PakMag Townsville - Oct 2017 Issue 83

ISSUE: Oct 2017

83

TOWNSVILLE

THE

IMPORTANCE OF READING

HAPPY HALLOWEEN!

CONSEQUENTIAL DISCIPLINE

DOES YOUR

FAMILY HAVE A HOBBY? YOU CONCERNED ABOUT YOUR CHILDS COMMUNICATION? ARE

SPOOKY SPREE FREE www.pakmag.com.au | October 2017 1

CONTENTS 04 Entertainment: Check It Out

Boo! Welcome to our October Edition of PakMag.

07 The Thing Is...

The kids are back at school. Yay, I hear you cry! Well, don’t cheer too loud as the big one is coming your way soon; summer holidays! Why not start planning now for the next school holidays? Check out our Best of Magnetic Island feature to find out why you should consider this North Queensland treasure for your next school holiday.

With Bree James

08 Feature: Does your Family

have a Hobby

11 Parenting:

Consequential Discipline

15 Education: The Arts,

the Key to Developing

Great Life Skills

17 Health 19 The Best Daily Workout 20 Bump, Bub and Beyond

Ever hear your kids say, “I’m bored.” Silly question, right? Well, we have a solution. Our feature on family hobbies gives some great tips on the types of hobbies you could look at as a family. Not only do hobbies become ‘go-to’ activities for busting boredom, but they really help you bond as a family too.

This month we look into Communication Disorders in our Challenges with Children series. It’s an eye-opening look into how communication has an extremely strong impact in a child’s development, and how speech pathologists and other health professionals can help children with communication issues.

We’re also all about Halloween this month. You can also check out our best Halloween party tips on page 38 to get into the spooky spirit!

We hope you have a Spooktacular month, and until next time, don’t forget to tell them you read it in PakMag!

23 What’s On Guide 25 Mini Mag 33 Communication Disorders

Bree James Grand Publishing Founder and Editor-in-Chief

37 Healthy Recipes

Contact Us: p 4053 3331 f 4053 3350 e admin@grandpublishing.com.au a Po Box 7433 Cairns Qld 4870 / Unit 5, 78 Anderson St, Manunda fb facebook.com/pakmagtownsville t #pakmag

38 Spooky Spree 40 Snapped 42 Mater Snapped 44 Home with Caro & Kingi:

Lovely Laundry

47 Business 48 Be Magnetised by

Magnetic Island

50 Daddy Diary

Grand Publishing Founder and Editor-in-Chief Bree James Operations Manager Rose Foster Graphic Designers Clare Winter Lise Mardon-Smith Sub-Editor Kate Moloney

Marketing to Families Experts Lisa Gillman Steph Bartram Janelle May Supply & Distribution Manager Gleisy Meireles Accounts Trent Stievano Media Intern Monique Saggers

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

Net Distribution Per Issue 10,000 CAB Publisher Statement Period ending 30th July 2018

www.pakmag.com.au | October 2017 3

Entertainment

CHECK IT OUT Light the Night When: Friday, 6 October 2017, 5.00pm to 8.30pm Where: Jezzine Barracks More Info: www.lightthenight.org.au An inspiring walk at Jezzine Barracks for the whole family.

Entertainment and food stalls will be available.

Townsville Grammar School Prep Information Nights

Calvary Christian College Spring Fair When: Friday, 6 October 2017, 5.00pm to 9.00pm Where: Calvary Christian College Spring Fair More Info: www.calvarycc.qld.edu.au Get down to this exciting evening for popup food trucks Townsville, cake stalls, silent auction, market stalls, live music, face painting and more.

5.00pm – Lantern collection opens, live entertainment 6.10pm – Lantern collection closes

When: Thursday, 19 October 2017, 6.00pm to 7.00pm at Annandale Campus

6.30pm – Onstage program of events and lantern raising ceremony

Where: Tuesday, 24 October 20117, 6.00pm to 7.00pm at North Shore Campus

7.00pm – Light the Night walk 8.30pm – Event concludes

More Info: www.tgs.qld.edu.au They only start once. Join the team at Townsville Grammar School for their information nights on 19 and 24 October.

Additional Prep and Year 1, 2018 places available.

Call 1800Grammar for more information.

Garage Sale Trail When: Saturday, 21 to Sunday, 22 October 2017 Where: Townsville More Info: www.garagesaletrail.com.au This is a festival of over 10,000 garage sales that happens in communities across Australia annually.

If you are looking to declutter or make some money, love the search for a unique bargain, or just want to take part in a fun community event, get involved.

The movement of reuse-loving, community minded individuals who come along on one weekend to clear out their pre-loved stuff, find treasure, meet the neighbours and have some fun.

Free Event

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Halloween Kid’s Night Spooktacular When: Friday, 27 October 2017, 6.00pm to 9.00pm Where: Brothers Leagues Club, Townsville More Info: Facebook/brotherstsv Get along to the annual Kid’s Night Spooktacular to celebrate Halloween!

Rides, face painting, lots and lots of candy, best-dressed competition, kid’s Halloween games with instant prizes up for grabs, kid’s Halloween movie screenings and popcorn plus staff in costume.

Go dressed in costume for some great photo opportunities!

FREE EVENT

Save the Date North QLD Babies and Kids Market When: Saturday, 18 November 2017, 8.30am to 12.30pm Where: Emmaus Hall – Ryan Catholic College More Info: www.nthqldbabiesandkidsmarket.com Good quality pre-loved, new and handmade items plus information and promotional stalls.

Hop along and join them for an exciting morning shopping for bargains and beautifully handmade items.

Adult $2.00 | Children are Free

The Thing Is...

STORY Bree James

What the heck has happened to twenty seventeen? As the year is starting to come to an end, I am looking back on the year and wondering if I achieved all the little things I wanted to achieve this year.

•• Go to my kids’ class and do reading. Fail so far.

•• Go to my kids’ after school sports to watch them play. Made it three times so far.

•• Have a weekend away with the girls. Fail so far.

•• Go to Pilates twice a week. Lucky to make it once a month.

•• Take my toenail polish off. No time, fifth coat looks ‘fabulous’ albeit a little, ok a lot, chunky in places, but who looks at feet anyway?

As every day goes by, we look at our children, and they seem older after every day at school. And we get little pangs of regret that we aren’t fitting enough quality time in with them. Kids sure do teach us about how valuable time is.

The thing is, I had to make a choice a long time ago, and that was to look at all the things I actually do do, rather than beat myself up about the things I don’t do for myself, my family, and those in my life. Because you know what? Dammit, I do a lot for them. Why the hell do we focus on what we haven’t done rather than what we actually have done, which is often more incredible than

these little things, that sure, mean a lot to us, but didn’t make the cut?

Yes, I want to be an incredible mum, partner, friend, business owner, leader, citizen of the world, daughter, sister, and many other things. But I realised that if I am not kind to myself, that if I beat myself up all the time mentally, telling myself I am a crappy person or crappy mum because I don’t make it to my child’s class every week like other mums, then I am going to die a little inside for comparing my life to others.

Comparison is the thief of joy. How can we be a good parent if we lose our sense of joy because we have beat ourselves up like egg whites till we are stiff and only good for baking? Ok, bad analogy, but you get my point.

So yes, I wish I had done all of the above list better this year. And yes, I am going to try and jam it all into the last two months of this year as much as I can and do better next year, that’s what some parents have to do.

Look at your kids, if they are happy, loved, and growing into little humans you are proud of, you are doing a pretty spectacular job, so be proud of yourself. This parenting thing is damn hard work.

www.pakmag.com.au www.pakmag.com.au | | October 2017 7

Feature

Does your family have a hobby?

