PakMag Mackay - April 2016 Issue 42

ISSUE: APR 2016

42

MACKAY

Celebrate

Grow a

WITH AN ANIMAL PARTY

VEGGIE GARDEN

ALTERNATIVE HEALTH

Play Day

WITH Jay LaGa'aia

SCHOOL HOLIDAY GUIDE

Cardboard Box

Healthy Living Edition

CRAFT ACTIVITIES

CONTENTS

WIN

HELLO

ISSUE NO. 42 APR 2016 06 Entertainment: Check This Out

P.20

08 Feature: A Play Day With Jay Hello and welcome to our Healthy Living edition of PakMag!

11 Healthy Living: Alternative Health

Most of us strive to live a healthy life but often the chaos of every day can get the

15 Careful What You Watch

better of us. This is why we have dedicated our April edition to helping all of our PakMag families stay healthier this year with nutritional tips, healthy recipes, and a feature on alternative health.

16 Morning Of Fun For Young Families 19 Bump And Bub: Basic Baby First Aid

We’ve got some great ideas on how to host an animal-themed party for your little one and how to start your own veggie garden. We also cover the various activities to keep the kids busy with our School Holiday guide.

20 Bump And Bub: WIN! 23 What’s On Guide

We also ventured to Hong Kong last month and I share our top things to taste, try and do while holidaying over there with kids.

25 Mini Mag

Until next time, have a great month with the kiddies and don’t forget to tell

32 Craft: Cardboard Box Fun!

everyone, you read it in PakMag.

34 Healthy Recipes

Bree x

37 School Holiday Guide 38 Travel: Hello Hong Kong

BREE JAMES / PAKMAG PUBLISHER

40 Healthy Recipes Net Distribution Per Issue 10,000 CAB Publisher Statement Period ending 30th July 2015

42 Home: Veggie Garden 45 Private Health 47 What’s News In Business 48 Snapped Mackay

PAKMAG HEAD OFFICE P 4053 3331 E admin@pakmag.com.au PO BOX 7433 Cairns QLD 4870 FB www.facebook.com/pakmagmackay T #pakmag ON THE COVER Jay Laga'aia

50 Daddy Diary

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.

Deluxe Designer Sara

Events Extraordinaire Kelly

Darling Designer Clare

Sales Guru Angelina

Talented Trent

Grand Poobah Bree Office Aficionado Janelle

Sales Star Cherie

www.pakmag.com.au APRIL 2016

Witty Writer Jenna

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pakmag

T U O S I H T K C E H C ENTERTAINMENT

ANZAC DAY WHEN 25 April 2016 WHERE Various locations around Mackay MORE INFO www.mackay.qld.gov.au

Zinc FM’s Apple for the Teacher Competition WHEN 11 April to 6 May. MORE INFO www.mackay.radiozinc.com.au

Pay your respects and acknowledge those Australian and New Zealand servicemen and women who have lost their lives in war over the past 101 years.

Zinc is on the hunt for MACKAY & THE WHITSUNDAYS’ favourite teacher!

Apple For The Teacher provides the perfect platform to acknowledge and thank those hard working teachers who go the extra mile for their students and community.

Primary school students and their families will be encouraged to register their teacher at the Zinc website. Then it’s a case of getting the rest of the class - plus family, friends and the broader community - involved and encouraging as many votes as they can! Registration is open for one week, followed by two weeks to vote and one final week to vote for the Top 10 Teachers.

As well as money can’t buy bragging rights, the winning teacher will receive an Apple iPad, the winning school will receive an Apple iMac and each student in the winning class will receive Apple iPod shuffle.

While registration and voting is all online, Zinc announcers will keep everyone updated on the tally board across the day as well as speaking with local teachers, students and parents and taking trips down memory lane to their own school days.

Of course, the Zoolander will be out each day with heaps of fresh juicy apples!

Sugarland – Children’s Theatre Session WHEN 27 April, 7.30pm and 28 April 10am WHERE MECC Auditorium MORE INFO www.mackayecc.com.au Introduce your children to the wonderful world of theatre with this exceptional new play about a 16 year old girl who is struggling to fit in.

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APRIL 2016 www.pakmag.com.au

BMA Kidspace Toddler Program WHEN 19 April, 10am to 2pm WHERE Artspace Mackay MORE INFO www.mackay.qld.gov.au Join local artists and performers for monthly creative art activities designed especially for toddlers and their adults. BMA Kidspace, our ever popular toddler's program gives children under five a chance to explore and have fun with art. Proudly presented by Artspace Mackay in partnership with BHP Billiton Mitsubishi Alliance. Free to attend, drop in anytime.

First 5 Forever Family Fun Morning WHEN

19 April 10am to 12pm WHERE

MECC Auditorium MORE INFO

www.mackay.qld.gov.au Enjoy a morning of literacy fun and wonder as the MECC is transformed into a number of discovery

zones for little ones to explore. The family fun day is part of the launch of the First 5 Forever literacy program, now available every week through the libraries across Mackay.

Check out pages 16 and 17 for the

full schedule and event information.

www.pakmag.com.au APRIL 2016

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A Play Day WITH

Jay STORY Jenna Gallina

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APRIL 2016 www.pakmag.com.au

As the proud father of eight children and one of Australia’s most widely recognised children’s performers, to say that Jay Laga’aia has his hands full is an understatement.

The entertainer is probably best known for his role in Play School but he has also featured in Star Wars Episode II: Attack of the Clones, Star Wars Episode III: Revenge of the Sith and Xena: Warrior Princess and most recently has created, starred and produced Jay’s Jungle, a half hour show airing on Seven Two weekdays at 8am.

love having “a big family – a I

house needs to make noise.

”

In between doing the school runs and planning his first national tour, Jay also voiced all five characters in 110 episodes of the quirky cartoon Larry the Lawnmower, which also airs on Seven Two. Jay lives in Sydney with his wife, Sandie Jane Laga'aia, who is a maths and English teacher, and his six school-aged children.

However, Jay will be travelling up to Cairns 15 May 2016 for the Cairns Children’s Festival where he will be performing two shows at 10am and 1pm.

If Jay wasn’t a performer, he admits that he would have been a teacher and, after chatting to Jay about his career, his children, his choice in music and his upcoming show at the Cairn’s Children’s Festival, it’s easy to see why. His charismatic charm shone through, leaving me in stitches and proving why he is one of Australia’s most inspirational and captivating children’s performers to date.

What is your favourite thing about visiting Cairns?

“Going to a local bakery – it’s a great way to taste the flavour of the city.

And if they use real cream, not fake cream on their lamingtons, then it is even better. You know I’ve enjoyed my time if I have dried coconut around the face.”

Any tips for parents trying to balance career and children?

“First of all, you need to create habits in everyday life that allow you to succeed. Failure in just another term of an attempt to succeed. If you don’t fail, you don’t learn and you don’t succeed.”

Don’t let money be the motivator – it’s always going to be about family and it’s important that you don’t sweat the small stuff.

And, finally, they say behind every great man there is a great woman, and this is certainly the case with me (well, not directly behind me).”

Can you share with us your best parenting tip?

“Try to instil a positive attitude in your kids. There will come a time when you are gone and it’s up to them to pull together and not let anything pull them apart.”

How about your best advice on succeeding in your career?

“Choose a job you truly enjoy and you will never work a day in your life. Plus, surround yourself with people who are better than you – that way you will be driven to succeed.”

What’s in store for 2016?

“In addition to preparing for my first national tour and continuing work on Jay’s Jungle, I’ve also recently signed on to be the ambassador of the Queensland Kindy Program for the fourth year in a row.”

What about adding more little Laga’aia’s to the brood?

“Well, you know what they say, that’s not my call. It’s my wife’s.”

We gave Jay ten questions and he had one minute to answer.

Here is what Jay had to say: Favourite colour: Purple Favourite TV series: The Walking Dead Favourite things to do with the kids: Lie in bed and make up stories Favourite place you’ve travelled: Germany Favourite band: Earth, Wind and Fire

IN THE HOT SEAT WITH JAY

As the father of eight kids – Jeremy, 33, Matthew, 23, Iosefa, 17, Jessica, 16, Nathanial, 14, Georgia Rose, 10, Katie, 8 and Isabella, 6, Jay admits that life is certainly chaotic at times, but he wouldn’t have it any other way.

Signature dish: Pumpkin Soup What about your favourite dish your wife makes?: Anything she puts on my plate Android or Apple?: Apple Any special talents: Close up magic Greatest achievement to date: Bringing up kids who don’t do drugs, who don’t smoke and who my mother are proud of.

Make sure you check out Jay Laga’aia’s show at the Cairns Children’s Festival on Sunday 15 May. Also performing at the Cairns Children’s Festival is the jaw dropping, family show Erth Dinosaur Zoo. Cairns Children’s Festival is a giant one-day event at Tanks Arts Centre on Sunday 15 May, 9.00am - 3.00pm. Make a day out of it with a bucket load of free and ticketed activities the little ones will love. “Be who you want to be” is the theme for this year with activities such as building a virtual city at the Minecraft Installation to building an actual city out of recycled cardboard boxes. Explore the Library on the Lawn and Guru Dudu’s “Silent Disco” plus much more!

