Families Magazine - Brisbane Issue 52 Jun/Jul 2022 by Families Magazine - Brisbane

Issue 52: June / July 2022 www.FamiliesMagazine.com.au

Brisbane From North Lakes and Samford in the north to the Redlands and Logan in the south and out through the western suburbs of Brisbane

WINTER DAYS OUT & CHILDREN’S PARTIES TASTE FARM LIFE IN QLD’S OUTBACK MT TAMBORINE DAY TRIP BRISBANE’S BEST PARTY VENUES MONEY SAVING TIPS FOR FAMILIES

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The Clever Resource for Thinking Parents

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JUNE / JULY 2022

Contents 4-5

Families News

Find out about local news for families

Welcome to our Winter Day Trips and Children’s Parties issue! If you managed to salvage any of your winter woollies from the floodwaters, it’s time to scrape off the thick layer of mould and shroud yourself in the garments of another land! Like the rare sighting of an arboreal frog deep in untouched jungle, winter in Queensland is fleeting and must be experienced in the moment it chooses to show itself. Do not sleep on this! Bring your long boots to the front of the cupboard, rack those woollen coats to the high rotation corner of the walk-in or just drag out the winter tub (my style) and obstruct a doorway of choice. A HUGE winter tradition in our house is arguing about how low and consistently the temperature must drop before we can declare the fans retired and promote the heater. I’m not going into the details as they are tedious, but I can caution you to not be too quick to make the change prematurely. Do NOT under any circumstances leave both a heater AND a fan in a child’s room lest you want to feel the icy fury and red hot rage of finding a fan on full, a heater on max and an open window. If you are interested in ruddy faced, wholesome activities which don’t need wifi or a hedge fund, then behold the glory of Mt Tamborine. Kids can’t complain about being cold and bored at the end of a hike! They are breathless!

8 - 11

Winter Days Out Spend a day at your local library Day trip to Tamborine Mountain

12 - 14

Families Travel Taste farm life in outback Queensland

16 - 19

Party Time 11 Ways to Party in 2022

20 - 23

Parenting Money saving tips for families Helping kids set goals

24 - 29

Families Fun Circle the things you plan to do in June & July

30 - 31

Clubs, Classes & Activities Find a local Club, Class or Activity

Yours in thermal socks and a jumper over a top over a singlet and shorts.

Simone Eclair

Simone Eclair insists she is a Brisbane comedian (but you can decide for yourself).

Cover Photo: Ipswich Children’s Library Image Credit: Natalie Turner

Next issue August / September 2022 Deadline by 5pm on Friday 8 July 2022 Focus on Brisbane Schools & Education Brisbane readership over 80,000 every issue. Published 6 times a year. Local magazines for families in Brisbane, Ipswich, Redlands, Logan and the Moreton Region.

Families Magazine, PO Box 1018, Brighton 4017

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0437 866 869 Editor@FamiliesMagazine.com.au

www.FamiliesMagazine.com.au

Families News

LOCAL FAMILIES NEWS Looking for the latest local news and views? We've got it covered!

A KIDS TOYS AND GAMES PRIZE PACK!

REWARD FOR YOUR POPPERS!

Containers for Change are on the hunt for your empty juice and flavoured milk poppers! Around 100 million poppers are sent to landfill each year when they could be recycled. Poppers can be returned for 10 cents each at a Containers for Change refund point. Get the kids involved in recycling and they could earn a little pocket money too! Find your nearest refund point at www.containersforchange.com.au/qld

Keep the kids entertained – or let them entertain themselves – with this Crown & Andrews games pack! NexCube is a sliding puzzle cube sure to meet the needs of even the most adept puzzle cuber, while Gobble Monster and The Floor is Lava! are sure to keep the younger ones giggling! Phlat Ball is fun for the whole family to play at the beach or on a picnic. All these games are available from leading retailers, but we have two sets of all four games to give away, valued at $120 RRP each! For details of terms & conditions and to enter, go to www.familiesmagazine.com.au/competitions.

STREET SCIENCE TICKETS AND YOUR

Competition closes Friday 22 July.

RECYCLE YOUR FOOD WASTE Did you know about a quarter of what’s collected from Brisbane’s household general waste bins is food waste? It’s not a great statistic given that everything in your general waste bin ends up in landfill.

Brisbane’s Lord Mayor Adrian Schrinner recently launched Brisbane’s first food waste recycling pilot. It’s a fantastic initiative under which 6000 households across 30 suburbs will be able to put fruit and vegetable waste in their green bins. Under this pilot, about 2000 tonnes of food waste a year will be diverted from landfill to create compost. Register your interest at one of Brisbane’s 30 community composting hubs, and collect a free kitchen caddy from your local ward office to transport your food scraps. For more information, visit www.brisbane.qld.gov.au/ clean-and-green/rubbish-tips-and-bins/rubbish-bins/foodwaste-recycling-service-pilot

OWN ROCKET!

10…9…8…7…6…5…4…3…2…1… BLAST OFF

Street Science are excited to be celebrating this year’s National Science Week in August with a special event that will see families from around Australia come together for an online Street Science experience like no other. On August 12th Street Science will broadcast from live from the Street Science Studio’s high energy, fun filled science show, culminating in the launch of over 1000 Street Science rockets around the country. Street Science and Families Magazine are excited to give two lucky families (up to 5 people each family) the chance to join the team live in person on August 12th to help celebrate National Science Week 2022. Another 10 families will win tickets to the online show and their very own rocket kits, with enough rocket fuel to launch their rockets up to 30 times. For more information on the event visit the Street Science Facebook page. For details of terms & conditions and to enter, go to www.familiesmagazine.com.au/competitions. Competition closes Friday 22 July.

Your Local Families Magazine June / July 2022 www.familiesmagazine.com.au

Families News

2022 BOOK WEEK THEME ANNOUNCED!

DREAMING WITH EYES OPEN Book Week 2022 runs from 20-26 August and this year asks your children to embrace the theme “Dreaming with Eyes Open”. This exciting invitation opens worlds full of possibilities when it comes to kids book week theme ideas, allowing your child to escape into a world of wonder where they can be anything they want to be! Book week is a fantastic opportunity for your child to celebrate their favourite characters from their favourite books by dressing up. If you need a little inspiration for costume ideas, check out our tips at www.familiesmagazine.com.au/ childrens-book-week-costume-ideas

Your Local Families Magazine June / July 2022 www.familiesmagazine.com.au

Education

JUNE/JULY 2022

BRISBANE AND IPSWICH’S MOST COMPREHENSIVE

SCHOOL OPEN DAYS FOR PROSPECTIVE STUDENTS & PARENTS Brisbane Bayside State College (Wynnum West) Indep Co-ed Yr 7–12 Principal Tours: Thursdays 2 Jun, 21 Jul, 6 Oct, all 9.30am. www.brisbanebaysidesc.eq.edu.au Brisbane Boys’ College (Toowong) Prep–Yr 12, Boarding from Yr 7–12 Junior School Tour: Thu 2 Jun, 8:20am. Middle & Senior School Tour: Mon 13 Jun, 8:30am. Prep Discovery Morning: Fri 3 Jun, 9am. www.bbc.qld.edu.au Brisbane Christian College (Salisbury) Indep Co-ed Pre-Prep–Yr 12 Tours throughout the year. www.brisbanechristiancollege.com.au/enrolments/book-a-tour Brisbane Girls Grammar School (Brisbane) Indep Girls’ Yr 7–12 Open Day: Fri 29 Jul. Tours throughout the year. www.bggs.qld.edu.au/enrolment/open-day Cannon Hill Anglican College (Cannon Hill) Indep Co-ed Prep–Yr 12 Open Day: Sat 4 Jun. www.chac.qld.edu.au Clairvaux MacKillop College (Upper Mt Gravatt) Catholic Co-ed Yr 7–12 College Tours: Fri 10 Jun 9am–10.30am, Fri 22 Jul 9am– 10.30am, Fri 9 Sep 9am–10.30am. www.cvxmck.edu.au

Clayfield College (Clayfield) Indep Co-ed Pre-prep-Yr 6, Girls’ Pre-prep–Yr 12 Primary School Tours: Thu 28 Jul, Wed 12 Oct, 9:15am. Secondary School Tours: Wed 27 Jul, Fri 19 Aug, Fri 14 Oct. www.clayfield.qld.edu.au Faith Lutheran College (Victoria Point and Thornlands) Indep Co-ed Kindy–Yr 12 Primary School Tour: Thu 15 Sep. Secondary School Tours: Wed 8 Jun, Wed 17 Aug. www.faithlutheran.qld.edu.au Ipswich Girls’ Grammar School (Ipswich) Indep Girls’ Kindy–Yr 12 Discovery Tours: Tuesdays 26 Jul, 11 Oct, all 8:45am. www.girlsgrammar.com.au Ipswich Junior Grammar School (Ipswich) Indep Co-ed Kindy–Yr 6 Discovery Tours: Tuesdays 7 Jun, 2 Aug, 25 Oct, all 8:45am. www.juniorgrammar.com.au John Paul College (Daisy Hill) Co-ed ELC–Yr 12 Primary Open Morning: Thu 9 Jun & 6 Oct 9:30am. Secondary Open Morning: Tue 11 Oct 9am. Open Day: Wed 10 Aug 9am. www.jpc.qld.edu.au

Your Local Families Magazine June / July 2022 www.familiesmagazine.com.au

Education Lourdes Hill College (Hawthorne) Catholic Girls’ Yr 7–12 College Tour: Mon 6 Jun 3.30pm. www.lhc.qld.edu.au Marist College (Ashgrove) Catholic Boys’ Day & Boarding Yr 5–12 College Tours: Sun 19 Jun, Fri 29 Jul, Fri 14 Oct. www.marash.qld.edu.au Mary MacKillop College (Nundah) Catholic Girls’ Yr 7–12 Principal’s Guided Tours: Tue 7 Jun, Thu 4 Aug, Thu 20 Oct. Enrolment Information Evenings: Tue 26 Jul. www.mmc.qld.edu.au

Prince of Peace Lutheran College (Everton Hills) Co-ed Kindy–Yr 12 K-Yr 6 Open Mornings: 9 Jun, 20 Oct. Secondary Open Morning: 14 Oct 8:45am–10:15am. www.princeofpeace.qld.edu.au Redeemer Lutheran College (Rochedale) Co-ed Prep–Yr 12 Senior School Tours: 12 Aug, 12 Oct. Year 7 Tour: 13 Jun 3.15pm– 5.15pm. Prep Tour: 7 Sept 9.15am & 9.45am. www.redeemer.com.au

Mt Maria College (Petrie) Catholic Co-ed Yr 7–12 Virtual Open Day: Wed 20 July 6.30pm. Principal’s Tours: Tuesdays 14 Jun, 21 Jun, 19 Jul, 16 Aug. www.mmcp.qld.edu.au

San Sisto College (Carina) Catholic Girls’ Yr 7–12 College Tours: Fri 29 Jul, Thu 15 Sep, Fri4 Nov. All 9am–10.30am. www.sansisto.qld.edu.au

Northside Christian College (Mitchelton) Indep Co-ed Kindy–Yr 12 Principal’s Tour (Junior School): Wed 8 Jun 9am & 11am. Principals Tour (Prep): Tue 26 Jul 9am & 11am. Principal’s Tour (Senior School): Tue 6 Sept 9am & 11am. www.northside.qld.edu.au Ormiston College (Ormiston) Indep Co-ed, non-denominational Christian ELC–Yr 12 Headmaster’s Tours: Hosted throughout the year. www.ormistoncollege.com.au/bookatour Our Lady’s College (Annerley) Catholic Girls’ Yr 7–12 College Tours: Last Friday of the month at 8am. www.ourladyscollege.qld.edu.au

Padua College (Kedron) Catholic Boys’ Yr 5–12 Rector’s Tours: Tuesdays 19 Jul, 30 Aug, 9–11am & 3:30–5pm. www.padua.qld.e du.au

Southern Cross Catholic College (Scarborough) Catholic Co-ed Prep–Yr 12 Head of Campus Tours: Thu 2 Jun, Tue 9 Aug, Thu 20 Oct. All 9am. www.sccc.qld.edu.au St Eugene College Catholic (Burpengary) Catholic Girls’ Yr 7–12 School Tours: Second Tuesday of every month. www.steugene.qld.edu.au Stuartholme School (Toowong) Catholic Girls’ School Yr 7–12 Action Tours: Fri 10 Jun, Mon 8 Aug, Fri 7 Oct. www.stuartholme.com

To promote Your School Open Day in the next issue (Aug / Sept 2022) contact our Editor Email: Editor@FamiliesMagazine.com.au Tel: 0437 866 869. Please check the details of the events listed before setting off in case anything has changed since going to print.

