PAKMAG JULY TOWNSVILLE ISSUE 56

ISSUE NO. 56 JUL 2015 TOWNSVILLE

Homework HELPERS

EDUCATION SERIES

everything is awesome PARTY GUIDE

e c i o h C e l p i t Mul RY

Cover Photo: Cheeky Monkey Photography

FEATURE STO

School holiday guide

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contents ISSUE NO. 56 JUL 2015

HELLO

06 #Trending 08 Multiple Choice

Feature Story 11 Start Your Engine

Townsville V8s

Hello and welcome to the July edition of PakMag.

17 Homework Helper

Education Series 2015

Can you believe half the school year is finished and it’s the school holidays again?!

In this edition we have a full guide of everything happening during the school holidays, plus tickets to give away to the V8’s.

19 Health 20 Wellbeing

My kids are so excited about the V8’s this year. Make sure you check out page 11 for our rundown on what to see and do.

23 Nursery Rhymes

Bump & Bub

We also have a story on homework and showcase a few gorgeous local families that have had a multiple birth.

27 What's On Guide

Until next time, be safe during the holidays, enjoy and don’t forget to tell everyone, you read it in PakMag.

Bree x

24 Bump & Bub Products 29 Mini Mag 37 Entertainment 39 School Holiday Guide 42 Lego Party Ideas

Party Guide 44 Biz Index

Bree James / PAKMAG Publisher

45 Business 46 What's New in Business Net Distribution Per Issue 10,000 CAB Publisher Statement Period ending 30th July 2015

49 Recipe Ideas 51 Financial Security 52 Beautiful Bathrooms

Home 55 Home Products 56 Snapped

Pakmag head office p 4053 3331 F 4053 3350 E admin@pakmag.com.au SALES p 0448 844 754 PO BOX 761 Hyde Park QLD 4812 FB www.facebook.com/pakmagtownsville T #pakmag On the Cover Model Addison and Clio Welsh Photography Cheeky Monkey Photography web www.cheekymonkeyphotos.com.au

58 Daddy Diary

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.

TSV Ambassador Alisyn

Events Extraordinaire Kelly

Darling Designer Clare

Design Queen Emma

Grand Poobah Bree

Sales Guru Angelina

Admin Ace Janelle

Sales Star Cherie

Sales Golden Girl Tammy

Content Captain Jenna

www.pakmag.com.au JULY 2015

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s ' t a h WENDING TR

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JumpingJack Game RRP $34.99 andandrews.com web www.crown around a carrot garden nny has planted to pick is l hil the This super cool bu off get him to jump to y wa ly the on e g his hill. Th r starts by flickin e youngest playe Th t. nny rro bu ca 's ht ck rig Ja the pull from w many carrots to jump ck Ja s ke spinner to see ho ma t t tha nue until the carro 4 and up hill. Play will conti Suitable for ages n! wi to him tch David er, My is pulled out. Ca et, W, Targ Available at BIG with 2-4 players. . ers leading toy retail Jones, Mr Toys &

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Peas in a Pod RRP $24.99 web www.exislepublishing.com.au Meet Pippa, Poppy, Polly, Pia and Peg - quintuplets who do everything the same. But one day the girls decide that they don’t like being the same. Will they be able to break the mould and let their true personalities shine? This fun-filled story is perfect for kids aged 3-7 and written by award-winning author Tania McCartney. Check out our feature on multiples on page 8.

Enter to Win

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Circle Of Life Pendant RRP $75.00 web www.stampedwithlove.com.au The Circle Of Life Pendant is a timeless and classic piece. It denotes the meaning of having no beginning and no end; life and love will go on forever. This elegantly designed pendant makes a thoughtful and loving gift. The circle itself represents always embracing and relishing every moment and is a symbol commonly used to represent never ending love which makes it perfect for giving to a loved one.

It represents the simplest and perhaps most comforting notion - 'life is a circle and can be embraced whatever stage you’re at.'

For a chance to win these trending prizes, visit our website www.pakmag.com.au

JULY 2015 www.pakmag.com.au

TRENDING

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pakmag

Solidteknics cast iron pan RRP $149.00 web www.solidteknics.com The gorgeous AUSfonte cast iron pan range from Solidteknics is the only production cookware made in Australia. One-piece pure Australian iron, acclaimed by top chefs, exported to USA, and the biggest-selling cookware now on KitchenwareDirect.com – outselling all imports.

Seasoned bare cast iron is widely recognised as the healthiest cooking option, and has seen a huge resurgence in recent years in the USA, where savvy cooks are rejecting synthetic nonstick coatings with their health concerns and regular disposal. Sustainable AUSfonte pans are multi-generation durable and their nonstick seasoning is forever renewable.

BARE MOVEMENT web www.baremovement.com With the focus on health and wellness Bare Movement want to help you achieve beautiful silky shiny hair without all the bad stuff.

Loving yourself from the inside out is essential. Behind the Bare Movement is Annalisa Siefken, owner & operator of ipseItY Beauty & Hair studio and now creator of the BARE Movement.

The philosophy of BARE Movement is to appeal to the health conscious individual. They understand the importance of balance and wellness and have created a movement in hair care that delivers a product allowing you to enjoy the unique, luxurious salon experience from your own home.

Experience high performing expert care that is colour safe and natural.

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As Dew Bottle RRP $35.00 web www.as-dew.com

Water is vital for your body’s cell growth and division and maintaining a healthy level of hydration is very important. As DeW Water bottle helps in enhancing water with its alkalising, mineralising, purifying and vitalising properties. With a goal to not only deliver affordable and conveniently portable high quality water, As DeW water tastes great and energises the body. The water is alkalized to a pH level that annihilates illness from our body. Besides that, it releases vital minerals such as calcium, silicon and iron into the water while eliminating the level of harmful elements such as chlorine, arsenic and lead.

To order, please visit www.as-dew.com

www.pakmag.com.au JULY 2015

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Multiple Choice

By Jenna Gallina

Can you really boost your chances of having more than one?

DID YOU KNOW? • The most popular twin baby names in 2014 were Ella and Emma, Olivia and Sophia, Madison and Mason, Ethan and Emma, Jacob and Joshua and Ethan and Evan.

• Some favourite celebrities are actually twins – Scarlett Johansson has a twin brother named Hunter, Gisele Bundchen has a twin sister, Patricia, Vin Diesel has a twin brother named Paul Vincent and Ashton Kutcher has a twin brother, Michael.

• Nigeria has the highest rates of multiples with more identical twins than fraternal, while China has one of the lowest with multiple births occurring one in 300 births.

• Nearly half of twins invent their own languages. This “secret language of twins” is known as ideoglossia. And watching them communicate in secret twin baby speak has got to be one of the sweetest things in the world!

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JULY 2015 www.pakmag.com.au

You may have heard that if you have twins in the family, you have a better chance of having multiples yourself. But is there any truth to this?

Apparently, there is! In fact, what you eat, how you conceive and even how tall you are may increase your chances of having more than one.

According to the Australian Multiple Birth Association, twins represent 2 per cent of the total Australian population while triplets (and higher order multiples) make up .02 per cent. So what factors play a role in having multiples?

Your age Fertility research indicates that twin pregnancies are more common in mothers who are over 35 years of age.

Your genes Yes, twins do run in the family, but only fraternal twins. Identical twins can occur in any family. What’s the difference? Fraternal twins develop when two separate eggs are fertilised and implant in the uterus. Identical twins form when a single fertilised egg splits into two genetically identical parts.

Your conception method Yes, it is true that having fertility assistance such as in-vitro fertilisation can result in more than one egg being released, but this certainly isn’t the case for all mums of multiples.

Your choice of contraception On the pill or just stopped taking it?

Chances are, you could be seeing more than one heartbeat at that first ultrasound.

Your weaning approach Breastfeeding an older baby or toddler has said to increase your chance of having twins due to the extra prolactin produced when feeding a child.

Your diet Some studies suggest that women who eat a lot of dairy are more likely to carry twins. Other foods on the multiple meal plan? Sweet potatoes, oysters and green leafy vegetables.

Your height and weight There have even been studies that suggest taller women tend to conceive more twins as well as women with a BMI greater than 30.

Go figure.

FEATURE

pakmag

Meet our Townsville Multiple Mums

Double (or triple) the love for these local mums who share what life is really like with two (or three) of a kind.

Jolene Durighello Who are you mummy to and how old are they? Ellena, 7, Addisyn, 4 and the twins, Samuel and Jakob, six weeks.

What has been the most memorable moment so far?

The moment when we found out – fairly unbelievable and shocked.

Any advice for parents expecting multiples? Be prepared for the unexpected. And just go with it.

Describe life with twins in three words: Blessed, challenging and rewarding.

What’s something you wish people without multiples would understand: It’s hard to plan for the future and thus life can be pretty unpredictable.

Mum to Multiples?

Yes, finding out you are carrying two or more little babies can be overwhelming. But all mums to multiples would agree that raising twins or triplets comes with a plethora of positives – your child will have a playmate for life, you are in for double the fun and you get to experience twice (or triple) the cuddles, kisses and “I Love You Mummy’s.”

What more could you want?

Regardless of whether you are having one or three, motherhood comes with plenty of ups and downs. And multiple birth parents are not prone to feelings of stress and exhaustion. To fully enjoy this incredible time in your life, the Australian Multiple Birth Association shares these tips to help all parents prepare for life with more than one: Just grow with it You can certainly expect to gain more weight than a woman carrying just

Shirin Welsh Who are you mummy to and how old are they? 4 year old fraternal twin girls, Cleo and Addison, and also 6 month old fraternal boy/girl twins, Lawson and Thea.

What has been the most memorable moment so far? Each day there are moments when I watch them all playing together and it makes me appreciate how lucky I am and how unique it is to parent two sets of twins.

Any advice for parents expecting multiples? Focus on the positives (mainly those special twin cuddles).

Describe life with two sets of twins in three words: Blessed, demanding and rewarding. On a more practical note - expensive!

one. After all, you are carrying an extra placenta, extra amniotic fluid and extra maternal body fluid, not to mention the extra little bundle of joy!

Try not to focus on the extra weight gain – your body is doing exactly what it needs to do.

Cherish every moment The aching back, the big belly, the constant nausea – yes, it can be unbearable, but remember that you are about to undertake the greatest journey of your life. And when you have your little babies in your arms, you will know it was worth every single stretchmark.

