PakMag Mackay & Whitsundays - Sep & Oct 2021 - Issue 85

Parents and Kids Magazine

FREE

ISSUE: SEP & OCT 2021

85

MACKAY & WHITSUNDAYS

SPOOKY Halloween Activities

Make a Difference

by Asking R U OK?

WIN Father’s Day Prezzies for Dad

PROTECTING Our Children’s

MENTAL HEALTH Meet Bluey Animator Beth Harvey Your Ultimate School Holiday Guide

100 LOCAL

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EVENTS to Check Out

Loving Your Post-Baby Body Building Memories with Dad

Welcome 5

The Thing Is

7

Turning Can’t into Can

10 Living an Animated Life

with Beth Harvey

13 The PakMag Experts 14 Building Memories with Dad 15 Father’s Day Giveaway

19 Healthy Relationshops from Cultural Perspectives

21 Loving Your Post-Baby Body 22 Bump, Bub and Beyond 24 Parent’s Puzzle 25 Mini Mag 29 Adult Colouring Page

31 Halloween Fruit Platter and Dipping Sauce

33 Protecting our Children’s

In this edition, the ultimate motivator - Jack Canfield - joins us to help us turn ‘I Can’t’ into ‘I Can,’ and we share helpful advice on protecting your child’s mental health. We have also saved you some time and found all the fun stuff to get up to during the School Holidays and throughout the next two months to make some great memories together. Speaking of important dates – don’t forget to shower Dad in love this Father’s Day! On behalf of the team – we hope you have a great day Dads.

Until next time, happy reading and don’t forget to tell everyone, you read it in PakMag.

30 Halloween Craft

We know that can be hard at times, particularly in the global climate and all that we have been through and continue to navigate. We just wanted to remind you, you aren’t alone - we are all in this together and we’ve got this! We also hope you received the warm virtual hug we’ve included in the magazine – that’s FREE too.

We’ve tried to pack as much positivity and love into these pages to give you a little pick me up and reminder that YOU are awesome – for no other reason than YOU are YOU.

17 All Things Health

Hello and thank you for picking up PakMag, we hope it helps your family connect, learn and grow – that’s why we do, what we do. We care about you, our community and want everyone to live their ‘best lives.’

Mental Health

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

39 School Holiday Guide 45 Daddy Diary 47 What’s On

PakMag Founder

Sales and Business Development Tracy Couper

and Editor-in-Chief Bree James

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

North Queensland

Graphic Designer Sara Williams

Content & Marketing Team Leader

Videographer & Podcast Producer Monique Saggers

Bec Dent Creative Team Leader & Graphic Designer

Our Global Parenting Channels PakMag Online pakmag_national PakMag The Give It A Go Group

For Parents The PakMag Parents Podcast PakMag TV

Content Creators Annamarie Booysen Sasha Rozhkova

Clare Winter Marketing and Events Coordinator

Accounts Trent Stievano

Alyssa Marino

Disclaimer: No part of this magazine, including the advertisements within it may be reproduced, in part or in whole without the expressed permission of the editor. Whilst the greatest of care is taken to ensure that the information in the magazine is correct at the time of going to press, readers are advised to check details before visiting. The publishers cannot accept responsibility for errors, inaccuracies or omissions.

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

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

We encourage recycling. Please keep this issue for future reference, pass onto your friends and family, use for craft projects or place into the recycling bin.

families www.pakmag.com.au | September / October 2021 3

The Thing Is

The Thing Is with Bree James As Ray Romano from Everybody Loves Raymond would say “having children is like living in a frat house - nobody sleeps, everything’s broken, and there’s lots of throwing up”.

The thing is, I thought that once the newborn and toddler stage finished, and our children grew, that parenting would ‘get easier’. To all the mothers before me that said this - you lied! Sure, you don’t get woken during the night as often (unless they are sick or sleepwalkers), but holy dooly, it’s certainly not easier.

And the amount of broken stuff? I don’t know if it’s because my kids have inherited my clumsy nature, or whether they are in fact small superhero’s that are stronger than they realise. They pull out kitchen draws and cupboards with such force that eventually part of the draw ends up in their hand. Using similar force, the toilet paper holder constantly hangs wonkily from the wall, and their towel rack has been re-screwed to the wall I don’t know how many times. Their scooters and bikes look like they’ve been ridden to the tip of Australia.

And don’t get me started on their clothes - ripped, stained, and stretched, from doing who knows what.

The tween and baby years do have some similarities though - that I was not prepared for.

Like the washing. When they’re babies, you have some understanding that they’ll get dirty; dragging themselves like baby seals, or learning to crawl, and eat, and even poop. Then they enter the tween years, and “POW!” – it’s like the washing multiplies. With uniforms for school, jobs and sports teams, as well as the need to change their outfit if they get even a single mark on it… enter the endless outfit changes and washing, not to mention the cheeky habit of cleaning their room by dumping everything, clean and dirty, right back into the washing basket.

Then there’s all the food, the hunger is real! When they’re babies, you’re like a mixologist, blending it all for them to demolish or deny. Nothing’s changed. And don’t forget

about the poop. When your baby poops, it’s something you lovingly deal with. When they’re older with diarrhea, it’s not so cute.

They (and you) also still cry - A LOT. If you think a two-year-old’s tantrum is bad, wait till you see a tween tanty. And although the tears still worry you, thankfully they still want the cuddles to make it all better.

The older my children get, the more demanding they are becoming. Instead of just listening to what I say and doing as mummy says, they have an opinion, and feedback, and oh so many questions. The questions used to be so simple, now they’re getting deeper and more thoughtful. But nonetheless, I’m still on constant repeat, turns out they can ignore me just the same.

They challenge you on just about everything too.

They’re very happy to tell me about my parenting style and share ways I can improve. It’s truly awesome to have this person share with you how to drive even though they’ve never driven a car before.

My teen parenting years are just beginning, and like every stage of parenting, it doesn’t get easier- it’s just different. We shouldn’t ask for things to be easier, we just need to be better. Better equipped and patient to deal with the challenges of raising this generation of children; it has so much more complexity than we ever experienced. We need to give them grace for that.

I know I’ll blink and just like the baby stage, my time of having my kids in my everyday world will be over, and they’ll fly the nest to live their life. So, as much as it’s a challenge, I wouldn’t have it any other way - I love seeing them grow, and helping me to grow as a parent.

After all, life is a learning journey for us all.

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

www.pakmag.com.au | September / October 2021 5

Parenting

Helping the Young People in Your Life Turn Can’t into Can WITH Jack Canfield Jack Canfield is a best-selling author, award-winning speaker and an international expert on self-esteem, goal setting, success and life improvement. As the co-creator of the Chicken Soup for the Soul series, he’s taught millions of individuals his formulas for success and has just released ‘I CAN Believe in Myself’ - a children’s book helping children harness the power of ‘I Can’. We were lucky enough to catch up with Jack to find out how we can empower the young people in our lives with this message.

What Were the Motivators Behind Writing ‘I CAN Believe in Myself’?

Firstly, I wanted to reach kids because I always say if it's done on time - it's called ‘education’, if it's done late - it’s called ‘therapy’. We want to teach our kids high self-esteem, we want to teach them to believe in themselves and to go for their dreams. Too often we don't see that happening in the schools, so, it's really up to us as parents and grandparents to do that with our kids.

Secondly, Miriam Laundry - the co-author of the book, wanted to teach her three kids something she had learned in a workshop I ran, based on the exercise called ‘Can’t, Won’t’. In ‘Can’t, Won’t’ you start a series of sentences and statements with “I can’t” that are true for you, for example; “I can’t find time to answer all my emails”, “I can't lose that last 5 kilos, I can't stop smoking, I can’t keep my room clean, etc.” Then you go back and say the same things and start the statements with “I won’t” – “I won’t stop smoking, I won’t keep my room clean, I won’t answer all of my emails”. During the exercise people begin to see – ‘WOW, it’s not that I can’t; I'm choosing not to’.

She realised a lecture wasn't going to get the message across to her kids, so the idea was born to create a children’s book that conveys the same message that ‘can’t is going to stop you – and that there really is no such thing’. You CAN.

How Can We Help Our Kids Turn “I Can’t” into “I Can”?

Establish what’s true. There are ‘I Cant’s’ that you're telling yourself that aren't really true, and there are

other things you really can’t do – because they are beyond your control - like not being able to go and see your family and friends during the COVID 19 lockdown.

And then ask – ‘Well, what can I do?’ Too often when we're focusing on the thing we can't do, we aren’t able to see all the options of what we can do.

A friend of mine lost all of his fingers in a motorcycle accident. He said, “I realized I can't eat with chopsticks, I can't play chopsticks on the piano, there's a lot of things I can't do… but there's 10,000 things I still can do. I can talk, I can read, I can sing, I can write poetry” – and he's now a motivational speaker. We need to help children to shift their focus and attention to what they can do.

There is that old saying – ‘What would you do if you knew you couldn’t fail?’ How much does fear of failure hold us back?

I think fear of failure holds us back a lot, and I think the reason is - most people don't really understand fear.

Fear is imagining the negative outcome you don't want to have happen.

For example, if there was a snake coming at you - right now, in the present moment - you're fine. You'd have to imagine the snake biting you, which would happen in the future (it hasn't happened yet), in order to be afraid of the snake.

So, what we need for kids to focus on is ‘What would you like to have happen?’ They may respond with ‘I'd like the kids to tell me I'm a good athlete, I'd like to do a cartwheel, or I'd like to get an A on my spelling test’ for example. I would then ask them to close their eyes and imagine getting that result - the teachers patting you on the back, the other kids telling you ‘great job’, you're seeing the ball go through the hoop in basketball or the goal in soccer. In doing that, we use that same function of visualization to imagine what we want instead of what we don't want.

One of the great truths of life - is that your body cannot tell the difference between a real event or a vividly imagined event. So, the way to handle fear is to imagine the outcome you want, as opposed to the

www.pakmag.com.au | September / October 2021 7

Parenting

outcome you don't want, and then imagine yourself getting it. If you can teach kids to do that and do it yourself as well, you’ll find it’s much easier to take action, and the fear won't stop you anymore.

When we go into classrooms to read the book and talk to them about overcoming their ‘I can'ts’we use the example of one of Miriam’s kids who wanted to learn to do a cartwheel. She tried it about five times, fell over and said “I can't. I can't do a cartwheel,” and she just walked away.

and nobody is there standing over them, making them feel like they failed. They’re also getting little rewards along the way – winning stars, and points, and coins the whole thing is gamified to keep them addicted to it.

