PakMag Townsville - Dec 2017 Issue 85

ISSUE: Dec 2017

85

TOWNSVILLE

$1000’s WORTH OF PRIZES INSIDE HOUSE GUESTS BE PREPARED FESTIVE FUN

12 DAYS OF CHRISTMAS SCHOOL HOLIDAY GUIDE

TEACHING RESILIENCE

FREE www.pakmag.com.au | December 2017 1

CONTENTS 06 Entertainment: Check It Out 09 The Thing Is...

With Bree James

10 Feature: House Guests

are You Prepared?

13 Have You Ever Heard

These Words?

15 Parenting: Teaching Resilience 19 Dreaming of a

Family Holiday?

20 Bump, Bub and Beyond 23 What’s On Guide 25 Mini Mag 31 Snapped 33 School Holiday Guide 37 12 Days of Christmas 38 Mater Snapped

Well, it’s the month we’ve all been waiting for - or not, as the case may be – it’s Christmas!

Firstly, I just want to say thank you so much to all of you who attended our Christmas PakClub event at CastleTown. I hope you had as much fun as I did!

Tis the time for tradition, so in traditional PakMag style, we’ve got you covered with a whole load of ideas on how you can keep the kids entertained, how you can get prepared for a great Christmas and how you can keep your sanity whilst doing it.

One thing that many of us experience over the holidays is visiting family, so be sure to check out our ‘How to Deal With Visitors’ feature on page 10 for an interesting insight the different personalities you may encounter, and how you can deal with them. I’ve definitely encountered several of them, and I bet you have too!

Our 12 Days of Christmas will give you some great ideas on what you can do in and around Townsville in the lead up to the big day to get in the Christmas spirit and our ‘Home’ and ‘Celebrate’ pages show you how you can make your home merry and bright!

Now, just because it’s the silly season, doesn’t mean our parenting tips go out the window. This month, I wrote a piece on bringing up resilient kids, so check that out on page 15.

From all of the PakMag team and I, we wish you all a very merry Christmas and a Happy New Year. We’d love to see all of your photos of the things you and your family get up to over the festive season, so make sure you post them to our Facebook page.

41 Health 43 Left-Over Recipes 44 What’s Up Townsville 46 Mega Summer Giveaway!

48 Home with Caro & Kingi:

Pool Perfection

50 Daddy Diary

Grand Publishing Founder and Editor-in-Chief Bree James Operations Manager Rose Foster Graphic Designer Clare Winter

Bree James Grand Publishing Founder and Editor-in-Chief On the cover Marissa, Jaxon and Tyler Candy Photography Josephine Carter Photography w josephinecarterphotography.com 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, Cairns fb facebook.com/pakmagtownsville t #pakmag

Marketing to Families Experts Lisa Gillman Steph Bartram Janelle May Sub-Editor Kate Moloney

Supply & Distribution Manager Gleisy Meireles Media Intern Monique Saggers Social Media Intern Kiki Fitch

Accounts Trent Stievano

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 | December 2017 5

Entertainment

CHECK IT OUT A Christmas Carol When: 6 - 9 December 2017, 6.30pm daily (2.00pm matinee on Saturday 9 December) Where: Townsville Little Theatre More Info: www.townsvillelittletheatre.org.au Get to the Townsville Little Theatre and see “A Christmas Carol” this Christmas. With a performance at 6.30pm daily and a matinee on Saturday, 9 December, there’s plenty of time to take in the show.

Book tickets online.

Christmas in the City When: 1 December, 5.30pm8.30pm Where: Townsville Bulletin Square More Info: whatson.townsville.qld.gov.au Bring the kids and come and watch the Christmas Lights switch on to start Christmas in the City. Food, entertainment, arts, craft, jumping castles and a special visit from Santa and the tropical elves.

Riverway Movie Night - Beauty and the Beast When: Friday, 15 December 2017, 7.00pm Where: Riverway Lagoon More Info: whatson.townsville.qld.gov.au Bring your towel, cool off and watch a movie on the big screen.

Join the crowd at 7.00pm at Riverway Lagoons to see Beauty and the Beast!

A live-action adaptation of the fairy tale about a monstrous-looking prince and a young woman who fall in love.

NQ Christmas Festival – Stable on the Strand When: Monday, 18 to Friday, 22 December 2017, 5.30pm to 9.30pm Where: Strand Park Townsville More Info: www.stableonthestrand.com Experience the Christmas story of the birth of Jesus.

Enjoy free entertainment for all ages and interactive activities for children.

6 December 2017 | www.pakmag.com.au

Carols by Candlelight When: Sunday, 10 December 2017, 5.00pm Where: Reid Park Complex More Info: whatson.townsville.qld.gov.au Join Townsville City Council and celebrate the Christmas spirit with the 2017 Carols by Candlelight on Sunday 10 December, from 5pm! Featuring headline artist Kate MillerHeidke along with plenty of local talent.

Christmas Day Lunch in the Grand Ballroom of The Ville Resort-Casino When: Monday, 25 December 2017, 12.00pm to 3.00pm Where: The Ville Resort – Casino More Info: www.the-ville.com.au Take the hassle out of your Christmas day lunch this year and spend it at The Ville Resort – Casino in their Grand Ballroom.

Experience the delicious Christmas buffet on offer, including a three-hour beverage package for the adults and for the kids there is children’s entertainment and a visit from Santa!

Treat yourself and relax this Christmas at The Ville Resort - Casino.

Adults $170 / Teenagers (13-17) $70 / Children (4-12) $40 / Children (0-3) FREE

New Year’s Eve Celebrations When: 31 December 2017, 6:30pm-12:30am Where: The Strand Park More Info: whatson.townsville.qld.gov.au Head down to Strand Park on New Year’s Eve for an evening of entertainment from 6.30pm. Bring the kids along to relax at The Strand, enjoy a movie on the big screen and watch the exciting firework display to kick off the new year.

The Thing Is

The Thing Is...

STORY Bree James

It’s the month of overeating, over drinking, overextending and overspending for many of us and by the time Christmas is here, we are, how do I say it nicely – ‘over’ it! As parents, we work so hard this month, there’s teacher gifts, class gifts, and family gifts to get, there’s food for class breakups to bake (cough… ready baked from Coles), charity work or work parties to attend.

The thing is, most of us bring this insanity upon ourselves. There is always an easier, more simple way.

And this year, I am going to do my best to make this a special day without all of the fuss and without killing my ‘mojo’.

When I grew up, Christmas always had a tinge of sadness, hostility and resentment. My parents divorced when I was two, so I always spent it with one parent on alternate years. My mum always said to us as kids, “We are on the borderline of poverty” and you could tell she always wanted to do more, but she always somehow pulled out a special day for us on her year. We’d always have a real tree, so the house smelt like Christmas and our gifts were always practical and few, but we would mostly get one thing that we really wanted. I remember one year when I was five and my sister was about three years old, and she wanted a Cabbage Patch doll. She opened her gift from Santa, and it was a cheap version, one kids would call ‘a dud’ because it didn’t have the signature on the bottom. She burst into tears calling it ‘a flood’ and stormed to her room and spent most of the day crying, “It’s a flood”, every time she saw the doll. I even offered to put a signature on its bottom, but she wouldn’t have it.

I remember this day clearly as it broke my mum’s heart a little, not being able to provide the life she wanted for us kids. But thankfully, Santa was to blame that he brought the wrong one, and the anger from my sister went to him for the rest of the day. But there was a lesson there for me in that moment, and it was:

“You’re not always going to get what you want, even from Santa.”

It was a really important lesson to learn, and one that in my opinion our kids don’t learn enough.

Learning comes from hard times, from not winning, from not getting. Drive and ambition come from these things being in your life. If you get everything you want, if you always win and the good times are always in your life as a child, you may grow up with no drive, no ambition and an attitude of ‘I deserve’.

