PakMag Townsville - July 2014

pakmag JUL 2014

To w n s v i l l e

EzEine FMRaga

ISSUE 44

magazine of choice for local families

Kids

rev up

MINI MAG Inside

for the

V8's

& undernourished

Event GUIDE What's On In July

Cover photo: Cheeky Monkey Photography

OVERFED

Handwriting Still Important In Our Tech-Driven World

win TICKETS TO SEE THE GRUFFALO LIVE ON STAGE

Details on page 28

19 11

publisher's

Contents

note

Hello and welcome to the July school holiday edition of PakMag! There is so much happening in Townsville this July, my boys cannot wait for the V8’s, whereas I cannot wait for the Australian Festival of Chamber Music production of Cinderella.

We have also rescheduled our Teddy Bears Picnic and we have an all weather back up plan this time so start getting your teddy’s ready and make sure you let us know asap if you want to be involved. Follow us on Facebook for the most up to date information.

My little man Sean turns three this month, it feels like only yesterday he rushed into our world on Independence Day, so Happy Birthday our little ball of energy.

Whatever you do these school holidays, enjoy-it’s such a great time of year and don’t forget to tell everyone, you read it in PakMag!

Bree pakmag

56 JULY

parents 02 What’s New 05 Show & Tell 08 Handwriting, How Important is it?

11 Learning to be Social 12 Overfed & Undernourished 15 Lessons in Boredom 17 TechTalk 19 Pak Health 20 Nutrition

kids 27

Kid’s MiniMag

babies 35 Baby News: Baby Led Weaning

things to win

23 PakRecipes

05 WIN Slinky Apples

25 What's On

06 WIN Cinderella Tickets

27 MiniMag

36 WIN a Bellababy Box

35

Baby Led Weaning

36 PakBaby

36 WIN a Sinchies Pack 37 WIN a Bon Appeteat Set

39 School Holiday Activity Guide Publisher: Bree James Editor: Carly Hammersley Regional Sales Manager: Tammy Parsons NQ Sales & Biz Development: Angelina Mortley Graphic Designer: Emma Wilkins Assistant graphic Designer: Sara Williams Articles: Jutta Dempsey, Amanda Cranston and submitted writers Phone: 4053 3331 Fax: 4053 3350 Sales Phone: 4053 3331 Email: info@pakmag.com.au Postal: PO Box 761, Hyde Park QLD 4812

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.

43 Rydges Esplanade Resort 44 HOME: Family Living 49 TRAVEL: Whitsunday Reef Festival

cover

51 Tom's Tavern Review

Model: Max Olsen

52 Out & About

Photography: Thanks to Cheeky Monkey Photography

54 Biz Directory 55 Reverse the Brutal Truth

CAR: Thanks to Entropy

56 Townsville V8's

Find us exclusively in your local: www.pakmag.com.au

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inBRIEF EATWELL Australia EatWell Australia is a private nutrition business focused on supporting women and children through all of life’s crucial stages - from conception, pregnancy, infancy, early childhood and beyond. Founded in 2013 by Hannah and David Gentile. Hannah decided to focus her nutritional background on women and children after experiencing a high-risk pregnancy.

Realising the lack of good information for women, especially relating to mothers, Hannah was determined to provide a resource women could turn to during some of the most vital times in life. Hannah also lives with Coeliac Disease and has had to alter her diet while breastfeeding an infant who suffers food intolerances. She has a Master of Nutrition from Deakin University and has spent the last 10 years working in the fields of behavioural science, health, and nutrition with women and children across New Zealand and Australia.

ELLE J is on the move!

LAUNCH Zone

July

what’s

NEW

TRIATHLON Festival 12 - 13 July 2014 Strand Park

The 2014 Townsville Triathlon Festival is a two-day celebration of lifestyle, fitness and community participation staged along Townsville’s picturesque

EatWell Australia is dedicated to delivering scientific, medically-backed information proven to improve health. “Good nutrition lasts a lifetime, and we aim to increase both the duration and quality of our clients lives through our work,” Hannah said.

Strand to Pallarenda Beach on 12 and 13 July.

Book in for an initial consultation with an EatWell Australia nutritionist by visiting them online at www.eatwellaustralia.com or call (07) 4401 8022.

transition area is located. The swim leg is just off the

FRUITION Tuition For over twenty years Fruition Tuition has been serving families and providing excellent results for learners from age three to adult and aims to deliver inspirational learning outcomes within the shortest possible timeframes.

An individualised learning plan is developed specifically for each student based on information gained from a needs analysis that identifies strength and growth areas and strategies that can be used to fulfil potential.

The Exciting Fruition Childhood Program is a must for children aged three years to year three and beyond. ECP covers spatial skills, letters, sounds, handwriting, spelling, reading, comprehension, math basics, the writing process, grammar and punctuation - everything essential to ensure academic success and confidence.

Fruition Tuition Hyde Park is located opposite Officeworks Charters Towers Road Hyde Park and is now open. Phone 1300 884 846 or visit www.fruition.com.au

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Over the two days, the main activities take place in Townsville’s Strand Park, where the high-traffic main Strand beach while the bike and run legs takes

PAY1 JUMP2 Launch Zone is home to a huge indoor trampoline arena packed with high energy. 155 interconnected trampolines and over 1000 square metres of padding to land on, mean LAUNCH ZONE is an exciting, active and safe environment where the sky is the limit!

Take your pick of eight trampoline zones, large viewing areas for spectating and a café, this fully air-conditioned venue caters for all ages and interests.

Whether you're looking to improve your fitness, get an adrenaline rush or just Jump 2 It!, LAUNCH ZONE is the place for you. Spectators get to watch the fun for free while enjoying a coffee or lunch at the café. Special offer: Pay for 1 hour and jump for 2 on Tuesdays, excluding school holidays.

participants along The Strand and Pallarenda Beach.

More than 3,000 competitors took part in last year’s Following on from the success of their pop-up store at Castletown Shopping Centre over the Christmas/New Year period, Maternity and Children’s Boutique store Elle J has moved into its new permanent home at Domain Central.

event, and many more spectators lined the Strand to cheer them on. This year organisers are anticipating around a 30 percent increase in participants across the separate events including the Performance Physio

Located just up from The Coffee Club next to Robins Kitchen, the new-look store will see an expansion of the Elle J maternity line-up. With an increase to 7 maternity and breastfeeding fashion labels (including 2 providing pre-natal and post-natal support garments) Elle J is now the place to go for fashionable new mums and mums-to-be.

Sprint Distance Triathlon and the TP Human Capital

You will also be able find a selection of baby and children’s fashion, furniture and decor pieces for nurseries and children’s rooms, and an increased selection of giftware.

attendance to present finisher’s medallions and join the

Coinciding with the launch of the new space, Elle J will also be relaunching their website www.ellej.com.au in early July. The relaunch will see all in-store products available on-line, as well as a FREE ‘click and collect’ service for busy mums!

The PakMag Teddy Bears’ Picnic will also be held as part

Visit Elle J at Domain Central and keep in touch via their Facebook page: www.facebook.com/ElleJkidsboutique

For more information, visit:

Team Triathlon. By far the standout event for families will be the 1300SMILES Kids TRY Series, supported

by PakMag, with Johnathan Thurston and Ky Hurst in crowds in cheering the young participants on.

of the festival on 12 July at Kissing Point from 2-5pm so don’t forget to bring those teddy bears along!

www.townsvilletrifestival.org.au

www.pakmag.com.au

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Show &Tell

TOP pakmag

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V8's Townsville

The latest news, products and tips in the world of families and kids Get to Know

[1] Visit the Super Top for performances

by Vanessa Amorosi & Jessica Mauboy

[2] Disney Fun Zone [3] World Grand Prix Training Track [4] All-new event precinct

Dr Suzanne Johnston [1] Tell us about you & your background?

I was born and raised in Canada. My parents emigrated from Europe and I was fortunate to have an amazing childhood rich in tradition and culture. In 1999, I fulfilled a lifelong dream to live and work in AustralIa and decided to open Wellspring Chiropractic – family health & wellness in 2006. My business employs two associate chiropractors, a practice manager and four chiropractic assistants.

I am the media spokesperson for the Chiropractors’ Association of Australia and involved in the Sky Foundation which is an organisation that started up last year to assist the Women's Centre in Townsville. I met my Brisbane-born husband in 2002 and we had two weddings in 2007 – a tropical dream wedding on Hamilton Island and a magical winter wedding in Canada. We were blessed with a beautiful little girl Anais in 2010. She has changed my life, opened my eyes, sharpened my values and increased my capacity to love.

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[2] Tell us about Wellspring Chiropractic?

The purpose of Wellspring Chiropractic is to provide exceptional care for members of our

[5] Pit stop check out the action close up!

community through health and wellness in a loving caring environment.

Our brand promotes a healthy lifestyle which includes a fully functioning nervous system, proper nutrition, decreased toxins & stress, daily exercise, a positive mental attitude and quality sleep. It is a modern cutting edge business with a great reputation, impeccable professional service and positive involvement in the community.

[3] What do you love about your work?

I love every aspect of my work, whether it is taking care of clients and seeing positive change in their health, dealing with the challenges of a small business or being involved in community events. I am supported by my fantastic team and the wonderful community of Townsville.

[4] What do you enjoy about living in Townsville? Perfect climate, strong community spirit, great lifestyle and a wonderful place to raise a family.

[5] Tell us something most people wouldn’t know about you? I am multilingual – because of my heritage I speak German and French.

SLINKY Apples

WIN The Foost Machine for Slinkying Apples is a peeler, corer and slicer.

Apples taste sweeter when they are slinky ... and kids go nuts for them!

Slinky apples make a quick, fun and healthy snack for people of all ages and there are dozens of recipes alone on the Foost website to try including apple nachos, slinky apple pancakes, slinky apple chips and individual apple crumbles.

TO WIN: one of three Foost Slinky Apple machines, head to our website www.pakmag. com.au and tell us what you would make with slinky apples. www.pakmag.com.au

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Show &Tell Got something to share or shout about?

Email us at editorial@pakmag.com.au

CINDERELLA Tickets WIN Cinderella will be brought to life by the The Australian Festival of Chamber Music at the Townsville Civic Theatre on Saturday, 2 August at 2.30pm.

Peter Maxwell Davies’ “Cinderella” is a modern retelling of the traditional story, with music designed for performance by and for children. In his version, Cinderella is an au pair girl and there are three ugly sisters who get their just desserts in marriage to the outrageous leaders of the armed forces.

Cinderella will be conducted by Dene Olding with participation from AFCM artistic director and pianist Piers Lane, TheatreiNQ, Amadeus Singers, North Queensland Recorder Society and Kirwan State High School.

Tickets: ADULT $20, MEMBER $15, CONCESSION $18, CHILDREN (17 years and under) $10. To book visit www.afcm.com.au or phone 4727 9797.