I think we can learn from that.

Miriam then asked her; “Do you really want to do a cart wheel?” She said she did. So, we shared with her the three steps to making it happen; Number one - you have to choose to believe you can learn to do it, because if someone else can do it you can do it.

Number two - you have to find someone who knows how to do it and ask them to teach you what they know.

Number three - you have to practice.

And that's true with anything you want to do. It’s an easy three step process – 1, 2, 3 – you can do anything.

What can parents do to help increase their child’s belief in themselves and self-esteem?

Break down what you are asking into chunks.

Make it easy, break it down into little steps, set positive expectation (in regards to outcomes), and then celebrate and reward all those steps along the way.

Help them experience success one step at a time.

Be Patient. Too often, parents get frustrated and impatient; “Come on you're not trying,” “You're not concentrating,” “Let's go! Focus!” And the kids start feeling like they're failing, instead of experiencing the process of learning feeling fun. Have you noticed how kids will spend hours learning to play a video game?

Why? Because it's something they really want to do,

Believe in the process and your child. When teaching your child to walk. You don’t tell your child “You’ve got 1000 tries, and after that, forget it - I'm not going to work with you anymore.’’ They fall down a lot, they get up, and they fall down, and they just keep doing it - and we keep supporting them until they get it.

Adopt the same approach with whatever your child is learning.

Model positive behaviours and attitudes. It’s important to be the kind of human you want them to be and to show them, by example -how. When we model admitting our own mistakes – it helps children realise mistakes are normal and part of the process.

When we model sharing our authentic, true feelings - children learn that their feelings are okay.

Acknowledging them demonstrates that you, too, are constantly growing and learning. Your children will see you reading, turning off the tv sometimes, challenging yourself, learning new skills. I learned how to juggle when my boys were young, and the balls went everywhere when I dropped them, and they were able to realise that ‘Dad learns new things too, and he doesn't start out perfectly and so it gives us permission not to do that as well’.

Head to www.pakmag.com.au to tune into our very special 100th episode of the PakMag Parents Podcast with more from Jack Canfield on how to help your young people turn ‘I can’t’ into ‘I can’. For more inspiration from Jack head to www.jackcanfield.com

WIN a Copy of I CAN Believe in Myself Valued at $25.15 I CAN Believe in Myself encourages children to turn their negative thoughts into positive ones, weaving themes of compassion, confidence, and self-esteem into a relatable story about a young girl’s struggle to move beyond her comfort zone and turn the word can’t into can!

I CAN Believe in Myself is available to purchase from www.amazon.com.au For your chance to win a copy of I CAN Believe in Myself, head to www.pakmag.com.au/win and enter our competition.

8 September / October 2021 | www.pakmag.com.au

STEAM

Living an Animated Life WITH Beth Harvey, Animator and Animation Director Does your child love to draw? Do they want to work in animation or illustration? Are you wondering where to start or how to nurture their creativity?

PakMag was lucky enough to sit down with Beth Harvey, Animation Director for Ludo Studio’s kids show, Bluey!

We wanted to know what it’s like working on such an amazing show, how she got started and discuss one of her latest projects – illustrating a new children’s book; The Bark Book.

You have a very exciting job as an animator on the hit children’s program Bluey. But, when did you know you wanted to become an animator?

I knew at the age of 15. I saw a behind the scenes documentary about working in Studio Ghibli’s animation studio, and that was when I realized that I could draw for a living. I started buying animated movies, like Disney and Pixar that had behind the scenes specials and I would watch them constantly. I knew then that I was hooked and wanted to learn how to be a 2D animator, and work in film and TV. How did you get into it?

When I knew this was what I wanted to do, I told my parents and they were completely on board with it and supported me. While at high school, I enrolled in an online TAFE course. After that, I entered an animation competition and came runner up, winning a ticket to an acting for animator’s workshop. I then went to University and received a Bachelor of Animation at Griffith’s Queensland College of Art. After Uni, it took me two years before I got my first job.

The Episode Director saw my portfolio website and sent me an email saying that he loved my timing and style and asked if I would like to go over and work on Mr Bean - the second animated series in London!

What’s it like working on Bluey?

Oh, it's a dream come true to work on a show like this, because it's an absolute height of creatives. There are so many inspiring, artistic and humble people that work on this show.

I’d always said at Uni that I wanted to make great cartoon shows for kids, and to look at the one that

I'm working on now… it's just unbelievable really.

How long does it take to put one episode together?

From start to finish it takes around five months because there’s so many steps - script writing, storyboarding, cutting, art direction, design and background. A lot of work goes into, so it's really rewarding to see how much people love this show and how much they relate to it as well.

You have now started illustrating books, how did that come about?

The head of Australian Children’s Publishing at Harper Collins found me online through my Instagram and the comic strips that I create about my dog and I called ‘’Mini and Boo”. She brought up a book that she thought was my style, also about a dog, called “The Bark Book”.

Funnily enough, two months before she had contacted me, I was investigating how I could get into illustration for kids!

So, tell us about The Bark Book The Bark Book is mostly about a dog and its different types of barks, but there is a symmetry between the dog’s bark and the bark of a tree. When it talks about the dog’s sad bark for instance, you’ll see a hidden tree with a sad face in it. It's extremely expressive and full of heart.

What advice, have you got for children interested in a career in animation and illustration?

Draw and keep drawing, even when your drawings aren’t good. I actually wasn't very good at drawing when I was younger. It’s definitely about practice, and I think that the only way to get better is to put time into it. Try online tutorials. Put your work online.

Chasing a career in animation and illustration can be quite difficult but it’s 100 percent worth the effort.

Because, to be able to love what you do every day, I believe that makes you a happier person in general - we spend five out of seven days at work and to look forward to getting up every day to go to work makes life more enjoyable.

Beth Harvey is a Brisbane-based artist who works professionally as an animator and animation director, most notably on the ABC series Bluey. Her artistic skills vary across a diverse range of mediums, from digital art to watercolour, pencils, ink, acrylic and oils. She enjoys telling stories through art, and has just entered the world of illustrating for children. www.bethharvey.com

10 September / October 2021 | www.pakmag.com.au

Some Great resources and Tools for Learning to Draw, Paint and Animate Schoolism www.schoolism.com is a wonderful website where you can pay a subscription to follow recorded courses in different areas of the industry - and you're learning from industry professionals.

Krita Krita is a professional, free and open source painting program. It is made by artists that want to see affordable art tools for everyone. www.krita.org/en

Adobe Animate Design interactive animations for games, TV shows and the web. An app for animation makers of all ages, helping beginners go from a storyboard to animation. www.adobe.com/au/products/animate

Adobe Photoshop From photo editing to digital painting, animation and graphic design — you can do it all in Photoshop. Bring ideas to life across desktop and iPad. www.adobe.com/au/products/photoshop

Great Books on Animation 'The Animator's Survival Kit' by Richard Williams 'Timing for Animation' by Harold Whitaker

Win a Copy of The Bark Book by Victoria Mackinlay and Beth Harvey Worth $19.99 A charming new picture book, full of barks and plenty of heart. Dog bark. Tree bark. Let's go see bark.

The perfect picture book for animal-lovers and nature-lovers everywhere, from rising stars Victoria Mackinlay and Beth Harvey. - www.harpercollins.com.au Visit www.pakmag.com.au/win for your chance to win!

Competition closes 31/10/2021.

For more on Beth’s journey into animation and illustration and her tips for aspiring artists, listen to our full conversation with Beth on Episode 108 of the PakMag Parents Podcast.

Expert Advice

The PakMag Experts Katrina Peters

Danielle Hinschen

Statewide Family Law

MADEC

Dear Katrina,

The National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS), Early Childhood Early Intervention (ECEI) supports families and carers to help children develop the vital skills they need to take part in daily activities and reach their developmental milestones.

Do you have any advice on co-parenting successfully?

We often hear the horror stories about separated parents who just can’t put their own issues aside and focus on the wellbeing and best interests of their children. Unfortunately, in some circumstances after separation, children can be used as pawns in a long running saga of mistrust, disrespect and even hate between the separated parents.

Here are some tips on how to nail co-parenting: 1. Communicate. Don’t expect the other parent to understand what you want without explaining it to them.

Be concise, clear and courteous in your communications.

On the other hand, listen to what they are asking for and really consider what they are saying before just brushing it off or outright refusing. Always be mindful of what is in the children’s best interests.

2. Compromise. It can’t always be about what you want.

There are going to be many occasions throughout your children’s childhood where there is going to have to be some give and take.

3. Don’t fight or argue in front of the children. Remind yourself that these are adult issues and exposure to this could lead to the children experiencing difficulties with far reaching effects including behaviour and emotional issues.

4. Be civil. Sometimes there is merit in being the bigger person. Separated parents don’t have to be the best of friends to effectively co-parent but just behaving in a civil and respectful manner can do wonders to nurture that relationship.

Every parent’s circumstances are different. We recommend parents who are having difficulty with their co-parenting relationship to come and talk to us about strategies and options that can be helpful in navigating their way through the parenting journey. a 34 Wood St, Mackay www.swc.net.au

ECEI supports children under seven years of age. One of the main goals of ECEI is to enable children with disability or developmental delay to develop their skills and participate in day-to-day activities.

If your child is between the age of zero and six years and has a disability or developmental delay, they are likely eligible for ECEI. ECEI is based on early intervention, therefore you do not need a formal diagnosis to access it.

When it comes to ECEI support, MADEC’s expert Support Coordination team provides Support Coordination to assist you in understanding your child’s ECEI Plan and discuss supports available such as Speech Therapy, Occupational Therapy, Psychology, Consumables and Low-Cost Assistive Technology.

The types of supports you can access for your child will depend on their ECEI Plan and early intervention support needs. MADEC’s Support Coordinators can help you and your family understand and implement your child’s plan, make links to the community, mainstream and other Government services, source and connect you with the best providers for your child’s circumstances to ensure that they are receiving the most out of their funded supports.

ECEI and Support Coordination for children under the age of seven paves the way for your child to receive support as early as possible in their life with the aim to minimise the amount of complex support they may require as they grow up.

To find out more information on accessing Early Childhood Intervention, including a step-by-step process, please visit www.ndis.gov.au/understanding/families-and-carers/ how-ecei-works-step-step-process. a 3/17 Macalister St, Mackay www.madec.org.au

www.pakmag.com.au | September / October 2021 13

Father’s Day

Building Memories with Dad STORY Bec Dent Sometimes it’s hard to know what to get Dads for Father’s Day, and even though socks and jocks are practical… they probably don’t scream ‘from the heart’.