JAY LAGA’AIA SHOWS WHEN: Sunday 15 May 2016 WHERE: Tank 5 COST: All Tickets $15. Children 2-17 years $15. Family (2Ad+2Ch) $55. *Children 2 years + require a ticket.

TIMES: 2 shows: 9.30am for 10.00am start & 12.30pm for 1.00pm start RATING: G MORE INFO: www.tanksartscentre.com

www.pakmag.com.au APRIL 2016

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FEATURE

pakmag

Alternative

Health

Alternative health involves any medical treatment or intervention that is used in the place of conventional medicine.

Generally speaking, complementary or alternative therapies work on the belief that an illness or pain occurs if the body is out of balance. The body is capable of healing itself and maintaining a healthy state if given the right conditions.

There are several alternative therapies out there, many of which you have probably heard of such as acupuncture, aromatherapy, chiropractic treatment, yoga, hypnosis and massage.

Then there are probably a few alternative therapies that you may not even know exist. Here are a few:

and promote health and wellbeing.

The theory makes sense – after all, when you’re moving, you are releasing endorphins.

ART THERAPY We’ve all seen how the colouring-in craze has taken off but this form of therapy, which uses the creative process to help clients reconcile their emotions, develop self-awareness and reduce anxiety has been around since the 1940s. It is often used in the cases of trauma as it can provide patients with a “visual language” to express how they are feeling.

LAUGHTER THERAPY

LIGHT THERAPY Used to treat conditions such as seasonal affective disorder (SAD), sleep disorders, bipolar depression and eating disorders, light therapy consists of controlled exposure to intense levels of light.

PRIMAL THERAPY

MOVEMENT THERAPY Dance like no one is watching and free yourself from stress. Dance or movement therapy is designed to help relieve symptoms of depression

pain. Repressed pain from our childhood can cause neurosis and/ or physical illnesses including ulcers, sexual dysfunction, hypertension, and asthma. Screaming out these regressed feelings can help patients move forward emotionally.

Toddlers do it. So why shouldn’t adults? Primal therapy, essentially, involves screaming, shouting or crying to release tension in your body. It was made popular after the book The Primal Scream was published in 1970 but is often used to help those with repressed childhood

Yes. This is a real thing. Laughter therapy involves a group of people getting together to laugh like a herd of mad cows. We’ve all heard that laughter is the best medicine and the theory behind this actually makes sense. Laughter therapy is known to lower cholesterol, diabetes and other heart related issues.

WILDERNESS THERAPY Getting out in the wild for a session of wilderness therapy is known to reduce anxiety, boost mood and improve self-esteem. What wilderness therapy entails is treatment where patients are taken into the great outdoors to pursue activities such as survival skills and self-reflection.

Considering one of the best ways to reduce stress is to take a walk or a hike, or simply go outside for some fresh air, wilderness therapy would most likely do wonders on the mind, body and soul.

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pakmag FEATURE

DID YOU KNOW? • The World Health Organization estimates that between 65 to 80 percent of the world’s population (over 4 billion people) rely on alternative medicine as their primary form of health care.

• 65 per cent of Australians had used one or more complementary medicines in the previous 12 months.

• Studies show that the most frequent users of complementary therapies include well-educated women, high-income earners and people with chronic conditions.

• Massage therapy dates back thousands of years and has been recorded in ancient writings from the Orient, Asia, Arabia and Greece.

• The World Health Organisation currently recognises more than 30 diseases or conditions that can be helped by acupuncture treatment.

• Fish oil was the #1 natural product amongst adults, with 7.8 per cent using it in 2012.

• There are several practices that fall under the holistic health category. These include: Acupuncture, Aromatherapy/flower essences, Ayurvedic medicine, Bio-feedback, Chelation therapy, Chiropractic, Essential Oils, Guided imagery, Herbology/Herbal remedies, Homeopathy, Hydrotherapy, Hypnosis/self-hypnosis, Iridology, Massage, Meditation/visualisation, Mind, Body, Spirit healing, Movement and Exercise therapy, Naturopathy, Nutrition therapy, Osteopathy, Reiki/energy medicine, Relaxation response, Reflexology, Therapeutic touch and Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM).

WHY CONSIDER ALTERNATIVE HEALTH?

ALTERNATIVE WAYS TO RELIEVE COMMON AILMENTS: When you get a headache, do you naturally reach for the pain killers? Try these alternative therapies and treatments instead:

FOR HEADACHES To relieve tension headaches caused by clenching your jaw, place a pencil in your mouth to relax the jaw. Or add a drop of eucalyptus oil to the temples to also help with headache pain.

FOR FOOT ODOUR Turns out, vodka is a great cure for foot odour (and you won’t get a hangover using it this way).

Soak your feet in a tub of vodka – the high alcohol content acts as an antiseptic and kills the bacteria that causes the odour.

FOR SORE MUSCLES Ditch the Deep Heat or pain killers and opt for a tennis ball. Rolling a tennis ball on your achy muscles helps stretch the muscles and relieve the pain.

FOR ECZEMA There are plenty of alternative ways to help with eczema but one that works the best, according to many parents, is olive oil. Simply apply olive oil directly to the irritated area.

FOR COLD SORES Try lemon balm tea to get rid of cold sores quickly. Simply brew the tea, let it cool and dot the affected area with a cotton ball dipped in the liquid.

FOR MOTION SICKNESS Nothing ruins a road trip like motion sickness. Try sucking on a lemon or olive to help dry out your mouth and sooth the nausea.

FOR URINARY TRACT INFECTIONS UTI’s can be crippling and turn into a series kidney infection quite quickly. Cranberries have always been a common ailment to help relieve the symptoms of UTI’s but baking soda is another option. Mix ¼ teaspoon of baking soda with 250 millilitres of water.

• To aid in performance of everyday tasks • To relieve chronic or generalised pain • To take charge of your own health and medical problems • To stop the reliance on synthetic medicines • To receive healthcare that treats the whole person, not just your symptoms *Always consult your doctor before trying an alternative approach to medication.

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ADVERTORIAL

pakmag

CAREFUL WHAT YOU WATCH STORY Dr Craig Murison When our children were still at school we had a list of television shows they were not allowed to watch.

There weren’t very many on the list. We put this kind of rule in place when they were small children and they were used to it by the time they were teenagers. While we had no real control of what they watched when they were at their friend’s houses we were able to influence what they watched on a regular basis at home. The shows on the list were all shows which had underlying themes or story lines which were based on values we didn’t support - things like portraying men as stupid, or certain moral decisions as normal.

When we get together as a family, with our now adult children, we sometimes laugh about our television restrictions from their childhood. In between the laughter they both talk about putting similar guidelines in place for our future grandchildren.

One thing I do regret, when I reflect on our family television viewing habits, was my daily watching of the news.

I watched the evening news almost religiously. The news is always on during a busy part of the family routine.

We were either getting ready for dinner, eating dinner, or clearing up after the evening meal. What I realise now is that this meant the news was not only being watched by me, but most-often also by my children.

The problem with the news is that children know it is a program which reports things which have happened.

It is real. While we know that the news is a television program which seeks to attract viewers, get high ratings and sell advertising, children accept what is on the news as completely real.

It was probably the Port Arthur massacre and the attacks on the twin towers in New York which gave me a reality check about what I was exposing my children to just by watching the news. After 9/11 we put a lot of time and effort into helping children at school come to grips with what had taken place. The collapse of the towers was repeated so many times on the television for days it was almost unavoidable.

Older children have no problem identifying the difference between fantasy and reality, especially when parents are interacting with them and commenting on what they might be reading or watching.

It is important parents keep a high level of awareness of what is on any screen or in any book their children might be watching or reading.

When they have been exposed to programs such as the news, take the time to discuss what they have seen or heard with them. Help them to process the images and information.

Remember that even if they might not be able to see what is on the TV screen they may well be able to hear what is being said.

Children have very impressionable minds and are often affected by events in ways we might not realise.

They might struggle to put into words what is bothering them. With modern technology it is now really easy to record the news and watch it later when the children are in bed.

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pakmag ADVERTORIAL

Morning of Fun FOR YOUNG FAMILIES

Mackay Regional Council Libraries is inviting young families on a journey of imagination, magic and wonder.

To officially celebrate the commencement of the First 5 Forever literacy program, library staff members are hosting a family fun morning with a difference on April 19 between 10am and noon.

The MECC will transform into a whole new world full of exciting themed discovery zones, including Jungle Rumble, Ships Ahoy, Into the Woods and Errol’s Lily Pad – a sensory play zone for children under three.

has low early literacy levels compared to the rest of the state,” she said. “Put simply, it means children are entering the school system at a disadvantage to children who have been thoroughly exposed to a wide range of language and literacy in their early childhood years.”

The children will love the light and shadow zone, where they can experiment with the science of shadow casting.

Add in music, songs, a variety of interesting activities and stacks of fun day prize packs to give away, there’s no doubt the special event will be the perfect morning escape for families with children up to five.

“Ninety percent of brain development occurs in the first five years of life, so it’s vital that we expose our children to as much language and literacy as we can… best learning comes from nurturing relationships full of singing, playing, reading and talking.

