PakMag Townsville - June 2022 Issue 139

Parents and Kids Magazine

ISSUE: JUN 2022

139

TOWNSVILLE

Why You Need to Book a

MAPLEMOON (Child-Free Holiday)

Find Out What’s On in the Community

100

+

Family-Friendly

EVENTS Keeping Our Kids Safe Online

Help Your Child Give Heartfelt Apologies

EMOTIONAL 5INTELLIGENCE

The Winter School Holiday Guide Is Here

Types of

FREE

to Strengthen in Your Children

Ecology - What is it and Why Does it Matter?

Townsville’s Festival of Stories Lift-out Guide

5

The Thing Is

6

Emotional Intelligence

8

STEAM: Ecology

11

#STEMLIKEAPATSGIRL

13

Keeping Our Kids

Hello and welcome to June - can you believe we’re halfway through the year already?!

As my kids get older I embrace the fun times we share, as their idea of fun is changing from when they were little. Fun now at my house involves a lot of fishing, football and food… “Let’s go to the park” is met with “Nahhhh boring”. So if you have little ones, enjoy their excitement about all those little things. You’ll miss it one day!

Safe Online 17

New Leader Focused on Families

18

Bump, Bub and Beyond

20 All Things Health

We are also planning some of our 2023 content this month, so if you have some ideas or things you would like us to cover, shoot them over to editorial@pakmag.com.au - we’d love to hear them.

22 Parent’s Puzzle 23 Mini Mag

The team and I hope you love this edition as much as we do and that you get lots out of it. If you are wanting to share your voice - you can find out more at www.pakmag.com.au/communitycontributor

25 Townsville’s Festival of Stories Lift-out Guide 32 The Healing Power

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

of Saying Sorry

Bree

35 School Holiday Guide 38 Why You Should Plan a Maplemoon 41

This edition has some great features to help you on your parenting journey.

We’re encouraging couples to go on a maplemoon (a kid-free holiday to reconnect). We also cover the importance of emotional intelligence, giving heartfelt apologies, routine and more. Plus, we’ve pulled together a great list of activities to get involved in during the upcoming school holidays.

Daddy Diary

42 Check It Out 44 Community Noticeboard 46 What’s On

PakMag Founder and Editor-in-Chief Bree James Creative Team Leader, Graphic Designer and Editor Clare Winter Marketing and Events Coordinator Alyssa Marino

Contact Us: p 4053 3331 e admin@m2f.com.au a PO Box 7433 Cairns Qld 4870 www.paktownsville.com.au • www.pakmag.com.au • www.m2f.com.au

Videographer, Graphic Designer and Podcast Producer Monique Saggers Content Coordinators Sasha Rozhkova Elisabeth Rooks Accounts and IT Support Trent Stievano

Sales and Business Development Tracy Couper

Enquiries admin@pakmag.com.au

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

PakMag would like to acknowledge the First Nations people of North Queensland; the first storytellers and Traditional Custodians of all the lands on which we work, live and enjoy. We pay our respects to their Elders, past, present and emerging.

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

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

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

Net Distribution Per Issue 10,000.

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 | June 2022 3

The Thing Is

The Thing Is with Bree James After 15 years, two kids, 6 fur babies, multiple creations, hundreds of events, and around 400 magazine and book deadlines, my husband of 12 years and I decided to have a belated honeymoon.

The thing is, our journey started in a non-traditional way. We had the baby, bought the house and then got married. It was a very small wedding, and the joys of parenthood before marriage meant that I had an 18 month old to help me get ready on the day of the wedding. That night he slept in a cot in our hotel cupboard so we could have a little bit of privacy.

Don’t worry it was a walk-in cupboard with ventilation but hey!

Needless to say, we never really experienced that ‘honeymoon feeling’ that blissed out holiday where you sleep in, eat and drink to your heart’s content, and do as you please all day - with your hardest decision being what you are going to eat?

Previously, the longest we have ever been away from our kids together was two nights. Having two very energetic boys and dogs meant not many relatives put their hands up to have them for a night - let alone any longer than that. Then my husband decided to book a 10 day holiday just for us, a maplemoon we called it, as we were well past the honeymoon.

Our kids were not very happy we were going on an adventure without them, but when they realised that they were going to be home with their poppy - they got pretty excited. It was about to be 10 days of watching football and sports, and eating bachelor food.

Our departure was planned for months - rosters of four different couples and relatives were scheduled to help poppy mind the kids and do school pick ups and

drop offs. Meals were planned, lists, rosters and daily schedules were made, and activities were organised to ensure the 10 days we were away went as smoothly as possible. Covid and medical plans were put into place, and nervously we left our kids hoping that everything would go to plan.

There is so much to think about, and it makes me laugh how quickly grandparents forget those years of parenting that they went through. Sure, everyone read my pages of notes and then promptly put them in the bin. Uber eats were ordered, bedtimes were extended and I am pretty sure there were some stressful mornings getting out the door on time. They lost each other on a hike for a few hours and freaked each other out massively, the kids learnt a few new tricks like poker, I noticed a few words were added to their vocabulary and there were some new mannerisms when I returned.

Thankfully these only took a couple of weeks to unlearn.

But they survived and had a really great time.

Best thing was, not only did we get to have some quality time together as a couple, but our kids got some quality time with each other and relatives that they adore. Sure, I can’t see any of them putting their hand up to do it again any time soon, but the kids are getting older so before I know it, we’ll be able to go on a maplemoon whenever we want - and that freaks me out a little! These parenting years are going way too fast.

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

www.pakmag.com.au | June 2022 5

Parenting

The 5 Types of Emotional Intelligence and How to Build Them in Your Children STORY Bree James Emotional Intelligence (EQ) is defined as the ability to perceive, use, understand, manage and handle emotions.

Research shows that people with strong emotional intelligence are more likely to succeed in leadership and high-performance based roles than those blessed with high IQ’s or relevant experience. Those with high EQ work well with a wide variety of people and are able to respond effectively to the rapidly changing conditions in the world.

There are five components of emotional intelligence, and they cover both internal and external indicators that determine how we think about ourselves and how we think about and act towards others.

3. Motivation - the higher purpose that goes beyond the external drive for achievement, but also the internal drive or ability to pursue goals with energy and persistence.

Externally, there are two additional indicators of emotional intelligence, which is what goes on between you and others.

1. Social-awareness - The ability to understand the emotional characteristics of other people and how your words and actions affect others.

2. Social-regulation - Social regulations protect public

The stronger a person is in each of these areas, the better chances they have of achieving greatness in most situations.

interests such as health, safety, the environment and social cohesion. Sociologists define social control as the way that the norms, rules, laws and structures of society regulate human behaviour. Social-regulation is a necessary part of social order - societies could not exist without controlling their populations.

The three internal indicators of emotional intelligence applicable to self are:

So how can we build our children’s EQ? Here are five ways:

1. Self-awareness - the ability to recognise and

1. Name, acknowledge and talk about emotions

understand your moods, emotions and drivers, as well as their effect on others.

2. Self-regulation - the ability to control or redirect disruptive emotions, impulses and moods, and the ability to manage judgement and think before acting.

It is your ability to influence your emotions.

6 June 2022 | www.pakmag.com.au

Bring to your child’s awareness that emotions are everywhere. Commenting on characters when watching a show together (“Wow, he really looks angry”) is a simple way to get the conversation around emotions going. Naming the emotions we see them having, or ones we are experiencing ourselves, helps children

Parenting

learn to acknowledge their emotions. Nothing feels worse than someone dismissing our emotions.

Responding to your child’s tantrums by saying something like “I know you’re angry, do you want to talk about it?” is a more effective response than “What’s wrong now?” If you want to help them develop emotional regulation skills, we need to acknowledge their feelings.

2. Encourage empathy Empathy is a difficult skill to develop in both children and adults. It refers to the ability to feel or imagine someone else’s pain and to offer help. Showing empathy does not mean you agree with your child’s behaviour.

It simply means being able to understand their feelings or behaviour from their point of view.

3. Focus on the behaviour you want to see more of It is common to focus on your child’s inappropriate behaviour in an attempt to reduce that behaviour.

But did you know that the more you focus on that behaviour, the more you reinforce it? So concentrate

on the behaviour you want to see more of. Focusing on positive emotions can build your child’s physical, intellectual, psychological and social resources, and also support them during difficult times.

4. Learn coping mechanisms Getting away from one’s emotional triggers is one of the most common emotional regulation strategies.

Our children learn to react to emotions by watching how we react to ours. Brainstorming together acceptable ways of reacting to emotions and asking them the different ways they can react to an incident in the future, also helps. And when we get it wrong, do the same of course.

5. Do not shield them from emotional turmoil Social conflict provides an opportunity for parents to talk about emotions. In families where little dispute happens, kids learn less about emotional regulation.

Shielding your child from difficult emotions doesn’t help strengthen their emotional intelligence. So as hard as it is, use these times as opportunities for learning.

Howard Gardner’s Theory of Multiple Intelligences Types of Intelligence

Characteristics

Learning Tools

Linguistic

• Ability to use oral and written language correctly • Good memory

• Writing and narrating • Commenting on events • Speeches • Debate

Logical Mathematical

• Ability to solve mathematical calculations • Solving logical problems

• Experiments • Puzzle games • Creating charts • Categorisation of concepts

Bodily - Kinesthetic

• Ability to use the body as a means to convey meaning • Kinetic skills • Kinesis synchronisation • Physical memory

• Sports • Dance • Theatrical games • Dramatisation • Sculpture

Musical

• Musical sensitivity • Ability to recognise and synthesise musical patterns • Rhythm recognition

• Use of musical instruments • Singing • Musical toys

Spatial

• Ability of spatial representations • Good orientation • Visual memory

• Charts and maps • Art - Drawing • Visual representation of concepts • Sculpture

Interpersonal

• Ability to recognise and understand the intentions and desires of other people

• Collaborative activities • Discussion • Theatrical games • Dramatisation

Intrapersonal

• Ability to understand oneself • Can identify your own weaknesses and strengths

• Self-awareness and self-concentration exercises • Projects • Individual tasks

Naturalist

• Ability to connect with the natural environment and protect it • Love and interest for the different forms of life on the planet

• Actions - field trips • Projects • Labs • Arts

www.pakmag.com.au | June 2022 7

STEAM

Ecology - What is it and Why Does it Matter?

STORY Sasha Rozhkova To mark World Environment Day on 5 June, and World Oceans Day on 8 June, we thought it appropriate to delve into the world of ecology, and share why it’s so important to be aware of the intricacies of the world we live in.

