PAKMAG Townsville - December 2010

EEzine FMRaga

issue 01

D E C 2010

What’s On

guide

December Events

Red Hot

Cover photo courtesy of Anya Karmansky from Cheeky Monkey Photography

Xmas gift ideas

Win Narnia

Tickets!

Comp details page 03

Mumpreneurs Juggling kids & business

Kids

MINI MAG Inside

Eco-friendly activities Tummy time for bubs Christmas cooking

08

04

publishers note Hello and welcome to the 1st edition of PakMag, your new local resource for Parents and Kids in Townsville. This magazine has been started out of a passion to provide families in NQ with a comprehensive guide to entertainment and activities in the region for families. So, thanks for picking up the first copy, we hope you love it, and we welcome your feedback. Let us know how we can make it even better by emailing us at pakinfo@pakmag.com.au.

Of course we can only afford to publish PakMag with the support of local businesses, so if you like what you see and want to keep reading us every month, spread the word to your friends and favourite businesses.

A little about me...I am mum to a cheeky little 21 month old boy called Jordan with another one on the way. My husband Trent and I are also musicians, and entertaining families is a huge passion of ours. The PakMag team consists of four other mums. We are really looking forward to getting to know you all better and hope to see you at our Big Launch Party on the 15th Jan at the Townsville Mini Golf from 9am. Entry will be free and there’ll be mini golf, face painting, jumping castle and heaps of prizes to win. The team from 4TO will also be broadcasting live on the day so please come and join us for lots of FREE family fun!

Enjoy this edition, and don’t forget to tell everyone you read it in PakMag.

Bree

pakmag Publisher: Bree James Editor: Elaine Seager What’s On/MiniMag: Trent Stievano Client Manager: Angelina Mortley Design & Layout: Trina Jensen Articles: Elaine Seager, Heather Dixon, Amanda Cranston and submitted writers Phone: 4034 3331 Fax: 4034 3342 Email: info@pakmag.com.au Address: Level 2, 68 Abbott Street Virginia House, Cairns QLD 4870 Postal: PO Box 761, Hyde Park QLD 4812 Disclaimer: No part of this magazine, including the advertisements within it may br 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 advsied to check details before visiting. The publishers cannot accept responsibility for errors, inaccuracies or omissions. The expressions expressed within PakMagazine are not neccessarily the views of the publishers, but those of individual writers.

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contents parents

pakmag : for parents of beans to teens

kids

02 What’s new

17

Kid’s MiniMag

04 The Juggling Act

18

Colour it in & win

07 Catholic Education

23 PakActivities

08 Red Hot Buys for Christmas 11 PakHealth 13 Green Tips 15

Kids in the Kitchen

16

Out & about photos

17

Mini Mag

19

What’s On

25 Out & about photos 27

babies & toddlers 27

PakBaby - Tummy Time

28 PakBaby - Snippets

things to win

PakBaby

30 Tackling Teens

02 WIN Narnia tickets

31 Aussie Farm Entertainment

18

33 Eco-friendly Outings

23 4 mystery prizes to WIN

34 Fav Pets

28 WIN a Eeni Meeni gift pack

35 Smart Gardening

29 WIN a Grubby Bubby gift pack

37

HotFM Column

37

Crafty Xmas Column

38 Lamberts Produce 39 Movie of the Month 40 Time for a Break

WIN a mystery prize

35 WIN a Smart Gardening book

cover shot Model: Anastasia Aris Props: A big thanks to Overflow FNQ Photographer: Cheeky Monkey Photography

www.pakmag.com.au

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what’s new december

what’s new december recordable books

Movie Releases

Devil (TBA) In cinemas December 2

Stable on the Strand

Narnia: The Voyage of the Dawn Treader (TBA) In cinemas December 2

Win Narnia tickets Megamind 3D (TBA) In cinemas December 9

Tron Legacy 3D (TBA) In cinemas December 16

The big family event of the year is back 19-23 December. Great family entertainment and it’s FREE. Bring the kids down for the recreation of the biggest story ever told, complete with beggars, Following their massive success in the

camels, donkey’s, chickens, Roman soldiers and, of course, little baby Jesus. If that isn’t enough

