PakMag Mackay - March 2016 Issue 41 by Grand Publishing

ISSUE: MAR 2016

MACKAY

MONEY

Matters

Celebrate

WITH AN EASTER PARTY

SLOWING

DOWN

Happy

Easter! Egg Carton CRAFT ACTIVITIES

Free

CONTENTS

WIN P.32

HELLO

MEGA

Easter

ISSUE NO. 41 MAR 2016

PRIZE PACK

06 Entertainment: Check This Out 08 Feature: Money Matters 11 Slowing Down: Loving Life In The

Hello and welcome to the very special Easter edition of PakMag. This month we hope to sweeten your life with some awesome Easter ideas including tips on hosting your own Easter party, some adorable Easter egg carton crafts and details on our annual Easter event with thousands of Easter eggs to give away, an Easter Bonnet parade and, of course, a special visit from the Easter Bunny. See inside for more details.

Slow Lane

15 The Communication Gap 16 Health: Taking Care Of Your Eyes

We have also welcomed The Block’s Caro and Kingi to our Home section – check out their tips on transforming your little one’s nursery into the ultimate ‘big boy’ or ‘big girl’ space.

At Every Age

It is the end of first term and school holidays are upon us again at the end of this month. Can you believe it?! So as usual, PakMag has you covered with everything you need to know about what is happening in your community.

Language

This month my little family and I are jet setting to Hong Kong thanks to The Cairns and Mackay Airport. I will be sharing our trip in the next edition, so stay tuned!

23 What’s On Guide

19 Bump And Bub: Baby Sign

20 Bump And Bub: WIN!

25 Mini Mag

Have a wonderful Easter break. Whatever you are up to, enjoy, indulge and be safe. Until next time, take care and don’t forget to tell everyone you read it in PakMag.

32 Mega Easter Prize Pack

Bree x

33 School Holiday Guide 36 Craft: Egg Carton Craft 38 Healthy Recipes

BREE JAMES / PAKMAG PUBLISHER

40 Celebrate: Easter Party

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

42 Home: From Cot To Bed 45 Personal Loans 47 What’s News In Business 48 Snapped Mackay

PAKMAG HEAD OFFICE P 4053 3331 E admin@pakmag.com.au PO BOX 7433 Cairns QLD 4870 FB www.facebook.com/pakmagmackay T #pakmag

50 Daddy Diary

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

Events Extraordinaire Kelly

Darling Designer Clare

Sales Guru Angelina

Talented Trent

Grand Poobah Bree Office Aficionado Janelle

Sales Star Cherie

www.pakmag.com.au MARCH 2016

Witty Writer Jenna

pakmag

ENTERTAINMENT

T U O S I H T K C E H C PakMag’s Easter Eggstravaganza WHEN: 13 March, 11:00am– 12.00pm WHERE: Mount Pleasant Shopping Centre MORE INFO: www.pakmag.com.au Put all your eggs in one basket and celebrate Easter with PakMag at Mount Pleasant Shopping Centre. Join in the Easter Bonnet Parade, the Easter Egg Hunt and surprise the kids with a special visit from the Easter Bunny. There will be great prizes for best dressed Easter theme.

BMA Kids Artspace Mackay Class for Children Under Five WHEN: 22 March, 10.00am to 2.00pm WHERE: Artspace Mackay Seminar Room MORE INFO: www.artspacemackay.com.au Join local artists and performers for creative art activities designed especially for little ones and their adults. Explore and have fun with art in a climate of co-operative learning. This program includes free artist-run workshops from 10am to 2pm and live musical entertainment for kids from 12pm to 1pm. Bring your children along for a fun day or art-making, singing and dancing.

Brisbane Lions Versus St. Kilda Saints in Pre-SEASON Match WHEN: 6 March 2016, 3:40pm WHERE: Harrup Park Country Club MORE INFO: www.harruppark.com.au Mackay will host its first ever AFL pre-season match on March 6 when the Brisbane Lions take on the St Kilda Saints at Harrup Park. There are different ticket options still available, starting at $85 for food and drink packages. If you’re a fan of AFL, then this is certainly one event you need to see.

Porters School Holiday Entertainment for Kids WHEN: 26 March, 2 April, 3 April, 9 April and 10 April WHERE: Porters Mackay City and Northern Beaches: MORE INFO: www.porterscando.com.au In the lead up to Easter, come into Porters for an Easter Egg Hunt in store plus a special visit from the Easter Bunny! All information and details can be found on their website and don’t forget to like Porters on Facebook www.facebook.com/ Porterscando to be kept up to date on what’s happening.

MARCH 2016 www.pakmag.com.au

Important Dates in March CLEAN UP AUSTRALIA DAY: 6 March

SAINT PATRICK’S DAY: 17 March

NATIONAL END BULLYING AND VIOLENCE DAY: 18 March

EARTH HOUR:

19 March 8.30pm - 9.30pm

Mackay REGIONAL COUNCIL Libraries Toddler Time WHEN: Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays during school term WHERE: Gordon White Library, Mirani Library and Mackay City Library. MORE INFO: www.mackay.qld.gov.au/libraries Come and enjoy some special time with your toddler! 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. Enjoy lively nursery rhymes, finger plays, action songs and stories during the half hour program. The sessions are held at: Gordon White Library Monday 9.30am – 10.00am Mirani Library Wednesday 9.30am – 10.00am Mackay City Library Friday 9.30am – 10.00am

Don’t Forget to Vote WHEN: 19 March 8.00am to 6.00pm WHERE: Various locations MORE INFO: www.ecq.qld.gov.au The Queensland local government quadrennial elections will be held on Saturday 19 March 2016. It is compulsory for all enrolled voters to vote in this election. You can also check or update your enrolment details, visit the Electoral Commission of Queensland website at www.ecq.qld.gov.au or phone 1300 881 665.

www.pakmag.com.au MARCH 2016

Mat

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pakmag FEATURE

TEACHING YOUR KIDS ABOUT FINANCIAL RESPONSIBILITY STORY Jenna Gallina In a world obsessed with the dollar, how can we teach children the value of money all the while instilling good financial habits at a young age? Here are our top tips to help:

Update your piggy bank

nothing else. I gave my three-year-old a $50 note and a $5 note and asked her to choose. She chose the $5 note because it’s pink.

As your kids get older, there are plenty of other games that work with money but you really can’t beat the classic Monopoly.

Nonetheless, money identification is the first step towards money management down the road.

Use cash

Play with it Let’s start with the basics – what can you do with money? You can save it, invest it, spend it or give it away. Using a piggy bank is a great way to teach kids about saving but it doesn’t cover the different aspects of money management. We love the Money Savvy Pig which includes four different slots and is available through Amazon.com for $25 plus shipping.

Start young As soon as your child can count, you can introduce them to the world of money. Get them familiar with the different colours and sizes of coins and bills. At a young age, your child is not going to fully understand the value of money but it will help encourage shapes and colour recognition if

MARCH 2016 www.pakmag.com.au

Playing “shop” with your little ones is a great way to introduce them to exchanging money for goods. Let the Children Play have the Honeybake Cash Register - Le Toy Van, a beautiful wooden cash register and play money available for $49.95. Check out www.playmackay.com.au

Pay passing (or pay waving for VISA users) is the easiest route these days but, essentially, every time your kids see you swipe, you are teaching them that you have a magic card that buys things (and you don’t even need to put in a pin number!) Instead, get in the habit of taking out a certain amount each week and using this money to pay for the various items. Sit down on Monday, split the money into different piles (food, entertainment, fuel, bills) and ask them to help sort the money into envelopes or piles to use throughout the week.