Accept help when you can Even superheros have sidekicks. Be sure to accept offers to babysit, to bring over meals, to change nappies.

This is the secret to being a super mum- know your limits.

Join forces with multiple mums Connect with your local Australian Multiple Birth Association club while

Paula Simpson Who are you mummy to and how old are they? We are parents to 4 year old triplets Harrison, Anastasia and Oliver.

What has been the most memorable moment so far? When we had them all together at home for the first time...

It felt that we had completed our family after trying for so long.

Any advice for parents expecting multiples? Establish a good routine that works for you and your babies.

Describe life with triplets in three words: Fantastic, frantic and fun.

What’s something you wish people without multiples would understand: Having 2 or 3 close together is not the same as having twins or triplets you are still pregnant. The AMBA has grown to a membership of over 3,500 families Australia-wide, ranging from expectant parents to parents of adult multiples over the past 40 years. All mums who sign up will get a free box of Huggies nappies (that’s your first box down…only 2000 more to buy!)

You can find your nearest AMBA club using AMBA's club finder www.amba.org.au/clubfinder Talking to other parents of multiples can make a massive difference to your mental health and coping skills.

Plus, it is always great to share a laugh with other mums who are up all night with two unsettled newborns, or cleaning two number threes simultaneously (ever changed a number six nappy?)

After all, laughter is the best medicine for sleep deprivation. And coffee.

Coffee works too.

www.pakmag.com.au JULY 2015

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V8'S FEATURE

pakmag

Start Your Engine

& Win a Trip to the V8’s IN TOWNSVILLE North Queensland is set to heat up when the V8 Supercars arrive in Townsville this month.

The V8’s are always action-packed fun for everyone but this year you can expect even more adrenaline - pumping adventure, especially for the little ones.

The event will feature high octane V8 Supercar racing, quality support categories and a variety of entertainment that the whole family will enjoy. Kids 12 and under receive free trackside admission with a paying adult.

What’s better than attending the Townsville 400? How about winning a three day Trackside pass for the entire family?

Trackside

win

Family Pass

You could win a family (family of four) three day Trackside Pass to the Castrol EDGE Townsville 400 and two Disney merchandise packs for the kids.

Plus one lucky winner will win a family meet and greet with Mark “Frosty” Winterbottom.

Enter to WIN at pakmag.com.au

Top Five Family Attractions In addition to the races, auto shows, merchandise alley, helicopter rides and so much more, make sure you take a trip around the circuit and check out the various kid-friendly activities designed for children of all ages.

• The Disney Zone is back and bigger than ever with a brand new inflatable Disney Pixar Cars obstacle course that will have you bouncing off the walls and sliding down slopes. The Disney Zone will be in action Friday, Saturday and Sunday between 10am and 4pm.

• The all new Cars Ice Racers ice rink will put your ice racing skills to the test!

• Get up close and meet Lightning McQueen and Mack the Transporter from Disney Pixar's Cars. Chill out and watch a movie in the cinema before testing your pedal power on the Cars race track.

• Check out the craft activities and interactive iPad zone for little gamers and puzzlers alike.

• Head into Lightning McQueen’s #1 Fan Zone for your kids' chance to win some great prizes.

Show off your best Lightning McQueen impressions, lend your voice to a scene from Cars or get creative and make your own #1 Fan video plus a whole heap more!

Race over to www.ticketek.com.au to book your tickets or for more information www.8vsupercars.com.au Children 12 and under are FREE with a paying adult.

www.pakmag.com.au JULY 2015

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EDUCATION SERIES

pakmag

Is Homework AN

Important Component to Your

Child’s learning?

All homework and no play makes children go crazy. Mums suspect it, children know it. Even some teachers and studies confirm that too much homework can be doing your children more harm than good.

The argument regarding the importance of homework continues to make the rounds in most households and schools. So how much is too much? And what role does it play in your children’s development at school?

The homework war Yes, homework can be beneficial to children. Common arguments for homework are that it promotes self-discipline, improves study skills and work habits, helps students be responsible and prepares them for the “real world”.

2015 Education Series

It can also help bridge the gap between learning at home and learning at school and bring parents up to speed with the progress of their children.

However, homework can also be seen as irrelevant as it is not a direct reflection of the learning activities undertaken at school.

A recent inquiry from the Department of Education and Early Childhood Development found strong evidence that homework had almost no academic benefit to primary-school students, although it may help them prepare for secondary school.

How to achieve the homework, life balance Bentley Park College teacher and mum, Samantha Olding, can see both sides of the coin.

“Although I may not agree with the homework that my children are receiving I will always assist them as homework provides them with great skills that will transcend into excellent study habits,” Olding tells us.

Children will develop an understanding that learning is not only important at school, but also valued at home.

“Homework can help children build on skills such as time management, organisation, preparation, responsibility and communication.

These are the lifelong skills that we want all children to be confident with.”

Doing school work at home can be incredibly valuable but it needs to be balanced. After a six hour day at school, most kids will want to come home and relax. Too much homework can cause children to resent school and worst of all, learning in general.

Finding that perfect balance between school work and homework is never

easy and it will vary depending on the child.

But, as a general guideline, how much homework is appropriate?

The “10 minute rule” Every state has different recommendations on homework and some schools across the nation have even introduced the homework opt out program where parents can choose to opt out of homework completely or cater the amount they would like their children to receive each day.

In Queensland there is a state school homework policy which recognises that the setting of homework must take into account the need for children to have a balanced lifestyle.

Some schools adapt the “10 minute rule” which recommends kids spend about 10 minutes per school night every year they’re in school. So a year one student would be doing 50 minutes a week while a year six student would be doing one hour a day or five hours per week.

Finding your child’s learning curve The average fifteen-year-old student in Australia spends around six hours a week on homework with private school students taking home an average of two hours a week more homework that state school students.

This may seem like too much or it may seem like not enough when compared to other countries, such as China, where the average amount of time spent on homework per week exceeds 13 hours.

The bottom line? The amount of homework your child does should be something that the student, parents and teachers negotiate together.

www.pakmag.com.au JULY 2015

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2015 Education Series

Homework Helpers LessonBuzz App

Study Smart Tips and Tricks to Try at Home Homework should be balanced with other purposeful activities. If you’re having trouble convincing your child to do homework, try these tips:

Newly-designed LessonBuzz targets common learning needs and encourages individualised development in areas such as knowledge, writing, comprehension and literacy skills, designed for children aged four to thirteen.

The LessonBuzz Kindy App and Literacy App are now available through the Apple App Store.

Cost $4.99 Find it www.lessonbuzz.com.au

Membo Daily Task Reminder

win

Sneak learning into everyday life Let’s face it – the stories and activities selected as homework are not going to interest everyone. Rather than stick to the homework reading list, read something your children would enjoy, even if it’s a comic book one night and his school reader the night after.

Your daughter may not be too interested in writing her spelling words but she may be more inclined to do them if she can write a story about princesses after.

Practice communication and reflection The best way to do this? By sitting together every night and having a conversation around the dinner table.

Talk about your day. Talk about something funny that happened, something sad that happened, something frustrating that happened.

No text book required.

Membo is a funky and colourful magnetic daily reminder tool that flips over to let everyone know if a job has been done yet. Not only is it great as a reward system for homework, but also for other daily tasks, such as feeding the fish and watering the plants.

Cost $24.95 Find it www.dreamfarm.com/membo ENTER to win at www.pakmag.com.au

Mark-My-Time Digital Bookmark

Learn with them Play Go Fish but create your own using sight words. Practice doing your timetables as a family, going around in a circle and seeing how fast you can do it together. Make learning a team effort.

Offer a reward I’m not ashamed to admit that we are big fans of bribes in my house.

It works. Okay. The end.

By Jenna Gallina

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JULY 2015 www.pakmag.com.au

How cool are these? Reading homework just got more fun to monitor with this all-in-one digital clock, timer and bookmark. Make sure your children are getting their twenty minutes of reading each day with Mark-My-Time. There are several funky colours to choose from and the battery is included.

Cost $9.00 Find it www.urbanbaby.com.au/Mark-My-Time-Digital-Bookmark

Keep up to date with local issues, competitions, events & all things parenting

/PakmagTownsville

EDUCATION

pakmag

Small Changes to Prep...

Big Decision for Parents

By Jenna Gallina

Is four years, five months old too young for children to start prep?

To school or not to school?

Kindy teacher and mum, Kathryn Abbott, understands how difficult and confusing this decision can be.

“All parents want what’s best for their children and there are benefits to starting prep early.”

“Some kids, if held back, can feel restless. My son for example, is on the cusp but is more than ready.

His behaviour changes if he is not stimulated in a routine environment.

When he’s bored, the silliness comes out.”

The Department of Education, Training and Employment don’t seem to think so. Late last year the Department announced that the eligible prep entry cut off has been moved from June 30 to July 31.

What this means is that approximately 5000 Queensland students could be starting school one full year earlier.

How it works • Children born before 31 July 2011 are now eligible for prep in 2016.

Prior to the change, the cut-off date was 30 June 2011.

• The minimum age of a prep student has been moved from four years and six months to four years and five months.

• Parents will have the option to put their children into prep early or wait another year.

• The cut-off age for early entry into the preparatory year in a Queensland school under the recent amendment aligns with the school starting age for children in New South Wales, which is the youngest school starting age in Australia.

But starting prep early can also lead to feelings of anxiety and isolation for some children who are having trouble coping with the change.

“I know of at least two children in my class this year who will not be going to prep next year, even though they qualify for the early program.”

Is your child ready?

School readiness isn’t just about where your child is academically.

Ian Wallace, Child Physiologist at Practical Parenting encourages parents to use a checklist when determining whether to make the leap into school or wait another year.

Can your children…

• Listen to stories, learn rhymes and recognise and name colours?

• Play, share, take turns and adapt to doing things differently?

• Cope with change and deal with challenges?

• Get dressed, pull down and up their pants, wipe their own bottom and wash their hands?

• Converse socially and express their needs?

Zach is one of the 5000 children impacted. He was born 1July 2011 and although he is excelling in some areas, mum Louise Wilson doesn’t think he’s socially ready to start prep next year.

• Open and close their lunch box?