Doing all this with your child from birth builds a foundation for your child’s future development that can last a lifetime.” Ms Clark explained that this early development is the foundation of the First 5 Forever suite of programs.

Senior coordinator of libraries, Jessica Clark, advised parents to enjoy the activities and to also ensure they head over to the First 5 Forever information stand for a chat.

“The programs available include Baby Bounce, Story Time and Toddler Time, as well as several other less regular specialty programs,” she said.

“While we are excited to be able to host such a fun morning for families, we actually have an ulterior motive,” Ms Clark admitted.

“The three main programs are held every week during the school term at the region’s libraries. They are completely free to attend and are hosted by specially trained staff who make the experience fun for both the families and children.”

“Recent studies have shown that our region

More information on the various sessions can be found at www.mackay.qld.gov.au/libraries/get_involved/for_kids

There will also be arts and crafts and story time sessions running from 10.20am to 11.20am.

If you’d like to learn more about the program, the First 5 Forever team will also be at Caneland Central on 20 April and IGA Shopping Centre, Sarina on 21 April.

Library programs for young children BABY BOUNCE

TODDLER TIME

GORDON WHITE LIBRARY

Thur 10.30am - 11.00am

Mon 9.30am - 10.00am

Wed 10.30am - 11.00am & Fri 9.30am - 10.00am

MACKAY CITY LIBRARY

Mon 11.00am - 11.30am

Fri 9.30am - 10.00am

Thur 10.30 - 11.00am

MIRANI LIBRARY

Mon 9.30am - 10.00am

Wed 9.30am - 10.00am

Tue 9.30am - 10.00am

NA

NA

Tue 10.30am - 11.00am

Tue 9.30am - 10.00am

NA

Wed 10.00am - 11.00am

WALKERSTON LIBRARY SARINA LIBRARY

STORY TIME

First 5 Forever Tips for Families Take time every day to nurture your baby’s love of language by sharing rhymes, singing songs, telling stories or playing with them.

Sharing and talking about books provides the best learning. It’s OK to read slowly, skip pages, talk about the pictures and not finish a book.

Let your child see your face when communicating. Crouch down or lift up your child to let them know you are listening.

Babies need to be able to hear the important people in their lives talking. Switch off the TV, radio and mobile phones to help make this happen.

Young children need time to find the words to express themselves. Pause to give them time to communicate.

Everyday opportunities are the best for learning – point out, name and talk about what your child can see or hear. For example, during bath time, when going for a walk, while shopping or driving in the car.

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First 5 Prize Packs

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BUMP & BUB

pakmag

Basic Baby First Aid STORY Jenna Gallina

One of the things that many parents with babies are concerned about is basic first aid. If your little one is seriously injured or ill, do you know what to do? Would you know who to call and how to react?

Many of us wouldn’t. Here are three of the most common concerns for new parents when it comes to their baby’s health and how to handle each situation:

Fevers

There are a number of reasons why your baby could be sprouting a fever – an infection, teething, a cold, a reaction to vaccination, a virus or a respiratory illness. Here is what you need to know: • See your doctor straight away if your baby is under three months old and has a temperature of 38 degrees C or more or if your baby is under six months old and has a temperature of 39 degrees C or more.

• Give your baby lots of drinks (breastmilk, formula, extra cooled boiled water for babies over six months).

• Offer your baby infant paracetamol or ibuprofen if she seems very uncomfortable or upset.

• Keep baby comfortable – leave bub’s head uncovered and let her rest if needed.

Dehydration Dehydration happens when your

baby is losing too much fluid or not

taking enough in. Dehydration often comes with diarrhoea and vomiting

bugs as well as fever or overheating

and signs to look for include a sunken fontanelle, dark yellow urine, sunken eyes, dry skin or lips and lethargy.

Here’s what you need to do: • If you do notice signs of

dehydration, take bub to the

doctor. In severe instances your little one may need to be given

fluids through a drip in her arm.

• Offer bub plenty of liquids and frequent feeds of formula or

breastmilk. Toddlers and older

children can be offered sips of

oral hydration solution (ORS) such as Hydralyte along with their usual feeds.

Poisoning

As soon as your little one is able to crawl, walk or toddle around, a whole new set of concerns come into play, one of which is poisoning. Poisoning is something that all parents are going to be concerned about and according to Health Direct, children under five years of age have the highest risk of accidental poisoning. Make sure poisonous substances including medicines and household cleaning products, are locked away out of sight and reach of your children.

If you suspect poisoning: • Call Poison Control at 131 126.

• Head to the ED if you don't know what your child took.

• Call 000 if your child is unconscious, convulsing, or having difficulty breathing.

• Do not give your child ipecac syrup or anything to try and induce vomiting

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MASTITIS IN MUMS

TONGUE TIES IN TOTS

STORY Dr. Amanda Blinco, Stratford Medical Clinic

If you’ve been told that your little one has a tongue tie,

Pregnancy and breastfeeding comes with plenty of amazing experiences. Mastitis is not one of them.

Mastitis means inflammation of the breast and can be caused by a blocked milk duct, incorrect attachment of your baby to the breast so the breast is not well drained by a feed, (perhaps due to skipping a feed or rapid weaning), cracked nipples or a pressure area on your breast such as from a poorly fitting bra.

WHAT TO LOOK OUT FOR: • A sore, red or lumpy area on your breast • Flu-like symptoms, aching muscles, fever

HOW TO TREAT MASTITIS: 1. Keep feeding bub. It hurts, I know! But emptying the

breast is the most important action to take to treat mastitis.

Some mums worry that the milk is unsuitable for baby, but this is definitely false – your breastmilk remains your first choice for baby.

2. Massage your breast – very gently!

3. Express. If your little one is not feeding as often as

normal, or if feeding is too painful then express the excess milk. Take care not to overdo this step – some mums give extra feeds or express more frequently, but this can stimulate an increase in your milk supply and contribute to engorgement.

you are no doubt concerned. A tongue tie is a condition where the tongue movement is restricted due to a short lingual frenum (the frenulum under the tongue).

Tongue ties impact around 2 per cent of babies and can often correct itself. However, in some instances, bub will need to have a surgical procedure to help release the tongue.

DOES MY BABY HAVE A TONGUE TIE? This is actually impossible to determine with a simple photo or in an article. A health professional needs to assess your little one to determine if a tongue tie is present.

However, some of the symptoms of a tongue tie include if your little one cannot poke his tongue out past his lips, if the tip of the tongue cannot touch the roof of his mouth or if the tongue cannot be moved sideways to the corners of the mouth.

You may notice that your little one is having trouble breastfeeding or bottle feeding or that the front teeth in the lower jaw have a gap between them. Another sign is that

4. Use a heat pack – place a heat pack on the sore area

the tip of your little one’s tongue may look notched or

5. Consider pain medications to alleviate the pain. Be

WHAT TO WATCH OUT FOR:

before a feed to help with milk flow. Use a cold (but not ice) pack after the feed to help reduce pain and inflammation. mindful that your selection is safe in lactation.

6. Ask for help. If you are becoming unwell, or if these

suggestions have not helped within 24 hours, seek urgent medical advice. Mastitis can progress to serious infection and mums can become very unwell quite rapidly, sometimes within only a few hours of first noticing a problem.

IS IT MASTITIS OR A BLOCKED DUCT? While 20 per cent of new mums experience mastitis, it is common for most breastfeeding mums to experience a blocked duct at some stage during their breastfeeding journey.

A persistent lump that does not empty with a feed should be checked out by your doctor promptly.

heart-shaped.

Breastfeeding problems are often the first signs of a tongue tie. If you experience sore or squashed nipples after trying to feed you little one, this could be a cause for concern. If your bub often loses suction while feeding, is sucking in air or has trouble latching to the nipple, this could also be indications of a tongue tie.