Picture this, a little sea eagle in the wild, he has to fight other birds and search for his food, he becomes a great little hunter, self-sufficient and every day knows that he has to work hard to live, that there is danger, and that some days he will go without because today wasn’t his day, but tomorrow he will try harder. Then picture a sea eagle that grows up with parents that are seagulls. They hang around the bins to get free feeds every day, he is never encouraged out of the nest, he is never put in danger, he is cared for and nurtured, and every demand is met so that he never goes without. This sea eagle will never have the ability, strength of character, drive or ambition to ever leave the nest and fly amongst the sea eagles because life was safer and easier being a seagull, but this bird will live a life thinking “I know there is a sea eagle inside me, there has to be more to life than this, but this is all I know”, or worse “I hate sea eagles, I am not lucky enough to be one”.

As awful as it is to see the people we love the most, our children, be in any sort of pain, it is a very important part of their life that you must not deny.

So, during this festive time, take some time to think of ways you are nurturing your sea eagle without making them a seagull, and let’s make this next generation of kids unstoppable.

www.pakmag.com.au | December 2017 9

Feature

10 December 2017 | www.pakmag.com.au

Feature

House guests Are you prepared for their arrival?

STORY Kate Moloney

What do you get when you combine our tropical North Queensland paradise, school holidays and Christmas?

House guests! And generally, in plague proportions.

While we are never surprised by the fact that everyone wants to visit us in what is arguably one of the most beautiful parts of the world, what we may at times be surprised by is the behaviour of our house guests. Family and friends, whom we think we know so well when placed in our home, under our roof, can scarily morph into a species of person that we may have never seen them be before.

To assist you in preparing for the possibility of a plague of house guests at your place this festive season, here are five of the more common species of house guests that you may encounter and how to handle each breed: 1. The resort guest.

Whilst we all want to ensure that our guests feel like they are being well looked after when they come to visit, this species, takes it a step further; they treat you like you are an employee at a resort. They often have that amazed look on their face when informed that no, you don’t have bathrobes available or that dinner will be served when it is ready, regardless of their earlier ‘reservation request’ time.

To deal with this species, it is imperative that you do not let them near a bell or they will be ringing for your service nonstop! You need to be polite but firm with them. Try to crack them out of their ‘expectations’ by inviting them to partake in helping with household chores like cooking.

Beware, if given the opportunity to be waited on, this species won’t lift a finger for the entirety of their stay.

2. The constant preener.

A tricky one to tackle as this species is often unaware, or worse, uncaring of the disruption their prolonged bathroom preening causes to the rest of the household. If you are a one bathroom household, then this species can wreak havoc on your family’s routine when they come to visit.

Dealing with this species can sometimes be a little confronting as who wants to question another’s use of bathroom time. However, for the sake of your family, it does need to be tackled. Try during conversations to stress the importance of routine in the running of your family, and how there are set bath times that need to be adhered to. If this species continues to ignore your subtle hints, send in the little army!

3. The messy guest.

After all the work you have no doubt put into ensuring your place is looking the best it can be for when your visitors arrive, there is nothing more disheartening than the messy guest species. Of course, we want our guests to relax on their stay with us, but this species tends to take it to the next level, appearing to create a trail behind them from the moment they enter the front door.

This species requires polite encouragement to get them to engage in assisting with everyday chores. Like children, this species responds well to obvious but subtle hints.

Questions like, “Is this shirt on the floor here going to be worn again today?” or you could mention how food scraps quite quickly turn into maggots in the tropics!

4. The busybody.

Your home is your castle, and when we invite guests into our castle, we are letting them into our inner sanctum.

While this is not an issue with most guests, with the busybody species, a few additional precautions may need to be put in place prior to their arrival. They really just do not have any personal boundary filters; their behaviour is not intentionally malicious, it is just who they are. If they see a computer on, without a second thought, they have opened your photos file and are looking back over your memories. They won’t hide the fact as they bellow to you, “Oh, I didn’t realise you went to XXX this year?”

With this species of guest, the reality is that they really see no wrong in their actions, thus talking to them regarding their actions is futile, the only course of action is preventative.

Ensure you have your computer programmed to close after the shortest amount of time and have it password protected.

If you have anything that you do not want them to see, ensure you lock it away very safely!

5. The industrious guest.

This species generally arrives already dressed in their King Gee workwear with their toolbox in one hand and a very tiny backpack (as it only contains more singlets) in the other. This species thrives on being helpful and useful, and they generally are, particularly for those households where handy DIY skills are nonexistent.

Dealing with this species is generally quite easy as long as you are well prepared with the list of jobs of what you want done and a very well stocked fridge. Be prepared though to stand your ground as the industrious species can tend to get overzealous at times, and if you aren’t overseeing them, you may find you have extensions underway that you had never planned on. Also, be ready for the sound of power tools very, very early in the morning!

There are numerous other house guest species that love to holiday in our tropical paradise that you may encounter this festive season too including the shadower, the complainer, the over-inviter and the over-stayer. And while I think it is true to say that every house guest comes with their own set of intricacies to be dealt with, if we are all truly honest we know it is always worth it (even if we aren’t able to admit it until a few days later!).

This year, as your house guests arrive on your doorstep just remember how fortunate you are to have family, friends and loved ones to share your life with and I’m sure all their little idiosyncrasies will be all just that little bit easier to deal with.

www.pakmag.com.au | December 2017 11

Advertorial

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If only there was a school that shared our strong values, and a desire to work in partnership with parents as we strive to be the best parents we can be.

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Today, Annandale Christian College provides supportive and quality education from Kindergarten to Year 12.

With a broad selection of subjects, outstanding OP results and a commitment to work in partnership with parents, the College offers an amazing alternative on the education scene.

The education opportunities are tailored to deliver challenges to equip students for life. Our staff and parents work together to provide a safe, nurturing yet robust environment where each student is cared for and inspired.

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Truly, Annandale Christian College is not just a school, it’s a community working together for excellence.

Would you like to share the journey with us?

Call 07 4725 2082 or visit acc.qld.edu.au to find out more.

www.pakmag.com.au | December 2017 13

Parenting

Why resilience is one of the most important things we need to teach our kids STORY Bree James

No parent wants to see their child in pain, and most will do everything in their power to protect their children from any sort of pain or suffering. But are we creating a generation of ‘soft’ kids who can’t handle the pressures of being an adult in the future? The sad truth is, quite possibly, yes.

Most adults have plenty of war stories about the tough times in their childhoods, and most of us, if we were honest, are pretty grateful for most of it as it’s shaped us into the awesome humans we are today. The only problem is, it’s made us so strong that we are robbing our children of building their own growth and resilience.

The big one for me is, I’ve been protecting my kids from toxic relatives because I don’t want them to emotionally scar my children. But I have realised, I am making a big mistake. As a child, I certainly learnt what I think is good and bad and what I do and don’t want in my life.

And I have been very motivated to live a different life to how I was raised, and I have certainly built up a huge

resilience to life’s down moments. But I worry that my kids have not been learning these skills because I have been protecting them so fiercely.

Sure, I in no way will put my children in any sort of danger, and it’s going to be challenging for me, but as they say, strength and growth only comes through continuous effort and struggle. And this is why we have to watch our kids struggle, even if we can fix it, in some cases we really shouldn’t.

We aren’t born with resilience; you can only grow resilience through (I hate to say it) pain and suffering.

Think of resilience as a rubber band. A rubber band can spring back and forth many times and hold things together. But if a rubber band is never stretched until it’s older, then often the very first time the rubber band is stretched, it will snap.

In a nutshell, we need to get comfortable with making our kids uncomfortable.

Story continues on P.18

www.pakmag.com.au | December 2017 15

Parenting

So how can you help your child build resilience, problem-solving skills and the ability to deal with the uncertainty of life?

happen again?” Hopefully they respond, “I’ll ensure I shut the gate next time.” ‘How’ questions are much more productive than ‘why’ questions.

Here are 10 ways:

7. Encourage them to make mistakes.

1. Don’t solve all their problems.

Your kid loses their teddy that you said to leave at home, or forgets their drink bottle on a day out, the only way they will learn, and not do it again, is if we don’t fix it.

2. Don’t overprotect.

The only way they will learn is if they work things out themselves. Kids, within reason, need to be able to make their own decisions.

3. Don’t satisfy their every need.

Going without, and working towards things is the only way our children learn the value of a dollar. If they are like caged lions then they will laze around licking themselves expecting everything to fall at their feet.

If their every need isn’t being met, they will hunt, and learn skills to live and thrive.