“He’s got a good vocabulary but he lacks confidence, especially when compared to my first born who started prep this year.”

• Recognise numbers and begin counting?

Louise, who is on leave as a teacher, believes that each child should be taken on a case-by-case basis.

“It shouldn’t be just a blanket change.

If a child is ready, they should be allowed to go. If they are not ready, they should be allowed to stay home or go to kindy for another year.”

Ultimately, the decision on whether to start your child in prep at aged four or five comes down to an individual assessment of the child.

• Run, jump, catch, balance and dance?

• Cut, paste and use pencils?

“Our school readiness assessment focuses on things like number and letter recognition, but more on a child’s self-confidence and social skills,” Abbott adds.

This is something that is learned at different stages. And this is perfectly okay.

“At the end of the day, it’s the decision of the parent,” Abbott states.

“The principal and kindy teacher can give their input, but Mum and Dad know what’s best.”

www.pakmag.com.au JULY 2015

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HEALTH

pakmag

HEALTH

Winter is Coming Antibiotic Resistance

Combatting Children’s Skin Conditions A Newspoll study reveals that around 52 per cent of children – newborn to 17 years of age, suffer from eczema, dermatitis or sensitive skin that is easily irritated.

With so many children now being affected by allergic skin reactions, which can also lead to other chronic conditions such as asthma, it is important that children have a skin routine that supports the health of their skin from a young age.

Stick to Soap-Free Regular soap strips away the skin’s vital and natural layer of protection, leaving the skin dry and potentially open to infection, particularly in children who have sensitive skin or who have conditions such as eczema and dermatitis.

Make Friends with Moisturiser Moisturiser helps to support the skin’s immune system and prevent infection and allergies. Make a light massage with moisturiser part of the nightly routine.

Slip, Slap, Slop There are a variety of sunscreens that are fragrance free and formulated especially for young and sensitive skin.

Boost their Vitamins and Supplements Fish oil supplements help reduce the severity of conditions like dermatitis, eczema and asthma.

Other supplements such as Vitamin A and Vitamin E are also important to maintain healthy skin.

Mario Calanna is the CEO of Calanna Pharmacy

Could the overuse of antibiotics be making us sicker?

Many of us are guilty of it, especially during cold and flu season – our child gets a cold and the first thing we do is head to the doctor and ask for a script.

However, for those of us with infections due to common winter viruses, but who are otherwise healthy, antibiotics are not the answer.

The government is cracking down on antibiotic usage as Health Minister Sussan Ley announced a national strategy to curb the overuse of antibiotics in Australia last month.

“The strategy is not about removing access but rather guiding Australians to take antibiotics safely,” Ms Ley said in a statement. “The over and misuse of antibiotics has been identified as a significant contributor to the emergence of resistant bacteria.”

Dr Lynn Weekes, CEO of NPS MedicineWise states, “The more antibiotics are used, the more chances bacteria have to become resistant to them. This can then make bacterial infections much harder to treat when you do have one.”

Australia has one of the highest rates of antibiotic use in the world with more than 24 million antibiotic prescriptions written every year. Last year, antibiotics were prescribed to over 10 million patients or an incredible 45 per cent of all Australians.

A 2014 NPS MedicineWise survey showed that one in five Australians expect antibiotics for viruses that cause a cold or flu.

To reduce our overuse, Weekes suggests managing your cold and flu symptoms in a more natural way.

“Only see your doctor if you feel your symptoms are severe or are not improving. You may want to consider getting a flu vaccination now to reduce your risk of a serious bout of flu as the winter season nears.”

Reducing your reliance on antibiotics Do you know people who say, “I haven’t had a cold in years?” Wondering how they do it? Boost your immunity the natural way - here’s how: • Stress less, sleep more - And incorporate exercise into your regime • Add Echinacea to your morning menu • Become a gingerholic - Ginger is beneficial to colds, flu, circulation, digestion and nausea • Get your vitamins - Including vitamin C, zinc, vitamin D3 and lysine • Power through with probiotics - Probiotics are, essentially, “good bacteria” that help fight “bad bacteria.” These are important to take after a course of antibiotics.

• Up your iron intake - Essential for immunity and energy, iron-rich foods include spinach, red meats, beans, whole grains, seeds and dark chocolate (winning!)

• Embrace prebiotics - These are non-digestible food ingredients that, when consumed, stimulate the growth and function of "good" bacteria in the gut. Foods with prebiotics include bananas, berries, garlic, soybeans, onions, leeks, shallots, asparagus and chicory root.

www.pakmag.com.au JULY 2015

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pakmag

Well Being

WELL BEING 30 lunges

Back to Basics – Reducing Harmful Preservatives in Packaged Foods If you struggle with day to day parenting, know that you’re not alone! To make things even harder, there are many outside factors that contribute to the challenges we face with modern day parenting.

Healthy growing children need nutritious food as fuel for their bodies, not synthetic chemicals. Preservatives are just that.

Preservatives are used to prevent bacteria, yeast and mould growth, preserve colour and flavour and keep food from going bad by preventing oxidation. It can be hard to avoid preservatives as they can be found in almost any type of food or drink. While there are many natural preservatives such as salt, vinegar and sugar, most used by food manufacturers are synthetic.

The Parenting Workout Health professionals recommend that everyone in the household find 30 minutes a day to do some form of exercise. But this can be tricky when balancing work, life and kids.

Give this work-out a try for a week.

The most common is called Allura Red or colour number E129 and can be linked to allergies, mood disorders, learning and behavioural difficulties, hyperactivity, ADHD, nausea, hay fever, hypersensitivity reactions, tantrums, head banging, hives, headaches, restlessness and sleep disturbances. The colour red is currently banned for use in food in Denmark, Belgium, France, Germany, Switzerland, Austria and Norway, but not Australia.

• Whenever a child says, “I’m hungry,” do 15 squats • Whenever someone complains about the food you offer, do 25 push-ups • Whenever a child says, “No,” do 20 sit-ups • Whenever you use the phrase, “Because I said so,” do 15 star jumps • Whenever your children get in an argument about who gets to play with the iPad, do three laps around the kitchen • Whenever you put the kettle on and then forget to make tea, do 30 lunges.

Avoiding food preservatives isn’t always easy but here are three tips to get you started:

Who says you can’t find time during the day to exercise with the kids at home?

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To give you an example, let’s discuss the use of red food dyes. These are used in mass food production (processed, dairy, frozen foods, beverages) cosmetics and medicines. They are classified as carcinogens (any substance or agent that may contribute to cancer) and are therefore hazardous to our health.

JULY 2015 www.pakmag.com.au

• Start reading labels – This will help you familiarise yourself with the various preservatives in your food.

• Identify the good, the bad and the awful – On the safe list? E 160a (Carotene), E160c (Paprika), E160d (Lycopene) & E160e (Beta-apo-8’Carotenal).

What to avoid? Look out for numbers 129, 160B, 202, 211, 220, 221-228, 280-283, 250 and 251. Some of the names of these harmful preservatives include potassium sorbate, sodium benzoate, sulphites, sulphur dioxide, sodium nitrite, sodium nitrate and propionates.

• Find alternatives – For example, beetroot juice can also be used to colour food rather than relying on red food dye. Hoppers Natural Food Colours are also a preservative-free alternative.

With the rise of childhood disorders, behavioural problems and illnesses, any small changes and better choices you make will benefit your entire family.

The good news for Far North Queensland is that there are so many informed and passionate people and resources available to assist you every step of the way.

Story Jade Vogler, Health Coach, HEALthee Living www.jadevoglerhealtheeliving.com

Bump & Bub Anything But Baa Baa Boring!

Story Julie Sexton, Speech Pathologist at TalkNQ Speech Pathology

Research indicates that children who can accurately recite eight nursery rhymes by age four are usually in the top band of readers and spellers by year three. Isn’t it time you re-visited the classics with your kids?

When babies are very young, in order for them to learn from Mum or Dad they need to share the same interests as Mum or Dad. Nursery rhymes, with their natural rhythm and finger movements, provide a natural platform for parents to interact with their young children strengthening the child’s social and emotional development.

Benefits to rhyme Nursery rhymes have a multi-faceted influence on important development skills. Studies confirm that nursery rhymes can encourage: • Imitation and Understanding Young children will typically imitate fine motor skills before imitating words. Singing nursery rhymes with finger movements can help them to engage with you and imitate your movements.

• Auditory Memory Development The ability to retain and recall words and sentences is important for learning and the repetition in nursery rhymes provides a suitable first stepping stone.

• Literacy Development Nursery rhymes support early literacy development because they build on children’s vocabulary which is a major component in reading success.

• Phonological Awareness The awareness of sounds in words, which is another building block for reading and writing skills, is a tricky one for children to learn. Nursery rhymes also expose children to natural rhythm and place emphasis on key words which fosters the foundation for reading fluency at primary school.

Most parents include a bedtime story as part of their child’s night time routine. Spend an extra minute or two in their bedroom and let them choose a couple of rhymes each night.

Not only are nursery rhymes beneficial to your children’s speech development, but they also offer a beautiful and relaxing bonding experience before bed. Both you and your children will start looking forward to finishing a busy day with a quiet rhyme.

Plus, there is nothing quite like ending the day with “Open, Shut Them” looping around in your head.

If you have any concerns about your child’s early communication development, it is best to seek help early rather than taking a “wait and see” approach. If you have any questions regarding your child’s development contact TalkNQ Speech Pathology on 0467 239 554 or visit their website www.talknq.com to book an appointment with a speech pathologist.

Encouraging Your Child to Learn Nursery Rhymes • Start by using short nursery rhymes that include simple finger movements such as “Twinkle Twinkle” or “Incy Wincy Spider”.

• Make a Nursery Rhyme Box. Paint and decorate a cardboard box with your children, then collect items that represent each nursery rhyme. Find farm animals for “Old McDonald,” stars for “Twinkle, Twinkle,” a stuffed bunny for “Peter Rabbit.” Then take turns picking out of the box and singing the rhyme that is selected.

• Make up fun over-the-top actions with nursery rhymes.

For example when reciting “Humpty Dumpty” pretend to fall down on the bed and give your child deep hugs as you do it - a sure way to keep them interested and wanting more repetition.

• Clap out each beat in the nursery rhyme to further emphasise the natural rhythm of the song.

