PakMag Townsville - April 2019 Issue 101

ISSUE: APR 2019

101

TOWNSVILLE

EGGCELENT EASTER PARTY PRIZES GALORE!

EASTER RECIPES EASTER SCHOOL HOLIDAY GUIDE

SAME-PAGE PARENTING BEAUTIFUL BLISSFUL BALI RAISING A FAMILY AND A BUSINESS

FREE www.pakmag.com.au | April 2019 1

WELCOME 4

Entertainment: Check it Out

7

The Thing Is…

8

Raising a Family and a Business

11

Same-Page Parenting

Hello and welcome to the Easter edition of PakMag! Chocolate month is such a wonderful time for families and this year we are blessed with literally the whole month filled with either school holidays or public holidays. I hope camping, great food, and lots of memories being made are on your schedule.

15 Terrific Teachers 17 Nurturing Relationships

and Getting Involved with

your School 21 The Volkswagen

Tiguan Allspace

For us Parentpreneurs it’s looking like a bit of a nightmare trying to run a business with only nine business days where the kids will be in school. So be kind to your friends who are juggling work, family and festivities at this time.

Many of us will likely eat our body weight in chocolate and seafood to get through the stress of it all. That’s my plan anyway.

Happy Eater, I mean Easter, I hope you have a wonderful time enjoying your gorgeous families.

22 Health 25 Choosing a Child Care Centre 27 Baby’s First Month 28 WIN – Bump, Bub and Beyond 31 What’s On Guide

Bree James PakMag Founder and Editor-in-Chief

33 Mini Mag 40 Home with Caro

and Kingi – Backyard Bliss 42 Beautiful Blissful Bali 44 Mater Snapped 47 The PakMag Experts 49 Jumpstart Your

Dream Business 51 Recipes: Easter Treats 54 Celebrate: Eggcelent

Easter Party 56 Daddy Diary

Contact Us: p 4053 3331 e admin@grandpublishing.com.au a PO Box 7433 Cairns Qld 4870

61 School Holiday Guide

Grand Publishing Founder

Senior Graphic Designer Clare Winter

and Editor-in-Chief Bree James Marketing to Families Experts Lisa Gillman

Graphic Designer Sara Williams Journalist Jenna Galley

Colleen DuBois Dan Kendrick

Videographer Monique Saggers

Marketing, Events and Administration Assistant

Content Creator Kalisha Fitsch

Alyssa Marino Accounts

Podcast Producer Alana Scalici

Trent Stievano

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

North Queensland Our Global Parenting Channels PakMag Online pakmag_online PakMag The Give It A Go Group

For Parents The PakMag Parents Podcast PakMag TV

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

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

Net Distribution Per Issue 10,000 CAB Publisher Statement Period ending 31st March 2019.

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

families www.pakmag.com.au | April 2019 3

Entertainment

CHECK IT OUT North Queensland Toyota Cowboys Home Games When: Saturday 6 April, 4.30pm - 7.30pm (vs Canberra Raiders) When: Friday 12 April, 7.55pm - 10.55pm (vs Melbourne Storm) When: Friday 3 May, 6.00pm - 9.00pm (vs Gold Coast Titans) Where: 1300 SMILES Stadium More info: www.cowboys.com.au Get your tickets now to support the North Queensland Toyota Cowboys when they take on the Canberra Raiders, Melbourne Storm and Gold Coast Titans at 1300 SMILES Stadium.

The Parent Evolution - Courage, Confidence and Commitment - Your Successful Evolution!

Harlem Globetrotters World Tour 2019

When: Sunday 7th April Where: TBA More info: www.kathydonaldson.com.au

When: Wednesday 10th April, 7.00pm Where: Townsville Entertainment & Convention Centre More info: www.tecc.net.au

A one-day workshop empowering parents to identify their negative thoughts, beliefs, and actions that may be impacting their children.

Meet other parents, have some fun and learn how to cope with stress that may arise when parenting. Hosted by Kathy Donaldson.

Contact Kathy to book.

The world-famous Harlem Globetrotters will be returning to Australia as part of their world tour!

Having entertained millions of people all over the world for 93 years and performing in front of sell-out crowds in 2018, this show is not to be missed and is a must-see for any basketball lovers.

Townsville Unlimited When: Saturday 13th April, 5.00pm - 10.00pm Where: Riverway Precinct More info: www.whatson.townsville.qld.gov.au Townsville Sailing Club Learn to Sail When: School Holiday Fun Day – Wednesday 10th April, 9.00am - 4.00pm When: Learn to Sail Program – Monday 15thThursday 18th April, 8.00am - 1.00pm Where: Townsville Sailing Club More info: www.townsvillesailing.com.au Have you ever considered getting into the exciting world of sailing? Now is your chance.

Head on over to Townsville Sailing Club’s school holiday fun day on the 10th of April and experience the good vibes, or take it a step further take part in the Learn to Sail program running from 15th-18th April in the most amazing environment on the planet.

4 April 2019 | www.pakmag.com.au pakmag.com.au

Townsville Unlimited is a concert style event as part of Queensland Youth Week featuring artists such as Bombs Away, Jesse Bloch and many more. The event is focused on youth between the ages of 12-25 years, but everyone is welcome. FREE event.

Entertainment

PakMag Easter Eggstravaganza When: Saturday 13th April, 10.00am - 11.00am Where: Stockland Shopping Centre (Aitkenvale) Near Myer More info: www.pakmag.com.au Hop along to Stockland Townsville and celebrate Easter with PakMag! FREE EVENT! Join us for the Easter Bonnet Parade, thousands of eggs with our Easter Egg Hunt, a visit from the Easter Bunny and plenty of family fun. There will be prizes for best dressed Easter theme and lots of fun for all.

Riverway Movie Nights: Smallfoot When: Friday 19th April, 6.30pm - 8.00pm Where: Riverway Oval More info: www.whatson.townsville.qld.gov.au Bring a blanket and get cosy under the stars and raintrees for a FREE screening of Smallfoot.

Migo is a friendly Yeti whose world gets turned upside down when he discovers something he didn’t know existed - a human! Migo soon faces banishment from his village and embarks on a journey to prove them wrong.

Easter Family Fun Time Overnight Special

Free Family Fun Day When: Sunday 21st April, 10.00am - 12.00pm Where: Perc Tucker Regional Gallery More info: www.whatson.townsville.qld.gov.au Drop in for five minutes or the whole two hours. The Perc Tucker Gallery Free Family Fun Day is on the 3rd Sunday of every month and includes free art making activities for the whole family, all materials provided.

When: During April and May 2019 Where: Cairns Colonial Club Resort More info: 4053 8800 or reservations@cairnscolonialclub.com.au Looking for an affordable weekend away with this kids?

Relax and unwind amidst 11 acres of tropical rainforest gardens with 3 lagoon style pools, a brand-new children’s playground and contemporary Poolside Bar & Dining facilities. $139 per night includes accommodation for two in a freshly refurbished Superior Room or spacious Studio Room including hot buffet breakfast. Kids 12 & under stay & eat for FREE! (Conditions apply) Book TODAY using code word “EASTER” and receive a bonus $20 dining voucher!

Save the date Southern Cross Catholic College Prep Open Day When: Thursday 9th May, 9.00am-10.30am Where: Southern Cross Catholic College, Gartrell Drive, Annandale More info: www.sctsv.catholic.edu.au Southern Cross Catholic College is a co-educational primary and secondary college in Annandale. The college values effort and commitment, supporting and challenging students to become the best version of themselves. They provide a school environment in which students grow holistically and promote activities, processes, and structures enhancing a love for life.

Write down the 9th of May in your calendars and come see what Southern Cross Catholic College is all about.

www.pakmag.com.au | April 2019 5

The Thing Is

The Thing Is...

STORY Bree James

It’s hard to make friends when you are a grown up.

I watch my kids in a place where they don’t know anyone and they have a new friend within five minutes.

It’s incredible and inspiring to watch them in action, but I’ve found the same approach doesn’t work well when you’re an adult…

The thing is, I’ve found going up to another adult and saying, “Do you want to play?” kind of creeps people out.

Personally, I’ve had so much of my inner circle leave town the past few years that I’ve realised I don’t have a circle of friends anymore locally. It’s more a square.

Or a dot as sometimes it feels like it’s just me.

Searching for new friends feels a lot like dating.

The courage to finally ask the person you have noticed on a ‘friend date’ is quite nerve-racking. First, there’s the worry that they will say no. Then, there are the prefirst-friend-date jitters – Will they be your type? Should I show up on time or will that look too desperate? Do I wear something casual or dig deep into the closet for something fancy (and probably three years old)?

And, this, of course, is followed by the awkward first date complete with the gentle questioning to get to know each other and suss out if the person is worth a second date. The struggle is real!

The friend dating scene is also very competitive.

A lot of people already have friends. They have their circle. But is their circle going to welcome you with open arms or are you going to be booted out like you’re on Survivor?

other girls that they date. You wonder if you are their favourite or not. Do they have more fun with their other friends? Do you like them more than they like you?

Will you get a rose? Oh the drama!

It’s enough to make a girl just want to give up on the friend dating scene.

Eventually though, you will get to a point where you will crave conversation and connection with other likeminded people and hopefully build up the courage to take the plunge to find some new friends.

So if this sounds like you, here are three things NOT to do when trying to make new friends.

1. Do NOT Facebook stalk potential friends before inviting one for coffee. It will feel like you already know this person and they won’t be at the same level.

This can lead to some pretty awkward conversations when you know more about them than they have told you face to face.

2. Do NOT show up at places that they have “checked in” to on social media with the, “Wow fancy seeing you here!” line. Again, can get awkies.

3. Do NOT go from zero to BFF on your first meeting.

Avoid planning future family holidays and girl trips together.

If you are on the friend hunt, I wish you well! I hope your new BFFs are just around the corner! Cheers to getting out of the house more than the wheelie bin (or at least more than the recyclable bin).

If you get through the first and then a few more dates, it’s much like being on The Bachelor. You know they have

www.pakmag.com.au | April 2019 7

Raising a Family and a Business Parenting is challenging at the best of times.

Throw in growing a business on top of that and you’ve got a pretty insane juggling act. This month, PakMag explores the wonderful world of Parentpreneurs – the brave raising a business and a family at the same time. We spoke to a few local Parentpreneurs about their journey and how they cope wearing both hats.

Cathie and Joel Webb

“We have always eaten a very clean diet and cooked most things from scratch. When we moved to Cairns, we couldn’t find the products we were looking for.

