Kids Voice January 2015

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A C T I V IT IE S G A L O R E ! I D E A S T O K E E P Y O U O C C U P I E D T H I S S U M M E R S PO R T I N G I N J U RI E S - C A R L Y ’ S B L O G - B I R T H S T O R Y - W H A T ’S O N

Y O U R F R E E PA R E N T I N G M A G A Z I N E F O R T H E G E E L O N G R E G I O N

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- JANUARY 2015

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WELCO M E COOL FACTS 4 KIDS

1. A large python can swallow a goat whole.

2. At least 12 rocks from Mars have landed on Earth.

3. Crocodiles often eat rocks.

4. Pigs can get sunburned.

5. The world’s lightest mammal the bumblebee bat- weighs less than a nickel.

KV TEAM

BUSINESS MANAGER Michele Mitten EDITORIAL The A Team SALES & MARKETING Carly Boyce

6. A tiger’s skin is striped like it’s fur.

7. Giant tortoises keep growing their whole lives.

8. Frogs drink through their skin.

9. Pet hampsters can run up to eight miles a night on a wheel.

10. Butterflies taste food by standing on top of it! Their taste receptors are in their feet unlike humans who have most on their tongue.

GRAPHICS & LAYOUT ARTIST Elise Blach STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER Alan Barber COVER MODEL Olivia Dowsley

PO Box 54, Ocean Grove Victoria, 3226 Phone: 03 5255 3233 Fax: 03 5255 3255 FIND US ON FACEBOOK facebook.com/Kids Voice Geelong www.kidsvoice.com.au

No part of this magazine, including the advertisements, may be reproduced without permission of the editor.

The opinions expressed within Kids’ Voice magazine are not necessarily the views of the publisher, but those of individual writers.

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CONTENTS 7

Travelling with toddlers and tasty treats

8

Carly’s Blog

9

Puffing Billy

11

Birth Story

12

Schools in Focus: Grovedale College

19

Passion to paper

22

Get your kids surfing waves not the internet

24

Music & Arts

27

Cooking & Craft

28

Reviews

30

What’s On

...AND MUCH MORE

7

9

11

19

22

30

THIS ISSUE’S COVER GIRL...

NAME & AGE: Olivia Dowsley, 7 years old WHAT’S YOUR FAVOURITE FOOD? Spaghetti and Avocado (Not together) HOBBIES AND FAVOURITE THINGS TO DO? Minecraft, dancing, reading and running everywhere.

JANUARY 2015 - PAGE 5

LOADS OF LAUGHTER

WHEN TERRY DENTON DROPPED INTO GEELONG

One of Australia’s busiest writers and illustrators dropped in to see his fans at Geelong West Town Hall on Wednesday 10 December. Well known for his work with Andy Griffiths on the Treehouse series of books, Terry has also written and illustrated 20 books of his own including his Gasp stories and the animated TV series which grew out of them.

Terry’s original approach can be found in popular children’s titles such as Terry Denton’s Bumper Book of Silly Stuff to Do and the Wombat and Fox series. His work with Andy Griffiths on the Just! series, The Bad Books and The Cat on the Mat is Flat is universally loved.

Terry has worked on more than 40 children’s choice awards throughout Australia and been shortlisted many times in the Children’s Book Council of Australia awards.

The boyish and unassuming Terry Denton rocked up

to Geelong West Town Hall as a guest of the Geelong Regional Library Corporation.

he talked.

Chair of the Geelong Regional Library Corporation, Cr Andy Richards, said that the event booked out quickly once listed on the library’s website.

Terry was incredibly generous with his time and sat for two and a half hours after the event in order to sign books and create little drawings for the devoted fans who lined up to see him.

“We had 400 excited children and parents book tickets to see this Australian talent” Cr Richards said.

Cr Richards said it was very rewarding to see the joy which such events bring to young children:

Families enjoyed an hilarious hour-long event with Terry Denton whose sense of humour is extremely infectious.

“You really see children’s eyes light up when they get to meet the authors and illustrators of their most loved books” said Cr Richards.

Terry spoke about where his ideas come from, what it is like working with Andy Griffiths and the process of developing a book from rough sketches through to finished product. Terry drew as he spoke and produced an enormous volume of sketches as he chatted to fans.

He invited children to come up with preposterous twists to his story ideas and created pictures of their ideas as

“The library corporation places a high importance on these types of events as they have such a positive impact on creating a life-long love of books and reading.”

To keep up to date with the amazing range of literary events offered by the Geelong Regional Library Corporation, visit the website at www.grlc.vic.gov.au.

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- JANUARY 2015

SOMETHING’S

AFOOT! It’s the time of the year that sporting injuries can affect our feet. As our children change their sporting codes this time of the year they are not always physically ready for the new muscles they will use. Physical activity is really important, not just for our physical health, but our mental health as well!

Footwear – Lacking in support or cushioning that help to absorb forces through the Achilles tendon, the tendon where your calf muscles merge and insert into the back of your heel bone. It is important to match the footwear to the type of sport involved as well as ensuring footwear is replaced when excessive wear patterns begin to show.

Being physically active is great, but sometimes you might need a health professional if you find yourself sore or injured.

Biomechanical – poor alignment of lower limbs may cause excessive loading on various tissues including tendons. Tight calf muscles, over pronation (feet roll in) and high arched feet are common features in people who develop Achilles pain or stress fractures. There may be exercises or devices that can be worn in your shoes to reduce the effects of these misalignments.

Common sporting injuries in young people can include lower limb issues such as tendon strains, heel pain and ankle sprains.

There is a greater risk of sporting injuries as a result of; Overuse – A sudden increase in frequency or intensity of an activity that involves running, jumping and sprinting.

Overtraining or excessive physical activity causes abnormal stresses on the body and doesn’t allow for adequate tissue recovery. Prevention is vital. Gradual increases are recommended and appropriate rest days are also advised.

Training errors – Such as skipping warm ups, cool downs, inadequate rest and recovery days and poor technique. A well designed warm-up programme as part of training has shown to have reduced acute knee and ankle injuries by 50%.

Adolescent Growth Spurt – during adolescence, bones go through stages of rapid growth. This can be at the expense of bone and tendon strength and pre-disposes young people to injury when participating in high intensity sport.

Previous injury – if rehabilitation hasn’t been adequate for a previous injury, there is a greater risk of re-injury.

Ankle sprains are a good example of this and a common injury in court sports. To prevent re-injury appropriate rehabilitation is indicated, as well as preventative measures such as footwear modifications, orthotics and bracing. A podiatrist can help:

A podiatrist can give advice regarding: • Strengthening program to facilitate tendon repair • Exercises to improve biomechanics, flexibility and strength • Preventative strategies to avoid re-injury • Footwear advice and modifications • Orthotic devices to correct any lower limb alignment issues • How to correct training errors to maximise performance • In complex cases, your Podiatrist may order further investigations such as x-rays and/or ultrasonography Bellarine Community Health have a youth dedicated allied health team located at headspace Geelong – Drysdale.

The multi-disciplinary team environment ensures a holistic approach to the management of a person’s condition, from head to toe. If you would like to see a podiatrist or need any other youth service, please phone for an appointment.

If you are 12-25 years old, you can find us at headspace Geelong – Drysdale, Peninsula Drive, Drysdale, Ph. 03 5253 0400.

If you are not feeling yourself, are sad, anxious or depressed make an appointment to see your GP. In addition, Barwon Medicare Local runs free and confidential health services for young people aged 12-25 through headspace Geelong and Corio 5222 6690 and Drysdale 5253 0400.

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TRAVELLING,

TODDLERS & TASTY TREATS

In March 2014, my husband and I took the plunge – we went to Europe, with our two year old son! We had travelled on a budget in the past and we knew that now we had a child some things were going to have to change.

For instance, we booked our flights with an airline which boasted a helpful in-flight nanny service that sounded much more child-friendly than the no-frills airline we had gone with last time. We also realised our packing light days were over and bought luggage suitable for a family of three for a six week period.

Our itinerary was planned with the realistic view that more time and fewer destinations would probably be necessary.

We chose to go to places that we could access by rail, guessing that after 24 hours on a plane with a toddler we wouldn’t want to see an airport until our return journey to Australia.

An accommodation search on Airbnb was also vital, knowing that the shoebox sized hotel rooms from our last stay in Europe wouldn’t cut it with a little one. This time we were after self-contained accommodation with a port-a-cot and preferably a washing machine!

As we settled in for take-off, we, along with other parents on board, glanced at the regular passengers, nervously smiling, hoping they might forgive any screaming or tantrums from our precious little ones mid-flight.

I had put together a kit I hoped would entertain Noah on the flight; whilst books couldn’t hold his attention, a few items became invaluable to pass the time. Stickers were peeled and stuck, a tub of play dough saw us moulding

and squashing at half hour intervals and a selection of figurines and cars were perfect for playing in a tight space.

I had also packed lots of snacks thinking they would be a great distraction between the in-flight entertainment and the meals. He did think they were great but unfortunately he wouldn’t eat anything else.

In hindsight, if you are planning a long haul with small children soon, pack some more substantial food like mini sandwiches, good quality yoghurt, or home-made bites with yummy almond meal, oats or dried fruits. And make sure you have a wide variety of smaller snacks to keep things interesting.

Settling into Southern France, we took daily trips to the market to sample local produce. Noah was settled into a routine which we were slightly fearful of disturbing, so we found ourselves cooking the evening meal at home with delicious goodies from the market. Cheese, olives, fresh tomatoes and baguettes filled the stroller basket for picnic lunches; freshly made hummus (a favourite of Noah’s), featured heavily in the region and this was enthusiastically dipped into. Croissants also became a daily requirement, and the word quickly added to Noah’s vocabulary.

In Spain we were thankful Noah slipped into taking a long siesta each afternoon, making him fresh and ready to try a series of tapas bars of an evening. We enjoyed walking along the streets with other families all making their way to dinner.

We tried hard to keep offering Noah a balanced diet throughout our time away; we made fresh, simple foods at

our accommodation and packed healthy snacks to try and counterbalance the many other delights we tasted while out and about.

Noah took to travelling with gusto, and was happy as long as his belly was full and he could visit a park or playground between site-seeing. The trip was a different paced experience for my husband and I, but it really allowed us the pleasure of becoming more submerged in the day-to-day happenings of where we were.