Your Local Families Magazine June / July 2022 www.familiesmagazine.com.au

Winter Days Out

There is so much to discover at your local library Life is never boring when you’ve got a library card! With pages and pages of imaginative new worlds to explore, new toys to borrow, activities and entertainment for kids of all ages, there is so much to discover. It’s the perfect place to while away a few hours on cool winter’s day!

small monthly fee can save you heaps on the toys you don’t have to buy, and there’ll be less toy clutter in your home too. Find your local toy library here: www.familiesmagazine.com.au/ toy-library-brisbane-and-beyond

There’s more than just books Of course, there are lots of books. The great thing about the libraries’ children’s areas is that most of the picture books are at child-height, so small children can work through their selections and choose titles that visually appeal to them. But that’s not all that happens in the children’s area. Many of the local Brisbane, Ipswich, Logan, Redlands, and Moreton regional libraries have interactive play spaces, Lego building areas, and fun school hours, after school hours and school holiday activities just waiting for your children to enjoy. All you need to do to be involved is to get there!

First 5 Forever 90% of a child’s brain development happens in the first 5 years, so the Queensland Government and State Library of Queensland introduced the First 5 Forever program. Local libraries host regular Rhyme Time, Baby Play, and Play Times sessions for babies and children up to five-years-old. These sociable sessions are FREE!

Toy Library Most of us are feeling the financial pinch at the moment. If you find yourself plotting a route around the shopping centre to avoid all the toy sections – much to the alarm of your child – plot a course for your local library instead. As well as lending books, some of our regional libraries have a huge range of toys and games available on free loan, too. We all know how quickly children can become bored of their toys and games, and a toy library allows you to have the latest on a never-ending free rotation! Not all council libraries have a toy library, but there are other toy library organisations to which you can subscribe. Even paying a

Special events Your local library is a hive of noisy and free activity. Children are invited to join in movie nights, STEAM activities, craft sessions, Lego challenges, Dungeons & Dragons, themed fun (like Frozen and Star Wars events), yoga, guest entertainers, robotics and coding, console game challenges… it’s amazing just how much is on offer!

Finding your library There are big libraries, small libraries, and mobile libraries, and all offer something a little different. You don’t have to hold a membership to the library to be a visitor, but we think that once you go the first time, you will want to become a member because all libraries are free to join! Your library membership is not restricted to your nearest library either. With a library membership card, you can borrow from all the libraries in your local council area. State Library of Queensland Even if you’re not a State Library of Queensland member, the library is always worth a visit. The State Library spreads over many floors, but if you are visiting with kids, we recommend you head straight for “The Corner”. The Corner is a creative learning and play space especially for children under 8. We particularly recommend that you visit their current display. The Great & Grand Rumpus is a sculptural, digital, and immersive installation, born of the imaginations of local children around Brisbane. There is a huge dragon and a one-eyed robot taller than the buildings and many more wondrous creations, but they are only there until July 10, 2022. Brisbane City Libraries There are 33 libraries in the Brisbane City Council region, and with your Brisbane City Council library membership you can visit them all. We love the Secret Garden theme of the Garden City Library

Your Local Families Magazine June / July 2022 www.familiesmagazine.com.au

Winter Days Out Ipswich City Libraries Ipswich City Council has recently opened a dedicated public children’s library – the only one in Australia! There are cosy reading nooks to tuck into (check out the front cover of this issue!), interactive big-screen digital activities, a parents room, and kids can feed the two life-sized dinosaurs suspended from the ceiling through swirling vacuum tubes. The Children’s Library is one of seven Ipswich City Council libraries you can visit, and we loved it so much we made a video review: Scan the QR code to watch! Moreton Regional Libraries In the Moreton Regional Council area you can visit nine libraries, and the great thing about Moreton Regional Libraries is that they ALL have toy libraries!

How to join your local library children’s area and the interactive light play and yummy café at the Chermside library. Logan City Libraries Logan City Council has nine libraries, from tiny little village libraries to the big one at Logan Central. Our favourite has to be Marsden Library. Marsden Library’s children’s area has been developed into a state-of-the-art ‘Sensory Space’. This space stimulates and inspires children to explore and learn using their senses, and has gentle interactive light displays and a sensory bubble tube.

Here’s the secret – your local library wants you to join, so they have made it easy. You can apply online on your local council’s website, or in person at the library service counter. All you will need is proof of ID that shows your address. If your child is a voracious reader, they can have their very own library card. Each library card allows you to borrow up to 20 books, magazines, and DVDs, and toys where available. To find out more about Brisbane’s regional libraries, visit our website: www.familiesmagazine.com.au/brisbane/local-libraries

Redland City Libraries Redland City Council has eight libraries: 3 on the mainland, 4 on the islands, and one mobile library. Your family can make a wonderful day out with a trip on the ferry to visit Russell Island Library – especially in winter when you might spot a migrating whale along the way!

Your Local Families Magazine June / July 2022 www.familiesmagazine.com.au

Winter Days Out

Day Trip to

Mt Tamborine

Mt Tamborine is such a beautiful place in the Gold Coast hinterland, and a great place to explore with children. There is so much to see and do, from waterfalls, to caves, to fossicking for thundereggs. Here are a few things to try on your next day trip to Mt Tamborine.

Waterfall walks

The Tamborine National Park protects over 2000ha of the legacy of the 23-million-year-old Tweed Shield Volcano. Tamborine Mountain lies along the northern end of the biggest erosion caldera in the southern hemisphere, and one of the largest on Earth! The area is largely covered in rainforest and spectacularly featured with a number of breathtaking waterfalls. Pack a picnic and enjoy some of our favourite waterfall walks. CEDAR CREEK FALLS Cedar Creek Falls is a popular walk, though the path is not suitable for wheelchair users and strollers. The walk takes around 45 minutes at a leisurely pace and takes you past several water features. Find your starting point on Cedar Creek Falls Road, opposite the Thunderbird Park sign.

Thunderbird Park

There is so much here at this tourist attraction for families to enjoy. Dinosaur fans can go on a prehistoric dig for gemstone-filled thundereggs, formed back when dinosaurs roamed the earth, and thrill-seekers can traverse the treetop challenge! The Treetop Challenge is a high-ropes adventure course comprising 11 zip lines, suspension bridges and the adrenalin-inducing canyon flyer zip line. With a Souvenir Miner’s Permit from Thunderbird Park, children can fossick for hidden treasures from prehistoric volcanic lava in the world’s largest Thunderegg Mine.

WITCHES FALLS This moderate walking track takes about an hour. It’s quite steep in places and criss-crosses steep mountainside terrain over open forest and into the rainforest. There are seasonal lagoons to navigate before arriving at Witches Falls. After heavy rain this is an especially beautiful and wildlife-dense route. Your return will take you behind the cemetery and then back to the picnic and parking area on Main Western Road. JOALAH SECTION (CURTIS FALLS) The name comes from the Aboriginal word meaning lyrebird, and they are out in force in this area in winter. This moderate track should take about 30 minutes. You can access via Dapsang Drive carpark or Eagle Heights Road shops. You’ll find rainforest, steep stairs, a large water pool, beautiful views and impressive rockfaces.

Your Local Families Magazine June / July 2022 www.familiesmagazine.com.au

Winter Days Out There are lots more things to at Thunderbird Park, including:

Glow-worms are a primitive fly species found only in Australia and New Zealand, and we’re lucky enough that our part of the world provides the perfect habitat.

◗ Horse Riding

The Mt Tamborine Glow Worm Caves at Cedar Creek Estate are artificial man-made caves designed to recreate the very specific conditions that glow worms need to thrive. You are guaranteed to see the cave filled with thousands of glowing worms all year round.

◗ Mini Golf ◗ Laser Skirmish ◗ Bush Walking ◗ Swimming

Don’t let the fact that the caves are artificial put you off; they’re extremely well done and filled with realistic stalagmites and stalactites. The controlled environment means that you won’t be disappointed on your glow worm spotting adventure.

◗ Bird Feeding ◗ Interactive Reptile Show ◗ Camping

When you’ve finished with the glow worm caves, be sure to check out the frog hollow and find yourself a shady spot to enjoy a picnic in the beautiful grounds of the Cedar Creek Estate.

And there’s a kiosk and deli on site, too!

Tamborine Rainforest Skywalk

This amazing eco-adventure allows you to brush the canopies of the tallest trees in the rainforest! Set on 30 privately-owned, untouched acres of land bordering Cedar Creek, the Skywalk is a 45-minute stroll at an ambling place, taking you 30m high into the rainforest canopy. It’s all safely enclosed in bridges with lookouts, resting points, and information boards along the way. You’ll also find an Eco Gallery, the Birdwing Café, a gift shop, modern toilet facilities and plenty of parking on site too.

Wildlife

Whatever walk you plan to do on your Mt Tamborine day trip, grab your binoculars and a checklist because Tamborine Mountain is teeming with wildlife! On your mountain walks, look out for ◗ A healthy snake population (including carpet pythons) ◗ Giant earthworms (up to 1 meter long!) ◗ Lots of birds! Lyrebirds, scrub turkeys, tawny frogmouths, whipbirds, bowerbirds, parrots and lorikeets

Botanic Gardens

◗ Platypus in the rockpools

For a quiet change of pace, visit the Botanic Gardens at Tamborine Mountain.

◗ Glow-worms ◗ Ringtail and brushtail possums ◗ Koalas ◗ Wallabies ◗ Bandicoots ◗ Butterflies by the THOUSANDS ◗ Frogs (especially after the rain!)

