PakMag Mackay - November 2016 Issue 49

ISSUE: NOV 2016

49

MACKAY

PARTY LIKE A HERO

Christmas

MAKE & BAKE TEACHERS' GIFTS

Second

LANGUAGES DOING THE MATHS

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NOVEMBER 2016 www.pakmag.com.au

CONTENTS

HELLO

ISSUE NO. 49 NOV 2016 04 Entertainment: Check This Out 06 Feature: Christmas Make & Bake

Hello and welcome to our November edition of PakMag. It’s PakMag Mackay’s 4th Birthday and we’ve put together some superhero party tips so you can celebrate along with us!

The festive season is creeping up fast, so this month we help you get prepared early with our Christmas Make and Bake and DIY Teachers’ Gifts features. Don’t miss the PakClub Christmas Party at Mount Pleasant Shopping Centre on 26th November – I’m looking forward to seeing you all there!

We also focus on education for both kids and parents this month. Our story on early language learning provides a fantastic insight into the benefits of children learning a second language. Plus, we show you how maths can be fun, and give you tips and hints to stay motivated in your own educational pursuits.

As always our What’s On Guide is brimming with activities and events and the prizes up for grabs this month are awesome!

Until next time, don’t forget to tell everyone, you read it in PakMag!

09 Education: How Learning A Second

Language Can Benefit Your Child

13 Education: Doing The Maths 15 There Has Never Been

A Bluer Sky

17 Health 19 Baby: Removing The Stigma Attached

To Postnatal Depression

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

Bree x

25 Mini Mag 32 Craft: Teachers’ Gifts 34 Celebrate: Party Like A Hero

BREE JAMES / PAKMAG PUBLISHER Net Distribution Per Issue 10,000 CAB Publisher Statement Period ending 30th July 2016

37 Party Guide 39 Healthy Recipes 41 Education: Study Motivation

For Mums

42 Education: Careers & Courses PAKMAG HEAD OFFICE P 4053 3331 E admin@pakmag.com.au PO BOX 7433 Cairns QLD 4870 FB www.facebook.com/pakmagmackay T #pakmag PAKMAG'S CORE VALUES

To Consider

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48 Snapped 50 Daddy Diary Create happier communities

Love connecting families & business

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

Daring Designer Lise

Bree's Wingwoman Rose

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Savvy Sales Sandra

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CHECK IT OUT

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McHappy Day

Santa is Coming to Caneland!

WHEN 12 November 2016 MORE INFO www.rmhc.org.au/ mchappyday

WHEN 12 November 2016, 9:00am to 12:00pm WHERE Caneland Shopping Centre MORE INFO www.canelandcentral.com.au Join us to welcome Santa in style at Caneland Central in his very own parade around the Centre. Santa will be accompanied by his elves and other special Mackay characters as he makes his way through the Centre to his throne. There will be giveaways and activities all morning. Professional Santa photography will be available from 10:00am outside Myer on the ground floor. No bookings necessary – simply come in to see the jolly man in red!

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

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BMA Kidspace November Fun

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Celebrating its 25th Anniversary, Ronald McDonald House Charities’® (RMHC) McHappy Day® is one of Australia’s most important and high profile charity events. RMHC creates, funds and supports programs across Australia that help seriously ill children and their families. Visit www.rmhc.org.au/mchappyday to find out how you can get involved.

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Small Explorers: “Water Features and Creatures” WHEN Thursday, 17 November 2016, 9:30am – 11:00am WHERE MacKay Regional Botanic Gardens MORE INFO www.mackay.qld.gov.au Let the Botanic Gardens Visitors Services Officer, Maya Harrison, take you and your small children to special areas of the Botanic Gardens to explore ‘Water Features and Creatures’ on Thursday 17th November at 9:30am – 11:00am.

Meet at the Meeting Room (opposite the Café) and join the guided walk to find all the different places that water occurs in the Gardens; from fountains, creeks, pools and waterfalls to the lagoon. Ask the question: Where does the water come from? Experiment with evaporation. This session involves a short walk to the Gymnosperm Deck to see birdlife, water plants and, maybe, turtles. The session includes story reading, information books and a display of water creatures.

WHEN 15 November 2016, 10:00am to 2:00pm WHERE Artspace Mackay MORE INFO www.artspacemackay.com.au Enjoy a day of family fun and get creative with this month’s Kidspace at Artspace Mackay. Designed for children under five and their carers, you can expect artist-run workshops from 10:00am and live musical entertainment for kids from 12:00pm to 1:00pm.

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NOVEMBER 2016 www.pakmag.com.au

Small Explorers sessions are fun and educational opportunities for toddlers and kindergarten aged children, from 18 months to 5 years, held monthly or by appointment.

Confirm your place on this tour or book for your own small group on a day of your choosing by contacting the Botanic Gardens on 4952 7300. Tell a friend with young children, so they can book too.

ENTERTAINMENT

24th Nov

pakmag

26th Nov

Welcome Santa to Mount Pleasant at PakClub’s Christmas Party WHEN 26 November 2016, 10:00am (show starts), 11:00am (Santa arrival) WHERE Mount Pleasant Shopping Centre, Santa’s Reindeer Garden, Food Court MORE INFO www.mountpleasantcentre.com.au

Boy & Bear – Limit of Love Regional Tour 2016 WHEN 24 November 2016, 7:30pm WHERE Mackay Entertainment and Convention Centre, Plenary Halls MORE INFO www.mecc.com.au Boy & Bear have announced a massive tour of regional Australia for November and December 2016. The Aussie folk-pop faves will kick off the extensive string of shows in Ballarat, then move through the 30-date schedule, covering Victoria, New South Wales, Queensland, Western Australia, and ACT. Fresh from a stellar set at Splendour and the Grass, the five-time ARIA winners released their third studio album, Limit of Love, in 2015.

Celebrate the arrival of Santa and his elves with Christmas carols, music, fun and games hosted by PakMag. So write a list, check it twice and come and tell him what would add a little sparkle to your Christmas.

Santa will take his seat at 11:00am in his beautiful new Reindeer Garden and each child who visits will receive a special gift. Santa will be in centre until Christmas Eve. Please see website for Santa times.

Limit of Love is a recording that is less about fine-tuning everything to the nthdegree, and more about capturing a band at the height of their powers in an honest, organic way. It’s an approach most modern bands would be too scared to try, but for Boy & Bear, that leap of faith has proved to be a very successful masterstroke. Tickets start at $46.60 for general admission.

27th Nov

North Queensland Babies & Kids Markets WHEN 27 November 2016, 8:30am – 12:30pm WHERE Mackay Entertainment & Convention Centre MORE INFO www.nthqldbabiesandkidsmarket.com Shopping for bub has never been more fun than at the North Queensland Babies & Kids Markets. Enjoy a morning of browsing through pre-loved, new, handmade informational and promotional stalls.

As the “Specialised Market” for babies and kids, the North Queensland Babies & Kids Market have a wide range of products including clothing, decor, toys, educational, designer labels, linen and much more.

Entry fee is $2.00 and children under 16 are free.

