PakMag Mackay & Whitsundays -Nov & Dec 2022 - Issue 92

Bites and Stings Risks and Remedies

Hello and welcome to the November/December edition of PakMag - can you believe we have been producing PakMag in Mackay for 10 years now?! The time has flown.

I think these two months are the fastest months of the year; we always have so much to jam pack into this time.

Once upon a time, November used to be the month where shops started to decorate for Christmas and when the shopping centre Santa arrives, but now, these things start to happen in October! November seems to be the month we start getting the Christmas tree up at home, and we plan everything for Christmas so that by December we are well and truly over being festive - well, I know I am!

Nevertheless, I like setting time aside for deep reflection to evaluate what you want to do more of, less of, and banish for good for 2023. This activity is wonderful to do with family members, so get some paper, draw three columns with ‘more’, ‘less’ and ‘banish‘ and see what everyone writes. It could be things, feelings, or habits; the list is endless.

My team and my family have had a rollercoaster of a year and we are certainly looking forward to a well deserved break. Thanks so much for all of the amazing support from our advertisers - it’s been a tough year for many of us in business, so please spend wisely and support local businesses where you can.

Thank you also to you, our readers this year and the past ten, we are so grateful for your support.

Wishing you and your family an amazing end of 2022, and we look forward to supporting your family’s journey more than ever in 2023.

Take care of yourselves, and remember to tell everyone you read it in PakMag.

Bree

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

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The Thing Is with Bree James

November seems to be the month I shed the most tears.

Firstly, I turn a year older which is of course a blessing but also a reminder that my time on earth is decreasing and my wrinkles, saggy bits, and aches and pains are increasing. The fact my entire body cracks like a glow stick but refuses to glow is very disappointing.

Secondly, it’s the time of year where kids have performances, plays and ceremonies that always see me having tears rolling down my face even if they aren’t my children. To me, these moments are gentle reminders that our time is limited.

The thing is, time is the most important currency and once we spend it, it’s gone. We have to be so intentional with how we use our time. Spending time with children is far more important than spending money on children.

I, like many of us, dream of not having to spend time earning money. The only problem for me is, I don’t have any wealthy relatives and I don’t buy lotto tickets. So, the reality for most of us is that we have to spend time earning a living. Yet the fact remains that the more we decrease our expenses and simplify our life, the less we need to earn and the more time we have on our hands. Sometimes less really is more.

So, here are five things I am doing to get more time with my family, friends and to myself!

1. I am redefining “relax-time” in my house, because it always seems to involve some sort of technology. My plan is to have more music jam sessions, play more board games, spend time lazing in the sun and take slow walks together. With the odd movie, nacho and ice-cream night thrown in, of course.

2. I never leave an appointment without booking the next one before I leave. This ensures I am doing self care regularly.

3. Family chores are a team sport - we all work as a team and get them done. This means putting on tunes and making the process fun. Plus, everyone will get better at tidying up after themselves so that means less mess in the first place.

4. I always call my friends and family members when I am driving, even if it’s a two minute “Hi!”. This is better than a text message, and better than not contacting them at all.

5. I’ve taken all social media and emails off my phone. It is too easy to be bored for one minute and then the next thing you know, you’ve lost 20 minutes.

We all have the same amount of time every single day; how we spend it is our choice.

Doing a time audit is one of the best ways to help you realise where to make some changes. Take note how much time you spend on things daily, weekly and monthly. Then add the timeframes up for the year and divide this sum by 24 hours. This will help you calculate each time frame into an amount of days (ie twenty minutes of mindless scrolling a day on social media adds up to 5 days of your year).

So, if you are like me and you’re constantly wanting to have more time - you need to get more intentional with how you are spending it.

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

12 Activities to Build Closeness and Connection this Christmas

STORY The PakMag Team

We’re all familiar with the rush and busyness of the silly season, and sometimes we juggle so many things that our family takes a back seat. So, this year, the PakMag team shares 12 activities that build closeness and show appreciation for each other. Some can even be used as presents, freeing up your time while creating lasting memories; a double win!

1. Personalise Surprise Christmas Cards

Organise as many christmas cards as you have family members in your household. On Christmas Eve, pass the cards around the table so that each family member can write an endearing and positive message on the card of every other family member (but not seeing their own card). No one gets to see their personalised card until Christmas morning. Before opening any gifts, hand out the cards. Watch and feel the room light up as everyone reads their messages from those they value the most.

2. Volunteer for a Cause

Many charities look for volunteers this time of the year. Instead of volunteering alone, you can volunteer together, which not only strengthens the family bond but also demonstrates the importance of giving back to the community. Some volunteer ideas are serving meals at a shelter, helping to wrap presents or gift hampers with the Salvation Army, or participating in a fundraising drive for a worthy cause.

3. Bake and Decorate Christmas Cookies

Baking cookies, gingerbread characters, handmade chocolates or rum balls together is always fun, especially if you get creative with the decorations. To share the joy, gift them to friends, family, co-workers and neighbours.

4. Create Personalised Gift Vouchers

Make some personalised vouchers for family members to redeem over the coming year. To do this, you can use a small book of 10 or 12 vouchers and include activities and things that each family member would value. Examples include a treat to a favourite smoothie, a ‘Chore Free Week’ voucher, a movie marathon lounge sleepover, a tuckshop order, a special day out with mum and dad on your own, or a shopping day with a voucher to the value of $xx.

5. Host a Games Night with Your Closest Friends

A games night can bring out the inner child in everyone. Some classic board games to consider are Monopoly, Pictionary, Uno, Scrabble and Trivial Pursuit. Multiplayer games that can be played on the Wii, Nintendo or PlayStation are also fun, especially on hot and steamy summer days. Alternatively, you can go outdoors and play a game of beach volleyball, basketball, or tennis, or if you have time, an Amazing Race type event. To make it christmassy, arrange platters with christmas treats, cookies, chocolate Santa’s, or make a trifle.

6. Host a Christmas Party or Picnic, Theme it and Get Everyone to Bring Something to Share

Take your family and friends on a traditional picnic with all the trimmings. Let everyone pack one of their favourite foods and get the kids involved in making platters, organising drinks, or picking the spot for your picnic. Dressing Christmas themed is optional but encouraged!

7. Christmas Camp Out

For this family activity, you need a tent and sleeping bags, bug repellent, and a torch. Keep it simple and cook hot dogs and marshmallows over a hot grill or fire pit. Afterward, take turns telling stories, singing carols together, or watching the stars.

8. Plan Your Family Goals, Holidays, and Desires for the Following Year

Family goals can help your family develop healthier habits, build stronger bonds, and achieve your family’s vision. Sit together at the table or go out for dinner and discuss what you liked about the past year, and what you would like to change or achieve. You can also add holiday plans, and make a wish list for family activities that everyone can participate in.

9. See the Christmas Lights

Decorate your car together and go for a drive to see the Christmas lights around your neighbourhood. Bring hot chocolates, marshmallows, and finger food, and pack extra pillows and blankets for sleepy little ones.

10. Create a Family Newsletter and Include a Christmas Photo

Get the family together and create a newsletter including all the wonderful things you have done and achieved the past year. Ask a friend or neighbour to take a family photo for you. Silly or dressed up photos always make everyone laugh. Email or post the newsletter to your closest friends and family to show your appreciation for them and share the joy of the festive season.

11. Dress Up and Head to a Carols By Candlelight Event

Keep an eye out for Carols by Candlelight events. These community events are a wonderful way to bring out the Christmas spirit in even the most reluctant Grinch, so invite your friends and family to come along.

12. Gratitude Jars

Similar to a gratitude journal, it's a jar or box filled with reminders of what you're grateful for or any accomplishments you have achieved. You can make a family jar that holds notes about each other, and read them out once a week. You might be surprised what your kids are grateful for, and vice versa! Recycle a glass jar and tie a ribbon around the rim. Every day, write down "Gratitude Notes" and add them to the jar. This is a lovely way to show appreciation for family members, and remind ourselves of the good things we share. Hot tip-save your weekly notes into another jar and read on New Years Eve and reflect on what an amazing year you have been blessed with.

This time of year is a wonderful time to focus on spending time together and consider everyone’s input. Have all family members agree to set time aside for the activity, and establish some rules such as:

1. Complete all homework before participating in the activity

2. Turn off all cell phones and cease text messaging

3. Don't bring work home from the office on family night

To make the most of your family time, make sure that everyone is enjoying themselves. There are many activities to choose from, so pick the ones that appeal the most to your family's specific interests.

The PakMag Experts

Katrina Peters

Statewide Family Law

Dear Katrina,

How can separation affect the kids?

During separation, parents may lose focus of their children’s best interests. Whilst separation is highly stressful, the issues surrounding separation are adult issues and parents should be mindful about the impact their behaviour has on their children.

In the Federal Circuit Court of Australia matter of Blyth & Blythe, Judge Orbradovic had to consider matters of the mother relocating with the children, consequently reducing the father’s time with them.

The first three paragraphs of his Judgement particularly strike a chord:

1. “It is always surprising just how self-focused parents can become in family law litigation. The facts of this case are but a prime example of such narcissistic behaviour.

2. The children’s best interests have taken second stage to the parents’ own interests in the way these proceedings were conducted. Had the parents thought about the children first, rather than themselves, a resolution to the children’s parenting arrangements could have been reached.

3. Of course, people’s lives after separation move on, but they should not be at the expense of the children. All too often this Court sees parents who believe they have the right to get on with their own lives, rather than thinking about how the little ones might be coping. The children walk in no-man’s land for many years, navigating their parents’ entrenched positions and conflict.”

His Honour’s analogy describes in accurate detail the toll that the behaviour of warring parents can have on their children.

Often, when dealing with parents following separation, it is difficult for them to overcome feelings of bitterness, resentment, and entitlement.

If we step back and think about the effect such behaviour has on the children, parents are more likely to see “the forest for the trees” and focus on what is in the children’s best interest, as well as the adults.

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

Peter Heilbuth

CQUniversity Deputy Vice-President of Vocational Education and Training (VET) Operations and Growth

Thinking of study in 2023? Apply now!

There’s not much left of 2022 so no doubt some of you will already be thinking about your New Year’s resolutions.

If you are considering study in 2023 – whether that be by jumpstarting into a new career, upskilling on an existing qualification or reskilling into a new field - there are advantages in starting your planning now.

Study requires time, and enrolling in a course means potentially shuffling life around a little, in order to succeed.

If you’re a working parent or carer of children you may need to consider childcare, shift workers might require roster changes, and then there are the general day-to-day commitments that should be considered in advance.

By having a plan and prioritising, you’re more likely to stay on track and less likely to feel overwhelmed.

There are many things you should consider before applying; from the preparation and gathering of documents, understanding your fees, knowing when the course will start, to name just a few.

You may be asked to provide evidence to demonstrate that you meet the entry requirements.

For example, you may need to supply a letter from your employer demonstrating that you are currently working in the relevant industry.

Government subsidies can reduce the cost of study, however they may require additional information to confirm eligibility.

Once your plan is in place, it’s time to apply.

CQUniversity’s TAFE Diploma and Certificate courses are now open for applications to commence study in 2023.

If you get stuck along the way, our TAFE team can answer your application questions either online, in-person at one of our campuses or by calling 13 27 86.

To learn more visit www.cqu.edu.au/tafe RTO 40939.

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Give the Gift of Handmade

STORY The PakMag Team

Whether you need a gift for some special teachers, neighbours, or your friends and family, nothing is more satisfying than creating a gift you have made yourself. Most of us are living very full lives, so here are some simple, quick and affordable gift ideas that will get you and the kids being creative.

Tasty Truffle Spoons

This fun recipe is easy to make with children and doesn’t require any cooking which makes it perfect for little helpers. You can take these to a party, make them for Christmas day, or wrap them in cellophane to give as a unique gift.