Covering 11ha, the gardens consist of exotic species, rainforest, flowering cherries, rhododendrons, magnolias, camellias and maples. Themed areas include the Japanese garden, rose garden, bromeliad garden, wisteria-covered pergolas, perennial cottage garden and a lake. This is a great place for a picnic, some contemplation time in the Japanese Garden, a short rainforest walk, or to organise a family game of cricket.

Getting to Mount Tamborine

Leaving from Brisbane CBD, you’re looking at just over an hour’s drive south via the M1. It’s all very well sign posted. Once you leave the M1, the drive up the mountain can be quite winding, but spectacularly scenic!

Glow Worm Caves

The Glow Worm Caves have long been a popular day trip destination for Brisbane families. Inter-connected caves provide both education and entertainment. Your kids will be awestruck by the gorgeous visual displays – they’re really something else!

There is so much for families to do on the mountain that you can set off without a specific plan in mind and see where the many signed attractions take you. It really is a unique and beautiful place! Find out more here: www.familiesmagazine.com.au/things-to-domt-tamborine

Your Local Families Magazine June / July 2022 www.familiesmagazine.com.au

Families Travel

Taste Farm Life Adventure in Queensland’s outback

An outback adventure is iconically Australian, and Queensland’s outback is tantalisingly within reach. Generations of Australians have grown up hearing legendary stories of cattle ranchers and pioneers, stunning red soil landscapes, Skippy the Bush Kangaroo, and the Royal Flying Doctor Service. Take your little Australians to taste farm life in Queensland’s outback.

Longreach and surrounds Pull out a map of Queensland, pop your finger in the middle of the state and you’ve located Longreach - the ‘gateway to the outback’. There’s a heap of well-known must-do’s when heading out to Longreach - think The Australian Stockman’s Hall of Fame and QANTAS Founders Museum. However, before you get distracted by those big-ticket spots, you cannot miss experiencing farm life in the REAL Australian outback. Dunraven Station is a 25,000-ha sheep, cattle, and goat farm near Barcaldine. Owners Peter and Roberta conduct their ‘Barcaldine Tag Along Tours’. What makes this tour different to others offered in the area is that it’s a 30km off-road driving tour. Every tour is different, but they usually include farm activities from shearing to mustering and fencing depending on the season. Camden Park Station, an 18,000-acre working sheep and cattle station, offers an exclusive bush camping experience with one-acre camping sites designed for self-sufficient campers. At Camden Park Station you’ll get to meet Outback Dan and the Walker family who have owned Camden Park Station for more than 100 years. You can join in on one of Camden Park Station’s guided tours and see the solar farm, walk through the historical homestead gardens, shearing shed, and cattle yards, or join a night tour and enjoy dinner under the stars. The half-day Nogo Station Experience is a perfect “small bite” of farm life. On arrival, you will be taken into the shearing sheds, where you’ll get a history of the station and the merino industry followed by a shearing demonstration. The kids will love seeing all the cute and noisy sheep, as well as the herding dogs show off their tricks.

Your Local Families Magazine June / July 2022 www.familiesmagazine.com.au

Families Travel Something you wouldn’t expect in the outback is The Lake, just outside Quilpie. The lake is a beautiful natural oasis and home to many birds and native animals. It’s also home to goats, cattle, sheep and emu, and offers accommodation in the form of camping, private rooms, or a cute little cottage. Moble Homestead is a perfect stopover for families with kids over 12-years old. The owners have developed a range of packaged experiences, including outback cookery classes, ironworking school, floristry lessons and photography masterclasses.

Then it’s time to jump in an open-air double decker bus to tour the expansive property, followed by a saddlebag lunch with billy tea by the creek. Shandonvale Station boasts a huge variety of animals for kids to pat, cuddle, feed, herd, fish, watch or just admire from a distance from camels to pigs, cattle, donkeys, sheep, emus, deer, echidnas, goats, chickens and horses. Lane and Deon have recently renovated the charming 100-year-old shearer’s quarters into the ultimate luxury accommodation option so your family can stay on station. During your stay you can explore the bush, go fishing, fly in a chopper, have a shoot at the gun range, herd sheep in a buggy, or simply build a campfire to enjoy with your family.

On an Adavale Way Farm Stay, kids can participate in the feeding of many farm animals, including ducks, sheep and goats. There’s a fantastic cave walk nearby, and a dam and lagoon for yabbying and kayaking.

Townsville and west Our family adventure will take you west of Townsville along the Flinders Highway to cattle country, with an easily accessible little tropical fruit diversion south of Townsville, too. For a “wild west” experience, take a horse-drawn wagon tour at Leahton Park, otherwise known as Texas in the Outback! You’ll see Texas Longhorn cattle with horns spanning up to an incredible 3 metres, along with other cattle from around the world including bison and buffalo! The entertaining and informative tour includes cowboy coffee or billy tea brewed on the campfire, with homemade sweets.

If you are looking for a truly unique holiday experience you have to visit Turraburra, also known as ‘Gracevale Station’. “Guesting” on Turraburra gives you the chance to get a hands-on insight into local culture, history and practices of the Traditional Peoples from the country. Try harvesting seasonal bush foods such as bush bananas, lemon grass, quinine and blackberries, and experience one of the epic sunrise or sunset tours. Learn about The Dark Emu Constellations and the Seven Sisters Story (Indigenous astronomy), and participate in a cultural learning yarn around the campfire. A visit to Turraburra gives families the perfect opportunity to disconnect from technology and re-connect through Country.

South-western Queensland

One of the most amazing features of Charlotte Plains, located 50km east of Cunnamulla, is the hot spring baths with groundwater welling up at a balmy 42 degrees. The owners have installed bathtubs around the edge of the natural pools so you can relax in comfort while the kids kayak or swim. Charlotte Plains offers camping right next to the hot springs, or you can choose accommodation with a camp kitchen a short 10km drive up the road (but still on the property!). Further west, Kilcowera Station is a cattle property where you can camp or treat yourself to a comfortable room in the shearing quarters. The lagoon is perfect for kayaking, birdwatching, swimming, fishing, and yabbying, or you can go mountain biking, 4-wheel driving, or hiking. It’s definitely a place for making memories.

A Corella Creek Country Farm Stay offers peaceful budget camping and studio accommodation. As well as being a working small farmstead, the owners also run a wildlife refuge for injured and orphaned animals. Kids may be invited to participate in feeding and light farm activities, and the hosts offer cooking and art lessons too. July is the perfect time to visit Cloncurry, 780km west of Townsville. This is when the town hosts the Cloncurry Stockman’s Challenge & Campdraft. You can camp on site amongst visitors and competitors and witness one of the greatest annual horse events in Australia – 5 action-packed days of real ranch-style equestrianism and cattle driving! Heading south from Townsville, pop into the Achacha Tropical Fruit Plantation – the first of its kind in the world! Achacha is a highly prized tropical fruit with tangy refreshing taste, but that’s not all you will find at the plantation. You can see bees at work in the flow hives, and chickens enjoying the Solar Powered Chicken Caravan.

Your Local Families Magazine June / July 2022 www.familiesmagazine.com.au

Families Travel

Bundaberg and North Burnett This Bundaberg road trip itinerary is perfect for families with kids, who want to explore Queensland farm life without heading too far away from Brisbane. Marchioness B&B Farmstay is a mix of farm stay, home stay, and bed and breakfast all rolled into one. Here, you can choose the level of interaction and participation in everyday farm life: kick back and relax on the veranda or get as dirty as you like. Our family collected eggs and fed the chooks, played with the dogs, patted the horses and cattle, and fed them too! At the Bakersfield Bison, Horses & Working Dogs property, you don’t have to have a horse or working dog to enjoy all they have to offer. They host regular events where you can go and watch the dogs and bison at work, with demonstrations of stockmanship, with food and good company included. They also offer bush camping on site if you’d like to stay a little longer. For an authentic cattle station experience, head to Jerakala Farmstay, 2 hours north of Bundaberg. This 30,000 acre property runs 900 head of Angus and Hereford cattle, plus pigs, horses and chickens. Here you get a fully safe-contained house with breathtaking views in every direction, and farm-fresh food. You can bush-camp on the farm at Hogback by the Creek. This nature refuge is run as a cattle farm, with a seasonal creek and

semi-permanent waterfall. Bring the gold pans and detectors as this site is at the base of Mt Rawdon gold mine! You can also bush camp amongst the trees and cattle at Harmony Farm. Harmony Farm also offers half-day trail riding experiences to suit all skill levels, from open paddock, to mountain, and lush rain forest. While you are in the North Burnett region, check out Gayndah’s Big Orange. It’s another one of Australia’s iconic “big” things to tick off your list when you stop for lunch! The RM Williams Australian Bush Learning Centre in Eidsvold will take you on a journey of discovery of bush culture, history and arts. You can also enjoy an illuminating outdoor light show when you stay for an authentic camp oven meal under the stars. If you travel there in April (every second even-numbered year), look out for the Eidsvold Cattle Drive. The Eidsvold Cattle Drive retraces a 70-kilometre portion of the traditional stock routes taken by drovers who would bring cattle from across Queensland for sale, culminating with a dinner under the stars with traditional entertainment at Eidsvold Show Grounds.

Ready to explore?

Before you pack the kids in the car, you’ll want to read the full version of these articles. There are more suggested stops for places to experience and taste farm life and maps detailing locations so that you can plan your journey. Scan the QR codes now to access the full version of these articles, or go to www.familiesmagazine.com.au/taste-farm-life-outback-qld

Your Local Families Magazine June / July 2022 www.familiesmagazine.com.au

Families Online

Have You Seen…? Families Magazine has literally thousands of informative and entertaining articles on our website, and we bet you’ve only just scratched the surface of them! Go on a journey of discovery today and find out what’s under the tab!

Wondering what to do in the winter school holidays? From days out to free stuff, find our bumper guide to Brisbane school holiday activities under the Holidays – School Holidays tab. www.familiesmagazine.com.au/schoolholiday-activities-brisbane

Your child’s first birthday is a marvellous milestone. They might not remember it, but you will! Find the best ways to mark baby’s first birthday under the Parties – DIY Party Planning tab. www.familiesmagazine.com.au/1stbirthday-party-venues

A winter getaway to the Bunya Mountains is a real treat, and there’s lots for kids to do there. Find out about Bunya Mountains for kids under the Holidays – Camping & Cabins tab. www.familiesmagazine.com.au/thingsto-do-at-the-bunya-mountains

The first manned moon landing happened in July 1969. Get your child interested in the space race with our fascinating moon landing facts for kids. Find them under the Schools & Education – Fun Facts for Kids tab. www.familiesmagazine.com.au/moonlanding-facts-for-kids If you are looking to save money these school holidays, these discount codes are for you! Find the best school holiday discounts codes and coupons under the Holidays – School Holidays tab. www.familiesmagazine.com.au/schoolholiday-discount-codes-and-coupons

Studies show that working mums are great role models for their kids. If you’re thinking of returning to the workforce discover how studying online can help you under the Health & Parenting – Families Finance tab. www.familiesmagazine.com.au/5-waysstudying-online-can-help-you-be-abetter-mum

Your Local Families Magazine June / July 2022 www.familiesmagazine.com.au

Party Time

11 Ways to Party in 2022 Looking for awesome party venues and hosts that are tough to beat? Something a little different, adrenaline inducing, mind-blowing, puzzling, energy burning, or just plain fun! Check out these ideas for a birthday party ALL the kids will remember forever.

