Kids on the Coast Magazine - Gold Coast - Issue 80. May/June 2019

ISSUE 80 May/June 2019 GOLD COAST

www.kidsonthecoast.com.au

FREE TO TAKE HOME

TAKE A KID-TASTIC WEEKEND IN NOOSA WHAT’S ON FOR KIDS ON THE GOLD COAST

Family owned with female dentist and oral health therapist / oral myologist

NEW DENTAL SERVICE GOES BEYOND YOUR TEETH Going to the dentist isn’t just about brushing your teeth and cavity protection!

Family owned Gold Coast Dental and Denture Centre is excited to launch the only dedicated area and special program for children with nonnutritive habits. The centre will be the only certified practice on the Gold Coast to offer the ‘Thumb Sucking Program’.

growth in children’s oral health,” said Imola Foster. “We are parents of young children ourselves and the passion has come from lack of services for early years’ intervention.”

Additional services offered include: • Tongue Tie assessment and release with laser.

• Oral Myology – developing good oral habits around correct breathing, swallowing and oral habits.

Owners James and Imola Foster pride themselves on creating a child friendly environment and along with Dr Philippa McCarron their aim is to help children grow healthy teeth and jaws into adulthood.

• Pre-orthodontic treatment with the Myobrace system.

“Our team and practice has grown from a denture clinic to a family practice with a passion for early intervention, developmental assessment and detecting

Imola and Dr McCarrons’ goal as mothers and providers is to help young children and families achieve the best growth of their child’s jaws.

CERTIFIED THUMB SUCKING CESSATION PROGRAM AND DEDICATED CHILDREN’S TREATMENT AREA

BOOK NOW

268 Ferry Road, Southport

5532 4168 www.gcdentalcentre.com.au

No out of pocket for families with private health insurance with dental

Cover for children up to the age of 17

No gap payment for eligible children with Medicare Dental Cover

WELCOME

D

o you remember the last time you really immersed yourself in a book?

I’ve always been an avid reader and I devoured books and magazines as a child. But the busy life I lead nowadays never gives me time to sit down and completely get lost in the pages. I might get through a page or two, then either fall asleep (yup, always tired!) or I have to spring back into action at the calls of ‘MUM!’ once more.

But what if I’d never developed that love for reading? Would I be writing this today? Probably not.

I had no idea the simple process of reading would be opening doors I never knew existed.

So, how do we ensure a love for reading is instilled in our little ones, and encourage reluctant readers to try again?

Therefore, this issue we are all about reading, and the real-life superpowers that a love for reading

DON’T

MISS OUT!

can bring to our kids. So much more than simply turning pages, these superpowers might just open doors for them too, and give them the best possible start in life.

As well as becoming bookworms, we take a quick trip up to the Sunshine Coast to enjoy a kid-tastic weekend in Noosa. And closer to home, we check out the familyfriendly festivals that will hit the Gold Coast this autumn.

We also sit down and chat to the amazing mamas behind the Coast’s favourite markets – The Village Markets.

And as always, we have a round-up of the best events the Gold Coast has to offer throughout May and June as well as the usual local news, reviews and more.

With love and sunshine,

Be the first to know what’s on, plus all the competitions, news and more delivered straight to your inbox each week.

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Angela xo

kidsonthecoast.com.au

THE TEAM

PUBLISHER & EDITOR IN CHIEF Angela Sutherland

PUBLISHER & SALES DIRECTOR Helen Rush

ADMIN/ ACCOUNTS Sheryl Thomson

facebook.com/kidsonthecoast kidsinthecitymagazine K I D S O N T H E C O A S T.C O M . A U • K I D S I N T H E C I T Y.C O M . A U

ACCOUNT MANAGER Bridget Vallis

DEPUTY EDITOR Amardy Baucke

SOCIAL MEDIA MANAGER Amy Lou

PRODUCTION MANAGER Tanya Nissen

GRAPHIC DESIGN Danielle Lunn

facebook.com/kidsinthecitymagazinebrisbane kidsonthecoastmagazine pinterest.com/kidsonthecoast issuu.com/kidsonthecoastmagazine M AY / J U N E 2019

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CONTENTS

Features

PUBLISHED BY

15

SH RE

19

MEDIA

EDUCATION: Is reading the ultimate

TRAVEL: Want to take a mini-break with the

superpower for kids? We chat to the

family? We hit the freeway to take a kid-tastic

experts to find out.

weekend in Noosa.

EVIE (6)

HENRY (5)

PO Box 852, Coolum Beach, QLD 4573 inbox@shoremedia.com.au Phone 07 5471 2362

More than just a magazine, we are a vibrant community, bringing the best in local news, events, features and more to parents across the Sunshine Coast, Gold Coast and Brisbane.

Made by local parents, for local parents, we strive to be the first place families come to connect – where they are understood, united and inspired.