What You Need

• 30 Spoons (Wooden or antique spoons from the op shop are a great option)

• 1 medium jar of Nutella

• 2 packets of Oreo’s

• 1 jar peanut butter (optional)

• 1 block of melting chocolate or 1 bottle of quick drying chocolate topping (Ice Magic)

• Decorations - sprinkles, white melted chocolate in a piping bag, whatever you like!

• Grease proof paper

Method

Blend the nutella and packets of oreos for one minute in a food processor until a smooth consistency.

If using peanut butter, half fill each spoon with peanut butter and fill the other half with the Nutella mixture.

If making nut-free, scoop only the Nutella mixture into each spoon. If the mixture is too soft to scoop, chill for 15 minutes before scooping. Chill for at least one hour.

Dip your chilled spoons in your melted chocolate mix, or cover with Ice magic and place on greaseproof paper.

Decorate your spoon with sprinkles, lollies or white chocolate from your piping bag and before the mix dries. Refrigerate for up to 5 days.

Pom Pom Bookmarks

This is the perfect ‘anytime’ gift because it’s affordable, easy to make, and gives you a fluffy pom pom of cuteness. It’s sure to improve the look of any good book and gives you something to play with as you read.

What You Need

• Soft wool

• Sharp scissors Method

Cut an 8-10 inch piece of wool and a 15 inch piece of wool and set it aside. You will need these lengths in later steps.

To start your pom pom, hold the end of the wool in your hand, and begin wrapping the wool around your fingers – snug but not too tight. We recommend wrapping the wool 90 times.

Cut the wool after 90 wraps, and carefully slide it off your fingers. Lay it down over the 8-10 inch piece of wool. Tightly tie a knot around the middle of the 90 loops.

To add the wool ball bookmark ‘tail’, use the 15-inch piece of wool, tie it around the same string you used to tie the 90 loops together.

Next, holding the ball on its side, slide your scissors through the wool loops and start cutting. Instant fluffy ball! Trim slowly, being sure not to cut your bookmark ‘tail’ off and stop when you have a cute ball of fluffiness.

Festive Simmer Jars

These easy, quintessential homemade holiday simmer potpourris make your house smell like Christmas!

Simply add the contents of the jar to boiling water and let the aroma waft through your home. As they are dry potpourri recipes, they have a long shelf life and are wonderful as Christmas gifts. This is the perfect use of the old jars you have been saving. Here are two scents to choose from.

Apple Pie Scent

• Dried apple slices

• Dried bay leaves

• Cinnamon sticks

• Star anise

• Whole cloves Method

Smells Like Christmas

• Dried cranberries

• Pine or spruce twig

• Dried orange slices

• Cinnamon sticks

• Whole cloves

Fill a clean, dry jar with the ingredients of your chosen scent and seal with a lid. Decorate the potpourri jar with printable labels, ribbon and ornaments.

Method for Recipient (Put these instructions on the jar)

Store your festive simmer jar in a dry, dark place away from moisture and heat. When you are ready to fragrance your home:

Fill a small saucepan or pot with 2 to 3 cups of water.

Add the simmering potpourri mix and simmer uncovered over low heat. To avoid burned ingredients, replenish with fresh water as needed.

After cooking, take the saucepan/pot off the heat and let sit on the counter to fragrance your home further.

Gingerbread Gift Box

Dry Ingredients

• 3 cups plain flour

• 3 tsp baking powder

• 1 tbsp ground ginger

• 2 tsp ground cinnamon

• 1 tsp mixed spice

• ¼ tsp ground cloves

Method

Wet Ingredients

• 5 ½ tbsp butter, softened

• ¾ cup brown sugar

• 1 large egg

• 2 tsp vanilla extract

• ½ cup molasses

Whisk dry ingredients in a bowl. In a separate bowl, cream the butter and sugar using a stand mixer or electric beater on speed 7 for 2 minutes, or until light and fluffy. Add the egg and vanilla to the butter mixture and mix until combined. Add the molasses, mix for 1 minute using speed 2.

Add ¼ of the dry ingredients at a time, then mix until you can’t see flour. Repeat until all dry ingredients are mixed in, then mix for a further 15 seconds. Dough should be soft and a bit sticky.

Pat the dough into a disc shape, wrap in the cling wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or until firm. (Can refrigerate for 5 days or freeze for 3 months).

Preheat the oven to 190°C (170°C fan) and set a shelf in the middle. Line 3 baking trays with baking paper.

Take the dough out of the refrigerator and cut it in half. Wrap half and return to the fridge. Sprinkle a sheet of baking paper lightly with flour. Place dough on top, and sprinkle lightly with flour. Place another sheet of baking paper on top and roll out until 4mm thick. As you work, flip and if paper is wrinkling, peel it off then put it back on, smoothing out the wrinkles.

Use a cookie cutter to make shapes, firmly pressing to cut all the way through. If the dough sticks to the cutter, dip it in flour. Use a palette knife (or large knife) to transfer onto a baking sheet. Tidy edges if necessary using a butter knife.

Bake for 12 minutes (for classic light golden) or 14 minutes (dark golden and crisp). Then remove and cool fully on the tray, and decorate!

Is Your Child a Bully?

STORY Andrew Oberthur

The word “bully” is emotive, and often used to describe negative interactions between people. Let me say from the outset that true bullying can have untold harmful effects on the victim and should not be tolerated under any circumstances. If educators and parents have a common understanding of the definition of bullying, then it can be addressed appropriately and decisively, keeping the victim safe while educating the perpetrator about appropriate behaviours.

Sometimes negative behaviour is NOT bullying. To that end it is important to understand the difference between bullying behaviour and bad behaviour. The term bullying can often misrepresent behaviours and relationships between children and adolescents. Bad behaviour is not necessarily bullying. Bullying is repeated and targeted, with a power differential between two people or a group of people and an individual.

Often people use the term bullying for the first negative interaction between two children - that is not bullying. People looking after children who display such behaviours must ask themselves, and possibly ask the child, where they learnt such negative behaviours. It is not uncommon for children with older siblings to learn behaviours which are inappropriate in a social context.

Now, what if it's your child displaying these behaviours, and by definition, being a bully?

Behaviour experts believe that human beings behave for one of two reasons: To access or to avoid. So when a child displays bullying behaviour, you need to ask the question - “Why is my child behaving that way?”. Remember there are two general reasons as to why children might behave in certain ways - to ACCESS or to AVOID. For example, a child may display a behaviour to access attention (attention seeking). Conversely children may behave to avoid doing something

(avoidance strategies). Keep these reasons in your mind as we explore the possibility that

Let’s work through a scenario that can happen anywhere - You get a phone call or an email explaining that your child has displayed some anti-social behaviour (notice I am using diplomatic language in the hope that the deliverer of the message is being diplomatic and understanding, for now). The person contacting you is in a position of authority within the group. They explain to you that the behaviour displayed by your child is an example of a repeated pattern of behaviour towards one or a number of students.

Now, there are various contexts in which this undesirable behaviour could have been displayed (face to face, or via technology). Both forms of undesirable behaviour are potentially very harmful. Notice I am resisting using the term bullying... at least until we establish that the behaviour constitutes bullying.

Your child may be near you at the point of the behaviour being reported to you. Alternatively, your child may still be in the social environment and awaiting a sanction from the present authority. As the behaviour is described to you, your mind starts to wonder. Your first question is “What happened?”.

• Did my child really do that?

• Why would they behave like that?

• Were they provoked?

• Who else was involved?

• Has this happened before? (Especially as bullying hasn’t yet been mentioned).

• What’s their friendship with the alleged victim like?

• Do I know them?

• Was the alleged victim “really” hurt?

There may be a sense of disbelief that your child was responsible for the undesirable behaviour. And now you are about to enter an emotional dilemma. Do you believe the report about your child’s behaviour, or do you deny that your child was capable of such behaviour? Before you form an opinion, it is worth asking your child for their version of events.

If your child acknowledges the behaviour, then you have to accept that they are responsible. Now you have a decision to make - will you give your child a

consequence for their behaviour, or will you leave it up to the present authority to decide? Not only could there be a consequence to help your child learn what they did wrong, there should also be a form of restorative practice.

Let’s name it - the behaviour was wrong. We should acknowledge that even though people may have different values and tolerances of what is acceptable behaviour, a reasonable person agrees to what is socially acceptable. In this day and age of political correctness there is often a reluctance to name the behaviour as wrong, as that means someone is judging the behaviour, using their values.

Restorative practice is when the perpetrator apologises and behaves in a way to restore the relationship with the victim. The apology may be written or delivered face to face. The restorative behaviours may include doing something helpful for the victim, or some form of social justice act to indicate their remorse for their behaviour.

If your child denies their behaviour and attempts to rationalise it, your decision becomes more complicated. Do you believe in authority and issue consequences, or do you believe your child and justify their behaviour?

We must understand that conflict is a part of human life, and how we manage our conflict is an important life lesson. We need to upskill our children to manage their behaviours and to deal with negative behaviours that they may come across in their life. This will build resilience in our children and give them good relational skills as they grow into adolescence and adulthood.

As parents we must be willing to consider the possibility that our children are not perfect. It is complex to manage children’s behaviours, especially the antisocial, damaging, undesirable behaviours. Parents are encouraged to work with their children’s educators to ensure that children know what is acceptable and what to do IF their child displays bullying behaviour.

Please note it is important to address the behaviour by saying that the behaviour is bullying-like behaviour. It is preferable to avoid calling a child a bully. It’s important to address the behaviour, not label the child’s whole character.

Remember that most people can learn and are capable of changing their behaviour. Together we can make a positive difference.

Andrew Oberthur is a primary school principal with over 30 years’ experience teaching and leading primary schools in Brisbane. His first book, Are You Ready for School? is about building a culture of trust, collaboration and inquiry between parents and teachers. His book is available through Amba Press, Amazon and Booktopia.

www.pakmag.com.au

3 Genius Kitchen Science Projects for Kids

STORY Lis Rooks

Kids love playing with food, which makes kitchen science projects a fantastic way to teach science lessons and make interesting discoveries. Many of these activities also teach problem solving, patience, trial-and-error and soft skills which kids will benefit from in their everyday life.

Sweet Slushy

In this science experiment, we learn how ice and salt can be turned into a sweet slushy through heat transfer. This activity can test your patience, so it’s best to set up at the beginning of the day so that the treat will be finished in the afternoon - ready to enjoy when the sun is hottest!

Making Butter

Have you ever tried to whip cream in your kitchen aid and forgotten about it… only to find it had turned into butter? Here’s a manual and fun way to make this delicious spread, so get your kids busy by letting them shake their way to delicious, homemade butter.

What You Need

• Small plastic cup

• Large bowl

• Spoon

• Straws

• Ice cubes

• Coarse rock salt

• Juice of your choice

• Optional: Non-contact digital infrared thermometer Method

Fill the plastic cup with juice and sit it in the centre of the bowl. Add the ice all around the outside until it covers at least ¾ up the side of the cup.

Carefully sprinkle the salt onto the ice. Be very careful not to get any salt in the juice - otherwise, you’ll end up with a salty slushy. Cover the entire ice with salt.

Wait patiently. Stir the juice gently every half an hour. It can take anywhere from 1 to 2 hours for the freezing to start, but once it does, stir regularly or the juice will form into an ice cube.

Scrape the freezing juice off the sides of the cup and mix it all together.

Your slushy will continue to thicken. Once it reaches the desired thickness, it is ready to drink. Add a straw and enjoy your sweet science experiment!

What You Need

• A thick mason jar with a lid

• Whipping cream

• 2 or 3 clean glass marbles (optional). Marbles speed up the process because they provide extra agitation for the cream Method

Fill the jar halfway with cream and rop the marbles in. Tightly close the lid and shake the jar. After a minute or two, the cream will thicken.

As the cream thickens, you get whipped cream! You can taste some if you like.

Pop the lid back on, and keep shaking. After a few more minutes, you’ll notice liquid sloshing around in the jar. Buttermilk is now separating from the butter that’s starting to solidify in the jar.

