PakMag Cairns - April 2017 Issue 118

ISSUE: APR 2017

118

CAIRNS

How to

GET ALONG School holiday GUIDE

Home:

VEGGIE GARDEN

ANIMAL PARTY

Unspoil your kids

CONTENTS

HELLO

ISSUE NO. 118 APR 2017 Hello and welcome to the April edition of PakMag, our Easter Extravaganza.

06 Entertainment: Check It Out

I love Easter. I’m not sure if it’s the chocolate, the seafood, or the possibility of camping with friends and family, or the trifecta of all three. It’s a special time of the year.

09 The Thing Is... With Bree James

I can’t believe the first school term is coming to an end! Don’t worry, we have you covered.

Our School Holiday Guide will let you and the kids make the most the break.

10 Parenting: How To Get Along

I’d love to see you at our Easter PakClub at Stockland Cairns on Saturday, 15th April for lots of Easter fun – we have an Easter Bonnet Parade and Best Dressed, so looking forward to seeing the kids in their Easter outfits.

17 Playground Pursuits Good

13 Parenting: Unspoil Your Kids

For The Brain

19 Parenting: Organisational Tips:

We’ve also got some exciting events on the horizon. Save the date for 24th and 25th June for PakMag’s 10th Birthday Weekend. Kicking off with a Parenting Conference on Saturday 24th June with some amazing speakers, let your hair down on Saturday night with the PakMag Prom and have some family fun on Sunday, 25th June at our Family Day. Plus, the PakMag Expo will run all weekend, so there really is something for everyone.

Get Sorted And Secure

23 Healthy Easter Recipes 25 A Different Approach To

So, from all of us here at PakMag, have a happy and safe Easter, and until next time, don’t forget to tell everyone, you read it in PakMag.

Early Learning

27 Health 31 Premature Babies

Bree

32 Bump and Bub: WIN 35 What’s On Guide 37 Mini Mag

BREE JAMES / PAKMAG PUBLISHER

45 School Holiday Guide

Net Distribution Per Issue 10,000 CAB Publisher Statement Period ending 30th July 2016

52 School Holiday Boredom Busters 54 Craft: Easter Hats 57 Eat Stay Play: FNQ From A

PAKMAG CAIRNS P 4053 3331 F 4053 3350 E admin@grandpublishing.com.au PO BOX 7433 Cairns QLD 4870 FB facebook.com/PakmagCairns T #pakmag ON THE COVER Ella Maher PHOTOGRAPHY Blueclick Photography EMAIL veronica@blueclickphotography.com PAKMAG'S CORE VALUES

Whole New Perspective

58 Celebrate: Animal Party 61 Pool Safety With Laurie Lawrence 63 Buying Your First Home?

65 What’s News In Business 67 Get Involved 68 Snapped

Create happier communities

Love connecting families & business

Collaborate with creativity

Lead & engage with heart

Publish authentic content with integrity

DISCLAIMER No part of this magazine, including the advertisements within it may be reproduced, in part or in whole without the expressed permission of the editor. Whilst the greatest of care is taken to ensure that the information in the magazine is correct at the time of going to press, readers are advised to check details before visiting. The publishers cannot accept responsibility for errors, inaccuracies or omissions.

The expressions expressed within PakMag are not necessarily the views of the publishers, but those of individual writers.

Majestic Media Intern Monique

Awesome Administrator Gleisy

Daring Designer Lise

Bree's Wingwoman Rose

Sales Star Lisa

Darling Designer Clare

Talented Trent

Grand Poobah Bree

70 Home with Caro & Kingi:

Veggie Garden

73 Home: Textures and Patterns

For The Senses

74 Cairns Vet: Deadly Parvovirus Strikes

Pedantic Production Manager Janelle

Rad Sales Rep Jacqui

Word Wizard Jenna

www.pakmag.com.au APRIL 2017

Savvy Sales Sandra

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pakmag ENTERTAINMENT

CHECK IT OUT

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th April

PakMag Cairns Easter Eggstravaganza WHEN Saturday, 15 April 2017, 10.30am-12.00pm WHERE Stockland Cairns MORE INFO www.facebook.com/PakmagCairns Hop along to Stockland Cairns this Easter and celebrate with Pakmag! Join us for the Easter Bonnet Parade, Easter Egg Hunt and fun for all the family! Lucky Door prizes and prizes for best dressed.

FREE Entry!

22

nd April

Animal Education Day WHEN Saturday, 22 April 2017, 8.00am-1.00pm WHERE Norman Park in Gordonvale MORE INFO nicola.millen@yahoo.com This free, informative and fun-filled family event has animals galore, music by Lucky Phil, petting zoos and market stalls.

Regional and international animal aid organisations, vets, feed shops and suppliers, reptile handlers, pest eradicators and government departments will be able to answer all your animal questions and have stacks of free giveaways.

The popular Police Dogs will be part of the exciting program of events, and there will be a kids and pets dress-up parade at 12.30pm with great family prizes donated by Cairns’ most popular animal tourist destinations! The patron is Curtis Pitt, MP (QLD MLA).

Your Kid’s Wardrobe Cairns WHEN Saturday, 22 April 2017, 9.00am - 1.00pm WHERE Cairns Show Grounds MORE INFO www.facebook.com/yourwardrobecairns This is the event is great for parents looking to refresh their child's wardrobe and make cool cash at the one event!

With over 50 stalls you will find an amazing collection of new and preloved clothing and accessories for bubs and kids.

Items include clothes, toys, Bumbos, cots, play mats, room enhancements, designer teething rings, bibs, sleepwear, baby carriers, prams and more! You can choose to be a vendor, a shopper, or both! Gold Coin Donation

21st May

SAVE THE DATE

Cairns Children’s Festival WHEN Sunday, 21 May 2017, 9.00am - 3.00pm WHERE Tanks Arts Centre, Collins Avenue, Edge Hill MORE INFO www.tanksartscentre.com

The 2017 theme is the Australian Light Horse: Battle of Bersheeba.

The “funnest” day of the year is almost here!

With a mix of ticketed events and FREE family fun, jam-packed full of creativity, adventure and innovation for children and their adults, all day long!

See Australia’s most visually compelling comedian Frank Woodley in his one-man show Noodlenut. Plus be amazed by the fantasy filled Diamonds Found in Dreams production complete with a quirky live band, high intensity aerial acrobatics, juggling feats and magic!

Remember those who have given their lives for this country with a number of events. The dawn service begins at 5:30am, breakfast at the Cairns RSL from 7am, Ecumenical Service at St Monica's Cathedral at 8:15am and parade from Grafton St (adjacent to Munro Martin Park) to Fogarty Park steps off: 10.00am

With more to see and do than ever before, children can play, learn and perform all over the Tanks site. Explore the Wild Lands in the beautiful Botanic Gardens, relax in the screenPLAY zone catching the latest releases from Cairns’ own little filmmakers, or perform on the 5 Minutes of Fame Stage.

25th April ANZAC Day

WHEN Tuesday, 25 April 2017, 5.00am-4.00pm WHERE Cairns RSL Sub Branch – Esplanade MORE INFO www.facebook.com/CairnsRSLSubBranch

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APRIL 2017 www.pakmag.com.au

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st May

SAVE THE DATE

Mr. Stink WHEN Wednesday, 31 May 2017, 10.00am, 1.00pm and 6.00pm WHERE Tanks Arts Centre, Tanks 3 Seated MORE INFO www.tanksartscentre.com

A play by Maryam Master. Based on the book by David Walliams. Directed by Jonathan Biggins. David Walliams’ award-winning book comes to life on stage for children 6-12 years old and their adults! "Mr Stink stank. He also stunk. And if it was correct English to say he stinked, then he stinked as well…” It all starts when Chloe, just about the loneliest girl in the world, makes friends with Mr Stink, the local tramp.

Cost: All Tickets $17.00 + $0.85 B/Fee Food: No food available for these performances

24th & 25th June PakMag’s 10th Birthday Weekend

SAVE THE DATE

Save the date for PakMag’s 10th Birthday weekend. Kicking off with a Parenting Conference on Saturday 24th June, The PakMag Prom on the Saturday night and a family fun day on Sunday 25th June. Throughout the whole weekend there will be an expo for everyone to enjoy.

Check the PakMag Facebook page for updates and ticket information!

www.pakmag.com.au APRIL 2017

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The Thing Is...

STORY Bree James

It’s official, the first quarter of 2017 is gone. Can you believe it? Everyone I speak to is saying how they don’t have any time, that life is going by too fast, and that they have too much to do, with so little time to do it.

Having children only speeds up this realisation as to how precious time really is. One minute your children are rolling over for the first time, the next they are rolling out the door without even saying goodbye.

So in light of this ticking clock, which seems to be ticking faster everyday, I think we need to rethink our relationship with time.

The thing is… running around and telling each other how busy we are and how stressed out we are about a lack of time is not helping one little bit (and rest assured I’m as guilty as the next person on both counts).

I’ve decided to reinvent my relationship with time and there are a few ways I’m going to do it.

Firstly, I’m going to stop any negative words coming out of my mouth about my lack of time. Whenever I start to complain about time, I’m going to take note and stop on the spot. I’m going to get everyone in my life to pick me up the minute these negative words start to issue from my mouth.

Then I’m going to change those negative words about lack to more positive words about abundance - things like, “I have as much time as everybody else, I will spend my time wisely”. You get the drift and if you are up for this challenge, pick words to suit you and your style.

Clearly, this is the next part of my reinvention of my relationship with time. I’m going to not only change the words I use, I’m also going to look at everything I do for the next week and record whether or not it was wasted time or time well spent.

I’m determined to see where my time gets wasted and why. I’m pretty sure I’ve got a few ideas, but if you are like me, you get up, have breakfast and then it’s dinner time.

Everything in between is a blur and I want to get a better grip on how I’m actually spending my time.

OK, so I’ve made the commitment to stop the negative self talk about not having enough time, I’ve decided to really look at how I’m spending my day and identify my timewasting activities, now it’s time get rid of anything in my world that is simply taking up quality time and replace it with more meaningful things.

A big part of this for me is slowing down. I’m going to retrain myself to stop and appreciate moments - and I’m going to do it every hour, on the hour for the next week to make it a habit. I’m simply going to stop and look around, take a breath, slow the clock down for 30 seconds. What’s the worst that could happen?

My main aim is that at the end of every day I feel like I’ve achieved a lot, but I’ve also been a great mum, boss and every other role that I choose to play. If you’re running around complaining about your lack of time, I hope you will join me and reinvent your relationship with time too. I think our lives will become far less stressful, panicky and fleeting.

Bree

www.pakmag.com.au APRIL 2017

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How to Get Along STORY Jenna Galley

Everyone fights. It’s a part of life. Regardless of your temperament, your situation, your age or your attitude, you are bound to clash with the people you love at one stage or another.

As a mum who has been there, fought about that, and managed to come out relatively sane, here are my top tips on how to get along with everyone in your household, regardless of your situation.

New Parent Problems – Fights in the First Year Becoming a parent is undeniably the most amazing experience in the world. But it is also one of the hardest.

And with this massive change comes potentially massive arguments. So, what can you do to avoid the anger and focus on the positives that come with being a new parent?

Accept ALL the emotions that come with being a new mum.

One of the main reasons new parents argue, especially during the first few weeks, is because they are exhausted.

And with exhaustion comes a whole slew of other emotions – anger, resentment and frustration. Society (and social media) put a lot of pressure on parents to keep it together all the time which makes it even harder to admit defeat and accept the truth – being a new parent is freaking hard! Sorry society, but it is. And that’s the truth.

So, rather than trying to keep it together, concede that you are tired and you need a break. And acknowledge these things to the person who can support you through this – your partner. Admitting you need support doesn’t make you a weak parent. It makes you a real one.

Just keep talking.

Often the feelings during the first year (exhaustion, confusion, isolation, to name a few) are left to fester inside rather than be discussed. When communication breaks down, fights happen simply because you are not talking about the problem. Problems hate to be ignored. And when

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problems are ignored, they often get worse (kind of like toddlers).

Make it part of your daily routine to talk to your partner about your day - the good, the bad and how you can make tomorrow better.

Stop competing and struggle as a team.

When both you and your partner are tired, it often becomes a competition about who has it harder – the person who goes to work or the person who stays home. Stop. Just stop.

Take a step back. And remember this. It’s not a competition about who has it harder – you both are tired, struggling and barely keeping it together. So, struggle as a team, support one another and communicate your frustrations before you let them get the better of you.

Staying United When You’re Separated Being a parent means you are part of a team. However, sometimes this team, for one reason or another, splits up.

As a separated mum, I can tell you that getting along with your ex-partner isn’t easy. If it was, you would probably still be together, wouldn’t you?

But it is necessary, especially for the kids. Here’s a few tips that have helped me and many other separated parents maintain the peace, even when the family unit has broken down.

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Focus on the kids.

Don’t get involved in your ex’s day to day choices unless they involve the children. If it doesn’t directly impact your kids, then it’s none of your business.

Bite your tongue.

There is nothing worse than badmouthing your ex in front of the kids. Just don’t do it. Your children have the right to love, to respect and to form an opinion of a person without you doing it for them. Give them this right.

If you’re going to communicate with your ex, do it away from the kids.

Because even a quick conversation can turn into an argument when there is still a lot of anger and resentment.

Don’t risk it and plan your discussions for when the kids are not listening.