LILAH (6)

ADVERTISING Evie wears: Leopard Bolt Tee, Classic Trainer, Indie Slouch Jean / Cotton On Kids

Regulars

Henry wears: Tiny Superhero Sleeveless Hoodie, Checkered Pants / My Little Wardrobe // B Collection Sneakers / Big W

Lilah wears: #Hangry Jumper, Acid Wash Denim Overalls / My Little Wardrobe // Girls Buckle Boots / Big W

Wands: YouMeJP on Etsy | Capes and Masks: Courtesy of Sunshine Coast Libraries | Glasses: Options Eyecare, Peregian Beach | Photography: Giselle Images, Maroochydore

LOCAL NEWS: The latest news from across the region ..........................................................8 THINGS TO DO: We check out the upcoming festivals to hit the Gold Coast.................. 10 CHECK THIS OUT: The latest products topping our #want list ..........................................12 CLASSIFIEDS: Family-friendly products and services..........................................................24 LOCAL LIFE: We meet the mamas behind The Village Markets..........................................25

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BRISBANE: brisbane@shoremedia.com.au 0424 577 706

Ad booking: 12 June Art deadline: 12 June

WHAT’S ON: The best local events for May and June..............................................................6

4

GOLD COAST: goldcoast@shoremedia.com.au 0468 868 087

JULY/AUGUST 2019 BOOKING DEADLINES

FROM THE EDITOR ................................................................................................................ 3

We encourage recycling. Please keep this issue for future reference, pass onto your friends and family, use for craft projects or place into the recycling bin.

SUNSHINE COAST: helen@shoremedia.com.au 0424 577 706

Distributed directly to parenting hotspots across Southeast Queensland: Brisbane, Gold Coast & Sunshine Coast.

For distribution enquiries inbox@shoremedia.com.au Printed at Printcraft All editorial and advertising in Kids on the Coast and Kids in the City publications are published in good faith based on material, verbal or written, provided by contributors and advertisers. No responsibility is taken for errors or omissions and opinions expressed do not necessarily reflect those of the publisher. All material in Kids on the Coast and Kids in the City is subject to copyright provisions. No part of this publication may be reproduced without written permission from the publisher.

Feedback, comments or suggestions?

Send to: inbox@shoremedia.com.au.

We aim to reply to all correspondence.

K I D S O N T H E C O A S T.C O M . A U • K I D S I N T H E C I T Y.C O M . A U

Discover their strength Your child’s education should not be the same as their classmates. Why? Your child has unique gifts and deserves teachers who seek opportunities for progress, every school day. Today’s Catholic schools offer this and more by not only pursuing academic excellence but excellence in all pursuits.

Find out more at

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Schools

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WHAT’S ON VISIT OUR WEBSITE TO SEE MORE EVENTS! S I G N U P AT K I D S O N T H E C O A S T.C O M . A U / K I D S I N T H E C I T Y.C O M . A U F O R O U R W E E K LY W H AT ’ S O N G U I D E

5 JUNE Redland Performing Arts Centre rpac.com.au

7 JULY Robina Community Centre 8 JULY Tweed Heads Civic Centre kidspromotions.com.au

Celebrate World Environment Day at Redland Performing Arts Centre with Manilayo the humpback whale! This highly interactive and playful performance is full of slapstick, clowning and a 9-metre whale that can swallow you whole. This timely tale is guaranteed to give you a belly laugh and leave you and your children wanting to make a difference for our oceans. Tickets are $12-$20.

Free Kids Show Every Sunday, 5pm – 7pm Southport Sharks southportsharks.com.au

Every Sunday at Southport Sharks, kids can enjoy the hugely entertaining Laugh Out Loud (LOL) Crew – a fantastic, magical overload of interactive fun with non-stop party games, dancing, singing, puppets, prizes and more.

Everyone’s favourite television show Play School is touring Queensland this June with ‘Humpty’s Showtime’. Join Humpty as he gathers together the Play School Toys to help him put on a surprise show! There are starring roles for Jemima, Big Ted, Little Ted and guest appearances from other Play School favourites along the way. Filled with fun songs, this 45-minute show will delight Play School fans.

Wicked HOTA 25 JUNE – 6 JULY hota.com.au

Wicked tells the incredible story of an unlikely but profound friendship between two sorcery students: the blonde and popular Glinda and a misunderstood green girl Elphaba.

Their extraordinary adventures in Oz will ultimately see them fulfil their destinies as Glinda the Good and Elphaba the Wicked Witch of the West.

GOLD COAST WEET-BIX KIDS TRYATHLON 5 MAY, Broadwater Parklands tryathlon.com.au

Discover a safe environment at the Gold Coast Weet-Bix Kids TRYathalon where kids can focus on enjoying time with friends on the course or in activities around the TRYathlon Village. Every child, no matter their ability, is considered a champion and encouraged by Weet-Bix Kids TRY Heroes.

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LOGAN ECO ACTION FESTIVAL (LEAF) 26 MAY, 10AM – 3PM Griffith University, Logan Campus

This free interactive festival is designed to inspire and empower visitors to find new ways to decrease their environmental footprint. Enjoy workshops, children’s activities, live music as well as eco demonstrations and access to eco businesses.

