PakMag Mackay - August 2016 Issue 46

ISSUE: AUGUST 2016

46

MACKAY

Cancer Exposed

Learning

DISABILITIES

CHALLENGE ACCEPTED

What Type of PARENT ARE YOU?

SINGAPORE FLING TRAVEL

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AUGUST 2016 www.pakmag.com.au

WIN

HELLO

CONTENTS

P.26

ISSUE NO. 46 AUGUST 2016

This month’s edition has got to be one of my favourites of the year. Why? Because it has such a strong and beautiful community focus. We have interviews from some inspirational families, including the incredible Trudy Crowley who is battling ovarian cancer and making a difference to the entire Mackay community. We also discovered a number of amazing community resources for those with special needs. Our features this month focus on learning disabilities, transitioning from a toddler to a big bed and the various parenting styles – find out which one most suits you.

We’ve got plenty going on in August around Mackay including the Mackay Airport Beach Horse Racing Festival the North Queensland Kids and Babies Market. Check out our What’s On Guide for everything you need to know about entertaining your little ones.

04 Entertainment: Check This Out 06 Feature: What Type Of

Parent Are You?

09 Feature: Challenge Accepted 13 Education: Learning Disabilities 17 Why We Need to Ask Why?

A massive thanks to everyone who contributed to this edition, especially the families and children featured.

19 Education: 21 Reasons To

Until next time, have a great month with the kiddies and make sure you tell everyone, you read it in PakMag.

Bree x

Consider Kindergarten

20 Ovarian Cancer Exposed 23 What’s On Guide

BREE JAMES / PAKMAG PUBLISHER

25 Mini Mag Net Distribution Per Issue 10,000 CAB Publisher Statement Period ending 30th July 2015

33 Baby: Baby’s First Cold 34 Bump And Bub 37 Health

PAKMAG HEAD OFFICE P 4053 3331 E admin@pakmag.com.au PO BOX 7433 Cairns QLD 4870 FB www.facebook.com/pakmagmackay T #pakmag ON THE COVER Jacob, Trudy, Ryan and Jeri Crowley PHOTOGRAPHY Tada Photography WEB www.tadaphotography.com.au TRUDY WEARS Filicia dress by Review, available at Myer, Caneland Central MAKE UP BY Shiseido at Myer PAKMAG'S CORE VALUES

39 What’s News In Business 40 Twilight City Promises a Spooktacular Party 42 Celebrate: Party In Space 44 Home with Caro & Kingi:

Create happier communities

Love connecting families & business

Collaborate with creativity

Lead & engage with heart

Publish authentic content with integrity

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

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

Deluxe Designer Sara

Sales Star Lisa

Events Extraordinaire Kelly

Darling Designer Clare

Talented Trent

Grand Poobah Bree

Beautiful Bed Time

46 Travel: Singapore Fling For Families 48 Snapped Townsville 50 Adult Colour-inww

Office Aficionado Janelle

Rad Sales Rep Jacqui

Savvy Sales Sandra Witty Writer Jenna

www.pakmag.com.au AUGUST 2016

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pakmag ENTERTAINMENT

CHECK THIS OUT

14th August

Mechanos – Wings and Wheels Mackay WHEN 14 August WHERE Mackay Aero Club MORE INFO www.mechanos.com.au Fly into this action-packed family event!

Mechanos Wings and Wheels Mackay will feature the infamous Paul Bennet Airshows as they wow the crowd with high velocity low level aerobatics and stunts.

This family event has something for everyone including, aerobatic stunt planes, custom cars and bikes, kid’s rides and activities, skydive displays, mechanical technologies, and an array of food stalls on offer. Proudly supported by Mackay Regional Council and Mackay Airport.

14th August

North Queensland babies and kids Market WHEN 14 August, 8:30am to 12:30pm WHERE Mackay Entertainment & Convention Centre MORE INFO www.nthqldbabiesandkidsmarket.com Bag yourself a baby bargain at the North Queensland Babies and Kids Market.

With over 100 stalls of preloved and purchased goods, you are bound to find something for all the little ones in your life. Spend the morning browsing through the various stalls, grab a bite to eat at the café and take home one of the 500 free Bounty Bags.

Entry is $2.00 for adults and children are free.

12 months unlimited access

Museum Super Pass Now Available MORE INFO www.mackaycitycentre.com.au

Enjoy all that the Mackay museums have to offer, all year round and for an incredibly discounted rate of $10 for adults and $5 for children.

Council has recently launched its Museums Super Pass, giving locals and visitors 12 months of unlimited access to Greenmount Homestead and the Mackay, Sarina and Pioneer Valley Museums for one year.

Experience a region worth of history with one pass. The pass will be available from all of council’s historical centres, as well at the MECC during the Spirit of Anzac exhibition (July 25 to 31).

17

th August

The Wiggles – Wiggle Town Tour

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20

th August

Twilight City Spooktacular Street Party

WHEN 17 August, 10:30am and 12:30pm WHERE MECC Auditorium MORE INFO www.mackayecc.com.au/

WHEN 20 August WHERE Mackay City Centre MORE INFO www.mackayregion.com

The Wiggles are celebrating their 25th birthday in the best way possible! Emma, Simon, Anthony and Lachy will be at the MECC this August performing their hits in a 50-minute show.

The street party is back and this year it’s bigger, better and it bites! So get ready for Mackay City Centre’s annual free family street party: Twilight City Spooktacular presented by Melco Engineering.

Cost is $32.50 per person with 12 months and under free.

Tickets are available through www.mackaytix.com.au.

Live entertainment, roaming performers, outdoor cinema, scary fun for the kids, delicious food and drinks plus a few scary surprises. Proudly supported by City Centre Task Force and Mackay Regional Council.

AUGUST 2016 www.pakmag.com.au

24th - 25th August HIPPO! HIPPO! A BIG NEW Musical Adventure!

WHEN 24 August, 6pm and 25 August, 10am and 12pm WHERE MECC Auditorium MORE INFO www.mecc.com.au Based on the phenomenally successful children’s classic, “There’s a Hippopotamus on Our Roof Eating Cake”, written by Australian children’s author Hazel Edwards and illustrated by Deborah Niland. HIPPO is the imaginary friend of GIRL, a young child.

Perfect for children kinder to year two, HIPPO! HIPPO! A BIG NEW Musical Adventure! will make them laugh and maybe even make you cry, but most of all, it is guaranteed to lift your spirits in a BIG and UNBEATABLE way!

The 50-minute show is $17.50 per person with discounts available for schools. Tickets are available through www.mackaytix.com.au.

25 28 th -

th August

Mackay Airport Beach Horse Racing Festival WHEN 25 to 28 August

WHERE Mackay Harbour Beach

MORE INFO www.mackaybeachhorseracing.com.au Prepare for a race day like no other with Mackay’s top

social event – the Mackay Airport Beach Horse Racing

Festival. Top-notch celebrities including TV presenters and ambassadors for the Brisbane Racing Carnival Liz Cantor and Damien Anthony Rossi will join in the fun to promote The Mackay Region and all it has to offer.

While the showpiece of this three-day Festival is the

Mackay Airport Beach Race Day, the Festival also features a legendary Opening Night Party, Charity Golf Challenge, Calcutta Night and much more.

Gates open at 11am. Ticket prices start at $25 for general

admission and there will be live music and a Kids Kingdom to keep the kids entertained.

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W H AT

Type of Parent AR E YO U? STORY Jenna Gallina

How you choose to raise your child is entirely up to you. There are a number of different parenting types, styles and modules identified by psychologists. Most parents are not even aware that they fall under one (or several) of these parenting philosophies.

So which ones sound most like you?

THE POSITIVE PARENT To the positive parent, the future is what’s important. The positive parent is all about growing and moving forward, rather than focusing on the past.

Optimism is obviously a key component to positive parenting but it also focuses on fuelling children's self-esteem and promoting their sense of individualism.

Positive parents tend to stay away from intense forms of discipline or rule enforcement, instead looking more at guiding or coaching a child through life.

THE ATTACHED PARENT Attachment parenting is a term you’re probably more familiar with and comes from the teachings of famous paediatrician, Dr Sears. It’s all about nurturing a child’s needs as much as possible (no crying it out for Dr. Sears!).

Attachment parenting is rooted in the belief that if an infant's emotional and physical needs are quickly and consistently responded to and met, the child will be more likely to develop a positive attitude to life believing that he or she is unconditionally loved, that the world is a good place and people mean well and can be trusted. For attached parents, there is no such thing as too much love, too much dependence or too much spoiling.

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AUGUST 2016 www.pakmag.com.au

THE CONSCIOUS PARENT The conscious parent provides a child with unconditional acceptance, no matter what. The aim of this type of parenting style is to help children feel valued for who they are regardless of whether or not their beliefs and actions are the same as their parents.

Conscious parents realise that they are not raising a "mini me" but instead a child that will develop his or her own signature.

THE HOLISTIC PARENT Also known as spiritual parenting, or, as I like to call it, the Eckhart Tolle approach, this theory stems from eastern spiritual philosophy.

It is known for its focus on raising inner awareness, appreciating that which IS and being deeply connected with everything in the now. There is also a large emphasis on modelling positive behaviour for your children to follow.

Don't teach role models, be a role model yourself.

THE AUTHORITATIVE PARENT You’re the boss and your little ones need to know it. This is the underlying theory of authoritative parenting which suggests that children need structure, discipline, routine and control in order to ensure positive outcomes such as self-esteem, academic performance, social skills and emotional control.

FEATURE

THE SLOW PARENT It’s back to the basics for slow parenting, also known as nurturing parenting, which attempts to stay away from the technology-crazed fast paced society of today. It means doing everything at the right speed. That implies quality over quantity; real and meaningful human connections; being present and in the moment and allowing our kids to explore the world at their own pace.