We saw an opportunity and took it. Townsville was just a natural progression,” Cathie told PakMag. “Joel and I have been Parentpreneurs for over 10 years. We both had big dreams from very early ages, those dreams evolve as we do, we grow as people so I think it’s normal for the dreams to change.”

Cathie and Joel are responsible for bringing the zero-waste revolution, The Source Bulk Foods to Townsville and Cairns, providing a place where people can purchase wholefoods, health foods and superfoods in bulk.

Cathie shared the pros and cons of being a Parentpreneur. “The flexibility is the best thing about working for yourself. You’re able to set your own rules to a degree. Our kids also benefit in so many different ways. They are being educated on all sorts of things

8 April 2019 | www.pakmag.com.au

Feature

that they would never have heard of if we weren’t in this business,” she said. “However, it’s sometimes very difficult to switch off, and you don’t get to just leave at 5.00pm to go home and forget.”

When it comes to advice for other Parentpreneurs, Cathie said “Just jump! Learn as you go, throw yourself in the deep end, you’ll either sink or swim, either way what’s the worst that could happen. The education you get from the experience is worth the chance of failing.

Don’t ask yourself why, ask why not?”

Meera Sivayoganathan Meera and her husband Siva lead a busy life together, juggling parenting alongside running Townsville Paediatrics in Hyde Park.

“My husband is a Neonatologist and Paediatrician. After three years in private practice, he wanted to start his own specialist practice to have flexibility with days of practice,” Meera told PakMag.

Diane Ruhl From a young age, Diane always knew she wanted to help people. Today, she helps families from Townsville and surrounding areas in family law.

“When I was young, I knew I really wanted to help people in whatever job I did. I then studied law at University and when entering the legal profession had an interest in family law. I established Ruhl Family Law Centre in 2016,” Diane told PakMag. “The best thing for me about being your own boss is being able to do what I love in the way I want to. By that I mean helping others and hopefully providing to them a comfortable and inviting environment when they are going through one of the most difficult periods of their life – separation.”

“Being a busy doctor, he did not have the time to establish a practice on his own. So, I had to join him to get things in order. We started Townsville Paediatrics in January 2018.”

Diane and her partner are also foster carers, and have been since August 2018. “Using the pool analogy, we certainly jumped into the deep end when it came to becoming a parent. I believe kids learn the value of hard work, being reliable and honest, treating others with courtesy and respect, determination to achieve their goals and do what they love from observing those they live with, their parents and carers, whoever they are.”

Diane’s advice for other Parentpreneurs is “what works for you may not work for others, but that is okay. I am of the view that you run your own race and do what works for you and your family.”

For Meera, the best thing about being her own boss is “the flexibility with the days and times of work. I can have a perfect balance between work, kids and life itself. I am able to work around the children’s school hours and classes and not to mention cooking and cleaning. The worst thing is the responsibilities that come with it, especially in relation to keeping time frames and not being able to pass on responsibility to another person.”

Meera is delighted that her kids are proud of her.

“They are benefitting from flexibility that this work allows especially being present at their school and after school events,” Meera said. “Family is our priority. Working around family needs and routines is the best that you can do to yourself and your loved ones.”

www.pakmag.com.au | April 2019 9

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Parenting

Same-Page Parenting STORY Jenna Galley Every single one of us has a different theory when it comes to parenting. And this is perfectly okay.

You’re the parent - you get to decide what’s best for your child.

But what happens if you and your partner are not on the same page with what’s best? What happens when you say one thing and your partner says another?

Or when you believe in one method of guidance and they disagree? What happens when your values in parenting aren’t matching up?

This happens ALL the time.

Getting on the Same Page Sure, you made your beautiful darlings together, but it’s only natural to have slightly different views on how to raise them.

understand one another, everyone gets along so much better.”

So how can you get on the same page? Here are four things to try: Consider your Family Values Values play a pretty important role in our lives. They influence all behaviours and attitudes and affect our decisions and relationships. But when you and your partner are focusing on teaching your kids different values, it can cause confusion and conflict.

For example, you may want your children to be organised, placing an emphasis on ensuring they always pick up after themselves and clean up all messes. Your partner, on the other hand, may value creativity and see their mess as part of the creative process.

Parenting expert and author, Dr Justin Coulson explains that although being united in every single matter is pretty much impossible, it is so important for a happy household to get on the same page especially in terms of your parenting plan, your family values and your teaching and discipline methods.

It’s fine to have different values. But you and your partner need to know which values are important to one another in order to find a balance.

“[Being on the same page] is the first thing parents need to make their parenting work,” Dr Coulson explains in his latest book, 10 Things Every Parent Needs to Know.

“When we see things the same way, or a least work to

Then get your partner to consider the same. Once you know which values are the most important, you can work on finding a compromise that incorporates both parties’ ideals.

So ask yourself, What traits and behaviours do I value?

What traits do I want my children to have?

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Parenting

Create a Shared Vision With values sorted, it’s time to work on your family vision. So grab two coffees and sit down with your partner. Ask each other this one simple question: What do you want for your family?

Yes, you want your family to be happy and healthy.

We all want that. But this is too vague. We need to be more specific with our goals.

1. What makes you a good parent?

2. What is your role as a parent?

3. What’s the most important thing for your child?

4. How would you like your children to remember their childhoods?

5. What’s the end goal for your children? What is it that you want most for them?

Yes, sitting down and having a chat about these things means stepping back and analysing your own parenting methods, which can be a little bit tricky. But these questions will help shape the decisions you make for you and your family.

Chat Before You Act

When these guidance methods aren’t in sync, it can be confusing and ineffective for kids and can often result in more acting out and screaming matches. So take the time to see eye-to-eye before you act.

“When a child requires some ‘discipline’ (that is, teaching and guidance), talk with your partner first.

Describe what happened, focus on your shared vision, and discuss how you can deal with the kids based on what matters most,” Dr Coulson suggests.

Dr Coulson admits that this won’t always work, especially when you’re in the heat of the moment and you don’t have a chance to talk it through first.

But it’s okay to step back from the situation, let the air clear and then decide on the right plan of action with your partner a few hours after the event. This gives both you and your child time to reflect on what has happened.

Accept Co-Authorship Sometimes you simply cannot agree. In these instances, let go of the reigns and agree to try it your partner’s way. On one condition... you also try your way.

Try it one way for a week and see how it goes - how you feel, how the kids feel, how the family functions. Then, try it the other way for a week and see what happens.

Being on the same page when it comes to disciplining and teaching our kids is so crucial. But it is also one of the trickiest chapters to conquer as a team.

“When you simply cannot get alignment, agree to experiment,” Dr Coulson explains. “So long as no one is being hurt and people’s values can be respected, this can be a useful approach.”

From day one there may be conflicts in teaching and guidance methods. One parent may prefer to sleep train their infant; one parent may prefer to let baby snuggle. As the child gets older, the conflicts continue. One parent may want to try time-out or grounding, or yelling. The other parent may prefer to try talking, understanding and reflecting rather than punishing.

Parenting is a tough gig and there’s bound to be some hurdles along the way. But maintaining a united front with your partner can make these every day hurdles so much easier to conquer. After all, when going up against our fiery tots, spirited kiddies and strong-willed teens, the more united we are, the better chance we have at getting them to listen to us. And actually getting them to bed at a decent hour! Fingers crossed at least.

Learn More Dr Justin Coulson’s 10 Things Every Parent Needs to Know is an inspiring and easy read, perfect for all busy parents.

It offers plenty of great advice for positive solutions in everyday parenting challenges that you can easily bring on board in your own home. www.happyfamilies.com.au

12 April 2019 | www.pakmag.com.au pakmag.com.au

Terrific Teachers

TERRIFIC TEACHERS AMY RUEDIN

Meredith Hillam

Townsville Grammar School

The Cathedral School of St Anne and St James

“I became a teacher for my love of teaching children. Growing up my parents tell me that they would see me lining my toys and pets up and pretending to be a teacher. This year will be my ninth year of teaching - I just love it.

“I have been teaching since 1985. Teaching is part of my family; both of my parents were teachers and I had four younger siblings to teach. So, I was young when I decided that I wanted to be part of this valuable profession.

The best thing about being a teacher is seeing the lightbulb moments.

The moment a student understands a topic or concept.

One of my funniest memories as a teacher is turning up in slippers or thongs… it happens to the best of us.”

I have many funny memories over my years of teaching, but to be honest, hearing stories about the world or life through a child’s eyes is often amusing – honest and simple. My favourite subject to teach is art, but reading and literature is a strong second.”

tgs@tgs.qld.edu.au www.townsvillegrammar.com

tcs@cathedral.qld.edu.au www.cathedral.qld.edu.au

TINA ANDERSON

Leigh Fotheringham

Southern Cross Catholic College “I’ve always wanted to be a teacher. I can remember having a blackboard and lining my dolls and teddies up and playing schools when I was a little girl. I love seeing the growth and development in children and how excited they get when they can do something they couldn’t do before.

Townsville Grammar School “I finished Year 12 with a view of becoming a primary school teacher, and it was not until my final teaching round where I worked a few days with a school’s Physical Education teacher that I was convinced that PE was where my passion was. I have now been teaching for 16 years.

I have spent the last 14 years teaching at Southern Cross Catholic College, but I’ve been teaching 18 years in total.

I love it! I love teaching Maths in Prep because we really try to make learning the concepts fun and use a lot of games and hands on activities.”

The most fun I have teaching is when I get to teach our youngest students how to bounce a ball. The students’ hand eye coordination is still developing, and trying to time their arm movement with the movement of the ball is very funny to watch. The smiles on the student’s faces when they finally get it really makes my day.”

anndle@tsv.catholic.edu.au www.sctsv.catholic.edu.au

tgs@tgs.qld.edu.au www.townsvillegrammar.com

www.pakmag.com.au | April 2019 15

Education

How to nurture relationships and get involved with your school STORY Luke Baills, Head of Junior School, The Cathedral School The dust of the new school year has settled and you might find yourself reflecting on how you can engage positively with your child’s school. I have collated a few ideas and tips to show you how rewarding this can be for not only your child, but you too.

When you send your child to school each day there are some things you can do to assist with making it positive.

School and home needs to consist of collaborative trust and connection to create a safe culture of care. For all families this begins with mutual respect.

Kerry Spina, parent educator and author at Kids in Harmony Collective, refers to this as the 'Triangle of Care'.

•• The child •• The teacher •• The parent Kerry states, “This relationship is vital, and we must have each other’s back. We do not ever ‘throw anyone under the bus’, and we must help our children be responsible for their actions and learning. This does not mean we play the doormat or cannot question,

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Education

but we have a respectful, caring and trustworthy relationship with the whole triangle. With many years in schools ahead of us, it is important to get this right early. There is no denying that things happen.