Have you ever, in the throes of a birthday party, wished you could just lock all the kids up in a room for an hour and relax with a coffee? Fox in a Box offers just that! Brisbane’s premiere escape room experience has six themed rooms to lock the party kids in, and they can’t escape until they solve all the clues! They have plenty of room in the waiting area for parents to tuck into all the party food while the kids are gone. S U I T ABLE FOR OL D ER KID S AND TEENS

Mini golf at Victoria Park offers something for everyone. There’s a playground, bistro, giant board games, and – of course – mini golf. Victoria Park offers four different party menus, so when the kids have filled up on the fully catered food options, set them loose for a round of golf and leave them to burn off any excess energy on the playground while you relax in the bistro. Bonus – there’s even a jumping castle on site on weekends! S U IT A B L E F O R KI DS U N DER 12

Your Local Families Magazine June / July 2022 www.familiesmagazine.com.au

Party Time

Take the birthday party to new heights when the kids step into the flight tunnel at iFly Chermside. Kids will have the benefit of their own personal flight instructor who will take them through a series of exhilarating twisting-turning sky diving manoeuvres, safely contained in a tube above a net. You can book a party room here, too, or head elsewhere for a fast food debrief afterwards! S U I T ABLE F OR KID S FROM 3 TO TEENS

Let the kids get their hands dirty with an afternoon on the farm. At White Ridge Farm kids can feed the animals, take a hayride, go horse riding, dig for fossils, play on the adventure playground, play a round of putt putt, and maybe even milk a cow! White Ridge Farm is also home to, llamas, goats, pigs, rabbits, fowl, and a camel. There’s an undercover picnic area with fridge too. S U IT A BL E F O R KI DS U P T O T EEN S

If you like the idea of a birthday party that leaves kids happy and exhausted enough to sleep all the way home, head to the new Bounce McGregor. Yes it has trampolines, but it also has the X-Run ninja obstacle course, heaps of rock-climbing walls, and even a cliff jump! Their parties are fully catered so all you have to provide is the transport. PART Y O PTIONS FOR KID S AGED 2+

Your Local Families Magazine June / July 2022 www.familiesmagazine.com.au

Party Time

The kids will be head over heels at Flip Out Strathpine, where they can ‘run the walls’ and dive into the foam pit. This huge indoor trampoline park offers catered and self-catered parties to suit your budget, and they’ll even do all the cleaning after! B E S T S U IT ED F O R A G E 7+

Want slime, snow, wacky worms, or a rocket launch in your own back garden? Let Street Science bring the party to you! The Street Science party hosts deliver an exciting science demonstration and a hands-on experimental workshop for a party that’s a memorable blast! S U I T ABLE FOR KID S AGED 5+

For an xtremely memorable party, check out the options at Urban Xtreme. This venue has it all – rockclimbing walls, trampolines, ninja warrior course, laser tag, and even indoor snowboarding and skiing! They have sooo many party options to choose from, and the kids won’t want to leave! PARTY OPTIONS FOR ALL AGE S

For a really cool birthday party, take the kids ice skating at one of Brisbane’s Iceworld skating rinks. Never skated before? Don’t worry, the kids will get a 15-minute demonstration of the basics before being let loose on the ice. Your party includes decorated party area, food and drinks, and a dedicated party host. S U I T ABLE F OR KID S AGED 3+

Let your kids enter a realm of fantasy, wizardry, and imagination with a Harry Potter themed party at The Cauldrons Café & Emporium. A dedicated professor will take your child through 90-minutes of spell-binding fun, where every young witch or wizard gets to make two potions and sample a bottle of Flying Cauldrons Butterscotch Beer and a box of Bertie Botts All Flavoured Beans! S U IT A B L E F O R AG ES 6+

Laser Tag parties are a blast! Brisbane has lots of laser tag venues but if you’re looking for a party with a carnival vibe, check out Laserzone Lawnton – they even have a dodgem car ride! You can self-cater or choose one of their party packages, and there’s a café on site where parents can relax. BES T S U I T ED FOR AGES 7+

If you are looking for even more great party venues in Brisbane, head to the party section of our website www.familiesmagazine.com.au/brisbane/party-venues

Your Local Families Magazine June / July 2022 www.familiesmagazine.com.au

Party Time HOST THE

Perfect Party AT HOME

There are lots of advantages to using a party venue – no clean up, little prep work to do, someone else hosts, and they might provide the food for you – but if booking a party venue isn’t an option for your family, these tips will help you host the perfect party at home.

The perfect party at home is often perfectly… imperfect! The best parties free flow with a mix of fun ideas. Have a few tricks up your sleeve and a basic plan and let the rest fall naturally into place.

Home Entertainment If budget allows, bring the entertainment to you! You can hire a magician, puppeteer, face painter, fairy, pirate, superhero, or even a petting zoo or reptile show to come to your home and keep the kids busy. You can find more party entertainer ideas on our website here: www.familiesmagazine.com.au/brisbane/party-entertainers/all

Pick a Theme Themed parties are great for kids. They set the tone of dress-ups, party games, and gift ideas. Popular theme ideas include: Frozen – Frozen parties can be such fun. Keep the kids entertained making Elsa and Anna crowns and see our Frozen party tips for a tutorial on homemade indoor snowballs for a snowball fight! www.familiesmagazine.com.au/frozen-party-ideas Peppa Pig – Peppa Pig is a sweet choice for younger children. Peppa eats lots of healthy food and plays fun games like musical chairs. Find artificial flowers at a discount store to create an English country garden theme at home. www.familiesmagazine.com.au/peppa-pig-party-ideas Minecraft – keep the kids busy crafting their own Minecraft sword, or mining for treasure in homemade cloud dough. Our Minecraft themed party ideas include tempting party food, games, and décor ideas. www.familiesmagazine.com.au/minecraft-birthday-party-ideas Other themes suggestions include: • Pirates

• Minions

• Fairies

• Harry Potter

• Dinosaurs

• Carnival

Plan Simple Games If the kids are bursting with sugar-high energy, focus their attention on a simple game. Go old-school with a DIY “pin the tail on the donkey”, or musical statues and chairs, or let things get a little crazy with some fun balloon games. Fun with balloons - we tried-and-tested 15 incredibly fun balloon

party games to suit kids of all ages. Have you heard of “Round ‘Em Up” or “Roaches”? Find these and other giggle-inducing balloon games here: www.familiesmagazine.com.au/best-balloon-games-for-kids Traditional party games – some of these classic games require little preparation and can be announced and organised in seconds. Others require planning in advance. We’ve rounded up more than twenty party games for kids of all ages here: www.familiesmagazine.com.au/childrens-party-games

Staying up late Sleepovers – or stay-awake-overs – are great fun for older kids. Host a movie night under the stars with a projector, white bed sheet, beanbags, and popcorn, followed by a camp out in the back garden, or a games tournament or pamper night indoors. Fairy lights around the garden or ceiling will create the perfect sleepover party atmosphere. Find more slumber party ideas here: www.familiesmagazine.com.au/best-slumber-party-ideas

Stress Less The party host is often so busy organising the fun, topping up the food, rounding up kids, and repeating directions to the bathroom that they often don’t get to enjoy any of the party at all. Share the burden and take a little time out. Ask for volunteers – if parents are staying, or if you can snag a couple of trustworthy adults, don’t be afraid to ask for help. You’ll find plenty of people are eager to manage a bit of crowd control. Delegate a quiet spot – for you and for any kids that are overwhelmed by the noise and bustle. Before you disappear to catch your breath and gather your thoughts, ask one of your volunteers to take charge for a moment and redirect any kids that might come looking for you! Go with the flow – things might not go as planned, but look around at the happy faces! If everyone is having too much fun to come and play a game or eat the sausage rolls while they are still warm, don’t worry – it means the party is already a huge success! More ideas at www.familiesmagazine.com.au/brisbane/be-yourown-party-planner

Your Local Families Magazine June / July 2022 www.familiesmagazine.com.au

Parenting

Over 100 Ways for Families to Save Money Making ends meet is getting tougher. Many people have not had their wages rise to meet the increasing cost of living, and we know families are looking for every way possible to save money. These money saving tips will help you save on the cost of groceries, fuel and general expenses.

GROCERY SAVINGS Supermarkets are certainly convenient for getting everything at one location, but you can usually bag a better deal at local specialist stores. Local greengrocers often have fruit and vegetables cheaper than the supermarkets. They also frequently have bulk offers with whole trays of a particular variety at a bargain price. The bulk bargains might be close maximum ripeness, but they can be portioned and frozen.

We all know that it’s cheaper per item to buy in bulk amounts, but that doesn’t really help if you can’t afford the initial bulk outlay or don’t have the storage space for a carton of 60 toilet rolls. Form a family and friends co-op to split the costs and share the savings! That 60-pack of toilet rolls is a lot more manageable when you are only paying a tenth of the price and taking 6 rolls. A family and friends co-op opens up the opportunity for huge savings if someone has a Costco membership card, or an ABN that makes them eligible for bulk purchase discounts at wholesalers. Even without the wholesale discount advantage, having someone to share supermarket “buy two for the price of…” or “buy one get one free” offers with can help.

Butchers, bakers and greengrocers are often within walking distance of a supermarket. Check out the current prices on the supermarket’s website before beginning your shopping trip at the small specialist store. Anything that you can’t get cheaper at the specialist, you can then pick up from the supermarket with your other supplies.

If you’ve got a large family or a good group of friends and neighbours, get together and share the saving on a bulk meat purchase that will last months. Banding together to buy “half a beast” can see everyone fill their freezers with a variety of cuts at a massively discounted price.

One of the greatest benefits of shopping at your local produce specialist is that you are helping a small family business survive the current crisis too. It’s a win-win, and they will appreciate your support far more than the big conglomerates will.

Buying half a cow or half a lamb isn’t as scary and labourintensive as it sounds. It comes to you ready butchered in joints,

Your local butcher will also often be cheaper than the supermarket. You can get top quality cuts of meat and smallgoods at a much lower price per kilo.

FORM A FAMILY CO-OP

Your Local Families Magazine June / July 2022 www.familiesmagazine.com.au

Parenting

Making ends meet is getting tougher. Many people have not had their wages rise to meet the increasing cost of living... steaks, fillets and mince to your requirements. You pay a price per kilo for the full weight of the half-beast, which averages out over the varieties of cuts to be significantly cheaper than buying in portions. Price varies depending on the animal and the wholesaler, but can be as low as $8 per kilo. Ask at your local butcher or Google “half a beast bulk meat Brisbane” to find a deal that suits you.