Ecology is the study of interactions and relationships between organisms and their environment. This includes both biotic (living) and abiotic (nonliving) factors.

Ecology showcases the complexity of interactions and just how much the web of life on Earth is entwined within itself. Therefore, it’s important to understand that we are a part of the web, and our actions also have an effect on the ecology of our surroundings.

In North Queensland we have the privilege of living in a variety of ecological zones, this means that every zone is made up of organisms and spaces unique to that space and climate. When conditions change in these zones, be it due to a natural disaster, agriculture, or climate change, there are always downstream effects that vary in scale.

The Great Barrier Reef is a good example of an ecosystem under pressure. With rising temperatures comes an array of consequences, including ocean acidification, food chain disruption and habitat loss. These may seem as individual issues, but they do in fact go hand in hand.

Following the industrial revolution, atmospheric carbon dioxide has increased exponentially. As our oceans are

Drivers of Biodiversity Loss In no particular order:

1. Habitat loss and degradation 2. Invasive species 3. Overexploitation 4. Pollution 5. Climate change

8 June 2022 | www.pakmag.com.au

carbon sinks, they absorb carbon dioxide resulting in a reduction in pH. This means the water becomes slightly acidic. As minor as it may seem, it is detrimental to many marine organisms - let's use shellfish as an example.

An increase in acidity means a reduction in calcium carbonate, a key component of shells. Consequently, shells are weaker due to reduced calcification, and are also more prone to dissolution (the act or process of dissolving). This goes for corals too, as they struggle to build their skeletons.

But why care about these organisms? Why do they matter?

A reduction in shell integrity means that that organism is unable to survive and thrive.

So what?

Well, the next one up the food chain now has limited food supply, resulting in a reduction in population.

Then same again, this continues up the food chain and can lead to collapse. And if you’re unsure why that matters to us, then consider if one of the fish now unable to maintain a viable population is one that you eat. This then leads to a fisheries collapse; an ecological and economic disaster.

Now we don’t want to get all doomsday on you, but we do want to emphasise just how our civilisation impacts on mother nature and the world around us.

Learn More • World Environment Day is be celebrated across the world, both online and through in-person events. www.worldenvironmentday.global • United Nations World Oceans Day is a day for humanity to celebrate the ocean. www.unworldoceansday.org • Geneva is a global hub for environmental governance. www.genevaenvironmentnetwork.org • The Marine Stewardship Council is on a mission to end overfishing and restore fish stocks for future generations. www.msc.org

Did You Know?

• Out of 719 reefs surveyed on the Great Barrier Reef, 91 percent have been affected by coral bleaching following the 2021-22 summer.

• Biodiversity is being lost at a rate not seen since the last mass extinction 65 million years ago when the dinosaurs were wiped out.

• Since the industrial revolution, the ocean has absorbed 525 billion tonnes of atmospheric carbon dioxide, which is almost a 30 percent increase in hydrogen ion concentration.

• Biodiversity loss will continue to increase the incidence of further ecological changes such as climate change, desertification, fisheries collapse, floods, landslides, wildfires, eutrophication (a process that results in harmful algal blooms and dead zones in bodies of water), and disease outbreaks.

What Can You Do? • Don’t disturb nesting sites, be it birds, turtles or even insects.

• When possible, keep vehicles on main roads to reduce the spread of weeds and disturbance to wildlife.

• Promote wildlife by setting up bird and bat houses in your yard..

• Use natural products and methods for pest control around the home.

• Encourage and support local government initiatives that protect habitat and biodiversity.

• Leave native plants undisturbed, and landscape using native trees and vegetation.

• Educate your children about the world around them.

QuestaGame is a free game that takes you outdoors to discover, map and ultimately help protect life on our planet. Your sightings contribute to real research and conservation. Bree’s son, Sean, really loves this game. For more information check out www.questagame.com

Advertorial

#STEMLIKEAPATSGIRL STEM Conference Returns in 2022 On Saturday, 20 August 2022, St Patrick's College Townsville will present its sixth annual #STEMLIKEAPATSGIRL Conference - the only event of its kind in North Queensland. It is a day devoted to empowering and engaging girls aged 10 - 15 in Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM).

The event is open to all girls from North Queensland and Far North Queensland aged 10 to 15 who have an interest in STEM. Each year the event grows, and this year will be no exception. The #STEMLIKEAPATSGIRL Conference will feature two inspirational Keynote Speakers - Kirsty Roberts, Lead Commissioning Engineer for HATCH, and Dr Samantha Nixon, Postdoctoral Research Officer at the Institute of Molecular Biosciences.

The College has connected with a wide variety of STEM industry professionals who will conduct exciting, handson workshops which will include: Junk Pile Engineers, “It’s Rocket Science”; STEM Punks “Smart Gardens” and “Space Explorers”; ARC Centre of Excellence for Dark Matter Particle Physics; Pathology QLD and “Forensic Anatomy” with Dr Alex Trollope and more.

There’s no doubt that St Patrick’s College Townsville’s reputation as a leader in STEM is well-founded.

Winners of the Australian Education Awards “Best STEM Program” in 2020 and 2022, as well as the 2021 National Science Week “Great Barrier Reef Citizen Science Award”, the College continues to champion opportunities for young women to dare to imagine their future.

In May, construction of a 4-storey STEM Learning Hub building began. This facility will provide contemporary learning and innovation spaces to excite and inspire the STEM students. Featuring Marine Science, Biology, Physics and Chemistry laboratories, flexible learning areas, an arts courtyard and an academic hub, the contemporary spaces will blend with the existing facilities. “We are so excited to be creating a place where our students and teachers are empowered to be curious, visionary and imaginative” says Principal, Amber Hauff.

Workshop details and registration information for the 2022 #STEMLIKEAPATSGIRL Conference can be found on the St Patrick’s College Townsville’s website www.stpatscollege.qld.edu.au

www.pakmag.com.au | June 2022 11

Education

Keeping Our Kids Safe Online in a Technology Driven World STORY Sasha Rozhkova As we continue to live our lives heavily immersed in the digital world, it’s critical to consider online safety and associated risks, as well as the long term implications of our actions. The manner in which people interact online can have significant effects on others and our future. This not only applies to us, but also our children and their safety and wellbeing.

There are several aspects of online safety to consider when working to keep kids safe, so to save you the guesswork, we delve into some of the major issues that may arise, and how to best handle them.

Cyberbullying If a child is humiliated, harassed, intimidated or threatened online, that’s cyberbullying. It can take on many forms, use a range of devices and be across a variety of platforms. It can involve abusive messages, hurtful images or videos, nasty gossip, exclusion or humiliation, trolling, or even fake accounts to trick or humiliate them. For our younger generations this can be detrimental to their development and mental health, especially for those strongly attached to their online identity.

So what can you do if your child is being cyberbullied?

It’s key to stay calm and not punish your child by removing their device access. This may further alienate them and keep them from learning resilience.

Try to create an open dialogue without judgement or anger, listen to the situation and gauge its severity.

If you deem it severe and your child is distressed by it, seek professional help. This may be from counsellors, school staff or even emergency services.

It’s also important to collect evidence - bullying behaviour is unacceptable and it’s important for the bully to be held accountable. Finally, it’s important to empower your child to rebuild confidence, connection and security.

Sending Nudes and Sexting Sharing intimate photos, videos and messages may be innocent at the time, but it can have both legal and social consequences for the sender and receiver of the content. These can be used as sexual extortion, be shared without consent and end up in the hands of unsavoury characters. This is all now known as imagebased abuse - and it is never ok.

www.pakmag.com.au | June 2022 13

Education

Research shows that almost 1 in 3 teens aged 14 - 17 in Australia have experienced sending, sharing or being asked to share nudes. It is therefore imperative to be open and communicative with your child. Being approachable means that if they’re ever faced with such a proposition, they’re more likely to come to you for advice or share their concerns if something goes amiss.

If your child has been a victim of image-based abuse, there’s a few things you can do. The first step is to ask for it to be deleted by the person who shared it, followed by reporting it on the platform that it’s on.

If this is to no avail, police may need to become involved, along with counselling and support services. You can also reach out to the eSafety Commissioner to further explore options for prosecution and support.

The production or distribution of content with children under the age of 18 can be deemd as child pornography, and creating, possessing or sharing nude images of minors may be a criminal act. This also includes if collected as evidence, so be mindful of the law.

Image-based abuse is wrong no matter the age, so it’s key to educate our children on the risks of participating in sending nudes, videos, and sexting, and how that content can be manipulated against them.

Inappropriate Contact and Grooming Inappropriate contact online is not uncommon, and as adults much of it can be ignored, blocked, or brushed off. However children can become targets for some who are looking to exploit and groom them.

There are some precautions you can take as a parent to reduce the risk. Begin with making their accounts private and customising settings, this will provide more control over who has access to them and the content they share. Follow that up with removing contacts that they don’t really know - it’s likely we could all benefit from this exercise. Although this doesn’t guarantee to cut contact from outsiders, it sets a good precedent for their future online presence.

When it comes to grooming, it’s more than persistence, it’s the development of trust and a sort of relationship.

This can be initiated through casual online interactions, with perpetrators making themselves appear relatable and understanding while gathering information.

This information can then be used to alienate, manipulate and coerce them, be it for more information or inappropriate images.

It’s always recommended to have an open dialogue with your children. Communicate to them that it’s important to delete and block people that attempt to make inappropriate contact, and to keep you in the loop if any unfavourable interactions persist.

This goes for both strangers and people they may know. Some perpetrators will pretend to be someone they know, or actually be a person that they know.

If you have a situation arise, be sure to cut contact immediately, report the account and reach out to the authorities if your child's physical safety is at risk.

It’s also important to share with your child that this can happen to anyone, including adults.

Digital Reputation Everything we do online is online permanently, and even as adults we need a reminder at times.

This also goes for any tagged photos, blog posts and social media interactions that occur showing your likes and participation.

Despite social media and the online world still being a relatively new space for us, many people will utilise it and search others to see what comes up. It is therefore imperative that the publicity of online interactions are always taken into consideration, as they all contribute to one's digital reputation. This goes for parents sharing content of their children too, so always be mindful of any possible future implications.

If you’re concerned about what’s out there about yourself or your children, and to check the efficacy of privacy settings, search their name and see what comes up. This will show you what apps or sites may be sharing more than you know.

To find out more on how to handle tricky online situations and ensure your kids stay safe online, check out the eSafety Commissioner website at www.esafety.gov.au. It provides a multitude of resources for both parents and children living in this digital age.

Resources for the Whole Family to Help with Online Safety Online Safety - Scams, SPAM, Viruses and Clouds by A. M. Perry - This guide book has been compiled by the local and online community in an attempt to answer questions about scams, spam and clouds.

