Nicole Williams nicole@northernliving.info Ph: 0401 450 427
DISTRIBUTION
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PUBLISHER
Northern Living is independently owned, produced and published by Avery Magazines.
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JULY 2025 CONTENTS
FEATURE STORIES
CROSS CURRICULAR LEARNING
What exactly is it? Article by Good Shepherd Lutheran School
TACKLING OBESITY
The role of a child’s formative years NEW CAFE LIGHTING UP THE COMMUNITY
Morning Light Cafe is now open in the heart of Mawson Lakes 11. 12. 17.
COMMUNITY CONNECTION What’s happening in your neighbourhood
From the PODIATRIST Falls and your feet YOUR AREA Healthy Food Co. 4. 15. 18.
At just 7 years old, Mawson Lakes student Siddharth Kowshik has done what many only dream of—published his own illustrated storybook. See his story on page 7.
MAGAZINES
NAIDOC IN THE NORTH
National NAIDOC week will be celebrated in northern Adelaide on Wednesday 9 July at the John McVeity Centre at Smithfield Plains. The event will celebrate NAIDOC week, recognising the history, culture and achievements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people in the community. Expect to be immersed in performances, live music, cultural workshops and more. NAIDOC in the North is a FREE ticketed event.
Wednesday 9 July, 10am – 2pm. John McVeity Centre, 182 Peachey Rd, Smithfield Plains. Book your FREE ticket at eventbrite.com.au
The 2025 Gawler Show is
Get ready for fireworks, cute animals, thrilling rides, market stalls, live entertainment AND the chance to WIN A CAR!
Gawler Showgrounds Sat 23 & Sun 24 August Fireworks Saturday 8pm www.gawlershow.org.au
A YOUNG AUTHOR’S MAGICAL DEBUT Imagination Unleashed:
At just 7 years old, Siddharth Kowshik has done what many only dream of—published his own illustrated storybook. Stuck in a Jar is a whimsical and delightful tale of magic, courage and cleverness, capturing the heart of childhood imagination in under 30 pages.
The story begins with a sunny day in the garden, but takes a sharp turn when a mischievous witch appears and traps the young boy protagonist inside a glass jar. What follows is a fantastical adventure of shrinking spells, problem-solving, and tiny triumphs. With every page, readers are drawn into a vibrant world where even the smallest hero can outwit the trickiest foe.
Siddharth, a Year 2 student at Mawson Lakes Primary School, not only imagined the entire storyline but also
narrated it aloud in class before turning it into a published book with the help of his supportive parents. His inspiration?
A love for storytelling, his favorite Mario Kart adventures, and an ever-curious mind.
Beyond the charming narrative, Stuck in a Jar stands out for its rich illustrations which bring the characters and magical setting to life. The book also includes bonus pages encouraging children to draw themselves in a jar, inviting them to stretch their imaginations and continue the journey beyond the text.
For parents, educators, and young readers alike, Siddharth's debut is more than just a story—it's a celebration of creativity and youthful determination. As the final page declares: “Ah ha! Finally, I am out!” So too is Siddharth—out in the world as a published author with many more stories to tell.
Scan the QR code to purchase the book
Confuse (8)
Run with long strides (4)
1 Equal – aristocrat (4)
2 Literary sketch (8)
3 Prepare for publication (4)
4 Island nation in Asia (3,5)
5 Advertise (4)
6 Perfectly clean (8)
Solution No. 1,528
7 Confuse (8)
8 Run with long strides (4)
9 Reveal (5,2,5)
10 Enthusiastic supporter (8)
13 Plant embryo (4)
14 Wind instrument (4)
15 Narrow escape (4,4)
16 Infuriating (12)
20 Sound reverberation (4)
21 Meant (8)
1 Equal – aristocrat (4)
2 Literary sketch (8)
3 Prepare for publication (4)
4 Island nation in Asia (3,5)
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Advertise (4) 6 Perfectly clean (8)
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11 Atmosphere – manic bee (anag.) (8)
12 Summary (8)
13 Interval from B to C or E to F (8)
17 Division of geological time (4)
18 Assess – speed (4)
19 Festive season – one of the Gallaghers (4)
At Our Lady of the Sacred Heart (OLSH) College, girls can be themselves, explore big ideas, and pursue their goals with confidence. Here, they’re not just students — they’re part of a community that supports them every step of the way.
