Kids Voice July 2014

FR

J ULY

IT’S DE B T I M E

-

WIN TE R PLA N T I N G

AU SSIE MUMS NEED BL OOD -

-

FROM DANIEL TO SOPHIE

365 D A Y P RO JE CT -

MT BA W BA W

-

-

EE

2 014

RE V I E W S

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

PAGE 2

- JULY 2014

JULY 2014 - PAGE 3

WELCO M E

So we have approached the mid-year mark and, true to form, the weather has turned colder and we’ve experienced a few wildweather days as well. This wild weather has brought loads of snow to the ski regions but, unfortunately, also anguish to a family who lost their son to an accident in Mt Buller. It makes parents hug their children to them and encourages us all to make sure that we are aware of where our children are at all times, whilst also trying to allow our kids some freedom at the same time. A tough call.

This month also saw a few deb balls happening in the Geelong region and we are lucky enough to be able to feature a few of them in our pages this edition. While many people view these debs as over-rated and old-fashioned – not to mention the expense – surely we can encourage our teenagers to choose whether they attend or not. Too often I have heard parents say that there is no way their child is attending due to their own views; just how are we encouraging our children to express themselves? Those same parents are often the people who are proud of the fact that they are nonconformists, yet they themselves show dictatorship traits!

Happy winter, folks!

F ROM T H E T EA M Kids Voice

KV TEAM

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

GRAPHICS & LAYOUT ARTIST Elise Blach STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER Alan Barber COVER MODEL Abby Robinson

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.

PAGE 4

- JULY 2014

CONTENTS 7

365 Day Project

9

Brisbane Ranges National Park

11

Feeding Toddlers the Easy Way

12

Winter Planting & Carly’s Blog

13

Clonard College

14

From Daniel to Sophie

16

Deb Season

23

Mt Baw Baw

24

Music & Arts

THIS ISSUE’S COVER GIRL...

27

Crafts & Cooking

NAME, AGE AND YEAR LEVEL/GRADE? I’m Abby Robinson, I’m 16 years old and in year 11.

28

Reviews

WHAT DO YOU WANT TO BE WHEN YOU’RE OLDER? Not quite sure yet, but hopefully something that involves writing music.

30

What’s On

DO YOU HAVE ANY HOBBIES? Playing piano, reading about history and hanging with friends.

...AND MUCH MORE

7

9

14

25

27

30

SPECIAL SHOUT OUT TO...

Robbie! And my girls and the boys!

JULY 2014 - PAGE 5

AUSSIE MUMS NEEDING BLOOD TRANSFUSIONS ON THE RISE working collaboratively on this ongoing project, the Blood Service is gaining a better understanding of where donated blood is being used,” Dr Irving said.

“By understanding where and how donated blood is being used we can plan and manage our blood supply more effectively.

“This research has focused on analysing blood usage amongst this group, and the next phase will be examining why increased usage has been occurring.

Every year around 4,800 Aussie mums will require a transfusion of blood and blood products at the time of birth.

This scary statistic comes as the Australian Red Cross Blood Service highlights the important role blood donation plays in saving the lives of Australian mothers.

According to research from the Kolling Institute at the University of Sydney recently published in the journal Obstetrics and Gynecology, that number is increasing.

The Institute’s Associate Professor Jane Ford explained that the need for safe blood for saving mothers is on the rise here in Australia.

“We found that, although blood transfusion at the time of birth is uncommon, there has been an increase over time in obstetric blood transfusions,” Professor Ford said.

“The majority, around 80 per cent, of these transfusions are for excessive bleeding (haemorrhage) and altogether, around 4,800 women in Australia require a blood transfusion around the time of birth each year.

“Understanding what is currently happening and why assists us when working with health providers about when these blood transfusions are needed.”

This year, National Blood Donor Week runs from 27 July to 2 August and is a week where the Blood Service recognises the outstanding lifesaving contributions of Australia’s 600,000 voluntary blood donors.

Every year these donors give 1.35 million blood donations, and National Blood Donor Week provides us with an opportunity to say thank you to these extraordinary Australians.

You never know when you or someone you love will need blood and there is no better way to ensure it’s there than to become a blood donor.

Australia needs 27,000 blood donations every week, for more information about the Blood Service or to make an appointment to give blood, please call 13 14 95 or visit donateblood.com.au

“While we can identify some women at increased risk of excessive bleeding, this is often an unpredictable event.

THE GEELONG BLOOD DONOR CENTRE IS LOCATED AT

“Blood transfusion remains a potentially lifesaving intervention for the one in 10 women who experience haemorrhage following birth.”

Monday, Wednesday & Thursday: 9:00am-7:30pm Tuesday: 1:30pm–7:30pm Friday: 8:00am-2:30pm Sunday: 8:30am-3:00pm

The Blood Service has been working with the Kolling Institute to develop a better understanding of how donated blood is being used as Professor David Irving, Executive Director for Research and Development at the Blood Service, explained.

“Through actively partnering with the research team and

237 RYRIE STREET AND IS OPEN:

Reference: Patterson JA, Roberts CL, Bowen JR, Irving DO, Isbister JP, Morris JM, Ford JB. Obstetric blood transfusion during pregnancy, birth and the postnatal period: a population based study.

Obstetrics & Gynecology 2014; 123: 126-133

PAGE 6

- JULY 2014

LIVING A SOUL-FULL

L IFE

In naming my health education business ‘SoulLife Pathways’, I spent much time reflecting what this actually meant. Pathways to a Soul life…? Soul-full life…? Then an image arrived of a wheel where the inner most circle (hub) represented our unique spark/essence (Soul) and the spokes as pathways of conscious living that connect us to our Soul Wisdom.

There are approximately 6 billion potential soul-full lives on the planet. Some characteristics of a soulfull life we might recognise in our self and others are 1) A childlike wonder and curiosity in life. 2) A healthy glow that reflects being nourished at the cellular and emotional level through nutrition, hydration, fresh air and creative play. 3) An openness to learning about yourself and others experiences…a connectedness to family, friends, colleagues and nature 4) Creating time or space often to sit quietly, slow down and become aware of your breath and watching your thoughts (meditation).

So what are some of the pathways we could travel along to create a soul-full life for us and our children? We can: 1. Grow our awareness of foods containing chemicals that may disrupt our body/brain chemistry Most of us have heard about monosodium glutamate (MSG) at some level such as recognising the number 620, 621 listed on flavour enhanced foods and beverages such as chips or crackers or that it’s been associated with Chinese food. But we may not be aware of many other names MSG has as a flavour enhancing additive or its action in the body.

While MSG is made from natural sources such as seaweed it is described as an excitotoxin meaning that it can overstimulate or excite brains cells (neurons) to death. This overstimulation of brains cells associated with learning can lead to behaviours such as compulsiveness, inattention, loss of focus and symptoms like headaches, rashes/itchiness, nausea and asthma-like breathing difficulties.

Common foods containing MSG are canned soups, crackers, some meats, salad dressing, frozen dinners, salts/seasonings, stocks, sauces, baby food and infant formula and even some health supplements. Some words to look out for on food labels are Autolyzed Yeast, Glutamate, Monopotassium Glutamate, Monosodium Glutamate,

Yeast Extract, Glutamic Acid, Calcium Caseinate, Gelatin, Hydrolyzed Protein, Malt Extract, Citric Acid and numbers 620-635. For more information, some great websites are Mercola.com, fedup.com and DrAmy.com.

2. Eat plant based rainbow coloured foods David Wolfe, author of The Sunfood Diet Success System teaches that as well as reflecting the richness in vitamins, minerals and antioxidants the colour of food also relates to the parts of the body it helps most. Drawn from wisdom in Natural Medicine and ancient traditions such as Traditional Chinese Medicine the colour red is associated with blood building qualities. Yellow and orange have anti-inflammatory properties looking after joints and ligaments. Blue foods support the nervous system and immune system and are regenerative for stem cells. Greens foods are detoxifiers helping to maintain healthy acid/alkaline balance in the body and black foods nourish the kidney organ system in Traditional Chinese Medicine that holds our vital energy called Jing.

3. Move the Nutrients into you cells How do we maximise the benefits from eating nutrient rich colourful foods? Exercise, movement and play stimulate blood flow through the entire body, opening blood vessels to deliver health creating nutrients to all cells of the body. Whether it be a kick of the footy in the park or backyard, walking, a game of cricket or the many other forms of activity that helps us breathe more deeply we can imagine big smiley faces on our cells receiving a healthy meal leading to a soul-full glow.

Interestingly the perfect partner to exercise and play is sitting quietly or meditating. Meditating encourages the body’s blood vessels to relax and open to assist in delivering vital nutrients to body cells. It also helps to calm the emotions and stimulates the release of ‘feel good’ chemicals in the body giving you the opportunity to feel your aliveness and inner glow.

Maybe we will come across each other on one of the Pathways ☺ SUZANNE PARKER

SOULLIFE PATHWAYS

365

DAY PROJECT

The 365 Day Project came about when I was thinking about my body during my pregnancy so far; I was so critical of myself, not at all accepting of why I was changing or the fact that I have the marks I do- because I carried a child within me four years ago and was doing it again now. I thought why do I think like this, why do I place so much judgment on myself?!