Get App happy A great app to try is Green$treets: Unleash the Loot which is available for iPhone and iPad and teaches children about money management, setting goals,

budgeting and earning money by contributing to the Green$treets community. The app focuses around rescuing endangered animals and earning money to help care for them. It was developed by Tom Hester, the creator of Shrek, is designed for children aged five and up and comes with rave reviews. Get it at the iTunes store.

Encourage giving as well as spending If you have school-aged children then you will be familiar with the ‘gold coin’ donations requested by the school for various fundraising events. One of the easiest ways to help them understand the importance of donating is for them to be responsible for their own ‘gold coin’ donations throughout the year.

When offering an allowance, choose smaller bills to encourage savings.

Encourage your children to use the money from the “donate” section of their piggy banks to contribute to these various fundraisers.

If your children receive $5 a week for the chores completed, opt to give them five $1 coins rather than a note. That way they can split up the amount. Perhaps they spend $2 but choose to save $3.

Get visual

Start an account The Student Money Saver Account at Queensland Country Credit Union is an excellent option for children aged five to 18. Kids will get their own deposit book to track their savings, a free piggy bank and bonus interest when they deposit at least $5 a month and make no more than one withdrawal in that month. Check out www.qccu.com.au for more information.

Pick up a few moneythemed children’s books from the library. Some of our favourites for younger children include The Berenstain Bears, Trouble with Money, by Stan and Jan Berenstain, Money Madness, by David Adler, Follow the Money by Loreen Leedy, Once Upon a Dime: A Math Adventure by Nancy Allen and One Cent, Two Cents, Old Cent, New Cent by Dr. Seuss. A good one for children learning to read is A Dollar for Penny by Julie Grass. For the older kids, consider If You Made a Million by David Schwartz, Alexander, Who Used to be Rich Last Saturday by Judith Viorst, Growing Money: A Complete Investing Guide for Kids by Gail Karlitz, A Smart Girl’s Guide to Money by Nicole Holyoke and Rock, Brock and the Savings Shock by Sheila Blair.

Help them understand the difference between wants, needs and wishes. This is a tricky one as often a child will think they “need” a toy “today” when this is clearly not the case. When they see something they “want” rather than “need,” tell them to sleep on it for a week. If the desire is still there, then they can use their money to buy it.

Lead by example I will be the first to admit that my spending habits are awful and thus, it’s only understandable that my children are already showing tendencies of following in my financial failing footsteps. Some of the money habits to avoid doing in front of your children are shopping on impulse, buying daily indulgences (like coffee) and using money as a form of bribery. Instead, when shopping with the kids, make a list and try to stick to it. Get them to help find the items on the list in each aisle. Avoid buying your daily coffee until after you drop them off at school (or make one at home and bring it to work with you). Rather than using money as a form of reward, use your time. For example, instead of saying, “If you pick up all your toys, I’ll give you a dollar,” switch it to, “If you pick up all your toys, we can go to the park and play cricket for 15 minutes.” Yes, money is a great form of satisfaction, but it’s not everything. And we all know the saying, “Money doesn’t buy happiness.” Quality time is always going to trump money, regardless of how old your children are.

www.pakmag.com.au MARCH 2016

FEATURE

pakmag

Slowing Down Loving Life in the Slow Lane

STORY: Jenna Gallina Sometimes, it’s more than okay to stop and smell the roses. You know what they say – life moves so quickly. Blink and you will miss it. The cold harsh truth is that in today’s society, it is our second nature to move through life at a lightning pace. But, while we’re busy speeding down the highway to success, multitasking through our milestones and balancing our personal and professional goals with our parenting duties, what have we missed along the way? And how can we teach ourselves to slow down, stop, and enjoy the now?

Be present

There is a big difference between being there and being present. Just because you are sitting at the table with your family, doesn’t mean you are actually present. Are you really listening and engaging with your family? Or is your mind wandering into the realm of what you have to do tomorrow? Are your eyes scanning through the newsfeed on your iPhone?

Use all five senses as much as possible

How often do we just use our eyes to experience something? Take in your surroundings with all five senses whenever you can.

“Life is a journey, not a destination” Ralph Waldo Emerson

Stop feeling like you need to do more Anytime I take a break and just watch my kids play, I feel

guilty. I feel like I should be doing something else – washing the laundry that is piling up, preparing meals for next week, paying the bills.

This is such a bad habit, I know. We’ve been programmed to think that if we’re not multitasking, then we’re not doing enough.

It is enough. Sitting down with your thoughts (without a

computer in front of you) or watching your kids play (without a pile of washing in front of you), is not only okay. It is essential.

Look into the simple life Decluttering your mind also involves decluttering your personal belongings. Having a space that is clean and tidy can make it easier to relax, to unwind and to enjoy the moment.

“For fast-acting relief, try slowing down ” Lily Tomlin

Do things slower Eat slower. Drive slower. Shower slower. Stop rushing through every task.

Get amongst nature One of the easiest ways to slow down and appreciate the present is to get outside. Even a 15 minute stroll (without any distractions such as your phone) can clear your mind.

“The time to relax is when you don’t have time for it ” Jim Goodwin

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pakmag FEATURE

Focus on finding pleasure in every task It may seem impossible to find joy from washing dishes

but rather than rushing through this tedious task, take the

time to feel the suds and appreciate the warm water. Stuck in traffic? Use this time to listen to your favourite tunes, to let the air conditioner cool you down, to take in your surroundings.

There are positives in each and every moment, even washing the dishes.

“Slow down and enjoy life.

it’s not only the scenery you miss by going too fast – you also miss the sense of where you are going and why ” Eddie Cantor

accounts once a day and keep your work emails away from home.

Read, Write and Reflect Writing down your thoughts or even your day to day

activities is a great way to really appreciate what you accomplished and how you felt. If you prefer a digital option, the Realifex app (Real Life Experience) allows users

to record their experiences and the impact it had on

them. This is a great way

to increase self-awareness

and discover the things that really matter to you. www.realifex.com

We are programmed to

focus on the future – to plan ahead, to look for the next

thing to check off our list, to aim for the next goal we want to achieve. There is nothing wrong with being driven to

Switch off

Electronic devices are one of the main reasons our lives have become so hectic. It’s never been easier to check emails, cook dinner and watch a funny YouTube clip all at once. But there isn’t really any need. Switch off for a certain period of time – aim to only check your social media

MARCH 2016 www.pakmag.com.au

succeed and preparing for the future as long as you don’t forget to enjoy the ride along the way.

After all, as every parent knows, kids are only little for a

short period of time. The quicker you speed through life, the more likely you are going to miss those little moments that matter the most.

www.pakmag.com.au MARCH 2016

ADVERTORIAL

pakmag

THE COMMUNICATIOn GAP STORY Dr Craig Murison Communication should be such a simple thing, but it is not. It is one of the most complicated processes there is. To communicate an idea effectively is almost like getting all of the planets to align and having to make it happen hundreds of times a day! It seems to me that using words which are defined in a dictionary should be fairly straight-forward. Yet the way those words are combined, our tone of voice, the volume of our voice, what we are doing with our eyes, what else has happened to us during the day, surrounding noise and distractions, and so many other factors contribute to whether or not what we thought we said is what is actually heard.