On returning to Australia, having spent time in smaller cities and towns during our trip, we decided to move out of Melbourne, and so here we are in Geelong. A few months later I launched my business, Budding Appetites, an online store providing families with organic baby foods, healthy toddler snacks and premium feeding items. The business was in the pipeline before our trip, but our travelling experience really highlighted the need for easy access to high quality foods, and good accessories to make feeding littlies just that bit easier.

Ellen Fox - Owner of Budding Appetites, First Tastes to Toddler Snacks.

A reliable one-stop shop that provides families with premium feeding items and foods catering to the dietary requirements of their little ones. We pride ourselves on being allergy conscious and stocking high quality brands you can trust. From baby’s first taste to snacking toddlers, we offer you a variety of organic baby foods, toddler snacks and feeding products - sent straight to your door.

FREE DELIVERY IN GEELONG www.buddingappetites.com.au

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Wow! What a year. Am I the only one who cannot believe how quickly the past twelve months have gone, or are we all in the same boat? Pulling down the Christmas tree feels like yesterday and it’s already time to put it up again! 2014 has been an amazing year for us, from one extreme to the next. First was the stress of beginning work full time with an 18 month old little girl and within a blink of an eye I’m writing Christmas cards to clients and family the following year! Does anyone else think back to the year they have had? To me this is my favourite part of the year, looking back at all the things we have achieved, and even taking notice of the things we didn’t manage to quite reach but are still determined to in the exciting year ahead. I find my determination and emotions are at full speed around the Christmas and New Year period. Thinking back to all the memories we made as a family is just overwhelming not to mention the experience I have had and learned from at work. I am not sure if it is just me, but is anyone else feeling the extra Christmas spirit this year? I was extremely hesitant to admit it at first, however I am tying it all back to the wonderful changes our mayor has made this Christmas! I really wasn’t impressed or interested in the big tree on the water front when I first heard the news, I was more concerned about the financial side of things, keeping in mind there were other areas of our community I would have liked to see the money go. However after attending the launch of the light and sound show, with Santa and the Mayor making their way in via an old tug boat and the huge crowd and the community spirit I certainly stood corrected!

The tree was beautiful and the visit is certainly something I want to keep as a tradition each Christmas with my family and friends. We also took our baby girl to the light show projected on the beautiful city hall, this too was absolutely stunning and an event we all thoroughly enjoyed. The happiness exploding from all the kid’s faces as they told Santa and the magic pudding what they love about Christmas and what toys they hoped to receive was just gorgeous. There was no trouble, everyone was friendly and

certainly up for a chat as people laid out a rug to enjoy the show and the beautiful carols put on by the Salvos brass band! What more could you ask for at Christmas? Events like these are the perfect place to make amazing family memories and traditions to celebrate such an amazing time of year usually with awesome weather. But there is also something that does play on my mind around this glorious summer period though and you can probably guess what it is… Water safety! After living at the beach for the first 23 years of my life as well as holidaying at rivers every chance we got, swim safety plays a huge role in my family’s life and individual development. I’m not sure if there is anything more important to me than knowing, encouraging and teaching my daughter to swim and continuously developing those skills and her knowledge. I cannot stress enough, the importance of this part of a child’s life, as well as adults.

The amount of trouble families find themselves in revolving around water is super sad. This is certainly something most families think they will never experience or at least hope not to experience, however we are consistently hearing about these tragic accidents every year. There is nothing worse than ending your Christmas break or beginning your new year with awful heart break and troubling memories of accidents which probably could have been avoided or prevented. I couldn’t even comprehend how I would cope or deal with something like this happening, especially not to my child. I would have no idea where to turn for help or support to overcome this. I feel as a parent (while we cannot wrap our kids in cotton wool) we do have a huge responsibility to keep our babies safe…. from most things in the world. I understand accidents do happen sometimes however I struggle to understand the concept in regards to this particular type of thing and basically how this can happen. Hopefully none of you or myself has to go through (or have been through) such an awful ordeal and can begin a new year with a fresh vibe and strong spirit. Merry Christmas and a safe new year to all of you!

Carly

JANUARY 2015 - PAGE 9

PUFFING BILLY A GREAT FAMILY DAY OUT,

THE KIDS HAD A BALL!

It is easily accessible and there is onsite car parking but it’s also easy to get to via public transport. Puffing Billy Station is right next to Belgrave Station, you need to walk 100 meters through the gates, if you are unsure like we were ask the friendly staff at the front office. We took the 10:30 train and decided to go all the way to Lakeside Station which is about 1.5 hours away, so in total the journey including stops and lunch took around 3 hours, perfect when you have small kids like we do.

Because we got there a bit early, we managed to take some souvenir pictures of the station master and conductor with the kids, as well as check out the locomotive depot where they service and repair the steam engines.

At first we didn’t want the children to sit on the edge and hang their legs over as I was a bit afraid they might fall off, but the railings are quite secure and we just stood behind them while they screamed with glee. That was the highlight of the trip. Luke was trying to pull at the leaves, whilst Jordan and Roxy tried to grab the steam through the bushes that was coming out of the engine.

The kids loved the Sherbrook forest area, which has many magnificent examples of the native ‘Mountain Ash’ trees (a form of eucalypt). My daughter said that the forest reminded her of some of her fairy stories we read together, it is so beautiful.

One of our favourite moments along the train ride was the Trestle wooden bridge between Menzies Creek and the Belgrave station. It is about 91m long and about 12m up in the air and it’s a great feeling having your feet dangling above the bridge. You need to have your camera ready as the view going over the bridge is spectacular. As you keep travelling there are gorgeous views out to Port Phillip Bay over the mountains.

We took the one hour ride up to Lakeside and passed through Selby which opened in 1904 and was named after a local landowner. Then the train stopped for about 10 minutes at Menzies Creek where there is a steam museum adjacent to the station. Unfortunately it is currently closed for redevelopment, We then passed Clematis station and Emerald township

which is the highest station on the line, and this is also the venue for the popular ‘Day Out With Thomas’ train ride event, which we definitely would like to do next time.

Then finally we arrived at Lakeside which is actually a great place to relax. As we got off the kids were quite cold and a bit a hungry, so we decided to try some sandwiches at the café at the station, but if you go a bit further towards the playground, there is a café that sells the most delicious looking scones. The park is beautiful and is the perfect place for a picnic or a barbecue. There is a nice playground and the kids enjoyed having a play - being a mum, I was relieved to see toilets nearby. There are also paddle boats that can be rented out and a swimming pool along with changing facilities. Another thing that caught my eye at this place was the model train shop, and many little trail walks you can venture on.

A few notes: - Take a warm jacket. It was raining a bit when we went, but because we had warm jackets on the kids were fine - Pack a picnic to avoid tourist food prices

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BIRTH STORY

BREE-ARNE

LACHLAN

& JAY

Bree-Arne Manley and her husband Lachlan live in Point Lonsdale. Thirteen months ago she gave birth to their first child, Jayden.

Bree-Arne is a musician, and plays the guitar and piano.

She writes her own songs and has a CD out called ‘Release me’.

When Bree-Arne was 19 years of age, she was diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis, which is a disease of the Central Nervous System. Multiple Sclerosis occurs when the protective sheath around the nerve fibres in the brain and spinal cord (known as myelin) becomes damaged, causing electrical impulses to become unpredictable. When Bree-Arne was diagnosed, she was working as a forklift driver and warehouse distributor at Mitre-10, and she aimed to study horticulture.

Bree-Arne has written a book about living with MS, and she intends to have the book published next year, to coincide with the 10 year anniversary of her diagnosis.

Bree-Arne met Lachlan around 8 years ago, at open mic music sessions that were held in Ocean Grove and Barwon Heads. Lachlan plays the guitar and is learning the trumpet.

Lachlan is a photographer (you can check out his web page at http://www.lachlanmanleyphotography.com). He loves photographing birds as well as wild weather and landscapes, and he takes some wonderful photos.

Bree-Arne and Lachlan had a birth plan, but it wasn’t followed when the time came!

Bree-Arne went into labour around 10.30 pm one night, when she was over her due date by a few days. She rang the Barwon Health Labour Ward a few times to talk to a midwife to give an account of what was happening, and the third time she rang the midwife suggested that they come to the hospital for an assessment, even though Bree-Arne was coping with the pain very well. When they arrived at the hospital, around 3.30am, Bree-Arne was found to be fully dilated! Bree-Arne thinks that she coped with the pain of labour very well due to a combination of good preparation and the fact that MS may have masked the pain. Also Bree-Arne’s mum prayed throughout the pregnancy that Bree-Arne would not suffer, so there may have been divine intervention in the labour being such a manageable one!

Baby Jayden was born around 6.50 am after three hours of second stage labour, and he weighed in at a whopping 9lbs11oz (4.4 kgs). Bree-Arne had no stiches, and she puts that down to ante-natal perineal stretching.

Bree-Arne chose the name ‘Jayden’ for her baby boy, as the meaning of Jayden is ‘God has heard’. When BreeArne found out that she was pregnant she heard God say “I have given you a gift!”. Bree-Arne is really into the meanings of names so Jayden was appropriately named.

Jay is now a very busy 13 month old boy. He still loves to breast feed even though Bree-Arne has been trying to In 2013 Bree-Arne was at a music festival and was not wean him, as the breast feeding has taken its toll on her feeling well, but put it down to the hot weather at the time. body and she feels very tired. Bree-Arne and Lachlan When the nausea persisted she investigated the situation are a great team, and Lachlan is a full-time carer for his and found that she was pregnant. This was wonderful family. news for the couple as Bree-Arne had been weeping and Bree-Arne has discovered that many health professionals grieving uncontrollably at times because she thought that give conflicting advice to new parents, and she has she would never have her own family (and that is all she decided that you take the advice that works and has ever really wanted.. Not fame, riches or success)! meaning for you and your family, and ignore the rest!

The pregnancy was managed through the midwives Bree-Arne can not lift Jay into his cot, so he sleeps next clinic at Barwon Health. Bree-Arne had to really look after to her on the couch during the day. Jay doesn’t sleep her health in view of having MS, and she took vitamin much anyway during the day; he has quick naps but is supplements during pregnancy and made sure that she basically on the go from 7am until 9.30 pm. Fortunately, rested.

Jay sleeps all night!

