Kids Voice February 2014

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F E B R UA R Y

B O D Y IM A G E

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WO R KI NG PARENTS

4 RE ASO N S T O R E A D

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BECOMING A TV SU P E RSTA R

HIGH FIDEL ITY

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TENNIS TI ME

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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

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WELCOME - PAGE 3

WELCO M E School holidays have drawn to a close and most kids are now settled back at school. New year, new classroom, for some a new school. I always wonder about the mixed responses of parents at this time. Some parents are visibly more relaxed when they usher their child into the classroom or to the bus stop. Others are in tears, especially those who have a child starting school for the first time. What never ceases to amaze me is why some parents have kids. Why would you be so happy to see the back of your kids? Are they just that 2.4 accessory that you are meant to have? How many times have I gone to late afternoon meetings and watched mothers saying they’ll stay out until their kids are in bed. So, so sad! What is better than giving your child a big hug and kiss at bedtime and having that special time to chat with them? I find this is the time of the day that my kids will off load and let me know their concerns, excitement or even just something that happened in their day. This has helped build a trusting and non-judgemental relationship between us and has been of extreme help when my kids became teenagers with two heads. Parents, look at your relationships with your kids. I’m not a perfect parent by any means, but having that channel open and letting your kids know they are important and valued makes for a far smoother and close relationship in later years.

FROM THE TEAM 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 Amelie Crole

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

CONTENTS 5

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Choosing the right Photographer Birth Story Health: Body Image Muddy Boots & Sandy Hands Wilsons Rd ELC Working Parents Becoming a TV Superstar 4 Reasons to Read Sport: Tennis Time High Fidelity 9 Countries Help Bellarine Railway Cooking & Craft Reviews What’s On

...AND MU CH MO RE

HOW DO I...? - PAGE 5

HO W TO C HOOS E

PHOTOS BY EL PHOTOGRAPHY

A P H O TO G RAPH E R

COURTNEY BUCHANAN - BLOGGING, • Likeability and rappor t: Yes, it’s important you like your pho MEDIA AND NETWORKIN tographer!

G MANAGER Striking a pose for a camera is difficult for AT EL PHOTOGRAPHY. most of us at the best of tim es, let alone if you feel uncomfortable in Professional photos are a beautiful and front of the person behind the camera timeless way to document . You should the memories be able to build a good, frie and milestones in your life ndly (albeit . How special is professional on their part) a photo taken at exactly the relationship with right moment, your photographer. in perfect light, capturing the action of a group in laughter or a couple embracing?

• Reputation: Ask around and search the Internet. Do you know som Marriage, pregnancy, new eone who has born babies, used them? What did they first birthdays and family por say? You will traits – be able to tell a photograp professional photography her with a good will capture reputation from a bad one these momentous occasions simply by word with technical of mouth. skill and creative insight.

• Portfolio: Your photograp There are so many photog her should raphers these have a portfolio easily acc days, how do you begin to essible for you choose one? to look at. Most have examp What do you look for and how les of their do you work on their website and determine their level of com if they don’t – petency and steer clear. professionalism before you book them?

• Website: As creative pro Certain elements distinguis fessionals h the best embedded in an industry wh professional photographer s from the ere technology is ever evolving, your photog bunch. rapher should have a professional, credib le website.

Here are the things to look for when Their website should always be up-to-date choosing a professional pho tographer: with their latest photos, clie nt listings and other relevant news.

• Qualifications: A professio nal photographer should be bac ked by a • Studio: A photographer with a qualification such as a Bac helor Degree in professionally set-up stu dio with lighting Photography or the equiva lent. Remember equipment and props is certainly a cut you are paying for a service above from a photographer – it’s only available reasonable to expect your photographer is for location photography. qualified in what they do.

• Copyright: Ask your pho tographer who • Professional membership s: The owns the copyright of the ima ges and what main one here is a members access do you have to the hip with digital files? the Australian Institute of Pro fessional • Upselling: Make sure the Photography (AIPP). Howe re are no ver, it bodes ‘hidden’ charges such as pay well to look at any other me mberships they ing for your photos after the photo sho have. It means they are act ot or unknown ively engaged costs for overtime. Do you with other members of the get a disc of ir profession images so you are free to and the community. It also print and use means they are them at your leisure? A goo maintaining their professio d photographer nal development will be very clear on these and keeping up with the late points from the st technology beginning and put you at eas which is extremely importa nt. e about what you get for your money.

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- NEWBORNS

T HE S T O R Y O F S A N D RA “Sandra” was born and raised in Europe, and now lives somewhere on the Bellarine Peninsula with her three children.

Sandra endured a very traumatic childhood, as her father was a merchant seaman, and her mother, who had debilitating mental health issues, was left at home to care for children. After Sandra’s mum gave birth to twin daughters, her marriage broke up, and the twin girls went to live with their father, and his new partner, in South America. Sandra and her other sister were brought up by grandparents, and it was only when they were adults that all of the four sisters reunited.

Sandra’s mum eventually committed suicide.

Sandra met her Australian Partner in Europe. At the time she was learning alternative medical practices and Chinese Medicine. When she was pregnant with her first child she chose to have a home birth, in keeping with her alternative medicine views.

Looking back, Sandra thinks she was naïve about childbirth, and she was also very anxious. They lived in a rural area, and after 16 hours of labour at home, they had to drive through a freezing cold snow storm to get to the nearest hospital.

It took another 10 hours of an augmented labour to deliver Sandra’s first baby.

After Sandra became a mum for the first time, she suffered a breakdown. Her partner decided to take his family back to Australia to take advantage of family support. Sandra arrived in Australia needing a wheelchair for mobility and unable to talk. It took her five years to talk properly again, and she was diagnosed with a ‘severe terror disorder’.

With her second and third children, Sandra decided once again to have home births, because of her fear of hospitals. Sandra ended up in ICU after her second birth with a secondary post-partum haemorrhage, so things did not go smoothly for her.

After the birth of her third child she suffered another breakdown.

Looking back, Sandra thinks that her emotional state was adversely affected by immigrating to Australia and having to cope with a totally different environment. She was also unable to join mother’s groups organised through the local council because she already had other children, so she felt isolated and alone.

Sandra found that her mind was so scrambled that she had trouble advocating for herself, and understanding how to get better. She was constantly frightened, angry and resentful, and when she did reach out for help nothing seemed to make a difference. She tried to get admitted to Psychiatric Units and even when she stated that she felt like self harming and harming the children, she was not admitted. All that was offered in the Geelong region seventeen years ago was a Post Natal Depression Support Group, and this was stopped when funding was discontinued. She sought help through counselling and homeopathies, but found that she was constantly frightened and it took all of her effort to look after the children.

Sandra fortunately made a few good and caring friends who helped with baby sitting on occasions.

Sandra’s marriage broke up when the third child was a toddler. Her husband did not understand what was going on with Sandra, which was not surprising as Sandra found it all confusing and she didn’t understand it either. Sandra was very ill and constantly anxious and everything fell apart in her life. When her children were young Sandra survived from ‘second to second’, not from day to day.

Sandra’s experience of the mental health industry was that there was a lack of real compassion and help. She tried to seek out assistance but nothing seemed to make a difference, and she went from

practitioner to practitioner without success. In those days there was no ‘Beyond Blue’, Raphael Centre or other supports for people with mental illness.

Sandra thinks that her sister in Europe recovered quicker from their mother’s untimely death because she remained in her own environment in Europe.

Sandra found herself in Australia having to cope with spiders and snakes and cultural differences and foreign things that all made her more stressed and unsettled. She couldn’t go to places that she cared about to gain comfort.

Eventually Sandra was referred by her GP to a Psychiatrist who diagnosed her with Post Natal Depression combined with Post Traumatic Stress Disorder caused by childhood trauma. This resulted in severe anxiety and multiple personality disorder.

Once the complexities of Sandra’s condition were understood she started on the long journey to recovery. Another therapy that helped Sandra was ‘Tapping Therapy” where acupuncture points are used to bring out emotions.

Thank you ‘Sandra’ for sharing your story. I have to add that Sandra’s children are fabulous, and despite her terrible journey she has endured she has done an amazing parenting job along with her ex-husband. Good luck to Sandra and I wish her continuing success on her journey. Sandra has so much insight into her illness and is so articulate; I think she would make a wonderful advocate for people experiencing mental illness.

AS TOLD TO JEN CARR

*THE NAMES HAVE BEEN CHANGED TO KEEP THE IDENTITY OF THE PEOPLE IN THIS STORY ANONYMOUS.

HEALTH - PAGE 7

IMPROVING BODY IMAGE AND SELF-ESTEEM Body image and self-esteem are strongly related concepts that refer to how we feel about ourselves and the way we look. Developing a healthy attitude towards yourself early in life tends to enhance the value you place on yourself later in life. This is important, as unhealthy body image and selfesteem can be related to psychological conditions such as depression, anxiety and eating disorders.

