once they see it’s something you are passionate about. This will also help instil a sense of pride in their own background, as well as respect for others.

5. Let Your Children Decide on Your Title We hold on to the titles of “mum” and “dad” so tightly, especially if children are biologically ours. We need to let go of possessing the titles. In instances where there is a toxic parent or parental alienation happening, it can be extremely damaging to a child and develop further into adulthood trauma.

It’s time to change your mindset. Parents are parents.

Whether they are biological, step, adoptive, or otherwise. Forcing children to decipher between them, using first names or differing titles, is not necessarily what’s best for them.

When it comes to step parents and non-biological parents, let your child decide. Children are much more in tune with what feels natural to them then we give them credit for. They will thank you later for not forcing them or choosing for them.

At the end of the day, we are all just parents who want our kids to feel loved and safe.

No one parent is more vital to the child than the other.

Jennie Guay is a first-time author. Formally a career woman working in Financial Services, Jennie made the decision to leave the city and move to the country to support her step-children and write the Howie Blend Playdate Adventures with Family and Friends series. Howie welcomes children to join in his everyday playdates with each of his five friends; validating ALL family dynamics and experiences and providing a mirror for millions of children who cannot currently see themselves in their everyday reading and play. Currently available on Amazon, Booktopia, Kindle and Kobo.

18 July / August 2022 | www.pakmag.com.au

Health

All Things Health Jana Gorski Naturopath - TerryWhite Chemmart Dear Jana, What are activated probiotics and why should I take them?

Our gut microbiome plays an integral role in our health, and probiotics are important for the balance of our microbiome.

Our immune system, nervous system, and organ function are dependent on the live bacteria in our gut. A lack of diversity of good gut bacteria can lead to dysbiosis, a contributing factor in the development of asthma, obesity, eczema, IBS, autoimmune disease, and even some cancers. Diet, medications, antibiotic use, gastro, and viruses affect our gut microbiome, and probiotics can help maintain or restore balance.

As many different types of probiotics are on the market, it is essential to consider the scientific evidence of a specific strain of bacteria and whether the bacteria will survive the journey through the acids in our stomach. Some probiotics have been specifically coated in a fatty layer, allowing them to survive the journey through the stomach acid. Other probiotics are activated to help restore a balanced microbiome after antibiotic use and help reduce the frequency of asthma attacks and other autoimmune response conditions.

Certain probiotics can also support women’s health, such as balancing out vaginal biome disruption, which affects about 70% of women across their lifetime. These probiotics deliver beneficial bacteria that protect the vaginal canal from infection or overgrowth of yeasts responsible for thrush.

Lastly, probiotics also benefit pregnant women by lowering the risk of blood sugar issues, including gestational diabetes.

Breastfed babies also benefit from probiotics, as they reduce the risk of your child developing eczema.

While probiotics can help treat or prevent certain health conditions, selecting clinically proven effective strains and the correct dosage is important. We invite you to come and see our team today to ensure you get the right probiotic for you or your family.

Try the Sambucol Range this Cold and Flu Season Catching the common cold or a seasonal flu is often unavoidable, but managing the symptoms doesn’t have to be. Sambucol contains the clinically trialled Elderberry herb which reduces the severity and duration of colds and flu.

The Sambucol Range includes Lozenges, Cough Relief Liquids, Capsules, and combinations including zinc and vitamin C for added benefit. With products that are suitable for both adults and children, Sambucol is great to have on hand in any household. Ease discomfort and pick up the Sambucol Range from your local TerryWhite Chemmart. www.pharmacare.com.au/sambucol

Jeans for Genes Jeans for Genes Day is on 5 August. It is a day to raise awareness and funds for scientists at Children’s Medical Research Institute to find cures for birth defects and genetic diseases.

1 in 20 kids face a birth defect or genetic disease, and with over 6,000 different known genetic diseases - most of which are poorly understood and have no specific treatments or cures - research is more important than ever.

Head to fundraise.jeansforgenes.org.au for more information.

A Canelands Shopping Centre - Two great locations (Opposite Woolworths and Coles) www.terrywhitechemmart.com.au

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 2022 21

Bump, Bub and Beyond

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

Here & After Reusable Cloth Wipes $49.00 - www.hereandafter.eco Switching to reusable wipes has never been easier!

These organic cotton wipes not only clean better than disposables but they’re better for the environment and your skin too! Once used, simply wash and reuse.

Years of wiping in just one pack.

Stoplight Golight $50.00 - www.stoplightgolight.com Stoplight Golight is a traffic light timer that helps teach kids to manage time. This kids timer takes the fuss out of daily activities and can also help with toddler sleep training by keeping early risers in bed until a specific time. The device is Bluetooth compatible with the free Stoplight Golight companion app, which allows for remote control and customisations.

22 July / August 2022 | www.pakmag.com.au

VTech 3-in-1 Starry Skies Sheep Soother $49.95 - www.myer.com.au Find sleep without counting sheep with the 3-in-1 Starry Skies Sheep Soother. This soother includes a projector, glow light and nursery rhyme mode. Soothing lights and sounds set the stage for peaceful rest. Three discs easily attach to the projector to provide a soothing, glowing night-light or two patterns of light effects - the discs store inside the plush sheep when not in use. Nature sounds, lullabies and melodies create a calming soundscape. Hearing rhyming tales encourages language development. When your child is old enough, remove the electronic module for a cuddly, plush pal.

Sleep is sweet with this soothing sheep!

Bump, Bub and Beyond

Tips for Flying / Travelling with Babies and Toddlers

5. Pick an aisle seat - Consider booking a fare that allows seat selection. Aisle seats let you move around more freely without disturbing other passengers too much.

6. Dress baby in layers - Dress your baby in layers While air travel is faster than driving, it’s not necessarily easier, especially with a baby. You might worry about diaper changes, feeds, confinement, and of course, the dreaded screaming baby scenarios.

To help you feel less nervous, we’ve made a list of tips.

and peel off clothes if they become too warm.

Also, pack an extra pair of clothes for emergencies (and one for yourself too… hello number 3’s).

The takeaway - Flying with an infant doesn’t have to be intimidating. Many airlines are family-friendly and go the extra mile to make the experience enjoyable for you and your little one. With forethought and preparation, flying will become easier and perhaps one of your favourite ways to travel.

What is Pelvic Organ Prolapse?

Pelvic organ prolapse happens when the muscles and tissues supporting the pelvic organs become weak or loose, causing one or more pelvic organs to drop or move down through the vagina.

1. Consider baby’s age - If possible, wait until bub is at least three months old. Aeroplanes and public transport are known to be breeding grounds for germs due to having lots of people in confined spaces. Newborns have a weaker immune system. By three months of age, babies’ immune systems are more developed, making them less susceptible to illness.

2. Change baby’s diaper before boarding - Aeroplane restrooms are tight spaces, so do a quick diaper change before boarding. Not only will you have more space in the airport restroom, but your baby also might not need another change until after the flight.

3. Match flight times with baby’s sleep pattern If possible, choose a departure time that closely coincides with your baby’s sleep pattern. This way, you both may get some rest.

4. Feed bub during take-off and landing - The sucking action from feedings can open your baby’s Eustachian tubes and equalise the pressure in their ears, easing pain and crying.

The organs most commonly affected by prolapse include the bladder, uterus, small bowel, large bowel and rectum, and symptoms can range from minor changes to life-altering consequences.

While many women feel embarrassed to talk to their doctor about symptoms, seeking support is essential.

The good news is that pelvic organ prolapse is treatable, and speaking about it is the first step to recovery.

Fun Fact Babies have three times more taste buds than adults.

Babies have around 30,000 tastebuds spread throughout their mouths, and only about a third of these remain by the time they hit adulthood. Luckily their taste buds align with their craving for fat and sugar-packed milk. Salty and sour flavours, on the other hand, aren’t on their radars and bitter foods are rejected as potential poisons.

www.pakmag.com.au | July / August 2022 23

Puzzle

Parent's Puzzles Sudoku - Each of the nine blocks must contain all the numbers 1-9 within its squares.

Each number can only appear once in a row, column or box.

WIN The Complete Lash Artistry Online Course $895.00 - www.lockslash.com.au Locks Lash is giving access to their online Complete Lash Artistry course.

This online course gives you full online access for life and will have you an expert in Classics, Volumes and Hybrid lashes in no time, and you’ll also receive a complimentary Lash Kit! Visit www.pakmag.com.au/win for your chance to win! Competition closes 31/07/2022. No need to submit answers to enter.