Continue to shake it for another minute or so until the butter forms a solid mass.

Pour off the buttermilk and shake the butter out of the jar. If you like pancakes, save the buttermilk for the batter.

Rinse the butter under cold water by kneading it a little. This removes the last of the buttermilk, preventing the butter from going rancid quickly.

Now it’s time for a taste test! Slather the light and fluffy homemade butter onto warm toast, and enjoy! You can also add a dash of salt, fresh garlic or chopped herbs.

Edible Marshmallow Playdough

This sweet treat is perfect for slime-obsessed kids because it’s messy, sticky and wonderfully delicious!

What You Need

• Marshmallows

• Corn Starch

• Icing Sugar

• Coconut Oil

• Food Colouring

Method

In a bowl mix three tablespoons of cornstarch with one tablespoon of icing sugar. Set aside.

Place five Marshmallows into a microwave-safe container. Add a tablespoon of coconut oil and a few drops of food colouring.

Microwave in short five to ten second increments and watch closely as the marshmallows expand like crazy.

As soon as the marshmallows bubble and expand massively, let the microwave cool for a moment. Once the marshmallows stop expanding and bubbling, start heating again. This process takes about 30 seconds with about four breaks. Sugar burns easily, so be patient and careful, otherwise, the marshmallows will explode or turn crispy. Careful - it will be hot!

Using a spoon, mix the marshmallow mixture in the container until it pulls together into a ball. Remove it and place it into the cornstarch-icing sugar mixture.

Sprinkle some of the icing sugar mixture on top of the marshmallows until covered completely.

Let cool briefly, then lift it out with your hands and start kneading.

If it feels too sticky, press it into the cornstarch mixture, then continue kneading.

Enjoy! The edible playdough tastes like marshmallows but has a more “rubbery” texture to it. It is not really a makeand-store type of item, so play with it, eat it, and dispose of any leftovers. Most kids are more interested in the making part of the experiment, and eating it is just the cherry on top.

Recognising Technology as a Tool

STORY Ben Dallimore, Director of ICT at The Cathedral School

Don’t be overwhelmed, technology is just a tool. If a child were given a knife, or a teenager a car without proper instruction, and they were harmed, there would be a public outcry of parental incompetence and news headlines would trend far and wide. However, in a societal juxtaposition, these same children are being handed technology by their parents in the form of phones, laptops, televisions and consoles which if used incompetently can lead to physical, emotional and social harm –and it is the technology to blame not the parents.

Firstly, we need to recognise technology for what it really is, a tool. Just like a knife, a hammer, or a car, it is simply a tool. Throughout history, humans have

used tools to make daily tasks easier – and as the complexity of the task increased, so too the complexity of the tool.

We spend our lives mastering tools; as children, we begin with eating utensils through a thoughtfully orchestrated sequence. Spoon, fork, knife. The innate gradual release of responsibility from parents for infants ensures that the infant has mastered the blunt, smooth spoon before graduating to pointy fork, and then a sharp knife.

The same can be said for all tools to varying degrees, no matter our age. When we first look to use a tool, we are usually instructed by those more experienced before we embark on individual usage. As adults, we don’t drive a vehicle or operate a new power tool without being taught. It is too dangerous. Yet when

it comes to technology, it is frequently given to our children with little or no instruction.

At this point I should highlight that I am an advocate for technology. Technology is arguably the most versatile and revolutionary tool, reinventing almost every aspect of society through convenience, efficiency and end user simplicity. Technology is delivering everything and anything to our home, it is saving endangered animals, it is connecting people around the world and it is allowing us to harness energy from renewable resources - it has irrefutably become ingrained as a part of our lives.

Why does technology, just another tool, break the ingrained parental construct of gradual release to our children? The versatility of technology hides its inherent danger from parents. Devices are often given as a form of entertainment, communication, or as a resource for education, but they can do so much more. It is in this “much more” where the dangers lie for our children, and as parents, we may not be fully aware, or we don’t recognise this danger.

The “much more” is like technology, it is constantly evolving, and this is where it becomes seemingly difficult for parents to keep up. Dangers like cyberbullying, viewing pornography, unwanted contact, and sexting are ever present. Less visible are the impacts to self esteem created by endless social media streams depicting the unattainable, the need for gratification through success when online gaming, or time lost to streaming endless libraries of movies or TV series. And finally, the physical impacts on posture and eyesight from overusing these devices - especially as the devices get smaller.

Becoming more knowledgeable is the key to starting your child’s technology journey the right way, or getting the journey back on track. There is now research and support for parents to better use technology and help their children to do the same. Here are some great places to start.

• Visit Dr Kristy Goodwin’s website, www.drkristygoodwin.com, where she decodes the neurobiology of peak performance in a digital age.

• Visit the eSafety Commissioner website, www.esafety.gov.au/parents

• Access reviews and information on new and trending media at Common Sense Media to ensure the appropriateness of the content your children access. www.commonsensemedia.org

• Have open conversations about using technology safely and responsibly, and role model healthy technology use.

• Identify when to intervene by recognising when technology is impacting on your child’s basic human needs: eating, sleeping, education and face-to-face human contact; or other things that are important to you as a family.

Despite the dangers, the integral connection with society and technology means that we cannot remove technology from our children’s lives. If we were to completely shield our children from technology, when they leave home they will most likely fall down the “rabbit hole”, as they wouldn’t have learnt how to manage their technology use in a healthy manner when they were younger.

Remember, as parents we have successfully taught our children to use countless tools, and technology does not have to be any different. Being involved in your child’s technological use, role modelling healthy technology habits and remembering that technology is just a tool will ensure that our children have a healthy relationship with technology.

Ben Dallimore began his career as a primary school teacher with a passion for technology. In 2002, Ben took up a position of Head of IT at The Ela Murray International School in Port Moresby. In 2007, Ben completed his Masters in Educational Technology and began working at The Cathedral School of St Anne and St James. In 2013, his role changed from classroom teacher to Technology Integrator where he taught students from Prep to Year 6. In 2022 Ben accepted the newly created whole school role of Director of ICT at The Cathedral School.

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All Things Health

Raising Awareness of Type 1 Diabetes

World Diabetes Day is marked every year on 14 November, raising awareness about diabetes. There are three main types of diabetes: type 1, type 2, and gestational diabetes (diabetes during pregnancy).

In type 1 diabetes, the pancreas, a large gland behind the stomach, stops making insulin because the cells that make the insulin have been destroyed by the body’s immune system. Without insulin, the body’s cells cannot turn glucose into energy.

Unfortunately the causes for this autoimmune reaction are still unknown. Type 1 diabetes is not linked to modifiable lifestyle factors, there is no cure, and it cannot be prevented. Type 1 diabetes represents around 10 percent of all cases of diabetes and is one of the most common chronic childhood conditions. Its onset is usually abrupt and the symptoms can include excessive thirst and urination, unexplained weight loss, fatigue, weakness and blurred vision.

Type 1 diabetes is managed with insulin injections several times a day or the use of an insulin pump. The main misunderstanding around type 1 diabetes is that it’s caused by poor diet choices, this is untrue. The other misconception is that diabetics only eat sugar when they are having a low, this is also untrue. Diabetics can eat whatever they like, but they have to estimate how much sugar/carbohydrates is in the food they have consumed so that they can inject the correct amount of insulin so that the body can process it. Imagine having to work out how many carbohydrates there are in every single thing you want to consume, and then mathematically work out how much medicine to take. Stress, exercise, illness, food, drinks and alcohol all impact a diabetics sugar levels making this a very tough chronic disease to manage.

Jana Gorski

Naturopath - TerryWhite Chemmart

Dear Jana, Sometimes my child is so wired in the evenings they have issues getting to sleep. What do you recommend?

It’s normal for kids to occasionally have trouble sleeping. This could include having difficulty falling asleep, waking frequently through the night, having bad dreams, wetting the bed or waking early. All of these can be challenging for the whole family.

Falling and staying asleep is the result of physiological changes in the brain and body in response to our environment and to some extent, behaviour. Modifying some of these factors may help with sleep.

In response to the fading natural light at the end of the day, the pineal gland releases melatonin - our sleep hormone. Bright lights, loud noises, stress, sugary treats, and screens all suppress the production of melatonin. Therefore, it can help to finish screen time around 2 hours before bed and keep desserts as a weekend treat.

Ensure the bedroom is a comfortable temperature with dim light, and diffuse essential oils such as lavender. 2 drops is enough for one room.

Activities before bed should be calm, quiet and ideally the same each night and at the same time. Herbs such as chamomile, passionflower, valerian and lavender can be useful in gently relaxing kids so they wind down easier and fall asleep naturally. Chewable or great tasting powders and liquids are available and formulated with fussy kids in mind. Nutrients such as magnesium can also promote sleep.

Stress or anxiety can often lead to difficulties falling asleep or cause sleep disturbing dreams. While you can use natural formulas to help settle your children, you should also help your child identify what’s causing them to worry and discuss strategies for dealing with those problems or feelings.

To learn more about strategies and managing behaviours around bedtime, visit sleephealthfoundation.org.au

TerryWhite Chemmart www.terrywhitechemmart.com.au

Support Bub’s Gut Health with Bioceuticals BabyBiotic

Bioceuticals BabyBiotic is a blend of the most common probiotic strains found in healthy breastfed newborns and infants in combination with the prebiotic fibre inulin, BabyBiotic supports the development of your baby’s microbiome.

Suitable for children 0+ years to promote and nourish healthy development of microflora. Grab your BabyBiotic today from your local TerryWhite Chemmart. A healthy gut is critical to your wellbeing, so don’t forget to grab your Gut Health+ from your local TerryWhite Chemmart.

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Bump, Bub and Beyond

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

Tarramarra Kids Canvas Sneakers

$73.75 - www.uggexpress.com.au

A mini version for kids, these Kids Canvas Sneakers are made with canvas, and have a sturdy yet lightweight rubber sole. They perfectly support your little one’s feet, no matter how active they are. Available in three colours, they will look super cute on any boy or girl.

Victorinox Bambino Pocket Knife Toy

$34.95 - www.victorinox.com.au

VTech Smart Medical Kit

$44.95 - www.bigw.com.au

There’s always a doctor in the house with the Smart Medical Kit. Children can care for their family, friends, pets and plush toys with this portable kit. Children can dress up like a Doctor and use the interactive healthcare tablet, exploring medical instruments, the human body and common ailments using the touch points on the tablet. When the Doctor’s office is closed, pack up the 15 instruments and accessories and place them all in the medical bag, ready for their next appointment. The Smart Medical Kit is suitable for 2 to 5 years and is available at Big W, Target, good toy stores and online retailers.

Who says a Swiss Army Knife is just for grown-ups? This pocket knife is for young children who like the way the Victorinox scales hide small tools and want a little, child-safe adventure companion of their own. It’s an eight-function piece for playing with as much as for taking on trips so that there’s always a set of child’s cutlery on hand. Its functions include a blade with rounded tip, a bottle opener, a screwdriver, a woodsaw, a snap hook, a fork and spoon as well as a small magnifying glass that are all perfect for discovering

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Tips on Water Safety from Parentmedic North Qld

Children have a fascination with water, especially babies and toddlers, which puts them at a higher risk of drowning. Babies and toddlers body shape makes them top heavy - If a baby falls into shallow water, they can’t always lift themselves out. Drowning is quick, silent and deadly, and it only takes 20 seconds. The number one rule is constant supervision, never taking your eyes off children even if they can swim. Keep your child in arm’s reach and avoid distractions. Always restrict access to water by fencing pools and using safety barriers. Make sure pool gates are locked and regularly check the safety latch is in good working order.

Swimming lessons are invaluable and highly recommended for all children. Not only does swimming, as a form of exercise, keep a child’s heart and lungs healthy, but it also improves strength and flexibility.