Finn Goes Online App - Cybersecurity for Children teaches about online safety, including password security, cyberbullying, and staying safe online. It is aimed at kids aged seven and above.

Google Family Link App - Provides easy access to content filtering settings in Google apps like Search, Chrome and YouTube. www.internetmatters.org - Expert support and practical tips to help children benefit from connected technology and the internet safely and smartly.

14 June 2022 | www.pakmag.com.au

Advertorial

New Leader Focused on Families Mary MacKillop Childcare North Queensland has welcomed Jo Goodrick as the new Director of Early Childhood Education and Care to the organisation which offers 29 education and care services across early learning centres, kindergartens and outside school hours care services. Jo has more than 30 years’ experience in all areas of education and care in North Queensland.

Jo said “my first role in education and care was straight out of university. I was the Director of the Bowen and District Child Care Centre in 1992.”

Jo has held various teaching positions in early childhood, delivering childcare courses, running her own small business before being appointed as an Early Childhood Education Advisor then moving into management.

“I'm looking forward to bringing my passion and advocacy of quality early childhood education and care to MMCNQ” she said.

Jo said she was excited to lead the organisation that caters for the youngest of children through to those finishing primary school. She is most excited to work for an organisation that has the opportunity to impact children across these age groups.

Jo said “I truly feel that I didn't choose a career in early childhood, rather I was born to work with children and become an advocate for quality outcomes for children.

From a very little girl, all I wanted to do when I grew up was to be a teacher and a mother. I'm blessed to be both.”

Jo brings a strong local knowledge of the communities MMCNQ serve. “I've been fortunate to travel and provide support to communities as far north as Port Douglas and Mossman, west to Mt Isa and south to Mackay and Sarina and all in between.

“I bring a commitment to Reconciliation and Inclusion, and I look forward to finding out what work is already happening in this space and building on this to truly achieve services that welcome all children and families” she said.

Jo’s priority is to visit and meet staff, children, families and stakeholders in MMCNQ. “Building these relationships will lay the foundation for us all to work together to reach quality outcomes for children, families and communities.”

Mary MacKillop Childcare North Queensland is now accepting enrolments for kindergarten in 2023. For more information visit www.mmcnq.catholic.edu.au or call 4726 3299.

www.pakmag.com.au | June 2022 17

Bump, Bub and Beyond

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

Dri-Glo Kids Yarn Dyed Stripe Quilt Cover Set in Denim $119.00 - www.dri-glo.com Add a little natural luxury to the little one’s space with Dri-Glo’s Kids Yarn Dyed Single Stripe Quilt Set. The set includes a quilt cover and a standard pillowcase in a self-fabric bag. Dri-Glo’s premium collection is available exclusively online. Everyday luxury, woven into Australian life since 1930.

The Everything Mat Toucan Play $129.95 - www.monarchstore.com.au Monarch Store has crafted The Everything Matt ($ 129.95) an oversized (1.9m x 1.4m), all-purpose mat that comes in a variety of beautiful and fun designs.

These water-resistant and wipeable nylon surface matts feature 5mm cotton padding layers quilted together to minimise shifting and slipping. They can be used as a picnic mat, food mat or even for nappy- free time!

18 June 2022 | www.pakmag.com.au

Bounce Kids Snack Bars $6.00 for a pack of 5 - www.woolworths.com.au Bounce 5-Star Kids Snack Bars are filled with probiotics and fibre for good gut health. The new bars are the perfect afterschool snack, especially for active kids on the way to afterschool sports to give them the energy boost they need!

With a taste kids love, and the natural ingredients parents want, Bounce Kids Snack Bars earn every single one of its 5-Star ratings. Packed with all natural ingredients, probiotics, protein and flavoured with tasty fruit, it’s the new no-brainer snack for when the kids say ‘I’m hungry’ on the way to afterschool activities or in between mealtimes.

Bump, Bub and Beyond

Top 5 Tips for Keeping Your Mattress Healthy STORY Laundry Expert Nicole Gibson from Soka Australia Poor mattress hygiene can contribute to poor air quality in your home. This is caused by an increase in organic matter such as dead skin cells, dust, dust mite faeces, dirt and grime, and foul odours caused by germs, bacteria, body oils and sweat. It can also trigger allergies to flare up such as breathing difficulties and changes in skin integrity.

How to Handle Public Meltdowns If you haven’t had to deal with one, no doubt you’ve been witness to a public meltdown. As children grow and develop, emotional management and public awareness is not always at the forefront of their mind, so it’s great to have some strategies in place when the time finally comes.

The best way to avoid a public meltdown is to minimise the risk. Eventually you’ll work out what triggers are at play, be it fatigue, hunger or sensory overload - the key is to be prepared. If your little one always reacts when grocery shopping, bring distractions with you. This may be a toy, snacks or a colouring-in book, whatever works for them. If toys and games aren’t doing the trick, try giving them a task or role to play in whatever it is you’re doing.

We’ve heard it all before, and as hard as it is in the moment, it is best to control our own reactions.

Acknowledgement of emotions goes a long way, for children and adults alike, but do your best to avoid making bribes or promises directly in response to their behaviour as this will lower your credibility and authority, and potentially reinforce that behaviour.

Monthly Mattress Cleaning Tips

If caught out in the full throws of a public meltdown, a change of scenery may be just what everyone needs.

Although disruptive and somewhat embarrassing, removing yourself and your child can help simmer things down.

• Sprinkle bicarb soda over the mattress (optional add lavender essential oil) and allow to absorb odours for at least 30 minutes

And remember, no matter how long you’ve been a parent for, or how well you do the job, dealing with public meltdowns is never easy.

• Vacuum the mattress ensuring you target all crevices and corners

Umbilical Cord

• Spot clean stains using my Soka Combination spray (DM for recipe) • Spray with equal parts vinegar + water (optional add mint essential oil) • Use a mattress protector Follow @sokaaustralia to be more sustainable and successful in the laundry

In the last trimester, babies receive half a litre of blood every minute via the umbilical cord. The umbilical cord normally has two arteries, one to carry blood that contains waste, from the baby to the placenta.

It also has one vein that carries oxygen and nutrients back to the baby.

www.pakmag.com.au | June 2022 19

Health

All Things Health How to Prevent Head Lice

Jana Gorski

We’ve all done our dash with head lice, and it’ll likely happen again, so here’s a few tips for dealing with and preventing them.

Naturopath - Calanna TerryWhite Chemmart

1. Wash regularly - If you’ve had lice make an appearance, ensure to use hot water to wash your bedding, and use the dryer for other garments and soft toys.

2. Soak hair tools and accessories - It’s important to keep hair products and tools clean. Soak periodically to kill any lice that may be hanging on.

3. Use a lice prevention spray - There are natural methods for preventing lice. Mario’s Range Lice Prevent Spray is available in their Head Lice pack and is made from natural essential oils. It can be used daily and has no harmful ingredients. For more information check out www.calannapharmacy.com.au/marios-range

Dear Jana, I need to lose some weight, are weight loss shakes a good way to support that?

Meal replacement shakes are designed to give you nutrients, protein, vitamins and minerals in a calorie controlled way.

A shake is a lot easier to digest than meat and vegetables, so this gives your digestive system a rest. Replacing one or two meals a day with a calorie controlled shake is an effective way to lose weight or boost your body’s nutrient intakes to gain weight or improve your energy and health.

We have a variety of powders that you can add to smoothies or specially formulated shakes, or speak to our team of naturopaths to see the best weight loss plan for you.

Calanna WholeHealth Pharmacy www.calannapharmacy.com.au

4. Clean upholstery - Like any surface at home, furniture can also house a few bugs, so remember to regularly clean and vacuum them.

Support Immunity with Bioceuticals Armaforce ArmaForce provides immune support by employing the natural immunostimulating properties of Andrographis. In combination with zinc and vitamin c for their antiviral and antioxidant potential, this vegan formula helps reduce the symptoms and duration of infection.

The Armaforce range includes suitable combination products for pregnant and breastfeeding mums as well as children. Protect your whole family from colds and flu with ArmaForce from your local Calanna TerryWhite Chemmart. www.bioceuticals.com.au

20 June 2022 | www.pakmag.com.au

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

Puzzle

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

4 Letter Words DISH TOSS

WIN a Pack of Five Lula Self Warming Eye Masks $29.99 - www.lulaeyemask.com.au The iconic Lula Self-Warming Eye Masks are Australia’s first self-warming eye masks - to help relax, destress and assist with sleep. Available in rose, jasmine, lavender and unscented. They work as soon as you unwrap them, when the mask’s iron particles meet oxygen in the air it begins to gently warm up and remains at a comforting temperature for at least 20 relaxing minutes. Just pop them over your eyes and relax.

Visit www.pakmag.com.au/win for your chance to win! Competition closes 30/06/2022.

No need to submit answers to enter.

22 June 2022 | www.pakmag.com.au

5 Letter Words BEING CABIN CAMEL CLIFF EAGLE FIRST FOCUS GREAT HAPPY INDIA JEWEL METAL NAMES POLAR RHYME SENSE SMALL SMILE THROW YACHT

7 Letter Words ASPECTS BARGAIN CHANNEL CLASSIC CONSIST CUSHION EARNEST ECONOMY FASHION GENERAL HELPFUL HERSELF LESSONS LIBRARY LIMITED NUMERAL PEASANT PURPOSE SAUSAGE SCREAMS SCREWED SHINING SHIPPED WARNING

6 Letter Words CHEESE ENGINE READER SQUARE

12 Letter Words ALPHABETICAL CIVILISATION EXPERIMENTAL SIGNIFICANCE

A VILLAIN WILL RISE

Lift-out kids activity mag!

ONLY IN CINEMAS JUNE 23 For your chance to WIN a family pass to Minions: The Rise of Gru, enter at www.pakmag.com.au/win.

Competition closes 30/06/2022.

BANANA SCRAMBLE IN CINEMAS JUNE 23

Stuart

Otto

Bob

WANT TO MAKE YOUR VERY OWN MINION? All you need is a round stone, some paint, a paintbrush, and a grown-up! outside for someone else to find!

1.

2. your paintbrush and paint the

3. pair of dungarees with some blue paint and then let it dry

4.

For your chance to WIN a family pass to Minions: The Rise of Gru, enter at www.pakmag.com.au/win.

Competition closes 30/06/2022. No need to submit activity to enter.

eyes, goggles, and mouth! Now

© 2022 Disney/Pixar

For your chance to WIN a family pass to Disney and Pixar’s “Lightyear” (in cinemas June 16), enter at www.pakmag.com.au/win. Competition closes 30/06/2022. No need to submit activity to enter.