However, blaming, complaining, and whining are disempowering habits that serve no one.”

How can parents help?

Be proactive in your child’s learning journey by connecting the classroom to home. I encourage parents to take an active interest in what their child is learning by reflecting on what is being taught in the classroom. When you extend a child’s learning into their everyday existence, it deepens a child’s connection and understanding of a concept and shows purpose for their learning. Communicate with the teacher about what is being taught, and raise the idea of extending learning beyond the classroom doors. Understanding a teacher’s pedagogy and indeed the whole schools philosophy on learning can help make a cohesive transition to learning in the classroom and learning at home.

Some parents feel disconnected because of long work hours and aren’t present for drop-off and pick-up. There are other methods to stay connected like meeting up with other class families in a social setting. Take the opportunity to get involved with the school community at out-of-hour events, like Carnivals (Fairs), weekend activities and P&F happenings. Being a member of a school’s P&F allows you to be across all the happenings within the school and provides you with the opportunity to be further informed about your school. As a P&F member you will also make new school community connections, which extend beyond your child’s class.

If you have time through the school day, offer to help in the classroom or library, offer your support at school events like sports carnivals or become a tuck-shop helper. It is exciting for your child to see you participate in the school community and it helps build the social connections with others in the school community.

18 April 2019 | www.pakmag.com.au

How to help your child with conflict?

There are bound to be times through a child’s schooling journey when relationships are tested and issues arise; be it with another student, classroom teacher or a member of staff. It is key to remember that communication is essential. Talk through the concerns with your child and allow them to take the time needed for reflection. Talk through strategies with your child to help them navigate a tricky situation. Conflict can lead to the greatest learnings. It is critical that a child builds a bank of strategies to deal with situations as they grow through their developing years. If a parent continually jumps in to resolve an issue for a student it can hinder resilience and the cultivation of strategies to deal with issues when they arise in the future.

There are a plethora of empowering resources parents can utilise to assist with building a bank of mindset strategies to deal with conflict. There is a book for every topic; ask your teacher, visit the library, ask other parents or Google a topic. ‘How full is your Bucket? for kids’ by Tom Rath is a great read for understanding feelings. How others make you feel and importantly, how your actions make others feel. ‘Stick and Stone’

by Beth Ferry is a useful resource when friends clash.

Read the book, discuss the story, relate it to your child’s circumstances, and discuss the resolution and how your child could resolve their situation in a similar way.

Connect with your child’s teacher if you believe they need to be notified of a situation, if you would like insight into the situation within the school setting or if your child has tried to resolve the problem without success.

Together we're better in teaching children to respect themselves, their school, teachers, educators, peers and parents by modelling what it looks like and feels like. This is not always easy when FEAR drives the bus.

On occasion, it could be easier to blame others for our children’s choices, but instead we can consciously model respect, care and trust for our school.

Embedding these values at a young age will set our children up for life long success and ensure an iron tight triangle of care for years to come.

We will fail if we work alone, for behind the parent should stand the school and behind the teacher a home.

Advertorial

You’ll Never Hear “Are we there yet?” from the back seat again!

STORY Bree James It’s finally here, the Volkswagen Tiguan Allspace said to be ‘more than a car’ and after driving it you will see why. If you are in the market for a 7 seater SUV, you definitely want to take this baby for a test drive. With 4 motion all-wheel drive, and two models to suit your budget the Comfortline and the Highline, you’re going to be impressed with this great family car.

Like most Europeans, it’s slick, sporty and stylish. It also has plenty of space inside, but it doesn’t feel like a big car to drive making it zippy for getting around the city, but comfortable for long drives too. For a large SUV it has really light steering and can turn quite swiftly, which makes 3 point turns an absolute breeze.

The Tiguan also has a high definition reverse parking camera to help you get in those tight spots, but if you aren’t too good at reversing in to parks in the city like me… it can also park itself!

The best thing about this car though is its plush interior and quirky storage ideas. Each passenger has their own cup holder, but what is super cool is the “chilled” glove box to pop lunch or drinks in on your way to work.

There are even fold-down tables for the kids in the back so that they can colour in, watch their iPad ergonomically, or have a meal like they are on an airplane! There is even a draw under the passenger seat, and extra storage spots everywhere you look.

Storage has been well thought out for families with this car. The boot is quite large, even when you are using it as a seven seater it has approximately 230 litres of space which is on par with even the largest seven seater SUV’s in its class. If you need more space though, never fear, you can fold the extra seats down completely flat and then there is a whopping 700 litres of space which is much larger than its competitors.

Technology is also great in this family car. Push button start, keyless entry doors and a simple press button to open the boot make it a breeze to get the family in and out, especially in bad weather when you don’t want to

stand in the rain to open the boot. It also has a large 8-inch multimedia touch screen which syncs with your phone with the tech in the car meaning your apps are all there at your fingertips. You can ask the car to make phone calls, dictate text messages, and play music or your favourite podcast with a simple press of a button or command, (and the sound system is really great too!) The car also comes with a DVD player, window sunblinds for sun protection or thermal insulation and three-zone climate control, so the kids can literally control their own temperature, block out the sun and sit with their little table watching a movie on long road trips. You may even forget they are there.

Safety wise, there are lots of great features and with a 5 star safety rating you know you are in good hands.

Airbags come standard for the driver and passenger, and curtain airbags extend to the third row making it ultra-safe for all passengers. There are two ISOFIX points for child seats, and technology like auto emergency braking, pedestrian detection, tyre pressure monitoring and driver fatigue alert.

If you are seeking a luxurious feeling family car, without the exorbitant price tag, head on in to Pickering’s Motors for a test drive of the Volkswagen Tiguan- you’re going to love it.

Driveaway pricing from $49, 308 Additional options •• Diesel •• Leather interior •• Heated & electric seats •• 360 degree camera and premium audio system Standard Extras •• 5 year unlimited kilometre warranty •• Annual servicing •• 1 year roadside assist

4726 5555 www.pickerings.com.au

www.pakmag.com.au | April 2019 21

Health

HEALTH INTERESTING FACTS ABOUT CHOCOLATE

Oil Pulling OIL PULLING and AND Why WHY YOU Should You SHOULD Try TRY It IT

Chocolate can be quite nutritious.

A 100 gram bar of dark chocolate with 70 - 85 per cent cocoa contains fiber, iron, magnesium, copper, and much more.

Did you know there are around 700 bacteria that can potentially live in your mouth, with up to 350 being present at any given time?

It’s a powerful source of antioxidants.

Way more than most other foods!

It may improve your mood. The taste, smell and texture of chocolate can stimulate the feel-good areas of the brain.

Oil pulling is an ancient practice involving swishing oil in your mouth to remove bacteria, pull out toxins and promote oral hygiene. Several studies have found that oil pulling, particularly with coconut oil, may help reduce the number of harmful bacteria in the mouth.

So, how do you do it? Simply measure out one tablespoon of coconut oil and swish it around your mouth for 15 to 20 minutes.

You’ll be swishing for a while, so be gentle because you don’t want to get a stiff jaw. Be careful not to swallow any, as you will carry the toxins into your body.

When done, spit the oil into the trash and rinse your mouth well.

Repeat a few times per week. For best results, do this first thing in the morning on an empty stomach.

Other reported benefits of oil pulling include whiter teeth, cavity and gingivitis protection, better breath, and stronger teeth and gums. Coconut oil has many proven benefits, and using it to clean our mouths certainly can’t hurt us.

Natures Sunshine Turmeric 34000+ It may lower blood pressure. A small amount can keep your cardiovascular system running smoothly.

It may protect your arteries. Flavonoids in chocolate can help lower LDL (the ‘bad’ cholesterol).

There is considerable evidence that cocoa can provide health benefits, but it’s best eaten in moderation. A square or two of dark chocolate with 70 per cent or higher cocoa content really allows you to get the benefits.

22 April 2019 | www.pakmag.com.au

Turmeric contains more than 100 astounding chemical compounds that contribute to its ability to help treat conditions from stomach aches to respiratory illness. Turmeric’s active compound curcumin has anti-inflammatory properties and is a potent antioxidant.

Turmeric’s unique chemical composition of vitamins, minerals, fibre and phytochemicals may promote better immunity, protect against illness and disease, and provide liver cleansing and destruction of chronic disease cells within the brain and body.

Nature’s Sunshine is one of the highest quality tumeric supplements on the market and is available at Calanna Wholehealth Pharmacies.

Advertorial

Four Things to Look For When Choosing a Child Care Centre

Choosing child care for the first time can be one of the most daunting decisions parents face. My Little Feet Childcare have given some tips to help parents know what to look for when deciding if a centre is the best fit for you and your little ones.

1. The Little People: The children will be the best indicator of how comfortable/stimulated they are in the environment. Do they seem happy and engaged? Are they affectionate and comfortable with the educators?

2. The Big People: Most parents will agree that happy and consistent staff is the most important thing. Ask about the staff members’ qualifications and how long they have worked at the centre - having the same friendly faces greet your little ones creates a comforting and reliable environment.

3. Look around: Ask to have a look at the indoor (all rooms) and outdoor spaces. A centre does not have to

be brand new to have a warm and inviting feel. Is there lots of room to play and learn and are the spaces used creatively? Have they included influences from the local community?

4. Go with your gut: You are the expert on your children and will know if somewhere feels like a safe place for your child to learn and grow. If you are unsure about whether a centre is the right fit, have a chat with the Director about what you are looking for and organise a drop-in play-date with your child.

My Little Feet Childcare in Aitkenvale and Pimlico offer premium quality child care from 6 weeks of age.

Offering the internationally acclaimed Second Step Program, My Little Feet has been voted Best Childcare in Townsville two years running. The warm and friendly staff and wonderful indoor/outdoor spaces make the centres your child’s home away from home. Call today to organise a tour and check out our Facebook Page.

www.pakmag.com.au | April 2019 25

Bump, Bub and Beyond

The Truth About Baby’s First Month STORY Jenna Galley You’ve gone through the pregnancy, you’ve survived the labour and now your squishy newborn is finally here! It’s such an exciting and emotional time as you get to know the person who has been kicking you from within for the past few months.

But it’s also a massive transition for both of you.

So, what can you expect during those first 30 days with a newborn (other than the influx of poopy nappies)?

30 days of feeding.

Breastfeeds. Bottle feeds. Regardless, that first month is all about the milk! Constantly. We’ve been told to expect newborns to feed anywhere from 8 to 20 times a day but the truth is, it can be so much more than that. And when hunger strikes, everything else has to wait!