Perinatal Mental Health Week

Attending a first aid course and learning CPR is the only way to know what to do when managing an emergency around water. CPR helps keep the blood circulating and delivers oxygen to the body until help arrives. It’s a good idea to update first aid skills every three years and also update your CPR each year. You can contact a local service provider for more information.

An excellent website for water safety in Queensland is the Laurie Lawrence campaign ‘Kids Alive.’ This website provides a Kids Channel, Parents Library and a Teacher Hub. www.kidsalive.com.au

Each year in the second week of November, Perinatal Mental Health Week raises awareness about perinatal mental health challenges, and where you can find help, support and understanding. As Australia’s only national helpline for individuals and their families, Perinatal Anxiety and Depression Australia (PANDA) provides access to counselling and information, supporting the mental health of parents and families during pregnancy and in their first year of parenthood. The PANDA Helpline operates Monday to Friday, including public holidays, from 9.00am to 7.30pm AEST and is staffed by trained and experienced counsellors and volunteers. Call 1300 726 306 if you or a loved one need support or advice.

Fun FactFoetuses Have Tails

Most humans grow a tail in the womb, which usually grows into the coccyx or the tailbone. The tailbone is a bone located at the end of the spine, below the sacrum. Sometimes, however, the embryonic tail doesn’t disappear and the baby is born with it. This, however, is extremely rare.

Adult Colouring

WIN a Fauna Jigsaw Puzzle from Coudberries

$24.99 - www.cloudberries.co.uk - Explore the exciting animal kingdom in FAUNA, a professionally-designed jigsaw from the eco-friendly puzzle brand Cloudberries! The eye-catching combination of colors in every portion of the design will surely keep you on your toes as you try to figure out which piece goes where. Apart from providing an absolutely superb puzzling experience, Cloudberries also gives back to the planet by planting a tree for every puzzle sold. With these, Cloudberries not only manages to impress but also successfully takes an active part in caring for the planet. Now is definitely the moment to try out this one-of-a-kind puzzle! Visit www.pakmag.com.au/win for your chance to win! No need to submit activity to enter.

Lift-out kids activity mag!

Find these hidden things at the picnic

COLOUR & FIND WHICH PLACE EACH RACER CAME

SPOT THE 4 DIFFERENCES & COLOUR IN

WIN a Marble Rush Speedway! $49.95 - www.bigw.com.au

Ready, set, RACE marbles down ramps and through obstacles with the Marble Rush Speedway. This 78-piece colour-coded building set includes a starting gate that plays a musical light show, crazy 360° loop, thrilling tracks, rattling peg maze and bases that all easily connect together. Children can compete with family and friends to keep the marbles in motion and bring them back to the beginning. Combine with other Marble Rush sets (sold separately) to create an extreme playset. Find more exciting build ideas by visiting the Marble Rush website, www.marblerush.com Visit www.pakmag.com.au/win for your chance to win! Competition closes 30/11/2022. No need to submit activities to enter.

MINI MAG

USE THE GRID TO DRAW YOUR OWN TURTLE

WIN a Wahu Pool Pets Croc Racer! $19.99 - www.wahu.com.au

Kids will love these awesome new inflatable pool racers in bright funky Wahu colours. Perfect for racing up and down the pool against your mates, or trying to balance on them - the possibilities are endless! Wahu Pool Pets will be a hit all summer long. Ages 6+. Available from all leading retailers. Visit www.pakmag.com.au/win for your chance to win! Competition closes 30/11/2022.

need to submit activities to enter.

Mega Christmas Giveaway!

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

1. Hape Toy Pack - $120.00 - www.myer.com.au - Each pack includes a Hape Musical Cloud Light, a Hape Whale Fountain and a Hape Tubing Pull-Back Boat. Babies enjoy sounds and music as they develop their senses. The Hape Musical Cloud Light helps little ones drift peacefully off to sleep. Featuring three hanging raindrops which let you change the lighting settings. Select between ten audio tracks, eight gentle melodies and soothing heartbeat and rain sounds. The nursery mobile includes a sleep timer and a sensor that will activate the cloud if your baby wakes up crying, and it easily attaches to a cot, crib or stroller. Make bath time magical with this wonderful Hape Musical Whale Fountain. Easily attached to the bottom of the bath with a suction cup, choose between watching the fountains dance to music or play each whale like the keys of a piano. Ideal for bubs and bath fun is the Hape Tubing Pull-Back Boat, a speedboat complete with a tubing bear. Let them pull back on the string and the boat will actually move through the water, pulling the bear behind on a tube until it reaches the boat safely.

2. Osmo Little Genius Starter Kit - $159.00 - www.playosmo.com - The Genius Starter Kit includes everything your kids need to experience hands-on learning and digital fun with lessons across maths, science, puzzle solving, vocabulary and creativity. Designed for kids aged 6-10. The award winning Little Genius Kit introduces little ones to core concepts like ABCs, shapes, numbers and narrative storytelling through the power of fun and promotes positive screen time. Designed for kids aged 3-5. 3. Wahu Mega Slide - $50.00 - www.wahu.com.

au - Kids will love racing each other down this massive 7.5m Super Slide. The continuous water spray means you’ll be zooming down the slide and into the splash bumper in no time! This is the ultimate backyard toy! For Ages 6+. Available from all leading retailers. 4. Cool Maker Stitch N’ Style Fashion Studio - $59.99 - www.target.com.au - Have a fashionista on your hands? Let children live out their fashion designer dreams with this all-in-one Cool Maker Stitch N’ Style Fashion Studio. This fashion studio makes sewing safe and easy due to its innovative cartridge thread system and automatic sewing sensors that know when to sew. Customise the designs with unique prints that are magically applied with water. The Stich N’ Style Fashion Studio works with most fabrics for the ultimate DIY projects. 5. Globber Go Up Sporty - $170.00 - www.globber.com.au - The Globber Go Up Sporty is a ride on, a walking bike and a scooter - all in one! Simply switch modes as your child grows and their needs change. The seat height is adjustable, as is the scooter height, so this product can truly grow with your child. Suitable from about 15 months to 6 years. Available in navy blue, lime green, deep pink and mint.

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Celebrate Summer

It’s that time of year (already!) that we start the pre-Christmas celebrations. It’s stinking hot, so these icy cold beverages are the perfect way to kick off the party. Both have the option to be non-alcoholic, so everyone can enjoy these cheeky summer tipples.

Mango Rum Lassi

It’s mango season! Choosing ripe, juicy mangoes when they are at their sweetest will make these mango rum lassis sing!

Serves 2 Ingredients

• 1 cup frozen mango

• 1 cup plain yogurt

• ½ cup ice

• 2 shots of simple syrup

• 2 shots of dark/spiced rum (optional)

• Lime juice, to taste

• Salt, to taste

• Mint, to garnish

• Cardamom powder, for dusting Method

Put the yogurt, mango and ice in a blender and blend until smooth.

Add the simple syrup, lime juice and salt. Blend until combined. Add the rum if making the alcoholic version, and blend until combined.

Taste and make adjustments according to your preference.

Pour into chilled glasses, dust with cardamom powder and add a sprig of mint as a garnish. Enjoy!

Raspberry Lemonade with Pink Gin

This refreshing drink will both quench your thirst and lift your spirits. The sugar content in this drink is reduced by the addition of soda water, which doesn’t go astray at this time of year when there are tempting treats everywhere we turn.

Serves 4 Ingredients

• 2 cups lemonade

• 2 cups soda water

• 2 cups ice + 1 pitcher half filled with ice

• 1 lemon, thinly sliced

• 4 shots of pink gin (optional)

• Mint, to garnish

Method

In your pitcher half filled with ice, pour in the lemonade, soda water and pink gin (leave gin out if making nonalcoholic) and stir to combine.

Half fill four chilled glasses with ice. Top each with a few raspberries, add a little more ice and finish off with some more raspberries. Slide a few slices of lemon down the sides of your glasses.

Pour your lemonade mixture into your glasses and add a sprig of mint to each as a garnish. Enjoy!

Helping Your Child Manage Their Changing Body

STORY Lis Rooks

In puberty, your child is coping with many physical and emotional changes. Maybe you remember your own emotions and worries during that time? Thinking about how you felt might help you be more empathetic and relate to how your child feels.

Acknowledge the Changes

Commonly, teenagers feel self-conscious or embarrassed at times when it comes to their changing bodies. Being there for your child as they transition through physical, emotional, and sexual changes to their bodies and psyche will help them feel safe and understood.

However, you don’t have to wait with the conversation until the changes start to happen. Preparing your child before their body starts to change can help them know what to expect and provide them with reassurance that these changes are normal and nothing to be ashamed of.

While not every teenager feels comfortable talking about these personal subjects, having open and relaxed conversations can be helpful. Remember you are the most influential role model in your child’s life, so lead by example. If your child can see you’re comfortable talking about these issues, your child will feel more comfortable too. Just keep in mind that big or uncomfortable conversations can’t be forced and are best had when your child is ready to talk and listen.

Give Simple and Factual Explanations

Giving simple, factual explanations can prepare your child for upcoming changes and provide reassurance that puberty is an important and exciting life stage. Talking to your child about physical and emotional changes like underarm hair, breast development, voice

changes and mood swings can normalise the subject, soothe out anxiety and help them feel comfortable with it.

Give your Child Options

If you or your child feel uncomfortable talking about puberty, or have questions that you are unsure about, talking to a trusted adult such as a relative, counsellor or GP can help.

Try to avoid comparing them to others and instead encourage your child to accept their body as it is. This will help them feel more confident and understand that everyone develops at their own pace. Alternatively, you can also provide your child with age appropriate books and videos to help educate them.

Remember to Listen

Listening to your child shows that they are respected, and that their thoughts and feelings are valid. By allowing your child to lead conversations, you help them share their worries and anxieties with you, giving them the safe space to explore their own feelings. Remember, sometimes the best parenting is not saying anything at all.

Lastly, Remember to Have Fun

Remind yourself that not everything has to be serious. Taking your child shopping for personal hygiene products can encourage them to embrace changes, nurture their growing independence and give them an outlet to celebrate their growing body. Girls may even want to bring along friends or add a selfcare or pamper experience to the outing. An experience like this can help your child associate positive feelings with their growing body, and perhaps even reinforce and nurture your parent-child relationship.

Bites and Stings –The Risks and Remedies When Living in North Qld

STORY Loretta Woodford - Parentmedic North Queensland Owner

As a parent, we want to keep our kids safe, and living in North Queensland comes with its own set of risks that are important to be aware of. There are a variety of creatures that can bite or sting us here, so what do you do if you suspect your little one has been bitten or stung? It can be difficult to know whether or not a bite or sting is dangerous, so let’s clarify common bites and stings that happen in and around North Queensland.

Insect Bites

Common symptoms of insect bites are skin irritation, inflammation or swelling, or a bump or a blister around the bite mark. Insect bites usually clear up within a couple of days without any treatment.

Mosquitoes can cause itchy bites and severe allergic reactions are rare. Itching is quite common and children will often scratch, breaking the skin. If the skin is broken

it can lead to an infection, so if itching persists for more than 48 hours, it is best to take your child to the doctor.

Bees and wasps can produce a painful sting, however the major cause for concern is the development of serious allergy, also known as anaphylaxis. If a child shows signs of anaphylaxis, ring 000 immediately and wait for the ambulance. Signs and symptoms of Anaphylaxis are discussed below, as well as what you should do in such a medical emergency.

Wasps rarely leave their sting in the skin but if a bee’s stinger is left behind, gently remove it by scraping it carefully from the side with a fingernail or credit card, flicking the sting out to reduce the amount of venom injected. Do not use tweezers as you may release more venom from the sac. Follow general first aid for bites and stings. More information on general first aid is discussed below.

Hairy Caterpillars can cause painful, itchy and inflamed skin reactions as caterpillar hairs become embedded in the child’s skin. These hairs can also cause eye injury if they get into the eye, so see your doctor immediately if there are caterpillar hairs in the eye. Remove visible hairs with tweezers, then apply and remove adhesive tape to the area to remove the finer hairs. Do not scratch or rub the area as this may cause the hairs to penetrate deeper into the skin.