Things like organised activities and technology take a back seat to family time, outdoor play and reading. Life is a journey, not a destination, and this is what slow parenting aims to teach.

THE HELICOPTER PARENT Everyday we’re hovering and helicopter parents (also known as over-parents or bubble-wrap parents) can’t help but want to be involved in every aspect of their children’s lives.

There is absolutely nothing wrong with this protective nature, although some studies suggest that helicopter children are less able to make their own decisions or take risks for fear something may go wrong.

THE FREE-RANGE PARENT Free-rangers are the opposite of helicopter parents and want their children to roam free, to explore the world and to be left to make their own decisions and take their own risks.

pakmag

THE INDULGENT PARENT It’s hard not to want to give your child everything and the indulgent parent (also known as the permissive parent) often does. Children raised in the permissive parenting style receive low behavioural control but high parental response.

Similar to the free-range parent, the permissive parent encourages free development, unstructured activities and equality between everyone in the household. There is no boss – everyone simply works together. Punishment and discipline are not normally part of the general upbringing for children of permissive parents but communication is high on the list.

YOUR PARENTING STYLE Of course, these are only very basic guidelines into several incredibly complex parenting theories and most parents will have characteristics of several of them depending on the ages of their children or even the mood they are in.

Sometimes I am the epitome of an indulgent parent while other times I turn authoritative. Some days, especially after a long one, I am the ultimate free-range parent, while other times (after a decent sleep), I tend to turn into a bit of a helicopter mum.

As long as you and your partner (as well as the kids) are happy with the parenting plan(s) you have in place, then that’s all that matters.

It is through this risk taking that free-range parents believe their children learn self-confidence and individuality.

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AUGUST 2016 www.pakmag.com.au

FEATURE

pakmag

STORY Jenna Gallina

Every child is a blessing and all parents have good and bad days. If your child has a condition that hinders his emotional, social, mental or physical ability, then it can make the journey of parenthood even more difficult. However, every challenge is one worth celebrating and every milestone is worth cherishing.

So, to our PakMag parents who have a challenge ahead, we salute you. And we want you to know these six important things: YOU ARE MORE THAN JUST A MUM (OR DAD).

To your child, you are his everything. You are his doctor, his therapist, his nurse, his chauffeur, his chef, his friend and his confidante.

IT’S YOUR PATH AND YOUR DECISION IS THE RIGHT ONE. You may need to make painful decisions on your journey, ones you will question for days, weeks, even years. But just remember, no matter what paths others have taken or what people around you think, as the parent and the carer, you know best. Trust your instincts.

YOU ARE NOT ALONE.

For every bad day, every tantrum, every meltdown, every doctor’s visit, every frustrated tear and every night you go to bed thinking you’re not doing enough, just remember this – you are.

Some days it may feel like you are. And some days you may feel frustrated, angry, resentful, jealous and upset about what’s to come, especially if you start to make comparisons between your child and others.

YOU DESERVE TO BE TAKEN CARE OF TOO.

Just remember we all feel like that sometimes. Every child is unique but you are never alone.

Parenting is a full-time job but every parent deserves a break, even if your child requires constant care. It’s okay to take a time-out, to ask for help and to be taken care of too.

It’s important that you don’t lose yourself during this journey.

THERAPY AND PLAY GO HAND IN HAND. Therapy can be one of the best ways to help your child develop both physically and mentally. For children, therapy is play.

Look to your community for support – family members, friends, Facebook groups, associations and organisations can help.

Being a parent is hard. Being a parent to a child with extra needs is extra hard. But it is also extra interesting, with extra special moments and extra rewards.

RESOURCES AVAILABLE IN MACKAY Australian Hearing – Mackay

Autism Queensland Mackay

Providing hearing assistance to children of all abilities

Offering ASD services to children of all ages including early intervention for children under seven by a transdisciplinary team including teachers, teacher aides, speech pathologists, occupational therapists and social workers.

WEB www.ahcentres.com.au PH (07) 4957 0900 A 7 Gregory St, Mackay Engedi A community based local organisation providing support to people with a disability.

WEB www.engedi.org.au PH (07) 4942 5495 A 23 Holmes Drive Beaconsfield

WEB www.autismqld.com.au PH 07 4841 8300 A The John Villiers Centre of Excellence Mackay Whitsunday, 10 Macrossan St, East Mackay QLD 4740 Sporting Wheelies and Disabled Association – Mackay Enhancing the lives of people with

a disability through community engagement and education, sport and healthy activity.

WEB www.sportingwheelies.org.au PH (07) 4953 1991 A The Old Train Station, 36 Hamlet Street, Mackay QLD 4740 Begin Bright Mackay A tutoring service that aims to create a learning environment where all children have the opportunity to reach their full potential.

WEB www.beginbright.com.au/ locations/mackay/ PH 0400 161 902 A 17/13 Evans Ave. North Mackay

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pakmag FEATURE Every family’s path is unique and special. We all have obstacles to overcome. It is these obstacles that make us stronger as individuals and as a family and it is through the strength in family that we discover our ability to move mountains.

Our featured Mackay families this month exemplify this notion to perfection. Because, no matter what disabilities, disorders and illnesses life throws your way, the power of family prevails.

MEET: COOPER WHITESTYLES Anybody who spends a few moments talking to Cooper knows just how incredible this young man is. His infectious personality and his passion for life have already taken him amazingly far, especially in sport. And Cooper has no signs of stopping, despite having been born with dwarfism.

The love of sport knows no limits and this is certainly the case with Cooper who has played both soccer and cricket in the past. However, all that running around was having a detrimental effect on his legs, which were quite compromised by his dwarfism and thus, in 2010 Cooper joined the Sporting Wheelies and Disabled Association.

“Coop needed a sport which would not cause further damage to his legs,” Sporting Wheelies and Disabled Association’s Peter Sumpter tells PakMag. “Lawn bowls was suggested and since then Cooper has won the District All Schools Challenge Cup and, with bowling partner, Nick Hilder, has represented his home district at the State Championships.”

Brothers, Felix and Oscar Pace share a lot of similarities. Both attend Bucasia State Primary School where they love PE and being outside and both have Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD).

Both boys were diagnosed with ASD in 2014 and received early intervention through Autism Queensland’s Mackay centre. Oscar attended the Centre-based Group program for two years and Felix attended Social Skills and received Outreach support.

Day to day in the Pace household includes a strict routine to help with Felix’s anxiety - he needs to know what is going to happen each day. This year playing soccer has become part of his routine as well which is a massive achievement for the little man.

“Watching him run onto the soccer field full of confidence and having fun with his friends has been one of the best moments for us,” Nadine tells us.

Cooper was the only competitor with a disability and he bowled from a wheelchair, but again, that didn’t stop him.

Oscar, who attends prep, requires extra assistance at home and in school due to low fine-motor skills.

“Physical health is an almost constant problem, but Cooper remains incredibly resilient,” Peter explains. “He is very popular with all the bowlers at South’s Suburban where he is also respected for his ability.”

“When he was first diagnosed at 3 years old, we never thought he would be able to sit still at a school desk or be toilet trained. He has worked hard for 2 years at early intervention to achieve this.”

However, a recent leg surgery has been a minor setback for Cooper, who, this year, discovered wheelchair basketball.

And although both boys face challenges, especially in terms of dealing with sensory overstimulation, mum, Nadine tells that they are happy, loveable and funny.

Cooper, who has two sisters and a brother and attends Saint Patrick’s College in Mackay, has never been one to back away from a challenge and has taken on wheelchair basketball with the same diligence he applied to his lawn bowls. This incredible courage led to him suiting up with the Mackay Machines to play in Rounds 1 and 2 of the “Northern Challenge” at Cairns in late June. Round 3 and the finals of that event will be played at Mackay Basketball Stadium in September.

We are sure this young man will be shining on and off the courts for years to come.

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MEET: FELIX, 8, OSCAR, 5, MUM, NADINE AND DAD, SHANNON PACE.

AUGUST 2016 www.pakmag.com.au

No one can understand how we feel on the inside and often both Felix and Oscar, as well as other children living with ASD are often faced with sensory overload. For Felix, this results in anxiety; for Oscar, it results in tantrums or ‘naughty’ behaviour.

“Sensory issues are hard for people to understand as it’s not something they can see. Our kids are not being intentionally naughty,” Nadine explains. They are just unsure how to handle this overload.

Learning STORY Jenna Gallina

EDUCATION

pakmag

Disabilities

Watching your child struggle with anything in life can be heartbreaking. If your little one is having a hard time at school, then you have probably put in the extra effort to try and help him catch up. Talking to the teacher, spending more time on homework, even tutoring can assist with helping your child succeed in school. But what if, even with assistance, it’s still not enough?

It could be due to a learning disability.

And it’s something that impacts more children than we probably realise.

According to Learning Difficulties Australia, 10 to 16 per cent of students are perceived by their teachers to have learning difficulty and have support needs. So, in a classroom of 30 students, four or five students will need extra assistance. Four per cent of these students will have a confirmed learning disability.

What’s the difference between a difficulty and a disability?

A difficulty requires extra assistance that goes above what is normally delivered in the classroom. That can be due to a number of internal or external factors. A disability, on the other hand, can be confirmed when a student shows persistent and long lasting learning impairments.

impact a child’s ability to learn.

Researchers think that learning disabilities are caused by differences in how a person’s brain works and how it processes information. There are varying degrees of learning difficulties and there isn’t a clear ‘sign’ that your child may have one. However, here are a few signs to look out for: • Trouble learning the alphabet, rhyming words, or connecting letters to their sounds.

• Difficulties when reading aloud and understanding what he has read.

• Difficulties in holding a pencil, writing neatly and spelling correctly.