However, keep in mind that most mums will have problems breastfeeding at one stage or another and this doesn’t automatically mean your little one has a tongue tie. Make sure you seek assistance from a lactation consultant, midwife or doctor if you are concerned.

www.pakmag.com.au APRIL 2016

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WHAT'S ON APR FRIDAY 1

ANNUAL ADULT SWIM - SHORT

FAMILY FRIDAY NIGHT - THE

Pool @ Mackay North High School

COURSE SWIM MEET

JUNGLE BOOK

daniel.stampa@hotmail.com

Event Cinemas

12.00pm / Adult

www.eventcinemas.com.au 6.30pm / Cost / Family

SUNDAY 3 PORTERS - SCHOOL HOLIDAY KIDS ACTIVITIES Porters Mackay City & Northern Beaches store www.porterscando.com.au

"Rob picks First 5 Forever Family Fun Morning on Tuesday 19"

TUESDAY 5

SUNDAY 10

LITTLE HIGH FIVES VISIT Nanyima Age Care, 61 Alexandra Street, Mky www.littlehigh5.com.au 10.00am / $2 coin donation / Family

PORTERS - SCHOOL HOLIDAY KIDS ACTIVITIES Porters Mackay City & Northern Beaches store www.porterscando.com.au See website for times and activity Free / Kids

THURSDAY 7 BEDTIME STORIES Mackay City Library www.mackay.qld.gov.au/libraries 6.00pm / Free / Family

See website for times and activity Free / Kids LITTLE HIGH FIVES VISIT

LITTLE HIGH FIVES VISIT Rest Haven Age Care, 10 Sands Terrace, Mky www.littlehigh5.com.au 9.00am / $2 coin donation / Family

WEDNESDAY 13

Northview Age Care, 35 Davey Street, Mky www.littlehigh5.com.au

THE TEN TENORS – THE POWER OF TEN MECC Auditorium www.mackayecc.com.au/ 7.30pm / Cost / Family

10.00am / $2 coin donation / Family

SATURDAY 2

MONDAY 4

PORTERS - SCHOOL HOLIDAY KIDS ACTIVITIES

LITTLE HIGH FIVES VISIT Kerrisdale Gardens, Norwood

Porters Mackay City & Northern

Parade, Mky

Beaches store

www.littlehigh5.com.au

www.porterscando.com.au See website for times and activity Free / Kids

TUESDAY 12

10.00am / $2 coin donation / Family

SATURDAY 9 PORTERS - SCHOOL HOLIDAY KIDS ACTIVITIES Porters Mackay City & Northern Beaches store www.porterscando.com.au See website for times and activity Free / Kids

TUESDAY 19 FIRST 5 FOREVER FAMILY FUN MORNING - 0-5S MUSIC, CRAFT AND FACE PAINTING MECC Auditorium www.mackay.qld.gov.au 10.00am / Free / Kids

EMAIL EVENTS TO: ADMIN@GRANDPUBLISHING.COM.AU

www.pakmag.com.au APRIL 2016

23

WHAT'S ON APR

"Scott picks Little High Fives Visit on Thursday 21"

TUESDAY 19

SUNDAY 24

TUESDAY 26

THURSDAY 28

BMA KIDSPACE Artspace Mackay www.artspacemackay.com.au/ whats_on 10.00am / Free / Kids

SENSORY MOVIE DAY-KUNG FU PANDA 3 BCC Mt Pleasant www.facebook.com/ SensoryMovieDayMackay 11.00am / $8 / Family

LITTLE HIGH FIVES VISIT Good Shepherd Lodge, 15 McLntyre St, Mky www.littlehigh5.com.au 10.00am / $2 coin donation / Family

LITTLE HIGH FIVES VISIT

NEUROSCIENCE IN EDUCATION WORKSHOPS - THE ART OF PAYING ATTENTION WITH SUSAN PEARSE Whitsunday Anglican School was.qld.edu.au Check website for times and locations of specific workshops Free / Family

WEDNESDAY 27 CHICKS AT THE FLICKS MOTHERS DAY (THE MOVIE) Event Cinemas www.eventcinemas.com.au 6.00pm / Cost / Adult

LEAP COUNTRY MARKET DAY 10 Westlake Drive Yakapari Country Crafts / 9.00am / Family

MONDAY 25 ANZAC DAY Various venues www.mackay.qld.gov.au

Kerrisdale Gardens, Norwood Parade, Mky www.littlehigh5.com.au 10.00am / $2 coin donation / Family SUGARLAND - CHILDREN'S THEATRE SESSION MECC Auditorium www.mackayecc.com.au 10.00am / Cost / Family

LITTLE HIGH FIVES VISIT Sarina Age Care, 18-32 Hoey St, Sarina www.littlehigh5.com.au 10.30am / $2 coin donation / Family SUGARLAND - CHILDREN'S THEATRE SESSION MECC Auditorium www.mackayecc.com.au 7.30pm / Cost / Family

THURSDAY 21 LITTLE HIGH FIVES VISIT Northview Age Care, 35 Davey Street, Mky www.littlehigh5.com.au 10.00am / $2 coin donation / Family

EMAIL EVENTS TO: ADMIN@GRANDPUBLISHING.COM.AU

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WHAT'S ON GUIDE CONTINUES ON PAGE 29

IN

,

APRIL

AND www.pakmag.com.au APRIL 2016

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WIN A DOUBLE MOVIE PASS!

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TO ENTER EMAIL US THE DIFFERENCES ABOVE: ADMIN@GRANDPUBLISHING.COM.AU MAKE SURE TO INCLUDE 'THE JUNGLE BOOK COMP' IN THE SUBJECT LINE, YOUR NAME, AGE, ADDRESS, LOCATION & PHONE NUMBER IN THE EMAIL BODY. WIN A ONE OF 20 DOUBLE MOVIE PASSES (COMP CLOSES 30/04/16)

IT'S SOCIALLY ACCEPTABLE TO BE SILLY WITH PAKMAG! âœ

I Cut out the image we've included above, Take a pic holding it and show us some love.

Share your pic on Twitter, Facebook or Instagram, and you could WIN a mystery prize - BAM!

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WHAT'S ON APR FRIDAY 29

SATURDAYS AND SUNDAYS

SATURDAYS AND SUNDAYS

MACKAY BIRTH CENTRE MORNING TEA Mackay Women's Centre friendsmackaybirthcentre@gmail. com 9.30am / Free / Family

BEGINNER CLINICS AT GOWAKE CABLE PARK MACKAY (07) 4805 6143 10.00am to 11.30am / $40 / Family

GROM SQUAD AT GOWAKE CABLE PARK MACKAY (07) 4805 6143 8.30am to 10.00am / $40 / Kids

REGULAR MARKETS EUNGELLA MARKETS DATE 1st Sunday of the month (Apr to Dec) TIME From 9.00am LOCATION Eungella Memorial Hall - North Street MACKAY MARINA MARKETS (Supporting the Mackay Animal Rescue Society) DATE 3rd Sunday of each month TIME 9.00am - 1.00pm LOCATION Mackay Marina MARIAN MARKETS DATE 3rd Sunday of the month

TIME From 8.00am LOCATION Holy Rosary Church Anzac Avenue (Excluding May & Dec) PAXTON'S NIGHT MARKETS DATE 1st Friday every 2nd month TIME From 5.00pm LOCATION Paxtons Warehouse PORTERS NORTHERN BEACHES COMMUNITY MARKETS DATE First and Third Saturday of each month TIME from 8.00am LOCATION Porters Northern Beaches, Carl Street Rural View

SARINA SHOWGROUND MARKET DATE Last Sunday of the month TIME From 8.00am (Mar to Dec) LOCATION Bruce Highway Sarina SEAFORTH MARKETS DATE Every Sunday TIME From 8.30am LOCATION Palm Avenue Seaforth

TROPPO TREASURE MARKET DATE 2nd Sunday of the month TIME From 7.30am to 11.30am LOCATION Mount Pleasant Shopping Centre TWILIGHT MARKETS LOCATION Northern Beaches Bowls Club TIME 6.00pm - 9.00pm INFO Please visit website for dates and theme www.nbbowls.com.au

SHOWGROUND MARKETS

WALKERSTON COUNTRY

DATE Every Saturday

DATE 1st Friday of each month TIME From 6.00pm LOCATION Duke of Edinburgh Hotel, Walkerston

TIME From 6.30am LOCATION Milton Street

EMAIL EVENTS TO: ADMIN@GRANDPUBLISHING.COM.AU

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29

REGULAR EVENTS

BIKE RIDERS

THURSDAYS THURSDAY NIGHT SOCIAL RIDE A weekly evening get together for a ride and catch up, on each Thursday.

Meeting point Metro Café, River Street Start time 7.00pm Ability level Beginner-intermediate INFO Visit Bicycle Mackay Facebook page for ride details and updates.

MACKAY REGIONAL COUNCIL LIBRARIES BABY BOUNCE Please note that Baby Bounce does not run during the school holidays.

Gordon White Library Thursdays 10.30am - 11.00am Mackay City Library Mondays 11am - 11.30am Mirani Library Mondays 9.30am - 10.00am Sarina Library Tuesdays 9.30am - 10.00am

STORYTIME

RUNNERS SATURDAYS SOCIAL RIDES Meeting point Metro Café, River Street Start time 6.30am ABILITY LEVELS Team Caffeine (Beginner - intermediate): 15-20km/h Team Tour de Latte (Intermediate): 25km/h Team Slipstream (Intermediate-advanced): 30km/h Team Titanium (Advanced): 35km+/h More Info Visit Rock N Road Cycles Facebook page for ride details and updates.

SUNDAYS

Storytime is aimed at 2 – 5 year olds and their parents and carers and is held weekly during the school term.

This half hour program of stories, nursery rhymes, finger plays and songs enhances language and literacy development in an interactive, fun-filled environment. The sessions encourage a child’s love of books and promotes the library environment as an exciting place for the whole family.

TIMES AND LOCATIONS Mirani Library Tuesdays 9.30am - 10.00am Walkerston Library Tuesdays 10.30am - 11.00am Gordon White Library Wednesdays 10.30am - 11.00am Fridays 9.30am - 10.00am Sarina Library Wednesdays 10.00am - 11.00am Mackay City Library Thursdays 10.30am - 11.00am Please note that Storytime does not run during the school holidays.