Other Bites and Stings

Snake bites in north Queensland can be potentially fatal and an ambulance should be called immediately by dialling 000 for all cases of suspected snakebite. While not all snakes are venomous, it is difficult to identify snakes, and therefore all bites should be treated as potentially dangerous. Immediately apply a pressureimmobilisation bandage, lay the child as still as possible and wait for the ambulance to arrive. Do not attempt to kill or capture the snake yourself.

Box jellyfish are found mostly in the warm waters along the North Queensland coast. Stings are potentially fatal. Douse the tentacles with vinegar, and then call 000 for an ambulance. If the child isn’t breathing, start cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR). Do not attempt to remove the tentacles and do not rub the sting.

Bluebottle jellyfish are found in all coastal waters and can be seen when walking along the beach in summer. The sting can cause immediate intense pain followed by redness at the site. Remove any remaining tentacles by washing the area with water. Soaking the affected area in hot but not scalding water (ideally 45°C) for 20 minutes may relieve the pain. This, however, is not suitable for infants, as hot water may burn their skin. Do not use vinegar. If pain persists, patients should see their GP.

Irukandji Syndrome can be a potentially lethal condition, however, most cases are not life threatening. The initial sting is usually not felt but can develop into a progressive syndrome (over minutes to hours) characterised by restlessness, sweating, nausea, vomiting and severe pain affecting the limbs, back, abdomen or chest. For suspected Irukandji Syndrome, douse the site with vinegar. Ring 000 for an ambulance, so your child can attend an Emergency Department for assessment.

Flying foxes and bats can cause infection that can be transmitted after scratches or bites. If your child is bitten or scratched by a bat, wash the area with soap

and water for five minutes, apply an antiseptic and then see your GP.

General First Aid for Bites and Stings

1. Wash with soap and water and apply an antiseptic if available.

2. Ensure your child’s tetanus vaccination is up to date.

3. An icepack can be applied to reduce local pain and swelling.

4. Pain relief may be required e.g., paracetamol or an antihistamine (to reduce swelling, redness or itch).

5. See your doctor if your child develops any other symptoms or signs of infection.

Anaphylaxis

Signs and symptoms to look out for in children after a bite or sting are:

• difficult/noisy breathing.

• swelling of tongue.

• swelling/tightness in the throat.

• difficulty talking and/or hoarse voice.

• wheeze or persistent cough.

• persistent dizziness or collapse.

• pale and floppy.

• abdominal pain and vomiting (these are signs of anaphylaxis for insect allergy).

Anaphylaxis is a medical emergency and therefore follow these steps:

1. Lay the child flat (do not allow them to stand or walk).

2. Administer an autoinjector (EpiPen or AnaPen) if one is available.

3. Dial 000 for the ambulance.

4. Administer second autoinjector if there is no response after 5 minutes.

5. The child will be transported to the Emergency Department for at least 4 hours of observation.

If this is your child’s first anaphylactic event, the ambulance will administer adrenaline on the way to the hospital. Commence CPR if the child is unresponsive and not breathing normally.

For more information, check out www.healthdirect.gov.au and www.childrens.health.qld.gov.au

Loretta Woodford is passionate about educating parents and carers to be confident in an emergency situation through her Baby / Child First Aid sessions. She is a Registered Nurse with a Master in Nursing (Education) and the Owner of Parentmedic North Qld. She is dedicated to ensuring every parent in north Queensland can be their child’s lifesaver. To book a private or public session, contact Loretta at hello@parentmedicnorthqld.co

Fostering Empathy in Children is Crucial

STORY Simone Cook, Guidance Counsellor

As parents, we are always hopeful that our parenting has provided our children with the skills required for them to flourish. But what does that really mean, and how do we know what aspects of parenting are going to help ensure this happens?

Research tells us that being emotionally connected in our world is one very important way our children develop positive self-esteem and build positive relationships. As parents, this is a great place to start. Whilst we are hopeful our children develop with individual strengths and capabilities, without the capacity to connect and empathise with others, they may become very isolated and alone in the world.

A common hope therefore, would be to ensure our children grow with the ability to make meaningful

connections with others to completely flourish! While this sounds feasible, how does it happen, and what can we as parents do to help?

Living in this technological existence, one would think that connecting to others is easier. Whilst this may be the case technically, the art of human connection requires much more than seeing a face or words on a device. Cooperative social interaction is critical for human social development and learning. For example, face to face interactions involving eye contact are actually essential to the developing brains of our children. Those experiences where we are face to face with our family and friends interacting and communicating, are crucial times for our children to learn about themselves, their own emotions, and the emotions of others.

Research tells us that empathy is one of those vital ingredients that children need in order to build connections, appreciate others and develop awareness of alternative perspectives. Unfortunately, without the ability to empathise, the connections we make may be superficial and shallow, or may not happen at all. This ability to ‘walk in other people’s shoes’ is a vital social skill and is crucial for establishing positive relationships. Empathy allows us to behave with compassion, and enables prosocial and helpful behaviours that benefit everyone. If our children are lacking empathy, they will be unable to connect and will have difficulties making friends or maintaining friendships. Therefore, fostering a culture of empathy with your child at a very young age may in fact be one of the most important gifts you could give them.

What is empathy? Three distinct processes that describe empathy include the ability to understand and share others emotions, reason with varying perspectives, and have the desire to help when someone is vulnerable or distressed. These traits may appear natural and simplistic, however, they do not develop automatically and are shaped by a child’s personal experience, culture, environment and parenting. With technology being at the forefront of our lives, parenting now more than ever plays a vital role in helping our children develop important social-emotional-intellectual skills. Developing skills in empathy and understanding, will benefit everyone by building more positive, connected and caring relationships.

So how can we help our children be more empathetic?

Make Talking About Feelings a Natural Part of Conversations

• Identify feelings by naming them and encourage your child to talk about why they are feeling that way.

• Allow your child to feel their feelings and offer ways for them to manage them. For example, provide simple strategies like using breathing exercises when frustrated or anxious.

• Provide your child with the time and space they need if they are not ready to talk, this shows respect for their feelings and processing time.

• Model self-care and self-reflection to your child. They learn so much from what they observe of our own behaviours as parents.

Be a Responsive Parent Who Empathises with Your Child

• Communicate effectively by listening attentively. Turn off the television, put the phone down and pay close attention to what is being said and communicated both verbally and nonverbally. Speak positively and without judgement, help your child be solution-focussed in their approach. For example, “It sounds like you are feeling frustrated by your friend’s behaviour? What do you think would help?”.

• Know your child and take the time to notice how they are feeling. Talk openly about their body language and facial expressions.

• Ask questions daily about their day. For example, “What was the best part of your day today?”, and “What are three things that you’re grateful for today?”.

• Ensure you are responding to your child’s emotional needs by acknowledging and respecting their feelings. When we empathise with our children they develop trusting, secure attachments with us. This way we are modelling a caring response.

Model Caring for Others and Make it an Expectation in Your Family

• Talk about being kind and encourage actions of kindness and thoughtfulness.For example, “What did you do when your friend was sad?”.

• Develop a culture of an appreciation of difference through your conversation and perspective of the world. Model this in the way you communicate.

• Encourage a sense of fair play during interactions. A fair solution involves sharing, taking turns and compromising. This encourages the idea that their desires aren’t more important than those of others.

• Ask your child to contribute around the house and to practice gratitude to those around them. This helps them become more aware of others and what they do for them.

Simone is an experienced educator, counsellor and mother of three who has worked for 30 years in both primary and secondary schools. Simone has a Bachelor of Education majoring in Health and Physical Education and a Masters in Guidance and Counselling and has held various positions in North Queensland schools advocating for the health and wellbeing of all students. Simone currently works as a Guidance Counsellor at Ryan Catholic College.

Teaching Your Child to Love Reading and Writing

STORY Rachael Hood and Amanda Banister

Literacy is the ability to read, view, write, listen and speak to communicate and make sense of our world. It’s understood that parents and carers make a big difference in their child’s interest and development of literacy, which enhances a child’s performance at school. Despite having the greatest effect in the early years before and during school, parental involvement continues to have an impact throughout secondary school.

So, how can parents and carers help? Here are some ideas to assist in the development of reading and writing for each age and stage.

Babies and Toddlers

Talking with your baby about everything that you see and hear (the weather, the washing, the groceries etc) and asking your baby questions when you are playing and caring for them is vital. Through listening to the intonation of your voice as you speak, your baby begins to learn words and the way in which language operates.

It is also great to sing and read books to your baby daily. When you hold your baby, read and look at a

book, this gives your baby safe and confident exposure to books, and you can do this from birth. Singing nursery rhymes teaches your children language, rhyme, repetition and rhythm. As your baby grows, encourage your baby to hold the books you read to them. They will have favourites, so be prepared to read them repeatedly! Repetition allows toddlers to understand story patterns. Providing drawing materials early on is also an important part of literacy development as early squiggles and marks are the beginning of writing.

Kindergarteners and Preppies

Keep talking with your preschoolers and ask lots of questions. Rich oral language experiences are essential for effective literacy progression. Dinner time conversations about your day and your child’s day provide a perfect opportunity to expand your child’s vocabulary. Whenever you are out and about, point out environmental print to your child - road signs, shop signs and food labels. This highlights the purpose and importance of reading and writing, and makes it meaningful for children.

Writing thank-you notes, shopping lists, family messages, family love letters and jokes helps to instil a passion for writing. Instead of only buying toys, ensure you give your children some books for birthdays and Christmas. It is also a great idea to instil daily reading habits with your child. Make this a time that they really look forward to and allow them to make choices about what you read together.

Once your preschooler has home readers, use the guidelines from your school to assist your child to read their book. These guidelines will include strategies such as looking at the pictures, noticing sight words and paying attention to punctuation. They will also involve strategies of ‘reading on’ if unsure of the word and collecting other clues; going back to the beginning of the sentence and re-reading; and asking “What do you think would make sense here?”. Keep in mind that home readers are easy so children can practise reading with fluency and intonation. This helps them to feel confident in their reading skills. It is a great idea to continue reading high quality literature to them on top of these home readers. Preps will also be sent high frequency (or sight) words to learn at home.

Sight words are predominantly memorised through the daily reading of them with your child. Our best advice is to keep this homework fun and stress-free by making it a game where possible. Playing games like I Spy, memory, and other word and image games where they can focus on letters and sounds assists children to develop their knowledge. Building up a bank of memorised high frequency words is essential to the progression of reading and writing. Providing drawing materials and encouraging your child to draw often (and label their drawings and tell you about the story in the drawing) is also a great way to improve their literacy skills.

Primary School Children

Throughout the primary years it is important that children continue to have access to quality literature at home through your local library or personal collection. The Children’s Book Council of Australia (CBCA) produces an annual list of the Book of the Year Awards shortlist and winners which are recognised

as quality, these are a good starting point for parents. Reading together is the best way to continue to encourage a love of books and cement the foundational literacy skills in your child.

Reading books before watching movies of the same title can assist in motivating reluctant readers to try the book first. Daily home reading will continue throughout the primary years and your child will need your support to be successful. Continue the daily routine (without excuses) and make it a fun, positive and special time together. Take an active interest in your child’s learning and monitor their success with their homework. Check in regularly with your child’s teacher to determine their progress, to view their work and to ask what else you can do at home to support your child.

Secondary School Tweens and Teens

Your job isn’t done yet parents, this is a time to continue to take an interest in your child’s schooling. Increasingly deep and robust conversations about world topics and your child’s opinions will be needed to maintain confidence and interest levels in literacy. Plan outings and holidays together, get them to assist by doing research and determining what’s best for the family. Ask questions about school learning and assessment. Know when your child has assessments due and ask your child to discuss their work with you. Offer to read their work and give feedback.