Children with learning difficulties often have trouble with reading, writing, listening, speaking, reasoning and mathematics. As any parent with a child who is having difficulties in learning knows, when a child cannot keep up with his classmates, his confidence levels are going to drop as well.

• Struggles with expressing ideas in writing, communicating ideas, understanding jokes, comic strips or sarcasm.

My son, for example, who has always struggled with learning, now simply tunes out at school and shuts down at home when he gets stuck with his homework. Some days he gets silly or acts out. Other days he gets angry and upset.

Both can leave you feeling confused, helpless, guilty and concerned. It’s frustrating for everyone and something that many families struggle with behind closed doors.

• Mispronunciation of words or using a wrong word that sounds similar.

• Difficulties in following directions.

• Difficulties in retelling a story in the order that it happened.

• Trouble with following the social rules of conversation (taking turns, not listening, interrupting).

• Confusion with maths symbols and numbers.

So, what can parents do?

First of all, it’s important to understand how learning difficulties work. There are several learning difficulties that have been identified including dyslexia (difficulties in reading), dysgraphia (difficulties in writing) and dyscalcula (difficulties in maths). However, spatial processing disorder (difficulties with sound direction), central auditory processing disorder (difficulties in hearing and processing), developmental coordination disorder/dyspraxia (difficulties in planning of movements and co-ordination) and attention deficit disorder (difficulties in paying attention) can also

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pakmag EDUCATION

If your child is diagnosed with a learning difficulty or if you are concerned, how can you overcome it?

See our article on Reading and Writing on the PakMag website for a full list of Apps designed for those with learning difficulties.

There is no cure for learning disabilities. But there are resources that can help your child remain confident and succeed in school. The first step should be to talk to your child’s teacher who can help you decide the best path to take. There may be services within the school to assist with diagnosis.

Another option to help your little learner is to consider Dyslexie font. It is a typeface especially designed for people with dyslexia. Once it is installed, you can select the font for any software program which can help your little one when typing, using a tablet or doing computer work.

Websites: Have a look at the following websites and agencies that provide resources to those who can help: • LD Online • Learning Difficulties Australia • The International Dyslexia Association • National Center for Learning Disabilities

Resources aside, the most important thing for all parents to do is offer reassurance, support and love to their little learner.

This is what matters. Explain to your child that it’s perfectly normal to have trouble with certain things. Remind them of the things they are good at. Reassure them that it’s okay to take their time in school, to need extra help and to learn at different rates than everyone else. The goal is progress, not perfection.

• SPELD Queensland

Apps: Dexteria is a good app to start with. It provides a set of therapeutic hand exercises (not games) to improve fine motor skills and handwriting readiness in children and adults.

Sound Storm is another good one to consider for those with spatial processing disorder (SPD). It can help children who struggle to hear the teacher and permanently improve their listening ability. 100 per cent of participants improved their hearing ability in noisy environments.

Remind them it’s not their fault. Having trouble learning doesn’t make them dumb or lazy. It simply means that their brain processes things differently.

And, most importantly, constantly remind them that they are doing a great job, that you are proud of them, and, that you will always be beside them to help.

Tips for Parents and Carers Keep things in perspective – everyone faces obstacles and is something you can overcome.

Stay calm and collected – even when you are about to

Become an expert – do your homework on treatment options and talk to doctors, therapists and teachers to learn more about the outlets in your community.

imagine how your child feels. Take a time out, walk away,

Find your voice – don’t be afraid to speak up if you feel like your child is continuing to struggle.

Focus on the strengths, not the weaknesses – a learning disability does not define your child. In fact, it’s not even a sign of weakness but a unique situation that allows for a different approach to learning. Focus on the things your child excels at ands loves to do, not just the disability.

Find your child’s learning style – every child learns differently. Check out PakMag.com.au for our article on the different learning styles, including visual, auditory and kinesiology learning techniques.

Work with the school – but understand there will be limitations in place. After all, the school system is dealing with a lot of students, all with individual needs. Keeping your child’s teacher informed is the best way for you to work together.

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AUGUST 2016 www.pakmag.com.au

lose it, try to hold it together. Yes, you are frustrated, but just try a different approach and keep going.

ADVERTORIAL

pakmag

Why We Need to Ask, "Why?" 21 ST CENT U RY SKILLS

STORY Craig Murison

Usually it is young children who ask their parents the question, 'Why?' often driving them to distraction with their persistence. I would like to suggest that parents should be consistently asking their children the same question - why? While we expect our children to accept the answer, 'Because,' we should never be satisfied with that answer from our children.

Why? Because critical thinking, problem solving, communication, collaboration, creativity and innovation have been identified as the skills we need to be successful in the 21st century.

These skills are often referred to as being 'higher order' thinking skills.

George Bernard Shaw once said something along the lines of, “95 percent of people never think once in their lives and most of the other five percent only think that they think.”

If we are to be truly thinking people we have to learn how to challenge the presuppositions we bring with us to any issue we are looking at.

Our culture, upbringing, education,

and life experiences all create filters through which we view the world around us.

These filters can mean people don't really think - they just respond in keeping with the filters they have developed. When we don't think about our own thinking we have opinions and behaviours which are based on assumptions which may be wrong, and we do nothing to allow those opinions to develop or change.

21st century skills require us to learn to identify our filters and to think about why we think a certain way about an issue. The process may not change our opinion or our approach, but we will know why we think that way. It will also provide our children with an understanding that everyone

is entitled to their own values and opinions.

More often than not, I suspect, the exercise of thinking about why we think a certain way about something will allow us to consider other points of view. It is only when we consider other points of view to our own that we can give meaning to why we think the way we do.

Ask your children the question, “Why?”, and you may be surprised at how it can open their minds and help them understand the world around them.

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EDUCATION

21 REASONS TO CONSIDER

pakmag

STORY Jenna Gallina

Every child’s journey through early education will vary depending on the circumstances of the parents.

Some children attend a day care straight away while others are not introduced into a structured setting until they attend regular school. It’s entirely the choice of the family what early education path to take. However, one thing many parents will agree on is the importance of a kindergarten (pre-prep) program.

Kindergarten programs are offered through many daycare facilities across Queensland. The main difference between daycarer and kindergarten is that daycare facilities are open from 6.30am to 6.30pm (but usually only have a kindergarten teacher on from 9am to 3pm) while community kindy programs a offered five days a fortnight, usually starting around 9am and ending around 2.45pm to coincide with real school.

So why should you consider enrolling your little one into a pre-prep program? Here are 21 excellent reasons: 1. Kindy programs help your child get

9. This can help develop empathy

2. They can foster confidence and

10. Children learn to communicate to

used to being around other children. independence.

3. They also help children develop a sense of pride in their work (even though they bring home bits of random paper and craft every single week).

4. Kindy allows your child to get

creative (and messy) without having to clean up paint, playdoh and glitter.

5. Kindy programs will introduce your

kids to basic literary and numeracy skills which will be required next year.

6. They teach them how to wash their

and build communication skills.

the teachers as well as other children, not just through regular conversations but through singing, nursery rhymes and roll-playing activities.

11. Being around other kids can also

16. They also allow children to learn

things from someone other than you.

It’s always nice to have a different perspective when learning.

17. Kindy programs provide a

structured environment (even if it

appears to be chaotic at drop off).

teach your children that every child is different and that’s okay.

18. They can also help children

12. Social stimulation provides your

they want to do first, etc.

children with a chance to play with other toys than what’s at home (and you don’t even have to clean them up after!).

13. Kindy programs provide stay at

makes choices – which activity do

19. These programs teach children

about belongings and boundaries –

every child will have their own space for their bag, water bottle, etc.

hands, pack up after playing and clean up after meals.

home parents with a bit of a break (so you can actually go grocery shopping in peace for once).

20. Kindy programs provide plenty

7. And let’s not forget about all the

14. They get you both used to what’s

smooth bedtime).

8. There are plenty of other important

15. Sure, it can be hard to say

new songs and nursery rhymes they learn (and come home singing over and over again). lessons a kindy environment can teach children, including social skills like sharing, taking turns and listening to others.

to come next year and allows for a gradual change into this schooling environment.

goodbye, but kindy programs help your children get used to having someone else around and can improve separation anxiety issues.

of outdoor activity and exercise

(and hopefully wears them out for a

21. Most importantly,

kindy programs ensure children are ready for the next stage in their lifelong journey of learning.

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Ovarian Cancer Exposed STORY Jenna Gallina

Mackay Mother’s Strength, Sadness and Shocking Diagnosis Brings a Community Together to Conquer Cancer One glance at our cover this month and it’s clear to see the beauty and strength of our featured family, both inside and out.

However, behind the brave smiles, the loving touches and the stunning setting is a family who is embarking on a journey no one wants to go through – a journey that will end in a loss of a loved one.

Please, join us for this inspirational and heartbreaking story of forty four year old, Trudy Crowley, a wife, a mother, a grandmother (with her second grandbaby due February 2017) and life-long Mackay community member who is spending her last months fighting for future generations diagnosed with ovarian cancer.

On Friday, February 26 2016, Trudy Crowley left her office at Gardian Real Estate in Mackay like she had been doing for the past two years. Little did she know that less than three weeks later she would discover that she not only had cancer, but that it was incurable.

What started as a simple pain in the kidney area, lump in her neck and exhaustion was quickly diagnosed as incurable ovarian cancer, stage 4 grade 3.

“I was trying to take this all in while watching my beautiful husband fall to pieces in front of me. How can this be happening?” Trudy tells PakMag about her shock diagnosis.

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This is not a road that Trudy is unfamiliar with. Just eight years earlier Trudy lost her mother to Acute Myeloid Leukaemia.

“This was all too close to me as I had to go through this with losing my mother. The pain is still raw and what hurt the most is knowing that my family has to go through this again.”