Follow the steps below and learn how to draw your own cute cartoon hippopotamus

Colour in the unicorn above

WIN a Little Pegz Pegboard $129.00 - www.littlepegz.com.au Get back to basics with this classic Peg Board - a firm favourite with families and schools across the world. Little Pegz encourages little hands to explore while grasping, promoting problem solving through independent play. The boards provide an exciting way for children to discover the world of numbers and learn the correct order of the rainbow - a great hands-on approach to learning!

Visit www.pakmag.com.au/win for your chance to win! Competition closes 30/06/2022.

No need to submit activities to enter.

Parenting

The Healing Power of Saying Sorry STORY Rachel Schofield “…Say sorry!”

The little girl looks down at her shiny black shoes and pouts. Silence.

“Go on!” presses her Mum. She manages to squeeze out a sulky, “Sorry.”

The whole scene is unsettling to watch. It’s painful being that squirming girl - the awkwardness, the shame, the humiliation. It’s incredibly uncomfortable being the parent trying to squeeze out an apology from your reluctant child. And being on the receiving end of a forced ‘sorry’ does little to smooth over the wrongdoing.

Other times, children have learnt to roll out the socially expected, “Sorry!” and we face a new challenge: kids are quick to notice that a “sorry” lets them off the hook. Kicked someone? Stood on their toy? Say “sorry” and you’re acquitted. It’s a far cry from a meaningful apology that eases upset feelings.

Apologies matter, and they matter a lot. Heartfelt apologies don’t fully erase a hurt, but they do express that you care, and that's important. Countless research studies show how sincere apologies really do curb anger and resentment leading to better relationships.

Throughout history apologies have been pivotal.

Like in recent times how First Nations people across Australia and the Torres Strait were deeply moved and in tears when in 2008 The Prime Minister of Australia, Kevin Rudd, finally apologised to the Stolen Generations for the wrongs that past government policies inflicted.

We’ve all felt our hearts soften after someone has apologised to us for wrongdoing. And we all want our children to grow up being able to give heartfelt apologies. We want them to be kind, caring and

32 June 2022 | www.pakmag.com.au

compassionate. We want them to have good manners, to fit into society and get along well with others.

Saying sorry is healing.

But a forced sorry is a far cry from a genuine apology. So what can we do to help our children give apologies that move others whilst leaving them feeling empowered, not humiliated? And how can we do that in a way that navigates social expectations in the present moment?

Here are seven pointers that will show you how.

The exact order we do them might vary and some may not be needed depending on the situation.

1. Recognise that Your Child Needs Your Support It helps to notice how children are always doing their best to fit in and belong. Every child wants nothing more than to feel connected and close to the people around them. When a child hurts someone else or damages their things, be it accidentally or intentionally, they feel bad inside. Sometimes it can look like they don’t care but deep down they’re hurting. And when a child feels hurt they cannot think. They need our support to bring them back to their true selves and regain their dignity.

2. Help Your Child Think Again A child who’s done something hurtful will feel bad.

Either big feelings provoked them to lash out in the first place or doing something hurtful made them feel terrible (ashamed about what happened and perhaps scared about what’s going to happen to them).

A child who is overwhelmed by upset cannot think –

Parenting

they literally cannot access the thinking part of the brain (prefrontal cortex) when their emotional brain (limbic system) is flooded. If we move in close with warmth and empathy, our child will feel our caring and support. That vital connection might be enough to help them think well, or it might give them safety to offload any emotional tension they are carrying. We need to help our child move through any upset they are carrying, so they can think more clearly again, then they’ll be better placed to give a heartfelt apology. When we stay nearby offering our love, our child will feel safe enough to cry or rage releasing the feelings of hurt inside.

Giving a child time to work through feelings means they’ll be more able to realise the cost of their harsh words / hurtful actions and be moved to make amends.

We can think of this way of listening to a child’s emotions as “holding space” for feelings.

3. Help Your Child Realise What’s Happened and to Take Responsibility What’s obvious to you – your child knocked somebody down – may need to be pointed out. For young children this cause and effect often remains a mystery.

They may have no idea that the way they jumped caused the accident. “You swung your school bag and it hurt Lila’s arm. Look it hurts, she’s crying.”

You’ll need to hold the expectation that your child sticks around at the scene. You might need to go after them and hold their hand to bring them back to the situation, “You need to come back, Lila got hurt.”

Often kids will say, “It was an accident” which can be a way of wriggling out of taking responsibility. We can say something like, “Maybe you didn’t mean to, but she got hurt.”

4. Stay Nearby and Listen Sticking around the scene to offer support is meaningful for the hurt child, your warm attention and concern helps, “Are you okay?”

If the hurt child is crying, it’s better to simply stay close and wait attentively for them to finish shedding their tears before trying to fix things up. Rushing to say sorry, or make amends, can be jarring when we are upset. Instead, we can focus on what happened, “You got hurt when Jack swung his bag” and the hurt child might cry some more but she will feel so much better to get those tears out than to keep them bottled up. Once she’s through her upset, she’ll be in a good place to hear an apology.

5. Make Amends Once the child who caused the problem fully understands what has happened and both children have had the chance to release emotional tension, it’s time to take action. Often kids are grateful to have something tangible to do. They can’t stop the other kid’s pain but they can offer comfort.

It can be an empowering opportunity for a child to learn that we all make mistakes – and we can always take action to make things better. If we broke an object – we can fix it up. If we injured someone – we can get a Band-Aid or ice. If we hurt a relationship – we can repair it, “How can I make things up to you?”

6. Meet Social Expectations Eventually your child will say sorry and mean it. In the meantime, go ahead and say sorry yourself but don’t insist that they do. Apologising on behalf of our child is an easy way to navigate social expectations, without making your child feel ashamed. This is especially useful with very young children.

Sometimes, for older kids, a little nudge is useful, warmly whispering (to avoid embarrassing our child) something like, “When you feel able, it would be really good to say sorry to Fred for tearing up his picture”.

This doesn’t guarantee that a child will say sorry but it gently holds the expectation that this is what we do once we feel remorse whilst sending the message to your child that you are on his side.

Of course modelling saying sorry in our own lives is powerful too. Children are quick learners and easily pick up that this is what we do when we’ve hurt someone.

7. Give Reassurances Offering reassurances like “I won’t do it again” offers meaningful safety for the hurt child. We can create this by saying, “Are you going to do that again?”

Reassurance is often more important to a child than an apology. A “sorry” pleases adults but is less important to children. Reassurance matters to a child.

If a child can’t offer reassurance it’s your job to step in and hold the expectation, “I can’t let you hit him again”; “I won’t let him hit you again” and stay close by ready to set a limit and prevent repeated misdemeanours.

Children need our support to regain their dignity and to figure out a way to make amends. Instead of insisting children say sorry, we can help them to think again and repair things. Children who are given the opportunity to offload emotional tension and participate in helping the other child feel better often do amazing things.

Follow these seven pointers and before long you’ll be delighted to witness your child giving heartfelt apologies spontaneously. I was touched a few weeks ago when a four year old boy I know, took off on a bike without training wheels for the first time only to bowl over a one year old and fall off. The four year old, who was also hurt, picked himself up and immediately went to help the little boy get up, said a caring “sorry” and walked with the little kid back towards his mum.

It was so sweet to watch.

Children are naturally caring – we need only support their innate compassion to raise a child that willingly gives heartfelt apologies.

Rachel Schofield is a Parent Coach, Professional Member of the Australian Association of Family Therapists and is a mum of two boys. She shares evidence based strategies for handling challenges in ways that bring cooperation and make you closer with your child. www.rachelschofield.com

www.pakmag.com.au | June 2022 33

School Holiday Guide

School Holiday Guide Wonderland Spiegeltent

King Reef Resort

Running from 10 June through to 10 July, as part of the North Australian Festival Of Arts (NAFA) programme, Wonderland Spiegeltent is hosting a range of events and activities. Suitable for the whole family is Circus Wonderland - A Neverland Adventure, starting 26 June, just in time for the school holidays. Check out more online and for full programme details.

If you’re looking to revitalise in paradise, gather the family and head to the gorgeous King Reef Resort at Kurrimine Beach. Explore all day, swim in the tranquil ocean or pool, build sandcastles on the beach, and return to relax with a gorgeous sunset view from your beachfront shack.

You can also hire a family pedal bike, go fishing, and more the possibilities are endless.

A NAFA Festival Hub, Jezzine Barracks www.nafa-tsv.com.au www.wonderlandspiegeltent.com.au

A 75 Jacobs Rd, Kurrimine Beach P 4065 6144 King Reef Resort www.kingreef.com.au

Fairfield Central During the school holidays, there will be an Adopt A Plush Toy Pet Activity where you can create and make your own toy to take home. Running 25 June - 1 July 9.30am - 1.00pm. Cost is $5.00, and it’s suitable for all ages. Kids will also love to play in the indoor space Fairfield Play, located in front of Coles. It has a unique wooden, Australiana themed play space, equipped with puzzle walls that will help keep your little ones entertained while you take a break and relax.

A Cnr Waterfront Parade and Lakeside Dr P 4778 4249 Fairfield Central www.fairfieldcentral.com.au

Kumon Maths and English Kumon’s Maths and English programs build students’ abilities step-by-step, at the students’ own pace. Students who missed essential concepts in class can go back and catch-up, and if your child needs a bit of extra help afterschool, or if they need a challenge, then Kumon are there to help. The flexibility of Kumon’s learning options and being a home based programme means Kumon will suit any family’s schedule. There is an initial enrolment fee of $100.00, and a monthly fee of $140.00 per student, per subject.

P 0424 155 171 Pimlico P 0417 070 826 Kirwan www.kumoneducation.com.au

Full Throttle Theatre Company

Mary MacKillop Childcare NQ

The Full Throttle Theatre Company provides excellent entertainment and opportunities for regional communities to participate in creative activity and professional development for local theatre workers.

They also run a program for performers aged 5 - 18, and are presenting Winnie-the-Pooh 29 June - 1 July.

Visit their website for more info.

Make this school holiday season less stressful by booking your child into part time or full time vacation care at one of the 14 Care Centres. As part of the program, children aged 5 - 11 years will engage in fun activities and excursions that are supervised by caring and qualified staff, in a safe and nurturing environment that encourages free learning. Visit their website for more info.