K I D S O N T H E C O A S T.C O M . A U • K I D S I N T H E C I T Y.C O M . A U

* WE PUBLISH INFORMATION BASED ON WHAT IS SUPPLIED TO US - TO THE BEST OF OUR KNOWLEDGE ALL DETAILS ARE CORRECT AT THE TIME OF PRINTING, HOWEVER WE DO RECOMMEND YOU CHECK EVENT DETAILS WITH THE ORGANISERS.

Humpty’s Showtime

The Whale’s Tale

Long Day Care | Vacation Care Before & After School Care

We are the home of Bush Kindy Explorers, a unique nature-play program for young adventurers

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WEEKS TO PRE P

We welcome new families with 2 weeks FREE!

(07) 5539 6144 www.GCChildCareCentres.com.au

Mudgeeraba - Benowa - Bundall

Arts South Australia

LOCAL NEWS VISIT OUR WEBSITE FOR MORE NEWS: KIDSONTHECOAST.COM.AU GOT A STORY TO SHARE? EMAIL OUR EDITOR ON INBOX@SHOREMEDIA.COM.AU

MY LIT TLE WARDROBE JUST GOT BIGGER Local baby and kids’ boutique, My Little Wardrobe, has taken its online shop to the next level, launching its own range of personalised and custom-printed tops.

Designed and made on the Gold Coast, MLW BY DESIGN combines kids personalisation and fashion to offer the nation’s kids some majorly trendy threads.

It all started back in 2015 when Sofia was on maternity leave and couldn’t find that one-stop shop with everything for her little man. So, she followed her instincts and launched her own online store.

Today, MLW has grown to become one of Australia’s favourite baby and kids e-commerce stores, sourcing the trendiest kids’ threads locally and globally.

From cool and funky baby clothing to swimwear, tanks, tees and hoodies, the store caters for ages 0 to 10.

THE WORD FOR LOVING THE SMELL OF OLD BOOKS IS BIBLIOSMIA. The English word ‘alphabet’ comes from the names of the first two letters of the Greek alphabet: alpha and beta.

YOU CAN WRITE OUT NUMBERS ALL THE WAY TO 1,000 BEFORE USING THE LETTER A.

THERE ARE OVER 130 MILLION BOOKS IN PRINT. THE TERM ‘BOOKWORM’ COMES FROM INSECTS WHO FEED ON THE BINDING OF BOOKS.

The three most read books in the world are The Holy Bible, Quotations from Chairman Mao Tse-Tung, and Harry Potter.

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Find out more at www.mylittlewardrobe.com.au

SUSTAINABLE SCHOOL AWARD OPEN ON THE GOLD COAST

Sustainable Schools Network and Gecko Environment Council have initiated the inaugural School Sustainability Awards with the intention to get the students to take a closer look at sustainability in their school.

“There has been a need to get the schools further involved in sustainability on the Gold Coast. To introduce School Sustainability Awards will ensure new opportunities for students and the whole school community to approach the wider concept of sustainability,” Katie Norman, Sustainable Schools Network CEO said.

The aim is for the Awards to become an annual highlight for both the school year and curriculum on the Coast. Entries close on 24 May and the finalist will be announced on 31 May.

School Sustainability Awards is an initiative of Sustainable Schools Network Limited and Gecko Environment Council Assn Inc and is hosted as part of 2019 Sustainability Symposium and Gold Coast Green Week.

K I D S O N T H E C O A S T.C O M . A U • K I D S I N T H E C I T Y.C O M . A U

ENROLMENTS FILLING FAST! CALL NOW 07 5551 6711

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Sign-up for our newsletter with games and tips to help your child develop these skills DOWNLOAD OUR FREE BOOKLET

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THE COAST IS ON The Gold Coast will burst into life this autumn with a spectacular program of family-friendly festivals.

Fire

SeaFire 31 M AY – 1 J U N E

surfersparadise.com

Over two huge nights, Surfers Paradise will become a playground of light, music and entertainment with Australia’s only international fireworks competition, SeaFire.

Setting off world-class pyrotechnic displays from ocean barges, and choreographed to musical soundtracks, teams from the USA, South Korea and New Zealand will compete in the Challenger Final on Friday night. Saturday night will see the successful team contest the 2018 winner, Team Philippines, for the SeaFire championship. The event will finish with a bang as SkyLighter, Australia’s leading pyrotechnics team, light up the sky with an Australian exhibition piece.

Thrilling aerial spectacles will spark each night’s entertainment – stuntmen and skydivers decked in the brightest and loudest fireworks will fall from the sky, while jet skis will cut through the whitewash below, leaving a trail of light in their wake.

Cavill Mall will be alive with multicultural acts and the award-winning Beachfront Markets will be operating both nights from 4pm – 9pm.

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Surfers Paradise Live

Blues on Broadbeach

3 – 5 M AY

16 – 19 M AY

Surfers Paradise LIVE 2019 will be held from Friday 3rd to Sunday 5th May on the Surfers Paradise beachfront. Kicking off Thursday 2nd May with the 2019 Gold Coast Music Awards this four-day music festival, is proudly presented voco Gold Coast and will host some of Australia’s best and biggest artists. Suitable for all ages, this free festival has a packed daily programme of live shows by local musicians will see the precinct come a-LIVE each day.