“This is a horrible pain for a mother/ wife as there is nothing in the world I can do about this to take the hurt and heartbreak away.”

Trudy’s family, including husband Damian, sons Jacob and Levi, daughter-in-law Melissa and future daughter-in-law Kaylissa, plus

grandson Ryan, have remained by Trudy’s side as she endures the fight of her life.

“We are meant to protect our loved ones,” Trudy says.

But, after further diagnosis from her oncologist that she has about 12 months left, Trudy came to the awful realisation that she would be unable to do this.

Despite it all, Trudy remains in control and an absolute inspiration to the entire community. “I am not going to let this take control of our life,” Trudy tells PakMag. And she has now made it her mission to try to ensure other families do not have to go through this.

FEATURE

“I will live like I have 12 months but I have too much to do and achieve and one of them is making sure people know about this silent killer and raising money for ovarian cancer research so we can find a test to detect this before it is too late.”

With the support of her loving family, Trudy is focusing on staying positive, getting in as much travelling as possible and spending every last moment surrounded by the people who mean the most to her.

She is also hoping her story will inspire others to take the steps to early diagnosis and prevention.

This is why Trudy, in conjunction with Red Hot Blue started The Nude Lunch – Ovarian Cancer Exposed.

“Make sure you know your family history. Get tested if there is history in the family of breast or ovarian cancer.

And, if you do have the mutated gene, then take the precautions.”

“Nude Lunch – Ovarian Cancer Exposed, is a first for the Mackay Region and is something that is essential for our community.”

It will be an annual event to bare the truth about this silent killer, to raise money to ensure research for ovarian cancer can continue and to ensure a greater awareness is being delivered.

But, mostly, it will celebrate the strength and bravery of all of those affected by it.

“Just recently a nine-year-girl in our Mackay community was diagnosed with ovarian cancer, shocking the region and the nation as it made headline news,” Trudy explains.

pakmag

“It is for this reason people need to be aware of the signs and greater research needs to be conducted to ensure tests for better early detection are available.”

Trudy is currently undergoing testing to see if she carries the Braca gene, which can be passed down to her boys in the form of breast or prostate cancer for men.

For Trudy, her mission, apart from raising awareness for ovarian cancer, is to be there to meet her second grandchild, who is due one year after she received her shock diagnoses.

“I am making sure our next generation can detect as early as possible before it is too late.”

Trudy tells us that the birth of her second grandchild is, “another exciting tick for me to achieve in life”.

The Facts about Ovarian Cancer Ovarian Cancer is the 8th most common cancer diagnosed and the 6th most common cause of cancer death.

More than 1200 Australian women are diagnosed with ovarian cancer each year.

The risk of developing ovarian cancer increases with age, with about 80 per cent of women diagnosed being older than 50 years.

A large percentage of women believe that pap smears detect ovarian cancer; however this is not true, as pap smears focus on cervical cancer only.

Latest research has shown that some women are at increased risk due to family history, which is why genetic testing is becoming even more important.

The testing for ovarian cancer involves transvaginal ultrasound (TVUS) and the

CA-125 blood test. However, both have a lot of flaws in detection and are often not done until symptoms of ovarian cancer present themselves.

Early stages of ovarian cancer often comes with no symptoms. Later stage

symptoms can include abdominal swelling or bloating (due to a mass or a buildup of fluid), pelvic pressure or abdominal pain, difficulty eating or feeling full quickly, and/or urinary symptoms (having to go urgently or often).

Join Trudy for The Nude Lunch on 23 September 2016 or find out more about how you can help her cause and purchase tickets at www.redhotblue.com.au

The Nude Lunch Ovarian Cancer Exposed: The Nude Lunch is a gourmet lunch buffet (champagne, wine, beers and spirits included up to 4pm) with the aim of raising money to ensure research for ovarian cancer can continue and to ensure a greater awareness is being delivered.

Education is imperative and ovarian cancer deserves the same consideration that many other cancers already receive.

WHEN: 23 September 2016 12.00pm to 5.00pm WHERE: Clarion Marquee DRESS: Smart Casual TICKETS: $150 (includes lucky door prizes) PURCHASE TICKETS AT: www.redhotblue.com.au Come along for a great afternoon of fun and laughter with friends, family and like-minded people. Oh, and clothing is compulsory.

www.pakmag.com.au AUGUST 2016

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AUGUST 2016 www.pakmag.com.au

WHAT'S ON AUG Thursday 4

Sunday 7

TRIPOD: 101 HITS MECC Auditorium www.mackaytix.com.au 7.30pm/$30.90-$39.90/Adult

Friday 5 CREEDENCE CLEARWATER RECYCLED LIVE Souths Leagues Club www.southsmackay.com.au 8.00pm / Cost / Adult WHITSUNDAY REEF FESTIVAL Until 14 August Airlie Beach www.whitsundayreeffestival.com.au visit website for more details

Saturday 6 DISNEY FAIRYTALE FILM FESTIVAL - ENCHANTED 2D Event Cinemas www.eventcinemas.com.au Check website for times / Cost / Family WEEKEND FAMILY FLICKS - TEENAGE MUTANT NINJA TURTLES: OUT OF THE SHADOWS Event Cinemas www.eventcinemas.com.au 10.00am / $6.00 / Family

"Rob picks North Queensland Babies & Kids Market on 14th Aug"

Saturday 13

DISNEY FAIRYTALE FILM FESTIVAL - ENCHANTED 2D Event Cinemas www.eventcinemas.com.au Check website for times / Cost / Family

DISNEY FAIRYTALE FILM FESTIVAL - INTO THE WOODS 2D Event Cinemas www.eventcinemas.com.au Check website for times / Cost / Family

2016 MACKAY WEDDING SHOWCASE MECC PLENARY HALLS www.mackaytix.com.au 10.00am / Gold Coin Donation for Breat Cancer / Adult

OPERA QLD AND THE MECC PRESENTS ROSSINI’S THE BARBER OF SEVILLE OPERA QLD MECC Auditorium www.mackaytix.com.au 7.30pm / Cost / Adult

WEEKEND FAMILY FLICKS - TEENAGE MUTANT NINJA TURTLES: OUT OF THE SHADOWS Event Cinemas www.eventcinemas.com.au 10.00am / $6.00 / Family MACKAY WEDDING SHOWCASE MECC www.mackayweddings.com 10.00am / Adult

Tuesday 9 KINGS PARK EXPO (MIDDLESENIOR SCHOOL EXPO) Mackay Christian College 4963 1100 5pm / free / family

WEEKEND FAMILY FLICKS ICE AGE: COLLISION COURSE Event Cinemas www.eventcinemas.com.au 10.00am / $6.00 / Family NORTHSIDE UNITING CHURCH COMMUNITY FAIR Cnr Fleurs Way & Bedford Rd, Andergrove 9.00am / Free / Family

Sunday 14 NORTH QUEENSLAND BABIES AND KIDS MARKET The MECC www.nthqldbabiesandkidsmarket. com 8.30am / $2.00 / Family DISNEY FAIRYTALE FILM FESTIVAL - INTO THE WOODS 2D Event Cinemas www.eventcinemas.com.au Check website / Cost / Family

MECHANOS WINGS & WHEELS MACKAY Mackay Aero Club www.mackaytix.com.au 9.00am / Cost (Children U5 free) / Family WEEKEND FAMILY FLICKS ICE AGE: COLLISION COURSE Event Cinemas www.eventcinemas.com.au 10.00am / $6.00 / Family

Monday 15 RSPCA CUPCAKE DAY Check website for details www.rspcacupcakeday.com.au

Tuesday 16 ALWAYS… PATSY CLINE BY TED SWINDLEY MECC Auditorium www.mackaytix.com.au 7.30pm / Cost / Adult

Wednesday 17 THE WIGGLES – WIGGLE TOWN TOUR! MECC Auditorium www.mackaytix.com.au 10.00am & 12.30pm/ Cost / Kids

EMAIL EVENTS TO: ADMIN@GRANDPUBLISHING.COM.AU

www.pakmag.com.au AUGUST 2016

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WHAT'S ON AUG

"EJ picks Hippo! Hippo! on Wednesday 24th Aug"

Friday 19

MACKAY AIRPORT BEACH HORSE RACING FESTIVAL Until 28 August Various Venues www.mackaybeachhorseracing.com.au see website for more details

Sunday 21 SENSORY MOVIE DAY ICE AGE 5 BCC Mt Pleasant www.facebook.com/ SensoryMovieDayMackay 11.00am / $8.00 / Family

HEALTHPOINT CHEMIST MORNING MELODIES 2016 ROCKET MAN – SONGS AND STORIES OF ELTON JOHN MECC Auditorium www.mackaytix.com.au 11.00am / Cost / Adult

DISNEY FAIRYTALE FILM FESTIVAL - CINDERELLA 2D Event Cinemas www.eventcinemas.com.au Check website / Cost / Family

Saturday 20 TWILIGHT CITY SPOOKTACULAR STREET PARTY Mackay City Centre www.mackaycitycentre.com.au 12.00am / Cost / Family

WEEKEND FAMILY FLICKS THE BFG Event Cinemas www.eventcinemas.com.au 10.00am / $6.00 / Family

DISNEY FAIRYTALE FILM FESTIVAL - CINDERELLA 2D Event Cinemas www.eventcinemas.com.au Check website for times / Cost / Family

Tuesday 23

MACKAY PIONEER VALLEY ARTS COUNCIL INC PROUDLY PRESENTS MACKAY FESTIVAL OF FASHION MECC Auditorium www.mackaytix.com.au 7.00pm / Cost / Family WEEKEND FAMILY FLICKS THE BFG Event Cinemas www.eventcinemas.com.au 10.00am / $6.00 / Family

CHILDREN'S BOOK WEEK TEDDY BEARS PICNIC STORYTIME Mirani Library 9.30am / Free / Family