A The Old Courthouse Theatre P 0476 590 004 E madonna@fullthrottletheatre.com www.fullthrottletheatre.com

P 4726 3299 E childcare@mmcnq.catholic.edu.au Townsville Catholic Education www.mmcnq.catholic.edu.au

Grill’d Masterclasses

Sealink Ferry to Magnetic Island

If you’re after a tasty and affordable morning activity for the kids these school holidays, Grill’d will be running Kids Masterclasses. Classes will run 27 - 29 June and 4 - 6 July and will be held at all three Grill’d locations in Townsville, 9.00am - 10.00am. Classes are only $15.00 per day so make sure to get in touch and book a spot!

Make the most of our location and visit Magnetic Island, getting there couldn’t be easier with Sealink. Take the whole family for a day trip and explore the national parks, trails, and beaches. Tickets are available online, at the terminal or on-board the ferry. You can grab a Family Return Pass for just $79.50.

A Grill’d Townsville locations E info@grilldtownsville.com www.grilld.com.au

A Breakwater Terminal on Sir Leslie Thiess Drive P 1300 624 443 www.sealinkqld.com.au

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

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

www.pakmag.com.au | June 2022 35

School Holiday Guide

Townsville City Council The City Council will be showcasing a variety of School Holiday activities this winter break. Stay tuned online for the release of their School Holiday Guide Winter Edition end of the month. Also, don’t forget to check out the North Australian Festival Of Arts (NAFA) programme, running 10 June to 10 July. www.townsville.qld.gov.au

Townsville Annual Shell Show The show provides an opportunity to explore and appreciate the beautiful and fascinating world of shells.

There will be a range of displays featuring marine shells and even some landsnails, with a mix of specimens from Australia and abroad. The day will include shell sales and giveaways, local experts will be on hand to help with queries or identifications, and some light refreshments will be available. The Show is great for kids, providing an opportunity to learn about nature, enrich their STEM concepts, and enjoy a variety of activities. Runs 3 - 4 July, 9.00am - 2.00pm, with a $2.00 entry fee for adults.

A Orchid Society Hall E marianworsfold@gmail.com whatson.townsville.qld.gov.au

90 minutes long, 9.00am to 4.00pm. Don’t want to skate?

Tobogganing is only $5.00 for six whole slides, plus many local ice sport clubs play there so it’s a great opportunity to go and watch, and perhaps get your little one inspired.

You can also get groovy at Disco Night, every Friday and Saturday 7.00pm - 9.00pm.

A 3/5 Illuka St, Currajong P 0407 988 628 Warrina Ice Skating Rink www.warrinaiceskating.com.au

Billabong Sanctuary Get a dose of native Aussie wildlife at Billabong Sanctuary these school holidays. Get up close and personal with their most cuddliest of creatures, then watch the giant crocs feast. Once it’s time for a little relaxation, grab a picnic spot and let the kids loose at the swimming pool.

Open from 9.00am - 4.00pm daily.

A 17km South of Townsville on the Bruce Highway P 4778 8344 Billabong Sanctuary www.billabongsanctuary.com.au

PCYC Townsville

Harlem Globetrotters Spread Game Tour Join the world famous Harlem Globetrotters as they continue their Spread Game Tour. Spread Game.

It’s what the Harlem Globetrotters do best. Basketball wizardry. Ankle breaking moves, jaw dropping swag, new drip. Do they dunk? The Globetrotters rattle the rim with style. Oh yeah....it’s time. It’s time to laugh so hard that your stomach hurts during this show. Grab the family and get your tickets stat. 1 July, 7.00pm - 9.00pm, $19.00 - $121.00.

A Townsville Entertainment Centre www.harlemglobetrotters.com

Taylors Beach Family Fishing Tournament Kick of the school holidays with a family fishing comp 25 - 26 June. There will be epic prizes with heaps of categories to get involved in. Fishing Tag collection will also kick off from 6.00am for the keen anglers.

Tickets are $5.00 - $25.00 via their Facebook page, or purchased from the shelter shed on the day.

A Groper Street,Taylors Beach Taylors Beach Qld - Community

TYTO - The Hinchinbrook Way TYTO is open 365 days a year and is the perfect place for a family day trip of relaxation and education.

There is a Regional Art Gallery, a mini military museum, parklands and wetlands, a library and more. From TYTO you can explore Hinchinbrook, a place of beauty surrounded by attractions, including Wallaman Falls.

The PCYC offers Outside School Hours Care, and a variety of fun programs and activities for all ages and levels, including gymnastics, gym and fitness, plus other community activities. Visit their website and your local branch for more information.

A 130 Wellington St, Aitkenvale P 4781 9100 PCYC Townsville www.pcyc.org.au

Umbrella Studio Contemporary Arts Creative Kids Creative Kids is Umbrella’s digital art program for kids aged 3 to 11. They can follow instructions through the workshops and let their imagination run wild as they use a variety of techniques and materials to create art.

They currently offer four digital experiences including Colouring NQ, Planimals, Print Experiments, and Rare & Wild. They also offer Creative Youth programs, kits, and workshops so stay up to date on their site.

A 408 Flinders Street P 4772 7109 Umbrella Studio Contemporary Arts www.umbrella.org.au

Perc Tucker Gallery - School Holiday Resources and Fun

Warrina Ice Skating

Check out what there is to do these school holidays through Perc Tucker Regional Gallery with FREE online Art Workshops and Resources. Don’t forget to pop in and view some of the amazing exhibitions on display too. Crafty Kids - A series of art workshops for families and kids of all ages is a great way to get their creativity flowing. Check out their online workshops, and for the older bunch, there’s Creative Crowd - Designed for teenagers, exploring art techniques and technology.

View the videos online to see what you can create, and for upcoming workshops.

Escape the heat and humidity and have a cool time these summer holidays with family and friends at Townsville’s very own ice skating rink. All sessions are

A Cnr Denham and Flinders Streets P 13 48 10 www.townsville.qld.gov.au

A 73/75 Mcilwraith St, Ingham P 4776 4792 Visit TYTO www.tyto.com.au

36 June 2022 | www.pakmag.com.au

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

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

Relationships

Why You Should Plan a Maplemoon (Your Child-Free Holiday to Reconnect) STORY Bree James We’ve all heard of a honeymoon where you celebrate your love as newlyweds by having an intimate holiday together. Late 2010’s we saw the rise of the babymoon, which for those of you who missed out on the memo like I did, it’s a holiday you have before two become three (or more). The next phase that’s often celebrated is when you become an “empty nester”. That’s a lot of space between having a baby and the kids leaving home, so, I propose we create a new holiday that parents take on an annual basis - a maplemoon.

A maplemoon is a child-free holiday that couples take to connect with each other without the distraction of their children. Sure, honey is filled with sweetness, but maple syrup contains more minerals, has more

38 June 2022 | www.pakmag.com.au

depth of flavour and more stable energy levels than honey (and it’s a little bit more fattening...), so I think a maplemoon is the perfect next step after a honeymoon.

Just like getting syrup out of the maple tree takes some effort, so does your relationship. So bring on the passion pancakes and let's look at why we need to get that maplemoon syrup to sweeten up your relationship.

I know many mother’s reading this will be thinking “I can’t leave my kids and go on a holiday without them”.

I get it, I’ve only just done my first 10 days without them with my husband and we have been together for 15 years (and our children are 13 and 10)! We never even had a honeymoon as we had kids first… The most time we had spent away from them as a couple was two days.

Relationships

It’s so easy when you are a parent to put the needs of your children first, and the needs of your relationship second. But many relationship experts say that this is not the key to a healthy and happy partnership. Your spouse should not be competing with your kids for attention. But if they are competing, your partner should win every time. This is the consensus of researchers and family experts, and it takes some serious contemplation to fully grasp that this advice should be heeded.

If you think deeply about it, children need to know that their parents love not only them, but each other too.

Their sense of security grows as they see their parents loving each other. When the parental team breaks down, children become the biggest losers. It’s so important that you not only play on the same team, but that you prioritise your relationship and continue growing together. The sleep deprivation, and challenge of raising little versions of yourselves is certainly not easy. The days go quickly and it’s easy to fall into the trap of Groundhog Day, merely giving each other tired nods as you cross paths in the kitchen.

Fact of the matter is, your children will be worse off from your healthy partnership ending, than they would be from spending some time away from you for date nights or a holiday.

The largest proportion of couples separating and divorcing are those who have been married for 9 years or less, which is about 43 percent of divorces. Couples who have been together for 20 years or more are now said to be experiencing a "20-year itch". The Australian Institute of Family Studies (AIFS) has found the risk of divorcing after 20 years of marriage has doubled in a generation. The first 10 years of marriage still remains the danger period for most Australian couples - but the latest data points to the 20-year itch as another high divorce time. This trend can be attributed to a number of factors, but one that gets thrown around the most is that parents are staying together “because of the kids”. So, when they become “empty nesters”, the kids and other distractions that have kept them from acknowledging their lack of connection and fulfilment can no longer be ignored.

do together. Think of it as a practice test for when the kids do leave home - what will your life together be like?

What activities do you want to do together? If you don’t have any shared interests - this will be a good time to start finding some. Whether it be hiking, cards, bowling, cycling, fishing, arts… anything you can enjoy together as a couple. It’s great to talk about life after kids and what you want to be doing together, not only once they leave home, but also when your working life ends and you have more free time. It’s a time to ensure that you are on the same page for your future, and work on any areas of your relationship that may need attention. It’s better to start now than to grow apart. A maplemoon is a way to have some time together where you can remember what it was like BC (before children), let your hair down a little and drop some of your usual responsibilities.

As parents, we need to remember that we are our children’s number one role models. Showing them what a healthy and loving relationship looks like is one of the best things we can expose them to. Like preventing illness, we need to prevent complacency and boredom in our relationship by keeping the spark alive. Just as we schedule things like exercise, we need to schedule quality time with our spouse.

Taking time out to 100 percent focus on your relationship with weekly or fortnightly dinners, a walk down the beach, the odd weekend away together, or a maplemoon is vital for a healthy and happy relationship.

Sure, it’s super weird to go on a holiday without the kids.

First thing you’ll notice is how peaceful life is. Second is how much easier it is to get to things on time. Third is the brain space it frees up only having to think of each other. The quality time together to laugh, have fun and be adults (and maybe a little bit childish) is something I highly recommend.

A maplemoon is a holiday (7 days I think is perfect) where you get to reconnect and find new passions to

I hope I’ve inspired you to take some time out and plan your own maplemoon - I’m sure this term will catch on!

1. What's a hobby you think we could get into now and

6. How much money do you think we will need to

continue to do when we retire?

2. What are 10 fun things you'd like to do with the kids before they move out of home?

3. What are 10 life skills that you think we should teach the kids before they move out of home?

4. When you think about our days of retirement what does a typical day or week look like for us?

5. What do you think my best trait is?

have to retire?