Here’s a great handmade gift that will mean the world to him, because it’s the gift of time and shared experiences with the people he treasures most... YOU! ‘Building memories with Dad’ is a simple idea, where you can take an old jar and fill it with building blocks (Lego or Duplo) that all have an activity written on each block. You will need a fine permanent marker to write the activities on the blocks.

What kinds of activities? – Well the kind that are the kid’s favourites to do with their Dad of course, or a list of things / projects they’ve wanted to do together.

The options could include: watching a movie, going bowling, having a water gun fight, playing some backyard cricket, fishing, camping, playing Lego, building a cubby house…etc.

The idea is that once a week, Dad and the kids set aside a time to pull a block out of the jar and do the activity

together. You could do this blindfolded, that way you never know what block will be next, so the surprise is a fun element to add in. Depending on what items you already have at home, you may want to gift Dad some other items you have included in the jar for Father’s Day - like a movie pass, some water guns, a cricket set or a couple of hand lines to go fishing.

Life gets busy and the things that are the most important often get forgotten. This, is a special way to make sure that Dad and the kids don’t miss out on that precious quality time together, making it and each other a priority. Imagine the lasting effects of doing this over a couple of months will have on the connections and closeness within your family dynamic.

We hope you have fun filling the jar and filling your lives with happy memories together. I guarantee you will make your Dad’s day this Father’s Day.

Did you know that Senora Louise Smart Dodd was responsible for making Father’s Day a reality?

When Senora was 16 years old, her Mother passed away and her Father, William Jackson Smart, raised her and her five younger brothers alone.

In 1909, Senora was listening to a Mother’s Day sermon at church when she realized the need to celebrate Fathers especially her own. So, she drew up a petition. What resulted was the first ‘Father’s Day’ celebrated in her hometown - Spokane, Washington. Over the next 62 years she would travel around the United States, speaking on and campaigning for Father’s Day to be celebrated nationally. Finally getting official recognition in 1972.

This holiday is now celebrated in many countries around the world, proving once again; one person can truly make a difference and has left a legacy reminding us to show appreciation and love to our Dads on this special day.

Happy Father’s Day!

14 September / October 2021 | www.pakmag.com.au

WIN

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

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1. The Lad Collective No-Brainer Bundle - $317.56 - www.theladcollective.com - The Lad Collective’s high-quality Bed Sheet Sets are 60 percent bamboo and 40 percent cotton, making them breathable, comfortable and durable. With marked corner straps to identify which corner goes where and the task of pulling the corners underneath quick and easy. The set includes: 2 pillowcases, 1 fitted sheet, 1 flat sheet. Also included in the bundle: the luxurious TLC Towel Set: 1 Bath Sheet, 1 Bath Towel, 1 Face Towel, 1 Hand Towel, and 1 Bath Mat. 1L ‘Daintree Rainforest’ scented Hair and Body Wash (space saving, relationship saving stuff). 1kg Super Wash laundry detergent - only the best wash for the best sheets. 2. Eat Like A Chief - $49.95 - www.eatlikeachief.com - At Chief, they’re totally uncompromising on health, sustainability and keeping the crap out. The Chief Nutrition Starter Pack contains the full range of their healthy snacks including sweet, nut butter based collagen bars (they’re like a biscuit!), and savoury, organic beef bars and biltong (like a roast dinner!). 3. Victorinox GolfTool - $135.00 - www.victorinox.com.au - Raise your game and lower your handicap with the GolfTool – it’s got everything you need for a great day on the course. Use the tee punch to tee up, even on hard or frozen ground. Repair the green with the repair tool. Slide out the ball marker as needed. Repeat until you’ve beaten your best score. 4. The Fashion Card for HIM - $120.00 - www.egiftit.com.au - eGift it was created to bring the joy and surprise to digital gift giving. Show Dad just how much you love him this Father’s Day with the Fashion Card for HIM. This digital gift card can be used at his favourite fashion retailers and brands. Personalise your digital gift by adding a personalised e-greeting card, digital wrapping, music and an animation! 5. MiGoals Progress Bundle Prize Pack - $58.00 - www.migoals.com The MiGOALS Progress Bundle Pack has been created so you can make real progress on your goals and in your day to day life, whether at the office or working from home.

Their 90 day Progress Journal will help you live each day with intention, purpose and focus from AM to PM. While our Weekly Pad will allow you to see the week ahead and plan effectively. Lastly jot down your ideas, daily notes and to do lists with the handy little A6 GSD notebook, with your MiGOALS pen.

Health

All Things Health Postnatal Depletion – What is It and Could I have It?

Make a Difference by Asking R U OK?

STORY Emma Jensen, Integrative Pharmacist, Australian Nutrition Centre

Thursday, 9 September is R U OK? Day. It’s a national day of action, reminding all Australians that every day, is the day to ask the people in your life “Are you OK?”

The physical act of growing a baby inside our bodies requires a huge amount of nutrients.

Postnatal Depletion is a term that is associated with many minerals, vitamins and nutrient insufficiencies. This means we are at great risk if we are unnecessarily depleted and our cells and organs aren’t running properly due to the suboptimal levels of nutrients.

We have been through a lot over the last year and a half, and harm prevention charity R U OK? is encouraging everyone to stay connected and have conversations that can help others through the difficult times in their lives.

Eight people take their lives every day in Australia.

For every death by suicide, it’s estimated 30 people will attempt to take their own life. Being alert to those around you, having meaningful conversations, identifying signs of distress or difficulty and connecting someone to appropriate support, long before they’re in crisis, contributes to suicide prevention.

After losing his father to suicide, United States academic psychologist, Dr Thomas Joiner, dedicated his research to try and answer that complex question “why?”. His theory describes three forces at play in someone at risk, one of these forces is a ‘decreased sense of belonging’.

Whilst every birth is different, there are five key points every mother should be aware:

1. Boost key nutrients – Magnesium, Zinc, B vitamins and Iron (if you are low) are critical.

2. Remember to eat nutrient dense food like fruit, vegetables and meat.

3. Reduce stress and watch out for adrenal fatigue.

4. Repair the body - Collagen, bone broths and

R U OK? aims to prevent that lack of connection and belonging. By taking the time to ask “Are you OK?” and listening, ‘we can help people struggling with life feel connected long before they even think about suicide. It all comes down to regular, face-to-face, meaningful conversations about life. And asking “Are you OK?” is a great place to start’.

For help starting these conversations and other resources head to www.ruok.org.au

reduce inflammation by avoiding processed foods.

5. Listen to your body – we tend to develop a ‘mother’s intuition’ but we need to use it on ourselves.

Your physical and mental wellbeing is much more important to your kids than the folded washing.

For more advice on treating postnatal depletion, talk to your health practitioner or book a consultation at www.australiannutritioncentre.com.au

Tune into Episode 111 of the PakMag Parent’s Podcast with Claire Orange, R U OK? Community Ambassador – voices of lived experience, to find out more about R U OK? Day, the importance of asking that question and how to approach the subject of suicide with children.

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

www.pakmag.com.au | September / October 2021 17

Advertorial

Healthy Relationships from Cultural Perspectives STORY Namarca Corowa, Founding Director of Reconcile Life How we view the world and all that goes on around us - ultimately affects what is going on within us.

In a world with many different views, it is difficult to navigate all types of relationships, let alone the ones that really matter to us.

Disconnection among families and in relationships have been happening since the beginning of human existence. Deciphering the things that matter and the things that are urgent isn’t easy for anyone. While there are multiple points of view in our information dense society, there’s never been a more opportune time to have the basic building blocks to help your personal relationships. Building family safety, identity, and resilience, are just some of the key components that really matter when it comes to establishing healthy family relationships.

Acceptance and tolerance of personal differences should be the paramount thing within any healthy society, and that starts from what a person learns through their life experience and upbringing.

Reconcile Life believe that there are key elements that stem from ancient practices and attitudes that

have been neglected, yet are some of the most important pillars of family safety, identity, and resilience.

Meeting the needs and understanding the aspirations of what people desire in their personal relationships can differ between men, women, and children.

Therefore, having insight, a sense of understanding, and compassion creates a safe and nurturing environment.

Reconcile Life deliver workshops from cultural perspectives for men and boys, and now women and girls as well as a three-day Healthy Relationships Camp. They deliver multiple opportunities for helping relationships in day-to-day life, including men, women, tween and teen programs, and team building for the workplace and sporting clubs.

If you’re outside our Mackay region, then we’d still love to work with you and tailor our services to your needs.

If change is going to happen, it has to come from within our community, and what better way to do that than to enlist the help of positive community-minded people.

Email us admin@reconcilelife.com.au, head to our website www.reconcilelife.com.au or visit our socials on Facebook, Instagram, or YouTube @reconcile_life.

www.pakmag.com.au | September / October 2021 19

Bump, Bub and Beyond

Loving Your Post-Baby Body STORY Yong-Li Zhou As soon as I found out I was pregnant, I was in love.

I fell deeply in love not only with the baby growing in my womb, but also with my pregnancy body.

Pregnancy made me feel like my body was finally doing something right. Having suffered with endometriosis and adenomyosis for most of my life, I was used to being bloated and feeling heavy, but now, my belly was growing for all the right reasons. Unfortunately, those feelings quickly left once I gave birth and an urge to “bounce back” filled me.

My solution to this was to return to exercise. I thought I was doing it right by seeing my physiotherapist and working with a personal trainer to rehabilitate the diastasis recti before embarking on more intense workouts. I believed that through exercise, I was going to get my pre-baby body back. But when the stretch marks refused to fade away, my tummy still sagging and my ribs flared (all evidence of a past pregnancy), I realised that this was my body. My new body.

No amount of exercise could “fix” these imperfections and for a moment, I was fearful. I feared the scrutiny of my imperfect body and people judging my character as lazy or not hard working enough to get back to what I was.

no longer pregnant. So, I have continued this ritual, acknowledging my body for what it was, what it is and what it has experienced and endured for us to be where we are right now in life.

The simplest and most powerful experience which reinforces my body acceptance journey is when my son comes up to me, grabs my face and says “Mama pretty”.

With just two words, all the insecurities surrounding my physical appearance disappear. It only takes two words.

Two words to let you know that you are unconditionally loved. To your little one, you are their whole world.

Beauty is shown through love and affection and that is what children see. You are pretty, you are loved and you are enough.

Nonetheless, this was my reality and to embrace this reality, I needed to address my relationship with exercise. The goal of exercising shouldn’t be to change our body image, it should be about feeling healthy and moving. So that has been my focus for the past year.