What this means is you may find yourself feeding in the backseat of the car as you sit in the parking lot. Or at the dinner table as your partner cuts up your steak and feeds you so you don’t miss out on another meal. And, of course, at 4.00am, when you’re both half asleep and you can feel their little heart beating against your chest.

Those ones are the best (minus the 4.00am bit).

30 days of strange sleep patterns.

Newborns sleep a lot – around 16 to 20 hours in a 24 hour period. But often these sleep patterns are all over the shop and for very short periods of time.

You may find yourself awake every 40 minutes throughout the night. Then watching your baby sleep four-hour stints throughout the day. It is all part of the sleep deprived fun as your little one gets used to night and day outside of the womb.

30 days of recovery.

Ice packs for your nether regions, heating pads for your stomach, cabbage leaves for your engorged breasts. And maybe, painkillers to get you through those first few weeks as your body recovers from pregnancy and labour.

30 days of emotions.

The sleepless nights, unsettled days and new mummy hormones will send even the most level-headed women into a flurry of tears.

Expect tears of happiness, tears of exhaustion, tears of pain and tears of frustration. Some days are so hard.

Some nights are even harder. But with the strange sleep patterns and unsettled nights comes the best thing about baby’s first month - the cuddles.

30 days of snuggles.

Oh so many baby snuggles!

Sleepy snuggles on the couch as you both doze off.

Early snuggles in the bed as you move her from her bassinet into your arms when she starts to stir. Cosy snuggles in your favourite chair, as you rock baby gently back and forth, smelling that newborn scent, cherishing these mummy-baby moments that don’t last forever.

It’s these special moments that make you realise that, yes, the first 30 days have been hard; but your newborn is worth it. Every hour of missed sleep. Every lap around the kitchen with bub in your arms. Every meal eaten with one hand.

Your newborn is more than worth it.

www.pakmag.com.au | April 2019 27

Bump, Bub and Beyond

BUMP, BUB AND BEYOND Featured products, reviews and prizes. Visit www.pakmag.com.au for your chance to win!

Snotty Nasal Aspirator RRP $59.00 - www.snottynoses.com.au The battery powered Snotty Nasal Aspirator is changing the way parents deal with colds, sniffles and congestion.

The strong, steady suction removes snot in five seconds and allows your sick baby or toddler to breathe, feed, and sleep better and recover quicker. With a 30-day satisfaction guarantee, the product is gaining cult status around Australia as the go-to product for sniffles. Colds, flu and congestion can strike at any time of year, so it's worth having this safe, easy gadget in the medicine cabinet, ready to go.

Little Aussie Monster Four Pack of Unisex Modern Cloth Nappies RRP $42.00 www.littleaussiemonster.com.au This prize pack includes four Modern Cloth Nappies in various adorable designs with quick absorbing microfiber inserts. These are adjustable and will suit babies from 3.5kg to toddlers of around 14kg. With a waterproof outer and stay-dry inner fabric your baby will feel comfortable and dry. Washing is as easy as putting into a basket (no soaking), running through the washing machine (can be with other washing), hang out to dry and reuse.

28 April 2019 | www.pakmag.com.au

The Base Collective Little Bundle RRP $50.00 - www.thebasecollective.com The perfect trio to soothe your little person into a restful slumber. Start with a warm bath and their Hair & Body Wash to wash away the day and start the bedtime routine. Follow this with a soft massage using their Magnesium and Lavender infused Body Balm to calm the body and the mind. And finally, a few sprays of our Sleep Spray onto your little person's bedding to help lull themselves to sleep.

Bump, Bub and Beyond

BITING Babies: Biting BABIES: What WHAT to TO Do DO Babies do the most adorable things, from squeals of laughter to endless cuddles and everything in between. It’s heart-warming, and they spread that feeling to everyone they meet. Who doesn’t love a baby’s endearing smile?

However, any parent will tell you it’s not all unicorns and butterflies. They kick, scream, and sometimes even bite. While it’s very common, it can leave parents

HELPFUL TIP: TIP According to a recent survey, parents of small children only have 32 minutes of ‘me time’ per day. Does that come as a surprise? Probably not. Accepting help with the baby (from whoever is nice or naïve enough to offer it) is vital for your own sanity.

Find a circle of people who are happy to lend a helping hand, such as friends or family, even if it’s just for five minutes so you can have a shower.

If someone offers to help you out, pick carefully – changing a nappy takes two minutes, while cooking a meal can take an hour.

If you’re struggling to find someone to help you out here and there, head on over to a playgroup or join a local Facebook group for parents. These are usually free, you get to have an adult conversation with other mums and your little one can play with other babies. There are many other ladies in the same situation as you who would probably love more mum friends.

wondering what the cause is, and how the behaviour can be discouraged.

Teething – If your little one is teething, it’s always a good idea to have a teething ring or washcloth handy.

Putting a teething ring in the refrigerator before giving to bub can help soothe sore gums. This should make them less likely to sink their teeth into someone’s arm.

Experimenting – Babies bite to experiment. This includes teething toys, their dummy, but might also include mum and dad or other kids. Usually the immediate flinch or cry is enough for the child to move on, but this experimentation is important to allow your little one to learn cause and effect.

Generally, babies will repeat behaviour that provokes attention. If biting is met with laughter, they may become fascinated by the reaction; but if biting is met with anger, this may leave them fascinated, too. A clear, verbal response such as “No” is an effective way to get your point across, followed by putting them down, taking attention away from the behaviour and therefore discouraging them from doing it again.

DID YOU KNOW? Babies can swallow and breathe at the same time until they are six months old – something adults can’t do!

This breathing happens through their nose, and makes it easier for a baby to breathe and swallow while breastfeeding.

www.pakmag.com.au | April 2019 29

WHAT’S ON APR APR MONDAY 1 APRIL

FRIDAY 5 APRIL

Loud Lounge with Ray Thompson from NQ Cowboys CityLibraries Thuringowa Central www.townsville.qld.gov.au 3.00pm / Free / 12-18 Yrs

Hypnobirthing - Townsville Fit by nature QLD www.fitbynatureaus.com 5.00pm / Check Website / Adults

TUESDAY 2 APRIL AEIOU Foundation Townsville Open Day AEIOU Foundation Townsville www.aeiou.org.au 9.30am / Free / Family Townsville Foster Care Information Session Ronan St www.carepathwaysqld.com.au 6.00pm / Free / Family WEDNESDAY 3 APRIL Charley Pride in Concert Townsville Entertainment & Convention Centre www.tecc.net.au 7.30pm / $115 / Adult Free Junior Golf Tropics Golf Club www.tropicsgolfclub.com.au 4.30pm / Free / Under 17 Yrs THURSDAY 4 APRIL Mums with Bubs Pilates Class Castletown Townsville Castletown Townsville 9.30am / Free / Family Golden Oldies The Ville Resort-Casino www.the-ville.com.au 10.00am / Free / Family

World’s Greatest Shave Centenary Hotel Pimlico www.my.leukaemia foundation.org.au 5.30pm / Free / Family Pioneer Skate Park BBQ Pioneer Park Youth & Young Adult Recovery Outreach Service 3.00pm / Free / Family SATURDAY 6 APRIL NQ Cowboys vs Canberra Raiders 1300 SMILES Stadium www.cowboys.com.au 4.30pm / Check Website / Family Dead Letter Circus James Cook Uni Bar Dead Letter Circus 7.00pm / $38 / 18+ yrs Pony Ride Day Penrice Park Equestrian Penrice Park Equestrian 9.00am / Free / Family Up, Up & Away!

A Mile-High Cabaret World Theatre Charters Towers www.charterstowers.qld.gov.au 8.00pm / $25 / Family Saturday Games Pokemon and Lego CityLibraries Thuringowa Central www.townsville.qld.gov.au 9.30am / Free / Family

Learn to Draw Class Arc Yoga www.arcyoga.com.au 11.00am / $25 / Adults Cars for Hope: Cruise for Carri Check Website www.theorangeeffect.com.au 3.30pm / Check website / Family Legends of Jazz The Ville Resort-Casino www.tecc.net.au 7.00pm / $39 / Adults SUNDAY 7 APRIL Courage, Confidence and Commitment - Your Successful Evolution!

Venue to be confirmed www.kathydonaldson.com.au Check website / $98 / Adults Sunday on the Island Magnetic Island www.destinationadventure. com.au 8.00am / Gold Coin / Family Hypnobirthing - Townsville Fit by nature QLD www.fitbynatureaus.com 9.00am / Check Website / Adults Elliot’s Revenge Trail Run Alligator Creek Camping Grounds www.outerlimits adventure.com.au 6.00am / $10 / Adults Creative Kids: Introduction to MC Escher Impossible Worlds Umbrella Studio Contemporary Arts www.umbrella.org.au 10.00am / $50 / 6-14 Yrs

MONDAY 8 APRIL Junior Engineers - Website & Game Development Runs until 9 April Annandale State School www.jnrengineers.com.au 8.30am / $190 / Grade 3-10 TUESDAY 9 APRIL Story Rhyme Time with CityLibraries Castletown Townsville Castletown Townsville 9.30am / Free / Family Chinese Paper Lantern Workshop CityLibraries Aitkenvale www.townsville.qld.gov.au 1.30pm / Free / 6-12 Yrs Expectant Parent Information Night RSVP for address www.townsvillemultiples.com. au 7.00pm / Free / Family WEDNESDAY 10 APRIL Harlem Globetrotters World Tour 2019 Townsville Entertainment & Convention Centre www.tecc.net.au 7.00pm / Check Website / Family Charters Towers Youth Forum PCYC Charters Towers www.pcyc.org.au 9.00am / Free / 15-25 Yrs Junior Engineers: Arcade Game Design for Beginners Runs until 11 April Annandale State School www.jnrengineers.com.au 8.30am / $190 / Grade 2-8

www.pakmag.com.au | April 2019 31

WHAT’S ON APR APR THURSDAY 11 APRIL The Australian Women’s Leadership Forum: Townsville Rydges Southbank Convention Centre www.wla.edu.au 8.30am / $395 / Adults FRIDAY 12 APRIL

Sammy J ‘Moonlight Lovers’ Tour Kirwan Tavern www.nesianroots.oztix.com.au 9.00pm / Check Website / Adults

WEDNESDAY 24 APRIL

Messy Play in the Park Cutheringa Park www.townsville.qld.gov.au 9.00am / Free / 0-5 Yrs

THURSDAY 25 APRIL

NQ Cowboys vs Melbourne Storm 1300 SMILES Stadium www.cowboys.com.au 7.55pm / Check Website / Family

Free Microchipping Day Charles Moroney Park www.whatson.townsville. qld.gov.au 8.00am / Free / Family