30th Nov

Positive Birth Movement Monthly Meetups in Mackay WHEN 30 November 2016, 10:00am to 12:30pm and 17 December 9:00am to 11:30am WHERE Uneek Industries courtyard, 166 Shakespeare St Mackay MORE INFO www.facebook.com/ PositiveBirthMovementMackay Positive Birth Movement has recently started their monthly meetups for families to provide support as they navigate through pregnancy, birth and parenting. November’s meet-up will discuss Dads and Birth Partners and December’s will discuss Pain. All meet-ups are free to attend.

www.pakmag.com.au NOVEMBER 2016

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Christmas PLAN, PLAN, PLAN November is the perfect time to start making lists and getting organised! Set up a family list station and spend an evening planning for December. Get the kids to put together their wish lists and write their letters to Santa while you go over travel plans, gift-giving requirements, house decoration ideas, baking needs, Christmas events, kids’ activities and, most importantly, your budget. Use a visual guide, such as a journal or spreadsheet to stay on top of everything.

BAKE & FREEZE MINCE PIES Mince pies are a delicious table setting for any Christmas-themed gathering and an easy gift idea too. Plus, they freeze well for up to three months. Freeze uncooked pies in cling wrap and store in a tin. Freeze pre-cooked (and cooled) pies by putting a sheet of baking paper between each layer and placing them in a container in the freezer.

MAKE THE CHRISTMAS PUDDING It’s just not Christmas without Christmas Pudding! You can make puddings in advance as long as you store them properly in pudding bowls. Add baking paper to the top of the pudding and layer them in cling wrap to keep their shape. When steaming your pudding, you can keep the cling wrap on – just make sure to remove it to serve!

M A K E & F R E E Z E RU M B A L L S Set up your rum ball making station and get rolling just in time for Christmas. Rum balls are a delicious snack or a perfect addition to any tin of homemade goodies to give as gifts. Get creative with your balls and use flavours that your family loves.

Peanut butter balls, coconut balls, Milo balls and fruit nut balls are all great alternatives that can all be made now and frozen for later. When freezing, include baking paper in between each layer to keep the balls from sticking to one another.

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W H I P U P S O M E P R E S E RV E S Pick up a few extra cute jars and spend an afternoon making jams, chutneys and spreads to give to friends or enjoy as part of your festive feast. With some green or red ribbon, embellishments and a nice handmade note attached to the jar, you’ve got yourself a gift that oozes with Christmas cheer.

You can put pretty much anything in a jar including dry ingredients like our Oatmeal Cookies in a Jar, below.

RECIPE IN A JA R Mix 2/3 cup flour, 1/2 tsp baking soda, 1/2 tsp cinnamon and ¼ tsp salt and place in the bottom of a jar. Layer with 1/3 cup brown sugar, 1/3 cup white sugar, 1 1/2 cup oats, 3/4 cup choc chips and 1/2 cup chopped nuts. Seal, decorate and include a card with wet ingredients (1/2 cup butter, 1 egg and 1/2 tsp vanilla extract) and instructions with the jar: Mix wet and dry ingredients, drop rounded tablespoons onto a lined tray and bake for 8-10 minutes at 190° C.

L AV E N D E R S U G A R Lavender sugar can be substituted for regular sugar in a number of recipes and imparts a subtle floral flavour, giving family favourites such as cookies and cakes an extra special twist. Simply add 1 tsp of dried lavender buds to 1 cup of sugar and place in a jar.

Stir the ingredients, add a lilac ribbon around the top of the jar and decorate with a floral inspired tag.

M I N T S U GA R S C RU B 1/2 cup coconut oil 1 1/2 - 2 cups sugar 1 tablespoon peppermint extract 1 drop green food coloring For a non-edible gift idea, make your own sugar scrub. Place coconut oil in a bowl and microwave for 15 seconds. Add all ingredients to the bowl to create a light green mixture. Spoon scrub into a jar and seal. And don’t forget the mint green ribbon!

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EDUCATION

pakmag

HOW LEARNING A SECOND LANGUAGE CAN BENEFIT YOUR CHILD.

STORY Janelle Santolin, Education Officer, Catholic Education Services

Growing up in the ’70s in Far North Queensland, I didn’t have the opportunity to learn a second language in primary school, like my children do today. I was very fortunate, however, to have an Italian-born father who regularly broke into Italian at home (although, the creative vocab he used would, at times, made my mother’s hair curl!).

For me, and for more than 20 per cent of Australians who speak a second language at home, being able to transfer back and forth from one language to another depending on the audience, is just the norm. And while my ability to speak a second language has been lost over the years, the social awareness that this skill provides remains strong within me.

So, now that I am a parent of two delightful and curious early learners, I find myself asking the question: "Should my children be studying a second language?" With a lot of digging, I unearthed an exhaustive amount of research from as far back as the 1970s, which tells me the answer to my question is an overwhelming yes.

SAYING “NI HAO” TO BILINGUALISM Learning a second language at a very early stage in their development can bring about so many wonderful benefits for our children.

Improved cognitive development Harvard Professor Maria Polinsky explains that bilingual children will have developed much more cognitive control than monolingual children.

Through constantly switching back and forth between two languages bilingual children tend to be better multi-taskers, problem-solvers and creative and critical thinkers.

Enhanced general literacy skills (including understanding of their primary language) Many people assume that learning another language means a child’s understanding of their primary language will suffer. This is exactly

the opposite. When studying a second language, a child learns about how languages work and their literacy skills are enhanced because a clear link exists between learning another language and literacy development in English.

A deeper understanding of culture and values Learning a second language is more than just learning new words. As children delve into a new language, they are exposed to new cultures, traditions and values. This extends their understanding of themselves, their own heritage, culture and identity as well as giving them a worldwide view of life.

Improved self-esteem and self-awareness Just like any great accomplishment, whether it be playing an instrument, writing their name or even tying their shoelaces for the first time, learning a language can give your child a sense of achievement and this definitely enhances their concept of self and self-belief.

Improved employment potential Let’s face it, we want the very best future for our children, and having a second language gives them the edge over those who don’t. Being bilingual can be a significant career advantage in terms of employability and earnings.

www.pakmag.com.au NOVEMBER 2016

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pakmag EDUCATION

SECOND LANGUAGES IN SCHOOLING Fortunately for parents in Queensland, most primary schools offer a language to our children, some from as early as Prep. Queensland’s Department of Education encourages all schools to deliver some sort of language program from prep to Year 12.

The dominant languages taught in North Qld, according to Florence Boulard, JCU Coordinator of Modern Languages, are Japanese, Italian and French, with some schools offering Chinese (Mandarin) and German.

Whilst this is fantastic news for parents, in reality language learning is only mandated from Years 5 to 8 in Queensland and many schools will forego language lessons in the early years.

SECOND LANGUAGES AT HOME As parents, we can fill the gap in many ways: • Start them young. It’s a lot harder to learn a language as an adult than as a child. This is because the language receptors in our brains are more open to receiving new information in our first five or six years of life. We develop the bulk of our language skills before we start school. After that, learning a language can be more difficult.