Remember, a family is a family, no matter how separated.

Your ex is ALWAYS going to be a part of your children.

It was a joint effort to make them and, in many instances, it will be a joint effort to raise them.

Even if you aren’t living together, it doesn’t mean you aren’t still working together. You are. You always will be. And the quicker you realise this, accept it and find a way to make this statement work for you, the better for your children. This is what matters the most.

Keeping Calm with the Kids In addition to fighting with your partner, you are bound to butt heads with your kids every once and a while.

Fights about cleaning up, doing homework, helping out, respecting your authority and minding their manners are pretty standard.

And it’s also pretty standard to sometimes lose your cool, scream at the top of your lungs, take away every toy in the house and hide in the pantry eating all the kids’ leftover Easter chocolate as a coping mechanism.

But, for your sanity (and your waistline), it’s probably best to try these methods for getting along with your kids instead.

Understand ALL emotions that are in play.

This means both your own emotions and your kids’ emotions. Accept how you feel, then think about how they feel too. This can help you see things from their point of view and use your logic rather than your emotions, to tackle the problem.

Take time outs.

Time outs aren’t just for kids. They are also a great way for parents to regain control and allow the anger to settle before returning to the problem.

Remember who is boss.

It’s you. At the end of the day, what you say, goes. And “because I said so” is a perfectly valid reason why.

Don’t let their words get to you.

Is there anything worse than hearing, “I hate you, mummy!” from your child? It can be hard to remain in control and not burst into tears, go back on your word or turn into the mummy equivalent of the Hulk. But, take a deep breath and remember, they are just words. They don’t mean it.

When you and your little one both have calmed down, have a conversation about what was said, why it hurt and how you can solve conflicts without resorting to these angry gestures and awful words.

The Bottom Line?

No matter how much you love someone, you’re not always going to get along.

It's human nature.

How you handle these differences in opinions and resolve common conflicts will vary between households and circumstances. Sometimes you let the anger build up and get the better of you. Sometimes you learn to control your emotions and concentrate on finding a solution.

It’s not always easy to choose the latter option. But, for the sake of your family (and your sanity), we hope you try to.

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Unspoil Your Kids STORY Jenna Galley

Spoiling your kids comes naturally to most parents. It’s simpler to say yes to their every command, it’s rewarding to watch their eyes light up when they get their way and it’s satisfying to be inundated with kisses and cuddles when you agree to a treat or a toy.

But parenting isn’t always about taking the easy road. It’s not about letting your children get what they want, whenever they want.

It’s not that simple.

The Spoil Factor Being a parent is about teaching your kids the lessons they need to succeed in society, to grow into confident and happy individuals and to accept the ups and downs that come with life. It’s about teaching them how to accept the good with the bad, the give with the take, the play with the work and, most importantly, the nos with the yesses.

By giving in to their every whim, we are not teaching them lessons in gratitude, acceptance, empathy and generosity.

In fact, many experts suggest that by spoiling our kids, we are actually setting them up for future failure. We are setting them up to assume that they are entitled to anything they want.

And, when you think like this, you are bound to be disappointed when life doesn’t work out this way.

So how can you ensure you are raising grateful, unspoiled children, even in a society where patience, entitlement and instant gratification seem to be the norm?

and of waiting their turn. These lessons that you can teach your toddler and pre-schooler will translate to all activities as they continue to grow.

2. To Understand the Value of a Dollar As your children get older, chores and allowances can help them to understand that it is through hard work that we are rewarded. However, it is also important to instil that helping out shouldn’t be something children do just to be compensated – it should be part of the regular family routine. Everyone contributes to the household, regardless of what’s in it for them.

3. To Appreciate the Little Things Life doesn’t have to be grand to be enjoyed. Explore the little things that make life wonderful and choose activities, holidays and entertainment where there is no sense of ‘want’. Explore playgrounds and parks, go camping in the bush, make blanket forts in the backyard and learn to appreciate the non-commercialised activities that involve spending time together rather than spending money.

Stopping the Spoiling – Five Lessons to Teach Your Kids 1. To Pitch In, Be Patience and Play Fair Play is a child’s work. And through play you can teach them the importance of sharing and being part of a team, of taking responsibility and cleaning up after their messes,

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pakmag PARENTING

4. To Have a Sense of Gratitude and Generosity There is no greater feeling than that of giving but young children don’t realise this just yet. Teaching them to be grateful for what they have often comes down to showing them as well as talking to them about it. Giving to charity is a great way to start but allow your child to choose what he gives away and don’t force him to do it – help him understand the ‘why’.

struggling with a spoilt child, it’s time to take back your place as the master of the household and own it. Here’s how to bring your spoiled child back to the realm of reality.

1. Set Expectations By telling your child ahead of time what can be expected in the next hour, day or even week, you allow them to subconsciously prepare which, in turn, gives them realistic expectations about how you will respond to their requests, or their behaviour. It also sets you up for a less dramatic response on their end when you say no. For example, let them know, “We’re going to the shops to buy some food, we will not be buying any toys or treats, do you understand?” They may still ask but being able to refer back to your earlier conversation can mean the difference between a tantrum and a reasonable reaction.

2. Be Consistent

5. To Live Within Limits and Learn to Wait Patience shouldn’t just be a virtue. It should be expected.

Rather than jumping at your child’s every command, let him wait until you are finished what you are doing.

It’s important for parents to step up and set the limits.

It’s also critical that, no matter how tired you are or how much your child begs, you stay within these limits. Your kids are going to push you but you’re the boss. You’re stronger.

And by sticking to your boundaries and teaching your children to live within these limits, you are teaching them an incredibly important lesson in life.

Dethroning Your Child Sometimes it’s too late to simply say, "I’ll do XYZ to make sure my child isn’t spoilt.” If that’s the case and you’re

There’s nothing worse than inconsistency when trying to improve behaviour in children. If your child knows that they can get their own way on some occasions, they are more likely to exhibit inappropriate behaviour in every situation until they get what they want. Consistency doesn’t just come in the form of saying no though, it can be used for rewards too. For example, “When you finish your dinner, you’ll get dessert.” If you’re consistent, your child will soon learn that they will get what they want, a treat, once they’ve completed the necessary task and they’ll be more likely to do what is required of them, with less arguing too.

3. Don’t Tolerate Unacceptable Behaviour Knowing that there will be consequences for certain actions, and making sure you as a parent follow through with punishment every time, will help to repair a spoilt child’s sense of entitlement. Punishment comes in many forms, and whether it be using a naughty step or taking away your child’s tech, your chosen method will, inevitably, be initially met with resistance. But don’t fold, see the punishment through and you will soon see your child’s overall behaviour change.

Resources to Help Check out these great books on helping with this common parenting concern:

Escape the Parent Trap: Unspoil Your Kids by Cheryl Critchley Raising Grateful Kids in An Entitled World by Kristen Welch Your Kid’s a Brat and It’s All Your Fault by Elaine Rose Glickman The Opposite of Spoiled by Ron Lieber Peaceful Parent, Happy Kids: How to Stop Yelling and Start Connecting by Dr. Laura Markham All books are available at www.booktopia.com.au

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ADVERTORIAL

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P L AYG R O U N D P U R S U I T S

GOOD FOR THE BRAIN A self-pumping river stream, climbing wall, suspension bridge, playground climbers, slides and platforms are the latest in exciting and challenging components of a local school’s Prep playground, specifically designed for engaging and enhancing gross motor skills and physical activity.

It can be difficult to imagine the impact a play area can have on both physical and healthy brain development, confidence, self-esteem, risk taking, problem solving, and critical thinking, but the educators at Peace Lutheran College are very aware of its importance and this has been one of the driving forces behind the newly developed playground structure in the College’s Prep area.

The College places a high importance on physical activity for students across the whole of the College through its specialist Physical Education classes and sporting pursuits, but it also understands, especially for its younger students, these healthy habits, the ones that ultimately develop a child’s gross motor skills, are best learnt through the process of having fun through play.

In the past, there has been much focus on fine motor skills, but Mrs Sarah Rowan, Peace Lutheran College’s Head of Junior School notes, “Gross motor skills are just as vital because these are the physical skills that require use of

the whole body to move, involving the movement of different parts of our body at the same time in a coordinated manner.”

So what is the real difference? Gross motor skills get you to where you need to go, while fine motor skills help you to do what you need to do once you get there. Mrs Rowan explains it this way, “If your child wanted to do a craft activity, they would walk to the table and sit down (gross motor skills) and they would then fold, cut or colour the paper (fine motor skills).” Two separate sets of skills, but both fundamental to a child’s development.

Whilst navigating their new playground, Peace Lutheran College Prep students have been developing not only their physical health, but the health of their gross motor skills, all through the most important channel – FUN! Add in the element of water in the river stream and you have – DOUBLE THE FUN!

Prep student, Aapti says, “There are two slides and the really big one is super-high and super-fast and the swings go super-high too. It’s lots of fun.” Ruby admits, “I like to play shop and pretend we are cooking chocolate cake”, while Eli proudly states, “I like climbing up the rock wall like a spider!”

And Elias was excited to tell us, “I went round and round the fireman’s pole and came down really fast.”

PREP OPEN DAY

Wed, 17th May

All-inclusive school fees $20 per day, based on a 40-week school year; plus, the opportunity to speak with teachers and see classes in action; all great reasons to go along to the Prep Open Day and find out why it’s such a great place to be!

Classroom visits at 9.00am and 10.00am. Limited numbers at each session – register via admin@plc.qld.edu.au. Call 4039 9000 for more information.

But don’t just take our word for it…

www.pakmag.com.au APRIL 2017

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Organisational Tips: Get So rt ed a nd Secu r e STORY Rose Foster

Whether you’re a single parent of one or a family with six kids, getting your family organised is one of the best ways for you to balance your life, get more out of it and be more productive as an individual and a family.

We’ve heard those words before though: get organised. It sounds so simple! But sometimes, getting organised can seem like an overwhelming task, as we know we should do it, but don’t necessarily know how.

Well, it starts with a single step. Choose one aspect of your life to organise, and organise it well. Here’s some practical ideas you can use to get started.

Your Home DECLUTTER Ever been late because you were looking for something at home - keys, phone, purse? Or spent an extra ten minutes getting you or the kids dressed because you were rifling through masses of clothes for that perfect outfit? Then it’s time to declutter!

Clutter comes in many shapes and sizes and doesn’t necessarily mean your house is untidy. It means you’ve got a lot of stuff…and it’s completely unorganised!

Despite the obvious impacts clutter can have on your life - making you late and creating hazards around your home - having excess ‘stuff’ around your home can actually contribute to stress, make you tired and impair your decision-making skills.

The Japanese method of KonMari is a great place to start.

It’s a simple concept that helps you make decisions on what to keep and what to throw away.

• When sorting through your ‘stuff’, pick up an item and ask yourself, “does it spark joy?”. If the answer is no, it has to go.

• Instead of sorting by room, your decluttering should be sorted by category; clothes, personal documents, home furnishings/ornaments, and so on.

• Don’t re-clutter. It’s really important that once you’ve removed your clutter, that you don’t relapse!

MANY HANDS You’ve probably felt the pain of being the only one in the household who cares that the floors are mopped and the

dishes are clean. Well, it’s time to get some help and divide up chore time.

• Make a chore chart. There’s nothing like everybody knowing who’s doing what and a chore chart outlines who does which household jobs on, which days. There’s no squabbling, unfairness or confusion – you can’t argue with the chart!

• Have a reward system. Just as important as outlining the chores, is outlining rewards for getting them done. Check out our Monkey Dollar System at www.pakmag.com.au.

Your Time SCHEDULE YOUR WEEK Knowing what you’ve got to do and what the kids have to do, and figuring out how to fit around everyone’s schedules is a balancing act that can sometime leave us unstuck. Ever missed that ballet lesson or soccer practice because you didn’t have time, or just forgot?

• Plan! Planning is the most important aspect of scheduling your week. Know who’s doing what, when.

• Use a family planner. Whether it’s a wall chart or an online calendar, make sure you have something, and use it as your family scheduling bible!

• Don’t overcommit. It’s really important that you don’t commit to things you simply can’t do. AFL game and netball practice in the same night? Then don’t add a birthday party to the mix too!

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MEAL PREP

Your Safety

Proper meal prep is the key to saving time and money.

PREPARE AND PLAN

• Plan your weekly menu. Planning a weekly list of meals means you don’t have to think about what to cook when you’ve come home from a busy day. You know what you’re cooking and you know you have the ingredients.

Easy!

Managing your home and time are the most obvious ways of making sure your family is organised. But being organised in terms of our family’s safety and home security is a necessary step we should be considering too.

• Write a shopping list. It might seem like a simple concept but writing a list will help you nip around the shops quickly, ensure you don’t forget anything and mean you don’t have to spend time running back when you miss that all important ingredient.

It’s something we often take for granted but what happens when the unexpected occurs? Would your kids know what to do in an emergency? Is your home prepared for any eventuality?

• Organise your Fridge. Making sure your fridge is tidy will mean you actually use the food you buy, saving you money in the long run.

Extra Tip: Why not try preparing all your meals for the week on a Sunday? Take a few hours on Sunday afternoon to cook, chop and box-up your meals for simple and quick meals during the week.

GETTING ORGANISED QUICK TIPS • Check out Pinterest for some great ‘life hacks’ to make getting organised easy and fun.