TO WIN: Pak Mag has a family pass to give away valued at $60. To enter visit pakmag.com.au and tell us how many sisters does Cinderella have?

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Imperfect Mum Conference Saturday 23 August Cairns Pullman reef hotel casino

The Inaugural Imperfect Mum Conference - Empowering Women 2014 will be held in Cairns at the Pullman Reef Hotel Casino on August 23. High-profile speakers from across Australia, including Suzie Botross, author of “Break Free from Motherly Guilt”; and influential blogger and childhood behavioural consultant Nathalie Brown from Easy Peasy Kids will feature at the event.

Since being founded in June 2011, The Imperfect Mum has become a social media phenomenon, with over 65,000 visits per month and 32,000 Facebook fans.

The Imperfect Mum is a space for women from all corners of the globe to discuss motherhood concerns including nutrition, education, behaviour management and relationships.

Founder of The Imperfect Mum Kristy Vallely said the conference aims to empower and inspire the women that attend to take action in their lives to make them as fulfilled and positive as possible. To purchase tickets visit: www.theimperfectmum.com.au/conference

Teddy bears Picnic Saturday 12 July BRIGADIER NORTH PARK LOWER

With the originally scheduled event postponed due to inclement weather on 14 June, the annual PakMag Teddy Bears Picnic has been rescheduled to be held in Townsville on July 12 from 2pm-5pm. More than 3000 people are expected to attend, with the event raising money for 4TOFM’s Give Me Five For Kids campaign which supports the Townsville Base Hospital Children’s Ward.

Highlights of the day will include the much anticipated Teddy Bear Parade and judging, jumping castle and slides, children’s dance and Zumba performances and a huge variety of business, community, food and beverage stalls.

The 2014 PakMag Teddy Bears’ Picnic is presented in conjunction with Queensland Country Credit Union and 4TOFM. To book a stall or entertainment phone 4053 3331 or email promotions@pakmag.com.au Keep an eye on our Facebook page for updates www.facebook.com/PakmagTownsville

www.pakmag.com.au

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By Julie Chin

Education

Series

rincess Diana always sent handwritten

you may find that a commercially manufactured

thank you notes immediately after

device could be their saviour. There are several

attending an event or whenever

finger grips available on the market that may

she received a gift. Putting today’s etiquette

assist to correct common problems, specifically

standards aside, Diana’s handwritten notes

a ‘claw grip’ and a ‘thumb cross over grip’. Any

were considered a personal and meaningful

old triangular pencil grip from the newsagents

form of communication and many of them have

serves little purpose.

been preserved for posterity. The French also take the art of handwriting very seriously with daily classes dedicated to proper formation of a delicate cursive script. Handwriting lessons and direction in how to hold a pencil are given as much priority as mathematics or language learning.

learning on reading and writing skills and the development of cognition and intelligence.

Handwriting could well be the glue that connects the visual look of a letter and the sound that it makes. The grouping of those alphabetic symbols and their individual sounds into

pencil grip makes the correct formation of

words… then sentences… paragraphs… etc.

reverse and from the bottom up. A thumb wrapping round over the top of the pencil and index finger will automatically make the writer tilt their head and alter their posture so that they can see what they are writing.

Assistive technology for students with a learning difference such as dysgraphia is important but may not be their saving grace. Dysgraphia often goes hand in hand with dyslexia and a dyslexic child will no more remember where to find an ‘a’ on a keypad than they will remember which direction a ‘d’ or ‘b’ goes when writing by hand.

As an education consultant I see some real

In fact, searching for letters on a keypad would

doozies! When 99% of the children we see for

more than likely slow them down.

learning difficulties have an atypical pencil grip it begs the question: what are the links between a poor pencil grip and a learning deficit?

Before your pre-schooler picks up their first crayon, fine motor skill development activities are a great idea to give them a head start. Threading

It stands to reason that messy handwriting

pasta, picking up grains of rice and putting them

can often be the result of a poor pencil grip

in a bowl, doing up buttons and squeezing toys

but more alarming in today’s students is a

to strengthen hand muscles are all things that

nonchalant attitude towards a scribbled effort in

can easily be done at home. Most importantly,

their workbooks. Even poor spacing can affect

encourage correct grip from the onset.

a student’s work. Imagine a string of words with little or no spacing between them. It becomes a long string of letters that may be impossible to re-read for editing so grammatical errors go unnoticed and comprehension becomes impossible. Progression to a cursive script is important for writing at speed. The automaticity

As ‘Digital Natives’ our children are more attuned to pushing buttons than forming letters, so is it still important to teach children handwriting in school?

Education Consultant Julie Chin gives us her perspective.

of handwriting and the implications of modern

important but I tend to disagree. An improper

letters and numbers start to be written in

How important is it?

by educational neuroscientists on the mechanics

Some say that a correct pencil grip is not

letters difficult – sometimes impossible – so

Handwriting

A great deal of research is now being conducted

of cursive allows a student to get their ideas down before they are forgotten.

Those who say handwriting is a thing of the past are mistaken. It is important in so many ways. I commend the French for exercising all parts of the brain that contribute to language learning and will always remember Diana and her handwritten notes as an icon for humanness.

Julie Chin is an Education Consultant, author and Irlen Screener.

It is never too late to try and correct your child’s pencil grip but if they are resistant to change

Tips [1] Encourage young toddlers to draw and begin working on their grasp at a young age.

[2] Invest in the correct tools for the job – lined paper is a great idea!

[3] Remind them to take their time.

[4] Pressing too hard makes writing, especially cursive, more difficult.

[5] Don’t make it all work and no play. Drawing is important for learning control.

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By Jutta Dempsey

Parent Series4

Learning to be

Social

The process of socialisation is one of the most important chapters in a child’s development. Parents play a vital role in teaching their children how to make friends and live successfully with other people. These lessons form the foundation for your child’s later success in life with regards to relationships.

Psychiatrists have identified eight distinct phases that children go through as they grow from an egocentric and helpless newborn into a fully mature and independent adult. Each one of these ‘chapters’ requires your child to learn a particular social lesson which must be mastered in order to develop onto the next.

The lessons that a child needs to learn in each phase are: [1] Basic Trust – from infancy to two years

of life a child who is nurtured and loved

develops trust, security and basic optimism.

If a baby has a negative experience during

this time they may become insecure and

lack trust.

[2] Autonomy – children between the ages

of two and four are discovering self control

and pride. As they learn about becoming

more autonomous parents will be faced

with tantrums and stubbornness.

[3] Initiative – as a child enters the preschool

and early primary school years they begin

to develop imagination and fantasy,

co-operation with others and the ability to

lead and follow others. If they struggle

with this phase the result could be

fearfulness, separation difficulties,

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over-dependence on adults and restricted development of play and imagination.

[4] Competence – in the primary school stage

children learn to master the formal skills of

life such as relating to peers according to

rules, teamwork and mastering studies such

as reading and mathematics. If your child has

successfully navigated the previous stages

they will become trusting, autonomous and

full of initiative and they will learn easily

enough to be competent and industrious.

[5] Identity – The lessons in adolescence

all relate to learning how to answer the

question “Who Am I?” A well-adjusted

teenager will experiment with different

roles to find what suits them rather

than becoming delinquent. They anticipate

achievement and look for strong leadership

and inspiring role models.

[6] Intimacy – Assuming your child has

learned all of these lessons so far on their

socialisation journey, they will enter young

adulthood capable of experiencing a level

of intimacy that enables them to engage in

successful friendships and relationships.

[7] Generativity – in adulthood people

begin to feel the need to create something

that will outlast them in order to feel a

sense of fulfilment in the world. This may be

achieved by working productively in a career,

relationship and in parenthood.

[8] Integrity – the ultimate goal for an

individual is developing into a mature adult

who trusts, is independent, takes appropriate

risks, works hard and has a well defined

role in life. They are happy with themselves

and they’re able to be intimate with others

without strain, guilt, regret or lack of realism.

Just like reading, each of these chapters builds on the previous chapter to make an enthralling book. Children build a solid foundation for relationship success as they progress through the chapters and learn each of the lessons required to become capable of healthy relationships. Your role as a parent is vital in enabling your child to have a positive learning experience as they journey through this complex task.

Jutta Dempsey is an educational psychologist with over 30 years experience of working with children.

www.pakmag.com.au

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Overfed & undernourished

verfed and Undernourished tells the

“The experts in Overfed and Undernourished

story of 11-year-old Liam, who is battling

believe the causes are primarily due to the way

childhood obesity and an unhealthy

we eat and the loss of connection we have to

relationship with food following the death of

each other. We hope seeing this documentary

his mother.

will encourage people to better connect with

The film follows Liam for three months as he moves in with his aunt and uncle who guide him through transformational life changes. He shares everything with the camera, from moving away

more parents begin to lead by example by taking control of their family’s health for the better.”

from home and changing schools to learning to

That starts with eating natural, whole-foods

move his body, express his emotions, and fuel

and avoiding processed products, according to

himself with wholesome organic foods.

health and nutrition experts featured in the film.

“Liam was introduced to eating whole foods

“If you eat too much food made by people in

- nothing from a packet - moving his body

white coats… you end up seeing people in

daily and only drinking water, green smoothies

white coats,” says Joe Cross, filmmaker of Fat Sick

or fresh home-made juices,” says Gold Coast

and Nearly Dead.

director Troy Jones.

This is the same belief shared by Liam’s aunt and

“Instead of filling his spare time with television

uncle, who approached Jones with their idea

or video games, Liam spent his time at the

about filming their nephew’s journey.

beach, on a family farm, riding his bike, exercising, learning how to cook yummy and healthy foods and spending quality time with the people around him.”

Produced by Australian-based film company Evolvee, Overfed and Undernourished also takes a greater look at Australia’s growing obesity epidemic, following the lead of influential films like Hungry for Change, Food Matters, and Forks Over Knives.

With 25 per cent of children and 67 per cent of adults in Australia obese or overweight, Liam’s problem is not uncommon, but as the film illustrates, the answer is more readily attainable than most people think.

Jones, who admits to having his own personal challenges with food for years, believes the key lies in reconnecting to the natural world.

“Obesity has more than doubled in Australia since 1989, making the country’s unprecedented rise in obesity related health issues an epidemic,”

By Michelle Dryburgh

each other and their children. And hopefully

he says.

Jones immediately realised it was a story that could inspire others.

“We live in a world that is getting sicker and more disconnected by the day, with no real end in sight,” he says.

“Through Liam’s journey, we wanted to show families across the globe how they could help make necessary changes in their own life and prevent them from becoming a statistic, by living a healthy, wholesome and connected life.”

But it wasn’t easy. Initially excited and eager to make a change, Liam soon showed signs of resistance. “I don't think he realised just what it would take to turn his life around,” Jones says.