• If you have a family member who speaks a second language, then have them expose your children to that language as often as possible. The best environment for learning a language is one that is safe and relaxed, so home is perfect. If you don’t have a family member, then look to your wider community for international clubs, kindergartens with language programs or even neighbours.

• There are so many children’s toys on the market that have second language functions. Be sure to find toys that have the correct tone and accent and are not computer automated.

• Children’s TV programs that are bilingual are a very easy way for parents to expose children to a second language. Children will mimic what they hear and will eventually grasp the meaning of the words they are speaking and use them correctly in context. Parents know how this works, especially when the littlies repeat, with perfect diction and tone, the very colourful language heard on the sporting sidelines!

• Consider the myriad of educational apps specifically designed to make language learning fun for children.

For parents looking to learn more about benefits of a second language, check out www.serious-science.org for a great YouTube video by Maria Polinsky as well as www.schoolatoz.nse.edu.au for additional reading material.

APPS FOR LANGUAGE DEVELOPMENT www.eLearningIndustry.com has highlighted their top apps for second language learning which include:

Duolingo

Chinese Skill

WEB www.duolingo.com COST FREE

WEB www.chinese-skill.com COST FREE

Little Pim

Gus on the Go

WEB www.littlepim.com COST FREE

WEB www.gusonthego.com COST $6.99

Mindsnacks

Rosetta Stone Kids Lingo Letter Sounds

WEB www.mindsnacks.com COST FREE

WEB www.rosettastone.com/lp/kidsapp COST FREE

All of these apps and more can be purchased from iTunes App store or Google Play store. And what’s more, the majority of these apps are free and offer a range of languages to choose from.

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EDUCATION

pakmag

Doing the Maths STORY Jenna Galley

Some people are born with a love of numbers. Others, not so much. However, regardless of whether your children love crunching numbers or tune out completely when asked to calculate an equation, maths is an important part of the curriculum that leads to career success and confidence.

So how can you foster their love of maths?

SNEAK MATHS INTO PLAY.

FOCUS ON THE FUTURE.

Many board games inadvertently teach your children maths including Snakes and Ladders, Yahtzee and pretty much any game involving dice.

Card games such as Crazy Eights and Uno are also great at helping with number identification and basic maths. And Poker and Black Jack are great for mini mathletes.

“When am I ever going to need to use trigonometry?”

There are plenty of other number games that are fun for younger kids including Guess My Number (choose a number between 1-100 and help your kids guess it by saying “higher” or “lower” with each guess) and Maths Jeopardy (choose a number and give your kids one minute to find as many ways to make the number using addition, subtraction, multiplication and division).

THINK OUTSIDE THE PIE CHART. When we went to school, we were taught a certain way to get to the answer. However, turns out there are plenty of different ways to do basic equations and some will work better for visually minded students. An abacus, for example, is a great device to help with mental calculations.

Like in life, there is more than one way to get to the right answer. Let your children explore the various calculation methods to see what resonates with them.

I remember saying it countless times to my parents and I’m sure my kids will say the same thing to me once they reach this stage in their schooling.

Sure, some careers do not require you to perform equations on a regular basis but many do. And cool ones at that.

For kids that are interested in animation, special effects, technology, computer games, forensic science and architecture, maths is critical for career success.

Other people that require maths in their career? Fashion designers, statisticians, engineers, stockbrokers, car designers, doctors, tradesmen and so many more!

MATHS IS SO BORING, MUM! So is doing the dishes and folding the laundry every day. But it has to be done, just like maths homework.

The next time your kids complain about maths, here are a few gems to throw their way.

Maths helps you develop lifelong skills. Problem solving, adaptive reasoning, critical thinking – these are the skills we all need in life and ones that are practiced when performing maths.

Maths assists with focus. And focus is one of the most important assets when it comes to a good work ethic.

Maths can be incredibly rewarding. That ‘a-ha’ moment when you finally figure out an equation is extremely satisfying (and addictive). It can also help build self-confidence and pride in the ability to understand complicated things.

Maths can also be kind of fun.

There are plenty of amazing maths equations and facts to impress the kids out there. Our favourite one? The Birthday Equation which confirms that if there are 23 people in a room, there is a 50 per cent chance that at least two people share the same birth date.

In a room with 75 people, this number increases to 99 per cent. Fascinating!

And, finally, lots of celebrities like maths. Some of the rich and famous even studied maths in university and college including Michael Jordan, Teri Hatcher and Mr. T. See kids. Maths is cool.

www.pakmag.com.au NOVEMBER 2016

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ADVERTORIAL

pakmag

There Has Never Been

a Bluer Sky

STORY Craig Murison

Some time ago I shared with readers a story my friend Glen Cochrane told me.

Over the last few weeks I have been reminded of this story in my own circumstances and I thought it might help some of you to read it again as well. As a part of a funeral service for an elderly lady my friend attended, one of her granddaughters shared some memories of her grandmother. She told of how every morning, her grandmother would stand at the kitchen sink and look out the window above. As she looked outside she would say, “There has never been a bluer sky.”

It didn’t matter if it was sunny, overcast or pouring rain.

Her grandmother would say, “There has never been a bluer sky.”

This story has really stuck with me. When you travel by plane you know that, even if it is a miserable day on the ground, at some point the plane will break through the clouds and there will be a startlingly blue sky waiting. You might experience a bit of turbulence, a few bumps and several shudders as you pass through the clouds but when you are through, there it is – a brilliant blue sky.

I wish I had had an opportunity to meet that old lady. What a wise person she was and how wonderful that she diligently, and no doubt deliberately, sought to pass her wisdom on to her grandchildren. It doesn’t matter how grey and gloomy the day looks from where we stand, or how bumpy and uncomfortable the journey might be from our perspective.

Above it all, there has never been a bluer sky.

That grandmother sought to instil a sense of hope, purpose, optimism and resilience into her grandchildren by demonstrating a daily discipline or habit. Habits are things we do repeatedly until they become almost subconsciously part of our lives. Habits become virtues when we no longer have to think about them at all – they just are the way we are. By reminding herself daily, and reminding those within hearing distance, she was building a habit which might become a virtue.

It is easy to let circumstances - the cloud cover and the turbulence of life - become overwhelming. What a wonderful habit to build into our own lives, and the lives of our children, that above it all, there has never been a bluer sky.

www.pakmag.com.au NOVEMBER 2016

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+ HEALTH The Meaning Behind the Mo

Cold Sores Not only are they embarrassing, uncomfortable and occur at the worst possible time, cold sores are one of the most common of all transmitted viruses, infecting at least 70 per cent of the world’s population.

November is Men’s Health Month. It is also the month when men grow out their moustaches much to the disgust of many women. But what does the ‘mo’ signify? Here are some fascinating facts about men’s health that all families should be aware of.

DID YOU KNOW? • In general, research shows that males have poorer health than females.

• The average life expectancy of males is 80.1 years.

The average life expectancy for females is 84.3 with Australia coming in the top ten for world life expectancy for both genders. For males, the highest life expectancy is Switzerland (80.7); for females, the highest life expectancy is Japan (86.6).

• Only two in five Australian men get enough daily exercise.

• One in two Australian men have experienced violence in their life.

• 95 per cent of Australian males do not consume enough fruit and veggies.