Family Retreat Runs until 13 April Stardust Drive In Cinema Ayr As you are Yoga 10.00am / Check Facebook / Family

WEDNESDAY 17 APRIL

Wine & Painting Night Arc Yoga www.arcyoga.com.au 7.00pm / $50 / Adults

Messy Play in the Park Alma Bay www.townsville.qld.gov.au 9.00am / Free / 0-5 Yrs

Junior Engineers: Code & Create with Micro:Bits Annandale State School www.jnrengineers.com.au 8.30am / $145 / Grade 3-10

FRIDAY 19 APRIL

SATURDAY 13 APRIL PakMag Easter Eggstravaganza Stockland Townsville (near Myer) www.pakmag.com.au 10.00am / Free / Family Dust N Gold Rodeo Dalrymple Equestrian Centre www.charterstowersrodeo.com Check Website / Family

32 April 2019 | www.pakmag.com.au

Urzila Carlson - Loser Townsville Entertainment and Convention Centre www.tecc.net.au 7.30pm / Check Website / Family

Riverway Movies - Small Foot Riverway Oval www.whatson.townsville. qld.gov.au 6.30pm / Free / Family SUNDAY 21 APRIL Free Family Fun Day Perc Tucker Gallery www.townsville.qld.gov.au 10.00am / Free / Family TUESDAY 23 APRIL The ABBA Show Townsville Civic Theatre www.theabbashow.com.au 8.00pm / $59 Adult / Family

Messy Play in the Park Queens Gardens www.townsville.qld.gov.au 9.30am / Free / 0-5 Yrs

Anzac Day Various Venues www.townsville.qld.gov.au 5.30am / Free / Family FRIDAY 26 APRIL Thirsty Merc Kirwan Tavern www.oztix.com.au 8.00pm / $29.60 / 18+ yrs SATURDAY 27 APRIL Burdekin Auto Festival 2019 Runs until 28 April Ayr Showgrounds www.whatson.townsville. qld.gov.au 8.00am / Check Website / Family Melbourne International Comedy Festival Roadshow Runs until 28 April Townsville Civic Theatre www.whatson.townsville.qld. gov.au 7.30pm / $45 Adults / Family

ANZAC 100 Triathlon Northern Beaches Leisure Center www.freeradicalstribe.org.au 4.30am / $80 / 14+ yrs Angel-Paws Pledge Sherriff Park Angel-Paws Inc Animal Rescue North Queensland 8.30am / Free / Family Burdekin Sugar Rush 2019 Ayr PCYC www.athleticsnorthqld.org.au 6.00am / Check Website / Adults SAVE THE DATE THURSDAY 9 MAY Southern Cross Catholic College Prep Open Day Southern Cross Catholic College www.sctsv.catholic.edu.au 9.00am / Free / Family MONDAY 13 MAY Me And My Shadow Runs until 14 May Townsville Civic Theatre www.whatson.townsville. qld.gov.au 6.30pm / $15 Adult / Family FRIDAY 17 MAY

Bucking it out for Blaze Aid Bartlett Park Arena www.bartlettpark.com.au 3.00pm / Free / Family

Riverway Movies - Charming Riverway Oval www.townsville.qld.gov.au 6.30pm / Free / Family

SUNDAY 28 APRIL

SUNDAY 26 MAY

Spirit and Soul Festival 2019 Herveys Range Heritage Tea Rooms Townsville Spirit and Soul Festival 9.00am / Free / Family

Eco Fiesta 2019 Queens Gardens www.whatson.townsville.qld. gov.au 9.00am / Free / Family

Pull-out kids activity mag!

BOOMER NEEDS YOUR HELP! THE CRAZY (BUT SOOO CUTE) CHIMPANZOMBIES ARE HOT ON HIS TAIL. CAN YOU HELP HIM LOSE THEM IN THE MAZE BY FINDING A WAY THROUGH?

Enter for your chance to win a family pass to Wonder Park

ONLY AT CINEMAS

For your chance to WIN a family pass to Wonder Park, tell us what's your favourite theme park ride?

Enter at www.pakmag.com.au/win Competition closes 30/04/2019

© 2018 Paramount Animation

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Enter for your chance to win a Sphero Bolt

For your chance to WIN a Sphero Bolt, tell us which robot above is one-of-a-kind?

Sphero Bolt- RRP $259.00 - Available at JB HI-FI - Sphero BOLT is an app-enabled robotic ball that is helping to educate Australia's youth about the future of robotics and coding. With the app available through most smart devices, BOLT provides an endless range of activities with features including an extended battery life, scratch resistant shell and all the modern technological advancement. Enter at www.pakmag.com.au/win - Competition closes 30/04/2019

REGULAR MARKETS Castle Hill PCYC Markets Date: Every Sunday Time: 7.00am - 11.00am Location: Castle Hill PCYC Bluewater Twilight Markets Date: 2nd Saturday of the month Time: 4.00pm - 8.00pm Location: Bluewater Community Centre Label Traders Markets Date: 3rd Sunday of the month Time: 8.00am - 12.00pm Location: Mundingburra State School Riverway Moonlight Markets Date: 3rd Friday of the month Time: 5.00pm - 9.00pm Location: Riverway Seabreeze Markets Date: 1st and 3rd Sunday of the month

Time: 8.00am - 1.00pm

Cotters Markets

Location: Bushland Beach Park

Date: Every Sunday Time: 8.30am - 1.00pm Location: Flinders St & Townsville Bulletin Square

Carlyle Gardens Arts & Crafts Markets Date: 1st Saturday of the month (Mar - Dec) Time: 9.00am Location: Carlyle Gardens Retirement Village, Beck Drive, Condon North Shore Markets Date: Every Saturday Time: 7.00am - 1.00pm Location: North Shore Town Centre Renegade Handmade Markets Date: 2nd Sunday of the month Time: 8.00am - 1.00pm Location: Marian School

Horseshoe Bay Markets Date: Every 2nd and last Sunday of the month Time: 9.00am - 2.00pm Location: Horseshoe Bay Foreshore Mountainview Plaza Markets Date: Every Saturday (excluding Jan) Time: 8.00am - 2.00pm.

Location: Mountainview Plaza

Strand Night Markets Date: 1st Friday of the month (runs from May to Dec) Time: 5.00pm - 9.30pm Location: Strand Park Willows Rotary Markets Date: Every Sunday Time: 7.30 - 11.30am Location: Willows Shopping Centre Car Park Balgal Beach Markets Date: 1st Saturday of the month Time: 8.00am - 1.00pm Location: Fisherman’s Landing Balgal Beach

Magnetic Island RSL Markets Date: Every Friday (excluding Good Friday) Time: 5.30pm - 8.00pm Location: Magnetic Island RSL

Email your event or market to admin@grandpublishing.com.au to be included. Spaces are limited.

www.pakmag.com.au | April 2019 37

Regular Events

REGULAR EVENTS TOWNSVILLE GALLERIES Art-Box - Free Art Activities for Kids Under 5 Days: First and third Tuesdays of the month Time: 10.00am Location: Pinnacles Gallery More Info: 4773 8871 Free Family Fun Day - Art Activities for the Family Days: Third Sunday of the month Time: 10.00am Location: Perc Tucker Regional Gallery More Info: 4727 9011 BELGIAN GARDENS STATE SCHOOL PLAYGROUP Days: Mondays Time: 9.00am - 11.00am Location: Belgian Gardens SS Hall More Info: 4717 1333 or rickandjules4@bigpond.com Cost: $2 per person FIRST FIVE FOREVER Parent Information Sessions Days: Second Friday of the month Time: 9.30am Location: City Libraries Aitkenvale More Info: www.townsville.qld.gov.au Cost: Free

38 April 2019 | www.pakmag.com.au

Newborn and Family Drop-In Service Days: Tuesdays (9.00am 2.00pm), Saturdays (9.00am - 12.00pm) Location: City Libraries Aitkenvale More Info: www.townsville.qld.gov.au Cost: Free Messy Play (bookings required) Days: Wednesdays Time: 9.15am & 10.30am Location: City Libraries Aitkenvale RIVERWAY PARKRUN Days: Saturdays Time: From 6.45am Location: Meet at the front of Tony Ireland Stadium on the grassed area near the ticket box.

Riverway parkrun is a 5km course along Ross River that you can complete by running or walking (or both) and is for all ages. Children, prams and dogs are all welcome to join in the fun. Please note: Scooters and bikes are not allowed for safety and insurance reasons.

MAINLY MUSIC For babies to pre prep aged children. Fun, music, morning tea and free play Days: Thursdays (during school term) Time: From 9.30am Location: St Peter’s Anglican Church, West End Cost: $3 per child More Info: 0414 807 179 MOPS - Mothers of PreSchoolers For mothers with children 0-6 years. Connect, relax and recharge.

Days: Fridays – fortnightly during chool terms Time: 9.30am - 11.30am Location: Mount Louisa House of Praise (425 Bayswater Rd) Cost: $9 per session More Info: 0421 658 535 (Juliana)

Location: Fitzroy St, Heatley More info: 0420 585 069 Or 0400 815 279 Toy Library TOWNSVILLE TOY LIBRARY Days: Every Tuesday and Saturday Time: 9.30am - 11.00am Location: 23 First Street, Railway Estate Community Centre More Info: Check their Facebook page Townsville Toy Library for updates GIGGLE N GROW PLAYGROUP Come along for arts, craft, sensory play, a healthy morning tea, connect with other families and more.

Children 0 - 5 years.

Free Fitness + Activities

Days: Every Wednesday Time: 9.00am – 11.00am Location: Aitkenvale State School More Info: 4753 0650

Days: Every day Location: Various Locations More Info: www.townsville.qld.gov.au

Days: Every Thursday Time: 9.00am – 11.00am Location: Garbutt State School More Info: 4753 0650

GET ACTIVE + HEALTHY TOWNSVILLE

This course is wheelchair friendly.

TOY LIBRARY TOWNSVILLE (THE TOY SHED)

Registration is free and available at www.parkrun.com.au/riverway

Days: Second Saturday (excluding January) Time: 9.00am - 12.00pm

Days: Every Friday Time: 9.00am – 11.00am Location: Heatley State School More Info: 4753 0650

Home

BACKYARD BLISS With The Block’s Caro and Kingi Since we live in such a beautiful part of the world, why shouldn’t we spend more time outdoors?

Modifying your backyard and adding a touch of originality can really bring your backyard to life, creating a blissful relaxing space and a play area for the kids all in one.