Whether you come along to this family friendly event for one night or for the entire festival, you’ll come a-LIVE when you experience some of Australia’s musical legends right here in Surfers Paradise!

With over 20 outdoor stages and venues throughout Broadbeach, the precinct will come alive with plenty of national and international artists performing over four huge days. This free event is family friendly and with everything available within walking distance, you can take your pick of restaurants, cafes, live music, markets, retail and much more!

As thousands of people are expected to head along to Blues on Broadbeach, the easiest way to get to the music festival will be to hop on the G:Link Tram or the bus which stops at the Broadbeach South Tram Station Bus Interchange. Both services run frequently.

Surfers Paradise beachfront surfersparadise.com

Various venues across Broadbeach bluesonbroadbeach.com

K I D S O N T H E C O A S T.C O M . A U • K I D S I N T H E C I T Y.C O M . A U

REDLAND PERFORMING ARTS CENTRE E PRESENTS

CELEB RATE WO ENVIR RLD ONME NT DAY

A BEACHED WHALE, A CONFUSED NAVIGATOR… WHATEVER COULD BE THE MATTER? This highly interactive and playful performance is full of slapstick, clowning and a 9-metre whale that can swallow you whole!

WEDNESDAY 5 JUNE, 10.30AM & 5PM Redland Performing Arts Centre – Concert Hall Tickets: $12-$20 | School Groups – 1 teacher free for every 10 students Bookings: 3829 8131 or www.rpac.com.au Booking fees: $4.30 by phone & $5 online per transaction

FREE ADMISSION

Café now open

Shop sales and PYO

Open June to November Ph: 07 5494 5146 Fax: 07 5494 5425 Email: info@strawberryfields.com.au

This project was co-commissioned by Arts Centre Melbourne and Windmill Theatre. Tour supported by The Playing Queensland Fund and arTour, initiatives of the Queensland Government through Arts Queensland.

AFFORDABLE AND HANDMADE BABY CLOTHES FOR NEWBORNS THROUGH TO TODDLERS FREE DELIVERY AUSTRALIA WIDE ON ORDERS OVER $110 AUD. AUSTRALIAN OWNED AND OPERATED ON THE GOLD COAST, QLD. PERSONALISED CLOTHING AGES 0-10 YEARS OLD

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USE CODE: KOTC FOR 15% OFF STORE WIDE!

CHECK THIS OUT THE LATEST PRODUCTS TOPPING OUR #WANT LIST!

Kids can rule the jungle gym this winter in super-cute leopard print.

LeMU SPLASH-PROOF TRAVEL BAGS Simple, functional and uber-stylish, this range of lightweight splash-proof bags make transporting kids a breeze. The larger size is perfect as a mum’s tote, whilst the mid-sizes are great for wet swimmers, toiletries, nappies, snacks and more. Being so light they are the perfect travel accessory. Versatile, strong and in a fabulous range of sizes and prints, there’s a LeMU bag for everything! From $22 lemuarrival.com

ALCATEL MOVETIME FAMILY WATCH 3G With easy-to-use functions and a colourful touchscreen, the Alcatel Family Watch allows children to connect with family and friends without the worry of them having a phone. Kids can send funny emoji icons and voice messages, and make and receive calls to designated contacts. The watch also provides children with a to-do list and reminder function that makes everyday life easier for parents. The SOS button on the watch enables the device to call for help in an emergency and be located with superior accuracy, while the geofence feature can send alerts when their device exits a pre-set safe zone.

Available exclusively at Vodaphone. $180 vodaphone.com.au

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LEOPARD HAREMS & MATCHING HEADWRAP This gorgeous set from My Little Wardrobe is made for comfort with plenty of room for bubba to grow. Add a white flutter bodysuit and white sandals and you’ve got the perfect outfit! $21.95 for the set. mylittlewardrobe.com.au K I D S O N T H E C O A S T.C O M . A U • K I D S I N T H E C I T Y.C O M . A U

LITTLE STRAWBERRIES REUSABLE NURSING PADS

PATCH COCONUT OIL KIDS ADHESIVE STRIPS Engineered for the future eco warriors of our planet, the Patch KIDS range is made from 100% organic bamboo fibre, enriched with coconut oil in the gauze to help soothe minor abrasions. Let’s not forget the cute panda print, designed to comfort children in life’s little emergencies. RRP: $7.99 patchstrips.com

Measuring 12cm in diameter, these reusable nursing pads are made of three layers - super soft organic bamboo fleece which will soothe a chafed nipple, an absorbent microfibre inner layer and an outer layer of leak proof PUL. Perfect for breastfeeding mummies! Use discount code NEWBORN online to get 10% off all Little Strawberries brand products. littlestrawberries.com.au

CHEEKY CHOMPERS NECKERCHEW FLOSS & ROCK COLOUR CHANGING UMBRELLAS Rainy days just got more fun with these gorgeous colour-changing umbrellas. As the umbrella gets wet more and more crazy colours and patterns appear!