• Visit the council’s website for more tips on planning your emergency kits.

• Invest the time in getting organised and you’ll reap the benefits in the long run.

• Get the whole family involved.

• Don’t relapse!

• Get some great books. One Year to an Organized Life with Baby by Regina Leeds and Meagan Francis helps new parents get themselves and their home organised. And Home Organization Tear Outs for the Whole Family by Kristi Dominguez gives your family step-by-step guides on one page sheets that you can literally tear out! Both available at www.booktopia.com.au

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MARCH APRIL 2017 2017www.pakmag.com.au www.pakmag.com.au

HERE’S OUR TIPS FOR GETTING PREPARED: • Prepare your emergency kit. With the beautiful weather most of the year in our region, ensuring we have an emergency kit is often far from our minds. Well, we urge you to think about it now. Is it well stocked? And do your children know where it is?

• Know your emergency plans. It’s important that you and your children know what you would do in the event of a fire, a medical emergency or being separated away from home. Take some time to plan it now – it’s too late when it happens for real and having a plan could save lives.

• Make your home safe. Recent statistics showed that many people who reported break ins had left a door unlocked. Don’t take home safety for granted, make sure doors are locked, car keys aren’t left by doors and that you have adequate safety measures on windows.

Thieves are increasingly opportunistic, so don’t give them a chance!

• Check your smoke alarm. 1st April is National Smoke Alarm Day, a day which highlights the importance of having a working smoke alarm. So, if your battery hasn’t been changed in a while, now’s the time to do it!

• Get Insured. Home insurance, life insurance, travel insurance; the list of insurances that we can take out can seem endless but it’s really important that you think about which cover you need for your family. Check out your options and take out a policy that will give you peace of mind that your family will be ok should the worst happen.

RECIPES

pakmag

HEALTHY EASTER RECIPES

RAW CHOCOLATE TRUFFLES

DAIRY FREE RAW CHOCOLATE

INGREDIENTS

INGREDIENTS

150g almond flour 250g cacao nibs 1 vanilla bean, cut into thirds 170g raw dates, chopped (or regular dates) 50g pure maple syrup or yacon syrup Pinch Himalayan salt 1 ripe banana, peeled (not over-ripe, as the flavour will be too strong) Extra dried fruit or cacao nibs (optional): 1 cup dried, unsweetened cranberries, or chopped dried apricots and ginger; 1/2 cup cacao nibs

200g raw cacao butter (I use Loving Earth Cacao Butter) 50-60g raw cacao powder (or to taste) 100g raw honey or pure maple syrup or rice malt syrup (sweetener) 1 tsp vanilla bean paste or natural extract 1/8 tsp fine sea salt HOW TO MAKE Chop cacao butter roughly with a knife on a chopping board, to approx. 1-2cm cubes.

In a double boiler gently melt your cacao butter, add in the sweetener and whisk to combine.

HOW TO MAKE Process cacao nibs, vanilla bean and dates in a blender.

Add syrup, salt, almond flour, banana and blend until everything is well mixed and clumped together.

If you like, mix in extra dried fruit at this stage.

Either roll mixture into small balls for truffles, or press into a square dish for fudge. Place in the fridge to harden.

RECIPES BROUGHT TO YOU BY: Get your ingredients from The Source Bulk Foods.

Check them out on facebook: /TheSourceBulkFoodsCairns

When completely combined, remove from heat and add your cacao powder and sea salt, whisk until all lumps are removed and you have a velvety chocolate mixture.

Pour into your chocolate moulds and add any toppings you like, fruits, nuts, seed or Buckinis!

Store in the fridge until ready to serve or gift!

Note: You can use other sweeteners, whatever you prefer, to your own taste. Just be aware that if you use a 'sugar' like Rapadura or coconut sugar, you may find that it separates. If this happens, whisk quickly till blended and quickly pour into moulds or onto trays immediately, as it will separate a little if it sit at room temperature.

RECIPES CREATED BY:

www.quirkycooking.com.au

www.pakmag.com.au APRIL 2017

23

ADVERTORIAL

pakmag

A Different Approach to Early Learning STORY Ms Barbara LaCoste, Head of Junior School White Rock

The correlation between high-quality early childhood education to later school success has never been more clear.

The evidence to suggest that young children who participate in high-quality pre-school programs enter school more ready to learn than their peers is undeniably strong.

As Head of Trinity Anglican Junior School - White Rock, I am awed by the enormity of the decision parents undertake as they choose a school for their child. A decision that will have an impact on their child for the remainder of their lives.

of great importance at an early stage. TAS recognises the importance of helping children, about to enter their first formal years of schooling, develop the stamina needed to be successful learners.

Historically, Early Childhood curriculum programs have been polarised between those that are predominantly play based and those that offer a more structured curriculum, focused on school readiness. This can be observed in the amount of student-directed versus teacher-directed activities offered in the program.

Cognitive development is fostered through different learning groups which cater to the large range of developmental levels which are often found in this age group. Through assessment, TAS ensures that curriculum is both well planned and reflects specific goals for each child. Learning is aligned with standards and guidelines for effective early childhood education.

TAS Kindergarten has moved beyond this polarised debate and developed a program that better reflects the cognitive, physical, social, emotional and creative needs of young children.

With cognitively challenging activities embedded within all experiences, TAS Kindergarten provides a unique environment with caring professionals who understand children’s development.

It has long been recognised that play is vitally important to the cognitive development of young children. Children who play freely exhibit more thinking skills and problem solving abilities than those who don’t, as play fosters creativity and imaginative thinking. The symbolic nature of play lays the foundation for a child’s understanding of the written symbols of language and mathematics.

The TAS Kindergarten also recognises the importance of explicit instruction in early language, literacy and numeracy.

Learning letters and sounds, learning to count, recognising numbers and developing listening and speaking skills are

Physical development is fostered through the Perceptual Motor Program (PMP). Children are guided through a series of activities using specialised equipment to promote neurological development, which is required for learning skills like reading, writing and mathematics. The program combines movement activities with academic activities.

Students participate in “Finger Gym” rotations on a daily basis, providing them with a strategic approach to develop the fine motor abilities, strength and skill needed for beginner writers.

In an effort to provide a seamless transition to Preparatory, TAS provides a comprehensive transition program. This gives students the opportunity to spend time in Preparatory classrooms, develop rapport with their future teachers and become familiar with a new environment. Highly skilled staff, high adult-to-child ratios, a language-rich environment, stimulating materials and warm, responsive interactions between educators and children provide students with a ‘Jump Start into Prep’ at Trinity Anglican School.

E tas@tas.qld.edu.au P 07 4036 8111 FB www.facebook.com/TASCairns A Poolwood Road, Kewarra Beach / Progress Road, White Rock www.tas.qld.edu.au

www.pakmag.com.au APRIL 2017

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HEALTH

pakmag

+ HEALTH Spending time with Mum and Dad might save thEIr lives!

STORY Rose Foster A long and happy life is something we all wish for ourselves, our children and our families and according to a new study, it may be more simple than you think.

According to researchers from the University of California, San Francisco, inviting your parents over for dinner, visiting them frequently and allocating time to spend time with them might actually mean they live longer!

The “Loneliness in Older Persons” study, which followed

Combat your own Loneliness

that loneliness was a huge factor in rate of deterioration,

Loneliness is not limited to the elderly. Children and adults can both feel lonely at certain stages in their life and sometimes it’s hard to understand or explain why. Here are our top tips for combatting loneliness

1,600 participants with an average age of 71, showed

and subsequent death of participants. Within six years of the study, 23 per cent of lonely participants died,

in comparison with only 14 per cent of those who were not lonely.

John Cacioppo, a neuroscientist at the University of

Chicago and co-author of Loneliness: Human Nature

and the Need for Social Connection says, “Feelings of

social connection, as well as feelings of disconnection, have enormous influence on our bodies as well as our behaviours. We all decline physically sooner or later,

but loneliness can increase the angle of the downward slope. Conversely, healthy connection can help slow that decline.”

As we get older, the number of social connections we

have decreases. Children have friends at school, many adults have working relationships yet the regular social

interactions elderly people have can be limited, and they often look to younger family for company.

So, why not invite grandma to dinner this week? It may

1. Identify It. Often feeling lonely is just that, a feeling.

So, identifying why you’re feeling lonely is the first step in being able to figure out what you need to do to feel content.

2. Reach Out. Loneliness can go unnoticed by others in your life, so let them know if you need company, even if it’s just someone to watch a movie with.

3. Find Others. Sometimes the problem is that you are actually alone, so get out there, join a club, meet people.

There are plenty of people in the same boat as you, so find them!

4. Show Up. When you’re lonely, it’s easy to get into a cycle of not wanting to interact. But if you’re feeling this way it is important that you keep the plans you’ve made and show up, even if you don’t want to.

5. Nurture Others. Teach your children, adopt a pet, volunteer. Focussing on looking after others can really help alleviate loneliness.

just extend her life!

World Health Day World Health Day is 7th April. This day highlights the importance of global health and the World Health Organisation organises international, regional and local events to focus on a particular theme. This year’s theme is Depression: Let’s Talk and seeks to improve understanding of this debilitating disease to reduce associated stigma and encourage more people to seek treatment.

If you or someone you know is living with ‘the black dog’ visit the www.who.int for resources and information about how you can get involved in this important day. Closer to home, the Black Dog Institute can be a valuable lifeline, providing help, support and connection for those struggling with depression. Visit www.blackdoginstitute.org.au for more information.

www.pakmag.com.au APRIL 2017

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+ HEALTH Healthy Alternatives to Easter Eggs STORY Cathie Webb, The Source Bulk Foods Easter used to be all about chocolate, but with lots of families more aware of the added sugars and additives contained in our foods they are looking for some alternatives to the traditional haul of high sugar Easter eggs we have consumed in the past.

Well, fear not, there are alternatives out there. How about some gluten, dairy, refined sugar free chocolate coated almonds? The best part about these is they are the exact shape of the traditional Easter egg. Or you could even make your own healthy version of chocolate using raw cacao butter, cacao powder, maple syrup or honey, vanilla and a pinch of salt. Melt it all down and use some egg or bunny shaped moulds and you have a healthy, tasty alternative.

Give the kids a lunchbox filled with carrot sticks (why not? The Easter Bunny eats them!), chocolate coated strawberries, add some fruit cut into Easter shapes and you have yourself a little hamper that will promote not only healthier eating but less waste lunches in the year ahead!

And for adults, why not treat yourself too. Try some beautiful herbal teas such as French Earl Grey, or Epsom salt and rose bliss bath bombs. Who says that Easter has to be about chocolate?

For the diehard chocolate fans though, perhaps try get your fix plus a side of healthy. From raspberries and blueberries, to coconut and nuts, the list of chocolate covered foods is endless!

The Source Bulk Foods in Cairns stocks all of these healthy alternatives and the team would love to see you in store to help you with your Easter gift ideas. Check them out on facebook: www.facebook.com/TheSourceBulkFoodsCairns

Growing Pains STORY DR Tanya Davies MBBS, FRCPCH, JCPTGP, MRACGP, Appletree Medical Growing pains typically occur in the legs, at night, and come in a range of forms. These pains can be a crampy ache in the muscles or a sharper pain that can wake the child up. Generally, it starts in the evening and is gone by the morning with both legs affected. It can start at the age of three or four and usually has gone by the age of eight to twelve.

What causes growing pains?

Despite the name there is no evidence that the pain is caused by growth. It often happens when the child has been particularly active and the muscles are worn out. It can come and go.

When should you seek help?

If the pain is only in one limb or other

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APRIL 2017 www.pakmag.com.au

limbs are affected, the pain is present during the day or if the child is in any other way unwell or has a fever, see your GP.

What is the treatment?

Generally simple reassurance, gentle massage, warmth and stretching exercises are sufficient. If the pain is more distressing, ibuprofen and

paracetamol are effective. If the pain isn’t relieved by these measures, medical attention should be sought to exclude anything more serious.

Premature STORY Melinda Cruz, Founder & CEO, Miracle Babies Foundation

Prematurity is the term used when a baby is born early. For most women, pregnancy lasts around 40 weeks.

Babies born between 37 and 42 weeks are considered full-term and babies born before 37 weeks are considered premature.

In Australia, one in ten babies are born prematurely and approximately 15 per cent of all babies need admittance into a Neonatal Intensive Care Unit or Special Care Nursery.

According to Australia's Mothers and Babies report, of all premature babies born in Australia, approximately 81 per cent were born between 32 and 36 weeks of gestation.

• Presence of congenital abnormalities

and later GPs, help support parents

• Antenatal steroids

premature babies need, but

• Severe medical complications such as infections

sometimes parents need more

DIFFICULTIES FACED BY PREMATURE BABIES

• Delivery at a hospital that offers specialist neonatal care

difficult time.

Sadly, premature birth complications are the leading causes of death in children under five years of age. In addition, babies born too early are at risk of many health implications including cerebral palsy, chronic lung disease, vision and hearing loss, feeding and speech issues, delay of gross motor and fine motor skill development, low weight gain, and learning and behavioural difficulties.