WHAT SHAPES OUR VIEWS Our sense of personal value or worth is shaped by a variety of influences, including our culture, family environment, peers, media and advertising. These messages can be subtle, such as overhearing a parent pass judgement about someone else’s appearance, or overt, such as through teasing or bullying. Making comparisons to others, be it peers or unattainable ideals in the media, also affects a persons self- esteem. During times of developmental change, such as puberty, these comparisons represent a need to fit in or be accepted. Puberty can, therefore, be a risky time in terms of healthy self-esteem and body image if comparisons with others are negatively selfreferent.

BUILDING BETTER RELATIONSHIPS Broadly speaking, an accepting relationship with yourself and your appearance requires the right mindset. This means appraising yourself in a fair and balanced way and being realistic about what you can and cannot change about yourself.

Exercise and healthy eating is important for people of all shapes and sizes but it pays to set realistic goals about what you want to achieve and be motivated by health and fitness rather

than appearance. Treating your body with respect through the lifestyle that you lead also boosts selfesteem and contributes to better body image.

media and try to only expose your children to ageappropriate magazines and TV shows and healthy role models.

GET ON BOARD

MAINTAIN PERSPECTIVE

The relationship we have with ourselves is likely to be the longest relationship we’ll have in our lives, so it makes sense to be accepting and appreciative of who we are and how we look. This doesn’t mean having an inflated ego, healthy self-esteem reflects a realistic understanding of personal strengths and weaknesses, and a recognition that weaknesses are human characteristics that don’t necessarily detract from personal worth. Be aware of the language you use about yourself. If you wouldn’t speak to your friends or loved ones that way or would be offended if such comments were made about you then you’re doing yourself no favours.

Remember also that the negative comments that you make about yourself are opinions rather than facts.

HELP YOUR KIDS OUT Children can be influenced by the way parents speak about themselves and the expectations that they have for their children. Model healthy lifestyle behaviours and encourage an appreciation for healthy bodies and their capabilities. Try to refrain from being critical of your own appearance, and those of others or of your child and express pride and admiration in things unrelated to appearance.

If children do have concerns about their appearance, listen to what they have to say and empathise, but reinforce the things that you love about your child. It may also be helpful to speak about the airbrushing and lighting that is used in the

Consider the ways that you evaluate personal worth in others. It is likely that the value of others lies in their personality traits or nature rather than the way they look. Try to use the same framework for evaluating yourself. Think also of the things that you are appreciative of and grateful for in life generally.

WHEN BODY IMAGE AND

SELF-ESTEEM BECOME A PROBLEM While we may all be self-critical at times, frequent criticisms about appearance and an acute sense of inadequacy may signal the need for professional assistance. Speak to your GP about seeing a psychologist or contact a telephone counselling service such as KidsHelpline 1800 55 1800 DR EMILY HILL

CLINICAL PSYCHOLOGIST

chris mackey &

A S S O C I A T E S

SPECIALI ST

PSYCHOL OGY

SERVICES

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- HEADSPACE

WHAT

WE DO

Headspace is the National Youth Mental Health Founda tion.

We help young people wh o are going through a tough tim e.

Looking for someone to talk to? If you’re 12-25, you can get health advice, support and information from headspace . headspace can help you with : • General health • Mental health and counse lling • Education, employment and other services • Alcohol and other drug ser vices.

SO WE ’RE HER E FOR YO U IF YO U:

• Are feeling down, stresse d or can’t stop worrying • Haven’t felt like yourself for a long time • Can’t deal with school or finding it difficult to concen trate • Are feeling sick or worrie d about your health • Want to cut down on you r drinking or drug use • Want to talk about sexual ity, identity or relationships • Are having difficulties with friendships • Have sexual health issu es or want to find out about contraception • Are being bullied, hurt or harassed • Are worried about work or study or if you’re having money trouble Headspace is a place you can go to talk to someone about any of these issues.

Headspace was established and funded by the Commonwealth Government of Australia in 2006.

WH AT SER VIC ES DO WE PRO VID E?

• General Practitioners (Do ctors) • Youth Outreach Workers • Sexual Health Nurse • Psychologists • Youth Counsellors • Family Therapy • Drug & Alcohol Outreach Workers • Allied health – Physiothe rapy, Dietetics, Podiatry (Dr ysdale Site) • Group programs

WH AT HAP PEN S? REF ERR AL PRO CES S - EAS Y!

We accept referrals from com munity services/schools or external GP’s with young per son’s consent Young people or their concer ned friend/family can contac t or walk into any headspace hub They will be offered an app ointment with an engageme nt and assessment clinician or will be able to speak with the

community health nurse or other allied health staff me mber or GP. HOW TO MA KE AN APP OIN TM EN T WIT H HEA DS PAC E BAR WO N?

Call:

headspace Barwon Geelo ng on 52226690 headspace Barwon Corio on 42158200 headspace Barwon Drysda le on 52515088 Please feel welcome to brin g a young person into one of the sites and make an appointme nt to speak with an engage ment and assessment clinician wh o will help them get started .

WH AT WIL L HAP PEN NE XT ?

• Young person and headsp ace Barwon worker will wo rk out who is best for them to see and when - a psycholog ist, counsellor or a drug & alcoho l or other healthcare worke r is needed • They can access headsp ace as many times as they need • Confidentiality is of utmost important at headspace Bar won, and the information is only transferred between memb ers of the team IT IS A FAC T TH AT :

With the right support, a you ng person can expect to fee l better by learning new skil ls and ways of coping

HEA DS PAC E BAR WO N HOW TO FIN D OU T MO RE?

Check out the website at: www.headspace.org.au/ba rwon Find out about the service , local news, events and pro grams, what’s going on and how to get involved. OR for those who cannot yet talk face to face try: www.eheadspace.org.au

EDU CAT ION HEA DS PAC E BAR WO N CAN PRO VID E SU PPO RT TO EDU CAT ION PRO VID ERS IN TH E ARE AS OF:

• Safe Partying • Young People – Alcohol and Other Drugs/ Mental He alth • Mental Illness information – the RUOK unit, Stress or Anxiety • Bullying PRE SEN TA TIO NS CAN BE GIV EN TO :

• Small group • Whole Class • Whole Year Level

MUDDY BOOTS SANDY HANDS

NATURE - PAGE 9

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When I asked my seven year old boy why people should go to Muddy Boots and Sandy Hands, he said “because you are free from your house, you get to explore nature and see new places”. Well, he pretty much summed it up!

Muddy Boots and Sandy Hands (MBSH) is a nature-based club that encourages families to explore nature on a regular basis and organises monthly meetups. This year families will meet on a Sunday at different outdoor locations around the Greater Geelong region. Last year we walked to Edwards Point (St Leonards), Flinders Peak (You Yangs) and explored Anakie Gorge. Families learnt about creatures in the intertidal zone at Point Lonsdale, native wildlife at Serendip Sanctuary and learnt to follow their noses at the Geelong Botanical Gardens.

Our activities are largely unstructured which usually includes a walk but free play is a fundamental part of our activities. Free play often leads to creativity, social benefits for kids (and parents!) and plenty of opportunities for sensory discovery and developing gross motor skills through climbing trees and balancing on stepping stones!

MBSH is a community led group. Families take turns to lead the activities and there is no cost to join in. It is a great way to meet other families and a great way to explore the outdoors with others, making it easier to allow kids to challenge themselves and to take more risks in a supportive environment.

There is a growing trend in Australia that children are becoming increasingly withdrawn from the fundamental and formative experiences of nature in their own neighbourhoods and they are tending to lead more sedentary lives that are more structured and over-scheduled. Children overall are getting less opportunities to take risks. Evidence shows that our children who are growing up in our risk averse culture are taking bigger risks once they become adults because they haven’t learnt to asses risk when they are young.

Rates of childhood obesity have risen dramatically, attention-deficit and emotional disorders have been diagnosed with alarming frequency, and the virtual world presented on screen has become more meaningful to young people than the natural world right outside their doors. Studies have shown that the more time children spend in nature, the happier, healthier and smarter they will be.

The next MBSH activity will be a rock pool ramble at Point Lonsdale on Sunday 9th Feb 2014. For more information: www.mbsh.org.au DATES FOR YOUR CALENDAR

Sunday 9th March - Edwards Point walk.

Sunday 6th April - Celebrate Nature Week: Lake Victoria

PAGE 10 - SCHOOLS

CITY OF GREATER GEELONG

The Supported Playgroup and Parent Initiative is funded by the Dept of Education & Early Childhood Development Many families are involved in community playgroups throughout Geelong, these playgroups are managed by the parents and carers that attend the session. Supported Playgroups are a little different in the fact that an early childhood trained worker facilitates each session. Sessions are aimed at families that are less likely to participate in community playgroups, including:

SUPPORTED PLAYGROUPS • Indigenous children and their families or carers • Culturally and linguistically diverse children and their families, with a particular focus on recently arrived families • Isolated or disadvantaged families with complex needs • Children and families affected by disability.

There are 12 sessions of supported playgroups per week. A playgroup specifically for dad’s and grand dads also operates on the third Saturday of each month.