Bree-Arne and Lachlan LOVED the pregnancy. They Next year Bree-Arne plans to strengthen her body and videotaped all of the stages of pregnancy, including the improve her health, as she feels so worn out after her big ultrasounds and even recorded the baby’s heart beat. A year of parenthood and marriage! friend who is an artist painted Bree-Arne’s belly in a nine Thanks for sharing your story Bree-Arne! You and your panel work of art, and made a belly cast from plaster. family are an inspiration!

Bree-Arne had a very healthy pregnancy, but towards TOLD TO JEN CARR the later stages she felt very ‘heavy’ and had problems standing up.

Bree-Arne and Lachlan married in April 2014.

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GROVEDALE COLLEGE

Describe the schools sport program:

sound, lighting and production

Grovedale College’s Sports Academy program offers our students a unique opportunity to combine their passion for sport with an academic pathway, with the program running from Year 7 to 11. Our Year 7 students can apply for the opportunity to participate in a range of specialist coaching in AFL, Cricket, Netball, Basketball, Soccer, Fitness and Tennis, all held during school hours. The program is designed to develop our students leadership, initiative and physical skills through a broad range of experiences

Describe the schools drama/arts program:

Describe the schools music program: The Music Department of Grovedale College offers an extensive program. Instruments taught include the woodwind and brass instruments, guitar, drums, piano and voice. Students can join the concert band, vocal group, guitar and drum groups, rock bands and the Feedback�

Band to develop their performance skills. The college offers music at each year level as well as VCE and VET Music Performance. Regular concerts are held and GAFFA, the college Performing Arts Festival, provides students with unique, hands on experience in professional

Students at Grovedale College engage in a vibrant and exciting Visual and Performing Arts program. In the Visual Arts genre there are many opportunities for painting and drawing, clay making, graphic communication and design, printmaking, photography and media manipulation.

The VCE showcase highlights the wonderful work of our talented senior students. The Performing Arts are celebrated through the annual College Production and Arts Festivals with students also developing their skills in Drama, Media and Music classes throughout all year levels.

Describe the schools ITC program: The Grovedale College e-learning program is provided to engage and challenge students. From 2015 all year 7 to 9 students will be using a tablet device in their classes, and all year 10 to 12 students will be using netbooks .

The program allows students to be exposed to a wide range of learning experiences. It allows students to

LS SCHOO US IN FOC

develop their communication, organisational and ICT skills. All devices are also wireless, allowing easy access to the internet for research and class work at any time.

What is your school philosophy: Grovedale College has high expectations of its students.

It is our firm belief that every student can experience success and graduate as a responsible, resilient, resourceful young adult, well prepared to take charge of their future. Our learning programs are stimulating, rewarding and forward looking. We focus on whole student development by embracing academic progress, the building of character, self determination, confidence and a sense of self worth.

Principal: Ms Janet Matthews Public/Private/Independent: Public Address: Wingarra Drive Grovedale Phone: 52454545 Number of students: 840 Number of teachers: 100

JANUARY 2015 - PAGE 13

OF

TALK

THE

TOWN GROVEDALE

Its often said that the ‘only constant is change’.

Grovedale is a case in point. It’s a suburb undergoing significant change driven largely by the new residential areas opening up in neighbouring Armstrong Creek. Yet it’s well established as the family friendly southern suburb of Geelong, being well supplied with lifelong learning opportunities, fabulous community and sporting facilities, ever expanding shopping centres and good medical facilities and public transport.

The most recent Community Plan for the area found that residents of Grovedale like where they live, have strong solid connections with neighbours and feel a sense of belonging. Residents value open green spaces and easy access to parks, walking trails and high quality recreation facilities. In general the community feel they experience low levels of vandalism and crime and report they feel safe.

Waurn Ponds Creek parklands provide great open space which is well used and valued by walkers and cyclists alike. It is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna. The very active Friends of Waurn Ponds Creek gather together on the 1st and 3rd Sundays of the month between 9am – 11.30am to propagate plants from seeds, plant trees, shrubs and grasses, maintain the plants, clean up around the creek and have fun. New members are always welcome.

Grovedale is well catered for with regard to many sporting activities. Burdoo Reserve, adjacent to Grovedale College, is home to the very successful Grovedale Tigers Football and Netball Club which has a large senior and

junior membership. The excellent facilities also cater to the cricket and tennis clubs. The quickly growing Barwon Soccer Club operates from facilities off Reserve Rd, and the Geelong Baseball Club occupies excellent facilities not far from LeisureLink Sports and Aquatic Centre. Less formal physical activities are available at the regional Skate Park, private gymnasiums and dancesports facilities.

The broad range of activities available in this thriving suburb also include a long established community garden, which has some plots available, and the Transition South Barwon monthly food swaps.

The local library facilities are now well established in Pioneer Rd, over the road from the largest shopping centre in the south, Waurn Ponds where large supermarkets and chain stores act as a magnet for people from across Geelong and down the coast. Smaller neighbourhood shopping centres and local supermarkets are located in Peter St, Heyers Rd and Marshalltown Rd. Locals will not fail to notice the changing face of our major through road, Surf Coast Highway where it seems that each week sees the opening of a new large store servicing the growth and change in the area.

Getting around Grovedale is becoming challenging with the growth and activity increasing traffic volumes, although it’s hoped that the new ring road, Baanip Boulevard, to the south of the railway line will take heavy traffic off Heyers Road making it less stressful. Public transport includes buses which move people around the suburb over designated routes and not one, but now two railway stations for those moving further afield.

Educationally, Grovedale is very well placed. The five primary schools in the area ensure that a school is never too far away and help to build strong community connections. Grovedale College provides secondary students with a vibrant and comprehensive curriculum as well as offering them the opportunity to participate in a wide range of activities including debating, chess,

Tournament of the Minds, the State School Spectacular, sporting opportunities, the Arts Festival and an overseas language experience. Adult learners are catered for at by the extensive and varied programs at the Grovedale Neighbourhood House and the University of the Third Age at Cobbin Farm.

Young families will find a range of private child care centres, three kinders, playgroups and Paddington Toy Library available to meet their needs and provide a place to nurture friendships. The new Grovedale Community Hub, the fist iconic public building in the south, adds the early years services of two kinders, occasional childcare, maternal and child health services to the site of the refurbished Community Centre.

The Community Centre has a long history on the site being home to the Grovedale Senior Citizens Club and the Neighbourhood House. The Neighbourhood House hosts over 30 different groups and their program includes computer courses, wellbeing activities and certificate courses. 2015 is shaping up as a very exciting year as the groups make the newly refurbished Community Hub into their home. Children’s activities include calisthenics, dance, music and pre-reading skills. Wellbeing activities include yoga, meditation, Tai Chi and energetic healing.

People wishing to work in aged care or home care sectors will be able to undertake a Certificate 3 qualification and the new computer centre will be up and running for people will be able to learn computer and Ipad skills. The Grovedale Grapevine community newsletter, a project of the neighbourhood house, will enter its fourth year of production and seeks to spread local news and info so that people get a real sense of the community that thrives in Grovedale. There’s so much happening locally and sometimes as residents we are too close to it to see that we are more than just a suburb of Geelong, but a thriving vibrant connected community in our own right!

Beth Davidson Manager @ Grovedale Neighbourhood House 45 Heyers Rd, Grovedale, Vic 3216 Ph 5241 5717

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PHILLIP ISLAND

NATURE PARKS School’s out and the great outdoors are in! Head to Phillip Island Nature Parks – only 90 minutes from Melbourne – between January 2 and 21 and go wild with daily holiday activities or check out the below special promotions and events.

Billy carts and Rocket Blasts Get set for thrills and spills at Churchill Island on 10 January with billy cart races and rocket building activities all day. Bring your billy cart and race down heritage green or blast off in the Launch Zone with rocket and flight activities.

Don’t miss the crazy Captain Featherpants live show!

Australia Day long weekend Celebrate Australia Day long weekend, 24 – 26 January, at Churchill Island’s popular Kids Festival. Games, face painting, hands on farming activities, wagon rides, live shows and a whole lot more from 10am – 4pm.

KIDS EAT FREE with a 3 Parks Pass at Phillip Island RSL. Simply purchase a child 3 Park Pass for Phillip Island Nature Parks and an adult meal from the RSL between 12noon - 2pm and enjoy a wholesome family meal from a mouth-watering menu. Offer valid until 26 January 2015.

The best way to explore Phillip Island Nature Parks is with a 3 Parks Pass.

A 3 Parks Pass offers discounted entry into the Penguin Parade, Koala Conservation Centre and Churchill Island Heritage Farm.

Take a waddle on the wild side at one of Australia’s most popular natural wildlife attractions at the sunset Penguin Parade. Watch the world’s smallest Penguins march across the beach to their sand dune burrows.

Come face-to-face with Koala’s in their natural habitat from the elevated tree top board walks. Keep an eye out on the bushland track for more Australian wildlife including wallabies, echidnas and over 150 species of birds.

Take a journey back in time and explore Churchill Islands heritage and tranquil scenery. Experience daily farming activities consisting of cow milking, sheep shearing, working dogs and whip cracking. Churchill Island also boasts many beautiful walking trails amongst wetlands and beneath ancient Moonah trees.

Explore the rugged coastline and cliff top boardwalks at the Nobbies Centre where entry is free! Just a 5 minute drive past the Penguin Parade the Nobbies Centre is the perfect stop before your evening penguin visit.

Best of all entry to events is free with a 3 Parks Pass.

Check out www.penguins.org.au or call 03 5951 2800 for more info.

YMCA GYMNASTICS YMCA Geelong is recognised as a leader in the delivery of gymnastics programs within the Geelong and District region. We operate over two main venues; Newtown and Geelong Arena. The YMCA provides gymnastics programs to suit all ages and abilities.

Gymnastics provides a multitude of challenges regardless of ability and is the ideal way to develop strength, coordination, flexibility, motor control, confidence and self-esteem. All YMCA Gymnastics programs are staffed by qualified coaches and our curriculum enables children to build on skills and is about fun, friendship and keeping active and healthy.

YMCA Geelong also has other offerings including Mums and Bubs. This is a 45 minutes post natal fitness and wellbeing program. Babies aged from six weeks can enjoy active movement with their mothers in a comfortable environment. It also gives mothers the opportunity to connect and build friendships with other mothers.