Available in seven fun prints – construction, dinosaur, bunny, fairy, pet, mermaid, and party. $29.99 rainbowfun.com.au

K I D S O N T H E C O A S T.C O M . A U • K I D S I N T H E C I T Y.C O M . A U

If the teether won’t stay put, why not attach it to your baby? Such a simple concept, yet super effective and practical, the Cheeky Chompers Neckerchew is available in 27 unique patterns. All fabric products are machine washable, BPA and phthalates free, and tested to worldwide safety standards. From $24.99 cheekychompers.com.au

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F E AT U R E

MAKE READING YOUR

Superpower What if there was a superpower available to all kids that guarantees them a better start in life?

E

very kid dreams of being a superhero (and many adults too!). Defeating baddies, saving the world, and all of it done in a darn snazzy outfit. And no superhero is complete without a superpower: some can fly; some are part animal; some have super-human strength.

Of course, in the real world, none of this is possible. But there is one thing that can give kids the power for a better start in life… it’s the simple art of reading.

Reading can be a source of frustration in many households.

School readers are boring, jumbled letters don’t seem to make sense, and this can lead to kids rejecting reading from an early age. Once the stubbornness kicks in, sparking a love for reading seems almost impossible.

But what if we can turn that around so kids see reading as their own special superpower?

K I D S O N T H E C O A S T.C O M . A U • K I D S I N T H E C I T Y.C O M . A U

F E AT U R E

ENCOURAGING RELUCTANT READERS • Have books around the house • Set an example and read for fun as a parent • Make reading fun again by finding silly books or reading comics • Do an activity together that has instructions such as building LEGO or baking • Head outdoors – read signs, billboards, menus • Grab a map and guide book and go on a bushwalk or take a drive • Use technology such as apps or e-books, and analyse digital information together

THE ULTIMATE SUPERPOWER Reading is about so much more than picking up a book. Early literacy is critical across all areas of development and is carried through to adult life. Strong early literacy skills lead to higher grades in every subject throughout the school years. Early reading imparts a better attention span and concentration, and proficient literacy enables children to comprehend more of what they are reading. Kids become better researchers, able to extract the necessary information from books, websites and magazines. And being able to recognise a larger number of words by sight provides kids with a greater general knowledge base, enabling them to understand more and learn more about their environment.

As well as the education gains, a love for reading brings many psychological and social benefits too. Reading for fun can improve a sense of connectedness and empathy with the community. It also provides a deeper understanding of personal identity, allowing a child to grow in self-confidence, maturity and independence. Non-fiction ignites a child’s curiosity about places and people, and satisfies curiosity when looking for answers on how the world works, whilst fiction sparks creativity, imagination and

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Therefore, the early years are critical in embedding early literacy skills.

To assist families in this, the Queensland State Government has launched a universal family literacy program called First 5 Forever.

Designed to support families in providing stronger language and literacy environments for young children ages 0–5 years, the program provides a huge range of free resources including Rhymetime and Storytime sessions, and advice on how to bring early literacy into everyday life.

“Children learn best from their primary caregiver,” Karen explains, “and it doesn’t have to be complicated or time-consuming.

Singing, playing and chatting exposes a child to a wealth of early literacy and vocabulary.”

DEFEAT THE SERIOUS BADDIE

Traditionally, reading has had rather a serious reputation. But if it’s going to be promoted to a superpower status, it’s got to get a little ‘pow’ and ‘bam’ happening.

“Treat reading as an adventure, where together you explore new worlds,” Karen says. “It should always be fun and never a chore… something kids are excited to do.”

“Babies and pre-schoolers love nothing more than sitting down with Mum or Dad and enjoying a story, it’s about keeping that engagement and enthusiasm going as they problem-solving skills. grow older.”

In a digital age, the skills that come from And Karen believes that happens best by reading are becomingly increasingly essential giving the power of choice. for success in later life.

“Kids are most enthusiastic when they “We are now in a knowledge-based have the power to choose what they read,” economy where data and analysis make up she says. “Whether silly stories about farts, a large part of future employment,” Karen or non-fiction about spiders, so long as Gawen Young People’s Services Supervisor young kids are reading and enjoying it, that’s from Sunshine Coast Council explains. what matters.”

“Yet, today, 46 per cent of adult Australians Giving kids the space to choose also allows cannot function effectively in them to explore different this information-driven world genres without feeling they are “Kids are most due to poor literacy.” taught or directed. “The enthusiastic when being In a recent study Australia library today is a treasure trove they have the ranked 21st against 45 of fun reading material – with developed countries in magazines, comics, branded power to choose international Grade 4 reading, fiction and more,” Karen says. what they read” so it’s a worrying trend that “And because it is all free, you needs to turn. can borrow whatever you like; test out new things, push the boundaries and explore.”

SUPERPOWERS START EARLY “It’s also important that every child gets Though most children start to formally read their own library card, rather than borrow on at school, research has found that the a parent’s card,” Karen continues. “This not groundwork to make that possible happens only keeps a record of everything each child in the first five years. has read, it also adds to the autonomy; “Up to 90 per cent of a child’s brain giving them the power to choose, borrow development happens in the first five years, and return independently.” and a child’s success at age 10 can be linked And having that choice ultimately gives to the amount of talk they hear from birth to them control over what shape their own age 3,” says Karen. superpower will take.