Playgroups are fun, they are known to provide valuable opportunities for children to learn and develop through play. Playgroups develop children’s language and motor skills, provide opportunities for messy play and enhance social skills. Supported playgroups also create opportunities for parents/carers and grandparents to meet in a safe and supportive environment, learn new skills, form social links with other families and build pathways to other services.

Playgroup operates during school terms and is for preschool children. Many children commence when they are just a few weeks old. During each playgroup session there are opportunities for children and parents to engage in fun experiences together both inside and outside.

Sessions include morning tea for the children and normally end with a group time for stories and songs.

Most playgroup sessions run for 1 ½ hours at venues throughout Geelong and on the Bellerine.

FOR MORE INFORMATION PLEASE CONTACT SUE ELLIS AT THE CITY OF GREATER GEELONG. SUE CAN BE CONTACTED BY PHONE ON

5272 4781 OR EMAIL

SELLIS@GEELONGCITY.VIC.GOV.AU

SCHOOLS - PAGE 11

EARLY LEARNING

10 ESSENTIAL QUESTIONS...

10 ESSENTIAL QUESTIONS WHEN

and educators. You should also be able to come and visit the Centre and become familiar with the educators and the environment before you start.

Choosing your child’s childcare is often an overwhelming decision. Of course you want a Centre that will have your child’s best interests at heart, but how do you judge this?

These top ten questions will help remove the heartache while setting your child up for the best care possible.

4. What is the Centre’s discipline policy?

CHOOSING CHILDCARE

1. How do the childcare educators interact with the children?

Are educators actively interacting with kids and watching out for those farthest afield, or do they look distracted?

When you first visit with your child, does the educator showing you around speak easily and warmly with your child as well as with you?

Does your child easily interact with the educator?

2. Does the Centre have a clear program?

Many Centres have little or no formal programs, leaving all day-to-day activities to the whim of individual educators. A reputable Centre should have daily routines for each room with activities planned that are appropriate to the stages of each age group. Lots of activities should be set up and ready in the morning to make it easier for parents when dropping off their children.

3. What is the orientation process for new children at the Centre?

You should be reassured that your child will receive plenty of one-to-one attention by educators on their first day and subsequent early days, as they ease into the routine and become familiar with their fellow classmates

A reputable Centre will have written guidelines that all educators must comply with on managing children’s behaviours. While this is a sensitive topic for parents with many differing views, it’s important that you are aware of, and are comfortable with, the Centre’s discipline policy.

5. Are parents encouraged to spend time at, and visit the Centre, any time?

A reputable Centre should be comfortable with parents dropping in without prior notice. Parents would also be encouraged to participate and share their skills in the program.

6. Are interactions between educators friendly and respectful?

Educators should be friendly and respectful, not only with you and the children in their care, but with each other. A well-run Centre will have motivated educators working harmoniously together.

7. What is the Centre’s policy on sickness?

It’s very easy to catch illnesses from children. A wellmanaged Centre will have a firm policy involving sick children staying away until well again. While this can be inconvenient as a parent of a sick child, it’s far less inconvenient than you and your family frequently falling ill due to sick children at the Centre.

8. Does the

Centre provide regular, personalised feedback on the progress of your child?

A well-managed Centre should document your child’s learning and development and regularly report this back to parents. Educators should proactively tell parents what activities have been happening and how their child has experienced these. Further, any parent who has concerns about their child’s development should feel encouraged to bring this up with their educators.

9. What is included in the Centre’s fees?

A well-managed Centre should include all food and drink, with an emphasis on healthy, fresh and child-friendly meals. Preferably, the Centre should have an on-site chef rather than external catering. Also included are nappies, and any extra, on-off activities which provide variety to normally weekly activities.

10. How are children’s individuality encouraged?

Educators at a reputable Centre should observe individual child and plan particular activities according to individual children’s interests.

COMPILED BY WILSONS ROAD EARLY LEARNING CENTRE

PAGE 12 - SCHOOLS

PRIMARY SCHOOL

EAST GEELONG PRIMARY SCHOOL

RAM: DESC RIBE THE SCHO OL’S SPOR T PROG

lop healthy bodies and minds The school sports program is designed to deve physical activity, games and through active participation and enjoyment in classes and senior sports, sport. In addition to weekly physical education students participate in: ivals, Inter School Sports and School Cross Country and Athletic Sports Carn Gymnastics & Swimming Programs NG ARTS PROG RAM DESC RIBE THE SCHO OL’S PERF ORMI

am operates for all year levels to Comprehensive developmental music progr and performance opportunities Music . ment promote a love for music and move , music recitals, school concert and are fostered through the School Choir group instrumental program, including dance evenings. The school also provides an Marimba and Recorder bands.

TS PROG RAM: DESC RIBE THE SCHO OL’S DRAM A/AR

red through the schools arts Creativity, curiosity and expression are foste our school, with students enter you as program which is evident as soon spaces throughout the school. ing learn and round playg artwork featuring in the al ation arts program at all year Students participate in a creative and inspir g their artwork beyond the local casin levels with many young artists also show ition, Geelong Show and Exhib Art ZART ry, Galle community: Geelong Art ge and Austin Homes. community celebrations such as Barwon Gran RAM: DESC RIBE THE SCHO OL’S ITC PROG

digital access to modern The ICT is implemented across the school with so students learn how to use technologies available in all learning spaces ng visually and as a tool for thinki their technology to develop and represent how to respectfully use learn nts Stude . ation designing and creating inform communicate and share information online environments and tools to research, and knowledge.

DENT S LAPT OP PROG RAM? DOES THE SCHO OL HAVE THE STU

e and Prep – Year 4 students Students in Years 5&6 have a one to one devic access classroom laptops or ipads.

EDUC ATIO N PROG RAMS WHAT KIND OF CAMP S AND OUTD OOR ARE OFFE RED?

· Year 4: Coastal Adventure Camp · Year 5/6: Environmental Adventure Camp · Environmental Sustainability Programs

Garden to the Table · Green Thumbs Gardening Club: From the · Water Wise School & Energy Monitors · Free Fruit Friday WHAT IS THE SCHO OL PHIL OSOP HY?

nt where everyone is As a school community we create an environme re of confidence, enjoyment sphe encouraged to strive for excellence in an atmo and active participation.

WE AIM TO:

gh professional learning, · Ensure quality teaching and innovation throu ort and communication supp iate colleg work, educational feedback, team talents and needs of every · Respect the unique and individual strengths, child. an open, supportive and · Welcome community involvement through ns are valued. ibutio contr e wher nt onme consultative envir onment where contributions envir ing learn and ng worki ve positi a · Promote are recognised and celebrated.

LEAN NE DOW LING

- PRIN CIPAL

WORKING PARENTS - PAGE 13

THE 7 COMMUNICATION SECRETS OF AN ENTREPRENEURIAL FAMILY RMAT ION BY “THE IMPA RTIN G OR EXCH ANGI NG OF INFO R MEDI UM” SPEA KING WRIT ING, OR USIN G SOM E OTHE UNIC ATIO N THIS IS THE GOOG LE DEFIN ITION OF COMM How we communicate with each other has changed so quickly over the past 10 years that some important skills that were the cornerstone of any relationship are vanishing.

The younger generations have online communications down pat choosing Texting, Facebook, Twitter and Snapchat to ‘communicate’. What these communication platforms lack is the ability to express real feelings whether they are happiness, sadness or anger.

Everything is just a hybrid of all of these emotions.

Even though my businesses are conducted predominately online, I know that my most important relationships are with my most preciously loved ones, my family. Being involved with as many things as we are, we know the importance of communicating openly, freely and honestly.

I don’t believe in perfection and although we still face our own challenges occasionally, we follow 7 simple rules to keep connected and it works.

1. Understand Each Other’s Strengths and Weaknesses - Once we are clear on each others desires and wants assigning roles based on these is very important. In my family, I am the entrepreneurial one and my husband is the nurturer. Is it traditional? No. Does it work?

Absolutely. Until we understood this and stopped trying to change each other, things seemed forced. Now that we are both having our number one values fulfilled, his being family and mine being business, we are continuing to go from strength and strength.

2. Take 5 Minutes Every Day to Talk – We like to call this our tea-time. Phones are out of the room and computers are off. We sit facing each other and look at each other.

It would amaze you little people look at each other when

they talk these days. We talk about anything other than business. How we feel and what we would like from each other. It is a great way to connect and for men who have the biggest problem expressing their feeling, it is a perfect safe forum to do so in.

3. Keep ‘Date Night’ Alive - Life is busy hey? Finding the time to spend alone is hard but you know what, it is critical. Our schedules are crazy busy but you know what, we plan our ‘date nights’ at the start of the year before we plan anything else. Once it is on the diary, it happens no matter what. Get the kids a sitter. Take it in turns to design the date and enjoy the time to talk and relax in each other’s company.