FOODBANKS There are a number of Foodbank locations in Brisbane offering free food parcels or heavily discounted groceries. You don’t necessarily have to have a concession card or be in receipt of government benefits to benefit (we can all find it tough to make ends meet at times), but eligibility criteria varies with each organisation. You might not get to choose the brands or variety of products, but you will be assured of several good quality meals to support your family. www.familiesmagazine.com.au/foodbank-brisbane

FUEL SAVINGS Savings on fuel are a lot easier when you apply the power of phone apps! Download the free 7-11 app and lock in the lowest price in your neighbourhood for 7 days! Wherever you are, the app will scan for the cheapest fuel at your nearest seven 7-11 servos, which you can then lock in to use at ANY 7-11 service station within seven days. This is great if you know prices are about to go up, but payday is several days away. If you have driven to a location where prices are generally cheaper than closer to home, open up your app and lock in the low price ready for when you need to refuel. Petrol Spy and Fuel Map Australia are great apps for keeping an eye on local fuel prices. Both offer a map with service station locations pinned and prices per fuel type displayed. In some cases, the prices are crowd-sourced so accuracy is not guaranteed, but

it’s a great way to take note if prices are starting to go up, or come down, and where you are likely to make the biggest savings. Find the apps on Google Play or Apple App Store. Don’t forget to take advantage of supermarket fuel discounts when you spend $30 in Woolworths or Coles - you can save 4c per litre at co-branded Woolworths and Coles service stations. At Woolworths service stations you can save an additional 4c off per litre when spending $5 in store. This is a great way to effectively get free milk (I always pick up 4 litres of milk when buying fuel, and the combined 8c discount is often more than the cost of one carton!). Similarly, Coles Express offers additional money off per litre when you meet varied minimum spend criteria in store.

GET A BRISBANE SCHOLARSHIP There are lots of different scholarships available at certain Brisbane secondary schools, and they’re not just for academics. If you would like to explore specialist secondary education for your child, take a look at our tips for scoring a scholarship. Places may be available to children who meet academic, sporting, cultural, indigenous, or financial hardship criteria. www.familiesmagazine.com.au/types-of-scholarships-brisbaneschools

FAMILY SUPPORT SERVICES AND REBATES Did you know that there are over 40 Family Support Services and rebates on offer from various government departments. These government benefits could help you save money on kids sports, electricity, dental care, school transport, and education. Find them all at www. familiesmagazine.com.au/familysupport-services This list is just a snapshot of over 100 money saving tips we have on our website. To discover how to save on public transport, clothes and toys, and activities and entertainment, scan the QR code or head to www.familiesmagazine. com.au/save-money-on-cost-of-livingbrisbane to read the full article on our website.

Your Local Families Magazine June / July 2022 www.familiesmagazine.com.au

Parenting

Setting G als Whether it’s a cleaner room, less screen time, or making the sports team, kids grow from setting and meeting age-appropriate goals.

Helping your child set goals - and making a strategic plan to achieve them - teaches your child an important life skill. Having a goal establishes purpose, triggers new behaviours, helps with decision making, and teaches the value of perseverance. Follow these steps to success!

Choose your goal There are lots of different goals your child could set. Maybe the goal is grade based, like moving from a C to a B in a particular subject, or habit-based, like keeping a tidy room or reading a set number of books within a particular time period. Your child might not even be aware that they have a goal, so be alert to possibilities. You might hear them say “I wish I could juggle” – there’s their goal! Whatever your child wants to achieve, make sure their goal is SMART. This means having a clear target that is easy to quantify. For example, instead of saying “I want to get better grades”, say “I want to improve my grades by at least one letter in this subject”. Improving by one letter is far more attainable and realistic than aiming to go from a D to an A, and you can track the time by saying “by the end of next semester”.

Make a plan Identify what your child wants to achieve. If their goal is BIG, break it down into smaller stepping stones so that it doesn’t become overwhelming. Each step completed towards their goal will boost your child’s confidence and spur them on. If your child has set a goal that you know might be challenging and take time, point out the challenges first so that your child has a realistic expectation of what will be required of them. Discuss possible obstacles so that your child recognises them and work out a plan to overcome them if they arise. Set a start date and a proposed end date to help them keep focussed. Small goals like saving for a new toy or game could be achieved in a few weeks. Bigger goals, like being picked for the representative sports team, could take a year or two to reach. Write the goal and its steps down. You can make each stage deadline specific (but allow the deadlines to be flexible) and tick each achievement off as they go. Younger children might benefit form a visual “goal ladder” stuck on the fridge. Older children might prefer to make a mind map or vision board.

Now consider the three Ws: who, what, when. Who can they ask for help with their goal, what can they do themselves, and when will they allocate time? The “who” could be a teacher, family member, coach, or even YouTube vlogger who has skills they could share. “What” is the practice and work your child will put in, and “when” is the time of day or week that your child has set aside to work on their goal.

Remember, a goal without a plan is just a wish!

Your Local Families Magazine June / July 2022 www.familiesmagazine.com.au

Parenting

Is their goal age-appropriate?

Staying focussed

A seven-year-old with a goal of running a full marathon is admirable, but full marathons have a minimum entry age of 18 in Australia. That’s a long time for a child to work toward that goal. In this scenario, start with something more appropriate, like a 6km fun run.

All goals start with good intentions, but children often underestimate how hard it can be to meet a goal. Goals are meant to be achievable, but not necessarily easy –

You want your child to be encouraged and little victories are the best encouragement, so guide your child as to an appropriate goal for their age. Here are some short-term goal suggestions if your child is stuck for inspiration: •

Read one book not assigned by a teacher

•

Read one chapter from a chapter book each night

•

Walk the dog for 20 minutes each day

•

Learn one new scale on an instrument

•

Ask at least one question to a teacher, every single day

•

Learn about a career path they’re interested in

•

Learn a magic trick from start to finish

•

Start work on a school project at least 10 days ahead of time

•

Learn one new coding, crafting, or cooking skill

•

Write a business plan for an idea,

•

Go a week without spending any pocket money

•

Save up to buy something they want

•

Learn how to cook a meal on their own

•

Learn three phrases in a different language

•

Write a short story and enter it into a competition

•

Create a recipe and write it down

•

Write two times/week in a diary or journal

•

Track their spending for a month

•

Ride a bike without training wheels

there’s no reward in instant gratification! If your child is getting despondent or losing focus, remind them why they set the goal in the first place. Show them how far they have already come, and revisit that initial conversation to reignite their spark of enthusiasm. It can be tempting to step in and take over. If you see your child struggling with something, don’t offer to do it for them or present a shortcut. Doing your child’s maths homework to help them raise their grade will not help in the long run. Instead, maybe there is some extra help or inspiration you can offer to help them get back on track. It’s important to keep conversations positive. You don’t want your child to put off goal setting forever. A pre-emptive

“I’m really pleased with how much effort you are putting into achieving your goal” can be all the prompt your child needs if they have temporarily forgotten to work on it!

Goal mindset Your child may be having lots of conversations with themselves as they work towards their goal. A positive goal mindset is essential.

Let them ‘own’ their goal Your child’s goal might be something you want for them too, but this is about their desire to achieve. Don’t push or steer your child towards a goal that’s more about what you want than what they want. We all want our children to be grade A model students, but if your child’s goal is to traverse the monkey bars in the playground from start to finish without dropping to the ground, respect that. When people feel an emotional connection to their goal, they are far more empowered to achieve.

If you hear your child saying, “this is too hard”, encourage them to change that thought to “I might find this difficult now, but I know it’s going to get a lot easier soon”. A positive goal mindset takes practice, but once your child has a few “wins” under their belt, goal setting is a great skill that can take them far in life. And just like a snowball rolling down a hill, they get bigger! There is no limit to what your child can achieve when they aim for their goals.

Your Local Families Magazine June / July 2022 www.familiesmagazine.com.au

#FamiliesMagFun

FAMILIES FUN

Listings for everyone in every family! To promote your local family friendly event including school fetes and fairs, community groups, get-togethers and local festivals in the next ‘Families Fun’ listings (Aug/Sept 2022) send your entry by 5pm on Friday 8 July 2022. Email Natalie – Listings@FamiliesMagazine.com.au Listings in this section are FREE for most non-commercial ventures. Please check the details of the events listed before setting off in case anything has changed since going to print.

WHAT’S ON IN THE CITY? - JUNE/JULY 2022 BRISBANE -

Due to the ongoing challenges with managing COVID-19 and community events we strongly encourage you to check in with each venue for the most up to date information.

ROMA STREET PARKLANDS The Sound Society Relax and listen to smooth, live jazz tunes for FREE at The Sound Society, once a month at Roma Street Parkland, Brisbane’s biggest subtropical backyard. To satisfy your lunchtime cravings, The Garden Room Café will be creating picnic hampers, specially curated for the event. You can also pack your own picnic and bring your pup to this dogfriendly event. 5 Jun. The Sound Society | Roma Street Parklands

World of Wonder: Margot McKinney With a lifetime dedicated to luxury, Australian jewellery designer Margot McKinney is one of the world’s boldest talents. From the coral reef in our own backyard to the rich palette of colours found on safari in Tanzania, this exhibition offers a mesmerising celebration of the complex and profoundly beautiful environments and materials that have inspired her designs. Here you’ll find opulent opals, lustrous pearls and rare, exotic gems like the intensely blue tanzanite, lilac amethyst and pink tourmalines. Journey to a treasure trove of memories and mastery and let Margot’s designs and inspiration transport you to a world of wonder. 18 Jun - 6 Nov In Transit Celebrating the limitless potential to transform and adapt, this exciting body of work by Filipino-Australian artist Rhanjell Villanueva creates a captivating entrance to the Museum, combining queer-coded digital imagery and video in an immersive installation. Until 7 Aug.

www.familiesmagazine.com.au/venue/ roma-street-parkland

MUSEUM OF BRISBANE Making Place: 100 Views of Brisbane We are at a crucial point in Brisbane’s urban development, with extreme changes to the city predicted over the next decade. Making Place presents more than 100 historical and contemporary depictions of the Brisbane region. Become immersed in a newly commissioned sound artwork by Lawrence English, Site Listening: Brisbane, that captures the city’s many soundscapes and surround yourself in the textures and nuance of Jenna Lee’s installation, Growing Place, illustrating her insightful reflection on ‘place’.