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2018 QUEENSLAND

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Crikey! Australia Zoo is Queensland’s Top Tourist Attraction 2018!

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weekend in Noosa

A KID-TASTIC

With amazing beaches and loads of fun things to do, Noosa is one of our favourite places to go. But when was the last time you went?

BY CALLUM, AGED 10 (AND MUM)

T

hough it’s so close to home, we don’t go to Noosa nearly enough – for some reason we always seem to end up at Bunnings instead.

So, we’ve sketched up our ideal weekend in Noosa, filled with free and kid-friendly stuff to do, to hopefully inspire Mum and Dad to take us back there again soon!

FRIDAY We’d probably arrive in quite late in the afternoon, so first stop has to be… the beach! Noosa Main Beach is one of the most child-friendly, parent-friendly beaches we’ve been to, and the perfect spot to cool off after a busy week at school. Protected by the headland, the waves are usually calm making it ideal for little kids, even my little sister will go in! There’s some great waves to catch if you have a boogie board or you surf, and Hastings Street is directly opposite if Mum and Dad want to grab coffee, snacks or ice-cream (try Happy Pops Gelato – they are super-yummy).

BEST EATS NEARBY

Kids’ choice: Noosa Surf Club / noosasurfclub.com.au Parent’s choice: Bistro C / bistroc.com.au K I D S O N T H E C O A S T.C O M . A U • K I D S I N T H E C I T Y.C O M . A U

SATURDAY MORNING CLIMB A MOUNTAIN

There are several mountains to choose from, depending on how far you want to walk.

1. Mount Tinbeerwah: Only 15 minutes from Noosa Heads, this is the easiest walk ever (1km round trip) and has great views from the top. The first part of the walking track is paved so even prams can go if you have a baby brother or sister.

2. Mount Ninderry: This trail is a bit longer (about 3kms round trip) but is nicely shaded and not too tricky – my little sister did it with a few breaks along the way (she is only six).

It has two lookouts – do one or do both!

3. Mount Coolum: Though it’s only about 2kms round trip this is a trickier climb (Dad had to carry my little sister at the top part). It’s a super-popular walk, lots of adults even run up and down, so if you are slow it’s best done in the quieter times. Don’t forget your insect repellent here too, the mozzies can be brutal.

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Credit: Tourism & Events Queensland

T R AV E L The Boathouse, Noosaville offers relaxed riverside dining

Walk through the mangroves at Lake Cootharaba

SATURDAY AFTERNOON FUN ON THE NOOSA RIVER

After a busy morning exploring, head over to Noosa River for the afternoon where you can play in the river or try some of the water sports there. At the jetty at Gympie Terrace you can hire a kayak or jet ski, or have a go at stand-up paddle-boarding.

There are boat cruises available along the river if Mum and Dad fancy doing something relaxing. Or if they are feeling more adventurous, join a kayak tour through the Noosa Everglades. There is also a great park – The Pirate Park – next to the jetty, with play equipment, space to run around and barbecues.

Explore the waterways of Noosa Everglades

BEST EATS NEARBY

BEST EATS NEARBY

Kids choice: Noosa Boathouse / noosaboathouse.com.au Parent’s choice: Woodfire Grill Restaurant / woodfiregrill.com.au The terrace here is next to a play park so the kids can have a play whilst Mum and Dad chat.

Kid’s choice: Pizzami / pizzami.com.au Parent’s choice: The Captains Daughter / captainsdaughter.com.au This place has great fish and chips, craft beers and cocktails, and the bar spills onto the village square so we can climb trees and play tiggy whilst Mum and Dad relax.

Locally crafted ceramics from Liquorice Moon

EASY SUNDAY AFTERNOON

EASY SUNDAY MORNING PEREGIAN BEACH MARKETS

Now, we don’t usually like markets, Mum and Dad take ages to go around, and there’s not always heaps to do for kids. But the Peregian Markets are great! It’s quite small and not super-busy, so it’s good for families.

They usually have live music and often have kids’ activities set up in the park. Mum loves the locally-made art and produce, and it’s a really relaxed atmosphere. Make sure you get a donut from the Jam Factory – they are amazing! And stop for a play at the park afterwards – gives Mum and Dad a chance to grab a coffee from the markets or one of the many cafes in Peregian Village.

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NOOSA NATIONAL PARK

Noosa National Park Headland

We’d be happy chilling then heading back to the beach. But Mum and Dad are usually eager for us to be doing something ‘interesting’. If they are insistent, then heading into Noosa National Park is a great compromise. Mum reckons it is some of the region’s most picturesque coastline, so make sure you fill up her phone with plenty of snaps! There’s an easy walk around the headland and there’s plenty of places to stop off along the way – wear your togs and have a swim at Tea Tree Bay Beach, or explore the rocks at Little Cove.

Older kids might want to make the scramble down to the Fairy Pools, but it’s too tricky for my little sister. Watch out for koalas munching leaves in the trees above the footpath too… they are super-chilled!