Wednesday 24 HIPPO! HIPPO! MECC Auditorium www.mackaytix.com.au 6.00pm / Cost / Family

Thursday 25

KIDNEY SUPPORT CENT SALE North Mackay Bowls club 1.00pm / Cost /

HIPPO! HIPPO! MECC Auditorium www.mackaytix.com.au 10am & 12pm / Cost / Family

FREE HEARING SCREENINGS Souths Leagues Club www.mackayhearing.com.au 1.00pm / Free / Adult MACKAY BEACH HORSE RACING FESTIVAL: LAUNCH PARTY The Marquee, Clarion Hotel Mackay Marina www.mackaytix.com.au 6.30pm / $99 / Adult

Friday 26 MORNING TEA - FRIENDS OF THE BIRTH CENTRE Mackay Women's Centre www.facebook.com/ FriendsMackayBirthCentre/ 9.30am / Free / Family MACKAY BEACH HORSE RACING FESTIVAL: ENLIGHTENED FINANCIAL SOLUTIONS - CHARITY GOLF CHALLENGE Mackay Golf Course www.mackaytix.com.au 11.30am / $99 / Adult MACKAY BEACH HORSE RACING FESTIVAL: HARRUP PARK CALCUTTA CLASSIC Harrup Park Country Club www.mackaytix.com.au 6.30pm / $45 / Adult

Saturday 27 DISNEY FAIRYTALE FILM FESTIVAL - SNEAKS – PETE’S DRAGON 2D Event Cinemas www.eventcinemas.com.au Check website / Cost / Family MACKAY BEACH HORSE RACING FESTIVAL GENERAL ADMISSION Mackay Harbour Beach www.mackaytix.com.au 11.30am / Cost / Family WEEKEND FAMILY FLICKS FINDING DORY Event Cinemas www.eventcinemas.com.au 10.00am / $6.00 / Family

Sunday 28 DISNEY FAIRYTALE FILM FESTIVAL - SNEAKS – PETE’S DRAGON 2D Event Cinemas www.eventcinemas.com.au Check website / Cost / Family CINEBUZZ ADVANCED SCREENING - THE SECRET LIFE OF PETS Event Cinemas www.eventcinemas.com.au 1.00pm / Cost / Family WEEKEND FAMILY FLICKS FINDING DORY Event Cinemas www.eventcinemas.com.au 10.00am / $6.00 / Family

EMAIL EVENTS TO: ADMIN@GRANDPUBLISHING.COM.AU

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PR E S E NTS

Very mild sense of threat and some crude humour.

© 2015 UNIVERSAL STUDIOS

8 SEPTEMBER 2016 TheSecretLifeOfPets.com.au

#TheSecretLifeOfPets

www.pakmag.com.au AUGUST 2016

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TO ENTER, EMAIL US THE ANSWER TO THIS QUESTION: HOW MANY STRINGS DOES KUBO HAVE? ADMIN@GRANDPUBLISHING.COM.AU MAKE SURE TO INCLUDE 'KUBO AND THE TWO STRINGS COMP' IN THE SUBJECT LINE, YOUR NAME, AGE, ADDRESS, LOCATION & PHONE NUMBER IN THE EMAIL BODY. WIN A DOUBLE PASS TO KUBO AND THE TWO STRINGS (COMP CLOSES 31/08/16)

REGULAR MARKETS SEAFORTH MARKETS

TWILIGHT MARKETS

PORTERS COMMUNITY MARKETS

DATE 1st Sunday of the month (Apr to Dec) TIME From 9.00am LOCATION Eungella Memorial Hall - North Streett

DATE Every Sunday

DATE First Saturday of each month

MARIAN MARKETS

DATE Every Saturday

LOCATION Northern Beaches Bowls Club TIME 6.00pm - 9.00pm INFO Please visit website for dates and theme www.nbbowls.com.au PAXTON’S NIGHT MARKETS

FARMERS’ MARKET

DATE* 2nd Friday of the month TIME From 5.00pm LOCATION Paxtons Warehouse

DATE Every Wednesday of the month

EUNGELLA MARKETS

DATE 3rd Sunday of the month TIME From 8.00am LOCATION Holy Rosary Church Anzac Avenue (Excluding May & Dec) SARINA SHOWGROUND MARKET DATE Last Sunday of the month TIME From 8.00am (Mar to Dec) LOCATION Bruce Highway Sarina

TIME From 8.30am

LOCATION Palm Avenue Seaforth SHOWGROUND MARKETS TIME From 6.30am

LOCATION Milton Street TROPPO TREASURE MARKET DATE 2nd Sunday of the month TIME From 7.30am to 11.30am LOCATION Mount Pleasant Shopping Centre

*Check their Facebook page as dates subject to change www.facebook. com/PaxtonsNightMarkets

TIME From 8.00am LOCATION Porters at the Corner of Brisbane & Gordon Streets THE GREATER WHITSUNDAY

TIME From 2.00pm to 6.00pm LOCATION Wood Street Park

EMAIL EVENTS TO: ADMIN@GRANDPUBLISHING.COM.AU

www.pakmag.com.au AUGUST 2016

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REGULAR EVENTS

BIKE RIDERS

THURSDAYS THURSDAY NIGHT SOCIAL RIDE A weekly evening get together for a ride and catch up, on each Thursday.

Meeting point Metro Café, River Street Start time 7.00pm Ability level Beginner-intermediate INFO Visit Bicycle Mackay Facebook page for ride details and updates.

MACKAY REGIONAL COUNCIL LIBRARIES BABY BOUNCE Please note that Baby Bounce does not run during the school holidays.

Gordon White Library Thursdays 10.30am - 11.00am Mackay City Library Mondays 11am - 11.30am Mirani Library Mondays 9.30am - 10.00am Sarina Library Tuesdays 9.30am - 10.00am

STORYTIME

RUNNERS SATURDAYS SOCIAL RIDES Meeting point Metro Café, River Street Start time 6.30am ABILITY LEVELS Team Caffeine (Beginner - intermediate): 15-20km/h Team Tour de Latte (Intermediate): 25km/h Team Slipstream (Intermediate-advanced): 30km/h Team Titanium (Advanced): 35km+/h More Info Visit Rock N Road Cycles Facebook page for ride details and updates.

SUNDAYS

Storytime is aimed at 2 – 5 year olds and their parents and carers and is held weekly during the school term.

This half hour program of stories, nursery rhymes, finger plays and songs enhances language and literacy development in an interactive, fun-filled environment. The sessions encourage a child’s love of books and promotes the library environment as an exciting place for the whole family.

TIMES AND LOCATIONS Mirani Library Tuesdays 9.30am - 10.00am Walkerston Library Tuesdays 10.30am - 11.00am Gordon White Library Wednesdays 10.30am - 11.00am Fridays 9.30am - 10.00am Sarina Library Wednesdays 10.00am - 11.00am Mackay City Library Thursdays 10.30am - 11.00am Please note that Storytime does not run during the school holidays.

TODDLER TIME Toddler Time is aimed at little ones who are walking to 2.5 years and their parents and carers and is held weekly during the school term.

This half hour program of lively nursery rhymes, finger plays, action songs and a story encourages language development and social interaction in an interactive, fun-filled environment.

The sessions encourage valuable one-on-one time between parent and child and are also a great networking opportunity for parents.

TIMES AND LOCATIONS Gordon White Library Mondays 9.30am – 10.00am Mirani Library Wednesday 9.30am – 10.00am Mackay City Library Friday 9.30am – 10.00am 30

AUGUST 2016 www.pakmag.com.au

Farleigh at 6:30pm Ability level Intermediate-advanced More Info Visit Corry Cycles Facebook page for ride details and updates *MAD MTB or MTBA membership is required to use the trails.

LAZY RIDERS Held every second Sunday -stay for breakfast after the ride!

Meeting point Bridges Café, Bluewater Quay Start time 7.00am Ability level beginner-intermediate More Info Visit Corry Cycles Facebook page for ride details and updates SIZZLE'N SAUSAGE SUNDAY SESH* Mountain bikers of all abilities are welcome to come out for a ride, held every Sunday and followed by a sausage sizzle from 8.30am.

Meeting point Rowallan Mountain Bike Park, Glendaragh Road, Farleigh Start time From 6.00am Ability level Beginner-advanced More Info Visit Corry Cycles Facebook page for ride details and updates

WEDNESDAYS BICYCLE BELLES A social riding group just for ladies, held every Wednesday.

Meeting point Bicycle Connection, 20 Victoria Street, Mackay Start time 6.00am Ability level beginner-intermediate More Info Visit Bicycle Belles Mackay Facebook page for ride details and updates.

MUMS AND BUBS MORNING RIDE A social riding group for Mums with children who are not yet at school Held every Wednesday at the Gooseponds.

Meeting point Car park at the end of Willis Street, North Mackay Start time 10.00am More Info Visit Bicycle Belles Mackay Facebook page for ride details and updates.

MOUNTAIN BIKE (MTB) NIGHT RIDE* Meets every Wednesday to ride the trails – lights on bike and helmets are a must!

Meeting point 1 Corry Cycles, 5 Kay Court, North Mackay at 6pm Meeting point 2 Rowallan Mountain Bike Park, Glendaragh Road,

THE LAYZEE RUNNERS CLUB Every Saturday from 5.45am Meet at the Metro Market Cafe, River Street, Mackay Every Tuesday and Thursday from 5.30am. Meet at the City Fitness Health Club, Victoria Street.

Free More Info For more details visit www.mackaycitycentre.com.au

WALKING GROUPS MACKAY DOG WALKERS & SOCIAL GROUP Every Saturday at 7:45 for an 8am start. Departs from Bluewater Quay More Info For more information visit the Mackay Dog Walkers Facebook page.