4. Take Regular Holidays to Re-charge and Reconnect –At the start of the year block out time in your diary for your holidays as well. We work hard and at a very intense level. Without regular holidays we would burn out and start to feel negative. The secret here is if you don’t allocate the time at the start of the year for your holidays, they simply won’t happen in an entrepreneurial life. Not only does having your holidays booked give you something to look forward to, it gives you experiences that bring you closer to your spouse and the memories that will last a lifetime.

5. Celebrate Your Successes – Nothing brings you closer together than celebrating with your spouse. Go out to an expensive restaurant or catch a show and book a night in a hotel. Take the time to appreciate the hard work and support that you have both given each other and spend some time deciding the next goal and what the next reward will be for achieving it.

6. Paying it Forward With the Children –Share your ‘WHY’ with your children from a young age as they need to understand that you are part of a different world. The entrepreneurial world. The more children are spoken to, in the correct way, the better the chances they will have of being great communicators

themselves. Give them choices. Keep it simple and use the classic double bind, either this or this, will improve their decision-making. Encourage your children to ask as many questions as possible and communicate openly and honesty with them.

7. Choose a Neutral Place for any Disagreements – There will be times when you have disagreements and when you do, it is important not to anchor these feelings in your home. If you know you need to have one of those tough conversations, take it outside or out of the house.

That way, the negative feelings will not associated with your family home. Keep these conversations flowing as even though they are tough to have, the eliminate the ‘pressure build up’ of emotions and the eruptions that are very common in many high powered relationships.

The busier your lives, the greater the need for communication and connection. Make it a priority, and have that meaningful relationship that every will be the envy of all of your entrepreneurial friends.

Natasa Denman is the next generation business mentor and product generator specialist. The founder of Ultimate 48 Hour Author, a book writing mentorship program, Natasa is the author of 4 books herself – The 7 Ultimate Secrets to Weight Loss, Ninja Couch Marketing, You Can Live The Life Of Your Dreams and her soon to be released latest, The Ultimate 48 Hour Author.

FOR MORE INFORMATION VISIT WWW.

ULTIMATE48HOURAUTHOR.COM.AU OR EMAIL BOOK@ULTIMATE48HOURAUTHOR.COM.AU

PAGE 14

PAGE 15

AG EN C Y A D V I C E

HAVE YOU EVER WONDERED IF IT WAS

POSSIBLE TO SEE YOUR CHILD ON THESE SCREENS?

Here are a few tips and advice for parents who are keen to know more about this exciting and interesting industry.

PERSONALITY

Casting agencies across Melbourne and Australia are always on the lookout for confident kids who have no problem meeting and performing in front of them. They like it when kids can be themselves as their personality just might be the one casting are looking for.

LOOKS

Gone are the days where only the model-like children are selected for roles. Clients have an idea on how their characters should look. This can be as specific as looking for an 8 year old redhead boy with green eyes who can surf to a general search for 5-7 year old girls. Next time you see a child on the screen, notice they are just the

A brand new year brings a new start, new resolutions and also a brand new year of entertainment on the small and big screens for us to watch and enjoy.

same as the normal looking kids you would find in your child’s classroom.

AVAILABILITY

Parents need to have the time to take their child to auditions/ casting at short notice. Auditions tend to be weekdays during work hours. You may need to take your child out of school to attend these. Casting agents do understand this; however they work with the timeline given to them by the production company.

Filming is scheduled during weekdays as well, so you as the parent need to accompany them or have a backup person. School aged children need permission from their principal before they can commence work on a project.

PREPARING FOR AN AUDITION/CASTING

Be prepared and on time for an audition. Help your child practise their script if needed. Encourage them to be themselves and interpret the script themselves as it has been written for a child in mind. Remind them to listen to and follow direction by the casting agents. A child who

is a good listener and follower is easier for them to work with. It also shows the casting agent how your child may conduct themselves on set during a work booking.

HOW TO HANDLE REJECTION

Competition is high in this industry. Many children are represented right across Victoria and Australia. What matters is that your child wants to do this and not just you. Casting agents select kids for auditions primarily from their headshots. If your child auditions, the final decision is up to the client. All that matters is that they did their best and tell them that. They might not fit the role this time, however if their performance was great, casting will remember them for future briefs.

Remember it’s just a matter of being the right person for the right role at the right time.

AD VIC E F R O M AN N A J U R IC

D IR EC T O R - AM J T AL EN T AGEN C Y W W W .AM J T AL EN T AGEN C Y .C O M .AU

PAGE 16

TEENAGE BACKCHAT / EDUCATION - PAGE 17

B E YO U RS E L F In this society, the way you look is very important, from the way you do your make up to how skinny you are, being fat is considered undesirable whilst being skinny is considered to be a good thing, a strange thing though, before the 19th century being a large person was considered to be the desirable form of humans especially in women, though the reason behind that was it showed the person to have wealth and power, a way to survive in the harsh times the world threw at everyone.

ridiculed, but being able to count all your ribs in a first world country is a good thing??? People try so hard to fit into societies and their own expectations on what being good looking is all about.

So why the change of heart, why is it, that now if you are even slightly overweight you can be picked on and

shorts/dress that you can find, make sure your shirt is so tight you can barely breath, make sure to suck in or else

E D U C A T IO N

TO BE GOOD LOOKING AS A TEENAGE GIRL TODAY:

STEP ONE: Put on so much make

up that you make yourself look like an oompa loompa.

STEP TWO: Wear the smallest skirt/

you’ll die of suffocation, also be sure to have most of your cleavage hang out, can’t have people thinking you’re modest now can we.

STEP THREE: Wear ankle breaking

you look better that way and if people try to tell you different tell them to shove it, they’re probably jealous because you don’t need to wear make up to look good.

shoes that might be the death of you if you trip and fall, preferably a pair of tall stilettos that you can barely walk in.

Well done, you now look like a beautiful teenage girl, round of applause for the girl who doesn’t look like a monster.

STEP FOUR: Go look in the mirror,

The way you look shouldn’t be decided by the opinion of anyone other than yourself, even if you get picked on for what you wear, show confidence in your style, it’s something that makes you unique, also if you show you are confident people will usually not pick on you, your confidence will intimidate them and keep them away.

try to see yourself from all possible angles, take a selfie or two, post them on facebook, read all the derogatory comments from guys saying ‘I’d tap that’, ignore them all because they are idiots just trying to get a quicky from you, go change into a nice pair of comfortable jeans, a loose shirt, a pair of converse you’ve had for years and take off your oompa loompa make up,

SHANNON DENNING

IN ?

D E K IN L E B U O Y ’T N D L SHOU

As we all know, we now live in a digital age. Many of us are extremely familiar with social media sites such as Facebook and Twitter….but what about LinkedIn? LinkedIn is the world’s largest professional on-line network site. LinkedIn currently hosts over 242 million users, looking to network, share and engage.

So, who should consider having a LinkedIn profile?

JOB SEEKERS

LinkedIn allows active job seekers to not only find jobs, but be found. Many companies and recruitment agencies now rely heavily on LinkedIn to hire and directly head hunt staff. Job seekers can use LinkedIn as a tool to research companies, and also follow companies. It can provide them with a head start, by becoming aware of opportunities instantly.

LinkedIn has a function which allows you to have other people recommend, and endorse you. These recommendations act as ‘’on-line” references, and can often attract the attention of employers.

THOSE LOOKING TO GROW THEIR CAREERS

Even if you are not actively seeking a new

role, having a LinkedIn account can still greatly benefit your career.

It is a valuable tool, which allows you to reach out, professionally, to people that you have worked with in the past and former class mates, along with your current colleagues and connections. It enables you to have a professional on-line presence, and keep up to date with your particular industry or interests.

LinkedIn allows you to join forums and groups, and engage in professional conversations on –line. You can follow people that you may find inspirational, such as Sir Richard Branson, and learn about their own personal career and business tips.

Although you may not be looking…you may find yourself offered a fantastic opportunity to good to resist!

BUSINESS OWNERS

LinkedIn is not only of benefit to individuals.

Your business can also have a profile, which can highlight your services / products.

A LinkedIn profile can allow your business connect to your current, past and future clients / customers. It can also allow you to really showcase any recommendations and endorsements, ultimately enhancing the credibility and reputation of your business.

WHY TAKE THE

CHANCE OF

NOT HAVIN G A

LINKEDIN

PROFILE JE MM A JA ME S OF HI CK OR Y HR SO LU T IO NS W W W .H IC K OR YH R. CO M. AU

PAGE 18

HARVEST & GRAZE / EDUCATION - PAGE 19

& GRAZE HARVEST

4

HA RV ES T & GR AZ E GO ER S EN JO YE D A FA NT AS TI C DA Y OF FO OD , WI NE AN D LIV E EN TE RT AIN ME NT AT BE LL AR IN E ES TA TE WI NE RY LA ST MO NT H.

REASONS TO READ THE BENEFITS OF READING WITH CHILDREN OF ALL AGES

Book-loving parents know the pleasure of sharing stories with children. The habit of reading together every day can begin in early infancy and continue indefinitely, purely for the joy of the ritual. Beyond the pleasure and intimacy of this shared experience, research overwhelmingly shows that reading to babies, toddlers and preschoolers is essential to the development of the early literacy skills that set a child up for successful learning throughout life.