Find the unique key

24 July / August 2022 | www.pakmag.com.au

th

Bi

r

th da

y E d i t i o n!

Lift-out kids activity mag!

Spot the 5 differences then colour the party frogs in

Connect the dots and colour in the balloons

Unscramble the party words below

WIN the Sequence for Kids Game $25.00 - www.goliathgames.com The Sequence Game for Kids is easy to play yet challenging and exciting. Just play a card from your hand, place a chip on a corresponding game board space and when you have 4 in a row, it’s a “sequence” and you win! But there’s more. Use a unicorn card to place your chip anywhere or a dragon card to remove your opponent’s chip. The game comes with 4 colours of playing chips, playing cards and a folding game board. 2 to 4 players, Aged 3+ Visit www.pakmag.com.au/win for your chance to win! Competition closes 31/07/2022.

No need to submit activities to enter.

Spot the 5 differences How many jelly beans are in the jar?

6

Match the number of candles with the cakes

WIN the Gator Golf Game A hole-in-one is a lot more fun with Gator Golf! Grab your golf club and aim to feed this hungry little Gator. Sink your putt to score but watch out – he’ll flick your ball with his tail for more putting action. The first player to score 3 points wins! Active game helps develop large motor skills and gets kids moving. Keep score with the birds on the Gator’s back! For 2 - 4 players, ages 3 and up. Batteries not required. $39.99 - www.goliathgames.com Visit www.pakmag.com.au/win for your chance to win! Competition closes 31/07/2022.

No need to submit activities to enter.

Friends

PakMag Caught Up with the Cookie Monster Cookie Monster’s Famous Cookie Dough Sugar Cookies

Learn all About the Cookie Monster

Me make cookies come into existence before me very eyes. Me BAKE cookies! Yeah yeah yeah. COOKIES!

Famous for: Eating cookies (mmm… cookies) but also learning that cookies are a sometimes food. Me learnt to embrace asparagus too!

Ingredients • • • • • • •

¾ cup butter or margarine (soft, but not melted) 1 cup sugar 2 eggs 1 teaspoon vanilla extract 2½ cups all-purpose flour 1 teaspoon baking powder 1 teaspoon salt

Method 1. Me put butter in mixing bowl.

2. Me put sugar in bowl.

• If me want chewy chocolate chippy cookies, me add ½ cup brown sugar here.

3. Me smoosh butter and sugar all together with fork or large spoon.

4. Me put in eggs and vanilla next.

5. Me smoosh more.

6. Me add flour, baking powder and salt.

• If me want chewy chocolate chippy cookies, me add 1 cup chocolate chips here.

7. Me mush up everything with fork. Or spoon. Or hands.

Me not picky. ME NO EAT COOKIE DOUGH. 8. Me put cookie dough in refrigerator for 1 hour. 1 HOUR LOOONG TIME. 9. Me roll on floured surface. Cut cookie dough into tasty shapes. Move to ungreased cookie sheet. STILL NO EAT COOKIE DOUGH. 10. Put in 200°C oven for 8 minutes. Maybe 10, if you like crispy cookie. 10 MINUTES VERY LOOOOOONG TIME. OOOH, COOKIES!!! OM NOM NOM NOM NOM NOM

28 July / August 2022 | www.pakmag.com.au

Hobbies: Eating fruit, eating vegetables, eating cookies!

Favourite music: C is for Cookie and Hungry Like the Wolf Favourite colour: Blue. Blue is the colour of blueberries.

Oh yummmm!

Favourite book: Chicken Soup for the Monster’s Soul.

Favourite sport to watch: Aussie Rules football – have you ever noticed that the football kind of looks like a giant red sweet potato? Oh boy oh boy – me so hungry!

Favourite cookie: Well me favourite type of cookie is Tea Biscuit. No… chocolate chippy! Oh, maybe Jaffa Cakes!

Oh no, me almost forgot digestives. Do me have to choose? Me just love them all!

You’ve lived on Sesame Street for a long time what do you love about it the most? Me love singing songs with Elmo, going to Hooper’s Store with Big Bird, gardening with Abby and baking in the Foodie Truck with Gonger. Me learn so many things. It really help make me into monster you know today.

What’s your secret to staying so young and youthful for over 50 years? Well thank you, me look after me fur, and me exercise, eat healthy snacks and sometimes a special treat like a delicious chocolate chippy cookies!

That’s me beauty secret.

Have you ever tried Tim Tam biscuits? Oh me a Tim Tam Connoisseur from way back! Me favourite is the Double Coated Tim Tam. Oh and the Choc Mint Tim Tam. And we cannot forget about the Chewy Caramel. Oh me so hungry! Can you send me over a supply please?

Do you have a message for all your friends in Australia? Me can’t wait to see all of me Aussie friends again. Stay healthy and me sending you all a big hug.

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

G iv e a w ay 1

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www.pakmag.com.au | July / August 2022 29

STEAM

Ideas for a Science-Themed Party STORY Lis Rooks Since we are celebrating the 15th birthday of PakMag this month, we are excited to share some science-themed party ideas with you. Birthday parties can be expensive, especially if your child wants to invite everyone from their class. So, here are some unusual and budget-friendly ideas that will keep your little one and their guests entertained, keeping in mind that parks and the beach are fantastic outdoor locations to host messy and noisy parties.

Secret Message Invitations

Frankenworms Gummy Experiment

For science-themed invitations, lemon-based invisible ink messages are fascinating. Lemon juice is virtually invisible but oxidizes and turns brown when heated.

This reaction to heat is the perfect way to create secret messages for science parties. Be sure to provide instructions on how to reveal the message on your invitations in regular ink.

Many kids are fascinated with small creatures, and with the next party game, you can bring gummy worms to life. By soaking gummy worms in baking soda and then placing them in vinegar, carbon dioxide gas bubbles rise through the vinegar, causing the worms to wiggle and come to life.

Materials • Lemon juice

The worms will take 15 - 20 minutes to soak, so plan another activity to do in the meantime while you wait to finish the experiment.

• White paper

Materials

• Small craft paintbrush

• Gummy worms

• Iron or light bulb

• 3 tablespoons baking soda • 1 cup of warm water

Directions Get your little scientist to write a hidden message on paper with the lemon juice and a paintbrush. Let it dry.

Once the lemon juice has dried, apply heat with an iron or hair dryer, but be careful not to burn the paper.

Sit back and let the message appear.

• 2 clear beakers • Vinegar Directions Cut gummy worms in half lengthwise to make them skinny.

Fill a beaker with warm water and baking soda and place the gummy worms inside.

Stir and let sit for 15 to 20 minutes.

Fill the second beaker with vinegar.

Remove the worms from the baking soda mixture and place them in the vinegar beaker.

Watch the gummy worms start to squirm!

30 July / August 2022 | www.pakmag.com.au

Glow in the Dark Slime Lastly, making slime seems like an obvious option for a sciencethemed party. However, instead of making regular slime, why not add a fun twist and create glow-in-the-dark slime? Party guests can make this fun activity together and take it home with them at the end. Perhaps you could store it in a plastic beaker for added fun appeal.

Materials • 5 oz (147 mL) Elmer's Glow in the Dark Glue • ½ tbsp of baking soda • 1 tbsp of contact lens solution Directions Pour Elmer's Glow in the Dark Glue into a bowl.

Add ½ tbsp of baking soda and mix thoroughly.

Add 1 tbsp of contact lens solution, stir until slime begins to form.

Take the slime out and knead it with both hands.

If it is too sticky, add ¼ tbsp contact lens solution and knead.

Keep adding ¼ tbsp contact lens solution until you achieve the desired consistency.

Amongst all the party fun, please remember that all experiments require adult supervision and are mostly suitable for children three years and older. While the worms and slime are exciting to play with, please encourage your guests to wash their hands thoroughly after playing and remind them that neither science experiment is edible.

All Things Tweens and Teens

All Things Tweens & Teens Too Young for Injectables?

Dermal fillers have long been popular among adults, but recently, concerns are growing about teens wanting to jump on the beauty injection trend a bit too soon.

As a parent, what can you do if your teenager suddenly asks for facial injections?

Firstly, except for Queensland, no clear legal guidance says Australian teens can’t receive cosmetic injectables. Instead, non-surgical treatments can be done at the discretion of the doctor involved. However, while your teenager may argue that they are “safe, effective, and temporary”, costs and risks must be considered.