HEALTH & HEART WALKING An initiative of the Heart foundation.

Departs from 2 Tennyson St, Mackay Every Saturday at 6:45am Contact Heather 4957 7997

ACTIVE IN THE CITY Dog Walking Group Every Sunday from 7.00am - 8.00am at the Bluewater Trail - starting at the Bluewater Quay Zumba Every Sunday from 9.00am - 10.00am at the Bluewater Quay Rock N Road Cycle Every Saturday from 6.30am at the Metro Market Cafe The LRC Runners Club Every Saturday from 5.45am at Metro Market Cafe.

Every Tuesday and Thursday from 5.30am at City Fitness Health Club

SOUTHS LEAGUES CLUB MONDAYS

9.00am Mother Hubbard Drawn 6.15pm 5.00 - 6.00pm Happy Hour 6.00pm Members Roast Night in Bistro 7.30pm FREE Trivia Night 7.30pm Pick The Pig Gaming Room 8.00pm Members Monthly Birthday Draw

TUESDAYS 1.00pm Green Grocer Gaming Room 5.00 - 6.00pm Happy Hour 6.00pm Gimme 5 for $12 in the Bistro 7.00pm Members Attendance Draw

WEDNESDAYS 12.30pm Souths CASH Bingo 1.00pm Supermarket Sweep Gaming Room 5.00 - 6.00pm Happy Hour 6.00pm Hump Day Rib or Rump 6.00pm Club Raffles 6.00 - 9.00 WOW promotion Gaming Promotion 7.00pm Free Texas Hold'em Poker with 888PL 7.30pm Souths Cash Bingo

THURSDAYS 5.00 - 6.00pm Happy Hour 6.00pm Kids Eat Free 6.00pm Club Raffle 7.45pm Membership Draw 8.00pm Major Tom Gaming Promotion

FRIDAYS 4.00 - 7.00pm Happy Hour From 5.00pm TGIFriday Wheel 6.00pm If you Crumb it They Will Come 6.00pm Club Raffles 7.00pm Live Entertainment Sports Bar 7.30pm Lucky Seat Gaming Room

SATURDAYS 11.00 - 12.00pm Happy Hour From 12.00 noon Auction Cup 12.30pm Club Raffles 1.45pm Membership Draw 3.00pm FREE Sausage Sizzle Sports Bar 3.00 - 4.00pm Happy Hour 7.00pm Live Entertainment, Sports Bar 8.00pm After Dinner Mint Gaming Room

SUNDAYS 9.00am Sunday Buffet Breakfast in Bistro 1.00pm Club Raffles 1.45pm Membership Draw 2.00pm FREE Texas Hold’em Poker with 888L 6.00pm Club Raffles 6.00 - 7.00pm Happy Hour 7.00pm Saints Bingo (Last Sunday Of Each Month) Souths MAJOR Promotion Drawn

MACKAY ANIMAL RESCUE SOCIETY

Monthly Adoption Day Last Sunday of the month, 9.00am to 12.00pm, Mackay Pet Superstore, Greenfields Fundraiser Markets Third Sunday of the Month Mackay Marina 9.00 - 1.00pm

ECO ART POPUP STUDIO

TUESDAYS, WEDNESDAYS, THURSDAYS 0 - 5 YEARS Time 9.00 - 10.00am Location Old Harbour Park, Mulherin Drive, Mackay Harbour Cost $5.00 6 - 12 YEARS Time 3.30 - 4.00pm Location New Harbour Park, East Point Drive, Mackay Harbour 13 - 17 YEARS Time 4.30 - 5.00pm Location New Harbour Park, East Point Drive, Mackay Harbour 18+ YEARS Time 10.30 - 11.00am Location Old Harbour Park, Mulherin Drive, Mackay Harbour

LET THE CHILDREN PLAY TOYSHOP CHILDREN’S BOOK READING

Day Every Tuesday Time 9.30am to 10am Free - Bring your snack. Coffee/tea will be available Location 15b Macalister St Cnr Victoria & Macalister Sts Contact 4944 0180 or email info@playmackay.com.au

nQ cAR & tRuck RentAls Explore Mackay and the beautiful Whitsunday’s in a car from NQ Car & Truck Rentals. Our low prices and great service are the reason why we are the first choice of so many visitors to the Mackay and Whitsunday’s area.

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cARs • utes • 4WDs • buses • tRucks Phone4953 49532353 2353 Phone Malcomson Street, 64Malcomson Street,MACKAY MACKAY nicole@nqcartruckrentals.com.au tracie@nqcartruckrentals.com.au www.nqcartruckrentals.com.au www.nqcartruckrentals.com.au

www.pakmag.com.au AUGUST 2016

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BUMP & BUB

pakmag

Baby’s

First Cold Colds and flus are common in babies and small children. There are plenty of medications on the market to help your little one feel better but most are not suitable for newborns. Here’s what you need to know when it comes to handling baby’s first cold or flu.

It’s okay to be concerned.

What about medications?

In fact, it’s completely normal. One of the hardest things for parents is watching their baby suffer with a cold or flu especially when their wee one is still so small. Trust that you are doing the right thing and remember it’s not your fault that bub is a bit under the weather. The flu can also cause diarrhoea and vomiting.

There are medications, like Panadol and Nurofen, to help with pain and fever but only for children over the age of three months of age.

Cold or flu? How do you know?

The difference between a cold and flu is that if your child has associated fevers of 38˚ or higher, is fatigued or has chills, followed by a runny nose and a dry cough he is more likely to be experiencing the flu.

If the congestion or cough happens before the fever it is more likely to be a cold. Colds can also bring poor appetite, sore throat and swollen glands.

There are natural ways to help.

When babies have a cold they still need to breath via their nose. When they have a cold their nose becomes blocked and therefore makes it difficult to breathe. Babies cannot clear (or blow) their noses by themselves yet so it may be necessary for you to help clear the nose. This can be done with saline drops/spray and a nasal decongestor. This will allow for easier breathing, sleeping and feeding. Rest and regular fluids also play a vital role in recovery.

Other products that may assist with relieving the symptoms of colds or flus are steam vaporisers and plenty of extra feeds (breast or bottle) plus cuddles.

For newborns onwards there are also some great products like Euky Bear Rub that you can put on the outside of babies socks which is a lot like Vix Vapour but for children.

There is also a product by Schuessler that is called Kids Cold & Cough which is a tissue salt that can be crushed and given on a teaspoon with water or breastmilk from birth or chewed on by older children. These are a great natural homeopathic and work extraordinary well.

For children over one year there are more options.

You should talk to your pharmacist or health care nurse before purchasing some of these products.

A probiotic can also be taken from 3 months of age as well as a multivitamin from birth but it is important to note that babies need to be allowed to develop an immune system on their own without supplements.

So whilst it is very difficult to watch your baby suffering with a cold or flu it is important that we allow the body to build up antibodies to be able to fight any future infections or viruses that they may come in contact with.

If you have questions please don’t hesitate to ask advice at your GP.

www.pakmag.com.au AUGUST 2016

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WIN

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VISIT

your child stay comfy BabyLove nappies are designed to help ted technology*, paten first alian Austr ring and happy. Featu marks on baby’s red , BabyLove Cosifit™ helps prevent harsh protection. ge leaka nced adva delicate skin and provides t Cosifit, Crawler Infan t, Cosifi orn Newb e includ ies, Cosifit napp r Cosifit.

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LIMITED EDITION CHILDREN'S ART PRINTS WEB www.schmooks.com.au RRP $100 Each artwork is delicately hand gold leafed, creating a unique and individual piece of art.

Professionally printed on high grade paper stock with fade resistant inks, Schmooks' artworks are vibrant in colour and have a wonderful soft finish. Each is hand signed, titled, numbered and dated. Size 42 x 59.4cm Schmooks' range of timeless artwork stirs the imagination and reignites the wonder of childhood through magical lands, exciting adventures and the sweetest of creatures.

The print above is of artwork 'Sleepy Moon'.

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AUGUST 2016 www.pakmag.com.au

WIN

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Their gorgeous clothes can not be found locally or in major deparment stores. Bringing you fashionable & stylish looks for your prince & princess.

DRUGS IN PREGNANCY

FREE FUN WITH BUB

STORY Dr. Elizabeth Jackson

Running out of ideas on how to keep your little one happily entertained between sleeps, play dates and feeds? Here are some fun ways to introduce your little one to the world of play:

The safety of taking medications in pregnancy can be confusing. Luckily there is a way to help both mothers and doctors. In Australia, the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) has a system, as well as a database, for doctors prescribing medicines in pregnancy. Doctors in Australia base their advice on the TGA category system. Other countries have similar, but not identical classification systems.

So what is the TGA system? It is actually very simple. Drugs in pregnancy are overall classified into A, B, C, D and X. Letters reflect the quality and amount of information on the drug, not just the safety on unborn babies. It is not a hierarchy system B is not necessarily safer than C for example.

Make Edible Paint Fill up a bowl with baby yoghurt. Add a bit of the yoghurt to a large piece of cardboard and let your little one swirl his fingers through. Then, add a splash of natural food colouring like beetroot juice for a visually stimulating effect.

Sensory Play with Playdough

A has been taken by many women and is well studied.

Playdough is a staple item in every toy cupboard and this is a great introduction to sensory play for your baby. Your little one probably won’t be pulling out any masterpieces (he will most likely attempt to eat it), but with supervision, this is a great way to have some fun together.

B has been taken by a limited number of women, but has

Spray Play

Drugs in this category have not been shown to cause harm or malformation. not been shown to cause harm in humans. This category is divided into B1, B2 and B3 and these describes what the effects are on animal studies, eg.

B1 - no harm to animals, B2 suspected of harm to animals and B3 has been shown to cause harm in animals.