‘Steady Feet’ is an exercise program designed for older adults to help develop muscle strength and balance plus decrease the risk of falls. They also receive advice on foot care, vision and nutrition and most importantly have fun in a safe and enjoyable environment.

Other sports on offer at YMCA Geelong include Trampolining. This is an exciting Olympic sport that consists of trampoline, double-mini tramp and tumbling. We offer classes to suit all abilities providing your child with confidence, improved coordination, physical workout and its lots of fun!

Cheerleading is a new emerging gym sport that promotes leadership, team work and trust whilst incorporating elements of dance, tumbling, cheers, gymnastics and stunting into organised routines. We have both a recreational team and squad in order to meet the needs of all abilities and children as young as 8 can join.

The YMCA Geelong Judo club has had a lot of success this year with one of its members making it to the Commonwealth Games! The club has been operating for more than 40 years and accredited coaches train players from beginners to elite level. Boys and girls aged from 7 are welcome to join this non aggressive martial arts program.

YMCA Basketball covers both Basketball Basics, teaching skills to kids from the age of 5 and our Social Basketball competition which gives kids the opportunity to keep physically active in a fun and social atmosphere.

Rookie Sports is a multi-sports program designed for children between the ages of 3 ½ and 6 years. Its perfect for introducing kids to a number of different sports and exposing them to various skills before deciding which sport is right for them.

If you’re looking for something different for your childs next birthday perhaps you should consider our popular party package. It consists of fully supervised gymnastics fun including circuit games, beams, bars, rings, foam pit and more.

Our School Holiday program runs over each School term holiday breaks. It is an extensive program designed to cater for both mainstream and additional needs children providing lots of amazing activities to keep kids busy.

If you would like more information on any of these programs please call our friendly staff on 52232714 or see our website geelong.ymca.org.au.

JANUARY 2015 - PAGE 15

READY, SET... SCHOOL! Road to Reading is an extremely successful program that has been operating in Geelong, on the Surf Coast and now Melbourne for over 3 years. Many of our little ‘Readers’ are just about to take the big step of starting school.

It’s an exciting time for the whole family, but there can also be a few nerves associated with it. To help make the leap a little easier for Preps, Road to Reading is running a Summer Holiday Program in Torquay.

FAST, FURIOUS & FUN AT LASERSTRIKE

Dates: Monday 5th – Friday 16th January Location: Torquay Uniting Church Duration: 10 x 1 hour morning sessions Bookings essential With a greater awareness and understanding about literacy, children gain the skills they need to begin their schooling life with increased confidence. The feedback from parents and teachers alike has been overwhelmingly positive, with both recognizing the value that Road to Reading offers each child.

The sessions simulate a classroom environment and are capped to a maximum of 8 children. By having such a small group, the teachers are able to discover the personal qualities of each individual child. They can encourage quiet children to find their voice and develop attitudes such as persistence and ‘having a go’. Road to Reading can also encourage busy children to channel their energy and enthusiasm in positive and meaningful ways. The children explore letter and sound relationships, learn sight words and become familiar with reading concepts. New concepts are introduced and familiar themes rehearsed in each session. At the conclusion of the program, the children have a whole new set of skills that will aid them in their journey of learning to read.

Oral language and speech articulation are also major components of the sessions and children are instructed through Cued Articulation. They learn that every letter has a sound (some letters make more than one sound) and they practise these during each class. The teachers assist children in expanding their vocabulary, as having a wide bank of known words supports the process of learning to read.

It is worthwhile to be proactive and prepare young minds for what’s to come, as it can be a long, challenging road for children who struggle with their learning. At Road to Reading, the qualified teachers can assist parents in identifying learning, behavioural and physical issues before they reach school, giving them an opportunity to take positive steps in supporting their child.

Limited places left in the Summer Holiday Program so get on board quickly!

Road to Reading runs term classes from Mondays – Fridays in Grovedale, Highton and Torquay and the first class is free! The sessions are jam packed with stories, songs, craft, games, activities and cater for children aged between 2 – 6 years old. You can enrol your child into the Summer Holiday Program or a 2015 class now by calling Kate Keogh on 0402 284 224 or emailing info@roadtoreading.com.au.

Located in North Geelong and only five minutes from the Geelong CBD, this outdoor urban battlefield is the only one of its kind in Geelong. The battles fought are fun, fast and furious. They are won and lost amongst thousands of tyres, many barriers, hay bales, cars and even the odd truck and Ice Cream Van. Why not grab the kids, family, mates or even a group to come along and enjoy the experience. The Laser weapons fire harmless infra-red light beams, players develop team strategies to complete the missions and experienced referees are on hand to supervise and make sure it’s fun from the first game.

Open every weekend and daily in the school holidays, plus any age can play.

Bookings are essential for all sessions. Laser Strike is a perfect option for birthday parties, sports groups and corporate events.

Action Packed School Holiday Sessions from only $15*pp.

Great savings for the Summer School Holidays with daily sessions 10am, 1pm & 7pm( Battle @ sunset).

Please make sure you do arrive ½ hour before session for your briefing. If you are looking for a fun afternoon for the kids then take them out to Laser Strike, with a one hour session now only $15 (plus FREE camo overalls and facepaint) now is the time to “strike”.

Please contact Jason by phone or email for all details or to book your session.

P 0401 290 560 • E geelong@laserstrike.com.au www.laserstrike.com.au 15 Douro St North Geelong (next to Murrell Chauffeurs)

PAGE 16 - JANUARY 2015

SUMMER D’LITES

Serendipity D’lites is a family owned business situated in the heart of Ocean Grove.

Our yoghurt is non-fat and low fat, containing live and active cultures. We offer a huge range of gluten free flavours along with dairy free sorbets. Our flavour variety changes on a regular basis. If there is a flavour you love and we don’t have it, please make the suggestion to one of our lovely staff members who are happy to always give you service with a smile.

We have a magnificent range of toppings for your purchase from fresh fruit through to decadent sweet toppings, our toppings are also available to buy and take home. Our ice-cream range is also gluten free and all natural with a range of amazing flavours. We offer a convenient take home range as well.

Here at Serendipity D’lites we create gluten free shakes which are healthy and are available in amazing flavours. Frappes, Hot dogs and baked potatoes with delicious toppings are also on our menu on a daily basis. If you’re looking for a birthday party option that won’t break the budget, please enquire about our unique party experience on offer.

During January we are offering a special school holiday promotion. Pop in to Serendipity D’lites and purchase one of our awesome smoothies, and receive a second smoothie for 1/2 Price.

During the summer holidays we are open 7 days, from 10am until late so pop in and see us in Ocean Grove for something tasty and exciting.

Phone: 5255 3331 www.serendipitydlites.com.au 70A The Terrace Ocean Grove Find and follow us on Facebook and Instagram.

MARKET SQUARE

EVERY PARENTS HAVEN! Market Square Shopping Centre has transformed into a parent’s haven with quality facilities, excellent shopping and the forever popular school holiday activities!

Cotton On Kids News Hosting the World’s largest Cotton On Kids, this store offers zoned, interactive and stress-free shopping for parents with their children! The brand’s size 9-14 category, FREE by Cotton On, offers fun, affordable and age-appropriate collections for the ‘tweens’ of Geelong. The innovative store offers an extended range of KIDS and BABY fashion essentials, stationery, accessories and a new bedroom range, as well as something for every little personality. All located under the one roof for your shopping convenience, it’s a must visit for kids, parents and grandparents alike to get an understanding of where modern bricks and mortar retailing is heading.

Parents Rooms Parents with young tots can enjoy well-appointed baby feed and change rooms with colourful murals designed to keep younger children entertained while you have baby time. “Our parent’s rooms are located on both the ground floor and Level One with changing facilities, private feeding rooms, microwave and nappy dispensers that are available for parents during shopping hours” says Centre Manager, Sandy KellyBurton.

Free Fun These School Holidays During January there is some free fairytale fun for kids to enjoy. See the advertisement for more details or go to www.marketsquaregeelong.com.au The NEW Timezone Chillzone located on Level 1 of Market Square also provides a well needed reprieve for tired parents and has 2-4-1 gaming between the 12-16 January.

Easier & Cheaper Parking Market Square has long been a popular parking location for those visiting the CBD, offering cheaper and easier car parking for everyone, including dedicated parent’s with pram parks. From just $1 for up to 2 hours of parking, it’s the only parking space where you still received personalised service from real people! Village Cinema are offering FREE kids movie tickets these school holidays when accompanied by a full price paying adult. With movies like Alexander, Paddington, Annie, Big Hero 6, Penguins and Into the Woods, it’s a great way to enjoy a family afternoon.

Be In The Know Did you know that Market Square works with many local businesses to deliver benefits to our customers? Check out these great offers to make entertaining the kids even easier.

Village Cinemas - visit Village Cinemas and show Market Square car parking staff your movie stub to receive $2 off your parking. Stay for less than 3 hours and that’s free parking!

Timezone - Simply park at Market Square, spend at least $30* at Timezone Geelong, show them your parking card and they will stamp it so you receive $2 off your parking!

That’s free car parking when staying less than 3 hours and heaps of gaming fun!

Finally, Market Square Shopping Centre would like to take the opportunity to wish you and your family a very Merry Christmas and a safe and happy New Year. We look forward to your patronage during 2015.

JANUARY 2015 - PAGE 17

PLASTER BARN

HOLIDAY FUN!

SPECIAL VISITS FROM BATMAN AND CINDERELLA! Keep an eye out on our facebook page and website for information) School holiday program at Plaster Barn Runs for 3 hours and is only $30 (That’s just $10 per hour) Ages 5 and over Limited spaces Bookings essential Whats included??

Facepainting Polymer Clay necklace making - make your own beads from polymer clay that is then baked and you can assemble into a necklace.

Lunch from our yummy neighbours at Ricky’s fish and chips Plaster craft painting Bubble disco!!

Saturday 3rd January 10am - 1pm Tuesday 13th January 10am - 1pm

LET LOOSE THIS SUMMER! Summertime is Fun time. So why not escape the summer heat, Mozzies and Flies and bring the whole family to Let em Loose. Watch your children play while you sit back and enjoy a coffee, iced chocolate or cold soft drink and a bite to eat.

Let em Loose is a fun, clean, safe and enjoyable indoor Play centre for ages ranging from 0 to around 10yo. With Unlimited Play time, fully Airconditioned and a designated toddler are for 0-4yo and a bigger structure for the bigger kiddies.