Bye-bye scales and hello healthy exercising habits.

I believe that being conscious of the way we use language with each other and in the media is a big stepping-stone in this movement towards body positivity. It is culturally ingrained in us to congratulate and celebrate people for losing weight. However, this has inadvertently fuelled a false perception that women must ‘bounce back’ after pregnancy.

They must uphold society’s expectation that weight loss should be an intrinsic goal of the post-partum journey, with barely a mention of what it means or looks like to be healthy Mum. Whilst social media could be blamed for perpetuating this culture, these same platforms have also proven to be a powerful tool for people to share their experiences and re-colour the image of post-partum life, allowing women to celebrate their perfectly non-perfect bodies.

Body appreciation practice is something I have recently started to incorporate into my daily schedule. One of the ways I tried to bond with my baby whilst he was in utero was to sing a lullaby while massaging Enbacci’s Complete Body Firming Lotion into my skin, focusing particularly on the belly. Aside from keeping your skin hydrated and nourished, this process also made me grow an appreciation for my body, but we often overlook little powerful rituals like these when we are

Life is a journey and change is inevitable.

Acknowledging, accepting and appreciating these changes as part of our own individual journey is the only way we can reimagine what a healthy body (and mind) should look like. Your happiness should not be determined by society’s expectations of body image, but by the love you have for your own body.

Yong-Li Zhou is CEO of Embrace Products Group Pty Ltd, Co-Founder of Enbacci and a Mum. She is an accredited product formulator and advanced skin science expert.

www.pakmag.com.au | September / October 2021 21

Bump, Bub and Beyond

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

Peace Fabric Wall Decal from Growing Kind $64.95 www.growingkind.com.au Remove and reuse this inspirational “Peace” poster decal over and over! It’s easy to use – simply peel and stick. No framing, no hanging and no holes in the wall that need patching if you change your mind.It’s eco-friendly and non-toxic – free from harmful phthalates, has a beautiful fabric finish and is Australian made.

Size: 50 x 70cm

VTech Tummy Time Discovery Pillow $39.95 - www.target.com.au The soft Tummy Time Discovery Pillow features a friendly giraffe and provides comfortable support for your baby with three ways to play. The crescent-shaped pillow provides support during tummy time play as your child begins strengthening their neck muscles and supports them while they’re learning to sit on their own. The pillow has multiple textures, patterns and colours for visual and tactile stimulation. Light-up piano keys on the removable piano introduce numbers, colours, shapes and animals, and play sing-along nursery rhymes, music and short tunes. The removable baby-safe mirror and rattle are perfect for on the go play.

Enbacci Complete Body Firming Lotion Pioneering the use of stem cell technology in Australia, luxury skincare brand, Enbacci, unveils the science behind their revolutionary Complete Body Firming Lotion, crediting the stem cells of a 11,700 year old plant, the Saponaria Pumila, for its firming and toning abilities. As the first allover body treatment in Australia to contain Saponaria Pumila stem cells, the Complete Body Firming Lotion by Enbacci combines a host of natural ingredients, such as Sunflower Seed Oil, Sweet Almond Oil, Macadamia Oil, Shea Butter and Lecithin, to energise dermal skin cell activity, improve moisture retention and re-densify sagging, tired and postpregnancy skin. $80.00 - www.enbacci.com

22 September / October 2021 | www.pakmag.com.au

Bump, Bub and Beyond

Helpful Tips for a Great Start to Fatherhood STORY Sara Williams After nine months of organising the house, scrolling through baby names and feeling the kicks in your partners belly, the big day you’ve been waiting for has finally arrived. You are now a father! No matter how much research you’ve done, nothing can prepare you for being a dad quite like your first newborn.

Looking After Yourself and Your Partner Once upon a time it was just the two of you and now your adorable bundle has brought unconditional love, laughter, tears, and sleepless nights. Check in to see how each other is going and do things together that you used to. Keep the communication open as you find your way through new changes such as parenting, housework and finances. Spending time alone, with friends and meeting other parents are all important factors that contribute to overall happier mental wellbeing. It can put you at ease to share challenges, advice and funny stories with someone who understands how equally difficult and incredible this time of your life is.

Drop it like a Tot!

How Can I Connect with My Newborn?

Studies have shown that babies are born with a keen sense of rhythm. Even though they can’t ‘boogie’ from birth, their beat perception is there and they can respond to the rhythm and tempo of music. According to the research, they find music more engaging than speech! So, turn on the tunes for those ‘tiny dancers.’

Your baby may not be able to walk, talk and play yet but there are many ways you can connect with your baby. Spending quality time with your little one early will strengthen your bond from the get go.

Talking, reading and singing songs to your baby enables them to become familiar with your voice and learn early stages of language development.

Soothing bub through burping, cuddling and gently rocking will build their trust. You can also connect by pulling silly faces and tickling toes while changing nappies and bathing.

www.pakmag.com.au | September / October 2021 23

Puzzle

Parent's Puzzle: Criss-Cross Fill in the blanks with the words. To help you get started, two letters are already in place.

4 Letter Words

7 Letter Words

CAVE DEAL

ALERT BLEND DREAM EVENT FLEET MAPLE PLANS QUILT SCRUB SEWED STAFF STAMP TABLE TASTE TEETH TITLE TOWER TROUT TRUTH URBAN

ADVANCE ALRIGHT ANCIENT APPROVE BARRIER BLANKET CONNECT DECIMAL DELIVER DOLPHIN EVIDENT GESTURE HEALTHY MAXIMUM OUTDOOR PLANTED REFEREE SCARLET SILENCE STRIPED STUDENT TADPOLE TOTALLY UNCOVER

6 Letter Words

12 Letter Words

ADJUST DIPPED GREECE THEORY

AGRICULTURAL MANUFACTURER MATHEMATICAL SATISFACTION

5 Letter Words

Win a Copy of Exit Through The Gift Shop by Maryam Master Anahita Rosalind Ghorban-Galaszczuk (yes, that really is her name but you can call her Ana) is discovering that life is absurd. As if dying of cancer at the age of 12.5 isn't bad enough, she still has to endure daily insults from her nemesis, Alyssa (Queen Mean) Anderson. Ana's on a wild roller-coaster of life and death, kindness and cruelty, ordinary and extraordinary. And she's got a few things to do before she exits . . . $16.99 - www.panmacmillan.com.au Visit www.pakmag.com.au/win for your chance to win!

Competition closes 30/10/2021. No need to submit ativities in to enter.

24 September /2021 October | www.pakmag.com.au 2021 | www.pakmag.com.au

Answers can be found at www.pakmag.com.au/answers

Pull-out kids activity mag!

Exclusive to cinemas from SEPTEMBER 16

Exclusive to cinemas from IN CINEMAS INSEPTEMBER CINEMAS SOON SOON 16 © 2021 Par. Pics. © 2021 Par. Pics.

For your chance to WIN a family pass to PAW PATROL: THE MOVIE enter at www.pakmag.com.au/win.

Competition closes 17/09/2021. No need to submit activity to enter.

Connect the dots then colour in!

Lead the bird to the flowers then colour the maze in!

Win a Burping Bobby Game Worth $39.99!

Bobby loves stinky food! Feed him, but watch out – you never know when he’s going to BUUUURRRRP! Real lights and steam will burst from his mouth when he burps! The player with the most points after Bobby burps wins. Now available at all leading retailers. www.crownandandrews.com Visit www.pakmag.com.au/win for your chance to win!

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1

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Colour by numbers!

5

Copy the burger and colour it in!

Win a Pop The Pig Game Worth $39.99!

Who’s going to Pop The Pig? Roll the die to see which coloured hamburger to select, choose a burger and turn it over to reveal the number. Then, put the burger into Pig’s mouth and pump Pig’s head the number of times as shown on the burger. The more you pump, the more his belly grows until . . . POP! Pop the Pig provides hours of fun and is completely kid powered (no batteries needed). Now available at all retailers. www.crownandandrews.com Visit www.pakmag.com.au/win for your chance to win!

Competition closes 30/10/2021. No need to submit ativities to enter.

Adult Colouring

Win an Evidence Skincare (ESK) Essentials Kit Worth $189.00!

The perfect introduction into the world of cosmeceuticals, the Essentials Kit by Australia's leading skincare brand, Evidence Skincare (ESK), contains the exfoliating Hydroxy Cleanser, niacinamide-based B Calm emulsion, and the brand's cult favourite, Ultimate A, an evening night cream containing the superior form of vitamin A, retinal. Founded by Australian GP and TV personality, Dr. Ginni Mansberg, the kit actively smooths skin, strengthens skin barrier function and rebuilds collagen on a cellular level. Ideal for beginners, the Essentials Kit is a powerful anti-ageing and anti-acne system for adults of all ages. www.eskcare.com Visit www.pakmag.com.au/win for your chance to win!

Competition closes 30/10/2021. No need to submit ativity to enter.

Craft

www.onelittleproject.com

Halloween Craft

Spoon Bats www.iheartartsncrafts.com

What You Need • • • •

Small wooden spoons Black paper White paper Scissors

• Googly eyes • Craft glue • Paint and paintbrush

Method Paint the backs and sides of the wooden spoons with your chosen colour/s and let dry.

To make the bat’s wings, fold a black piece of paper in half, draw a single bat wing against the folded edge, and cut it out. Repeat this process till you have enough wings for the spoons.

Now, make the bat ears by cutting out small triangles from the black paper. Then repeat with white paper to make the fangs.

Once the spoons are dry, glue these and the eyes on as shown in the picture.

Now grab your wings and add some glue down the middle where the paper was originally folded and stick the spoon on to make the bat’s body. Gently fold the wings up over the spoon to give them some shape and there you have it, Spoon Bat decorations for your Halloween celebrations.

30 September / October 2021 | www.pakmag.com.au

Fluffy Pumpkin Slime What You Need • • • • • •

½ cup Elmer’s School Glue 4 cups unscented shaving cream Orange food colouring ¼ tsp Baking Soda Saline solution (you can use contact solution) Pumpkin scented oil (optional)

Method Start with combining ½ cup of Elmer’s School Glue and 4 cups of shaving cream in a bowl. Then add a few drops of orange food colouring and if you like, some pumpkin scented oil.

Now mix in a ¼ teaspoon of baking soda, followed by the saline solution - 1 Tbsp at a time. Keep adding and mixing in the solution until the slime starts to form a tougher, slimy, ball like structure. Stop adding saline solution once all the stickiness is gone.

Knead and play with the slime until it takes on a marshmallow consistency, then play some more.