4. Teach them about risk.

Marbles, Pokemon cards and board games are all great ways for kids to learn about risk. If your kids always play it safe, they will never push themselves. Pull out some board games and teach them how to take risks and lose, as well as take risks and win and the lessons in both.

5. Teach them to problem solve.

Baking, homework and Lego have been great ways for my kids to learn problem-solving skills. The pancakes aren’t fluffy, what do you think we got wrong? You got these questions wrong in your homework, do you know why? When they ask a question, don’t just give them the answer, answer with “Why do you think?”

6. Ask “How” instead of “Why” questions.

Ask “Why did you...?” and the child responds, “I don’t know.” Instead ask, “You forgot to shut the gate, and now the dogs have run away, how are you going to fix that?” To which hopefully they respond, “I’ll go look for them.” “And how are you going to make sure it doesn’t

16 December 2017 | www.pakmag.com.au

We always learn more from failing than we do from succeeding, and we learn how to fix the problems created and make better decisions next time. We need to get them comfortable and excited about failing because if they are failing, it means they are pushing themselves. If they are cruising, then life is too comfortable.

8. Teach them how to manage their emotions.

It’s the key to resilience. Teach your kids that it’s ok to feel sad, angry or any emotion but then get them to think about the next step. “You lost the soccer match and you are sad, I understand you are sad, I’d be sad too. But now you have to figure out how to improve for next time. Have you got any ideas?”

9. Don’t over sensationalise.

We’ve all done it. “If you don’t take this medicine I will have to take you to the hospital because you will get sicker!” Stick to the facts.

10. Be a great role model.

My kids have seen me knocked down, hurt and in tears more times than I’d hoped. But we always talk it through, and they know that I try my hardest and that sometimes it doesn’t pay off, or that people don’t always treat me right. This shows our kids that even adults hurt sometimes and that we too have to get back up again and try harder.

Resiliency helps kids navigate the inevitable trials, triumphs and tribulations of life, and gives them the tools and confidence to know that they can handle whatever life throws at them.

So, it’s imperative we get rid of the obsession with giving our kids the perfect childhood, because resilient kids become resilient adults that are able to survive and thrive in the face of life’s ups and downs. And that should be one of the number one aims for all parents to teach their kids.

Bump, Bub and Beyond

Dreaming of a family holiday?

STORY Kalisha Fitsch

Travelling with a baby may seem like a daunting experience. Making the travel arrangements, deciding what to pack, and planning the everyday actual travel logistics can fill new parents with dread. Whether you’re travelling by car, train, or plane, the change to a baby’s routine can cause distress to both baby and to you.

But there are things you can do to make your life easier, and your holiday the relaxing or adventurous time it is meant to be. Here are some helpful tips: Necessary Preparations It’s important to consider some extra points when booking flights. Are there any regulations on bringing breast milk through airport security? Will you need to book an extra seat for your baby? Are you allowed to take the stroller onto the plane? Airlines often have different regulations on these, so it would be a good idea to double-check before booking anything. When booking accommodation, be sure to let the staff know that you’ll require a cot in the room.

Take Breaks If you’re travelling by car, while it’s recommended for all drivers to take frequent breaks regardless, with a baby on board, it’s recommended that you take a break every two hours for nappy changes and feeds. Make sure you factor this time into your plans.

Sleep Tight Some babies have difficulties falling asleep in an unfamiliar cot. To help them adjust to their home away from home, bring some familiar blankets, soft toys and sheets from home. The aim here is to make their sleeping space feel as cosy and homely as can be, which

typically helps them settle and doze off. Still having troubles? Taking your baby for a stroll or a car ride can help lull them off to sleep.

Prepare for Messes Babies are messy! Spit ups happen, nappy leaks happen.

When travelling it’s a good idea to always have easily accessible clothes for both bub and yourself; sitting on a long-haul flight covered in vomit really is no fun! If your baby is eating solids too, then be sure to carry bibs and wipes with you at all times!

Have you Considered the ‘Travel Nanna’ Option?

According to a survey of a nationally representative, independent panel of 1,076 Australian parents commissioned by HotelsCombined.com.au, one out of two Australians are paying their parents or parents-in-law to come with them on holiday with the main purpose of keeping a watchful eye on the kids.

Approximately 59 per cent of parents with kids under four years of age would prefer to take grandparents on holiday with them to watch their child rather than pay a babysitter.

After all, children are generally more comfortable having a caretaker who is familiar to them rather than a hired babysitter they’ve never met before. It also gives parents peace of mind while they’re travelling knowing their children are under the care of somebody they trust. This is also excellent bonding time for the child and the grandparent!

Don’t let the worry of travelling with a baby stop you from enjoying a break away from reality. The key really is in being informed and prepared. Do this and travelling with a baby really doesn’t need to be such a daunting concept.

www.pakmag.com.au | December 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!

Seriously Milestones RRP $29.95, www.seriously.net.au Seriously Milestones produces milestone cards for parents who realise that parenting is not always fun and games but still want to have a laugh!

Our Preggo Pack, Newborn cards and Toddler Edit will ensure that you never miss out on snapping those important moments, and that you can remind your kids how annoying they were for years to come.

Dreambaby® Cosmopolitan Security Gate RRP $49.95, www.dreambaby.com.au Baby Loves Sleep Sleepy Hugs Sleepsuit RRP $59.95, www.babylovessleep.com.au Our Sleepy Hugs® gives comfort and security to your baby to encourage long, deep sleep.

Its unique design allows for full arm movement with just enough security to combat their ‘startle’ reflex, keeping them asleep for longer. And gives parents back their sleep.

The SLEEPY HUGS sleep suit gives comfort and security to your baby when they have outgrown swaddling, allowing them to sleep deeper, for longer.

20 December 2017 | www.pakmag.com.au

Dreambaby® has over 20 child safety gates in their range and continues to launch new models every year. Why? Because every family has different needs and homes come in all shapes!

The Dreambaby® Cosmopolitan Security Gate is a popular gate in their range and is regularly chosen for both its features and affordability. Indeed, this gate’s one-handed operation (great when you’re carrying a load) coupled with its stylish design and sturdy construction makes it a must-have for young families looking to help keep their little ones safe, all day, every day.

Bump, Bub and Beyond

Exploring the benefits of sensory play

Tackle incontinence early

STORY Sally Galloway, Senior Occupational Therapist, Goodstart Early Learning.

STORY Dr Naomi Gleadow, North Shore Well Women’s Clinic

From birth through to early childhood, children use their senses (taste, touch, smell, sight and hearing) to explore and try to make sense of the world around them. Providing opportunities for children to actively explore their world through ‘sensory play’ is crucial for brain development. This leads to a child’s ability to complete more complex learning tasks and supports cognitive growth, language development, gross motor skills, social interaction and problem-solving skills.

As a women’s health practitioner and general practitioner, I often hear about and see several conditions which most of you keep to yourselves.

One of the most common of these problems is urinary incontinence. It is often mentioned at the end of the consult as a ‘side problem’ or only declared when prompted.

However, there are two other less common senses that are vital to early childhood development that we commonly miss: body awareness (also known as proprioception) and balance. Sensory play includes any activity that stimulates these senses and facilitates exploration, encouraging children to use scientific processes while they play, create, investigate and explore.

It is important for children to have a range of sensory play activities and spaces available to them at home.

Tips for parents: •• Organise physical indoor and outdoor areas for your child, so they have flexible spaces that include quiet, active, wet and dry areas that help to calm or alert them in their play.

•• Ensure your child has access to materials they can shape and adapt, such as play dough.

•• Use lighting and soft furnishings such as cushions and blankets to create separate spaces.

We need to discuss this embarrassing problem as there are many treatments and most of these treatments are more effective if tackled early. Most women feel that the only option is surgery and this is not the case. Sometimes the answer is simple, such as finding a solution for constipation or treating a urinary tract infection.

We also know that obesity and constipation double the chances of having urinary incontinence. So, by encouraging a good diet and regular exercise, we are not only promoting a healthy lifestyle, we are treating the incontinence. A good women’s health physiotherapist can also assist. They work with you to assist in the strengthening and training of the pelvic floor muscles which provides support for your internal organs. This is extremely important, as most of us are doing our pelvic floor muscle training incorrectly.