7. What are some ideas we could do now to build our future wealth?

8. What are ten things we should do before we are too old to do them?

9. What's one thing you'd like to improve and yourself and why?

10. When and where should we do our next Maplemoon?

www.pakmag.com.au | June 2022 39

Daddy Diary

Daddy Diary If you’re the parent of offspring in grades 3, 5, 7, or 9, your kid most likely just did something.

I don’t mean “something” like that time my son tried to press sultanas into a powerpoint, I mean something much more special and important. NAPLAN TESTING. The assessment is (and I lifted this directly off their website) used by governments, education authorities, and schools to determine whether young Australians are meeting important goals in literacy and numeracy…

Simple.

But not really.

The problem with tests is that they don’t test everything. And if you think about it, they don’t actually test that much at all.

Sure, an exam can tell you if Matilda (our Grade 3’er) can read, write, and add and subtract. It can tell you so much about that stuff. But what it can’t tell you is that Matilda is an exceptional dancer. Her dancing blows my mind. She moves like a butterfly - it’s beautiful.

Something else the NAPLAN results can’t tell you is that she draws pictures that constantly have me thinking someone much older must have drawn them - they’re incredible. The test doesn’t tell the marker (probably a computer) that Matilda is constantly writing little notes professing her love for her mother, brother and myself. It doesn’t show that she is sweet, caring and generous. NAPLAN simply cannot highlight the real her at all. Not even close.

My point (and yes, I am getting to one) is that tests and exams are hugely important in education and life in general. No doubt about it, but they absolutely don’t define us. Our kids are so much more than a score on a piece of paper.

I, like so many others, was academically shocking at school. The worst! But I landed on my feet. I even managed to turn some of what many thought were flaws (talking underwater with a mouth full of marbles) into a career. Go figure?

Big love to all the teachers and staff running our schools. You do a phenomenal job in tough conditions.

And even more love to the kids sitting exams. Whenever they happen to fall, you have so much wonderful life ahead of you. Ain’t nothing going to stop you.

Cliffo Hit 103.1

www.pakmag.com.au | June 2022 41

Entertainment

Check it Out Palm Creek Folk Festival When: 9 - 12 June / 6.00pm Where: Footshill Station More info: www.palmcreek.com.au Palm Creek Folk Festival is one of North Queensland’s biggest live music weekends with camping, workshops, markets, kid’s festival, dancing, and more. Now in its 31st year, the festival features the best talent our region has to offer including local artists, workshops, food and retail stalls, and of course the kids Fest. Cost: $50.00 - $280.00.

North Australian Festival of Arts (NAFA)

Edward the Emu

When: 10 June - 10 July Where: Various locations More info: www.nafa-tsv.com.au

When: 3 June / 10.00am / 12.00pm Where: Burdekin Theatre More info: www.burdekintheatre.com.au

Townsville City Council presents a month-long festival showcasing artistic, cultural, and lifestyle events with hundreds of different performances, experiences, and activities for the whole family to enjoy. This year, the NAFA Festival hub will be centrally located at Jezzine Barracks, Brigadier North Park, the Parade Ground, and the Crossed Boomerang Amphitheatre. Check out the full program online.

Based on the books, this puppet show is an event for the whole family. We follow the emus Edward and Edwina as they hilariously navigate life, seeking to find their place in the world. Edward the Emu is convinced that the other creatures in the zoo are more popular. Determined to have fun, he breaks ranks and along the way, finds Edwina!

Meanwhile, unaware of the birds’ internal worlds, their human keepers are in hot pursuit to restore order to the zoo. Cost: / $15.00 / Ages 4 - 10.

Townsville’s Festival of Stories When: 16 - 18 June Where: Various libraries and Riverway More info: www.nafa-tsv.com.au Within NAFA is Townsville’s very own Festival of Stories A variety of events with a range of speakers and authors, immersive discussions, and workshops. There’s events suitable for the whole family, and some not so much, so make sure to check out the full programme on page 25 and get involved.

Eco Fiesta When: 4 - 5 June Where: Anderson Gardens More info: www.townsville.qld.gov.au This year’s Eco Fiesta has a particular focus on bees and includes a world record attempt of the Waggle Dance. This dance is based on Honeybees and the way they communicate in a dance language to point out the location of resources that keep hives alive. The weekend includes guest speakers, an education hub with free workshops, live entertainment, fun activities for the kids, market and exhibit stalls, and a free sprinkler swap. There’s something for the whole family! Free entry.

Free Family Movie Night at The Oasis When: Sat, 4 June, 6.00 – 9.00 pm Where: The Oasis Townsville More info: www.theoasistownsville.org.au Bring a blanket and enjoy watching Space Jam with the whole family. Pizza is available to order from the Dirty Boots Cafe, however, once the movie starts there may be a little bit of a wait, so feel free to come in and pre-order your pizza.

42 June 2022 | www.pakmag.com.au

Beauty and the Beast When: 2 - 4 June / Various sessions Where: Townsville Civic Theatre More info: www.stpatscollege.qld.edu.au This school musical harnesses the talents of students across three Catholic Colleges: Ignatius Park College, St Margaret Mary's College, and St Patrick's College Townsville. The story is based on the fairytale of Beauty and the Beast. Transformed into a monstrous beast, a young prince must learn to love someone and earn their love in return. Will he succeed and break the spell? Cost: $28.00 - $39.00.

Australian Italian Festival When: 4 - 5 June / 10.00am Where: TYTO Parklands More info: www.australianitalianfestival.com.au Held annually in the Hinchinbrook Shire, the Australian Italian Festival is one of the longest running cultural festivals in Australia. Bring the family along to enjoy the unique food and entertainment and explore the natural wonders of the region.

Cost: $9.00 - $26.00.

Townsville All British Day 2022 When: 4 - 5 June / 9.00am - 2.00pm Where: The Strand, North Ward More info: www.jagnq.com Proudly hosted by the Jaguar Car Club of North Queensland, this free event is a fun day out for motoring enthusiasts. Come and see the best display of classic and new British cars and motorcycles in North Queensland, and enjoy live entertainment including music, a trophy presentation, coffee, food, and more.

Wilbur the Optical Whale When: 16 June / 10.00am - 6.45pm Where: Townsville Civic Theatre More info: www.townsville.qld.gov.au Wilbur the Optical Whale is a story about friendship, acceptance, and celebrating differences.

One day while playing, Wilbur and his best friend Cecil are set upon by the Starfish Meanie Gang. Together they have to find a way out of this situation, and you can help them in their quest.

Set in an underwater world, Wilbur the Optical Whale is full of fun, stunning circus tricks, digital and visual imagery, music, and interactive play. Cost: $15.00 - $20.00

Community Noticeb o ard

Abseil for Health - World Record Attempt When: 4 June / 6.00am / $40.00 / 16 + Where: Queensland Country Bank Stadium

Infant Mental Health Week Running annually 13 - 19 June, infant mental health provides an opportunity to discuss the importance of babies’ mental health as well as the issues that affect it. The 2022 theme is ‘Understanding Early Trauma’. Find out more at www.aaimh.org.au and www.tweddle.org.au

Townsv il

le NAID

Queensland Fire and Emergency Services and Outer Limits Adventure Fitness have joined forces to fundraise in support of Brighter Lives Townsville Hospital Foundation. This is not just another fundraiser, it is also an attempt to break the current world record (1,350 abseilers in 12 hours) for the most number of abseilers off the roof of a stadium. Book online and support a great cause. 100 percent of the proceeds go towards the fundraiser. www.outerlimitsadventure.com.au

o e e Micr Final Fr

O C We

For Indig ek enous a nd nonIndigen ous Aus tralians join tog to ether a nd reco the valu gnise able an d contin contribu uing tion tha t Aborig Torres S inal and trait Isla nd have m ade to th er Australians eir coun www.to try. wnsville naidoc.c om.au

Swing and Salsa Sundays on The Strand This is a free, family friendly event on 12 June, 4.00pm - 6.00pm. The afternoon will include social dancing, demonstrations and mini workshops. www.swingdancingtownsville.com

chippin

g D ay

.00pm 0am - 2 entre une / 9.0 J option C 15 d : A n e d n a Wh re a u Animal C .qld.gov.a Where: wnsville o .t w w fo: w ping More in icrochip g free m n in ri e ts ff a o c ncil is pproved The cou n gs and a o o k d o d o b re d to registe ind out more an le. F Townsvil site. the web

44 June 2022 | www.pakmag.com.au Please confirm the above details are correct before visiting during these uncertain times.We have done our best to ensure all details are correct at time of print.

The Push-Up Challenge Push for better mental health and suicide prevention. Go solo or grab some mates and challenge yourself to 3,139 push-ups during 1 - 24 June.

Aim for 25, 50, 75 or 100 percent of the push-up target. You can spread them out across the days, or even do alternatives such as sit-ups, squats, or other tailored exercises.

Use your challenge to fundraise for one of three beneficiaries; Lifeline, Movember, or our own charity Push For Better. Fundraising is optional but is a great chance to support critical mental health services across Australia.

Get fit, have fun, learn about mental health and help shine a spotlight on the number of Australians who died by suicide in 2020. www.thepushupchallenge.com.au

Bowel Cancer Awareness Month June is Bowel Cancer Awareness Month - Bowel Cancer Australia’s main event to raise awareness of Australia’s second deadliest cancer, as well as raise funds for the community-funded charity.

The organisation is dedicated to prevention, early diagnosis, research, quality treatment, and the best care for everyone affected by bowel cancer.

Bowel cancer claims the lives of 101 Australians every week, that’s 5,255 people a year - but it’s one of the most treatable types of cancer if found early. While the risk of bowel cancer increases significantly with age, the disease doesn’t discriminate. 293 Australians will be diagnosed with bowel cancer this week - 15,206 people a year.

Get Involved!

We’d love to hear from you! Head to www.paktownsville.com.au/community to submit community news or a notice, and also view the full community noticeboard online.