For storage, an air tight container is best.

Food

Halloween Fruit Platter and Dipping Sauce Ingredients (Makes 1 Platter) • • 2 bananas • • 250g strawberries • 3 mandarins • 1 red and 1 green apple • • 1 kiwifruit • • Sultanas • • Mini marshmallows • • Green grapes

Mini dark choc drops White choc buttons and choc drops 2 Tbsp peanut butter 1 cup Greek yoghurt 200g cream cheese 2 skewers

Method Beginning with the strawberry yogurt dip, blitz up a handful of strawberries (fresh or frozen) until they resemble a puree. Then blend softened cream cheese and yoghurt. Combine the two mixtures and refrigerate while preparing the fruit.

To make the ‘ghostly’ bananas, peel and halve.

Gently embed dark choc drops as eyes, and sultanas as mouths.

To make the googly grape eyes, halve the green grapes, embed some white buttons and dark choc drops. To help stick the drops together, you can heat up one side to melt and fuse them together.

For the apple creatures, slice the apples into quarters (setting aside one green apple

quarter), before cutting a small segment out of each to mimic an open mouth. Add peanut butter to half of them and fill with mini marshmallow teeth. For the remaining half, add sliced strawberries (to make the tongue) and some mini marshmallows. You can also use peanut butter to help stick them together. Use white chocolate drops and dark chocolate drops for the eyes. For the red apple ‘mouth monsters’ pictured, no choc drops are necessary.

Now onto the Jack-o’-lanterns. Peel the mandarins, and thinly slice the remaining green apple to use as stems.

For the kiwifruit ‘Frankenstein’s’, peel, slice in half, and skewer them. Melt some dark choc chips in the microwave, and pipe on to make the hair, mouth, and scars. Then pipe a drop onto some mini marshmallows and attach to the kiwifruit using the melted chocolate as adhesive. If you don’t have a piping bag, you can add the mix to a zip lock bag, push it into the corner and snip the tip of the corner with scissors (remembering you want only a fine line, so don’t snip too much).

For the strawberry ‘mummies’, melt white chocolate in the microwave then drizzle in a zigzag. Add dark choc drops before it sets to help them stick.

Once the dip is set, using the melted white chocolate, pipe a web on the surface and create a spider using a whole sultana for the body, and slices for the legs.

www.pakmag.com.au | September / October 2021 31

Parenting

Protecting our Children’s Mental Health STORY Claire Orange Tucked away in my treasure trove of mothering memories, I can still see the moment like it was yesterday. My first little one, rocking cute dungarees and welly-boots. Crouched over, with his podgy hands tucked between thighs and tummy, completely captivated and mesmerised by a bee dancing on a dandelion.

With a milk-stuffed baby tucked under one arm and a nappy bag in the other, I was barrelling through my ‘must-do’s’ between feeds – in a world of ‘hurry-up, it’s time to go!’ Yet, in that moment, watching the notto-be-hurried discovery and quiet wonderment of my child, I had a beautiful reminder to honour my child’s mental health and wellbeing non-negotiables.

The Childhood Mental Health Non-Negotiables As parents, we’re inundated with education about our child’s diet, sleep, and movement-related physical health needs. We’re schooled in looking for, celebrating, or being concerned about, the achievement of developmental milestones. Yet, in all of that education, how much do we know about the developing mental health of our children; the risk factors and protective factors, the non-negotiables and warning signs?

Being that a firm foundation of mental health in childhood is the most powerful predictor of life success and happiness, leaving it to chance discoveries and realisations is simply not good enough.

Regardless of age, stage or gender, there are fundamentals that every child needs as a firm foundation of mental health and wellbeing. Now that’s not to say that mental illness means that these factors were necessarily missing in childhood, rather, we know that really focusing on these fundamentals is a great mental springboard to start every child with.

These are the Non-Negotiables from Which Great Things Grow • From day one and onwards, eye contact with our babies stimulates something called ‘serve and return’ in their brains. In those moments of face-to-face

connection, something truly beautiful happens.

We turn on love, trust and connection-seeking, and we strengthen attachment and activate empathy.

• Responding to our children’s big and little hurts and frustrations by being calm ourselves and helping our child to become progressively more efficient and independent in finding their own calm, lays the foundation of resilience and coping.

• Like with dandelion gazing, childhood’s slow-ticking clock has its own beat, with so much ‘less’ needed within the ‘more’. Honouring the need for more time to explore, understand, trust and engage, with less hurry-hurry, and less scheduled activities.

• Looking for and celebrating our child’s strengths activates their sense of self-identity, self-worth and self-esteem. It means remembering that their childhood is not ours to fill with our own wishes and preparations for a budding coder, athlete, musician or dancer, but to accept and amplify their gifts, talents and interests.

Those are the childhood mental health non-negotiables, yet, when we set them against the reality of 21st Century family and school life, it’s not hard to see where things might start to go off track. There’s the pull of that shiny little screen gobbling up our attention and interrupting vital serve and return interactions during feeding, play and family time.

Busyness is worn like a crown. “Super-women” are idolised on socials, looking like they’ve got it all effortlessly together, mixing work and regular exercise with raising perfect-looking children, those always with a merit certificate or trophy in hand. The glorification of ‘busy’ has meant a trade-off against honouring the slow-ticking clock of childhood. Too much, too soon and too often.

We Must Get Serious About Protection It should alarm every Australian parent that suicide is the leading cause of death in our young people.

Yes, really. Nationally, we’re experiencing rising levels of childhood anxiety and depression, with the average age

www.pakmag.com.au | September / October 2021 33

Parenting

of presentation getting increasingly younger.

One in three girls and one in five boys experience anxiety, and one in seven children have a mental disorder.

Of course, while suicide sits right at the top of the pile of harms that happen, there are others.

Abuse, exploitation, exclusion and over-exposure join the critical drivers of mental ill-health and understanding the pressures of 21st Century life for our young people equips us all to have better protective conversations and actions.

Talking to Children About Suicide With national mental health campaigns destigmatising mental illness and help seeking, it comes hand-in-hand with a higher awareness of suicide which can open the door to some sticky conversations with our young people. It’s a conversation that shoulder partners the sex conversation for many parents in terms of uuughh-factor.

As a parent you might worry that talking about suicide might somehow open your child’s thinking to the possibility. But by taking a positive and proactive approach to talking about mental health being just like dental health – regular check-ups with a bit of work from time-to-time - it becomes less focused on the act of suicide and more focused on the preventative actions.

R U OK? Day is every family’s opportunity to start, and continue, the conversation about mental health. Part of equipping our children for life is normalising that hard stuff happens – to everyone.

That no one gets a leave pass from life’s lemons.

By taking a positive approach to this conversation, we can teach our children to know the signs of feeling overwhelmed and emotionally under-resourced, reassure them that everyone needs help, and that asking for help is strong and courageous. Address the question of, “What is suicide?” if it comes up directly, however, the much more powerful conversation is about the warning signs and ways to find help.

It’s On Us As a therapist I have seen what the very worst moments in a parent’s life look like when it all goes wrong. Borne witness to grief that hurts to be in the presence of. Held space for stories so sad that every cell resonates with pain. The mental health of our children is paramount, it’s vulnerable and it needs our urgent and collective attention.

Protection of our children’s mental health is on us.

It starts in the choices we make in our homes that honour the non-negotiables of a mentally healthy childhood. Managing our own and our child’s device use and digital exposure. Not being a slave to too much, too soon and too busy. Teaching our children to look after their mental health by knowing their own emotional warning signs – and those of others – and to ask for help courageously. We also need to look after our own mental health so that it lights the path to our precious children doing the same. It’s OK not to be OK and to ask for help early, often and effectively – parenting is tough, and life is bumpy. Remember to fit your own oxygen mask first.

To find out more about RU OK? Day and starting the conversation head to www.ruok.org.au

Claire is the mum of four boys, a therapist, an author, media spokesperson, speaker and a passionate advocate for better outcomes for children everywhere. From writing social and emotional wellbeing resources for children, their families, schools and therapists through to speaking nationally and internationally on children’s social and emotional well-being, Claire is dedicated to raising the bar in children’s preventative mental health. Claire is the co-Director of BEST Programs 4 Kids with Helen Davidson and the Director of DiGii Social.

Find out more at www.claireorange.com.au

Podcast: For more on R U OK? Day, and having these tough discussions with your child, tune into Episode 111 of the PakMag Parents Podcast with Claire Orange joining Bree. www.pakmag.com.au

Need Help or Support?

• MensLine Australia - 1300 789 978

• If your life is in danger CALL 000

• QLife (anonymous and free LGBTI peer support and referral)- 1800 184 527 - www.qlife.org.au

If you or someone you care for is in need of immediate assistance you can contact the below National 24/7 Crisis Counselling Services: • Lifeline - 13 11 14 - 24/7 - www.lifeline.org.au

Need More Information / Resources?

• R U OK? - www.ruok.org.au • Mental Health Australia - www.mhaustralia.org

• Beyond Blue - 1300 22 4636 -www.beyondblue.org.au

• Head to Health - www.headtohealth.gov.au

• Butterfly Foundation National Helpline (for people affected by eating disorders and negative body image issues) - 1800 334 673 www.butterfly.org.au

• Headspace - www.headspace.org.au

• Kids Helpline - 1800 55 1800- www.kidshelpline.com.au

34 September / October 2021 | www.pakmag.com.au

• Black Dog - www.blackdoginstitute.org.au • ReachOut - www.au.reachout.com • World Mental Health Day - www.1010.org.au

Discover New Season Styles Spring fashion is here

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www.canelandcentral.com.au

Caneland Central

caneland.central

School Holiday Guide

School Holiday Guide Sarina Sugar Shed Special Kids Tour During the school holidays the Sarina Sugar Shed will be running a special ‘kids tour’ from 10.30am everyday.

It’s a fun interactive session that focuses on the kids!

Adults welcome at kids prices! Discover the growing and harvesting of the sugar cane, complete a hunt for the critters that live in their Sugar Cane Patch.

See how sugar cane is crushed in ‘Bill the Mill Junior’ their miniature sugar mill and taste the fresh, deliciously sweet sugar cane juice.

During the tour (approx. 45 minutes) you can touch and feel the different stages of the production, taste their non-alcoholic ginger beer brewed onsite, and freshly spun fairy floss for big and little kids! Please note, the full tasting experience is not included in this tour.

Cost: $13.30 for kids and adults, kids under 5 are free.

Runs everyday at 10.30am, bookings essential.