• Find a template of your child’s favourite nursery rhyme and then sing the nursery rhyme as they colour it in or paint it.

• Buy puzzles or games that include nursery rhyme characters and sing the nursery rhyme for each piece of the puzzle or game.

www.pakmag.com.au JULY 2015

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JULY 2015 www.pakmag.com.au

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www.pakmag.com.au JULY 2015

25

What's On JuLY FRIDAY 3

WEDNESDAY 1 Shop 'n' Play - Animal Mask Making Willows Shopping Centre 4773 8871 / 1.00pm / Free / Family

Shop 'n' Play - Animal Mask Making Willows Shopping Centre 4773 8871 / 1.00pm / Free / Family

Meet SpongeBob Squarepants CastleTown Townsville (Ends 5/7/15) www.castletown.com.au 11.00am / Free / Family

Mums & Bubs Yoga - PreRegistration is Required St Matthews Hall 0406 605 623 11.00pm / Cost / Adult

Re-Cre8Tiv Recycled Art (Bookings Required - Ends 10/7/15) (Different Programs each Day) 20 Orillia Court, Oakdale Heights www.facebook.com/recre8tiv 3.30pm / Cost / Kids Tackers Sailing Program (Ends 3/7/15) (Kids Aged 7-12) Townsville Sailing Club www.tsc.yachting.org.au 8.00am / Cost / Kids Move It! Toy Workshop (Ends 3/7/15) Museum of Tropical QLD www.mtq.qm.qld.gov.au 11.00am / Admission / Kids

Townsville Show (Opens at 9.00am on 4, 5 and 6/7/15) (Ends 6/7/15) Townsville Showgrounds www.townsvilleshow.com.au 5.00pm / Cost / Family

SATURDAY 4 Weave the Reef, Love the Reef Drop-In Workshop The Townsville Show, Townsville Showgrounds 4727 9011 / 10.00am / Free / Family WOW Workshop - Headpiece Design Perc Tucker Regional Gallery 4727 9011 / 10.30am / Free / Family

THURSDAY 2 Shop 'n' Play - Animal Mask Making Willows Shopping Centre 4773 8871 / 1.00pm / Free / Family The Rat Pack from Vegas Townsville Civic Theatre 4727 9797 / 8.00pm / Cost / Adult

Leo Sayer - The Show Must Go On Tour The Venue Townsville www.thevenuetownsville.com.au 7.00pm / Cost / Adult

SUNDAY 5 WOW Workshop - Tribal Body Armour Perc Tucker Regional Gallery

"Minty picks Townsville Show on Friday 3 at 5.00pm" 4727 9011 10.30am / Free / Family Freewheeling Craft (Ends 12/7/15) Museum of Tropical QLD www.mtq.qm.qld.gov.au 9.30am / Admission / Kids

MONDAY 6 Under the Sea Activity Station CastleTown Townsville, Target Forecourt (Ends 12/7/15) www.castletown.com.au 11.00am / Free / Family Monday Morning Art Group Pinnacles Gallery 4773 8871 / 9.00am / Cost / Adult

TUESDAY 7 Art-Box - Art Activities for Under 5's Pinnacles Gallery 4773 8871 / 10.00am / Free / Kids Percival's Life Drawing Perc Tucker Regional Gallery 4727 9011 / 6.30pm / Cost / Adult Art Escape - Custom Canvas Shoes Pinnacles Gallery 4773 8871 / 10.30am / Cost / Kids School Holiday Program - Amelia Ellicott's Nature Play (Ages 5-12) Riverway Arts Centre 1300 878 001 2.30pm / Free / Kids

Free Parent Information Session - Your Child's Eye Health CityLibraries Aitkenvale 1300 878 001 9.30am / Free / Family Tricks on Bikes (Ends 10/7/15) (Runs again at 12.00pm) Museum of Tropical QLD www.mtq.qm.qld.gov.au 10.00am / Admission / Family Circus Workshops with La Luna (Also Runs on 8/7/15 and 10/7/15) Museum of Tropical QLD www.mtq.qm.qld.gov.au 10.30am / Admission / Kids

WEDNESDAY 8 Art Escape - Old-School Illustration Pinnacles Gallery 4773 8871 / 10.30am / Cost / Kids Townsville NAIDOC Breakfast Brothers Leagues Club 4727 9797 / 7.30am / Cost / Family

THURSDAY 9 Art Escape - Henna Painting Pinnacles Gallery 4773 8871 / 10.30am / Cost / Kids Townsville 400 Super Welcome Jezzine Barracks, Parade Ground & Kennedy Regiment Plaza 1300 878 001 4.30pm / Free / Family

Email events to: promotions@pakmag.com.au

www.pakmag.com.au JULY 2015

27

What's On JuLY Grasshopper Soccer Mite-E Soccer (Bookings Required) Museum of Tropical QLD www.mtq.qm.qld.gov.au 10.30am / Admission / Kids

FRIDAY 10 Castrol Edge Townsville 400 Reid Park, Townsville www.v8supercars.com.au 6.30am / Cost / Family

www.v8supercars.com.au 7.00am / Cost / Family WOW Workshop - Carnival Headwear Perc Tucker Regional Gallery 4727 9011 10.30am / Free / Family

MONDAY 13

Art Escape - Peg Doll Key Rings Pinnacles Gallery 4773 8871 / 10.30am / Cost / Kids

Monday Morning Art Group Pinnacles Gallery 4773 8871 / 9.00am / Cost / Adult

TUESDAY 14 Percival's Life Drawing Perc Tucker Regional Gallery 4727 9011 6.30pm / Cost / Adult

SATURDAY 11 Castrol Edge Townsville 400 Reid Park, Townsville www.v8supercars.com.au 6.30am / Cost / Family WOW Workshop - Wearable Art Barbie and Ken Perc Tucker Regional Gallery 4727 9011 / 10.30am / Free / Family

SUNDAY 12 Bastille Day-luncheon

by Michel- Cancan Alliance Franรงaise of Townsville www.aftownsville.org.au Cost (Under 8 Free) 12.30pm / Family

Argus Riverway Arts Centre 4727 9797 7.00pm / Cost / Family

WEDNESDAY 15 Argus Riverway Arts Centre 4727 9797 7.00pm / Cost / Family

FRIDAY 17 Pyjama Day www.thepyjamafoundation.com/ pyjama-day Various time and locations Gold Coin / Family

Castrol Edge Townsville 400 Reid Park, Townsville

"Chooky picks Christmas in July Craft Market on Sunday 26 at 8.30am" Riverway Movie Night - Dirty Dancing Riverway Ampitheatre www.townsville.qld.gov.au 6.30pm / Free / Family

SATURDAY 18 Wholesome Goodness Living Expo Kissing Point, Jezzine Barracks amanda@amandabate.com 8.00am / Free / Family

SUNDAY 19 Free Family Fun Day - Art Activities for the family Perc Tucker Regional Gallery 4727 9011 10.30am / Free / Family

MONDAY 20 Monday Morning Art Group Pinnacles Gallery 4773 8871 / 9.00am / Cost / Adult

TUESDAY 21 Percival's Life Drawing Perc Tucker Regional Gallery 4727 9011 6.30pm / Cost / Adult After School Art RECYCLED MIXED MEDIA Perc Tucker Regional Gallery 4727 9011 / 3.30pm / Cost / Kids

WEDnesday 22 After School Art RECYCLED MIXED MEDIA Perc Tucker Regional Gallery 4727 9011 / 3.30pm / Cost / Kids

friday 24 Country & Western Exhibition Launch Perc Tucker Regional Gallery 4727 9011 Free / Family Schools Tree Day www.treeday.planetark.org Various times and locatios Free / Kids

saturday 25 Weave the Reef, Love the Reef Drop-In Workshop Townsville Bulletin Square 4727 9011 / 10.00am / Free / Family Youth Art Workshops - Skateboard Culture & Cartoons Pinnacles Gallery 4773 8871 10.00am / Free / Adult

sunday 26 Christmas in July Craft Market Holy Spirit School (Ross River Rd) www.facebook.com/ christmascraftmarketstsv 8.30am / Free / Family

Email events to: promotions@pakmag.com.au

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JULY 2015 www.pakmag.com.au

Come and see Lightning McQueen and Mack the Transporter at the all new Disney Zone plus check out mark ‘Frosty' winterbottom on track!'

© Disney/Pixar

Kids 12 and under go trackside free with a paying adult V8SUPERCARS.COM.AU

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WIN A PRIZE PACK THANKS TO DISNEY PIXAR

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To enter colour in mail to:

NAME............................................................................................. AGE..............

PAKMAG, Colour in JULY 2015 PO Box 7433, Cairns QLD 4870

PARENT/GUARDIAN...........................................................................................

Win A PRIZE PACK (Comp closes 30/7/15)

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HELP all the cars get back to the main road!

s d i K

n e h c t i k e in th

3 ingredient SCONES

AMOUNT: 12

4 ingredient CUPCAKES

INGREDIENTS

INGREDIENTS

3 Cups S/R Flour 1 Cup Cream 1 Cup Lemonade

1 cup Light Thickened Cream 1 cup Caster Sugar 3 Eggs, lightly beaten 1 1/2 cups Self Raising Flour

HOW TO MAKE 1. Heat oven to 180.

2. Mix all ingredients till combined 3. Place mix on floured bench and mould into a square about an inch thick.

4. Cut out scones with a small circled glass into equal sizes.

5. Line a tray and put the 12 scones right next to each other. Bake for 12-15 minutes on 180.

Cool and serve with Jam and whipped cream.

4 ingredient MILO BALLS

AMOUNT: 20

AMOUNT: 12

HOW TO MAKE 1. Preheat the oven to 180 degree Celsius.

2. Place 12 cupcake liners in a muffin tray.

3. Put 1 cup Light Thickened Cream, 1 cup Caster Sugar and 3 lightly beaten Eggs in a large mixing bowl, whisk the mixture until smooth.

4. Add 1 1/2 cups Self Raising Flour gradually into the cream mixture, continue to whisk until the batter thickens.

Fill cupcake liners and bake for 18 minutes. Decorate!