STORY Meg O’Donnell (B. Ed) With the busy lives we all lead, it’s no surprise that come the weekend, sometimes we just want to lie on the couch and sleep. However having a hobby can not only keep you busy on the weekends, it can also keep you both physically and mentally healthy. People who participate in active hobbies get a boost essential for one’s heart, muscles and overall health. Aside from the positive effects to your body, they can also improve cognitive skills.

With time being so precious, a simple solution is to discover a hobby that you can enjoy as a family. Listed below are nine ideas that you can enjoy together as a group. Don’t be afraid to try something new.

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Feature

Get cooking Whether you enrol the family in structured cooking classes, or you simply try some new dishes on the weekends, involving your kids in the cooking process will always end with memories to keep. Not only will your children experience new dishes from other cuisines and cultures, but they will be learning lifelong skills.

Pack up and go camping Getting away from the hustle and bustle of our busy lives is exactly what every family needs from time to time. Switch off your electronic devices, and spend a few nights simply talking with your children and bonding as a family. Guaranteed, your children will remember eating marshmallows by the fire and learning to fish on the camping trip much more fondly than any gift you could buy them.

Take up bushwalking This is another simple hobby that the whole family can enjoy on a budget. Getting out there amongst nature gives the family a chance to reconnect, whilst the children (and you!) learn about our native flora and fauna. Start with some smaller trails with rest stops, and as the whole family become more experienced, you can work your way up to half day or full day hikes.

Support a sport Getting out to support your local team can be a great way to bond as a family. Whether it’s going to professional games or supporting your local league, there are so many sports to be a part of. Talk to your children and see which sports interest them. There may even be a local team for their age that they can join.

Discover your family history Exploring your family lineage can be an eye-opening experience that the whole family can appreciate.

Whether you consider an online service that will do the research for you, or you visit some older relatives, it is a valuable experience for a child to learn where they come from. Grandparents are an amazing resource of knowledge, but unfortunately, they won’t be around forever. Spending what time you can with them to learn about their lives and hear their stories will allow them to live on in your children’s memories forever.

Grow your own garden Next weekend, visit your local hardware store and head to the gardening section. No longer do you need a big backyard to grow your own vegetables, with vertical garden beds, and other space saving ideas. Start with something small and hardy like herbs, strawberries or

tomatoes, and work your way up from there. Not only does this give your children an education on how food is grown, but it also teaches them responsibility with watering and trimming. A bonus is that children who are picky eaters are more likely to try food that they have grown themselves.

Let’s go bike riding Bike riding is a healthy active hobby that the whole family can enjoy in good weather while teaching your children about road rules and safety. Bike riding is a great way for children (and adults) to get some healthy exercise outdoors and improves hand-eye coordination, as well as strengthening the larger muscles in the body.

These days, the whole family can enjoy biking, with trailers and baby seats readily available to attach to the adult’s bikes for those too little to ride their own.

Start a band You might not become the next Partridge Family, but gosh you are going to have some fun! Search your local area for someone who specialises in group lessons and learn a new instrument together, or if you have the time and money, you could choose a different instrument each and try to learn some songs together. Not only is this a fun way for your children to see you as an equal (learning the same skill from the beginning) but it nourishes their creative side and gives them a platform to access their emotional side through music.

Volunteer for an organisation Helping in the community is a great way to bond as a family. Children tend to be a little self-centred at times, as they are used to having everything done for them.

Allowing your children to see how other people live, and sometimes struggle, can open their eyes and get them thinking more about others. Sometimes we try to protect our children from the ‘less than perfect’ parts of life, but by giving them more responsibility within the community, you may be surprised by just how much your child can not only handle but also contribute.

Get the camera ready I know the article says nine hobbies, but here is a bonus one. Take a camera on your weekends while you participate with your family and take some photos.

Too many of our photos are posed these days, so try to catch some candid shots of your family enjoying not only their hobby but each other. Make sure someone else takes the camera off your hands occasionally, so that you can be in some photos too. At the end of the weekend, your family can go through the photos together, reminisce and create a scrapbook of your adventures.

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Parenting

Consequential Discipline STORY Meg O’Donnell (B. Ed)

Let’s be honest here; parenting can be a tough gig. Some days you are operating on no sleep, and unlike any other job in the world, it is almost the norm for your ‘boss’ to literally scream at you all day. Rewarding? Yes of course. But easy? No. It’s not just about keeping the kids alive, safe, clean and fed either. Once they get to that toddler stage, it is also our job to start teaching them how to become functional people in society by teaching them social skills, verbal cues, and all about the consequences of their actions.

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Parenting

Knowing that our actions have consequences is one of the most important truths to instil in our children.

While it is easy these days to shrug off a young child’s behaviour with a simple “he’s little and doesn’t know any better”, it is important that we strive to raise conscientious children who are aware that they decide their actions, and therefore they need to be willing to accept the consequences. By learning this valuable lesson, we can hope that they will then try to act with kindness and consideration as much as possible.

No matter the age, children like knowing what is expected of them and what will happen if they disobey.

They exceed in structured consistency and thrive when they feel secure in knowing that the rules have not changed from the day before. It should not be a surprise then, that children will learn quickly about cause and effect. This can, of course, be a little difficult for toddlers to understand at the beginning, but consequences (both negative and positive) are a vital part of functioning in society, and so there are certain ways that we can introduce this concept through learning experiences.

Firstly though, it is important to distinguish the differences between a consequence and a punishment.

A consequence is something that follows naturally from a person’s action or inaction, while a punishment is retribution or ‘getting back’ at someone for what they have done. As an example, Jamie sleeps in and in doing so missed the bus for school. A consequence would be having Jamie go to bed an hour earlier the next night so that he gets the sleep he needs. A punishment would be taking away his television time. One is linked and teaches Jamie a way to correct his behaviour, while the other is unrelated and doesn’t teach him anything in the long run.

As quoted by American Psychologist B.F Skinner, “A person who has been punished is not less inclined to behave in a given way; at best, he learns how to avoid punishment.”

It’s important that our children learn early on that what they do or say can have a chain reaction for not only themselves, but the world around them.

Teaching consequences in the early years begins with explaining natural consequences and then working up to personal consequences. “Look at that! Mummy spilt the milk, and so now there is a mess. What do you think happens now?” By verbally talking them through what has happened, they begin to see a direct link between

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mummy doing something, and how it will be followed up. This can go both ways, with positive consequences playing an important role as well. “Look at that! You studied really hard for that spelling test, and you got them all right!” Asking your child what they think will happen next helps them to better understand that a consequence is a flow on effect.

When it comes to using consequences in your behaviour management, it is important to make sure that you are implementing smaller consequences for minor infractions, and more serious consequences for more serious infractions. If we try to go out all ‘guns blazing’ every time our children do something wrong, they begin to lose sight of the big picture, and instead of teaching them about what choices they can make in the future, it just becomes all about trying to show them you are in charge, which can be counter-productive.

It is also important to be aware that what might not seem like a big consequence to you, might mean the world to your child. Removing phone privileges for an extended time from a teenager is a major consequence as, to many of today’s adolescents, a mobile phone is a prized possession. The same applies for a small child’s favourite toy. Again, to quote Skinner, “The consequences of an act affect the probability of it occurring again.” The trick is to apply an equal consequence to the infraction so that the child is not so overwhelmed by the consequence that they are unable to see or hear reason.

Like our children, we also need to think about the consequences of our own actions. This means dealing with our anger and disappointment from our children’s behaviour, as well as outside influences, in a productive way. We all know how tough parenting can be at times, and you can guarantee that every other parent out there has felt that same frustration; however, we need to try to be more aware of the consequences we ourselves will face if we do not handle a situation appropriately. Children learn so much more from what they see from their parents rather than what they hear.

And so ultimately, the best way that we can teach our children about consequences and taking responsibility for our actions is through how we conduct ourselves with the world around us.