Body Positivity, Could the Movement be Harming Your Teen?

The body positivity movement promotes the fact that all bodies are beautiful and deserve to be accepted despite their imperfections.

However, while the movement‘s authentic goals celebrate diversity, many teens are unaware of its darker side. Having gained popularity through social media, the movement often communicates an excessive positivity that dismisses negative emotions, also known as ‘toxic positivity’.

By dismissing negative emotions, teens can feel pressured not to speak about their problems or voice their dissatisfaction. This lack of communication can create feelings of despair, plunging teens deeper toward crisis instead of empowering them to make healthy lifestyle changes or seek support. Educate your teen about self-empowerment practices and encourage healthy lifestyle habits. With this attitude, you help your teen find confidence and self-love, boosting their journey to self-acceptance.

You can try your luck and explain the pros and cons; however, a parental discussion may not be the most effective course of action. Instead, consulting a registered health professional can be more successful and should be the first stop for anyone considering medical aesthetic treatments. By suggesting this, you not only validate and recognise your teen’s thoughts and feelings, but you also teach them how to make healthy and safe choices.

WIN a Logitech POP Keys and POP Mouse $179.90 - www.logitech.com Unleash your personality onto your deskspace and beyond with the POP Keys and POP Mouse from Logitech. Let your true self shine with a statement desktop aesthetic and customisable emoji keys.

With three colourways to choose from, there is a POP duo for every personality.

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

www.pakmag.com.au | July / August 2022 33

Parenting

The Healing Power of Saying Sorry STORY Rachel Schofield “…Say sorry!”

The little girl looks down at her shiny black shoes and pouts. Silence.

“Go on!” presses her Mum. She manages to squeeze out a sulky, “Sorry.”

The whole scene is unsettling to watch. It’s painful being that squirming girl - the awkwardness, the shame, the humiliation. It’s incredibly uncomfortable being the parent trying to squeeze out an apology from your reluctant child. And being on the receiving end of a forced ‘sorry’ does little to smooth over the wrongdoing.

Other times, children roll out the socially expected, “Sorry!” and we face a new challenge: kids are quick to notice that a “sorry” lets them off the hook.

Kicked someone? Stood on their toy? Say “sorry” and you’re acquitted. It’s a far cry from a meaningful apology that eases upset feelings.

Apologies matter, and they matter a lot. Heartfelt apologies don’t fully erase a hurt, but they do express that you care, and that's important. Countless research studies show how sincere apologies really do curb anger and resentment leading to better relationships.

Throughout history apologies have been pivotal.

Like in recent times when First Nations people across Australia and the Torres Strait were deeply moved and in tears when in 2008 The Prime Minister of Australia, Kevin Rudd, finally apologised to the Stolen Generations for the wrongs that past government policies inflicted.

We’ve all felt our hearts soften after someone has apologised to us for wrongdoing. And we all want our children to grow up being able to give heartfelt apologies. We want them to be kind, caring and

34 July / August 2022 | www.pakmag.com.au

compassionate. We want them to have good manners, to fit into society and get along well with others.

Saying sorry is healing.

But a forced sorry is a far cry from a genuine apology. So what can we do to help our children give apologies that move others whilst leaving them feeling empowered, not humiliated? And how can we do that in a way that navigates social expectations in the present moment?

Here are seven pointers that will show you how.

The exact order we do them might vary and some may not be needed depending on the situation.

1. Recognise that Your Child Needs Your Support It helps to notice how children are always doing their best to fit in and belong. Every child wants nothing more than to feel connected and close to the people around them. When a child hurts someone else or damages their things, be it accidentally or intentionally, they feel bad inside. Sometimes it can look like they don’t care but deep down they’re hurting. And when a child feels hurt they cannot think. They need our support to bring them back to their true selves and regain their dignity.

2. Help Your Child Think Again A child who’s done something hurtful will feel bad.

Either big feelings provoked them to lash out in the first place or doing something hurtful made them feel terrible (ashamed about what happened and perhaps scared about what’s going to happen to them).

A child who is overwhelmed by upset cannot think –

Parenting

they literally cannot access the thinking part of the brain (prefrontal cortex) when their emotional brain (limbic system) is flooded. If we move in close with warmth and empathy, our child will feel our caring and support. That vital connection might be enough to help them think well, or it might give them safety to offload any emotional tension they are carrying. We need to help our child move through any upset they are carrying, so they can think more clearly again, then they’ll be better placed to give a heartfelt apology. When we stay nearby offering our love, our child will feel safe enough to cry or rage releasing the feelings of hurt inside.

Giving a child time to work through feelings means they’ll be more able to realise the cost of their harsh words / hurtful actions and be moved to make amends.

We can think of this way of listening to a child’s emotions as “holding space” for feelings.

3. Help Your Child Realise What’s Happened and to Take Responsibility What’s obvious to you – your child knocked somebody down – may need to be pointed out. For young children this cause and effect often remains a mystery.

They may have no idea that the way they jumped caused the accident. “You swung your school bag and it hurt Lila’s arm. Look, it hurts, she’s crying.”

You’ll need to hold the expectation that your child sticks around at the scene. You might need to go after them and hold their hand to bring them back to the situation, “You need to come back, Lila got hurt.”

Often kids will say, “It was an accident” which can be a way of wriggling out of taking responsibility. We can say something like, “Maybe you didn’t mean to, but she got hurt.”

4. Stay Nearby and Listen Sticking around the scene to offer support is meaningful for the hurt child, your warm attention and concern helps, “Are you okay?”

If the hurt child is crying, it’s better to simply stay close and wait attentively for them to finish shedding their tears before trying to fix things up. Rushing to say sorry, or make amends, can be jarring when we are upset. Instead, we can focus on what happened, “You got hurt when Jack swung his bag” and the hurt child might cry some more but she will feel so much better to get those tears out than to keep them bottled up. Once she’s through her upset, she’ll be in a good place to hear an apology.

5. Make Amends Once the child who caused the problem fully understands what has happened and both children have had the chance to release emotional tension, it’s time to take action. Often kids are grateful to have something tangible to do. They can’t stop the other kid’s pain but they can offer comfort.

It can be an empowering opportunity for a child to learn that we all make mistakes – and we can always take action to make things better. If we broke an object – we can fix it up. If we injured someone – we can get a Band-Aid or ice. If we hurt a relationship – we can repair it, “How can I make things up to you?”

6. Meet Social Expectations Eventually your child will say sorry and mean it. In the meantime, go ahead and say sorry yourself but don’t insist that they do. Apologising on behalf of our child is an easy way to navigate social expectations, without making your child feel ashamed. This is especially useful with very young children.

Sometimes, for older kids, a little nudge is useful, warmly whispering (to avoid embarrassing our child) something like, “When you feel able, it would be really good to say sorry to Fred for tearing up his picture”.

This doesn’t guarantee that a child will say sorry but it gently holds the expectation that this is what we do once we feel remorse whilst sending the message to your child that you are on his side.

Of course modelling saying sorry in our own lives is powerful too. Children are quick learners and easily pick up that this is what we do when we’ve hurt someone.

7. Give Reassurances Offering reassurances like “I won’t do it again” offers meaningful safety for the hurt child. We can create this by saying, “Are you going to do that again?”

Reassurance is often more important to a child than an apology. A “sorry” pleases adults but is less important to children. Reassurance matters to a child.

If a child can’t offer reassurance, it’s your job to step in and hold the expectation, “I can’t let you hit him again”; “I won’t let him hit you again” and stay close by ready to set a limit and prevent repeated misdemeanours.

Children need our support to regain their dignity and to figure out a way to make amends. Instead of insisting children say sorry, we can help them to think again and repair things. Children who are given the opportunity to offload emotional tension and participate in helping the other child feel better, often do amazing things.

Follow these seven pointers and before long you’ll be delighted to witness your child giving heartfelt apologies spontaneously. I was touched a few weeks ago when a four year old boy I know, took off on a bike without training wheels for the first time only to bowl over a one year old and fall off. The four year old, who was also hurt, picked himself up and immediately went to help the little boy get up, said a caring “sorry” and walked with the little kid back towards his mum.

It was so sweet to watch.

Children are naturally caring – we need only support their innate compassion to raise a child that willingly gives heartfelt apologies.