That lead to the idea of the 365 Day Celebration of the Postpartum Body. I wanted to do something to put the issues of body image- especially post baby- into the open, to bring awareness and create something within my community to bring us together, to have on show and hopefully inspire women to learn to love themselves!

I decided to create a flip book with 365 pages of photos of women post baby, in their underwear showing off their bodies to inspire them, empower them and give them permission to start loving their bodies. I didn’t want a book that would sit on the shelf with a pile of other books, but one to sit on your desk or next to a mirror, on show so people, especially Mothers will have a constant reminder that they are so beautiful and that they aren’t alone in the way they feel about themselves- there are

at least 364 other women who have felt the same as they may have.

I’ve paired the 365 Day Project with mental illness.

There is a huge stigma attached to mental illness, yet it is such a common problem. I want to reduce this stigma throughout Geelong through this project.

At some point every mum has felt upset about not having anything to wear, looked in her mirror and felt disgusted at what she sees, or not wanted to be intimate with her partner because she is afraid of what he might think of her changed body, hidden under layers of clothing. I want to change our perception. I want to allow women to say ‘I’m not okay’ and feel that they can seek help. I don’t want women to feel ugly or embarrassed by their bodies after having a baby and I want women to learn to love themselves.

The best way we can teach our children to love themselves, accept who they are and have a good self esteem is by demonstrating this ourselves as parents.

Women from varying areas of Geelong have gotten on board with this project because it encompasses something for everyone- body image, self doubt, mental illness and a sense of community. Upon talking to

JULY 2014 - PAGE 7

these women I realise that although the media and it’s portrayal of women after they have had a baby plays a large role in the way we perceive ourselves, the main drive is our own perception.

We are aiming to launch the book in December, right before Christmas and the New Year. It will be available for purchase with all funds going to a perinatal mental health service.

I have filled all spaces for the book but if you would like to get involved like the Facebook page and keep talking about it, the only way we can bring about change throughout our town is by talking about it, sharing our stories and being aware so we can reduce the stigma and move forward as a community, setting our children up for a future with no judgements on body image or mental illness on others or themselves.

MADDISON GORE

365 DAY PROJECT - A CELEBRATION OF THE POSTPARTUM BODY

WWW.365DAYPROJECT.ORG.AU

PAGE 8

- JULY 2014

JULY 2014 - PAGE 9

SOMETHING FOR ALL AGES AT

BRISBANE RANGES NATIONAL PARK

Brisbane Ranges National Park has some excellent things for all the family to see and do.

The park has a lot of different kinds of walks where koalas, kangaroos and many different birds can be seen. Some are easy and short, others are more adventurous. An interesting and easy walk starts from the Little River picnic ground and follows the Little River Gorge downstream. Access to the picnic ground is via McLeans Highway, an allweather gravel road.

For the feel of the real outdoors, there are camping sites for vans and tents at Fridays Camping Ground and Boar Gully Camping Ground. Both have toilets, tables and barbecues.

An interesting historical walk leads down to Lower Stony Creek Reservoir. Built in the 1870’s, it was the first concrete dam wall ever built in the Southern Hemisphere. There is an information board there that tells its history.

The Anakie Gorge walk is about 3.5km and now has stepping stones in several places to cross the creeks along the way. There are plenty spots for a barbecue as well as the Anakie Gorge and Stony Creek Picnic Grounds. From here you can walk up to the Lower Stony Creek Reservoir.

There are lots of creeks and river beds in the park that are full of interesting water creatures like small native fish, water beetles and bugs, freshwater snails and dragonflies. Scooping up some water in a clear plastic container can show just how many tiny interesting critters live there. Always remember to put them back where you take them from and take everything you bring into the park home with you.

For the more adventurous there is rock climbing

and abseiling at Staughtonvale. This is suitable for beginners, but it’s important for new climbers to have good instructions and the right footwear and equipment before attempting these climbs.

There is also an overnight walk on the Burchell Trail which starts and finishes at either Boar Gully Camping Ground or Fridays Camping Ground.

There is camping on the way at Old Mill or Little River Camp Sites. The entire walk takes three days, but you can do the whole walk or just part of it. There are car parks for picking up and dropping off at various places along the way.

A really interesting place to visit with kids is Steiglitz Historic Park. Here they can search for evidence of its gold mining days, discover old mine sites and check out historic pieces of equipment.

There’s also the chance of striking it lucky with some gold panning in Sutherlands Creek, about five minutes from the town centre.

The township of Steiglitz is a fascinating place to explore. It’s a real living ghost town and one of the very few towns that still doesn’t have electricity. A bit of detective work will reveal how the residents manage without it.

Its dirt streets are great for riding bicycles and getting to see some of its great old buildings.

There are two old Churches, Suggs’ Blacksmiths Cottage and the original Courthouse which is open on Sundays from 1 to 4pm. It has lots of historical displays and information about the town and what it was like in its gold mining heyday.

FOR A DETAILED MAP OF THE PARK AND ALL IT HAS TO OFFER VISIT WWW.PARKWEB.VIC.GOV.AU AND

DOWNLOAD THE PARK NOTE FOR BRISBANE RANGES NATIONAL PARK.

PAGE 10 - JULY 2014

LEARNING VALUABLE

LESSONS

Many schools incorporate moral development into their curriculum, however this can sometimes be too late as values need to be demonstrated to children from a very young age. Some psychologists think values are impossible to teach, however children learn values by observing what you do, and drawing conclusions about what you think is important in life. Regardless of what you consciously teach them, your children will emerge from childhood with clear views on what their parents really value, and with a well-developed value system of their own.

EMPATHY

If you’ve been trying to teach your child to be kind, honest, and polite, it can be frustrating--and heart-wrenching--when he disappoints you. He takes some coins from your purse and swears he didn’t; he teases a boy at the bus stop; he throws books when he gets angry. Teach him to identify his feelings and those of others; teach him to interpret emotional cues; watch other people and guess how they’re feeling based on their body language. Ask your child to imagine the result of a kind act.

CONSCIENCE

She doesn’t understand how her misbehaviour affects others; she may cheat to win a game; she has a hard time admitting mistakes or accepting blame.

Point out the impact of her behaviour on others; require reparations; praise your child when she admits a mistake or apologises. Ask her what types of things people with a conscience do, such as keeping a promise or giving back extra change. Discuss moral issues that arise as you read or watch TV together.

COMMON RESPECT

He talks back to adults; he teases or bullies peers; he takes things without asking; he has trouble taking turns. Teach good manners so he knows specifically

how to be a proper host, introduce himself, answer the phone, and be a good teammate. Target a specific rude behaviour and point it out every time, don’t continue talking until it stops. Help him find words to tell you he’s frustrated, teach him how to disagree respectfully. Create a secret signal to let him know when he’s being disrespectful. Ask for examples of how he can show respect to an elderly person, a younger person, or a guest.

TOLERANCE

Your child makes fun of people who are different; she makes discriminatory remarks. She may repeat words or jokes without understanding that they are hurtful.

Explain why discriminatory comments are wrong, and refuse to allow them. Provide opportunities for her to meet people of different ages, races, cultures, and religions. Expose her to literature, toys, music, and games that represent a wide range of cultural groups. Answer questions about differences simply and honestly.

Look at pictures of people of different races; point out the few differences and the many similarities. Ask her what kinds of things an intolerant person would say and how that might make others feel. Ask her to be on the lookout for generalised negative statements about groups of people that start with “they’re all,” “they never,” or “they always.”

FAIRNESS

He tends to blame others; he’s a poor sport; he has trouble sharing; he won’t compromise; he changes the rules so he can win. Be fair at home by not playing favourites and listening respectfully to both sides of a dispute. Spell out family rules and teach him how to share. Teach him fairness procedures. Ask him if he has ever been treated unfairly and how it made him feel. Provide opportunities for him to meet people of different ages, races, cultures, and religions.

JULY 2014 - PAGE 11

FEEDING TODDLERS THE

EASY

Parents of every generation face the unenviable task of teaching their toddlers to eat. Most parents say they want their children to learn to be adventurous eaters who enjoy foods which will build healthy little bodies and who will one day leave home well-equipped to access and prepare healthy food for themselves.

These are great goals, but how easy are they to achieve? Well, it depends on how early we start.

Healthy eating behaviours begin in the first year of life, when baby first tries solid foods. And, as with most aspects of learning, babies and toddlers learn a lot by observing what their families do. As a result, this is a good time for parents to reflect on their own eating behaviours and decide whether they want to make some changes.

Family meals are an important part of teaching healthy eating behaviours to our children and have been extensively researched at Purdue University in USA. As many families are letting family meals slide, in the busyness of daily life, it is worth remembering that, according to this research, family meals spell success, with children who regularly eat together with their families, shown not only to have healthier diets and weights, but also, greater academic achievement, less likelihood of risk taking behaviour in adolescence and better communication skills and family connectedness.

It is never too soon to organise your day around family meals. Families can make mealtimes a priority by planning ahead.

Part of great family meals is creating a positive atmosphere at the table. It is helpful to avoid other distractions, such as T.V., and to focus instead on one another and what has been happening during the day. The following strategies can help build on happy meal times with young children.

1 . D IVISION

OF RESPONSIBILITY

(ELLYN SATTER, DIETITIAN, USA)

Parents realise that our children’s bodies, including their young, developing brains, are being built from the foods and drinks they are consuming.