Make sure you have their full attention.

It seems even more complicated with young people. Not only do they change the meaning of words on a five to ten year basis, but they have limited life experience within which they can contextualise what is being said. However frustrating you find trying to communicate with your children don’t give up. Giving up in frustration can look like the best option, but it is not. Gently persist.

Establish eye contact.

HERE ARE SOME TIPS YOU MIGHT FIND USEFUL IF YOU ARE TRYING TO COMMUNICATE WITH YOUR CHILDREN:

Don’t try to communicate something when you are competing with the television or they have friends with them. Not only will they be irritated to start with but they won’t really be listening to you. Avoid communicating something really important when you and your child are tired or irritated.

Wait until they are looking at you and continue to look at you. This is one way to improve the certainty you have their attention. Ask them to repeat what they think you have said. This is called reflective listening and is a powerful communication tool. Reflective listening helps to confirm that the message has been heard and understood correctly. It works both ways. Get into the habit of repeating back to your children

what you think they have said to you and ask if you have got it right. This not only prevents misunderstanding, it also role models the skill for your children. When our son was around ten years old my wife and I found ourselves getting very frustrated when we asked him to do something and he didn’t do it. We eventually sought some professional help. We discovered that he had an auditory processing problem where he didn’t store things he heard in his short term memory. He could hear us and then forget we had spoken to him very quickly. The advice we received was to first reduce distractions, then get and maintain eye contact, give the instruction and, finally, get him to repeat what we were asking him to do back to us. The change was immediate and almost unbelievable. We felt guilty that we had been cross with him when he didn’t do what we asked in the past. Give these simple strategies a try. I hope they help.

www.pakmag.com.au MARCH 2016

HEALTH

pakmag

+ HEALTH Taking Care Of Your Eyes At Every Age STORY Jane Chin – Paediatric Optometrist Our eyes see the wonders and beauty that is our world so taking care of our eyes at every age is vital to our health and happiness.

WE CAN DO THIS BY • Maintaining a well-balanced diet • If taking medications, be aware of the side-effects such as causing dry eyes or blurry vision • Getting enough sleep • Using eye protection to keep our eyes safe Most of us do this on a regular basis but there are a few other things to be aware of when it comes to taking care of your eyes.

iPADS AND YOUR EYES Our world revolves around electronic devices such as smart phones, iPads, tablets etc. Ensure that you stop using these two to three hours before sleeping, as the blue light emitted from the screens stimulates and prevents sleep from happening easily. Focussing fatigue may occur in both children and adults. Regular rest breaks from near tasks are necessary. Glasses with blue light filters can also help support the eyes when on electronic devices.

SUN, SAND AND SEE We live in a place of sunshine so it is important to wear good quality polarised wrap sunglasses whenever outdoors in order to provide protection from harmful UV rays and wind. A favourite past time of many residents of FNQ is swimming. Help children when they get irritants such as, chlorine, salt

MARCH 2016 www.pakmag.com.au

water or sand in their eyes by flushing or diluting the irritant with non-preserved tear supplements or cold water. Always remember prevention is better than cure. Use of swimming goggles will help minimise the irritants entering eyes. Prescription swimming goggles are available for adults and children that require glasses to see.

KEEPING AN EYE ON YOUR CHILDREN’S EYES You may not have realised, but our first eye check occurs within a few days of birth. A paediatrician at the hospital will have a quick look for any unusual signs. Any concerns that parents may have such as their child being unresponsive or a family history of eye conditions should be discussed with their nurse, doctor or optometrist. The Australian Optometrist Association recommends that children have a full eye examination with an optometrist before starting school and regularly as they progress through primary and high school. Eye examinations should be on the ‘Back to School Checklist’ each year considering the impact of vision on a child’s development, self-confidence and learning. Annual comprehensive eye examinations for adults help with early detection of eye diseases and support for symptoms of eyestrain. Don't forget as parents, our children imitate us. Have regular eye checks, maintain good health through balanced diet and exercise and wear sunglasses when outdoors. Look after your eyes; they have to last you a lifetime!

www.pakmag.com.au MARCH 2016

Baby

Sign Language STORY Alison Cupitt

How often do you wish your baby could tell you what's wrong, instead of you guessing the reason for her tears? Baby sign language bridges this communication gap. It is completely possible for babies to tell you what they need, what they want or what hurts before they can talk to you. Signing decreases their frustration (and yours!) and lets them start a conversation, giving you a precious insight into their interests and thoughts.

W H AT ? Baby sign language is based on Auslan, Australian Sign Language and developed by Dr. Joseph Garcia. It uses hand gestures as a way to communicate basic words, including practical words (eat, drink, sleep), motivational words (play, help, where), descriptive words (pain, hot, cold), manners (please, thank you, sorry) and more.

WHY?

Babies learn to talk earlier and remember the meaning of words faster when the spoken word is accompanied by the signed word. In fact, baby sign increases a two year olds' vocabulary by 50 words, and by the age of three, they have the equivalent vocabulary and language skills of a four-year-old. Long-term follow-up has shown better recognition of letters and sounds and improved reading and spelling.

WHEN?

Babies have the fine motor skills to sign by six months of age. However, after introducing sign, they may take a few weeks or several months before Babies love to copy and have a they start signing back to you. It is natural inclination to use their hands easy to get discouraged during this to communicate. Baby sign takes Worksheet: BABY DAYS > Baby (General)learning phase, but be patient. When advantage of this. 2/sheet PosterTemplate. Printed from www.SignPlanet.net All rights reserved. the time is right, Page 1your little one will start signing back to you. Sign language is visually stimulating which improves your baby's Babies of deaf parents have begun attentiveness, inquisitiveness and to sign as young as eight months concentration. of age – an average of four months

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It stimulates both sides of your baby’s brain compared to learning to talk, which only uses the left side.

earlier than a child says his first word - demonstrating that babies have the ability to communicate much sooner than they can talk.

Babies continue to benefit from sign Tap extended pointer and index fingers Tilt fist, with thumb and?pointing Hraised OW of both hands together twice. talking, by upwards, from side to side. language, even once learning signs for words, which are You can start doing baby sign difficult to articulate. on your own. are Worksheet: BABY DAYS > Baby (General)languageWorksheet: BABY DAYSThere > Baby (General) 2/sheet PosterTemplate. Printed from www.SignPlanet.net All rights reserved.

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with fingers. May also be signed with a flat hand.

Babies can begin lessons as soon as they can sit supported and are never too old to start learning. Lessons are highly interactive with Sophie the signing puppet, toys, books, photo flash cards, and nursery rhymes.

TOP TIPS: • Start slowly with a few signs at a time.

40 years of research confirm the many benefits of teaching your baby to sign:

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plenty of downloadable charts, books and online resources or you can look into a class.

• Encourage your baby’s attempts, praise them and repeat the sign back to them correctly. • Sign language is visual so ensure the sign and words are accompanied by the appropriate Worksheet: BABY DAYS > Baby (General) facial expression.

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Baby sign language is fun to learn and easy to integrate into your daily life. With consistency, repetition and patience, you will soon be having a conversation with your baby before they can talk! Alison Cupitt is the owner of Cairns Baby Massage. She now offers sign language lessons for babies and Tap extended pointer and index fingers both handsmore together twice. their carers.ofTo learn visit www.cairnsbabymassage.webs.com or email cairnsbabymassage@gmail.com

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hand forward, away from chest slightly.

