SPRING 2022 Local toy libraries goodGreenandforkids Little kids, big feelingsMeetingwiththe SteveMikMaksBiddulph
SPRING has sprung! Yes, it’s a cliche - writing it made me?The transition from cold and dreary months to this milder season really has put a spring in my step. This time of year is brimming with hope. Warmer days are ahead, flowers and foliage are bursting forth, andfingers crossed! - we’re on the other side of a hectic virus season.
Contents IT’S YOUR LIFE Find fun at a toy library PAGE 3 Meltdowns turned to closeness PAGE 4 Tips to keep kids safe PAGE 4 Angie meets The Mik Maks PAGES 5-7 Nature cadets nurture nature PAGE 9 New hospital for women and children PAGE 9 Sophie Cachia on family life PAGES 10-11 Gender discimination in private health PAGE 12 An author against the odds PAGE 13 Make crunchy chocolate granola PAGE 20 FATHER’S DAY Rob’s a dad to everyone PAGE 8 HEALTH Screens harming young brains PAGE 14 Mental health support in schools PAGE 14 Weighted blanket warning for babies PAGE 14 Epworth advice for new parents PAGE 15 ACTIVE KIDS This Girl Can Week PAGE 16 Geelong Arts Centre events PAGE 16 Swimming lessons save lives PAGE 17 The National Wool Museum PAGE 17 EDUCATION Preschool and childcare shakeup PAGE 19 Christian early learning centres PAGE 19 BOOKS Arabella’s Alphabet Adventure PAGE 22 Discover new children’s books PAGE 22 KIDS CALENDAR What’s on this spring PAGE 23 AboutUs
me roll my own eyes a little - but indulge
As the mum of a toddler, the prospect of spending more time outdoors is a literal breath of fresh air. Opportunities for her to stretch her legs and use her outside voice have been few and far between this winter, thanks to rain and cold and illness. A little extra sunshine helps us all to get off the couch and away from screens.Ifyou need more reason to put down the iPad, we spoke to Dr Michael C Nagel about how screen time is causing autistic traits in otherwise neurotypical kids.Spring does bring its share of rain, so we’ve found some great new books for your kids to get lost in. And speaking of great reads, our chat with the ever-honest Sophie Cachia about parenting is a refreshing look at modern parenting. Kidsafe has shared some timely reminders to keep our kids safe, and Lucy Stewart has found a healthy chocolate breakfast! So take a deep breath of that fresh spring air and enjoy its calming effects…before the festive season sneaks up on us.
geelongcoastkids.com.au facebook.com/geelongcoastkids instagram.com/geelongcoastkids SPRING 2022 Local toy libraries goodGreenandforkids Little kids, big feelingsMeetingwiththe SteveMikMaksBiddulph Geelong Coast Kids magazine is a Star News Group publication. Geelong Coast Kids will be published quarterly prior to each of the school holidays. GeelongCoastKids 1/47 Pakington Street, Geelong West Phone: 5249 6700 GroupAdvertisingSalesManager Mandy Phone:mandy.clark@starnewsgroup.com.auClark(03)59450608 Editorial Melissa melissa.meehan@starnewsgroup.com.auMeehan AdvertisingSalesAccountExecutive Jodie soonAllGroupAllDirector,ACNPublishedaujodie.pitfield@geelongindependent.com.PitfieldbyStarNewsGroupPtyLtd005848108.Publisher/ManagingPaulThomas.materialiscopyrighttoStarNewsPtyLtd.significanterrorswillbecorrectedasaspossible. spring.SiblingsCOVER:AlfieandLila,allsmilesforPicture:LouisaJones
Take a deep breath, spring is here!
our
IN a consumer driven world, the ability to teach our kids that they don’t need to own everything is a privilege we don’t oftenWehave.canspend a small fortune on the latest toy for our little ones, only for them to grow out of them within a matter of months.That’s where toy libraries come in. Erin Krusic-Golub is the president of one of nine toy libraries in the Geelong CoastSheregion.runsGrovedale Toy Library and is in close contact with others in the area.“Whilst we each operate independently, we all share the same values towards play being essential for healthy childhood development, saving money for our members, and providing a sustainable solution towards play by borrowing rather than buying toys,” she told Kids “ManyToday.people think toy libraries are only for little babies and toddlers, however at Grovedale (and many of the other libraries), we have toys for older children too - complex puzzles, board games and logic games, imaginative play, literacy & numeracy toys, and STEM toys, including early coding toys such as Bee Bots, Sphero and Ozobots. Generally speaking, we all provide toys suitable from 0 to 8 years of age.”
As children grow they develop interests in different types of things from animals, to cars and balls – and toy libraries are able to cater for that without parents having to go out and buyToyeverything.librariesare non-for-profit, so they rely on donations from members and grants to purchase toys. An annual membership fee allows you to borrow toys for a three week period – with the option of extending the hire.Members are also asked to volunteer four hours a year.
REASONS TO JOIN YOUR LOCAL TOY LIBRARY: ■ Toys that match your child’s developmental stage ■ Save money ■ Less toys cluttering your home There are nine toy libraries in the Geelong Coast region including: Grovedale, Belmont, Geelong West, Surf Coast, Leopold, Ocean Grove and Portarlington, Drysdale and Queenscliff.
“One of our newer members who joined at the start of this year with an annual double membership costing $75 has already borrowed over $2000 worth of toys in that time,” Ms Krusic-Golub said.“Imagine how that can add up over the course of their membership.”
2.5PrestonKrusic-Golub.Walshyears
It’sYourLife
By Melissa Meehan
The benefits of using a librarytoy
www.GeelongCoastKids.com.au SPRING 3
Kayden Jayasinghe (3.5y), Erin Erin
And given the pressures of the rising costs of living, toy libraries are the perfect way to keep the kids entertained without spending the cash needed for clothes, electricity, bills or petrol.
Melissa Tan, Shelley Varacalli, Erin Erin Krusic-Golub Pictures: Louisa Jones
Steve Biddulph is the author of Fully Human, Raising Boys, and The Raising Girls Workbook. He lives in the Tamar Valley in Tasmania, and is very very old.
Gradually your child will become better able to ride life’s bumps, and use words to join their heart to yours, or other people’s. How long does this process take? My guess is about 90 years! But you can get much better at it, and having a parent’s help is what makes the difference. Long after you are gone, they will have you inside them saying “its okay, you’ve got this”. They will carry your love in their bones.
Common poisonous items include medicines (ie prescription medicines and paracetamol), cleaning products, dishwasher powder/liquid, bleaches, fertilisers and pesticides, swimming pool and spa chemicals andYoucosmetics.mighthave a shed or garage which has tins of paint, petrol, weed killer, rat bait, power tools and other gardening supplies lying around. Again, make sure any outdoor poisons or tools are locked up well out of reach of the hands of our little helpers, including unplugging any power tools and/or removing batteries.
Springtime safety from Kidsafe Victoria
FINALLY, the weather is starting to warm up and we are looking forward to enjoying more outdoor time with the Asfamily.wemove towards the brighter colours and sounds of spring, Kidsafe Victoria has provided its top four tips to help you keep your family safe this 1.season.Signup to Kidsafe Victoria’s Free Baby Safety Guide If you are expecting your first baby, then this one is for you!
There are four main safety issues which are important to regularly check and maintain: ■ Is the gate or door still self-closing and self-latching? ■ Is the gate propped open?
are on the way to doing something, or going somewhere, and needing (you think) to get a bit of a wriggle on. And suddenly your small person is in tears, or digging their heels in, or has gone all wobbly. You run a quick check. Are we being chased by a bear? Fleeing a volcano or a terrorist attack? If the answer is no, then perhaps you can spare five minutes. This chance might not come again. Breathe a big slow breath, if it comes out sounding like a sigh that’s still alright. Soften your heart, and remember that we are all soft and fragile beings who get out of our depth. And then crouch down or sit down or bend down nearer to your child, and ask them “are you feeling a bit rough right now?” “where in your body are you feeling it?” and perhaps “sounds like something in you is a bit angry now (or scared, or sad)”. Find the words that are most natural to you, as long as they are reaching out to their inner storms with a compassionate energy that says “I understand”. Ask them to telll you about what is going on for them. Perhaps they will need to sob, or shudder, or rant a bit about something that was unfair or mean or unjust when seen through their eyes, and you should make room for that. Don’t try and talk them out of it. Perhaps what they tell you might bring a change of plan. Perhaps you might have to strike a compromise. Perhaps nothing changes except they are calmer and are okay to move on. You will know you got it right when you feel closer to them now, and they to you. Learning to “regulate” your emotions - to give them space, and make them welcome, and take them on board, even in a harsh and often uncaring world, depends on having a few people around us who can cope with our messy side. Who don’t put us down or go all cold or hard when we aren’t coping.
3. Store poisons out of reach, inside and outsideAspart of any spring cleaning, take the time to go through your cupboards and ensure that any potentially poisonous products are stored up high in a locked cupboard, out of the sight and reach of children.