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

Dinosaur Festival Mackay Offering a glimpse into the prehistoric past, the Dinosaur Festival is a must see! Come face to face with a T-Rex, marvel at the sheer size of a Brachiosaurus, and jump in a giant egg for a photo op. With handson activities and all that’s on show, it’s a perfect opportunity to get the kids out and immersed in the Dino world. No need to hide it, you’ll probably love it too.

Please note they will not have tickets at the door, book online at mackay.dinofestivalaustralia.com A Mackay Showgrounds E mackay@dinofestivalaustralia.com mackay.dinofestivalaustralia.com

Sidetrax Bring your family and friends for a fun and high intensity go-kart race or some spinning and laughing in the Dodgems. Minimum age for both activities is 7 years and a minimum height of 1.25m to drive yourself, or from 4 years to be a passenger. Come dressed for the occasion with closed in shoes, shorts or long pants.

No loose clothing, dresses or skirts. The track is indoors, so it’s always race day if you want it to be.

During school holidays Sidetrax is open from 10.00am (18 September to 3 October). Cost: from $7.00 for a Dodgem ride and $39.00 for a Go-Kart race.

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

Whitsunday Arts Festival

When: 9.00am - 5.00pm from Friday, 17 September to Sunday, 19 September.

The Whitsunday Arts Festival is a must during these school holidays. Providing the perfect mix of activities including cultural performances, live music, and workshops, there’s no excuse to miss it. For more information and a full list of events check out their website.

Cost: Kids under 2 are FREE, kids under 14 $17.00, adults $25.00, seniors $20.00, family of four (2 adults and 2 kids) $74.00, $150.00 for a group of 8.

A Fairy Tree Park, Airlie Beach Foreshore Whitsunday Arts Festival www.whitsundaysartsfestival.org

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 | September / October 2021 39

School Holiday Guide

Caneland Central Visit Melting Moments at Caneland Central these school holidays to experience four zones full of fun for all ages.

Spin the wheel to win a prize, pose with your bestie in Strawberry Fields or Gummy Galaxy, taste a fairy floss cloud and immerse yourself in a sweet escape.

T&C’s apply

FREE. Visit the Facebook page for more information and to find out what’s on these school holidays.

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

When: Monday, 13 September - Sunday, 3 October

South Leagues Club Mackay

Where: Centre Court, near Myer

Play, eat and enjoy at South Leagues Club. The family can enjoy a delicious meal for dinner or lunch from the affordable, family-friendly restaurant Souths Bistro. You can relax in the gaming room or grab a drink from the sports bar while the kids hang out and play in the kids zone – a room full of games, activities, movies and play equipment. No need for a babysitter at Souths Mackay!

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

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

When: Open from Monday to Friday in the school holidays from 9.00am – 3.00pm, and until 4.00pm on Saturdays.

Cost: From $8.50, children under one year FREE. Don’t forget your socks! Private Hire for kid’s parties and large groups can be booked outside of opening hours.

A 75 Evans Ave, North Mackay P 4953 5575 E admin@kidzlife.com.au www.kidslife.com.au

Artspace Mackay Artspace Mackay offers drop-in style, family art activities for children and their parents. The program is

A 181 Milton St P 4957 2166 E marketing@southsmackay.com.au South Leagues Club Mackay www.southsmackay.com.au

Forest Flying - Flying Fox An unforgettable way to immerse yourself in Queensland’s stunning rainforests. The Forest Flying eco-tourism experience is set up to allow you to view the rainforest of Finch Hatton Gorge from a unique angle. Their flying fox is an overhead cable and pulley system up to 25 metres above ground that allows you to travel 340 metres through the rainforest canopy. The minimum weight to use the flying fox is 30 kilograms and the maximum weight is 120 kilograms. Children under 18 years old must be accompanied by an adult.

Recommended minimum age 10 years. If you can do an average bush walk you can do Forest Flying!

Cost: $90.00.

A 18 Olivers Road, Finch Hatton P 07 4958 3359 E info@forestflying.com forestflying.com

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.

40 September / October 2021 | www.pakmag.com.au

School Holiday Guide

Mackay Regional Botanic Gardens The Botanic Gardens have self guided activities on offer that can be printed from home or picked up from the brochure holders at the Community Noticeboard opposite the café. The activity sheets include: Bird Spotting Quiz in the Gardens, Nature Scavenger Hunt, Alphabet I-Spy, 25 fun things to do, Epic Voyagers Adventure Trails, Epic Voyagers Adventure Hunt, and Young Voyagers Adventure Hunt. There’s plenty more to do at the Mackay Regional Botanic Gardens for kids - check in on their website for updated school holiday content.

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

Big4 Whitsundays Tropical Eco Resort Nestled in seven acres of shady tropical greenery, Big4 Whitsundays Tropical Eco Resort have plenty to do for families including a playground, jumping pillow, quad bikes for hire, a pool and a brand-new ninja challenge course - making it the perfect school holiday getaway with the kids. Costs start from $38.00 (unpowered grass sites). Accommodation options include camping/caravan sites as well as two bedroom apartments, eco lodges, villas, and more.

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

Leaders Sailing Camp - with an experienced sailing crew Get the kids out on the water for an Adventure Trip around the Whitsunday Islands these school holidays!

On the Outer Limits Adventure Fitness Leaders Sailing Camp your children will explore the islands, swim at

secluded beaches and snorkel the fringing coral reefs.

The accommodation on board is an open plan shared cabin with single bunk beds. All meals are provided.

This camp is suited for experienced adventurers, recommended age is 10 - 15 years.

The adventure begins at Airlie Beach, 27 September and runs for four days / three nights, $750.00 per person. outerlimitsadventure.com.au

Escape Rooms Mackay Enter a themed room and work as a team to solve a series of puzzles, riddles and hints before your 60 minute time limit runs out. Fun for families, friends and groups. Please be advised the rooms are geared more towards mid-teens and adults due to the level of difficulty and themes.Players under the age of 12 need to be accompanied by a paying adult. You are able to bring younger children but be aware there may be scary themes. Some groups of 13 and 14 year olds may find the puzzles a bit too challenging.

Cost: from $31.00 per player.

A 344 Alfred Street, Mackay P 0484 372 273 www.escaperoomsmackay.com.au

Whitsunday Crocodile Safari Take a trip on the “Wild Side” and see crocodiles in their natural habitat in the Whitsundays. This highly rated day-trip is a safe, all-weather ‘safari style’ excursion, which takes you cruising in crocodile habitat on the Proserpine River, then touring Goorganga Plains Wetlands on a wagon train to observe native Australian wildlife.

Cost: $50.00 for ages 1 - 4, $85.00 for ages 5 - 17, and $140.00 for adults.

P 07 4948 3310 Whitsunday Crocodile Safari www.crocodilesafari.com.au

We have done our best to ensure all events and information was correct at the time of going to print.

Please check with individual businesses and authorities during these uncertain times.

www.pakmag.com.au www.pakmag.com.au | September | July/ /October August 2021 43

Daddy Diary

Daddy Diary Being a parent is a little like the 1993 Bill Murray comedy ‘Groundhog Day’. If you haven’t seen the film; it’s about a weatherman named Phil who wakes up and relives the same exact day over and over again. From memory, his day repeats a few hundred times. And this my friends takes me back to my original statement.

Parenting life is like Groundhog Day. So, in an effort to get this of my chest, (a problem shared - is a problem halved), I proudly present the parental list of things that happen to me (and most parents) – day, after day, after day, after day, after day, after day – you get the point.

• Play ‘20 Questions’ on random topics. Today’s topic was: ‘why aren’t dogs blue?’

• Fill water bottles, and put them back in the fridge.

Elephants can drink up to 100 litres of water a day. I reckon my family could give them a run for their money.

• Pack, and unpack the dishwasher.

• Hear the statement “I’m hungry”.

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

• Vacuum. Thank the lord for the cordless Dyson.

• Referee arguments. Leaving the hospital with a second-born should come with a complimentary whistle.

• Hear the statement “I’m hungry”.

• Change the TV channel to ‘22’ - even if I’m watching it first.

• Straighten up the stools under the kitchen bench.

This is probably just a Cliffo thing.

• Hear the statement “I’m hungry”.

• Shout “get that out of your mouth!”

• Pick up toys that mysteriously make their way into the living room. It’s like ‘Toy Story’ at our place.

• Have our two-year-old son Charlie yell “swing” at me.

It’s his not-so-subtle hint that it’s time for me to drop what I’m doing – immediately - to push him on the swing. This is one on the list I actually like.

• Hear the statement “I’m hungry”. Noticing a theme yet?

It’s quite the list really. And it certainly is not exclusive to me and my better half. Being a parent to kidletts is a repetitive merry-go-round. But it’s also the best ride of your life. Who else would you do it all for, other than you kids, every single day? Probably no one. Anyway, for now - I better run. I want to cut out the above list and keep it in a safe place for when my kids have kids of their own. Payback sucks.

Cliffo Hit 100.3

www.pakmag.com.au | September www.pakmag.com.au | September / October 2021 45

Mackay and Whitsundays What’s On WEDNESDAY 1 SEPTEMBER

FRIDAY 3 SEPTEMBER

Toddler Playtime Runs each weekday PCYC Mackay PCYC Mackay 9.00am - 11.00am / Members $8.00 , Non-member $10.00, 0 5 years, under 12 months FREE

Toddler Time Runs weekly on Fridays during the school term Dudley Denny City Library www.mackay.qld.gov.au/libraries 9.30am / FREE - bookings essential / G - toddlers to 2.5 years

Paul Ettore Tabone Sings Golden Days CQCM Theatre www.paultabone.com 6.00pm / $20.00 - $30.00 / G STEAM Club Runs weekly on Wednesdays during the school term Gordon White Library www.mackay.qld.gov.au/libraries 3.30pm / FREE / Year 3 to Year 6 Story Time Runs weekly on Wednesdays during the school term Sarina Library, Gordon White Libary www.mackay.qld.gov.au/libraries 9.30am / FREE - Book online / G (2.5 - 5 years) Toddler Time Runs weekly on Wednesdays during the school term Mirani Library www.mackay.qld.gov.au/libraries 9.30am / FREE - Book online / G (toddlers up to 2.5 years) THURSDAY 2 SEPTEMBER Baby Bounce Runs weekly on Thursdays during the school term Gordon White Library www.mackay.qld.gov.au/libraries 10.30am / FREE - booking essential / G (babies from birth to walking) Story Time Come dressed as your favourite book character to celebrate Children’s Book Week! Runs weekly on Thursdays during the school term Dudley Denny City Library www.mackay.qld.gov.au/libraries 10.30am / FREE - Book online / G (2.5 - 5 years)

Haunt Dinner Theatre Runs every Friday and Saturday Night Haunt Mackay, 39 Victoria St www.hauntmackay.com.au 6.30pm / $79.00 - $300.00 / R 18 + SATURDAY 4 SEPTEMBER Mackay Pioneer Valley Relay for Life Meadowlands Ampitheatre cancerqld.org.au 2.00pm - 10.00pm / G Dads ‘n’ Bubs Baby Bounce Dudley Denny City Library www.mackay.qld.gov.au/libraries 10.00 - 10.30 / FREE / Booking Essential SUNDAY 5 SEPTEMBER Father’s Day Happy Father’s Day Dads!