The newly revised Australian Dietary Guidelines for Children, and associated website, www. eatforhealth.gov.au, provide the framework for types and quantities of food and drink to offer our children.

The division of responsibility is a simple rule of thumb which takes the stress out of whether and how much they should eat.

• Parents decide WHAT foods/drinks to offer children at regular intervals in a positive and supportive manner (based on the Guidelines) • Children decide WHETHER/HOW MUCH they will eat of the foods offered.

WAY

Children are born with innate hunger and satiety cues. We are happy to trust these in newborns, but it is so tempting to try to override them in older toddlers. Let these hunger and satiety cues continue to develop as you allow your toddler to decide whether and how much they will eat of the foods you have decided to offer them, five times a day. Healthy children will eat what they need to grow well. It is alright for a toddler to be hungry for a little while, while waiting for the next meal.

2 . TASTE

DEVELOPMENT

Taste preferences are learned, but neophobia, (fear of new foods), normal in the second year of life, can pose a barrier to this development. Strategies to overcome neophobia include: • Modelling enjoyment of the new food/drink, eating together as often as possible • Regular exposure to new foods to increase familiarity – again eating the same meal together as often as possible.

• Making food fun e.g. growing in garden, games in fruit and veg shopping e.g. pick the red ones, the long orange ones etc., helping with food preparation as appropriate.

• Children learn through play. Let your child play with his/her food. Mess is fine, just prepare for it.

• It takes up to 10 exposures, on average, for a child to try a new food, more for more fearful children. Children need practice to learn to like new foods. Don’t give up too early.

• Avoid salty or sweet ‘discretionary choices” (see the Guidelines) in the early years, until your child has learned to enjoy the core foods, essential for building healthy bodies. These discretionary choices are “party” foods, not daily foods.

Children learn taste preferences, and sweet and salty will always win out.

3 . FAMILY

MEALS

Young children have very small stomachs and need very little food at each meal, so every meal is important. Offer whole foods, as per the Guidelines, in 5 small meals/day, at the table, with a parent or carer modelling enjoyment of the family foods.

Discretionary choices will quickly fill your child’s small stomach and limit his intake of the family meal. Ensure at least two hours without food between meals, to enable him to become hungry again. Continue to offer water between meals.

• Set a routine and give plenty of preparation time for meals at the table e.g. time to pack up games, wash hands, help to set the table.

• Decide on a set time for your child to sit at the table (depending on age e.g. 5-20 minutes)

regardless of whether or not she chooses to eat.

• At the end of the 5-20 minutes, allow her to leave the table and ensure she understands that there will be no other/more food until the next meal time, and stick to that.

• Serve foods in centre of table for your child to help himself or serve a small plate for him, with a little of everything you have chosen for that meal.

Make sure there are foods he has already learned to like as well as foods he is yet to learn to like.

• Model enjoyment of the foods you are eating but make no comments unless they are positive ones.

• Limit fluids before and during meals. Offer milk or water at the end of the meal.

• No pressure at meal times – keep the atmosphere happy! Use the Division of Responsibility and do not focus on the child’s eating or lack thereof. An anxious child quickly loses his appetite.

• Remember to clean her teeth after eating.

If you are introducing these strategies for the first time with an older toddler or pre-schooler, make sure she understands that the family are going to start eating in a new way. You can explain it as, for example, “now you are four…”or “because you will be in kinder next year…”

Be mindful of rewarding undesirable behaviour in any context. Reward desirable behaviour and ignore the less desirable behaviour whenever possible. Otherwise, decide upon some set consequences for less desirable behaviour. Avoid using food and drink as rewards, or for anything other than hunger or thirst. Always use non-food rewards, such as special time with Mum or Dad, a trip to the park or a small gift.

If you would like to discuss these or other strategies to help with feeding your toddler or pre-schooler, please contact the dietitian in the BCH Child Health and Development Team.

With five centres around the Bellarine Peninsula, Bellarine Community Health (www.bch.org.au) provides health services to families across the region. The Child Health and Development Team offers a family-centred service focusing on the well being of children aged 0-12 years. The team includes speech therapy, occupational therapy, podiatry, dietetics, physiotherapy and dentistry.

They can be contacted through BCH Service Access Telephone: 5258 0812 or Email serviceaccessofficer@bch.org.au.

Hilary Hoevenaars - Dietitian Child Health and Development Team.

PAGE 12 - JULY 2014

WINTER PLANTING WHAT TO GROW NOW!

There are many benefits for seasonal planting. Nature’s weather patterns provide optimal conditions for plants to grow, meaning there’s less that we have to be concerned about! And, it’s as nature intended for our bodies, with each seasonal crop delivering the nutrients and minerals that we need throughout the year to stay healthy and well.

The cold weather can pose some challenges, including hail and frost in some areas. But there are a number of things we can do to ensure that our vegetables grow happily in the winter months.

Preparation is the key, so choose a sheltered spot away from chilly winds in full sun. Make sure the soil is well drained, and dig in some mushroom compost to give your plants the best start. Plant each variety in its own space, as some varieties compete with others.

Here’s four vegetables that you can grow right now: Broad beans: plant seeds approximately 5cm deep. Sprinkle over with dirt as this allows air to remain in the soil, which the seeds need to sprout. As the plants grow, stake them to ensure sunlight reaches them. Harvest in around 15 weeks, and pick regularly to encourage more growth.

Lettuce: plant seeds approximately 5cm deep. Sprinkle over with dirt as this allows air to remain in the soil, which the seeds need to sprout.

Harvest in around 7–10 weeks.

Onion: plant seeds approximately 5cm deep. Sprinkle over with dirt as this allows air to remain in the soil, which the seeds need to sprout.

Onions take quite some time to grow, over 20 weeks, but they are worth the wait!

Radish: plant seeds approximately 5cm deep. Sprinkle over with dirt as this allows air to remain in the soil, which the seeds need to sprout.

Radishes are easy to grow and will be ready in around 5 weeks.

Enjoy planting, and eating, your homegrown winter crop!

BIANCA C. ROSS IS THE AUTHOR OF HERBERT PEABODY AND HIS

EXTRAORDINARY VEGETABLE PATCH

WWW.HERBERTPEABODY.COM

Wow! What a month. If there’s ever been a period in time where being a full time working mother has been a challenge, it has certainly been this past month. After suffering with a series of health conditions along the way, countless visits to the GP and specialists and a number of blood tests…AGAIN, while trying to manage my two year old, working 5 days a week and running the household I have managed to ‘just get by’ and begin a slow process of recovery. It absolutely blows me away just how much our bodies can endure when put under strain especially when you have a million and one things to carry on with and can’t let all these issues stop you from achieving what needs to be done. I have no shame in admitting that I needed a load of help from family and friends along the way to help me with different things around the house, or cooking a meal or even watching Sophie while I get a small amount of rest so I can manage to carry on. Now the slow recovery has begun with measures finally put in place, we are now planning my daughters second birthday (just another thing to add to the list). ‘Boy oh boy’ party planning is supposed to be fun, instead my partner and I found ourselves up until midnight discussing party venue ideas and our guest list. Where do you draw the line with inviting family and extended family? You don’t want to upset anyone, but throwing a birthday party for the kids can get quite expensive when you’re inviting half the planet. We are lucky enough to have a BIG wonderful family full of amazing people, however when it comes to planning a birthday it makes life very difficult. So after this crazy month we are now slowly moving forward, on to bigger and better, more exciting things and trying to just keep moving forward. There is no point letting things get you down, on matters you can’t control. The smile on your child’s face is all you need to get through anything!

Carly

JULY 2014 - PAGE 13

CLONARD COLLEGE

IN

NT

Clonard College is a Catholic Secondary College for girls in Geelong. The school has been built on land where the Wathaurong people walked, cared for, hunted and gathered for thousands of years long before the red brick and sandstone buildings were established.

We have a population of about 850 students with 14 of these being of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander heritage. We strive to build an environment where learning about and developing respectful for our Indigenous people are at the core of the educational experience.

Clonard has built a relationship with the local Wathaurong and we are so grateful for what we have learnt from the many wise people who are involved in education within the Wathaurong community. We have been given wonderful support from our Koorie Education Workers and well-respected Aboriginal people in our community like Aunty May Owen, Uncle David Tournier and Richard Fry, to name a few. For the past twelve years, Clonard students have also had the privilege of working with the remote Aboriginal communities in the

Northern Territory - Santa Teresa (Ltyentye Apurte) and, more recently, Ampilatwatja. For many students this visit has sparked an intense desire to learn more about Aboriginal history and culture and for some has forged future pathways working with Aboriginal people and communities.