It’sYourLife
THE hardest thing with small children, and sometimes big ones, is that they just dpn’t always do what we ask! Our lives have become busy, and so we want our kids to move quickly and smoothly through the day, eating, dressing, getting in and out of cars, going to and from school or kindy. We want them to co-operate in our busyness, and often the little blighters don’t. Or sometimes, can’t. Our worst moments of the day are often when our kids suddenly have “big feelings” and go into meltdowns of tears, or rage or anxiety, and make a train wreck of our plans, let alone our image of a well run family! What a nuisance! Of course, these worst times might be good times to remember something important. To take a deep breath or two, get our own feet steady on the ground, and remind ourselves that the aim of parenthood isn’t to get it over with. Our goal in life is not, however nice it sounds, to rest at the end of a day when nothing went wrong. Because there is no such day. The aim of parenthood, and of family life, is to nurture a small person into a big one who other people will find trustworthy, loyal, loving, and empathic enough to love, and value as a friend, team member, spouse, or mum or dad themselves. Someone, in short who will have a good life, and be good for other lives. So, dear reader, check before you read on - is that your goal? Am I making this up? If your aim in parenthood is to take good photos for Insta, from their birth to their glamourous wedding, then this is where we part ways. Be off with you. (last two sentences might make a good pull quote M) But if you are still reading, then here is the thing. Kids have meltdowns and big emotions and make our plans fall in a heap, not because they are defective, or want to make our lives hard. They do it because they are busy growing their brains. And they need our help with that. Karen Young, an excellent psychologist who writes about kids emotions, points out that just as you won’t let a five year old cross a busy street, because their brain just isn’t ready, you can’t expect small children to be able to self regulate emotions either. The busy streeet of their own brain is sometimes way too much, and their Youthis.likelooksWell,practice.meandoestheiryouTheysemi-trailer.atemotionsowncomethemlikeaneedtoholdhand.Whatthatinit
Kidsafe Victoria has launched its new Baby Safety Guide to reduce the overwhelm you might experience as a first time parent. The Baby Safety Guide takes the guesswork out of your parenting journey by providing information and advice on products such as cots, prams and high chairs, including what to look for when purchasing these products and how to use them safely.The second module covers other important information on home, road, water and play safety to help keep your baby safe as they grow. To access the free Baby Safety Guide, visit Kidsafe Victoria’s website.
2. Check pool barriers for wear and tear When was the last time that you checked your pool barrier and the surrounding area? Pool barriers are exposed to the extremes of weather all year roundthis can lead to rust, damage, missing parts and wear and tear over time.
■ Are there any gaps, holes or spaces in and under the barrier which a child can get through?
■ Are there any climbable objects near the pool barrier eg barbecues, outdoor furniture, trees Poolsetc? are not the only bodies of water that you need to be mindful of. Toddlers can drown in just a few centimetres of water, which means that fishponds, eskies, buckets, laundry tubs and even pet water bowls all pose a drowning hazard.
Little Kids, Big Feelings
4. Secure curtain and blind cords
Loose curtain and blind cords, particularly those with loops, pose a significant strangulation hazard for children as they can place the loop over their head and/or become tangled in the loose cords. Whether you live with children, or might have an unexpected little one visiting one day, here are some steps you can take to help ensure that your curtain and blind cords are safe:
■ Check each room of your home for any loose or looped curtain and blind cords and secure them out of reach of children - at least 1.6m above floor level - with cleats or cord tensioning devices. Depending on the type of cords, these can be ordered free through Consumer Affairs Victoria or purchased from your local hardware store or curtain and blind cord retailer.
4 SPRING www.GeelongCoastKids.com.au Little Kids, Big writesFeelings, STEVE BIDDULPH How to turn meltdowns to moments of closeness
It’s important to empty any objects that can hold water straight after use, and to restrict access when an adult isn’t able to actively supervise children.
■ Check that items of furniture such as cots, beds and high chairs are kept away from windows where children can reach the curtain or blind cords. For more Kidsafe tips and advice, visit kidsafevic.com.au.
Al: Africa by Toto. Joel: Ice Ice Baby by Vanilla Ice. Three people living or passed you’d like to invite to a McInnes barbecue? Al: Walt Disney, Keith Urban, Dean McInnes. Joel: Hugh Jackman, The Norris Nuts, Dean McInnes. Growing up in a household of four boys must have been a hoot! How would you describe your childhood?
It’sYourLife
Bucket loads of entertainment
Joel: We were born and bred on a farm in a little town called Wickliffe, population of 30 to 40 people. It was very community focused where the town would all come together around sport. Being on 700 acres Mum always had that luxury of saying ‘get outside, go and do Theresomething’.wereno devices to play on but there were plenty of trees to climb, balls to kick and neighbours to visit over the back fence. It was a very stable, secure childhood where all the values of hard work were instilled. Dad was a very hard-working, quiet, sensitive, shy kind of man and still is: he’s 72 and still exactly the same. He was very principle-based, very proud. Was mum the musical influence? Where did the talent come from? Al: Yes it was mum who instilled the musical bug into us from an early age. She’d get us in to perform at Christmas events for the community or theMumchurch.still performs to this day. She has directed the town plays back at our local community for probably the last 15 years. I’m actually heading back tonight to watch her in the Lake Bolac town musical. It’s amateur theatre but they have a lot of fun. The prompter is the (laughs).wholepersonbusiestintheshow
Al: I also moved to Ballarat to study secondary teaching, taught for a few years in Ballarat then went overseas. I spent a couple years in England and in 2005 moved back to Geelong. By that stage, the other three boys had already made the move from the farm to Geelong as well so that kind of became our base.
Music was never really at the forefront for us until we became teenagers.Itwassort of quite late into our twenties when we realised ‘hey, we could do this for a living’. Who was the naughtiest? Al: Brian or Dean? It wasn’t us! (laughs) No, we were pretty tame. Brian broke the ice as the eldest. He got in the most trouble and I think Mum and Dad just gave up a bit over time and became more chilled –especially by the time Dean came along.Hewas definitely the naughtiest, but never got in as much trouble being the youngest. Would you say you had a strict Joel:upbringing? They liked us to make our own mistakes, which was wonderful. They really let us have a bit of rein and gave us the freedom to make our mistakes in a safe environment.
www.GeelongCoastKids.com.au SPRING 5
By Angie Hilton MEET Al and Joel McInnes. Two of the loveliest blokes you’ll ever comeTheseacross.arethe men who might help you sit down and have a cup of tea, or go to the toilet in peace, or get your washing folded. Yes, many parents have bucket loads of gratitude for these guys for creating The Mik Maks! Endless amounts of mesmerising tunes and video clips that our young ones just can’t get enough of. Free NotHallelujah!!babysitting.tomentionthe bonus joy they bring when the parent finds themselves walking around the supermarket singing about bellybuttons! It’s mind-blowing to think just a few years back, that while sitting around a campfire (and after a couple of drinks) they pulled out the guitars and jokingly wrote a song about a hairy crocodile calledNow,Bruce.who could have ever predicted that in a few years’ time they would shoot to internet fame with 5.5 million YouTube subscribers (FYI The Wiggles are at 2.45 million) and streams of nearly 5 billion. That’s the second top channel in the country!Chatting with Al and Joel, you get a real sense of just how tight their family unit is and what a loving, humble, values-based upbringing they must havePure,had.respectful gentlemen. But for all the success, they have also faced heartbreaking sadness with the tragic loss of their youngest brother and Mik Maks front man, Dean, in 2018. The boys at a glance… Al:Family? Kids: Layla 14, Jaz 12, Isla 6. Wife: Shannelle. Joel: Kids: Ava 14, Willow 12, Sam 9. Wife: Tennille. Guilty pleasure? Al: A box of chocolates. Joel: Slow-cooked Texan beef brisket. Go-to karaoke song?
It must have been a big step to leave such a small town. Where did you head after Wickliffe?
Joel: I did my teaching degree at BallaratCameuniversity.out,taught for a couple of years then did the overseas thing to the UK and worked there for three years, which was a wonderful experience.
Joel McInnes, Ava McIness, Al McInnes, Isla McInnes, Jaz McInnes. Picture: Louisa Jones
Dean and I also started our cover band Good Faces For Radio in 2006 which is still going today. This is how we discovered Drums the Panda (Adam Giles). He randomly said to us one day, “I’ve always wanted to drum in a panda suit”. How did you meet the loves of your Joel:lives?
6 SPRING www.GeelongCoastKids.com.au
Tell us about the birth of The Mik Joel:Maks.I guess it was initially my idea.
Tennille and I have the philosophy that we’ve got all these amazing opportunities around us here in Geelong of things to go and try. So we probably lean towards pushing the children into areas of interest, not being afraid to say go and do this for a month and just do it intensively and see what you think and learn from it.
Al: I feel like I’m still learning where the line is as to how much we encourage them to do something and then how much we allow them to just be their own person.
Joel McInnes, Ava McIness, Al McInnes, Isla McInnes, Jaz Pictures:McInnes.Louisa
And are your children drawn towards Al:performing?
I think the most important thing is to just be involved. I personally find the biggest challenge of what we’re doing is to balance being part of this growing business with being a parent to three kids who have completely different interests and share your time equally. And especially with teenagers when you feel like they’re not listening to you at all - they are. I’ve learned that even though they might shut you out and walk away, they’re still taking it in and just don’t want to admit it.
And Joel, what about your birthing Joel:experience? Oh, it was simply incredible, it’s just something that you never, ever forget.With the first one there was a lot of fear.Ikept thinking ‘hurry up, because this is going to kill her’. It was so foreign. You can do all the courses but nothing prepares you for seeing your wife in so much pain for so long.Tennille was always in control, she did an incredible job. All three were a natural births and unassisted and she was just brilliant. They were nice sizes ranging sort of between seven to eight pound.
It’sYourLife
We all lived within a suburb of each other, so always kept that brotherly friendship going.
Yes, at different levels. They have different confidence levels and different skillTheylevels.also have such different passions, which is great. But just to stand in front of a camera and speak or act, they can all do that incredibly well.
Now on to your babies…I often get birthing stories from the ladies I interview, but I’d love to know the husbands’ perspective from the birthing Al:suite?All of my children’s births were memorable, but Layla my first child was definitely the most eventful. Shanelle my wife was in labour for two days and by the end I was waking her up for the contractions, she was so exhausted.Fromthere, our other two kids were caesareans.Whowould want to go through that again?
JonesJoel McInnes, with hisAvadaughterMcIness
Joel: Growing up where we did, there are obviously some amazing opportunities for us, but we also missed out on a lot. We were all so keen on our sport as young kids, but we didn’t have the opportunities like coaching and facilities and mentors and all those sort of things.