Green is great Planting a few plants around the yard will really ‘liven’ up the place while simultaneously adding a touch of natural colour. Aromatic plants will make your garden smell beautiful and may even help you relax. There’s plenty of native plants that thrive in our tropical climate and some are known to attract butterflies, such as acacias, lacewing vine, bottlebrushes and citrus trees. Bright colours such as hot pink, white and red tend to attract them as well.

Go play outside “Get off your device and go play outside” may be a popular saying in your house. Convincing children to play outdoors may be a challenge, but provide some fun play equipment and they’ll be begging you for five more minutes of play time once dinner is ready. A cubby house, sand pit, slide, swing, or inflatable pool can do the trick. Why not set up a tent in the backyard for the day for pretend camping trips?

Kick up your feet Your backyard is your own little piece of nature. Turning it into a tranquil space to relax can help you unwind at the end of a long day with your feet up or a sunny spot to enjoy a coffee on a Sunday morning. Adding some comfortable lounge chairs can turn your backyard into your own little oasis, and you can even add a dining table for those yummy family dinners under the sunset.

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1. Outdoor Cannes Sofa Package - RRP $2299.00 - www.freedom.com.au 2. Customisable Cubby House - Pricing Varies www.grandgazebos.com.au 3. Design Twins Large Pots RRP $275.00 ea - www.korufurnitureandhomewares.com.au 4. Globe West Tango Leaf Arm Chair - RRP $450.00 www.korufurnitureandhomewares.com.au 5. We Are Feel Good Inc Sensitive Sunscream Lotion SPF 50+ - RRP $27.95 www.korufurnitureandhomewares.com.au 6. Saison Beechwood Nail Brush - RRP $26.00 - www.korufurnitureandhomewares.com.au 7. Valor Peppermint Scrub Workers Soap - RRP $15.00 www.korufurnitureandhomewares.com.au

40 April 2019 | www.pakmag.com.au

Home

HOME HELPERS DIRECTORY Pristine Pools NQ Locally owned business, servicing the community with residential and corporate pool servicing and maintenance. p 0407 790 704 www.pristinepoolsnq.com.au

About Town Removals

www.outdoorareas.blogspot.com

About Town Removals is a family run business, servicing the entire Townsville region. p 4774 7170 www.abouttownremovals.com.au

Roofguard Roofguard are Townsville’s best roof beauticians ready to restore and beautify your roof. p 0402 110 704 www.roofguardroofpainting.com.au

Grand Gazebos and Cubbies Turn your backyard from bland to grand! Cubbies, decks, fences, daybeds, gazebos, playgrounds and more. p 0407 631 660 www.grandgazebos.com.au 4

April & Oak Fascinating and stylish products for the home from around the world.

Get $40 off your order when you spend $150 or more. Use code PAKMAG11. www.aprilandoak.com.au

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Koru Furniture and Homewares Koru is a boutique homewares store and Interior Design & Style studio located in Tropical North Queensland. p 4053 3152 www.korufurnitureandhomewares.com.au 7 6

Be seen here!

Do you help with home improvement or maintenance? You need to be seen here! e admin@grandpublishing.com.au p 4053 3331 www.pakmag.com.au www.pakmag.com.au | April 2019 41

Travel

Beautiful Blissful Bali STORY Bree James They call it the Island of The Gods, and for good reason. There is no other place quite like it. There is a special vibe and an authentic essence that touches and inspires visitors from all over the world.

If you love shopping for clothes, jewellery, unique wooden and artistic items, listening to live music or indulging in yummy food and drinks, massages, pedicures and manicures all at amazing prices, then Bali is definitely a place you should visit.

If you want peace, to reconnect with yourself or your family, there are many ways to enjoy Bali with less of the hustle and bustle.

Our last trip to Bali was not about being a tourist.

It was not about shopping. It was all about chilling out and reconnection. If you are in need of some soul time, then this my friend is the place for you.

Where to stay that’s peaceful.

A private villa is always great. You can have your own pool, and some even come with their own chef and butler, meaning you don’t have to lift a finger and you can relax with the family.

A hotel with a private beach is also an option. You still have inhouse guests to contend with, but no beach sellers which can make your time on the sun lounge more relaxing.

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A wellness retreat. If you are kid-free there are so many wellness retreats in Bali.

A smaller boutique hotel. Choose a quieter destination like Chandidasa, Uluwattu, or the quieter parts of Ubud.

How to maximise on relaxation if you're traveling with kids?

Hire a nanny. Bali Nannies Bali (they have a facebook page you can check out) are fantastic, and for only $7 per hour (minimum 5-hour booking), you can have some down time and the kids will enjoy craft among many other activities.

Stay somewhere with a kid’s club. The kids will love it and you can relax some more.

Go for a family massage. For around $7 per person, a massage place will give the whole family an hour of bliss.

Five Relaxing things to do in Bali.

1. Do a meditation course together.

We did a Transcendental Meditation (TM) course as a family and it was one of the best investments in our family that we’ve ever made.

For four days, we had a two hour lesson which taught all of us how to meditate using TM. Those that could sit still learnt a sitting version, whereas the youngest in our

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2. Learn to surf together.

5. The active relax.

If lazing around isn’t your thing, and you need a bit of active relaxing, there are many bike tours of Bali. Some cater for children as young as seven on their own bike, and they have bikes with safety seats for younger children. Biking your way through tranquil villages and cascading rice paddies is a great way to get a taste of that elusive “real” Bali. There are beach tours, mountain tours, volcano tours all on push or electric bike.

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There are many surf schools in Bali, pick one with a nice beach so you’re not swimming in rubbish from Kuta (Uluwattu is recommended, pick somewhere with small surf). Not only will being in the ocean make you feel good, you’ll get lots of laughs in too.

The Pondok Pekak Library and Learning Center in Ubud has a range of family-friendly and child-friendly art courses including: performing arts, silversmithing, painting, woodcarving, basket weaving, fruit carving and lots more. Most of the classes are very short at two to three hours and very affordable.

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So far, they have 40 schools they have taught resulting in thousands of children learning this skill. It is a fantastic organisation on a mission to create world peace. Check out www.wpbsp.org to find out more and to book.

4. Learn some unique skills.

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The course cost varies on whether you want the teacher to come to your villa or you go to their premises.

The most amazing thing about the course that we did was that the money we paid goes towards them teaching other disadvantaged children in Bali through the Bali Schools.

Cooking is a wonderful skill for all family members to learn, especially in a foreign country. There are many cooking schools in Bali that will teach the whole family a range of dishes so your Bali holiday can be brought into your home whenever you feel the need.

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Check out our videos on PakMag TV or blogs on www.pakmag.com.au for loads more Bali tips, hints and ideas.

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Best of all, we can do it together or on our own forever so we can continue to have lovely family time after our holiday too (plus, the kids will learn what meditation is and will know not to interrupt you when you do it after your holiday!).

3. Turn into chefs with a cooking course.

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family learnt a walking version. The beautiful thing is the skill of TM increases brain function and focus, and also lessens stress. So not only is it a skill for life, it is also a way of giving your brain a rest and recharge whenever you do it.

www.pakmag.com.au | April 2019 43

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1. Morgan Elle Humphreys 2. Myles Walter Beutel 3. Reuben James Parkinson 4. Emmett Luke Lawton

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Mater Snapped

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Photography thanks to: Maria O‘Brien (Josephine Carter Photography) www.josephinecarterphotography.com

5. Mia Jayne Terrill 6. Harry John Austin 7. Elora Quinn Keller

www.pakmag.com.au | April 2019 45

Expert Advice

THE PAKMAG EXPERTS Townsville Paediatrics

Ruhl Family Law Centre

Dear Dr Siva,

Dear Diane,

Why do babies cry?

We can’t agree on the value of our property, whose value is used?

Babies are dependent on parents for all their needs which include food and comfort. Most often, babies communicate by crying and they cry for various reasons.

The most common reason is hunger. The other causes are discomfort, wet or soiled nappy, tiredness and feeling cold or hot. Sometimes they cry for no specific reason.

Most often they settle with feeds, cuddles, comforting or swaddle. Sometimes they cry inconsolably and it may be hard to find a reason.

Babies cry when they are sick or developing an infection.

In that case they usually have other associated symptoms like fever, rash, lethargy, poor feeding. If any of these symptoms are present, seek immediate medical attention.

Some other causes of inconsolable crying and irritability are reflux or food intolerance. They are often associated with recurrent vomiting, constipation, blood or mucous in the stools. Seeing your doctor and addressing the underlying cause may help to settle your baby.

P 4427 5817 www.townsvillepaediatrics.com.au

The first step in a property settlement is to work out what all of the property is, and the value of each item. If you and your ex are able to agree on values, then there is no issue with those values being used by the Court.

If you can’t agree on the value of any item, you will need to appoint a registered valuer together who will independently conduct a valuation. That valuation is then used by the Court. If you do not agree with the outcome of the independent valuation, it is difficult to assert that a different value should be used, and you cannot always obtain another valuation simply because you do not agree.

If you don’t agree on the outcome of an independent valuation, you should obtain legal advice regarding if and how you can address this.

P 4772 7672 www.ruhlfamilylaw.com.au

Calanna Whole Health Pharmacy Dear Matthew, I’ve been in a bit of a rut lately, what can I try to get back on track?

For the next 30 days…

•• Eat five servings of vegies and 3 serves of fruit every day.

•• Choose one food that constantly sabotages your efforts to eat healthier - whether it’s cookies, pizza, or hot chips - and go cold turkey.

•• Create a list of 10 healthy breakfast meals, lunches, dinners, and snacks and plan out your meals for the week ahead of time.

•• Get at least twenty minutes of daily exercise even if it’s just a walk with your favourite person each morning or afternoon.

•• Set your watch to beep once an hour, or set up a computer reminder, to make sure that you drink water on a regular basis throughout the day.

•• Set your alarm to wake five minutes earlier and use that time to visualise what you want from that day or week.

•• Eat your lunch outside or away from your desk.

•• Call your best friend to chat or make plans to catch up in person at least once a week.

•• Take the time to sit down and read a novel by your favourite author or listen to a helpful podcast for a few minutes.

•• Have a good laugh or dance crazy at least once a day.

•• Make it a point to learn at least one new thing each day.

•• Find something to be grateful for each day.

www.calannapharmacy.com.au

www.pakmag.com.au | April 2019 47

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Even if you’ve been testing the waters with a hobby, not yet sure if it can grow into full time business, we can help you #ownyourfuture Many NEIS businesses are going on to achieve great success, such as Cairns mechanic, Casey Bradley who has kicked off a mobile automotive repair business.

Casey said the NEIS experience was invaluable and helped him to accelerate his business’s success beyond his expectations.