THE IMPACT OF PREMATURE BIRTH ON PARENTS AND FAMILIES

dedicated to offering a range of

THERE ARE MANY FACTORS THAT HELP DETERMINE A BABY’S CHANCE OF SURVIVAL INCLUDING: • Birth weight • Gestational age • Maturity of organs (especially the lungs) and presence of breathing problems • Multiple pregnancy • Maternal health

through providing the healthcare

than just healthcare during this

Miracle Babies is an organisation support options for families with

premature babies. This fantastic

Having a critically ill baby affects the long-term emotional stability of the entire family and can cause depression, anxiety and marital instability. Parents of premature babies are at five to ten per cent higher risk of suffering post-natal depression and a further five per cent higher risk for post-traumatic stress disorder than parents of fullterm babies. The impact can also be financial, due to increased time away from work and higher long-term medical costs.

organisation works to connect families

WHAT SUPPORT IS AVAILABLE FOR PARENTS OF PREMMIES?

support through pregnancy, time in

There are many channels through which parents of premmies can get support. Hospital paediatricians,

with similar experiences, either by

gestation, hospital, state, condition, surgery and ongoing issues.

This connection helps families

acknowledge their experience and emotions, and move toward the

vision of the Foundation - "Better, healthier outcomes for newborns and their families challenged by

prematurity or sickness." Miracle

Babies offers the NurtureProgram

which provides complete peer to peer hospital, the transition to home and

beyond. Miracle Babies also operates Australia’s largest online neonatal community.

“With more families than ever before needing our help, we need your help! With your generous support, we don’t need to let miracle families go through the experience alone. Please donate today at www.miraclebabies.org.au”

BabyLove Premmie Nappy WEB www.babylovenappies.com.au RRP $18.95 An ultra-soft and comfortable fit for your premature baby. The BabyLove Premmie nappy range has been specially designed to meet the delicate needs of your premature baby. With a unique 3D design, soft stretchy gathers and silky light material, you can feel safe knowing you’re providing your baby with the very best in comfort and care.

Visit www.pakmag.com.au to enter.

www.pakmag.com.au APRIL 2017

31

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l have With Rashoodz Baby Swim Pack you'l the pool. everything you need for the beach or famous This special offer pack comes with our y clips, napp and hat hable attac with suit Rash matching award winning Reusable Swim ory Nappy, matching Swim Cap and categ sun 3 Sunglasses. Made from the highest and safe materials your bub will be protected . prints ent differ four in es Com styling.

AND BU

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JJ Cole Satchel Black Aztek AVAILABLE Toys R Us & Baby Bunting RRP $129.95 The spacious interior includes multiple organisational components while the exterior offer easily-accessible open and zippered pockets. Featuring: • 7 exterior, 4 interior pockets • Bottle pockets • Removable, padded shoulder strap • Includes grips, stroller attachments • Coordinating changing pad included

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APRIL 2017 www.pakmag.com.au

Little Rae Prints WEB www.littleraeprints.com RRP $30.00ea Win your choice of three A3 Little Rae Prints. Whimsical watercolour creations for little ones by Summer Daniels.

Created with love, Little Rae Prints channel a world of magic and make-believe where each design tells a story. Inspired by her two daughters, Summer’s muted pastel palette allow her prints to fill the space between children’s dreams and reality and bring a touch of magic to their rooms.

Why a rest is just as beneficial as sleep

Take it Easy, Toddler!

STORY Kylie Dawson, Early Learning Capability consultant with Goodstart Early Learning.

Sometimes having a new baby brother or sister is just too much for a toddler to handle. With the arrival of a baby in your household, older children, usually under five years of age, can become overwhelmed, over-excited or over-sensitive. Toddler reactions to their new sibling can range from ‘I must touch her at all times’ to ‘set it on fire’, both of which can be exhausting for parents, especially when they’re dealing with the exhaustion that comes with having a newborn in the first place.

Early learning experts say a rest can be just as beneficial for a child as sleep and should be factored into a child’s everyday routine.

Rest, in addition to sleep, supports a child’s learning, development and wellbeing – it plays a role in memory function and is essential for revitalising the body and mind, and regulating mood.

Rest periods throughout the day are especially important for those children, including kindergarten-aged children, who no longer have a sleep during the day.

In the early years, with the help of their parents, it is important children learn how to rest and how to calm their body.

As they grow, a child’s sleep and rest needs constantly change. So, while there is no set amount of rest a child should have each day (every child is different), incorporating rest into your child’s daily routine is a good place to start.

What Rest Looks Like Not all rest has to be taken lying or sitting down. Rest can be defined as quiet time; a period of inactivity or relaxed activity, calmness or tranquillity and can include a child being in a state of sleep.

Effective ways for children to rest • Reading a book in their room or on the couch • Sitting at a table drawing • Playing with playdough • Quietly threading beads onto string It’s important that resting activities do not include screen time, such as TVs and tablets, or other technology.

Setting the mood Dim lighting, low noise levels, and using comfortable furniture including cushions are good ways to create a restful environment.

Talk to your child about what sorts of things make them feel calm to help identify activities as part of their rest routine.

Make sure you take time as well – it is amazing what you can achieve with a calm and rested mind!

STORY Rose Foster

When Toddler Loves Baby Touching and stroking of your baby by your toddler can be a lovely sight to behold. But when heavy-handedness and clumsiness get into the mix, which they so often do with toddlers, an upset baby can lead to an upset household.

The last thing you want to do is to let your toddler think it’s not ok for them to love their sibling, but subtle changes to toddler’s access to baby can really help combat the problem. One idea is to use a travel cot with mesh sides so your baby can happily sleep or play without being irritated, and your toddler can still see and talk to their brother or sister.

When Toddler Hates Baby When a toddler hates their new sibling, it’s usually not because they hate their sibling! It’s because they don’t like, and are having difficulty accepting, that they have to share your attention. Whether their ‘hate’ is expressed through violence towards baby or through tantrums, the solution is the same; help your toddler transition from only or youngest child to part or a larger family unit. Try to give your toddler some dedicated one on one time, give him space away from baby and acknowledge and praise him whilst around baby.

Take it Easy, mum!

In reality, adjusting to their new role in the family takes time, so being overwhelmed is normal. No matter which end of the spectrum your toddler’s reaction to your newborn is, cut him some slack and remember it’s hard for him to comprehend the change. And, before you know it, he won’t remember a time before he was the only or the youngest child.

www.pakmag.com.au APRIL 2017

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WHAT'S ON APR

"Juanita picks School Holiday Workshops: Little Tinkers on Tuesday 4th"

Every Tuesday

Monday 3

Wednesday 5

KIDS CERAMIC CLASSES (4 classes clay/glazes/firing included) Cairns Potters Club hedy.verhulst@hotmail.com Bookings are essential 3.30pm / $79 / 5-12 years old

SCHOOL HOLIDAY PROGRAM Runs until 6th Painting Party www.paintingparty.com.au 10.00am / $50.00/ Kids 10+

SCHOOL HOLIDAY WORKSHOP: IMAGINATIVE DRAWING Cairns Regional Gallery 4044 3733 10.30am / $16 ($13 members) / Kids

Saturday 1 MR TAKAHASHI AND OTHER FALLING SECRETS Runs until 8th The Theatre, Centre of Contemporary Arts Cairns www.centre-of-contemporary-artscairns.com.au check website for times / $30.00 adult CAIRNS ON A FORK Fred Moule Pavillion Cairns Showgrounds www.facebook.com/cairnsonafork 3.00pm / Gold Coin Donation / Family SHAUN TAN'S THE LOST THING Runs until April 18th Cairns Regional Gallery www.cairnsregionalgallery.com.au 10.00am / Free / Family GLOW IN THE DARK FUN RUN/WALK Redlynch State College www.facebook.com/ dynamicrunningaustralia 7.00pm / Cost / Family

Sunday 2 WORLD BIPOLAR DAY FUNDRAISER Chrysalis www.facebook.com/ blissfulhavenmassage 9.30am / Cost / Adult

SCREEN STORIES YOUTH WORKSHOP 5 DAYS Runs until 7th Botanic Gardens Visitor Centre www.tanksartscentre.com 9.00am / $180 per child / 11-15 years old

Tuesday 4 SCHOOL HOLIDAY WORKSHOPS: LITTLE TINKERS Runs until 6th Tanks Arts Centre www.tanksartscentre.com 10.00am / $10.00 / 2-7 years old SCHOOL HOLIDAY WORKSHOPS: BIG DESIGN Runs until 6th Tanks Arts Centre www.tanksartscentre.com 10.00am / $10.00 / 7-12 years old SCHOOL HOLIDAY WORKSHOP: MAGNET & BUTTON MAKING Cairns Regional Gallery www.cairnsregionalgallery.com.au 10.00am / $16 ($13 members) / Kids SCHOOL HOLIDAY WORKSHOP: BEAD MAKING Cairns Regional Gallery www.cairnsregionalgallery.com.au 1.00pm / $19 ($16 members) / Kids SHAUN TAN'S THE LOST THING STORYTIME Stratford Library 4044 3733 10.30am / Free / Family

SCHOOL HOLIDAY WORKSHOP: IMAGINATIVE DRAWING Cairns Regional Gallery www.cairnsregionalgallery.com.au 1.00pm / $19 ($16 members) / Kids HOLIDAY DRAMA PROGRAMS 5yrs - 12yrs TYC Adventure Theatre www.theyoungcompany.com.au Check website for more information

Thursday 6 INKMASTERS 3 DAY LITHOGRAPHY WORKSHOP Runs through April R Block TAFE Queensland North www.entertainmentcairns.com 10.00am / Cost / Youth+ CREATING WEALTHY WOMEN INFO NIGHT Cairns www.facebook.com/ kellywealthlending Check website for more information ELVIS: AN AMERICAN TRILOGY Brothers Cairns - The Auditorium www.brotherscairns.com.au 8.00pm / $55.00 / 7+ A SILENT VOICE Event Cinemas www.eventcinemas.com.au Check website for times / Cost / Family DANCE ACADEMY: THE MOVIE Event Cinemas www.eventcinemas.com.au Check website for times / Cost / Family

SCHOOL HOLIDAY WORKSHOP: SELF PORTRAIT OR MASK Cairns Regional Gallery www.cairnsregionalgallery.com.au 10.30am / $16 ($13 members) / Kids SCHOOL HOLIDAY WORKSHOP: SELF PORTRAIT OR MASK Cairns Regional Gallery www.cairnsregionalgallery.com.au 1.00pm / $19 ($16 members) / Kids

Friday 7 VINCE JONES [JAZZ UP NORTH] Tanks Arts Centre www.tanksartscentre.com 7.30pm / $42 / $36.75 conc. / Adult ARTISTS OF THE NORTH 2017 Runs until 23rd Tanks Arts Centre www.tanksartscentre.com 9.00am / Gold Coin Donation / Adult SCHOOL HOLIDAY WORKSHOP: ANIMALIA AUSTRALIS Cairns Regional Gallery www.cairnsregionalgallery.com.au 10.00am / $16 ($13 members) / Kids SCHOOL HOLIDAY WORKSHOP: ANIMALIA AUSTRALIS Cairns Regional Gallery www.cairnsregionalgallery.com.au 1.00pm / $19 ($16 members) / Kids

Saturday 8 SCREENPRINT WORKSHOP 1/2 APRIL 17 TAFE Queensland North www.entertainmentcairns.com 8.45am / Cost / Youth+

Sunday 9 THE WAIFS Munro Martin Parklands www.cairns.qld.gov.au 5.00pm / $57.00 / Family

www.pakmag.com.au APRIL 2017

35

WHAT'S ON APR

"Mark picks PakMag Easter Eggstravaganza on Saturday 15th"

Monday 10

Thursday 13

Thursday 20

Tuesday 25

EASTER BASKET WEAVING Cairns Regional Gallery www.cairnsregionalgallery.com.au 10.00am / $16 ($13 members) / Kids

RICKIE LEE JONES Tanks Arts Centre www.tanksartscentre.com 8.15pm / $62.00 / Adult

PERCUSSION WORKSHOP WITH SABOR Y CONTROL Tanks Arts Centre www.tanksartscentre.com 7.00pm / $15.00 / Family

ANZAC DAY Cairns RSL Sub Branch www.facebook.com/ CairnsRSLSubBranch 5.30am / Free / Family

Friday 21

Wednesday 26

SABOR Y CONTROL [WORLD MUSIC] Tanks Arts Centre www.tanksartscentre.com 7.30pm / $36.75/$31.50 conc. / Family

COME JOIN: PLAY-CONNECT-GROW Term 2: April 26 - June 14 In the garden at 98 Birch St, Manunda 4032 6800 9:30am / Free / Kids 0-5 years old with carer

SCHOOL HOLIDAY WORKSHOP: SCULPTURE Runs until the 11th Cairns Regional Gallery www.cairnsregionalgallery.com.au 1.00pm / $29 ($26 members) / Kids GET A MOVE ON: CREATIVE DANCE SESSIONS WITH ANNA CROOKS Centre of Contemporary Arts www.centre-of-contemporary-artscairns.com.au 6.00pm / $10.00 / All Ages SCHOOL HOLIDAY PROGRAM Runs until 13th Painting Party www.paintingparty.com.au 10.00am / $50.00/ Kids 10+

Tuesday 11 EASTER BASKET WEAVING Cairns Regional Gallery www.cairnsregionalgallery.com.au 10.00am / $19 ($16 members) / Kids

Wednesday 12 SCHOOL HOLIDAY WORKSHOP: DRAWING Cairns Regional Gallery www.cairnsregionalgallery.com.au 10.30am / $16 ($13 members) / Kids SCHOOL HOLIDAY WORKSHOP: DRAWING Cairns Regional Gallery www.cairnsregionalgallery.com.au 1.00pm / $19 ($16 members) / Kids