The assistance of a good physiotherapist to ‘coach’ you on correct technique can make a major improvement to your symptoms.

Remember by confronting the problem early you are not only reducing your chances of needing invasive treatments, but you are also learning techniques to protect yourself from a condition that can have a significant impact on your life.

www.pakmag.com.au | December 2017 21

WHAT’S ON Dec DEC FRIDAY 1 Quirky Chrsitmas Trees Runs until 23 December CastleTown Shopping Centre www.castletown.com.au Free / Family U3A Tour Perc Tucker Regional Gallery 4727 9011 1.30pm / $5 / U3A Membership Letter from Santa!

Runs until 17 December Fairfield Central Shopping Centre www.fairfieldcentral.com.au Free / Kids Colouring In Competition - Win a $20 Gift Card Runs until 17 December Fairfield Central Shopping Centre www.fairfieldcentral.com.au Free / Kids Take an “Elfie” to WIN a $2 000 Flight Centre Voucher and other Great Prizes Runs until 24 December Fairfield Central Shopping Centre www.fairfieldcentral.com.au Free / Family Santa Photos CastleTown Runs until 24 December CastleTown Shopping Centre www.castletown.com.au Check Website Santa Photos Stockland Runs until 24 December Stockland Townsville www.stockland.com.au/townsville SATURDAY 2 Life Church Carols by Candlelight Matinee Life Church Townsville 4775 4722 3.30pm / Free / Family

With 4TO FM’s Minty

Enchanted Weekend Workshops Perc Tucker Regional Gallery 4727 9011 10.00am / Free / Family

Enchanted Weekend Workshops Perc Tucker Regional Gallery 4727 9011 10.00am / Free / Family

Introducing Family Foods IMPS Building, Kirwan Health abatownsville@yahoo.com.au 9.30am / Family

Belt Exams Choi Kwang Do Martial Art Centre www.choikwang-do.com.au 9.00am / Free / Family

Christmas Artist Market Perc Tucker Regional Gallery 4727 9011 10.00am / Free / Family

THURSDAY 7

Breastfeeding Education Class Thuringowa Library abatownsville@yahoo.com.au 9.00am / Family

TUESDAY 5

Giant Christmas Parties Runs until 9 December Grand BallRoom - The Ville Resort - Casino www.the-ville.com.au 7.00pm / $125 / Adult Fat Dogz Christmas Flea Market Fat Dogz Cafe, Cannon Park fleamarket@fatdogzcafe.com.au 2.00pm / Free / Family High Tea for the Arts Umbrella Studio Contemporary Arts umbrella.org.au 3.00pm / $50 / Youth+ SUNDAY 3 Yoga Tools For Schools Inc - 6th Birthday Family Picnic Jezzine Barracks near playground 0401 401 446 4.00pm / Free / Family Paddington 2 Charity Screening FNQ Hospital Foundation Event Cinemas www.eventcinemas.com.au 11.00am / $12 / Family Life Church Carols by Candlelight Life Church Townsville 4775 4722 6.00pm / Free/ Family

JCU Townsville Fire v Adelaide Lightning Townsville Stadium www.townsvillefire.com.au 7.00pm / Cost / Family

Storytime with Santa CityLibraries Flinders Street 4727 9666 10.00am / Free / Family

Stop Rewind Play - TAPA End of Year Production Runs until 9 December Townsville Civic Theatre whatson.townsville.qld.gov.au 6.30pm / $34 / Family

Art-box Pinnacles Gallery 4773 8871 10.00am / Gold Coin / Ages 0-5 Santa Photos Runs until 24 December Fairfield Central Shopping Centre www.fairfieldcentral.com.au 10.00am / $15 / Family

FRIDAY 8 Storytime with Santa CityLibraries Aitkenvale 4727 8310 10.00am / Free / Family

WEDNESDAY 6

SATURDAY 9

A Christmas Carol Runs until 9 December Pimlico High Performing Arts Centre www.townsvillelittletheatre.org.au 7.30pm / $25 / Family

Stable on the Strand Flash Mob CastleTown Shopping Centre www.castletown.com.au 11.00am and 1.00pm / Free / Family

Cinebuzz Crew Screening Ferdinand Runs until 10 December Event Cinemas www.eventcinemas.com.au 10.30am / Cost / Family

Santa’s Art Workshops Perc Tucker Regional Gallery 4727 9011 10.00am / Free / Family Sugar & Spice, All Things Nice TAPA Junior Concert Townsville Civic Theatre 4727 9797 10.00am / $13.50 / Family

Family Movie Night - Coco Event Cinemas www.eventcinemas.com.au 6.30pm / Cost / Family Storytime with Santa CityLibraries Thuringowa Central 4773 8811 10.00am / Free / Family

Giant Christmas Parties Grand BallRoom - The Ville Resort - Casino www.the-ville.com.au 7.00pm / $125 / Adult

www.pakmag.com.au | December 2017 23

WHAT’S ON DEC DEC

With 4TO FM’s Chooky

SATURDAY 9

TUESDAY 12

THURSDAY 14

SUNDAY 17

Imagine Play Create - Christmas Decorations CityLibraries Thuringowa Central, City Libraries Aitkenvale & CityLibraries Flinders Street 4773 8811 9.00am / Free / Family

Santa’s Art Workshops Perc Tucker Regional Gallery 4727 9011 10.00am / Free / Family

Santa’s Art Workshops Perc Tucker Regional Gallery 4727 9011 10.00am / Free / Family

Santa’s Art Workshops Perc Tucker Regional Gallery 4727 9011 10.00am / Free / Family

Santa’s Art Workshops

10.00am / Free / Family

Santa’s Art Workshops Pinnacles Gallery 4773 8871 10.00am / Free / Family

FRIDAY 15

Family Fun Day

Bluewater Xmas ‘Light & Sound’ Car Show Runs until 10 December Bluewater Community Centre 0400 924 736 10.00am / Free / Family SUNDAY 10 Carols by Candlelight Reid Park Complex whatson.townsville.qld.gov.au 5.00pm / Free / Family Santa’s Art Workshops Perc Tucker Regional Gallery & Pinnacles Gallery 4727 9011 10.00am / Free / Family Christmas in the Creek Melville’s Farm, Alligator Creek events@gatorgirls.com.au 4.30pm / $10 per Car Load / Family MONDAY 11 Santa’s Art Workshops Perc Tucker Regional Gallery 4727 9011 10.00am / Free / Family Gift Wrapping with The Salvation Army Runs until 24 December Fairfield Central Shopping Centre www.fairfieldcentral.com.au 9.00am / Gold Coin

Santa’s Art Workshops Pinnacles Gallery 4773 8871 10.00am / Free / Family Buddy Day/ Share the Art Day Choi Kwang Do Martial Art Centre www.choikwang-do.com.au 9.35am / Free / Family Creekwatch - Get to know about your local waterways Runs until 20 December Various in Townsville www.conservationvolunteers.com.au Booking Essential / Family WEDNESDAY 13 Santa’s Art Workshops Perc Tucker Regional Gallery 4727 9011 10.00am / Free / Family Cinebuzz Seniors Screening The Man Who Invented Christmas Event Cinemas www.eventcinemas.com.au 10.30am / $9 / Seniors Santa’s Art Workshops Pinnacles Gallery 4773 8871 10.00am / Free / Family Charlotte’s Web Runs until 16 December Full Throttle Theatre Company www.fullthrottletheatre.com Check Website Summer Reading Club Afternoon Movie - Jumanji CityLibraries Thuringowa Central 4773 8811 2.00pm / Free / Family

24 December 2017 | www.pakmag.com.au

Pinnacles Gallery 4773 8871

Santa’s Art Workshops Perc Tucker Regional Gallery 4727 9011 10.00am / Free / Family Santa’s Art Workshops Pinnacles Gallery 4773 8871 10.00am / Free / Family Riverway Movie Night - Beauty and The Beast Riverway Lagoon www.townsville.qld.gov.au 7.00pm / Free / Family SATURDAY 16 Santa’s Art Workshops Perc Tucker Regional Gallery 4727 9011 10.00am / Free / Family Santa’s Art Workshops Pinnacles Gallery 4773 8871 10.00am / Free / Family JCU Townsville Fire v Dandenong Rangers

Perc Tucker Regional Gallery 4727 9011 10.00am / Free / Family MONDAY 18 The Christmas Toy Fairy Pantomime Runs until 23 December CastleTown - Target Forecourt www.castletown.com.au Free / Family North Queensland Christmas Festival Runs until 22 December Strand Park www.stableonthestrand.com 5.30pm / Free / Family TUESDAY 19 Art-Box Pinnacles Gallery 4773 8871 10.00am / Gold Coin / Ages 0-5 THURSDAY 21 Sensory Santa Photos

Townsville Stadium

Fairfield Central Shopping Centre

www.townsvillefire.com.au

www.fairfieldcentral.com.au

7.00pm / Cost / Family

6.00pm / $15 / Family

FUN COMPETITIONS INSIDE! ENTER FOR YOUR CHANCE TO

www.pakmag.com.au | December 2017 25

FERDINAND FERDINAND FERDINAND A PRIZE PACK AND FAMILY PASS

FERDINAND TM & © 2017 Twentieth Century Fox Film Corporation. All rights reserved.