• 70.8 per cent of men were overweight or obese in 201415, compared with 56.3 per cent of women.

• Nearly half of Australian men have also experienced sexual difficulty in their life.

• 1 in 10 Australian men 65 and older are smokers.

• 1 in 20 men suffer from depression.

• This year alone there have been an estimated 72,048 males diagnosed with cancer (compared to 58,418 females).

• This year alone there have been an estimated 26,566 males who have died from cancer compared to 20,314 females.

• Prostate cancer is the most prevalent cancer in Australia comprising of 25 per cent of cancer diagnosis in 2016.

• In 2014, there were 2,160 males (18.4 per 100,000) that died of suicide, compared to 704 females (5.9 per 100,000).

WHAT YOU CAN DO? Help raise awareness for men’s health and take care of the ones that you love. Because a happy, healthy spouse makes for a peaceful, loving house. Check out au.movember.com to find out more.

The cold sore originates from a herpes simplex virus which infects the face and mouth and is the most common form of the disease.

The virus is highly contagious and can spread not only by kissing or facial contact but also via general household items such as face towels, straws, cutlery and razor blades.

Although cold sore triggers vary from person to person, there are a number of common provokers. Stress, illness, sunburn, windburn, UV light including tanning salons, some food allergies and excessive rubbing of the skin are amongst the most common triggers.

Symptoms of cold sores begin with a tingle, irritation, or burning feeling at the site of infection and the appearance of two or three blisters shortly after. These may remain on the skin for 3-7 days prior to breaking and forming a yellow scab. Once the scab falls off, generally no scar is left behind and the skin grows back healthy and normal.

PREVENTING COLDS SORES IS RELATIVELY SIMPLE: • Keep the sore dry and clean.

• Apply sunscreen and UV protective lip balm to the face and lips.

• Get plenty of sleep.

• Avoid sharing cutlery, cups, glasses, water bottles, towels, face washers and razors.

• Avoid triggers such as sunlight, tanning salons, windburn and dry lips.

• If you get a cold sore avoid nute, chocolate and alcohol.

PRODUCTS THAT HELP TO PREVENT OR TREAT COLD SORES INCLUDE: • Lysine is an amino acid based supplement that subdues the herpes simplex virus and reduces the number and severity of outbreaks.

• Products such as Zovirax and other anti-viral creams may be of use in the treatment of cold sores..

www.pakmag.com.au NOVEMBER 2016

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BABY

pakmag

Removing the Stigma Attached to

Postnatal Depression STORY Dr Isobel Morse FRACGP BSc (Hons) Psych

New parents are often hit with clichés such as, “Enjoy every moment” during their first year with bub. And although these clichés are not said with malice or harm, they can sting, especially for those who are faced with postnatal depression or anxiety.

The reality is that up to 80 per cent of new mothers experience feelings of sadness, irritability, and bouts of crying in the first few days after birth, known as “the baby blues”. Such emotions are considered normal in those first few days, however, they should not be ignored if they are still there after a few weeks, or appear during those first 12 months, as they could be signs of postnatal depression.

Postnatal depression or PND is the name given to depression that develops up to one year after the birth of a baby. Fathers can have PND too, either along with their partner’s postnatal depression or by themselves. An estimated one in seven new mums experienced PND and one in 20 new fathers are impacted by this condition.

It is often hard to acknowledge you are experiencing PND and people often wait to try and “snap out of it”.

However, it does not usually resolve itself without treatment. If PND isn’t identified and treated, the toll it can take can be considerable for the entire family.

Nevertheless, with early identification and intervention most people can fully recover from PND with no long term effects.

There are several treatment options. These might include things like practical support in the home, lifestyle changes including diet and exercise, counselling and sometimes medication. Making an appointment with a GP or Child & Family Health Nurse, or contacting a support organisation such as PANDA is a good first step to diagnosis and the development of an individualised treatment plan. In situations where there are ideas about self-harm or doing harm to a baby, professional help should be sought straight away.

PND is not something to be ashamed of. It should be seen as one of the many complications of parenthood. With appropriate help, people with PND do recover.

Stand Up, Speak Out and Stop Suffering in Silence Many new mums suffer with PND in silence. It can be hard to admit that you are not coping and that it could be due to PND. There is a huge strain on new parents to prove that they are succeeding in all aspects of parenting and a sense of shame when they are not.

Get involved in helping to end the stigma attached to PND. The Perinatal Depression & Anxiety (PNDA) Awareness Week is held from 15th to 21st of November each year and is a great opportunity to raise awareness about perinatal mental health issues in your local community.

New parents often assume they have to be superheroes.

But the bravest thing you can do is step forward and ask for help. It’s okay to admit that things aren’t perfect.

It’s okay to admit you’re not coping. In fact, asking for help is not only beneficial to you, but your new baby as well.

Support organisations available to help with PND: PANDA (Post and Antenatal Depression Association) - 1300 726 306, www.panda.org.au Pregnancy, Birth and Baby (Australian Government Service) - 1800 882 436, www.pregnancybirthbaby.org.au Lifeline (Crisis service) 13 11 14, www.lifeline.org.au

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THANK YOU BABY RANGE

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WEB www.thankyou.co/baby Since 2008 ThankYou has given $4.7 million to projects around the world and their recently launched baby range will continue to help these numbers grow. Thankyou’s baby products are not only adorable and functional, but they are also serving an incredibly important global purpose; 100 per cent of their profits fund safe drinking water and sanitation around the world.

Their new baby product range includes nappies in six sizes (including cloth nappies), baby wash, lotion, massage oil and nappy balm. You can check out the full range at www.thankyou.co/baby and purchase select items from Coles, Woolworths, Baby Bunting and Priceline.

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NOVEMBER 2016 www.pakmag.com.au

CHIBEBE SNUGGLE POD WEB www.chibebe.com.au RRP $99.00 The multi-award winning Chibebe Snuggle Pod is designed to help prevent reflux and flathead in babies, and it doesn't hurt that they look amazing also! They are laboratory tested for use from birth to pre-teens and are loved by babies all over the world!

EXPLORING THE BENEFITS OF SENSORY PLAY STORY Goodstart Early Learning – Sally Fitzgerald, Senior Occupational Therapist

From birth through to early childhood, children use their senses to explore and try to make sense of the world around them. They do this by touching, tasting, smelling, seeing, moving and hearing.

Providing opportunities for children to actively use their senses as they explore their world through sensory play is crucial to brain development – it helps to build nerve connections in the brain’s pathways, supporting cognitive growth, language development, gross motor skills, social interaction and problem solving skills.

We often talk about the five senses: taste, touch, smell, sight and hearing. However, there are two others we commonly miss: body awareness and balance.

Another example is a child who is particularly fussy with eating foods with a wet texture such as spaghetti. The use of sensory play can assist the child in touching, smelling and playing with the texture in an environment without being expected to eat it. As the child develops trust and understanding of this texture it helps build positive pathways in the brain to say it is safe to engage with this food.

So, what is sensory play?

