Bayside Glen Eira Kids Summer 2021

SUMMER 2021-22

Our pandemic

BABY BOOM The southeast’s

BEST SLIDES

An annual pass to

LUNA PARK

About Us

The summer of freedom HELLO! Welcome to the summer edition of Bayside Glen Eira Kids Today.

The warmer months are here and it’s time to get outside and explore the world around us.

And how great will it be after being cooped up inside for months on end.

It’s time to dust off the cobwebs and enjoy the local area.

If you’ve got young kids the playground is often a go-to - it is a free activity that tires the little ones out! This edition features a list of the best slides in Melbourne’s southeast, including Bayside and Glen Eira.

So slide into summer and work your way through the list (pages 6-8) over the holidays! You may also want to check

out the recently updated Sandringham Beach playground, which has water play - a must for summer (page 5).

For most of us, the past couple of years have been pretty crazy. It has certainly been the case for Caulfield mum Rebecca Johns who had her second daughter at the height of the pandemic and Bayside mum Erica Kramer who has been helping parents deal with their anxiety through lockdown.

We also spoke to Radhika Sahu who was in the UK during the height of the pandemic when she fell pregnant.

Desperate to get back to Melbourne, Radhika and her husband Utkarsh had numerous flights cancelled and only managed to make it back to just before she was no longer able to fly.

We also caught up with Melbourne mum Claire DeStratis who did something truly incredible - she risked dying to save the life of her young son.

Her six-year-old Jake was on life support with only days left to live when she gave him a life-saving partial liver transplant. It truly is an amazing, heart-warming story.

If you love a giveaway, be sure to check out our great summer toy giveaway. There’s also the chance to win an annual pass to Luna Park.

From all of us at Bayside Glen Eira Kids Today, have a merry Christmas and an awesome 2022.

Happy holidays!

Bayside Glen Eira Kids magazine is a Star News Group publication.

Bayside Glen Eira Kids will be published quarterly prior to each of the school holidays.

Bayside Glen Eira Kids Cnr Princes Hwy and Army Road, Pakenham, 3810 PO Box 9, Pakenham, Victoria 3810 Phone: 5945 0666 Fax: 5945 0777 Editorial Melissa Meehan

CONTENTS

melissa.meehan @starnewsgroup.com.au Photography

IT’S YOUR LIFE

TOYS

BOOKS

We’re having a Covid baby boom

Great summer toy giveaway

A ‘Wandi’ful book for kids

PAGE 3

PAGE 16

PAGE 22

Clare Vane-Tempest

REALITY BITES

Children’s books

clare.vane-tempest @starnewsgroup.com.au

Pandemic babies - support is key PAGE 3

PAGE 22

Rob Carew Advertising

A big change in our dads

Bayside mum helping parents lead kids in pandemic

PAGE 4

PAGE 17

Top things stressing out teens

Mum’s experience helps acne sufferers

PAGE 4

PAGE 17

Lots of summer fun to be had PAGE 5

Pandemic pregnancy from Melbourne to London

GESAC occasional care

PAGE 18

PAGE 5

From little things big things grow

Slide into summer

PAGE 18

PAGES 6-8

Mum’s amazing act to save her son’s life

Summer fun at Luna Park

PAGE 19

PAGE 9

RECIPES

Our pandemic

Kid-friendly patties

The southeast’s

Glen Eira Family Day Care PAGE 10

KIDS CALENDAR What’s on this summer PAGE 23

PAGE 10

EDUCATION NIDA School Holiday program open

Published by Star News Group Pty Ltd ACN 005 848 108.

Publisher/Managing Director, Paul Thomas.

All material is copyright to Star News Group Pty Ltd. All significant errors will be corrected as soon as possible.

SUMMER 2021-22

BABY BOOM BEST SLIDES

PAGE 20

Really caring for mums

Phone: 0404 288 948

PARTY TIME Born to party

An annual pass to

LUNA PARK

PAGE 20

PAGE 11

ENTERTAINMENT

Creating curious global citizens

Get creative at Robert Gordon

PAGE 12

PAGE 21

High quality early learning

A wild ride for young viewers

PAGE 13

PAGE 21

Cover Lucy, 9, from the Hampton Life Saving Club, is ready for summer.

Picture: Rob Carew

FASHION ‘Tis the season for bathers and beach days PAGES 14-15

baysidegleneirakids.com.au

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instagram.com/baysidegleneirakids

It’s Your Life

We’re having a Covid baby boom

By Melissa Meehan FERTILITY rates across Australia should drop to an all-time low of 1.59 babies per woman in 2020-21.

But a new report suggests the Covid-19 pandemic may have changed things.

In their paper Covid-19 baby boom, published in the Medical Journal of Australia, obstetric and gynaecology registrar Dr James Brown and clinical microbiologist Dr Len Moaven reviewed the use of the five Medicare item numbers for pregnancy related appointments.

In 2020, the use of those item numbers increased by up to 25 per cent in one month and 9 per cent in another.

The pair believe belie ieve ve this reflects refl re flec ects a significant change since the pandemic began, considering the usual fluctuation in these billing levels across the years is only around 3 per cent.

They found that the timing of an ‘apparent baby boom’ correlates with the increase in conception starting in late March to early April, during the so-called first wave of Covid-19 in Victoria.

In June Victorian Health Minister Martin Foley, answering questions in parliament over numerous anecdotal reports complied by Greens MP Ellen Sandell that the state’s maternity system was at “breaking point”, said the pressure was due, in part, to soaring birth rates.

“We are in fact at the moment going

through a massive baby boom in Victoria, at record levels, including the Royal Women’s,” Mr Foley said.

Babies born in Victoria boomed over the past year, at an average of 5.7 per cent across the state, but by as much as 50 per cent in some areas.

Those numbers have soared in regional Victoria, which may be due to an influx of Melburnians seeking a sea change or tree-change before starting a family.

Rising house prices could also play a factor.

In July the state government announced additional funding to pay for extra midwives across 38 public health services across Victoria.

“We’re in the middle of a baby Covid

bo her ere e in Victoria... in some areas in boom here particular, we have seen an enormous increase in numbers of babies being born,” he said.

“That has placed huge pressure on our hard-working midwifery staff.”

He said the Western District health service, based in Hamilton, had reported the 51 per cent increase.

Western Health has the highest number of births - a 13 per cent increase.

“We didn’t anticipate this baby boom, because we didn’t really anticipate the global pandemic,” Mr Foley said.

“The two seem to be directly linked.

But we welcome all the Victorian babies, and what we want to make sure is that they get the best care.”

Pandemic babies support is key

By Melissa Meehan WHEN Adina was born, her sister Leora couldn’t see her for the first five days.

Covid-19 meant that while Adina’s dad Ben could go to the hospital, three-year-old Leora had to wait at home.

Caulfield mum of two Rebecca Jacobs said giving birth during lockdown was a weird experience.

Already a mum to Leora, Rebecca says she knew what she was getting herself into.

But throw in a pandemic and the experience was completely different.

And on top of the usual pregnancy, birth and newborn things – Adina was born during Passover, a Jewish holiday when you have to eat certain foods. Not just anything.

But because of Covid-19 the hospital couldn’t allow outside caterers in, meaning no Kosher foods were available.

This meant they couldn’t cater to her dietary requirements so had to rely on food deliveries from her husband and family.

“I guess that just added another layer to the already stressful time,” Rebecca said.

And with Ben only able to visit for a couple of hours at a time, Rebecca found herself on her own.

There often wasn’t someone to hold the baby when she needed a shower or some sleep.

And with her mum and many other family members living in Sydney, they didn’t even get to meet Adina until much later – thanks to border lockdowns.

“I would have never put a screen in front of her face before the pandemic, but I had to during the pandemic,” Rebecca said.

“That’s how she bonded with our interstate family members, which is www.BaysideGlenEiraKids.com.au

Ben, Rebecca with their daughters Leora and Adina.

Pictures: Rob Carew

Adina di was b born d during i the h pandemic. d i

really special that we could that – but also really sad.”

It’s been a different way of growing up too.

Leora had adventures to the shops, or picnics with friends from the start.

But Adina had so many months at home before that was even an option.

“You know in Home Alone (the movie) and Kevin goes to Manhattan for the first time – that is what is was like for my daughter on her first visit to Coles,” she laughs.

“She was so tired from that first visit – I mean she was still young but she used all her energy to look around.

Rebecca, a nurse at The Happy Baby clinic, says she feels for first-time mums who went through the pandemic with nothing to compare it to.

She said so many parents had come into the clinic worried about their kids and for issues that would normally be picked up by a maternal health nurse – but difficult to diagnose over a phone consultation.

“I’m just so lucky that I’m in a profession that I don’t have to worry too much because I know what I am talking about and that I have support and connections,” she said.

“But there are so many people out there that haven’t got those supports and for them it’s been tough.”

Melbourne mum’s pregnancy dash from London: Page 18

Caulfield mum Rebecca Jacobs with husband Ben and their girls Leora and Adina.

SUMMER 2021 3

It’s Your Life

A big change in our dads Parents have realised that children struggle with their ‘big feelings’.

Parenthood - especially for fathers used to be all about ‘control’.

But a new generation is learning it is really about connection, writes STEVE BIDDULPH SOCIAL media is a great gift, for someone like me who lives on an island and is also quite shy. And now I have stopped my life of touring and doing shows for parents around the world, it can be a warm-hearted connection to folks who read my books. These mums and dads are enthusiasts for parenthood and family who think love matters more than fashion, say, or material possessions or ‘success’.