FERDINAND TM & © 2017 Twentieth Century Fox Film Corporation. All rights reserved.

FERDINAND TM & © 2017 Twentieth Century Fox Film Corporation. All rights reserved.

FERDINAND TM & © 2017 Twentieth Century Fox Film Corporation. All rights reserved.

FOR YOUR CHANCE To WIN, COMPLETE & mail TO: PakMag Colour In December 2017 PO Box 7433, Cairns QLD 4870 Win a Ferdinand prize pack and a Family Pass.

Competition closes 15/12/2017

Name Parent/Guardian Address Postcode Phone Email

26 December 2017 | www.pakmag.com.au

Age

MIGUEL IN CINEMAS BOXING DAY

©2017 DISNEY•PIXAR

MIGUEL MIGUEL A DOUBLE PASS

IN CINEMAS BOXING DAY IN CINEMAS BOXING DAY

Name FOR YOUR CHANCE WIN, BOXING DAY IN To CINEMAS COMPLETE & mail TO: Parent/Guardian PakMag Colour In December 2017 PO Box 7433, Cairns QLD 4870 Win a double pass to Coco.

Competition closes 15/12/2017

©2017 ©2017 DISNEY•PIXAR DISNEY•PIXAR

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Address Postcode Phone Email

www.pakmag.com.au | December 2017 27

A FAMILY PASS

#JUMANJI

IN CINEMAS DECEMBER 26 ©2017 Columbia TriStar Marketing Group, Inc. All Rights Reserved.

FOR YOUR CHANCE To WIN, COMPLETE & mail TO: PakMag Colour In December 2017 PO Box 7433, Cairns QLD 4870 Win a Family Pass to Jumanji Welcome to the Jungle.

Competition closes 15/12/2017

Name

Age

Parent/Guardian Address Postcode Phone Email

WHAT’S ON DEC DEC SATURDAY 23 JCU Townsville Fire v Bendigo Spirits Townsville Stadium www.townsvillefire.com.au 7.00pm / Cost / Family SUNDAY 24 Christmas Holiday Closure Runs until 1 January 2018 Perc Tucker Regional Gallery & Pinnacles Gallery - Closed MONDAY 25

Christmas Day Breakfast in Aqua The Ville Resort - Casino www.the-ville.com.au 7.00am / $55 / Adult Christmas Day Lunch in Aqua The Ville Resort - Casino www.the-ville.com.au 12.00pm / $155 / Adult Christmas Day Dinner in Aqua The Ville Resort - Casino www.the-ville.com.au 6.00pm / $110 / Adult

Xmas Lunch in the Grand Ballroom The Ville Resort - Casino www.the-ville.com.au 12.00pm / $170 / Adult

Christmas Lunch

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

SUNDAY 31 Casino Royale NYE Party in the Grand Ballroom The Ville Resort - Casino www.the-ville.com.au 8.00pm / $170 / Adult New Year’s Eve Celebrations The Strand 1300 878 001 6.30pm / Free / Family

IslandLife Runs until 1 January 2018 Island Bar www.fullmoondu.com 5.00pm / $29 / Youth+ JCU Townsville Fire v Perth Lynx Townsville Stadium www.townsvillefire.com.au 1.00pm / Cost / Family New Year’s Eve at Stage Door!

Stage Door Theatre Restaurant www.stagedoortheatre.com.au 7.00pm / $150 / 18+

New Year’s Eve in Miss Songs The Ville Resort - Casino www.the-ville.com.au 8.30pm / $190 / Adult

11.00am / $95 Adult / Family

New Year’s Eve in Aqua The Ville Resort - Casino www.the-ville.com.au 5.00pm / $55 / Adult

New Year’s Eve at Riverway Riverway Arts Centre nqomt.com.au 7.30pm / Cost / Family

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

Townsville RSL www.townsvillersl.com.au

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.

www.pakmag.com.au | December 2017 29

Regular Events

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

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.

30 December 2017 | www.pakmag.com.au

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

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

1. Anna, Emerson & August Booth & Nastacia Versletti 2. The Hatchards & Mackanzie Doran 3. Lilli Walklate, Pearl Lenahan & Olive Austenberg 4. David, Lyris, Anna & Elias Cumberbeach & Kriestie Tunnah 5. Rhane, Rob & Kay Douglas & Belinda Chittleborough 6. Ollie & Mag Tyson 7. Oriana Atkins & Isla Carless 8. Matt, Violet, Pearl, Nicole & Hazel Lenaham 9. Elias Cumberbeach & Jagger Stark

www.pakmag.com.au | December 2017 31

School Holiday Guide

SCHOOL HOLIDAY GUIDE LAUNCH ZONE

PAUL SADLER SWIMLAND

Bounce higher than you thought was possible at LAUNCH ZONE, a massive indoor trampoline experience filled with 155 interconnecting trampolines and over 1 000 square metres of padding! Bounce into foam pits, vault through the air and experience LAUNCH ZONE – Jump 2 It!

Swimming is fun, so book your child in for their lessons now.

P 1300 LAUNCH E enquiries@launchzone.com.au F Facebook/LaunchZone www.launchzone.com.au

CASTLETOWN

Offering: Deepwater survival.

Heated water and air.

Unlimited make up lessons.

Nationally accredited and extensively trained team.

All year around.

P 4779 4647 W www.paulsadlerswimland.com F Facebook/Paul-Sadler-Swimland-Riverside-Gardens

Like them on Facebook for more information on school holiday activities, events and special offers.

CODE CORNER

P 4772 1699 E enquiries@castletown.com.au F Facebook/CastletownTownsville www.castletown.com.au

FAIRFIELD CENTRAL Like them on Facebook for more information on school holiday activities, events and special offers.

P 4778 4249 E fairfieldcmanagement@lancinigroup.com.au F Facebook/FairfieldCentral www.fairfieldcentral.com.au

INFLATABLE KINGDOM The perfect venue to have a great time for all ages.

Inflatable Kingdom is a high-energy, action-packed environment with inflatables of all shapes and sizes.

To stay up to date with all that’s happening, check out their Facebook page or visit them at 72-88 Hervey Range Road, Condon inside Sk8way Townsville.

Monday and Friday - 9.00am to 4.00pm

Use your child’s interests to prepare them for the jobs of the future!

If your child loves Minecraft then what better way to encourage them to learn to code then by doing it with their favourite game? The Minecraft Modding course will teach participants to create code that will enable them to modify Minecraft!

Minecraft Coding for Kids Tuesday, 12 December to Thursday, 14 December.

From 1.00pm to 3.00pm.

Thuringowa Library.

Cost $145.00 Booking Required.

P 0407 079 569 E contactus@codecorner.com.au F Facebook/codecornernq www.codecorner.com.au

LITTLE SNAPPERS SWIM SCHOOL

Saturday - 1.00pm to 5.00pm

At Little Snappers we focus on child development principles, the rights of children in an aquatic environment, and teaching from the heart.

Sunday - 9.00am to midday

All ages.