We have a full cafe menu, ice creams cold drinks and our Popular Capra coffee. Our friendly staff can also cater for any special dietary requirements should you need it. Our Specials board changes from time to time so make sure you have a look when you come in. For the month of January we will be offering:

JANUARY SPECIALS

Week 1 from 3rd–11th: 1 Free ice cream in a cone with entry Week 2 from 12th–18th: 1 Free Kid with Milkshake With entry

Thursday 15th January 10am - 1pm

Week 3 from 19th–25th: 1 Free Jelly cup With entry

For the boys!!

Whats included??

Facepainting Make your own pirate patch craft activity Lunch from our yummy neighbours at Ricky’s fish and chips Plaster craft painting Bubble disco!!

For large groups we can offer a Party room free of cost for you and your friends and family to sit together. We do advise that you call and make a reservation should you require a table booking or Party room. You can contact us on 52563200.

Saturday 3rd January 1pm - 4pm Tuesday 13th January 1pm - 4pm Thursday 15th January 1pm - 4pm Please contact Amanda on 0488 704 904 to make a booking or for more information

Week 4 26th–31st: 1 Free coffee with entry

We try and keep our prices as reasonable as possible, Entry Price is: Non walkers are FREE, Non school age, $7.00, School age $9.00 and no charge for Adults. Our opening hours for January are Mon – Sun 9am to 4 pm.

We at Let em Loose hope everyone has a safe and enjoyable Xmas and a happy new year. See you all Soon.

PAGE 18 - JANUARY 2015

JANUARY 2015 - PAGE 19

PASSION TO A PAGE...

Marisa Alo is a local writer / illustrator. She was born and lives in Geelong, Victoria. Since a child she has always loved to draw and paint.

She was fascinated by the illustrations in picture books in her primary school years and it was then that she made up her mind to illustrate children’s books when she finished school.

In 1994 Marisa graduated from the Melbourne School of Art in Elsternwick, Victoria. Since graduating she has worked as a freelance illustrator, designing a variety of products such as greeting cards, bed linen, games, paper tole, growth charts, logos, caricatures and even wall murals.

Although it was a long hard road to get her first book published, Marisa was determined to succeed. She never allowed the numerous rejection letters from publishers to stop her from following her dream of being published.

Since graduating from art school Marisa constantly practised her drawing and painting and developed her own unique style of illustration.

However, she was not encouraged to both write and illustrate her books, because of the fact that most publishers prefer to team up a well-known author with an unknown illustrator or visa versa to promote their sales.

However she eventually tried to write and illustrate and in

turn was successful.

Her first picture book “Gina the Dancing Queen”, which she wrote and illustrated, was published in 2009 by Windy Hollow Books. Her second picture book, “There Was One In The Bed”, was written by Angie Lionetto – Civa, illustrated by Marisa was also published by Windy Hollow Books in 2010 and Marisa’s third picture book “ Cheeky Missy ” which she wrote and illustrated was recently published in June 2014 by Jo Jo Publishing.

Marisa’s ideas for her stories are based on her own passions and memories which she then translates into a simple story for children. Her aim with each book is to have a plot to the story that a child can learn from complimented with humorous, bright illustrations that capture the child’s attention.

She loves to write and illustrate stories, mostly about animals, thus giving them human characteristics.

Marisa’s latest book “Cheeky Missy” is a story that is based on her own cat named Missy that she had for almost fifteen years. Missy was a very cheeky cat that kept Marisa entertained for the many years that she was privileged to have her. Some of the funny things Missy used to do such as bite Marisa’s hands and feet and protect her from strangers inspired Marisa to write and illustrate this book.

The illustrations in the book are a cartoon version of her cat who was tortoise shell with white mittens and socks, an orange nose and a very cute cheeky face!

Marisa’s illustrations are painted with watercolour and ink and are very bright and colourful. The pages of each of her books are filled with action and the characters have the appearance of moving, sometimes even dancing across the page.

When asked what advice she would give to youngsters who would be interested in perusing a career in writing or illustrating, Marisa says “ To be thick skinned, ignore rejections and never give up, to write and illustrate about events and themes that you are passionate about and to work on developing your own style that you are happy with. Everyone has their own style and sooner or later and editor / art director will come along who appreciates it. There is plenty of space on a bookshelf for all types of books!”

Marisa’s books can be found in all good bookstores. They can also be purchased from her website marisa@marisaalo.com along with limited edition prints of some of the illustrations featured in her books.

PAGE 20 - JANUARY 2015

THIS IS COWORKING GEELONG SHOWCASING THE NEW

METHOD OF OFFICE WORK As the school holidays are upon us, it’s the perfect excuse to spend time with your kids enjoying the summer sunshine. But what happens when you have to work? Well Geelong coworking space, StartupCloud, has the solution!

Working in conjunction with Mirrors PR and Events and the City of Greater Geelong’s Fluke volunteer committee, StartupCloud will be running a major community event for businesses and their families on Friday 16 January between 9am and 5pm. Entitled, This Is Coworking, the event will combine office work, family and summer at the Geelong Waterfront Skate Park, with the chance to conduct business and enjoy free school holiday activities for the kids.

This Is Coworking has a simple aim- to showcase the new method of office work taking over the world and making its way to Geelong. Coworking is based on open plan office space, where entrepreneurs, freelancers, commuters and business owners hire a desk to work on their projects. This notion is becoming widely popular due to the benefits for business that it poses. Coworking allows for individuals to meet like minded people, network with businesses that may assist your own business progress, to work without distractions that arise from the work from home concept, to be inspired by others, to spend more time with families through the elimination of commuting and the ability to work your own hours, and to become part of a community within the wider community. Owners, Todd and Alison Huber say there is a real need for Geelong locals to further their knowledge of coworking and how it can assist in business. ‘We both have our own businesses separate to StartupCloud that we were trying to develop at home’, says Todd, ‘it worked for a while but you become isolated with too many distractions and you begin to lose motivation. That is where coworking suits us perfectly.’ As such, StartupCloud will be taking it outside for the day to highlight its importance.

Coworking is a significant step in modern business for

Geelong. It represents community and serendipity in the work place, combining people of all professions to connect and work separately, together. ‘Having been involved in a coworking space has allowed my business to grow purely through the referrals and advice I have gained from other members’, says Tammy Walters of Mirrors PR and Events.

‘You become a family and want to see everyone succeed.’ This culture itself represents what Geelong as a wider community stands formateship and lending a hand. The model reflects businesses building together which, in turn, will grow Geelong economically. Building a community inside a community, to further the community. This Is Coworking, as an event will target businesses and families to emphasize and display where Geelong is heading in business and why our wider community should become informed and involved.

Coworking is also known for offering flexibility in terms of hours, work-life balance, family commitments and even the environment in which coworking is done. Members are able to work their own hours to optimise their work time and family life. As with This Is Coworking, you are not bound to a particular location. You have the freedom to work outside, on a bus, on a holiday- it can be taken anywhere with that ability to continue connecting with others and not feel isolated.

School holidays can mean a stand still for work and business in most families with the cost of child care being taken into consideration along with family trips being common. Coworking in general eliminates some of this burden through the ability for one to work their own hours,

bring their kids into work and the removal of distractions when one works from home. They say, don’t mix business with pleasure, but sometimes it is unavoidable and can be healthy. By having your children involved in your work, you are allowing a chance for bonding and building of relationships. You are also able to give your children insight to your world and the world of business/office work.

This is not something that can be taught in school, it is an experience. This Is Coworking is a wonderful introduction to children on the different characteristics of business and the benefits of networking with other businesses in the area. It also allows families to experience holidays with the kids whilst making the most of your work and the business connections you may establish. Kids have the opportunity to have free entertainment for the day and stay out of your hair, but you can still enjoy the day together.

There is no point staying in the office on a beautiful summers day when you can be with your family and your community, learning and growing together.

JANUARY 2015 - PAGE 21

ONLINE SHOPPING

WHEN NEEDING IS REALLY WANTING

A few years ago a friend stated that she needed an SUV to take her dog down to the beach. She waited until her old car was on its last leg. She even took her time to research the best SUV within her budget. At the dealership, the car salesman convinced her to test drive a luxury model sedan. She knew she wanted an SUV but began wanting the more expensive car.

become a way of life. Online retail sales are growing at more than 15 times the rate of the overall retail sector in Australia with more than 50% of Australians shopping online. Average weekly online expenditure per person is around $300. For anyone operating a business, it’s hard to ignore these figures and not do something about it. Want Wizard is a unique way of online shopping where the person who is buying actually posts what they want rather than trawl web site after web site to find it. It puts an end to buying what you don’t need and actually getting what you want. Want Wizard works like an online noticeboard. Sick of seeking out that Danish ottoman you have been looking for since you saw it in your favourite magazine? Then post it on Want Wizard. Looking for a plumber to fix your leaking taps? Then list it on Want Wizard. So easy.

Then something happened. She began saying she needed this more expensive, luxury vehicle.

Our mind begins to blur the line between needs and wants. It’s easy to choose between needing food to eat versus wanting the latest electronic gadget. Which would you choose? It gets harder to discern the difference when it’s something you truly need like a car to get to work but wanting the sports car.

The major difference between needs and wants is simple.

Needs are things you have to have and life can’t do without no matter what, like food, water, shelter, money and, of course, love. Wants, on the other hand, are things you would like to have. My kids, or the ‘I wants’ as I affectionately refer to them, tend to get these mixed up.

I hear a lot of ‘Muuuummmm, I need a Lego Mindstorm’, or ‘Muuummm, I need an ipod touch because the new model has retina display…..blah, blah…(at this point I have switched off). Kids of this generation are not called Gen i for no reason.

Knowing the difference between needs and wants will help you prioritise purchases that make financial sense.

You’ll begin to realise what are necessities in your life and what are luxuries. If you’re struggling financially or have other goals in mind, it may be good to meet the need and postpone the luxury later.

However, if you need a watch and your finances are in order, then buying a Longines instead of a Pulsar is okay.

Simply, the best rule of thumb is to make sure that your needs are covered and your preferences are only met if it’s affordable. It all boils down to that six letter word no one really likes to hear – BUDGET. Dare to breathe the word amongst the swishest of cafes or restaurants and you can found starring in your own Woody Allen scene where everyone drops their cutlery – along with their jaws

– and all eyes are on you in that silence you can carve like fudge. If you’ve budgeted for your preferred brands for the things you need, then by all means go for it. If you are still working on reducing debt or saving money, find the fiscally responsible alternatives to the things you need.