K I D S O N T H E C O A S T.C O M . A U • K I D S I N T H E C I T Y.C O M . A U

Credit: Tourism & Events Queensland

With great food and a family-friendly vibe The Captains Daughter, Peregian Beach is a must-do

T R AV E L

Bouncey bounce on the giant pillow at North Shore Retreat

KID-FRIENDLY PLACES TO EAT THE VILLAGE BICYCLE Funky pub in Noosa Junction that Dad loves. They do the best burgers and have a good kids’ menu too, and it’s really relaxed so we feel welcome. villagebicyclenoosa.com Drive to Double Island Point, or enjoy a horse ride on the beach

ACTION SUNDAY If you prefer to get out and about on a Sunday, and you have a 4WD, Noosa North Shore is a must!

Take the punt over the river at Tewantin and you are off! Head to Lake Cootharabra for kayaking and water sports, or try horse riding on the beach. You can drive along the beach all the way to Double Island Point, which is an amazing spot to hang out for the day. You’ll need a vehicle permit to drive on the beach, and make sure you check tide times as you can only drive on the the beach at certain times.

If you only have a normal car, you can still go over to North Shore and access the walking and horse riding tracks. Or, if you prefer something more relaxed, head to the North Shore Retreat. The Bar & Bistro has plenty for kids with laser tag, a climbing wall, giant jumping pillow, putt putt golf, a shaded play area, plus great food and a beer garden.

Warning, North Shore can get really busy during school holidays.

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RACQ Noosa

NOOSA MARINA Great selection of places to eat (awesome fish and chips) and some shops for Mum and Dad to wander around. There’s some water fountains to play in at the park nearby too. noosamarina.com.au THE REEF HOTEL Down-toearth hotel with kids’ area that can be seen from the bistro. noosareef.com.au

BETTY’S BURGERS Yum burgers and really handy on Hastings Street. bettysburgers.com.au BOMBETTA Delicious Italian food with amazing pizza and pasta, and super-friendly staff. bombetta.com.au PARADISE ARCADE Yummo Mexican food, with a good range for families.

Mum loved the cocktails. paradisearcade.com.au NOOSA YACHT CLUB Family-friendly bistro, with a good kids’ menu and outdoor seating so it doesn’t matter if we are a bit loud. nyrc.com.au

PLACES TO STAY BIG4 INGENIA HOLIDAYS NOOSA Family-friendly accommodation in Tewantin, with a choice of cabins for every budget. Resort features a camp kitchen, pool, jumping cushion and games room. ingeniaholidays.com.au/noosa Seahaven Noosa

NOOSA INTERNATIONAL RESORT One- and twobedroom self-contained holiday apartments with two lagoon-style pools located close to Hastings Street. noosainternationalresort.com RACQ NOOSA RESORT Perfect for families, there is a range of one- two- and threebed apartments to choose from. The resort also has a

restaurant and bar, two heated pools, a splash park, and kids club during school holidays. racv.com.au PEPPERS RESORT Spacious, chic family accommodation in Noosa Heads, with a range of apartments and villas to choose from. Mum loves the restaurant View by Matt Golinski, they also have a great lagoon pool. peppers.com.au/noosa SEAHAVEN NOOSA Luxury accommodation with everything you need, right on the beach. It has three heated pools, a spa, children’s wading pool and a choice of family-friendly apartments. seahavennoosa.com.au

K I D S O N T H E C O A S T.C O M . A U • K I D S I N T H E C I T Y.C O M . A U

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D I G I TA L | P R I N T | S O C I A L

CLASSIFIEDS MUMMY'S SECRET HELPER

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W: mummyssecrethelper.com.au FB: @MSHGoldCoast E: hello@mummyssecrethelper.com.au

P: (07) 5532 4168 W: gcdentalcentre.com.au A: 268 Ferry Road, Southport

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WITTACORK FARMSTAY

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FUNKY MONKEY BARS

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With 150 acres of pristine rainforest to explore, guests can milk a cow, feed calves, goats, pigs and chickens and collect eggs. Our self-contained 2 and 3 bedroom cottages are set on a ridge overlooking Lake Baroon and the Kondalilla National Park.

We now also do led pony rides!

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K I D S O N T H E C O A S T.C O M . A U • K I D S I N T H E C I T Y.C O M . A U

LOCAL LIFE

The mamas behind

THE VILLAGE MARKETS

E

stablished in 2008 and loved by locals and visitors alike, The Village Markets aka TVM is a boutique market and community for creative entrepreneurs. With an emphasis on highlighting local emerging designers and creatives and supporting small business, TVM hosts over 100 carefully selected stalls with fashion, art, homewares, as well as mouthwatering food trucks and local live music.

Held on the first and third Sunday of every month at Burleigh Heads State School, TVM is a must visit on the beautiful Gold Coast.

We sat down with co-founders Marissa Bowden and Sarah Schoeller to talk family, work and an exciting new event being launched in Brisbane.