Our staff and students learn that successful relationships between Indigenous and non-Indigenous communities must be based on mutual respect, they take time and patience and that people must learn to listen to the needs of others. Earlier this month, sixteen Year 9 students and 5 staff from the school visited these communities and below are some things they would like to share about their experience “During our time at in the community we went to the primary and secondary school there. This would have to be one of the most worthwhile experiences we have had. We helped with activities like reading, writing, spelling and maths. We also helped the girls do their hair and nails. As our time in the community went on, we found that the children would become more comfortable

with us, they would run up to us screaming our name and jumping all over us. The children loved to show us all the different places around their community. They really touched our hearts. It was hard to say goodbye to these beautiful children. We were going to miss them and will think about the days we spent with them for a long time to come.” Cleo and Stella “On Wednesday night, we all jumped in our ute and headed out bush. We headed to a beautiful place called Rainbow Valley. Lots of the locals came with us. We set up some fires and set out to climb the hill. We were led by a boy called Bomber, and everybody followed the leader. It was an enjoyable climb, and the views from the top were absolutely spectacular. The valleys in the distance looked amazing as the sun set. The climb down was a lot more difficult! When we got back down one of the ladies who was with us cooked up some wonderful damper. We also had some Billy tea and kangaroo tail. As the sky became darker, we could see all the stars above us like a planetarium. It was a time I will never forget” Laura

PAGE 14 - JULY 2014

IE H P O S O T L IE N A D FROM

It all started when I was about 8 years old, I began having an interest in dresses and skirts. Luckily I had a sister and mother and I used to sneak in and try on their stuff when they weren’t home.

ninety friends and family arrive, everyone was supportive of my choice and even my dad and mum dressed up as well as a couple of friends, it was a really good night. I received heaps of compliments on my outfit.

The first time I was caught out was when I was in grade 6. I was doing homework in my room dressed up and out of nowhere my sister barged in; with nowhere to hide she saw me in her clothes! Luckily a week later she had forgotten all about it. When I turned 17 I had been dressing up when home alone and by the time my parents came home I had gotten changed and taken my make-up off before they saw me. Turns out I still had bit of mascara on which they pulled me up on! Not knowing my secret they never thought twice about it. From the age of 18 I had my own debit card and started buying my own girly things from eBay and other online shops.

I started telling some of my close mates who I regularly hung out with most nights of the week. Being scared of rejection I told them over Facebook and text messages.

They took it really well and I started dressing up as I went around to their houses, The only thing they were uncomfortable with at this point in time was my female character in full display if we went out in public as they did not want people staring at us or if they saw someone they knew. From then I decided to come out to my gay and lesbian friends knowing they would be more accepting of me dressing up as a female, which they were! This gave me the courage to tell my parents. Not knowing how they would take it I sent them a nice long message from the heart via Facebook explaining I like to dress up and have been doing so for years. My parents assured me that it was ok and they loved me, no matter what I wore! This is when I decided to bite the bullet and came to talk to them face to face and answered their questions.

During a scout night we had cross-dress night, which was fun and it was exciting to muck around with my mates trying on different clothes. Two years later they did a murder mystery night and, lacking girls in our rover scout crew, two guys had to dress up as female characters. I got in my dress, heels and full make up and we ended up going out to McDonald’s for tea. I received some stares and a couple of friends laughed but were supportive of my female character.

One of my biggest steps was when I decided for my 21st birthday I wanted to do a gender bender party, so basically everyone was invited to come dressed as the opposite sex. I convinced my parents to let me go ahead with that particular theme and invited a lot of my friends.

Most said they did not want to dress up which I was fine with as the main reason I wanted this theme was for me to dress up. Being a special night I wanted to invest in a new dress, this was the first time I went to the shops looking for a dress. The shop owners were fine with me in their dress shops, letting me try things on and helping me with zips. I bought a dress from City Chic that day!

The night of my party I got all dressed up and I had about

I told one of my friends Mel, who was totally supportive and took me out shopping. A couple of days later, it was just after Christmas so the shops were packed. I said “I should get my ears pierced”, Mel quickly agreed and went with me to Cosmetics Plus. They had a spot available immediately, so I picked out a pair of starter studs then Mel insisted on paying for my ears to get pierced as a Christmas present and said “That way, every time you put on a pair of earrings you will think of me!” This really meant a lot to have this support from her. It was then I told my parents and they disapproved and that’s when it truly sunk in to them I was transgender and not just occasionally dressing up. My parents found it hard to accept and would not talk to me while I was dressed in my female persona.

I made a new Facebook page for Sophie (my female

name) and never added anyone.

Within three weeks I had 120 friends that added me saying they supported me and that I showed an unimaginable amount of bravery coming out and being who I truly want to be! I have friends that just have Sophie’s profile not Daniel’s and vice versa.

I used to always go on the internet and look up information on other people’s experiences, I found it easier knowing I wasn’t alone and how other people came out and dealt with the judgement etc. I found a transgender group online, where they meet up once a month in a bar. You can go as either gender; the decision is all yours and comes with no judgment at all!

It is good to talk to other people going through the same thing. I knew from a very early age I wanted to dress as a woman but since I turned 18, I knew I wanted to not only dress, but fully consume the woman persona all the time and swap genders.

One of my favourite quotes is “You’re not as alone as you feel, if you remember that the easier it will be to take a risk.” I found it inspirational and it has helped me tell people about who I was becoming! To my expectations, it was right! I could never have imagined this many people would support me and happy to walk along this exciting but challenging journey by my side.

BY SOPHIE SPEARS

JULY 2014 - PAGE 15

R .. .

E D N E G S N A R T E R A Y E H T M Y C H IL D S A Y S

?

N A E M T A H T WHAT DOES

Transgender is a broad term that generally refers to someone whose gender identity does not match the sex they were assigned at birth. Most people never question whether their gender identity matches their body, but for those that do, it can either be very confusing and difficult or it can be very liberating and empowering.

HOW AM I SUPPOSED TO FEEL

There are lots of different ways to be transgender and none is either right or wrong; it depends very much on the individual and how they feel most comfortable and happy in the world. Some things your child may wish to do whilst exploring their gender identity include using a different name or different pronouns (she/he/ ze/hir), varying gender presentation (i.e. dressing in a more feminine or masculine way, changing hairstyles), pursuing medical intervention including hormone therapy and/or various surgical interventions.

• Initially horror and disbelief, followed by devastation and grief, over losing their son or daughter

You may find some of the ways your child wants to explore their gender identity challenging or confronting.

There are lots of common myths or misconceptions about transgender people in our society and finding more information and support for yourself can help you support your child and deal with the challenges you will face, both individually and together, in a more constructive and supportive way.

Your son or daughter will always be your child and they need your love and support now more than ever. Even though you may not understand what is happening or why, your efforts to go on the journey with your child will make a huge difference to their health and wellbeing in the long term.

ABOUT ALL OF THIS?

There is no right or wrong way to feel about your child telling you that they are transgender. Some parents feel…

• Like they did something wrong

• Worried, sad, confused, angry, scared, ashamed, guilty, embarrassed, isolated, helpless • That they need to ‘straighten out’ their child and get them to ‘stop this nonsense’ • That they want to be supportive but don’t know what to do or where to get help • That their child will be marginalised, discriminated against and never be happy • Shut out and like they don’t know their child any more • Relieved, they now know why their child has been so unhappy, perhaps wishing that their child had told them earlier so they could have supported them • Protective and a desire to advocate for and support their child and their choices • Glad that they are the kind of parent their child can share something like this with and grateful to be included in their child’s journey Whatever you feel is valid. Remember your feelings may change over time. Maintaining a positive

relationship with your child is so important to their health and well being and thus it is important thing to avoid extreme reactions and seek support that allows you to express your feelings freely and work through any difficulties separately.

WHAT SUPPORT IS THERE FOR YOUNG PEOPLE AND THEIR FAMILIES?

The GASP project is part of the City of Greater Geelong’s Youth Development Unit. The GASP project supports young people aged 10 - 25 who are gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgender or who are questioning their gender or sexuality. The GASP project has a social and support group for young people that meets weekly, and it provides individual support and counselling to young people and their families. In addition we provide training and education to schools and community organisations. You can contact the GASP project by phoning 5272 4688 and ask to speak to a GASP project worker, or email us at gasp@ geelongcity.vic.gov.au There is also a support group for friends and families who have GLBT people in their lives called PFLAG. This group meets on the first Wednesday of every month in Geelong. Their email address is pflaggeelong@hotmail.com THE IMPORTANT THING TO REMEMBER IS THAT

YOU ARE NOT ALONE IN THIS AND THAT THERE ARE SUPPORTS AVAILABLE.

PAGE 16 - JULY 2014

HAVING

A BALL !

IGBY Productions is an event styling and management company and have been creating unique, Debutante Balls for over 10 years.

Debutante Balls were originally held for young ladies from aristocratic families and when they reached the age of maturity, they were introduced to society at the formal Debutante Ball.

The modern day Debutante Ball is very different. There are still some of the formalities, such as ballroom dancing, but generally debutante balls are much more informal now. IGBY Debs are contemporary and themed, while still embracing the glamour of the past. We place emphasis on having a fun, memorable evening that celebrates a coming of age for both the girls and boys participating.

We hold approximately 12 debutante balls every year and our 2014 season is well and truly underway. We have already done some fantastic themes this year including some of our favourites such as; Winter Wonderland where we transform the venue into a magical, frosted, snow covered world, and Viva Las Vegas which celebrates all the lights, glitz and glamour of the notorious Sin City. If you would like more information on participating in one of our debutante balls, please contact us on 1300 48 42 48 or debs@igby.net.au. You can also see pictures of our previous debutante balls on our website www.debutanteball.com.au and on our Facebook page www.facebook.com/debutanteballs

JULY 2014 - PAGE 17

DEBUTANTES

SHINE...

At the beginning of May, many Christian College Year 11 students participated in the annual Debutante Balls across two nights in the beautifully transformed Middle School Sports and Aquatic Centre (SAC). The SAC provided a classy atmosphere fit for an evening of dancing and socialising.