P 4755 4422

P 4751 6111 – NorthSide

E admin@inflatablekingdomtownsville.com.au

P 4038 1773 – Riverway

F Facebook/inflatablekingdomtownsville

F Facebook/littlesnappersnorthside

www.inflatablekingdom.com.au

www.littlesnappers.com.au

Wednesday - 1.00pm to 4.00pm

www.pakmag.com.au | December 2017 33

School Holiday Guide

CÉDRIC CORRE PATISSERIE Treat the kids this school holidays to some delicious, mouth-watering pasties, cakes, pies and sausage rolls at Cédric Corre Patisserie. Open Monday to Friday 8 4:30pm and

The Cadets Kids Club is open to members of the Townsville RSL and bookings are essential as places are very limited.

A gold coin donation for admission goes to Mates 4 Mates, helping our veteran community.

P 4759 9500

Saturday 9:00am - 3:00pm.

F Facebook/TownsvilleRSL

School holiday specials Chocolate sponge with chocolate mousse. Half price @ $20 (Normally $40).

www.townsvillersl.com.au

Or Spend $40 and receive 6 free macarons.

TOWNSVILLE MINI GOLF

P 0400 551 701

Saturday Night Buffet

www.cedriccorre.com.au

All you can eat, all you can play. Pay for mini golf and kids eat for FREE. Adults only an extra $7.50 (bookings essential). Affordable food and fun only at Townsville Mini Golf throughout the school holidays.

CHIPMUNKS PLAYLAND & CAFÉ Located in West End, the play centre features the latest playground experience with a large main playground and a dedicated under 5’s area, and a separate baby area.

Open 9:00am to 5:30pm, Monday to Saturday and 10:00am to 4:00pm on Sundays.

Under ones and adults free, 1 - 2 years old $9.90 and over 3’s $13.90.

PS Don’t forget your socks!

Mini Golf Prices: Adult $12 |Kids(ages 5-12) $8 | Kids (ages 0-4) Free Unlimited Jumping Castle (up to age 12) $4 P 4771 3999 E errol@townsvilleminigolf.com.au F Facebook/tsvminigolf

LA LUNA YOUTH ARTS

P 4724 2219

Imagine | Create | Play

E townsville@chipmunks.com.au

Short courses available for young people 10 years+

F Facebook/ChipmunksAU

Come and play sessions for 3 - 6 years and 7 - 11 years.

www.chipmunks.com.au

Creative Arts Plus for 12 years+

TOWNSVILLE RSL

A range of visual art, drama and circus workshops on offer for children 3 -11 years.

Dining at Townsville RSL has never been easier. The Cadets Kids Club is open Thursday to Saturday from 5.00pm to 10.00pm for ages 3 - 12 years.

North Queensland’s longest running youth arts organisation because they love what they do and do what they love. . . Drama, dance, circus, film, music and art.

It is fully supervised so mums and dads can relax and enjoy some of their own company while knowing that our dedicated staff are taking care of their little ones.

(It is part of their T&C’s that parents have a buzzer for notifications for when their little one needs to see them, plus you are required to check out your child once an hour as well).

P 4773 6377 E admin@lalunanq.com F Facebook/LaLunaYouthArts www.lalunanq.com

DON’T FORGET TO LET THEM KNOW YOU READ IT IN PAKMAG

34 December 2017 | www.pakmag.com.au

Christmas

12 DAYS OF CHRISTMAS Looking for fun things to do this Christmas with your family? There’s plenty of local events and things you can do at home this year, and here are our top 12!

1. Make Christmas cards.

Saturday 9th December at 2.00pm.

We may live in the age of iPhones and social media, but a homemade, handwritten card still goes a long way.

Break out the glitter and cardboard and get crafty!

7. Visit Cotter’s Markets.

2. Create Christmas tree ornaments.

PersonaliSe your ornaments by adding names, dates or your child’s handprints to your home-made decorations.

You could even hang your child’s school photo on the tree.

3. Create a list of your favourite Christmas songs.

Collect all those timeless, nostalgic songs onto a CD or playlist and listen to them wherever you go. Music is one of the best ways to get into the festive spirit, and if you’ve picked out the tunes together, you’ll all be bopping along together!

4. Donate to the annual Mayor’s Christmas Cheer Appeal.

This appeal raises funds to assist older members and families in the Townsville community who may need a helping hand. Why not donate and help spread the Christmas cheer this December?

5. Write a letter to Santa.

Help your children write a letter to Santa asking for whatever it is that they would like. Photocopy the letter for a keepsake, it’ll make a great memory for them to look back on in adulthood.

6. Enjoy Christmas Theatre.

Come along to this Charles Dickens classic Christmas theatrical performance and immerse yourself in the story. At PIMPAC (Pimlico High School Performing Arts Centre), Wednesday 6th to Saturday 9th December, 7.30pm to 9.30pm plus one matinee performance on

What better place to find an original present for your family and friends than at North Queensland’s largest arts and crafts market? With over 150 stalls offering unique creations, you’re bound to find a special gift! At Flinders St and Townsville Bulletin Square, every Sunday 8.30am to 1.00pm.

8. Bake Christmas cookies.

This is the perfect time for seasonal baking. Get the kids involved in the kitchen and bake some delicious gingerbread men or cinnamon-spiced cookies.

9. Christmas Carols.

Sing along to your favourite Christmas songs and enjoy a sausage sizzle, puppet show and appearance from Santa and Rudolf! At Connect Church, Saturday 9th December, 4.00pm to 8.00pm.

10. Stable on the Strand.

Step into Bethlehem to experience an interactive recreation of the traditional Christmas story. The event also features children’s activities, live entertainment and refreshments all for free. At Strand Park, Monday 18th to Friday 22nd December, 5.30pm to 9.30pm.

11. Get your picture taken with Santa.

Head down to CastleTown, Stockland or Fairfield Central before Christmas Eve to meet Santa Claus and the elves and have your child’s picture taken!

12. Leave some snacks out for Santa.

On Christmas Eve Santa is clearly going to be having a very busy night and could probably do with some snacks! Leave out homemade cookies, hot chocolate, and reindeer food (oats mixed with glitter).

www.pakmag.com.au | December 2017 37

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1. Erin & Emily Hibble 2. Brooke Xanthe Chatfield 3. Elisha, Kaley & Robert 4. Brodie & Amity

38 December 2017 | www.pakmag.com.au

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

5. Ali & Blake McKelvie 6. Kim, Claire & Tamara Purcell 7. Hallee, Isla, Scott, Melissa Vardenega 8. Natalie, Luke & Evie Gallagher

www.pakmag.com.au | December 2017 39

Health

HEALTH “Tis the season to be jolly” STORY Dr Liz Chappel Whilst for the vast majority of us Christmas is a time for family, friends and fun, it is also a time fraught with health hazards. Whilst not wanting to be a Grinch, it is worthwhile paying heed to the following: Overindulgence - By all means enjoy your Christmas day meal (which generally has enough calories in one meal to last you 24-48 hours), but it is wise to ensure that you are not indulging in sugary, processed foods from early December right through to mid-January. This is when you can do real damage to your weight and increase your risk of heart disease and stroke. Try to exercise a little more over the Christmas period and have plenty of vegetables and salads with every meal.

What does the mask of childhood anxiety look like?

STORY Laura Adams, Author of My Anxiety Monster.

Childhood anxiety can be complex, and considering that children often have little understanding of what is happening to them, diagnosis can be a lengthy process.

Anxiety can look like a number of things including anger, challenging behaviour, school refusal, negative behaviour changes, withdrawal, selective mutism, selfmedicating in older children (drugs, alcohol, self-harm), emotional outbursts for seemingly no reason, sudden anxious attachment to one parent, constant selfcriticism or psychosomatic symptoms.

Alcohol - Drinking in excess is possibly one of the greater health hazards around, and combined with the heat and humidity of summer the risk of dehydration and hangovers is high. Slow your drinking down, alternate drinks with big glasses of soda water and try not to mix drinks.

I can remember having panic attacks at age ten.

Only, I did not know what they were back then; I just knew that I felt nauseous, unexplainably terrified of everything around me, fearful of my own body and what was happening to it, and I was convinced that I was dying.