You know it makes sense but I can hear you say ‘but I want it sooo bad, and it would look sooo good with my new <insert gorgeous item> ‘. And I don’t doubt your tastes there, however it is the want that’s pulling the emotions to hit all stops and not the need. When you find yourself in this situation, distraction is the antidote.

It works for toddlers and young children alike, and it can work for adults as well. Here is what I do when I am faced with this situation, I turn on my heels (a pair I saved for, I might add) and do amuse myself with grocery shopping, paying bills, ordering a coffee, driving home, and then should I find myself revisiting the item in my mind, I can guarantee the want emotion has waned. Out of sight, out of mind.

Online shopping is a growing activity and is touted to

The idea behind Want Wizard was born out of an idea founder, Shelley Gross of Wonderful Websites, got from her father who could never find what he was looking for and after a moment of frustration he declared his wish for a website where you could post what you wanted…. as you can imagine the wizard herself, Shelley, made that wish come true!

Want Wizard is a unique way of online shopping – it’s new in the way of searching for something online and the control is with the poster. With Want Wizard, you also know that you won’t get your needs and wants confused.

Three questions to determine needs vs. wants: 1. Ask yourself, ‘Do I need it?’

2. Ask yourself again, ‘Do I need it?’

3. Then ask yourself, ‘What will happen if I don’t have it?’

Replace ‘it’ with the item you’re thinking of purchasing.

Asking yourself these three questions will help you determine what’s needed versus what’s wanted. I used to ask myself ‘Can I afford it?’ This question somehow caused my ego to say yes all the time and got me into trouble – a lot! I always found a way to afford a ‘want’ through credit.

Shelley Gross - 0447 353 033 sales@wonderfulwebsites.com.au www.wonderfulwebsites.com.au

PAGE 22 - JANUARY 2015

GET YOUR KIDS

SURFING WAVES,

NOT WEBSITES

If you want to get your kids outside, having fun and learning a new sport, then enrol your kids in Go Ride a Wave’s VEGEMITE SurfGroms!

Go Ride A Wave offers the program in two forms, either a six week program during school term or an intensive holiday program.

The program created by Surfing Australia encourages 5-12 year olds to get involved in surfing. It is only available through licensed Surfing Australia Surf Schools.

“Our six week program sees the kids meet for an hour and a half once a week, after school. An extra bonus is that the kids make new friends who have the same interest and are at the same skill level. We often hear the kids organising surf dates after class with their SurfGrom friends” said Wes.

One of the top local SurfGroms Surf Schools is Go Ride A Wave. “We have been involved with SurfGroms since it started, four years ago,” said Wes Smith, Director of Go Ride A Wave.

Go Ride A Wave has had approximately 2,000 children complete the SurfGroms program. A national surf school, Go Ride a Wave runs 50 programs across its five Victorian and Queensland locations, offering over 200 SurfGroms lessons a year.

Wes explains, “SurfGroms is a perfect introduction to surfing.

It teaches essential ocean awareness and beach safety and basic surf skills like balance and how to stand on the board.

The program gives the kids the confidence to have a go, keeps them active and increases their overall fitness levels.

We get the kids surfing waves, not websites.”

Level 1 is designed for complete beginners as an introduction to surfing and the ocean environment. Lessons are on the shore and in shallow water. Kids only ride small, white-water waves close to shore to help build their confidence and skills.

Fun games, on the sand and in shallow water, also teach the kids beach safety and ocean awareness, important elements built into each skill level. Participants learn about surf conditions, surfing etiquette, basic first aid and basic surf rescue skills. Before any SurfGrom is awarded a completion certificate, they must have successfully demonstrated all of the relevant ocean awareness and beach safety skills for each level.

By the time the kids have progressed to Level 2 they can paddle and surf small, one foot unbroken waves and display a greater understanding of ocean awareness and beach safety.

Wristbands are available for each level - not only are they cool to wear, but also assist parents to identify their child’s skill level. A logbook is provided and certificates are available on completion of each level.

SurfGroms enrolment includes membership of Surfing Australia and kids receive a great Groms backpack full of giveaways. Although the giveaways change from year to year, they generally include a Rash-vest, Sun-hat, Wax Comb, Tube of Vegemite and a logbook to track progress.

The Go Ride A Wave intensive SurfGroms program is offered over the school holidays. Lessons run for two hours per day, over four consecutive days. It is designed for holiday makers.

Daniela, a “SurfGrom” mum from Anglesea said, “When my twin boys were in grade 3 they participated in a Term 4 Go Ride A Wave SurfGroms program. They then enrolled in an intensive SurfGroms program during the Christmas holidays and another term program in Term 1 of grade 4. It was fantastic. The kids loved it. It is a little like Auskick for little surfers. Even though my husband and I surf the kids didn’t want to listen to our instructions. SurfGroms gave them a solid foundation and skill level. The regular practice helped my boys to become confident surfers. We now go surfing as a family all the time.”

Six Top Learning To Surf Tips 1. Choose a beach that is suitable for your ability level.

Experienced local surfers know that Bells Beach is not for beginners.

2. Make sure you have the right size surf board for your ability level. The larger the board, the easier it is to learn.

3. It is safer to learn on a soft board.

4. Find a friend to learn with – it’s always more fun with someone else.

5. Beaches with lifesaver patrols are best if you are learning to surf.

6. Regularly swim in all water conditions to build fitness and ability.

Comments from the Mum’s of Go Ride A Wave SurfGrom program participants: “Program and instructors are fantastic. Thanks to Anglesea staff. See you next year!’

“My child loved it.”

“Very positive experience overall. My child enjoyed the mix of surfing and beach warm up games.”

“We moved to the beach recently and to be able to give our 2 boys the chance to surf in a relaxed, friendly and fun way was just what they needed. They loved the programmed and looked forward to Monday afternoon with Krystal. They had a ball and are looking forward to more surfing.”

JANUARY 2015 - PAGE 23

ARE YOUR CHILDREN

PREPARED IN THE

WATER FOR THIS

SUMMER AND BEYOND?

With summer holidays starting 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.

It is concerning to see the drowning statistics released from Life Saving Victoria which highlight that those most at risk include young children, teenage and young adults, particularly those participating in high risk activities or alcohol affected, or recently arrived citizens who possibly do not speak or read the English language.

While there has 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. Of the 1230km of Victorian coastline, there are 588 ocean beaches.

There are approximately 450 public and commercial swimming pools throughout the state and an estimated 139,000 backyard swimming pools.

Learning to swim and respect and be confident in the water in pools, beaches, lakes, rivers, dams, is essential for babies, young children, school age children and teenagers. Knowing how to swim increases the chances of how to react and survive in stressful situations in all water environments.

Studies have shown that children who have learned to swim do better at school and decision making. Water is such a wonderful medium by which children receive many different stimuli. Regular swimming reduces an infant and child’s rate of illness.

Children need regular and on going 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.

Geelong Aquatic Centre 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 25 metre and one 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.

The centre also offers squads for children and masters, triathlon squads for adults and children, aqua aerobics, rehabilitation and lap swimming. During the term breaks the pool is open for family swim time from 1-4pm. Geelong Swimming Club train over the winter months with their junior squads and on Saturday mornings all year round.

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.

Being a competent swimmer is far more than a skill for recreation and enjoyment. It is a skill that may save a life. Once a swimmer is a strong and competent swimmer, he or she will decide whether to pursue many of the swim related sports that Geelong has to offer. Swimming offers one of the best activities for good health with minimal risk of injury.

Geelong Aquatic Centre firmly believes in it’s motto: “Swimming lessons-A Gift for Life” ALL CHILDREN AND ADULTS SHOULD LEARN HOW TO SWIM AND SURVIVE. Enrol in one, two or three weeks of their holiday intensive program starting on 9th January. Lessons are for 40 minutes starting at 9am Monday to Friday mornings each week.

Enrolments are being taken for term 1 2015. Ring the centre on 52 225530 and speak to our friendly reception staff to book into any of these programs.

PAGE 24 - JANUARY 2015

MUSIC

ARTS

JACK GRAYSON Well, my name’s Jack Grayson and I’m 17. I’ve been drawing basically my whole life. I started art classes when I was 7 and just ran with it. I’ve always had a love for drawing and creating, so I can’t really define a moment that I discovered my love for art. I’ve always had a knack for it, and it’s just developed over time, so there’s never been a defined moment where I said to myself “Hey! I’m actually not bad at this!”. I am always very proud of the things I’m able to create, but I’ve still got a lot of room for improvement.

As for other “artistic abilities” I’m a very keen musician. I play the clarinet, saxophone and guitar as well as trying my hand at composing. I’ve also dipped my toe into the pool of animation, writing and making my own cartoons.

I’ve written several comic books and cartoon shows that I’m working on kind of simultaneously, but we’ll see how far I manage to get with those.

I attend Christian College who have an incredible art program. Their Villa Paloma campus has an amazing atmosphere and the teachers there are so supportive.

They always offer their guidance, opinions and even

suggest ways for you to branch out, suggesting I enter the Bruno Callori Young Artist Mentorship Program earlier this year. Surprising enough I was awarded the Mentorship for Christian College and learned an amazing amount under the guidance of Jill Shalless. This is something I would never have had the chance of experiencing without the help of my teachers, so the Christian College community are always very supportive of those who are looking for it.

The opportunities for artists in the Geelong region are plentiful. There are countless exhibitions that run annually, allowing both experienced and amateur artists to showcase their work and possibly make a little cash (which is always a nice bonus). Things such as the Bruno Callori program are available each year encouraging young artists and shops all around the city are always willing to help out by displaying work in their businesses. I think Geelong is a great place to be an upcoming artist.

Honestly, I wouldn’t want a career doing anything else.

My sights are completely set on doing art for the rest of my life. It is my ultimate goal to become a comic book artist for a company such as Marvel or DC drawing the big titles. I hope to be accepted to a school in Dover, New Jersey (USA) called the Kubert School, which is a comic book art and cartooning school. Hopefully that will lead to

what I’m hoping to achieve.