Rachel Schofield is a Parent Coach, Professional Member of the Australian Association of Family Therapists and is a mum of two boys. She shares evidence based strategies for handling challenges in ways that bring cooperation and make you closer with your child. www.rachelschofield.com

www.pakmag.com.au | July / August 2022 35

Festivals

North Queensland Festivals Guide 2022 NTI Townsville 500 When: 8 - 10 July Where: Reid Park, Townsville More info: www.supercars.com/nti-townsville The NTI Townsville 500 is North Queensland’s largest annual sporting event, boasting a packed program of races and entertainment. Entry varies from free admission (for kids 12 and under with a paying adult) to group tickets at $788.00.

McDonald’s Townsville Running Festival 2022 When: 7 August Where: Jezzine Barracks, North Ward, Townsville More info: www.townsvillerunningfestival.com Townsville Running Festival has evolved into Queensland’s largest regional running event to date. With its certified racecourses, the event appeals to race-chasers and race hardened running purists alike by incorporating the Townsville Marathon, Half Marathon, 10 and 5km Fun Run and Walk, 5km Junior Fun Run and Walk, 2.5km Hero Run, and a 5km Corporate Challenge. Registrations close Monday the 26th of July at 9.00pm and registration fees vary.

Burdekin Water Festival - Grand Parade and Mardi Gras 2022 When: 25 August Where: Ayr Showgrounds More info: www.burdekinwaterfestival.com.au

month, Townsville will come alive with cabaret, theatre, comedy, dance, exhibitions, concerts and more!

Mike Carney Toyota Paluma Push 2022 When: 16 - 17 July Where: Paluma Village More info: www.palumapush.com.au Celebrate all things Paluma Push and mountain biking in North Queensland by joining Townsville's iconic Mountain Bike event. Starting in the dreamy Paluma Village, riders follow a course that winds its way through lush World Heritage Rainforest, past Paluma Dam, and down into open cattle country, before finishing at the historic tin mining settlement Hidden Valley. Book your camping spot at the Cricket Oval or online and enjoy a weekend with live music, a food truck fiesta, bonfires, and beers.

Townsville Cultural Fest When: 2023 dates TBC Where: Venue TBC More info: www.culturalfest.org This festival is one of the most inclusive in Australia, bringing together thousands of people each year in a celebration of life. Multicultural performances include folk, jazz, blues, hiphop and rock, cultural performances, and more. While the 2023 dates are yet to be confirmed, the festival celebrating diversity, unity, and friendship is one to watch

The Burdekin Water Festival is a celebration of the abundance of water in the district. The celebrations include a wide variety of exciting events that encompass the whole community. For more information visit the official website.

Townsville Triathlon and Multisport Festival

Subtropics Festival 2022 - Magnetic Island

The Townsville Triathlon and Multisport Festival celebrates the return to racing in our beautiful region. Held along the picturesque background of Townsville’s Strand and Pallarenda Beach, the event offers a range of activities to suit all levels of abilities and interests by catering to elite competitors, first-timers, and families.

When: 23 - 25 September Where: Base Backpackers Magnetic Island More info: www.subtropicsfestival.com Located on the picturesque Magnetic Island, this three day festival celebrates DnB, Reggae, Dubstep, UKG and HipHop music. Hosted at the Base Backpackers Venue, visitors can stay in Cabins or camp, and have full access to amenities and a fully serviced bistro and bar. For adults 18+, this tropical holiday festival is an experience like no other!

NAFA - National Australian Festival of Arts When: 10 June - 10 July Where: Various locations across Townsville More info: www.nafa-tsv.com.au Join Townsville City Council for the month-long celebration of artistic, cultural and lifestyle events. Throughout the

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When: 21, 27 - 28 August Where: The Strand and Pallarenda Beach More info: www.townsvilletrifestival.org.au

Sweet Days, Hot Nights Festival When: 26 - 27 May 2023 Where: Home Hill Showgrounds More info: www.sweetdayshotnights.com.au This festival is all about showcasing and celebrating Far North Queensland’s rich agricultural region and lifestyle.

From fresh produce and culinary delights through to adventure and sports tourism experiences, great music and family-friendly entertainment, this festival is sure to delight all ages. Headline events include the Burdekin Cultural Fair and the Australian Hand Cane Cutting Championships.

Australian Festival of Chamber Music When: 29 July - 7 August Where: Various venues More info: www.afcm.com.au Set in the tropical winter warmth of Townsville, the Australian Festival of Chamber Music presents the finest musicians from around the world in this wonderfully unique and innovative ten-day program. For over 30 years, the festival has delighted audiences and is now known for its friendly, intimate, and relaxed atmosphere. More than 35 musicians from all around the world travel to Townsville to bring the audience unique combinations of music. The festival’s tropical location creates a special atmosphere that entices audiences and artists back year after year.

Magnetic Island Bay Dayz Festival When: 2023 dates TBC Where: Magnetic Island More info: Magnetic Island Bay Dayz Festival The Magnetic Island Bay Dayz Festival is a fabulous month of entertainment, fairs, dining, tours, sport, art, and fun competitions on Magnetic Island. The program includes the famous islandwide Scarecrow Competition, the Maggie Motor & Bike Show, Magnetic Mystery Tour, Spring Equinox Fair, Indigenous culture events, Mega Markets, and the highly popular Sand Sculpture Competition. This festival has something for everyone!

Mackay Chamber Music Festival When: 22 - 24 July Where: Various venues More info: www.mackaycmf.com.au The Mackay Chamber Music Festival is a weekend of inspiring concerts, masterclasses and workshops, featuring some of the finest classical musicians from around the world. The festival delights audiences and is now known for its friendly, intimate and relaxed atmosphere. Aside from enjoying chamber music concerts, you can participate in inspiring masterclasses delivered by eight of the world’s finest classical musicians.

Mackay’s BBQ and Beer Festival When: 13 August 2022 Where: South Mackay More info: www.mackaybbqandbeerfestival.com.au Mackay’s annual BBQ and Beer festival is the perfect day out with friends. Listen to live music, enjoy tasty food, and drink your choice of over 50 Australian and International Beers. Join into the fun and watch local and travelling rivals fight it out to impress the judges in competitions. This year, the BBQ Battle is sanctioned by the Australasian Barbecue Alliance with a huge prize pool of $9500.00 going to participants.

NQ's Rock'n Country 2022 When: 19 - 21 August / 8.00am - 11.00pm Where: Mackay Showgrounds More info: www.nqsrockncountry.com.au This year’s NQ's Rock'n Country is a three-day country music festival showcasing over 40 local and national country music artists. Bring your camp chairs and picnic blankets and settle in for a big weekend. Onsite camping is available for three day pass holders, with camping opening on Thursday 18th August.

Campers also have access to the campers only After Party, so the party will continue after the main stage closes. The festival is proudly raising funds for Variety - the Children's Charity, with a goal of $100,000 to be raised. There will be raffles and an onsite auction held where you can win yourself a signed guitar, a signed Akubra, plus much more! Ticket costs range from free entry to $650.00 for groups and full weekend access.

Festivals

Dinosaur Lantern Festival Mackay When: 21 - 23 October / 9.00am - 4.00pm Where: TBC More info: www.mackay.dinofestivalaustralia.com

Cairns Italian Festival When: 28 July - 6 August Where: Cairns and Surrounds More info: www.cairnsitalianfestival.com.au

Transfer back in time to meet the roar-some, giant, weird, and wonderful creatures who once roamed our planet. Discover wildlife on earth, starting from the origins of life appearing as a dazzling array of little microbes, the big five of Africa, the Australian kangaroo, Egyptian camels, the polar bear, Indian tiger and Chinese panda, to a world of dinosaurs. Creating awareness about important climate change topics, the event features various threatened species. Arrive early to enjoy the beautiful sunset, picnic, festival food, and family amusement rides. Tickets must be purchased online prior to the event.

Cost is $6.00 - $65.00.

Held annually in the Hinchinbrook Shire, the Cairns Italian Festival is a significant regional cultural event with worldclass entertainment, fun, and culinary delights. The festival also pays homage to the Italian immigrants that left their homeland in search for a better life and future in Australia.

Bring the family along to enjoy the unique food and entertainment. Tickets cost $12.00 - $197.00.

The Cairns Indigenous Art Fair (CIAF)

Known as the world’s largest volksfest, beer festival, and travelling funfair, this year’s Oktoberfest is presented by the German Club Cairns. Held annually in Munich, Germany, with more than six million people from around the world attending the event every year, Oktoberfest is an important part of Bavarian culture. You can pre-purchase entry tickets from September onwards via the event’s facebook page.