Climb the Clock Tower An absolute ‘mustdo’ for anyone in Brisbane, get whizzed to the top of City Hall’s famous Clock Tower through an original hand operated lift from the 1930s. Get a bird’s eye view of the city and find out about the amazing history of this Brisbane icon. Then, take a peek behind the scenes of City Hall with a FREE tour of one of Brisbane’s most beautiful buildings. Bookings required.

laughs and scary fun for children aged 3+ and their grown-ups. Bookings required. 25 – 27 Jun. www.familiesmagazine.com.au/venue/ qut-gardens-theatre

QUEENSLAND GALLERY OF MODERN ART APT10 Extended This exhibition at QAG and GOMA includes a selection of installations, paintings, sculptures, photographs, and video from ‘The 10th Asia Pacific Triennial of Contemporary Art’. It presents a snapshot of the most exciting contemporary work being produced in the region. Until 10 Jul. APT10 Kids Extended APT10 Kids features projects by artists from across the Asia Pacific region that celebrate inclusion and diversity, and the importance of collaboration and community. Families can engage with these themes through hands-on making and multimedia activities, artwork displays and large-scale installations. Until 10 Jul. Chiaru Shiota – The Soul Trembles Explore twenty-five years of Chiharu Shiota’s artistic practice. She’s renowned internationally for her transformative, large-scale installations constructed from millions of fine threads that cluster in space or form complex webs that spill from wall to floor to ceiling. Shiota’s beautiful and disquieting works express the intangible: memories, dreams, anxiety and silence. Timed tickets available now. 18 Jun – 3 Oct.

www.familiesmagazine.com.au/venue/ museum-of-brisbane

QUT GARDENS THEATRE The Gruffalo After sell-out seasons across the world, including London’s West End and Broadway, The Gruffalo returns to Australia! Join Mouse on a daring adventure through the deep, dark wood in this magical, musical adaptation of the classic picture book by Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler. Songs,

Your Local Families Magazine June / July 2022 www.familiesmagazine.com.au

Chiaru Shiota – The Soul Trembles | QAGOMA

www.familiesmagazine.com.au/venue/ queensland-gallery-of-modern-art

#FamiliesMagFun STATE LIBRARY OF QUEENSLAND The Great & Grand Rumpus Imagine a world where one-eyed creatures can shoot laser beams and cows are taller than giraffes - in the land of imagined things at The Great & Grand Rumpus, anything is possible. Step into a wild world of wonder, wackiness, and whimsy at this FREE exhibition. Explore large cardboard sculptures scaling more than 4.5 meters high and watch as they are brought to life by digital projections. Until 23 Jun.

fiercely original, new stage adaptation from the nationally renowned shake & stir theatre co. This stunning new production, featuring original music, written and performed live on stage by multi ARIA Award winner Sarah McLeod, will set a fire blazing in your soul. Bookings required. 8 Jun – 2 Jul.

www.familiesmagazine.com.au/venue/ state-library-of-queensland-2

QUEENSLAND MUSEUM Disney: The Magic of Animation Uncover the magic behind almost 100 years of the Walt Disney Animation Studios. Explore more than 500 original sketches and artworks from your favourite Disney animated classics and go behind the scenes in this rare opportunity to experience the wonderful creativity and innovation from the world’s most prolific animation studio. Don’t miss the chance to see the artistry behind your favourite characters and stories and how the magic of animation brought them to life. Bookings required. 24 Jun 2022 – 22 Jan 2023. Disney: The Magic of Animation | Queensland Museum

Jane Eyre | QPAC

Fantasy & Folklore In this relaxed Sunday morning concert, conductor Umberto Clerici will wave his wand … sorry, baton … and whisk you away on an exotic musical journey with the help of the Queensland Symphony Orchestra. Remember that dramatic finale to Disney’s Fantasia when a mountain came to life? That was Mussorgsky’s spooky masterpiece Night on Bald Mountain and it’s just one of the many wild and enchanting works on this program of magic and mystery. Bookings required. 24 Jul. www.familiesmagazine.com.au/venue/ qpac

BRISBANE CONVENTION CENTRE

www.familiesmagazine.com.au/venue/ queensland-museum

SPARKLAB SCIENCENTRE SparkLab Ignite your imagination in an interactive Sciencentre experience where you’ll be free to follow your curiosity and bring out your inner scientist as you question, investigate and wonder about the world around you. Explore 40 interactive exhibits across three zones and discover how science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) affect your everyday world. Bookings required. www.familiesmagazine.com.au/event/ sparklab-sciencentre-south-brisbane

QPAC 9 To 5 The Musical Set the alarm for a great night out at Dolly Parton’s joyous smash hit musical, featuring knock-out songs and high-flying ambitions. See the all-star Australian cast including Marina Prior, Casey Donovan, Erin Clare, Eddie Perfect and Caroline O’Connor in this quintessential feel-good show for the times. Bookings essential. Until 29 Jun. Jane Eyre Brontë’s gothic tale of a spirited orphan in search of love, family and a sense of belonging, blazes into QPAC this June. Witness one of the most iconic pieces of English literature retold in a faithful yet

employment event is coming to Brisbane including over 100 organisations and employers with career opportunities for all ages. If you are looking for a job, career change, courses or you are a school student looking for a career path, you can’t afford to miss this FREE event. 20 - 21 May. Source Kids Disability Expo Meet over 150 disability product and service providers under one roof for two days: you’ll find information and be able to speak to providers supporting families of children with a range of disabilities. For the kids, there’s a line-up of performers, a sensory zone plus fun, sport and chill zones to make it a full and fun day out. Bookings required. 30 – 31 Jul. www.familiesmagazine.com.au/venue/ brisbane-convention-exhibition-centre

SOUTH BANK Luminous Lantern Parade Now in its 15th year, the annual LUMINOUS Lantern Parade celebrates Queensland’s culture, heritage, people, places and industry. LUMINOUS 2022 will feature its traditional array of beautiful lanterns including a koala, owl, giraffe, clownfish, kangaroo, elephant, lion and rainbow serpent, along with characters such as Alice in Wonderland, and iconic Brisbane landmarks including the Story Bridge and City Hall. There will also be some new creative surprises in 2022. The Parade ends at the South Bank Piazza for a vibrant World Music Concert. 10 Jun. Luminous Lantern Parade | South Bank

Pregnancy, Babies & Children’s Expo Chat face-to-face with a wide range of exhibitors to gain up-to-date, expert advice on the early years of parenting. You can also see, touch, try and buy the products and services that best suit your needs. Discover all you need to know for you, your pregnancy or young child! 18 – 19 Jun. Dirty Dancing in Concert Experience the digitally remastered hit film like never before on a full-size cinema screen, with a live band and singers performing the film’s iconic songs. With a soundtrack that marked a generation Dirty Dancing in Concert promises to bring a thrilling new and unique experience to the 80’s classic. 25 Jun. Health, Wellness & Fitness Expo This event will feature the most talented businesses and professionals within the health, fitness, wellness and nutrition industries. Exhibitors range from industry experts including nutritionists, fitness supplements, chefs, gyms, fitness programs, personal trainers, fitness influencers, health supplements, specialists and more. 10 Jul. Creative Generation – State Schools Onstage Experience a stunning production featuring the best young talent in Queensland state schools. Since its inception in 2005, the large-scale event has grown from a cast of 550 students to now more than 1,500 and is nationally renowned for its outstanding and vibrant display of state school talent. Bookings essential. 14 – 16 Jul. Brisbane Careers & Employment Expo Queensland’s largest careers and

Curiocity Ignite your curiosity this winter as Brisbane transforms into an urban oasis of science and art. Award winning artists, scientists, engineers, designers, students and storytellers have created 20 physical and digital installations, that will challenge and delight. From giant bird nests, Antarctic icebergs, shapeshifting wildlife, the courtship rituals of an Australian spider, a robot’s stream of consciousness plus many more, the artworks will be spread across South Bank and South Brisbane’s Cultural Precinct along a free, 5km walking trail. 24 Jun – 10 Jul. Curiocity | South Bank

www.familiesmagazine.com.au/venue/ south-bank

Your Local Families Magazine June / July 2022 www.familiesmagazine.com.au

#FamiliesMagFun JUNE 2022 Throughout Jun Caboolture Festival | Caboolture Caboolture and surrounds will be a hive of activity for the entire month of June, with a jam-packed program set to bring live music, entertainment and family friendly events to the area! The festival will have an event for everyone featuring art exhibitions, activities, an extravagant high tea, a country rodeo and much more! Caboolture Town Square. www.familiesmagazine.com.au/event/caboolture-festival Throughout Jun & Jul Minibeasts | Pine Rivers Learn about the hidden world of creepy crawlies at this hands-on exhibition. Enjoy a myriad of fun activities including examining and classifying specimens using magnifying glasses, creating patterns using natural materials, posing in front of a butterfly wing mural, and observing a live insect display. Pine Rivers Heritage Museum. www.familiesmagazine.com.au/event/minibeasts-pine-rivers Minibeasts | Pine Rivers Heritage Museum

Throughout Jun & Jul Hello! | Redcliffe Do you know that social connections can make us live longer? Celebrate the spirit of connection in the Imaginarium at Redcliffe Museum. Share an old school string telephone, map your global networks, reach out to neighbourhood pen pals and learn new ways to greet each other. Push up your happiness meter by stopping in to say Hello! Redcliffe Museum. www.familiesmagazine.com.au/event/hello-redcliffe Until Sun 12 Jun Perception Deception | Ipswich Does your brain play tricks on you? Perception Deception consists of hands-on and multimedia experiences, each using perceptual tests and illusions to reveal how our brains edit, prioritise and even add information about the things and people around us. Ipswich Art Gallery. www.familiesmagazine.com.au/event/perception-deceptionipswich Until Sat 9 Jul Judith Prior’s What’s New Pussycat | Brisbane It’s about the cat in red boots, but not as you know it. This musical juke-box comedy follows the adventures of Puss as she fulfills her promise to make Harry a billionaire, and in return, all she asks for is pair of boots and feathered hat. The show includes songs such as ‘Material Girl,’ ‘We’re Not Gonna Take it,’ and of course ‘What’s New Pussycat.’ It’s riotous fun for the whole family. Brisbane Arts Theatre. www.familiesmagazine.com.au/event/judith-priors-whats-newpussycat-brisbane Until Fri 15 Jul The Dark Room | Redcliffe Experience The Dark Room - a space to play with light, shadows and storytelling! Discover the development of the camera and the ways artists use photography to tell a story. Visit The Dark Room to create your own inspired patterns, shapes and stories. Redcliffe Art Gallery. www.familiesmagazine.com.au/event/the-dark-room-redcliffe Sat 4 Jun CREEC Enviro Explorers | Burpengary Do you love nature? Make sure you pack your magnifying glass because it’s time to go on an adventure. The Caboolture Region Environment Education Centre (CREEC) will come alive with an abundance of fun educational activities and workshops. Combine this with CREEC’s

all abilities playground which boasts a flying fox, adaptive swings and a wheelchair ramp leading to a ‘pirate ship’ and there’s plenty to see, touch, smell and do. Caboolture Region Environmental Education Centre. www.familiesmagazine.com.au/event/creec-enviro-explorers Sat 4 Jun Seafire | Surfers Paradise South America and Africa, two of the world’s best pyrotechnics champions, will compete on the shores of Surfers Paradise Beach for the coveted title in the City’s very own international fireworks competition. Three breath-taking firework and music displays will light up the sky at 7pm and 8pm, with the grand finale at 8.45pm. Surfers Paradise Beach. www.familiesmagazine.com.au/event/seafire-surfers-paradise Sun 5 Jun LEAF 2022 – Logan Eco Action Festival | Meadowbrook Learn to make sustainable choices one LEAF at a time. The main stage and workshops will feature interactive presentations from some of our country’s leaders in sustainability, gardening, and waste reduction! Plus, ecoexhibitors, a plant sale, sustainable cooking demonstrations, hands-on workshops, eco-markets, and fun kids’ activities. You’ll be sure to take away many big and small tips to live a more sustainable lifestyle! Griffith University Logan Campus. www.familiesmagazine.com.au/event/logan-eco-action-festivalleaf