“There were definitely struggles along the way, which most people come across when making such a big life change, but he pushed through and did brilliantly.”

Liam is now a healthy, fit young boy. He lost more than 20 kilograms during the three months of filming, has become more active and confident, and is doing things he never thought possible.

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A documentary about an Australian boy’s

The positive message makes Overfed and

life-changing weight loss is aiming to

to enjoy together, or schools to use as an

Undernourished a perfect film for families educational and motivational tool.

be a catalyst for positive change among

The film is available to watch at

families all around the world.

download it or order the DVD at www.

community screenings, or you can overfedandundernourishedmovie.com

www.pakmag.com.au

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By Michelle Dryburgh

Lessons in Boredom The urge to keep our kids busy and quiet could be robbing them of some valuable lessons, writes Michelle Dryburgh.

“Mu-u-um, I’m bored.” If only you had a dollar

downtime is actually a key process in the way

for every time you heard that line. But how do

our minds turn experiences into memories.

you respond? Do you ignore it and hope your

Not allowing for downtime actually affects our

child finds something to amuse themselves,

mental function.

swiftly sign them up for another after-school activity or reach for the nearest smart phone or computer game and hope that does the job?

There is growing evidence to suggest that modern children are being overloaded, and sometimes the best option is to leave them to their own devices – but not the electronic kind.

According to social commentator and youth trends expert Michael McQueen, parents are failing to teach their children an important lesson – boredom is a necessary and valuable part of life.

He says being bored forces children to activate their imaginations and create their own fun.

“There certainly isn't any hard and fast rule, but the most important message is one of balance and boundaries,” he says.

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Tips for parents teaching kids to cope with boredom

“There is something very empowering in the realisation that an individual can be left to their own devices and feel quite contented. And the old adage is true - great ideas rarely interrupt us.”

1. Resist the urge to rescue Necessity is truly the mother of invention and your kids may need to experience the pangs

A growing number of children have increasingly

of boredom in order to move past them and

demanding schedules packed with sports,

grow through the experience. Stepping in to

swimming lessons, dance practice, music

provide a solution or new distraction will rob

lessons… the list goes on.

them of the benefit and lessons they could

Michael says it’s important for parents to resist

otherwise gather.

temptation to overload schedules simply to create

2. Model it

‘quiet time’ or provide nagging children with quick

Actions speak louder than words. Do your

distractions. Instead, he recommends parents

kids see you embracing downtime or are

encourage their child to play outside, make their

you always busying yourself?

own fun or simply enjoy some quiet time.

He says it’s also essential for parents to practice what they preach. “A good place to start is by

“By having downtime, young people are

modelling the change,” he says. “It is vital that

essentially forced to come up with their own

your kids see you are content to have downtime

games and entertainment. Recent research

and not fill every idle moment on your phone,

from the University of California indicates that

checking emails or going on Facebook.”

3. Wean them onto it Set boundaries around screen or device time, which grow over time. Allow your kids to get used to being disconnected and unentertained.

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in

TECH Talk CYBERMate

An online tool to support young people living with depression or mental health issues is being developed by University of Sydney software engineers.

The team is adapting online tracking techniques used by marketing analysts in their internet-based tool dubbed, CyberMate.

The researchers aim to design algorithms that will give CyberMate the ability to screen a young person’s social networking pages such as Facebook or Twitter for comments that may indicate potential for self-harm.

CyberMate would then act as a quasi-psychotherapist and engage with the young online user suggesting options for help or support via email or SMS. Statistics from a recent study of 2000 Australian youths aged between 12 to 25 years revealed more than two-thirds used the Internet to connect with their friends and other young people. Almost forty per cent reported searching for information about mental health problems.

CyberMate will be evaluated by mental health practitioners and researchers based at the University’s Brain and Mind Research Institute before being trialled by 210 young people over a year-long period.

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Connected Children

A new report looking at future technology trends and the impact on our lives has found that traditional schools may struggle with increasingly connected children, who will learn faster than the pace set in the classroom. It speculates that alternative schooling structures that bypass established approaches will gain popularity as a consequence.

The Safeguarding the Future of Digital Australia in 2025 report also looked at a number of other trends we could expect in the next decade:

• Constant connectivity as a right: There is an expectation that we will be able to be connected at every moment, wherever we are.

• Next generation brains: Those who have grown up immersed in technology will have different neural wiring with the inclination to multi-task and make connections between ideas.

Leading parenting expert Dr Justin Coulson said the report highlighted the need to consider at what age it is appropriate to allow technology into children’s lives.

• Identities forged online: Online socialisation amplifies human behaviours and the shaping of young identities.

Distinctive individuals can find support from like-minded communities anywhere, while bullying can become more extreme.

Children will be increasingly precocious, including in their sexual development

“We need to teach our children principles for staying safe online and the importance of privacy, because they will be connected, regardless. Parents also need to know that their children are receiving an education for the future, rather than an education for the past,” Dr Coulson.said.

APP Review Music4Babies - Learn to read and write music with the animals.

Music4Babies is the perfect way to introduce your little one to the world of music, allowing them to compose their own musical masterpieces by tapping and dragging animals onto a musical staff. When they place the animal, music is recorded and played back.

Available on the AppStore for $3.79 www.pakmag.com.au

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Health pak

Exercise: An eye to the future

By Narelle Muller

news Meningococcal

By Dr Claire Stewart Infection

As both a doctor and a mother of a one year old, meningococcal is the infection that terrifies me the most. Fortunately for parents, a new vaccine has just been approved to help prevent this serious disease.

Hands up all those parents who take the greatest care to ensure their children eat well and get regular exercise. Most of us care deeply about our children’s health and future wellbeing.

We’ll drive from one end of the city to the other for karate or ballet lessons, then there’s swimming, football, little athletics the list is endless.

“yes” and “yes”, the only insurance policy when it comes to health and wellbeing is the package containing exercise, nutrition, rest and hydration.

In my role as a fitness trainer I come across at least one parent a day who tells me they simply don’t have time to exercise themselves because they are too busy running kids around after school, not to mention the chaos of before school and weekends.

You can give every fad diet a crack. You might even lose a few kilos temporarily, but the road to a fit, happy, healthy life is the one we have known about all along.

So, I ask them this: “Do you want to be around to watch your children raise their own children? Do you intend to be an active, healthy, involved grandparent one day?”

It might seem a bit morbid forecasting a frail, unhealthy old age to a seemingly well, albeit frazzled mother in her prime, but it’s a real question with very real connotations.

As the answers are inevitably resoundingly

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There’s no secret shortcut and if you love your children enough to drive for hours to give them the best start in life, spare a thought to how they’ll feel if you’re not strong enough or well enough to support them in the years to come.

Narelle Muller is a journalist, health writer and qualified personal trainer.

For more information call Fit & Well Health on 0402 114 754.

Meningococcal infection can occur at any age but is most common in children under five (particularly infants under one) and in adolescents aged 15-24.

The disease is relatively rare (there were 61 cases in Queensland in 2011) but is potentially fatal. It can also cause long term health problems including hearing impairment, learning difficulties and amputations.

There are 13 strains of meningococcal but strains B and C are by far the most common in Australia. All children receive free immunisation against type C when they are 12 months old. Since this vaccine was introduced in 2003 cases of type C meningococcal infection have dramatically reduced but we had no way to prevent type B. Fortunately, a new separate vaccine against type B has just become available.

The new vaccine is called Bexsero and is recommended for all children aged two months to two years and adolescents aged 15-19 years.

It is available from your GP on a private script.

Your child requires 2-3 doses depending on their age and each injection costs around $150. It will hopefully be included on the free immunisation schedule in future. The most common side effect from the vaccine is a high fever so it is recommended to give paracetamol at the time of the vaccine as well as for 12 hours afterwards.

See your GP to discuss if the vaccine is suitable for your child. www.pakmag.com.au

19

Nutrition pak

Pregnancy Nutrition

by Haley Cremer

Entering into motherhood can be stressful – this quick summary will put you on the front foot with what to steer clear of during the most important nine months of your life.

Caffeine

Salads

Caffeine intake should be minimised as our bub receives a ‘buzz’ when we consume caffeine. The extent of the ‘buzz’ that bub receives is unknown and currently being researched. As the jury is still out for this one, it is important to limit your intake. Be mindful that soft-drinks contain caffeine. As for energy drinks, these are best avoided as they contain a number of other nasties.

Ultimately, they are okay to consume if they have been thoroughly washed and are fresh, as salads can also carry Listeria.

Making salads yourself is the safest option, ensure you store and wash them carefully.

When it comes to salad bars, buffets or prepackaged varieties we cannot be sure of freshness – so best to steer clear of them.

Deli meats Deli meats are at risk of being contaminated with Listeria, an infection that may lead to miscarriage. If deli meats are your go to – ensure they are fresh and hot. Heating food to over 70 degrees helps ensure there is no listeria.

Fish Fish is a great option to include in an expectant mum’s diet – just be mindful to exclude species which are known to have higher levels of Mercury. This includes shark (flake), ray, swordfish, barramundi, gemfish, orange roughy, ling and southern bluefin tuna. Stick to the oily fish such as salmon, tuna and sardines. These have safe levels of mercury but provide vitamin D and omega-3 fats for healthy development of your baby’s brain and nervous system.

Review Food

ALL-BRAN High Fibre Muesli Food

review

Cheeses Listeria again ruins it for some cheeses!

Unfortunately Camembert and Brie are on the ‘avoid list’. The good news is most other varieties are okay. Soft cheeses such as ricotta and cottage cheese are fine to eat within two days of opening the pack.

This new and exciting product from Kelloggs is

Alcohol

not only easy on the taste buds but great for our

Research on a ‘safe limit’ that can be consumed while pregnant is limited. We do know that heavy drinking can be catastrophic for baby’s development. We also know that whatever mum has – bub receives. So for those women pregnant or planning a pregnancy, abstaining from alcohol is the safest option.

enough fibre, this is the perfect choice with a

digestive health. With most Aussie’s not getting

If you have concerns regarding diet during pregnancy speak with your local dietitian who can help guide you.

serve providing over 25 percent more fibre than other mueslis. It comes in three delicious flavours – Almond & Apricot, Summer Fruits or Cranberry & Pink Lady Apple. It also doubles as a satisfying afternoon snack for the kids!

Haley Cremer is an Accredited Practising Dietitian.

Readers Question: How long do

I need to supplement with folate?