Sensory play includes any activity that stimulates your young child's senses. Sensory activities facilitate exploration and naturally encourage children to use scientific processes while they play, create, investigate and explore. Sensory play literally helps determine what children believe to be positive and thus shapes the choices they make and impacts their behaviour.

For example, initially a child may find it difficult to play appropriately with a peer when there are other things going on in the environment with conflicting noise. However, through sensory play, exploring sounds and tasks, a child learns to adapt to being able to block out the noise which is not important and focus on playing with his or her peer.

Tips for parents on creating a sensory play environment in the home: • Organise physical indoor and outdoor areas for your child so they have flexible spaces that include quiet, active, wet and dry areas.

• Ensure your child has access to materials they can shape and adapt, such as play dough.

• Use lighting and soft furnishings such as cushions and blankets to create separate spaces.

For more information, please get in touch with us on 1800 222 543 or visit your nearest Goodstart Early Learning centre.

www.pakmag.com.au NOVEMBER 2016

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WHAT'S ON NOV Tuesday 1

Saturday 5

MACKAY TURF CLUB PRESENTS MELBOURNE CUP DAY 2016 Mackay Turf Club www.mackaytix.com.au 11.00am / Cost / Family

Thursday 3 BRING YOUR BABY - KEEPING UP WITH THE JONESES Event Cinemas www.eventcinemas.com.au Check website for times / Cost / Family AIRLIE BEACH FESTIVAL OF MUSIC Until the 6th Airlie Beach www.mackaytix.com.au 3 Days / Cost

Friday 4 ARJ BARKER – GET IN MY HEAD MECC Plenary Halls www.mackaytix.com.au 8.00pm / Cost / Adult

"Rob picks McHappy Day on Saturday 12th "

Friday 11

WEEKEND FAMILY FLICKS SECRET LIFE OF PETS Event Cinemas www.eventcinemas.com.au 10.00am / $6.00 / Family

REMEMBRANCE DAY

SMOKIE MECC Auditorium www.mackaytix.com.au 8.00pm / Cost / Adult

all McDonald Stores

Sunday 6 SENSORY MOVIE DAYSTORKS BCC Mt Pleasant www.facebook.com/ SensoryMovieDayMackay 11.00am / $8.00 / Family WEEKEND FAMILY FLICKS SECRET LIFE OF PETS Event Cinemas www.eventcinemas.com.au 10.00am / $6.00 / Family

Thursday 10 BRING YOUR BABY - DR STRANGE Event Cinemas www.eventcinemas.com.au Check website for times / Cost / Family

Saturday 12 MCHAPPY DAY

www.rmhc.org.au/mchappyday WEEKEND FAMILY FLICKS STORKS

Event Cinemas www.eventcinemas.com.au 10.00am / $6.00 / Family

Sunday 13 WEEKEND FAMILY FLICKS STORKS

Event Cinemas www.eventcinemas.com.au 10.00am / $6.00 / Family THE 7 SOPRANOS MECC Auditorium

www.mackaytix.com.au 7.30pm / Cost / Family

Tuesday 15 BMA KIDSPACE

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

Thursday 17 BRING YOUR BABY - THE ACCOUNTANT Event Cinemas www.eventcinemas.com.au Check website for times / Cost / Family SMALL EXPLORERS: “WATER FEATURES AND CREATURES” Botanic Gardens www.mackay.qld.gov.au 9.30am / Free / Family

Saturday 19 WEEKEND FAMILY FLICKS PETE'S DRAGON Event Cinemas www.eventcinemas.com.au 10.00am / $6.00 / Family

Sunday 20 WEEKEND FAMILY FLICKS PETE'S DRAGON Event Cinemas www.eventcinemas.com.au 10.00am / $6.00 / Family PORTERS COMMUNITY MARKETS Porters www.porterscando.com.au 8.00am / Free / Family

EMAIL EVENTS TO: ADMIN@GRANDPUBLISHING.COM.AU

www.pakmag.com.au NOVEMBER 2016

23

WHAT'S ON NOV Thursday 24

Saturday 26

BRING YOUR BABY - ARRIVAL Event Cinemas

www.eventcinemas.com.au

Check website for times / Cost / Family

BOY & BEAR – LIMIT OF LOVE REGIONAL TOUR 2016 MECC Plenary Halls

www.mackaytix.com.au 7.30pm / Cost / Adult

Friday 25 MORNING TEA - FRIENDS OF THE BIRTH CENTRE

Mackay Women's Centre www.facebook.com/

FriendsMackayBirthCentre/ 9.30am / Free / Family

"EJ picks PakClub's Christmas Party at Mount Pleasant Shopping Centre on Saturday 26th "

PAKCLUB'S CHRISTMAS PARTY Mount Pleasant Shopping Centre mountpleasantcentre.com.au 10.00am / Free / Family WEEKEND FAMILY FLICKS SECRET LIFE OF PETS Event Cinemas www.eventcinemas.com.au 10.00am / $6.00 / Family CELTIC JOURNEY Conservatorium of Music, CQU University www.trybooking.com/MZQD 2.00pm / Cost / Family CELTIC JOURNEY Conservatorium of Music, CQU University www.trybooking.com/MZQD 7.00pm / Cost / Family

Sunday 27 NORTH QUEENSLAND BABIES AND KIDS MARKET The MECC www.nthqldbabiesandkidsmarket.com 8.30am / $2.00 / Family

REGULAR MARKETS ON PAGE 29

WEEKEND FAMILY FLICKS SECRET LIFE OF PETS Event Cinemas www.eventcinemas.com.au 10.00am / $6.00 / Family

Wednesday 30 POSITIVE BIRTH MOVEMENT MONTHLY MEETUPS Uneek Industries courtyard www.facebook.com/ PositiveBirthMovementMackay/ 10.00am / Family

EMAIL EVENTS TO: ADMIN@GRANDPUBLISHING.COM.AU

24

NOVEMBER 2016 www.pakmag.com.au

JUSTIN TIMBERLAKE

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SUMMER GIVEAWAYS GIVEAWAY FOR GREAT ADVENTURERS WEB www.lonelyplanet.com/kids RRP From $24.99 We have three great books to give away for little explorers. Lonely Planet Kids’ Unfolding Journeys series presents some of the most breathtaking landscapes on the planet. Our giveaway includes three titles - Lonely Planet Kids: The Cities Book, Lonely Planet Kids’ Unfolding Journeys: Rocky Mountain Explorer and Lonely Planet Kids’ Unfolding Journeys: Amazon Adventure.

GOOGLY EYES GAME WEB www.crownandandrews.com RRP From $39.99 A twist on the classic game where a team member draws an object and the others guess what it is – this time the person drawing has to wear the vision-altering ‘Googly Eyes’ glasses!

Get your teammates to guess the right answer by drawing clues before time runs out. The first team through to the finish wins! The large wacky glasses have three sets of vision altering lenses that go from easy to hard.

Suitable for 2+ players aged 7+.