Great for little helping hands

INGREDIENTS 1 can sweetened condensed milk 2 tablespoons Milo 1 packet of Arrowroot biscuits Desiccated coconut, to coat

HOW TO MAKE 1. Crush Arrowroot biscuits in a food processor, blender (or with your hands) 2. Mix Milo, crushed biscuits and condensed milk into a bowl and cover bowl with Clingwrap and refrigerate for half an hour 3. From the mixture, roll into 20 bite-sized balls 4. Roll each ball in desiccated coconut 5. Eat immediately, refrigerate until ready to serve or freeze for a delicious bite-snack after school snack

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JULY 2015 www.pakmag.com.au

What's On July Youth Art Workshops - Skateboard Culture & Cartoons Pinnacles Gallery 4773 8871 10.00am / Free / Adult Family Open Day Love2Swim School - Allambie Lane, Rasmussen 4723 3447 10.00am/ Free / Family National Tree Day www.treeday.planetark.org Various times and locations Free / Family

monday 27 Monday Morning Art Group Pinnacles Gallery

REGULAR MARKETS Balgal Beach Markets

4773 8871 9.00am / Cost / Adult

tuesday 28 Percival's Life Drawing Perc Tucker Regional Gallery 4727 9011 6.30pm / Cost / Adult After School Art Perc Tucker Regional Gallery 4727 9011 3.30pm / Cost / Kids

wednesday 29 The Challenge Games The Townsville Sports Athletic Track www.thechallengegames.com.au 10.00am / Free / Family

Cotters Markets Time/Date: 8.30am-1pm, Every Sun Location: Flinders St & Townsville Bulletin Square,

Horseshoe Bay Markets Time: 9am-2pm Date: Every second and last Sunday Location: Horseshow Bay Foreshore

thursday 30 The Challenge Games The Townsville Sports Athletic Track www.thechallengegames.com.au 10.00am / Free / Family Open Night Townsville Grammar School - Annandale Campus (Pre-Prep to Year 6) 1800 GRAMMAR 4.00pm / Free / Family

Australian Festival of Chamber Music (Ends 8/8/15) www.townsvillenorthqueensland. com.au/events Various times and locations Family Strand Ephemera - The North's Scuplture Festival (Ends 9/8/15) The Strand, Townsville www.townsvillenorthqueensland. com.au/events Various times and locations Family

Magnetic Island RSL Market Time: 5.30pm-8pm Date: Every Friday (Exc Good Friday) Location: Magnetic Island RSL

Mountainview Plaza Market Time: 8am-2pm, Every Saturday (Exc Jan) Location: Mountainview Plaza

Time/Date: 6am-12pm, Every Saturday Location: North Shore Town Centre

Bluewater Community Centre Twilight Markets

Renegade Handmade Indoor Market Extravaganza

Location: Bluewater Community Assoc Date: Every Second Saturday

Time/Date: 8am-1pm, First & Third Sun Location: Bushland Beach

Label Traders Market Time: 8am-12pm Date: 3rd Sunday of the month Location: Mundingburra State School

Townsville Artist Market Time/Date: Sat June 20, August 1 at Strand Ephemera, October 24, Riverway Arts Centre, 9am-12pm

Willows Rotary Markets

Time: 8am-1pm Date: Every Second Sat Location: Aitkenvale School

Bushland Beach Markets

Time/Date: 7am to 11am, Every Sun Location: Castle Hill PCYC

FRIDAY 31

NQ Farmers Market

Time/Date: 8am-1pm, First & Third Sat Location: Balgal Beach

Castle Hill PCYC Markets

After School Art Perc Tucker Regional Gallery 4727 9011 3.30pm / Cost / Kids

Time/Date: 7.30-11.30am, Every Sun Location: Willows Shop Centre Carpark

Strand Night Markets

Upper Ross Community

Time/Date: 5pm-9.30pm, First Friday Location: Strand Park (Runs from May to Dec)

Time/Date: 7am-11.30am, 2nd & 4th Saturday of the month Location: Next to McDonalds at Rasmussen

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To register go to www.pakmag.com.au

Have your favourite local guide delivered right to your home!

Only $3 postage and handling per edition* *Must subscribe for 12 editions and pay one lump sum.

www.pakmag.com.au JULY 2015

33

REGULAR EVENTS Townsville Galleries VARIOUS DAYS Monday Morning Art Group (Adults) Time/Day: 9.00am, Monday Location: Pinnacles Gallery, 4773 8871 Art-Box - Art Activities for Under 5's Time/Day: 10.00am, First Tuesday Location: Pinnacles Gallery Cost/Phone: Free (Kids) 4773 8871 Percival's Life Drawing (Adults) Time/Day: 6.30pm, Tuesday Location: Perc Tucker Regional Gallery Cost/Phone: $15, 4727 9011 Free Family Fun Day - Art Activities for the Family Time/Day: 10.30am, Third Sunday Location: Perc Tucker Regional Gallery Cost/Phone: Free, (Family) 4727 9011

Brothers Leagues Club Townsville VARIOUS DAYS Membership Draw Time/Day: 7.00pm, Monday Location: Brothers Townsville Phone: 4773 8000 Membership Draw Time/Day: 6.30pm, Wednesday Location: Brothers Townsville Phone: 4773 8000

Barra Fun Park Saturday and Sunday

Free Day for Townsville Locals at the Museum of Tropical QLD (Excl School Holidays) Time: 9.30am to 5.00pm

Belgian Gardens State School Playgroup Mondays Location: Belgian Gardens SS Hall Cost/Phone: $2 per person, 4771 3655

Early Years Information Service VARIOUS DAYS Parent Information Sessions (Bookings Required) Time/Day: 9.30am, First Tuesday Location: CityLibraries Aitkenvale Web: www.townsville.qld.gov.au Cost: Free (Except School Holidays) Newborn and Family Drop-In Service Time/Day: Tuesday (9am to 2pm), Time/Day: Saturdays (9am to 12pm) Location: CityLibraries Aitkenvale Web: www.townsville.qld.gov.au Cost: Free Messy Play (Bookings Required) Days: Wednesdays Time: 9am & 10.30am Location: CityLibraries Aitkenvale

Kingpin BowlinG VARIOUS DAYS Nighttime Unlimited Bowling and Laser Squirmish Days: Sundays to Wednesdays Time: 7.00pm to Close Location: Kingpin Bowling, 132 695 Cost: $30 per person After School Unlimited Bowling and Laser Squirmish Days: Monday to Friday (During School Term) Time: 3.30pm to 6.30pm Location: Kingpin Bowling, 132 695 Cost: $15 per person

Launch Zone

RidesnSlides Thursdays and Saturdays Facepainting Location: Kirwan Tavern Time: 6.00pm to 8.00pm Phone/Cost: 4724 4790 (Free)

Monday / Thursday Nights DodgeBall & VolleyBall Tournament Time: 6.00pm to 8.00pm Location: Launch Zone, 1300 528 624 Cost: $90 per team (Weekly - $15pp) Jump FITT Time/Days: Monday (6pm), Wednesday (5.30pm), Saturday (8am) Location: Launch Zone, 1300 528 624 Cost: $15 per person

Mount Louisa Scout Group VARIOUS DAYS

Kids Club (Supervised) Time/Day: 6pm-9.30pm Every Night Location: Brothers Townsville Phone: 4773 8000

Kidz Moves

Brothers Kids Night Time/Day: 6pm-9pm Friday Location: Brothers Townsville Phone: 4773 8000 (Free)

Dance Classes: Children aged 5 to 9 Location: Dancenorth, Stanley Street Time: 4pm - 5pm

JULY 2015 www.pakmag.com.au

2nd Tuesday of each month

Barramundi Fishing, Cable Ski & Inflatable Water Park Web: www.barrafunpark.com TIme: 10.00am - 4.00pm Cost: $23 (3-13), $29 (14+), $89 (Family 4)

Membership Draw Time/Day: 1.00pm, Sunday Location: Brothers Townsville Phone: 4773 8000

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Museum of Tropical QLD

Tuesdays

Joeys and Cubs (6-10) Time/Day: Tuesdays, 6:30pm-8:00pm

Townsville Toy Library

Scouts (10-14) Time/Day: Thursdays, 6:00pm-8:00pm Location: Mt Louisa House of Praise (Bayswater Rd) Phone: 0403 862 449 (Matt)

Days/Times: Every Tuesday and the 1 & 3 Saturday AND Thursday of the month from 9.30 until 11.00am.

Location: Toy Library is at the Railway Estate Community Centre, 23 First St

ENTERTAINMENT

pakmag

ENTERTAINMENT Pyjama Day Date July 17

Plant for the Future with National Tree Day 2015 Planet Ark is encouraging all Australians to be part of the 20th anniversary of National Tree Day. There are two chances to get involved with National Tree Day on Sunday 26th July and Schools Tree Day on Friday 24th July.

This year National Tree Day’s theme is “You Can Grow So Much” and focuses on the importance of spending time in nature.

National Tree Day, sponsored

by Toyota Australia, is Australia’s biggest tree-planting and nature care event, and sees nearly 300,000 people take part at more than 3,000 sites around the country. School Trees Day attracts approximately 280,000 Australian schools, preschool and childcare students.

Whether you're an individual, family, community or sports group, school or a business, you can get involved.

Register as a Site Coordinator and host your own planting and nature care activity in your community, or lend a hand at an existing planting site. Individuals can also organise a personal planting site at their home with their family, friends and neighbours.

Contribute to the country’s biggest community tree planting event and inspire positive environmental change. Visit www.treeday.planetark. org or call 1300 88 5000 to register your site or find your nearest public planting activity.

Save the Date

Join thousands of Aussies around the nation by wearing your favourite PJ's to support children in foster care.

Currently there are 43,000 children in care and it is estimated a staggering 75 per cent of these kids will not finish schooling.

The Pyjama Foundation aims to reverse this cycle of disadvantage by empowering children with learning, life skills and confidence to change the direction of their lives.

Wear your PJ's (or onesie) for the day and donate a gold coin to The Pyjama Foundation to help get more Pyjama Angels on the ground to visit more kids in care.

Register your school, work place or business now and have fun in your PJs, while helping to raise awareness of kids in care. www.thepyjamafoundation.com

Love2Swim School Open Day Love2Swim School are expanding and opening a new swim school at Allambie Lane in Rasmussen.

A FREE, family open day will be held on Sunday July 26 from 10am to 2pm.