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APRIL 2017 www.pakmag.com.au

BABY AND CHILD HEALTH CLINIC AND MORNING TEA Childs World Early Learning Centres www.childsworld.com.au 9.00am / Free / Family SCHOOL HOLIDAY WORKSHOP: OBJECT CONSTRUCTION Cairns Regional Gallery www.cairnsregionalgallery.com.au 10.00am / $16 ($13 members) / Kids SCHOOL HOLIDAY WORKSHOP: OBJECT CONSTRUCTION Cairns Regional Gallery www.cairnsregionalgallery.com.au 1.00pm / $19 ($16 members) / Kids

Saturday 15 PAKMAG CAIRNS EASTER EGGSTRAVAGANZA Stockland Cairns www.facebook.com/PakmagCairns 10.30am / Free / Family

Sunday 16 EASTER EGG HUNT Go Bowling Cairns Bookings are essential 4053 3497 11.00am /$30 Family Deal / Family

Wednesday 19 PECHAKUCHA NIGHT Tanks Arts Centre www.tanksartscentre.com 7.30pm / $5 + gold coin donation / Youth+

ONE FOR THE ROAD Runs until the 29th The Rondo www.therondo.com.au 8.00pm / Cost / Youth+

Saturday 22 ANIMAL EDUCATION DAY Norman Park in Gordonvale nicola.millen@yahoo.com 8.00am / Free / Family YOUR KID'S WARDROBE CAIRNS Cairns Show Grounds www.facebook.com/ yourwardrobecairns 9.00am / Gold Coin Donation / Family SWIM SKILLS 9TH BIRTHDAY OPEN DAY & GRAND OPENING OF SPLASH PARK Swim Skills 32 Fishburn St Bentley Park 4045 2782 1.00pm / Free / Family YUNGABURRA TRIATHLON 2017 Tinaburra Foreshore, Yungaburra www.facebook.com/ YungaburraTriathlon 3.00pm / Cost / Adult FUNSHOP 4 KIDS Painting Party www.paintingparty.com.au 10.00am / $50.00/ Kids 10+

MELBOURNE INTERNATIONAL COMEDY FESTIVAL ROADSHOW 2017 Runs until 28th Tanks Arts Centre www.tanksartscentre.com 6.30pm / $42.00 / 15+ THE MELBOURNE INTERNATIONAL COMEDY FESTIVAL ROADSHOW Runs until 28th Tanks Arts Centre www.tanksartscentre.com 7.30pm / $42/$36.75 conc. / Adult

WHAT'S ON GUIDE CONTINUES ON P. 41

ED I TI O N

www.pakmag.com.au APRIL 2017

37

COLOUR ME IN!

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A $10 BENDIGO BANK PIGGYSAVER ACCOUNT VOUCHER

TO ENTER, HUNT DOWN THE EASTER EGGS AND LET US KNOW HOW MANY THERE ARE IN THE ABOVE PICTURE! ADMIN@GRANDPUBLISHING.COM.AU MAKE SURE TO INCLUDE 'PAKMAG EASTER EGG HUNT COMP' IN THE SUBJECT LINE, YOUR NAME, GUARDIAN NAME, AGE, ADDRESS, LOCATION & PHONE NUMBER IN THE EMAIL BODY. WIN ONE OF 10 $10 BENDIGO BANK PIGGYSAVER ACCOUNT VOUCHER! (COMP CLOSES 30/04/17) By entering this competition, you agree to be contacted by Bendigo Bank.

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TO ENTER COLOUR IN & MAIL TO: PAKMAG, COLOUR IN APRIL 2017 PO BOX 7433, CAIRNS QLD 4870

PARENT/GUARDIAN...........................................................................................

WIN A PACK OF TINTA'S EASTER EGG CRAYONS (COMP CLOSES 30/04/17) WEB www.tintacrayons.com.au RRP $16.95 Tinta’s Easter egg crayons are the perfect nonchocolate gift for creative kids this Easter.

Available in a box of six, each egg is individually coloured and decorated.

NAME............................................................................................. AGE..............

ADDRESS............................................................................................................. .............................................................................................POSTCODE.............

CNS

PHONE.........................................EMAIL..............................................................

WHAT'S ON APR 3'S A CROWD @ COCO'S LOBBY BAR Pullman Cairns International www.entertainmentcairns.com 7.00pm / Free / Family

Friday 28 CRAZY TIMES The Theatre, Centre of Contemporary Arts Cairns www.centre-of-contemporary-artscairns.com.au 11am & 6.30pm /$24.00 / Grades 3-6

Sunday 30

2017 FOSTER AND KINSHIP CARE STATE CONFERENCE Runs until 30th Pullman Cairns International www.fcq.com.au Please check website for information LIVE MUSIC Cazalys Cairns www.entertainmentcairns.com 6.30pm / Free / Family

Save the Date: 21 May

Save the Date: 24 & 25 JUNE

CAIRNS CHILDREN’S

PAKMAG'S 10TH BIRTHDAY WEEKEND Check the PakMag Facebook page for details, updates and ticket information!

FESTIVAL 2017

Tanks Arts Centre and Botanic Gardens

www.tanksartscentre.com

CULTURES IN HARMONY Tanks Arts Centre www.tanksartscentre.com 10.00am / Free / Family

Check website for more information

TANKS MARKETS - FIRST ONE FOR 2017 Tanks Arts Centre www.tanksartscentre.com 9.00am / Free / Family

www.tanksartscentre.com

Save the Date: 31 May TANKS ARTS CENTRE

10.00am / $17.00 / 6-12 Years Old

EMAIL EVENTS TO: ADMIN@GRANDPUBLISHING.COM.AU

REGULAR MARKETS ESPLANADE MARKETS DATE Every Saturday TIME From 8.00am - 4.00pm LOCATION Lagoon, Cairns HERBERTON MARKETS DATE Monthly every third Sunday TIME From 7.00am - 12 noon LOCATION Wondecla Sports Ground HOLLOWAYS BEACH MARKETS DATE 2nd Sunday of the month TIME From 8.00am - 1.00pm LOCATION Holloways Beach Foreshore

ATHERTON LIONS CLUB

NIGHT MARKETS

RUSTY'S MARKETS

INDOOR MARKETS

DATE Every Day from 5.00pm - 11.00pm LOCATION 71 - 75 The Esplanade (Opposite the Lagoon)

DATE Every Friday/Saturday TIME 5.00am - 6.00pm DATE Every Sunday TIME 5.00am - 3.00pm

DATE Every 2nd Sunday TIME From 7.00am - 12 noon LOCATION Merriland Hall (Robert St) PALM COVE MARKET DATE 1st Sunday of the month April to December (not September) TIME 8.00am – 2.00pm LOCATION Foreshore at Palm Cove MALANDA MARKETS DATE Every 3rd Saturday of the month TIME From 7.30am - 12.30pm LOCATION Malanda Showgrounds (opposite Jack May Park) MOSSMAN COMMUNITY MARKET DATE Every Saturday TIME 7.00am till midday LOCATION St David’s Anglican Church Under the Raintrees

MOUNT SHERIDAN PLAZA

TANKS ART CENTRE MARKETS

MARKETS

DATE Last Sunday of the month (April to November excluding August) TIME From 9.00am - 2.00pm LOCATION Tanks Art Centre, Collins Avenue, Edge Hill

DATE 2nd and 4th Sunday of the month (Except December 13/12/15 and 20/12/15) TIME From 9.00am - 3.00pm LOCATION Mount Sheridan Plaza PORT DOUGLAS MARKETS DATE Every Sunday TIME From 8.00am - 2.00pm LOCATION Anzac Park RAVENSHOE MARKETS DATE 4th Sunday of the month TIME 8.00am - 12 noon LOCATION Tumoulin Railway Station

TOLGA MARKETS DATE 1st Sunday of the month TIME 7.00am - 12 noon LOCATION Morrow Park Racecourse YUNGABURRA MARKETS DATE 4th Saturday of the month TIME From 7.30am - 12.30pm LOCATION Bruce Jones Park Yungaburra

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REGULAR EVENTS CAIRNS INDOOR SPORTS MON, TUE, WED, THUR, FRI Tiny Tots Time/Cost: (During school term) 9.00am - 12.00pm, $7

MONDAYS In2soccer (Term Times 6 +years) Time/Cost: 4:30pm, rego:$15, term from $65

WEDNESDAYS In2Soccer (Term Times 3+ - 6 Years) Time/Cost: 4.30pm, from $65 (10 wks)

THURSDAYS Ladies Netball Time/Cost: 10.00am, $13 (includes entry to Tiny Tots for 1 Child) Child can be watched while you play

FRIDAYS Milo In2Cricket (Term Times) Time/Cost: 4.30pm, from $45

INFLATABLE KINGDOM TINY TOTS: EVERYDAY DURING SCHOOL TERM Time: 9.00am - 12.00pm SCHOOL TERM: Weekends & Public Holidays Time: 9.00am - 4.00pm SCHOOL HOLIDAYS: everyday Time: 9.00am - 4.00pm Cairns Indoor Sports, 164 Mayers St, Manunda

LIBRARIES

LEGO MANIA Manunda Library: Fridays during school term, 3:30 - 4:30pm Smithfield Library: Fridays during school term, 3:30 - 4:30pm Gordonvale Library: Thursdays during school term, 3:30 - 4:30pm Earlville Library: 3rd Wednesday of the month, 3:30 - 4:30pm Edmonton Library: 3rd Thursday of the month, 3:30 - 4:30pm

MONDAY READ CLUB Smithfield Library: Mondays during school term: 3:30 - 4:30pm

FREE FITNESS ON THE ESPLANADE MONDAYS Seniors Steady Steps 9.30am, Fogarty Park Fitness Playground - Green Gym Circuit 5.30pm, Lagoon Café

TUESDAYS Calligraphy Qigong Yoga - Yoga & Thai Chi Techniques 6.30am, Lagoon Deck Bouldering - Intro to Rock Climbing 5pm, Bouldering Park

STORYTIMES

WEDNESDAYS

Edmonton Library 1st Thursday of the month, 10:30 - 11:30am Gordonvale Library: 1st Tuesday of the month, 10:30 - 11:30am Manunda Library: 1st Wednesday of the month, 10:30 - 11:30am Stratford Library: 2nd Tuesday of the month, 10:30 - 11:30am City Library: 2nd Wednesday of the month, 10:30 - 11:30am Babinda Library: 3rd Monday of the month, 10:30 - 11:30am Smithfield Library: 3rd Tuesday of the month, 10:30 - 11:30am Earlville Library: 4th Thursday of the month, 10:30 - 11:30am

Running Start - Intro to Safe Running Techniques 6.30am, Lagoon Café Beach Volleyball 5.30pm, Volleyball Courts

BABY RHYME TIMES Earlville Library: 1st Tuesday of the month, 10:30 - 11.00am

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Smithfield Library: 2nd Thursday of the month, 10:30 - 11.00am Stratford Library: 3rd Thursday of the month, 10:30 - 11.00am Manunda Library: 4th Tuesday of the month, 10:30 - 11.00am City Library: 4th Wednesday of the month, 10:30 - 11.00am

APRIL 2017 www.pakmag.com.au

THURSDAYS Box Fit 6.30am, Fogarty Park Stage Zumba Fitness 5.30pm, Fogarty Park Stage

FRIDAYS Back to Basics - Intro to Safe Fitness Exercise 6.30am, Lagoon Deck Aqua Zumba 5.30pm, Lagoon

SATURDAYS Sahaja Yoga Meditation 7.30am, Lagoon Lawn H.I.I.T - Interval Training 8.00am, Lagoon Café Aqua Aerobics 9.00am, Lagoon

TRINITY ANGLICAN CHURCH 1ST & 3RD SUNDAY Progress Rd, WHITEROCK Families@5 -Small church service we have craft activities, play games, bible stories, also singing, communion is also offered and colouring in for the children. Then after there is a sausage sizzle with tea, coffee and cold water. For further information please phone Fr. Don or Carolynn Ford on 40511070

UNITING CARE COMMUNITY SUPPORT SERVICE WEDNESDAYS Play Connect Grow Supported Playgroup Location: 98 Birch St, Manunda Time: 9.30 - 11.30am During school terms Cost: Free (Gold Coin donation appreciated) Children 0 - 5 years 4032 6800 for more info

FREE SWIM PROGRAM FOR 2 & 3 MONTH OLD BABIES

An educational, stimulating water familiarization program for parents and their newborns.

Held at both Little Snappers and Swim Skills Swim schools

MONDAYS AND TUESDAYS AT SWIM SKILLS SWIM SCHOOL 4045 2782 32 Fishburn Street Bentley Park www.swimskills.com.au

WEDNESDAYS AND THURSDAYS AT LITTLE SNAPPERS SWIM SCHOOL 4038 1241 1 Cumberland Avenue Smithfield www.littlesnappers.com.au

BUSY BEES PLAYGROUP EVERY THURSDAY The Masonic Hall, 90 Le Grande Street, Freshwater 9.30am - 11.45am $3.00 per family contact 0434 371 032 for more details

MARLIN COAST NEIGHBOURHOOD CENTRE WEDNESDAYS Children’s Playtime 205 Reed Road Trinity Park on The back veranda 9.00 - 11.00am $2.00 per family (children under school age). Morning tea is provided 4055 6440 for more details

pril A s ’ g a PakM

THE YOUNG COMPANY

Please visit the website for more information and costings.