I’ve avoided Instagram or Twitter, but manage two Facebook communities, one for parents of boys, and one for girls - and they are full of life and heart, they really keep me going. I dip into Facebook cautiously, aware it can be like a bush track which you can easily slip off and go careening down through prickly scrub to a rocky landing!

Often my Facebook feed sends me posts from a rather heart-rending page called Dadventure, where mostly American fathers seek help and emotional support from each other as they struggle with the many challenges of kids’ health, behaviour, as well as marriage strife, and making a living while still being a good dad.

It’s such a window into the world of dads, both heart rending and inspiring in about equal amounts. And there is something very striking that you can’t

miss, a kind of watershed moment happening in fatherhood. The old giving way to the new.

Whenever someone posts a question about kids’ misbehaviour, the old guard are there weighing in with things like ‘kids have to know who is the boss’ and ‘my old man taught us respect with his belt, and it worked for me’. I used to work with those dads when I was a family therapist, as they gradually admitted that, well, in fact they hated their dads for most of their childhoods and were noticing that their kids were starting to hate them too.

There is a whole skip bin full of denial inside a great many men, and they are almost buried under it, but one day they do get out.

But most heartening is the number of commenters who have made a very big fundamental shift to realise that parenthood is not about control. It’s not about dominating kids into behaving well by yelling, threatening, hitting or contriving punishments - at least, not as the first line of defence. It’s been one of the greatest leaps forwards in

parenthood that we have realised that children struggle with their ‘big feelings’ and our job is to help them find a way through the frustrations, negotiations, and griefs and fears which every childhood brings, so they can give space to their emotions but express them in words, and not in actions that might hurt those around them or themselves.

Plenty of adults in our generation knew no other way to express their grief or fear than to punch a hole in the gyprock, or walk out and get drunk, or be abusive or horrible to a partner just trying to help. Plenty of readers will have partners who still struggle to be vulnerable and communicate, instead of merely reacting. So we have to urgently help our kids learn these skills.

When our four-year-old or six-year-old goes into a meltdown or misbehaves terribly it takes incredible grace to not just lose it, or yell at them or go all cold and rejecting, but instead to calm ourselves, really connect with them and reassure them that we love them, and we want to help. But I see this all the

time now in parks and shopping malls, and the homes of young friends and family. A child struggling - and a mum, or dad, crouching down, or sitting with them and talking it through. If they will allow it, holding them close. And seeing that child’s feelings subside, and happiness be restored.

It doesn’t mean mollycoddling kids or giving them everything they want, or letting them call the shots. It’s still okay to say, “I am getting cold and bored now, and I want to go home” when they’ve been almost an hour at a freezing playground! Your feelings count too. But being a parent who is committed to teaching their kids - at the peak of their misbehaviour - that we can all find a way through our feelings, is worth more than gold. Who wouldn’t love to have a parent like that?

Visit Steve on Facebook at Steve Biddulph’s Raising Boys, and Steve Biddulph’s Raising Girls communities.

Steve’s books including Raising Boys, The New Manhood, and Fully Human - are in over a million Australian homes. www.stevebiddulph.com

The top things stressing out Aussie teens SCHOOLWORK is the number one cause of stress and worry among Aussie teens, according to a new report.

felt stressed about their schoolwork and 42 per cent cited it as their biggest worry.

cent), what people think or say about them (31 per cent) and missing out on their goals (24 per cent).

Alarmingly the report also reveals that many don’t talk to anyone when they are struggling.

Other causes of stress included: ■ Feeling anxious about what might happen (41 per cent)

The 2021 MyStrengths Youth Wellbeing Report surveyed nearly 10,000 high school students aged 11-18 years to understand how stress, sleep, social media, and relationships are impacting teen mental health.

■ Self-esteem/feeling low (35 per cent)

The report found that many teens weren’t seeking help - professional or otherwise. One in three students (32 per cent) don’t talk to anyone when they are struggling. Teens who do reach out are more likely to turn to a friend (45 per cent) than a parent.

However, 62 per cent said they feel understood by their parents.

The report found 66 per cent of teens 4 SUMMER 2021

■ Friend problems (27 per cent) ■ Family difficulties (27 per cent).

The biggest worries among teens included what they will do in the future (38 per cent), the way they look (34 per

Only per 3 cent of students surveyed

seek support from their teachers at school.

The report also found students who go to bed later are more likely to experience mental health challenges.

The release of the report coincided with the launch of MyStrengths’ Raising Resilience course, a 10-step course designed to turn the tide on teen mental health. The course includes videos and daily challenges for parents to watch with their teens. www.BaysideGlenEiraKids.com.au

It’s Your Life

Lots of summer fun to be had

By Melissa Meehan A PLAYGROUND beside the beach is pretty much the perfect spot to while away the summer days.

And, let me tell you, Beach Park in Sandringham, is the perfect spot.

It may not be big in size, but this recently upgraded playground is the place to be when the kids are full of energy in the morning and can cool down in the water after lunch.

Summer bliss.

It has all the usual things including sandpits (how could you not so close to the actual beach), slides, swings and a lookout tower.

Personally, I love a park with a water play area - and this one is fantastic.

It’s by the sandpit which as got a giant octopus in the middle and heaps of ways the water can trickle down.

From experience, I’d certainly suggest bringing togs or a change of clothes.

It is ace!

Harlow is a fan of Beach Park in Sandringham.

Pictures: Rob Carew

There’s also something I’ve never seen before, a rope type swing

Harlow, 16 Months, enjoying Beach Park at Sandringham.

roundabout thing - the official name on the council website is a spinning rope swing.

Whatever you call it, the little ones loved it.

Occasional care THE occasional care service located at Glen Eira Sports and Aquatic Centre (GESAC) is open for business to gym patrons and the general public.

Vacancies are currently available for the two morning sessions which operate Monday to Friday from 9.15am to 10.25am and 10.30am to 11.50am.

Single and double sessions are available for bookings with qualified and experienced early childhood educators providing care for children aged from six weeks to six years of age.

Occasional care provides short periods of care when parents need time out to attend a session at the gym, personal appointment, shop or study.

It may also be used to help children

develop social skills or as a steppingstone to other early education and care services. The team offer a variety of age appropriate indoor and outdoor experiences in a friendly and caring environment.

Glen Eira City Council also provides high quality and affordable occasional care on Wednesdays and Thursdays at the Carnegie Multipurpose facility located in Shepparson Street Carnegie.

For session times, fees and further information on how to book, visit http://www.gleneira.vic.gov.au/ services/family-and-children or call Council’s customer service on 9524 3333 Bookings for GESAC Occasional Care can be made directly to 9575 7100.

CHILDCARE AT GESAC Occasional Care for children aged 0 months to 6 years.

A fabulous indoor and outdoor space where you can confidently leave your child while you work out, swim or go shopping.

Qualified and experienced staff with caring supervision.

Open for two sessions Monday - Friday Session 1: 9.15am to 10.25am Session 2: 10.30am to 11.50am

Now open to non members

Occasional care provides short periods of care when parents need time out to attend a session at the gym, personal appointment, shop or study. www.BaysideGlenEiraKids.com.au

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12523014-SG50-21

For more information: geleisure.com.au/about-us/child-care To reserve a place, please call 03 9575 7100

SUMMER 2021 5

It’s Your Life

There is a slide for everyone at Caulfield Park, Caulfield North.

The spectacular slide at Booran Reservoir Playspace, Glen Huntly.

Harleston Park, Elsternwick boasts a gigantic slide.

BAYSIDE AND GLEN EIRA

Slide into summer Kids love to slide. They enjoy the thrill of climbing up to the top and sliding down. Summer is a great time to slide - just make sure it isn’t hot beforehand! Here, the KIDS TODAY TEAM explore some of the best slides in Melbourne’s east and southeast.

Caulfield Park, Caulfield North WITH three different playgrounds there is a slide for everyone here. They may not be the biggest, but the sheer variety of slides make this park a place to visit.

The three playgrounds are aimed at different groups, the younger kids, older kids and sensory play all catered for.

Location: Corner of Hawthorn and Balaclava Roads, Caulfield North Booran Reservoir Playspace, Glen Huntly Let’s just take a moment to take in exactly how big this super slide is.

Not only do kids have to climb this mammoth super structure just to get to the top but it seems to have all the pieces of a super-fast slide and twirly whirly one – in one.

Only the bravest daredevils could be expected to take on such a challenge – and believe me there were many keen to take it on. This playground has been billed as the best playground in Melbourne and it’s not difficult to see why. It’s huge. It’s got a sandpit, swings and a water pad for the warmer months.

Location: 1051 Glen Huntly Rd, Glen Huntly Harleston Park, Elsternwick A gigantic slide, with steps along the side is the perfect way to while away the spring days. And is sure to tire little legs out. There’s also an area in the sand for the smaller kids with a slide that’s sure to give parents some relief.

It’s the perfect spot to find some shade under the tree and take a minute to rest.

Or even bring a picnic.

Location: 47 Allison Rd, Elsternwick

KNOX AND MONASH Waverley Park Playground, Mulgrave THIS brand new playground has a giant slide.

Not only does it have the biggest slide in the area, but this playground is fully fenced and has two other slides for the little ones who might not be ready for maximum sliding. There is so much to offer at this playground, make sure you give the kids extra time to explore it all.