“After being involved in the automotive industry as a mechanic for eight years, I wanted to start my own business to gain personal and financial security and a better work/life balance,” he said.

New Business Assistance by NEIS provides you with practical start-up processes; •• Create your business plan •• Assist with setting up your financials •• Develop a marketing plan •• Action plans to help bring all of your great ideas to life Designed with a business mentor and developed specifically for your business, it's a true recipe for business success!

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To find out more about the NEIS program and eligibility conditions www.mpath.com.au/NEIS

“The NEIS program assisted me greatly to achieve success by showing me the fundamentals of business, the right step-by-step process of determining if I had a viable business concept and how to implement goals and marketing strategies.”

After just fifteen months of operation, Casey has achieved more than double his initial expectations of gross income and has the tools and confidence to continue growing his business.

NEIS is part of the jobactive program, an initiative of and fully funded by the Australian Government.

Learn how to run your business right from the start!

WATCH THE VIDEO IN THE ONLINE MAG

www.pakmag.com.au | April 2019 49

Recipes

EASTER TREATS You don’t have to hunt for chocolate eggs in the backyard to enjoy a delicious Easter treat this year. Whether you’re hosting a meal or looking for a cute addition to your child’s lunchbox, these treats are sure to please.

CHOCOLATE EASTER CHICK CUPCAKES Makes 18 Chicks Ingredients 4 egg whites 1 cup caster sugar ½ tsp vanilla essence ¼ cup chocolate (melted) 125g butter 3 cups icing sugar 2 tbsp lemon juice 1 tsp turmeric

Cupcakes Ingredients 1 cup self-raising flour cup caster sugar ½ cup milk cup cocoa 100g butter 2 eggs ½ tsp bicarb

Method Preheat oven to 180°C. Line a cupcake tin with cases.

Using an electric mixer, combine the butter, vanilla and sugar until creamy. Gradually add in the eggs and mix. In a separate bowl, combine flour, cocoa and bicarbonate soda. Add to the creamed mixture the milk and mix. Carefully spoon the mixture into the cupcake liners, ensuring each case is about one third full. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.

Now for the chicks. Lower oven temperature to 90°C and line a baking tray with baking paper. Using the electric mixer, whisk the egg whites until frothy. Add the sugar one tablespoon at a time, whisking between each spoonful until the sugar dissolves. Add vanilla essence and continue to whisk on high for 3 minutes. Pipe the mixture onto lined trays and bake for around an hour or until set. Let them cool in the oven for 2 hours. Combine the butter, lemon juice, icing sugar and turmeric until fluffy. Add a dollop of yellow icing to each cupcake and top with meringue. Use melted chocolate and icing to paint on the eyes and beak.

MUESLI NESTS WITH YOGHURT AND FRUIT Makes 6 Nest Ingredients 1 mashed banana 1 ½ cup rolled oats ¼ cup chopped walnuts ¼ cup honey or agave syrup 1 tsp vanilla extract 1 tsp cinnamon

Topping Ingredients 1 cup Greek yoghurt ½ cup blueberries

Method In a large bowl, mash the banana and add oats, walnuts, honey, vanilla, and cinnamon.

Grease a muffin pan and half fill with the granola mixture. Use a spoon to push the mixture into the edges and bottom of each tin, forming the mixture into a ‘nest’ shape.

Chill for 1 hour and preheat oven to 180°C. Bake for 30 minutes then let cool.

Top with Greek yoghurt and blueberries for a delicious breakfast or snack. These are also yummy topped with raspberries or strawberries.

PakMag tip: Alternatively, put a scoop of ice cream in your muesli nests for a creative dessert.

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EASTER TREATS

DEVILLED EGGS NESTING Risotto NestING RISOTTO Chicks CHICKS Serves 4 Ingredients 1 onion, finely chopped 3 celery sticks, finely chopped 1 tbsp butter 2 tbsp olive oil 1L vegetable stock ½ cup dry white wine 2 cups arborio rice ½ cup grated parmesan 5 hardboiled egg yolks, mashed 3 cups mixed leafy greens Decoration Ingredients ¼ tsp black sesame seeds Slice of red capsicum 200g spaghetti Method

RECIPE Dorothy Richmond, Dorothy Dietitian Serves 10 Ingredients 10 very fresh eggs 50g good quality egg-based mayonnaise Fresh herbs, carrot matchsticks or nori to garnish Method Hard boil the eggs and plunge into cold running water to cool and shell.

Cut the eggs in half and remove the yolk.

Mix the yolk with the mayonnaise until a spooning or piping consistency.

Spoon or pipe the yolk mixture back into the eggs.

Serve on a platter on a bed of finely chopped lettuce or in small baby cos lettuce leaves. Keep refrigerated until ready to serve.

Heat the olive oil and butter in a pan, add the onions and garlic and gently fry. Add the arborio rice and stir.

Dorothy's tip:

Add wine and simmer for 1 minute (the alcohol gets cooked out), then add the vegetable stock and parmesan. Bring to a boil.

•• If the yolk remains central after boiling, then the egg is fresh. If the egg is tricky to shell then it is also a fresh egg.

Reduce the heat and cover, simmering for a further 11-13 minutes or until the stock is absorbed. While this is simmering, boil the spaghetti.

•• A sign of a stale egg is one that when hard boiled has a flat end, as an air bubble has had time to develop in the egg.

Remove from heat and allow to cool. Roll the risotto into egg shapes, then roll through mashed hardboiled egg yolk.

•• Always keep eggs in the fridge and remove them from the fridge half an hour before cooking.

Line the base of each plate with mixed leafy greens and carefully place the chicks on top. Place the spaghetti around the chicks in a ring shape, forming the nest.

Using red capsicum and black sesame seeds (or black peppercorns), give the chicks their eyes and beak.

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Get the children to help check the quality of the eggs.

•• Store eggs in the original container supplied with the eggs.

•• If preparing hard boiled eggs in advance store them in a container submerged in water in the fridge •• Never ever use eggs that have become cracked during distribution or sale.

Celebrate

Eggcelent Easter Party For many, Easter is about spending time with loved ones, relaxing, and having a good time. Get eggcited for Easter by throwing a party filled with treats, bunnies, and bright, happy colours. Whether you’re hosting a family lunch, a get-together with friends or a child’s birthday party, there’s plenty of ways to entertain your guests. Hop to it!

Pretty Pastel

Or, give the Easter bunny bean bag toss game a try – can you aim the carrots for the hungry bunny’s mouth and tummy? Recruit the kids to design the bunny and carrots as a family craft activity.

Prizes for the game’s winner can be a yummy treat or small toy.

Tasty Treats

Party Games

There are so many ways to sweeten up your Easter party outside of chocolate eggs (although, let’s be honest, those are a must). Brighten up the dining table with a variety of treats such as smoothies, chocolate egg nests or you can go all-out and impress your guests with a gorgeous platter of treats such as hot cross buns, chocolates, marshmallows and fruit. This one will be a winner for sure.

A classic game at any Easter event is of course the Easter egg hunt. Get creative when hiding the eggs around the home and garden; for older children, why not think of some clever spots? Inside a doll house, in the mail box or even inside an actual box of eggs?

The possibilities are endless – and you can even add a touch of magic to the experience by putting Easter Bunny tracks around the place.

You can even turn a regular cake into a creative Easter Bunny cake by sticking two rabbit ears into the top of the cake. These can be easily created by cutting coloured cardboard into the desired shape and using toothpicks to hold them in place. Alternatively, you could melt white chocolate and pour it into the desired shape.

Get creative by adding sprinkles, flowers, or whatever you fancy to the cake – yum!

Easter eggs are almost always associated with bright, happy colours. To compliment this, incorporate light colours in your decorations, such as white, light grey and pastel tones of pink, blue and yellow. Covering the party area with lively flowers or succulents is sure to invite good vibes to the party as well as brighten up the place.

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DIY Easter Bunny Bean Bag Toss GAME What you need Cardboard Paint Paint brush Scissors Pen

Orange and green felt Dry beans or rice Hot glue Funnel

Directions

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1. Silly Billyz SnuggyPop - RRP $18.95 - www.juniorsonline.com.au 2. One-on-One Basketball Egg by Playmobil - RRP $15.99 www.playmackay.com.au 3. www.temeculablogs.com 4. Insulated Personalised Kids Cups - RRP from $22.95 - www.zandtee.com.au 5. www.hwtm.com 6. www.fashionablehostess.com 7. Easter Bunny Garden 43 Piece Kit (See website for details) - RRP $56.00 www.gardensparkle.com.au 8. Ostheimer Wooden Hens RRP from $19.99ea - www.playmackay.com.au

Draw a carrot and top shape onto the felt with a pen and cut out. Use this as a stencil to cut out the rest.

Hot glue the carrot top to one carrot shape then glue another carrot shape over the top by only gluing the left and right edges of the carrot, leaving the top open.

Using a funnel, fill the carrot with beans or rice and glue closed. Repeat until you have as many cute carrot bean bags as you like!

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Paint your bunny onto the cardboard and once dry cut out the mouth and tummy with scissors.

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Daddy Diary

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DADDY DIARY All together now. To the tune of Beyoncé’s “Single Ladies”.

All the pregnant ladies.

All the pregnant ladies.

All the pregnant ladies.

Put your hands up.

Actually, on second thoughts, don’t put your hands up.

If you’re lucky enough to have a bun in the oven, simple tasks like raising your arms require a whole lot more effort than usual.

Don’t waste your energy. In fact, at work recently, my nearly full-term wife was unlucky enough to drop a pen. While bending over to pick it up she actually found herself thinking “Is there anything else I need to do while I’m down here?”. Sadly, the answer was a big, fat (no pun intended) no.

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

I take my hat off to my wife Michelle. She’s been carrying our little man around for nearly the full 9 months. If she were a helium balloon she would have popped.

And this legend of a woman has only just finished up at work. On her feet for a full 8 hours a day. And when did she complain about it, I’ll tell you - EVERY SINGLE DAY. But so, she should have. Put a human the size of a large house brick in my belly, make it move around all night, throw in the occasional bout of nausea and spewing and I wouldn’t leave the house for 9 months, let alone go to work.

So, I guess what I’m saying (and not only to Michelle but to all the pregnant and once pregnant mums out there) is a big old THANKS. Although we don’t show our appreciation often enough, the work you put into carrying our children for the better part of a year, well, we bloody love you for it.

We realise the absolute hell you put your body through for the sake of adding to our families. You are heroes.

And on that note, imagine how the pregnancy rates would plummet if men had to do all the heavy lifting.

Yeah, it’s a no from me.