Education

The arts, the key to developing great life skills STORY Leigh Boswell, General Manager, The Young Company.

We all want the best for our children, so when it comes to choosing which extra-curricular activities, it can be a difficult decision. If there’s an option that will develop social and emotional capabilities, help them do better in school and help them navigate their journey through to adulthood, then we’d be mad not to look into it.

Well, look no further than the arts.

Not only does participation in the arts help children to grow up to be self-confident, self-disciplined lifelong learners, it also nurtures key skills such as critical thinking, imagination, collaboration, problem-solving, communication, agility and empathy.

Decades worth of international research attests to the fact that the arts have a number of developmental benefits for children. Participation in the arts is among the most profoundly important and valuable ways to improve learning and promote success in a child’s development.

The Australian Curriculum groups the arts into five areas; dance, drama, media, music and visual arts.

Each has specific processes, skill bases and disciplines that they draw on. These different arts areas have some similar elements and approaches. These include knowing through doing and creating, with children learning to express ideas and emotions through voice, movement, actions and different expressive forms, all the while encouraging them to look at things from a different perspective.

‘soft skills’ or ‘non-academic’ areas including empathy building, confidence, motivation and engagement.

These essential life-skills are core components to raising a strong and resilient child.

The artistic experience accelerates the production of endorphins that naturally improve a child’s mindset and mental health well-being. Their cognitive development is rapidly advanced when learning through play.

It is particularly noteworthy to mention that it also helps develop children’s knowledge and understanding of social cues and their ability to step into someone else’s shoes, and in turn develop empathy. Giving your child an opportunity to take on a different persona provides them with an outlet or reason to be the extroverted king or queen, when at home they are the introverted one in the family. Studies have shown that experiencing the world from different perspectives helps children’s social development.

Art helps develop their cognitive, social and motor skills.

These are all great reasons to get your children involved in the arts especially during their early development.

But just as important is the fact that children delight in exploring and creating with art materials. As young children explore paint by putting it all over their hands, or create collages with torn paper, or dance or act on the stage, it's noticeable how involved they get in their activities. As they progress into school and beyond, art activities continue to provide opportunities for children’s brain development and mastery and is great for their self-esteem and creativity.

Current longitudinal research suggests that participation in arts based activities leads to improvements in many academic areas including literacy. It also impacts on

Art experiences help children to develop so many life skills so find out what interests your little one and start them on their art journey; you won’t regret it.

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Health

HEALTH Is your brain’s diet balanced?

Shoctober

STORY – Kate Moloney

October is the month that is nationally dedicated to cardiac arrest survival and is about raising awareness of the toll that sudden cardiac arrest is taking on our communities, and the importance of defibrillator awareness.

We all lead busy lives, and while we are constantly reminded to be vigilant about our physical health, how often do we think about the ‘mental nutrients’ that our brains need to function at their best?

David Rock and Dr Daniel J. Siegal designed The Healthy Mind Platter, which is comprised of seven daily essential mental activities to aid you to make sure you are bringing the right ingredients into your mental diet.

•• Sleep Time. Our brain needs rest too, and sleep allows it time to recover from the experiences of the day and consolidate learning.

•• Focus Time. This is when we make deep connections in the brain through challenges and by closely focusing on tasks in a goal oriented way.

•• Play Time. The time for making new connections in the brain through being spontaneous and creative, enjoying playful novel experiences.

•• Physical Time. Moving our body aerobically is an essential aspect that strengthens our brain in many ways.

•• Connecting Time. Appreciating the natural world around us and connecting with people, especially in person, activates our brain’s relational circuitry.

STORY Kate Moloney

Sudden cardiac arrest, also known as a ‘massive heart attack’ involves an interruption to the heart’s electrical system, causing unconsciousness and a lack of breathing and pulse. According to the Cardiac Arrest Survival Foundation, sudden cardiac arrest kills between 23,000 to 33,000 Australians each year.

That is more deaths than we lose to breast cancer and road crashes combined. It is known as the ‘silent killer’ as it can happen to anyone, anywhere of any age and at any time.

The reason raising awareness is so important is because cardiac arrest is treatable if defibrillation is done in time. Every minute counts. Automated External Defibrillators (AED) are located in train stations, airports, shopping centres and other busy public places, and the Cardiac Arrest Survival Foundation are working hard to improve people’s knowledge of these defibrillators so that lives can be saved.

•• Down Time. The brain’s chance to recharge, with non-focused, non-goal oriented time, where we let our mind wander and simply relax.

If you are thinking what can I do? You can help, by taking the time to read the information on their website www.shoctober.org.au and by watching their Survive in Five video. Spread the word and help share their message with your friends through Facebook www.facebook.com/CardiacArrestSurvival or Twitter - www.twitter.com/shoctober.

Make sure you fill your ‘mind’s plate’ with what it needs to be a healthy mind.

You just never know when this information could save the life of someone you love.

•• Time In. Our ‘me-time’, where we reflect internally, focusing on our thoughts and feelings to better integrate the brain.

TEST YOUR DNA At Calanna Whole Health Pharmacy, the team knows that each person is unique.

Get your DNA Test Kit from Calanna to find out how your body will respond to what you eat and drink, how you exercise and the medicines you take.

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Bump, Bub and Beyond

The best daily workout STORY Kate Moloney It’s not really talked about, yet according to the Continence Foundation of Australia, it affects one in three women who have had a baby. So, what are we all keeping quiet about? Incontinence.

Pregnant women are offered so much advice by seemingly everyone they meet, yet rarely is this advice in relation to bladder and bowel control problems post birth.

It is important to protect your pelvic floor muscles post birth, and there are a number things that you can do to assist them: •• Before you sneeze, cough, blow your nose or lift anything try to squeeze, lift and hold your pelvic floor muscles or cross your legs and squeeze them tightly together.

•• Don’t lift heavy loads on your own.

•• Don’t do exercises that involve bouncing.

•• Do pelvic floor muscle exercises.

Your pelvic floor tissues, muscles and nerves should mend in the first six months after giving birth. The key is regular pelvic floor muscle training. While these are very important post birth, they ideally should be done every day of your life.

The Continence Foundation of Australia recommends that you do the following exercises each day:

Of course, like a lot of things, this is all sometimes easier said than done. Especially when you throw into the mix the demands of a newborn baby and sleep deprivation.

To make it easier to remember to do these, the Continence Foundation of Australia suggests linking the exercises to your daily activities. For example, you could do them every time you change the baby or when you have your shower. Or you could put signs up to remind you until you have created the habit of doing them.

For further details on these exercises visit www.continence.org.au If things are not getting better for you after six months, or if you notice leaking of urine at any time, experience the urge to rush to the toilet, feel a burning or stinging sensation when you pass urine or if you find you have to strain to pass urine, you should speak to your doctor.

You can also contact the National Continence Helpline on free call 1800 330 066, and they can put you in contact with professionals and support groups that can help.

Considering how this affects woman of all ages and in significant numbers, why are we letting everyone feel so alone? Incontinence is a major problem that has such a significant effect on a women’s quality of life, and it is sad that there is such silence that surrounds this issue.

If you’re one of the thousands of women affected by this, we urge you, don’t suffer in silence.

•• Squeeze and lift your pelvic floor three times quickly with no rests.

•• Squeeze, lift and hold the pelvic floor for three seconds, three times.

These two exercises combined are one set, and you should do three sets of these each day.

•• You should also practice three times a day, what is known as ‘the knack’. This is when you squeeze hard, hold and cough.

With time and practice, you will gradually be able to hold your squeeze for longer.