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BumUBp

AND B VISIT

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FOR YOUR CHANCE TO

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SELF CARE FOR NEW MUMS BOOK BY KIRSTIE STOCKX RRP $24.95 WEB www.smilelikeafrog.com/my-books/self-care-for-new-mums Self Care for New Mums is written to help first-time mothers to regain their energy, personal time and meaningful relationships. Kirstie Stockx realised, first hand, just how hard being a new mum really is. She was tired, isolated and felt guilty about spending time for herself, by herself. In Self Care for New Mums: A Practical Four Step Guide for First Time Mothers Kirstie’s passion for helping mums feel calm, confident and happy shines through.

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DREAMBABY® BUMP BELT RRP $34.95 WEB www.bubs2bratz.com.au The Dreambaby® Bump Belt is specifically designed to help protect you and your unborn baby whilst in the car. It prevents the seat belt from riding up over your baby bump. The Dreambaby® Bump Belt is comfortable and easy to use.

MARCH 2016 www.pakmag.com.au

HEALTHY EATING DURING PREGNANCY Contrary to popular belief, pregnant mums cannot live on pickles and ice cream. Here is a general guide to what you need to fuel a healthy pregnancy.

CALCIUM: It’s important to up your intake of calcium while

pregnant as it can promote healthy teeth and bones in your baby and also prevent muscle cramps in your body. Aim for three to four servings per day of milk, cheese, sardines, almonds, yoghurt and Brazil nuts.

PROTEIN: As your body is working overtime, you will need

extra protein to keep up. Choose foods like lean red meat, eggs, fish, chicken, lentils, hard cheese and peanut butter.

IRON: Keep your energy levels up with spinach, dried apricots, lean red meat, tuna and beans.

FIBRE: Improve digestion with fibre-enriched foods such

as whole grains, enriched pasta, brown rice, green peas, mixed nuts and leeks.

VITAMIN C: Keep your placenta strong during pregnancy

by adding plenty of vitamin C-enriched foods to the shopping trolley including cabbage, cauliflower, grapefruit, strawberries, tomatoes and oranges.

FOLIC ACID: Folic acid provides assistance in developing

bub’s nervous system so pick up some extra broccoli, spinach, avocado, hazelnuts, cooked beans and wholegrain breads.

WHAT’S OFF LIMITS? Avoid alcohol, sushi, soft serve ice cream, certain salads and deli meats, fish with high levels of mercury and soft cheeses.

BABY TEETHING TIPS Watching your little one suffer is hard for every parent, especially when you know there is very little you can do. Teething, simply put, hurts and it is something all babies and toddlers will experience. Some symptoms of teething include dribbling, cold-like symptoms, lowgrade fever, chin rash, cheek rubbing, gnawing, trouble sleeping and irritability. How can you ease the pain of teething? Here are a few different remedies to try:

COLD WASHCLOTH: Place a clean washcloth in cold water and put in the freezer for about thirty minutes before giving it to bub to suck on.

TEETHING GELS AND TABLETS: Make sure you speak to

a chemist about how much and how often to give your little one teething gels or tablets.

RUSKS: You can purchase rusks for babies six months and up or make your own.

AMBER TEETHING NECKLACES: Not to be confused with silicone necklaces (below), amber teething necklaces are not to be chewed but are meant to help release succinic acid that can help with the teething pain.

SILICONE NECKLACES AND BANGLES: These

trendy necklaces and bangles are worn by mum (or dad) and give bub something pretty and bright to chew on when teething. There are plenty of amazing companies out there that provide silicone necklaces in all shapes, styles and colours including Bubba Chew, Harper and Hudson and Mamadoo.

www.bubbachew.com.au

YOUR COLD, CLEAN FINGER: Massaging your bub’s gums with your clean finger, rinsed in cool water can also provide relief.

If bub is very irritable and has a fever, then you may also consider children’s Panadol or Nurofen. Just make sure you follow the correct dosage.

www.pakmag.com.au MARCH 2016

WHAT'S ON MAR Wednesday 2

SATURday 5

BRING YOUR BABY SESSIONS

P&F FAMILY FUN DAY WHITSUNDAY ANGLICAN SCHOOL www.was.qld.edu.au 4.00pm / Family

- ZOOLANDER 2 Event Cinemas

www.eventcinemas.com.au Check website for times and cost Adult

FRIday 4

"Rob picks Bring Your Baby Movie Sessions throughout the month" PINK RIBBON CHARITY FAIR - GALA Souths Leagues Club www.southsmackay.com.au 6.30pm / Cost / Adult

MONday 7 BRING YOUR BABY SESSIONS - HOW TO BE SINGLE

SUNday 6

Event Cinemas

DISNEY FILM FESTIVAL THE LION KING Event Cinemas www.eventcinemas.com.au Check website for times and cost Family

Check website for times and cost

WEEKEND FAMILY FLICKS DADDY'S HOME Event Cinemas www.eventcinemas.com.au Check website for times and cost Family

www.eventcinemas.com.au Cost / Adult

TUESDAY 8

AFL NAB CHALLENGE BRISBANE LIONS VS ST KILDA Harrup Park Country Club www.ticketek.com.au 3.30pm / Cost / Family

MACKAY FLICKERFEST TOUR

INTERNATIONAL

Central Queensland

WOMEN'S DAY

Conservatorium Of Music www.flickerfest.com.au/tour/ mackay

WEDNESDAY 9

7.30pm / Cost / Family BRING YOUR BABY SESSIONS - HOW TO BE SINGLE Event Cinemas

www.eventcinemas.com.au Check website for times and cost Adult

PORTERS NORTHERN BEACHES COMMUNITY MARKETS Porters Northern Beaches, Carl Street Rural View www.porterscando.com.au 8.00am / Free / Family

BRING YOUR BABY SESSIONS INTERNATION WOMENS DAY BRUNCH Zonta Club MECC North Foyer www.facebook.com/ZontaMackay 9.30am / Cost / Adult

- HOW TO BE SINGLE Event Cinemas www.eventcinemas.com.au Check website for times and cost Adult

EMAIL EVENTS TO: ADMIN@GRANDPUBLISHING.COM.AU

www.pakmag.com.au MARCH 2016

WHAT'S ON MAR

FamilyDISNEY FILM FESTIVAL -

PORTERS NORTHERN BEACHES COMMUNITY MARKETS Porters Northern Beaches, Carl Street Rural View www.porterscando.com.au 8.00am / Free / Family

Event Cinemas

SUNDAY 20

Check website for times and cost

SENSORY MOVIE DAY-SNOOPY & CHARLIE BROWN, PEANUTS MOVIE BCC Mt Pleasant www.facebook.com/ SensoryMovieDayMackay 11.00am / $8 / Family

WEEKEND FAMILY FLICKS -

FRIDAY 11

"Scott picks PakMag Easter Eggstravaganza on Sunday 13th"

GOOSEBUMPS 2D

THURSDAY 17

Event Cinemas

www.eventcinemas.com.au

Check website for times and cost FROZEN BRING YOUR BABY SESSIONS - THE FINEST HOURS Event Cinemas www.eventcinemas.com.au Check website for times and cost Adult

www.eventcinemas.com.au Family

MS SWIMATHON

ST PATRICK'S DAY

Pioneer Swim Centre

SATURDAY 12

www.MSswimathon.com.au

WEEKEND FAMILY FLICKS GOOSEBUMPS 2D Event Cinemas www.eventcinemas.com.au Check website for times and cost Family DISNEY FILM FESTIVAL FROZEN Event Cinemas www.eventcinemas.com.au Check website for times and cost Family