Support Bowel Cancer Awareness Month register your interest, fundraise and order an awareness pack. www.bowelcanceraustralia.org

www.pakmag.com.au | June 2022 45

What’s On WEDNESDAY 1 JUNE The Percivals 2022 Runs until 3 July Perc Tucker Regional Gallery 10.00am - 5.00pm / FREE / G Townsville City Galleries The Push-Up Challenge Runs until 24 June www.thepushupchallenge.com.au THURSDAY 2 JUNE Beauty and the Beast Presented by St Patrick’s College, Ignatius Park College and St Margaret Mary’s College Runs until 4 June Townsville Civic Theatre Various sessions / $28.00 $39.00 / G www.stpatscollege.qld.edu.au FRIDAY 3 JUNE Edward the Emu Burdekin Theatre 10.00am / 12.00pm / $15.00 / Ages 4 - 10 www.burdekintheatre.com.au David Strassman The Chocolate Diet TECC 8.00pm / $50.00 - $80.00 / M www.tecc.net.au SATURDAY 4 JUNE Australian Italian Festival Runs until 5 June TYTO Parklands 10.00am / $9.00 - $26.00 / G www.australianitalianfestival. com.au Kirwan State Schook Open Day Also runs 16 June Kirwan State School Check their socials for more info Kirwan State School Eco Fiesta Runs until 5 June Anderson Gardens 9.00am / FREE / G www.townsville.qld.gov.au MONDAY 6 JUNE World of Musicals TECC 7.30pm / $60.00 - $95.00 / PG www.tecc.net.au TUESDAY 7 JUNE The Studio Film making, blogging, podcasts, music production, design and much more. Runs weekly until 46 June 2022 | www.pakmag.com.au

With HIT 103.1’s Cliffo & Gabi

21 June City Library Aitkenvale 6.00pm - 8.30pm / FREE / Ages 12 - 17 www.townsville.qld.gov.au

Speak to an Audience Coaching Workshop Flinders St Library, Level 1 12.00pm - 1.00pm / $10.00 / G www.nafa-tsv.com.au

Through our Eyes An event that reflects on what First Nations people of the East Coast of Australia would have seen when the Endeavour sailed past 252 years ago.

Various locations 5.00pm - 9.00pm / FREE www.nafa-tsv.com.au

Out of Sight, Out of Mind Runs until 10 June Museum of Tropical Queensland 9.30am - 4.00pm / FREE with museum admission / G www.nafa-tsv.com.au

THURSDAY 9 JUNE Townsville Speed Careering 2022 TAFE Pimlico Campus 9.00am - 11.30am / FREE / G www.tafeqld.edu.au Australia’s Biggest Afternoon Tea High Tea fundraising hosted by Year 10 - 12 hospitality students.

Calvary Christian College 4.00pm - 6.00pm / $20.00 / G www.calvarycc.qld.edu.au Palm Creek Folk Festival Runs until 12 June Footshill Station 6.00pm / $50.00 - $280.00 / G www.palmcreek.com.au FRIDAY 10 JUNE Biggest Morning Tea Townsville RSL 10.30am / $20.00 bookings required / G www.townsvillersl.com.au Cowboys vs Dragons Queensland Country Bank Stadium 8.00pm / FREE - $25.00 / G www.cowboys.com.au Rouge Runs until 19 June NAFA Spiegeltent 8.00pm/ $69.00 - $640.00 / 15 + www.nafa-tsv.com.au The Percivals Runs until 3 July Perc Tucker Regional Gallery 10.00am / FREE / G www.nafa-tsv.com.au Transcendence Runs until 10 July The Drill Hall 10.00am / FREE / G www.nafa-tsv.com.au Michael Shafar The Return of Shafar Runs until 12 June Pinocchi’s Palace, Festival Hub $22.00 - $25.00 / 15 + www.nafa-tsv.com.au

SATURDAY 11 JUNE Indian Classical/SemiClassical Various Locations, Festival Hub 6:30pm - 7:30pm / FREE / G www.nafa-tsv.com.au Tim Rogers’ Liquid Nights In Bohemia Heights NAFA Spiegeltent, Festival Hub 6:00pm - 7:00pm / $40.00 $45.00 / 15 + www.nafa-tsv.com.au SUNDAY 12 JUNE Get POPPED! Crossed Boomerang Amphitheatre 5.00pm - 9.00pm / FREE / G www.nafa-tsv.com.au Sugar and Spice The May Wirth 7:30pm - 8:30pm / $16.50 $22.00 / 15 + www.nafa-tsv.com.au Create Your Own Nordic Good Luck Charm The Drill Hall 3:00pm - 4:00pm / $25.00 / G www.nafa-tsv.com.au First Nations Writers Festival Runs until 10 July Various locations and times / FREE / G www.nafa-tsv.com.au Films From The Pacific Empire Theatre 5.00pm - 8.00pm / FREE / G www.nafa-tsv.com.au TUESDAY 14 JUNE Explore the Cathedral Artwork Runs until 5 July St. James’ Anglican Cathedral various times / FREE / G www.nafa-tsv.com.au Create Your Own Secret Decoder Wheel The Drill Hall 3.30pm - 4.30pm / $25.00 / G www.nafa-tsv.com.au

WEDNESDAY 15 JUNE Free Microchipping Day Animal Care and Adoption Centre 9.00am - 2.00pm / FREE / G, Bookings required P 13 48 10 Barbaroi Runs until 19 June The May Wirth Various times / $25.00 $30.00 / G www.nafa-tsv.com.au Trivia Runs until 6 July The Brewery 7.00pm - 9.00pm / FREE / G, Booking required www.nafa-tsv.com.au THURSDAY 16 JUNE Festival of Stories Runs until 18 June Townsville www.nafa-tsv.com.au FRIDAY 17 JUNE Miks Tunes Runs until 9 July Garden Bar various times / FREE / G www.nafa-tsv.com.au Paint & Sip Runs until 2 July Wasted Paint Studio 6.00pm - 9.00pm / $ TBC / 15 + www.nafa-tsv.com.au Corroboree Runs until 19 June Central Park various times / FREE / G www.nafa-tsv.com.au Launchpad for Business Success Riverway Stadium Function Room 6.30pm - 8.30pm / FREE / G www.nafa-tsv.com.au SATURDAY 18 JUNE Crazy Aussie Emus Tipsy Doodle, Garbutt 6.30pm - 9.30pm / $48.60 / 8 + www.tipsydoodle.com.au Parentmedic Baby/Child First Aid Public session Infant CPR, Choking, Fevers, Rashes, Allergies & Anaphylaxis, Poisons, Burns, Head Injuries and more.

Let’s Talk Birth, Gulliver 9:30 am - 11:30 am / $88.00 / Baby Friendly www.parentmedicnorthqld.co

Writers From The Greater Pacific, Interviews & Questions Riverway, The Grove 1.30am - 1.00pm / FREE / G www.nafa-tsv.com.au Saturday Concert Series Runs until 9 July St. James’ Anglican Cathedral 4.00pm - 5.00pm / FREE / G www.nafa-tsv.com.au

Drum and Dance Crossed Boomerang Amphitheatre 6.00pm - 6.40pm / FREE / G www.nafa-tsv.com.au WEDNESDAY 22 JUNE Films From The Pacific Empire Theatre 5.00pm - 8.00pm / FREE / G www.nafa-tsv.com.au

33 1/3 Runs until 19 June The May Wirth 2.00pm - 3.00pm / $5.00 - $10.00 /G www.nafa-tsv.com.au

YUCK Circus Runs until 3 July The May Wirth various times / $32.00 $34.00 / 13 + www.nafa-tsv.com.au

Luke Heggie and Michelle Brasier LIVE! NAFA Spiegeltent 6.00pm - 7.00pm / $30.00 $40.00 / 15 + www.nafa-tsv.com.au

Le Coup Runs until 26 June NAFA Spiegeltent various times / $69.00 $560.00 / 15 + www.nafa-tsv.com.au

Strike up the Band St. James’ Anglican Cathedral 7.30pm - 9.00pm / $10.00 / G www.nafa-tsv.com.au Wild Ideas Story Starter Raintree Grove 9.30am / FREE / G www.nafa-tsv.com.au

Of Mice and Men Runs until 2 July Crossed Boomerang Amphitheatre 2.00pm - 2.50pm / $15.00 $20.00 / G www.nafa-tsv.com.au THURSDAY 23 JUNE

Wilbur the Optical Whale Storywalk Raintree Grove 9.30am / FREE / G www.nafa-tsv.com.au

Children are Stinky Runs until 26 June The May Wirth 7.00pm - 9.30pm / $20.00 $160.00 / 15 + www.nafa-tsv.com.au

SUNDAY 19 JUNE

Brass Monkeys Runs until 26 June The May Wirth 11.00am - 11.50am / $15.00 $20.00 / G www.nafa-tsv.com.au

Reef Fish Painting in Gouache Murky Waters Studio and Gallery 9.00am - 12.00pm / $50.00 $65.00 / PG www.murkywatersstudio.com Indian Classical/SemiClassical Various Locations, Festival Hub 6:30pm - 7:30pm / FREE / G www.nafa-tsv.com.au An Hour of Brass Crossed Boomerang Amphitheatre 5.00pm - 6.00pm / FREE / G www.nafa-tsv.com.au

FRIDAY 24 JUNE Boho Bovine’ Paint & Sip - NAFA Tipsy Doodle, Garbutt 6.30pm - 9.30pm / $48.56 / 8 + www.tipsydoodle.com.au Andy Brassett Runs until 26 June Empire Theatre various times / $5.00 - $7.00 / G www.nafa-tsv.com.au Wheels and Steel Runs until 10 July Jezzine Gallery 10.00am - 4.00pm / FREE / G www.nafa-tsv.com.au French Diamond Cabaret Runs until 25 June The May Wirth 7.30pm - 8.30pm / $35.00 / 15 + www.nafa-tsv.com.au Speed: The Movie, the Play Runs until 3 July Crossed Boomerang Amphitheatre Various times / $35.00 - $44.00 / 15+ www.nafa-tsv.com.au Wayfinder Runs until 25 June Civic Theatre 7.30pm - 8.30pm / $20.00 $29.00 / G www.nafa-tsv.com.au SATURDAY 25 JUNE Cheesemaking Workshop Persian Feta, Camembert, and Blue Vein Cheese Arcadian Surf Life Saving Club 9.30am - 12.30pm / $85.50 $159.30 / PG Permaculture RealFood

Finding My Groove Empire Theatre 6.00pm - 7.00pm / $17.00 / G www.nafa-tsv.com.au

Adopt A Pet Craft Activity Plush toy workshop.