Location: Wellington Road, Mulgrave Scoresby Village Playground, Scoresby A whirly twirly tunnel slide is at the centre of this very new playground placed awkwardly between two car parks. It’s not fenced, which is a bit disappointing, but it’s simplistic design makes it a fun space for the kids to play.

That said, if you have more than one who tend to run in differen t directions – this park may not be for you.

Location: 752 Stud Rd, Scoresby

The twirly whirly slide at Scoresby Village Playground.

Village Square Park, Wantirna South This could be the fastest slide in the east. Look at the slope, the length – the fear!

Only the bravest kids will take on this bright green slide, which is seriously one of the fastest we’ve seen but there are some more relaxed slides in this playground too. Don’t forget the spiders web and a sandpit too.

The giant slide at Waverley Park Playground, Mulgrave.

6 SUMMER 2021

The cool slide at Wally Tew Reserve, Ferntree Gully.

Location: Harcrest Blvd, Wantirna South

More of the slide action at Village Square Park, Wantirna South.

Wally Tew Reserve, Ferntree Gully This slide is a must visit purely for its funky design – shaped like a Queensland bottle tree to match its forest floor theme it’s a beauty of a park to explore.

Don’t forget to bring the bikes or scooters too and take advantage of the bike track nearby and the library that’s only a stone’s throw away.

Location: Lyndale Ct, Ferntree Gully www.BaysideGlenEiraKids.com.au

Annabel at the Fitzwilliam Circuit Playground in Clyde North.

CASEY AND CARDINIA Oaks Park Playground, Clyde North This playground could very well be home to the longest tube slide in the City of Casey!

There are actually two huge tube slides that curl around a giant green and grey enclosed tower, which is the centrepiece of the park.

The popular playground also features a rock climbing wall, flying fox, climbing nets, tunnels, swings, slides, BMX and skate area, multipurpose court, a toddler area with a sandpit and shaded BBQ areas.

Location: Waterman Drive, Clyde North’s Eliston Estate Cardinia Community Adventure Playground, Pakenham A brightly-coloured enclosed sky tower with three tube slides is the main feature of this popular adventure playground.

Oaks Park Playground, Clyde North is home to possibly the biggest slide in the City of Casey.

Called ‘The Great Keep’, the tower is skinny and tall with the slides coming out at various height levels. The first slide is a pretty standard height, however the other two are pretty long!

The playground also features a big timber play area, scooter track and swings.

There’s also drinking fountains and barbecue facilities, while the toilets are a short stroll away.

Location: John Street, Pakenham Casey Fields Playground, Cranbourne East Weehee! A huge blue slide is the focal point of this adventure playground that has equipment for kids big and small.

The big curving slide is on ‘adventure hill’, which also features a bird nest swing and climbing areas.

The play space also has a pirate play structure and another playground that’s great for younger kids, climbing nets, net bridges, a liberty swing for kids who use wheelchairs, plus a village green community space.

There’s also barbecue and picnic facilities.

Sophie, Annabel and Paddy on the huge slide at Casey Fields Playground.

Pictures: Stewart Chambers www.BaysideGlenEiraKids.com.au

Sally at the bottom of the huge slide at the Encore Boulevard Playground in Cranbourne South.

Location: 60 Berwick-Cranbourne Road, Cranbourne East

Taylen loves the slides at the the Cardinia Community Adventure Playground in Pakenham.

Highgrove Outlook Park, Clyde North The massive tube slide at this awesome playground is sure to get your child’s adrenaline pumping. It’s one of two slides attached to a tall grey and red rocket ship tower overlooking the park.

The smaller, but decent sized, slide allows kids to work up their courage to tackle the gigantic tube.

The playground also features a full size multipurpose court, seesaw, net swing and flying fox. While there are picnic facilities there are no toilets.

Location: Fitzwilliam Circuit, Clyde North Encore Boulevard Playground, Cranbourne South There’s a large rocket play structure with a long tube slide at this relatively new playground.

After going down the twisted slide, kids can enjoy a range of equipment including swings, wooden obstacle course, large sandpit and waterplay area.

With shaded picnic benches, BBQ facilities and toilets, kids can slide for hours!

Location: Encore Boulevard, Cranbourne South’s Brompton Estate.

More slides on page 8 SUMMER 2021 7

STONNINGTON AND BOROONDARA Grattan Gardens, Prahran This playground may not boast the biggest, scariest slides in town – but it deserves a mention because of its options for the younger kids.

There are three slides all of different heights and steepness which makes it fun for the little ones looking for some big adventure.

There are two separate areas of play and heaps of room for the kids to run around too. And we can’t forget all the wonderful cafes nearby.

Location: Grattan Street, Prahran Phoenix Park, Malvern The brightly coloured slides at this playground really stand out against its beautiful wooden structure. Who doesn’t love a slide that winds around from top to bottom? Throw in some swings, musical charms, open space and a cafe and it’s hard to go past.

And did we mention it’s fully fenced?

The Rocket Playground in Hawthorn.

Location: 22 Rob Roy Rd, Malvern East Central Gardens Playground, Hawthorn Name me a better rocket-themed slide in Victoria. The much-loved Rocket Playground has to be one of the best places to let the kids imaginations run wild. And while it’s due for a spruce up, the local council has promised to bring it back to its former glory during a revamp of the playground. And it’s not just the rocket ship that is old school, throw in the merry go round, swings and spinning seats and you’ve got the afternoon covered.

Location: 30 Henry St, Hawthorn

The Grattan Gardens in Prahan is a great option for younger kids.

The huge tube slide at Upwey Main Street Playground.

Queens Park, Healesville has some great slides for younger kids.

YARRA RANGES Lilydale Lake Playspace The bright green, twirly whirly slide is hard to miss when you visit this all abilities playground. The sheer space of the area surrounding the lake makes it a great space to take the kids, especially if they love slides, swings, climbing and all things adventure.

There’s also a huge sandpit and water pad (for the warmer months).

Location: Swansea Road, Lilydale

The twirly whirly slide at Lilydale Lake Playspace.

8 SUMMER 2021

The windy slide at Phoenix Park in Malvern.

Upwey Main Street Playground, Upwey This playground isn’t huge – but its slide is. And the bravery of the kids wanting to get to the large tunnel slide will have to match its size as they wrangle the

ropes course to get to the top. That aside, it’s a great playground to take the kids to while you rest after a spot of shopping along the main strip.

Location: Main Street, Upwey Queens Park, Healesville Slides for little kids and some for the bigger ones. This newly refurbished playground just has a wonderful vibe to it. It has so many different zones perfect for all age groups and works in with the existing trees.

It is in one of the most beautiful spots with the mountains in the distance, so while the kids are playing it give parents the chance to take a breath and enjoy the views.

Location: Don Road, Healesville

One of the great slides at Queens Park, Healesville. www.BaysideGlenEiraKids.com.au

It’s Your Life

Take a spin on the newest Supernova ride for spectacular views of the city and Port Phillip Bay. Choose your horse and ride the magical carousel, try out your dodgem skills or go back in time on the retro-scary Ghost Train.

There’s never been a better time to join the generations of families and friends who have been creating summer memories since 1912.

Head to Luna Park for the best thrills this summer.

Summer fun at Luna Park

Have a thrilling time in a safe outdoor environment and make up for lost time by creating some life-long fun memories.

Covid capacity restrictions will apply, so pre-purchase your tickets online to guarantee entry over summer.

Popular days may sell out, so get in early to secure your spot.

FOR good old-fashioned fun that’s sure to put a huge smile on your dial, head to St Kilda’s Luna Park.

Mr Moon and soak up the carnival atmosphere that has entertained visitors for 109 years.

After a tough year on Victorians, especially kids, the beloved theme park is gearing up for a summer of fun.

Zoom, twirl, spin and whizz your way through a whole day of pure fun that you’ve been hanging out for.

ANNUAL PASSES An annual pass to Luna Park is a great option, particularly if you live close by.

You get a whole year of unlimited fun for just $120! With an annual pass, a Lunie of any age can take advantage of an Unlimited Ride Ticket on any day the park is open to the general public.

It’s a whole year of spinning, whizzing and twirling as many times as they can handle!

The seaside home of fun and fantasy will delight young and old.

The Great Scenic Railway returns after undergoing some winter maintenance.

LUNA PARK GIFT CARDS Give the gift of fun this Christmas with a Luna Park Gift card. Gift your kids,

BIRTHDAY PACKAGES Have the most talked about birthday party in the street by booking an unforgettable party package on the 96 Tram at Luna Park - find out more at lunapark.com.au/kids-birthday-parties Luna Park is open every weekend, Victorian school holidays and every public holiday except Christmas Day. Venue spaces can be booked for exclusive events at a cost. Book online at www.lunapark.com.au

WE’VE teamed up with Luna Park to give one lucky reader the chance to win themselves an annual pass to Luna Park. To put yourself in the running visit baysidegleneirakids.com.au/ competitions

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Step through the famous mouth of

friends or family with a joyful experience they’ll remember for years to come - it’s 100 per cent guaranteed to be loved. Luna Park Gift Cards can be exchanged for entry and ride passes, carnival games, retail merchandise and food and drinks at our various outlets throughout Luna Park.

www.BaysideGlenEiraKids.com.au

SUMMER 2021 9

It’s Your Life

Local Family Day Care GLEN Eira Family Day Care is looking to recruit educators to offer quality home-based child care.