WATCH SKIN ALERT’S VIDEO ON HOW THEIR INTIMALASE PROCEDURE WORKS. *CONTENT WARNING VIEWER DISCRETION ADVISED

www.pakmag.com.au www.pakmag.com.au | | October 2017 19

Bump, Bub and Beyond

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

Little Belle Nightlight RRP $149.99, www.little-belle.com Little Belle night lights have been designed to bring smiles, hope, laughter and encouragement to children travelling through life’s little adventures. Founded by New Zealand Based, Laura Burbery, Little Belle creates quality children’s lighting for little hearts and homes.

Made with hand-painted brush strokes + shimmers of gold and splashes of bright, each of the night lights are inspired by the imagination of young children, and help to to soothe little ones into a magical night’s sleep.

Breastvest Nursing Singlet RRP $30.00, www.apikali.com.au Momsense Smart Breastfeeding Meter RRP $69.00, www.momsense.com.au Momsense is the world’s first smart breastfeeding meter. For the first time, Australian mums can know how much breast milk their baby has consumed in millilitres, without having to express. Momsense eliminates all of the uncertainties around breastfeeding.

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The idea behind Breastvest is that it is worn over your nursing bra and covers your postnatal tummy so you can breastfeed your baby without having to worry about your post-baby midriff.

Breastvest is shaped to sit comfortably under your well-fitted nursing bra and is held in place by shoulder straps that are specifically designed not to interfere with the nursing bra’s straps.

Breastvest covers the postnatal tummy generously and discreetly, and allows breastfeeding mums to wear normal tops, which can then just be lifted up to breastfeed... without exposing any postnatal tummy. It really couldn’t be easier to use.

Dads can struggle too STORY Kate Moloney Becoming a dad for the first time is an extremely exciting, sometimes scary and always exhausting new stage of a man’s life.

Studies have revealed that working fathers of newborns are extremely fatigued due to their long working hours and getting less than six hours of sleep a night. Both new parents may get roughly the same amount of sleep during the night, but whilst stay at home mums may catch up on sleep during the day, fathers generally don’t. Recent studies show this sleep loss of up to two hours per night can continue up until a baby is five months old.

Juggling this new hectic schedule while also dealing with sleep deprivation can be tough on both new mums and new dads. Approximately one third of fathers, according to studies, struggle with the mental pressures during this time and, like women, can be affected by postnatal depression and perinatal mentalhealth issues.

New dads need to ensure they are taking care of both their physical health and mental health during this exciting new time. A healthy diet, supplements if required, and making sleep a priority is important.

As it is for new mums too.

Most important of all though, is that new dads need to ensure they do not shy away from seeking advice or professional help if they find they need it.

Becoming a parent is an extreme life changing event, and whilst hugely rewarding, it can also be exceptionally challenging.

Hope for fussy eaters STORY Melissa Kent, Author of Broccoli Trees?

Yes Please!

Are you one of the eight out of ten Australian parents who are concerned about their child’s eating habits and nutrition?

Mealtime stress is far more common than you might think, with approximately half of all toddlers being described as fussy eaters. Helping a fussy eater to explore healthy new foods can seem like a futile task, but there are some simple things that you can do to increase your chances of success.

•• Get growing. This could be as simple as planting some herbs in small pots and asking your child to water them.

•• Ask for their help. Often children will be excited if they are given a specific task. Eg. “Could you please choose a rainbow of fruits and vegetables for us to take home and try? We need something of each colour!”.

•• Praise every win. But try not to criticise the ‘failures’.

Children thrive on positive reinforcement, so make sure you celebrate every victory, no matter how small.

•• Try to have fun. Children learn through play. If they are having fun, they will be more likely to try new foods.

•• Persevere. Research suggests that you will need to show your child a food 15-20 times before they may be interested in trying it. So, don’t give up!

Fussy eating can affect the whole family, but by adopting a fun and relaxed attitude at mealtimes, you’ll be one step closer to saying ‘goodbye’ to those stressful stand-offs, and ‘hello’ to a whole new world of healthy food exploration.

For your chance to win a copy of Broccoli Trees?

Yes Please! visit www.pakmag.com.au

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WHAT’S ON OCT OCT SUNDAY 1 JCU Townsville Fire 2017/18 Season Membership Runs until March 2018 Townsville Stadium www.townsvillefire.com.au Check Website 2017 Walk To Remember The Strand www.sandstownsville.org Check Website Horrible Histories - Pirates: The Exhibition Runs until February 2018 Museum of Tropical Queensland www.mtq.qm.qld.gov.au 9.30am / $38 Family / Family TUESDAY 3 Art-box Pinnacles Gallery 4773 8871 10.00am / Gold Coin / Ages 0 - 5 WEDNESDAY 4 QSO Peter and the Wolf Townsville Civic Theatre ticketshop@townsville.qld.gov.au 10.00am / $15 / Family Romancing Townsville with Annie Seaton CityLibraries Thuringowa Central 4773 8811 6.00pm / Free /Youth+ QSO Plays Sibelius Townsville Civic Theatre ticketshop@townsville.qld.gov.au 7.30pm / $45 / Family

Weaning IMPS Building, Kirwan Health abatownsville@yahoo.com.au 9.30am / Family THURSDAY 5 Pottery Workshop Fundraiser Mount Louisa House of Praise Facebook/StableOnTheStrand 6.00pm / $25 / Family FRIDAY 6 Calvary Christian College Spring Fair Calvary Christian College www.calvary.qld.edu.au 5.00pm / Free / Family Guns & Hoses 2017 Riverway Parkland Facebook/GunsnHosesTownsville 2.30pm / Free / Family Townsville - Light the Night Jezzine Barracks lightthenight.org.au Check Website A Lady’s Guide to the Art of Being a Wingman Riverway Arts Centre 4727 9797 7.30pm / $55 / Adult U3A Tour Perc Tucker Regional Gallery 4727 9011 1.30pm / $5 / U3A Membership SATURDAY 7 Story Magic with Valerie Parv Riverway Arts Centre www.twpc.org 9.30am / Cost / Youth+

With 4TO FM’s Minty

Ingham Maraka Festival Runs until 28 October Rotary Park 4776 2066 Call for more information

Benjamin and Me Runs until 11 October Riverway Arts Centre 4727 9797 6.30pm / $15 / Family

JCU Graduate Exhibition Runs until 29 October Pinnacles Gallery 4773 8871 10.00am / Free / Family

WEDNESDAY 11 Magenetic Island: Messy Play in the Park Alma Bay Park 4773 8811 9.00am / Free / Kids

Soroptimist International - Girls Day Out Soroptimist Park Townsville www.soroptimistinternational.org 10.00am / Free / Family

Introduction to Social Media Upper Ross Community Centre 4774 0144 10.00am / Free / Youth+

Shopkins: World Vacation Event Cinemas www.eventcinemas.com.au Check Website

Little Shop of Horrors Runs until 14 October Townsville Civic Theatre nqomt.com.au 7.30pm / $40 / Family

Moana Sing-Along Event Cinemas www.eventcinemas.com.au Check Website

THURSDAY 12

SUNDAY 8 October 4X4 Fun Day Millchester Motor Sport Recreation Facility 0418 290 387 Call for Information TUESDAY 10 Parent Information Session: Bedtime for Children CityLibraries Aitkenvale 4727 8310 9.30am / Free / Parents Midnight Oil The Great Circle Townsville Entertainment Centre www.tecc.net.au 6.00pm / Cost / 18+

Women on Water Runs until 9 November The Strand www.townsvillesailing.com.au 4.30pm / $200 / Youth+ SATURDAY 14 Bloom Inspiring Wellness Mercure Townsville bloominspiringwellness.com 9.00am / $30 - $155 / Youth+ Townsville Rock Fest AFL Hermit Park Tigers Oval Murray Sporting Complex 4751 6607 Call for Information

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WHAT’S ON OCT OCT SATURDAY 14

THURSDAY 19

WEDNESDAY 25

Beauty and the Beast Singalong Event Cinemas www.eventcinemas.com.au Check Website