TYC HAVE LOTS OF PROGRAMS ON OFFER THESE HOLIDAYS.

Bookings Essential

During the 4-Day Drama School programs students develop the essentials of stage performance through improvisation, role-play and characterisation activities.

Participants then perform in front of their parents and friends with costumes, sets, props, sound effects, live projections and theatrical lighting!

WEEK ONE Operation Spotlight: It's Time To Shine!

EARLY BIRD SAVING AVAILABLE Tel: 4041 4066 Web: www.theyoungcompany.com.au Email: info@theyoungcompany.com.au

GO BOWLING “Kids Happy Hour”, every day between 9.00am-10.00am and 3.00pm-4.00pm. Only $7.00 per person / per game (includes shoe hire, kids only)

Suitable for 5-12years

Great family deals starting from $49.00* (family of four, 1 game each)

This 1 day boot camp runs Monday, 3 April - 9.00am – 5.00pm

EASTER WEEKEND DEAL

Shake, Rattle & Roar: The World Is Your Stage!

Suitable for 5-12years This 4-day program runs from Tuesday, 4 – Friday, 7 April, 9.00am – 3.00pm WEEK TWO Legion Of Super Heroes: Our Time Is Now! Suitable for 5-12years This 4-day program runs from Monday, 10 – Thursday, 13 April, 9.00am – 3.00pm Showcase for each program is the last afternoon of the program.

All of TYC programs are designed, created and delivered by their qualified drama educators, professional theatre practitioners and the regions young and emerging performers.

1 game Family Deal for $30.00 (2 adults and 2 kids). Extra players only $7.50 each or add a second game for just $5.00 per person.

Plus, on Easter Sunday join in on their Egg Hunt from 11.00am to 12.00pm.

Open every day of the School Holidays Bookings Essential Tel: 4053 3497

Bookings Essential Tel: 4038 1241 for bookings Web: www.littlesnappers.com.au Email: info@littlesnappers.com.au

BAD FISHY JET BOATING Daily during the school holidays at 11.30am and 2.00pm.

20% off adult and child (under 16 and at least 1.2m tall) tickets on the jet boat thrill ride. (Kids $45.00 and special $36.00 and adults $69.00 and kids $55.20) Family tickets also available.

Bookings are essential and subject to availability.

Tel: 0499 490 030 Web: www.badfishy.com.au Email: bookings@badfishy.com.au

South Cairns Gymnastics GYMNASTICS HOLIDAY PROGRAM Prep to Grade 6 Running Tuesdays, 4 and 11, Wednesdays, 5 and 12 April.

Web: www.gobowling.com.au

Two-hour session – 10.00am to 12.00pm

Little Snappers Swim School

Pre-booking $25.00 for 1 session, $46.00 for 2 sessions, $60.00 for 3 sessions (sessions are 2 hours)

5 DAY FREE HOLIDAY INTENSIVE PROGRAM Monday, 3 to Friday, 7 April Cost is just $80.00 for the 5-day program. For times and more information contact Little Snappers or visit the website.

Walk-ins (no booking) additional $3.00.

All participants will receive a FREE Icey-Pole at the end of each session.

For more information or to book visit the website.

Web: www.gymsportsfnq.com.au

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CAIRNS CENTRAL

Thursday, 13 April from 10.00am – 1.00pm

FREE SCHOOL HOLIDAY FUN!

Cost is $50.00 per person – find a discount code in the April PakMag Ad!

MELVILLE’S EASTER ANIMAL FARM Saturday, 8 April to Sunday, 16 April (Closed Good Friday 14) 10.00am to 4.00pm daily in Centre Court, ground floor.

For more details visit the website or check out Cairns Central on Facebook.

Web: www.cairnscentral.com.au

Backstreet Dance FREE* HOLIDAY DANCE CLASSES Saturday, 8 and Sunday, 9 April.

Suitable for kids from 3 years to adults.

Activities: pool inflatable obstacle course, Jump Zone (trampolines and inflatable military course) - 11.00am to 3.00pm.

For more information visit the website or call Adriana.

Cost: Children – pool entry: $4.50, inflatable course: $5.00, Jump Zone pass: $7.50.

Bookings are required. Pre-bookings are encouraged. Please book early to avoid disappointment

Please note: conditions and costs apply. For more information and pricing visit the website.

Tel: 0448 930 223 (Adriana)

Web: www.tobrukmemorialpool.com.au

Web: www.paintingparty.com.au

INFLATABLE KINGDOM

Mount Sheridan Plaza Mount Sheridan Plaza has lots happening this School Holidays.

STREET SCIENCE SHOWS

The perfect venue to have a great time for all ages. Inflatable Kingdom is a high-energy, action packed environment with inflatables of all shapes and sizes.

Classes in hip hop, jazz/funk, ballet and contemporary are available.

Two shows daily at 11.00am and 12.00pm.

View schedule or register at www.backstreetdance.com.au.

Free for the whole family - live, interactive and lots of fun!

Open every day of the school holidays (except Good Friday) 9.00am to 4.00pm. To stay up to date with all that’s happening check out their Facebook page facebook/ inflatablekingdomcairns.

The FREE* classes will offer people the opportunity to experience the Backstreet philosophy which is fun, positivity and a huge focus on building confidence.

INTERACTIVE GAMES CENTRE

Tel: 4032 2844

Monday, 10 to Thursday, 13 April

Web: www.inflatablekingdom.com.au

Daily 10.00am – 2.00pm (30 minute sessions with 8 sessions per day)

Email: admin@inflatablekingdom.com.au

Studio is located at 170/182 Mayers Street, Manunda.

Join them for new games, new consoles, daily prizes, innovative techniques. Check out Nintendo Switch, VS, PS4 and Xbox One

Address: 164 Mayers Street, Manunda at Cairns Indoor Sports

Tel: 0407 995 182 (Deb) *For new students only.

Painting Party – NOW OPEN KIDS CLUB SCHOOL HOLIDAY CLASSES For children 10 years and older.

Week 1 classes: Monday, 3 – Thursday, 6 April from 10.00am – 1.00pm Week 2 classes: Monday, 10 –

Monday, 3 to Friday, 7 April

To book and more details visit the website

SMITHFIELD SHOPPING CENTRE

Web: www.mtsheridanplaza.com.au

ANGRY BIRDS ACTIVITY ZONE

Tobruk Memorial Pool

Meet Red and personalise your very own Angry Bird lantern at the free Activity Zone.

Check out what Tobruk Memorial pool has available these School Holidays!

SUNDAY FUN DAYS AND WILD WEDNESDAYS Wednesday, 5 and 12, then Sunday, 9 and 16 April.

Monday, 3 – Friday, 7 April from 10.00am- 1.00pm For more information, check out their website Web: www.smithfieldcentre.com.au

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TANKS arts centre

DFO CAIRNS

School holiday workshops

Hop into DFO this Easter for the opportunity to have your photo taken with the Easter Bunny and Alice who will be in the center waiting to meet you!

LITTLE TINKERS Ages 2-7. Tuesday, 4 to Thursday, 6 April from 10.00am -11.00am in Tank 3.

Artist Rosie Miller is interested in exploring what can be made using very simple materials and a little imagination. It promises to be a fun filled and creative exploration of ideas at the tanks arts centre.

Tuesday, 4 April: Straws

Monday, 10 – Saturday, 15 April (excluding Good Friday 14) from 10.00am – 3.00pm daily (no booking required) FREE – make sure you bring your camera for a perfect Easter snap!

Cost: $10.00 per workshop

While you’re at DFO why not take advantage of the Laserfun school holiday special - 3 hours of fun each Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday for just $25.00 per person!

BIG DESIGN

Web: www.dfocairns.com.au

Ages 7-12. Tuesday, 4 – Thursday, 6 April from 10.00am -11.00am in Tank 3

Facebook: DFOcairns

Wednesday, 5 April: Plates Thursday, 6 April: Paper Bags

Public art comes in all shapes and sizes and is built with many different kinds of material, the only limit is imagination.

Cost: $10.00 per workshop Bookings Essential Tel: 4032 6650 Email: gardens@cairns.qld.gov.au

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EASTER BUNNY AND ALICE PHOTOS

APRIL 2017 www.pakmag.com.au

CAIRNS REGIONAL GALLERY The Cairns Regional Gallery have some great workshops available throughout the School Holidays.

TUESDAY, 4 APRIL Magnet & Button Making: 10.00am / $16 / Kids aged 4-7 Bead Making: 1.00pm / $19 / kids aged 8-13

WEDNESDAY, 5 APRIL Imaginative Drawing: 10.30am / $16 / Kids aged 4-7 and 1.00pm / $19 / kids aged 8-13 THURSDAY, 6 APRIL Self Portrait or Mask: 10.30am / $16 / Kids aged 4-7 and 1.00pm / $19 / kids aged 8-13 FRIDAY, 7 APRIL Animalia Australis: 10.00am / $16 / Kids aged 4-7 and 1.00pm / $19 / kids aged 8-13 MONDAY, 10 AND TUESDAY, 11 APRIL Easter Basket Weaving: 10.00am / $16 / kids aged 4-7 Sculpture: 1.00pm / $29 / kids aged 8-12 WEDNESDAY, 12 APRIL Drawing: 10.30am / $16 / Kids ages 4-7 and 1.00pm / $19 / kids aged 8-13 THURSDAY, 13 APRIL Object Construction: 10.00am / $16 / Kids ages 4-7 and 1.00pm / $19 / kids aged 8-13 Bookings essential Tel: 4046 4800 Email: programs@ cairnsregionalgallery.com.au

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Jamie Gosling Football Academy EASTER HOLIDAY CLINICS Suitable for boys and girls aged 5 – 16 years Week 1 Monday, 3 to Wednesday, 5 April Week 2 Monday, 10 to Wednesday, 12 April Daily from 9.00am – 12.00pm.

Choose from venues at Stratford Dolphins Football Club or Walker Rd Sporting Precinct in Edmonton.

Cost – JGFA Players $35.00 per day or $85.00 for 3 days (per child).

Non JGFA $100.00 for 3 days or $40.00 per day (per child).

What to bring: hat, soccer boots/ trainers, snacks and water bottle For more information, visit the website or email Jamie.

Web: www.jgfa.com.au

Email: info@cairnslasertag.com.au Facebook: Lasertag Cairns

The Pier FREE SCHOOL HOLIDAY ACTIVITY: CREATE EASTER CLAY CHARMS! Plus, get some great lunch specials - 10% OFF vouchers for kid’s meals plus coffee and pancake specials!

From Tuesday, 4 to Friday, 7 April and Monday, 10 to Thursday, 13 April from 10.00am to 2.00pm in the Centre Court.

For more information, check out their website and like them on Facebook www.facebook.com to keep up to date on all happening at The Pier Cairns.

Tel: 4052 7749 Web: www.thepiercairns.com.au Facebook: /thepiercairns

PARADISE PALMS

Email: info@jgfa.com.au (Jamie)

EASTER SUNDAY LUNCH AT PARADISE PALMS.

LASERTAG CAIRNS

Join them for a delicious and fun Easter celebration. Enjoy a full carvery smorgasbord with hot and cold meats, salads, vegetables and sides, plus dessert.

EASTER MEGA SESSION THESE HOLIDAYS Sunday, 9 April starting at 12:30pm.

The mega sessions run for a whopping 4.5 hours finishing at 5.00pm. Sessions include a free sausage sizzle lunch with soft drinks for sale as well as some choccy eggs to hand out during the session.

All this for $30.00 per person!

Bookings Essential. Places are limited and fill up fast! Call, visit the website or email to book.

Families will enjoy free all day access to the pool, adventure playground and 18-hole mini-golf.

Swimskills Swim School SWIMFREE AUSTRALIA PROGRAM Monday, 10 – Thursday,13 April Swim Skills is participating in this nationwide program and are offering 4 free lessons to new students.

Owner Peter Dalle Cort says "the 2016-17 period has been one of the worst periods for drowning on record and SwimFREE is our way of helping to fight this."

Book on online or by phone.

Tel: 4045 2782 Web: www.swimskills.com.au

CAIRNS WAKE PARK Kids Club School Holiday fun, specifically designed to be an easy learning environment for younger kids. With a target age group of 6 to 12 year-olds. Their professional coaches can easily ensure that all kids will have a fun time while being introduced to the Wake Park in the most friendly way.

Runs Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays in the School Holidays from 8.30am – 10.00am (except Good Friday). $35.00 per child, per day.

For more information or to book visit the website or call them.

Bookings Essential

11.30am to 2.00pm

Tel: 4038 1304

Adults $39.00 per person, Children under 12 only $15.00

Email: info@cableskicairns.com.au

Live music on the terrace from 2.00pm.

Bookings essential. Call to book.

Tel: 4039 1376

Tel: 4059 9994

Web: www.cairnslasertag.com.au

Web: www.paradisepalms.com.au

Web: www.cairnswakepark.com Facebook: cairnswakepark

Don’t Forget to tell them you read it in PakMag www.pakmag.com.au APRIL 2017

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School Holiday Boredom Busters You and the kids will never be bored these school holidays with our tips on activities for you and your kids.