Wed 15 – Sun 26 Jun Brisbane Night Noodle Markets | Brisbane The Night Noodle Markets are returning to Brisbane this June at an exciting new location, the City Botanic Gardens! Each evening, the beautiful riverside park will be transformed into a vibrant, open-air Asian food festival, with live entertainment and droolworthy food from crowd-favourites like Gelato Messina, Hoy Pinoy and Flying Noodles to name a few. Bookings essential. Brisbane City Botanic Gardens. www.familiesmagazine.com.au/event/night-noodle-markets Thu 16 – Sat 18 Jun Ocean Film Festival World Tour 2022 | New Farm This exhibition, showcases a three-hour celebration of our oceans comprised of mesmerising footage taken above and below the water’s surface. The unique collection of short films from around the globe document the beauty and power of the ocean, and celebrate the divers, surfers, swimmers and oceanographers who live for the sea’s salt spray; who chase the crests of waves; and who marvel at the mysteries of the big blue. Brisbane Powerhouse. www.familiesmagazine.com.au/event/ocean-film-festival-worldtour Fri 17 Jun Edward the Emu | Cleveland More than an adaptation, this is a unique imagining of two beloved picture books, Edward the Emu and Edwina the Emu, combining the plights of both emus in one heartfelt, clever and funny new tale. With exceptional, world-class puppet creation, an original score, and inventive storytelling, the emus’ journey of hijinks and tenderness leads them to discover that the best thing you can be is …. you! Bookings required. Redland Performing Arts Centre. www.familiesmagazine.com.au/event/edward-the-emucleveland

Your Local Families Magazine June / July 2022 www.familiesmagazine.com.au

#FamiliesMagFun Sat 18 Jun Winter Solstice Festival | Windsor Northey Street City Farm have been celebrating the Winter Solstice for over 25 years with an annual festival of live music, dancing, talks and workshops for all ages, incredible food, a lantern parade and of course their beautiful bonfire. The Solstice Ceremony, Lantern Parade and Bonfire will kick off after sunset, so the kids can join in the fun. Afterwards you can enjoy a tea ceremony. Northey Street City Farm. www.familiesmagazine.com.au/event/winter-solstice-festival

Fri 24 Jun Eats & Beats | Loganholme Head to the LSKD Warehouse in Loganholme for a night of fun, live music and great food. The night will feature a great range of food trucks and an eclectic line-up of artists performing live on stage. It’s a great event for the family or a perfect date night! LSKD Warehouse. www.familiesmagazine.com.au/event/eats-beats-loganholme Fri 24 – Sun 26 Jun The Redcliffe Show | Redcliffe It’s that time again, the Redcliffe event of the year! The Redcliffe Show Society has been working tirelessly year-round to produce a bigger and better show with something for the whole family including rides, free exhibits, local talent, sideshow alley, plenty of food options, show bags and all your usual show favourites! Redcliffe Showgrounds. www.familiesmagazine.com.au/event/the-redcliffe-show Fri 24 – Sun 26 Jun The Big Bounce Australia | Mansfield The biggest, craziest and most awesome inflatable theme park is returning to Brisbane! You’re invited to spend some quality time with family and friends in this magical, candy-coloured wonderland of inflatable adventure. The Big Bounce Australia is the largest touring inflatable event in the entire world and features in the Guinness Certified World’s Biggest Jumping Castle. Bookings essential. Eagle Sports Complex. www.familiesmagazine.com.au/event/the-big-bounce-australiamansfield Sat 18 – Sun 19 Jun Monster Truck Mania | Boondall Back bigger and better, those big-wheel, big-horsepower ground pounders, Monster Truck Mania, are coming back to Brisbane. Experience full-on family entertainment when the stomping, car-crushing wheelstanders are joined by a support show you won’t believe. There’s incredible junior trucks; world-class backflippin’ Freestyle Motocrossers; a thundering jet car; even an eye-popping laser show. Bookings essential. Brisbane Entertainment Centre. www.familiesmagazine.com.au/event/monster-truck-maniaboondall Sun 19 Jun Mayfair at Bardon State School | Bardon Mayfair is the annual school fete at Bardon State School! Join the school for music, rides, food and plenty of fun at this FREE family friendly event in Brisbane’s inner west. Bardon State School. www.familiesmagazine.com.au/event/mayfair-bardon

Sat 25 Jun Day out with Thomas | Ipswich All aboard for a great day out with entry to the museum and all exhibits included in your ticket! Meet Thomas the Tank Engine and Sir Topham Hatt, dive into the Thomas play pit, including wooden track building and take a break while watching a Thomas movie. Bookings required. The Workshops Rail Museum. www.familiesmagazine.com.au/event/day-out-with-thomas Sat 25 – Sun 26 Jun Disney on Ice | Boondall It’s the news we’ve been wishing on a star for! After three years, this muchloved family favourite ice spectacular returns with Disney on Ice presents Into The Magic. Hosts Mickey Mouse and Minnie Mouse take audiences on an expedition across raging seas, snow covered mountains and the marigold bridge. This actionpacked extravaganza, features Disney’s Moana, Frozen, Coco, and Beauty and the Beast alongside other beloved Disney characters. Bookings essential. Brisbane Entertainment Centre. www.familiesmagazine.com.au/event/disney-on-ice

Sun 19 Jun RACQ Motorfest | Brisbane A unique celebration of all things motoring, this annual event is a showcase of past, present, and future and offers something for everyone including free kids’ rides and family entertainment, a variety of food stalls, an array of unique, prestige and collector vehicles, as well as a dedicated zone featuring future vehicle technology and sustainable living solutions. Brisbane Showgrounds. www.familiesmagazine.com.au/event/racq-motorfest Thu 23 – Sun 26 Jun Cirque Bon Bon | New Farm Bon Bon is returning with two all-ages matinee performances for the whole family to enjoy these school holidays, as well as evening shows just for the adults! Cirque Bon Bon fuses mind-bending contortion, aerial artistry, sensational dancers, and death-defying feats of acrobatics all in one performance of unexpected wonder. Bookings essential. Brisbane Powerhouse. www.familiesmagazine.com.au/event/cirque-bon-bon Your Local Families Magazine June / July 2022 www.familiesmagazine.com.au

#FamiliesMagFun Sat 25 Jun – Sun 3 Jul Scenic Rim Eat Local Week | Scenic Rim Tickets are now open for everyone’s favourite regional food festival with more than 125 events on offer to sink your teeth into. From the looooong table lunches, degustation dinners, the family-fun Winter Harvest Festival and so much more, this is going to be a Scenic Rim Eat Local Week to remember! Be sure to check out the full program of events and book your tickets. www.familiesmagazine.com.au/event/scenic-rim-eat-local-week Sat 25 Jun – Sun 10 Jul Snow4Kids | Springfield Dreaming of a white winter? The Snow Village is blasting into Orion Shopping Centre, Springfield Lakes. If an interstate snow trip is not possible this year Snow4Kids is definitely the next best thing! Your kids can enjoy snowball and snowman making, the experience of playing in ‘real’ snow and general snow silliness! Bookings required. Orion Shopping Centre. www.familiesmagazine.com.au/event/snow4kids-springfield Mon 27 Jun – Fri 1 Jul Kids Dig It! Medieval Family Fun | Caboolture Join the Abbey Museum for a week of hands on, educational Medieval fun for the whole family. Kids can practise archery, battle like a knight, design their own heraldry, uncover Medieval artefacts, meet a knight and handle replica medieval armour plus visit a miniature medieval village. Bookings required. Abbey Museum of Art and Archaeology. www.familiesmagazine.com.au/event/kids-dig-it

JULY 2022 Sat 2 Jul Bonfire Night | Sandstone Point Selling out time and time again, Bonfire Night is back at Sandstone Point Hotel to warm up your winter night. There is no better way to spend a winter’s evening than to be rugged up under the stars with delicious food trucks right at your fingertips, fire twirlers, fire combat performers, kid’s rides and live entertainment that will blow you away! Bookings essential. Sandstone Point Hotel. www.familiesmagazine.com.au/event/bonfire-night-sandstonepoint Bonfire Night | Sandstone Point Hotel

The Brisbane Airshow | Watts Bridge Memorial Airfield

Sat 2 – Sun 24 Jul World Press Photo Exhibition | New Farm For the first time in the World Press Photo’s 67-year history, the World Press Photo of the Year is a photograph without any people in it. Providing a variety of perspectives from all corners of the globe, the World Press Photo Exhibition 2022 invites families to step outside the news cycle and think critically about important topics in our world. Brisbane Powerhouse. www.familiesmagazine.com.au/event/world-press-photoexhibition Sun 3 Jul NAIDOC Wild Foods & Cultural Festival | Beenleigh This free community event will feature a talented line-up of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander artists, amazing Wild Foods menu, live cultural and cooking demonstrations, market stalls, kids’ activities including arts and crafts, games and face and boomerang painting and more. Bookings essential. Spirits of the Red Sand. www.familiesmagazine.com.au/event/naidoc-wild-foodscultural-festival Tue 5 Jul Wilbur the Optical Whale | Ipswich Set in an exquisitely crafted underwater world full of stunning circus tricks, digital and visual imagery, music, and interactive play, Wilbur the Optical Whale is an immersive, interactive accessible performance for children aged 3-8 years. Bookings required. Ipswich Civic Centre. www.familiesmagazine.com.au/event/wilbur-the-optical-whaleipswich Tue 5 Jul The Creation Stories | New Farm The Aboriginal Centre for the Performing Arts wonderfully talented First Nations students bring to life ancient stories told through acting, song, dance and music. The show is an enlightening and educational story informing young and old of the dreaming that came before time. Children and their families are transported and encouraged to take part in this wonderful experience which is both educational and engaging! Bookings required. Brisbane Powerhouse. www.familiesmagazine.com.au/event/the-creation-stories Fri 8 – Fri 15 Jul Oliver | Redcliffe Bringing Charles Dickens’ beloved novel to life, Lionel Bart’s Oliver! takes audiences on a wild adventure through Victorian England. With spirited, timeless songs like “As Long as He Needs Me,” “Food, Glorious Food,” and “Where Is Love,” Oliver! is a musical classic not to be missed. Redcliffe Entertainment Centre. www.familiesmagazine.com.au/event/oliver-redcliffe

Sat 2 – Sun 3 Jul The Brisbane Airshow | Cressbrook The Brisbane Airshow is set in the stunning Somerset Lakes Region. This breathtaking backdrop makes for a world class event like nothing else seen in Australia. The show includes Airforce, Warbirds, World War II Fighters, jets, helicopters, aerobatics, skydiving, Military Vehicles, Hot Rods, classic cars, Aviation Expo, Somerset Business Expo, live music, gourmet food, an amusement park, pyrotechnics, MotoX and lots more. Bookings essential. Watts Bridge Memorial Airfield. www.familiesmagazine.com.au/event/the-brisbane-airshowcressbrook