TODDLER TIME Toddler Time is aimed at little ones who are walking to 2.5 years and their parents and carers and is held weekly during the school term.

This half hour program of lively nursery rhymes, finger plays, action songs and a story encourages language development and social interaction in an interactive, fun-filled environment.

The sessions encourage valuable one-on-one time between parent and child and are also a great networking opportunity for parents.

TIMES AND LOCATIONS Gordon White Library Mondays 9.30am – 10.00am Mirani Library Wednesday 9.30am – 10.00am Mackay City Library Friday 9.30am – 10.00am 30

APRIL 2016 www.pakmag.com.au

Farleigh at 6:30pm Ability level Intermediate-advanced More Info Visit Corry Cycles Facebook page for ride details and updates *MAD MTB or MTBA membership is required to use the trails.

LAZY RIDERS Held every second Sunday -stay for breakfast after the ride!

Meeting point Bridges Café, Bluewater Quay Start time 7.00am Ability level beginner-intermediate More Info Visit Corry Cycles Facebook page for ride details and updates SIZZLE'N SAUSAGE SUNDAY SESH* Mountain bikers of all abilities are welcome to come out for a ride, held every Sunday and followed by a sausage sizzle from 8.30am.

Meeting point Rowallan Mountain Bike Park, Glendaragh Road, Farleigh Start time From 6.00am Ability level Beginner-advanced More Info Visit Corry Cycles Facebook page for ride details and updates

WEDNESDAYS BICYCLE BELLES A social riding group just for ladies, held every Wednesday.

Meeting point Bicycle Connection, 20 Victoria Street, Mackay Start time 6.00am Ability level beginner-intermediate More Info Visit Bicycle Belles Mackay Facebook page for ride details and updates.

MUMS AND BUBS MORNING RIDE A social riding group for Mums with children who are not yet at school Held every Wednesday at the Gooseponds.

Meeting point Car park at the end of Willis Street, North Mackay Start time 10.00am More Info Visit Bicycle Belles Mackay Facebook page for ride details and updates.

MOUNTAIN BIKE (MTB) NIGHT RIDE* Meets every Wednesday to ride the trails – lights on bike and helmets are a must!

Meeting point 1 Corry Cycles, 5 Kay Court, North Mackay at 6pm Meeting point 2 Rowallan Mountain Bike Park, Glendaragh Road,

THE LAYZEE RUNNERS CLUB Every Saturday from 5.45am Meet at the Metro Market Cafe, River Street, Mackay Every Tuesday and Thursday from 5.30am. Meet at the City Fitness Health Club, Victoria Street.

Free More Info For more details visit www.mackaycitycentre.com.au

WALKING GROUPS MACKAY DOG WALKERS & SOCIAL GROUP Every Saturday at 7:45 for an 8am start. Departs from Bluewater Quay More Info For more information visit the Mackay Dog Walkers Facebook page.

HEALTH & HEART WALKING An initiative of the Heart foundation.

Departs from 2 Tennyson St, Mackay Every Saturday at 6:45am Contact Heather 4957 7997

ACTIVE IN THE CITY Dog Walking Group Every Sunday from 7.00am - 8.00am at the Bluewater Trail - starting at the Bluewater Quay Zumba Every Sunday from 9.00am - 10.00am at the Bluewater Quay Rock N Road Cycle Every Saturday from 6.30am at the Metro Market Cafe The LRC Runners Club Every Saturday from 5.45am at Metro Market Cafe.

Every Tuesday and Thursday from 5.30am at City Fitness Health Club

SOUTHS LEAGUES CLUB MONDAYS

9.00am Mother Hubbard Drawn 6.15pm 5.00 - 6.00pm Happy Hour 6.00pm Members Roast Night in Bistro 7.30pm FREE Trivia Night 7.30pm Pick The Pig Gaming Room 8.00pm Members Monthly Birthday Draw

TUESDAYS 1.00pm Green Grocer Gaming Room 5.00 - 6.00pm Happy Hour 6.00pm Gimme 5 for $12 in the Bistro 7.00pm Members Attendance Draw

WEDNESDAYS 12.30pm Souths CASH Bingo 1.00pm Supermarket Sweep Gaming Room 5.00 - 6.00pm Happy Hour 6.00pm Hump Day Rib or Rump 6.00pm Club Raffles 6.00 - 9.00 WOW promotion Gaming Promotion 7.00pm Free Texas Hold'em Poker with 888PL 7.30pm Souths Cash Bingo

THURSDAYS 5.00 - 6.00pm Happy Hour 6.00pm Kids Eat Free 6.00pm Club Raffle 7.45pm Membership Draw 8.00pm Major Tom Gaming Promotion

FRIDAYS 4.00 - 7.00pm Happy Hour From 5.00pm TGIFriday Wheel 6.00pm If you Crumb it They Will Come 6.00pm Club Raffles 7.00pm Live Entertainment Sports Bar 7.30pm Lucky Seat Gaming Room

SATURDAYS 11.00 - 12.00pm Happy Hour From 12.00 noon Auction Cup 12.30pm Club Raffles 1.45pm Membership Draw 3.00pm FREE Sausage Sizzle Sports Bar 3.00 - 4.00pm Happy Hour 7.00pm Live Entertainment, Sports Bar 8.00pm After Dinner Mint Gaming Room

SUNDAYS 9.00am Sunday Buffet Breakfast in Bistro 1.00pm Club Raffles 1.45pm Membership Draw 2.00pm FREE Texas Hold’em Poker with 888L 6.00pm Club Raffles 6.00 - 7.00pm Happy Hour 7.00pm Saints Bingo (Last Sunday Of Each Month) Souths MAJOR Promotion Drawn

MACKAY ANIMAL RESCUE SOCIETY

Monthly Adoption Day Last Sunday of the month, 9.00am to 12.00pm, Mackay Pet Superstore, Greenfields Fundraiser Markets Third Sunday of the Month Mackay Marina 9.00 - 1.00pm

ECO ART POPUP STUDIO

TUESDAYS, WEDNESDAYS, THURSDAYS 0 - 5 YEARS Time 9.00 - 10.00am Location Old Harbour Park, Mulherin Drive, Mackay Harbour Cost $5.00 6 - 12 YEARS Time 3.30 - 4.00pm Location New Harbour Park, East Point Drive, Mackay Harbour 13 - 17 YEARS Time 4.30 - 5.00pm Location New Harbour Park, East Point Drive, Mackay Harbour 18+ YEARS Time 10.30 - 11.00am Location Old Harbour Park, Mulherin Drive, Mackay Harbour

LET THE CHILDREN PLAY TOYSHOP CHILDREN’S BOOK READING

Day Every Tuesday Time 9.30am to 10am Free - Bring your snack. Coffee/tea will be available Location 15b Macalister St Cnr Victoria & Macalister Sts Contact 4944 0180 or email info@playmackay.com.au

nQ cAR & tRuck RentAls Explore Mackay and the beautiful Whitsunday’s in a car from NQ Car & Truck Rentals. Our low prices and great service are the reason why we are the first choice of so many visitors to the Mackay and Whitsunday’s area.

Low prices, great service Vehicle hire atthe right Price!

Whether you need a car rental from the Marina or at the Airport, we offer a drop off and pick up service.

1800 Rent A tRuck

cARs • utes • 4WDs • buses • tRucks Phone4953 49532353 2353 Phone Malcomson Street, 64Malcomson Street,MACKAY MACKAY nicole@nqcartruckrentals.com.au tracie@nqcartruckrentals.com.au www.nqcartruckrentals.com.au www.nqcartruckrentals.com.au

CARDBOARD BOX FUN! CARDBOARD CASTLE You Need: Cardboard tubes, round cans, a shoe box, wrapping paper, coloured paper, disposable table runner fabric, glittered craft foam, hot glue, Mod Podge and wooden skewers

How to Make: Cover bottom of shoe box with wrapping paper.

Cover various tubes and round cans with coloured paper, wrapping paper and sparkled table runner material. Add some windows and detail to the tubes and shoe box and secure with Mod Podge. Cut circles out of the craft foam and add slits to form a little cone shape and glue.

Add embellishments such as castle towers and flags and glue everything together.

Thanks to: www.creativejewishmom.com

CARDBOARD BOX WASHING MACHINE You Need: Sturdy plain cardboard box, Stanley knife, tracing paper and Sharpie.

How to Make: Draw the details of the washing machine with

a Sharpie. You can use various items around the house to get the right shape such as a bottle cap and a CD for the various

circle shapes. Using the Stanley knife, cut out the door for the

washing machine and add tracing paper to create the washing machine window.

Thanks to: www.bellebebes.co.uk

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CARDBOARD BOX SEWING MACHINE You Need: Cardboard box, hot glue gun, Exacto knife, ruler, paint, dowels and beads, Makedo connecting pieces (or regular brads) How to Make: Check out www.pakmag.com.au to find full instructions on this adorable cardboard box sewing machine.

Thanks to: www.littleredwindow.com

CARDBOARD MOUNTAIN BRIDGE You Need: Corrugated cardboard, paint (and brushes), pencil, Mod Podge, hot glue, scissors and a sponge brush How to Make: Draw a mountain pattern on two pieces of cardboard and cut. Cut out three rectangles and glue together to make the bridge before gluing to each mountain. Paint your mountain and bridge and protect with a coat of Mod Podge.