C may be suspected of causing harm, without causing malformations.

D may cause harm and malformations.

X have high risk of causing harm or permanent damage

What’s better than water play? How about when it’s in a spray bottle. Let your little one practice his coordination skills by giving him a spray bottle filled with water. Spray the tiles, the windows, the driveway or each other. You will be surprised how something so simple can bring so much enjoyment.

Enjoy Physical Fun with an Indoor Obstacle Course Grab as many blankets, pillows, cardboard boxes or anything else laying around the house and create an obstacle course for your little one to climb into, go through and crawl around in. Make sure you are waiting for them at the end!

to the baby and should not be taken where there is even a possibility of pregnancy.

Get the Ball Rolling

There are many very good reasons why a woman may need to take medications in pregnancy, and the risks vary with each drug. If a medication is not on the database, the effects on an unborn baby are largely unknown and you should avoid this medication in pregnancy. If you would like more information, speak to your doctor, or visit the TGA database (tga.gov.au).

Is there anything more fun than watching a ball roll and bounce? To a baby, not really. Pick up different sized balls (nothing too small!) and bounce them down the hallway.

Your little one may prefer to chase them or he may be happy to simply watch them go. Add an extra element to the fun by setting up a few plastic cups to try and make your own indoor bowling arena.

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+ HEALTH Seven Things You Probably Didn’t Know about…

Organ Donation It’s not something most of us want to think about but it is an important discussion to have with your family.

Organ donation, the act of donating your organs after death to someone whose organs are failing them, can help 10 or more people, and often young children.

While Australia is a world leader for successful transplant outcomes, there is still a long way to go, Did you know?

1. Around 1,600 people are waiting for a transplant at any given time.

2. According to a recent survey by Transplant Australia, the majority of Australians (76 percent) are willing to become organ and tissue donors.

HEALTH

pakmag

Dental Health Week According to a recent study by the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare, one in two 12 year olds have tooth decay in their permanent teeth while three in 10 adults aged 24-44 have untreated tooth decay.

It’s time to start thinking about your teeth! Dental Health Week takes place in the first full week of August (1 to 7 August) and is the Australian Dental Association’s major annual oral health promotion.

Its aim is to educate Australians about the importance of maintaining good oral health in every aspect of their lives.

Make it a family mission to visit a dentist in August if you don’t already have a regular dental routine. Children should start to see a dentist at the age of two. Regular (every six months) check-ups are recommended for all children and adults and there are initiatives in place to help with the costs.

3. Less than 1 percent of people die in hospital in the specific circumstances where organ donation is possible.

4. In 2015, 435 organ donors gave 1,241 Australians a new chance at life.

5. The most popular organ transplant procedure in Australia in 2015 was kidneys with 703 donations, followed by livers (264), lungs (193) and heart transplants (95).

6. The majority of Australians are generally willing to become organ and tissue donors (69 per cent).

7. In Queensland, the donation rates per million population (dpmp) is 15.1 This is the lowest of all the states and territories in Australia. South Australia leads the way with 24.7 dpmp.

Information collected by www.donatelife.gov.au

Children between 4 years of age and completing Year 10 of secondary school are eligible for publicly funded dental services in Queensland. Adults who hold certain concession cards may also be eligible.

Tooth decay and other dental concerns are often easy to prevent with regular cleaning, checks and care at home.

Make brushing teeth fun for the kids with timers, special toothpaste and character-themed toothbrushes to help keep them motivated to brush well twice a day. And make sure you change everyone’s toothbrush every three months!

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WHAt's NEWS in Business

WHAT'S NEWS pakmag

In the Spotlight Mackay Christian College PH 4963 1100 WEB www.mccmky.qld.edu.au Mackay Christian College is proud to have been a part of the Mackay community for over 30 Years. The focus of the College is to have every child achieve their full potential. The school’s vision statement, “Becoming all God wants us to be,” is a real commitment to achieving this aim through the development of the whole child.

The College provides a supportive environment from Kindy to Year 12 with various structures in place to ensure all students are supported throughout their learning journey. Every member of the College community, both staff and student, is part of a House Family. These are true families that provide pastoral support and care during a student’s time in the College.

The College also has different “schools” that meet the educational needs as the child develops and matures. The Junior Providence campus houses students from Kindy to Year 5 which are made up of smaller learning villages. The Middle (Years 6-9) and Senior Schools (Year 10-12) are located at the Kings Park Campus where students have the opportunity to access a broad range of subjects and extra-curricular activities.

Their College graduates have pursued a wide range of professional, vocational and creative careers via pathways that best suit the individual. For those wanting to study further at university nearly 100 percent of our students receive offers into a course of their choice. Support is also provided to those looking at vocational pathways or into work.

Feedback from alumni and parents consistently says that Mackay Christian College is a school that is caring, safe, promotes learning and where students are happy. Past students often reflect on how the College went the extra mile to help them in their learning and support them to fulfil their potential not only academically but also through the strength of relationships formed during their time in the school.

Mackay Christian College is a school which seeks to live out the Gospel of Jesus Christ through serving the Mackay community. Each teacher is a committed Christian who chooses to teach because they have a sense of how significant their role is in forming the next generation and prepare them for tomorrow’s exciting future.

At Mackay Christian College the staff truly want to equip every student to become all God wants them to be.

Have You Heard: NDIS ROLLOUT IN MACKAY MEANS GREATER CHOICE FOR ALL The anticipated rollout of the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) has started across the country.

The NDIS will provide all Australians under the age of 65 with a permanent and significant disability with the reasonable and necessary supports they need to live an ordinary life.

National Disability Insurance Agency (NDIA) Chairman Bruce Bonyhady, said the NDIS would revolutionise disability support in Australia, transforming the lives of 460,000 Australians with disability, their families and carers over the next three years.

For the first time, Australians will have access to a national scheme that will support people with disability, providing certainty, consistency and equity. With the NDIS, you not only get to choose what type of supports you receive, you also decide when, where and how you receive them – and which disability service providers you’ll work with. You even have control over how your funds are managed.

One of the registered services in Mackay, Autism Queensland reports that Mackay will be the first of their six centres to operate in an NDIS area when the scheme rolls out in the region from November 1.

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pakmag CELEBRATE

In a galaxy far far away, the PakMag team decided to pull together a planet-themed party so extraordinary that it will be out of this world!

Stimulate their senses with spacey sweets and treats, intergalactic games and decorations that will make the guests feel like they really are in a different world. Think rocket ships, astronauts, planets, aliens, and constellations.

If your little one is a fan of all things space, then we’ve got your celestial celebration all wrapped up.

www.karaspartyideas.com

INTERSTELLAR DELIGHTS • Astronaut bikkies • Moon-shaped cupcake toppers • Fruit rocket kabobs • Round and star-shaped cookie cutters to cut out sandwiches that look like planets and stars

ASTRONOMICAL DECORATIONS • Hang Chinese paper lanterns in different colours around the room. Add a ring around one for Saturn.

• Balloons are a must for any party. Add eyes to make them alien balloons.

• Save the rolls off your paper towel and get the kids to help you design rocket ships to place around the house or on the tables. You can also use this as a race your rocket ship game.

• Design a moon-themed table. Use play dough or collect rocks (and spray paint them silver) for moon craters.

INTERGALACTIC GAMES • Set the mood with music from some of the best spacethemed movies and TV shows including Star Wars, ET and 2001: A Space Odyssey and play musical chairs • Play pass the planet-shaped parcel and include spacethemed toys for each child to find.

• Set up a backyard Saturn ring toss. www.bananabakery.com

Hues Studio Design Blast Off! Spaceman Light Chain www.luminouslights.net.au (RRP $49.90) 42

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www.thebabybumpdiaries.com

Globe Puzzle 57pc - Goki www.playmackay.com.au (RRP $16.00)

100% Cotton Muslin Wrap www.bubs2bratz.com.au (RRP $15.96)

Grimms Spiel & Holz Elements Handmade Puzzle www.earthtoys.net (RRP $130.00)

Apollo Lunar Module 3D Model www.nightskysecrets.com.au (RRP $24.95)

Kson 102mm (4") Telescope www.nightskysecrets.com.au (RRP $240.00) Blue Summer Sparkle Doll's Dress Etsy store: DebsDollsClothes (RRP $16.00)

Icingbits Cake Toppers www.icingbits.com

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pakmag HOME

Beautiful Bed Time

WITH THE BLOCK’S CARO & KINGI

Considering we spent one third of our life asleep, it makes sense that we want our bedrooms to be serene and stylish. Regardless of how you decorate, what colour scheme you choose or what type of organisational system you prefer, what matters the most is your bed.

A comfortable bed is key to a good night’s sleep for the entire family. Here are some things to look for when it comes to bed selection.

Latex foam moulds to your body shape and tends to be durable and breathable. It’s also a popular choice for those with allergies.

Who is sleeping in the bed?

Most couples will go for either a queen or king-sized bed. If you have children, then always go for king, because early morning snuggles in a queen-sized bed can be a little bit squishy.

A pocket sprung mattress is another popular choice and has 3000 customisable springs sewn into individual fabric pockets.

How do you sleep?

When choosing a mattress, how you sleep matters. If you are a tummy sleeper, a firm mattress helps to keep your spine aligned. If you sleep on your back, then a semi-firm mattress provides more support for your spine, back and neck. And, for those who prefer to sleep on their side, then a soft mattress may be best as it contours to your body’s curves.

Of course, some people will switch from front to back, side to side, (or up and down if you have a child that won’t sleep) all night long.

What type of mattress will be best?

Mattresses come in four different spring-types. An open-coil mattress tends to be quite affordable and light but the coils can wear out quicker and any tossing and turning may disrupt your bed partner.

A memory foam mattress is topped with a layer of temperature-sensitive material and allows your body to literally sink into bed, taking pressure off your joints.