Each year these occasions provide a wonderful opportunity to experience and celebrate the calibre of our students. I am sure that the 600 guests present on each evening were as thrilled and impressed as I was to see such fine young men and women presented in the two sets of Debutantes.

My wife and I, together with our College CEO Mr. and Mrs. Riddle and Head of Senior School Mrs. Strong accompanied by the 2000 College Dux Cameron Ross felt privileged to be the guests of honour across the two nights to greet and congratulate each of the couples presented to us.

The Debutante Balls are an opportunity for us to witness the character qualities, confidence and warm personalities of our students. These virtues, combined with the high standard of dances performed, allowed everyone present to celebrate the young people.

To hear the genuine appreciation the students expressed regarding the learning experiences and wider opportunities Christian College offers was heartening. It was also lovely to see students expressing their sincere gratitude to their families and friends for supporting them on the night.

I am sincerely grateful to the staff, students and families involved for contributing to these wonderful evenings and the opportunity to celebrate our fine students and acknowledge their incredible achievements.

GLEN MCKEEMAN COLLEGE PRINCIPAL

PAGE 18 - JULY 2014

E D U C A T IO N

5

JULY 2014 - PAGE 19

WAYS TO STOP RUNNING

YOUR LIFE ON AUTOPILOT

DO YOU EVER FIND YOURSELF

REPEATING THE SAME PATTERNS? DO YOU CONSISTENTLY END UP IN THE SAME SITUATIONS?

Whether it is relationships, money, career, or other areas, often we run on autopilot and never create the life we desire.

3 . INTERESTING POINT OF VIEW

Our point of view creates our reality. If I have the point of view that relationships are difficult, guess what shows up? Difficult relationships. Say, “Interesting point of view, I have that point of view” for every point of view you have. This allows you to change your point of view and thereby change your reality.

4 . EVERYTHING’S THE OPPOSITE OF WHAT IT

What if you could come out of autopilot and truly be present in your life? And, what if you being present in your life is what’s required to create the change you’ve been asking for?

APPEARS TO BE. NOTHING’S THE OPPOSITE OF

Here are 5 tools designed to take you from autopilot into becoming fully present and fully alive!

When you find yourself in autopilot, use this statement! You might be saying, “It doesn’t make sense!” Exactly! It’s designed to go beyond your mind and disrupt the repetitive patterns.

1 . ASK QUESTIONS

We’re taught to look for answers and to value conclusion. Truly, answers and conclusions keep us on autopilot.

When you ask a question, you go beyond the limitations of your mind.

Two powerful questions to ask are: What else is possible? And, how does it get any better than this?

Don’t ask looking for answers. Answers are the turn-on switch for autopilot. Ask and stay open to receiving the infinite possibilities the Universe is waiting to supply!

2 . LIVE IN 10 SECOND INCREMENTS

Imagine that you had 10 seconds to live the rest of your life.

What would you choose? That lifetime’s over. Again, imagine you had 10 seconds to live the rest of your life. What would you choose? Keep choosing every 10 seconds. This totally puts you in the now! Choose. Choose again. Choose again!

WHAT IT APPEARS TO BE.

5 . ALL OF LIFE COMES TO ME WITH

EASE, JOY AND GLORY

Say this 10 times in the morning and 10 times at night. See how much more present you are with EVERYTHING! Are you ready to be fully present and fully alive? Use these tools to thrive!

Dr. Dain Heer is an internationally recognised motivational speaker and author of Being You, Changing the World, which empowers readers to eliminate personal obstacles and create a positive change for themselves. Dain is conducting workshops in Sydney & Melbourne in April on these themes.

For details visit www.beingyouclass.com

PAGE 20 - JULY 2014

JULY 2014 - PAGE 21

F F I L C S N QUEE

S K C I BR

The Queenscliffe Bricks’, a display of LEGO models provided by the Melbourne LEGO Users Group (MUGS) and organised by the Rotary Club of Queenscliffe was held at the Point Lonsdale Primary School Hall in Bowen Rd. over the 2 days of Sat 21 and 22nd June. “The event this year was extended into the school common room to include a free active LEGO children’s participation area.” said Kevin Carey – Rotary Club President. “This children’s participation area proved very popular with the families and youngsters. The area included two freestyle play build areas of Duplo, and LEGO. An open colouring table, and a LEGO photo opp. stand for self-photo opportunities.” Mr Carey said. “Also we had a speciality LEGO retail shop over the two days. The LEGO event is a Rotary Club of Queenscliffe’s major fundraising event.” According to Mr Carey.

Rotary funds are actively spent. Funds have been used for Rotary projects such as purchase of a dropdown screen for the Point Lonsdale Primary School Hall, a special wheelchair for Disabled Surfers Association, funding for local Riding for the Disabled Association, and funding a wheelchair-friendly water fountain at the Point Lonsdale Foreshore Revitalisation. Rotary also supports local Early Childhood literacy and numeracy development programs. Rotary supports overseas health programs such as Polio eradication, children’s burns and surgical remedial clinical works.

PAGE 22 - JULY 2014

JULY 2014 - PAGE 23

GET MORE AT MT. BAW BAW ALPINE ADVENTURE…SO CLOSE! With a range of new activities, events and initiatives in store this season, there’s something for everyone at Mt. Baw Baw, whether there is snow or not.

For those keen to hit the slopes, there is a new terrain park, a new Big Hill lift, more runs, a new slalom race course, better snowmaking facilities and new lighting for night skiing. There is also plenty for those who don’t want to ski or board, including tobogganing, husky rides, snow shoeing and of course, snow play.

The Kids Club provides children with endless hours of fun activities both on the snow and off it. Parents will be able to explore the mountain as a couple, safe with the knowledge that their children are having a fantastic time at the Club.

missing for too long. For anyone keen to hone their snowboarding skills, the new terrain Kicker Park provides a safe and comfortable environment to do so – with just the right level of jumps to challenge yet satisfy the beginner to intermediate snowboarder.

Baw Baw’s gentle slopes are the perfect place to learn to ski and with all runs accessible by T-bar and poma lifts, there is no intimidating dismounting off chairlifts to worry about. All runs lead to a central exit too, so no member of the troupe will go

The easy going, alpine village charm with onmountain accommodation and community atmosphere makes Mt. Baw Baw ideal for a first-time snow experience, or the ‘first-time-in-a-long-time’ skiers and snowboarders.

FREE CLASS

PRESENT COUPON TO Mums and Bubs (subject to numbers) RECEIVE A FREE CLASS General and Prenatal

Restorative Classes

VALID FOR THE FIRST WEEK OF TERM ONLY BOOKING REQUIRED

TERM THREE 14TH JULY 2014 Phone: 0407 684 355 GEELONG EAST www.athayoga.com.au

PAGE 24 - JULY 2014

MUSIC ARTS &

HOW OLD WERE YOU WHEN YOU STARTED PLAYING/SINGING?

MEET JOSH AND TRENT FROM

Josh: I was in grade 2..so I guess 7 or 8 years old.

Trent: I started playing drums at age 7 WHAT INSTRUMENT/S DO YOU PLAY?

Josh: I play guitar and I sing Trent: Drums!

HOW DID YOU GET TOGETHER?

Trent: Our mates told me that Josh was looking for a drummer HOW HAS YOUR SCHOOL BACKED YOU UP WITH YOUR MUSIC?

Being able to do Vet Music!

IS MUSIC WHAT YOU WANT YOUR CAREER TO BE, OR DO YOU HAVE OTHER PLANS?

Josh: Yeah music is my 1st priority Trent: I want to be a back up Drummer WHAT DO YOU THINK OF THE LIVE MUSIC SCENE IN GEELONG?

It’s alright, not too bad

WHAT PROBLEMS ARE THERE WITH BEING AN UNDERAGE MUSO?

It is very hard to get into places

WHAT ARE SOME OF YOUR BIGGEST INFLUENCES?

DZ Deathrays, Local H, 2 piece heavy bands, Grunge Music, Nirvana

WHERE ARE SOME OF THE PLACES YOU HAVE PLAYED?

Spud Club, The Potato Shed...no gigs yet. Also Trent’s Shed ‘The Big Red Shed’

INTERVIEW BY LOUISE ROBERTS

M US I C A R T S

JULY 2014 - PAGE 25

&

RUNNING

THE SHOW

The middle of the year has begun, and it is difficult not to reflect on the amazing opportunities and experiences that I have been fortunate enough to gain just under the time span of two years. These two years have revealed so much to me about my own capabilities and the direction in which I want to take my life when prior to this I had absolutely no idea. My passion was in music, for the entirety of my life I have been obsessed with artists and live music, however, not until I began year eleven did the thought cross my mind about making a career out of it!

I enrolled to study Cert III Tourism & Events through Macquarie Commercial College and then through my High School Bellarine Secondary College, I was able to work for Queenscliff Music Festival, running events with the Freeza FOOT-in-the-DOOR committee and ultimately ran the FOOT-in-the-DOOR stage at the festival itself. I got to work with artists throughout the year such as Alister Turrill, The Murlocs, The Little Stevie’s, D @ Sea, Bonjah and many more.

Another opportunity arose where I was selected for an internship with Spinning Half Music and assisted in running shows for incredible artists such as The Jungle Giants, The Getaway Plan, Bob Evans, Jordan Riddle and more at the Wool Exchange Complex and Beav’s Bar in Geelong, which provided me experience in liaising with individual artists and the many aspects of running a show!