1. Check out our School Holiday Guide, obviously!

9. Have a family games night.

2. Try our Easter crafts.

10. Start a veggie garden (tips on page 70).

3. Make our Easter recipes.

11. Have a family sports day.

4. Attend PakMag’s Easter Eggstravaganza.

12. Rearrange your child’s room, with them.

5. Go for a swim in the pool or at a swimming spot.

13. Got a dog? Have a puppy pamper day.

6. Organise an Easter Egg Hunt.

14. No dog? Create a grooming station with stuffed toys.

7. Go for a bike ride.

15. Family spa day, anyone?

8. Camp in the backyard.

16. Relax and do some yoga together.

Try these awesome ideas:

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Sticky Spider Web

Boredom Buster Jars

Simple Beach Fun

Use painters tape to create a web in a doorway, scrunch up some newspaper and get the kids to throw it at the web. Whoever sticks the most, wins!

Have fun busting boredom, by planning how you’ll bust boredom in the future! Write fun activities on popsicle sticks and tell the kids to pick a stick when they’re bored!

Get the kids to help pile up the sand,

Thanks to: whatmomslove.com

Thanks to: the crafting chicks

Thanks to oneperfectdayblog.net

APRIL 2017 www.pakmag.com.au

create a crater in the top and pour in water to create a sand volcano!

Simple but fun!

FLORAL BUNNY EARS

DINO EASTER BONNET

Is there anything cuter than Easter bonnets?

If you have little ones then you probably have plenty of bunny ears stashed away from previous Easters, so why not give them a revamp and turn them into a cute floral pair instead?

Bring a twist to the classic bunny and chicken theme this Easter with a Dino-tastic surprise that your child will love. This simple accessory using an old straw hat is sure to be a conversation starter this Easter.

W H AT Y O U ’ L L N E E D : • An old pair of bunny ears, or you can easily make some out of pipe cleaners and a wire headband • • Floral wire • • Floral tape • • Hot glue gun or craft glue • • Variety of flowers. You can either purchase some from your local florist, pick your favourites from your garden, or make them from tissue paper • • Ribbon (for extra decoration) •

HOW TO MAKE:

• A wide brim hat • • Hot glue gun or craft glue • • Plant clippings or plastic foliage • • Toy dinosaurs • • Easter eggs, plastic eggs or paint your own wooden eggs from Earth Toys (be mindful of the heat if you do decide to use chocolate ones) • • Floral wire • • Ribbon (if you want) •

HOW TO MAKE:

1. Shape two pipe cleaners into a bunny ear structure.

1. Arrange the foliage, dinosaurs and eggs into the position of your liking, making sure to leave two large leaves for bunny ears.

2. Attach the ears to the wire headband using a hot glue gun.

2. Once you’re happy with the design, simply attach each element onto the hat with glue.

3. Arrange the flowers into the style you would like, before trimming them.

3. Remove any excess stems or leaves by trimming them down to your desired length.

4. When happy with the design trim the stems of the flowers.

4. If need be, tie down foliage or dinosaurs with floral wire for extra support. Make sure that no wire is sticking out, for the safety of your little ones.

5. Using the floral wire, attach your flower design onto the headband.

6. To make your design look fuller, simply add more flowers to the top of the headband.

7. If there are any stems poking out, cut them for a smooth finish.

8. Using the floral tape, simply secure the flowers firmly to the headband, 9. For a unique touch try tying little bows on-top of each ear.

Image and inspiration thanks to www.lavinlabel.com

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W H AT Y O U ’ L L N E E D :

APRIL 2017 www.pakmag.com.au

Felt Flower www.earthtoys.net (RRP $7.50ea)

Schleich - Brachiosaurus www.earthtoys.net (RRP $39.95ea)

Piccolo Oodle Doodle Crayon Set www.earthtoys.net (RRP $22.50ea) Paint Your Own Easter Eggs! www.earthtoys.net (RRP $27.00ea)

Flower Head Band www.earthtoys.net (RRP $22.00ea) Seedling Pom Pom Bunny Kit www.playmackay.com.au (RRP $24.95ea)

Rogue Artificial Stems & Bouquet www.korufurnitureandhomewares.com.au (Eucalyptus Stem RRP $18.00ea, Rose/Peony Bouquet RRP $30.00, Wattle Stem RRP $14.00, Bracken Fern Bunch RRP $10.00)

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EAT STAY PLAY

EAT STAY PLAY

pakmag

FNQ from a Whole New Perspective STORY Trent Stievano Friends and family who visit from out of town are always amazed at the majestic beauty of Far North Queensland.

It wasn’t until I experienced a scenic helicopter flight with Nautilus Aviation that I truly understood the magic of our region and how lucky we are to live here. The reef, the rainforest and everything in between. Far North Queensland has so many wonderful places to see and visit and Nautilus Aviation has a once in a lifetime experience for everyone.

From the moment we walked into the hanger, the excitement was hard to hide as we could hear and see helicopters taking off and landing. The boys were indeed in for a treat!

After a brief induction and weigh in, we were jackets-on and ready to fly.

Out on the tarmac; planes and helicopters added to our anticipation and before we knew it, we were buckled in, headsets on and in the air on our way to the reef, rainforest and sand cay.

WOW! Our journey started with a flight over the Great Barrier Reef!

Taking off we also enjoyed a spectacular glimpse of our city centre and pier. Flying over one of the seven natural wonders of the world, right at our doorsteps is surreal! I was completely mesmerized by the view, the colours and just how amazing the world looked from above. The flight included views of beautiful Green Island and Fitzroy Island and sightings of marine life including turtles!

We landed on Vlasoff Cay. A pristine sand cay in the heart of the Great Barrier Reef. In absolute seclusion we enjoyed a lovely picnic breakfast provided by Nautilus Aviation and a swim straight off the beach to snorkel and discover the mysteries of the underwater world. What a way to experience the reef!

After some swimming and relaxing, it was time to buckle up and head over the reef and into the rainforest. As much as I love the rainforest, I honestly did not think it would not be as impressive as the reef. Boy, was I wrong! The different shades of green and the plateau of mountains as we moved from Cairns to Kuranda and looked out over the Tablelands, it all just amazed us. Seeing beautiful Cairns and its surrounds from this perspective was such an eye opener – we even saw our house!

Like all good things, our experience came to an end. Three enjoyable hours later, we were back at the airport. I could not have been more impressed with the scene, the pilot or the service. Such a fantastic business and definitely recommended for you and your family.

Nautilus Aviation has been operating for over 20 years in North Queensland and have an outstanding reputation, boasting an impeccable safety record with zero accidents in the company’s history.

Their experiences include: • Reef and Rainforest Scenic Flights • Secluded Sand Cay Picnics • Island Getaways • HeliFish Adventures • Outback Adventures • Fly and Cruise Adventures with Down Under Dive & Cruise and Sunlover Reef Cruises There is even something for the adrenaline junkies with several packages including Bungy, Skydive, Hot Air Balloons, Horse Riding and ATV’s!

For more information, visit www.nautilusaviation.com.au for all the experiences available or give them a call on 07 4034 9000. Don’t forget to tell them you read it in PakMag.

www.pakmag.com.au APRIL 2017

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pakmag CELEBRATE

Does your home sometimes feel like a zoo? Full of animals (or children, as some people call them!) running around wild? Why not celebrate their wild side and throw an animal themed birthday party? Invite your guests to join in on the craziness and dress as their favourite animal, whether it be a roaring lion or a cute little lady bug, the kids will have fun being their chosen creature for the day.

ANIMAL TREATS:

DECORATIONS:

Create cute turtle rolls by using tiger crust buns from your local supermarket, then by using thin slices of cucumber, create the neck and legs of the turtle. Simply add raisins for eyes and your favourite sandwich fillings for a delicious, unique treat.

Use animal figures for delightful party table decorations.

Add mini party hats made from paper scraps and pompoms for an extra birthday touch.

Purchase some stuffed animals and create an animal adoption centre. Add a name tag and certificate so your party guests can leave with a memento, as well as a new friend.

For a simple and healthy party snack, fill a bowl up with grapes and label it with ‘snake eggs’. This can be done as well with carrots as ‘crab claws’ and sultanas as ‘dried ants’.

Place animal masks on the back of the chairs for a unique table setting display. This can be helpful for the little ones to remember their seat at the table as well as adding a personalised touch to the decorations.

Pop-Out & Play - Woodlands www.earthtoys.net (RRP $16.00ea)

Tegu Magnetic Wooden Blocks Blues 24 Pieces www.earthtoys.net (RRP $139.95ea)

www.bestfriendsforfrosting.com

www.projectnursery.com

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www.karaspartyideas.com

www.100layercakelet.com

Petilou OwlyWoo Puzzle www.playmackay.com.au (RRP $15.95ea)

Crocodile Birthday Cake Cakes Upon A Time Smithfield, Cairns 0488 176 024

Icingbits Edible Cake Toppers www.icingbits.com

Homely Creatures Sleeping Bear Cushion www.korufurnitureand homewares.com.au (RRP $58.00ea)

www.karaspartyideas.com

www.willowday.net

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POOL SAFETY

pakmag

Pool Safety with Laurie Lawrence STORY Rose Foster With the Easter Holidays upon us, thinking about staying safe in the pool or in our local waterways should be at the forefront of our minds. This month, PakMag sat down with pool safety legend, Laurie Lawrence for his tips on how we can all incorporate staying safe around the pool into our lives.

No matter who you are, you will undoubtedly know about Laurie’s ‘Kids Alive – Do The Five’ program, and I’m willing to bet that many of you are singing the jingle in your head as you read this. And, that’s exactly what Laurie is looking for.

In 1988, Laurie developed a program to educate Australians about pool safety and nearly 30 years on, the fundamentals of his program have not changed.

“For me it’s more relevant than ever,” Laurie says. “When I first started, Queensland led the world in pre-school drownings. We had 27 children drown in Queensland alone and the government wanted to bring in pool fencing legislation…so they brought me in to go around the state and educate people on water safety.

It was called Operation Waterwise.”

Over three years, Laurie and his team visited schools and communities to educate children and parents on water safety. The campaign was a success; drowning deaths decreased from 27 to 13, with only one backyard

pool death. Deeming their work done, the government ended the campaign. Unfortunately, three years after Operation Waterwise ended, drowning deaths had risen from 13 to 26.

So, Laurie went back to work.

“I looked and I said, yes, there’s pool fencing legislation now, but there’s no parallel education campaign running with it. So, I went back to the government and I said, let me try again.”

Laurie pinpointed the five things he thought were essential for pool safety and with the help of family and friends they created the “Kids Alive – Do the Five” program and well-known jingle. He toured Queensland again, spreading his pool safety message and, once again, drowning deaths fell from 26 to 10!

every parent and every child in Australia. And that’s exactly what he did.

The program is now so much more than a jingle. With DVDs, books and videos, Laurie’s has now educated millions of Australians. What’s more, last year, national drowning stats for under 5s stood at 21; the lowest recorded number on record.

“That’s no reason to celebrate, because 21 is a bus load of kids,” Laurie says. “But we are on the right track. I believe in pool fencing but more importantly, I believe in keeping the message front of mind for parents and children.”

Laurie says, “It’s not Kids Alive Do the One, it’s Kids Alive Do the Five, you need to do it all to be safe in and around water.”

The Queensland campaign was successful but it was Laurie’s daughter who encouraged him to campaign to the federal government for funding to get his message to

So, make sure you fence the pool, shut the gate, teach your kids to swim, watch your mate and learn how to resuscitate to be safe this Easter Holiday and beyond.

Visit www.kidsalive.com.au for more information, resources and tips for you and your family.

Laurie Lawrence with daughter Emma and Granddaughter Evie

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BUYING YOUR FIRST HOME? Becoming a homeowner is the dream of many Australians, but we all know that getting into the property market for the first time isn’t easy.

That’s why a plan, good savings habits and realistic expectations are important.

Set a budget and plan for the unexpected.

• Review the amount of money coming in (your income) and list all your regular expenses.

Eliminate Debt.

• The less money you owe elsewhere, the better position you’ll be in for a home loan.

• Remember to leave a little extra aside for unexpected costs and the occasional treat.

• Be aware of extra debt such as credit cards, store cards, car loans and personal loans – the interest you’re paying can add up fast.

• Any money left over at the end of the month could be set aside for your deposit.

• Work on paying debts off – start with the smallest debt or highest interest.

• As your deposit grows you can move your savings to a higher interest earning account.

• Why not look at rolling your debt into a personal loan or low interest rate card?

Little things add up.

Know what you’re entitled to.

• Simple changes to your spending patterns can mean big savings with minimal impact on your lifestyle.

• As a first home buyer, you may be entitled to a government grant which could help towards the cost to purchase your home. Why not check your entitlement out with the Qld Office of State Revenue?

• You can save hundreds or even thousands of dollars every year just by packing your lunch, turning off the lights, avoiding takeaways and shopping around for the best price on various products and services.

• Put aside what you have saved in making these changes into a dedicated bank account set aside especially for your deposit.

• If you are considering building your first home research building companies, visit on site displays, doing your homework can save you so much time and money.

Your first home is likely to be the biggest investment decision you ever make.

So it pays to look to a trusted financial partner for a home loan that will suit your needs now and into the future.

Bendigo Bank has been in the business of helping people buy their first home for more than 150 years.

So why not make an appointment with your local Bendigo Bank lender to discuss your home loan options by calling any of our 16 Far North Queensland branches and make a difference to your community as well!