If you enjoy working with children, Glen Eira Council would like to hear from you. Successful applicants must be a current resident of the City of Glen Eira, have Certificate III in Children’s Services or be willing to obtain, and be prepared to undergo extensive checks to ensure suitability, including a safety assessment of their home.

All educators are contractors to Council and therefore are provided with ongoing support from the

experienced co-ordination unit. Hourly fees are set by the educators in consultation with the co-ordination unit.

contributes to secure, warm and trusting relationships. Educators may also provide care to three school-aged children if appropriate.

Bentleigh resident and Family Day Care educator, Desiree Levinson said being a Family Day Care educator is a rewarding and satisfying career and one of the highlights of being an educator include flexibility of the learning experiences offered to the children.

All educators plan a quality playbased program based on children’s strengths, knowledge, ideas, cultures, abilities and interests.

The ratio of one educator to four pre-school children assists in creating a small group environment that

For further information, contact Council’s Service Centre on 9524 3333 or email fdc@gleneira.vic.gov.au or visit https://www.gleneira.vic.gov. au/services/family-and-children/ family-day-care

Really caring for mums CARING Mums believes that no mother should be alone on her journey of motherhood.

The dream of motherhood is often very different from its reality and Caring Mums is passionate about helping bridge that gap.

Glen Eira Council Family Day Care are looking for enthusiastic, caring and diverse educators If you enjoy working with children and believe you have the passion and enthusiasm to run your own home-based business or looking for a change from centre-based employment, this may be the opportunity you’re looking for.

Interested candidates must be a resident of Glen Eira City Council and need to have or be willing to obtain at a minimum, a Certificate III in Children’s Services, first aid qualifications, safety assessment of your home, valid Working With Children Check and police check.

All educators are contractors to Council and therefore are provided with ongoing support from the experienced co-ordination unit. Hourly fees are set by the educators in consultation with the co-ordination unit.

For further information, contact Council’s Service Centre on 9524 3333 or email fdc@gleneira.vic.gov.au

Well trained volunteers are matched to new mums - not necessarily first-time mums - and pregnant women, with the goal of developing secure, trusting relationships. They meet weekly for up to 12 months.

While many programs for mums offer medical or practical help, Caring Mums is among the few to offer mums emotional support.

Volunteers become mentors and cheerleaders as they walk alongside their matched mum.

A safe space is created in which the mother can share the joys and challenges of her new role without fear of being judged or instructed.

Many new mothers, especially now due to the pandemic, feel alone and isolated as their own families may not be able to be present at a time when they need their ‘village’ the most.

Mum Amy with her Caring Mums volunteer Rachelle.

Powered by NCJWA Vic, Caring Mums helps fill that void. The organisation’s goal is to support the mother in a way that is empowering, building confidence.

Mothers who have participated in the Caring Mums program have found it extremely valuable.

One said: “I cherish the day I was introduced to this incredible program.

To be able to know that my Caring Mum will visit me every week, to reassure my feelings are valid, to talk support strategies and to have deep conversations, made a huge difference for me. It is a program that truly praises the mums.”

More information: https://www. ncjwavic.org.au/caringmums or 9523 0535.

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CARING MUMS IN CONVERSATION

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• Are you looking for a rewarding volunteer opportunity RϑHULQJ HPRWLRQDO VXSSRUW WR D SUHJQDQW ZRPDQ RU QHZ PRWKHU" $UH \RX D PRWKHU JUDQGPRWKHU ZLWK ROGHU FKLOGUHQ" 'R \RX KDYH D IHZ KRXUV WR VSDUH HDFK ZHHN" &DQ \RX DWWHQG WUDLQLQJ VHVVLRQV RQ 7XHVGD\V DP SP IURP 0DUFK WR $SULO " Caring Mums would love to hear from you! For further information, please contact CMvolunteers@ncjwavic.org.au or visit our website: ncjwavic.org.au 10 SUMMER 2021

www.BaysideGlenEiraKids.com.au

Education to learn and grow.

The National Institute of Dramatic Art (NIDA) is a centre of excellence in theatre, film and television, with short and part-time courses with practice driven training in a supportive and nurturing environment.

These new venue partnerships provide opportunities for NIDA Open to connect with more children of Melbourne by providing space to extend their creative skills set, make new friends, find new areas of confidence, and step into a magical world of imagination.

“NIDA Open is excited to be again offering high quality courses for children and young people, especially in great new locations to reach more of the Melbourne community,” said Gillian Meisner-Lemon, Director, Public Programs NIDA. NIDA Open offers high quality courses for young people.

NIDA school holiday summer program open NIDA Melbourne is excited to partner with two new spaces in the creative precincts of Melbourne for a range of summer courses for children and young people.

Transit Dance in Brunswick and The Space in Prahran will offer a wide variety of inspiring creative programs for the holidays, reaching new audiences in Melbourne’s north and

south eastern suburbs. Both new venues are purpose built creative arts spaces in the centre of the vibrant Chapel Street and Sydney Road precincts and are perfect environments for NIDA students

There are a variety of courses for Grades Prep to Year 12 at both new venues, including Stage and Screen School for Grades 3-6 and 7-10, Acting 101 for Grades 11-12 and NIDA Ninjas for Grades Prep-2. Students can learn skills in drama and screen acting, create characters, improve confidence and social skills, and above all have fun with new friends.

Enrolments are now open for the NIDA Open Summer Program across the two new venues in Brunswick and Prahran, as well as courses at NIDA Melbourne Studios in Southbank and Abbotsford Convent. Book four weeks before the course start date for children and young people to receive a 10 per cent early bird discount.

Book today by calling NIDA Open on 1300 450 417 or visit nida.edu.au/

Reignite your creativity this summer!

Holiday short courses for all ages: → Acting and Audition Preparation → Filmmaking → TV Presenting → Voice and Singing ... and more!

Visit nida.edu.au/summer www.BaysideGlenEiraKids.com.au

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Starting from Tue 4 Jan 2022 at NIDA Melbourne and offsite venues in locations including Southbank, Prahran, Brunswick and Abbotsford.

SUMMER 2021 11

Education

Creating curious global citizens Deutsche Schule Melbourne (DSM) is committed to offering a world-class bilingual learning program.

FROM cognitive advantages to community building and cultural understanding, the benefits of a bilingual education cannot be understated.

That’s why Deutsche Schule Melbourne (DSM) is committed to offering a world-class bilingual learning program for primary school children in Melbourne.

Research has shown that learning in two languages helps children build a strong educational foundation. It also develops vital skills necessary to thrive in today’s global environment.

Located in Fitzroy North, DSM is an accredited German School Abroad, known for its immersion model of education. Through this approach, students pick up the language through conversation and play. And under the guidance of highly qualified teachers from Germany and Australia, every student is empowered to reach their full potential.

Students exposed to bilingualism are also often linked to better academic results. And, because of their fluency in a second language and culture, bilingual children can access more diverse career opportunities later in life.

DSM prides itself to be more than an

education institution. As an integral part of both local and German-speaking communities, the school seeks to provide their students with the opportunity to learn and live within a close-knit, multilingual community.

As Principal Bernice Ressel puts it, bilingualism is more than just learning in two different languages. It’s about fostering a love of lifelong learning and curiosity – and cultivating an interest in another culture.

“Two mother tongues enable students to see the world from different perspectives, to realise their individual potential, and to become creative and

confident participants in the global community,” she says.

Currently, DSM is home to over 140 students, with more than 27 nationalities and 18 spoken languages.

Families don’t need to speak German to fit into the DSM community. The school welcomes students with no prior German knowledge – including after the Foundation Year.

DSM will be hosting their next Open Day on Saturday, 19 March 2022. Until then, they are offering small group tours to interested families.

To learn more about DSM, email info@dsm.org.au or call 03 9489 9364.

Deutsche Schule Melbourne Leaders in Bilingual Education We offer your family a German-English bilingual education.

Multilingualism is more than just the addition of multiple languages. Having more than one mother tongue enables students to see the world from different perspectives, to realise their individual potential, and to become creative and confident participants in the global community.

Deutsche Schule Melbourne is an accredited German School Abroad. We are located in Fitzroy North and offer the highest standard of bilingual education for primary school children. At our school we merge the Victorian and German curricula which comes with plenty of advantages, for example an advanced Mathematics curriculum. All in all a compelling offer for any family with an interest in bilingual education. You will be surprised to see how quickly your child learns the German language even without any prior German knowledge or family background.

Our Admissions Manager Stefanie Dietrich cordially invites you to a Small Group Tour during school hours to see our bilingual education in action. Please contact her on 03 9489 9364 to book in a date that suits your family.

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Our next Open Day will take place on Saturday, 19 March 2022 from 10∶00am to 12∶30pm – a perfect opportunity to find out more about our school and to get a feel for our wonderful school community. Please register your interest via www.dsm.org.au.

We look forward to welcoming you at Deutsche Schule Melbourne!

OPEN DAY Saturday, 19 March 2022 10∶00am – 12∶30pm

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Deutsche Schule Melbourne 96 Barkly Street, Fitzroy North, Victoria 3068 Email: info@dsm.org.au Phone: 03 9489 9364 www.dsm.org.au www.BaysideGlenEiraKids.com.au

Education

High quality early learning LEARNING is fun at Kool Kidz Childcare Brighton.

With an abundance of play areas for inquisitive minds, the centre offers modern purpose built child care facility where children can develop their social, physical and creative skills.