1 . LEARNING ABOUT BOOKS.

While it isn’t necessary for a child to know how to read when they start school, an awareness of the process of reading (from left to right, separating text from illustrations) is important.

Primary teacher and literacy advocate Lyn Ryan explains that “Once a child thinks he is reading, whether he knows the book off by heart or simply tells his own story as he ‘reads’ the book, they are already half way to becoming a reader. A child that ‘reads’ the pictures is also gaining tools to help him read.” So even though it may not seem as if your child is learning much from the books you share with them as babies and toddlers, the experience provides your children with important stepping-stones on the path to literacy.

2. INCREASE VOCABULARY.

Speech and comprehension are important early literacy skills, and reading is essential to the development of both. We don’t tend to speak to each other in full sentences but the written word is different. Reading to children provides examples of language that are complex, varied and grammatically complete, as well as introducing and repeating new words in context.

3. LEARNING ABOUT LIFE.

PHOTOS BY: REG RYAN

There are times when trying to talk about emotions or some of the more difficult concepts in life can be too confronting for kids. Introducing themes with an age-appropriate book can be a gentle way of introducing and exploring some of the challenging lessons in life.

4. CONTINUE TO DEVELOP READING SKILLS.

Research undertaken by the Melbourne Institute of Applied Economic and Social Research (‘Proof of benefits of reading to children’, published in The Age, March 3, 2013) not only shows a positive causal effect between reading to young children and the development of both literacy and numeracy skills but also found that continuing to read to older children, even as they become independent readers, has a positive impact on their developing reading skills.

The Royal Children’s Hospital, partner in the 2012 National Year of Reading, provides a range of information about the benefits of reading with children on its website (www.rch.org.au). Research described on the website indicates that the development of literacy skills is influenced by regular reading with your children and also by the number of books in the home, the number of library visits and the parents’ own reading habits. It’s the whole culture of reading and engaging with the written word that influences the child and a great way of fostering this is by becoming regular visitors of your local library.

Our own Geelong Regional Library is a wonderful place to explore with your children. The library runs a number of programs for parents and children starting with Baby Rhyme Time and ranging through to Toddler Time and Preschool Story Time. There are a number of programs for older children and teenagers too. Children soon find their way around their local library and love to return books through the chute, choose their own books and use the self-checkout machines. Library staff are able to recommend age-appropriate books and to help if you are looking for books dealing with a certain theme.

TO FIND YOUR LOCAL BRANCH OR FOR INFORMATION ABOUT GEELONG REGIONAL LIBRARY PROGRAMS VISIT THEIR WEBSITE WWW.GRLC.VIC.GOV.AU

PAGE 20

TECHNOLOGY - PAGE 21

F ASH ION F AUX P AS

WONDER F UL W OR LD OF W EB

TE CH NO LO GY

I am a short term shopper, and go to the supermarket about every couple of days rather than just doing the big weekly shop. One of the benefits of this sort of routine is that I get to check out the magazine covers more regularly.

How fascinating to read about the breakups, pregnancies, and the dramatic weight loss post-baby.

These headlines may be humorous but they are also dangerous. They are at times misleading and some suspected photo adjustments may be to blame. These are not new trade secrets – many years ago some poor sole would sit with scissors and paste a head on a new body. The ‘ole body switcheroo’.

I love Photoshop. In particular, I love the transformations I can make on photos provided for websites. A bit of cropping, some light adjustments and some blurring can make a massive improvement. I don’t believe this is false advertising of products, but is merely enhancing their qualities.

I guess one could argue that the same rules apply for Photoshopping celebrities – just enhancing their qualities. Some celebrities, such as Brad Pitt and Kate Winslet have taken action against digitally altering their bodies.

We can only hope that more celebrities might do the same thing and actually become more secure with their own body image and remain unaltered in print.

After all, public figures have some sort of responsibility to be a good role model. This includes being proud of who they are. Young women and girls have a tendency to become anxious and insecure if they don’t look like the ‘perfect body’ that they believe celebrities have. The pressure for perfection has women

now spending millions of dollars a year on unnecessary plastic surgery. In some cases, operations are being done overseas due to the price discounts offered throughout Asia. In fact this number is in excess of 15,000 each year.

Women are faced with images of perfection in beauty ads, but nearly all of these have been edited in some way. Some celebrities employ their own Photoshop editor, who performs touch ups before submission to print.

There are some great videos on Youtube that demonstrate just how dramatic and quickly a photo can be edited in Photoshop. Try searching for ‘Shocking Female Model Body Photoshop Airbrush Transformation’ in Google to watch a one minute Youtube video. This is a great demonstration of what can be done in a short amount of time, and will help explain to your teens about realism.

There has been some noise lately about images having a warning label to indicate that the image has been modified. I think this is a great idea, and hope that it becomes mandatory.

Another threat that parents need to be aware of as far as advertising, is target marketing campaigns. Social media is a great example, where the adverts are specifically targeted. For anyone wanting to place an ad on Facebook, you can specify the age bracket, gender and/ or location for who you would like to see your ad. I seem to always have ads on Facebook about weight loss. While my husband’s Facebook page is all about the chance for him to get extreme muscles in two weeks!

These subtle hints about supposedly being overweight or the need to ‘bulk up’ can be a little suggestive and plain old rude. To us, they are easily ignored, but teens may not be so

easily convinced of their irrelevance.

This doesn’t stop with Social Media. My 9 year old is constantly convinced that we have “won an iPad”. We have all seen those pop-up announcements about how lucky we are to have been the 100,000’s visitor and to click to redeem the prize. How very tempting for anyone that is not as sceptical as me. Another great reason to monitor your kids while online and to set some ground rules about what they can sign up for.

Same goes for what your kids see on the television, by explaining that while there are some strict guidelines for TV commercials and program classification.

Another area for caution is online games.

Especially those games that simulate war and fighting. Make sure to again check the classification of games, and only allow your children to play games appropriate to their age. There are some very talented designers out there who are able to create life like experiences. This can be dangerous, as players can become self-absorbed and in the odd occasion lose an association with the real world. Playing can be an escape, but to be sure to limit the time spent in a surreal world.

It seems everywhere we look there are modified images that are testing our knowledge of what is real. The only difference for adults compared to our children is that we are older and wiser, but even we can be persuaded with smoke and mirrors and wee bit of magic!

S HEL L EY GR O S S D IR EC T O R AT W O N D ER F U L W EBS IT ES W W W .W O N D ER F U L W EBS IT ES .C O M .AU

PAGE 22 - SPORTS

TENNI S T I M E

If you love tennis you’ve got to love this time of year with the Brisbane international, Hopman cup in Perth, The Hobart international, The Kooyong Classic and the Australian Open all being played in the last month or so.

What better time to see your favorite international and Aussie players on the TV or in person.

lessons for kids and adults alike with group and private lessons on offer. Private lessons will cost a little more but is the best way to fast track your tennis. Group lessons are a fun and exciting way to meet new people, get fit and improve your game, but watch out you might also learn something and actually enjoy yourself doing it!

Hundreds to thousands of kids and adults every year are inspired to pick up a tennis racquet from watching their sporting hero’s on the Australian Open world stage.

Whether it is for the health benefits, the social side, or its time to face a new challenge. You never know where the next Sam Stosur or Lleyton Hewitt will come from - it could be you.

Your local club can be a great source of information and contact point. Clubs can range from small family run organization to large establishments with hundreds of members. Many of these clubs offer coaching, junior and senior Saturday competition, midweek ladies comp, veteran’s comp, men’s and ladies night competition and public and private courts for a social hit with friends and family.

But how do you get started? Its easy, just grab a racquet and some tennis balls, bring some mates or your family, and find a court and get swinging. Even a wall in the back yard or just a flat piece of ground somewhere will do.

One of the best ways to get started is to head down to your local tennis club and contact the club coach and arrange some lessons. You’ll be surprised how much easier tennis can be with some professional help. Most clubs will have a qualified coach to help you out with

As a junior player some thirty odd years ago I made many new and life long friends at our local club. Many of which I still stay in contact with today, some of our children have even started to play competition with each other. It is not uncommon for three generations of the one family playing at the same time.

So no matter if you are young or old, get out there and give it a go and as I always say good luck, good hitting and have fun.

SPO

RT

DA V ID FR AN K S S T EN N IS T EN N IS FA N AT IC 27 4 70 9 CO AC HI N G 04 48 DA V ID FA CE BO OK PA GE : CO AC HI N G FR AN K S T EN N IS

SPORTS - PAGE 23

T SPOR

OCEAN

GROVE

TENNIS CLUB

around The Ocean Grove Tennis Club has been one of the is bers mem 300 over with since 1924 and The club . area biggest clubs in the Greater Geelong winning larly regu s year the has enjoyed success over they that than more but , ions divis premierships in all es a urag enco that club ted orien ly fami a are also social aspect to the game. ions, and The club is made up of a number of divis 15 teams with st Saturday Juniors is by far the large e teams Thes on. seas mer competing the current sum ready st almo are who ers play nced range from adva ing play are that for Senior competition, to beginners at rs junio ies, abilit their r their first season. Whateve ds frien e mak fun, have to ed urag this club are enco and do their best.