Every opportunity at OLSH College is designed with girls in mind—where her voice is heard and leadership skills are nurtured in a vibrant, inclusive and hopeful learning environment.
A CONVENIENT LOCATION
Situated within easy reach of the CBD and surrounding suburbs, OLSH College is well connected by public transport in all directions.
ALL-INCLUSIVE FEES
We believe every girl deserves access to an exceptional education. Our income-based fee structure, with three tiers, ensures that finances are not a barrier to joining our community.
Our all-inclusive fees* cover tuition, a personal laptop, and all essential academic costs including camps, retreats, and excursions, ensuring no unexpected fees arise throughout the year.
YEAR 7 TRANSITION SPECIALISTS
Starting high school is a big deal, not just for students but for parents too. That’s why we have developed a thorough, gentle and caring Year 7 transition program designed to make each girl feel supported, understood, and ready to thrive in her new environment. Our transition program is more than a single event—we don’t just help girls find her way to class, we help her find her place.
*Details available on our website
Secure your place for 2026 & 2027, enrol now
ARE YOU ELIGIBLE for the CHILD CARE SUBSIDY?
The Child Care Subsidy Package helps parents with children aged 0 – 13 work, train, study and volunteer.
You are eligible for the Child Care Subsidy if you earn less than $533,280 in combined family income. As well as this, you must be undertaking one or more of the following activities for at least 8 hours a fortnight:
• paid work, including being self-employed or on leave (including paid or unpaid parental leave)
• doing unpaid work in the family business
• training courses for the purpose of improving the individual’s work skills or employment prospects
• an approved course of education or study
• volunteering
• unpaid work experience or internships
• actively setting up a business
• actively looking for work
To apply for the Child Care Subsidy, you will need to provide details, including:
• combined family income
• activity level of each parent
• type of child care service
You can submit a new Child Care Subsidy claim using your Centrelink online account through my.gov.au
Register for our next School Tour Tuesday 19 August, 11am
CROSS CURRICULAR LEARNING WHAT IS IT?
ARTICLE BY GOOD SHEPHERD LUTHERAN SCHOOL
Rather than teaching subjects like mathematics, science, English, or art in isolation, cross-curricular learning allows students to explore big ideas or real-world topics by connecting multiple subject areas into a single, cohesive learning experience. The goal is to help students make meaningful connections between what they are learning and how it applies beyond the classroom.
What does this look like?
A project on sustainability might involve collecting and analysing data in maths, writing persuasive arguments in English, investigating ecosystems in science, and creating visual displays of their learnings in art or digital technologies. These links between subjects help students deepen their understanding, develop transferable skills, and engage in more relevant and authentic learning.
At its heart, this learning style reflects how knowledge and skills are used in the real world. Rarely are problems solved using just one subject area. Engineers need creativity and communication skills. Scientists write reports, interpret data, and consider ethical questions. Cross-curricular learning mirrors this complexity by teaching students to think critically, collaborate across ideas, and apply their learning in practical ways.
This approach also supports a more studentcentred style of education. By designing
learning around themes, questions, or issues that matter to students and the wider world, cross-curricular learning encourages curiosity, ownership, and active engagement. It can also help build deeper understanding of global perspectives, social responsibility, and valuesbased decision making.
Cross-curricular learning can be structured in many ways - through project-based learning, inquiry units, or thematic studies - but the common thread is integration. Subjects remain distinct in terms of skills and outcomes yet are taught in a way that highlights their connection and purpose.