Q&A

nutritionadvice th prior lementing with folate at least one mon It is recommended that you begin supp least three lementation should continue until at to trying to fall pregnant. This supp of eating top on so e, folat gh enou get en don’t months post conception. Most wom lementation e or have folate added to them, supp foods that are naturally high in folat (mcg) per day. ded daily intake of 400 micrograms allows us to achieve the recommen

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21

pakfood

with TROY WILLIAMS

THE GOOD GUYS

pakmag TEAM Favourite Easy Lamb Shanks

By Kelly Cresswell (Office Manager)

pakmag

TEAM recipe

Ingredients: • • • • • • •

2 tsp smoked paprika 1 tsp flaked sea salt 4 tsp olive oil 4 large lamb shanks 12 cherry tomatoes halved 2 onions, sliced 2 garlic cloves, sliced

• • • • • • •

8 bay leaves 8 sprigs thyme 1 tsp chilli flakes (optional) 4 sprigs of rosemary 1/3 cup red wine 4 teaspoons brown sugar Lemon rind to serve

Serves 4 | Time - 30 minutes prep | 2 hours cooking

Kelly's Fave "Try these individual Lamb Shank Parcels - these are a delicious and warming winter recipe that the kids will love to help to make!"

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Preheat oven to 180oC. Cut 4 x 30cm squares of foil. Place paprika, salt and oil in a bowl, mix to combine. Rub the lamb shanks with paprika mixture. Leave in a bowl while you prepare parcels. Divide onion, tomato, chilli, garlic, bay leaves, rosemary and thyme in the centre of each piece of foil. Place wine and brown sugar in a small jug, mix to combine. Take first shank and wrap in foil leaving space to pour the wine mixture into the top. Scrunch the foil to close, sit scrunch side facing up in baking tray. Repeat for other shanks. Bake for 1½ to 2 hours.

Place parcels on plates and open carefully, allowing steam to escape. Serve with mashed potato and top with lemon rind.

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blue = adults

Check out the latest family entertainment & events guide

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JULY 2014 entertainment & events DATE

R

ANCHLANDS

EQUESTRIAN CENTRE

Come Riding With Us!

1/07/14 1/07/14 1/07/14 1/07/14 1/07/14 2/07/14 2/07/14 2/07/14 2/07/14 2/07/14 3/07/14 3/07/14 3/07/14 3/07/14 3/07/14 4/07/14 4/07/14 4/07/14 4/07/14 5/07/14 5/07/14 5/07/14 5/07/14 6/07/14 6/07/14 6/07/14 6/07/14 6/07/14 6/07/14 7/07/14 7/07/14

VENUE

ENTERTAINMENT/EVENT NAME

Castletown Townsville, Target Forecourt Dragon Puppet Making Workshop (Ends 6/7/14)

CityLibraries Aitkenvale Kirwan Aquatic Centre Northreach Baptist Church - Kirwan The Lilly Pad CityLibraries Aitkenvale CityLibraries Thuringowa Central CityLibraries Thuringowa Central Kirwan Aquatic Centre Perc Tucker Regional Gallery CityLibraries Thuringowa Jezzine Barracks Kirwan Aquatic Centre Perc Tucker Regional Gallery Riverway Arts Centre Kirwan Aquatic Centre Perc Tucker Regional Gallery Riverway Arts Centre Strand Park Balgal Beach Carlyle Gardens North Shore Town Centre Riverway Arts Centre Bushland Beach Castle Hill PCYC Perc Tucker Regional Gallery The Venue Townsville Willows Shopping Centre Carpark YogaHealth Currajong Arcadian Surf LifeSaving Club CityLibraries Thuringowa

Pokemon Party - Bookings Required (2nd session 11.00am) Love2swim Free Swimming Lessons - (Bookings Essential New Clients Only)

Giggles for God Playgroup Motherlink Playgroup Just Jewellery - Bookings Required Storytime - Bookings Required Girls Night In Handmade Jewellery - Bookings Required Love2swim Free Swimming Lessons - (Bookings Essential New Clients Only)

Wired! With artist Nicole Potgieter (5-7yrs) Play Pokemon (5-12yrs) - Bookings Required Townsville 500 Super Welcome Love2swim Free Swimming Lessons - (Bookings Essential New Clients Only)

Origami Bouquets (8-12yrs) From Page to Stage - La Luna Youth Arts (2nd session 1.00pm) Love2swim Free Swimming Lessons - (Bookings Essential New Clients Only)

Little Muses with artist Angeline Ignatius (5-7yrs) From Page to Stage - La Luna Youth Arts (2nd session 1.00pm) Strand Night Markets Balgal Beach Markets Carlyle Gardens Arts and Craft Market North Queensland Farmers Market From Page to Stage - La Luna Youth Arts (2nd Session 6.00pm) Bushland Beach Markets Castle Hill Sunday Markets Funny Faces: Kids Portrait Art Workshops Mark Tucker and The Undertow Willows Rotary Markets Family Yoga Class Marvellous Manners Confidence Course Indigenous Author Talk - Anita Heiss

TIME 10.00am 9.30am 9.00am 9.30am 9.00am 10.00am 10.00am 6.00pm 9.00am 10.30am 9.30am 4.30pm 9.00am 10.30am 10.00am 9.00am 10.30am 10.00am 5.00pm 10.00am 9.00am 6.00am 2.00pm 8.00am 7.00am 10.30am 7.00pm 7.30am 3.00pm 9.00am 10.00am

FOR MORE INFO

COST

www.castletown.com.au 4727 8310

Free Free www.love2swimschool.com.au Free 4723 2371 Cost www.motherlink.com.au Cost 4727 8310 Free 1300 878 001 Free 4773 8811 Free www.love2swimschool.com.au Free 4727 9011 Cost 4773 8811 Free 1300 878 001 Free www.love2swimschool.com.au Free 4727 9011 Cost 4727 9797 Cost www.love2swimschool.com.au Free 4727 9011 Cost 4727 9797 Cost www.townsvillerotarymarkets.com.au Free Free 4773 1195 Free nqfarmersmarket@bigpond.com Free 4727 9797 Cost admin@bushlandbeachmarkets.com.au Free manager@castlehillpcyc.org.au Free 4727 9011 Free 4724 2800 Cost www.townsvillerotarymarkets.com.au Free http://sundalah.com.au/kidsteensfamily.html Cost www.tmtdeportment.com.au Cost 4773 8811 Free

• Learn how to ride • Basic horsemanship • Training techniques - basics, dressage, jumping and horse sports • Enthusiastic positive instructors • Adult beginner classes • Fun and informative holiday programmes • Horse agistment • Saddlery shop

Ph: 47740 124 www.ranchlands.com.au 83 Hammond Way, Kelso Townsville Qld

Ride for Fun, Fitness and Friendships 24

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blue = adults

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pink = family

JULY 2014 entertainment & events DATE 7/07/14 7/07/14 7/07/14 7/07/14 8/07/14 8/07/14 8/07/14 8/07/14 8/07/14 8/07/14 8/07/14 8/07/14 8/07/14 8/07/14 8/07/14 9/07/14 9/07/14 9/07/14 9/07/14 9/07/14 9/07/14 9/07/14 9/07/14 9/07/14 9/07/14 9/07/14 9/07/14 9/07/14

VENUE La Luna @ Riverway Arts Centre Pinnacles Gallery Stockland Townsville Stockland Townsville CityLibraries Thuringowa La Luna @ Riverway Arts Centre La Luna @ Riverway Arts Centre La Luna @ Riverway Arts Centre La Luna @ Riverway Arts Centre La Luna @ Riverway Arts Centre La Luna @ Riverway Arts Centre Northreach Baptist Church - Kirwan Pinnacles Gallery Stockland Townsville The Lilly Pad Aitkenvale Library Aitkenvale Library Arcadian Surf LifeSaving Club CiltyLibraries Flinders St La Luna @ Riverway Arts Centre La Luna @ Riverway Arts Centre La Luna @ Riverway Arts Centre La Luna @ Riverway Arts Centre Pinnacles Gallery Stockland Townsville Thuringowa Central Library Thuringowa Central Library Townsville RSL Club

10/07/14 CityLibraries Aitkenvale 10/07/14 La Luna @ Riverway Arts Centre

ENTERTAINMENT/EVENT NAME

TIME

FOR MORE INFO

COST

Tumbling & Tramp - Circus (2nd Session 11.00am) Creatures at a Pinch with artist Mary Parkes (8-12yrs) Mummy Funday - Free Face Painting Bopstars Show (Second Session 1.00pm) Pokemon Party - Bookings Required (Second Session 11.00am) Shuffle & Shake - Dance Dream Catchers - Visual Arts Slacklining - Circus Dance, Dance, Dance!

Stained Glass Windows - Visual Arts Slacklining - Circus Giggles for God Playgroup Screen It with artist John Bradshaw (5-7yrs) Bopstars Show (Second Session 1.00pm) Motherlink Playgroup Computer Basics B - Bookings Required Internet Basics B - Bookings Required 2 day Teenage Deportment & Grooming Course Just Jewellery - Bookings Required Balance & Circus Toys Button Bling - Visual Arts Balance & Circus Toys Stamping - Visual Arts Wired! With artist Nicole Potgieter (8-12yrs) Bopstars Show (Second Session 1.00pm) Storytime Email Set Up/Basic Internet Assistance - Bookings Required Townsville NAIDOC Breakfast

9.00am 10.30am 10.00am 11.00am 9.30am 9.00am 9.00am 9.00am 11.00am 11.00am 11.00am 9.30am 10.30am 11.00am 9.00am 10.00am 1.00pm 9.00am 10.00am 9.00am 9.00am 11.00am 11.00am 10.30am 11.00am 10.00am 9.00am 7.00am

info@lalunanq.com 4773 8871 www.stockland.com.au www.stockland.com.au 4773 8811 info@lalunanq.com info@lalunanq.com info@lalunanq.com info@lalunanq.com info@lalunanq.com info@lalunanq.com 4723 2371 4773 8871 www.stockland.com.au www.motherlink.com.au 4727 8310 4727 8310 www.tmtdeportment.com.au 4727 9666 info@lalunanq.com info@lalunanq.com info@lalunanq.com info@lalunanq.com 4773 8871 www.stockland.com.au 1300 878 001 4773 8811 4727 9797

$15 Cost Free Free Free $15 $15 $15 $15 $15 $15 Cost Cost Free Cost Free Free Cost Free $15 $15 $15 $15 Cost Free Free Free

Play Pokemon (6-12yrs) - Bookings Required Tumbling & Tramp - Circus

9.30am 9.00am

4727 8310 info@lalunanq.com

Free $15

Cost

See Th e o Gruffal LIVE ON STAG E

heatre at the Townsville Civic T 1.30pm Thursday 14th August 2014

Kids

MINI MAG July 2014

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colour IN & Win! WIN

1 of 10 Double Passes to The Gruffalo

Mini MAG FUN SPOT THE 5 Differences

Activities

THE GRUFFALO Wordsearch Puzzle

The Gruffalo is having his birthday party and has hidden a list of party words. Can you find them all?