Joel: They can all sing pretty well with the exception, of a couple who have to work extra hard and find it far more confronting.Mydaughter Ava has joined the team and is doing a great job. How would you describe your parenting philosophies?
Tennille and I met at a wedding. She was a bridesmaid and I was the bridesmaid car driver. We met at the wedding a few days after I got her phone number off the bride and the groom and I invited her to thisSheparty.said, “no, I’m already going to the party”. And I said, “How? you don’t know anyone this party?” And she said, “No, I’m going with the best man from the wedding”. I didn’t know that her and the best man had shacked up that night. (laughs)SoIwas like “oh no. So, sorry. See ya.”That’s the story, but things obviously didn’t work out with the best man, and she called me up a few days after that.
Tennille and I were sitting on the balcony one day and she said, “Joel, if you won tattslotto tomorrow and you never had to work again, what would you do?” and I said, “I’d play music for kids.” And she said, “Why don’t you do it now?”Forsome reason, it struck a chord and I thought I’ve got these brothers that are very talented musically and have got all the experience.
How about you Al? Al: Shanelle and her family owned The Max Hotel. I taught her younger brother as a secondary teacher in Ballarat in the Year 12 outdoor ed class. I walked into the Max one day to see about getting a gig and her brother Ricky was working behind the bar. He yelled out “Hey Mr Mac!” so I got the gig and met Shanelle.
Joel and Al McInnes. You read Anthony’s book and he talks about family breakdown and depression and health and that sort of stuff. For all the success you have certainly had indescribable heartbreak to work through with in the tragic loss of your brother and front man Dean in 2018. How did you cope with such a big loss?
Joel: If he had have been on the earth longer, he would’ve been playing lead guitar in some famous rock band. Al: Or he would’ve been a famous country artist by now. All of us will inevitably face major challenges in our lives, was there anything that really helped you get through at the time that you could share? We leaned on a lot of people, especially early.And we took our time to grieve and work through the process. One of the best bits of advice I was given was from Carl Waddell from Rivers Gift, who lost his son a few years before that - he said, “Right now you wonder if you’ll ever smile again, but trust me in four or five year’s time you will.Don’t rush it. Just know that it will feel better.”
Joel: It was our most challenging moment as a family when we lost him. We were all lost. The music kept us connected to him. Because so much of his energy and his creative work went into the Mik Maks songs. So when we finally got back on stage, about eight to 10 weeks after Dean passed, we really felt that connection with him and we knew that that’s what he would want us to do. It’s been really cool having this enormous catalogue of Dean performing.Especially for his young son Max to watch clips of his dad doing what he loved to do best and what he was incredibly good at. It’s been a lot of ups and downs with it, but having our own kids really step up and be more active with it all has really helped as well. He has left a wonderful legacy and the Mik Maks is a big, big part of that for him. How would you describe him as a Al:person? He was just cheeky with a big beaming smile.
Kids loved him, mums loved him, parents loved him. He had this really infectiousEveryonelaugh.wanted to be his mate, because he just had that kind of personality.Andhewas unbelievably talented.
Favourite quotes?
Al: Forrest Gump: “Life’s like a box of chocolates. You never know what you’re gonna get.”
Joel: Plato: “Music gives a soul to the universe, wings to the mind and life to everything.”
So I floated the idea past them while we were camping. I said, “Hey let’s write a kids song.” We had the guitars out and may have had a couple of beers under our beltwhich is often the secret to great kids songs (laughs) - that or lots and lots of coffee.And we wrote Bruce the Hairy Crocodile within two hours. We shared it with some of the kids in the neighbouring caravans and the response was instant. We continued to share some ideas and about six months later we’d had about 10 songs. So this was in January and then by October we had enough content to put together for our first stage show, which was at the Anglesea Music Festival. The three of us got up there with an acoustic guitar and we just basically performed and the feedback was instant.It just lit a flame. To look back and see yourselves writing Bruce the Hairy Crocodile around a campsite, I’m sure you would never have imagined turning such a fun activity into a thriving global business. Can you give us a snapshot of the Joel:journey?That’s right. It was fun and we could see all the potential from the responses, but there were moments where we really had to weigh everything up. We sat around the table we’re at right now just banging our heads against the wall as to how we can make this sustainable without having to be doing live gigs constantly. There were about three years for me of pretty sleepless nights. You go from having left a great job, with great security, great pay, great conditions, great for the family and then cutting that rope. Taking the chance and putting everything at risk to do this. But it’s been through our strategy with online streaming over the last three or four years that’s really taken that pressure off. Al: Now a lot of our business is almost passive.Youdo an hour of work filming and creating content, but then you get paid small bits of revenue for that hour’s work over the next few years, which is a great business model. Tell us about your success on YouTube, where are you sitting at the moment? Subscribers are sitting around five and a half million and actual streams we’re approaching 5 billion. Our YouTube strategy is all about finding new audiences and getting into different countries. I mean one stat is that only 1 per cent of our audience on YouTube is Australian.TheUSis the biggest market at about 17 per cent. The next biggest is probably 6 or 7 per cent, which India, Brazil, India, Philippines.Wegetmore streams in Los Angeles a day than we do in all of Australia. Often it’s countries where English is the second language that we often receive messages from parents saying “Thank you for teaching my child how to speak English”. How big would you like to get, or is the sky the limit? In our niche, we’re still ranked about 30 or 40th CocoGlobally.Melonis YouTube’s biggest kids channel and they have 120 million subscribers.It’sjustendless how far you can take it. I think the main thing is that we are family first. I can’t imagine being in the days of The Wiggles when they were starting out.They were on the road 24/7. Al McInnes and his daughters, Isla and Jaz. Pictures: Louisa Jones
Rob’s a dad to millions
One reason Rob started the channel was to pass along things he “had to learn the hard way, to save others some of the struggles that I went through”.Fromjump-starting a car to tying a tie, he’s helping people of all ages and walks of life to learn new skills.
“I honestly thought that I would have 30 or 40 subscribers.
Rob Kenney is a dad to millions.
By Casey Neill
The 50-something father of two, based near Seattle in the US, shares how-to videos for many basic tasks, with plenty of dad jokes thrown in with his earnest fatherly advice. When he was a kid, Father’s Day was “a pretty normal celebration” of his own dad.“By the time that I became a dad, my relationship with my dad was pretty distant, because he left the family when I was 14, so it was more my special day,” he said. “It’s a time that I get together with my wife’s family, and we celebrate all of the dads.“Ithink it’s cool to be a dad, and I hope to encourage other dads to see what a great privilege they have (if they don’t already know).”
“YOU got this. I love you. I’m proud of you.”It’s easy to see why Rob Kenney has become a father figure to millions of people through his YouTube channel ‘Dad, how do I?’.
“I have several years’ worth of content that I would like to share on my channel, but I also am keeping track of the many suggestions that I receive,” he said.He said the response was completely unexpected.“Ididn’tstart my channel to switch careers, so I had to grapple with what my new life looked like,” he said.
“Now that we’re two years into it, I finally feel like I am in a good place with it.
“Had I known that my videos would have so many views, I would have paid closer attention while I was filming.
8 SPRING www.GeelongCoastKids.com.au DON’T MISS OUT ON THIS AMAZING RAFFLE PRIZE For more information Findwww.bellparksportsclub.com.auvisit:usonFacebookandInstagram:@bellparksportsclub HOLIDAY IN STYLE! The Raffle closes at 5pm AEST on 30/09/2022. Open to residents of Victoria only. SCAN THE QR CODE TO BUY YOUR TICKET! GOOD LUCK! ONLY 2000 TICKETS AVAILABLE 12562576-ET35-22 Father’sDay
“I have no prior experience, I was just trying to talk to the camera like I was talking to my own kids.
“Anything I can do to help the next generation to be encouraged, empowered, and to be good humans, I am all for it!”
The program includes art and cultural education.
paediatric services
Bellarine Nature Cadets co-ordinator and Bellarine Bayside coastal projects officer Jane Shearer said the region was a special place, “rich with cultural heritage and home to beautiful creatures and plants”.
The new hospital will be built alongside the existing University Hospital in Geelong.
WORK on a new Barwon Women’s and Hospital is due to start soon.The project will give local families the world-class maternity and they needed, close to Morehome.than$500 million from the Victorian Budget 2022/23 will deliver the flagship project, which will include multi-day beds, birthing suites, induction spaces, operating theatres and outpatient clinic rooms.
Care close to home
The program runs twice a year, for six weeks in spring and autumn, and cadets can join for the individual one-hour sessions or the full course.
“Having better health and hospital services for women in the local area will provide great comfort and security for Geelong families,” Geelong MP Christine Couzens said.
The committee is a coastal Crown land manager and has ongoing conservation goals to protect marine and coastal environments into the future.Allcadets must be supervised by a parent or guardian at all times.
By Casey Neill KIDS can get hands-on and connect with the world around them through the Bellarine Nature Cadets.
The program is based on learning through play and brings together educators in diverse topics linked to the natural world, including sessions with local Wadawurrung traditional custodians.Topicsinclude learning to identify plants and animals, discovering ecosystems and biodiversity, learning about food webs, and understanding human impacts on natural areas.