At Good Shepherd, cross-curricular learning plays a central role in how we support students to grow as capable, creative, and compassionate learners. We believe that when students see how their learning connects, they are more motivated, more engaged, and better prepared to navigate the complexities of life.
As the world continues to change, the ability to connect ideas and think across disciplines will only become more important. If you’re thinking about what kind of learning environment will best support your child’s growth, we invite you to explore Good Shepherd Lutheran School.
Transition enrolments are open now for students in Years 3 to 6. Book a tour and enrol your child today.
Good Shepherd Lutheran School 388 Montague Road, Para Vista SA 5093 www.gspv.sa.edu.au
TACKLING OBESITY: THE ROLE OF A CHILD’S FORMATIVE YEARS
The most recent figures from the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare send a clear, disconcerting message: obesity is not just a looming concern— it’s a present crisis. With a staggering 63.4% of adults and 24% of children in Australia identified as overweight or obese, it’s evident that we are facing an uphill battle.
The World Obesity Federation’s projection that over half the global population will be in this category by 2035 further amplifies the urgency. While there are many avenues to approach this pandemic, there’s an increasing consensus that the most effective interventions need to take place during a child’s formative years. Here’s why.
Laying a Healthy Foundation
A child’s formative years, often considered to be from birth to age eight, are when critical physiological, cognitive, and behavioural patterns take root. During this phase, children develop tastes, inclinations, and habits that can shape their choices throughout life. Introducing them to a balanced diet, active play, and the joy of movement during this time can set them on a trajectory towards lifelong health.
The Role of Early Education
Children are inherently curious during their early years. They are eager to learn, adapt, and assimilate new information. Harnessing this natural inquisitiveness provides a window of opportunity. Schools and preschools can
integrate health, nutrition, and physical education into their curricula, making them as fundamental as reading or math. Educating children about the importance of nutritious foods and the dangers of excessive sugar or processed foods can arm them with knowledge that will serve them well into adulthood.
Parents as Primary Influencers
Parents and primary caregivers play a monumental role during these years. Their attitudes towards food, physical activity, and health in general often directly shape the child’s perspective. By targeting education and awareness campaigns towards parents, emphasising the importance of these foundational years, we can create a home environment that complements and reinforces healthy behaviours.
Counteracting Modern Lifestyles
Children today are growing up in a markedly different environment than previous generations. The allure of screens, from tablets to TVs, means that sedentary behaviours are becoming the norm. Tackling this trend in the formative years, by promoting outdoor play and limiting screen time, can establish patterns of physical activity that counter the sedentary inclinations of modern life.
Psychological and Social Benefits
Children’s formative years aren’t just about physiological development. These years are also crucial for psychological and social growth. By promoting a positive body image, encouraging team sports, and instilling confidence in physical abilities, we’re not just combating obesity—we’re fostering selfesteem, resilience, and social skills.
Economic and Long-term Impacts
The ramifications of childhood obesity extend beyond individual health concerns. There’s a substantial economic burden tied to the healthcare costs of obesity-related ailments, from type 2 diabetes to cardiovascular diseases. By intervening early, we can not only improve quality of life but also reduce the economic strain on healthcare systems in the future.
The crisis presented by the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare’s data demands attention, commitment, and action. We have a narrow yet pivotal window during a child’s formative years to effect meaningful change. By focusing on
these early, impressionable years, we can create a domino effect of positive health outcomes that cascade into adolescence and adulthood.
As society grapples with the obesity epidemic, it’s paramount to remember that our best chance lies in early intervention. The formative years are not just a phase; they are the bedrock upon which a lifetime of habits, beliefs, and behaviours are built. By placing our energies and resources into these critical years, we take a proactive stance, moulding a future generation that’s equipped, educated, and enthusiastic about leading healthy lives.