In March, I volunteered at the FReeZA Push Over Festival

with Violent Soho, DZ Deathrays, Allday and others, which furthered my knowledge of the complex ways in which a festival is organised. In addition to this, I also decided to volunteer at the fundraiser, A Show for Casey, in Geelong where artists such as Lisa Mitchell, Dan Sultan, Missy Higgins (one of my favourite artists!), Yacht Club DJs, Paul Dempsey, Regurgitator, Adalita and the You Am I Allstars performed.

I then was surprised to learn that I had won a Scholarship for the three day Face The Music: Conference in Melbourne, where I got to listen to music industry professionals/artists speak about their experiences and give their advice. Some of the highlights of this were the conferences including; Michael and Matt Gudinski, Courtney Barnette, Sam Cromack from Ball Park Music, Regan Lethbridge from Bonjah & 123 Agency, Renee Chambers from Spotify, Tyson Koh from Rage. It was extremely interesting to hear the various perspectives of well-known individuals in the Australian music industry and I was very lucky to attend.

It was also required that I complete two weeks of work experience at two different establishments and I was fortunate to work at Searoad Ferries - where I learnt to sell tickets and use ticket machines and then in the Geelong office for Port Fairy Folk Festival. I then furthered my work with Port Fairy Folk Festival where I worked in the merchandise tent at the festival and then a group of us

were required to run the artist signings. Some of these artists included; Ginger & Tonic, Mama Kin, The Flying Emus, Archie Roach, just to name a few.

Now, completing year twelve, I am continuing my work for Queenscliff Music Festival every Friday with various events being planned including one occurring on July 6th, with headlining Geelong band Residual and I will also help out at the QMF Winter Fundraiser with Stonefield, The Bombay Royale, The Sweethearts and Yirrmal & The Yolngu Boys.

In April, I was nominated for three Impetus Awards in Geelong which included ‘Community Award: Group’, ‘Community Award: Individual’ and Leadership Award. I was then honoured to have received these from the Mayor of Geelong, Darryn Lyons.

This time, I chose to complete my week of work experience at the Kids’ Voice and what a great idea that was! I got to widen my knowledge on music and arts programs that local schools and organisations hold. Who knows where I will go for my final week of work experience in September!

I am so lucky to have met so many interesting and talented individuals in such a short time and am over-joyed with the hundreds of memories I have made which influence me to grow and develop as an individual, I am so happy in this field and will hopefully continue to take advantage of every opportunity I can!

LOUISE ROBERTS

PAGE 26 - JULY 2014

SUPPORTED LEARNING DIFFICULTIES Apple Seed Education now also plants the seed for students with special needs!

Apple Seed Education has had a successful start to 2014 and is now able to expand their classes to children with special needs. Originally a range of academic, physical and creative classes were offered to children from infancy through to pre-school age. Apple Seed Education are pleased to announce that with the introduction of the class ‘Socially Speaking’ they now cater for primary aged children with special needs.

Apple Seed Education welcomes James Field to their teaching team. “James brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to our team and it is exciting that we can offer students with special needs their very own class,” says Jade Collier, Apple Seed Education Director. James is an experienced primary teacher and with expertise in special education. He has developed and designed successful

programs for students with varying disabilities and learning needs on a large scale. James also works for the Department of Education and Early Childhood Development as a Special Education Consultant. “The Bellarine Peninsula and surrounding areas are extremely lucky to have access to such a fantastic social skills program. Since posting information about this class on the Facebook page, ‘The Treehouse Geelong’, the phone has not stopped ringing with enquiries. There is certainly a need and demand for programs like this,” says Jade.

Our schools do an amazing job at meeting the diverse needs of all students.

However, with learning difficulties on the rise and fewer students eligible for support programs, there is demand for external programs like ‘Socially Speaking’, which complement and extend the work done in our schools.

‘Socially Speaking’ offers students (Kindergarten to Grade 6) the chance to develop their social skills in a fun and innovative way, through the use of technology and engaging resources.

This class is designed for students with Autism (DSM 5), Asperger’s syndrome, language delays, social immaturities, low self-esteem and confidence issues.

Children who are not diagnosed with a disorder but experience shyness or communication difficulties would also highly benefit from this program. Class sizes are kept small to maximize teacher student time and create an environment where students with low communication skills can gain confidence and practice their social skills. The specific challenge of both verbal and non-verbal social interaction is taken into account in the ‘Socially Speaking’ class and the course has been developed to equip children with the necessary skills to communicate more effectively and form meaningful social relationships.

“The simplicity of being able to look at someone in the eye, the ability to understand people’s emotions or to ask a simple question like, “Can I play too?” are things that do not come easily to children with social challenges and this makes the classroom and the playground a challenging environment for these students. ‘Socially Speaking’ focuses explicitly on the development of social skills and gives students the strategies and skills they need to develop meaningful social relationships.” says James Field, teacher of ‘Socially Speaking’.

Apple Seed Education is in the process of registering with the National Disability Insurance Scheme. We understand that assessments and the associated waiting periods can be lengthy and costly; in the meantime Apple Seed Education can provide you with a FREE assessment, which gives a snapshot of your child’s language and cognitive abilities.

Call today to discuss your child’s needs and book a FREE assessment with James 52 555 517 or for more information on other classes visit: www.appleseedclasses.com

COOKING JULY & CRAFTS 2014 - PAGE 27

CRAFTS

& C O O K IN G

RAI NY ALI EN DAY !

DIREC TIONS 1. Gather a range of different sized

pom-poms and what ever else you find around the house that might make a good alien character.

some eyes with different coloured paper circles.

2. Stick on googly eyes, or make

W HA T YO U N EE D

P OM-P OM ALIENS PO M- PO MS GO OG LY EYE S PA PER PL AT ES /B OW LS GL UE PA INT & GL ITT ER PL AS TIC CU PS ST ICK Y TA PE

3. Then grab some paper plates and bowls and glue together for the space ship.

4. Decorate the space ships with paint and glitter

5. Get the plastic cups and and sticky tape these on top. You can either

put the aliens inside and stick the cups down perminantly or just simply put a few pieces of sticky tape on one side the cup is able to flip open.

*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.”

A LIE N POP C OR N M ETHOD 1. Microwave popcorn according to packet

directions

2. Melt white chocolate buttons in a

1 PACK MICROWA VE

3. Once melted stir in blue food die and

WHITE CHOCOLA TE

drizzle over popcorn.

4. Cover with green sprinkles for extra alien

effect!

POPCORN - PLAIN BUTTONS

BLUE FOOD DIE GREEN SPRINKL ES

INGREDIENTS

saucepan on medium heat stirring continuously.

PAGE 28 - JULY 2014

LUL U BE LL S E RI E S

G L AMOUR

Belinda Murrell - Randomhouse

G IRL

Lulu Bell and the Pyjama Party: The best kind of bedtime story is a Lulu Bell story! Molly and Sam and Ebony the kitten are staying the night for a pyjama party. Yay! Lulu is looking forward to stories and games and snacks. But it’s a busy night for Dad’s vet hospital. An orphaned wallaby joey needs care and a mother dog arrives at the vet hospital ready to have her puppies. Dad needs Lulu and Molly’s help – even if they’re still in their pyjamas!

HInkler Glamour Girl is a collection of books and activity packs designed to get you designing, sketching, journaliing and crafting. Each Glamour Girl is a chic, playful, supercreative teen, who’s a fan of fashion, design and fun creations. And everything they do is intended to encourage you to get creative and express your individuality and style through play and design. The Glamour Girl range has wide selection of fun, creative activities for girls, with everything from secret journals, sketchbooks and stationery kits to magnetic dress-up dolls and craft kits that contain everything you need to start your own fashion trends.

From just two books last year, the Glamour Girl line is set to expand with nine new books and activity packs in 2014. The Glamour Girl designer tote and clutch bags has recently hit stores, followed by stationery kits, A5 sketchbooks, secret journals, studio gift boxes, two new designer portfolios and magnetic dress-up dolls this month. And Glamour Girl has also gone digital. The brand new Glamour Girl App will be available on the App Store in June.

Lulu Bell and the Tiger Cub: Everyone loves a trip to the zoo – especially Lulu Bell! Year Three are going on an excursion to the local zoo. Luckily the zoo vet is one of Dad’s best friends, so Lulu and Molly and their friends get special treatment. When a tiger cub gets into trouble and hurts its leg, the zookeepers have to take it to the hospital. The zoo vet sets to work – with Lulu and Molly looking on. Will the tiger cub be OK?

TOD D LER OW NER’S MA N UA L, F ATHER’S ED ITION

Steve Bedwell – Rockpool Publishing A humorous operating guide for fathers, The Toddler Owner’s Manual is sure to bring a smile to any dad’s face. Written by a man for men, this book likens a toddler to the other love in a man’s life, not his wife his car. This companion piece to the successful Baby Owner’s Manual is also packaged in the form of a retro car manual. This essential handbook covers the difficult ownership period of your Mother Nature Heavy Industry child from 18 months to three years. This out of warranty period can be difficult and the manual will help fathers navigate such vexing stages as solid food consumption, child self waste disposal training, tentative first steps as well as long term servicing and immunisation issues and maximising the usefulness of your toddler. This is a must have book for any father facing the challenges of a rapidly developing ‘little human.