HOW DID THE IDEA FOR THE VILLAGE MARKETS COME ABOUT? Sarah: After being made redundant, Marissa and I brainstormed the idea of a community K I D S O N T H E C O A S T.C O M . A U • K I D S I N T H E C I T Y.C O M . A U

event that celebrated local talent. We had some time off between jobs and our original idea manifested into TVM. Marissa and I both worked together in marketing and events, so our professional backgrounds and personal passions lead us to creating the event as it is today.

Marissa: We really wanted a unique, creative event on the Gold Coast and a meeting place for likeminded people like ourselves, to hang out on a Sunday morning, while also supporting emerging creatives starting out on their business journey.

HOW MANY CHILDREN DO YOU H AV E ?

Sarah: Lola (4) and Posie (2) Marissa: Stevie (7) and Pepper (5) HOW WOULD YOUR KIDS DESCRIBE YOU? Sarah: Lola would say, ‘Mummy smells nice,

helps me and loves me’ and Posie would say ‘Love Po’.

Marissa: Haha! depends which day you ask them! Today, Stevie said ‘Mum’s awesome!’ and Pepper said ‘I love you’!

W H AT ’S YO U R FAV O U R I T E T H I N G ABOUT BEING A MUM? Sarah: The love... so much love.

Marissa: The constant learning and deep deep love – oops that’s two.

HOW DO YOU CELEBRATE M O T H E R ’ S D AY ?

Sarah: We get my rather large family together for a BBQ breakfast by the beach. The kids run wild and we enjoy bacon and eggs with the whole family. It’s such a nice time to get the whole family together and spoil our Mammas.

Marissa: Well first things first, it’s beautiful homemade gifts and cards from my little girls – the absolute best! Followed by coffee in bed.

J A N U A R Y / F E B R U A R Y 2019

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LOCAL LIFE

Then we usually have a casual lunch or BBQ with my family including my mum and sister.

Very simple, the way we like it.

Held on the first and third Sunday of every month, TVM is filled with good vibes.

W H AT A D V I C E D O YO U H AV E FOR MUMS WANTING TO GET BACK INTO THE WORK FORCE? Sarah: Do what is right for you and your family, whether that’s working full time or pursuing your own thing. For me, working keeps me sane, so it’s as much about contributing to my family as my personal happiness.

Marissa: Do what makes you happy!

Follow your heart.

WHAT DO YOU LOVE ABOUT THE GOLD COAST? Sarah: The beautiful coast, lifestyle, friends and family.

Marissa: The lifestyle for sure. The ability to create a work/play balance you cannot find anywhere else.

W H AT I S YO U R FAV O U R I T E K I D -F R I E N D LY P L A C E T O E AT ?

Sarah: We love Back Bone in Tugun, The Bread Social in Tweed, Wazen at West Burleigh or Justin Lane pizzas at the beach.

Marissa: The Salt Mill for morning bowls, fish and chips at our local beach in Palm Beach is pretty hard to beat, or Zipang in Currumbin for Japanese.

DO WHAT IS RIGHT FOR YOU AND YOUR FAMILY, WHETHER THAT’S WORKING FULL TIME OR PURSING YOUR OWN THING.

W H AT I S YO U R FAV O U R I T E P L A C E ON THE GOLD COAST TO SPEND A D AY W I T H T H E FA M I LY ?

Sarah: We frequent Tallebudgera and Currumbin creeks a lot, or on other days we’re regularly at David Fleay Wildlife Park and hanging at home playing in the yard.

Marissa: A perfect Saturday for us is spent at home in Palm Beach. Starting with a trip to our local farmers’ market to get or organic produce for the week, a morning surf and swims, catch up with friends and make some yummy food at home listening to our fave music, then a late afternoon bike ride! Easy and slow – the best!

YOU’VE LAUNCHED AN EVENT IN B R I S B A N E , T E L L U S A B O U T T H A T !

Yes! We launched our first Brisbane event late last year prior to Christmas. Held down Logan Road, Stones Corner, the event brings TVM Good Vibes to Brisbane with 90+ boutique stalls, live music, street eats and our famous Rack Sales. The next event is 30th June 2019.

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Fashion, art, homewares, mouth-watering food trucks and local live music.

K I D S O N T H E C O A S T.C O M . A U • K I D S I N T H E C I T Y.C O M . A U

Pre-Prep Open Morning Join us for our Pre-Prep Open Morning at 9am on Saturday 15 June.

Meet our highly experienced and nurturing educators, and learn more about our diverse Pre-Prep program which includes swimming, gymnastics, music and language lessons.

Child Care Subsidy available.

RSVPs are essential. Please contact enrolments@sthildas.qld.edu.au or 07 5577 7232

www.sthildas.qld.edu.au LOVE

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COMPASSION

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FORGIVENESS

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HOPE

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GRACE

OPEN 7 DAYSK! A WEE Kids can play and make friends Supervised play area for children aged 3 to 12 years.

FACILITIES INCLUDE: ● ● ● ● ● ●

Rock-climbing wall Mini basketball court PlayStations Theatrettes showing movies Home corner play area Drawing tables

Starting from $3.50 for 1-hour!

To book or Contact us (07) 5532 1155

Terms and conditions apply. Bookings recommended.

For more information and opening hours visit southportsharks.com.au