As a family friendly event, competitions and prizes entertain everyone throughout the night.

When: 6 - 10 July Where: Cairns Convention Centre More info: www.ciaf.com.au After two years of presenting digitally, CIAF is back in Cairns to deliver a series of thought-provoking arts and cultural events. This year, CIAF will be held at the newly refurbished Cairns Convention Centre and a number of other venues across Cairns.

Tour of the Tropics When: 3 - 10 July Where: Various locations More info: www.tourofthetropics.com.au The Tour of the Tropics festival is a cycling, food and wine festival for pro and amateur cyclists and families.

The festival spans eight days, starting with the Ride for Isabel Gran Fondo (Yarrabah to Gordonvale). Midweek will welcome their track and social events, followed by the grand finale - The Tour of the Tropics three-day tour runs from Friday 8 July - Sunday 10 July.

Mareeba Rodeo and Festival When: 9 - 10 July Where: Kerribee Park Rodeo Grounds More info: www.mareebarodeo.com.au The 2-week festival will culminate with a one-day ABCRA affiliated rodeo, featuring the finals and the State-Of-Origin.

Presenting top-level competition and entertainment, the event gives spectators plenty to watch. Event offerings include all the usual rodeo events such as bull rides, saddle bronc, steer wrestling, ladies and junior events, the Agricultural Show, Downtown Parade, Queen Competition, Cowpokes and Garden Awards. Cost is $40.00 - $90.00.

Laura Quinkan Dance Festival 2023 When: 7 - 9 July 2023 Where: Laura More info: www.lauraquinkanfestival.com.au Approximately 25 Dance troupes from throughout Cape York gather to showcase their culture at the biannual Laura Quinkan Dance Festival. People collectively rejoice and share stories through music and dance performances, sharing history and uniting as one.

Tickets cost $110.00 to $450.00 and can be ordered via the website.

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Oktoberfest Cairns When: 8 October Where: German Club Cairns More info: German Club Cairns

Taste Port Douglas When: 11 - 14 August Where: Various venues More info: www.tasteportdouglas.com.au Presented by the Sheraton Grand Mirage Resort, Taste Port Douglas is one of Australia’s premier culinary events showcasing the region’s best food, beverages and talent.

Food lovers can immerse themselves in a dynamic four-day program boasting exceptional cooking, unforgettable dining experiences, and the opportunity to learn from some of the food and beverage industry’s most talented experts.

Cairns Festival When: 26 August - 4 September Where: Various locations More info: www.cairnsfest.com.au The Cairns Festival is a vibrant, progressive, and collaborative arts festival that engages with the community and celebrates the distinctive, tropical lifestyle.

As the region’s major annual celebration, the Cairns Festival includes culture, art, theatre, music, photography, performances, drama and dance, the Grand Parade, Carnival on Collins and fireworks.

Cairns Tropical Writers Festival When: 26 August - 4 September Where: Cairns, various locations More info: www.cairnstropicalwritersfestival.com As a biannual event, the Cairns Tropical Writers Festival is a cultural experience that celebrates the distinct voices of our tropical region by bringing together a regional community of writers and readers with Australian and internationally revered authors and celebrities. Literary minds will be inspired and motivated to expand their skills, connect with like-minded creators, and learn from the best.

Wallaby Creek Festival When: 23 - 25 September Where: Wallaby Creek Festival Grounds More info: www.wallabycreekfestival.org.au Celebrate the 20th birthday of Wallaby Creek Festival at this year’s event! Nestled in the confluence of the Annan River and Wallaby Creek at Helenvale / Rossville, Wallaby Creek Festival is a wonderful family-focused event. The three day program offers original music on three stages, with entertainment including Poets Breakfasts, workshops, circus, dance, Roving Street Theatre, a complete children’s festival, delicious food stalls, healing spaces and market stalls. Crocfree swimming holes are nearby in the Wallaby Creek and the Annan River. Camping is included, with bush showers and toilets accessible to everyone.

Savannah in the Round When: 30 September - 2 October Where: www.savannahintheround.com.au More info: Kerribee Park Mareeba Rodeo Arena Savannah in the Round is Tropical North Queensland's very own music and camping festival, taking place at the Mareeba Rodeo Arena. Featuring more than 40 international and Australian country, rock, roots, and pop artists, this event is bound to entertain the whole family. Complimentary entertainment includes cultural exhibits and performances, market vendors, paddock to plate, a funfair and more.

Babinda Harvest Festival When: 8 October Where: Munro Street, Babinda More info: www.babindaharvestfest.org This full day of events begins with the Traders Day Competition at 8.00am and includes the Grand Street Parade, festivities and the Tractor Pull afterwards at the Babinda Showgrounds.

With plenty of food stalls, children’s entertainment, market stalls, live entertainment and a bar, the whole family can enjoy the day. There’s a firework display and cane burning at 8.30pm, and the bands play until midnight.

All of Us Festival 2022 - Celebrating Mental Health Week When: 9 October / 03.00pm - 08.00pm Where: Fogarty Park More info: www.kochfoundation.org.au Hosted by the Dr Edward Koch Foundation’s Suicide Prevention Taskforce, this free festival aims to raise mental health and suicide prevention awareness in an all-inclusive, diverse, multicultural and family friendly event.

Tablelands Folk Festival When: 21 - 23 October Where: Yungaburra More info: www.tablelandsfolkfestival.org.au Celebrating music, friendship and cultural understanding, the Tablelands Folk Festival is the longest running folk festival in Queensland. Over four days, the event features family entertainment, concerts, workshops, comedy, blues jams, poet breakfasts, brekky, a wellbeing fair, market stalls, free children activities, the famous Pub Verandah and more.

Check out the online version for more NQ Festivals

School Holiday Guide

School Holiday Guide Caneland Central Visit the largest shopping centre in Mackay for their huge variety of stores! Keep the kids entertained these holidays with games, music and movies or toys, or pop down and buy your picnic and swimming gear to have a wonderful day out.

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

Mount Pleasant Shopping Centre With the new and improved shopping experience at Mount Pleasant Shopping Centre, they’ll be hosting Let’s Get Active with Active Squirtz 29 June - 3 July.

Plus don’t forget they have a bevy of shops and food outlets to keep you and the little ones fed and entertained, and they provide two parents rooms.

One is located in the Food Court, how convenient, and the other in the corridor behind Nextra. To keep up to date with their progress and any upcoming events and school holiday activities, check out their Facebook page.

A Mackay Bucasia Rd P 07 4969 2400 Mount Pleasant Centre www.mountpleasantcentre.com.au

Artspace Mackay BMA Kidspace offers online and in-person activities for kids with their program specifically designed for 0 - 5 year olds. Activities including Oil Pastels, Leaf Collage, Recycled Drums, and Sing Alongs.

Collage, Stamp and Draw: Free Holiday drop-in activities for everyone - Drop-in to Artspace during the school holidays and experiment with the art of mixed media. Inspired by the art and exhibition Looking for Paradise by NSW artist, Nathalie Hartog-Gautier, this activity gives visitors of all ages and abilities an opportunity to combine collage, drawing and letter stamping techniques by adding to a wonderful collaborative paper wall in our Artspace workshop room.

Parental supervision for children is essential. Stay for a few minutes or a few hours, no bookings necessary.

Activities run from 25 June to 10 July, 10.00am - 5.00pm Tuesday to Friday, and 10.00am - 3.00pm on weekends.

A Civic Centre Precinct P 4961 9722 Artspace Mackay www.artspacemackay.com.au

Sarina Sugar Shed Sarina Sugar Shed offers an award-winning insight into sugar production. From paddock to plate; the tour will teach you and your little ones just what happens when cane is planted, how it is used, and what it makes.

You’ll get the opportunity to observe, touch, feel, and taste the different stages of sugar production, their non-alcoholic ginger beer brewed onsite, the freshly spun fairy floss, and freshly squeezed cane juice.

There’s plenty of goodies for the adults to try too. Cost: $13.30 for kids, $26.50 for adults, kids under 5 are free.

Bookings essential.

A Field of Dreams Parkland, Railway Square P 07 4943 2801 www.sarinasugarshed.com.au

Mackay Library Events The Mackay Council Libraries, along with their usual offerings, run holiday programs that include storytime, family fun activities, science programs and craft workshops. Check the website for more information and booking options.