INTRUD ER

Christine Bongers - Randomhouse

Q U I CK AN D E ASY WE ANING Annabel Karmel - Randomhouse

Weaning your baby can be a tricky milestone for any parent, but with her years of experience and wealth of expertise, Annabel Karmel is on hand to help. In her new book, Quick and Easy Weaning, Annabel aims to take the stress out of your baby’s transition to solid food, guiding you through the weaning process step-by-step, from your baby’s very first purée to introducing more complex flavours and textures. Featuring 100 delicious recipes, including tasty purées such as Baked Sweet Potato and Butternut Squash, first tastes of grown-up foods like My First Beef Bolognese, and nutritious sweet treats like Pear, Apple and Blueberry Crumble, Annabel makes it easy for you to give your child the very best start in life. All Annabel’s recipes are developed with busy parents in mind, to be simple and quick to prepare as well as packed full of nutrition, to keep your baby happy and healthy.

If you like Fiona Wood, Cath Crowley or Jaclyn Moriarty, you’ll love Christine Bongers’ gripping new coming of age story, Intruder. I don’t walk past the house next door. I wish the woman who lives in it was dead.

Which makes it hard . . . because she was the one who came running when I screamed. Kat Jones is woken by an Intruder looming over her bed. She’s saved

by Edwina – the neighbour Kat believes betrayed her dying mother. Her dad issues an ultimatum.

Either spend nights next door, or accept another Intruder in her life – Hercules, the world’s ugliest guard dog. It’s a no-brainer, even for dog-phobic Kat. When she meets adorkable Al at the dog park, finally Kat has someone to talk to, someone who cares. But the prowler isn’t finished with Kat. To stop him, she needs Edwina’s help . . . and what Kat learns could mend fences – or break her fragile family apart forever.

GOOGLY E Y E S Crown & Andrews

The hilarious family game of whacky vision.

Googly Eyes will get your family giggling!

Players wear whacky vision-altering glasses while completing various drawing challenges for their team as they race towards the finish. Includes three sets of coloured lenses designed with varying degrees of difficulty to add to the wild and wacky fun. The game includes the board, 162 challenge cards, timer, vision altering glasses, 3 lenses, paper, pencil and instructions. Googly Eyes is all about performing under pressure while looking silly – the perfect formula for family fun. Age group 7+

JULY 2014 - PAGE 29

FLU T T E RB Y E :

FRENCH SO DA

T IN KE RB E LL

RAINGEAR

Funtastic

Tinkerbell, the most famous fairy of all time has flown into the enchanted land of Flutterbye Flying Fairies. You can easily control Flutterbye Magically Flying Tink with the wave of your hand.

She responds to you and her surroundings, floating above your hand, soaring into the sky. Explore the fairytale wonder of Flutterbye Magically Flying Tink and her other Flying Fairy friends

Y IN Y O G A

Ulrica Norberg – Rockpool Publishing A yin yoga practice incorporates poses designed to improve the flow of qi, the subtle life force essential to organ health, immunity, and emotional wellbeing. The postures are moved through slowly and mindfully, gently allowing tendons, fascia, and ligaments to stretch as circulation improves and the mind becomes calm. Experienced yoga teacher Ulrica Norberg describes how to balance yin and yang on and off the mat, sharing her own experiences and offering wisdom for adapting the yogic principles in modern life. Readers will learn to develop their own individualized yin yoga practice, complete with a yin yoga flow, visualisation techniques, and ayurvedic health principles. Photographs and clear descriptions highlight proper alignment, ensuring the practice will be safe and effective.

These adorable raincoats, made from waterproof polyurethane and lined with 100% soft striped jersey cotton, are available from www. frenchsoda.com.au or through selected stockists, which are listed on their website.

The girls ‘Matilda’ yellow raincoat is a double breasted swing raincoat with hood and nautical navy and white striped lining, while the boys ‘Billie’ navy raincoat is a straight fit, zipper raincoat also with the navy and white striped lining.

Both products have a RRP of $64.95 and are available in sizes 2-3, 4-5 and 6-7. A range of umbrellas, which are seethrough so curious minds can watch the rain clouds above, pick up the core palette of the raincoats with a canary yellow, candy apple red, candy floss pink or navy trim. RRP $22.95

MO VI E RE VI EW S

GEELONG

B E LL AN D SEBASTIAN

TI N K E R BE LL A N D

Belle and Sebastian is set high in the snowy Alps during the Second World War. The resourceful Sebastian (an adorable Félix Bossuet) is a lonely boy who tames and befriends a giant, wild mountain dog, Belle – even though the villagers believe her to be ‘the beast’ that has been killing their sheep.

In cinemas: 26th June

In Cinemas: 3rd July

At the same time, the Germans have arrived in the peaceful village looking for resistance members who are helping Jewish refugees escape into Switzerland. Through danger and adventure, Belle and Sebastian forge an indestructible friendship.

Set against breathtaking scenery and a dramatic time in history, and co-starring Tchéky Karyo, one of France’s most popular actors, this moving story will be enjoyed by the whole family.

BIERTVICS ES IT S

SP ON SO RE D BY

LLY

E

IA SPEC

UR O Y FOR SS! E N BUSI

Contact Shaun on 5255 3925 OR 0411 416 384 to discuss your requirements! www.bitsit.com.au

THE PI RA TE F A I RY

When a misunderstood dust-keeper fairy named Zarina steals Pixie Hollow’s all-important Blue Pixie Dust, and flies away to join forces with the pirates of Skull Rock, Tinker Bell and her fairy friends must embark on the adventure of a lifetime to return it to its rightful place. However, in the midst of their pursuit of Zarina, Tink’s world is turned upside down. She and her friends find that their respective talents have been switched and they have to race against time to retrieve the Blue Pixie Dust and return home to save Pixie Hollow.

We provide a managed IT support p lan for: · IT Mainte nance

& Audits · Project Pla nning & Su pport · New Purc hases & Up grades · Network M onitoring · Data Back up · Broadban d, E-mail & Website Se · Anti-Virus tup , Malware & Spyware M onitoring

PAGE 30 - JULY 2014

THE CROC & THE PLATYPUS AT THE BOOKGROVE!

The Croc and the Platypus by Jackie Hosking, Illustrated by Marjorie Crosby-Fairall.

This school Holidays, why not bring the kids down to Bookgrove to see and experience Anglesea’s children’s author, Jackie Hosking, who has released a children’s picture book called, “The Croc and The Platypus”. Jackie will be appearing in Ocean Grove at bookgrove on Tuesday

July 8 at 11.00am for a storytelling and all are welcome to attend. The picture book is about a fantastic outback journey which finds the croc and the platypus trundling off in a rusty old Holden Ute. They took some damper and tea in a hamper and bundled it up in the boot. Join Croc and Platypus for an Australian outback hullabaloo.

Tuesday July 8 at 11.00am

35 YEARS OF MS READATHON Do you remember doing the MS Readathon as a child? The MS Readathon was launched in 1979 and turns 35 this year and we’d love you to help us celebrate!

The MS Readathon is Australia’s longest-running and most respected reading-based fundraiser which has fostered a love of reading in generations of Aussies, fuelling their desire to make a difference to the lives of Australians living with multiple sclerosis (MS). This year, the shout-out to get involved not only goes to schools but also child care centres, retirement villages, mother’s

groups, scouts, girl guides, sporting groups – there’s no age limit.

Over the past 35 years, around 5.5 million people have taken part in the MS Readathon raising more than $40 million for people with MS. This year the target is $500,000 which will support the ongoing provision of essential services and programs while the search for a cure continues.

To register or for more information go to www.msreadathon.org.au

SEA SHEPHERD Sea Shepherd Australia is a non-profit conservation organisation whose mission is to end the destruction of habitat and slaughter of wildlife in the world’s oceans in order to conserve and protect ecosystems and species.

Sea Shepherd Australia uses innovative direct-action tactics to investigate, document and take action when necessary to expose and confront illegal activities on the high seas. By safeguarding the biodiversity of our delicately balanced oceanic ecosystems, Sea Shepherd Australia works to ensure their survival for future generations.

Hosted by Audemia, the fundraiser hopes to be huge.

We have some great guest speakers including Phillip Wollen, an Australian philanthropist and a prominent member of the animal rights movement. Phillip conducts

TRAD E Health

intervention programs to rescue abused animals and funds outreach programs that promote animal welfare and abstinence. We also have Haans Siver, Education Coordinator with Sea Shepherd Australia speaking about what it is like to be on campaign at the event. There will be big named musicians such as Paul Woseen from The Screaming Jets and local band Audemia, RDZJB, Tim Hulsman and more. Sea Shepherd merchandise as well as the Sea Shepherd Antarctic crew will also be there on the day also. There will be a jumping castle, air brush tattooing , face painting for the children, lots of street entertainment, Auction items, lucky prize draws and more Tickets are $15 at the door. The venue will be providing vegan food all day.

Sunday 20th July 2014 from 11am - 6pm

DIRE CTORY

Parties

Toy library

IT Solutions List your business in the Kids’ Voice trade directory.

ads@kidsvoice.com au

JULY 2014 - PAGE 31

3 JULY

Australian Breastfeeding Association, Western Heights Uniting Church Hall, 2731 Douglass St, Herne Hill. Breastfeeding after 12 months. 10am-12pm. For more information contact Gillian Thornton on 0400 676 466

3, 4, 8,10 AND 11 JULY

Fairies and Dragons, Geelong Botanic Gardens, 1-49 Garden St, East Geelong.