F P A B F V C V N P L K H

CDP presents Tall Stories’ magical musical adaption of The Gruffalo Based on the award winning picture book by Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler published by Macmillan Children’s Books

See the Gruffalo live on stage at Townsville Civic Theatre 1.30pm Thursday 14th August 2014

To enter colour-it-in & mail to:

Name: Age:

PAKMAG, Colour-it-in July 2014

Parent/Guardian:

PO Box 761, Hyde Park QLD 4812 & you could WIN 1 of 10 double passes to The Gruffalo

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(Comp closes 13/08/14)

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P A S S T H E P A R C E L

G R J I C E O S E M A G B

Word List BALLOONS CAKE CANDLES

E T E Z S I Z W I C K I D

A Y H S U N P C Q N E D B

L B U E E B A C I O E A H

PRESENTS GAMES SNACKS DANCING

C A O J O N C C L B H N S

T G O E D U T I K O D C F

T S L L I V K S O S E I I

X I E L G B A L L O O N S

R S G Y P A S S I E U G D

JELLY PARTY BAGS PASS THE PARCEL

Address: Phone: Email:

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yourGUIDE

‘

Picnic

geT your Teddy ready!

• Jumping castles and slides thanks to Amusements Plus (gold coin donation) • Singing, dancing, and games on the main stage • Great prizes up for grabs for the best teddy bears categories include: best bear, beautiful bear, bold bear, Smallest bear, biggest bear and oldest bear • Bring: blanket, hats, sunscreen and your teddy bear!

• Raising Money for 4to Fm’s give me 5 For kids for the townsville base hospital’s Children’s ward

STall BookingS $150

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Teddy Bears pakmag’s

JULY 2014 entertainment & events DATE

VENUE

ENTERTAINMENT/EVENT NAME

TIME

FOR MORE INFO

COST

10/07/14 10/07/14 10/07/14 10/07/14 10/07/14 10/07/14 11/07/14 11/07/14 11/7/14 11/7/14 11/7/14

La Luna @ Riverway Arts Centre La Luna @ Riverway Arts Centre La Luna @ Riverway Arts Centre Pinnacles Gallery Stockland Townsville Townsville Civic Theatre CityLibraries Flinders St Jupiters La Luna @ Riverway Arts Centre La Luna @ Riverway Arts Centre La Luna @ Riverway Arts Centre

Polaroid Comic Book - Visual Arts Tumbling & Tramp - Circus Crazy Clay - Visual Arts Origami Bouquets (5-7yrs) Bopstars Show (Second Session 1.00pm) Graeme Connors - North 25 Years On Baby Rhyme Time Ian Moss Live in Concert Dancin' Feet - Dance Lino Cuts - Visual Arts Juggling & Spinning - Circus

9.00am 11.00am 11.00am 10.30am 11.00am 7.30pm 10.00am 8.00pm 9.00am 9.00am 9.00am

info@lalunanq.com info@lalunanq.com info@lalunanq.com 4773 8871 www.stockland.com.au 4727 9797 1300 878 001 4722 2333 info@lalunanq.com info@lalunanq.com

$15 $15 $15 Cost Free Cost Free Cost $15 $15

info@lalunanq.com

11/7/14 11/7/14 11/7/14 11/07/14 11/07/14 11/07/14 11/07/14

La Luna @ Riverway Arts Centre La Luna @ Riverway Arts Centre La Luna @ Riverway Arts Centre Pinnacles Gallery Riverway Arts Centre Stockland Townsville The Palmetum

Hip Hop Express - Dance Beautiful Birds - Visual Arts Juggling & Spinning - Circus Little Muses with artist Angeline Ignatius (8-12yrs) An Evening with Groucho Bopstars Show (Second Session 1.00pm) Multiple Birth Assn Picnic in the Park

11.00am 11.00am 11.00am 10.30am 7.00pm 11.00am 9.30am

info@lalunanq.com info@lalunanq.com info@lalunanq.com 4773 8871 4727 9797 www.stockland.com.au

$15 $15 $15 $15 Cost Cost Free

12/07/14 12/07/14 12/07/14 12/07/14 12/07/14 12/07/14 13/07/14 13/07/14 13/07/14 14/07/14 15/07/14 15/07/14

Aitkenvale School Hall North Shore Town Centre North Shore Town Square Stockland Townsville The Strand (Gregory St Headland) Townsville Civic Theatre Castle Hill PCYC The Strand - Enclosed Playground Willows Shopping Centre Carpark Townsville Civic Theatre Flinders St Library Northreach Baptist Church - Kirwan

Renegade Handmade Market North Queensland Farmers Market North Shore Festival of Fun Bopstars Show (Second Session 1.00pm) Full Moon Drum Circle 75 years of Buddy Holly in Concert Castle Hill Sunday Markets Multiple Birth Assn Family Morning at the Strand Willows Rotary Markets Mother Africa Storytime Giggles for God Playgroup

8.00am 6.00am 9.00am 11.00am 6.00pm 8.00pm 7.00am 9.30am 7.30am 8.00pm 10.00am 9.30am

www.facebook.com/morethanamarket

president@townsvillemultiples.com.au

nqfarmersmarket@bigpond.com

www.northshorenq.com.au www.stockland.com.au www.therhythmconnection.com

4727 9797 manager@castlehillpcyc.org.au

Free Free Free Free Free Cost Free

president@townsvillemultiples.com.au www.townsvillerotarymarkets.com.au

4727 9797 1300 878 001 4723 2371

Free Cost Free Cost

100% oF the money From your booking will go to the Fund.

We are also looking for local performers, businesses who want to donate a prize, and volunteers to help on the day.

4TO FM LIVE BROADCAST with Pricey & Minty

Sat 12 JuLY 2Pm-5Pm Brigadier North Park Lower (Near the rock PooL) info go to www.pakmag.com.au www.pakmag.com.au 30For more

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blue = adults

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yourGUIDE JULY 2014 entertainment & events DATE 15/07/14 15/07/14 15/07/14 16/07/14 16/07/14 18/07/14 19/07/14 20/07/14 20/07/14 20/07/14 21/07/14 22/07/14 22/07/14 22/07/14 22/07/14 25/07/14 26/07/14 26/07/14 26/07/14 26/07/14 27/07/14 27/07/14 27/07/14 29/07/14 29/07/14 29/07/14 29/07/14 29/07/14 30/07/14

VENUE Perc Tucker Regional Gallery Riverway Arts Centre The Lilly Pad CityLibraries Thuringowa Central Thuringowa Central Library Aitkenvale Library Balgal Beach Bushland Beach Castle Hill PCYC Willows Shopping Centre Carpark

ENTERTAINMENT/EVENT NAME

ArtBox: Art Activities for Under 5's Lior In Cabaret Motherlink Playgroup Loud Lounge - Trivial Trivia (12-17yrs) Storytime Storytime Balgal Beach Markets Bushland Beach Markets Castle Hill Sunday Markets Willows Rotary Markets Townsville Entertainment & Convention Centre Mulkadee Arts Festival Concert (runs to 25 July) Capoeira Hall - Fleming Street Term 3 Toddler Classes (8 weeks) Northreach Baptist Church - Kirwan Giggles for God Playgroup The Lilly Pad Motherlink Playgroup Capoeira Hall - Fleming Street Term 3 Toddler Classes (8 weeks) Entropy, Hyde Park Centre Playgroup at Entropy Capoeira Hall - Fleming Street Term 3 Toddler Classes (8 weeks) Jobtrain - 2/22 Hervey Range Rd, Kirwan Emotional Wellbeing First Aid Awareness Course North Shore Town Centre North Queensland Farmers Market Capoeira Hall - Fleming Street Term 3 Toddler Classes (8 weeks) Castle Hill PCYC Castle Hill Sunday Markets Centenary Park Charters Towers Charity Markets Willows Shopping Centre Carpark Willows Rotary Markets Flinders St Library Storytime North Shore Town Centre North Queensland Farmers Market Northreach Baptist Church - Kirwan Giggles for God Playgroup Perc Tucker Regional Gallery Percival's Life Drawing The Lilly Pad Motherlink Playgroup Thuringowa Central Library Storytime

TIME 10.00am 7.00pm 9.00am 3.00pm 10.00am 10.00am 10.00am 8.00am 7.00am 7.30am 7.30pm 9.00am 9.30am 9.00am 9.00am 9.00am 8.00am 9.00am 6.00am 8.00am 7.00am 7.00am 7.30am 10.00am 6.00am 9.30am 6.30pm 9.00am 10.00am

FOR MORE INFO 4727 9011 4727 9797 www.motherlink.com.au 1300 878 001 1300 878 001 1300 878 001

COST Gold Coin

Cost Cost Free Free Free Free admin@bushlandbeachmarkets.com.au Free manager@castlehillpcyc.org.au Free www.townsvillerotarymarkets.com.au Free www.tsv.catholic.edu.au/mulkadee Cost www.capoeiraschool.com.au Cost 4723 2371 Cost www.motherlink.com.au Cost www.capoeiraschool.com.au Cost playtime@townsvillemultiples.com.au

www.capoeiraschool.com.au coresqld@kentishrc.com.au nqfarmersmarket@bigpond.com

www.capoeiraschool.com.au manager@castlehillpcyc.org.au

Cost Free Free Cost Free

4787 1794 www.townsvillerotarymarkets.com.au

1300 878 001 nqfarmersmarket@bigpond.com

4723 2371 4727 9011 www.motherlink.com.au 1300 878 001

Free Free Free Cost Cost Cost Free

This is a free listing. Submit your event info to: admin@pakmag.com.au

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By Carly Hammersley

Baby Issues

BabyLed

Weaning

When Mum of two Natasha introduced her first child to solids around the age of six months, she followed the traditional spoon feeding method, going on to slowly introduce foods he could feed himself between nine and 12 months.

“With my second son it was a different story. I found I was much more relaxed and I also didn’t have as much time to sit down and feed him with the patience that I had with my first child. I found myself making both children the same meals and allowing both to feed themselves while keeping a close eye on them.

“He seemed to pick up eating much faster, he adored the idea that he was eating like his big brother and, from my point of view, it was a much easier transition. He was eating similar things earlier than he would have if I’d pureed his food and spoon fed him.”

Natasha is one of the growing number of mums turning to Baby Led Weaning (BLW) as a means of introducing their baby to foods other than breastmilk or formula. Even just a few years ago, the idea may have been considered ‘alternative’ but, with mums much more time poor as well as growing research into the benefits for babies, the BLW bandwagon is growing.

Baby Led Weaning advocates allowing your baby to explore foods, sensations and textures by feeding themselves from the very beginning, “One of the only things that concerned me about baby led weaning was the possibility of him choking on something, but I soon learned this was misguided” Natasha says.