Townsville Grammar School Prep Information Nights Annandale Campus www.tgs.qld.edu.au 6.00pm / Free / Family

Messy Play in the Park: Raintree Grove, Riverway Raintree Grove, Riverway 4773 8811 9.30am / Free / Kids

FRIDAY 20

Marketing and Sponsorship Workshop Townsville Stadium 4799 7010 6.00pm / Free / Youth+

Aqours 2nd Love Live Happy Party Train Tour Event Cinemas www.eventcinemas.com.au Check Website SUNDAY 15 The Color Run Townsville The Strand thecolorrun.com.au 8.30am / Cost / Youth+ Family Fun Day Perc Tucker Regional Gallery 4727 9011 10.00am / Free / Family TUESDAY 17 Art-box Pinnacles Gallery 4773 8871 10.00am / Gold Coin / Ages 0 - 5 WEDNESDAY 18 Townsville - Developing an Effective Writing Program Rydges Hotels & Resorts Facebook/QASSP Check Website Coffee and Chat IMPS Building, Kirwan Health abatownsville@yahoo.com.au 9.30am / Family

Wear A Bear Day - Townsville Hospital Foundation Townsville Facebook/Townsville Hospital Foundation 6.00am / Charity / Family SATURDAY 21 Garage Sale Trail Runs until 22 Oct All Over Townsville www.garagesaletrail.com.au 9.00am / Free / Family

FRIDAY 27 Halloween Kids Night Spooktacular Brothers Leagues Club Townsville www.brotherstsv.com.au 6.00pm / Free / Family Enchanted Workshops Perc Tucker Regional Gallery 4727 9011 10.00am / Free / Family

2017 School Disco #5 Ignatius Park College Hall 4727 9797 6.30pm / $15 / Family

TAFE Emerging Artists Exhibition Perc Tucker Regional Gallery 4727 9011 10.00am / Free / Family

The Little Mermaid - Singalong Event Cinemas www.eventcinemas.com.au

Phelan Groovy Riverway Arts Centre 4727 9797 7.30pm / $55 / Adult

SUNDAY 22 Ferrari 312B Event Cinemas www.eventcinemas.com.au Check Website

Enchanted Glencore Children’s Exhibition Launch Perc Tucker Regional Gallery 4727 9011 4.00pm / Gold Coin / Family

TUESDAY 24

SATURDAY 28

Townsville Grammar School Prep Information Nights North Shore Campus www.tgs.qld.edu.au 6.00pm / Free / Family

Rugby League World Cup Runs until 5 November 1300SMILES Stadium www.rlwc2017.com

24 October 2017 | www.pakmag.com.au

With 4TO FM’s Chooky

Check Website Halloween Dance - Ravenswood Ravenswood Community Hall 0409 703 320 $10 Kids / Call for Information Pokemon Club CityLibraries Thuringowa Central 4773 8811 10.00am / Free / Ages 8+ Evening Serenade Townsville Civic Theatre nqorchestra.com.au 7.30pm / Cost / Family WHAT’S ON CONTINUES ON P.29

FUN COMPETITIONS INSIDE! ENTER FOR YOUR CHANCE TO

www.pakmag.com.au | October 2017 25

Mini Mag

A MYSTERY PRIZE!

FOR YOUR CHANCE To WIN, COMPLETE & mail TO: PakMag Colour In October 2017 PO Box 7433, Cairns QLD 4870 Win a mystery prize!

Competition closes 30/10/2017

Name Parent/Guardian Address Postcode Phone Email

26 October 2017 | www.pakmag.com.au

Age

Mini Mag

A MYSTERY PRIZE!

FOR YOUR CHANCE To WIN, COMPLETE & mail TO: PakMag Colour In October 2017 PO Box 7433, Cairns QLD 4870 Win a mystery prize!

Competition closes 30/10/2017

Name

Age

Parent/Guardian Address Postcode Phone Email

www.pakmag.com.au | October 2017 27

A FAMILY PASS TO A DISNEY SING-ALONG SEASON SESSION.

Visit Disney.com.au/Frozen Visit ©2014Disney.com.au/Frozen Disney. All Rights Reserved. ©2014 Disney. All Rights Reserved.

Visit Disney.com.au/Frozen

On Blu-ray Combo Pack March 18 ™

7-8 OCTOBER

14-15 OCTOBER

©2014 Disney. All Rights Reserved.

Visit Disney.com/Frozen

21-22 OCTOBER

28-29 OCTOBER

Permission is hereby granted to video dealers to reproduce this activity sheet for promotional purposes ONLY on condition that it is accompanied by “©2014 Disney. All Rights Reserved.”

Distributed by Walt Disney Studios Home Entertainment, Burbank, CA 91521. © 2014 Disney

FOR YOUR CHANCE To WIN, COMPLETE & mail TO: PakMag Colour In October 2017 PO Box 7433, Cairns QLD 4870 Win a family pass to a Disney Sing-Along Season Session. Final Entries drawn 18/10/2017

Name

Age

Parent/Guardian Address Postcode Phone Email

WHAT’S ON OCT OCT SATURDAY 28 Frozen Singalong Event Cinemas www.eventcinemas.com.au Check Website SUNDAY 29 Walk for Prems 2017 The Strand lifeslittletreasures.org.au 8.00am / Free / Family

REGULAR MARKETS Balgal Beach Markets Date: 1st Saturday of the month Time: 8.00am - 1.00pm Location: Fishermans Landing Balgal Beach Bluewater Twilight Markets Date: 2nd Saturday of the month Time: 4.00pm - 8.00pm Location: Bluewater Community Centre Label Traders Market Date: 3rd Sunday of the month Time: 8.00am - 12.00pm Location: Mundingburra State School

Towers Rush Charters Towers Showgrounds www.towersrush.com.au Check Website Paluma Dam Good Trail Run Paluma Village outerlimitsadventure.com.au Check Website

SAVE THE DATE:

SATURDAY 18 NOVEMBER

WEDNESDAY 1 NOVEMBER

Nth Qld Babies and Kids Market Emmaus Hall, Ryan Catholic College nyomi@nthqldbabiesandkids market.com 8.30am / $2 / Family

Mothering and Fatigue IMPS Building, Kirwan Health abatownsville@yahoo.com.au 9.30am / Family TUESDAY 7 NOVEMBER

Cyclone Sunday The Strand www.townsville.qld.gov.au 4.00pm / Free / Family

Melbourne Cup Luncheon Townsville RSL www.townsvillersl.com.au 11.00am / $85 member / Adult

Bush n Beach Markets Date: 2nd and 4th Sunday of the month Time: 8.00am – 1.00pm Location: Bushland Beach

Horseshoe Bay Markets Date: Every 2nd and last Sunday of the month Time: 9.00am - 2.00pm Location: Horseshoe Bay Foreshore

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

Carlyle Gardens Arts & Crafts Markets Date: 1st Saturday of the month (Mar - Dec) Time: 9.00am Location: Carlyle Gardens Retirement Resot, Beck Drive, Condon

Lucinda Markets Date: 2nd Sunday of the month (May to September) Time: 8.00am – 12.00pm Location: Borello Park

Strand Night Markets Date: 1st Friday of the month (Runs from May to Dec) Time: 5.00pm - 9.30pm Location: Strand Park

Castle Hill PCYC Markets Date: Every Sunday Time: 7.00am to 11.00am Location: Castle Hill PCYC

Willows Rotary Markets Date: Every Sunday Time: 7.30 - 11.30am Location: Willows Shop Centre Carpark

NQ Farmers Market Date: Every Saturday Time: 6.00am - 12.00pm Location: North Shore Town Centre Cotters Markets Date: Every Sunday Time: 8.30am - 1.00pm Location: Flinders St & Townsville Bulletin Square.