Visit www.pakmag.com.au for your chance to

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REGULAR MARKETS EUNGELLA MARKETS

SEAFORTH MARKETS

TWILIGHT MARKETS

PORTERS COMMUNITY MARKETS

DATE 1st Sunday of the month (Apr to Dec) TIME From 9.00am LOCATION Eungella Memorial Hall - North Streett

DATE Every Sunday

DATE Third Sunday of each month

MARIAN MARKETS

DATE Every Saturday

LOCATION Northern Beaches Bowls Club TIME 6.00pm - 9.00pm INFO Please visit website for dates and theme www.nbbowls.com.au

DATE 3rd Sunday of the month TIME From 8.00am LOCATION Holy Rosary Church Anzac Avenue (Excluding May & Dec) SARINA SHOWGROUND MARKET DATE Last Sunday of the month TIME From 8.00am (Mar to Dec) LOCATION Bruce Highway Sarina

TIME From 8.30am

LOCATION Palm Avenue Seaforth SHOWGROUND MARKETS TIME From 6.30am

LOCATION Milton Street TROPPO TREASURE MARKET DATE 2nd Sunday of the month TIME From 7.30am to 11.30am LOCATION Mount Pleasant Shopping Centre

TIME From 8.00am LOCATION Porters at the Corner of Brisbane & Gordon Streets THE GREATER WHITSUNDAY

PAXTON’S NIGHT MARKETS

FARMERS’ MARKET

DATE* 2nd Friday of the month TIME From 5.00pm LOCATION Paxtons Warehouse

DATE Every Wednesday of the month TIME From 2.00pm to 6.00pm

*Check their Facebook page as dates subject to change www.facebook. com/PaxtonsNightMarkets

LOCATION Wood Street Park

EMAIL EVENTS TO: ADMIN@GRANDPUBLISHING.COM.AU www.pakmag.com.au NOVEMBER 2016

29

REGULAR EVENTS

BIKE RIDERS

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

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.

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

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,

NOVEMBER 2016 www.pakmag.com.au

6.00pm Club Raffles 7.00pm Live Entertainment Sports Bar 7.30pm Lucky Seat Gaming Room

THURSDAYS

SATURDAYS

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.

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

RUNNERS

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.

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.

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 6.45 for an 7.00am 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

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

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

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

liev

Unbeleafably Good

|

TEACHERS' GIFTS

Who doesn’t love a good pun? Give your child’s teacher a bit of a laugh and a pot full of fragrance with these adorable and unique teachers’ gifts.

Teachers give our kids so much. They literally plant the seed to learning (which we then continue to feed and grow at home). And thus it’s time to give them something back to let them know they are doing an incredible job.

It is not required for students to give a gift but it is a great way to end another year of learning. This year, in Queensland, the last day of school is 9 December which gives you plenty of time to get planting!

Common teacher gifts include gift vouchers, chocolates, flowers and stationery but there is no specific etiquette when it comes to giving to your child’s teacher. Your child may want to get involved with a hand-made card or message or you may want to bake something together (check out our Make ‘n Bake section on page eight for some more great gift ideas).

The gift that keeps on growing… This year, get ahead of the class with a gift that not only stands out, but honours the hard work performed by the teacher and comes with that creative hand-made touch. And what better way to do this than with a planter complete with a spice, flower or herb of your choice?

Not only do plants looks attractive but they also come with a number of benefits. Plants are known to reduce stress, create a feeling of wellbeing and provide a pleasant and tranquil environment. And anything that helps create a more calming classroom is certainly going to benefit both teacher and students!

PUNNY PLANTS Have some fun with a punny plant!

There are plenty of cute messages that play on the planting puns.

HERE’S A FEW TO CONSIDER: • Thanks for helping me Bloom • Thank you for your Thyme • Thank you for your Sage advice • Thank you for your commit Mint.

WHAT YOU NEED: • Potted plant of your choice • Brown paper lunch bags • Manilla shipping tags • Alphabet stamps • A vine/leaf stamp, green ink pads • Fabric cut into 3 centimeter wide strips HOW TO MAKE: • Transfer your pot plant into a lunch bag. Open the lunchbag and start folding down the top until it is just tall enough to cover the top of the pot.

• Using the stamps, stamp your manila shipping tag with your message and leaves.

• Thread your strip of fabric though the stamped tag and tie around the folded top of the lunch bag.

Thanks to: www.anightowlblog.com

32

NOVEMBER 2016 www.pakmag.com.au

|

YOU RULE! PLANTER

| Add a bit of colour to a teacher’s desk with this creative “You Rule” planter, complete with a punny message to go with it.

WHAT YOU NEED: • Your plant of choice • A metre wooden ruler (or three regular sized wooden rulers) • Saw and scissors • 1 empty one litre milk carton • A hot glue gun • A pencil/ permanent marker/ potting soil/ small stones/ small plantings/ sphagnum moss.

HOW TO MAKE: • Cut the ruler into twelve 7.5 cm sections. Clean up the ends with scissors to remove any super sharp and sloppy bits.

• Mark the carton so you know where to glue the sections of the ruler.

• Cut the top off the carton and wash and dry it.

• Glue the ruler sections onto the carton.

• Add small stones to the bottom of the carton and poke a few holes at the bottom for drainage.

• Add your plant of choice and finish with a bit of sphagnum moss.

• Add “You Rule” to your pencil and tuck it into the back of the planter.

Thanks to: www.hgtv.com

www.pakmag.com.au NOVEMBER 2016

33

A E K I L PA R T Y

www.karaspartyideas.com

pakmag CELEBRATE

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www.catchmyparty.com 34

NOVEMBER 2016 www.pakmag.com.au

www.andersruff.com

Design your Super Hero Cape www.earthtoys.net (RRP $49.95ea)

Crochet Super Max www.earthtoys.net (RRP $85.00ea)

Wonder Woman Biscuits www.okyscookies.com

Spider-Man Strawberries www.trendhunter.com

Thor Cupcakes www.horriblehousewife.com

Icingbits Cake Toppers www.icingbits.com

www.pakmag.com.au NOVEMBER 2016

35

PARTY GUIDE Bounce Now

Kidz Life Play Centre

Bounce Now Entertainment Mackay have a HUGE selection of the latest themed party castles, giant games and amusements from all over the world! Jumping castle hire for your event has never been easier.

They have party options to suit all groups and budgets, from a small group to a party of up to 100 people.

They hire bouncy castles, water slides, giant games, mini golf and sumo wrestling for all ages, toddlers to teens. For adults there’s bouncy boxing, bungee run, velcro sticky wall, foam dance pit and Bullzeye the maddest mechanical bucking bull for hire in Mackay. Mix it up with a frozen cocktail machine, popcorn cart, Sno Cones or fairy floss and you’re in for the party event of the year!

Bounce Now Entertainment is a family owned and operated business, with over 10 years of industry experience.

Their competitive pricing and excellent service is second to none.

CALL 4942 6360 WEB www.bouncenow.com.au FACEBOOK /BounceNow

Souths Leagues Club Let Souths' friendly staff supervise the entire party while you relax and enjoy all that they have to offer! For just $15 per child: • 1.5hrs of supervision by our experienced staff • Private room hire plus use of all Kids Room facilities • Design your own menu from our variety of party food options • Jugs of soft drinks, cordial or water • Party decorations • Gift bags for each child • Fun and games • Supply your own cake and candles or have us arrange one for you* • Mums and dads can stay and watch *Additional charges apply CALL 4957 2166 EMAIL reception@southsmackay.com.au WEB www.southsmackay.com.au

Children up to 12 years have a great time exploring the tunnels, riding the slides and bouncing around in the ball pits. There is also a dedicated area just for the littlies.