“Through providing a fun and easy way for kids and their families to explore and connect with these significant places, we hope to encourage strong custodianship and empower more people to care for our natural areas,” she said.
www.GeelongCoastKids.com.au SPRING 9 10 Greenleaf Dve, Lara • Ph: 5282 5985 Mobile: 0419 569 071 Email: claire@wholebrain.com.au • www.wholebrain.com.au Claire Hocking Educational Kinesiologist and Brain Gym Consultant Educational Kinesiology Can Improve: • Anxiety And Stress • Depression • Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder • Anger Management • Coping With Change • Memory • Concentration • Cognitive Functioning • Positive Mental Health • Maths • Vision • Hearing • Reading • Spelling • Learning • Handwriting • Confidence And Self-Esteem • Coordination & Mobility Switch on your brain with Educational Kinesiology / Brain Gym Consultations and Courses available - All Ages NDIS welcome 12562147-SN35-22 Made to Order - Locally Owned and Operated furniture bydesign Specialists in all types of furniture, including kids beds, tallboys, desks, bedside tables and bookcases. 4 Gordon Avenue, Geelong West Phone 5229 8605 www.geelongfurniturebydesign.com.au 12562391-HC34-22
Children’s
A neonatal and parent care unit that provides care for sick and preterm babies in the first few weeks and months of life will also be included, ensuring local mums can stay close to their loved ones after giving birth. It will also feature overnight and same-day beds, outpatient clinic rooms and dedicated theatres that make medical care less intimidating.
Nature-based education activities improve affinity and empathy for the natural environment, producing kids who are more likely to care for the natural world when they’re older.
The cadets will participate in beach combs.
All activities are held on the northern Bellarine Peninsula around Portarlington, Indented Head and St Leonards, and are most suitable for kids aged 12 years and under. Children will participate in bush walking, beach combs, bird watching, nature art and more.
The program started in 2017 so families could explore the northern Bellarine Peninsula area managed by the Bellarine Bayside Foreshore management committee.
Nature Cadets connect It’sYourLife
The spring program will start in October. To find out more or register your interest, email bellarinebayside.com.au.janes@
10 SPRING www.GeelongCoastKids.com.au 12562382-MS34-22
SOPHIE Cachia is a Melbourne mum, entrepreneur and author with a huge social media following.
Meeting basketballer Maddie Garrick while happily married to former AFL player Jaryd Cachia turned her life upside down, as detailed in her new memoir Then There Was Her.Soph spoke to Casey Neill about navigating her new-look family life with son Bobby, daughter Florence, fiance Maddie, and Jaryd and his partner Jacinta. How and what did you tell Bobby and Floss about the end of your marriage to Jaryd? It was a gentle and slow approach not only for them, but because the reality was it was also something we needed to do softly to ourselves too. I recall having a discussion with Bobby about Daddy possibly having his own house one time, and that Bobby would have not one but TWO bedrooms which he was excited about. We’ve always been very upfront and honest that just because we wouldn’t be ‘married’ anymore, that we are always family and highlighted the different types of ‘families’ that exist. Florence was too young to comprehend, so it was Bobby that I had to focus those gentle conversations with more and his emotional maturity is so advanced, he took it on board so well. What did you learn from the experience that other parents might find valuable? That kids certainly notice more than what you give them credit for. Bobby often knew things already before we told him and he would pick up a lot of our conversations in moments where we thought we were talking quietly or out of reach of their ears. Don’t treat them as naive. Be open and transparent with them but always speak about the other person with respect.Inany moments Jaryd and I even became heated, we were always able to put our egos aside and say ‘can we step outside for this conversation?’ or continue it later in order to save the kids from any distress through difficult moments. How did you introduce them to Maddie, and how did they react to seeing you with someone new? Very easily. When she first started coming around, I assume they thought she was just another of Mummy’s friends. They took to her SO well (and even at times when we had broken up and were apart, they continually asked about her and when they could see her again).Asour relationship developed, I asked them how they felt about her living with us and they were so excited. Bobby asked ‘is Maddie now my step-mum?’ and I said ‘Maddie can be whatever you want her to be, darling’. I imagine your kids were less fussed about you having a female partner than many fans and followers werewas that the case? Absolutely! My kids didn’t even bat an eyelid, and that’s simply down to the parenting Jaryd and I provided them with from such a young age. Even as a happily married couple and before I discovered my sexuality, we openly spoke about all types of humans in our home - whether that be gender-based, cultural, identity or sexuality - and the need to accept humans as they are. My kids have been raised to know and accept humans in all forms, and as we both have quite a lot of friends in the LGBTQIA+ community, there was no shock factor when I said ‘Mummy has a girlfriend’.Kidsonly have prejudice and judgment if it’s taught to them, and that didn’t exist within our home. How have you navigated co-parenting with Jaryd, Maddie and Jacinta, both in logistics and being on the same page with discipline? Discipline is difficult, but that’s not because we are separated, that’s simply down to being humans and all being wiredJaryddifferently!andIwould parent and discipline differently at times even when we were married, so that hasn’t changed now we are apart.
Finding new family
It’sYourLife
Sophie Karon, Karon Photography
Picture:Cachia.Regina
I a more gentle approach, a more ‘sit down someone may have behaved in Jaryd is more traditional ‘right from wrong’ and that’s OK - are allowed to beButdifferent.regardless of we all have the same end goal and it’s to encourage children to be the best versions of themselves they can be, knowing that as humans we all make mistakes along the way. What advice would you give other parents navigating ‘unconventional’ family units? I strongly believe the word conventional family is soon going to be a thing of the past.Yes, they will still exist, but all families - no matter how they present - should be accepted. Nothing has changed about the fact I am their mother and Jaryd is theirWefather.justlive separate lives now but we still love and care for our children. What’s your favourite thing about being a mum? That no matter how sh***y, stressed or tired I feel, a cuddle at the end of your day from your children can instantly put everything into perspective and make it all go away. What aspect of motherhood have you found most challenging? Honestly - right now - it’s keeping up with school commitments, homework, excursions, after school sports etc! Bobby’s only 8 and Florence is just 5, and I feel like it’s stepped up a notch and I am hopeless at keeping up-to-date with school admin. I know it’s only going to get busier the older they get, so please send help haha! Bobby and Floss clearly have a beautiful bond. How do you foster that? The way I love them, I hope, fosters that love amongst each other. They are your typical siblingsbickering and fighting over who gets the blue cup at dinner and who gets the bloody yellow - but in moments of sadness, the way I see the other look after their sibling shows me that I am doing something right. I teach them to love with respect and boundaries, allowing mistakes to be made and forgiveness to be provided; to respect each other’s things and spaces.Words such as ‘fat’, ‘idiot’, ‘loser’ etc are strictly banned in our home and their vocabulary. How do you talk to your kids about your fame, and potentially following in your footsteps? I really don’t talk about it, they just pick up on Kidsit.at school regularly tell Bobby that ‘my mum follows your mum on Instagram’ or ‘we have your mum’s pjs at home’ so he’s used to it. I don’t really think Florence gets it, but Florence is more often than not in Florence’s world so that doesn’t surprise meBobbyhaha.is a super cool, quirky kid who loves gaming and collectables and tells me he wants his own YouTube channel one day. Florence will most definitely end up on Broadway! Was your kids one day reading your book on your mind as you wrote it, and did that make you change anything? It honestly didn’t cross my mind during the entire process, but if that day comes, it doesn’t bother me. I wouldn’t put things in a book that I was uncomfortable with anyone reading, including my children. I encourage them to own their lives and be proud of who they are regardless, so I act exactly the same and own my story. What do you hope other parents take away from your book? That true love is allowing your children to be whoever they want to be. To know that life can change at any point, even when you didn’t necessarily want it or chose it to. That you can still love someone so deeply, but not romantically. That respectful co-parenting situations can exist - you just have to both make that choice. That there are no rules in life - it is yours to write.
we
Maddie, Florence, Bobby and Sophie.
a way.
our
www.GeelongCoastKids.com.au SPRING 11 For a virtual tour of what Geelong High School offers, please visit www.geelonghigh.vic.edu.au Our Vision: Geelong High School is a positive and creative learning community that embraces its history and prepares students for life. We are committed to: Developing caring and respectful relationships; Empowering people to realise their potential through effort, responsibility and teamwork; and Building healthy, resilient and productive global citizens. Our values: RESPECT - Responsibility, Effort, Service, Positivity, Excellence, Creativity, Teamwork. 385 Ryrie St, East Geelong VIC 3219 T: 5225 4100 • Email: geelong.hs@education.vic.gov.au 12562575-ET34-22
have
our styles,
and communicate’ style of discussions, feelings and why
Bobby, Florence and Sophie.
basedincludetheypotentialofiscriminatemadeDiscriminationagainstdiscriminationeliminatingcommittedgovernmentDepartmentAttorney-General’ssaidthe“wastowomen”.ThefederalSexActitunlawfultoonthebasispregnancyorpregnancy,said,butexceptionsforinsuranceonreasonabledata.
FORCING women into top-level private health insurance for birth and pregnancy cover is a form of gender discrimination, the peak group for obstetricians claims. National Association of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists president Gino Pecoraro says it’s the only service excluded from lower-level health insurance based on gender, and he’s taken the matter to the Human Rights Commission.
“It’s criminal in a country that prides itself on trying to eliminate gender discrimination,” Dr Pecoraro told AAP. Dr Pecoraro said more needs to be done to lighten the load on public hospitals, and widening access to private care through cheaper insurance policies would help. He said many were shocked to discover women were forced to pay extra to get cover for reproductive health, when men’s reproductive health issues were covered at a lower level. Almost all policies cover testicular tortion or cancer and prostate issues, but pregnancy and birth were only covered in top-level cover, he said.
“Other issues go to the nature of research and the nature of clinical trials, including devices that are generally designed around a male body,” he told AAP.