Ocean Grove There are fun, modern facilities at the Mod-Grass five e, hous club a ding inclu Tennis Club 2 public and ing tennis courts with Spectra Ace light ly new a is there e Insid access plexipave courts. table & ball foos like ities activ en, renovated kitch catching a tennis, and a lounge area for sitting back breather between sets. playing For those of you who would like to start atics tennis isfan Tenn tennis, or improve your game,

Tournament is Also the Victorian Junior Grass Courts Monday to an Grove Oce ary. coaching run lessons at Ocean Grove, held at Geelong Lawn TC in Janu e using their ts in the even e thes Friday. They can help improve your gam at ation sent have had great repre footwork and families and bers diverse knowledge on fitness, serving, mem or Juni its e urag enco past and p lessons grou or te Priva e. gam the offer of cts they as aspe all to participate in these competitions players, and g competition, are available, for beginner to advanced students a chance to play some stron e som e needs friends. ng lifelo everyone is covered. Perhaps your serv e mak also and e build confidenc nced squad work? Or you would enjoy the more adva are welcome s dard stan and Hot Shots New members of all ages training? The Tennis Victoria approved ly fami are e Ther .

Club is Tenn children. All to Ocean Grove program is also available for younger ly can fami e entir the that so ages ified pack qual hip fully members coaches working for Tennisfanatics are l socia also are e the best, most get together and have a hit. Ther and as such you know you are getting or Juni ’s, BBQ rday Satu es, parti s events like Christma current knowledge. e this mak that ps nshi mpio Cha Club and s excursion ted with come and The Ocean Grove Tennis Club is affilia club one of the best in Victoria. Why not n ciatio Asso is Tenn rine Summer on for nces Tennis Geelong Inc, Bella mme reco is see for yourself? Tenn urage . Hope to ome welc are and Tennis Victoria. As such they enco iries enqu all and February 2nd t the year. ghou throu nts ame tourn in tion cipa parti see you down at the club! k tournaments Some of these include the Country Wee try towns JEN FRA NKS , in Warrnambool, Echuca and other coun ria.

Victo around JUN IOR TRE ASU RER & or Masters There is an annual event called the Juni the nd ks arou Tournament, which runs for several wee COM MIT TEE MEM BER will be hosted d roun first The . area long Gee ter Grea OGT C. not sign up

by Ocean Grove on February 9th. Why go? and see how you

PAGE 24 - MUSIC & ARTS

MU S I C A R TS &

GPAC KIDS

Each year more than 1600 performances, events and activities take place at Geelong Performing Arts Centre (GPAC). It’s a place where many of the Geelong region’s young people gain their first experience of performing in or watching live theatre, dance, music or comedy .

The centre has proudly launched the careers of some of Australia’s best-known performers, including actors Guy Pearce and Rachael Griffiths, who gained their first taste of performing on stage at GPAC. Many other young people participate in local theatre productions and dance school concerts at GPAC. Each year the centre hosts more than 30 dance and calisthenics concerts, as well as school concerts and local theatre productions.

GPAC works closely with the region’s schools to develop and present a youth-focused education program called gpac:ed. This program includes the much-loved annual events, Poppykettle Children’s Festival and Geelong Schools Music and Movement Festival, involving thousands of young people in performances, workshops and concerts.

School students also gain hands-on experience both on stage and back stage through activities including Take Over. Students write, direct, act, design and stage-manage a performance in GPAC’s Drama Theatre.

GPAC’s Family Magic program gives young people an opportunity to see some of Australia’s best professional live theatre. This series combines old favourites with challenging new work, giving children a quality introduction to live theatre.

This year will see four fabulous productions at GPAC: Tashi, based on Anna and Barbara Fienberg’s well-loved adventure books; The Deep, based on the book by Tim Winton; Pete The Sheep, a musical adapation of the picture book by Jackie French and Bruce Whatley; and Still Awake Still! a ridiculously funny musical theatre show.

This year will also see many other productions that will keep young people entertained, including Footlight Productions’ My Fair Lady in February, a stage production of the award winning 13 Storey Treehouse by Andy Griffiths and Terry Denton in May, along with an amazing new show from Circus Oz in September.

To keep up to date with all the happenings at GPAC, visit www. gpac.org.au and sign up for our Whats On fortnightly newsletter, or follow us on Facebook and Twitter.

MUSIC & ARTS - PAGE 25

M USI C AR TS &

HIGH FIDELITY

MEET BELLARINE PENINSULA BAND, HIGH FIDELITY!

HOW OLD WERE YOU WHEN YOU STARTED PLAYING?

Quite young, but we formed as a band 1 year ago.

WHAT INSTRUMENTS DO YOU PLAY?

Rory can play Guitar, Harmonica, Pedals and can sing.

Guy can play Drums, Guitar and the Didgeridoo.

Jakob can play Keyboard, Guitar and sing.

Adrian can play Bass, Guitar and Drums.

HOW HAS YOUR SCHOOL BACKED YOU UP WITH YOUR MUSIC?

Doing VET Music at Bellarine Secondary College as a subject which has allowed us to perform in front of others, meet new people and learn new things.

HOW DID YOU GET TOGETHER?

Adrian and Rory met through their brothers who live together and everyone else met through school (VET Music) and decided to form a band.

IS MUSIC YOUR CAREER OR DO YOU HAVE ANOTHER CAREER ON THE SIDE?

Adrian wants to become an Artist, Rory wants to become a Sound Engineer, Guy wants to become a Barista and Jakob wants to continue with Music.

WHAT DO YOU THINK OF THE LIVE MUSIC SCENE IN GEELONG . . . . AND MELBOURNE?

The Geelong music scene is alright but it is quite hard to get gigs. Melbourne is better as there are more venues and it is more diverse. The Melbourne Psych scene is good too.

WHAT PROBLEMS ARE THERE WITH BEING AN UNDERAGE MUSO?

You often get kicked out when you are meant to be playing. or just trying to watch a great band, even though you’re not drinking.

WHAT ARE SOME OF YOUR BIGGEST INFLUENCES?

We take into account what music has been made already and give it our own Neo-Psychadelic spin! We also love Art the Surrealism Movement and things around us.

WHY DID YOU DECIDE TO NAME YOUR BAND ‘HIGH FIDELITY’?

The lyrics in Pink Floyd’s songs had a big influence on the name. We (not Guy) used to have a band called ‘Alexander and the Supertramps’ as we enjoy the movie ‘Into the Wild’, which has a character named Alexander Supertramp.

HOW WOULD YOU DESCRIBE YOUR MUSIC?

Like the texture of sound...we like to spend more time with sound rather than structure.

RORY - GUITAR & VOCALS ADRIAN - BASS & GUITAR GUY - DRUMS

JAKOB - VOCALS & ORGAN. COMPILED BY LOUISE ROBERTS

PAGE 26 - BELLARINE RAILWAY

Y O U N G P EO P L E F R O M

9 C O U N T R IE S

A IL W A Y H EL P T H E B EL L A R IN E R

Fourteen and fifteen year olds from 9 countries attending the 23 day CISV Step-up Camp in Drysdale helped the Bellarine Railway with the setup for their Day Out With Thomas event fundraiser held on Saturday 18 and Sunday 19 January 2014. The Teenagers from the CISV camp did extremely well to help with the set up, in very hot temperatures. Afterwards they enjoyed a trip on Searoad Ferries for a couple of hours, followed by tea at Trident Fish Bar. We then transported them back to Drysdale with the very kind support of Beacon Bus Tours and Charter.

CISV International is a global organisation dedicated to educating and inspiring for peace through building inter-cultural friendship, cooperation and understanding.

Founded in 1950, today it is a federation of 60 Member Associations with over 200 Chapters or local groups. In over 60 years it has given countless children and young people the experience of their lives and the opportunity to build lasting friendships through international educational programmes. The CISV STEP-UP camp is comprised of delegations from 9 countries each comprised of 4 young people (2 boys and 2 girls) and an adult leader. The camp is coordinated by a group of adult leaders and encourages the young people to take a leading role in planning and organising activities. The camp organisers believe the assistance provided to the Bellarine Railway fits in the camps theme of ‘From little things big things grow’.

The January Day Out With Thomas event patronage was up on the same time last year, with over 2000 people, out and about enjoying the much cooler temperatures.

The event continues to develop and sing-a-longs and storytelling have been introduced. The BAYFM Crew car even did a pit stop at the event to do a live cross and hand out some giveaways! The Bellarine Railway is a not for profit organisation

operated by volunteers whose objective is to bring the heritage railway experience to people of all ages throughout Victoria. It is the largest tourist attraction on the Bellarine and their Day Out With Thomas event is one of 4 held each year to provide the funding to keep the wheels turning.