My biggest influences are mostly big names in the comic book art industry. People like Jim Lee, Todd Nauck, Freddie Williams II, Steve McNiven, John Romita Jr.... I could literally go on for pages! It’s never hard for me to find another person to admire in this industry. So many people have so many Interesting styles that I never fail to admire. It’s all very inspiring. I’m also inspired by Jill Shalless, a local Geelong artist who mentored me and 3 others for a number of months. She’s an incredibly talented woman and a very kind and inspiring example of what’s possible in the industry.

I would also like to take this opportunity to thank a couple of people. There are a number of people who are always pushing me to do my best and encouraging me which is the only reason I’m able to keep going with this whole art thing. My parents are a constant source of support, not only funding my art classes and buying me my earliest art supplies but always pushing me to work harder and improve. My girlfriend, Perri, is always encouraging me and inspiring me to draw with her constant support and the online community who support my art on my Facebook and Instagram pages, leaving likes and comments which always brighten my day I plan to continue my art far into the future and I can’t wait to see what the future brings!

JANUARY 2015 - PAGE 25

M US I C

ARTS

PERRI-GIORGIA ESPINOZA

My name is Perri-Giorgia Espinoza. I was 12 when I first discovered my love for musical theatre (in 2011) in my first show ‘Seussical the Musical.’ Before this point I had always had a love for music, singing in particular. I grew up singing in choirs and being told that a song could tell a story, I guess that’s how I developed my theatricality!

At school I loved drama and acting however I had never thought I could put my two abilities together. I found a love for immersing myself in the different characters and music. I loved the thrill of entertaining a crowd and for a few hours knowing that they too are caught up in this whole other world.

Aside from theatre I enjoy all things related to “the arts”.

Apart from singing, I also play the guitar, violin, piano and can usually be found busking and gigging around Geelong on my ukulele! I enjoy composing my own tunes from time to time as well. I recently have given script writing a go and am beginning to write my own screen play .

My school, Christian College Geelong, has truly nurtured my love of performing from a very young age. Their music and drama staff in particular have been so dedicated to providing me and other students with every opportunity to

create and perform. As theatre is a tough industry to make an impression on, the staff have really been the support network behind me achieving my goals and I can’t thank them enough. On top of this, every second year, Christian College put on a cross campus musical production at GPAC, evidently this is what opened my eyes to my love for theatre.

Around the Geelong area there are countless theatre companies that put on spectacular shows. There are so many opportunities for people of all ages to get involved with productions. Over the past few years I have had the opportunity to work with CenterStage Geelong in their production of ‘ Zombie Prom’ and The Geelong Lyric Theatre Society, having just performed in their productions of ‘Annie’ and more recently ‘Jesus Christ Superstar.’

Working with the companies allowed me to learn what is really involved with musical theatre. From the first ‘audition stage’ to the final performance – it really is a journey that opens your eyes and allows you to form new friendships.

I hope to follow the path of musical theatre as a career out of school with my dream and goal set on performing in world class stages. In the future I hope to study at

Western Australia Academy of Performing Arts or Juilliard in New York. There’s nothing else I would rather do for the rest of my life than bring stories to life on a stage, create unimaginable characters and sing my little heart out.

I’m inspired by obviously the big names in theatre and performance, Kristin Chenoweth and Verity Hunt-Ballard to name a couple. However I am just as inspired by the people I get to work with in shows around Geelong such as: Jenn Stirk, Brendan Rossbotham and Charlie McIntyre to name a few, but the list really does go on and on. I find there is so much to take away from working with these performers and their incredible talents, they really do give me the inspiration and motivation to continue down this fantastic road.

I’d just like to thank all the wonderful people who have given me the opportunity to showcase my passion in their productions and to the performers who have so willingly taken me under their wing. Likewise I’d like to thank my parents for always supporting my theatre, whether it be driving me to auditions or washing yet another costume piece it is really appreciated. And finally a big thank you to my boyfriend, Jack, to always helping me to believe in myself, coming to shows and wishing me big chookas before shows!

I intend to continue performing and perusing my career of musical theatre well into the future and cannot wait to see what other amazing opportunities arise from it!

PAGE 26 - JANUARY 2015

JANUARY 2015 - PAGE 27

C R A FT S

COOKING

SP ONGE BALLS

D I REC TIONS 1. With a pen and a ruler, make 5 lines lengthwise on

a sponge.

2. Use scissors to cut the sponge, using the lines as

a guide in to 6 pieces.

3. Repeat the first two step to the other two sponges.

4. Lay strips on top of each other in three layers, five

to six pieces per layer.

5. Tie some string around the middle tightly and fluff

pieces out into a ball.

* Now you have your very own recycable water

bombs - but please be wise with water waste this summer! Try to use recycled water.

FROZ E N CHO C

BAN AN A PO PS

METHOD

1. Cut all your bananas in half.

2. Gently stick icy pole stick into the end of the banana halves.

3. Freeze bananas on a tray lined with baking paper until firm.

4. To melt chocolate, fill saucepan half way with water and

simmer. Break chocolate into a glass or china bowl and place on top of saucepan.

place back on tray.

as, nuts, sprinkles, musli or coconut.

5. Stir until chocolate is smooth and melted.

6. Grab your frozen banana sticks dip into chocolate and

7. Sprinkle banana pops with your choice of toppings, such 8. Place back in the freezer until chocolate is set and ready to

WH AT YO U NE ED ...

3

SPONGES - PEN - RULER - SCISSORS - STRING

eat!

ING RED IEN TS ...

BANANAS - ICY POLE

STICKS - CHOCOLATE

- BAKING PAPER - ASSORTMENT OF TOPPINGS

*PLEASE BE CAREFUL WHEN USING SHARP OR HOT OBJECTS. ACCORDING TO kidsafevic.com.au “THE HOME IS THE MOST COMMON LOCATION FOR CHILDHOOD INJURY. THEREFORE IT IS ESSENTIAL THAT WE MAKE OUR HOMES AS SAFE AS POSSIBLE.”

PAGE 28 - JANUARY 2015

HOW TO BE A WORLD

ELEPHANTS HAVE

Not for parents series - Joel Levy - Lonely Planet

Gervay, Susanne and Pignataro, Anna Panmacmillan

EXPLORER

WINGS

How to be a World Explorer shows young readers how to venture through all the landscapes on earth - the air, over the seas and under the waves.

How do you cope with extreme cold?

How do you find water in the wild?

How do you escape from quicksand?

How do you navigate by the stars?

How do you build an igloo? How do you fight a bear? It’s all here! Packed with colourful quirky illustrations, essential tips and fun facts on survival in the great outdoors.

SHUFFLE Hasbro - Crown & Andrews

Shuffle is the new range of interactive card games based on Hasbro classics.

By downloading the relevant app to your phone or tablet, Shuffle can bring the Chance cards to life in a Monopoly Deal, animate a shopping mall in the Littlest Pet Shop, act as mission control in Transformers or create customised pictures of your friends and family using the Guess Who imagery. It’s the new generation of card games. Nine popular games are currently available: Monopoly, Cluedo, Guess Who, Transformers, Littlest Pet Shop, Battleship, Trivial Pursuit, Boggle Slam and My Littlest Pony.

Inspired by the ancient story of the blind men and the elephant with its spiritual traditions in Buddhism, Jainism, Hinduism, Sufism extending into Judeo-Christian ethos through European story; and inspired by the strength, courage and endurance of the mythological and spiritual elephants, Elephants Have Wings is a magical story of two children embarking on the great journey of discovering the humanity in all of us.

AIR HOG ROLLER COPTER

Roll anywhere! Obstacles and gravity are no barrier for the ground-to-air RC Air Hogs Rollercopter! With its exterior rolling cage, pilots can drive across the ground, roll up walls, fly through the air or even roll across the ceiling! The cage also acts as a durable shield, protecting your heli from walls or other obstacles and preventing unforeseen crashes. It’s a ground and air RC Heli made for non-stop action! The Air Hogs Rollercopter Roll anywhere!

Feature 1. Roll anywhere! At lower power, Rollercopter will drive across the ground in its rolling cage. Throttle up to max power to take to the air and fly! Feature 2.

With its exterior rolling cage, you can roll it on the ground, up walls and even across the ceiling! Feature 3. Rollercopter’s durable rolling cage also acts as a protective shield, allowing it to bump into walls or objects without damage or crashing. Feature 4. The Air Hogs Rollercopter is made for pilots ages 8+ and requires 6 AA batteries to power the controller/charger. Includes: 1 Air Hogs RollercopterTM indoor RC helicopter, 1 Controller/Charger, 1 Instruction Sheet

PROVIDED BY

 

 

JANUARY 2015 - PAGE 29

 BAMBELLA DESIGN PRAM LINERS

KOOKICHOOS TEETHING NECKLACES

Kookichoos necklaces are available in different styles and colours to suit every mum, nan and aunty.

They are made out of BPA free, food grade silicone, which means no harmful chemicals. They are completely dishwasher safe for easy cleaning and also offer the added piece of mind of a safety clasp.

Completely safe for the babies to chew as they are silicone based so can’t break. Best of all they are beautiful and can be worn by mums that like a bit of style. As you can see from the images they are necklaces that can be worn without appearing to be teething aides for the babes. Available at local markets, Etsy or visit their Facebook page.

MOV IE REV IEWS THE PENGUINS OF MADAGASCAR Release date: Thursday 1 January

The Penguins of Madagascar is a spinoff of the Madagascar films. The series follows the adventures of four penguins: Skipper, Rico, Kowalski, and Private, who perform various paramilitary-like missions to protect their home in the Central Park Zoo. The penguins often have to deal with problems caused, or made worse, by King Julien XIII (a ring-tailed lemur), Maurice (an aye-aye), and Mort (a mouse lemur).

SMIGGLE

 Available in Regular (90cm in length x 32cm in width) and Bitsy  Size (82cm in length x 30cm in width), Bambella Designs Pram  Liners are the perfect fit for modern-day prams on the market. The hourglass-shaped Regular Pram  Liner features supportive side wings which  mould to the seat and help keep the pram clean; whilst the rectangular shaped  Bitsy Size Pram Liners are perfect for  prams and strollers shorter in length.

Handcrafted using 100% premium cotton  fabrics across 50 contemporary designs,  the collection boasts an exotic and  contemporary colour scheme and playful suite of prints set to turn any ordinary pram into an artistic delight.  Made  from 100% cotton, natural substrates and breathable fibres  (300 gram density), Bambella  Designs Pram Liners feature an  absorbent layer of PUL sewn  to help protect baby from life’s  little spills. Machine washable  and waterproof, they are sure to WE HAVE  stand the test of time.