Depression - Christmas can highlight a sense of isolation for people, and it is also a time of increased financial pressure for many. Be mindful of others, offer an invite, a listening ear and some of your time to others. Lifeline and the Black Dog Institute can offer guidance and advice at what can be a very difficult time of year for some.

My instinct, even at a young age, was to avoid the places that I thought had made me feel like that.

School was a place of fear for me, and I tried my best to avoid it.

Have a wonderful, safe and healthy Christmas.

SPA IN A JAR Spa in a Jar is a Cairns made and truly natural range of skin and wellness products. The artisan, 100% natural and beautifully scented Bath Salts and Magnesium Sprays are handcrafted in small batches from ethically sourced ingredients, organic and free from harmful chemicals and synthetic additives. Stocked at all Calanna Whole Health Pharmacies, this is the perfect gift this Christmas.

My Anxiety Monster uses illustrations to portray the intensity of anxiety; as the anxiety dissipates, so does the appearance of the monster. The book explains what anxiety feels like, what feeds it, how to overcome it by playing the anxiety challenge game and includes two relaxation exercises.

I am a qualified counsellor who has worked with children for over ten years. I have a passion for helping children understand what anxiety is, and this was the driving force behind my children’s book. For more details check out www.innerpeacebears.com For your chance to win a copy of My Anxiety Monster visit www.pakmag.com.au

www.pakmag.com.au | December 2017 41

Recipes

LEFT-OVER LEFT OVER RECIPES For many of us, Christmas means one thing – food! And, whether it’s a plethora of prawns, an abundance of meats or a dessert mountain of epic proportions, we always tend to buy more food than we need.

So, instead of chucking all that goodness in the bin (or eating hundreds of ham or turkey sandwiches!), why not use your left overs for a tasty meal in its own right.

“Left Over Pie”

Christmas Pudding Ice Cream

Ingredients 600g cold turkey, chicken torn into chunks Any leftover ham, torn into small pieces Leftover veggies (broccoli and peas work best) 120g butter 120g flour 1.35l milk Pinch of dried or fresh thyme Salt and pepper 500g puff pastry 1 egg yolk, beaten

Ingredients Left over Christmas Pudding Creamy vanilla ice cream Dark Chocolate

Method Using the butter, milk and flour, make a simple roux – if you’re not sure how to do this a quick Google search will help you out. Make sure you season the roux with salt and pepper.

Method Break or chop up Christmas pudding into cubes, roughly 1cm each. Take your ice cream out of the freezer and leave for 5-10 minutes to soften slightly. Add the chunks of Christmas pudding and mix through the ice cream. Try to keep the chunks intact.

Grate over the dark chocolate and return to the freezer until needed.

Preheat oven to 195 degrees Celsius.

Mix in the turkey or chicken, ham and the veggies and cook heat through on the stove. Put the mixture in a deep pie dish and cover with puff pastry. Paint the pastry with the egg.

Bake in the oven for 35 minutes and serve.

Do you have any special recipes you use at Christmas? We’d love to see photos of what you cook, whether it be your Christmas Day spread or your Boxing Day leftovers, post your creations on our Facebook Page.

www.pakmag.com.au | December 2017 43

Sponsored by the Townsville City Council

WHAT’S UP TOWNSVILLE Free Events this Mayor’s Christmas Festive Season & Beyond Tree Appeal Christmas in the City – 1 Dec – 5.30pm - 8.30pm, Bulletin Square Take the kids down to Bulletin Square to watch the switch on of the magnificent Christmas lights in the city as a magical start to your festive month. There will be lots of food, entertainment, and a special visit from Santa!

Carols by Candlelight – 10 Dec – 5.30pm - 8.30pm, Reid Park Complex

For 25 years, the Mayor’s Christmas Tree Appeal has been assisting local families in need, helping them have a wonderful Christmas. Why not give a heartfelt gift this holiday season and make a difference by donating to the appeal? Cash donations are accepted and will be sure to make somebody’s Christmas a little brighter!

Visit www.townsville.qld.gov.au to find out more or call 1300 878 001.

Get into the holiday spirit and sing along to your favourite Christmas songs! A wonderful free family event for all ages, Carols by Candlelight will provide a night of festive entertainment. The event features a range of talent, including headline artist and national star, Kate Miller-Heidke.

Riverway Movie Night – 15 December – 7.00pm, Riverway Lagoons Get down to Riverway Lagoons for the screening of Beauty and the Beast, under the stars at Riverway this month.

Keep them Learning: Summer Reading Club

New Year’s Eve Celebrations – 31 December – 1 January 6.30pm - 12.30am, The Strand Park

Looking for something educational and rewarding for your kids to do this upcoming summer holidays? Look no further than CityLibraries Townsville’s Summer Reading Club!

Welcome 2018 with Townsville City Council’s New Year’s Eve celebrations. What better way to spend New Year’s Eve than at the beach? Bring the kids along to relax on The Strand, enjoy a movie on the big screen and watch the exciting firework display to kick off the new year.

There are three levels within the club catering to preschool, primary, and secondary school-aged children. The club challenges kids to read books, magazines and graphic novels over the school holidays, giving out prizes for every 5 books read!

Australia Day – 26 January 2018, Jezzine Barracks

Get ready for a celebration of sports, games, technology and team spirit. Join the Summer Reading Club at any CityLibraries Townsville branch or online from 1 Dec 2017 to 18 Jan 2018.

Events for this action-packed day will include a fun run, citizenship ceremony, a 21-gun salute with a Australian Defence Force fly past and wrapping up with an Australia Day awards ceremony. There will also be live entertainment, children’s amusements and a free Aussie breakfast at this free community event.

Get Active Expo – 4 February 10.00am - 2.00pm, Townsville Stadium Follow through with your New Year’s Resolutions in 2018 and get active! The Get Active Expo will allow you to try various sports and activities, check out active exhibitors and sign up to clubs. This is your perfect chance to try something new!

Interested in being an exhibitor? There are still spots available if you’d like your own stall – See the Townsville City Council website for more details.

44 December 2017 | www.pakmag.com.au

Be Water Wise Level 3 water restrictions are now in force within the Townsville area.

What this means for you As a city, we should be using 100ML of water per day or less to meet our daily consumption target and make sure the small amount of water we have left in our dam lasts for as long as possible.

•• No sprinkler or irrigation systems •• Handheld watering* only 6am - 7am and 6pm - 7pm (odd and evens system applies) •• Buckets, watering cans and drip irrigation systems can be used at any time •• Switch off all automatic watering systems •• Use a broom to clean hard surfaces (not a hose) •• Use a bucket or water efficient car wash to clean vehicles and boats Even houses - Tuesday and Saturday Odd houses - Wednesday and Sunday

Get Ready Townsville: Your Guide to Cyclone Season Preparations With the cyclone season just around the corner, it’s vital to be prepared.

Prepare your home Make sure that you have secured your home, removed any hazards (like garden debris), purchased emergency supplies and ensured that all of your insurances are up to date.

Get emergency alerts Townsville City Council utilises the Queensland Government’s ‘Emergency Alert System’. This national emergency warning system sends voice messages to landlines (based on the location of the handset) and text messages to mobile phones (based on the location of the mobile phone). For more information visit the Queensland Government Emergency Alert website: www.emergencyalert.gov.au Tune into warnings Tune into your local radio station or follow social media for the latest emergency information.

Visit www.facebook.com/TownsvilleDisasterInformation or Twitter @TCC_news Prepare an emergency kit

Looking after Pets this Festive Season As a pet owner, you’re responsible for making sure your pets are healthy, fed, registered, and well-behaved.

This festive season, make sure your pet is considered in your preparations for cyclones and festivities. Fireworks and natural weather disasters can cause a lot of stress to pets and they can escape yards in a panic. Make sure you bring your pets inside, give them praise and distract them with games and toys to ensure they are not too scared. If they do go missing, being registered is their way back to you, so make sure your pets are microchipped and registered to you.

Make sure that you have the following things in your emergency kit: •• Battery operated radio •• Spare batteries •• First aid kit •• Torch •• Non-perishable food items •• Clothes •• Medicine •• Important Documents •• Water •• Pet Food •• Can opener and utensils •• Personal hygiene items •• Insect Repellent •• Money

www.pakmag.com.au | December 2017 45

MEGA SUMMER GIVEAWAY! Visit www.pakmag.com.au for your chance to win!