We are pleased to have the Queenscliff Football, Netball and Cricket clubs providing the event BBQ to feed the Thomas fans and happy to provide a fundraising opportunity to them.

THE NEXT EVENT WILL BE HELD ON

12 AND 13 APRIL 2014

COOKING & CRAFTS - PAGE 27

CRAFTS

& C O O K IN G I C Y POL E ST IC K S

ICYPOLE STICKS HAVE A WARM WOODEN, ECO-FRIENDLY LOOK AND ARE INEXPENSIVE TOO. THEY CAN BE PURCHASED IN A VARIETY OF COLOURS, AS WELL AS PLAIN.

1. Tape two wooden rulers onto a cardboard bases,

making sure there is an icypole width between them.

two fabric ribbons over the top.

2. Place 25 icypole sticks side by side and then glue 3. Let this dry for around an hour.

W HA T YO U N EE D

4. Leave about 2cm of ribbon at one end.

5. Join the two ends of the icypoles, with the ribbon

TW O WO ODE N RUL ERS (FO R MEA SUR ING ) TAP E

25

on the inside.

and leave to dry.

that there are no sharp edges.

6. Glue the extra ribbon onto the opposite end

ICY POL E ST ICK S

7. Paint an empty, clean can and let dry. Make sure

RIB BON GLU E

8. The icypole ring should slide over the can.

CLE AN, EMP TY CAN

9. You can add a ribbon for decoration.

*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.”

H AM BU R G E R S

OIL 4 TEA SPO ON S RIC E BRA N 1 SM ALL BRO WN ON ION , FIN ELY DIC ED

METHOD

1 EGG ST ARD 2 TEA SPO ON S DIJ ON MU

1. Preheat oven to 180°C (350°F) fan-forced.

Y SAU CE 2 TEA SPO ON S LIG HT SO

2. Heat frying pan with 2 teaspoons of oil on

3 CUP WH OLE MEA L

medium to high heat and cook the diced onion until brown.

Add breadcrumbs, mince and cooked onion, and mix thoroughly.

high heat. Make mince into balls and flatten between your palms to make 4 patties (½ cup each). Place in frying pan and brown each side (approximately 2 to 3 minutes per side).

further 15 minutes in the oven.

tablespoon of oil until brown.

over the base of the roll, add the lettuce, tomato, beef pattie, and top with onions.

3. In a bowl, mix egg, mustard and soy sauce.

BS (W HOL EW HEA T) BRE ADC RUM SERVE S

4. Heat frying pan with 2 teaspoons of oil on medium to

5. Place the patties in a baking dish and cook for a 6. Cook the sliced onion in a frying pan with 1

7. To prepare the hamburger, spread some mayonnaise

4

500 G BEE F MIN CE

From Healthy Home Cooking For Kids by Emily Rose Brott Reprinted by Permission of Random House Australia RRP $19.95 by Ebury Press. Available from booksellers and online retailers from 2 December 2013

1 T AB LE S PO ON

RI CE BR AN OI L 1 LA RG E BR OW N ON IO N , S LI CE D 4 W HO LE M EA L (W HO LE W HE AT ) BR EA D RO LL S 4 LE T T UC E LE AV ES (C OS OR IC EB ER G LE T T UC E)

2 M ED IU M T OM AT OE S , M AY ON N AI S E

S LI CE D

TOPPINGS

B E E F P A T T IE S

BEE F PAT TIE

PAGE 28 - REVIEWS

HEAL THY HOME COOK ING F OR K ID S Emily Rose Brott Randomhouse

A CE OF SPADE S Ace of spades is an online multiplayer first- person shooter which is like a combination of Minecraft and Team Fortress 2. You can mine or build strategic bridges, sniper towers, or even underground tunnels.

The imagery of the game is not real-life imagery. The pictures are composed of voxels (small squarelike blocks). So despite it being a first person shooter game, it is not too graphic.

There are 4 different classes, Commando, Marksman, Engineer and Miner. They all have their unique weapons and structures. Each class has a primary weapon, a secondary weapon, a special weapon, a melee weapon and an array of different insta-build structures. When the insta- build structures are used they will instantly build the structure selected. Most of the load outs can be changed, with different weapons or structures to change to. Each class has a different ability that they are based around. The Commando packs a lot of punch but can easily be sniped while his minigun is spinning.

The marksman uses sniper rifles to kill from long distances. The Engineer has a jetpack, and also has extra structures to insta-build and the miner can dig large tunnels in short time.

There are different game modes such as capture the flag, classic, team death match, zombie and many more!

They are very fun and some of the other game modes are creative as I haven’t seen them in any other game!

This is a great game and I’ve really enjoyed playing it and I have really liked the progression it has made since the beta.

You can contact me at sushiphantom@gmail.com or play with me on steam at Sushiphantom.

Frag out for now!

CALLUM BEDSON

BIERTVICS ES IT S

Packed with helpful hints, Healthy Home Cooking for Kids allows children to enjoy all their favourite foods. Emily’s creations look and taste like ‘normal’ biscuits, cakes and desserts, but are made from healthy ingredients that are high in fibre, low in sugars and saturated fats, and are free of preservatives, additives, and artificial flavours and colours. Healthy Home Cooking for Kids includes recipes for snack time, main meals and sides, fruit snacks for everyday and birthday party treats. The whole family will love these delicious recipes. They are easy and fun to make, the ingredients are accessible and will suit many dietary needs. For all those parents not wanting to deprive their children of yummy treats, Healthy Home Cooking for Kids is for you!

LEGO CITY

Camper Van 60057 Prepare for exciting outdoor adventures with the cool Camper Van! Find the perfect riverside spot, offload the canoe from the roof and put on the life vests. Then push off into the water for an exciting day of exploration, before returning for a good night’s sleep in the spacious Camper Van when the sun goes down. Collect this and all the other vehicles in the Great Vehicles range!

Includes 2 adventurer minifigures with assorted accessories - a canoe, 2 oars, 2 life vests and 2 coffee mugs. Features opening doors, a canoe stored on the roof, roof compartments and lots of space inside for the minifigures. Find the perfect wilderness spot! Jump in the canoe and get ready for riverside adventures!

LEGO CITY SUV

with Watercraft 60058 Jump in the SUV and cruise down to LEGO® City beach for some watercraft action!

Back the trailer up, fill up the watercraft with gas then launch them into the water and get ready to jump the waves! Features an SUV with detachable trailer and 2 detachable watercraft.

Includes 2 watercraft racer minifigures with assorted accessories - 2 life vests, a gas drum with pump and a gas can. Back the trailer into position and launch the watercraft, race the watercraft to see who’s fastest, take the SUV off-road for added fun.

LLY

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IA SPEC

UR O Y FOR SS! E N BUSI

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REVIEWS - PAGE 29

PRIVATE LA

TH E KA NG A ROO T ALE

James Petterson & Mark Sullivan – Randomhouse

Jacqueline Jenkins - Xibris LLC Follows the story of five-year-old Matilda, a sweet young girl who loves playing, running around and having fun. She has this fascination for animals, and she once fell into a ditch by following a rabbit she found cute. When she was asked by her mum what happened, she told her mum that she chased a rabbit.

Afterwards, she kept on asking for a pet rabbit as a present but her mum gently told her that she is not that big yet to have a pet. When her fifth birthday is already fast approaching, she is hoping this time she will have a pet as her birthday present. One night, while she is tucked in bed, she saw a kangaroo out her window. Without thinking she follows the animal up to the nearby forest. When she couldn’t see the kangaroo, she began to cry and she began to pray and ask God to lead her the way out after promising she will never run after any animal again without thinking. Will she ever find her way out? Follow and find out who will save Matilda from the dark shadows of the forest. Written with simplicity to match the children’s ability to read with colorful illustrations, young ones will surely enjoy reading and learning from author Jacqueline Jenkins’ story.

Jack Morgan is having a bad week. His twin brother is up on a murder charge and determined to frame him for the crime, and one of Jack’s clients has just called to report the burnt bodies of four surfers on his beach.

But what seems like a random mugging gone wrong soon reveals something far worse – a killer calling themselves No Prisoners is holding the city to ransom. And there’s more bad news: Hollywood’s golden couple, Thom and Jennifer Harlow, have been kidnapped, along with their adopted children. It looks like the whole world is about to discover whether Private are really as good as they say they are…

M R WUF F LE S David Wiesner – Randomhouse

Mr Wuffles ignores all the toys people buy for him. He’s not lazy, he’s just very picky. Now Mr Wuffles has the perfect toy and he’s ready to play. But it’s not really a toy at all. It’s something much more interesting . . . Laid out in a cartoon style format, this book is filled with visual stimulation and is perfect for inspiring the imagination.