Babies who follow BLW do tend to spit and gag on the occasional piece of food, as this is a natural reflex. Due to their immature oral skills, when spoon fed, infants expect puree to move in the mouth like liquid which occasionally can lead

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to an uncomfortable expulsion. However, when infants bring foods to their own mouth, they are the ones guiding the sensory experience, starting and stopping when they are comfortable and ready. This allows the child to control the pace of his or her own intake.

“With my first son, I found I spent countless hours trying to get him to eat something. He was never that interested in the experience and it led to a lot of wasted food and lots of frustration on my behalf,” Natasha explains.

“Our first experience of baby led weaning was actually by accident. He picked a piece of pasta off my plate and put it into his mouth before I realised what was happening. I researched a bit more and found that this way of introducing foods just made sense to me.”

Contrary to popular belief, babies usually do not require extra sustenance other than breastmilk or formula prior to the age of 12 months. The adage “food before one is just for fun” is worth keeping in mind, as many mums (especially first time mums) may be concerned if their baby is not consuming as much food as another child in her circle of friends. It is worth remembering, as with all other stages of development, some babies will be ready for solids earlier, some may have larger appetites, and others may not be interested in anything other than breast or bottle until much later. BLW gives baby the chance to control his or her own intake and decide what they would like to try.

Following the baby led weaning principle is not without its challenges. Allowing a baby to

explore food means mess and some babies revel in creating mini masterpieces on their high chair tables (not to mention the floor, the walls… the dog!) Cleaning it up can be tiresome for some parents. BLW advocates recommend, wherever possible, allowing baby to eat outdoors or placing a large plastic mat underneath baby’s high chair.

Natasha says, “A lot of the time he did play with his food, but to me that’s part of introducing them to foods, allowing them to play and discover at the same time.”

Another plus for parents is research which links BLW with a reduced rate of food refusal later on.

Toddlers who have followed BLW may be less likely to go through the dreaded “fussy” stage due to the fact they have experienced food and had more control over their consumption from an early age.

Some ideas for first foods to try with your baby: • Fresh fruit • Hard boiled eggs and toast soldiers • Pasta • Homemade Chicken Nuggets • Fish bites or fingers • Sweet potato chips or Kale chips • Hommus and veg dipping sticks • French toast • Steamed veggie sticks such as carrot • Peas (great practice when they are mastering their pincer grip)

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Baby

BON APPETEAT Nursing Sets

BABYNEWS poo Capers

july 2014

Sinchies

One thing you probably didn’t expect before holding that tiny precious bundle in your arms is that poo would become so important! The colour, consistency and frequency becomes like a portent to the universe.

The truth is, there are many variations of normal in babies. Here’s a rundown on number twos:

WIN

• If your baby is eating normally and doesn't seem sick, changes in the colour and consistency of the poo is probably normal.

• A newborn's first stools (known as meconium) are a thick, sticky, tar-like substance, which will transition into a grainy yellow or brown by day three or four.

Modern mum's in today's fast-paced society face a range of competing demands when it comes to feeding their children. Topping this list are essential factors such as healthy eating, affordability, convenience and ease of preparation.

BELLABABY Box

WIN

The bellababy box is a monthly subscription service delivered to your door once a month containing 8 -10 lovingly selected products from bellababy partnered brands.

It is a great way to trial new brands or bits and pieces for baby that you may not come across elsewhere. The bellababy box can be ordered for yourself and baby, or as a gift for expecting mums. And if you find a product you love in the bellababy box, replacement or additional items can then be ordered from the bellabox online shop.

To WIN: For your chance to win one of three bellababy boxes valued at $24.95 each go to our website at www.pakmag.com.au and tell us what is the one product you would recommend to every new mum?

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Sinchies reusable food pouches are designed for feeding"on the run" with no bowl or spoon required. Sinchies provide home-made goodness with store bought convenience, packed into an eco-friendly product which will revolutionise the way you think about “fast food”.

Parents can monitor exactly what goes into the pouch, ensuring children receive optimum nutrition that is free from preservatives, sugars or additives that are often found in pre-packaged foods.

Handy and easy to use - designed with a ziplock at the top for easy filling and a side spout so you can suck or pour the contents out. Simply mix up your own home-made goodness, healthy snacks, baby food, yoghurt, smoothie or fruit crusher, pour it in and zip it up. Made free from BPA, Phthalates and PVC, Sinchies are designed for easy filling and washing, with a double ziplock top to prevent leaks.

Sinchies are freezer and dishwasher safe making cleaning and storing easy.

TO WIN: one of three Sinchies packs, visit our website at www.pakmag.com.au and tell us what food your bub would love you to “Sinchie” for eating on the run.

• Formula-fed babies usually have yellow or tan poo, while breast-fed babies often have a liquid or creamy mustard-coloured bowel movement.

WIN Bon Appeteat is an Australian owned line of stylish nursing covers, which aim to help mothers enjoy a sense of freedom to breast feed in public while maintaining privacy. The range is aimed at today's on-the-go mums with beautiful printed nursing covers and ultra absorbent matching burp cloths that are both fashionable and practical.

Bon Appeteat sets consist of nursing cover and a coordinating ultra soft burp cloth.

Burp cloths are made from 100% cotton fabric with a super absorbent core.

the Australian Breastfeeding Association.

TO WIN: one of three sets including a coordinating nursing cover and burp cloth visit our website at www.pakmag.com.

In addition to being Australian designed and

au and tell us where is the strangest place

owned, Bon Appeteat is a proud sponsor of

you have ever had to feed your child.

• In young babies, expect six to eight stools a day but don’t be alarmed if the frequency drops.

Breastfed babies in particular can go for several days in a row without a bowel movement.

• If the stool is frequent, watery and green looking, your baby may have diarrhoea. Diarrhoea should clear up without treatment but call your doctor if concerned or it is accompanied by vomiting.

• Constipated stools will be pebble-sized and firm, sometimes with bloody streaks. If you see blood, have your baby checked out by a GP. Green, frothy poos may be a result of excessive lactose and is often seen in babies who consume large amounts of breastmilk, due to their mother's oversupply. The Australian Breastfeeding Association suggests block feeding in this situation may help.

Baby's poo will continue to vary, though as time goes on you will begin to get a sense of what is “normal” for your baby. When babies start solids this is another poo evolution, where bowel movements become more formed and smellier!

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37

School’s Out It's not too late to book classes for the holidays or turn up for free entertainment at the shopping centres.

programmes & Classes [1] Sk8way • General Skating Sessions – every day (10am-12noon) • Cheaper Tuesday Nights – only $6 admission (6.30pm to 8.30pm) • First Birthday Skate - 2 July (4pm-8pm) • General Skate - 4 July (2pm-4pm) • Tots on Skates - Tuesdays and Thursdays (9-10am) for children aged six and under

[2] Kingpin Bowling All-Action school holiday passes allow three games of bowling, laser skirmish or an arcade game card. Cost: $24. Four game packages are also available for $28. For more info call 132 695 or visit www.kingpinbowling.com.au

[3] Museum of Tropical QLD The Creepy Crawlies Alive! program will run 1-13 July. Visitors will be able to taste test insects as food including crickets and cockroaches, tour the live bug houses, hug Beau the Ulysses Butterfly and see prehistoric trilobites come to life. For more information visit www.mtq.qm.qld.gov.au

[4] Art Escape Classes •

Art Escape – Origami Bouquets with Rhiannon Mitchard @ Perc Tucker Regional Gallery.

Date: 3 July (10.30am–12.30pm). Cost: $15.

Age: 8 -12 years. Bookings required.

• Art Escape – Little Muses with Angeline Ignatius @ Perc Tucker Regional Gallery.

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Date: 4 July (10.30am–12.30pm). Cost: $15.

Age: 5-7 years. Bookings required.

• Funny Faces Kid’s Portrait Workshop @ Perc Tucker Regional Gallery. Date: 6 July (10.30–11.15am). FREE Drop in.

•

Art Escape – Creatures at a Pinch with Mary Parkes @ Perc Tucker Regional Gallery.

Date: 7 July (10.30am–12.30pm). Cost: $15.

Age: 8-12 years. Bookings required.

• Art Escape – Screen it with John Bradshaw @ Perc Tucker Regional Gallery. Date: 8 July (10.30am–12.30pm). Cost: $15. Age: 5-7 years.

Bookings required.

• Art Escape – Wired! With Nicole Potgieter @ Perc Tucker Regional Gallery. Date: 9 July (10.30am-12.30pm). Cost: $15. Age: 8-12 years.

(Bookings required).

• Art Escape – Origami Bouquets with Rhiannon Mitchard @ Perc Tucker Regional Gallery. Date: 10 July (10.30am–12.30pm).

Cost: $15. Age: 5-7 years. Bookings required.

• Art Escape – Little Muses with Angeline Ignatius @ Perc Tucker Regional Gallery.

Date: 11 July (10.30am–12.30pm). Cost: $15.

Age: 8-12 years. Bookings required.

• Funny Faces Kid’s Portrait Workshop @ Perc Tucker Regional Gallery. Date: 13 July (10.30am–11.15am). FREE Drop in.

[5] La Luna La Luna’s ‘From Page to Stage’ theatre production

at the Riverway Arts Centre will feature a triple bill including The Snow Queen, The Revolt of the Fairies and Elves and Wonderland – Through the Looking Glass. The shows will be two hours in duration with an interval. Dates: 3 July (10am & 1pm), 4 July (10am & 1pm) and 5 July (2pm & 6pm). Cost: $20 Adults, $12 Students, $56 Family.

La Luna will also be running “Come and Play” workshops at the Riverway Arts Centre on 7th to 11th July. Cost: $15. Call 4773 6377 for more information.

[6] Townsville Mini Golf Book in and Dine in at Townsville Mini Golf and the fun is FREE on Saturdays (5pm to 9pm). Enjoy their delicious buffet dinner on Saturday from 6pm to 8pm and enjoy free fun mini golf and jumping castles. Bookings essential. Mention “You’ve seen it in PakMag” and you will receive free a play on the Jumping Castle with every game of minigolf purchased. Call 4771 3999 for more information.

[7] Re-Cre8tiv Winter is going off with a bang at Re-Cre8Tiv’s Winter Art Workshops. Join them for a rainbow loom master class, create a crazy circle montage or explore your own strengths via a personal upcycled totem and whole body portrait.

Dates: 7-11 July. Times: 9-11am, 11.30am1.30pm and 2-4pm. Cost: $15. For more details go to www.facebook.com/recre8tiv or email recre8tiv@bigpond.com www.pakmag.com.au

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School’s Out

activities for the School Holidays

4

Fun

Things To Do

[1] Launch Zone

programmes & classes (cont’d) [11] City Libraries

Join in our brand new school holiday challenge & you could win thanks to Overflow!