SUNDAY 13

6.00am / Cost / Family

BRING YOUR BABY SESSIONS

MONDAY 14

- LADY IN A VAN

BRING YOUR BABY SESSIONS

Event Cinemas

Check website for times and cost

- THE FINEST HOURS

www.eventcinemas.com.au

Check website for times and cost Adult

WEDNESDAY 16 - THE FINEST HOURS Event Cinemas

www.eventcinemas.com.au

Check website for times and cost Adult

CINEBUZZ CREW SCREENING KUNG FU PANDA 3 Event Cinemas www.eventcinemas.com.au 10.30am / Cost / Family

www.eventcinemas.com.au Adult

SATURDAY 19

BRING YOUR BABY SESSIONS

PAKMAG EASTER EGGSTRAVAGANZA Mount Pleasant Shopping Centre www.pakmag.com.au 11.00am / Free / Family

FRIDAY 18

POLLING DAY - LOCAL GOVERNMENT ELECTIONS At various locations www.ecq.qld.gov.au/ elections/2016-local-governmentquadrennial-elections

EMAIL EVENTS TO: ADMIN@GRANDPUBLISHING.COM.AU

Keep up to date with local issues, competitions, events & all things parenting

/PakmagMackay

MARCH 2016 www.pakmag.com.au

WHAT'S ON GUIDE CONTINUES ON PAGE 29

FROM THE CREATORS OF

FROZEN AND BIG HERO 6

IN CINEMAS MARCH 17 IN 3D AND

www.pakmag.com.au MARCH 2016

WIN A FAMILY MOVIE PASS TO ZOOTOPIA

TO ENTER COLOUR IN & MAIL TO:

NAME............................................................................................. AGE..............

PAKMAG, COLOUR IN MARCH 2016 PO BOX 7433, CAIRNS QLD 4870

PARENT/GUARDIAN...........................................................................................

WIN ONE OF 15 FAMILY MOVIE PASSES TO ZOOTOPIA (COMP CLOSES 31/03/16)

ADDRESS............................................................................................................. .............................................................................................POSTCODE.............

MKY

PHONE.........................................EMAIL..............................................................

WIN ONE OF 30

KUNG FU PANDA 3 PRIZE PACKS

TO ENTER FILL IN & MAIL TO:

NAME............................................................................................. AGE..............

PAKMAG, COLOUR IN MARCH 2016 PO BOX 7433, CAIRNS QLD 4870

PARENT/GUARDIAN...........................................................................................

WIN ONE OF 30 KUNG FU PANDA PRIZE PACKS (COMP CLOSES 31/03/16)

MKY

PHONE.........................................EMAIL..............................................................

WHAT'S ON MAR MONDAY 21

WEDNESDAY 23

SATURDAY 26

SATURDAYs & SUNDAYS

BRING YOUR BABY SESSIONS

CHICKS AT THE FLICKS - MY BIG FAT GREEK WEDDING 2 Event Cinemas www.eventcinemas.com.au 6.00pm / Cost / Adult

PORTERS - EASTER

BEGINNER CLINICS GoWake Cable Park Mackay (07) 4805 6143 10.00am to 11.30am / $40 / Family

See website for times and activity

TUESDAY 22

MANPOWER AUSTRALIA Magpies Sporting Club www.manpower.net.au/tour-dates 7.30pm / Cost / Adult

BMA KIDSPACE - KIDS UNDER 5

friDAY 25

www.artspacemackay.com.au/

BRING YOUR BABY SESSIONS - LADY IN A VAN Event Cinemas www.eventcinemas.com.au Check website for times and cost Adult

- LADY IN A VAN Event Cinemas

www.eventcinemas.com.au

Check website for times and cost Adult

Artspace Mackay Seminar Room whats_on

10.00am / Free / Family

SATURDAY KIDS ACTIVITIES

Porters Mackay City & Northern Beaches store

www.porterscando.com.au Free / Kids

GROM SQUAD GoWake Cable Park Mackay (07) 4805 6143 8:30am to 10.00am / $40 / Kids

SUNDAY 27 EASTER SUNDAY

MONDAY 28 EASTER MONDAY - PUBLIC HOLIDAY

REGULAR MARKETS EUNGELLA MARKETS DATE 1st Sunday of the month (Apr to Dec) TIME From 9am LOCATION Eungella Memorial Hall - North Street

MACKAY MARINA MARKETS (Supporting the Mackay Animal Rescue Society) DATE 3rd Sunday of each month TIME 9am to 1pm LOCATION Mackay Marina

MARIAN MARKETS

DATE 3rd Sunday of the month TIME From 8am LOCATION Holy Rosary Church Anzac Avenue (Excluding May & Dec)

PAXTON'S NIGHT MARKETS DATE 1st Friday every 2nd month TIME From 5pm LOCATION Paxtons Warehouse

SARINA SHOWGROUND MARKET DATE Last Sunday of the month TIME From 8am (Mar to Dec) LOCATION Bruce Highway Sarina

SEAFORTH MARKETS

TWILIGHT MARKETS

DATE Every Sunday TIME From 8.30am LOCATION Palm Avenue Seaforth

LOCATION Northern Beaches Bowls Club TIME 6pm to 9pm INFO Please visit website for dates and theme www.nbbowls.com.au

SHOWGROUND MARKETS DATE Every Saturday 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

WALKERSTON COUNTRY DATE 1st Friday of each month TIME From 6pm LOCATION Duke of Edinburgh Hotel, Walkerston

EMAIL EVENTS TO: ADMIN@GRANDPUBLISHING.COM.AU

www.pakmag.com.au MARCH 2016

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

MARCH 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.

Low prices, great service Vehicle hire atthe right Price!

Whether you need a car rental from the Marina or at the Airport, we offer a drop off and pick up service.

1800 Rent A tRuck

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

MEGA

Easter

PRIZE PACK

SOLAR BUDDIES WEB www.solarbuddies.com.au RRP $23.95 Solar Buddies are the refillable, mess-free, no-touch sunscreen applicator for the whole family. They are perfect for little hands the chunky bottle shape makes it easy for children to grip. The roller ball controls the sunscreen flow - helping to dispense the right amount. The soft, wide sponge helps children to apply sunscreen evenly and gently. Fill the 100ml bottle with your favourite sunscreen again and again. Solar Buddies are the perfect size for school, sportsbags, handbag or in the car.

BOOK - JODIE'S RESCUE WEB www.shortstoppress.com RRP $19.99 Through all her new challenges – starting a new school, making new friends, and missing her mother – Jodie finds solace in sailing. But will the ocean turn against her? Can she save the lighthouse from development? Who is the girl in the photo that she finds hidden under the stairs? And where is her mother? Jodie’s voyage of discovery takes her to a place she never dreamed she'd be... But how will she convince her father that it’s real? The first in the new YA series from author Diane Fagan, Jodie’s Rescue is a thrilling adventure and now available at all good book stores.

pakmag.com.au WIN!