Child Protection Week Runs until Saturday 11 September Find events near you on their website childprotectionweek.org.au MONDAY 6 SEPTEMBER Baby Bounce Runs weekly on Mondays during the school term Dudley Denny City Library www.mackay.qld.gov.au/libraries 11.00am / FREE - bookings essential / G (babies from birth to walking) Baby Bounce Runs weekly on Mondays during the school term Mirani Library www.mackay.qld.gov.au/libraries 9.30am / FREE - bookings essential / G (babies from birth to walking)

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

With HIT 100.3’s Cliffo & Gabi

Toddler Time Runs weekly on Mondays during the school term Mirani Library, Sarina Library, Gordon White Library www.mackay.qld.gov.au/libraries 9.30am / FREE - bookings essential / G - toddlers to 2.5 years

Gordon White Library www.mackay.qld.gov.au/libraries 1.30pm - 2.30pm / FREE bookings essential / 18 years +

Muddy Monday Runs every Monday All Abilities Mackay Summer House All Abilities Mackay Inc 9.30am - 11.30am / $6.20 / G

The MECC and Bell Shakespere Present A Midsummer’s Night’s Dream MECC Auditorium www.themecc.com.au 7.30pm / $22.00 - $45.00

Disability Expo Andergrove Community Centre www.mackay.qld.gov.au 9.00am - 1.00pm / FREE, registration required

safeTALK Suicide Prevention Training Dudley Denny City Library www.grapevinegroup.org.au 9.00am - 12.00pm / FREE / M 15 years +

TUESDAY 7 SEPTEMBER Learn to Line Dance Runs weekly on Tuesday Dows Creek Hall Committee Inc Dows Creek Community Hall 6.30pm - 8.30pm / $5.00 $10.00, Kids under 10 FREE / G Baby Bounce Runs weekly on Tuesdays during the school term Sarina Library www.mackay.qld.gov.au/libraries 9.30am / FREE - bookings essential / G (babies from birth to walking) Baby Bounce Runs weekly on Tuesdays during the school term Walkerston Library www.mackay.qld.gov.au/libraries 11.00am / FREE - bookings essential / G (babies from birth to walking) Story Time Runs weekly on Tuesdays during the school term Walkerston Library, Mirani Library www.mackay.qld.gov.au/libraries 9.30am / FREE - Book online / G (2.5 - 5 years) Made by You! Seed Cards Create eco-friendly seed cards that will grow when planted

THURSDAY 9 SEPTEMBER R U OK? Day Nationwide www.ruok.org.au

FRIDAY 10 SEPTEMBER Don River Dash Off-road race for buggies and bikes. Runs until 12 September Bowen Showgrounds, Don Riverbed Don River Dash G / Spectators can view the action from designated spectator areas along The Don River banks Made by You! Polymer Clay Miniatures Create cute modern miniature charms and trinkets Walkerston Library www.mackay.qld.gov.au/libraries 2.00pm - 3.00pm / FREE bookings essential / 18 years + Bravehearts White Balloon Day Wear white and raise funds for child protection whiteballoonday.com.au SATURDAY 11 SEPTEMBER Whitsunday Trail Festival 2021 Runs until 12 September Airlie Beach foreshore, Airlie Creek Trail, Conway Circuit, Brandy Creek www.runwhitsundays.com.au Various Times, Events and Costs see website for full details / G, events for 4 years +

www.pakmag.com.au | September / October 2021 47

Mackay and Whitsundays What’s On SATURDAY 11 SEPTEMBER

TUESDAY 14 SEPTEMBER

Hand Heart Pocket River 2 Reef Ride Charity Bike Ride Canelands Park, Mackay river2reefride.com.au From 5.30am / $15.00 $30.00 / 10 years + (Juniors aged 10 - 14 must ride with an experienced adult)

Dexter’s Storytime Explore the magic of reading with Dexter the comfort dog, as he reads a new title each month Gordon White Library www.mackay.qld.gov.au/libraries 10.00am - 10.30am / FREE / G

Festival Of Sails 2021 Runs until 12 September Kinchant Dam Mackay Sailing Club Yacht Division Whitsundays Arts Festival Lantern Making Workshops Sessions run until 13 September Kipara Tropical Retreat www.whitsundaysartsfestival.org 9.00am - 12.00pm and 1.00pm - 4.00pm daily / $20.00 $25.00 / G SUNDAY 12 SEPTEMBER Mackay Colour Frenzy Fun run John Breen Park, Mackay colourfrenzy.com.au 8.30am / from $5.00 / All ages, friendly dogs welcome Sarina Sugar Shed 15 Year Birthday Celebration Free fairy floss and giveaways Sarina Sugar Shed sarinasugarshed.com.au 9.00am - 4.00pm / FREE ENTRY, Half Price Tour Tours /G MONDAY 13 SEPTEMBER Melting Moments at Caneland Central Runs until 3 October Centre Court near Myer www.canelandcentral.com.au FREE / G Movie Screening Time to Choose Academy Award®-winning documentary filmmaker Charles Ferguson addresses worldwide climate change challenges and solutions.

Dudley Denny City Library www.mackay.qld.gov.au/libraries 12.00pm - 2.00pm / FREE

Pirates and Buccaneers!

Dudley Denny City Library www.mackay.qld.gov.au/libraries 3.30pm - 5.00pm / FREE / 12 - 18 years BMA Kidspace Art Space Toddler Program Artist run workshops Artspace Mackay www.artspacemackay.com.au 10.00am - 2.00 pm / FREE Native Bird Art Installation Runs until 18 October Caneland Central, opposite Jacqui E www.canelandcentral.com.au FREE / G THURSDAY 16 SEPTEMBER Guitar Step One Learn the basics of guitar Gordon White Library www.mackay.qld.gov.au/libraries 2.00pm and 3.30pm / FREE / 12 years + Anime-Manga Club Gordon White Library www.mackay.qld.gov.au/libraries 5.30pm - 7.00pm / FREE / 12 - 18 years FRIDAY 17 SEPTEMBER Whitsundays Arts Festival Art Exhibition, Performances, Workshops and Music. Runs until 19 September Fairy Tree Park, Airlie Beach Foreshore www.whitsundaysartsfestival.org Various times / G

9.00am - 5.00pm / $17.00 - $25.00, Children under 2 - FREE / G SATURDAY 18 SEPTEMBER International Dance Affair Presents A Night Of Entertainment MECC Auditorium www.themecc.com.au 7.00pm / $12.00 - $48.00 / G Painting in the Abstract with Lisa Ashcroft Big Marquee, Fairy Tree Park, Airlie Beach Foreshore www.whitsundaysartsfestival.org 9.00am and 1.00pm / $40.00 - $45.00 / 14 years + (book now limit 10 people in the workshop) The World of Children’s Books with Sofia Fortunato Learn how to make books for children Big Marquee, Fairy Tree Park, Airlie Beach Foreshore www.whitsundaysartsfestival.org 9.00am and 1.00pm / $20.00 - $25.00 / 14 years + (book now limit 10 people in the workshop) Weaving Vessels with Recycled Materials with Bernadette Boscacci Big Marquee, Fairy Tree Park, Airlie Beach Foreshore www.whitsundaysartsfestival.org 9.30am, 1.30pm / $30.00 $35.00 / 14 years + (book now limit 10 people in the workshop) Maori Dance and Haka Main Stage, Fairy Tree Park, Airlie Beach Foreshore www.whitsundaysartsfestival.org 10.30am - 11.00am / FREE / G Pico’s Puppet Palace puppetry, live music and story telling Fairy Tree Park, Airlie Beach Foreshore www.whitsundaysartsfestival.org 11.15am and 2.00pm / FREE / G all ages

Sugar City Powerfest Runs until 19 September Palmyra Drag Racing Club Sugar City Powerfest 12.00pm / $15.00 - $140.00 / G

Poi Making Workshop Outside Big Marquee, Fairy Tree Park, Airlie Beach Foreshore www.whitsundaysartsfestival.org 11.15am - 12.15pm / FREE / G

Dinosaur Festival Mackay Runs until 19 September Mackay Showgrounds Dinosaur Festival Australia, mackay.dinofestivalaustralia.com

Drumming Workshop Under the trees, Fairy Tree Park, Airlie Beach Foreshore www.whitsundaysartsfestival.org 12.30pm - 1.15pm / FREE / G

48 September / October 2021 | www.pakmag.com.au

Belly Dancing Workshop Main Stage, Fairy Tree Park, Airlie Beach Foreshore www.whitsundaysartsfestival.org 12.15pm - 1.15pm / FREE / G Digital Animation Workshop with Jodie Connolly Big Marquee, Fairy Tree Park, Airlie Beach Foreshore www.whitsundaysartsfestival.org 10.00am - 3.00pm / $40.00 $45.00 / 14 years + (book now limit 10 people in the workshop) Full Throttle Theatre Kids Workshop Workshop to teach children the songs and choreography to take part in the Full Throttle performance of Cosmological.

Solar Telescope viewings are also on offer.

Sign up to participate at www.whitsundaysartsfestival.org 4.00pm - 5.00pm / FREE / Children 6 years + Cosmological - Full Throttle Theatre Performance By the beach, Fairy Tree Park, Airlie Beach Foreshore www.whitsundaysartsfestival.org 6.00pm - 8.00pm / FREE / G Sarina Beach Coconut Festival Coconut Events, Entertainment, Camel Races and Rides, Kite Flying Displays, Markets Sarina Beach www.sarinabeachcocofest.com 1.00pm - 6.00pm / G Sarina Sugar Shed Special Kids Tour Runs until 3 October Sarina Sugar Shed www.sarinasugarshed.com.au 10.30am / $13.30, FREE for under 5/G Hoot ‘N’ Daddies Country Party Band Hoot ‘N’Daddies! Country Party Band Airlie Beach Hotel www.airliebeachhotel.com.au 2.00pm / FREE SUNDAY 19 SEPTEMBER Rock, Paper, Scissors Art and Design Market Civic Precinct E rockpaperscissors@ mackay.qld.gov.au www.artspacemackay.com.au 1.00pm - 4.00pm / FREE Entry / G

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

Dancenorth Australia Workshops Big Marquee, Fairy Tree Park, Airlie Beach Foreshore www.whitsundaysartsfestival.org 10.00am, 12.30pm, 2.30pm / $20.00 - $25.00 / 12 years + An Intimate Concert with Karen Jacobsen Paradiso Cafe www.whitsundaysartsfestival.org 4.00pm - 6.00pm / $55.00 $60.00 MONDAY 20 SEPTEMBER Rumble on the Reef (action sports festival) Runs until 4 October.