Maintaining an interest in what your child is studying is the key. Going book shopping or borrowing together gives your mature child the message that reading is important throughout life. Read the same books at the same time and discuss them together - you could start your own mini book club!

This teen time is all about keeping the lines of communication open with the school. This will enable you to be aware of any difficulties your child may be experiencing, and in which ways you can help.

Helping your children to be successful in literacy is one of the most important jobs you will ever do as a parent. Inspiring a love of literacy will stand your child in great stead for many years to come.

Rachael Hood and Amanda Banister are System Learning and Teaching Advisers at Catholic Education. Between them they have sixty plus years of experience in teaching, leadership and as advisers to schools.

Their current work is focused around improving student outcomes in schools, building teacher capacity and aligning systemic initiatives. Both Rachael and Amanda have a passion for literacy learning and teaching and are currently leading a two-year writing project with several Diocesan schools.

www.pakmag.com.au

What’s Happening November and December in Mackay

As Mackay and the Whitsundays cruise into the Christmas period, there is a lot happening in our beautiful region. Here are some of the best things you can do with the family leading into this special time.

Caneland Central

It’s all happening at Caneland Central in the lead up to Christmas. Find out more on their socials or head to their website www.canelandcentral.com.au

Black Friday Sales - Save the date, Black Friday Sales are back again! Shop at Caneland on Black Friday 25 November to receive a gift with your purchase. Spend $150 at any of the specialty retailers to claim your $25 voucher. Limited gifts available, so be quick! Visit the website for more details.

Santa Welcome Show - Santa arrives Saturday 5 November! Join us for a Christmas Concert & Parade at 10.00am sharp with special visitors from the North Pole, plus festive craft workshops from 11.00am - 2.00pm.

PakMag Christmas Party - On Sunday the 6 November 10.00am - 11.30am, join the team from PakMag to celebrate 10 years of PakMag in Mackay and of course celebrate Christmas in style. There will be prizes for best dressed Christmas themed, a photo booth, lots of Christmas games, singing and dancing, plus lots of visitors from the North Pole including Santa to celebrate Christmas. There will also be lots of prize giveaways thanks to Terrywhite Chemmart. Harvey Norman Bedding Mackay will be giving away $250 vouchers to some lucky families!

Charity Gift Wrapping - From 3 - 24 December you can get on Santa’s nice list with charity gift wrapping! Let the kind helpers wrap your Christmas gifts for you and make a difference by donating to a local charity.

Santa Photos - Receive an Early Bird Special for Santa Photos! The first 200 families to visit Santa will receive a $10 food court voucher to treat the kids. Those who visit Santa in November also receive a FREE calendar print with their booking.

A Caneland Shopping Centre www.canelandcentral.com.au

Artspace Mackay

BMA Kidspace offers online and in-person activities for kids with their program specifically designed for 0 - 5 year olds. Activities include painting, glow-in-thedark art, projects with recycled materials, sing alongs, and more.

A Artspace Mackay Artspace Mackay

Sarina Sugar Shed

Sarina Sugar Shed offers an award-winning insight into sugar production. From paddock to plate; the tour will teach you and your little ones just what happens when cane is planted, how it is used, and what it makes. You’ll get the opportunity to observe, touch, feel, and taste the different stages of sugar production, their non-alcoholic ginger beer brewed onsite, the freshly spun fairy floss, and freshly squeezed cane juice. There’s plenty of goodies for the adults to try too. Cost: $13.30 for kids, $26.50 for adults, kids under 5 are free. Bookings essential.

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

Mackay Twilight Market

The next Mackay Twilight Market will be held on Saturday 26 November 4pm to 9pm at the Mackay Showgrounds Hall. 100 plus stall holders and exhibitors, lots of yummy food and drinks, prizes and activities for the kids. Cost is $2 per adult.

A Mackay Showgrounds Mackay Twilight Market

www.pakmag.com.au

Mount Pleasant Centre

Santa’s Breakfast - You’re invited to a very special breakfast with Santa this Christmas on 3 December at 8.30am. Kids will love being up close with Santa. Each child will receive a breakfast pack and get to meet some of Santa’s friends.

Santa Photos - On 3 December Santa arrives at Mount Pleasance Centre. Everyone can have the chance to take photos with him at the Santa Set which will be located outside the food court. The photo sessions will run until 24 December. Booking essential.

Charity Gift Wrapping - From 3 - 24 December you can get on Santa’s nice list with charity gift wrapping! Let the kind helpers wrap your Christmas gifts for you and make a difference by donating to the Mackay Hospital Foundation.

A Mount Pleasant Centre www.mountpleasantcentre.com.au

Mackay Library Events

The Mackay Council Libraries, along with their usual offerings, run holiday programs that include music programs, movie screenings, storytime, craft activities, science programs, and writing workshops. Bookings are essential for all events.

Some of the free highlights include:

A Boy Called Christmas movie screening which will be at the Gordon White Library on 16 December 2.00pm4.00pm. Suitable for children 5-12 years

Bedtime Stories 15 December at the Gordon White and Dudley Denny City Library.

Christmas activities for kids run 12 - 16 December across all libraries.

Lego Magformers and Bamboo runs from 13 December until 19 January at various library locations. There will also be the Hogwarts Mega Lego project.

Anime Manga Club allows you to share your favourite story ideas, drawings, and all things Japanese. Suitable for children 12 - 18 years.

Destress If the end of year exams are getting your teens head in, they can learn breathing and relaxation techniques on 8 November from 3.30pm - 4.30pm at the Dudley Denny City Library.

Story time with Sam Derchie uses story, music, drumming and song to hold the audience from beginning to end, leaving children with a lasting memory of the African culture. Suitable for children aged 5 - 12. Runs on 11 November 3.45pm - 4.45pm at Gordon White Library and 12 November 10.00am - 11.00am at Dudley Denny City Library.

Fishing For Fun Join a lifelong angler from Tackleworld Mackay to learn the basics of fishing. Runs on 15 November from 3.30pm - 4.30pm.

Christmas Cookie Boutique Decorate scrummy biscuits with ‘snow’ and ‘baubles” ready for Christmas. Great for

gifts or to eat yourself! This event is held on 6 December 3.30pm - 4.30pm at Gordon White Library

Ukendrum This program is a young adult music program for those who love the rhythms of music but don’t yet play an instrument. Instruments provided and learn a song within 3 minutes. The class runs on 10 November at Dudley Denny City Library form 3.40pm - 4.40pm. www.mackay.qld.gov.au/libraries

New Years Eve

Relax, unwind and bring in the new year at the annual New Year’s Eve River Party. This event brings families and friends together to celebrate the year that was, in true Mackay style!

Featuring heaps of entertainment including live music, performances, food, drink and face painting, the New Year’s Eve Party is topped off with two magnificent fireworks displays!

Start is at 6.00pm

A Bluewater Quay

Baubles, Bubbles & Blooms

Looking for an exciting Mingle event? Held on Saturday November 26, this event will help you create your very own Christmas themed floral headpiece to wear to all your upcoming festive occasions! Enjoy live music, as you graze on scrumptious antipasto platters watching the sunset over the stunning pacific ocean - followed by a Creative Crowns Co. workshop to create your own Christmas themed floral headpiece - perfect to wear in the lead up to Christmas Day. Dress to impress, as there will be a professional photographer roaming to capture the glamorous moments, and of course the iconic beauty station set up for make-up touch ups. Tickets cost $160

A The Surf Club Mackay Mingle Events Co

Mackay Show Christmas Market

Friday 9 December is the Christmas Mega Market at the Showgrounds. The Christmas markets in Mackay give you extensive choices for exchanging gifts during this festive season. Besides the great gifts there is also delish food, music and entertainment, kids rides and a special visit from Santa. $2 entry.

A Mackay Showgrounds

Carols In The City

Bring your picnic blanket and your singing voice to BB Print Stadium for Carols in the City. Carols in the City features many talented local musicians and singers who will ring out festive cheer with popular Carols and Christmas songs you know and love. There will also be a Kids Zone and plenty of food vendors from the Twilight Markets. Make sure to reserve your spot early, gates open at 5.30pm. Keep an eye on www.mackay.qld.gov.au for confirmation of date.

www.pakmag.com.au

Daddy Diary

Undoubtedly the best aspect of being a man is the ability to pee wherever and whenever (within reason) one desires. The convenience of this cannot be overstated. Yes ladies, it’s a fact that we learn very early in life, if my three-year-old son Charlie is anything to go by.

Let me set the scene. About a year ago my wife and I moved into our dream home. For 10 years we have worked and saved so we could finally afford the extra bedroom, garage space, land for the kids to play on and the pièce de résistance; our 35,000 litre inground swimming pool. I’ve argued more than once that the rest of the house was built simply to accommodate the pool. We love the thing. That’s why I’m so adamant my little boy does not treat it like his own personal dunny.

For months I’ve told him, whatever you do, don’t pee in the pool. Just get out and do it on the grass. Simple. Fortunately, and it gives me much pleasure to say this, he has been listening to his old man.

Unfortunately though, it gives me much displeasure to also report he recently whipped it out during one of my eight-year-old daughters’ sleepovers. Awkward. Let me just say, there ain’t no noise more shrill than a gaggle of primary school age girls screaming at my young son’s old fella. They were completely and utterly horrified. And this put me in quite the predicament.

You see, on the one hand, my little boy did exactly what I’ve been telling him to do. He didn’t wee in the pool. He got out and did it on the grass. A+ for following directions. The unfortunate thing however is that three-year-old’s don’t really care about their audience. The bush wee in front of family only, or a wee in front of visiting guests is much of a muchness to a toddler. Really the whole debacle is my fault as his “stand up and wee outside” pool educator. So I’ll cop this one on the chin. Don’t blame the kid, blame his overly protective of the chemical balance in his pool father.

On a positive note, the toilet training is going well. We haven’t had a pair of wet jocks or a sneaky number two in weeks. And I guess that’s where I’ll draw the line. Number one’s on the grass we can accept, no matter the audience. Number two’s. Well that’s one we just can’t cop Charlie boy. Love you so much my son.

Cliffo Hit 100.3

Mackay and Whitsundays

What’s On

TUESDAY 1 NOVEMBER

Melbourne Cup at Souths Leagues Club

Souths Leagues Club

10.00am - 3:00pm / $10.00 / PG www.southsmackay.com.au

Melbourne Cup at Harrup Park Harrup Park Country

11.30am - 3.30pm / $20.00$148.00 www.harruppark.com.au

Melbourne Cup Luncheon Mackay Northern Beaches Bowls

11.00am - 6.00pm / $85.00/ 18+

Mackay Northern Beaches Bowls Club

Melbourne Cup Party

The Surf Club Mackay 11.00am - 3.00pm / $123.00 / 18+

Mackay Northern Beaches Bowls Club

Teen Shed Fitness Bootcamp Runs Tuesday until 16 December

Victoria Park State School Senior Oval 3.30pm - 4.30pm / $5.00$40.00 / Ages 12 - 18 www.eventbrite.com.au

Coral Sea AcademySafety at Sea

The Lookout Lounge

5.30pm - 7.00pm / FREE / PG www.tourismwhitsundays.com. au/whats-on

THURSDAY 3 NOVEMBER

Ukulele and Guitar Rescue

Gordon White Library

10.30am - 11.30am / FREE / Ages 8 -12

www.library.mackay.qld.gov.au

Ukulele for Kids

Gordon White Library

3.40pm - 4.40pm / FREE / Ages 8 - 12 www.library.mackay.qld.gov.au

Fully Uked Ukulele

Gordon White Library

5.00pm - 6.30pm / FREE / PG www.library.mackay.qld.gov.au

GEED UP – Festival Weekend

Runs until 6 November

Airlie Beach Hotel

7.00pm - 10.00pm / FREE / 18+ www.airliebeachhotel.com.au

FRIDAY 4 NOVEMBER

Mackay Art Deco Walking Tour

Australian Hotel 6.00pm / $15.00 / PG SugarCityArtDeco

Ukulele Workshops

Gordon White Library

2.00pm - 4.40pm / FREE / 18+ www.library.mackay.qld.gov.au

Lisa Hunt’s ‘Forever Soul

Runs until 5 November

Airlie Beach Hotel

7.00pm -10.00pm / FREE / M www.airliebeachhotel.com.au

Public Art Walk

Artspace Mackay

4.30pm - 5.30pm / FREE / PG www.artspacemackay.com.au

SATURDAY 5 NOVEMBER

Karaoke Under The Stars Runs first Saturday monthly Mackay Northern Beaches Bowls Club