VISIT FOR YOUR CHANCE TO

TURKISH MURKISH SUPER SOFT TOWELS WEB www.turkishmurkish.com RRP $49.95 Turkish towels are made from Turkish cotton. It is light and absorbent and it dries even faster than Egyptian cotton. But the downside, until now, has been that Turkish cotton can be a bit stiff to start with. When you get out of your shower, and reach for your Turkish towel you want it to be soft and fluffy. Until now you had to wash a Turkish towel about half a dozen times to get the perfect cuddly feel. The name says it all. It is superbly soft. It only takes one wash to break it in and you’re ready to roll. It relies on a looser weaving technique and pre washing. It does not rely on chemical additives.

NOMAD KID HAIR WAX WEB www.nomadkidhairwax.com RRP $14.20 plus postage Their kids' hair styling wax is natural, nontoxic, chemical free and vegan. It comes in an 80ml aluminium screw top container. The wax has a soft pliable hold so you can change styles if needed. It has a mild shine and can hold up thick, thin, straight or curly hair. It washes out very well in a warm shower or bath. There’s also the added bonus of smelling like coconuts all day! 32

MARCH 2016 www.pakmag.com.au

MADEL NIGHT LIGHT WEB www.madelnightlights.com.au RRP $85.00 The Madel Night Light was launched in November 2015 to rave reviews, and allows children and parents to create their perfect sleeping environment, setting the colour and brightness at the touch of a button. Each light includes three swappable designs from the following: Dinosaur, Rocket, Train, Owl, Butterfly, Fairy, Mermaid, & Woodlands Fawn.

ril

& Ap h c r a M kMag’s

Porters

Aqua Fun Park

Caneland Central FREE SCHOOL HOLIDAY ENTERTAINMENT, KIDTASTIC DURING THE EASTER HOLIDAYS. PROMISES TO BE HUGE, FANTASTIC, AND EXTREMELY POPULAR WITH EVERYONE, NOT JUST THE KIDS! Star Wars Interactive Zone Outside Target

OPEN EVERY DAY IN THE SCHOOL HOLIDAYS (EXCEPT EASTER PUBLIC HOLIDAYS) School Holiday Entertainment for Kids on the following dates at both Porters Mackay City and Northern Beaches: Saturday 26 March, Saturday 2 April, Sunday 3 April, Saturday 9 April and Sunday 10 April

Sessions start every hour on the hour at 10.00am, 11.00am, 12.00pm,

11.00am – 2.00pm each day No bookings required. Visit www.canelandcentral.com.au for more details.

1.00pm, 2.00pm and 3.00pm Cost $15.00 per person per session No booking required, just arrive 30 minutes prior to your preferred

IN THE LEAD UP TO EASTER, JOIN THEM FOR AN EASTER EGG HUNT IN STORE PLUS A SPECIAL VISIT FROM THE EASTER BUNNY!

session time and complete the online

All information and details can be found on their website www.porterscando.com.au

CALL 1300 500 261

Also like them on Facebook www.facebook.com/Porterscando to be kept up to date on what’s happening.

From Tuesday 29 March – Saturday 2 April

participation agreement at www.aquafunparkmackay.com.au

EMAIL bookings@aquafunparkmackay. com.au FACEBOOK www.facebook.com/ aquafunparkmackay

Don’t forget Charlies Café for those catch ups with friends. Charlies Café loved for its relaxed atmosphere, great meals and great prices. They have kids specials from $3.00, a fantastic playground and colouring in for the little ones!

www.pakmag.com.au MARCH 2016

Harrup Park Country Club HARRUP PARK WILL AGAIN BE HOSTING THEIR FREE KIDS SCHOOL HOLIDAY CRAFT FROM MONDAY 28 MARCH TO FRIDAY 8 APRIL Monday to Friday 12.00 – 2.00pm with different themes each day/week. Bookings essential – call Reception on 4944 0000 to book in.

Time and Location: Easter School Holidays Gordon White Library Thursday 31 March 6.00pm – 7.00pm Mackay City Library Thursday 7 April 6.00pm – 7.00pm SCHOOL HOLIDAY ACTIVITIES

EASTER PARTY

School holiday activities are run

Saturday 2 April from 3.00 - 5.00pm on Oval 9

during every school break for

Water Slide, Jumping Castle, Kids Activities, Face Painting and more

Activities are also available for high

Drinks and Nibbles Provided Free to Kids Club Members - $4.00 to join Must RSVP to Reception by 25 March 4944 0000 More info available on their website www.harruppark.com.au/KidsClub

Mackay City Libraries

Kidzlife Play Centre

children aged Prep to Year 6. school students. Activity dates and details available closer to the time on their website www.mackay.qld.gov.au/libraries or like them on Facebook to keep updated on what’s coming up www.facebook.com/ mackaylibraries

Go Wake

The holiday period is very busy so to guarantee your entry and some table space for your group there is 2 offers available to you. 1. GROUP BOOKINGS Organize a play date with your friends (10 kids or more), call in advance to book, complete the booking form and pay a $50.00 deposit to confirm your booking. You'll have guaranteed entry and receive 10% off the kidz entry cost and adults are free. 2. ROOM HIRE $100.00 - includes entry for 5 kidz, party room for 1 hour where you can eat your own lunch or snacks from home, and a table reserved in the centre as well. Extra kidz at normal admission prices, adults are free. Available all year, bookings essential, for more info and to book please call 4953 5575

For more information on what’s BEDTIME STORIES

happening these school holidays

Bedtime Stories is aimed at 0-8 year olds and their families (particularly working parents) and is held in the evening during the school holidays.

visit their webpage.

This hour long program of stories, finger plays, songs and a craft activity enhances language and literacy development in an interactive, funfilled environment.

available for groups of 10 or more

The sessions encourage a child’s love of books, highlights the value of reading to children and promotes the library environment as an exciting place for the whole family.

MARCH 2016 www.pakmag.com.au

The Park is located at Michigan Way, Andergrove. Group booking discounts are who pre book their group. You can even exclusively book out the entire park. CALL 4805 6143 EMAIL mackay@gowake.com.au WEB www.gowakemackay.com.au

Don’t Forget to tell them you read it in PakMag

www.pakmag.com.au MARCH 2016

pakmag CRAFT

Egg Carton » CRAFT «

Butterfly Garland You need: egg carton, scissors, paint (and brush), pipe cleaners and string To make: Cut the cups out of the egg carton and make a slit in the middle so the cups lay flat. Trim each carton into a butterfly wing shape, paint and let dry before using pipe cleaners for antennas and hanging them up with string. Thanks to: www.iheartartsncrafts.com

Flower Power You need: paint (and brush), egg carton, paper straw, pom poms, scissors and glue To make: Cut out four containers out of the egg carton and trim to give the shape of the petals. Paint flowers and once paint has dried, glue the paper straw stems to the back and a pom pom in the middle. Thanks to: www.iheartartsncrafts.com

Itty Bitty Bunny You need: egg carton, scissors, white/pink paint, a black sharpie, and glue To make: Cut out one egg carton cup and two bunny ears, painted white. Draw on bunny’s face and paint the nose pink. Once dry, glue the ears to the back of the cup and add whiskers. Thanks to: www.craftymorning.com

Cheeky Chicky You need: egg carton, paint (and brush), glue, scissors, a black sharpie and construction paper To make: Cut apart two egg holders and trim off excess edges, glue two pieces together, paint and add a beak and eyes. Thanks to: www.typicallysimple.com

MARCH 2016 www.pakmag.com.au

Half a Dozen Dragonfly You need: paint (and brush), egg carton, white card, tissue paper, glue, pipe cleaner and scissors.