• Science-based classes designed by paediatric and occupational therapists
• Small student to coach ratios make for better learning outcomes
• Teaches life skills; teamwork, taking turns and independent learning
• Builds confidence with a combination of physical and emotional benefits
Teaching the fundamentals of 10 different sports
Sudoku - Easy Set 2 Puzzle 2
SUDOKU
The goal is to fill a 9x9 grid with numbers so that each row, column and 3x3 section contains all of the digits between 1 and 9.
Caring for Your Feet
Mardi Edwards
FALLS AND YOUR FEET
Falls are a significant health issue. It is estimated that 1 in 3 people aged 65 years and over fall each year. Falls are the leading cause of injury-related hospitalisation in persons of this age group.
Falls cause injury particularly hip fractures which can lead to a range of long term mobility and health issues. They also reduce confidence, and impact independence.
Identifying risks and preventing falls is vital. There are a number of risk factors including age, environment, impaired vision, muscle weakness, slow reaction time, medications, footwear and mobility issues.
Recent research has shown that foot problems and inappropriate footwear are a significant factor in falls. Furthermore identifying and addressing these issues can reduce falls incidence by 36%.
Foot problems that contribute to falls include foot pain, toe weakness, reduced range of motion, toe deformity and reduced feeling in feet.
Footwear related risks include barefoot walking, walking in socks, shoes without fastening like velcro or laces, and increased heel height.
At Mawson Lakes Podiatry Clinic we assess footwear and provide education on footwear choices. We also provide screening to assess your falls risk, and provide strengthening and balance exercises to improve stability and reduce the risk of falling. Call 8262 9999 for an appointment.
KIDS PUZZLE PAGE
FIND FIVE DIFFERENCES
NEW CAFE LIGHTING UP THE COMMUNITY
In the heart of Mawson Lakes, Morning Light Café is more than just a coffee stop — it’s a warm and welcoming space where students, workers, and families come together to enjoy their day.
Owned by Chef Richar Hazim, who brings over 25 years of five-star hotel experience, the café reflects a deep passion for hospitality. Every dish is prepared with care, and every coffee is served with love.
“We opened Morning Light Café to bring something different and genuine to the community,” says Richar. “Whether it’s a busy customer grabbing a quick coffee on the way to work, or a local family enjoying a relaxed weekend brunch – we want everyone to feel at home.”
The café offers a wide variety of breakfast dishes, burgers, sweets, smoothies, and daily soups. Morning Light also provides catering services to schools, businesses, and private events.
But what truly sets Morning Light apart is its dedication to community involvement – from supporting local events to offering casual work opportunities for students during school holidays, the café is focused on building real, lasting connections with local residents.
As the sun rises over Mawson Lakes, Morning Light Café continues to shine as a place of great food, warm smiles, and authentic hospitality. See ad below.
HEALTHY FOOD CO @ PLAYFORD
Healthy Food Co. provides low-cost nutritional food products and grocery items to the whole community at reasonable prices. The volunteer run service has been serving the Playford community since 1996, offering Easy Meal kits that provide at least 4 servings from as low as $7 per kit as well as cheap school and kindy approved snack packs and more.
Across
There are two sites in the north. One in Elizabeth Downs next to the Elizabeth Rise Community Centre and one located within The Precinct in Smithfield Plains.
Easy Meals can also be picked up after hours and on weekends at the John McVeity Centre.
6 Shrub with sword-shaped leaves (5)
8 Ascot, e.g. (7)
10 Having grand plans (9)
11 Farm animal noise (3)
12 Walk cockily (5)
13 Colourful flowering plant (7)
15 Endeavour (7)
17 City famous for mustard making (5)
19 ___ and sympathy (3)
20 Piece of fabric used in worship (6,3)
Hat with a brim (6)
Crime carried out by hackers (11)
Cartoon antagonists (3,3,5)
Electronic devices collectively (8)
THE LAST LAUGH
Severe emotional suffering (6)
Criticise over petty details (6)
Q. Why aren’t teddy bears hungry?
Partially decayed vegetable matter (4)
Healthy Food Co is open to everyone. See ad on back cover.