Playrooms are spacious, safe and filled to the brim with educational resources plus fun toys, art and craft supplies. The centre also has regular drama and sports incursions.

Outside, designated play spaces encourage children to play and mingle with others in the same stage of development.

The warm and nurturing learning environments have been designed with nature in mind.

The playground on Level 2 has

recently undergone a revamp to give it a more natural feel. It is surrounded by timber fencing and planter boxes, and the roof has been given a fresh coat of paint to add the fresh and airy feel.

Further improvements will be made over the Christmas and New Year period.

Over Christmas, Kool Kool Kidz Brighton will be offering casual sessions of care. This is a fantastic opportunity to see what benefits Kool Kidz can offer your family without committing to a full-time enrolment.

The New Year is shaping up to be an exciting one for Kool Kidz Childcare Brighton, which will be running a 3-year-old kindergarten program, the first of its kind in early childhood care and education.

To see the amazing facility first-hand

Kool Kidz Childcare Brighton offers high quality early learning.

and meet the team of passionate educators, contact service manager Kerri for a tour.

Kool Kidz Childcare Brighton is

located at Level 2, 233–239 Nepean Highway, Gardenvale.

Visit https://www.koolkidzchildcare. com.au/brighton/ or call 9596 6221.

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www.BaysideGlenEiraKids.com.au

SUMMER 2021 13

Fashion

‘Tis the season for bathers and beach days

IT’S certainly that time of year to buy bathers as Christmas nears.

With the weather warming up and the days spent relaxing beside the pool or playing on the beach, swimwear is the perfect gift for little ones.

There are so many toys and gifts for toddlers to choose from, but there is no substitute for being active and playing in the water to create the best holiday memories.

The holidays are about spending time together, sharing a special meal with friends and family, and celebrating the abundance that we have in our lives.

The look of delight on children’s faces as they wake extra early and race to unwrap their presents and nibble on their favourite holiday treat, or the left-over carrot from Rudolf.

The spirit of Christmas should be in all our planning and purchasing decisions this year.

Parents and carers are responsible for

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setting an example for our children of thoughtfulness in where and how we shop. What gift we choose to place beneath the Christmas tree and what we serve on the Christmas table.

By following these values, Tyoub has reduced the number of presents bought for Secret Santa.

Choosing gifts that are reusable and of good quality, that are designed with purpose and made for longevity.

Buying locally made and designed items, will not only sustain our local businesses and much loved high streets but will reduce the carbon footprint for a greener Christmas. By re-thinking our reason to buy this holiday season we choose our economic and environmental future.

‘Tis the season to buy bathers, make merry and spread cheer around your home.

From Christmas cakes that are 100% Aussie fruit to Melbourne made togs for sprogs.

www.BaysideGlenEiraKids.com.au

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www.BaysideGlenEiraKids.com.au

SUMMER 2021 15

TOYS

Great summer toy giveaway KIDS Today magazines have teamed up with some great brands to give away a heap of cool toys this summer.

To put yourself in the running to win one - or all - of the prizes, visit baysidegleneirakids.com.au/ competitions Hurry! Entries close 2 February. Here’s what you can win...

VTech pack valued at $224.80 which includes: ■ Play & Chase Puppy, RRP $49.95: Get playtime on a roll with the interactive Play & Chase Puppy. More than 65 songs, melodies, sounds and phrases help children learn vocabulary words along with lively tunes. Ages 12 months - 3 years.

A Wahu pack valued at $139.92 which includes:

for an added challenge. Can also be filled with water in its’ base to play on land too! Ages 6+ ■ Wahu Mega Slide 7.5m, RRP $59.99: Kids will love racing down this massive 7.5m super slide. The continuous water spray means you’ll be zooming down the slide and into the plash bumper in no time! Ages 6+

■ Wahu Hole in Won, RRP $24.95: This inflatable game set includes 1 Hole in Won game board plus 4 sandbags. The waterproof PVC base floats and moves in the water

■ Surfer Dudes Classic, RRP $29.99: Surfer Dudes are the world’s first self-righting, self-surfing toy! Toss your dudes into the surf. They’ll catch and shred the waves, throwing down rippin’ tricks all the way back to you! Ages 6+

■ Blue’s Clues & You Mail Time with Mailbox, RRP $39: Drop the letters in Mailbox and raise his flag to hear phrases from the show. Listen as Mailbox delivers each letter featuring a special message.

Just Play Christmas Pack, valued at $183.99 which includes: ■ Barbie Fashionistas Styling Head, RRP $20: Barbie’s thick flowing hair is perfect for brushing, twisting, and pinning into chic styles! Use the barrettes and hair ties for a fancy up-do; use the brush and hair twists for a sleek top bun!

■ Toot-Toot Friends 2-in-1 Dinosaur Park, RRP $89.95: Get ready for a Dinosaur adventure in this truck which opens up into an amazing Dinosaur Park. Explore the park with the Park Ranger and interact with the dinosaurs.

Place characters onto the MagicPoint location to see them respond with fun phrases, sing-along songs, lively sounds and more. Ages 1-5 years.

■ Disney Junior Minnie Mouse Ring Me Rotary Phone, RRP $24.99: This vibrant pink phone has a glitter bow and features adorable Minnie Mouse phrases, realistic telephone sounds and fun light up effects!

■ Disney Doorables Puffables, RRP $20: Discover this fun unboxing experience which includes a 10-inch squishable plush Stitch, Frozen or Mickey Mouse plush hidden inside a tiny house with characters featuring signature Doorables stylised detailing and sparkly glitter eyes.

■ Disney Doorables Multi Peek Pack x2, RRP $15ea: Discover the Magic Key to reveal a secret image behind the door. Use the key to search and find how many Hidden Mickeys are in the image!

■ Play & Go Puppy Salon, RRP $49.95: Open the pet carrier to groom your pup. Lights and sound effects enrich playtime as you pretend to wash, comb, dry and clip this soft pup. Ages 2-5 years.

■ Switch & Go Dinos Smash & Crash Crew, RRP $34.95: Stomp into the cool, crazy world of prehistoric creatures that turn into vehicles with the Smash & Crash Crew! Crash the Switch & Go Dinos into another one to see them explode with smash-andcrash light effects. Ages 3-8 years.

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■ Wahu Pool Pets Croc, RRP $24.99: Kids will love these awesome new inflatable pool racers in bright funky Wahu colours. Perfect for racing up and down the pool or try and balance on them.

■ CoComelon Stacking Train, RRP $50: Children can get their numbers, shapes, and colours right on track with the CoComelon Stacking Train. Each big, colourful block features numbers 0-9. Use the blocks to build a train with this 40-piece construction set.

Spark curiosity and get kids ‘zooming’ in on nature (think leaves, flowers, feathers and insects) with this super portable, hand-held microscope.

Osmo Math Wizard and the Fantastic Food Truck valued at $99.99 The newest release from STEAM toy experts Osmo, this is a geometry-focused game that introduces kids to core maths concepts like angles, area and volume. Combining digital gameplay with active, hands-on learning, Osmo’s Math Wizard helps children build confidence in their maths skills through imagination, reasoning and exploration. Players become chefs who use kitchen appliances and a dash of magic to customize dishes, from pizza to sushi, sandwiches, pastries and more!

■ Paper Binoculars - Bird Spotter, RRP $12: Make your own set of paper binoculars, then head outside for all manner of feathered discoveries in the backyard or local park.

Tiger Tribe Nature Explorer Activity Pack valued at $100 ■ Outdoor Activity Set - Back to Nature, RRP $25: Jam packed with engaging activities, hands-on projects, a handy magnifying glass, coloured chalk and notetaking pencil, this kit encourages observation and interaction with nature.

■ Explorer Microscope Set, RRP $35:

■ Bug Spotter Kit, RRP $13: Designed to safely catch and release garden creepy crawlies (and observe them up close with the magnifying lid), this kit comes with an illustrated activity book providing bug tips and best places to spot.

■ Magic Painting World - Aussie Animals, RRP $15: Use the magic paintbrush to discover a bunch of cute Aussie animals. Simply add water to bring them to life with every brush-stroke.

Products are part of Tiger Tribe’s charity partnership with the Foundation for National Parks and Wildlife (FNPW). www.BaysideGlenEiraKids.com.au

Reality Bites

Bayside mum helps parents lead kids in pandemic Erika Cramer, The Queen of Confidence, is an international confidence coach and popular 5 star podcast host.

By Melissa Meehan BAYSIDE mum of two Erika Cramer knows a thing or two about trauma.

She grew up in the United States, her mum was bi-polar and spent time in and out of foster care.

But despite all of that she worked on herself and became the Queen of Confidence.

Now with more than 55,000 instagram followers – she provides life coaching for other mums dealing with anxiety and trauma.

Covid-19 has thrown a curve ball for many Australians – particularly Melburnians.

And as adults we’ve all felt it but imagine being a kid during these times.

“There has been so much uncertainty – both in the home and outside world,” Erika told Kids Today.

“And how the parents are coping or have coped with it – our kids feed on our anxiety.”

Erika says during the many lockdowns since the start of the pandemic, many would have their “trauma brain” on 24/7.

“It’s not healthy but that’s what we’ve had to deal with, stuck at home, real life shut down – and especially when the playgrounds closed… that was huge,’ she said.

“Before they were closed, we knew it was bad but we had the playground but when they were closed, it was just like a dagger through the heart.”

For many, the sense of normality was taken away and unfortunately adults weren’t mindful of speaking carefully around their kids.