8.00pm - 12.00am / FREE / M www.mnbbowls.com.au

Santa Parade

Caneland Central

10.00am - 10.30am / FREE / G www.canelandcentral.com.au

Festive Craft Workshops

Caneland Central

11.00am - 2.00pm / FREE / PG www.canelandcentral.com.au

Phone Photography

Dudley Denny City Library

9.30am - 10.30am / FREE / 16+ www.library.mackay.qld.gov.au

The Official Blues Brothers Review

Airlie Beach Hotel

2.00pm - 5.30pm / FREE / M www.airliebeachhotel.com.au

Mackay Gymnastics Awards Night

Magpies Sporting Club

6.30 pm - 10.00pm / $45.00$70.00 / PG www.magpiesmackay.com.au/ sports

www.pakmag.com.au

With Triple M's Jay and Dave

SUNDAY 6 NOVEMBER

Intuitive Art for Wellness - a space for healing through Creativity

Runs weekly until 25 December

The Grove

2.30pm / $35.00 - $65.00 / M

The Care Klinik

Jeff Dunn & The Great Southern Band

Airlie Beach Hotel

2.00pm - 5.30pm / FREE / M www.airliebeachhotel.com.au

The PakMag Christmas Party

Caneland Central

10.00am - 11.30am / FREE / G PakMag Mackay

MONDAY 7 NOVEMBER

Creative Studio Induction

Gordon White Library

4.00pm - 4.45pm / FREE / 16+ www.library.mackay.qld.gov.au

TUESDAY 8 NOVEMBER

Peace of Mind

Dudley Denny City Library

3.30pm - 4.30pm / FREE / Ages 12 - 18 www.library.mackay.qld.gov.au

Reminisce Café

Gordon White Library

9.00am - 10.30am / FREE / PG www.library.mackay.qld.gov.au

WEDNESDAY 9 NOVEMBER

Townsville Carers Retreat

Quest Townsville on Eyre 10.00am - 6.00pm / FREE Carers Queensland

Art Class – True Heart Connections

Garden Bar Bistro 9.00am -12.00pm / $49.99 / PG www.tourismwhitsundays.com. au

THURSDAY 10 NOVEMBER

Ukulele Workshops

Runs until 11 November

Dudley Denny City Library

3.40pm - 6.30pm / FREE / Ages 8 - 12 www.library.mackay.qld.gov.au

FRIDAY 11 NOVEMBER

Ananse Stories Performance Runs until 12 November

Dudley Denny City Library

3.45pm - 4.45pm / FREE / Ages 5 - 12 www.library.mackay.qld.gov.au

SATURDAY 12 NOVEMBER

Naya Smith Live at Souths Souths Leagues Club 7.00pm - 11.00pm / FREE / PG www.southsmackay.com.au

De Goey Contractors Mackay BBQ & Beer Festival

Harrup Park Country Club 12.00pm - 8.00pm / $17.00 / 18+ www.mackaybbqandbeer festival.com.au

Theatre Arts Mackay Dance Excellence - Showcase Gala 2022

MECC Auditorium 4.00pm / $35.00 - $40.00 / PG www.themecc.com.au

Money For Nothin’ Dire Straits Experience Airlie Beach Hotel

2.00pm - 5.30pm / FREE / M www.airliebeachhotel.com.au

SUNDAY 13 NOVEMBER

Cloudland The Musical

MECC Auditorium

6.00pm - 8.00pm / $5.00$75.00 / 5+ www.themecc.com.au

Kids Tri and Uniteability TriSeries

Mackay Aquatic & Recreation Complex

7.15am - 9.00am / $15.00 / Ages 5 - 12

Tri-ActiV8

The Musical Paul Hayman MECC Auditorium

6.00pm / $54.00 - $84.00 / PG www.themecc.com.au

RSPCA Santa Paws

Paxtons Warehouse

8.30am - 3.30pm / $25.00 / PG www.coffeeandhops.com/ santapaws

Crazy Diamonds’ Pink Floyd Tribute

Airlie Beach Hotel

2.00pm - 5.30pm / FREE / M www.airliebeachhotel.com.au

MONDAY 14 NOVEMBER

The Solar Nation of Tokelau Movie Screening Dudley Denny City Library

2.00pm - 4.00pm / FREE / PG www.library.mackay.qld.gov.au

My Choir

Gordon White Library

11.30am - 12.00pm / FREE / PG www.library.mackay.qld.gov.au

TUESDAY 15 NOVEMBER

Multiples Chatterplay

Gordon White Library

9.30am - 11.00am / FREE / PG www.mackay.qld.gov.au

Fishing for Fun Dudley Denny City Library

3.30pm - 4.30pm / FREE / PG www.library.mackay.qld.gov.au

WEDNESDAY 16 NOVEMBER

Valley Page Turners Book Club

Mirani Library

6.00pm - 7.00pm / FREE / PG www.library.mackay.qld.gov.au

THURSDAY 17 NOVEMBER

Acoustic Guitar Step One

Gordon White Library

3.40pm - 4.40pm / FREE / 15+ www.library.mackay.qld.gov.au

Shredded Fingers Guitar Group

Gordon White Library

5.00pm - 6.30pm / FREE / 15+ www.library.mackay.qld.gov.au

West End Readers Book Club Walkerston Library

5.00pm - 6.00pm / FREE / PG www.library.mackay.qld.gov.au

Anime-Manga Club

Gordon White Library

5.30pm - 7.00pm / FREE / Ages 12 - 18 www.library.mackay.qld.gov.au

FRIDAY 18 NOVEMBER

Dance Avenue Chapter 2 MECC Auditorium

6.00pm / $15.00 - $48.00 / PG www.themecc.com.au

Guitar Jamming Gordon White Library

3.40pm - 4.40pm / FREE / PG www.library.mackay.qld.gov.au

Electric Guitar Step One Gordon White Library

2.00pm - 3.00pm / FREE / 15+ www.library.mackay.qld.gov.au

SATURDAY 19 NOVEMBER

Women of ROCK / Queens of POP Airlie Beach Hotel

2.00pm - 5.30pm / FREE / M www.airliebeachhotel.com.au

SUNDAY 20 NOVEMBER

Hamilton Island Ocean Swim

Catseye Beach, Hamilton Island 7.00am / FREE / 13+ www.tourismwhitsundays.com.au

Countdown Reloaded

Airlie Beach Hotel

2.00pm - 5.30pm / FREE / M www.airliebeachhotel.com.au

Better Births Workshop

Aitkenvale Library

5.00pm - 8.00pm / FREE / PG

Maternity Consumer Network

TUESDAY 22 NOVEMBER

Ink & Drink

Mackay Town Hall

5.30pm - 8.30pm / $7.00 / M Printbank Mackay

2022 Healthy Soils Symposium Runs until 24 November

Various Locations

Various Times / FREE / PG www.soilhealthinstitute.org

THURSDAY 24 NOVEMBER

Between the Lines Book Club

Gordon White Library

5.30pm - 6.30pm / FREE / PG www.library.mackay.qld.gov.au

Bass Guitar Step One

Dudley Denny City Library

3.40pm - 4.40pm / FREE / 8+ www.library.mackay.qld.gov.au

All Bout Da Bass Music Group

Dudley Denny City Library

5.00pm - 6.30pm / FREE / 12+ www.library.mackay.qld.gov.au

FRIDAY 25 NOVEMBER

Ruby Sue Live at Souths Souths Leagues Club

7.00pm - 11.00pm / FREE / PG www.southsmackay.com.au

www.pakmag.com.au

businesses before visiting during these uncertain times.

Mackay and Whitsundays What’s On

Silver Screen Surprise

Gordon White Library

9.30am - 11.30am / FREE / 18+ www.library.mackay.qld.gov.au

Bass Guitar for Everyone

Dudley Denny City Library

2.00pm - 3.00pm / FREE / 12+ www.library.mackay.qld.gov.au

Bass Jamming

Dudley Denny City Library

3.40pm - 4.40pm / FREE / 12+ www.library.mackay.qld.gov.au

SATURDAY 26 NOVEMBER

Baubles, Bubbles & Blooms

The Surf Club Mackay

5.00pm - 9.00pm / $164.00 / M

Mingle Events Co.

Sew Centre Open Days

Gordon White Library 9.00am - 1.00pm / FREE / 18+ www.library.mackay.qld.gov.au

Craft and Conversation

Gordon White Library

11.00am - 2.00pm / FREE / 18+ www.library.mackay.qld.gov.au

Dynamite Dancing 2022

MECC Auditorium

6.00pm / $30.00 - $48.00 / PG www.themecc.com.au

The Australian INXS Show

Airlie Beach Hotel

2.00pm - 5.30pm / FREE / M www.airliebeachhotel.com.au

SUNDAY 27 NOVEMBER

Anthems In Rock

Airlie Beach Hotel 2.00pm - 5.30pm / FREE / M www.airliebeachhotel.com.au

TUESDAY 29 NOVEMBER

One More Page Book Club

Sarina Library

1.30pm - 2.30pm / FREE / PG www.library.mackay.qld.gov.au

WEDNESDAY 30 NOVEMBER

Relaxation Corner

Dudley Denny City Library

12.00pm - 2.00pm / FREE / 18+ www.library.mackay.qld.gov.au

THURSDAY 1 DECEMBER

Vital Reads Book Club

Gordon White Library

6.00pm - 7.00pm / FREE / PG www.library.mackay.qld.gov.au

Fully Uked Ukulele

Gordon White Library

5.00pm - 6.30pm / FREE / 8+ www.library.mackay.qld.gov.au

FRIDAY 2 DECEMBER

Mackay Lunch - Business Networking in Queensland

Turbarlence Tavern

12.00pm - 2.00pm / $45.00 / M www.bxnetworking.com

Mackay Art Deco Walking Tour

Australian Hotel

6.00pm / $15.00 / PG SugarCityArtDeco

SATURDAY 3 DECEMBER

The Australian Beach Boys Show

Airlie Beach Hotel

2.00pm - 5.30pm / FREE / M www.airliebeachhotel.com.au

SUNDAY 4 DECEMBER

Back To The 80’s

Airlie Beach Hotel

2.00pm - 5.30pm / FREE / 18+ www.airliebeachhotel.com.au

MONDAY 5 DECEMBER

Creative Studio Induction

Gordon White Library

11.00am -11.45am / FREE / 16+ www.library.mackay.qld.gov.au

Loose End Airlie Beach Hotel

2.00pm - 5.30pm / FREE / M www.airliebeachhotel.com.au

TUESDAY 6 DECEMBER

Christmas Raffle Draw at Souths Souths Leagues Club

7.00pm - 9.00pm / FREE / PG www.southsmackay.com.au

BMA Kidspace

Artspace Mackay

10.00am - 2.00pm / 11.30am12.15pm / FREE / G www.artspacemackay.com.au

Christmas Cookie Boutique Gordon White Library

3.30pm - 4.30pm / FREE / Ages 12 - 18 www.library.mackay.qld.gov.au

WEDNESDAY 7 DECEMBER

Little Library Play Proserpine Library

9.30am / FREE / 3+ www.libraries.whitsundayrc.qld. gov.au

THURSDAY 8 DECEMBER

Fully Uked Ukulele Dudley Denny City Library 5.00pm - 6.30pm / FREE / 8+ www.library.mackay.qld.gov.au

FRIDAY 9 DECEMBER

8 Ball Aitken Playing Kickstart Saloon Kickstart Saloon

7.00pm - 10.00pm / $30.00 / PG Kickstart Saloon

SUNDAY 11 DECEMBER

Kids Tri and Uniteability Tri-Series

Mackay Aquatic & Recreation Complex

7.15am - 9.00am / FREE / Ages 5 - 12 years Tri-ActiV8

MONDAY 12 DECEMBER

Mackay Art Deco Walking Tour Australian Hotel

6.00pm / $15.00 / PG

SugarCityArtDeco

TUESDAY 13 DECEMBER

Christmas for Kids

Walkerston Library

10.00am - 11.00am / FREE / Ages 5 - 12 www.library.mackay.qld.gov.au

Magformers

Runs until 15 December

Mirani Library

9.00am - 5.00pm / FREE / Ages 5 - 12 www.library.mackay.qld.gov.au

Bamboo

Runs until 15 December

Sarina Library

9.00am - 5.00pm / FREE / Ages 5 - 12 www.library.mackay.qld.gov.au

Lego Runs until 15 December

Walkerston Library

9.00am - 5.00pm / FREE / Ages 5 - 12 www.library.mackay.qld.gov.au

WEDNESDAY 14 DECEMBER

Christmas for Kids

Gordon White Library

10.00am - 11.00am / FREE / Ages 5 - 12 www.library.mackay.qld.gov.au

THURSDAY 15 DECEMBER

Bedtime Stories

Gordon White Library

5.00pm - 6.00pm / FREE / G www.library.mackay.qld.gov.au

Christmas for Kids

Mirani Library

2.00pm - 3.00pm / FREE / Ages

with individual businesses before visiting during these uncertain times.