GIVEAWAY

 

1 BOY & 1 GIRL

SMIGGLE SET TO GIVEAWAY!!

Heading back to school means hanging with your  friends, catching up on the summer holiday goss SP O NSO RED BY  GEELONG and getting off to a fresh start with cool new bags,  books and stationery. Smiggle has back to school  covered with a range of colourful essentials that THE HOBBIT: THE BATTLE OF THE  are bound to make school a whole lot of fun –  details attached and backgrounders available FIVE ARMIES Release date: Thursday 1 January



 on request. Need a unique and fun backpack?

Having reclaimed Erebor and a They’ve got it? Got a list of pens and pencils a vast treasure from the dragon mile long? They’ll sort it? Want to go back with Smaug, Thorin Oakenshield something no one else has seen before? You’ll (Richard Armitage) sacrifices find it at Smiggle! Check out just some of the wide  friendship and honor in his search range of goodies, gadgets and gizmos released for the Arkenstone, despite   to school! Still on hols? There’s especially for back Smaug’s fiery wrath and Bilbo’s  fun for everyone to be found in a Smiggle store, (Martin Freeman) desperate    with lots of games and activities to keep boredom  attempts to make him see reason. at bay. Make your own Solar Plane, jump to the Meanwhile, Sauron sends forth beat with Smiggle Elastics or get creative with legions of Orcs in a sneak attack stacks of games and activity books like the Play upon the Lonely Mountain. As the and Scratch Design Book, Holiday Activity Journal ultimate fate of Middle Earth hangs and the Travel Stencil Book. in the balance, the races of Men, Elves and Dwarves must decide whether to unite or die. 

PAGE 30 - JANUARY 2015

AU S TRALIA D A Y , 2 6 T H J A N U A R Y 20 15

C HILD R E N’S FREE FUN AN D EN T E R T AINME NT DAY

T RADE

D I RE C TO R Y

Celebrate Australia Day at Rippleside Park with over 30 FREE activities and community displays for families and children to enjoy.

For over 50 years this event has been brought to you by the Geelong Australia Day Committee with the support of community groups and volunteers.

The event starts at 11.00 am and concludes at 4.00 pm with the flag-raising and opening address ceremony at 1.00 pm.

The FREE activities will include: amusement rides, pony and train rides, jumping castles,

Health

face painting, animal nursery and much more.

Stage Entertainment includes Geelong’s own The MikMaks, Dazzling Dan The Magic Man along with the Scottish Dancers and Geelong Memorial Brass Band and much more.

Community displays will include: Sheep Shearing , Police vehicles, Girl Guide and Scout Display and Activities, CFA vehicles, Geelong Military Re-enactment Group Display and MG Car Club vehicles, just to

Parties

name a few.

To make the day more friendly and easy for families, there is adequate free parking provided on the site.

Visitors to the Rippleside Park site are also encouraged to bring a picnic lunch or there will be food vendor’s onsite at reasonable rates.

For more information, contact:- Events Manager, Don Barby M: 0417 369 220 P: 03 5272 2234 Email: donbarby@iprimus.com.au

Parties

JANUARY 2015 - PAGE 31

1 JANUARY

NightJar Market, Torquay Common, Torquay. 4 - 10pm

3 JANUARY

Day out with Thomas, 20 Symonds Street, Queenscliff. Spend a day with Thomas the Tank Engine, Sir Topham Hatt and Thomas’ Friends, as well as those Troublesome Trucks at the Queenscliff Station. Every child’s favourite steam train, Thomas the Tank Engine makes a special appearance the Day out with Thomas event at the Bellarine Railway. This special family event brings many of the characters to life and the all-day event ticket includes a 40 minute return train ride behind one of Thomas’ friends Troublesome Truck rides with Thomas Live re-enactments with Sir Topham Hatt and Thomas Photos opportunities galore Colouring competition judged by Sir Topham Hatt Show bag for children Unlimited activities and displays. 10am - 4pm.

Costs

4 JANUARY

Autopro Classic Car & Bike Show, Drysdale Recreation Reserve, Drysdale. The Autopro Classic Car & Bike Show is a display of motor vehicles and Motorbikes of various eras of the motor industry from the Mini to Buick and everything in between. Entertainment on the day includes a Jumping Castle, music, and an adventure playground. The Drysdale Fire Brigade and SES will be present providing information and a display of their rescue techniques.

A great family day with plenty to see and do! The Cricket Clubs Club Room is open providing food and drinks.

There is a Cruise on Sat Night before the Show on Sunday. 9am - 4pm.

Free

6 - 7 JANUARY

Blues Boot Camp, Potato Shed, Drysdale.

8 JANUARY

NightJar Market, Torquay Common, Torquay. 4 - 10pm

8 JANUARY

Australian Breastfeeding Association; Eastern Beach Playground Geelong.

School holiday catch up 10am-12pm.

For more information about meetings, please contact Kate on 0403 232726 or abageelonggroup@gmail.com

10 JANUARY

Portarlington Mussel Festival, Newcombe Street, Portarlington.

Not only does the festival promote mussels but also the Bellarine Peninsula’s fabulous food and wine industry. As a local festival produced by the local community, it is about showcasing the growing number of talented locals who cover the wide spectrum of performing arts,

which include musicians, dance, choral groups, artists from a variety of mediums, photographers and the local school community. Ultimately the festival provides an outlet for the community to ‘Celebrate’ in a relaxed and friendly atmosphere. Gold coin entry

10 JANUARY

Greenstock 15, Greenman Rehearsal Studios, 2/1 Smithton Grove, Ocean Grove. On January 10th 2015 Greenman Rehearsal Studios in Ocean Grove is holding its annual music Festival. Bands/Artists playing All day/night.

Raffles, Stalls, food, drinks and more.

Bring a chair, byo drinks. Prizes for best dressed wearing GREEN! Gates open at 11am. $5 entry per person or $10 Family including 2 adults and up to 4 children.

15 JANUARY

NightJar Market, Torquay Common, Torquay. 4 - 10pm

17 JANUARY

As You Like It, Geelong Botanic Gardens, 1-49 Garden St, Geelong.

4pm

18 JANUARY

As You Like It, Geelong Botanic Gardens, 1-49 Garden St, Geelong.

4pm

19 JANUARY

Australian Breastfeeding Association.

Barwon Heads Village Park, 14 Geelong Rd East, Barwon Heads.

School holiday catch up. 10am. For more information about meetings, please contact Kate on 0403 232726 or abageelonggroup@gmail.com

22 JANUARY

NightJar Market, Torquay Common, Torquay. 4 - 10pm

22 - 25 JANUARY

The Geelong Caravan Camping & Outdoor Living Show, The Geelong Showgrounds, Breakwater Rd, Geelong. 10am-5pm. Costs

22 - 26 JANUARY

Festival of Sails, Eastern Beach Road, Geelong. Since 1844, the Festival of Sails has played a key part in the Victorian and Australian yachting calendar. Highly competitive and diverse, the event caters to all levels of sailing from high performance racing machines to family cruisers. Evolving over the years, to culminate in its’ current format, the Festival of Sails is an iconic and fun-filled event. It offers something that no other regatta in Australia does, combining first-class racing with a brilliant Shoreside Festival, which sees 100,000 visitors flock to the stunning Geelong

TELL US WHAT’S ON IN YOUR AREA

waterfront to soak up the summer atmosphere.

Visitors to Geelong and local residents come together to celebrate the Australia Day Long Weekend, with an abundance of activity and entertainment.

With heaps of live music, art and craft stalls, a regional summer boat show, family friendly activities, free on and off the water come ‘n’ try activities, Discover Sailing, food and wine stalls, there is something different to experience and enjoy each day.

Whether you are a sailor, or prefer your feet on more solid ground and are looking for a fun way to entertain the family on the Australia Day long weekend, this event provides something for everyone to enjoy. In January 2015, the Royal Geelong Yacht Club is extremely privileged to be hosting the 2015 International 14 World Championships. Join them in January for the 172nd Festival of Sails.

24 JANUARY

Barwon Regatta, Barwon River, Geelong. Free

26 JANUARY

Australia Day Children’s Free Fun Day and Entertainment, Rippleside Park, Bell Parade, Drumcondra.

Celebrate Australia Day at Rippleside Park with over 40 free activities and displays for families and children to enjoy. There will be stage entertainment all day long with roving entertainers including Dame Edna Average with give away’s and Dazzling Dan with his magic show.

Free activities will start at 11am.

The official opening and flag raising ceremony will be at 1pm. All Day free stage entertainment. You are welcome to bring your own picnic lunch or there will be food vendors on site at reasonable rates. The free car-park for this event closes strictly at 6pm. Free

26 JANUARY

Havaianas Australia Day Thong Challenge, Torquay Beach, The Esplanade, Geelong. Australia’s favourite thong is calling out for Victorians to head to Torquay Beach on Australia Day to help break the world record for the longest line of giant inflatable Havaianas in open water and take out the 2015 Havaianas Australia Day Thong Challenge. Each year the states battle it out to see who will come out on top, and this year is Victoria’s chance to take the crown as national record holder. The stakes are particularly high in 2015, with the iconic challenge entering its 10th year. Torquay will compete to beat the challenge’s reigning champion, Cottesloe Beach, WA, where in 2014 a record 2,099 people connected in water on giant inflatable Havaianas. Cottesloe is a tough competitor, having won for the past three consecutive years. While the record challenge is the main event, there will be a host of fantastic activities the whole family can enjoy including celebrity appearances, DJs, a Zinc Zone, and plenty of beach games with prizes to be won including Tug-O-War, the Thong Toss and Thong Grab. Beach activities start from 9:30am

29 JANUARY

NightJar Market, Torquay Common, Torquay. 4 - 10pm

31 JANUARY

Cadel Evans Great Ocean Road Race. A pro road race, to be staged in Geelong and the Surf Coast.

Hundreds of elite cyclists will be in Geelong this summer as part of the inaugural Cadel Evans Great Ocean Road Race. The event includes elite men’s and women’s events over the weekend of

31 JANUARY & 1 FEBRUARY An open participation event is also expected to attract around 3, 000 cyclists.

- EMAIL EDIT OR@K I DSV OI CE .COM .AU