They pick up so much of what we say, Erika says.

“For many kids Coronavirus is a

monster who ruined their lives, which is kind of true, but if we don’t do as much as we can to express how we are feeling and explain to them what is happening and how we are feeling… they make up the rest with fear and imagination,” she said.

She has some tips about how to be a better parent when you are already feeling anxious yourself: ■ Be aware of yourself Think about how you are feeling right now, can you communicate freely?

Are you overworked? Anxious?

Stressed out? What do you need?

■ You need to fill your cup first We say it all the time. But if we are not feeling our best, we can’t be the best for the ones we love.

■ You need to say how you feel There is no point of having the “she’ll be right” attitude, it’s an unhealthy to deal with trauma. We need to

express how we feel and that is OK and teach our children that its normal to have emotions ■ Set boundaries It’s hard when in lockdown to set your own boundaries but then you need to set new ones. Whether it’s as simple as not having the news on 24/7. Kids aren’t programmed to have that screen time.

And when lockdown is finally over and we’ve reached 90 per cent, ease back into normal life.

Be mindful of how your child is feeling. If they are anxious around large crowds don’t take them to a busy shopping centre during the Christmas rush and don’t fill your house with visitors every day.

Sometimes slowly easing back into normal life is all we need. https://thequeenofconfidence.com

Mum’s experience helps acne sufferers

By Melissa Meehan WHEN Judy Cheung-Wood was a teenager, she suffered terrible acne.

And it followed her into adulthood.

“I started all of the brands at the supermarket but I found they ended up irritating my skin, so by the time I was in uni I was using very expensive products – I didn’t care if the bottle was $50 and when it didn’t work I just kept trying he next product,” Judy told Kids Today.

“So it got to the point that I had exhausted the market and I was reading some research about the benefits of vitamin B5 and I was absolutely fascinated.”

From there, this busy Melbourne mum of one started her holistic business, called SkinB5 that saw her win the gold in the 2021 AusMumpreneur Global Brand Award as well as a silver for product innovation and multicultural business excellence.

“For decades, no one challenged the conventional approach to treating acne – using harsh chemicals to kill bacteria associated with acne breakouts, merely managing the symptoms,” Judy said.

“These wins showcase the traction www.BaysideGlenEiraKids.com.au

that we have made and help refuel our passion to help acne sufferers with our nutraceutical Australian made products.”

SkinB5 is an Australian made skincare product composed of dermanutraceuticals, which treat acne holistically without side effects.

And it now has health professionals are recommending SkinB5 as an alternative to prescription acne medication.

The patented vitamin formula found in SkinB5 addresses the underlying causes of acne rather than just the symptoms.

Thousands of acne sufferers have left 5 star reviews and they call SkinB5 a ‘game changer’.

“In healing my own skin, I’m deeply driven to help others confidently present their full face and vision to the world,” Judy said.

It is no surprise she went down that path either, her grandfather was a chemist and manufacturer of natural skin products too.

She believes she has inherited his expertise and passion for traditional, nutritional medicine and creation of

natural skincare products.

It is no mean feat creating a skincare empire with a young daughter in tow, she’s now seven, but Judy says it’s really important to set aside some me time.

Judy built the business from a ground up, launching online with no advertising.

However, with a little help from her friends at AusTrade – who invited her on an international trip to sell her wares before she even had a product.

“We had an idea, but no product – so we had to get that sorted before we went on that trip,” she said.

Now, she sells her product worldwide, includes Singapore, Philippines.

“I always use the philosophy of putting on an oxygen mask on yourself when in a plane before you out it on your child, and in life I think we have to do that,” she said.

“I actually schedule a walk every day in my calendar because it doesn’t happen otherwise.”

To read more about Judy’s product go to www.skinb5.com

Melbourne mum Judy Cheung-Wood started her own business based on her experience with teenage acne.

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Reality Bites

Pandemic pregnancy from London to Melbourne

By Melissa Meehan BEING pregnant during the Covid-19 pandemic and subsequent lockdowns is tough.

But imagine being stranded on the other side of the world, numerous flights cancelled and having only two weeks until you’re no longer legally allowed to fly.

This was a reality for Melbourne mum Radhika Sahu and her husband Utkarsh.

The pair were living in London when Radhika was first pregnant and lived there for seven-and-a-half months of her pregnancy.

It was during the height of the pandemic in the UK – all retail and services were closed.

“It’s safe to say we did a lot of walking, discovering London on foot,” Radhika said.

But while seeing London from a different view was exciting, the reality of the pandemic coming to an end sooner than later seemed like

an impossible dream.

It seemed unlikely they would be able to travel home with the new baby or have family come visit.

“Thankfully we had flights booked through my husband’s work, but despite that we had five cancellations before we were able to board a flight home,” she said.

“If we were cancelled once more, I doubt we would have been able to come home. I was two weeks away from not being able to fly while pregnant.”

Mum Radhika and her daughter Aneeka.

February 2021. Melbourne went into a snap lockdown just one day later.

“There was definitely tears when we landed, we thought thank God we made it,” she said.

Thankfully the lockdown only lasted five days, and Radhika and Aneeka were able to connect with other mums and bubs through their local mothers group a few times before the longer lockdown of 2021.

From there they had seven weeks to find somewhere to live and buy all of the baby necessities.

“I have the most amazing mum’s group, I am so thankful for them,” she said.

Luckily for them, the shops were open during that time.

She said being able to meet face-toface allowed them to bond before they were forced to connect virtually.

So the couple flew to Brisbane where they completed their two week quarantine and then to Melbourne.

Baby Aneeka was born on 8

Picture: Rob Carew

And while her pregnancy wasn’t exactly what was expected, being able to live in the same city as her family (pandemic or not) gave Radhika some perspective on the issue.

“We are just so thankful to be back in Melbourne. That was our priority and looking at the bigger picture, I’m just so happy to be in the same city as my family,” she said.

“Sure there are things we would have loved to do, including getting some more travel in or being a little bit more prepared in terms of shopping – but we are just so glad that we got back home.”

From little things big things grow

By Melissa Grant

pretty much put a box of tampons at the end of my bed,” she explained.

MUM of three Rebecca Little is big on making a difference.

“It was my 12th birthday party where I got my period and I ended up sitting out of my own birthday party. I had no idea what to do with a tampon.”

Whether it’s empowering young females through her new project Little Miss Period or using her profile to help charities, Bec is a busy mum who is making her mark.

It’s a situation she doesn’t want her own girls - and other young females - to experience.

And with three young girls, including three-year-old twins, a business and managing an Instagram account with more than 48,000 followers, Bec admits that life can be pretty hectic.

“I just want that openness with my girls. I want them to feel supported and empowered in every decision that takes place around their body and know that they’re in charge,” she said.

“I think for the everyday person that being a mum is a full-time job obviously now I’m juggling that and the Instagram, Little Miss Period and my husband (Dion) works really long hours.

I would consider it a full-time job times three!” the 33-year-old Victorian said, with a laugh.

“I guess I wanted to make it (getting periods) fun and exciting and not such a scary thing.”

During lockdown in July Bec launched Little Miss Period, although the idea had been brewing for a while.

The period boxes are intended to be a celebratory gift for a girl when she starts menstruation. The boxes are fun but informative with a ‘Welcome to Your Period’ book, tampons, pads, period briefs, a wheat bag and more.

The business, which started off as selling ‘period boxes’, stemmed from her own transition into womanhood.

The concept has taken off with Bec receiving orders every day. It has also evolved into a site that sells period underwear, menstrual cups and self-care resources.

“When I was young and going through those stages that my mum

Bec’s is also posting about women’s fashion, children’s fashion, and beauty

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on her Instagram page.

However her early posts were all about travelling as parents.

Bec and husband Dion took their young daughter Charlotte, who was nearly 2 at the time, around America for two months.

“It was just a really spectacular holiday. I guess people loved seeing us travelling to all these incredible landmarks,” Bec said.

“I feel like it definitely took off there.”

More followers came when Bec announced that she and Dion were having twins.

Having such a strong following on Instagram has led Bec to some great opportunities and collaborations.

She became an ambassador for Share the Dignity after the charity put out a call to influencers via social media.

Rebecca Little, with husband Dion and their girls Charlotte, Penelope and Florence.

Picture: Caitlyn Frecklington

toothbrush, just the essentials we all take for granted.

“OCD me took it on and within a week we were able to raise $40,000 in cash and product. I used my network of brands I’d worked with before and so many came to the party.

“It was a very proud moment and something I hope that I can continue to do.”

“We put together 350 bags of essential items you would need in a month shampoo, conditioner, toothpaste,

You can follow Bec on Instagram at rebeccalittle_ or check out Little Miss Period at https://littlemissperiod.com/

Bec donates $2 from each Little Miss Period sale to Share the Dignity.

www.BaysideGlenEiraKids.com.au

Reality Bites

Claire and Beau with their children Jake, Mia and Evie.

Mum’s amazing act to save her son’s life Matching scars... Claire and son Jake.

By Melissa Grant

At the RCH, Claire and her partner Beau met with transplant surgeons and Jake was put on transplant waiting lists in Australia and New Zealand.

SIX-YEAR-OLD Jake Shiels had only two days left on life support when his mum gave him an incredible life-saving gift.

Due to the urgency of the situation, both Claire and Beau underwent tests to see if it was possible one of them could donate part of their liver.

The Melbourne boy was battling a mystery virus that had caused his liver to fail and he needed a transplant to have any chance of surviving.