Kidz Life Play Centre exists to foster healthy interaction between parent and child. We encourage parents to put on their socks and have fun with their children on the equipment.

Kidz Life is a not for profit organisation partnering with New Life Church and New Life Foundation to support children in need both locally and through international community projects.

CALL 4953 5575 EMAIL tania.a@kidzlife.com.au WEB www.kidzlife.com.au FACEBOOK /kidzlifeplaycentre

Mackay Leisure Centre With an impressive 18 lanes, licensed bar and great café, whether you are looking for a fun night out or to celebrate a birthday, social or corporate event with a difference, then Mackay Leisure Centre can cater to your needs. Not only do they have Tenpin Bowling but also have 12 squash courts and a skating rink.

PARTY PLANS & FOOD OPTIONS: $22 Package - $22 per person for either: 1 Game Tenpin Party or A 2½ hr Skate Party $32 Package - $32 per person for either: 2 Game Tenpin Party or A 2½ hr Skate Party & 1 Game of Tenpin Menu Option 1: Mini Dagwood dogs, hot chips, mini party sausage rolls, chicken nuggets and lollies Menu Option 2: Pizza party (variety including BBQ meatlovers, BBQ chicken, hawiian and cheese cooked fresh)

Extras: Lolly Bags: $2.00/each Ice-Cream Cake with Jelly: $18.00 Vanilla or Choc Cake: $25.00 *Note: $22 Parties incl. 1 sml Polar Crush & $32 Parties incl. 2 sml Polar Crushes per child Additional Info: Parties must be booked at least 1 week in advance.

Full payment, final numbers and party details required 5 days preceding booking date. Minimum numbers 6.

Prices for juniors (15yrs & Under).

Non-refundable once confirmed and paid.

CALL 4952 1509 EMAIL functions@mackayleisurecentre.com.au WEB www.mackayleisurecentre.com.au

Mackay Gymnastics No prior gymnastics experience necessary! Children aged 5 – 12 are welcome to attend.

• Parties run for 1.5 hours, including fun in the gym, party games, snack and cake time.

• Parties will be tailored to participants' ages and interests.

• Qualified gymnastics coach/s will supervise and coordinate participants.

• Activities will include use of the bars, beam, tramp and floor.

• Party games will also be played.

• Special requests – ask their staff if your special request can be met.

• Booking times only available outside of the club’s regular class times.

CALL 4942 0032 EMAIL admin@mackaygymnastics.org.au WEB www.mackay.gymnastics.org.au FACEBOOK /MackayGymnastics

MAKE SURE YOU LET THEM KNOW YOU READ IT IN PAKMAG!!! www.pakmag.com.au NOVEMBER 2016

37

RECIPES

pakmag

HEALTHY RECIPES Coconu tC

Christmas Ice

Lentil Soup rry u

C

m a e r

ARE PREP TIME! F O D AHEA GAN. VE REE. EN F GLUT

INGREDIENTS 1 cup coconut milk 1 cup raisins 1 cup currants 1/2 cup cranberries 1/2 cup slivered almonds* 5 ripe bananas (approx. 500g) 10 medjool dates, seeds removed

THY HEAL IFT! AS G STM .

CHRI N VEGA EE. N FR E T U GL

INGREDIENTS 4 tablespoons coconut oil 1/2 teaspoon concentrated natural vanilla extract 1 teaspoon mixed spice 1 teaspoon cinnamon 1/4 teaspoon cloves

HOW TO MAKE 1. Place the coconut milk, raisins, currants, cranberries and almonds into a medium sized saucepan. Bring to a gentle boil. Reduce the heat to low, cover and simmer for 5 – 10 minutes.

2. Place the bananas, dates, oil, vanilla and spices into your food processor and blend at high speed until the mixture is smooth and well combined.

3. Combine the two mixtures and pour into a silicon loaf tin.

Place in the freezer to set for 6 – 8 hours. If you are making this days or weeks in advance it will still be delicious but the consistency will change and you will need to slice the ice cream with a knife and serve it this way.

4. Serve. Eat. Enjoy. *for a nut free version omit the almonds or replace them with toasted sunflower seeds

1 x 500ml Glass Jar 100g Organic Red Split Lentils 90g Biodynamic RainFed Medium Grain Brown Rice 30g Organic Long Thread Coconut 100g Organic Green Whole Lentils 5g Sweet Paprika 5g Himalayan Pink Salt 5g Cayenne Pepper 10g Mild Curry Powder HOW TO MAKE 1. Layer all ingredients into jar, pushing each layer down firmly to fit them all in. Attach a tag with the following instructions to the jar.

2. Add 5 -7 cups of stock (or water) and bring to a boil.

Simmer until lentils are soft (approx. 1 hour). For a richer, creamier soup, add 1 cup of organic coconut milk.

3. Before serving stir in 2-3 handfuls of spinach or kale for an extra boost of vitamin C and top with coriander.

RECIPES BROUGHT TO YOU BY Check them out on facebook: /TheSourceBulkFoods

ICE CREAM RECIPE CREATED BY

Check them out online: wholefoodsimply.com on Instagram: wholefoodsimply or on facebook: / wholefoodsimply

www.pakmag.com.au NOVEMBER 2016

39

EDUCATION

pakmag

Study Motivation for Mums STORY Sally-Ann Lawrence, Managing Director, Experience Works

With the rise in the availability of flexible learning options and part-time TAFE courses there has never been a better time to study. But after the excitement of enrolment, the prospect of balancing life and study can be a daunting reality.

So, how should you add study time into your busy schedule and how do you stay focused with distractions and competing priorities all around you?

There are several sure-fire ways to set yourself up for success and ensure study becomes a pleasure rather than a chore: Create a distraction-free study space. Designate an area free from distractions such as televisions and game consoles and permit yourself to use your study space for learning only. “Distraction-free?”, I hear many parents reading this cry! Encourage the kids to share in your learning by adding a goal setting element that rewards the kids once you reach a milestone. This gives them an incentive to give you the space you need to make the most of your study time.

Prior planning will help. Scheduling is key when you have a busy lifestyle and often the busier we are, the less we feel like we can fit in; something’s gotta give and it’s usually the less desirable activities that we drop off our lists first. So, make yourself a plan. Prioritise your week, make sure you still have time for fun, family and friends but add an equal measure of serious study time. Remember to allow time for all the important aspects of your life – including adequate sleep!

Keep the kids entertained. Have some ideas handy on how you are going to entertain the kids while you study or plan a set study time once they are settled in bed for the night. For some great ideas about this visit www.workingmothersconnect.com.au Reward yourself. Remember that you have an end goal but it’s the small steps that will get you there. Take breaks or give yourself rewards for achieving your study goals – perhaps coffee with friends or a lovely quiet soak in the bath.