12 SPRING www.GeelongCoastKids.com.au We are seeking dogs to participate in a free clinical trial which could improve osteoarthritis treatment in both dogs and humans. Participating dogs receive a free health check, haematology, biochemistry and radiographs, valued at $1100. Eligible dogs must be: • Over 7 years of age • Have clinical signs of osteoarthritis • Between 15 and 35 kg • Male or female but must be desexed If eligible, your pet will enter a 6-month clinical study. During this time, your pet will need to come to the U-Vet Hospital in Werribee for a total of 8 visits. DOES YOUR DOG OSTEOARTHRITIS?HAVE If you are interested in your dog participating or have further questions, please contact: Dr Thierry thierry.beths@unimelb.edu.auBeths 03 9731 2000 Or scan QR code for informationmore 12562246-ET34-22 It’sYourLife Health fund hurt
“Pregnancy is covered in the highest tier because the risk of something going wrong is very costly. The cost of preterm labour and delivery often exceeds $200,000 to $300,000 for example,” a spokesperson told AAP.
Dr Pecoraro said the association made a complaint to the Human Rights Commission a year ago but has yet to hear back.
“These claims are high because often the mother and baby need to be in hospital for a prolonged period. This does not occur in male reproductive health.”Tiering has made health fund products easier for consumers to understand, but much harder for funds to spread this risk across the insured population, which has made gold hospital cover more expensive, they said.Federal Health Minister Mark Butler said gender bias in the health system was an important issue.
“The Albanese government is having a range of discussions about our approach to this issue.”
A spokesperson for the
AAP
A spokesperson for the commission said it is not able to comment or provide any information about complaints it has received.Private Healthcare Australia says the tiering of health insurance products into gold, silver, bronze and basic was introduced by the previous government.
Artist defies expectations multiple sclerosis, has beaten three instances of cancer, and suffered a number of other serious health conditions. She continues to defy others’ expectations about what she can and cannot“Elevenachieve.years ago I was told I’d never be able to work again,” Ms Martin said.
www.GeelongCoastKids.com.au SPRING 13 12562397-LB34-22 Kids Arty Party & Art classes Celebrate your child’s next Birthday at art’skool on the Bellarine. Arty Party’s are lots of fun, creative and an imaginative way to celebrate your child’s Birthday. The children will enjoy a 2 hour party including games and music! Get the mess out of your home and leave it with us! Want more art..... head to our website to learn more about about our Art classes for kids 3 - 12 years info@artskool.com.au | www.artskool.com.au 1/20 Everist Road, Ocean Grove Ph: 0437 582 772 KIDS ARTY PARTY & ART CLASSES 75 White Street, Torquay Victoria, 3228 P: (03) 5261 6633 | E: surf.coast.sc@education.vic.gov.au W:F:www.surfcoastsecondarycollege.vic.edu.auhttps://www.facebook.com/surfcoastsc STRIVE | UNITE | RESPECT | FLOURISH 12562156-AI34-22 ANDVIRTUALTOURSHORTVIDEOSONOURWEBSITE It’sYourLife By Matt Hewson JUSTINE Martin believes anyone can turn their dreams into reality if they set their mind to it, and has demonstrated that belief with the launch of her first children’s book and a publishing company.
“It’s been about finding a different way to learn, and having a support worker to help me with stuff.” Ms Martin runs the Justine Martin Corporation, under which she manages six businesses, including the recentlylaunched Morpheus Publishing, through which she now publishes her own books.Same
Picture: Ivan Kemp
“I’d like to think that if there are other disabled people out there, or other people who are diverse and struggling, that they can see my story and go, well, she’s doing it, I can do it as well,” she said.“If I come up with an idea, I follow through with that idea, and maybe I can change a few other lives in the process.”
Book Same Same But Different promotes inclusion and kindness through the lens of her pet dachshund, Pansy.“I’dalways wanted to write a children’s book and leave something for my grandchildren,” Ms Martin said.
The Geelong-based artist lives with
Justine Martin and Pansy, the star of her new children’s book Same Same But Different.
“That was their false belief, they didn’t know me well enough. I had employment agencies tell me there wasn’t enough funding or time to retrain me.“Yeah, it does take me a lot longer to complete tasks and do some things, but it doesn’t mean I can’t do them.
“When I got Pansy I saw how she’s friends with absolutely everyone, and I thought ‘wouldn’t it be nice if that was society, if that was the community’. “Whether it’s religion, or disability, or race, or whatever the reasoning is, we should treat everyone the same. Same same, but different.”
Same But Different is the first of a series of four books that Ms Martin intends to publish, with Pansy as the star, and she said she hopes to serve as an inspiration to others who might have been told they can’t achieve their goals.
“The reality is that these products can actually be unsafe for babies and Red Nose is urging every parent to please never use a weighted sleeping product on their baby. ”We also want to ensure families with children, who have weighted blankets for adult use, are mindful of where they are kept and ensure they cannot inadvertently fall on a child or infant leading to catastrophic results.”
Red Nose Australia CEO Keren Ludski said Australian parents needed to know that babies overseas had died from the use of weighted blankets.
Wellbeing in schools
The Royal Commission into Victoria’s Mental Health System found schools played an important role in identifying children with mental health and wellbeing challenges, who could then be referred to treatment, care and support.Every government secondary and specialist school already has a mental health worker, but the Royal Commission encouraged the State Government to expand the primary school pilot.
Rather, he said, they talked about what children needed for healthy
Red Nose Australia said online retailers were selling the weighted sleeping sacks, which were like weighted blankets. They are incredibly unsafe for babies - they can compress a baby’s chest, leading to a lack of oxygen. Weighted sleeping sacks can also cause overheating - a well-known risk factor for SIDS.
“It’s susceptible to all kinds of environmental assault.” He said data showed structural changes to the brain as a result of screen use in children.
“The message to parents is: be mindful of what your children need,” he said.“Having a phone didn’t suddenly become a right. “You have to parent technology.“Youhave to set up boundaries, and it’s much easier to do when kids are younger.“Withteens, you have to wean them off slowly and create boundaries and“It’sborders.notabout saying to kids ‘you can never use screens again’. “It’s not about stepping back into the dark ages.” And it’s not only their own device use impacting kids. “It’s really important for parents to remember your child’s social queues develop when they’re looking at your face,” he said. “There are too many missed opportunities when parents are on their phones.” Or handing their children a phone in a cafe.“Ifyou’re doing it continually, you’re taking away opportunities for the child to learn,” he said. He said TVs also contributed, but were much more passive. “It does add to the overall length of screen time,” he said. “If kids are on screens before, during and after school…”
“We don’t think we can talk about how much time is too much time. “We can’t create a controlled environment to test that.”
The program builds on a successful pilot with 100 schools across Victoria in partnership with the Murdoch Children’s Research Institute and the University of Melbourne. More than 95 per cent of Mental Health and Wellbeing Leaders said the model improved their school’s capacity to support students’ mental health and wellbeing needs.
In response, Red Nose released specific online advice for parents about weighted blankets, at org.au/article/weighted-blankets.rednose.
THE Mental Health in Primary Schools program is expanding to every government and low-fee nongovernment primary school in Victoria. By 2026, 1800 school campuses will employ a Mental Health and Wellbeing Leader to implement a whole-school approach to wellbeing. The $200 million investment will support individual students, help teachers better identify and support at-risk students, and build relationships and referral pathways to local mental health
“Whether that’s reversible or not is still unknown,” he said. “We tried to map out what we think is happening based on evidence, and what you can do about it.
“We’reservices.making sure every Victorian child has access to safe, tailored care through their trusted school environment – giving them the care they need, when they need it, close to home,” then-Mental Health and Education Minister James Merlino said.
Screen time is shaping minds development.“Ifthere’sany silver lining in the Covid cloud, it reaffirmed for us that people need to be with people,” he said.
“IT’S time to think about screen use.” Dr Michael C Nagel has co-authored Becoming Autistic: How Technology Is Altering the Minds of the Next Generation, with Dr Rachael Sharman. The University of the Sunshine Coast academics explored the effects too much screen time and too little social time had on the developing brain. Specifically, autistic traits are showing up in otherwise neurotypical children.“I’vehad concerns about technology and the impact on child development for more than a decade,” Dr Nagel said. “It may be having an impact we don’t quite understand yet.” He said he’d come across worrying studies suggesting a rapid rise in the diagnosis of autism in the Western world. “There seems to be a connection between screens and young, developing brains,” Dr Nagel said. “The brain doesn’t fully mature until we’re well into our twenties.
By Casey Neill
14 SPRING www.GeelongCoastKids.com.au 5229 6668 Dr. Neha Raman 116 Shannon Avenue Geelong West We make check-ups FUN! OR if not eligible - check-up, clean, x-rays (if needed) & fluoride treatment ONLY $110.00 OR NO GAP PAYMENT (with private health insurance) VALID FOR CHILDREN 12 & UNDER - UNTIL 30.11.2022 FREE KIDS DENTAL 12561917-SN34-22 IF ELIGIBLE FOR CDBS (CHILD DENTAL BENEFIT SCHEME THROUGH MEDICARE) Ask us to do a quick check for you Health
“It is incredibly alarming to see weighted sleeping bags and weighted blankets being marketed directly to parents of infants, who are told these products may help their baby sleep better,” Red Nose Australia research officer Charis Brown said. “There is no research to support these claims.
Decades of research, he said, supported kids being with other children in real time, and able to read other people’s faces.
Dr Rachael Sharman and Dr Michael C Nagel.