Claire was watching her son on life support when a surgeon called to inform her she was a match.

Time was running out to find a donor when his mum, Claire DeStratis, discovered she was compatible but donating part of her liver meant risking her own life.

“The surgeons said ‘look, one in four you’re going to have a major complication and one in 200 don’t survive the surgery’,” the mum of three said.

“That was probably one of the things that scared me the most. But I knew that Jake was going to get what he needed regardless of anything that happened to me.

The following day she was admitted to the Austin Hospital for a six-hour surgery to retrieve 20 per cent of her liver. Under police escort, the partial liver was then rushed to the Royal Children’s Hospital for Jake’s 12-hour transplant surgery.

Jake spent weeks in hospital.

Medical Centre in Clayton.

The youngster’s skin had also turned yellow and blood tests revealed he had a viral hepatitis.

“He wasn’t going to get it any other way because they couldn’t find a donor and they could only keep him on life support for a maximum of five days.”

Two weeks of tests failed to uncover what exactly the virus was, but it was clear that his immune system had begun attacking his liver.

The nightmare ordeal started in February this year, less than two weeks after Jake returned to school.

“They said ‘we are going to have to transport him to the RCH (Royal Children’s Hospital) because his liver is failing. He’s going to be going to the transplant ward and he’s going to need a liver transplant’,” Claire explained.

All of a sudden the usually healthy and happy boy felt extremely ill.

“We thought he had gastro but within 24 hours of him vomiting his eyes turned yellow and I knew that wasn’t normal so I rushed him to our local GP,” Claire recalled.

Claire ended up taking Jake to the emergency department at the Monash www.BaysideGlenEiraKids.com.au

“There was no stopping the onslaught of it. There was no minimising the symptoms or anything like that, his liver was failing.

“I watched him deteriorate over 11 days… my heart was just breaking.”

Fortunately Jake responded well to the transplant, with his skin returning to a healthier colour in less than 24 hours.

The entire time, Beau was with Jake while the couple’s daughters Mia and Evie were cared for by their aunt and grandmother. Claire’s workplace rallied to raise over $17,000 while a GoFundMe raised more than $10,000 for the couple.

“Our family and friends showed such great support financially,” Claire said.

“We were able to put all our energy into Jake’s recovery and my recovery without the financial worry.”

Claire spent an entire week laying in a hospital bed wondering how her little boy was faring.

When the pair finally reunited Jake’s face lit up and he proudly pointed to the scar on his stomach.

“I said to him, ‘mum has one too honey’,” Claire said.

Claire has recovered well and it is believed her liver has regrown and returned to its pre-surgery size.

Jake had some complications following his life-saving surgery - his lung collapsed and a blood clot that formed on his liver had to be removed.

After the transplant, it was discovered that Jake’s mystery illness was slapped cheek, a virus he previously caught and fought off but had caused an immune response so heightened it attacked the liver.

Jake will take immunosuppressive medication for the rest of his life and is on a low-fat diet to ensure his liver isn’t under undue pressure.

Apart from that it’s been pretty smooth sailing post-surgery for Jake, who celebrated his 7th birthday in October.

“You look at him today and you wouldn’t even think he has had an organ transplant,” Claire said.

“He is such a good kid and he is such a fighter. Even four of five days after the transplant he was trying to get up and walk… he just took it all in his stride.”

Claire is eternally grateful to the talented surgeons who performed the life saving transplant surgeries.

“Without them and the knowledge they have we wouldn’t be where we are today.

“Jake was operated on for 12 hours, I was operated on for six hours - that’s incredible.

“I can’t thank them enough.”

To register to become an organ and tissue donor, visit donatelife.gov.au SUMMER 2021 19

It’s Your Life

Herb and feta quinoa patties Makes: 20 Prep time: 10 mins + 1 hour

Kid-friendly patties

Cook time: 20 mins Ingredients: ■ 2 ½ cups pre-cooked quinoa ■ ½ cup rolled oats ■ 4 free range eggs ■ 180g feta cheese ■ 4 shallots ■ 1 cup chopped fresh herbs – parsley, dill and mint work well

i th in the kitchen

■ Zest of half a lemon ■ Olive oil for frying Instructions:

with Lucy Stewart

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked quinoa, oats, eggs, feta cheese, chopped herbs, shallots and lemon zest and mix together until everything is well combined.

Place in the fridge to set for one hour.

DID you know herbs can pack in just as much nutrition as vegetables? Just like green leafy vegetables, fresh herbs are a good source of vitamins A, C and K and contain polyphenols – powerful plant compounds that have both antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Herbs are also alkalising and help support the bodies natural detoxification processes.

Growing herbs is a great way to help kids understand where their food comes from and research shows that children who are involved in the preparation of their food – especially vegetables – develop a more positive attitude towards, and preferences for, those foods.

You don’t need a big garden to grow them in either, just a few pots on the window sill will do.

2. Using a tablespoon of mixture, form 20 small patties with your hands.

Lucy Stewart in the kitchen with her son Otis.

Picture: Studio 74 Photography

Some of my favourite herbs for kids to grow include: mint, basil, dill, chives and parsley. Their fragrance and mild versatile flavours mean kids can happily pick, smell and eat the leaves raw or sprinkle them over some of their favourite dishes - even just a small amount goes a long way to giving them a nutritional boost.

These little herb and feta quinoa patties are full of freshness and make a great lunchbox addition or vegetarian burger option.

Quinoa is high in protein and fibre, two important nutrients that work to keep kids tummies feeling fuller for longer and their energy levels stable.

3. Heat olive oil in a frying pan over a medium heat. Add the patties and fry for about 2-3 minutes on each side or until golden brown.

4. Store leftovers in the fridge for up to five days.

Lucy Stewart is a mum who is nutritionist specialising in babies and kids health, and a recipe developer.

You can find more of her recipes at https://lucystewartnutrition.com

PArty Time

Born to party Little Devils Circus ARE you ready for an amazing birthday party experience?

Little Devils Circus parties are voted ‘BEST EVER!’ by kids and parents alike, every week, all year round! Little Devil’s Circus also runs school holiday programs and studio classes.

12523041-NG48-21

Finding an awesome birthday party venue for your child can be a challenge. Come to the Circus Studio and have a party that your kids and

their friends will talk about for years to come!

03 9555 1591 20 SUMMER 2021

www.BaysideGlenEiraKids.com.au

Entertainment

Get creative at Robert Gordon If you’ve never worked with ceramics before you needn’t worry. Friendly staff are on-hand to show you how.

The paint your own pottery workshop is popular with families. All you have to do is choose your pot, decorate with paint and collect your masterpiece 14 days later.

Built To Survive will be filmed on location in remote and wilderness environments throughout Queensland.

Robert Gordon is a great place to visit with the family.

serves up relaxed, homestyle meals with beautiful coffee.

Robert Gordon is located at 114 Mulcahy Road, Pakenham and is open 7 days 9am-5pm. Online bookings for the Paint Your Own Pottery and workshops are essential. Phone 03 5941 3302. www.robertgordonaustralia.com

Consulting with First Nations peoples about habitats and lifecycles, Phil will traverse rivers and deserts, dive deep into the ocean, scale trees and use science in a bid to explore some of the strangest and most specialised animal adaptations on the planet.

Libbie Doherty, ABC Head of Children’s Production said the show would take children on a wild ride.

“Aussie kids are adventurers at heart, captivated by our unique land, curious wildlife and Indigenous knowledge,” she said.

Phil Breslin, host of the new children’s TV series Built to Survive.

“Phil’s fresh perspective combines all three and takes the ABC ME audience on a wild ride across Australia.”

The series is being produced by Butter Media, with the support of the Australian Children’s Television Foundation (ACTF).

Built to Survive will screen on ABC ME and ABC iview in 2022.

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Located in the heart of Pakenham, the outlet is a great place to visit with the family. They have a large selection of homewares, baskets and textiles.

There’s also the Nancy Eatery, which

Production is underway on Built to Survive, a 10-part children’s natural history factual series.

Phil will brave some of the country’s most extreme and hostile environments in search of the ultimate animal survivors. These are species that have evolved their unique qualities to withstand Australia’s extreme conditions and unique ecosystems.

Robert Gordon offers workshops in wheel throwing, handbuilding and paint your own pottery.

The workshops take place in a new studio space at Robert Gordon Pottery factory outlet.

AUSTRALIA’S ultimate animal survivors will be featured in a new children’s series on ABC ME.

The series is spearheaded by wildlife aficionado, biologist and third generation Indigenous educator, Phil Breslin.

ANYONE can get creative at Robert Gordon, with workshops for all ages.

If you’re after something more extensive, you should check out Robert Gordon’s six-week pottery course. The course covers hand building, wheel throwing, moulding, sculpture and painting in a friendly atmosphere.

A wild ride for young viewers

www.BaysideGlenEiraKids.com.au

SUMMER 2021 21

Books

A ‘Wandi’ful book for kids

By Melissa Grant THERE’S a true story about a dingo pup that fell out of the sky and into the backyard of a Victorian home.

Now that story is being shared in the form of a children’s book to raise awareness about purebred alpine dingoes, a species in need of protection.

Critically acclaimed author Favel Parrett wrote the book Wandi, named after the dingo that she’s come to know incredibly well.

Favel volunteers at the Dingo Discovery Sanctuary, where Wandi has lived since falling from the sky in August 2019.