Runs until 1 July Fairfield Central 9.30am - 1.00pm / $5.00 / G www.fairfieldcentral.com.au

The Fizzy Milk 50 Minute Crackup Runs until 1 July Pinocchi’s Palace various times / $10.00 $70.00 / 15 + www.nafa-tsv.com.au

Sourdough and Fermented Foods Workshop Arcadian Surf Life Saving Club, 1.30pm - 4.30pm / $85.50 $159.30 / PG Permaculture RealFood

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

Upper Ross Community Fun Day Charles Maroney Park 10.00am - 2.00pm / FREE Community GRO Taylors Beach Family Fishing Tournament Taylors Beach QLD 6.00am / $25.00 / G P: 0418 716 829 TheatreiNQ Writers Festival PlayGround Runs until 26 June The ClubHouse 1.00pm - 7.00pm / $35.00 $85.00 / G www.nafa-tsv.com.au SUNDAY 26 JUNE Alice Cotton Empire Theatre 2.00pm - 2.50pm / $10.00 $15.00 / G www.nafa-tsv.com.au Kathryn and the Overbytes Empire Theatre 7.00pm - 8.00pm / $10.00 $15.00 / G www.nafa-tsv.com.au Circus Wonderland A Neverland Adventure Runs until 10 July NAFA Spiegeltent Various sessions / $30.00 $112.00 / G www.nafa-tsv.com.au Djuki Mala Civic Theatre 7.30pm - 8.30pm / $40.00 $50.00 / G www.nafa-tsv.com.au Strike up the Band Gregory Street Headland Amphitheatre 2.00pm - 3.30pm / FREE / G www.nafa-tsv.com.au MONDAY 27 JUNE Grill’d Kids Masterclass Runs until 29 June Grill’d Townsville locations 9.00am - 10.00am / $15.00 / G E: info@grilldtowsnville.com

www.pakmag.com.au | June 2022 47

What’s On MONDAY 27 JUNE JCU STAR Program Chemistry & Maths Methods Workshop 1 School Tuition and Revision program for Year 12. Runs until 1 July JCU Townsville, Bebegu Yumba Campus 8.15am - 12.15pm / $325.00 $375.00 www.jcu.edu.au/star-program TUESDAY 28 JUNE Exquisite Portraits Runs until 1 July Perc tucker Regional Gallery 10.00am - 12.00pm / FREE / G www.nafa-tsv.com.au WEDNESDAY 29 JUNE JCU STAR Program Chemistry & Maths Methods Workshop 2 School Tuition and Revision program for Year 12.

Runs until 1 July JCU Townsville, Bebegu Yumba Campus 8.15am - 12.15pm / $325.00 $375.00 www.jcu.edu.au/star-program Roald Dahl and The Imagination Seekers Runs until 2 July Empire Theatre various times / $15.00 - $20.00 /G www.nafa-tsv.com.au Spider’s Web Runs until 2 July Pimlico Performing Arts Centre various times / $15.00 - $25.00 /G www.nafa-tsv.com.au

Finucane and Smith’s Grande Dance Hall!

Civic Theatre 6.30pm - 8.00pm / $40.00 $50.00 / G www.nafa-tsv.com.au Winnie the Pooh Runs until 3 July Perfume Gardens 10.00am - 11.30am / $8.00 $60.00 / G www.nafa-tsv.com.auMonday 27 June THURSDAY 30 JUNE Comedy Hypnotist Matt Hale: Absolute Chaos!

Runs until 3 July Empire Theatre various times / $25.00 - $35.00 / G www.nafa-tsv.com.au Silent Disco Walking Tours Runs until 10 July Jezzine Barracks various times / $15.00 - $25.00 / G www.nafa-tsv.com.au

With Triple M’s Pricey

various times / $15.00 $20.00 / G www.nafa-tsv.com.au

Pot-Pourri Runs until 9 July Various locations 7.00pm - 8.30pm / $40.00 $45.00 / G www.nafa-tsv.com.au

Merry-Go-Round The May Wirth 5.30pm - 6.30pm / FREE / G www.nafa-tsv.com.au

Bang!

Runs until 9 July The May Wirth 7.30pm - 8.15pm / $35.00 $40.00 / 15 + www.nafa-tsv.com.au

SATURDAY 2 JULY Smile - Songs from the Golden Age of Cinema Drawing Room at Hoi Polloi various times / $20.00 - $25.00 / G www.nafa-tsv.com.au

Chaos Empire Theatre 4.00pm - 5.00pm / $15.00 $70.00 / G www.nafa-tsv.com.au

SUNDAY 3 JULY

FRIDAY 1 JULY

Dinosaur Time Machine Runs until 10 July The May Wirth various times / $15.00 - $90.00 / Ages 3 - 9 www.nafa-tsv.com.au

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

FRIDAY 8 JULY

Dragon NAFA Main Stage 7.00pm - 8.30pm / FREE / G www.nafa-tsv.com.au

Boy and Bear NAFA Main Stage 5.00pm - 6.00pm / FREE / G www.nafa-tsv.com.au

The Alphabet of Awesome Science Runs until 4 July The May Wirth

Rebel Runs until 10 July Empire Theatre $25.00 - $30.00 / 12 + www.nafa-tsv.com.au

By a Thread Runs until 2 July NAFA Main Stage 5.30pm - 6.30pm / FREE / G www.nafa-tsv.com.au

Finucane & Smith’s Travelling Dance Hall Diva Pala Civic Theatre 8.00pm - 9.30pm / $40.00 $50.00 / 15 + www.nafa-tsv.com.au

The 7 Deadly Sins Runs until 3 July NAFA Spiegeltent various times / $40.00 $45.00 / 15 + www.nafa-tsv.com.au

www.nafa-tsv.com.au

SATURDAY 9 JULY Mel Buttle and Claire Hooper LIVE! NAFA Spiegeltent 8.00pm - 9.00pm / $30.00 $40.00 / 15 + www.nafa-tsv.com.au

WEDNESDAY 6 JULY

THURSDAY 7 JULY

Chaotique Runs until 10 July Empire Theatre 4.00pm - 5.00pm / $30.00 $35.00 / 15 + www.nafa-tsv.com.au

An Evening with JC and The Tropics Runs until 10 July Townsville Choral Society various times / $15.00 - $30.00 / G

Dance Tropics Dance NAFA Main Stage 4.30pm - 10.00pm / FREE / G www.nafa-tsv.com.au

www.pakmag.com.au | June 2022 49

Regular Events MONDAYS Qi Gong Runs sporadically until 19 December Inner Light Meditation Centre 5.30pm - 6.30pm / $15.00 / G www.innerlightmeditation centre.com TUESDAYS Toddler Time During school term.

Townsville Stadium 9.00am / FREE (bookings required) / for carers and toddlers aged 24 + months www.townsville.qld.gov.au Baby Rhyme Time During school term.

Townsville Stadium 10.30am / FREE (bookings required) / for parents and babies 0 to 24 months www.townsville.qld.gov.au North Queensland Camera Group First Tuesday of each month QCWA – Magnetic Garbutt First meet FREE / G www.nqcg.org.au Landcare Site Day - Castle Hill Community revegetation effort.

Runs until 28 June

Castle Hill Landcare Site Goats Track 8.00am - 10.00am / FREE www.cdtli.org.au

E flashbackdancetownsville@ outlook.com

WEDNESDAYS

Yoga for Happiness 5 week programs, run weekly until 15 December Townsville South State School 6.30pm - 8.00pm / $100.00 / M www.employsure.com.au/ seminars

Baby Rhyme Time During school term.

CityLibraries Thuringowa Central 9.30am / FREE (bookings required) / for parents and babies 0 to 24 months www.townsville.qld.gov.au Toddler Time During school term.

CityLibraries Thuringowa Central 10.30am / FREE (bookings required) / for carers and toddlers aged 24 + months www.townsville.qld.gov.au Zumba with Merryl Runs weekly until 22 June, except public / school holidays Heatley Community Centre 6.00pm / $10.00 per session / G - All ages whatson.townsville.qld.gov.au Flashback Dance BYO Baby Class Runs weekly Railway Estate Community Centre 12.30pm / $12.00 / G

THURSDAYS

Playtime at the Library with First 5 Forever Runs weekly Hinchinbrook Shire Library 10.30am / FREE / Ages 0 - 5 www.library.hinchinbrook.qld. gov.au Baby Rhyme Time During school term.

CityLibraries Thuringowa Central 10.30am / FREE (bookings required) / for parents and babies 0 to 24 months www.townsville.qld.gov.au Storytime During school term.

CityLibraries Thuringowa Central 9.30am / FREE (bookings required) / for carers and children aged 3 years + www.townsville.qld.gov.au

FRIDAYS Riverway Movie Screening Runs every third Fri until 17 June Riverway Oval 6.30pm - 8.30pm / FREE / G whatson.townsville.qld.gov.au Moulin Rogue Runs until 17 December Stage Door Theatre Restaurant, Magnetic Island 5.00pm - 9.00pm / $95.00 / PG www.stagedoortheatre.com.au Little Learners Runs weekly during school terms Museum of Tropical Queensland 10.00am - 10.45am / FREE / children aged 3-6 www.athome.qm.qld.gov.au Breathwork Sessions Runs weekly until 24 June Inner Light Meditation Centre 7.00pm - 8.00pm / FREE / G www.innerlightmeditation centre.com SATURDAYS Establishing the Basics - Yoga 5 week yoga programs, Runs until 17 December Townsville South State School 8.00am - 9.15am / $100 per course / M www.yogaaspirations.com.au/

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

Bluewater Twilight Markets February - December Second Saturday of the month 4.00pm - 8.00pm Bluewater Community Centre Bushland Beach Markets March - December First and third Sunday of the month 8.00am – 12.00pm On the foreshore, End of Mount Low Parkway Renegade Handmade Markets Second Sunday of the month 8.00am – 12.00pm Marian School Hall

50 June 2022 | www.pakmag.com.au

Balgal Beach Markets First Saturday of the month 8.00am - 1.00pm The Esplanade, Balgal Beach

Cotters Markets Every Sunday 8.30am - 1.00pm Flinders St

Strand Night Markets March - December First Friday of the month 5.00pm - 9.30pm Strand Park, North Ward

Magnetic Island Markets April - January Every Sunday 9.00am – 2.00pm Foreshore in Horseshoe Bay

Mundingburra Markets Third Sunday of the month 7.30am - 12.00pm Mundingburra State School Willows Rotary Markets Every Sunday 7.30am - 11.30am Willows Shopping Centre Car Park

Mercer Lane Markets April - December First Saturday of the month From 8.30am – 12.00pm Lannercost St, Ingham New Look Conroy Markets March - December Second Saturday of the month

8.00am – 12.00pm Conroy Hall, Ingham Wulguru Markets Every Sunday 7.00am – 12.00pm Wulguru Soccer Grounds 14 Edison Street, Wulguru, Ingham Raintree Community Markets First and Third Sunday of the month from 7.00am - 12.00pm Rotary Park, Ingham Forrest Beach Markets May - October Fourth Sunday of every month 8.00am – 12.00pm 9 - 11 Palm St, Forrest Beach

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