Mountainview Plaza Market Date: Every Saturday (Excluding Jan) Time: 8.00am - 2.00pm.

Location: Mountainview Plaza Renegade Handmade Market Date: 2nd Sunday of the month Time: 8.00am - 1.00pm Location: Marian School

Upper Ross Community Markets Date: 2nd and 4th Saturday of the month Time: From 3.00pm Location: Apex Park, Riverway Drive, Rasmussen

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

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REGULAR EVENTS TOWNSVILLE GALLERIES Art-Box - Free Art Activities for Kids Under 5 Days: First and third Tuesdays of the month Time: 10.00am Location: Pinnacles Gallery More Info: 4773 8871 Free Family Fun Day - Art Activities for the Family Days: Third Sunday of the month Time: 10.00am Location: Perc Tucker Regional Gallery More Info: 4727 9011

Newborn and Family Drop-In Service Days: Tuesdays (9.00am to 2.00pm), Saturdays (9.00am to 12.00pm) Location: City Libraries Aitkenvale More Info: www.townsville.qld.gov.au Cost: Free Messy Play (Bookings Required) Days: Wednesdays Time: 9.00am & 10.30am Location: City Libraries Aitkenvale

BELGIAN GARDENS STATE SCHOOL PLAYGROUP

MOUNT LOUISA SCOUT GROUP

Days: Mondays Time: 9.00am - 11.00am Location: Belgian Gardens SS Hall More Info: 4717 1333 or rickandjules4@bigpond.com Cost: $2 per person

Joeys and Cubs (6-10)

FIRST FIVE FOREVER

Location: Mt Louisa House of Praise (Bayswater Rd) More Info: 0427 677 994 (Troy)

Parent Information Sessions Days: First Tuesday of the month Time: 9.30am, Location: City Libraries Aitkenvale More Info: www.townsville.qld.gov.au Cost: Free

Days: Tuesdays Time: 6.30pm - 8.00pm Scouts (10-14) Days: Thursdays Time: 6.00pm - 8.00pm

RIVERWAY PARKRUN Days: Saturdays Time: From 6.45am Location: Meet at the front of Tony Ireland Stadium on the grassed area near the ticket box.

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

This course is wheelchair friendly.

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

TOWNSVILLE LIFESTYLE HUB FREE FITNESS SESSIONS Fit Club Exercise Days: Tuesday & Thursday Time: 6.00pm Location: Meet at Clubhouse 10 Sturgess St., Hermit Park Days: Saturday Time: 8.00am Location: Meet at Clubhouse 10 Sturgess St., Hermit Park More info: Sharon - 0412 341 768

MAINLY MUSIC

TOY LIBRARY TOWNSVILLE (THE TOY SHED)

For Babies to pre prep aged children. Fun, music, morning tea and free play

Days: Second Thursday of month (excluding January) Time: 3.30pm - 5.30pm

Days: Thursdays (during school term) Time: From 9.30am Location: St Peter’s Anglican Church, West End Cost: $3.00 per child More Info: 0414 807 179

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

MOPS - Mothers of PreSchoolers For mothers with children 0-6 years. Connect, relax and recharge.

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

Location: Fitzroy Street, Heatley Librarian: 0420 585 069 or childsplaytownsville@gmail.com Secretary: 0400 815 279 or facebook Toy Library TOWNSVILLE TOY LIBRARY Days: Every Tuesday and Saturday Time: 9.30am - 11.00am Location: 23 First Street, Railway Estate Community Centre More Info: Check their Facebook page Townsville Toy Library for updates

Challenges

Are you concerned about your child’s communication?

STORY Melanie von Bertouch, Speech-Language Pathologist, Coastal Kids Speech Pathology.

As with all learning for children, learning to talk happens at different rates for every child. Speech development and language starts at birth, our imitating of baby sounds and responding to their needs is just the beginning of their learning to communicate journey.

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Challenges

Communication is the sending of messages from one person to another. In today’s world, we communicate in a myriad of different ways, but we can break communication into smaller sets of key skills:

language impairment, which hadn’t previously been recognised (Snow & Powell, 2011).

•• Understanding

Children with communication disorders require additional support from their families, friends, teachers and Speech Pathologists to maximise their social, educational and employment outcomes later in life.

•• Reading

Types of treatment available.

•• Speaking

•• Writing •• Using gestures, signs or symbols •• Hearing •• Using voice Communication disorders include difficulties with one or more of these areas. Communication disorders in children are relatively common; Speech Pathology Australia reports that 20 per cent of four-yearold children have difficulty understanding or using language. Communication disorders can often present in children with average intelligence who are comfortably meeting other developmental milestones. At other times, communication difficulties can occur as a direct result of other developmental disorders or medical conditions, such as Autism, or hearing impairment.

How do communication disorders affect children?

Communication is intrinsic to being human, is a part of everyday life and is often taken for granted. When successful, communication allows us to experience all that life has to offer. Children who are living with specific communication difficulties, however, are at risk of not being able to experience life in the same ways or to the same extent as others. No matter the severity of a communication disorder, it can impact a child’s ability to: •• Perform everyday routines and activities.

•• Achieve academic success - children with a language impairment are six times more likely to have difficulties learning to read (Speech Pathology Australia).

•• Make decisions about their life.

•• Sustain good emotional and mental health.

•• Form and maintain friendships.

•• Have access to future employment opportunities.

A 2011 study of young offenders in the justice system found that nearly 50 per cent had a diagnosable

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Speech therapy today is more accessible than ever before, with a range of services existing throughout North Queensland. Free community-based services exist such as Queensland Health and state schools, as well as low-cost options through university programs and research centres.

There are also many private speech pathology practices around Townsville and surrounds which provide services for a fee. Speech Pathology Australia’s website has a ‘Find A Speech Pathologist’ service that can point you in the right direction for your area.

Generally speaking, the most effective kinds of treatment are those which occur regularly and are based on current research and evidence, considerate of family circumstances and centred on the child’s individual communication profile (and let’s not forget fun and motivating for the child!).

Quick tips that you can use at home •• Model, model, model! Provide lots of repetition and modelling for the child without expecting the child to provide the correct response. Avoid ‘testing’ the child or correcting them too much.

•• Modify your language to suit needs of the child by reducing sentence length, simplifying vocabulary, gaining attention before giving instructions, and giving the child time to respond.

•• Make communicating a fun and motivating experience for the child (e.g. by following their lead and interests).

•• Use visual supports such as gestures and diagrams.

If you would like further information regarding this visit the Speech Pathology Australia’s website www.speechpathologyaustralia.org.au If you have any concerns regarding your child’s speech, it really is worth getting them checked out by a Speech Pathologist.

Healthy Recipes

HEALTHY RECIPES

Sweet Potato & Maple Glazed Pears with Crunchy Moroccan Chickpea Salad - Serves 4

Banana and Coconut Teff Muffins - Serves 12 Recipe by Sally O’Neil @thefitfoodieblog

Recipe by Melissa Wallace @wholesomedaily

Ingredients 1 ½ cups almond meal 3 large bananas, mashed ¾ cup teff flour 2 tsp baking powder 1 tsp vanilla powder 1 cup almond milk 2 tbsp rice malt syrup (or other liquid sweetner) 1 tsp ground cinnamon ½ cup granulated stevia 2 tbsp coconut flakes

Salad Ingredients 200g soaked and rinsed chickpeas ¼ cup olive oil 2 tbs Moroccan spice blend (1 tsp ground cumin, 1 tsp ground ginger, 1 tsp salt, ¾ tsp black pepper, ½ tsp ground cinnamon, ½ tsp ground coriander, ½ tsp cayenne, ½ tsp ground allspice) 500g sweet potato, unpeeled and cut into wedges 2 medium pears, unpeeled and cut into 8 wedges ¼ cup pomegranate arils

Method

Dressing Ingredients

Preheat oven to 160°c.