Winter school holidays at Geelong Botanic Gardens! School Holiday Program - Be enthralled by dragon and fairy stories from the Gardens, Join in with fairy and dragon themed craft activities - make a fairy garden, Come along in your fairy or dragon slayer costumes, Activities will be indoors and outdoors. Please dress appropriately for the weather. Cost $7.00.

8 JULY School holiday author event at bookgrove, The Terrace, Ocean Grove. Anglesea children’s author, Jackie Hosking, has released a children’s picture book called, “The Croc and The Platypus”. From 11.00am for a storytelling. All are welcome to attend. Free 8 - 11 JULY

Mother Goose, Potato Shed, Peninsula Drive, Drysdale. 3Triple2 4 Kids is back with an old favourite these school holidays!!! Mother Goose will be waddling into Drysdale to delight children with her wonderful, everlasting nursery rhymes.

Along the way she will meet up with some of her old friends and she hopes to make some new ones. For nearly a decade now, ‘Theatre 3Triple2’ has been entertaining children during the school holidays at the Potato Shed in Drysdale with its ‘3Triple2 4Kids’ pantomimes. Colourful costumes, catchy music and simple, yet effective sets. The magic of the pantomime begins with the children being involved in a colouring competition. It then progresses to the children joining in with singing and dancing before having the opportunity to meet and have their photos taken with their favourite characters. Family (4 Tickets any combination): $32.00

15 JULY

Australian Breastfeeding Association, Grovedale Neighbourhood House, 45-47 Heyers Road, Grovedale. Breastfeeding second time around. 9:30-11:30am. For more information contact Gillian Thornton on 0400 676 466

18 JULY

Kids Plus Race Day, The Geelong Racing Club, Geelong Racecourse, 99 Breakwater Road, Breakwater. Kids Plus Foundation is a local small charity providing over 3600 hours per year of intensive therapy for special needs babies and children with cerebral palsy, brain injury and stroke in the Geelong and Barwon region. The focus of the program is to assist these children to achieve the daily functional tasks the rest of us take for granted: communication, mobility, play, eating and drinking, self care, access to education and to help each child to reach their potential. Kids Plus Foundation does not receive direct government funding and relies on donations and fundraising from our community to provide this essential service. Tickets include a two course lunch (including drinks) and an afternoon of fun including; fashion show, wine tastings, pamper corner, neck and shoulder massage, magic show, raffle, auctions and all the excitement of the races. This event provides an opportunity to have a fun filled afternoon whilst raising funds for babies and children with

special needs. All proceeds from the event go to the Kids Plus Foundation. 12 – 4 pm. Costs Adult ($80 (incl GST) per person, or table of 10 for $750. Includes 2 course lunch with drinks and entertainment

19 JULY

National Wool Museum, 2632 Moorabool St. Art activity: Exploring Dark and Light; interactive tour: Scarf Festival.

Crafty Kids: Pre-School Art Classes. Got a preschooler who enjoys messy play? At a loose end on a Saturday morning?

Come on down to the National Wool Museum for our art classes for kids up to 5 years old.

Our friendly and fun Saturday morning art and craft classes are led by our qualified art teacher and we’ll even clear up after you! Bookings are not required, however, class size is limited to 12 children. You are welcome to attend every class or pick-andchoose sessions to participate in. Children will need to be accompanied by their parent / guardian for the duration of the art class. 10 - 11am. Cost $5.50 includes materials, tuition and entry to the museum

19 JULY

Cultivating Happiness, Grovedale Neighbourhood House, 45 Heyers Road, Grovedale. Do you want to let go of stress, anxiety, overwhelm, anger, sadness, pain, guilt and leave behind other negative emotions? Do you want to clear limiting beliefs around money, health, relationships and more. You will leave the event feeling even better than when you come in? Are you wanting to feel happier, calmer, relaxed and pain free? Do you want to feel more at peace, content, fulfilled and loved? You will not only get results immediately, you will learn how to use a technique that has been scientifically proven to get results and is supported by the world’s leading personal development experts, medical doctors, and psychologists… why wouldn’t you give it a chance? Pam’s seminars are an experience, attendees don’t just leave with ideas or theories on how to make their life better, they actually leave feeling better and with a technique they can use for themselves. So come a long and join us, you will meet others all with the common purpose of clearing out uncomfortable feeling, beliefs and behaviour that no longer serve you. 1 – 3pm. Free

19 - 20 JULY

St Joseph’s College Geelong Artisan Market, St Joseph’s College Br OS Adams Gymnasium. Don’t miss the Artisan Market - an INDOOR market - so a great day out no matter the weather.

A café and BBQ will be operating on the day for affordable yummy light meals.

Purchase artworks or handmade products from a wide variety of local artisans and market stalls, family friendly market - all are welcome. Plenty of free parking on Queens Road. 10am-4pm. Gold coin entry

20 JULY

Sea Shepherd Australia is a non-profit conservation organisation whose mission is to end the destruction of habitat and slaughter of wildlife in the world’s oceans in order to conserve and protect ecosystems and species. Sea Shepherd Australia uses innovative direct-action tactics to investigate, document and take action when necessary to expose and

T E L L U S W HA T’S O N I N Y O U R A RE A

confront illegal activities on the high seas.

By safeguarding the biodiversity of our delicately balanced oceanic ecosystems, Sea Shepherd Australia works to ensure their survival for future generations.

Hosted by Audemia, the fundraiser hopes to be huge. We have some great guest speakers including Phillip Wollen, an Australian philanthropist and a prominent member of the animal rights movement.

Phillip conducts intervention programs to rescue abused animals and funds outreach programs that promote animal welfare and abstinence. Also OAM Australian of the year, Phillip Wollen is an inspiration to me and myself and the Sea Shepherd are very honored to have him on board. We also have Sea Shepherd Antarctic Crew Member Haans Siver, Education Coordinator with Sea Shepherd Australia speaking about what it is like to be on campaign at the event.

There will be Big named musicians such as Paul Woseen from The Screaming Jets and local band Audemia, (Big Day Out), RDZJB, Tim Hulsman and more.

Sea Shepherd merchandise as well as the Sea Shepherd Antarctic crew will also be there on the day also. There will be a jumping castle, air brush tattooing, face painting for the children, lots of street entertainment, Auction items, lucky prize draws and more Tickets are $15 at the door. The venue will be providing vegan food all day.

25 JULY

Australian Breastfeeding Association, Bisinella Centre, 75 Buckingham St, Lara.10am-12pm. Expressing and storing breastmilk. For more information contact Gillian Thornton on 0400 676 466

25 JULY

Friday Night Skate, Barwon Valley Activity Centre, 1 Barwon Heads Rd Belmont.

Run on alternate Friday nights during school terms, this session offers indoor skating, roller blading and skateboarding.

Running for over 20 years, Friday Night Skate takes place at Barwon Valley Activity Centre, every 2nd Friday during the school term. Skateboards, scooters and rollerblades welcome. This event is not suitable for bikes or BMX. Ramps and rails will be set up however, your own skate equipment is necessary. All sessions fully supervised by accredited City of Greater Geelong employees.

Helmets and safety equipment must be worn at all times. 7 – 10pm. $5.00

26 JULY

National Wool Museum, 26-32 Moorabool St. Art activity: Yummy Food Art; interactive tour: Fleece to Fabric (cottage).

Crafty Kids: Pre-School Art Classes. Got a preschooler who enjoys messy play? At a loose end on a Saturday morning? Come on down to the National Wool Museum for our art classes for kids up to 5 years old.

Our friendly and fun Saturday morning art and craft classes are led by our qualified art teacher and we’ll even clear up after you! Bookings are not required, however, class size is limited to 12 children. You are welcome to attend every class or pick-and-choose sessions to participate in. Children will need to be accompanied by their parent / guardian for the duration of the art class. 10 - 11am. Cost $5.50 includes materials, tuition and entry to the museum

27 JULY

Planet Ark City of Greater Geelong Community Tree Planting Day, Ted Wilson Trail, Haimes Reserve, Hamlyn Heights.

As part of Council’s ambitious Greenway project, 40,000 trees will be planted in the next 5 years along the Ted Wilson Trail.

To help reach our target of 8,000 trees this year, we’re inviting the community down on Sunday 27th July 2014 to plant a tree or two! We’re aiming to plant over 2,000 trees on the day so come down and make your contribution to the iconic Greenway project. Everyone welcome!

9.30am – 3pm. Free

27 JULY - 8 AUGUST

National Blood Donor Week 2014, Geelong Blood Donor Centre, 237 Ryrie Street, Geelong. National Blood Donor Week will take place July 27 - August 2, 2014 and aims to recognise and celebrate the significant contribution that blood donors make to the Australian community.

Activities run throughout the week also raise public awareness about the contribution blood donors make and also encourage other Australians to become blood donors. Milestone, bone marrow and Anti-D donors are invited to attend Donor Recognition functions during this week and presented with a small token of thanks. Blood donors are recognised when they have reached milestones of 50 whole blood donations,100 apheresis and whole blood donations and increments of 50 donations onwards. Free

- E M A I L E D I T O R@ K I DS V OI C E.C OM.AU