Clifford the Big Red Dog - Visit the Gordon White Library for a free movie afternoon with popcorn on 1 July. This event is for children aged five to 12 years and starts at 2.00pm.

Harry Potter Craft - Create some magical accessories essential for every wizard in training, and celebrate the 25th anniversary of the publication of the first Harry Potter book with other like minded Harry Potter fans.

These craft activities run on 1 July from 10.00am to 11.00am at the Sarina Library and are suitable for junior wizards aged 5 to 12 years old.

A Gordon White Library, 54 Phillip St, Mount Pleasant A Sarina Library, 65 Broad St, Sarina www.mackay.qld.gov.au/libraries

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 2022 41

School Holiday Guide

Whimsical Dreaming Workshops Feather Rainbow Wall Hanging - Create your own rainbow wall hanging with colourful feathers, ribbons, and a selection of shells. This 2 hour workshop is held on 1 July from 1.00pm, and 5 July from 9.30am. It is suitable for children aged 6+ and tickets cost $50.00.

Cool Science - During this fun 1 hour science workshop you will create your very own bouncy ball and lava lamp to take home, plus you can learn some cool science facts along the way. Bookings required.

The workshop is held on 5 July, starts at 12.30am, and costs $35.00. Suitable for ages 6+.

Slime Time Fun - Held on 6 July from 9.00am to 10.30am, this 1 hour express slime workshop is a fun and messy experience for everyone. You will make two types of slime and have ample time to play with the creations before taking them home for more hours of fun. The workshop is suitable for ages 5+ and costs $35.00.

Tie Dye Express - In this 1 hour workshop you can learn tie dyeing techniques and then get colourful creating your own unique masterpiece. Participants will tie dye two items choosing from either a pillowcase or a tote bag, plus either a set of two scrunchies or a bandana.

The workshop is held on 6 July, starts at 11.00am, and costs $35.00. Suitable for ages 6+.

A Whimsical Dreaming P 0424 505 664 Whimsical Dreaming

iLand This contemporary indigenous dance story is inspired by the late Eddie Koiki Mabo and colleagues. Celebrating 30 years of the Mabo Case and the creation of the Torres Strait Island Flag by Bernard Namok, Mackay Northern Beaches State High presents this event on 4 July at 6.30pm and 6 July 2.30pm. Cost is a gold coin donation.

A Mackay Northern Beaches State High School Cast the Net QLD Incorporated

Festival of Arts Over ten days, from 1 to 11 July, the Mackay Festival of Arts is a celebration of local, interstate, and international talent, culture, colour, music and food! For more details check the website, however, activities will include festival favourites such as the ever popular Wine and Food Day, a bigger and bolder Jazz Brunch, the new and improved Masked Burlesque Lounge and the hottest ticket in town, the Progressive Dinner.

A Various locations www.themecc.com.au

Warrior Mackay Multisport Festival

Azure Glass School Holidays Workshops Located on the central coast of Mackay, Azure Glass offers quality glass artworks, products, and tuition in the kiln formed glass process. Create your own glass dish during 1 hour workshops held from 27 June to 5 July at 9.00am and 12.00pm. No experience necessary, and all materials, tools, and firings are included. Children under 7 must be supervised by an adult and wear closed in shoes. BYO water bottle. Cost is $30.00. Visit the website for more information and to book your spot.

A Azure Art Glass Studio www.azureglass.com.au

Mackay Gymnastics School Holiday Program Fun Days - These holidays, Mackay Gymnastics runs their school holiday program again including Fun Days and Day Camps. Fun Day for 2 to 4 year old boys and girls is 6 July, 9.15am to 10.00am. Cost is $16.50. Fun Days for older kids aged 5 to 12 years are offered on 1 July, 4 July, 6 July, and 8 July from 9.00am to 10.30am.

Cost is $27.50.

Holiday Camp - During week 1 of the holidays, the camp runs on the 1 July. During week 2 the camp runs on 4 July, 6 July, and 8 July from 9.00am onwards. Cost is $50.00 to $70.00 per day. Suitable for children 4 to 13 years old. Bookings required.

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A Mackay Gymnastics P 49420032 www.mackaygymnastics.org.au

Now bigger than ever, the Mackay Triathlon Festival includes Duathlon, Aquathlon, and Aquabike events, and a Standard Olympic distance race. Held on 3 July, the events allow participants to race solo or in a team.

A Mackay Harbour www.mackaytriclub.com.au

Mackay Scottish Bluewater Fling Enjoy an afternoon of Scottish delights on 9 July with the Mackay Scottish Bluewater Fling. Entertainment includes bagpipes, drums, Scottish rock, Celtic folk, Hielan dancing, tartan, clan banners, Haggis, scotch pies, square sausage, and much more. The event starts at 1.30pm, is family-friendly, and free.

A Bluewater Quay Park www.bluewaterfling.com

Motorcycle Grasstree Beach Races Held annually, the Motorcycle Grasstree Beach Races are a fun family community event.

Prepare yourself for methanol-fuelled action under tropical skies on 10 July. Gates open for competitors at 6am, with racing starting from 10am. There will be a mini Eat Street, jumping castles, trade displays, and live entertainment for spectators.

A Grasstree Beach www.motorcyclebeachraces.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.

Daddy Diary

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Daddy Diary My name is Guy Clifton and I have a problem… for I, Guy Clifton, hate (drum roll please) ball pits. And if my 8 year old daughter is reading this I apologise for using the word “hate”. Dislike is a much better word to describe the way I feel about ball pits. I am not a fan. I dislike them profusely. In fact I believe the word “armpits” is a more appropriate description for these germ riddled Petri dishes invented by a dude named Eric McMillan some 50 odd years ago. Sorry Eric but you have a lot to answer for.

My dislike for all things pit-related began when my daughter was quite young. It was her first birthday and one of our so-called friends or a family member (I can’t quite remember) thought it would be sweet to give the birthday girl a pop up ball pit along with about 200

cheap, plastic, multi-colored balls. I swear there are still balls floating around that house. Moving was the only way we were able to escape them. I can see how the ball pit gift was a nice idea and I’m sure my daughter had fun in it for the whole 90 seconds but what about us? Her poor, overworked and sick of housework parents. The last thing any of us need is more stuff to pick up.

Now to the second pit related whinge of this month’s column - What is the deal with public ball pits?

How, in a post-covid world these germ factories are still a thing is totally beyond me. Kids are pretty much the germiest thing going. Putting them into a pit full of mini germ vessels after a conga line of other kids have already snotted over them just doesn’t seem very 2022.

Of course, I’m being quite dramatic but those closest to me would tell you that’s kinda my default. It’s my go to. But I do believe that most parents reading this would sympathise with at least some of the pitfalls I’ve listed today. Some people are pit people. I cannot say I am one of them. Sorry Eric.

Cliffo Hit 100.3

www.pakmag.com.au | July / August 2022 45

Mackay and Whitsundays What’s On FRIDAY 1 JULY Clifford the Big Red Dog A movie afternoon with popcorn Gordon White Library 2.00pm - 4.00pm / FREE / Ages 5 - 12 www.mackay.qld.gov.au Harry Potter Craft Create magical accessories Sarina Library 10.00am - 11.00am / FREE / Ages 5 - 12 www.mackay.qld.gov.au Bee Houses - Made by You Build your own bee house Sarina Library 11.00am - 12.00pm / FREE / 18+ www.mackay.qld.gov.au Material Sound Runs until 28 August Artspace Mackay 10.00am - 5.00pm / FREE / PG www.artspacemackay.com.au Feather Rainbow Wall Hanging Bookings required Whimsical Dreaming, 104 Victoria St, Mackay 1.00pm - 3.00pm / $50.00 / 6+ Whimsical Dreaming Teacup Bird Feeders Made by You Build your own bird feeder Sarina Library 9.30am - 10.30am / FREE / 18+ www.mackay.qld.gov.au

With HIT 100.3’s Cliffo & Gabi

Mackay Gymnastics Holiday Camp Bookings required Mackay Gymnastics Inc 9.00am - 4.00pm / $50.00 $70.00 / Ages 4 -13 www.mackaygymnastics.org.au

iLand MacKay Northern Beaches State High School 6.30pm - 9.30pm / Gold coin donation / PG Cast the Net QLD Incorporated

SATURDAY 2 JULY

TUESDAY 5 JULY

Cheesemaking, Sourdough, Fermented Foods Workshops Learn how to make your own Persian feta, camembert, blue vein cheese and other lactic fermented Foods Senior Citizens Hall, Mackay 9.30am - 4.30pm / $85.50 $160.00 / PG PermacultureRealFood

Feather Rainbow Wall Hanging Bookings required Whimsical Dreaming, 104 Victoria St, Mackay 9.30am - 11.30pm / $50.00 / 6+ Whimsical Dreaming

Mackay Art Deco Walking Tour Runs until December 2022, check website for dates Australian Hotel, Mackay 6.00pm / $15.00 / PG www.mackayartdeco.org MONDAY 4 JULY Azure Glass School Holidays Workshops Create a mini glass dish. Open to all ages, children under 7 must be supervised. Runs until 5 July Azure Art Glass Studio 9.00am / 12.00pm / $30.00 / PG www.azureglass.com.au

Let’s Get Active!