Thanks to: www.pinkstripeysocks.com

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A NIMA L

pakmag CELEBRATE

(PARTY) Animal-themed parties are incredibly popular among little ones. There are so many different themes you can consider.

Here are a few of our favourites:

JUNGLE - Consider green, brown and yellow as your theme

colours and look into party treats that are themed with tigers, lions and monkeys. You can even find balloons shaped like these popular critters.

FARM - Brown and red reign supreme for farm animal parties.

Invite the entire barnyard with pig, cow, chicken and horse decorations and treats. Use brown paper bags as lolly bags and label with them “Animal food.”

REPTILES - Bring your child’s fascination with reptiles alive with

crocodiles, lizards and snakes. Stick to brown and greens as your colour schemes and add paper lanterns.

UNDER THE SEA - Bring out the coral and aqua crepe paper and

combine with fish, octopus, sharks, whales, dolphins and stingrayinspired goodies.

TEDDY BEAR’S PICNIC - Ask all the guests to bring along their

favourite teddy bear and host a tea party for bubs and bears alike.

AUSSIE AUSSIE AUSSIE - Go green and gold and opt for Aussie-

themed critters such as koalas, kangaroos, crocodiles and dingos.

HELLO KITTY - Kittens are so hot right meow. Make kitty masks and play pin the tail on the kitty.

Icingbits Animal Edible Cake Toppers www.icingbits.com

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Animal Handbell www.woodnplay.com.au (RRP $10.15 ea)

Kaper Kidz - Wooden Animal www.everythingsrosie.com.au (RRP $7.95)

Farmhouse Fun Centrepiece www.instantpartypacks.com.au (RRP $12.95)

Wooden Farm Set www.ellej.com.au (RRP $39.95)

)

Ruby Red Shoes Birthday Card www.ellej.com.au (RRP $5.95)

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il r p A s ’ kMa g

Pa

Porters

Free to Kids Club Members $4.00 to join

School Holiday Entertainment for Kids on the following dates at both Porters Mackay City and Northern Beaches:

Must RSVP to Reception by 25 March 4944 0000 More info available on their website www.harruppark.com.au/ KidsClub

Saturday 2 April, Sunday 3 April, Saturday 9 April and Sunday 10 April All information and details can be found on their website www.porterscando.com.au Also like them on Facebook www.facebook.com/ Porterscando to be kept up to date on what’s happening.

Don’t forget Charlies Café for those catch ups with friends.

Charlies Café loved for its relaxed atmosphere, great meals and great prices. They have kids specials from $3.00, a fantastic playground and colouring in for the little ones!

Harrup Park Country Club HARRUP PARK WILL AGAIN BE HOSTING THEIR FREE KIDS SCHOOL HOLIDAY CRAFT FRIDAY 8 APRIL Monday to Friday 12.00 – 2.00pm with different themes each day/ week.

Bookings essential – call Reception on 4944 0000 to book in.

EASTER PARTY Saturday 2 April from 3.00 - 5.00pm on Oval 9

Aqua Fun Park OPEN EVERY DAY IN THE SCHOOL HOLIDAYS Sessions start every hour on the hour at 10.00am, 11.00am, 12.00pm, 1.00pm, 2.00pm and 3.00pm Cost $15.00 per person per session No booking required, just arrive 30 minutes prior to your preferred session time and complete the online participation agreement at www.aquafunparkmackay.com. au CALL 1300 500 261 EMAIL bookings@ aquafunparkmackay.com.au FACEBOOK www.facebook. com/aquafunparkmackay

Kidzlife Play Centre The holiday period is very busy so to guarantee your entry and some table space for your group there is 2 offers available to you.

1. GROUP BOOKINGS

Water Slide, Jumping Castle, Kids Activities, Face Painting and more

Organize a play date with your friends (10 kids or more), call in advance to book, complete the booking form and pay a $50.00 deposit to confirm your booking.

Drinks and Nibbles Provided

You'll have guaranteed entry and

receive 10% off the kidz entry cost and adults are free.

2. ROOM HIRE $100.00 - includes entry for 5 kidz, party room for 1 hour where you can eat your own lunch or snacks from home, and a table reserved in the centre as well.

Extra kidz at normal admission prices, adults are free.

Available all year, bookings essential, for more info and to book please call 4953 5575

Caneland Central FREE SCHOOL HOLIDAY ENTERTAINMENT, KIDTASTIC DURING THE EASTER HOLIDAYS. PROMISES TO BE HUGE, FANTASTIC, AND EXTREMELY POPULAR WITH EVERYONE, NOT JUST THE KIDS! Star Wars Interactive Zone Outside Target From Tuesday 29 March – Saturday 2 April

The sessions encourage a child’s love of books, highlights the value of reading to children and promotes the library environment as an exciting place for the whole family.

Time and Location: Easter School Holidays Mackay City Library Thursday 7 April 6.00pm – 7.00pm SCHOOL HOLIDAY ACTIVITIES School holiday activities are run during every school break for children aged Prep to Year 6. Activities are also available for high school students.

Activity dates and details available closer to the time on their website www.mackay.qld.gov.au/ libraries or like them on Facebook to keep updated on what’s coming up www.facebook.com/ mackaylibraries

11.00am – 2.00pm each day No bookings required.

Visit www.canelandcentral.com.au for more details.

Mackay City Libraries BEDTIME STORIES Bedtime Stories is aimed at 0-8 year olds and their families (particularly working parents) and is held in the evening during the school holidays.

This hour long program of stories, finger plays, songs and a craft activity enhances language and literacy development in an interactive, fun-filled environment.

Don’t Forget to tell them you read it in PakMag www.pakmag.com.au APRIL 2016

37

Hello

HONG KONG STORY Bree James Hong Kong is a southeastern Chinese city buzzing with people to meet, places to see and food to try! Vibrant and densely populated, it is a major port, global financial centre and home to many expats.

The majority of people speak English, and all signage is in English so you do not need to worry about any language barriers. Hong Kong has an amazing food, entertainment and shopping scene making it a great place for families to visit for a stop over to another country or for an entire holiday.

As soon as we arrived at the Cairns Airport we were ready for a great adventure and the moment we boarded the Cathay Pacific plane, it felt like holiday time (if you can afford to go premium economy, I highly recommend it). Cathay flies ‘non-stop’ between Cairns and Hong Kong four times a week, so there are plenty of opportunities to pack your bags.

The flight was over before we knew it (three movies if you ask my seven-year-old).

Our kids loved having their own screen and remotes and the airline staff provided fantastic service with snacks, drinks and yummy meals.

Where to Stay: THE SALISBURY - YMCA www.salisburyymca.com.hk This family-friendly hotel is part of one of the oldest and largest movements for youth in the world; not only are you staying in a great place, but you are staying somewhere that is making a difference.

The hotel is simply stunning with a gym, sauna, large pool, squash courts, rock climbing facility, two amazing restaurants, and even a laundry to do your own washing.

The rooms are also fantastic. Ours had a large king size bed, and a double pull out sofa for the kids with the option of fold out beds.

Foods to Try: 1. Dumplings 2. Pork Buns 3. Dim Sum 4. Egg Waffle 5. Dumpling Soup

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Disneyland Hong Kong

What to Do:

We did heaps of great things, and could have done a lot more! Here are my top ten things to do (see www.pakmag.com.au for more detailed information on each) 1. OCEAN PARK www.oceanpark.hk

Big Buddah

Ocean Park is an amazing, worldacclaimed amusement park set on over 91 hectares of land with sensational views of, you guessed it, the ocean.

Pair this view with the craziest cliffscaling rollercoaster I have ever been on (known as the Hair Raiser), an awesome cable car and Ocean Express train that takes you from one end of the park to the other and marine and animal life (with pandas, dolphins, sea lions, seals, monkeys and more!) and you’ve got the making of an incredibly educational and entertaining day.

HK Observation Wheel

2. NGONG PING 360 CABLE CAR www.np360.com.hk Embark on a ride of a life-time with the spectacular 5.7 kilometer 25-minute

Ocean Park

Skyrail with views of the airport, South China Sea, and mountainous terrain over to Lantau Island. We had a Crystal Cabin which was a little more expensive but meant we could skip the queue and got a bird’s eyes view with a glass bottom cable car.

3. NGONG PING VILLAGE – LANTAU ISLAND Once you hop off the Cable Car you arrive at Lantau Island, a gorgeous little township with restaurants, two theatres (Motion 360 which showed a cute 3D movie for the kids, and Stage 360, a live show with stuntmen performing classic Kung Fu moves).

The best part, however, was the walk up to the giant Tian Tan Buddhathe world’s largest seated, outdoor Bronze Buddha- very impressive!

4. TAI O VILLAGE This picturesque fishing village is home to some of the country’s best shrimp paste but the locals also sell amazing dried seafood; sea cucumbers, fish, shrimp, mussels and more.

5. DISNEYLAND HONG KONG www.hongkongdisneyland.com Turning 10 this year, Disneyland Hong Kong is in the celebration spirit!