Skateboarding, Wakeboarding, Hydrofoil, Rhythm and the Reef, and Render on the Reef Street Art www.rumbleonthereef.com Write with Kat - Writing Workshop Runs various times/ libraries until 23 September Mackay Libraries www.mackay.qld.gov.au/ libraries FREE / 12 - 18 years TUESDAY 21 SEPTEMBER Rumble on the Reef Skateboarding Runs until September 25 Learn to Skate, AUS Street Titles, QLD Bowl Titles www.rumbleonthereef.com Various times and events / FREE for spectators / G WEDNESDAY 22 SEPTEMBER STEMPunks STEM Workshop Gordon White Library www.mackay.qld.gov.au/ libraries 9.30 am - 12.30pm / FREE / 10 - 12 years THURSDAY 23 SEPTEMBER Rumble On The Reef Wakeboarding Runs until 25 September

Wakehouse Australia www.rumbleonthereef.com Various times and events / FREE for spectators / G Bass Guitar Step One Learn to play Dudley Denny City Library www.mackay.qld.gov.au/libraries 2.00pm and 3.30pm / FREE / 15 years + Bedtime Stories - Library Event Gordon White Library www.mackay.qld.gov.au/libraries 5.00pm - 6.00pm / FREE / children 0 - 8 years and their families FRIDAY 24 SEPTEMBER Annual Art Exhibition for Mental Health - Opening Night Exhibition runs until 6 October 8.30am - 4.30pm Jubilee Exhibition Centre Mind Australia 4.00pm - 6.00pm Sarina Sugar Shed Master Cocktail Class 2 cocktails, tastings and nibbles Sarina Sugar Shed sarinasugarshed.com.au 4.00pm - 5.00pm / $50.00 / 18 + Bookings Essential Raya and The Last Dragon Movie Screening Gordon White Library www.mackay.qld.gov.au/libraries 2.00pm - 4.00pm / FREE / 5 - 12 years MONDAY 27 SEPTEMBER Leaders Sailing Camp Runs until 30 September Whitsunday Islands outerlimitsadventure.com.au $750.00 / 10 - 15 years Frank the Kindy Dog Book Talk and Meet and Greet Meet local author Peta Baxter and the four-legged star of popular picture book “Frankie Goes to Kindergarten” Appearing at various times and Mackay Library locations until

30 September www.mackay.qld.gov.au/libraries FREE / G WEDNESDAY 29 SEPTEMBER Love Bites Respectful Relationship Facilitator Training - Junior Mackay www.napcan.org.au 9.00am - 4.00pm / $250.00 / 11 14 year olds STEMPunks STEM Workshop Gordon White Library www.mackay.qld.gov.au/libraries 1.00pm - 5.00pm / FREE / 13 - 15 years

runs until 4 October Lamberts Beach, Mackay www.rumbleonthereef.com Various times and events / FREE for spectators / G MONDAY 4 OCTOBER Beach Yoga Meditation Session Seabreeze Hotel www.rumbleonthereef.com 8.00am - 10.00am / FREE / G FRIDAY 8 OCTOBER Bella Mackenzie Live Eimeo Pacific Hotel Bella Mackenzie at The Eimeo Pacific Hotel 6.00pm / FREE / G

THURSDAY 30 SEPTEMBER

SATURDAY 9 OCTOBER

Bedtime Stories - Library Event Dudley Denny City Library www.mackay.qld.gov.au/libraries 5.00pm - 6.00pm / FREE / children 0 - 8 years and their families

Official / Unofficial Jumping Equitation and Showjumping Runs until 10 October Sarina Showgrounds Sarina Pony Club Inc G

FRIDAY 1 OCTOBER Pride Month Starts Runs until 31 October Nationwide Be Kind to Animals Week Runs until 7 October Nationwide bekindtoanimalsweek.org.au www.edgarsmission.org.au Luca - Movie Screening Gordon White Library www.mackay.qld.gov.au/libraries 2.00pm - 4.00pm / FREE / children 5 - 12 years SATURDAY 2 OCTOBER Rhythm and The Reef Music, Arts and Action Sports Wakehouse Australia Rhythm & The Reef www.rumbleonthereef.com 11.00am - 8.00pm / Tickets from $52.78 / 18 + Rumble on the Reef Hydrofoil Pro Tour 3-day kite-foiling championships,

Professional Bull Riders Mackay Invitational BB Print Stadium www.pbraustralia.com.au 7.00pm - 9.30pm / $30.00 / G SUNDAY 10 OCTOBER World Mental Health Day Worldwide www.lookafteryourmentalhealth australia.org.au TUESDAY 12 OCTOBER Baby/Tots Disco Runs every Tuesday during term All Abilities Mackay Summer House Summer House Mackay, www.summerhousemackay.com.au 10.00am - 11.00am / $8.75 - $13.86 / ages 0 - 6 Seniors Expo Big Shed, Mackay Showgrounds www.mackay.qld.gov.au 9.00am - 1.00pm / FREE, registration required

www.pakmag.com.au | September / October 2021 49

Mackay and Whitsundays What’s On

With Triple M's Jay and Dave

TUESDAY 12 OCTOBER

SUNDAY 17 OCTOBER

SATURDAY 23 OCTOBER

safeTALK Suicide Prevention Training Ocean International, 1 Bridge Road, Mackay www.grapevinegroup.org.au 6.00pm - 9.00pm / FREE / M - 15 years +

Mackay Two Feet And A Heartbeat Charity Walk John Breen Park www.heartkids.org.au 9.00am / G

Global Grooves Multicultural Event Mackay www.themecc.com.au 3.00pm - 8.00pm / G

Nicky Bomba’s Bustamento Airlie Beach Hotel www.airliebeachhotel.com.au 2.00pm - 5.30pm / FREE

FRIDAY 29 OCTOBER

Dexter’s Storytime Explore the magic of reading with Dexter the comfort dog, as he reads a new title each month Gordon White Library www.mackay.qld.gov.au/libraries 10.00am - 10.30am / FREE / G WEDNESDAY 13 OCTOBER Baby and Child First Aid Hosted by Mumbodz Also runs 15 October 138 Wood St, Mackay www.babyed.com.au 10.00am - 12.30pm / $7.00 89.00 / Parents of children aged 0 - 4 THURSDAY 14 OCTOBER Basic investment, Superannuation and Insurance Financial education Gordon White Library www.mackay.qld.gov.au 10.30am - 12.00pm / FREE / 18 + When The Rain Stops Falling Also runs 15, 16 and 21 - 23 Oct Kucom Theatre, Andergrove Kucom Theatre 7.30pm - 10.00pm / $20.00 $30.00 /G

BMA Kidspace Art Space Toddler Program Artist run workshops Artspace Mackay www.artspacemackay.com.au 10.00am - 2.00 pm / FREE

Camp and sCare 2021 Runs until 30 October with Halloween fun and activities all weekend BIG4 Adventure Whitsunday Resort, Airlie Beach www.adventurewhitsunday.com.au Book your stay to enjoy the fun.

All powered sites are just $42.00 for the Friday night with ALL proceeds made going to charity.

FRIDAY 22 OCTOBER

SATURDAY 30 OCTOBER

TUESDAY 19 OCTOBER

Art Exhibition - Jenna Lee: Cont.ained Runs until 9 January 2022 Artspace Mackay www.artspacemackay.com.au FREE / G Sign Time! Learn and practice Auslan Bluewater Quay Mackay Sign Time! Bluewater Quay Mackay www.deafservices.org.au 6.00pm - 8.00pm / FREE / G Little Shop of Horrors Runs until 24 October Central Queensland Conservatorium of Music www.cqu.edu.au Various Times / $20.00 $40.00

Regular Markets The Greater Whitsunday Farmers’ Markets

Eungella Community Markets

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

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

Showground Markets

Seaforth Community Markets

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

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

50 September / October 2021 | www.pakmag.com.au

Dads ‘n’ Bubs Baby Bounce Dudley Denny City Library www.mackay.qld.gov.au 10.00 - 10.30 / FREE / Booking Essential Agro: Up Late MECC Auditorium www.themecc.com.au 7.30pm / $46.00 - $110.00 (VIP) / 18 years +

Frightening yummy Café menu Pumpkin carving competition Sarina Sugar Shed sarinasugarshed.com.au 3.00pm - 7.00pm / FREE Entry, Half price tour tickets for people in costume (Bookings Essential) / G Santa Claws Halloween Circus Event 10 Hicks St, Mackay Sensory Circus Tribe (Mackay) 6.00pm / $25.00 family pass, purchase tickets prior to event TUESDAY 2 NOVEMBER The MECC and Shake & Stir Theatre Co. Presents Animal Farm by George Orwell MECC Auditorium www.themecc.com.au 7.30pm / $22.00 - $42.00 FRIDAY 5 NOVEMBER John Williamson “Winding Back” - Celebrating 50 Years MECC Auditorium www.themecc.com.au 7.30pm / $35.00 - $64.00 / G

Halloween Masquerade Ball Sarina Leagues Club Sarina Sporting and Services Club 6.00pm / Tickets Coming Soon

Airlie Beach Festival of Music Runs until 7 November Mainstage - Whitsunday Sailing Club and various locations around Airlie Beach www.airliebeachfestivalof music.com.au Various Times / $300.00 $1000.00 / 18 +

SUNDAY 31 OCTOBER

SATURDAY 13 NOVEMBER

Sarina Sugar Shed Sunday Halloween Party Free fairy floss for kids (and adults) in costume Free trick or treat for kids Spooky cocktails for adults

Hamilton Island Endurance Series - Triathlon, Icons Trail, Ocean Swim Runs until Sunday 14 November Hamilton Island www.hamiltonisland.com.au

Seaforth Mega Market

Troppo Treasure Markets

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

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

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

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

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