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1. Mindfulness Colouring with Affirmations Book for kids and adults - RRP $29.95 - www.kyliejohnsonart.com - Mindfulness colouring with affirmations for kids and adults promotes positive thinking and self-belief and provides the perfect opportunity to connect with children more in the present moment. Artist, Kylie invites you to indulge in a wonderful daily habit together with kids, to share instant feelings of gratitude, positivity, love and connection while practising mindfulness and noticing the difference this brings to your day. 2. Pink Poppy Summer Mermaid Pack - RRP $85.00 - www.pinkpoppy.com.au - This season, enter the magical world of Mermaids with Pink Poppy and be enchanted by the current collection of mermaid dresses, tea sets, gifts, accessories and more. The Summer Mermaid pack includes: 1 x Mermaid dress (size 3-4 or 5-6), 1 x Mermaid drawstring bag, 1 x Mermaid wand and 1 x Mermaid headband. 3. Magformers Funny Wheel Set - RRP $69.90 www.magformers.com.au - For ages 3+. The set include squares and triangles and WHEELS! A pack of Learning Cards is included in the set with 2D puzzles, 2D to 3D 1:1 building activities as well as 20 different car designs that they can make. There are no step by step instructions so children can develop their spatial awareness, problem solving and rotational skills! 4. The Lunchbox Range by H2coco - RRP $4.50 3 x 200mL, $4.70 for H2melon - www.h2coconut.com - H2coco’s new range gives parents peace of mind, with 100% natural fruit juice alternatives that are hydrating, full of flavour, and contain less than half the sugar content of some other Australian juice boxes. Packaged in convenient 200mL three-packs, the Lunchbox Range is perfect for on-the-go and a great addition to any lunchbox. The Lunchbox Range includes five different flavours, including two delicious new flavours formulated for kids - Troperiffic and Wildberry. Available in Coles and Woolworths nationwide.

46 December 2017 | www.pakmag.com.au

WIN!

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5. Elf on the Shelf - RRP $69.99 - Available: Myer, Dymocks and Speciality Stores - The magical story that explains how Santa’s scout elves help him manage his naughty or nice list – each beautifully illustrated children’s hardback book comes as a part of a keepsake boxed set including one of Santa’s scout elves. When a family adopts a scout elf and gives it a name, the scout elf receives its Christmas magic and can fly to the North Pole each night to tell Santa Claus about all of the day’s adventures. Each morning the scout elf returns to its family ending up in a different place to watch the festive fun, creating a unique family moment. Children love to race around the house and see where their scout elf has landed. 6. Aussie Mozi - RRP $18.95 - www.archernaturals.com.au - 100 per cent natural insect repellent with no nasties. Free from DEET and citronella, and is safe for pregnancy and children. 7. OPPO A57 in Black or Gold, for the kids - RRP $269 - Available: Telstra - Calling all parents! Don’t burn a hole in your pocket this Christmas. If you’re after leading smartphone capabilities at a fraction of the cost, the A57 should be top of your gift list. With rapid fingerprint Touch Access, a 16MP flagship-level front camera, 13MP rear camera, full HD video and features such as palm-activated shutter, the A57 is one stocking filler that’s sure to keep the kids entertained this Christmas! 8. Globber EVO 4-IN-1 - RRP $160 - www.globber.com.au - The award-winning Globber EVO 4-IN-1 offers pushchair, ride-on and scooter mode all-in-one is suitable for all children 12 months to 6+ years. Thanks to its screw-less design, it’s super easy to change between modes. The EVO 4-IN-1 comes with Globber’s patented steering lock button which locks the wheels to only move forward and backward, helping children learn to balance while first scootering.

www.pakmag.com.au | December 2017 47

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POOL PERFECTION With the Block’s Caro and Kingi

It’s summer! That means hot days and no school, making the pool one of the most favourable spots to hang out. It’s a way to cool off, exercise and have fun!

Is your backyard pool in need of a makeover?

Here are some great tips to help transform your backyard into your very own little tropical hideaway: Outdoor kitchen Turn your backyard into an outdoor kitchen by adding a barbecue, storage unit and dining table. Home-cooked burgers, grilled prawns and icy cold soft drinks after a day of swimming are hard to beat!

A personal waterpark Turn your pool into an exciting personal miniwaterpark by installing a slide or a waterfall to the side of the pool. The kids will be thrilled and will have hours of entertainment sliding that will continue years down the track, and it keeps them active!

Lazy lounging

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Not up for a swim? Consider taking your usually-indoor activities outside. Reading a good book in the shade can be just as satisfying as a swim on a warm day. Purchase a brandnew table setting for family board games or treat yourself to a cosy hanging loveseat for the ultimate in relaxation and enhanced ‘me-time’.

Tropical flora A backyard simply isn’t complete without an array of plants to give the place some life. Put some time aside for gardening. With just a little bit of TLC, gardens will thrive. Whether you’re planting them into the ground lining the fence or decorating the tables with potted cacti; the greener, the better!

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48 December 2017 | www.pakmag.com.au

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1. Beautiful Bondi backyard - www.harrisonslandscaping.com.au 2. Bluewater Pools Cairns - www.bluewaterpoolscairns.com.au 3. Valley 4 Piece Outdoor Lounge Setting - Contact store for price www.harveynorman.com.au 4. Zakkia Round Pot Sky 15cm tall RRP $25.00 - www.korufurnitureandhomewares.com.au 5. Byron Bay Hanging Chairs 70’s Love Seat 2 Seater - RRP $900 www.korufurnitureandhomewares.com.au 6. Check out the S.R.Smith slide collection at Swimart. You’ll find quality, safety and features that’ll keep the fun rolling for years to come - Available in store only www.swimart.com.au

DADDY DIARY “On the first day of Christmas, my true love gave to me, five random toe bites, four tins of Whiskers, three squeaky pet toys, two dead geckos and a violent scratch behind my right ear.”

Ho, ho, ho! It seems Santa came to the Clifton household early this year and gifted us with a loveable little fluff ball. He's small, ginger and just so adorable (which makes him sound a little like Ed Sheeran). Ladies and gentleman I present to you, Taco the kitten, the newest Clifton.

We weren't planning on adopting a kitten. Truth be told, the thought of getting a new four-legged friend wasn't even on our radar. If anything, it’s our three-and-a-halfyear-old daughter Matilda's doing. You see, the amazing staff at her daycare, the Goodstart Golf Links Drive Centre, have been teaching our Little Miss Three all about the important work of the RSPCA. Or as she calls it, "The home for animals that don't have a home." A pretty accurate breakdown really. Finally, after weeks of hearing about the PCA, she often forgets to say the RS, we decided to take her, along with a shopping bag full of cat food to the Townsville RSPCA Adoption Centre on

Tompkins Rd in Shaw. Matilda loved every second of the visit. The only soul who was more excited by the whole thing was the kitten, now known as Taco.

It was a case of the old saying, "You don't choose the pet, you let the pet choose you." Taco was just so thrilled to be in our little family of three's presence. Plus, he demonstrated every single cool kitten emotion known to man or feline in about ten minutes. He was playful, loving and just so damn cute. He was one of us. Fast forward to now, and we're just so grateful we made the decision to adopt our ‘little man’. He's sweet, loveable and so good with our daughter. He's a beautiful little ginger spark in Matilda's life. In all of our lives.

While we all get ready to enjoy Christmas with our families for another year, please take a quick moment to think about the four-legged members of our community who don't have a family to go to. And please also spare a thought for the totally awesome humans (many of them volunteers) who take care of all of them. There is no end of year shut down period in their job, not even over Christmas. I realise that not everyone is in a position to adopt an animal from the Townsville RSPCA Adoption Center, but you can assist by making a donation of money, pet food, bedding, bleach or even A4 paper. With that many legs in one place, they go through a lot of ‘stuff’. Plus, who knows, just by making a donation, you may end up with a new member of the family. We did!

MERRY CHRISTMAS TOWNSVILLE! Cliffo Hit 103.1 Townsville

50 December 2017 | www.pakmag.com.au