1 cup coconut yoghurt 1 tbs tahini Juice of ½ lemon 200g rocket to serve.

Mash the bananas, then add milk and liquid sweetner and mix until smooth.

In a separate bowl, add all the dry ingredients (excluding the coconut flakes) and mix.

Add the wet ingredientsto the dry mix and whisk until a smooth batter forms.

Spoon into a 12 hole muffin tray.

Top each muffin with some coconut flakes and bake for approximatly 30 minutes until a skewer comes out clean.

Cool on a wire rack and store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.

Method Bake sweet potato and drizzle pear in the maple syrup then bake in oven until cooked.

Rinse and pat dry chickpeas, add olive oil and spice blend and cook in oven until crisp.

For the dressing, blend coconut yoghurt, lemon and tahini until combined and set aside.

To serve: arrange rocket, sweet potato and pears on plate. Top with chickpeas and pomegranate arils and drizzle with dressing.

Recipes bought to you by The Source Bulk Foods. You can pick up quality, fresh ingredients for these recipes from The Source Bulk Foods. For more gorgeous recipes pick up The Source Bulk Foods free Winter Recipes cook book in store. Check them out on Facebook: /TheSourceBulkFoodsNorthWard

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Celebrate

SPOOKY SPREE From plastic spiders to toilet paper mummies, Halloween is just around the corner. So why not throw your little one a spooktacular monster bash with plenty of tricks and treats for all?

Pizza Monsters Make your very own spooky faces with these cheesy monster pizzas.

Ingredients:

Pineapple Jack O’Lantern

•• Pre-made or home-made pizza bases

Bring a tropical twist to the classic pumpkin Jack o’Lantern with this sweet but spooky surprise.

•• Pizza sauce and your favourite pizza toppings

What you’ll need:

Creating your pizza monster:

•• A whole pineapple

1. Taking a pizza base, cover with your desired pizza sauce.

•• Knife and Spoon

2. Let your imagination run wild as you dice and slice your favourite pizza toppings to make your very own unique pizza monster.

•• Tea light candle How to:

3. Place in a hot oven for 10 mins and watch your monster come to life!

1. Carefully cut the top off the pineapple and scoop out the centre with a spoon (Make sure to keep the pineapple top as you’ll need this later).

4. Once cooked remove your spooky creation from the oven and enjoy.

2. Using a sharp knife cut out a spooky face.

3. Place a tea candle inside and place the top of the pineapple back on top of your spooky pineapple face.

Boo-Nana Pops Simply cut a banana in half and insert a popsicle stick into the bottom. Dip the banana into melted white chocolate and add two chocolate chips for eyes. Place in freezer until frozen. Then enjoy!

Please note that pineapples are more perishable than pumpkins, so we suggest making this spooky creation only a day before your event.

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1. Pizza Monster 2. Dracula’s Dentures - www.the-girl-who-ateeverything.com 3. Cracker Spiders - www.onelittleproject.com 4. Fruit Pumpkins and Ghosts - www.floandgrace.com 5. Carved Pineapple - www.completely-coastal.com 6. Eyeball Brownies www.bigbearswife.com 7. Monster Crochet Toy - RRP $39.95 $24.95 www.ellej.com.au 8. Gingerbread Skeletons - www.donnahay.com.au 9. Reversible Pirate Bucket Hat - RRP $26.00 - www.hellomisspoppyseed.com 10. Miann & Co Hand Made Dylan Dragon - RRP $86.00 www.korufurnitureandhomewares.com.au 11. Friendly Ghosts Set RRP $20.00 - www.gardensparkle.com.au 12. Monster Cookie Bar www.babble.com

snapped snapped

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1. Amelia Hansen - St Joseph Church 2. John Cummins & Quinn Kenley - Queensgarden 3. Molly Ebert - West End 4. Celine Gloriann - Felipino Festival, Riverway 5. Tim & Harry - The Strand 6. Sienna Wilton - The Strand 7. Kaileb Atkinson - The Strand 8. Lachlan Livingstone - Bushland Beach

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Photography thanks to: Josephine Carter - 0455 295 416 www.josephinecarterphotography.com

9. Chase Atkinson with Riley Atkinson - The Strand 10. Mahja Clarksow - Felipino Festival, Riverway 11. Isabella Speakman - Palleranda 12. Kimberly & Harper Sully 13. Shilomene Mullins - Felipino Festival, Riverway 14. Tyran Atkinson - The Strand

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1. Elisa Arnold 2. James, Hollie & William Harrington 3. Sadie & Maree Devine 4. Mia & Kayla Ryan

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Mater Snapped

Snapped SNAPPED at AT Mater MATER Women’s WOMEN’S Unit UNIT If you’re having a baby at the Mater Health Services Women’s Unit, make sure you keep an eye out for the PakMag photographer. We’ll be out and about snapping all those mums-to-be and new babies over the next few months.

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Mater’s modern facility is located at Hyde Park. Offering 25 maternity rooms, five birth suites and eight special care nursery cots, Mater is a great place for you to consider when planning your family.

The four operating theatres next to the birth suites, give you peace of mind, and the in-room ensuite, refrigerator, television and the ability for partners to room in, give you a level of comfort not offered elsewhere in Townsville.

And, for higher level care for sick and/or premature babies, the Level 2 Special Care Nursery accommodates eight humidicribs and is fully equipped to provide. For extra peace of mind and security, there is a keypad locking system to access the nursery and birth suites.

At Mater, it really seems that every measure has been taken to ensure your journey from pregnancy to birth is comfortable, well-informed and safe. This, along with the experienced and friendly staff, is a winning combination!

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Photography thanks to: Josephine Carter - 0455 295 416 www.josephinecarterphotography.com

5. Carter & Lisa Mackee 6. Penelope, Maggie & Digiacomo 7. Mila & Brendan Bunyan 8. Harrison, Christina & Christopher Hopper

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Home

LOVELY LAUNDRY With the Block’s Caro and Kingi Is your laundry in need of an urgent make over?

There are many ways to revamp your laundry, as well as creating a system that gets the job done in an organised way. We have the top tips and tricks to transform your laundry from mayhem to spick and span.

Lighting Lighting is important to master in the laundry as this room is known to become dull and quite dark. Not enough light in a room can impact your mood and motivation, making it hard to do daily chores. We suggest aiming for warm-toned lighting, or even better, welcome the natural light within this space to provide a fresh and appealing environment.

Spacing Take a look at the space you are working with. Can you save space by simply re-arranging items in the room? If you are in need of new laundry appliances, try looking into a slim structured machine to save space.

Nobody wants to see dirty laundry on the ground or piled in a basket taking up precious bench space. So why not add a dirty clothes “bin” into your laundry.

These drawers act as a storage unit to keep track of your washing, while also freeing up bench space providing a clean clutter free work environment.

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The Battle of Clutter No matter what room it is, clutter will always find its way in. From stain removers to a variety of soap sprays, your laundry shelf is starting to look like a supermarket.

Although these products are a necessity for removing mysterious stains that kids create, the collection can create an unsightly view. Why not display these products in good-looking jars to create an organised shelf that is both practical and aesthetically pleasing?

This way, you can buy products in bulk to save money and never run out of your important products.

Smart Ironing From school uniforms to work attire, ironing boards are essential to any laundry. However, this vital element can take up valuable space when not in use. Install a wall mounted iron to save space as well as creating a more organised flow in your workspace. We suggest upgrading to a larger ironing board as this will make your ironing duties more enjoyable and easier.

Colour Scheme A coat of paint can go a long way, especially in a room known to be dull and dark. By using a bright colour scheme from pastel pinks and blues to a variety of white tones, the environment of your laundry room will change drastically. By staying away from dark tones and heavy textures, you begin to open this room up into an inviting and brighter work space.