For Spring (until 29 May) they have an Easter Extravaganza with more than 100 colourful Disney eggs throughout the seven diverse lands.

Baymax from Big Hero 6 has recently debuted at Disneyland and he gives the best hugs. The boys absolutely loved the rides and seeing all of their favourite characters.

The RC Racer in Toy Story Land, Big Grizzly Mountain mine cars and Space Mountain were clear favourites with the boys. The fireworks and lightshow at the end of the night were amazing to finish a spectacular day of “Happily Ever After”.

6. THE PEAK www.thepeak.com.hk You can catch the Peak Tram or a taxi to the top and take in the incredible views of the city and harbour below.

There are plenty of other things to see to compliment the trek up including the Trick Eye Museum, and Madame Tussaud’s Wax Museum.

7. MARKETS There are three main markets - the Ladies Markets, Stanley Street Markets and Temple Street Night Markets with lots of great bargains if you’re willing to haggle.

The Peak

Ngong

8. STAR FERRY www.starferry.com.hk

Ping 3

60 Ca

ble Ca

r

This is one of Hong Kong’s most iconic attractions - a must-do at night to view all the pretty city lights.

9. HONG KONG OBSERVATION WHEEL www.hkow.hk/en/ We could view this from our hotel, so it was a given that we would end up on it at some point! It is massive Ferris Wheel, right on the water giving you sensational views of the city.

The Peak Tram

xxx

10. SKY100 www.sky100.com.hk The 7th highest commercial building in the world and the tallest building in Hong Kong, Sky100 offers a panoramic view of the heart of the city and Victoria Harbour - sixty seconds and you are 100 floors high.

The Salisbury YMCA Brunch

Getting Around OCTOPUS CARDS (www.octopus.com.hk) are the best way to use public transport and can be used on trains, buses, some ferries, trams and even taxi’s. You can also use it at a hospital and over 450 other service providers - even McDonalds!

Airport Express Link is one of the world’s leading airport railway systems. There is a free bus that picks up from major hotels every 12 minutes to take you to the station.

Taxis are really well priced in Hong Kong and easy to find. Most taxi stands give you an indication of price to check out before your trip. Just make sure you use a registered taxi driver.

ll

YMCA Climbing Wa

Train is by far the best and fastest way to get around.

Big Bus Tours are great fun to jump on with the kids. You can purchase tours online or you may see representatives on the street. Plus, these tours offer a free return Star Ferry trip.

PROUDLY BROUGHT TO YOU BY CAIRNS AIRPORT AND PAKMAG.

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lice nut S ze l

HEALTHY RECIPES

c o o h l C a te H o e l a Pa

Ca r r ot a d e t s nd Roa

Soup n i k p m u P

UTEN N. GL .

VEGA IRY FREE . DA R A G U FREE S NED .

REFI FREE EGG .

E E W FR A R .

O PALE

PREP TIME 25 mins MAKES 12 - 20 Pieces

NITY IMMU TING S BOO IPE REC

SERVES 4 Recipe thanks to Sunjoo Kim. Check out Sunjoo Kim’s Healing Meals for Mums for a number of family recipes and remedies to prevent and heal everyday illness.

INGREDIENTS 3 tablespoons canola oil 300 grams carrots, cut into small chunks for roasting 600 grams pumpkin, cut to similar size as the carrot 2 medium sized onions, chopped

INGREDIENTS CHOC-HAZELNUT LAYER 1 cup hazelnuts, soaked 1 cup raw cashews, soaked 1 cup coconut oil 1 cup coconut milk 3/4 cup cacao 1/2 cup maple syrup or coconut nectar 1 tsp cinnamon 1 tsp vanilla extract sprinkle celtic sea salt 1/4 cup hazelnuts for decoration

CHOCOLATE BASE 2 cups raw almonds 1/2 cup desiccated coconut 1/2 cup raw cacao 16 dates 2 tbs coconut oil 1 tsp cinnamon 1 tsp vanilla extract Pinch of celtic sea salt

HOW TO MAKE

garlic and nutmeg and cook for another 2 minutes.

CHOCOLATE BASE Mix almonds, coconut, cacao and dates in food processor.

Add remaining base ingredients and mix until clumps together when squeezed. Pour into lined slice tin, press down firmly with the back of a spoon to create the base.

CHOC-HAZELNUT LAYER Soak hazelnuts and cashews overnight. Drain, rinse and blend in food processor until butter forms. In a small saucepan, combine coconut oil and maple syrup (or coconut nectar) over low heat. Remove from heat, add cacao, cinnamon, vanilla and salt and stir to form chocolate syrup. Add syrup to the nut blend in the processor and mix until smooth. Add coconut milk 1/2 cup at a time, blending.

Add in most of the extra 1/4 cup of hazelnuts (keep some for the final step) and quickly pulse two or three times. Pour the choc hazelnut mixture into the slice tray and spread evenly with a spatula. Press the last remaining hazelnuts into the top of the slice. Set in fridge for 1-2 hours.

Add roasted carrot, pumpkin, water and stock to the onion

BROUGHT TO YOU BY

4 cloves garlic 1 teaspoon ground nutmeg 500 ml water 700 ml chicken stock Salt and pepper to taste HOW TO MAKE Preheat oven to 180 degrees Celsius. Mix 2 tablespoons oil with carrots and pumpkin and bake for 30 mins. Leave cooked pumpkin in the oven for 15 minutes after turning the heat off.

Heat 1 tablespoon oil in a medium saucepan and cook the onion for 3 minutes or until soft over medium heat. Add

mixture and bring to a boil over high heat. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 10 minutes. Blend the soup and season with salt and pepper. Serve with slices of toasted whole grain bread.

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Thanks to The Real Foodies for this amazing recipe!

The Real Foodies are FNQ food and nutrition bloggers, creating 100% gluten-free, dairy-free, Sugar-free, paleo recipes, with nut-free, egg free and vegan options. Visit www.therealfoodies.com.au or find them on Facebook!

APRIL 2016 www.pakmag.com.au

Si

Avocado and C

ana and n a B le Ci p m

r r idge mon Po nna

Sushi B r e b ites m u c u

PREP TIME 45 mins SERVES 5

PREP TIME 15 mins SERVES 1

Fresh sushi is a delicious healty treat but can become a costly treat when taking the family for lunch. Why not save some money by enjoying these homemade avocado and cucumber sushi bites this weekend!

There's nothing better than waking up to an aromatic, warm bowl of porridge to kick start your day.

This recipe is quick, easy and nutritious, making it a perfect breakfast option for a busy weekday morning.

You can multiply the portions to serve however many hungry mouths are in your family.

INGREDIENTS 1/4 cup Black and white EQUIPMENT sesame seeds Sushi Mat chives, finely sliced Glad wrap 1 1/2 Cups sushi rice, cooked as per packet instructions 5 Sheets nori 1 Lebanese cucumber, cut into match sticks 1 Ripe avocado, cut into match sticks Soy sauce HOW TO MAKE Lay the sushi mat flat and place a sheet of glad wrap over the top. Lay a piece of nori, shiny side down on top of the glad wrap. Spread a layer of cooled sushi rice on the nori leaving a little extra space at one end of the sheet.

Carefully flip the sheet of nori so the rice is touching the glad wrap. Lay the avocado and cucumber on top of the nori in a strip. Lay them on the side of the nori that doesn't have the little extra space without rice.

Now we can roll the sushi into a neat little roll. Roll the side of the sushi mat gently over the filling and gently squeeze to hold in place. Continue rolling the sushi all the way to the end where we left a little extra space of nori without rice.

Dab this section of nori with wet fingers and roll to seal.

INGREDIENTS 1 ripe banana, sliced 1/2 cup rolled oats 1/2 cup unsweetened almond milk 1/2 cup water 1 tsp cinnamon 1 tsp vanilla powder (optional) Handfull of fresh blueberries Maple syrup and extra almond milk to serve HOW TO MAKE Put the rolled oats, almond milk and water in a small saucepan over a low heat. Stir in 3/4 of the banana slices (keeping some aside for the final step).

Cook over a low heat for 5 - 10 minuets until thickened and at your preferred consistency. Remove from the heat and stir in cinnamon and vanilla powder.

Pour into a serving bowl and top with the remaining slices of banana, blueberries and a drizzle of maple syrup. Serve with a jug of chilled almond milk to pour over as preferred.

Remove the glad wrap and cover one side of the roll with the sesame seeds and chives. Slice into bite sized pieces and repeat with the remaining sheets of nori.

Serve with a small dish of soy sauce for dipping and enjoy!

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HOME WITH THE BLOCK’S

CARO & KINGI

Pack of 5 Handmade Seed Envelopes Etsy store: HeyHarriet (RRP $10.05)

Vanilla Mozi Gift Pack One www.vanillamozi.com (RRP $99.95)

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APRIL 2016 www.pakmag.com.au

Set of 3 Vintage Handmade Herb Markers Etsy store: EATcreations (RRP $22.00)

Veggie Garden More and more parents are using their own backyards as the perfect playground for teaching their children about sustainable living. And there is no better way to do this than by starting your own veggie garden.