Our Cairns branches are at: Westcourt Edmonton Sheridan Street Smithfield

Ph: 4052 8900 Ph: 4045 2488 Ph: 4044 5211 Ph: 4038 1700

Judy Blackall,

Senior Manager, Bendigo Bank Far North QLD Region

This article contains general information only. We encourage you to seek professional advice when buying a home. Terms, conditions, fees and charges apply. Full details available on application. Lending criteria apply. Visit www.bendigobank.com.au for more information. Credit provided by Bendigo and Adelaide Bank Limited ABN 11 068 049 178 AFSL/Australian Credit Licence 237879. www.pakmag.com.au APRIL 2017 63

BIZ INDEX

WHAt's NEWS in Business

WHAT'S NEWS pakmag

Business of the Month: BACKSTREET DANCE Backstreet Dance believe that dance is all about fun, positivity, confidence and self-acceptance. They offer dance classes with no exams, no competition and no pressure so children and adults can embrace their passion for dance without fear.

This awesome dance school is offering free* School Holiday dance classes for all ages! On Saturday, 8th April and Sunday, 9th April you can enjoy Hip Hop, ballet, Jazz/Funk or Contemporary dance at no cost.

The free* classes offer people the opportunity to experience the Backstreet philosophy which is fun, positivity and a huge focus on building confidence.

It entertains children over the school holidays and offers the chance for students to see if their dance studio is the right fit for them before joining them for Term 2.

Backstreet Dance is located at 170/182 Mayers Street, Manunda. Visit www.backstreetdance.com.au for more information and to register or call, directors Deborah and Jeffrey Storer on 0407 995 182. *For new students only.

Business Events CAIRNS BUSINESS WOMEN’S CLUB LUNCHEON • Tuesday, 4th April 2017, 11.30am-2.00pm • Pullman Reef Hotel Casino Join the Cairns Business Women’s Club for the April luncheon on Tuesday, 4th April 2017. This month’s guest speaker is Ilona Vass, founder of Dancing with Dragons, a consultancy business based in Sydney. Ilona will teach you how to manage Drama Queens in your office! To book visit www.cbwc.org.au SAVE THE DATE: INSPIRING RARE BIRDS • Wednesday, 5th May 2017 Growing a business and managing the daily requirements of family life is a constant juggle. During this event, you’ll hear from women entrepreneurs who believe they’re overcoming this challenge. They’ll share the free and paid-for tools and resources they use for managing their time and commitments. They’ll reveal where they go for the inspiration and the agencies, businesses and individuals they enlist for support. Check PakMag’s Facebook page for booking information updates.

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GET INVOLVED

pakmag

Combat Bullying at your Child’s School STORY Rose Foster If you’re a long time PakMag reader, you may remember the story of Charlie Cooper and his Buddy Bench program.

After not being able to make friends at school, Charlie enlisted the help of local businesses and organisations to help build a Buddy Bench for his school in 2014.

Three years later, his ‘How little people can make a big difference’ Ted Talk has had over six million YouTube views and this inspirational concept has been adopted by schools throughout the country.

More recently, the idea sparked the interest of Australian Rotary Clubs and now your child’s school can get its very own Buddy Bench too!

Past President of Cairns Rotary Club, Logan Alderson says “Rotary in Cairns is undertaking a project to

raise funds, purchase benches and install them in schools that wish to partake in this wonderful program.

There will be no cost to the schools apart from providing a space for the bench to be sited.

will co-ordinate “theWeconstruction and

placement of the benches, so getting a bench for your school has never been easier. ”

The idea behind the Buddy Bench is simple. If a child sits on the Buddy Bench, other children know that they should ask them to play, invite them to walk and talk or generally ensure they are not lonely. This brilliant initiative is both helping children who have difficulty making friends and curbing bullying.

Local Cairns schools that are interested in having a Buddy Bench supplied and installed can contact Rotary though Logan Alderson at shincliffe@bigpond.com.

National Youth Week National Youth Week runs from 31 March to 9 April 2017 and is all about celebrating local young people and their achievements. It also gives young people the opportunity to have their say, have some fun and meet new people.

To celebrate this great week, there are a number of free events in Cairns and surrounding areas for people aged 12-25.

For more information about each event visit contact event hosts.

Events

Coastwatcher Park, Trinity Beach.

Hosted by FNQFRSA.

PASIFIKA YOUTH GAMES & YOUTH EXPO Saturday 1 April, 8.00am-5.00pm.

PCYC Edmonton, Walker Road.

Hosted by Pacific Communities Council & PCYC Edmonton.

HIP HOP CELEBRATIONS Saturday, 8 April.

12.30-5.00pm - Cypher Hip Hop dance workshops.

6.00-9.00pm - Creativity with a Purpose Party.

SWIM, SURF & SPLASH PARTY Sunday 2 April, 1.00pm-5.00pm.

Tobruk Pool.

Hosted by Headspace Cairns.

Hop hop dance, spoken word, fashion, drama, music and technical arts. This event will start with a showcase followed by mentoring workshops in various areas of Creative Arts with the finale being a celebration event. Crosswell Hall, Cairns High School, Grafton Street.

Contact Dulcie Pensio, Cairns PCYC Youth/Community Support Officer, on 0428 293 176 or email dulcie.pensio@pcyc.org.au

WELLBEING & KULTURE FESTIVAL Wednesday 5 April, 4.00pm-7.00pm.

Wuchopperen Manoora.

Hosted by Wuchopperen & Department of Education and Training.

YOUTH WEEK SKATE JAM Saturday 8 April, 3.00-6.00pm.

WORKSHOPS & ACTIVITIES Hip Hop Dance Workshops.

Saturday 8 April, from 12.30pm.

Cresswell Hall, Cairns High.

Hosted by PCYC Cairns.

VIRTUAL REALITY AND ROBOTICS WITH JCU (AGES 13+) Friday 7 April, 3.00pm-4.30pm.

Smithfield Library.

Hosted by Cairns Libraries.

ROBOTICS & CODING Wednesday 5 April, 2.30pm-3.30pm.

Earlville Library.

Bookings essential, ph 4044 3766.

Hosted by Cairns Libraries.

ROBOTICS – OZOBOTS FOR BEGINNERS Thursday 6 April,10.30am-noon.

City Library.

Bookings essential, ph 4044 3720.

Hosted by Cairns Libraries. www.pakmag.com.au APRIL 2017

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SNAPPED 5

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WINNER! Sunbird's Smile of the Month wins a mystery prize!

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1. Yiannis, Evelyn, Helen and Raffy 2. Yuki and Arianna 3. Billy 4. Oliver 5. Kristy and Caspian 6. Rosie and Mia 7. Layla and Lydia

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Proudly brought to you by:

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PHOTOGRAPHY THANKS TO: FOREVER & ALWAYS

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Hanlie - 0417 105 191 www.foreverandalwaysphotography.com.au

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8. Leah 9. Carla and Zion 10. Wei xi Tong and XU Jiaman 11. Alice, Alosha, Skylar and Charlie 12. Kate and Billy

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pakmag HOME

eggie Garden With The Block's Caro and Kingi Children love almost anything to do with the outdoors. Whether it be digging holes in the backyard or making mud pies, a child’s curiosity for nature never ends. So why not expand their love of nature and create a sense of responsibility with them by building their very own veggie garden? With the excitement of watching it grow and change over time and getting to eat the end product, they’ll be involved from start to finish, while creating a great opportunity to spend quality bonding time together.

What you’ll need: A nice sunny spot for your veggies. Whether it be a traditional rectangular plant box or a round pizza veggie garden, let the kids be creative and use their imagination of where to grow their new veggie garden.

Gardening tools. If you don’t already have gardening tools, you can pick up a kit from Earth Toys which includes a spade, a mini garden rake, a pair of cute gardening gloves to protect little hands and miniature veggie signs to help navigate each vegetable.

Seed packets or seedlings. Try fast growing vegetables like, carrots, tomatoes, potatoes and peas. If you wanted to be creative try growing herbs like rosemary, mint and dill for a sensory filled garden.

Watering can. Since your veggies will need plenty of water

www.sunset.com

in order to grow, make sure you have a good watering can that isn’t too big - your little one will want to help out!

Veggie signs. By placing little signs in front of each different vegetable throughout the garden, it’ll help make harvesting them much easier while creating a sense of organisation within the garden. You can easily make these signs out of paddle pop sticks, forks, spoons or you can purchase unique display signs from a variety of stores.

Helpful Tips: Try growing fruits and veggies that the kids can pick straight from the plant and pop into their mouth. A good beginner fruit is strawberries as they grow quite fast and make a healthy snack for the kids.

Create a fun area where the kids can come sit and spend time with their veggie garden. Add a swing or outdoor chair near the area to create a friendlier and inviting environment.

Green Toys Jump Rope www.playmackay.com.au (RRP $25.00ea)

Ever Earth Kids Garden Wheel Barrow www.earthtoys.net (RRP $59.99ea)

www.countryliving.com

Ever Earth Metal Kids Garden Spade www.earthtoys.net (RRP $14.95ea) Child Swing Forest Green - Solvej www.playmackay.com.au (RRP $25.00ea)

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Children's Cotton Garden Gloves www.earthtoys.net (RRP $9.95ea)

ww w. c h i ots

ru n.

c

om

Natures Day Out & About www.earthtoys.net (RRP $24.00ea)

The Junior Gardening Kit www.earthtoys.net (RRP $27.50ea)

Handmade Fairy Wings www.earthtoys.net (RRP $62.00ea)

3 Custom Upcycled Herb Signs Etsy store: NewViewCreations (RRP $21.00ea)

Red & Dotty Wicker Basket www.earthtoys.net (RRP $22.00ea)

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for the senses We all know that colours can do wonders for your home. But there is more to perfecting your interior design than just choosing the right coat of paint.

Patterned pillows are one of the most affordable ways to make your living space pop with colour. Patterned wall art is another easy and risk-free way to add a bit of texture to your walls without going to the extreme of repainting or using wallpaper.

Consider different materials when choosing your accessories. There are so many options to experiment with, from clay vases and brass figurines to satin curtains and wicker baskets.

Armadillo & Co Natural Entrance Mat Nest Weave www.korufurnitureandhomewares.com.au (RRP $90.00ea)

Adding different textures and patterns to your home can delight the senses, breathe new life into the area and make a subtle yet powerful statement.

Sage and Clare Ryder Chainstitch Cushion www.korufurnitureandhomewares.com.au (RRP $165.00ea)

Sage and Clare Ryder Chainstitch Cushion www.korufurnitureandhomewares.com.au (RRP $165.00ea)

Rogue Artificial Stems www.korufurnitureandhomewares.com.au (Wattle RRP $14.00ea, Banksia Cone RRP $29.00) Cloud Wooden Shelf www.earthtoys.net (RRP $32.00ea)

Reed Diffuser - Mint Tea www.prettylittlesomething.com.au (RRP $34.95ea)

Sage and Clare - Nina Velvet Cushion - Aqua www.korufurnitureandhomewares.com.au (RRP $145.00ea)

Coastal Hall Table www.vipfurniture.com.au (RRP $449.00 $404.00ea)

Sage and Clare Estella Chainstitch Cushion www.korufurnitureandhomewares.com.au (RRP $215.00ea)

www.pakmag.com.au APRIL 2017 73 www.pakmag.com.au MARCH 2017 73

pakmag ADVERTORIAL

Deadly Parvovirus Strikes STORY Jane Quinn

Cairns pet owners are urged to have their dogs vaccinated following an increase in reports of deadly canine parvovirus. With our two veterinary clinics seeing a strong increase in the incidence of parvovirus over the past few months, it’s an important reminder for all pet owners to vaccinate their pets to help prevent the spread of this deadly disease.

What is Parvovirus?

Treating Parvovirus

Parvovirus is a highly contagious gastroenteritis virus that infects puppies and adult dogs. Spread through the droppings of infected dogs, the virus can survive in yards, parks and streets for up to a year. It can be picked up on shoes, clothes, paws, etc. and then spread from area to area.

Treatment of parvovirus involves supportive veterinary treatment. Infected animals are placed on an intravenous drip to rehydrate them and given medication to cease the vomiting and diarrhoea. Infected dogs are isolated from other dogs to avoid the spread of infection. Long hospital stays in infected pets are common and treatment may cost thousands of dollars.

What are the signs of Parvovirus?

The virus attacks the cells lining the intestine that absorb fluid into the blood stream. The disease can occur at any age but is most commonly seen in puppies less than eight months of age that haven’t been fully vaccinated. Dogs infected with parvovirus are usually depressed, experience a loss of appetite and rapid weight loss, are severely dehydrated due to vomiting and diarrhoea, often with blood in their motions. The disease takes hold rapidly and is often fatal.

Diagnosing Parvovirus Combined with the classic symptoms described above, a faecal test can be performed to confirm the presence of the virus.

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Preventing the problem The good news is parvovirus can be easily prevented by fully vaccinating your puppies and adult dogs.

Puppies need 2 vaccinations, one at six to eight weeks and then one at 12 weeks, to provide adequate immunity.

Adult dogs should have yearly health checks and vaccinations should be kept up to date to protect against deadly diseases and to ensure their quality of life and general wellbeing is maintained.

For more information about parvovirus and other diseases that can be prevented via vaccination, or to schedule a vaccination appointment for your pet, contact us at either of our conveniently located clinics.