Weight of concern
PARENTS are being warned to steer clear of weighted baby sleeping bags.
www.GeelongCoastKids.com.au SPRING 15 Your forprivateperfectplace, ie hnig moments Our expert obstetricians and midwives are here to support you through your journey to the next stage of life. Epworth Geelong Call maternity reception on 03 5271 8322 1 Epworth Place, Waurn Ponds (next to Deakin University) Scan me to learn more about Epworth Maternity Mtriy atGeelongEpworth NP3357_MAT_0722 12561797-SN34-22
When it’s time for bed, try establishing a routine that might include drawing the curtains, swaddling and a kissLearngoodnight.toread your baby’s tired signs, such as: rubbing the eyes, yawning, being movements.andstaring,clenchingfussy,fists,frowning,jerkylimbIt’seasiertoget a baby to sleep if they are not over-tired. It’s vital you have a safe sleeping environment for your newborn. Always place your baby to sleep on their back. Keep their face and head uncovered by ensuring any blankets are firmly tucked in. Have a smoke-free environment before and after birth. Put the baby to sleep in their own safe sleep space in the parents’ room for the first six to 12 months. Research has also found that breastfeeding can reduce the risk of SIDS. The early days are a time of learning to settle your baby
Learn to read your baby’s tired signs. for you and your baby. A schedule that’s time-focused and rigid generally don’t work for newborns. Find a schedule that works for you and your family. Click on the QR code to order your free copy of Bump, Birth and Bub – the ultimate resource for pregnancy, childbirth and those early days with a new baby, by Epworth Maternity midwives.
Health How
FOR the first three months, newborns spend the majority of their time sleeping or feeding.Theyhave only short periods of alertness as they adjust to life outside yourSomewomb.babies take longer to learn to be awake in the day and to sleep at night.Tohelp your baby adjust and settle, try gently rocking, swaying and walking around with your baby. Swaddling your baby can help your baby feel secure. Hold your baby close to you so they can hear your heartbeat and gently stroke their face around the hairline. Minimise stimulation, including TV and engaging toys. Many parents find that a basic routine can help their baby know when it’s time for sleep and help them wind down. Feed, play, sleep. In the early days, your baby’s play time might be very limited. Play might be as simple as watching the leaves in the trees outside, or reading a story together.
Ambassador Angela Dalla Rosa, from Burnside Heights, is taking a break from football this year, has taken up cricket in the role of captain, and also recently completed a marathon.
Celebrate Children’s Week at GAC Geelong kids will be spoilt for choice at this year’s Children’s Week celebrations, with a variety of interactive activities at the Geelong Performing Arts Centre. Picture: Supplied
GIRLS can do anything, especially when it comes to physical activity. And there’s a whole week dedicated to spreading that message to girls and women of all ages, from 12 to 18 September.ThisGirlCan – Victoria is an uplifting, energetic and empowering campaign.It’sdesigned to overcome the fear of judgement stopping too many girls and women from joining in and being active to improve their health. It has a message for all girls and women, no matter their age, background, size or abilities: focus on how physical activity makes you feel, instead of on your fears.
GEELONG Arts Centre has been dishing out an amazing range of arts experiences for families and young people this year, and there’s still so much more to discover ahead of 2023!
“As I believed in myself more, I thought ‘stuff it, I’ll give that a go’,” she said.Now outrigger canoeing – or ‘waka ama’ – connects her to nature and her Polynesian culture.
16 SPRING www.GeelongCoastKids.com.au 12562553-ET34-22 12562551-SN34-22 12562554-HC34-22 ActiveKids
During This Girl Can Week, physical activity providers, clubs, gyms, facilities and organisations offer fun, beginnerfriendly and come-and-try events to help get more girls and women walking through their doors and trying new ways to get active. Whether it’s walking, hiking, cycling or chasing the kids around the park, there are fun ways to get active this spring.This Girl Can research shows more than half of Victorian women are worried about being judged while exercising and 41 per cent of Victorian women were embarrassed to exercise in public. They worry about being judged for how they look, how good they are or how they prioritise their time.
Local ambassadors across the state are leading the way and empowering girls and women to follow their lead.
Angela thought she was too uncoordinated to play sport until she saw her sister run a marathon, and realised she could too.
“It’s calming, you’re just looking towards the horizon, and once we get that stride, that’s when we fly,” she said.Every time she gets active, bodypositive personal trainer Natasha, from Monbulk, is blown away by how great she
“We hope other women will relate to their struggles and triumphs and think ‘if she can, I can too’,” she said.
Celebrated in October, Children’s Week 2022 is all about supporting children’s wellbeing and development. What better way to celebrate than by engaging in awesome arts events? Whether it’s an alphabetical science race with The Alphabet Of Awesome Science for primary-aged children, or a night of craft, creativity and confidence at the 2022 Children’s Week Tweens Night, kids of Geelong are spoilt for choice with the variety of engaging and dynamic multi-arts experiences on offer at Geelong Arts Centre.Plus, joining the stacked line-up of family fun this year is Parrwang Community Arts’ ‘This Is Me’; a free, inclusive, innovative animation workshop delivered by Geelong animation pioneers, Pillowfort Creative, exclusively for young First Nations people. With opportunities to get creative, get dancing and get connected, what more are you waiting for? Head to geelongartscentre.org.au to learn more about the endless opportunities for growth and discovery for our region’s young people.
“Therefeels. are 100 reasons to exercise and trying to look a certain way doesn’t have to be one of them,” she said. Natasha once had doubts about running a fitness class because of how her body looked.
girlEverycan
VicHealth social marketing and communications executive manager Rebecca Ahren said they were everyday women with real stories and realistic bodies.
Chiquita, from Berwick, never thought she would be the kind of person to play sport, but things changed as she approached her forties.
“I’ve had my moments where I’ve gone, ‘should I really be running a fitness class – do I look fit enough?’” she said.“My body is my business card and it’s a bloody brilliant business card because it’s a real body – it’s not photoshopped, it’s not flawless, but it’s perfect!”Sue,from Murrumbeena, always wanted to play Australian rules football but was repeatedly told she couldn’t –at school, by her dad and even by her daughter.Inspired by the launch of AFLW, at 53 years old Sue finally made her footy debut.Sue has continued to play alongside five of the women she met at the original ‘come and try’ day for AFL Women’s Masters. “At the age of 53 I debuted. It’s liberating to be breaking that stereotype that girls can’t do it.” She wished AFLW had been around when she was a kid, “‘cause I’d have been there in a flash”.
“I alternate between absolute exhilaration and fear of making a fool of myself,” she said. “I realised it wasn’t like I was bad at sport, it’s just that I never gave myself the chance to be any good.”
All staff at Geelong Aquatic Centre are well qualified and passionate about teaching those in their charge to become confident and capable in the water. Enrolments are being taken for term four, which starts on Monday September 26. Phone the centre on (03) 5222 5530 and speak to the friendly reception staff for bookings.
Picture: Supplied
ActiveKids
Bluestone: 150 Years of the Dennys Lascelles Woolstore opens on Friday 16 September. Tickets are available at the door and include access to all gallery spaces. Also, don’t miss the multi award-winning gallery On the Land: Our Story Retold, which tells the story of people and places and our impact on the land. Suitable for the entire family, the exhibition is contemporary and interactive, encouraging curiosity about Geelong, environment, farming, the region’s traditional owners and sheep! The museum’s youngest visitors can also experience the collection and exhibitions through the regular Museum Explorer series. Be immersed in the museum experience by taking part in a Mini Maker workshop, enjoy interactive story telling or take part in a sensory playTheday.National Wool Museum is open daily from 10am to 3pm, and is located at 26 Moorabool Street, Geelong. For more information, www.nwm.vic.gov.au.visit
It is concerning to see the drowning statistics released from Life Saving Victoria, highlighting that those most at risk include young children, teenagers and young adults. In particular, those participating in high risk activities or alcohol affected are at a higher risk, as are recently arrived citizens who possibly do not speak or read the EnglishWhilelanguage.therehas been a decrease in the drowning statistics over the past ten years through education and advertising campaigns, the challenge is to create and maintain a water safety culture in Victoria while increasing participation in aquatic activity. Children need regular and ongoing lessons until they reach the required skill level. By swimming all year round they retain skills and build techniques easily. Breaks in learning to swim, mean valuable time is lost and when lessons resume, skills must be revised and often re learnt. Those who do year-round lessons are stronger and better able to resist colds over the winter months.
HELP recognise the 150-year anniversary of the Dennys Lascelles Woolstore, the home of the National Wool Museum, by visiting the interactive Bluestone exhibition.Learnabout the history of Geelong through storytelling by those who walked these halls and streets before us, then engage in some fun craft activities and even a game of basketball!
lessonsSwimmingsavelives
• award winning galleries • Museum explorer workshops • touring exhibitions • 20% off family membership when you show this advertisement 12549914-DL34-22
Museum Kids Experience the stories of Geelong at the National Wool Museum
WITH summer approaching, it is important to give your child the best grounding to be able to enjoy and survive in the water. Children who are happy and confident in the water will be more able to think themselves out of a difficult situation and be in a position to most quickly, safely and enjoyably, learn to swim.
In a country surrounded by beaches, it’s important that Aussie kids learn how to swim efficiently.
Geelong Aquatic Centre which has operated for the past 25 years, is a specialist Learn-to-Swim centre which is the ideal venue for infants, children of all ages and adults to learn swimming and survival skills. All levels can be catered for in their two 25m and one recently enlarged learner’s pool, which are all heated and salt chlorinated. Lessons are taught in a sequentially developmental program where children are not progressed until each skill is attained to a proficient standard, so that confidence and competence is maintained.
www.GeelongCoastKids.com.au nwm.vic.gov.au26 Moorabool St, Geelong Open Daily 10am–3pm
150 years of Geelong’s history
18 SPRING www.GeelongCoastKids.com.au • Quality Salt — Chlorinated Pools • Controlled Warm Water & Air Temperature • Passionate & Qualified Instructors • Providing a Developmentally Sequential Program • No Distractions or Gimmicks • Value for Money • Full 30 minute Lessons Geelong Aquatic Centre admin@geelongaquaticcentre.com.au | www.geelongaquaticcentre.com.au 3 Bridge Street, Newtown 3220 | Phone: 5222 5530 WE CARE ABOUT YOU AND YOUR CHILDREN Geelong’s No.1 Learn to Swim School Family Owned & Operated Dedicated Learn to Swim Centre “Swimming Lessons - A Gift for Life” 12559411-SN34-22
Play-based learning for littlest students
“We invite all to explore the possibilities of engaging with our programs and choosing Williams House or Butterfield House for three year-olds, four year-olds and extended care“Anyneeds.day can be an ‘open day’, with prior arrangement and we would love to show you our beautiful spaces; sharing with you in person, what is unique about our ‘Rated Exceeding’ services.” For more information, visit campuses.christiancollege.vic.edu.au/www.