The Creation Stories | Brisbane Powerhouse

Your Local Families Magazine June / July 2022 www.familiesmagazine.com.au

#FamiliesMagFun Sat 9 – Sun 10 Jul Abbey Medieval Festival | Caboolture Prepare to return to Abbeystowe to celebrate and enjoy the pageantry, excitement, colour, sounds, and drama of the Middle Ages. Step back in time and witness the thrill of a joust as knights on their mighty steeds charge down the list for honour and glory. There will be fighting displays, archery, music, markets, workshops and more. Bookings essential. The Abbey Museum of Art and Archaeology. www.familiesmagazine.com.au/event/abbey-medieval-festivalcaboolture

Fri 15 Jul BrisStyle Twilight Market | Brisbane Taking over King George Square with handmade local goods that are as delightful as they are sustainable, you’ll find a treasure trove of home-grown makers under the twinkling lights of Brisbane City Hall with not a single imported product. There will also be plenty of food trucks on hand to fill you up with yummy treats, as well as live music to keep the whole family entertained. King George Square. www.familiesmagazine.com.au/event/brisstyle-twilight-market Sun 17 Jul The Jetty 2 Jetty Fun Run | Clontarf Grab your joggers and get training! The Jetty 2 Jetty Fun Run is an annual event on the spectacular Redcliffe Peninsula each year. Runners and walkers are invited to compete in the 21km half marathon, 10km, 10km Wheelchair, 5km or 3km race. Registration is essential. Pelican Park. www.familiesmagazine.com.au/event/the-jetty-jetty-fun-run Wed 20 - Thu 21 Jul There’s a Sea in My Bedroom | Kingston Based on the beloved children’s book by award-winning author Margaret Wild, There’s a Sea in my Bedroom is an immersive and theatrical introduction to live classical music, capturing the magic of a child’s fantasy world. Bookings required. Kingston Butter Factory Cultural Precinct. www.familiesmagazine.com.au/event/theres-a-sea-in-mybedroom

Abbey Medieval Festival | The Abbey Museum of Art and Archaeology

Sat 9 Jul – Sat 3 Sep Shrek The Musical | Brisbane Following the highly successful 2018 season, Shrek returns to the Brisbane Arts Theatre in 2022. Complete with tap dancing rats, a fire breathing dragon, and Shrek’s trademark Scottish lilt, this is a show for the whole family. Featuring the songs of the Broadway production, follow the story of Shrek and Donkey as they fight their way past singing skeletons to rescue Princess Fiona and deliver her to Lord Farquaad before the sun goes down. Bookings required. Brisbane Arts Theatre. www.familiesmagazine.com.au/event/shrek-the-musical Sat 9 Jul The Alphabet of Awesome Science | Cleveland Join professors Lexi Con and Noel Edge for a multi-award-winning race through the alphabet where words inspire mind-blowing scientific surprises! It’s a tongue-twisting race from A to Z that’s equal parts explosive, messy, hilarious, fascinating and gross. Brace yourself for an hour of carefully crafted alphabetical, scientifical chaos — that floats, flies, squirts, sprays, ignites and erupts! Bookings required. Redland Performing Arts Centre. www.familiesmagazine.com.au/event/the-alphabet-awesomescience

Sat 23 – Sun 24 Jul Mt Gravatt Show | Mt Gravatt The Mount Gravatt annual show is an affordable family day out full of animals, livestock, rides and other attractions. To make sure families get plenty of bang for their buck the night show offers fireworks and lots of entertainment suitable for all ages. Mt Gravatt Showgrounds. www.familiesmagazine.com.au/event/mt-gravatt-show Sat 30 Jul Saturdaze Big Night Out | Flagstone Take the kids to see some impressive cars at this family friendly event. There will be a jumping castle and other amusement rides to entertain! Grab a loaded shake and burger while you’re there. Mondaze. www.familiesmagazine.com.au/event/saturdaze-big-night-out Sun 31 Jul Einbunpin Festival | Sandgate At this great community festival you can explore over 100 stalls, enjoy live music, hop on the rides and have a laugh at some of the other amusements on offer. Almost 28 years and still going, the Einbunpin Festival is a celebration by and for the community about those things that make the Sandgate district special! Einbunpin Lagoon Parklands. www.familiesmagazine.com.au/event/einbunpin-festival Einbunpin Festival | Einbunpin Lagoon Parklands

The Alphabet of Awesome Science | Redland Performing Arts Centre

Your Local Families Magazine June / July 2022 www.familiesmagazine.com.au

Local Clubs & Classes Directory

Clubs, Classes & Activities

around Greater Brisbane for adults and children aged 0 - 17. If you would like a listing for your club, class or activity in our next issue’s inclusive directory, contact us now! Email: Editor@FamiliesMagazine.com.au

Superfish

FREE swimming assessment and FREE trial lesson – no obligation! All levels & ages, small structured classes. Redland Bay opening 2021! Sunnybank 3323 3188 www.superfish.com.au

Advertise your club, class or activity for only $995 +GST per year!

Bayside Hapkido Hapkido is the complete selfdefence martial art, offering classes from 3.5 years to adult. Classes are fun and reinforce discipline and respect for self and others. Come and join us for a 4-WEEK FREE TRIAL at our purpose-built Redland Bay facility. 0413 327 283

www.hapkidoqld.com.au

Perform Australia

Acting and drama classes around Brisbane, Gold Coast and Sunshine Coast. Learn acting technique for stage and screen and participate in performances and film shoots. Build selfconfidence, creativity and social skills in fun friendly classes. Enrol online, no audition needed! 1300 908 905

www.perform.edu.au

CHEERS Coaching College Prep - Year 6 Academic and Creative Class • Academic Focus: English/Maths/General Science • Creative Focus: S.T.E.A.M., Dance, Coding, Lego, Art • Weekday Academic with homework assistance • Weekend Academic Intensive / whole day class. Prep - Year 12. One to one/ two class. Sunnybank 07 3189 4766 / 0414 001 439 info@cheerscc.com.au

Laserzone Lawnton

Aqualogan

Brisbane’s No. 1 multi-level Laser Tag arena, Arcade and Bumper Cars will blow your mind! Offering the best family entertainment with a variety of packages to suit all ages and abilities. Book your family fun or birthday party now!

Aqualogan Laurie Laurence Swim School offers world-leading teaching methods proven over 50 years. FREE swim assessments for all learn-toswim levels. School holiday swim clinics, squads, adaptives and private lessons.

3205 4141 brisbane.laserzone.com.au

Beenleigh 2803 4102; Logan North 3541 6151 www.loganleisurecentres.com.au/aquatics

Music Beat Kids

The home of Boppin’ Babies offers weekly music classes for children of all ages, from babies and toddlers to pre-prep and kindy groups for young kids. We provide a special time each week for you and your child to experience the magic of making music together. 1800 752 968

www.musicbeat.com.au

Your Local Families Magazine June / July 2022 www.familiesmagazine.com.au

Advertise your club, class or activity for only $995 +GST per year!

Fox in a Box

Brisbane Arts Theatre Brisbane Arts Theatre is a Registered Training Organisation, offering a wide selection of unaccredited workshops, and courses with nationally recognised accreditation. We offer workshops for people of all ages, and from all walks of life, representing the diversity of the community engaging with us.

Looking for an escape room for kids or teens as well as for birthday parties and special celebrations? Send the kids to one of several themed rooms at Fox in a Box! It’s the best family fun ever! 3815 9825 www.foxinaboxbrisbane.com

https://mailchi.mp/artstheatre/course-guide

IceWorld

Flip Out Strathpine

There’s no better way to beat the summer heat than a visit to one of Brisbane’s IceWorld Olympic Ice Rinks – the coolest place to be in the school holiday! Public session times available daily, offering hours of ‘sun safe’ fun & exercise! Online Bookings Essential. Acacia Ridge Boondall

Pricing includes skate hire. Fully stocked cafés on site.

Get the kids having active, indoor fun in a supervised, CovidSafe environment! Trampolines, foam pits, basketball slam-time, running walls, and a separate area for under-10s and fully air conditioned. Café on site too! Keep an eye out for specials and book in advance. www.flipout.com.au/locations/strathpine

www.iceworld.com.au

Bounce Tingalpa

BOUNCE Tingalpa has more than 50 interconnected trampolines, the Big Bag, Slam Dunk and Dodgeball all rolled into one - the perfect playground to develop and practice your skills. Whether you’re trying to master your first flip or learn how to run The Wall, it’s the ultimate in Freestyle fun! www.bounceinc.com.au/venue-tingalpa-qld

Conroy Dance Centre

Does your child love to dance? Our qualified and welcoming teachers make learning to dance so much fun through our age-specific programs! Classes include jazz, ballet, tap and even singing! ENQUIRE TODAY and Join Brisbane’s biggest dance family in Brendale! 03205 7717 admin@conroydance.com.au

Aquatic Achievers

Aquatic Achievers Swim Schools is a national provider of quality children’s swimming lessons. With a great skills-based program and purposebuilt facilities, we help children learn to live their best life with water. Book a free Starter Session today and experience the Aquatic Achievers difference for yourself. www.aquaticachievers.com.au

Victoria Park

Learn to play golf for kids at Victoria Park with their school holiday kids golf activities. Their classes are fun and interactive for kids aged 4 – 14, no experience required. Play exciting games, learn great sports skills, all while making new friends. www. victoriapark.com.au/whats-on/

school-holiday-kids-golf-clinics/

Families Magazine is made with love by... Janine Mergler – Editor Joanne Crane – Co-Editor Natalie Turner – Listings Editor Karen Bleakley - Online Content Manager Suzie Porter – Designer Stephen Monteith – IT Systems and Support The information contained in this publication and on our website and social media forums is for general information purposes only. The information is provided by Families Magazine and its contributors as detailed on individual articles. While we endeavour to publish information that is up to date and correct, we make no representations or warranties of any kind, express or implied, about the completeness, accuracy, reliability, suitability or availability with respect to the information, products, services, or related images contained in print, on our website or in our social media forums for any purpose. Information received via our publication or online should not be relied upon for personal, medical, legal or financial decisions. You should consult an appropriate professional for specific advice tailored to your need and situation.

Advertise your club, class or activity for only $995 +GST per year! UPCOMING ISSUES August / September 2022

BRISBANE SCHOOLS & EDUCATION Advertising deadline: Friday 8 July 2022 October / November 2022

TODDLERS, CHILDCARE & DAYCARE Advertising deadline: Friday 9 September 2022 We do not endorse contents or advertisers in our publication or on our web pages and will not be responsible for any content of any linked site or any link contained in the link site. In no event shall we be liable for direct, indirect, punitive, incidental, special, consequential damages or any damages whatsoever arising out of or in any way connected with the use of or performance of information, products, services or reliance on the contents of the advertisements. All material including, but not limited to adverts, editorial, images and part thereof sent to Families Magazine remain the property of Families Magazine. All materials and personal details will be handled appropriately with respect to data protection laws. No material published by Families Magazine in print or online may be reproduce whatsoever without prior written consent.

Families Magazine - Brisbane Issue 52 Jun/Jul 2022

Articles inside

Setting Goals

Over 100 ways for Families to save money

Host the Perfect Party at Home

11 Ways to party in Brisbane

Taste Farm Life

A day trip to Mount Tamborine

There is so much to discover at your local library