Marks on Wandi’s back suggested he was picked up by a wedge-tail eagle or an owl and taken from his home in the mountains and dropped into a suburban backyard in Wandiligong, near Bright.

A woman found Wandi, who was just five weeks old at the time, crying in a garden and initially thought he was a dog or fox. However, DNA testing revealed he was in fact a purebred alpine dingo.

Wandi was taken to Dingo Discovery Sanctuary, where he was nursed back to health and paired with a female cub.

Wandi became an overnight sensation, with his incredible survival story making headlines around the world.

It’s a story Parrett wanted to tell in a children’s book. She longs for young readers to fall in love with alpine dingoes like she has.

Parrett met her first dingo a few years ago while visiting the sanctuary for a ‘cuddle a cub’ tour.

She thought she would be cuddling some cute cubs, but was instead blown away by what she discovered about the species.

She knew she was in the “presence of greatness” when she learned that they could hear human heartbeats from 25 metres away.

“They are hyper intelligent, their intelligence is beyond,” she said.

“Also, wherever their head can fit, they can fit. They can dislocate both of their shoulders and their hips.”

Parrett is at the sanctuary twice a

Wandi the dingo dingo.

week and has seen Wandi come leaps and bounds since meeting him as a four-month-old pup.

The wonder dingo recently became a dad to six cubs and has amassed more than 56,000 followers on Instagram.

Wandi’s journey to fatherhood is central to the book. According to Parrett, it’s a story of hope as it ends with the famous dingo having his own family. However he is missing his own parents and siblings and wishing they could all be free in the wild.

Author Favel Parrett is passionate about dingoes.

Unfortunately, Parrett says it’s impossible to “rewild” the sanctuary’s dingoes due to the threats they face. including being shot by hunters.

of great need,” she said.

Parrett hopes her story can rewrite the role of alpine dingoes and teach children to be proud of the apex predator.

She believes Wandi’s fall from the sky has a purpose.

Wandi is available at local bookstores.

The book is also available at wandithedingo.com.au, with all proceeds from the book and merchandise going to the sanctuary.

“Wandi has come here for a reason, we believe Wandi came to us at a time

You can also follow Wandi on Instagram at wandi_dingo

“He’s our ambassador to show, let’s give dingoes a chance… and say, hey let’s be proud.”

Children’s books...

Cookie

Little Big Bully

Isabelle Duff, illustrated by Susannah Crispe

Trace Moroney

A heartwarming book about the beautiful bond between Girl and her Border Collie Cookie that is a sensitive exploration of childhood depression. The inseparable pair play together and learn how to make each other happy, even on the days when Cookie is the only one who can make Girl smile. The book is inspired by the author’s personal experiences with acute depressive disorder and anxiety, and by her wonderful dog, Saffy, who has been an invaluable support to her. A valuable resource for reducing stigmatism around mental illness, and a tribute to the loved ones who are able to get you out of bed when nothing else can.

A thoughtful book that sensitively describes how and why bullying happens. It explores a range of wellresearched techniques to develop coping skills and proactive strategies that describe what to do when bullying occurs.

Little Big Bully is part of Trace Moroney’s new My Emotions Series about big feelings for little people. The first of two titles in the series (the other is The Grief Wave) which equips kids with valuable skills to navigate their way through life’s ups and downs.

A must read for kids aged 4+ eQ Publications, RRP $20.99

Kid President Totally Rules!

Who’s a Goose?

Deltora Quest

Scott Stuart

Emily Rodda

Jack Health, illustrated by Max Rambaldi

A hilarious book about two gaggling geese that will make kids giggle. The geese are grappling with how collective nouns apply to a variety of animals, from a barrel of monkeys to a cool waddle of penguins. One goose is goose, and two goose is geese… you get the idea! Serious Bruce is trying to teach silly-billy Bill but it’s not going that well. And when some foxes arrive, the lesson is pretty much over! With animated illustrations and rhyming text, this is a fun read for kids aged 3+

A special 21st anniversary edition of Deltora Quest from award-winning author Emily Rodda that features the much-loved series of eight books.

What would your child do if they were president? In this comedy from award-winning Aussie author Jack Heath, Jaxxon has accidentally been elected as the first Kid President. He wants free ice-cream in schools, homework to be made illegal and national parks to become skate parks. Sounds awesome, right? Well not everyone is happy and they want Jaxxon kicked out of the presidential office. Can Jaxxon remain president and show everyone that he totally rules? For readers aged 9+ Scholastic Australia, RRP $17.99

Scholastic Australia, RRP $17.99

Three companions - Leif, Barda and Jasmine - are on a quest to find the seven lost gems of the Belt of Deltora. Once the belt is complete the evil rule of Shadow Lord will be overcome.

This gripping novel is set in the fantasy world of Deltora, a kingdom of magic and monsters, bordered by the sea and a vast, curving mountain range, beyond which is an unknown territory called the Shadowlands.

For readers aged 8+ Scholastic Australia, RRP $39.99

EK Books, RRP $24.99 22 SUMMER 2021

www.BaysideGlenEiraKids.com.au

Kids Calendar

What's on

this summer

18 DECEMBER

UNTIL 23 DECEMBER

UNTIL 25 DECEMBER

costumes, movie sets, sketches and more.

CHRISTMAS QUEST

SHRINE KIDS

CHRISTMAS SQUARE

Enjoy a fun and unique Melbourne Christmas adventure with Marvel Studios’ Hawkeye.

The Shrine of Remembrance is offering a free self-guided program for families with primary school-aged children.

There are four different activity cards that provide a starting point for fresh perspectives of the Shrine. Kids are asked to consider and conjure their creative responses to a range of questions related to different aspects of the Shrine.

See Christmas come to life at Melbourne’s Federation Square. There will be plenty of festive decorations and the city’s iconic 16-metre light-up tree.

ACMI (Australian Centre for the Moving Image), Federation Square

Get your Quest Card from the Melbourne Visitor Hub. Then follow the clues to navigate through laneways and arcades to find the answers, with some help from your favourite Avenger.

Decipher all the clues and complete the Quest for the chance to win prizes.

Free event. No bookings required.

Bookings not required. All children must be accompanied by an adult.

UNTIL 20 DECEMBER

Shrine of Remembrance, Birdwood Ave, Melbourne

HOCUS POCUS: MAGIC WITH ELIO SIMONETTI

UNTIL 24 DECEMBER

An online video series starring master magician Elio Simonetti who explains how to perform some astonishing tricks you can do to amaze your family and friends.

A free event for kids aged 5-12 years.

No bookings required.

More information: https://www. melbourne.vic.gov.au/

Free event. No bookings required.

UNTIL 25 DECEMBER CHRISTMAS PROJECTIONS

Check out Santa’s Workshop at Federation Square.

The much-loved Christmas projections are back at Melbourne Town Hall. See five gorgeous adornments, complete with a countdown to Christmas clock.

While visiting, go and see the projections at Chapter House Lane and Hamer Hall too.

Say hello and pose for a free photo (from a Covid-safe distance of course!).

Nightly 9pm-11pm. Bookings not required.

Santa will be in his workshop daily from 10am-2pm, then 1pm to 3pm right up until Christmas Eve. You can also catch him on Thursdays and Fridays between 4pm and 7pm.

ALL SUMMER

SANTA’S WORKSHOP

Check-in, proof of vaccination required and capacity limited. Expect small waiting times during busy periods.

Free event. No bookings required.

www.BaysideGlenEiraKids.com.au

New additions include sparkling neon trees, giant bell swings, beautiful baubles and other glittering new decorations.

THE STORY OF THE MOVING IMAGE An exhibition that traverses time, countries and cultures in a mesmerising exploration of an art form that changed the world and illuminated our collective humanity. The free vent features ancient shadow puppets, Victorian-era magic lanterns, original cameras, iconic

More information: https://www.acmi. net.au/whats-on/story-of-the-movingimage-exhibition/

PAINT YOUR OWN POTTERY Robert Gordon’s paint your own pottery workshop is popular with families. All you have to do is choose your pot, decorate with paint and collect your masterpiece 14 days later.

The workshops take place in a new studio space at Robert Gordon Pottery factory outlet.

Online bookings for the workshops are essential.

Robert Gordon is located at 114 Mulcahy Road, Pakenham. Phone 03 5941 3302 or visit www.robertgordonaustralia.com

LUNA PARK For good old fashioned summer fun, head to Luna Park.

Step through the famous mouth of Mr Moon, enjoy a ride on The Great Scenic Railway and take a spin on the newest Supernova ride for spectacular views of the city and Port Phillip Bay. Choose your horse and ride the magical carousel, try out your dodgem skills or go back in time on the retro-scary Ghost Train.

Luna Park is open every weekend, Victorian school holidays and every public holiday except Christmas Day. www.lunapark.com.au SUMMER 2021 23

RCA Villages extends our best wishes to our community of retirees as the year draws to a close.

May you all enjoy a happy, healthy and peaceful Festive Season and New Year.

Visit one of our three villages on the Peninsula during summer to explore your retirement future.

Final Release – Stage 6 Now Selling 111 Craiggie Road Mt Mar tha FREECALL

1800 998 990 marthabay.com.au

101 Pickings Rd, Safety Beach h

107 Bungoower Rd Morrnington n

1800 633 126

1800 445 666

marthacovvevillage.ccom m.au u

beleuraavillaage.com.au

12523504-SG50-21

24 SUMMER 2021

www.BaysideGlenEiraKids.com.au