Stay connected and communicate. Explain to the other members of the household how important this is to you and how it will benefit everyone in the long run. Staying connected with family and friends or getting involved with forums and study groups will not only help you overcome any feelings of isolation, it will also help you stay on track.

No matter how you look at it, keeping motivated to study is no mean feat. Following these basic steps for success is a great basis for keeping focused but be sure to adapt them to suit your lifestyle and own personal motivators. Whoever you are and whatever your goals, celebrate your achievements, move on from your disappointments and push yourself to finish the journey you so bravely started.

www.pakmag.com.au NOVEMBER 2016

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pakmag EDUCATION

Careers & Courses to Consider

The career path you choose will depend on a number of things including your passion, your expectations and the type of work schedule you are looking for. Here’s a more in depth look into some of the rising career paths for parents, all of which offer flexible hours and come with very good job outcomes for the future.

Early Childhood Education As long as parents procreate, there will be the need for excellent early childhood educators to help our little ones flourish and grow. One of the benefits of working in this environment is that many employers will allow you to work while studying, meaning you can earn an income and gain hands-on experience from the start.

Your first step is to enrol in a program that suits you. Check out the Australian National Training Group who specialise in Early Childhood Education. www.antg.gov.au Additional careers in a school system also tend to come with flexible school hours. This can include roles in administration, marketing and maintenance. Teachers, teacher aide and librarians also tend to work school hours (or similar).

Aged Care Aged and palliative care is one of the industries with the most promising job outcomes for the future. It is also a rewarding pathway, especially for those who enjoy helping people.

Aged care training includes a course in Aged Care which covers both the theory and the practical components required for employment in residential aged care and/ or

community settings. You will also need to complete 120 hours of work placements. Austcare specialises in Aged Care and other healthcare programs for those interested in this career path. www.austcare.com.au/aged-care

Home Based Businesses Another option is to start a home-based business or contractor role where you can choose when you work. This can include personal training, hair styling, naturopathy, interior design, web design, web writing, journalism, realtor or property management, landscaping, photography, life coach or gardener.

It might be a good idea to look into a refresher or online course to help give you the upper hand in the industry and help you gain an understanding of the ins and outs of starting a business. Whether you choose to work as a freelancer or a contractor or whether you want to start your own small business, the more knowledge about the business side of things, the better.

Certificates in Business Administration and Business Management are a great place to start. There are also certificates from online companies (such as I Want That Course, CQUniversity and Martin College), that focus on beauty, graphic design and digital publishing, all of which are great work-at-home options.

With a range of flexible study options and low course costs, The Australian National Training Group (ANTG) is fast becoming the preferred choice for many adult students. Their dedicated team are with you every step of the way and access to great trainers, both online and face-to-face, make returning to study a much less intimidating prospect.

Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care (CHC30113) and the Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care (CHC50113) are just two of the great courses offered by ANTG. For more information on these or any other courses visit www.antg.com.au or call them on 1800 611 661.

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pakmag HOME

P L PERFECTION Is there anything more refreshing (and relaxing) than jumping into a pool on a hot summers day? Kids love to swim. Adults love to cool off. And swimming pools provide the perfect backdrop for summer BBQs, outdoor dining and family time. So take advantage of the tropical North Queensland lifestyle with our guide to pool perfection.

STEP ONE: SELECT YOUR POOL MATERIAL Concrete – this is the most widely used method for pool construction in North Queensland due to its versatile nature and its ability to be shaped to fit all sorts of backyards.

Fibreglass – Easy-to-install fibreglass pools are also easy to maintain, affordable, strong and come with a smoother surface for scratchfree swimming.

STEP TWO: FINALISE THE FENCING The construction of your pool is only one minor element to transforming your backyard into a tropical sanctuary. In addition to your pool choice, you will also need to consider fencing around the pool area.

All Queensland pools must be registered on the State Government’s Pool Safety Register and must be fenced in accordance with the Queensland Development Code. Glass, steel and timber fences are common choices for homeowners in FNQ and many pool installation companies can quote on both pool and fencing construction.

STEP THREE: ADD YOUR EXTRAS You will also need to decide on the decking (concrete, tile, timber decking, etc.) and the décor such as outdoor table settings, deck chairs and additional luxuries to help enhance your outdoor oasis (outdoor bar anyone?).

www.placidpools.com.au

www.tropicshade.com.au

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WITH THE BLOCK’S CARO & KINGI www.placidpools.com.au

Floating Colour Changing Frog on Lillie Pad www.luminouslights.net.au (RRP $25.00ea)

Luka Barstool www.vipfurniture.com.au (RRP $179.00 $161.00ea)

Natural Rubber Ball www.earthtoys.net (RRP $18.00ea)

Peter Pod Hanging Chair www.vipfurniture.com.au (RRP $799.00 $499.00ea)

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SNAPPED MACKAy

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1. Ainsley - Mackay 2. Blake - Futsal Mackay on his Birthday! 3. Bree - West Mackay 4. Ruby - North Mackay 5. Katia - Mackay 6. Luke - West Mackay 7. Koa - Balnagowan 8. Hunter - Futsal Mackay 9. Victoria - West Mackay 48

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16 PHOTOS THANKS TO: SWEET FIELDS PHOTOGRAPHY sweetfieldsphotography@gmail.com

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10. Heidi - West Mackay 11. Tahnee - West Mackay 12. Drew - Futsal Mackay 13. Chelsea - Botanical Gardens 14. Dylan - Futsal Mackay 15. Toby - West Mackay 16. Lily - Mackay 17. Karina - West Mackay 18. Mitanni - Mackay www.pakmag.com.au NOVEMBER 2016

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Daddy Diary School Holidays, the Silly Season and Sorting Your Stuff Out In just a few short weeks it will be time to relax, regroup and rewind after a massive 2016.

In just a few short weeks the silly season will be upon us and that means more time spent with the kids, organising Christmas presents and planning for the multitude of festivities that will come your way.

It’ll also be a few short weeks until you utter the words (either internally or at the top of your lungs!), “Please, can I go back to work now?”

But remind yourself when you’re in the midst of begging the other half to give you a break from looking after your tribe, it’s all good fun in the end; it’s why you had kids, isn’t it?

With only a few weeks until you’re whipped up in a whirlwind of tinsel and turkey, have you thought

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about what the kids are going to be doing? Have you mapped out a spreadsheet of activities and posted it on the hallway wall yet? Have you planned vacation care and daily activities? Have you set alerts for their smartphones and tablets so they know what they are doing each day?

Or are you going to just wing it and hope for the best?

Whether you’re a planner or an improviser, getting the school holidays sorted early is essential to a peaceful Yuletide. It means more time for (rein)beer and lazy weekends and less time worrying about what the kids have to be doing. There are more important things to worry about in life (like making sure Santa brings all the kids the exact same number of presents).

If I can make one suggestion for you, here it is: make November your month to get the planning out of the way.

If you have another or better half, split the load and get double the work done! Why not involve the kids?

There’s no better time than now for them to learn how to clean gutters and replace the oil in the car! Joking aside, Christmas time really is a time for family and getting monotonous tasks done together often makes for creating great family memories.

Always think ahead. That’s my motto, for today anyway!

Have fun, Rob

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