Runs until 3 July Mount Pleasant Center 09.00am / 10.00am / $6.00 / G www.mountpleasantcentre. com.au

Fun Day with Mackay Gymnastics Bookings required Mackay Gymnastics Inc 9.00am - 10.30pm / $16.50 $27.50 / Ages 2 -12 www.mackaygymnastics.org.au

Fun Day with Mackay Gymnastics Bookings required Mackay Gymnastics Inc 9.00am - 10.30am / $27.50 / Ages 5 - 12 www.mackaygymnastics.org.au

Mackay Gymnastics Holiday Camp Bookings required Mackay Gymnastics Inc 9.00am - 4.00pm / $50.00 $70.00 / Ages 4 -13 www.mackaygymnastics.org.au

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

iLand Mackay Northern Beaches State High School 6.30pm - 9.30pm / Gold coin donation / PG Cast the Net QLD Incorporated FRIDAY 8 JULY

Cool Science Bookings required Whimsical Dreaming, 104 Victoria St, Mackay 12.30am - 1.30pm / $35.00 / 6+ Whimsical Dreaming WEDNESDAY 6 JULY Fun Day with Mackay Gymnastics Bookings required Mackay Gymnastics Inc 9.00am - 10.30am / $27.50 / Ages 5 - 12 www.mackaygymnastics.org.au Mackay Gymnastics Holiday Camp Bookings required Mackay Gymnastics Inc 9.00am - 4.00pm / $50.00 $70.00 / Ages 4 -13 www.mackaygymnastics.org.au Slime Time Fun Bookings required Whimsical Dreaming, 104 Victoria St, Mackay 9.00am - 10.30pm / $35.00 / 5+ Whimsical Dreaming Tie Dye Express Bookings required Whimsical Dreaming, 104 Victoria St, Mackay 11.00am - 12.00pm / $35.00 / 6+ Whimsical Dreaming

Fun Day with Mackay Gymnastics Bookings required Mackay Gymnastics Inc 9.00am - 10.30am / $27.50 / Ages 5 - 12 www.mackaygymnastics.org.au Mackay Gymnastics Holiday Camp Bookings required Mackay Gymnastics Inc 9.00am - 4.00pm / $50.00 $70.00 / Ages 4 -13 www.mackaygymnastics.org.au SATURDAY 9 JULY Mackay Scottish Bluewater Fling Outdoor Concert Bluewater Quay Park 1.30pm - 5.30pm / FREE / PG www.bluewaterfling.com The Platypus Paddle Two-day SUP, Ocean Ski, Outrigger competitive races.

Runs until 10 July The Surf Club Mackay 6.00am / $35.00 - $75.00 / PG www.mackayslsc.com.au SUNDAY 10 JULY Paint and Sip with Bottletops and Brushes Book online Sarina Sugar Shed 2.30pm / $92.00 / 18+ www.sarinasugarshed.com.au

www.pakmag.com.au | July / August 2022 47

Mackay and WhitsundaysWhat’s On SUNDAY 10 JULY

FRIDAY 15 JULY

Motorcycle Grasstree Beach Races Grasstree Beach 6.00am / $12.00 - $53.00 / PG www.motorcyclebeachraces. com.au

Understanding Intellectual Disability Mackay Women’s Centre 9.00am - 4.30pm / $50.00 $150.00 / PG www.cru.org.au

WEDNESDAY 13 JULY

Poetry Slam! Competition Competition open to senior school students Whitsunday Anglican School, Beaconsfield QLD 1.00pm - 2.15pm / $8.00 / G www.whitsundayvoices.com.au

Whitsunday Voices Youth Literature Festival Welcome Ceremony Smoking ceremony led by the local YUWI people Whitsunday Anglican School, Beaconsfield QLD 5.30pm - 9.00pm / FREE / G www.whitsundayvoices.com.au STEAM Club - Spheros and Blue Bots Gordon White Library 3.30pm - 4.30pm / FREE / G www.mackay.qld.gov.au THURSDAY 14 JULY Alphabet of Awesome Science Mackay Entertainment& Convention Centre 2.00pm - 3.00pm / $16.50 $60.00 / Ages 5 - 12 Mackay Entertainment & Convention Centre Whitsunday Voices Youth Literature Festival Presenter Sessions and Workshops Runs until 15 June Whitsunday Anglican School, Beaconsfield QLD 9.30am - 2.15pm / $8.00 - $15.00 / G www.whitsundayvoices.com.au

The Whitsundays MotoStars Nationals: Round 1 Runs until 17 July Whitsunday Moto Sport Club 7.00am - 10.00pm / FREE $350.00 / G www.wmsc.org.au SATURDAY 16 JULY Speakeasy Cocktail Party Come dressed in your best 1920s - 1930s attire Kitten Vintage Mackay 6.00pm / $35.00 / 18+ Sugar City Art Deco & Modernism Society Women’s Day Retreat Patience Awaken Retreats, Kuttabul 8.30am - 4.30pm / $75.00 Awaken Retreats SUNDAY 17 JULY Sandwich Plate Create your own glass plate Azure Art Glass Studio

48 July / August 2022 | www.pakmag.com.au

9.00am -11.00am / $60.00 / 12+ www.azureglass.com.au TUESDAY 19 JULY BMA Kidspace Creative art activities for toddlers and adults 10.00am - 2.00pm / FREE / PG www.artspacemackay.com.au WEDNESDAY 20 JULY STEAM Club - Coding with Osmos Blends physical and digital skills in a fun way to engage maths and coding Gordon White Library 3.30pm - 4.30 pm / FREE / PG www.mackay.qld.gov.au FRIDAY 22 JULY Mackay Chamber Music Festival Runs until 24 July CQUniversity, Dalrymple Bay Coal Terminal 3.00pm - 6.00pm / $35.00 $180.00 / PG www.mackaycmf.com.au Colourful Round Bowl Create your own glass bowl Azure Art Glass Studio 9.00am -11.00am / $60.00 / 12+ www.azureglass.com.au SATURDAY 23 JULY Pointglen’s Movie Under The Stars Watch a family friendly movie under the stars Shoal Point Waters 5.30pm - 9.30pm / FREE / PG Shoal Point Waters

SUNDAY 24 JULY One Stop Medical Beach to Gardens Charity Fun Run Raise funds for RACQ CQ Rescue. Check website for more information Iluka Park 5:30 am - 12:30 pm / G www.beachtogardensfunrun. com.au TUESDAY 26 JULY Storytime Mount Pleasant Centre 10.30am / FREE / G www.mountpleasantcentre. com.au WEDNESDAY 27 JULY STEAM Club - Online Coding Games Explore the world of e-learning and coding with Busy Code, Rainforest Coding and Swopbots Gordon White Library 3.30pm - 4.30pm / FREE / Ages 8 - 12 www.mackay.qld.gov.au SATURDAY 30 JULY Mingle at Melba Melba House 4.00pm - 9.00pm / $184.50 $200.00 Mingle Events Co. Sarina Show Runs until July 31 Sarina Showgrounds 6.00am / FREE - $44.00 / G www.sarinashowsociety.com