Free swimming assessments, baby class demonstrations and information are also on offer. Tavi the Love2Swim School mascot is giving out double passes to the Cowboys vs Eels game on Monday, July 27th.

Head along for a sausage sizzle, face painting, jumping castle, free swimming and activities. And don’t forget your togs.

To find out more call 4723 3447.

Festival Family Concerts

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On 31st July, the Australian Festival of Chamber Music (AFCM) opens their 25th annual Festival with classical music performers from Australia and overseas performing in Townsville.

The Families’ concert - Britten’s The Little Sweep.

The Families’ concert is the perfect introduction to the wonderful world of chamber music for children of all ages and a fun event for the entire family.

The Little Sweep is an opera for children in three scenes by the English composer Benjamin Britten, with a libretto by Eric Crozier. The short opera tells the tale of a young sweep who gets stuck up a chimney and is rescued by plucky children who plot to keep him safe from his brutal master.

Saturday 01 August at 2.30pm, Townsville Civic Theatre. Adult $20, child $10.

Tickets are available on 07 4727 9797 or acfm.com.au to book online.

AFCM is celebrating 25 years with a free concert for everyone in Queens Gardens on Sunday 2 August at 3pm! Get up close to some great music with performances such as the truly fabulous Amy Dickson on saxophone, the 1RAR Band and the Barrier Reef Orchestra.

WIN a family pass to The Little Sweep. Visit www.pakmag.com.au to enter.

July 4 Leo Sayer - The Show Must Go On Tour at The Venue Townsville WEB www.thevenuetownsville.com.au July 14 & 15 Argus By Dead Puppets Society at the Riverway Arts Centre CALL 4727 9797 to book July 17 Pyjama Day WEB www.thepyjamafoundation.com/pyjama-day

www.pakmag.com.au JULY 2015

37

school holiday guide The school holidays are officially upon us.

Get out of the house with the kiddies and enjoy these great activities in your area.

Check out Pakmag's Facebook page for more events coming up.

La Luna Youth Arts Lots happening with La Luna Youth Arts this school holidays.

1st JULY Shadow Puppets Drama 3-6 years Twirling & Manipulation Circus 3-6 years Crazy Clay Art 7-12 years Shadow Puppets Drama 7-12 years Twirling & Manipulation Circus 7-12 years Crazy Clay Art 3-6 years

2nd JULY High Five Tie Dye Art 3-6 years Rumble Tumble Circus 3-6 years Matisse Mobiles Art 7-12 years High Five Tie Dye Art 7-12 years Acrobalance & Pyramids Circus 7-12 years Kick Box Painting Art 3-6 years

3rd JULY Shuffle & Shake – Dance 3-6 years Tumbling & Tramp – Circus 3-6 years Butterfly in a Box – Art 7-12 years

Hop it Bop it – Dance 7-12 years Tumbling & Tramp – Circus 7-12 years Hey, That's Me – Art 3-6 years

4th, 7th, 8th & 9th JULY Amelia Ellicott's Garden Theatre for Children and their Families - Various performance times throughout these days. Held at the Performance Space at Riverway Arts Centre. $15 per person per performance or groups of 10 or more just $12 each Bookings are Essential.

All Workshops are priced at $15, 4 for $50 or 10 for $100 and are held at Riverway Arts Centre. For more information call 4773 6377 or visit www.lalunanq.com

Perc Tucker Regional Gallery Perc Tucker Regional Gallery are offering workshops that have been designed to complement the WOW, World of Wearable Art exhibition. All workshops are led by local artists and are from 10.30am - 12.30pm.

FREE, however, bookings are ESSENTIAL: (07) 4727 9011 4/07/2015 WOW Workshop - Headpiece Design Fashion a nature-inspired headpiece using a beanie as a base and recycled materials to embellish. Ages 10+ 5/07/2015 WOW Workshop Tribal Body Armour Create a sleeve or leg decoration that can also be used as a musical piece when worn using bells, shells and feathers. Ages 10+ 11/07/2015 WOW Workshop Wearable Art Barbie and Ken Create wearable art for Barbie or Ken using a range of fabric and basic sewing techniques. Ages 8+ 12/07/2015 WOW Workshop - Carnival Headwear Using found objects and natural materials, make a spectacular headdress that resonates with the Brazilian Carnival. Ages 8+ Time 10.30am - 12.30pm, Cost FREE book call (07) 4727 9011 or email ptrg@townsville.qld.gov.au

Pinnacles Gallery Pinnacles Gallery are running some great school holiday workshops.

7/07/2015 Art Escape - Custom Canvas Shoes Learn how to customise white canvas shoes using a combination of fabric pens, studs and paints to create unique, one-off pieces. Please bring a pair of white canvas shoes.

Ages 5 - 7 years.

BOOKINGS ESSENTIAL. Please bring a snack for lunch time 10.30am-12pm 8/07/2015 Art Escape - Old-School Illustration Learn insider tips and tricks on how to draw skulls, mermaids, pirates, anchors and much more with artist, Ashleigh Jane. Ages: 8 - 12 years.

BOOKINGS ESSENTIAL. Please bring a snack for lunch time 10.30am-12pm 9/07/2015 Art Escape - Henna Painting Discover the ancient art of Indian henna painting and produce your very own mini-canvas with artist, Ruchi Shrivastava Kodesia. Ages: 8 - 12 years BOOKINGS ESSENTIAL. Please bring a snack for lunch time 10.30am-12pm 10/07/2015 Art Escape - Peg Doll Key Rings Using fabric and pegs, fashion kooky doll key rings to put on your bag in time for the new school term with artist, Cassandra Roberts. Ages: 5 - 7 years.

BOOKINGS ESSENTIAL. Please bring a snack for lunch time 10.30am-12pm Cost All workshops $15 or $10 for Friends of The Gallery Contact Call 4773 8871 or email pinnacles@townsville.qld.gov.au

Ranchlands Ranchlands are running 2 Introduction to Horses courses on Wednesday 1st July and 8th July from 8.30am to 12.30pm.

This course is suitable for children (from 6yrs) and adults alike who have no or little experience with horses.

The course will cover horse safety basics and catching, leading, grooming and saddling horses. Participants will also have a riding lesson. Cost $85.

Limited numbers so book early.

Contact 4774 0124 or 0400 345 727

MUSEUM OF TROPICAL NORTH QUEENSLAND

CASTLETOWN

Grasshopper Soccer - Mite-E Soccer Mite-E Soccer is a fun way for 2 to 3 year olds to learn basic ball skills.

Parents are required to take part, covered shoes are essential and numbers are limited. Bookings required. Thursday, 10.30 - 11am.

Castletown school holiday activities.

Captain Active and his Animal Athletes Join Captain Active and discover some of the elite athletes of the animal kingdom in this interactive, energetic and fun show. Monday to Friday, 10am - 12.30pm daily.

Grasshopper Soccer - Pint Size Soccer Pint Size Soccer is a fun way for 4 to 5 year olds to learn basic ball skills. Parents are required to take part, covered shoes are essential and numbers are limited. Bookings required. Thursday, 11 - 11.45am

Centre with his pirate mate.

Catch of the Day What fish will be your catch of the day?

This is NOT just a computer game and is not for the faint-hearted! Monday to Friday, 9.30am - 12pm daily.

Pop-up Cycle Science Shows Discover the science behind cycling, including how gears, gyroscopes and gravity work.

more will be set up in the Target

The Wild Sports Holiday Program is on until the 12th of July. All activities are free with general admission.

Week 1 Feature Activities Monday to Friday 3 July

Grasshopper Soccer - Mite-E Soccer Mite-E Soccer is a fun way for 2 to 3 year olds to learn basic ball skills.

Parents are required to take part, covered shoes are essential and numbers are limited. Bookings required.

Thursday, 10.30 - 11am.

Grasshopper Soccer - Pint Size Soccer Pint Size Soccer is a fun way for 4 to 5 year olds to learn basic ball skills.

Parents are required to take part, covered shoes are essential and numbers are limited. Bookings required.

Thursday, 11 - 11.45am.

Move it! Toy Workshop Make a trumpeting elephant or Captain Active pull string moving toy. Suitable for ages 5 to 12. Bookings required.

Monday to Friday, 11am - 12 daily.

Week 2 Feature Activities - Tuesday 7th to Friday 10th July Tricks on Bikes Tuesday to Friday, shows start at 10am & 12pm daily.

Circus Workshops with La Luna Roll up, roll up and join the circus!

The La Luna team will demonstrate a range of fun equipment and participants will get the chance to try their hand at hula hoops, poi, spinning plates, trick sticks and juggling bags. Tuesday, Wednesday & Friday, 10.30am - 12.30pm daily.

Catch of the Day What fish will be your catch of the day?

This is NOT just a computer game and

40

is not for the faint-hearted! Tuesday to Friday, 9.30am - 12pm daily.

JULY 2015 www.pakmag.com.au

Daily Activities - Monday to Friday Cycle-a-thon All day, every day, 9.30am - 3.30pm Animal Athletes Trail Pick up your passport and track down some of the animal kingdom's greatest athletes on this self-guided interactive trail around the museum. Complete activities to earn your bronze, silver or gold medal.

All day, every day, 9.30am - 5pm Racing Out the Gun Every day, 11am & 2.30pm The Velodrome Just for the littlies (under 4 years of age). All day, 9.30am - 5pm.

Adult supervision required Moving Animal Craft Frogs jump, caterpillars hump, lions stalk, but I walk. Create your own moving animals to take home.

All day, every day, 9.30am - 5pm.

Adult supervision required Bookings (when required) can be made by calling 07 4726 0600 during business hours. For full program details go to www.mtq.qm.qld.gov.au

Explore Under the Sea with:

WEEK 1: 29th June to 5th July from 11am to 2pm Meet SpongeBob Square Pants in the

WEEK 2 6th to 12th July from 11am to 2pm FREE “Under the Sea� activity

station including wooden sea animal decorating, scratch art and much

Forecourt. For more information visit www.castletown.com.au.

Re-Cre8Tiv Recycled Art Winter is warming up at our NEW

Deeragun studio! Come and try a range of awesome recycled art projects.