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1. www.brepurposed.porch.com 2. www.vintagerevivals.com 3. Interior by Piet Jan van den Kommer 4. Ladder Stand - RRP $100.00 www.vastinterior.com.au 5. Bondi Wash Laundry Wash Tasmanian Pepper & Lavender - RRP $22.00 $11.00 - www.korufurnitureandhomewares.com.au 6. UE MEGABOOM Wireless Speaker - RRP $348.00 - www.harveynorman.com.au 7. Natural Cotton Rope Basket - RRP $19.95 - www.ellej.com.au 8. HOLA Timber Wall Plaque - RRP $29.95 $15.00 - www.ellej.com.au 9. Verve 7 Drawer Chest - RRP $1,499.00 - www.vastinterior.com.au

Business

WHAT’S NEWS IN BUSINESS Beware the Gap – ‘Super Baby Debt’ STORY Leisa Quagliata, Behavioural Finance Specialist, Sempre Financial Few people give much thought to their superannuation until they start nearing retirement. But with recent changes in Government legislation, it is more important than ever for you to think sooner rather than later about contributing to your super. For women, in particular stay at home mums, it is crucial that you start thinking about retirement even before you have your first child. This is because few people know about the effect of the ‘Super Baby Debt’.

The ‘Super Baby Debt’ is created when a woman stops working to start a family. Even if you are only out of the workforce for a year, the compounding effects can be staggering.

For example: A 32-year-old woman earning $50,000 stops work for just one year, the lost employer super contribution would be $4,750. With compounded interest, this lost super would equal approximately $21,000 at retirement. If she were to stay home for five years, this would jump to almost $100,000 and ten years a staggering $175,000. (Please note, these calculations are general in nature for illustrative purposes only and do not take into account your personal circumstances.)

you take out of the workforce. Other ways to boost your super include having your spouse contribute to your super on your behalf (they claim a tax rebate), making non-concessional (after-tax) contributions to super if eligible for the Government Co-Contribution and making sure your super is invested appropriately.

Most importantly any superannuation contribution strategy must satisfy the contribution rules. From July 1st, the maximum concessional contribution for all ages is now $25,000 (includes employer and salary sacrifice) and $100,000 for non-concessional contributions. Please visit the Australian Taxation Office website for more details or speak with a financial advisor.

No matter what your circumstances are, it is vital to look at your super sooner rather than later.

But how do we fix it? All women, no matter what age, should adopt the one per cent rule. This is where you contribute an extra one per cent for every two years

Have You Heard? Sara Marrington is the new owner of Ready Steady Go Kids Townsville Sara is very excited about being the new owner and is passionate about the benefits of the multi-sport program that Ready Steady Go Kids offers.

Sara is thrilled to launch their Get Ready program for toddlers aged 18 months to two-and-a-half-years-old.

This interactive class gives toddlers the opportunity to practise their motor skills in a play-oriented environment. These classes focus on developing toddlers' gross motor skills by incorporating activities such as stretching, jumping, running and ball control.

Enrol or book a FREE TRIAL today at www.readysteadygokids.com.au or call their team on 1300 766 892.

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Be Magnetised by Magnetic Island STORY Kate Moloney

If you are looking for a tropical break away from the hustle and bustle, then look no further than Magnetic Island.

With “Maggie” lying just 8 kilometres off Townsville, and only a quick ferry trip away, the island is the perfect retreat.

With 23 beautiful bays and beaches, you are sure to find your own little piece of heaven. Magnetic Island is known for its laid-back vibe, and you will experience the welcoming community from the moment you step off the boat. With so many activities on offer, you will struggle to decide what to do first. Getting around is easy, you can choose to either hire a vehicle on the island or take advantage of the Sunbus regular bus service.

Magnetic Island is two-thirds protected National Park, offering you plenty of opportunities to unwind and explore its rugged nature and abundant wildlife. There are a number of walks of differing lengths and difficulty, from the shorter Butterfly Walk and Horseshoe Bay Lagoon Walk, to the famous Forts Walk (approximately 4km) which takes about 90 minutes return. It is an easy to moderate walk that offers 360-degree views of the coast and the Coral Sea, as well as providing the opportunity to see Australia’s largest population of koalas in the wild.

Being situated in the World Heritage listed Great Barrier Reef Marine Park, you have the opportunity to explore the reef, whether it is snorkelling off a bay, or taking in a fishing or dive tour. Add to that the exhilarating water

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sports options available at Horseshoe Bay such as kayaking, kneeboarding, wakeboarding, waterskiing and jetskiing, and your day is sure to be filled with fun.

If your interests are more cultural, then Magnetic Island still has you covered with the Magnetic Island History and Craft Centre and the Magnetic Museum both offering the opportunity to explore the island’s colourful past. The art scene on Magnetic Island won’t leave you wanting either, with numerous galleries and opportunities to see artists at work in their studios.

After all this exploring, you are sure to have worked up an appetite and satisfying your hunger will not be a problem. You can choose to enjoy the free shore side BBQ facilities, get your supplies from one of the two supermarkets, or sit back and indulge at one of the many restaurant options available across the island.

Getting to Magnetic Island couldn’t be easier with SeaLink operating up to 18 daily high-speed catamaran services, crossing the sheltered waters of Cleveland Bay in only 20 minutes.

Tickets are available at the terminal or on-board the boats, so there is no need to pre-book (though if you prefer to you book ahead, you can book online). The terminal is located within the Breakwater Terminal on Sir Leslie Thiess Drive in Townsville.

You can contact SeaLink on 1300 MAGGIE (1300 624 443) or to book online visit www.sealinkqld.com.au

DADDY DIARY Halloween. It’s the one night of the year where it’s becoming totally normal to see ghosts, ghouls and goblins walking the streets of Townsville. And, it’s great.

Let me be 100 per cent transparent here. I’m not one of those ‘Halloween is American and should stay there’ kind of locals. I’m most certainly not one of those Halloween bashers. In fact, for me, Halloween is everything I love: •• Dress ups - Tick.

•• Spooky vibes - Tick, tick.

•• Lollies (or candy, if you really want to Americanise it) – Tick, tick, tick.

Halloween is definitely my kind of holiday celebration.

And it’s clear, that it’s a trait I’ve passed onto my 3-year-old daughter, Matilda.

Halloween style dress-ups have become a bit of a thing in the Clifton house over the last few weeks. We can thank Australian Book Week for that. It’s the week of the year that scholastic kids drool over and the week that parents who haven’t got a crafty bone in their body dread. Well, the whole costume making bit anyway.

Our little book worm was actually pretty easy to deck out this year thanks to her love of children’s author Aaron Blabey. Az (as I’m sure he is known to his mates as) is best known for works Pig the Pug, Piranhas Don’t Eat Bananas and of course, Thelma the Unicorn.

The latter of which has quickly become my daughter’s number one. And thanks to a $7.99 unicorn horn my wife picked up, the costume was relatively easy to put together. Matilda loved it. She’s very been wearing the horn so much you’d be forgiven for thinking she’s a goat.

But it’s not just the costumes, creepy creatures and candy that I love about Halloween. It’s also about the other ‘c’. Community. Let’s be honest here, anything that gets Townsville kids out of the house and meeting their neighbours has got to be a good thing, right? As long as our little munchkins are properly supervised, I can’t see the harm.

That laid back, love thy neighbour vibe is what makes Townsville such a great place to live. So embrace it, even if you do have to give your local trick-or-treaters an apple from the fruit bowl due to a lack of lollies in the pantry. And actually, on that note, I’d like to apologise to the children of Willowbank Estate, Kirwan, for the packets of BBQ Shapes that we had to hand out to you last year. I promise this year we’ll be more prepared.

Like taking candy from a unicorn.

Cliffo Hit 103.1 Townsville

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