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

WEDNESDAY 3 AUGUST Roald Dahl and the Imagination Seekers Runs until 4 August Mackay Entertainment & Convention Centre Various times / $16.50 - $60.00 / PG www.themecc.com.au SATURDAY 6 AUGUST Mackay Big Boys Toys Expo Runs until 6 August Showground Mackay 8.30am - 3.00pm / $10.00 $40.00 / PG www.bigboystoysexpo.com.au Azure Glass SpringTime Sandwich Plate Create, cut and assemble your own glass plate Azure Art Glass Studio 9.00am - 11.00am / $60.00 / 15+ www.azureglass.com.au WEDNESDAY 10 AUGUST STEAM Club - Coding Board Games Creating your own coding board

game with Lego Gordon White Library 3.30pm - 4.30pm / FREE / Ages 8 - 12 www.mackay.qld.gov.au SUNDAY 14 AUGUST Blooms and Brunch Create a floral headpiece whilst indulging in an exclusive high-tea experience 11.00am - 2.00pm / $88.00 Mingle Events Co. WEDNESDAY 17 AUGUST STEAM Club - Spy Coding Learn about Binary Codes and secret spy codes Gordon White Library 3.30pm - 4.30pm / FREE / Ages 8 - 12 www.mackay.qld.gov.au

www.peterwilliams innapowa.com

12.00pm / $54.00 / PG www.harruppark.com.au

FRIDAY 19 AUGUST

Busby Marou Harrup Park Country Club 12.00pm / $129.00 - $259.00 / PG www.harruppark.com.au

NQ’s Rock’n Country Runs until 21 August 8.00am -11.00pm / FREE $650.00 / PG www.nqsrockncountry.com.au THURSDAY 25 AUGUST Amy Shark Mackay Entertainment & Convention Centre 7.30pm - 10.00pm / $95.00 / PG www.themecc.com.au Storytime at Mount Pleasant Centre Mount Pleasant Centre 10.00am -10.30am / FREE / PG www.mountpleasantcentre. com.au

THURSDAY 18 AUGUST

SATURDAY 27 AUGUST

Peter Williams Medium Live Mantra Club Croc Conference Centre 7.00pm - 9.30pm / $49.00

Legends on The Lawn Antipasto Platter Harrup Park Country Club

WEDNESDAY 31 AUGUST STEAM Club - Scratch Students learn to think creatively, reason systematically and work collaboratively Gordon White Library 3.30pm - 4.30pm / FREE / Ages 8 - 12 www.mackay.qld.gov.au

Regular Markets Many markets are subject to weather conditions and community guidelines, so please check with market organisers and relevant communities before visiting during these uncertain times.

The Greater Whitsunday Farmers’ Markets Every Wednesday 6.30am - 10.30am Bluewater Quay, River Street, Mackay City Centre Showground Markets Every Saturday 6.30am - 10.00am Mackay Showgrounds

Eungella Community Markets Second Sunday of the month 9.00am - 1.00pm Eungella Memorial Hall, North Street

Seaforth Mega Market First Sunday of every month in place of regular markets 8.30am – 12.00pm Seaforth Beachfront

Troppo Treasure Markets Second Sunday of the month 7.00am - 11.30am Mount Pleasant Shopping Centre Carpark

Seaforth Community Markets Every Sunday 8.30am – 11.00am Seaforth Beachfront

Sarina Showground Markets Last Sunday of the month 8.00am - 12.00pm Sarina Showgrounds

Paxtons Night Markets Second Friday of every month 5.00pm – 8.00pm 10 River St, Mackay

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Mackay and Whitsundays Regular Events MONDAYS Baby Bounce During school term Dudley Denny City Library 11.00am - 11.30am / FREE / 0 - 2 years, Bookings required www.mackay.qld.gov.au/ libraries Baby Bounce During school term Mirani Library 9.30am - 10.00am / FREE / 0 - 2 years, Bookings required www.mackay.qld.gov.au/ libraries Toddler Time During school term Sarina Library 9.30am - 10.00am / FREE / Up to 2.5 years, Bookings required www.mackay.qld.gov.au/ libraries Toddler Time During school term Gordon White Library 9.30am - 10.00am / FREE / Up to 2.5 years, Bookings required www.mackay.qld.gov.au/ libraries Toddler Time During school term Mirani Library 9.30am - 10.00am / FREE / Up to 2.5 years, Bookings required www.mackay.qld.gov.au/ libraries TUESDAYS Baby Bounce During school term Cannonvale Library 10.00am - 10.30am / FREE / 0 2 years, Bookings required libraries.whitsundayrc.qld.gov.au Baby Bounce During school term Sarina Library 9.30am - 10.00am / FREE / 0 - 2 years, Bookings required www.mackay.qld.gov.au/ libraries Baby Bounce During school term Walkerston Library

9.30am - 10.00am / FREE / 0 - 2 years, Bookings required www.mackay.qld.gov.au/ libraries Story Time During school term Bowen Library 10.00am - 10.30am / FREE / 3 - 5 years, Bookings required libraries.whitsundayrc.qld.gov.au

With Triple M's Jay and Dave

Walking to 3 years, Bookings required libraries.whitsundayrc.qld.gov.au Story Time During school term Collinsville Library 9.00am - 9.30am / FREE / 3 - 5 years, Bookings required libraries.whitsundayrc.qld.gov.au

Story Time During school term Proserpine Library 10.30am - 11.00am / FREE / 3 - 5 years, Bookings required libraries.whitsundayrc.qld.gov.au

Story Time During school term Sarina Library 9.30am - 10.00am / FREE / 3 - 5 years, Bookings required www.mackay.qld.gov.au/ libraries

Story Time During school term Mirani Library 9.30am - 10.00am / FREE / 3 - 5 years, Bookings required www.mackay.qld.gov.au/ libraries

Story Time During school term Gordon White Library 9.30am - 10.00am / FREE / 3 - 5 years, Bookings required www.mackay.qld.gov.au/ libraries

Story Time During school term Walkerston Library 9.30am - 10.00am / FREE / 3 - 5 years, Bookings required www.mackay.qld.gov.au/ libraries

Baby Bounce During school term Proserpine Library 10.30am - 11.00am / FREE / 0 - 2 years, Bookings required libraries.whitsundayrc.qld.gov.au

Book Club Runs monthly Cannonvale Library 2.00pm - 3.30pm / FREE libraries.whitsundayrc.qld.gov.au Tech Talks Gordon White Library 10.00am - 11.00am / FREE www.mackay.qld.gov.au/ libraries WEDNESDAYS LIttle Library Play During school term Proserpine Library 9.30am - 10.00am / FREE / Walking to 3 years, Bookings required libraries.whitsundayrc.qld.gov.au LIttle Library Play During school term Cannonvale Library 10.00am - 10.30am / FREE /

50 July / August 2022 | www.pakmag.com.au

years, Bookings required www.mackay.qld.gov.au/libraries Baby Bounce During school term Gordon White Library 10.30am - 11.00am / FREE / 0 - 2 years, Bookings required www.mackay.qld.gov.au/libraries Maker Spaces During school term Cannonvale Library 3.00pm - 4.30pm / FREE / Ages 6 + libraries.whitsundayrc.qld.gov.au Tech Talks Dudley Denny City Library 10.00am - 11.00am / FREE www.mackay.qld.gov.au/libraries FRIDAYS Baby Bounce During school term Bowen Library 9.30am - 10.00am / FREE / 0 - 2 years, Bookings required libraries.whitsundayrc.qld.gov.au Conversations with Art 3rd Friday of each month Artspace Mackay 9.30am - 10.00am / FREE / PG www.artspacemackay.com.au

Chess Club During school term Cannonvale Library 3.00pm - 4.30pm / FREE / All ages libraries.whitsundayrc.qld.gov.au

Toddler Time During school term Dudley Denny City Library 9.30am - 10.00am / FREE / Up to 2.5 years, Bookings required www.mackay.qld.gov.au/libraries

STEAM Club During school term Gordon White Library 3.30pm - 4.30pm / FREE / Ages 8 - 12 www.mackay.qld.gov.au/ libraries

SATURDAYS

THURSDAYS

Maker Spaces Mini Makers Bowen Library 9.00am - 11.00am / FREE / Ages 6 + libraries.whitsundayrc.qld.gov.au

Story Time During school term Cannonvale Library 10.00am - 10.30am / FREE / 3 - 5 years, Bookings required libraries.whitsundayrc.qld.gov.au Story Time During school term Dudley Denny City Library 10.30am - 11.00am / FREE / 3 - 5

Maker Spaces During school term Proserpine Library 9.00am - 11.00am / FREE / Ages 6 + libraries.whitsundayrc.qld.gov.au

Mini Makers Mini Makers Cannonvale Library 9.00am - 11.30am / FREE / 0 - 5 years libraries.whitsundayrc.qld.gov.au

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