To my beautiful Michelle. Good luck over the next few weeks my sweet. I love you to the moon and back!

Cliffo Hit 103.1 Townsville

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School Holiday Guide

SCHOOL HOLIDAY GUIDE TOWNSVILLE SAILING CLUB School Holiday Fun Day – Wednesday 10th April, 9.00am - 4.00pm - A great opportunity for children to try sailing, or for experienced sailors to play.

They cater from 12 months to adults with a pathway program to suit all abilities.

Book in now for the Gymnastics school holiday program at PCYC Townsville.

Learn to Sail Program – Monday 15th – Thursday 18th April, 8.00am - 1.00pm - Qualified instructors, safety and fun are our top priorities. Limited spaces, register online today.

The holiday program is just $30 per session and incorporate gymnastics skill learning, fun games, and a sneak-peek into the Free-G program.

A 3 Mariners Dr, The Strand, Townsville City P 4772 1105 Townsville Sailing Club www.townsvillesailing.com.au/events

A 164 MacMillan St, Ayr A 2 Wellington St, Aitkenvale P 4781 9100 – Townsville P 4783 1009 – Burdekin www.pcyc.org.au

STOCKLAND TOWNSVILLE PakMag Easter Eggstravaganza, Saturday 13th April, 10.00am – Hop along and celebrate Easter with PakMag! There will be an Easter bonnet parade, Easter egg hunt with THOUSANDS of chocolate eggs, a visit from the Easter Bunny, prizes for best dressed Easter theme, loads of dancing, fun and much more.

A 310 Ross River Rd, Aitkenvale P 4779 6033 Stockland Townsville www.stockland.com.au/townsville PCYC PCYC Queensland is now the #1 provider of gymnastics across the State. Their gymnastics team strives to provide quality coaching that improves fundamental motor skills, strength, flexibility and fitness.

LOVE2SWIM SCHOOL The Easter Swimming Intensive Program is available at both centres.

This Intensive is a terrific program to keep kids active in the school holidays and repeating swimming skills over a short period of time is proven to be very effective especially for beginners.

Dates are 8th - 12th April.

Cost is $50 for five lessons.

Bookings are limited, so call either centre today.

A Kirwan Aquatics Centre – 64 Hudson St, Kirwan A Kokoda Memorial Pool – 41 Wellington St, Mundingburra P 4723 3447 Kirwan Aquatic Centre P 4725 5357 Kokoda Memorial Pool www.love2swimschool.com.au

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School Holiday Guide

COWBOYS LEAGUES CLUB Enjoy a scrumptious meal while the kids play to their heart’s content at the Little Legends play area.

Reef HQ makes the Great Barrier Reef accessible to people of all ages and abilities, providing world class living exhibits and interactive educational experiences.

Who said learning had to be boring?

Little Legends is a play area like no other, featuring an indoor zone with iPads, TVs and games, and an outdoor area with a full jungle-gym style playground including climbing sections and a slide. Both areas are completely sound proof.

A 2/68 Flinders St, Townsville City P 4750 0800 www.reefHQ.com.au

Supervised sessions from 5.30pm – 9.00pm Tuesday to Saturday and from 11.30am – 3.00pm on Saturday and Sunday.

Kumon’s Maths and English programmes build students’ abilities step-by-step, at the students’ own pace.

Whether your child is learning to read, struggling with confidence in the classroom or preparing for high school, Kumon’s individualised programmes can help.

Contact Ashley (Pimlico) or Peta (Kirwan) to get started these school holidays.

Why not head down to 1300 SMILES stadium and support the NQ Cowboys at one of their games?

6th April – NQ Cowboys vs Canberra Raiders 12th April – NQ Cowboys vs Melbourne Storm

KUMON

A 313-335 Flinders St, Townsville City P 4724 8000 www.cowboysleagues.com.au

A Kumon Pimlico Education Centre, Unit 2/55 Fulham Rd A Kumon Kirwan Education Centre, 15-17 Castlemaine St P Pimlico 0424 155 171 P Kirwan 0417 070 826 www.au.kumonglobal.com

INFLATABLE KINGDOM

PAUL SADLER SWIMLAND

Inflatable Kingdom provides a high-energy, action-packed environment with inflatables of all shapes and sizes. Book online to save 10% off entry price.

Accelerate your child’s swimming abilities in the fourday School Holiday Intensive program.

Open every day of the school holidays 9.00am 4.00pm. Don’t forget your socks.

A Sk8way Townsville, 72-88 Hervey Range Rd, Condon P 4755 4422 Inflatable Kingdom www.inflatablekingdom.com.au PERC TUCKER GALLERY Head on down to Perc Tucker Gallery for a number of FREE events these school holidays.

Family Fun Day - The Perc Tucker Gallery Family Fun Day is on the 3rd Sunday of every month and includes free art making activities for the whole family, all materials provided.

Kitsch Cut-Outs – Create your very own Kitsch Cut-Out animal to take home. All materials provided on first come, first serve basis. Suitable for all ages.

Time Travel Portraits – Imagine yourself in another place and time and create your own time travel portrait.

All materials provided on a first come, first serve basis.

Suitable for all ages.

Children must be accompanied by a parent or guardian at all times.

Runs from 15th-18th April, 3.30pm - 6.00pm, $60 for the four days.

A 20-22 Freshwater Dr, Riverside Gardens P 4779 4647 Paul Sadler Swimland Riverside Gardens www.paulsadlerswimland.com.au TOWNSVILLE PICNIC BAY SURF LIFE SAVING CLUB Nippers have been operating for 50 years. Townsville Picnic Bay Nippers was formed in the 1967/68 season to provide children in the 7-13 age group with the best possible life saving and sporting experience, with a view to encouraging long term active participation in the life saving movement.

TPBSLSC offer a program of surf awareness, skills coaching and competition over various levels, similar to the events Australia’s surf lifesavers participate in. TPBSLSC’s emphasis is on fun and Participation Qualifications (competencies).

Call today to talk about next season.

A 80 The Strand, Townsville City P 4724 4211 Townsville Picnic Bay Surf Lifesaving Club www.tpbslsc.com.au TOWNSVILLE COUNCIL

A Corner of Flinders St and Denham St, Townsville City P 4727 9011 www.townsville.qld.gov.au

Riverway Movies – Smallfoot: Friday 19th April, 6.30pm – 8.00pm (approx.) Bring a blanket and cosy up under the stars and raintrees for a FREE screening of Smallfoot.

REEF HQ AQUARIUM

A Riverway Oval, 20 Village Rd, Thuringowa Central P 13 48 10 Townsville City Council www.townsville.qld.gov.au

Head on down to the world’s largest living coral reef aquarium these school holidays – Reef HQ.

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School Holiday Guide

CITYLIBRARIES Head on down to your local CityLibraries branch and discover all there is to do these school holidays.

Saturday Games - Pokémon and LEGO, what more could you want? Join for a morning of games and meet others with similar interests.

Thuringowa Central: Saturday 6th April, 9.30am - 11.30am Origami - Create all sorts of creatures out of paper.

Suitable for children aged 6-12 years.

Thuringowa Central: Friday 12th April, 11.30am - 1.00pm and Tuesday 16th April, 12.30pm - 2.00pm Aitkenvale: Wednesday 17th April, 10.00am - 11.30am Middle Eastern games – Join in traditional Iraqi children’s games and learn a few basic words. For children six and over.

Aitkenvale: Tuesday 9th April, 10.00am - 11.00am Thuringowa Central: Friday 12th April, 10.00am - 11.00am Botanical science – Townsville Water and Waste will engage kids in the world of botanica and plant identifications. Identify plant types, dissect plants and draw or paint a chosen plant. For children aged 5 - 12 years.

Thuringowa Central: Tuesday 9th April, 10.00am - 11.30am Chinese paper lanterns – Learn how to make and decorate colourful Chinese paper lanterns. Suitable for children aged 6 - 12 years.

Aitkenvale: Tuesday 9th April, 1.30pm - 2.30pm and Wednesday 17th April, 12.00pm - 1.00pm Thuringowa Central: Friday 12th April, 1.30pm - 2.30pm and Tuesday 16th April, 2.30pm - 3.30pm P 4773 8811 CityLibraries Townsville www.townsville.qld.gov.au WILLOWS SHOPPING CENTRE Head on down to Willows Shopping Centre these school holidays and discover the new look Willows Casual Dining precinct.

Willows Rotary Markets run each Sunday from 7.30am – 11.30am at the Coles entrance.

Keep an eye on their Facebook page for opening dates and school holiday activities.

A Cnr Thuringowa Dr and Hervey Range Rd P 4799 9100 Willows Shopping Centre www.willowsshoppingcentre.com.au CASTLETOWN What are you doing these school holidays? Head on down to Castletown for story time:

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Story Time with CityLibraries on the 9th of April at 9.30am, second Tuesday of every month. Join in the fun of interactive rhyming, singing and talking. Story Rhyme time is a joint initiative with Townsville City Council and is presented by First Five Forever.

Free and no bookings required.

A 35 - 47 Kings Rd, Townsville P 4772 1699 Castletown www.castletown.com.au GRILL’D There’s not much that can beat enjoying a delicious burger with your family during the school holidays.

With a range of menu options including wagyu beef, pork belly, grilled chicken and vegan burgers as well as salads, chips, and an extensive children’s menu for both younger and older kids, the family certainly won’t leave Grill’d feeling hungry.

A 3 Palmer St, Townsville City P 4976 9990 Grill’d Townsville www.grilld.com.au LITTLE SNAPPERS Locally owned and operated swimming school with two convenient locations in Townsville.

Little Snappers boasts eight different ability-based levels, catering to fearful children all the way through to overly confident swimmers needing guidance. With two age groups catering to preschool and school aged children and signature classes consisting a maximum of three students, your child will be a confident swimmer in no time.

A Northside – 114 Geaney Ln, Deeragun A Riverway – 76 Allambie Ln, Kelso P 4751 6111 – Northside P 4789 0227 – Riverway Little Snappers Swim School www.littlesnappers.com.au CAIRNS COLONIAL CLUB Need a quick break? Relax and unwind amidst 11 acres of tropical rainforest gardens with three lagoon style pools, a brand-new children’s playground and contemporary Poolside Bar & Dining facilities. $139 per night includes accommodation for two in a freshly refurbished Superior Room or spacious Studio Room including hot buffet breakfast. Kids 12 & under stay & eat for FREE (Conditions apply).

Book TODAY using code word “EASTER” and receive a bonus $20 dining voucher.

A 18-26 Cannon St, Manunda P 4053 8800 Cairns Colonial Club Resort www.cairnscolonialclub.com.au