Go to www.pakmag.com.au/challenge

[8] Launch Zone The must-do activity these holidays! Take them along to the new indoor trampoline park and let them go crazy on 155 interconnecting trampolines. For more information go to www.launchzone.com.au

[9] Ranchlands Two school holiday activities for horse lovers and those who want to try horse riding for the first time: •

Intro to Horses Day (3 July) – Four hour session on the basics of horse behaviour, grooming and saddling followed by a riding lesson for kids aged 6+. Cost: $85

•

Horse Riding Camp (10-11 July) – Two-day camp for children aged 8+. They will look after a horse for two days, have riding lessons and camp out in tents. Suitable for beginners as well as more experienced riders. Cost: $375.

For more information call 4774 0124 or go to www.ranchlands.com.au

[10] Castletown Shoppingworld Get some shopping done but also keep the kids entertained with the centre’s FREE Dragon Puppet making workshops. They will be running in the Target Forecourt every day 30 June-6 July (10am-2pm).

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The Council’s free activities for primary school aged children are very popular and must be booked in advance to avoid disappointment (go to www.townsville.qld.gov.au for more information).

[12] Entropy Entropy Toys is hosting fun craft activities at their store on Woolcock St. On July 2 become part of the craze that’s taking playgrounds by storm in the Loopy Loop Looms Master Workshop. Learn the different techniques involved in making loom bracelet. On July 9 there will be a Fiesta Crafts finger puppet-making workshop for little creatives aged 6+. Make your own gorgeous finger puppets.

Both workshops start at 9.30am and finish at 11.30am. Cost: $20 per child (morning tea and all materials are provided). For more information email rebecca@entropy.com.au.

[13] Stockland Townsville The Bopstars interactive fun stage show will be appearing this school holidays at Stockland Townsville (near Myer). Shows will be held daily at 11am and 1pm from 7 to 12 July.

Bring the kids along to the Mummy Funday on 7 July from 10am to 1pm for free face painting and special offers.

[14] Townsville Sailing Club The Townsville Sailing Club will be running a “Discover Sailing” school holiday program for children aged 12-16 years. Date: 7th July – 11th July from 9am to 4pm. Cost: $75 per day. Alternatively, they are also running a Term 3 “Discover Sailing” program for children aged 8-11or 12-16 year olds. Cost: $200. For more information townsvillesailing@gmail.com or www.tsc.yachting.org.au (follow the discover sailing link).

Have a blast at Launch Zone – the home of all things fun as well as fitness classes with a difference! Whether you're looking to improve your fitness, get an adrenaline rush or just jump to it, LAUNCH ZONE is the place for you. Visit www.launchzone.com.au for prices and more information.

[2] PakMag Teddy Bears’ Picnic Bring along your cuddly friends for the parade, enjoy a huge variety of community stalls, entertainment, food and drink on what will be an amazing day out. The event will be held as part of the Townsville Triathlon Fetival at Kissing Point on 12 July from 2-5pm. For more information visit www.pakmag.com.au

[3] 1300SMILES Kids TRY Series Supported by PakMag, provides young athletes with the opportunity for junior athletes to participate in a safe and competitive triathlon event. Open to age 7-12 years. 12 July, 3pm start at Strand Park. For more information visit www.townsvilletrifestival.org.au/

[4] V8s take on Townsville With the all-new Super Top lighting up with performances from Vanessa Amorosi and Jessica Mauboy; the Disney Fun Zone featuring Lightening McQueen, as well as the World Grand Prix Training track – there is bound to be something for every racer when the V8s hit Townsville from 4-6 July. Oh, and the racing should be pretty intense too! For more information, visit www.ticketek.com.au

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Cairns

Resort

Rydges Esplanade

There’s nothing worse than planning a holiday with kids and hearing yells of “I’m bored” five minutes after checking into your hotel of choice!

You’re away, the comforts of home are instantly

bed head console enabling silent entertainment.

For those travelling without kids, the resort

missed and instead of relaxing it’s a continual

For larger families a third, smaller bed can also be

offers 240 spacious guest rooms and apartments.

effort to entertain the kids.

included in the children’s nook.

The onsite restaurant, Coral Hedge Brasserie

PakMag have found the solution to end the

Games are available for hire from the hotel

pain of travelling with kids – The Rydges

reception. DVD’s are also available from

Esplanade Resort, Cairns.

reception, free of charge.

The Rydges Esplanade have nailed the “travelling

Children have not been forgotten when it

with kids” brief with their innovative family rooms.

comes to the mini bar either! The kids mini

This spacious accommodation includes a private balcony (with expansive ocean or mountain

www.pakmag.com.au

water and headphones.

buffet breakfast and all day dining snacks along with a mouth-watering tapas menu. For dinner, the locally famous Fire and Ice buffet is available.

Watch chefs prepare a selection of meats, fish and local seafood before your eyes.

The restaurant is open from 6am to 10am and 11am to 9pm daily.

views), a queen size bed, an extra-large mini

The Rydges Esplanade has really excelled

bar, free WI-FI, a work desk and best of all – the

in providing Mum and Dad with a relaxing

children’s domain!

environment with a separate area for kid’s

Abbott Street in Cairns - midway along the Cairns

sleeping and entertainment.

Esplanade and just six kilometres from the

The children’s domain is a special sleeping and

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bar menu incorporates healthy snack food,

Restaurant and Bar, serves a sumptuous full

The Rydges Esplanades is located at 209-217

Cairns Domestic and International airports.

entertainment area for kids. It is sure to impress

If the kids do eventually leave the room, the

kids of ANY age! Each domain includes two

resort is loaded with facilities including a lagoon

funky, custom-designed bunk beds, a 15”LCD

style swimming pool, tennis court and a gym.

television linked to an X-Box (allowing split-

For adults, a swim-up bar, free undercover car

screen gaming of complimentary games or DVD

parking and a complimentary scheduled city

Rates start from just $199 for a family

viewing). The kids can also stream content from

shuttle service are sure to entice. Add to this a

room (for two adults and two children

their own ipads or ipods to the televisions. There

convenience store and a tour desk means the

under 12 years of age) and can be booked

is a headphone function attached to each child’s

Rydges Esplanade ticks all the boxes!

via www.rydges.com/esplanade-cairns

The Esplanade Lagoon, Cairns Wharf, Cairns Night Markets, Cairns Convention Centre and the city of Cairns are only a short stroll away.

www.pakmag.com.au

43

Home edition

Family Living

July 2014

ITEMS [1] IKEA MORUM woven rug $129 [2] Stockholm Coffee Table $249

By Carly Hammersley

[3] ism rounded wall light $133 [4] Zanui Lounge $1299

[1]

[2]

Design Tips

[3]

[4]

Living

S PA C E S

With the cost of real estate and building forever on the rise, versatile design for interior spaces has become a necessity not a luxury.

Over the past decade, one of the “must

The centrepiece of the room should be a

minimalist and elegant and can be found

A large screen television, bluray or DVD

have” items was a media room – a

comfortable, but versatile, couch or sofa.

in various colours and materials to suit

player, surround sound system and gaming

dedicated room for flat screen TV, large

Consider your needs when selecting

any décor. From basic high-gloss white

consoles can still be incorporated into

lounge and even a surround sound system

this piece. If you have family that may

cabinetry to timber veneer, depending on

the room but rather than being the sole

to view the latest releases in the comfort of

occasionally come to stay and need a

the look you are after there will be a piece

purpose of the room they become another

your own home.

place to lay their heads, there are some

to compliment your home.

application for use.

Floor-to-ceiling bookcases are one

Creating a flexible and homely second

way of turning a room from average to

living room does not require a huge

show-stopper. There are several products

investment, but thoughtful planning and

available that offer the opportunity to

some key pieces can make the difference

The modern multi-purpose room has

customise a fit out to suit your home on

for both the feel of the room and it’s

an emphasis on storage, whether it be

a budget. If you are looking to build or

practicality for all family members.

for keeping toys organised, a bookcase

budget is not such an issue, cabinetmakers

or providing space for a home office.

are able to customise built-in designs to

Slimline entertainment units are modern,

your specifications.

With space in most homes at a premium, dedicated media rooms are being foregone and the multi-purpose room is experiencing a resurgence.

Whether it be incorporating a home office, play room or library into the design, families looking to make the most of a second living area in their home can do so by incorporating some smart design ideas.

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fantastic sofa bed options available these days that mean houseguests have a comfortable bed but it does not have to impact on daily family life.

LIGHTING: While modern hanging pendants are a great feature, in rooms lacking high ceilings they may not always be practical. A great alternative to downlights are up/down wall lights. Some people are surprised to learn that just one wall light can provide as much illumination as four to six downlights!

Contemporary wall lights are minimalist and often dimmable, providing for various moods.

FLOORS: Living in the tropics, our floors are usually hard surfaces such as tile, concrete or floorboards.

Soften the room with a rug which will also provide an anchor for the eye and a comfortable spot for kids to play. Depending on the colour scheme of your room, textured neutral coloured rugs provide a sophisticated feel or bright coloured geometric designs are on trend.

WALLS: Traditional media or cinema style rooms demand dark colours. A better option for a multipurpose living space in the tropics is to keep walls light and bright in shades of cool white and soft greys. Installing both sheer and blockout curtains ensures adequate light and privacy. Curtains and drapes should always be larger than your window or door – if possible, hang close to the ceiling and either hit the floor, or pool slightly (a better option when children are slightly older!).

ACCENTS: Don’t forget the finishing touches!

Cushions, table or floor lamps and artwork are the items that complete a room and make it feel like a home. These items do not have to cost the earth to work in your space. When shopping just ensure you have a strong colour scheme in mind and try to coordinate around that. www.pakmag.com.au

45

Home edition

SHARP 70" FULL HD LED TV

JUly 2014

DEsign Trends Advances in technology, as well as lower prices and higher competition among the big brands for what was once considered luxury audio and visual equipment now allows average families the chance to create a cinema experience in their very own homes.

One of the best buys for families on a budget is a blu-ray player as they are now so affordable and offer a significantly better picture and sound quality over a DVD.

LG 5.1" Theatre System

If you don’t require the 3D experience, for real WOW factor at amazing value, the Sharp 70” full HD LED TV allows the whole family to enjoy big screen entertainment. Spoil everyone with this large screen TV that offers an enhanced entertainment experience, whether watching TV shows, movies, or playing console games.

Price: $2589

EPSON EH-TW550 Projector

The LG 5.1ch Wireless 3D Blu-ray Home Theatre System features Dolby Digital Plus technology, wireless rear speakers and a smart 3D Blu-ray player, bringing convenience, breathtaking visuals and cinematic quality audio to any living or media room.

Get the best possible picture with the Epson EH-TW550 Home Theatre Projector. The Epson Projector features a brilliant picture, 3D support for all content without the need for a converter, and HDMI input so that you can get the most out of your media.