MO VI E RE VI EW S

SP ON SO RE D BY GEELONG

M AND EL A:

TH E N I N JA I M M OVA BLE

T O F REED OM

Geelong will be put on the map yet again, this time with a HOLLYWOOD style world premiere of Australia’s first ever super hero action film, “THE NINJA IMMOVABLE HEART”; making its world premiere at Village Cinemas Geelong on February 8th.

LO NG W ALK

Based on South African President Nelson Mandela’s autobiography, which covers his early life, education and 27 years in prison before becoming the first democratically elected President. It shows the young trial lawyer and amateur boxer joining the ANC to fight apartheid and police brutality and the 1960 Sharpeville massacre. It tells of how he led an armed struggle and then his life in prison, how he disarms his guards by remembering their children’s names and birthdays. Idris Elba stars as Nelson Mandela with Justin Chadwick directing.

HE A RT

The film boasts several Geelong exclusives including being financed in Geelong by Ian Murray of Morris Finance, filmed at various locations within Geelong between February and July 2013 and involving over 278 people working on the project. And to top it off, the creator of “The Ninja Movies” Rob Baard is a local Geelong resident. “What has surprised distributors the most is the deep core story; we’re calling it an action drama and treating audiences with respect by giving them a real story which at times is missing from this genre. Everyone can identify with the film’s theme to –Rise and Awaken Your hero within. It’s about going through tough times and rising up, we’ve all been there.” Mr. Baard said. The Ninja Immovable Heart is the first feature film in the series of films carrying the title of the hero character “The Ninja”.

T U O B A S TELL U !

S T N E V E YOUR IF YOU HAVE SOMETHING HAPPENING IN YOUR AREA DROP US A LINE news@kidsvoice.com.au

PAGE 30 - BITE SIZE NEWS

S T IV AL G EE L O N G M U L T I S P O RT FE Geelong is renowned for hosting world class events, in spectacular surrounds, and this year is no exception with the globally recognised IRONMAN brand back to town with the staging of the Geelong Multi Sport Festival The three day festival weekend is increasingly popular and well known amongst the locals as a fun community event, with buzz and atmosphere.

The 5km fun Run/Walk and kids events are always well-like and attended by local residents.

The festivities begin Friday morning with the Geelong Advertiser 5km Fun Run/Walk, a

community event for all ages and abilities.

Saturday includes the energetic IRONKIDS and the inspiring Special Triathlon – a true highlight of the weekend.

On Sunday morning the energy steps up a notch as athletes take centre stage at the Geelong 5150 (Olympic distance triathlon) and the much anticipated IRONMAN 70.3 Geelong feature race.

The event is free to all spectators, and has a Sport & Lifestyle Expo across the weekend.

Entries are still available for all events. Check www.ironmangeelong.com for more details.

NIG HT JAR MA RK ET uay is The successful Nightjar Festival in Torq . Since long Gee to ing mov pulling up its pegs and has ival Fest tjar Nigh the ago s year 4 its inception ary’s Janu st.

Coa become an integral part of the Surf tjar Nigh since e sam the in Torquay have never been in cting Attra . mon Com uay Torq on found its home a place people excess of 8,500 patrons per night, its zing designers, ama with come to be entertained, shop kids be the let , beer a y enjo eat worldly cuisines,

enchanted by magical fairies or simply relax with friends. ing the festival The Nightjar team is excited to be bring night in y Frida to Johnstone Park Geelong each nd home! seco its me beca February, which will now a city with , ents elem fun e sam the We will bring all orting supp to feel. “Nightjar in the City” looks forward s. ician mus and ts artis l the community, families, loca OK. EBO FAC on us join or site Check out the web

R O T A R Y K ID S F U N R U N S INFORMATION AN D REGISTRATION AT WWW. ANNUALKIDSFUN RUNS. COM.AU PH: 0412 211 653 GREAT RAIL RUN: WWW.PBEVENTS .

COM.AU/EVENTS /THEGREAT-RAIL-RUN S/

Kids across the Bellarine Peninsula are gearing up for the Rotary Kids Fun Runs on Sunday March 23 at Drysdale Railway Station.

The Runs give kids up to 12 years the chance to run alongside a Friend of Thomas the Steam Engine in eight age-specific heats over distances suitable for the age of the kids.

All kids running in the Fun Runs receive a show bag of goodies. Numbers are strictly limited to 700.

TRAD E Hairdressers

There’s also lots of family focussed entertainment including the Mik Maks and Dazzling Dan the Magic Man. Adults can run the Great Rail Run, a 17km run along the Bellarine Rail Train from Queenscliff to Drysdale Railway Station. Runners try to beat the train to Drysdale in time for the Kids Fun Run. There’s also shorter runs.

The Rotary Club of Highton Kardinia organises the day.

The event beneficiary is Kids Plus Foundation, a local organisation providing intensive therapy for children with brain related disabilities.

DIRE CTORY List your

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WHAT’S ON - PAGE 31

6 FEBRUARY

Herald Sun Tour, Waterfront, Eastern Beach Road, Geelong - one of Australia’s oldest and most prestigious stage cycling races. In 2014, Geelong will host the start of Stage 2 of the event. Costs: Participant Entry Fee. Free for spectators

6 FEBRUARY

Central Geelong Activities, Lt Malop Central, Lt Malop st between Moorabool & Yarra Sts. Solo guitarist Davy Simony performs a broad repertoire with something that will appeal to almost everybody. 12 2pm Free

7 FEBRUARY

My Fair Lady, GPAC, 50 Little Malop Street, Geelong. Join Give Where You Live for the Opening Night of the classic musical “My Fair Lady”.

7.30 - 10.30pm. Tickets $45 with all net proceeds from opening night going to Give Where You Live.

7 - 28 FEBRUARY (FRIDAY NIGHTS)

Nightjar In The City (market), Johnstone Park End of Malop Street, Geelong. The market will offer food from around the world and feature our regions emerging designers as well as street performers, a bar and a children’s area. 4 - 10pm.

Gold coin donation

7 - 9 FEBRUARY

Geelong Multi Sport Festival, Waterfront, Geelong. The Geelong Multisport Festival provides something for the whole family.

Friday 7 February Foreshore Fun Run/Walk supporting Give Where You Live - a 5km run/walk.

Saturday 8 February IRONKIDS Geelong - a kids only version (7-13 year olds) of the IRONMAN 70.3 Geelong.

Registration is open on site, Saturday 8 February.

Followed with the Geelong Special Triathlon, specifically for participants with special needs, and an emphasis on fun and enjoyment.

Sunday February 9 Features the newly renamed Olympic Distance event - the Geelong 5150, for teams and individual participants. Headlining the annual festival is IRONMAN 70.3 Geelong, home of long course triathlon racing.

8 FEBRUARY

Melbourne Rebels v Wellington Hurricanes, Simonds Stadium, 12 Kilgour Street, Geelong.

Rugby Under Lights at Simonds Stadium - PreSeason Trial Match kick off 7:30pm. For a full day of sporting action don’t miss these earlier events - Victorian Rugby Union (VRU) Country 7s Round Robin Tournament and the Junior Rugby Clinic all played out on Simonds Stadium from 1:30pm.

Featuring K Rock DJ live on the decks, activities and all the hard-hitting action of the main match - this is one party you don’t want to miss! 7.30 - 10pm. Costs involved

open 7.15, movie starts when dark. Free

9 FEBRUARY

Muddy Boots, Sandy Hands activity. Rock pool ramble at Point Lonsdale.

For more information: www.mbsh.org.au

14 FEBRUARY

Cruise Ships, Waterfront Geelong, Eastern Beach Road. 8am - 5pm. Free

22 FEBRUARY

Class Clowns, Potato Shed, Peninsula Drive, Drysdale. Find your funny bone with Melbourne International Comedy Festival’s one-of-akind, national workshop programme and comedy competition for secondary schools. Workshop is for teenagers and secondary students from 1pm.

Performance is from 4pm and audience is welcome.

Free

22 FEBRUARY

Pako Festa, Pakington Street, Geelong West.

The day kicks off with a 8 FEBRUARY street parade at 11am, Outdoor cinema, Ocean with 90 floats and 100’s Grove Park, Ocean Grove. performers. The streets Surf movie “Drift”. Gates

TEL L U S W H AT’S O N IN YOUR ARE A

are lined with multicultural food stalls, celebrate in an arena of ethnic diversity and harmony, and appreciate the wonderful variety of artistic and cultural expression within Geelong’s multicultural community! Free

23 FEBRUARY

Shelford Duck Race, The Parade / Shelford Recreation Reserve.

Fun filled day for all ages, Free live Entertainment, market stalls, food & drink, lots for the kids to see & do. CFA & SES demonstrations & The Holden club The Duck Race which will commence at 3:30pm. 11am - 5pm

23 FEBRUARY

River Run Geelong, Barwon Valley Fun Park, Barwon River. A 5km and 10km Fun Run along the banks of the Barwon River.

8 - 11am. Participant Entry Fee

25 FEBRUARY

Cruise Ships, Waterfront Geelong, Eastern Beach Road. 7am - 3pm. Free

- E MAIL E D I T O R @KI DS V O I C E.C O M.A U