5 - 12

www.library.mackay.qld.gov.au

Christmas for Kids

Dudley Denny City Library

10.30am -11.30am / FREE / Ages 5 - 12 www.library.mackay.qld.gov.au

FRIDAY 16 DECEMBER

Conversations with Art Artspace Mackay

1.00pm - 2.30pm / FREE / G www.artspacemackay.com.au

Mackay Lunch - Business Networking in Queensland Turbarlence Tavern

12.00pm - 2.00pm / $45.00 / M www.bxnetworking.com

Movie MatineeA Boy Called Christmas Gordon White Library

2.00pm - 4.00pm / FREE / Ages 5 - 12 www.library.mackay.qld.gov.au

Christmas for Kids Sarina Library

10.00am -11.00am / FREE / Ages 5 - 12 www.library.mackay.qld.gov.au

SATURDAY 17 DECEMBER

Hawaiian Christmas Race Day MackayTurf Club

11.00am - 5.00pm / $10.00$600.00 / 18+ www.mackaytickets.com.au

Bamboo

Runs until 19 December

Sarina Library

9.00am - 5.00pm / FREE / Ages 5 - 12 www.library.mackay.qld.gov.au

SUNDAY 18 DECEMBER

Create A Wall Hanging

The Neighbourhood Hub

10.00am - 4.00pm / $75.00 / PG

The Neighbourhood Hub

Louie & The Party Boyz

Airlie Beach Hotel

2.00pm - 5.30pm / FREE / 18+ www.airliebeachhotel.com.au

Stable at Riverway

Runs until 22 December

Riverway

5.30pm - 9.00pm / FREE / PG www.stablenq.com.au

TUESDAY 20 DECEMBER

Magformers

Runs until 22 December

Walkerston Library

9.00am - 5.00pm / FREE / Ages 5 - 12 www.library.mackay.qld.gov.au

Regular Markets

Bamboo

Runs until 22 December Mirani Library

9.00am - 5.00pm / FREE / Ages 5 - 12 www.library.mackay.qld.gov.au

Lego Runs until 22 December

Walkerston Library

9.00am - 5.00pm / FREE / Ages 5 - 12 www.library.mackay.qld.gov.au

FRIDAY 23 DECEMBER

Lounge Against The Machine

Airlie Beach Hotel

2.00pm - 5.30pm / FREE / 18+ www.airliebeachhotel.com.au

SATURDAY 24 DECEMBER

The Best Of Buble’ Christmas Eve Special

Airlie Beach Hotel

2.00pm - 5.30pm / FREE / M www.airliebeachhotel.com.au

SUNDAY 25 DECEMBER

Intuitive Art for Wellness Runs Sunday until 25 December The Grove

2.30pm / $35.00 - $65.00 / M The Care Klinik

MONDAY 26 DECEMBER

Mackay Twilight Market

Mackay Showgrounds

4.00pm - 9.00pm / $2.00 / PG Mackay Twilight Market

WEDNESDAY 28 DECEMBER

Bon Jovi Forever’ Tribute

Airlie Beach Hotel

2.00pm - 5.30pm / FREE / 18+ www.airliebeachhotel.com.au

THURSDAY 29 DECEMBER

The Australian Foreigner Show

Airlie Beach Hotel

2.00pm - 5.30pm / FREE / 18+ www.airliebeachhotel.com.au

FRIDAY 30 DECEMBER

Hard Rockerz’ Hard Rock

Tribute

Airlie Beach Hotel

2.00pm - 5.30pm / FREE / 18+ www.airliebeachhotel.com.au

SATURDAY 31 DECEMBER

New Year’s Eve Rock ‘n’ Roll Party Souths Leagues Club

6.00pm / FREE / PG www.southsmackay.com.au

New Years Eve River Party

Blue Water Quay

6.00pm / FREE / PG

Mackay Regional Council

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

The Greater Whitsunday Farmers’ Markets

Every Wednesday

6.30am - 10.30am

Bluewater Quay, River Street, Mackay City Centre

Showground Markets

Every Saturday

6.30am - 10.00am Mackay Showgrounds

Eungella Community Markets

Second Sunday of the month

9.00am - 1.00pm

Eungella Memorial Hall, North Street

Seaforth Community Markets

Every Sunday

8.30am – 11.00am Seaforth Beachfront

Seaforth Mega Market

First Sunday of every month in place of regular markets

8.30am – 12.00pm

Seaforth Beachfront

Sarina Showground Markets

Last Sunday of the month

8.00am - 12.00pm Sarina Showgrounds

Troppo Treasure Markets

Second Sunday of the month

7.00am - 11.30am

Mount Pleasant Shopping Centre Carpark

Paxtons Night Markets

Second Friday of every month

5.00pm – 8.00pm

10 River St, Mackay

www.pakmag.com.au | November / December 2022 49

Mackay and Whitsundays Regular Events

MONDAYS

Baby Bounce

During school term

Dudley Denny City Library

11.00am - 11.30am / FREE / 0 - 2 years, Bookings required www.mackay.qld.gov.au/

libraries

Baby Bounce

During school term Mirani Library

9.30am - 10.00am / FREE / 0 - 2 years, Bookings required www.mackay.qld.gov.au/ libraries

Toddler Time

During school term Sarina Library

9.30am - 10.00am / FREE / Up to 2.5 years, Bookings required www.mackay.qld.gov.au/ libraries

Toddler Time

During school term Gordon White Library

9.30am - 10.00am / FREE / Up to 2.5 years, Bookings required www.mackay.qld.gov.au/ libraries

Toddler Time

During school term Mirani Library

9.30am - 10.00am / FREE / Up to 2.5 years, Bookings required www.mackay.qld.gov.au/ libraries

TUESDAYS

Baby Bounce

During school term

Cannonvale Library

10.00am - 10.30am / FREE / 02 years, Bookings required libraries.whitsundayrc.qld.gov.au

Baby Bounce

During school term Sarina Library

9.30am - 10.00am / FREE / 0 - 2 years, Bookings required www.mackay.qld.gov.au/ libraries

Baby Bounce

During school term Walkerston Library

9.30am - 10.00am / FREE / 0 - 2 years, Bookings required www.mackay.qld.gov.au/ libraries

Story Time

During school term

Bowen Library

10.00am - 10.30am / FREE / 3 - 5 years, Bookings required libraries.whitsundayrc.qld.gov.au

Story Time

During school term

Proserpine Library

10.30am - 11.00am / FREE / 3 - 5 years, Bookings required libraries.whitsundayrc.qld.gov.au

Story Time

During school term Mirani Library

9.30am - 10.00am / FREE / 3 - 5 years, Bookings required www.mackay.qld.gov.au/ libraries

Story Time

During school term

Walkerston Library

9.30am - 10.00am / FREE / 3 - 5 years, Bookings required www.mackay.qld.gov.au/ libraries

Book Club Runs monthly Cannonvale Library

2.00pm - 3.30pm / FREE libraries.whitsundayrc.qld.gov.au

Tech Talks

Gordon White Library

10.00am - 11.00am / FREE www.mackay.qld.gov.au/ libraries

WEDNESDAYS

LIttle Library Play

During school term

Proserpine Library

9.30am - 10.00am / FREE /

Walking to 3 years, Bookings required libraries.whitsundayrc.qld.gov.au

LIttle Library Play

During school term Cannonvale Library

10.00am - 10.30am / FREE /

Walking to 3 years, Bookings required libraries.whitsundayrc.qld.gov.au

Story Time

During school term Collinsville Library

9.00am - 9.30am / FREE / 3 - 5 years, Bookings required libraries.whitsundayrc.qld.gov.au

Story Time

During school term Sarina Library

9.30am - 10.00am / FREE / 3 - 5 years, Bookings required www.mackay.qld.gov.au/ libraries

Story Time

During school term Gordon White Library

9.30am - 10.00am / FREE / 3 - 5 years, Bookings required www.mackay.qld.gov.au/ libraries

Baby Bounce

During school term Proserpine Library

10.30am - 11.00am / FREE / 0 - 2 years, Bookings required libraries.whitsundayrc.qld.gov.au

Chess Club

During school term Cannonvale Library

3.00pm - 4.30pm / FREE / All ages libraries.whitsundayrc.qld.gov.au

STEAM Club

During school term

Gordon White Library

3.30pm - 4.30pm / FREE / Ages 8 - 12 www.mackay.qld.gov.au/ libraries

THURSDAYS

Story Time

During school term Cannonvale Library

10.00am - 10.30am / FREE / 3 - 5 years, Bookings required libraries.whitsundayrc.qld.gov.au

Story Time

During school term

Dudley Denny City Library

10.30am - 11.00am / FREE / 3 - 5

years, Bookings required www.mackay.qld.gov.au/libraries

Baby Bounce

During school term

Gordon White Library

10.30am - 11.00am / FREE / 0 - 2 years, Bookings required www.mackay.qld.gov.au/libraries

Maker Spaces

During school term

Cannonvale Library

3.00pm - 4.30pm / FREE / Ages 6 + libraries.whitsundayrc.qld.gov.au

Tech Talks

Dudley Denny City Library

10.00am - 11.00am / FREE www.mackay.qld.gov.au/libraries

FRIDAYS

Baby Bounce

During school term

Bowen Library

9.30am - 10.00am / FREE / 0 - 2 years, Bookings required libraries.whitsundayrc.qld.gov.au

Conversations with Art 3rd Friday of each month

Artspace Mackay

9.30am - 10.00am / FREE / PG www.artspacemackay.com.au

Toddler Time

During school term

Dudley Denny City Library

9.30am - 10.00am / FREE / Up to 2.5 years, Bookings required www.mackay.qld.gov.au/libraries

SATURDAYS

Maker Spaces

During school term

Proserpine Library

9.00am - 11.00am / FREE / Ages 6 + libraries.whitsundayrc.qld.gov.au

Maker Spaces

Mini Makers

Bowen Library

9.00am - 11.00am / FREE / Ages 6 + libraries.whitsundayrc.qld.gov.au

Mini Makers

Mini Makers

Cannonvale Library

9.00am - 11.30am / FREE / 0 - 5 years libraries.whitsundayrc.qld.gov.au

www.pakmag.com.au

Please check with individual businesses before visiting