Price: $599

Price: $987 (92” pull down screen available from $339, motorised from $699)

LG 60" FULL HD 3D SMART LED TV Experience truly immersive viewing in the comfort of your own home with the LG 60" Full HD 3D Capable Smart LED TV. With built-in WiFi, web browser and Cinema 3D technology, the impressive, all-round TV is perfect for a modern home.

Price: $2198

Be blown away by the 3D experience from the comfort of your own home with the LG Dual Play Glasses for LG Cinema 3D LED LCD TVs. Price: $19

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www.pakmag.com.au

47

Travel guide July 2014

Travel

ideas

Whitsunday Reef Festival The vibrant town of Airlie Beach will light up from 1-8 August as the Whitsunday Reef Festival hits town. The annual festival favourite, presented by True Blue Sailing, is a delicious combination of family fun, community events, all-night celebrations, food, fashion, fireworks and some of the biggest street parties in the north.

The festival, now in its fourteenth year, is themed Heart of the Reef as it celebrates what it means to live in the Whitsundays, on the edge of the Coral Sea and the middle of the Great Barrier Reef.

It is the Whitsundays biggest-family friendly festival with a huge program of events to keep the whole tribe happy.

Friday 1 August will see the Porters Fireworks on the Foreshore kick off the festival, followed closely by number one Aussie boy band Justice Crew performing live on the Beach Music Stage in the main street of Airlie - free for all to enjoy. Join thousands and dance the night away as the six-piece act put on an electric show.

The popular Rotary Street Parade will be held on Saturday afternoon. Spectators are expected to flock to the newlyrevitalised main street to watch the amazing floats pass by. Cafes, bars and restaurants will overflow as locals and visitors alike enjoy Whitsunday hospitality and the perfect winter weather.

Following the parade the Beach Music Stage will be rocking once again with some huge live acts, not to mention the cold beer in the specially licensed beer tent.

The younger kids are the focus on Sunday for the Telstra Family Fun Day, providing a carnival atmosphere and lots of traditional games such as three-legged and sack races and modern activities like speed-texting comps with some awesome prizes up for grabs.

The Schweppes Recyclable Regatta is one event not to be missed on Sunday afternoon. Airlie’s famous lagoon becomes a hive of activity as rafts made from recyclable material take centre stage in some hilarious races antics,.

There are many other events and activities during the week-long program including comedy nights, starlight movies, fashion events, carnival rides, market stalls and much, much more.

The Whitsunday Reef Festival is not to be missed, there is something for everyone - young or old. For more information, where to stay and what to do while in the Whitsundays for the Reef Festival, visit www.whitsundayreeffeestival.com.au

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49

Review

Tom's Tavern

Yeeha kids – it’s time to hit the road and enjoy some genuinely delicious roadhouse tucker at the newly refurbished Tom’s Tavern Townsville. Complete with a fantastic playground and video games the kids are sure to be kept happy and entertained while parents enjoy the fun and friendly roadhouse atmosphere of the Tavern.

Tom’s have honoured the great Aussie road trip

ribs, mixed grills and a range of salads. Hand

topped with marshmallows, whipped cream,

in the theming of the family-owned restaurant.

stretched pizzas made from preservative free

wafers and nuts and drizzled with a chocolate

It really is a fun place to dine! It was great to see

naturally fermenting dough are also available.

fudge sauce. At $9.95 the Super Sundae is HUGE

the kids running around enjoying the venue.

The pizzas are topped with high quality

and definitely a dessert to share or a great option

ingredients and gluten free options are also

for a big dessert lover!

Kids meal dining options are extensive and healthy alternatives are not forgotten. Whether it be a hot dog, cheeseburger, fish and chips or a leg ham and cheddar cheese salad the kids are sure to not leave hungry! All kids meals are $7.95 which includes a soft drink and kids dessert (choice of strawberries and cream, frog in a pond or vanilla ice cream pot). Our kids thoroughly enjoyed the spaghetti.

It is well known Tom’s has a fantastic local

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available. We sampled the mixed grill complete with chicken, bacon, kransky sausage and beef with salad and chips for mains along with the rib fillet (which was cooked to perfection) and a half rack of ribs and buffalo wings. For dessert we selected the pavlova with kiwi, passionfruit,

Tom’s Tavern offers a Sunday lunch and dinner roast meal for $14.95 and a coffee and cake deal daily for $8.95. Steak prices range from $17.95 and are served with coleslaw, caesar salad and jacket potatoes or chips.

strawberry and vanilla bean sauce and the warm

With an extensive refurbishment, a great

chocolate pudding with chocolate sauce.

atmosphere and affordable menu Tom’s

Other adult dessert options are also showstoppers and include old favourites like Coke

Tavern provides a great Townsville dining option for families.

reputation and are renowned for their great

Spiders. Then, of course, there is the Roadhouse

Tom’s Tavern is located at 186 Nathan St,

steaks. The adult meal choices on offer are in

Super Sundae – Tom’s signature dessert. The

Aitkenvale and is open from 10am – 2:30am.

tune with the roadhouse style of the restaurant

Super Sundae includes two scoops of vanilla,

For reservations phone 4772 9777.

and include burgers and sandwiches, great steak,

chocolate and strawberry icecream and is www.pakmag.com.au

51

out&about

submit your photos

email to: photos@pakmag.com.au

Kyie and Tahlia out & about

Lilybell out & about Ashlee Bolt & Taila Bolt enjoying Tow nsville races

Desiah out & about

Eleanor out & about

Aiden & Lucious

Laila out & about

Out & About photos thanks to Cheeky Monkey photography > www.cheekymonkeyphotos.com.au

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Angus & Sascha out & about

Ari out & about

Myf out & about

Lachlan out & about

Ezekiel out & about

Out & About photos thanks to Cheeky Monkey photography > www.cheekymonkeyphotos.com.au

www.pakmag.com.au

53

BIZDirectory ads from ONLY $80/month For more information email tsvsales@pakmag.com.au

directory

BIZDirectory directory

directory

rides & eNTERTAINMENT for all occasions fetes, festivals, special events, xmas parties & birthdays Quality entertainment & amusements for the whole family. we will travel anywhere!

for more info call 0488 676 701 or visit www.amusementsplus.com.au

0419 790 534

www.bodybrainbalance.com.au All systems go with kinesiology. De-stress, move & switch on to improve learning outcomes & emotional wellbeing.

Incorporating Tiggers Jumping Castle Hire Your plaCe or ours! For more information call 1300 555 879

How you can help?

• Drop off non-perishable food or unwanted clothes to the Women’s Centre at 51 Patrick Street, Aitkenvale or

The Women's Centre Townsville offers a safe

suggest, women seeking assistance are not a

place for women and children in need of

marginalised few but everyday women who are

• Join the ‘Wish List’ mailing list to donate

assistance due to domestic violence, sexual

often forced to flee their homes with nothing.

clothing, school materials, non-perishable

assault, health, homelessness and emergency financial support. The centre relies heavily on donated goods and money from the local

3 reasons to use pakmag:

community. Due to limited resources, the centre

[1] pakmag prints 10,000 copies every month [2] pakmag is the only family mag in Townsville that can distribute to every McDonalds & Coles from Ayr to Ingham [3] pakmag targets parents of ‘beans to teens’

activities. In the year 2012/13, total fundraising

39,989 families consisting of: 3382 babies, 16347 one-five yr olds & 18176 five-fourteen yr olds

check out what we can do for your business Call us now on 4053 3331 or email admin@pakmag.com.au to see how we can help your biz in the family market - FREE opportunities exist www.pakmag.com.au

A woman dies every week in Australia due to domestic violence. Over 50% of Australian women will experience domestic violence at least once in their lifetime. One in every four homicides in Queensland are attributed to domestic violence.

Truth

visit www.thewomenscentre.org.au

townsville’s family maGazine for parents of “beans to teens”

54

Reverse the Brutal

itself has little time to devote to fundraising

In just one week last year, there were so many Townsville women seeking assistance that if the centre handed out vouchers to every woman who needed it, its entire budget would have been exhausted.

food, hygiene products, nappies, baby formula for distribution to women and children seeking emergency assistance • Attend our fundraising events held throughout the year

was only $7,900.00 and over 12,000 women

As a result the Sky Foundation was established

called on the centre for assistance. On average

in December 2013 as a registered charity.

there were 35 new referrals made to the centre

The foundation is powered by 20 local

each week. As a result of the heavy demands

professional women from law, media, property

and lack of funding and resources, the centre

development, health and small business. This

struggles daily to meet the needs of women

is the time to unite and make a change in our

• Log on to our website for more information

seeking refuge and assistance. Contrary to

community. Women who are treated poorly

www.skyfoundation.org.au

general perceptions, and as current statistics

need your help today.

• Host a Sky Foundation fundraising event • Like our Sky Foundation Face book Page

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V8's

Townsville

It may officially be the middle of Winter in North Queensland, but it’s getting hot in Townsville with the V8 Supercars heading north for the Castrol Townsville 500 from July 4-6 2014.

In 2014, fans will be treated to an extra

For the first time, the event will showcase the

themed inflatable zone and race your friends

100km of racing, meaning drivers and crews

all-new Super Top. The Super Top will house

down Lightning McQueen’s awesome two-track

will need to win the battle of endurance in

music, bars, food stalls, dining areas and provide

inflatable slide.

order to master the circuit that snakes through

racegoers with shade and somewhere to

the streets of Townsville.

unwind throughout the day. On Saturday night,

The event delivers action both on and off the track for spectators and families. The V8 roadshow has grown over the last few years

the Super Top will become party central, with performances by Australia’s top female recording artists Jessica Mauboy and Vanessa Amorosi.

Aspiring young racers will love getting creative in the brand new Planes Hanger, where they can make their very own plane to take home!

Or unleash the kids (and burn off some of that energy!) on the World Grand Prix Training Track,

to provide fans with not only Australia’s top

Little race fans will also delight as the Disney

complete with its very own road, signs, flags,

category of motor sport and some of the most

Fun Zone returns trackside with more new and

cones, rumble strips and traffic lights.

talented drivers in the business, but off track fun

exciting interactive activities. Cars fans will be

including food, wine and entertainment.

able to meet, and take their photo next to life-

The all-new event precinct for 2014 features a new viewing mound in pole position along the main straight, new stadium seating and premium hospitality suites with track side seating.

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size replicas of Mack The Transporter and the one and only Lightning McQueen. The newly decked out B double trailer is the ultimate chill out zone,

The Castrol Townsville 500 is a fun-filled event for the whole family, with kids 14 and under receiving free trackside admission when entering with a paying adult (limit of one child per ticket).

featuring the latest Disney blockbuster, Planes!

For more information, or to purchase tickets, visit:

Explore and bounce in the fantastic new Planes-

www.ticketek.com.au