Classes held from 3.30pm to 5pm and cost is $15 per child per project

July Art Projects Wed 1st - Dotty Dreamy Canvas Thurs 2nd - Hypertufa Rag Sculptures Fri 3rd - Handmade Book Binding Tues 7th - Paper Flower Boxes Wed 8th - Hypertufa Garden Sculptures Thurs 9th - Design Your Own Chalkboard Fri 10th - Disc Discoballs For more information call Sandra 0414647709. Program details: facebook.com/recre8tiv

Reef HQ Aquarium Turtley Terrific School Holiday Fun on till the 12th of July. DISCOVER,

LEARN, PLAY and GET CRAFTY. All activities are free with Reef

HQ Aquarium general admission

or membership. Gold Coin donation is appreciated.

Turtle Hospital tours 12pm and 3.30pm daily

Children must be accompanied by an adult. Bookings not required

Everything is

SPOON RACE

Party ideas for little master builders

KRAGLE GEL

HELIUM BALLOONS

LEGO-themed parties are perfect for both boys and girls and even for shared birthday celebrations. You can go with The LEGO Movie theme starring Emmett or WyldStyle or stick to your child’s favourite LEGO figurines, such as the Avengers or LEGO Friends.

PENCILS

STICKERS

LEGO PIZZA

LOLLY BAGS

CUP CAKES

Check out these brick inspired party favours, games and treats that will prove you’re the master of celebrations Eats and Treats • Kragle Gel (multi-coloured jelly) • LEGO sandwiches or brick crackers and cheese • Cupcakes with fondant LEGO figures as toppers • LEGO pizza • And of course, it’s not the ultimate LEGO party without cake

Party Games • LEGO piñata – Make your own paper-mâché brick and fill it with lollies • Guess the bricks – Fill a clear jar with LEGO pieces and get the children to guess the number • LEGO beanbag toss - Cover a cardboard box in paper and cut two holes in the top to resemble a LEGO block. You can buy colourful bean bags online or you can make your own by filling a snack -sized snaplock bag with rice and sewing mini felt pillows to hold them • LEGO spoon race – Use LEGO pieces rather than the traditional boiled egg • LEGO building awards – Give each child a plate of LEGO blocks and a set amount of time to build.

When time’s up, vote for who made the most imaginative creation • Pass the LEGO brick – Give Pass-the-Parcel a new look by wrapping each layer with a different colour of paper. And don’t forget to put Everything is Awesome on repeat

Decorations • Glue six coloured circles on your lolly bags and onto coloured card to make brick bags and banners • Using yellow helium balloons, draw LEGO faces on each balloon. You can also do this to yellow paper lanterns and even your yellow cups • If you are serving poppers, wrap each in different coloured card and add six circles to the front

Lolly Bag Ideas • LEGO-themed pencils and erasers • LEGO stickers • Multi-coloured skittles or M&M’s wrapped in clear cellophane • Mini containers of play doh covered in yellow paper and topped with LEGO faces in black pen.

www.pakmag.com.au JULY 2015

43

pakmag

BIZ INDEX

BIZ INDEX

* Biz Index Advertising From Only $70/Month

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www.one2watch.com.au

Order nOW! 0458 110 829 $129

BUSINESS

pakmag

BUSINESS BOOK REVIEW Unscramble Your Numbers

win

Amanda Fisher is the Amazon #1 best-selling author of Connected Technology and her sequel, Unscramble Your Numbers – Unlock the Secrets to Your Business Cashflow proves to be an equally valuable and interesting read. In order to ensure positive and successful growth, business owners must truly understand their business numbers. Take control of your business and stop stressing about your cashflow with these hints and tips to help unravel the mysteries in your numbers.

This definitive step by step guide to understanding business cashflow and financial reporting is a great resource for small and large business owners alike.

RRP $29.95 WIN an Unscramble Your Numbers Book ENTER www.pakmag.com.au

APP REVIEW Blippar See something that sparks your curiosity and want to learn more? Then you will love this app. Blippar enables you to browse the world and instantly unlock relevant real-time information about any object or image through the app.

Simply take a picture, whether it’s of a tree in your backyard or new product on the market, and open the app to scan the image. Blippar will uncover all relevant information about the image. Stay up to date on current trends and discover something new about the world around you with a simple click of your phone camera.

Compatible iPhone, iPad, iPod touch and Android Learn more www.blippar.com Cost Free

Events

Social MEDIA TIP Social media is changing the way we do business. Many small businesses recognise the importance of having a social media presence but are struggling for time to establish an action plan and schedule social media. This is where Hootsuite comes in.

Hootsuite allows users to schedule social media in advance, keeps track of scheduled posts and allows you to post the same post across more than one social media account in the click of a button.

It also allows you to shorten lengthy webpage links and upload graphics to your post. One of the best functions of Hootsuite is the ability to be able to AutoSchedule your post for optimal impact.

Hootsuite is the world's most widely used social relationship platform.

Hootsuite launched in 2008 and is now available in 16 languages.

Currently world-wide there are over 10 million Hootsuite Users (including 744 of the Fortune 1000 companies).

Visit: www.hootsuite.com

Business Matters Luncheon Hear from the Townsville Chamber Board and Young Chamber Committee about the year ahead.

“Business Matters” is about the basics of good Business, for Members, by Members Date Wednesday 1st July, 2015 Time 12.00pm Venue Mecure Townsville Cost Free (Members), $35 (Non-Members) More Info www.townsvillechamber.com.au Chamber Coffee Date Thursday 23rd July, 2015 Time 8.00am to 9.00am Venue Bulletin Square, Flinders St Cost Free More Info www.townsvillechamber.com.au

www.pakmag.com.au JULY 2015

45

WHAT's NEWS? BIZ

MeeT Jenna from Pakmag

Smile Dental Smile Dental have been taking care of our smiles for over 15 years. They provide a mouthful of services, from general dental check-ups and cleanings to cosmetic dental and restorative procedures. They can even help with neuromuscular conditions such as teeth grinding and bite splints.

Little smiles can be tricky to keep clean but Smile Dental have plenty of tips and tricks to ease anxiety in your little ones. Getting your children used to the dentist and regular check-ups is important and you can assure that their first dental experience will be a positive one at Smile Dental. The team at Smile Dental are always there to welcome your entire family with a smile.

(07) 4729 5777, smile@smiledental.com.au, facebook.com/smiletownsville

HAVE YOU HEARD? Tackers Sailing Program Offers Four-Day School Holiday Course

The Tackers sailing program is a junior entry-level sailing programme for children aged 7-12 years old that introduces kids to the world of sailing in a non-competitive, games-based and social environment. The 4 day holiday programme starts at 9am and finishes at 2pm and the $300 course fee includes the Tackers pack, use of the boats, insurance, instructor and lots of fun is guaranteed. For more information visit www.discoversailing.yachting.org.au

Learn.Grow.Flourish Launches Parenting Program

Learn to manage difficult behaviour in children 2-12 years old with this innovative and positive three-session program for parents and carers. The program will focus on disciplining without arguing, yelling or smacking, handling challenging behaviour and using emotion coaching to encourage good behaviour and all parents will receive a 1-2-3 Magic & Emotion Coaching Parent Workbook. The course runs at the Arcadian Surf Life Savers Club, Rock Pool from 9-11:30am on Saturday 1, 8 and 15 August. Registration starts at $180. Contact Tracy Blanchard at Learn.Grow.Flourish on 0417 251 707

Beauty Bayside Expansion

2014 Showcase NQ Cosmetic Application Winner and Townsville’s premier salon, Beauty Bayside is pleased to reveal their new expansion. New areas include the Youngblood makeup area, Smink Lash Bar and double pedicure room, perfect for couples or for some much deserved mummy-daughter time.

Enjoy a beautiful pedicure, have a chat with the friendly staff and check out the new upgrades. To book an appointment, contact the salon on 4771 2122 or visit www.beautybayside.com.au

Townsville Counselling and Meditation Clinic offers free mediation sessions in July

Separation can be a difficult time, particularly when there are children to think about. The Townsville Counselling and Mediation Clinic are offering free sessions for family dispute resolution (family mediation) in the month of July. If you’re in the process of separating, family dispute resolution can help you to deal with the decisions that need to be made, at no cost at all. If necessary our mediators are able to issue a certificate (60I). To learn more, email tsv-clinic@cta.edu.au or call (07) 4409 2795.

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JULY 2015 www.pakmag.com.au

Jenna is the newest addition to the Pakmag team. She is a journalist with a passion for writing about all things parenting – the good, the bad, the awful, the hilarious, the heartbreaking, the challenging, the chaos and all the other fun stuff that ensues along the way.

Tell us about yourself: I live in Cairns with my two kids, Jacob, 5 and Jade, 2 and husband, Lucas, but was born and raised in Canada.

What’s the best thing about your job? It offers a great home/work balance and allows me to escape my messy house for a little while.

And my kids.

If you’re not at work, what are you doing? I’m hiking with my kids, running with my dog, drinking wine with my best friend or watching Game of Thrones with my husband.

Or else I’m hiding from my kids in the pantry eating chocolate.

Tell us something most people don’t know about you: I don’t know my left and rights. Oh, and I can’t drive a manual car.

What is your favourite meal to cook: I like to heat up pre-cooked chicken wings from Woolies?

Does that count?

e p i c e Rideas to try FOOD

pakmag

Recipe thanks to: bake play smile

CHOC SNICKERS SLICE INGREDIENTS 1 packet plain, sweet biscuits ž tin sweetened condensed milk 100g butter 2 tablespoons cocoa powder 3 x 55g bars Snickers chocolate bars Ÿ cup roasted peanuts 150g milk

HOW TO MAKE 1. Roughly crush the biscuits in a food processor and then pour into a mixing bowl.

2. Sift the cocoa powder onto the biscuit crumbs.

3. Melt butter and condensed milk in a saucepan over very low heat, until smooth. Then pour warm mixture onto the biscuits and mix well.

4. Add the roughly chopped Snickers bars and roasted peanuts. Mix well. Spread mixture into a baking paper lined slice pan.

5. Melt the chocolate in the microwave on low (stirring regularly) and pour over the cooled slice. Working quickly, spread the chocolate evenly over the slice.