“At the same time, it will benefit hundreds of thousands of working families. Helping more mums and dads return to work on terms that work for them,” he Thirdly,said.theState Government will establish 50 government-owned and affordable integrated childcare centres in areas with the greatest unmet demand, with the first to open in 2025. Where possible, they’ll be co-located with schools to avoid the double-drop off, and alongside hospitals, TAFEs and major employers to create convenient access for working parents.
The typical household is spending 20 per cent of its income on childcare fees, and some women who wanted to return to work were staying home because of thisMrcost.Andrews said our economy missed out on their skills and experience.Hesaidbeing a stay-at-home parent was a legitimate choice, but it should be based on what worked for individual families, not forced by the childcare system’s limitations.
Where there is demand, centres will operate extended hours and on weekends so parents working in industries like hospitality and healthcare have more support and more options.
Kids at Williams House and Butterfield House will learn skills through play-based learning. Picture: Supplied AN early childhood education and childcare overhaul will roll out in Victoria over the next decade. The Best Start, Best Life program expansion is designed to save families money and help women return to the workforce.Firstly,from next year kinder will be free, saving up to $2500 per child every year.Secondly, over the next decade four-year-old kinder will transition to Pre-Prep – a universal 30-hour a week program of play-based learning for every four-year-old child in Victoria, delivered through kinders and long day care Premiercentres.DanielAndrews said it was a year dedicated to growing and learning, new friends and new experiences, giving them the skills they needed for school and life.
“Our childcare system isn’t working for women – in fact, it’s holding them back,” then-Minister for Women Gabrielle Williams said. “Affordable and accessible childcare is vital to giving women more options –meaning they have more economic power and driving gender equality across every aspect of work and life.”
Director of Butterfield House, Bernadette Johnson, says anyone interested in finding out more about what is offered at the two centres is welcome to get in touch. “First impressions count, but more so the consistent provision of an environment of creativity, care, community, and opportunity for extraordinary play,” Bernadette says.
www.GeelongCoastKids.com.au SPRING 19 Butterfield House - Torquay Williams House - Belmont Enquire Now: Ph: 5241 3556 Williams House 5264 6803 Butterfield House High quality early childhood education PLACES NOW AVAILABLE FOR 2023! www.christiancollege.vic.edu.au > Discover > Our Campuses 12561976-SN34-22
WILLIAMS House in Belmont and Butterfield House in Torquay are the two early learning centres operated by Christian College Geelong. At both centres children learn in ways that interest them and about things that interest them, through play-based learning programs.
Freechildcaremorekinder, Education Four-year-old kinder will become Pre-Prep.
■ ¼
Well Fed Kitchen provides an easy snack alternative to the sugar-laden, healthy processed options, guaranteed to fill kids tummies, satisfy their hunger, provide a steady release of energy and some essential growing nutrients too. for breakfast? Why not!
■ 2
in kitchenthe Lucywith Stewart Crunchy Chocolate Granola Picture: Studio 74 Photography
■ ½
■
3.In
■ 2
■
■ 1
Whilst cereal is the breakfast of choice for many kids, most commercial breakfast cereals are made with refined grains and high amounts of sugardelivering very little in the way of nutrients, causing blood sugar spikes and leaving kids feeling hungry and irritable, not long after. But a breakfast cereal that includes protein, fibre and fats will not only satisfy their hunger, it will keep kids tummies feeling fuller for longer, fuel their brains and sustain their energy throughout the morning. This crunchy chocolate granola is made with a mix of rolled oats, nuts, seeds, coconut and cacao to nourish growing bodies and brains. Raw cacao - commonly referred to as the ‘food of the Gods’ - is not only the highest food source of antioxidants, it also contains tryptophan (a precursor to moodboosting serotonin), a huge amount of phenylethylamine (aka the ‘love chemical’ that increases motivatingdopamine & serotonin) and is one of the most potent food sources of magnesium, a mineral that’s important for kids growth, development and energy production.Butthebest part, is drinking the chocolate milk that’s left at the end. rolled oats cup chopped almonds cup flaked coconut cup sunflower seeds ¼ cup pumpkin seeds Tbsp cacao powder Tbsp pure maple syrup Tbsp olive oil Tbsp carob powder 1 tsp vanilla extract tsp cinnamon Instructions
■ ½
2.In
www.wellfedkitchen.com.au @wellfedkitchen_snacks 12562712-LB34-22 CHOCOLATE
5.evenly.Allowto
Created by Nutritionist and mum, Lucy Stewart, they’re made with only real wholefood and plant-based ingredients – no additives, nothing artificial, and without nuts, dairy, soy and wheat.
Well Fed Kitchen is a range of healthy snacks for kids that you can make at home.
This delicious crunchy chocolate granola is super easy and fun to make with the kids, and it’s a more nutritious way to start the day than anything you’ll find in a box at the supermarket. When it comes to kids, it’s true what they say, breakfast is the most important meal of the day. Breakfast has the opportunity to provide kids with the fuel they need to be active and play, to be motivated, to concentrate and learn, as well as remember and harness new skills – how our kids start their day can greatly influence their success at school.
■ 2
20 SPRING www.GeelongCoastKids.com.au
It’sYourLife Ingredients ■ 2 cups
■ 1
1.Preheat oven to 100°C and line a baking sheet with baking paper. a large bowl, mix together oats, almonds, sunflower seeds, pumpkin seeds, flaked coconut and cinnamon. a small bowl whisk together olive oil, maple syrup, vanilla extract, cacao and carob powder. Pour mixture over dry ingredients and mix together until everything is well mixture evenly over prepared baking sheet and bake for 20-minutes, turning halfway to ensure it cooks cool then store in an airtight container.
4.combined.Spreadthe
202202159273_1-JW10-22 Local Trades & Services sandmanstone@hotmail.com sandmanstone.com.au EXCELLENCE IN STONE BENCHTOPS 5278 4000 12562829-AV35-22 Shop 4 24-26 Dorothy St Leopold Ph: 03 4238 3901 or 0434 493 752 Any 2 large pizza, main pastas, spud or curry $35 Mix & match Pick-up or Delivery Delivery charges apply FOR DELIVERY ONLY Order 3 large pizzas of your choice and get a large garlic pizza FREE That’s 4 large pizzas for only $60 Delivery charges apply OPEN Tuesday - Thursday 5pm Friday - Sunday 4.30pm Closed - Mondays We serve pizzas, pastas, baked potatoes, nachos, kids meals, homemade curries, hot chips, gluten & dairy free food options available & a variety of homemade desserts. 12564213-HC35-22 REBLOCKING - RESTUMPING EXPERTS Commercial & Residential Greater Geelong, Bellarine Peninsula and Surf Coast • Council Permits Provided • Qualified Trades People • Site Clean-Up FREE QUOTES SERVICE GUARANTEED We go over and above the minimum standard required with hole size, depth and concrete. This is to give you peace of mind that the job is completed to the highest possible standard. Call Gavin 0413 358 www.stablereblocking.com.au767 12564161-MS35-22 LC CARPENTRY & MaintenanceServices SPECIALIST&CARPENTERODDJOB Lloyd Kennedy 0402 632 039 | lccarpentry21@outlook.com Any job big or small, don’t hesitate to call! 12564281-AI35-22 WEBSCAPES Landscaping & Synthetic Lawns Locally Owned & Operated Servicing All Areas Country to Coast Specialising in Premium Grade Synthetic Lawn Used For All Landscape Application • Synthetic Lawn Maintenance • Paving • Retaining Walls • Irrigation Systems • Synthetic Lawns • Re-Newing Established Gardens/Lawns • Real Turf Roll Out/Seed • Full Landscape Transformation • Site Cleans With 15 Years Experience 12563841-ET35-22 Call Or Email For An Obligation Free Quote Ben 0413 285 913 or Webscapes@hotmail.com WANTED WASHING MACHINES Collector looking for front & top loading automatics, 40 years & older. Brands like Frigidaire, Bendix, Wilkins Servis, Inglis, Simpson & Pope Norge. Leon 0409 637 712 12564179-JW35-22 YOGA & PILATES STUDIO Casual classes or membership options available Bespoke Yoga Hub in the heart of Queenscliff. Suitable for beginners to advanced All props provided but feel free to BYO Yoga mat. We also stock & sell, yoga mats, block, bolsters, candles, Cacao, Crystals, Crystal Bowls & more What we Offer: • Vinyasa Yoga • Yin Yoga • Yoga Sculpt • Gentle flow • Restorative • Pilates - Mat & Reformer • Sound Baths • One on One Sound Healing • Reiki • Crystal bowl workshops WWW.SAMANAYOGA.COM.AU 12564044-AV35-22 NORTH TIMBERGEELONGSUPPLIES • Framing Pine & Furniture Timber • Hardwood Skirtings & Flooring • Arsenic-Free Sienna Sleepers • Treated Pine Sleepers • Merbau & Treated Pine Decking • Laserlite, Roofing Iron & Colorbond • Steel supplies & Retaining Wall Steel TRADE, BUILDING & DIY SUPPLIES 7-9 Victor St, North Geelong | 5278 9464 northgeelongtimbersupplies.com.au TRADE, BUILDING & DIY SUPPLIES FreeAvailableDeliveryCourtesyTrailer OPENMon-Fri7-5Sat7-3 12561719-MS35-22
withinbookabook
WHAT DO YOU THINK?