Copper Diamond Hanging Planter Etsy store: LiquoriceMoonStudios (RRP $60.00ea)

Here are our tops five tips to designing your dream veggie garden in your own backyard.

1. Choose ‘child-friendly’ veggies to grow. These are the

ones that require minimal effort and your kids can easily help water and care for them. Our favourites include mint, silverbeet, zucchini, tomatoes, cucumber, spring onion and herbs like basil, thyme and rosemary.

2. Pot plants are perfect containers for many herbs and

smaller veggies and can brighten up the deck or outdoor living space. Hanging pot plants are also good if you are strapped for space and adds a more dynamic aspect to your outdoor area.

3. To complement your leafy green veggies, consider

planting bold coloured flowers or look into garden ornaments – statues, birdhouses, fountains. If you have the space then you may even want to put up a grand entrance, such as white arbor or add stepping stones to break up each veggie patch.

4. To ensure your veggies grow, most need at least eight

hours a day of sunlight plus water and organic material.

Ask an expert when purchasing your seeds and soil before planting.

5. To get the kids extra excited about the idea of

gardening, involve them as much as possible. Look into their own gardening set with gloves and a watering can and get them into the habit of watering the plants as part of their daily routine.

Ladybird Gardener Playset - Janod www.playmackay.com.au (RRP $39.95)

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APRIL 2016 www.pakmag.com.au

Private

HEALTH Here is a question that most of us grapple with when we think about protection of assets - if I have income protection or house insurance, why then don’t I have private health insurance? The cost for an average family of four when you factor in the normal health occurrences, including sports injuries, glasses, dental, and chiropractic needs can quickly add up and be very taxing on the family income stream.

Imagine a serious netball or football injury which has caused grief to your knee, your ankle or your teeth - and we’re talking a huge cost. Then there are the formative years with children’s teeth which invariably mean braces and, you guessed it, a big financial hit.

If we are serious about insurances and about budgeting and planning for our financial future, then we need to have a good look at why we don’t have private health insurance or, if we do, we need to check on our policy’s benefits, inclusions and premium paid.

A consideration for any insurance, including health insurance, is to ensure that it is affordable and provides the level of cover that you need. It might also help your hip pocket.

For those that have not joined a health fund yet, remember that the Government adds Lifetime Health Cover Loading (LHCL) of 2% per year for every year you are not covered, applied from your 31st birthday. This can be a big shock if you join at age 40 for the first time and pay an additional 20% LHCL on top of the premium.

There is also a Medicare Levy Surcharge for people earning above certain levels of

taxable income and do not hold hospital cover with a health fund.

If you or your family fit into any scenarios that we’ve mentioned, consider investigating your health insurance options. Private health insurance may not only protect those that mean the most to you but could also save you some money.

With the annual health insurance premium increase arriving on 1 April, now is a great time to look at your health insurance options. Talk to your health insurer about what you are paying and the benefits you receive.

Take the time to review how you have used your fund in the past two years and how you think you will use it in the future.

If you don’t currently hold health insurance, the above still applies.

Consider what you need from your health insurance and do some research into premium and benefit options with a range of insurance providers.

Queensland Country Health Fund is a regionally based health insurer, headquartered in Townsville. Our Members receive the best health cover

wherever they are in Australia - but our regional location means that we know North Queensland as you do.

Our vision is to be the best value health fund and we demonstrate this in a number of ways, including our network of preferred providers across a range of services including dental and optical and our ‘Home Away From Home’ 2-bedroom apartment accommodation for Members who need urgent medical treatment in Brisbane or Townsville.

Take the health insurance health check challenge today at Queensland Country.

Caneland Branch, Caneland Central Ph: 4957 3272 Mount Pleasant Branch, Mount Pleasant Shopping Centre Ph: 4942 7800

STORY Jodie Rogers, Mount Pleasant Branch Manager

www.pakmag.com.au APRIL 2016

45

WHAt's NEWS in Business BOOK: Practical PerfectioN BY KELLY EXETER

WHAT'S NEWS

APP: PowerDirector

PAPERBACK $17.99 plus shipping KINDLE $4.99 MORE INFO www.kellyexeter.com.au

COST Free AVAILABLE ON Android WEB www.cyberlink.com

Have you ever been told, “You’re too hard on yourself?” Are you prone to burn out? Are your perfectionist tendencies holding you back?

Video is a powerful resource for all business owners, regardless of what you are trying to promote. However, it can be expensive to hire a videographer.

Five years ago, Kelly Exeter ticked all of the above boxes. Then she had a breakdown. While recovering from that breakdown she developed a framework for herself - one that stopped her burning out all the time, one that helped her stay on the right side of overwhelm and one that got her off the hamster wheel.

Practical Perfection shares this framework and shows how anyone whose selfimposed high standards are holding them back can live an excellent life.

This is an excellent read from author, business owner and mum, Kelly Exeter.

MACKAY VENUE: SOUTHS LEAGUES CLUB LOCATION 181 Milton Street, Mackay QLD 4740 PHONE (07) 4957 2166 WEB www.southsmackay.com.au Souths Leagues Clubs provides a casual venue for business meetings, family functions or nights out with the kids. Fins Café serves up amazing coffee and treats in a relaxed and comfortable environment.

Souths also offers a diverse range of function room and event space for conferences, weddings and more.

pakmag

PowerDirector Mobile gives you the power to create amazing, awesome, engaging videos on-the-go, even if you have little to no experience in video editing.

There are over 40 video effects and transition, easy drag-and-drop content options and the ability to upload videos directly to Facebook and YouTube.

BUSINESS: Goodstart Early Learning Learning skills for school and life – why kindergarten matters Enrolling your child in a dedicated kindergarten program is the best investment you can make in your child’s future.

The evidence is clear: kindergarten is a crucial year for your child to develop the skills they need for school and life. So, what can you expect from a high quality kindergarten program?

Goodstart Early Learning has developed a program that combines a mix of fun, structured learning and physical activity to ensure children develop the skills and confidence they need to adapt to a school environment. The program places a strong emphasis on building social and thinking skills, language and independence.

Goodstart provide a safe, nurturing environment for all children to allow them to learn a broad range of skills that include social-emotional learning; language and literacy; mathematics; science and technology; socio-dramatic play, dance and music; creative arts, design and construction; as well as physically active play.

If you are considering kindergarten for your child, contact Goodstart on 1800 222 543 to ask any questions you have about this important decision for your family.

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SNAPPED MACKAy

PakMag's Easter Eggstravaganza at Mount Pleasant Shopping Centre 48

APRIL 2016 www.pakmag.com.au

PHOTOS THANKS TO: SWEET FIELDS PHOTOGRAPHY SEE PAGE 29 FOR CONTACT DETAILS Email photos, name/s & locations: photos@pakmag.com.au (Deadline 15 APR for the MAY 2016 Edition)

PakMag's Easter Eggstravaganza at Mount Pleasant Shopping Centre www.pakmag.com.au APRIL 2016

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Daddy Diary Fussy Eaters I’m sure that I'm not the first parent to wonder how to get their kids to eat a wider variety of meals. And I know there is no right or wrong way to ensure your children eat healthier.

But here is how it works at home for us: I am the cook of 99% of dinners at home. I basically walk in the door from work and either fire up the stove or turn on the oven.

We rarely sit down and all eat together. We work it so that the kids are fed first, and then while they're in the bath or shower with my wife supervising, I try to fix something ‘more adult’ for us to eat.

Generally speaking, this system seems to work for our family. The main dinner problem comes down to one person - my fussy son.

When he was a baby he used to eat stacks of veggies, but now, he will not touch anything that resembles something that came out of the

By Scott Linden 50

APRIL 2016 www.pakmag.com.au

ground. Sometimes he'll have a carrot stick, but that's about it.

eaten, I find comfort in knowing that dessert normally consists of fruit.

While my daughter Charli will basically eat anything, I can’t seem to get my boy to eat his veggies. I've tried everything I can imagine – cutting them up into funny shapes, hiding them, giving them silly names, but the only thing that works is mashing them and sneaking them in bolognaise.

The request for something to eat normally comes at 8pm, right when I want him to go to sleep. And it’s usually for an apple or grapes.

He is a pasta and spaghetti eating monster. He just loves the stuff. If I think he's had a few nights of small dinners, I’ll make lasagne or spag bol, and it just blows me away how much of it he can put away.

I’ve got about 10 go-to dinners for him to rotate when he’s being extra fussy. And I suppose 10 isn’t too bad.

At least it’s not chicken nuggets and chips every night.

On the days when I try something new and we end up back on the sausages for dinner or have one of those meals when the food is simply pushed around the plate rather than actually

That I can cope with. No request for ice cream, just an apple.

Perhaps I just need to wait for his palette to change a little as he grows.

As much as it gets to me and annoys me that he's not eating a well-rounded set of dinners, we have to look at the positives.

He does eat a lot of fruit.

We don't give the kids many takeaway dinners.

And, hey, at least both kids are eating something.

On another subject, for another issue, it's 10:35pm as I’m writing this and my little, not yet three-year-old, Charli is still wide awake.

One battle at a time I guess...

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