6. Put into the fridge until just set (tacky to the touch but not hard). Take out of the fridge and slice into squares.

AMOUNT: 16

Product

Recipe thanks to: crazy for crust

WHITE CHOC PEANUT BUTTER SLICE INGREDIENTS 8 tablespoons unsalted butter 2 cups crumbed biscuits (Maybe Arnotts Nice or Scotch Fingers biscuits) 1 1/4 cups powdered icing sugar 3/4 cup smooth peanut butter (for base) 2 tablespoons smooth peanut butter 1 cup white chocolate chips (for icing)

HOW TO MAKE

No bake slices for the sweet tooth!

1. Line a pan with baking paper and spray with cooking spray.

2. Place melted butter, crumbed biscuits, powdered sugar, and 3/4 cup peanut butter in a large bowl. Mix by hand until combined. Press firmly into prepared pan.

3. Place white chocolate chips and remaining 2 tablespoons peanut butter in a microwave-safe bowl. Heat in microwave for 30 second increments, stirring between each, until melted and smooth. Pour over slice and spread with a spatula to evenly.

4. Place in fridge for at least 1 hour to set, cut into bars. Enjoy!

AMOUNT: 16

8 Piece Canister Set - Black Get your condiments sorted with this handy 8 piece canister set from your local Kmart store!

RRP $16.00 WEB www.kmart.com.au

FINANCIAL PLANNING pakmag

Financial Security

in Four Steps Story Cyndy Mombelli, Financial Planner

Financial planning is about developing strategies to help you manage your financial affairs and meet your life goals – and the first step is to make sure you have access to the right advice.

If you could achieve your financial goals by simply putting money away in the bank, you wouldn’t need a financial plan. Unfortunately, life is a little more complex – it’s hard to understand the intricacies of investment, taxation and ever-changing rules and regulations, so you need professional assistance.

not as important as our health or our children’s education.

Yet many of us resist seeking advice, as if our financial future is

A financial planner will help you reach your goals; even if retirement may

We often decide to manage our financial affairs ourselves, or leave it to someone we know, however, most of us just do not have the time that is required to get it right.

1. Start with a personal budget Knowing exactly where your money is going every month can keep you out of debt, and can help you have funds on hand when those large expenses like rates, electricity, or car registration comes in.

3. Be Super smart Being aware of current legislation and opportunities to save tax and build wealth are also crucial to your financial plan. For example, Superannuation can be a great way to save for your financial future.

Contributing to Super as a ‘salary sacrifice’ contribution (pre-tax contribution) can not only assist in reducing your personal tax payable, but it can make a huge difference to your Super balance at retirement.

seem a lifetime away, the sooner

you start planning, the more likely you’ll be able to achieve financial

independence and peace of mind.

A good financial plan involves looking at your entire financial and personal situation, then developing a plan of action to take you in the direction you want to go for your future.

2. Secure your income The next important part about planning your financial future is to be sure you and your capacity to earn an income are well protected in case injury or sickness deems you unable to work for either short or long periods of time.

4. Rely on what you know With an unstable economy and Centrelink benefits up in the air, having enough money to comfortably survive after retirement is essential. While no one knows what the years to come will bring, having your own life under control can be a huge positive.

Personal financial planning leads to the ultimate goal - a comfortable retirement and the financial freedom to tick off the things that you’ve always wanted to do.

In the end, this is the most important reason to plan for your future.

www.pakmag.com.au JULY 2015

51

Nikles Techno 350 Overhead Shower Reece (RRP $433.99)

Home

Stone Wall Alpine Mist Lightweight Beaumont Tiles (400x125 mm)

Herringbone Nero Mosaic Beaumont Tiles (280x280 mm)

Brooklyn Ash Textured Beaumont Tiles (600x300 mm)

Mono Penny Round White Beaumont Tiles (310x324 mm)

Belga Charcoal Beaumont Tiles (450x450 mm)

Kado Lure 1755 Freestanding Oval Bath Black Reece (RRP $2273.99)

Mizu Bloc 900 Wall Hung Vanity Unit Reece (RRP $677.00)

HOME

Beautiful

pakmag

BathroomS Story Jenna Gallina

Set a budget Given their mix of function and 'glamorous' usage, and the fact they are often small rooms, bathrooms need to be carefully thought out and planned.

With bathrooms becoming more and more a focus of design and style, consumers need to pay even more attention to the details. Ask an Architect spokesman Cameron Frazer tells PakMag, “Bathrooms can be extremely costly to renovate due to the range of trades involved.”

“Fully renovating a conventional bathroom could cost between $15,000 and $30,000, so it is important to think through the renovation strategy carefully,” Mr Frazer tells PakMag. Create your dream design Have a browse online for various bathroom fixtures and accessories that you love. You may not be able to afford the high-end vanity or resort

“But they can also be the most rewarding to renovate - they can provide a sense of luxury and retreat for the owner and look spectacular.”

Posh S

olus

750 D

ouble

Geberit Sigma01 Reece (RRP $ 160.00)

-style spa, but it will give you an idea of what you like.

Know your renovation requirements Before starting to renovate a bathroom you need to assess the timing and the aim of the renovation.

If you are renovating to sell the property it can sometimes be better to go for simple changes thus allowing the new owner to renovate to their own style. Renovating the bathroom to improve the home for your family means you can choose fixtures and accessories customised to your personal needs (double shower, thanks).

Gloss Wall Basin Set 180mm Chrome Beaumont Tiles Towe lR

ail R

eece

(RRP

COOGEE Bench Mount Basin Highgrove Bathrooms (RRP $99.00) $51.9

Sussex Pol Dual Handle Basin Mixer Black Reece (RRP $756.99)

So how can you give your bathroom a facelift without succumbing to stress?

Mr Frazer shares his top hints:

Your bathroom is more than just where you wash your face in the morning and bathe your children at night. It is also most likely the place where you go to escape the chaos for five minutes, to enjoy a piece of chocolate in silence and to take a hot bath without your shower-stealing children jumping in…

9)

Methven Aio Wall Shower White Reece (RRP $336.00) CIBO Eco 900 Shelf Mirror Reece (RRP $1035.99)

Phoenix Flow 135

Wall Bath Spout Re

ece (RRP $ 178.99

)

www.pakmag.com.au JULY 2015

53

Hanging Copper Pendant, Large Frankie+Coco (RRP $189.00)

Water Hyacinth & Metal Basket Target (RRP $20.00)

Salle De Bain Two Piece Bathroom Jar Set Kmart (RRP $7.00)

Zachary Bath Mat Sage x Clare (RRP $85.00) Ellipse Toothbrush Holder Zanui (RRP $12.95)

Banks White Tray Table Zanui (RRP $259.00)

Pretty up your Powder Room Don’t have the budget or the time for a major bathroom revamp?

Even minor changes can make a massive difference: Change your fixtures Modern vanity knobs, stainless steel towel holders and funky new sink and tub fixtures can make a world of difference. Plus, you can easily DIY with the right tools.

Opt for a new light A simple and elegant light can brighten up every morning.

Crocheted Rubber Bowls The Minimalist (RRP $140.00)

Jade Crosses Towels Frankie+Coco (RRP $19.95)

Add a fresh coat of paint If you have a larger space to work with, consider a brightly painted feature wall, paired with colourful accessories.

We are really loving a vibrant aqua splashed on the main wall, with matching accessories and white fluffy towels.

Refresh your tiles Re-grouting your tiles can take years off your bathroom without having to spend a fortune. Or, you can opt for tile paint to freshen up outdated tiles. Even giving them a good scrub can add a fresh new look to your loo. All you need to do is decide who gets the cleaning job – you or your partner. Good luck.

www.pakmag.com.au JULY 2015

55

SNAPPED TOWNSVILLE

3 REASONS TO USE PAKMAG:

Townsville's Family Magazine for parents of 'BEANS TO TWEENS' 56

JULY 2015 www.pakmag.com.au

1. PakMag prints 10,000 copies every month 2. PakMag distributes to McDonalds, Coles Supermarkets, Shopping Centres, Healthcare Providers and many more in the Cairns Region.

3. PakMag targets parents of 'BEANS TO TWEENS.' CHECK OUT WHAT WE CAN DO FOR yOUR BUSiNESS! Call us on 07 4053 3331 or visit www.pakmag.com.au to see how we can help your business in the family market.

Free opportunities exist.

UT O E ID S IN PREVIEW

Photos thanks to: CHEEKY MONKEY Photography Email photos, name/s & locations: photos@pakmag.com.au (Deadline 15 JUL for the AUG 2015 Edition)

www.pakmag.com.au JULY 2015

57

Daddy Diary First Food Wars Food, glorious food. I love the stuff - eating it, cooking it, reading about it, and watching Jamie Oliver cook it in record time (even though every “15 minute meal” I’ve attempted seems to take half an hour). I love trying new foods, blending new tastes and exploring all things edible.

I’m lucky that my fiancée, Michelle, is the same. Like me, she will eat whatever culinary delights are placed in front of her. So, naturally, it would make sense that our almost one-year -old would be the same, right?

WRONG! Like her mum and dad, my daughter, Matilda loves her food. Just not every single option we’ve put in front of her.

Let’s just say that she has a pretty intense case of ‘selective eating.’

For example, anything “chicken” is usually a hit. Add some sort of sweet vegetable to the chicken (corn, sweet potato, carrot) and she’s like a Dyson on a dirt pile.

By Cliffo

Fruit is also a big winner in our house. I know Matilda’s a true North Queenslander by the way she eats blended mango. The poor $10-for-abucket-of-mangos woman on Kern Brothers Drive didn’t see us coming!

Right now you’re probably thinking she sounds like a great eater.

And that’s what I was thinking.

But then it happened - the dreaded “Heinz Chunky Lamb 8+ Months” incident. It’s safe to say that Matilda’s not a fan of the “chunks” Mr. Heinz insisted on putting in his jar of lamb slop.

Long story short, I wore the chunky lamb and I still have the stains on my all-white Star Wars Storm Trooper T-shirt to prove it. Matilda hasn’t been shy in letting us know what foods are on her hit list and what ones we must avoid at all costs.

So now, after eight months of trial and error with solids we finally had it down pat; anything chicken and fruit-ish is good. Anything that

contains the phrase, “chunky” or “lamb” is bad. Very very bad.

Michelle and I were confident we had this first foods thing nailed. Then, last week her day-care teacher ruined it all when she announced, “I think Matilda’s ready for food with a bit more substance. Like sandwiches.”

The fun never ends does it?

Does anyone have a recipe for mango sandwiches?