To make: Cut the egg carton in half and paint. Cut the wings out of the white paper and glue tissue paper over the top. Add pipe cleaner antennas and glue the wings to the top of the egg carton body. Thanks to: www.craftymorning.com

Lovely Ladybug You need: egg carton, black pipe cleaner, googly eyes, black pom poms, red paint, black Sharpie, glue gun and scissors.

To make: Cut a cup from the carton and trim around the edges so it lies flat. Paint red, let dry and glue on the eyes, black pom pom and pipe cleaner antenna before adding spots to the cup with a Sharpie.

Thanks to: www.onelittleproject.com

www.pakmag.com.au MARCH 2016

HEALTHY RECIPES hia P amel C udding

on and Basil P m e L o

Salte d

Car

d a l a S

PREP TIME 40 mins SERVES 4

PREP TIME 10 mins (plus overnight) SERVES 1

Potato salad is a staple for any Sunday arvo BBQ and also a great non-sandwich lunch idea. Here is a delicious recipe for you to try this weekend.

Who can resist salted caramel pudding? And this recipe, thanks to Pretend Health Freak, is the perfect choice for dessert tonight or breakfast tomorrow morning.

INGREDIENTS 1kg desiree potatoes, peeled, cut into 2cm cubes 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice 2 Adfresh farms garlic “Easy Cubes” 4 Adfresh Farms basil “Easy Cubes” 1 tablespoon dijon mustard 1 teaspoon salt 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground pepper 2/3 cup olive oil 100g roasted crispy bacon strips 120g freshly grated parmesan cheese 1 medium pack gourmet salad mix 1/2 medium-size red onion, sliced

INGREDIENTS 2 tablespoons chia seeds 1 cup coconut milk 2 tablespoons tahini

1 tablespoon pure maple syrup Pinch of Himalayan salt Chopped banana

HOW TO MAKE Soak the chia seeds in the coconut milk overnight in the fridge. Place the rest of the ingredients on top of the pudding before serving. BROUGHT TO YOU BY

HOW TO MAKE Place potatoes in a large saucepan. Cover with cold water. Bring to the boil over high heat. Reduce heat to medium and cook potatoes, uncovered, for 3 to 4 minutes or until tender when pierced with a skewer. Drain. Transfer to a bowl. Whisk together lemon juice and next 5 ingredients in a large bowl. Whisk in oil in a slow, steady stream. Add potato; gently toss to coat. Spoon into centre of individual serving plates, sprinkle evenly with bacon and half of grated cheese. Arrange salad greens around potato salad and top with onion slices and remaining cheese. Serve immediately. BROUGHT TO YOU BY

MARCH 2016 www.pakmag.com.au

THE HEALTHY MUMMY: HEALTHY KIDS COOKBOOK RRP $34.95 WEB www. healthymummy.com ENTER www.pakmag. com.au Getting the kids into the kitchen has never been easier with The Healthy Mummy Healthy Kids Cookbook. Featuring 68 healthy recipes little ones will love.

pakmag CELEBRATE

EASTER PARTY

Get egg-cited – Easter is at the end of the month (27 March) which means it’s time to enjoy a day of hopping fun!

GAMES Hunt for Easter eggs - This is one of my favourite things about Easter - buying heaps of chocolate eggs and hiding them around the house and backyard for the kids to find. Do the bunny hop - Use potato sacks or pillowcases paired with bunny ears and hop to the finish line. Egg and spoon races - Another classic Easter relay game, see who can make it to the finish without dropping their egg.

FOOD • Strawberry brownie kabobs • Speckled egg cake • Devilled eggs • Spring chicken fruit cups • Sprinkled chocolate party spoons

• Sweet treats topped with incredible icing creations from www.icingbits.com • Hot cross buns

DECORATIONS

Perfect your Easter table with downloadable printables where you can get patterned banners, swing tags, drink label wrappers, table bunting, party signs, mini party flags and cupcake toppers. Set up a craft table where everyone can decorate their own Easter bonnet. Buy face paint and offer to turn party guests into little bunnies with pink noses and black whiskers

INSPIRATION THANKS TO

3 40

MARCH 2016 www.pakmag.com.au

1. www.etsy.com/au/shop/SweetScarletDesigns 2. www.ericasweettooth.com 3. www.thecakeblog.com 4. www.familyfreshmeals.com 5. www.icingbits.com 6. www.sainsburysmagazine.co.uk 7. www.sweetapolita.com

7 www.pakmag.com.au MARCH 2016

pakmag HOME

Buzzy Bee Pull Along Toy www.woodnplay.com.au (RRP $38.00)

HOME with The Blockâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s

Caro & Kingi

The Wiggles Single Bed www.fantasticfurniture.com.au (RRP $399.00)

Toucan - Pillowcase www.everythingsrosie.com.au (RRP $25.00)

Goki Fishing Game www.playmackay.com.au (RRP $38.95)

Terry Toucan Cushion www.ellej.com.au (RRP $44.95)

Little Planes Timber Wall Hook www.ellej.com.au (RRP $49.95)

MARCH 2016 www.pakmag.com.au

Sprinkle Cushion Mint www.ellej.com.au (RRP $44.95)

Goki Pirate Kaleidoscope www.playmackay.com.au (RRP $13.95)

From Cot

To BED Making the transition from cot to bed is a big milestone for

both kids and their parents. One of the ways to help young children with this change is to create a fun and cosy bedroom.

It can take some time for your little one to get used to a new bed and you may have a night visitor as your child learns to adapt to the change. Be consistent with your night-time routine and, in time, your little one will learn to stay in his or her own bed. Involve your children in the design of their new room, asking what theme they would like and letting them pick out the bedding, the pillows, the posters, the wall stickers or the colour of paint. Make a big deal about your child’s ‘big boy’ or ‘big girl’ status to encourage independence and excitement in the change. Follow Caro & Kingi on Facebook (CaroAndKingi), Twitter (@CaroAndKingi), Instagram (#CaroAndKingi) and online (www.CaroAndKingi.com).

Zac Zebra Cushion www.ellej.com.au (RRP $44.95)

Lionel Lion Cushion www.ellej.com.au (RRP $44.95)

Keep up to date with local issues, competitions, events & all things parenting

Thomas & Friends Snuggletime Toddler Bed Mattress and bedding not included www.toysrus.com.au (RRP $199.99)

/PakmagMackay

www.pakmag.com.au MARCH 2016

MARCH 2016 www.pakmag.com.au

ADVERTORIAL

pakmag

Personal LOANS

Would it surprise you to know that as a nation we racked up over $27 billion in credit card debt over Christmas 2015? The interest alone on this amount is a staggering $286 million! Why should we be talking about credit cards in an article about personal loans? Because, a major proportion of personal loans written are to consolidate credit card and other unsecured, high interest debt. Personal Loans can help people manage their debt as they can pick the loan term that suits their income and pay off the debt over a period of time.

There are a number of options that are worth considering when looking at a Personal Loan for debt consolidation:

When researching the true need for this or any type of loan make sure that you understand exactly what you are agreeing to and that you are clear on what you can and canâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t do with the loan product. Be clear with your goals and objectives and where possible, try to pay the loan off earlier to save interest. However, check to make sure there are no penalties to pay the loan out early.

a) If you have interest free card/s that you are refinancing, consider paying them off by the due date as you wonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t be charged interest until the due date.