Sonata Bed www.mocka.com.au (RRP $149.95)

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What about the little ones?

When making the switch from a cot to a big bed, it’s a good idea to look for one that comes with a trundle bed (that way if they fall out, they land on something soft). Plus, if your kids are anything like our daughter, then you may need to stay with her while she falls asleep some nights. And the trundle offers a comfortable place to lie (just ask Kingi).

If a trundle is out of reach, then look for a low lying bed frame in case your little one does take a tumble in their sleep (hey, it does happen!).

Now, the most important thing when it comes to buying a bed for your children is that they will actually sleep in it. All. Night. Long. Let them select their bedding – there are plenty of adorable colours, styles and Disney-themed doonas, pillow cases and sheet sets to choose from.

Choose a cute night light in case your child does wake in the night and gets scared. Finally, add a bit of monster spray (water with a bit of lavendar oil) to the bedside table.

Be sure to spray for monsters every night before bed to aid a successful night’s sleep.

With a comfortable bed, cute bedding, the right lightning and monster spray, you just might be able to ensure a great night’s sleep for the whole family!

Cubby Twin Bunk www.fantasticfurniture.com.au (RRP $529.00)

Deluxe Bamboo Mobile - Yellow Bird www.earthtoys.net (RRP $89.00)

Gecko Single Bed www.fantasticfurniture.com.au (RRP $99.00)

Aztec Cabin Bunk www.fortywinks.com.au (RRP $1599.00)

Miki Single Bed www.fantasticfurniture.com.au (RRP $429.00)

Theo Teddy Bear - Steiff www.playmackay.com.au (RRP $69.95)

Light's Up! Green Apple Toy Light www.luminouslights.net.au (RRP $19.90) www.pakmag.com.au AUGUST 2016

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pakmag TRAVEL

SINGAPORE ilies m a F or F FLING STORY Bree James It’s a city buzzing with culture in a gorgeous tropical environment.

What more could you want from a family holiday?

Two kids. Two adults. Six days. And 30 places to check out - our Singapore holiday was certainly jam packed with loads of fun for the entire family.

Having never travelled there before we really didn’t know what to expect. We were in for a pleasant surprise with activities to entertain a family for months! Even after six full days in Singapore, we really only scratched the surface.

Singapore is a beautiful island city with a population of 5.5 million people from all around the globe. The majority of people speak English and everything is written in English so you don’t have to worry about any language barriers.

The food is amazing, the people are lovely, the architecture is eye popping and there is a wonderful mix of culture, shopping, fun and education making it a great place for families to visit for a holiday.

SilkAir flies non-stop from Cairns to Singapore three times per week and is only a six-hour flight.

Bring your own device to plug into their onboard WIFI to watch movies and listen to music. The kids enjoyed their games pack and special children’s meals and the flight was over before we knew it.

Top Things to Try:

If you and your family are venturing over, then make sure you check out some (or all) of these activities.

Find out more about each activity at www.pakmag.com.au.

SENTOSA ISLAND store.sentosa.com.sg Sentosa Island really is The State Of Fun. It is just a couple of minutes’ drive from the city with over 20 diverse attractions. Some of our favourites included Universal Studios, KidZania and S.E.A Aquarium. But there were plenty other great family attractions including Adventure Cove Waterpark, Madame Tussaudes and so much more! Get a Sentosa Fun Pass that gives you a great deal on attractions.

UNIVERSAL STUDIOS SENTOSA ISLAND SINGAPORE www.rwsentosa.com Will not disappoint so get the Fast Pass and go on as many rides as you can. Renowned for the world’s tallest duelling rollercoaster (which is AMAZING!) as well as the world’s first Transformers Ride and lots more.

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S.E.A Aquarium, Sentosa Islan

S.E.A. AQUARIUM www.rwsentosa.com Home to 100,000 marine animals with over 800 species in 49 different habitats, the kids will be in awe of the marine life, and will also spot Dory and Nemo.

KIDZANIA www.kidzania.com.sg

Forest Adventure

KidZania is an indoor city that’s been made just for kids. Children work, learn and role play as adults in a huge range of careers from Pilots, to Dr’s, Policemen and Scientists. iFLY www.iflysingapore.com iFLY is incredible – experience the thrill of flying and skydiving without the accompanying fear of heights in a massive wind tunnel. We had smiles on our faces for hours after trying this!

GARDENS BY THE BAY www.gardensbythebay.com.sg With over 101 hectares to explore in this stunning park, there are several areas that will especially delight the smaller generation including the Children’s Garden, Cloud Forest and Flower Dome. Plus, solar “Supertrees” put on a free spectacular light show at the end of the day.

Universal Studios, Sentosa

Island

a Island

iFLY, Sentos

ARTSCIENCE MUSEUM www.Marinabaysands.com/ ArtScienceMuseum An area especially designed to showcase both art and science, this museum blends the two together in a spectacular way that is not only visually inspiring, but also interactive.

Some exhibits change according to your creative input.

FOREST ADVENTURE www.forestadventure.com.sg With 60 obstacles, three tree top courses and five zip lines, this is an adventurer’s playground! The “kids’ course” has 16 different crossings to get from tree to tree, and then finishes with a zip line to the ground.

NIGHT SAFARI www.nightsafari.com.sg This is the world's first safari park for nocturnal animals where you can explore the rainforest at dusk and enjoy tribal performances.

FABER PEAK & SINGAPORE CABLE CAR www.faberpeaksingapore.com For the best views of Singapore head up to the top of Faber Peak, ring the Bell Of Happiness, have a bite to eat and then jump on the cable car to Sentosa Station.

Free / Inexpensive Ways to Enjoy Singapore

Top 10 Foods and Drinks to Try

Family holiday costs can add up quickly which is why we are always on the lookout for cheap or free things to do in each place we visit. And Singapore offers plenty of affordable options for families on a budget.

• Let the kids run wild at the Port of Lost Wonders water playground on Sentosa Island (cost) or at the Childrens Garden at Gardens by the Bay (free) • Enjoy the scenery and take a Bum Boat Ride along the Singapore River (cost) • Enjoy the spectacular lightshow from the city as the Marina Bay Sands comes to life (free) • Get creative at Playeum Tinkering Sundays (cost) • Go star gazing at Gardens By the Bay Rhapsody Light Show at 7.45 and 8.45pm nightly (free) • Take a walk around Little India or Kampong Glam which is Singapore’s Arab quarter and busting with beautiful temples (free) • Go on the waterslides and swim in the tsunami pool at Wild, Wild, Wet (cost) • Head to Vivo City shopping centre and try not to buy anything! There are lots of great shops and an amazing Hawker Centre to try delicious yet inexpensive foods.

• Pose with a Merlion. Singapore’s most iconic sculpture, the Merlion (a half-lion, half-fish creature) is a water-spouting critter. Snap a family picture before taking a walk around Marina Bay (free).

One of my favourite things about venturing to a new country is testing out the new cuisine. And these certainly didn’t disappoint.

1. KAYA - coconut, pandan and egg jam. Head to a bakery to find it and try!

KidZania, nd Sentosa Isla

Faber

Chilli Mud Crab

Peak &

Singa

pore C

able C

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2. CHILLI CRAB - fried crab with a sweet, sour, chilli and tomato based sauce.

3. CHICKEN RICE - a traditional dish where the chicken is either steamed or roasted served with rice that has been cooked in chicken broth and chicken fat.

4. CHENG TUNG - a traditional dessert served hot or cold, which apparently borders on the healthy side.

Night Safari

5. SELFIE COFFEE - get your face printed on whipped cream on top of an iced coffee.

6. ICE KACANG - a concoction of shaved ice, red beans, sweet corn, grass jelly and cubes of agar-agar, coloured with syrup and topped with evaporated milk. And, is surprisingly tasty!

7. SLAPPY CAKES - head to Slappy Cakes for a DIY pancake experience like no other.The kids absolutely loved this pancake palace!

8. FISH HEAD CURRY - a South Indian dish, which is considered a delicacy.

9. SATAYS - every Asian country does them differently and the Singaporean ones are delicious.

10. SINGAPOREAN LAKSA - a yummy coconut-based curry soup and is a wonderful mix of flavour with noodles, seafood or chicken, tofu, and other Asian delights.

ns By The Bay

Flower Dome, Garde

Keep an eye on the Cairns Airport Facebook page for SilkAir flight specials! For more information about Singapore search “Singapore” on www.pakmag.com.au to read our blogs and watch our movies. Check out yoursingapore.com.sg for more information.

PROUDLY BROUGHT TO YOU BY CAIRNS AIRPORT AND PAKMAG.

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SNAPPED

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1. Bianca at Bounce Now Inflatable Party 2. Kaydence at Bounce Now Inflatable Party 3. Abigail at Mackay Ice skating 4. Ryan at Bounce Now Inflatable Party 5. Penny at Mackay Ice skating 6. Vanessa and Ashton at Mackay Ice skating 7. William and Mum at Mackay Ice skating 48

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16 PHOTOS THANKS TO: INDIGO BLUE PHOTOGRAPHY 0402 343 662 www.indigobluephotography.com.au

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8. Nickolas at Bounce Now Inflatable Party 9. Oliver at Bounce Now Inflatable Party 10. Riley and Dylan at Bounce Now Inflatable Party 11. Kaur family at Bounce Now Inflatable Party 12. Stella at Bounce Now Inflatable Party 13. Chloe, Ashley and Penny at Mackay Ice skating 14. Rajinder and Mum at Bounce Now Inflatable Party 15.

Ella at Mackay Ice skating 16. Michael at Bounce Now Inflatable Party 17. Eva and Luke at Bounce Now Inflatable Party 18. Abigail at Bounce Now Inflatable Party www.pakmag.com.au AUGUST 2016

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