A beautifully illustrated title chock- full of fascinating animal facts from our bestselling, CBCA awardwinning Tasmanian children’s author/illustrator, Jennifer Cossins, that focuses on 25 animal species from Australia and around the world with intriguing migration Didjourneys.youknow that Arctic terns have the longest migration of all birds, flying from the Arctic to Antarctica and back each year? Or that the wildebeest migration in east Africa is so vast it can be seen from outer space? Come along on these amazing animal journeys! Perfect for readers aged 7+ who delight in learning about the animal kingdom and the world around them.
“I’m an ABC book and that’s all I’ll ever be,” Arabella complained to her capital C. Hers is the most beautiful and most borrowed book in the library - but only ever by children, often those with sticky fingers.“Arabella forgets she is special. She longs for words and paragraphs,” Melbourne author Suzy Zail said. “She wants to be adored by adults so she travels to Africa as a stowaway in search of a better life, only to learn that she is perfect - and loved - just the way she is.
$14.99 Hachette Australia
The third children’s book by bestselling mindset author and two-time Olympian, Matthew Syed, will help readers to find their voice, flex their social superpowers, and speak up with kindness and confidence. What if you could disagree with someone without it turning into the argument of the century? I’m here to tell you that it can be done. What Do YOU Think? will help young readers to discover what is influencing their ideas, from peer pressure to fake news. They’ll learn how to form and change opinions, and how to debate their views with empathy.
Dirt by Sea Explore our wonderful coastline and the joy of a family roadtrip with Dad and Daisy! Featuring 40 pages of extraordinary comic-style illustrations, this unique picture book will have you dreaming of a holiday around Australia or maybe even planning a van life with the help of the journey map in the endpapers.
“Arabella’s Alphabet Adventure is a gentle reminder to love ourselves and those around us; to learn to live in the moment and find happiness in the things we already have, and to recognise that we all have value.”
AMAZING JOURNEYSANIMAL
$12.99 Hachette Australia
The hugely popular creators of Why I Love Footy and Why I Love Summer are back together with a moving family story that is also a true celebration of what we love most about the Australian landscape, family holidays and classic Kombi vans. Daisy lives in inland Australia with her dad and her grandparents. It’s home, and she loves the red dirt land around her.
Books A
By Casey Neill
“I’d only ever written books for adults and teens and was grateful for the opportunity to work with an illustrator (Christopher Nielsen) and engage with young children,” she said.
22 SPRING www.GeelongCoastKids.com.au
$14.99 Penguin
Author Suzy Zail.
Thank You, Teacher from The Very Hungry Caterpillar Show your teachers how much you appreciate them in this colorful book of thanks featuring The Very Hungry ShowCaterpillar.friends and family how much you appreciate them with the Very Hungry Caterpillar’s colorful book of Perfectthanks.for any day of the year, this charming book of pictures is the colorful way to tell loved ones “thanks!” Featuring art from the World of Eric Carle, this joyful book follows The Very Hungry Caterpillar and celebrates all that makes us most thankful.
“We so often forget to be grateful for what we have, especially with the pervasiveness of social media and the constant pull to compare ourselves to people whose lives look shinier.
Suzy is quite happy for her book to land on the kids’ shelf, susceptible to sticky fingers.
Children’s books...
$24.99 Penguin
$15.99 Penguin
When she wrote Arabella, Suzy had small children who devoured books. “I’d read them stories and we’d all escape for a while, so the library was our happy place and the perfect setting for my first picture book,” she said. “Books had always kept me company, even as a small child, so it wasn’t a stretch to make my main character an ABC book who longs for adventure.”
Chippy Chasers: Chippy Jackpot Who loves a delicious, hot, salty chippy? Seagull mates Steve-O, Stanley and Stacey do . . . A hilarious graphic novel for readers aged 6+ from actor, animator and Tiktok sensation Sam Cotton. On a sunny Sydney wharf, Stacey and Stanley watch enviously as customers feed on as many hot salty chippies as they want. Fed up with having to scab for scraps with all the other seagulls, they seek out legendary chippy thief Steve-O to help them pull off the ultimate heist . . . But first they’ll have to get past a seagull-hating chippy chef, deal with some bully bin chickens, and convince the World’s Best Chippy Chaser to overcome his dark past and join the team.
ARABELLA’S Alphabet Adventure features a book taking a daring adventure and learning she’s perfect just the way she is.
“I also loved the challenge of whittling my words down to the ones that really counted and conveying big ideas in just a few hundred words. “It’s harder than it looks because picture books are read over and over and out loud.“Read anything that often and you’ll see every flaw.”
22 SEPTEMBER TO 2 OCTOBER MELBOURNE ROYAL SHOW
SPRING 23 KidsCalendar
Professor Lexi Con has curated her favourite words - one for every letter of the alphabet - and Professor Noel Edge uses each one to inspire 26 quirky scientific Recommendeddemonstrations.forchildren aged 5 and Theabove.22September show starts at 11am at Knox Community Arts Centre, 790 Mountain Highway, Bayswater. Tickets are $15 for adults, $12 for children and $45 for a family of four from eventbrite.com.au.
Dress like a pirate to celebrate International Talk Like a Pirate Day, 5pm to 9pm. Bizarre Bazaar twilight markets showcase local stall holders in the Big Shed and an outdoor space overlooking the Melbourne skyline. Food vans will also be on hand, plus live entertainment, dance performances, roaming entertainment, door prizes and more. Seaworks is at 82 Nelson Place, Williamstown.
22 & 23
27-30 SEPTEMBER
Also known as the Lonsdale Street Greek Festival, this is the world’s largest celebration of Greek culture outside of FestivitiesGreece. will run 10am to 11pm at this free event.
UNTIL 9 EVERYTHINGMAKINGOCTOBERART:IMAGINEISREAL
ANTIPODESOCTOBERFESTIVAL
1 MORRISSEPTEMBERGLEITZMAN
THE SUBMARINE ADVENTURE
FESTIVALOCTOBERINDONESIA
THE BEST Join experts from the National Institute of Dramatic Art Open (NIDA) to gain skills and confidence in public speaking.
10 & 11 SEPTEMBER MOON LANTERN FESTIVAL
SPOOKFEST On Saturday night adults can check out what’s in store for the kids on Sunday, which will include food vans, games and Potatoentertainment.Shed,41Peninsula Drive, Drysdale, will host this free event. Visit potatoshedwww.geelongaustralia.com.au/formore.
This free community event features entertainment, interactive arts experiences, sporting activities, music, dancing and good times. There will also be food trucks and roving entertainers. It will run from 10am to 4pm at Werribee Park, K Road, Werribee. Visit www.wyndham.vic.gov.au.
This free all-ages exhibition invites kids and their families to experiment with innovative ways of making their own works of art. It runs 10am to 5pm daily at National Gallery of Victoria, 180 St Kilda Road, Melbourne.
22 SEPTEMBER & 28 OCTOBER THE ALPHABET OF AWESOME SCIENCE
TALK
This free family event will include a giant kite flying display, music, food and more. It will run 11am to 2pm at Rippleside Park, 42 Bell Parade, Rippleside. Visit www.kidsplus.org.au for more.
23 CHILDREN’SOCTOBERWEEK
PICNIC
This free two-day event features cultural performances, food, and drinks, at Queensbridge Square, 3 Queens Bridge Street, Southbank.
This event celebrates the food, wine, language and culture of France from 10am to 5pm. There’ll be market stalls dotted across the grounds of The Heights, plus a main stage, roving entertainment, and a dedicated kids’ zone. The Heights Heritage House and Garden is at 140 Aphrasia Street, EntryNewtown.is$15 for adults, $7.50 for children, $35 for a family of four. Visit www.lefestivalfrancais.com.au for more.
This free event promotes awareness of Indonesia – its culture, its people - in Argyle Square, Carlton, from 10am to 4pm. KIDS+ KITES FESTIVAL
LE FESTIVAL FRANCAIS
29 & 30 OCTOBER
5 LEARNSEPTEMBERFROM
The free session for young people aged 15 to 19 will cover the basics of body language, vocal techniques, storytelling and Juliamore.Gillard Library Tarneit will host, from 4pm to 5.30pm. Call 8734 0200 or visit www.wyndham. vic.gov.au.
Lighting displays, celestial oddities, street eats and powerful, diverse voices will mee the theme: Everything on the land is reflected in the sky. The free event runs 7pm to 1am in central Geelong. Visit whitenight.com.au/geelong for more.
BAZAAR TWILIGHT MARKET
As part of Wyndham Learning Festival 2022, Julia Gillard Library Tarneit will host award-winning author Morris Gleitzman for a free author talk at 4pm. Bookings are required. Call 8734 0200 or visit www.wyndham. vic.gov.au.
www.GeelongCoastKids.com.au
What's on this Spring
2
The 28 October show is on at 5pm at Costa Hall, Deakin University Geelong Waterfront, 1 Gheringhap Street, Geelong. Tickets are $12. Call 1300 251 200 or visit www.geelongartscentre.org. au.
16 SEAWORKSSEPTEMBERBIZARRE
GEELONG
8 WHITEOCTOBERNIGHT
Join best friends Jude and Penny on a musical under the sea adventure featuring Beatles favourites at the Potato Shed, 41 Peninsula Drive, Drysdale. Tickets are $10.50 for adults, $35 for a family of four, and free for under-2s. Call 5251 1998 or visit geelongaustralia.com.au/potatoshed.www.
This event returns after two years off promising new attractions, more fun, bigger smiles and greater value. Children aged 14 years and under attend free, entry after 5pm is $25, save 25 per cent on rides by purchasing a ride pass with an admission ticket, and more. Gates are open 9.30am to 9pm. Tickets are only available from royalshow.com.au. Melbourne Showgrounds is on Epsom Road, Ascot Vale.
12561985-DL35-22