Also research the cost and benefits of Loan Protection Insurance (life cover, disability, involuntary unemployment, trauma cover) which can offer peace of mind in the event of unforeseen circumstances or tragedy. When applying for a Personal Loan, check with the lender on what proof of income and/or documentation the lender needs to review your application. Most lenders will want to see recent bank statements, income details and/or tax returns - so make sure you bring these with you to your appointment.

b) If you are refinancing credit cards with high debt, consider debt consolidation over switching to another credit card with a no interest period on balance transfers. This way you can pay down the debt over time. c) If you have equity or a redraw facility available in your home loan, consider using some of it to lower your debt, especially those with high interest rates. d) Understand the current interest rate you are paying on your credit cards and other debt arrangements. A Personal Loan may charge a lower interest rate. Also ask your financial institution about banking packages, especially if you have a home loan.

The important thing to consider for anyone looking to borrow is that it should be undertaken to improve your current financial position and make your current debt easier to manage. Financial stress caused by uncontrolled debt and too many monthly payments can have a far reaching effect on our health and personal and work relationships. Talk to your financial institution about your current situation and financial goals. It is worth the time to invest in a financial health check.

Caneland Branch, Caneland Central Ph: 4957 3272 Mount Pleasant Branch, Mount Pleasant Shopping Centre Ph: 4942 7800

STORY Jodie Rogers, Mount Pleasant Branch Manager

www.pakmag.com.au MARCH 2016

WHAt's NEWS in Business

WHAT'S NEWS

pakmag

Have You Heard: Introducing Caro and Kingi - PakMag’s HOME Specialists

BUSINESS MAG: MOB MAGAZINE

WEB www.mobmagazine.com.au MOB Magazine’s mission is to get you "More Out of Business"! Purely and simply, they want to be a resource to help business owners learn, grow, be inspired and be better at what they do. MOB Magazine, getting you "More Out of Business" is a printed bi-monthly subscription magazine delivered to your door. If you are a business you can add your profile to the MOB Magazine website to be seen by your target market and stay in touch with the latest business news, tips and tricks from leading experts in the industry.

Have you Heard – Let the Children Play Launches Children’s Book Reading Come and join the latest program at Let the Children Play – the Children’s Book Reading in the Book Room. The program takes place every Tuesday 9.30am to 10am. Bring your snack and coffee/tea available. Booking are recommended and can be made by calling 4944 0180 or emailing info@playmackay.com.au

BIZ: Mackay Pet Superstore PH 4942 2566 WEB www.mackaypetsuperstore.com.au If you haven’t already checked out Mackay’s Pet Superstore, then now’s the time to do it.

We are more than pleased to announce that Caro and Kingi will be joining the PakMag team as our HOME design specialists. Every month we bring you different tips, tricks and inspiration to spruce up your home and who better to help us navigate through the world of design than The Block’s Caro and Kingi?

check out their first feature on page 42

App: Chat2 Software WEB www.chat2.com Launched by Cairns Business Women’s Club Women, the Chat2 Software is live chat software that allows businesses to chat with visitors to their website in real time. Chat2 is a locally grown business in Cairns and is one of the few Australian owned live Chat companies. Chat2 has been developed and tested during the last two years and was launched globally in November 2015. The Cairns Business Women’s Club (CBWC) is offering its members 12 month free use of their Chat2 software.

Open every day except Christmas Day, Easter Friday and ANZAC Day, the Mackay Pet Superstore is located at 2 Grandview Drive and offers everything you need for your dog, cat, reptile, fish, bird and small pets.

Some of the unique services the team at the Mackay Pet Superstore offer include: • Phone orders, pickup and delivery options for those who cannot come into the store • Aquarium maintenance and water testing. • Hydro baths on the weekends. • Bird wing clippings. • In store experts including “dog whisperers”, “cat tamers” and “bird gurus” to help with any tips, training and advice required. If you are in the market for a new furry (or scaly) family member, then come in and see what adorable kittens, puppies and other animals the Mackay Pet Superstore have for sale.

www.pakmag.com.au MARCH 2016

SNAPPED

MACKAy

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5 1. Lexie Blacks Beach 2. Theo Blacks Beach 3. Abel Glenella 4. Alexis Canelands 5. Shelby Glenella 6. Louise Sarina 7. Michael Sarina 8. Nace and Logan Glenella 48

MARCH 2016 www.pakmag.com.au

15 9 12

10 13

16 PHOTOS THANKS TO: SWEET FIELDS PHOTOGRAPHY (PREVIOUSLY CHAMPION PHOTOGRAPHY) NEW NAME! Email photos, name/s & locations: photos@pakmag.com.au (Deadline 15 MAR for the APR 2016 Edition)

9. Layla Canelands 10. Kacee Glenella 11. Elijah Canelands 12. Charlotte Northview Garden Park 13. Lily Canelands 14. Luke Balnagowan 15. Ashleigh Canelands 16. Benji Northview Garden Park 17. Charlah Balnagowan www.pakmag.com.au MARCH 2016

Daddy Diary Sick of Flying Over the break, we decided to fly to Adelaide ... and if you have ever flown with or near young children, then you can relate to my story. The kids were great with the packing and we got them both headphones and loaded up iPads with movies and TV shows. The stopover in Brisbane was going to be short, but it was still a 70 minute flight followed by about 2.5 hours, after the quick change. As usual we were pretty much at the back of the plane, Charli and my wife on one side of the aisle, Harrison and I on the other. Both kids were great on the first leg, and after about 30 minutes on the ground in Brisbane, we were back on the same plane to head to Adelaide. Smooth flying so far. But this time around, Charli wasn't keen on sitting down with a seat belt on for take-off. She screamed. A lot. For most of the time while we were taxiing, waiting for four aircrafts to land and take off, plus the climb out of Brisbane, Charli screamed. From the other side of the aisle, I could see

By Scott Linden 50

MARCH 2016 www.pakmag.com.au

just how happy some passengers were to be seated next to a two and a half year old. For the rest of that flight she relaxed and had a snooze. Then things went really downhill. Incidentally, do you remember the Daddy Diary article from last year with my family trip to Rockhampton where we discovered Charli can get motion sickness? The approach to Adelaide was a little bumpy. If you've flown it before, you know that we came in from the north east over the Adelaide hills. My wife commented about 10 minutes out from landing that Charli didn't seem well. She went really cuddly and just "not right". After we'd flown past the Adelaide Oval, Bunnings at Mile End and several main roads, it happened projectile vomit. Lucky my wife had a sick bag ready. Unluckily, Charli pushed it away. Without being too graphic, the chair, floor, Charli and my wife were impacted by the blow. You kind of had to see the funny side

of this. Out of the three hours and 40 minute flight time, it couldn't have happened any later in the journey. In reverse it would be like going from Adelaide to Mackay, and your child vomits as you cross Nebo Road. We were last off the plane after having to do a clothes change and helping out with a mop up. Thanks VA staff, you were great. On the way back to Mackay, she nearly chucked again, and actually passed out which was quite concerning. We had some more screaming too, but so did some other parents on that Adelaide-Brisbane flight. It is times like that you just hope your child relaxes, goes quiet, doesn't squirm out of the seatbelt and doesn't kick the chair in front. I find it embarrassing when my kids are just not controllable, partly because of fear of motion sickness, I think. I was thinking about that on the flight and listening to other parents and kids. Turns out, your kids don't have to be good... you've just have to hope that somebody elseâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s kids are worse than yours.

MARCH 2016 www.pakmag.com.au