Chronicles of Narnia: The Voyage of the Dawn

US, Hallmark have recently released their

there will also be face painting, crafts, balloon shaping, clowns and games to keep the kids well

Treader is the latest saga in this epic series and

new Recordable Storybooks in Australia.

and truly entertained. For more information go to www.stableonthestrand.com

it’s sure to be a crowd pleaser when it opens

Beautifully illustrated hardcover books,

on 2 December.

they allow you to record yourself reading a

In Cinemas December 2

Love & Other Drugs (TBA) In cinemas December 26

Gulliver’s Travels 3D (TBA)

For your chance to win a family pass to see The Voyage of the Dawn Treader, email us at pakcompetitions@pakmag.com.au & tell us one of the starring voices in the movie.

Competition closes 14/12/10.

story for your children so they can still listen

kids calendar

to your voice at bedtime when you can’t

more info go to www.hallmarkcards.com.au/ recordable-storybooks.

In cinemas December 26

Creative Kids

NYE fireworks

Little Fockers (TBA)

Creative, a locally owned and operated photography studio, has been photographing

xmas arty fun

In cinemas December 26

www.eventcinemas.com.au

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is declared. Up-to-date disaster information is provided on Council’s website and you can families to the area are encourged to go to the Council’s website for info about getting

don’t miss it!

local children to produce a beautiful Kids Carols by Candlelight is on Sunday 12 Dec at Reid Park. Pre-Show: 5.45pm-7pm & Main

There’s lots of opportunities to get the kids

the calendar will go directly to MAKE-A-WISH

Show: 7pm-9pm (including Ricki-Lee)

involved with making Christmas cards and

Australia.

decorations this month including:

They cost $20 and are available from Insight’s

Perc Tucker Gallery - two kids workshops

studio, La Petite Bourdoir, Wellspring Chiro,

focused on creating a colourful collection of

Flower Market, Tiki Hair and First things first.

simple printing and collage techniques. Dates:

This year the city will be brought together

in a few short hours after a cyclone warning

charity. This year, all profits from the sale of

14 Dec (4-6 yr olds), 16 Dec (7-12 yr olds).

The Tourist (TBA)

and masking tape can be gone from stores

Community Calendar to raise money for

cards, decorations and patterned paper using

In cinemas December 26

Remember water, batteries, canned food

Every year for the past 10 years, Insight

introductory messages.

newsagencies and card and gift stores. For

time to make sure your family is prepared.

prepared www.townsville.qld.gov.au

be there with them. You can personalise

They cost $34.99 and are available at Kmart,

The cyclone season has started and it’s

also sign up for a free emergency alerts. New

them, sing passages and record special

WIN a family pass!

Cyclone ready

Check it out at www.insightcreative.com.au/ promo/calendar2010

Time: 10.30am-1pm. Cost: $15.

Get your kids in to the Christmas spirit at the

at Reid Park for a big line-up of free family

Creative Kids Play Centre’s Christmas Party on

Cultural Centre - 14 Dec (5-12 yr olds).

entertainment and activities including a

Thursday 9 Dec (4-7pm). Santa will be turning

Time: 10am-11.30am. Cost: $12.

sideshow alley and rides. Celebrations will

up to help with the Christmas craft activities

start at 7pm with a long line-up of top line

City Libraries also have a number of

and face painting and he might even have an

acts. Fireworks displays will be at 8pm and

workshops. For more information go to:

early pressie for all the kids. Entry $20.

the stroke of midnight.

www.townsville.qld.gov.au

Willows on Wheels

facebook fans Join up to become a fan of our PakMag Townsville page to receive additional news and event updates during the month.

tell us your news If you’ve got an event coming up or some

Check out their FREE Christmas Fun Day on

news you wish to publicise to families in the

Sunday 19th. December (10am-2pm). Free

Townsville region please email them to us at

rides, entry and skate hire.

pakinfo@pakmag.com.au

www.pakmag.com.au

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Juggling business Feature story thanks to Elaine Seager

Deborah Latouf

Suzanne Jarschke

Monique Menzie

Owner of boutique toy store Entropy

Director of Wellspring Chiropractic

Owner of Tiki On Ackers

Deborah enjoys being a mum in business

After 12 years of operating as a chiropractor,

With three children under five years old, you’d

because it gives her control over her own time.

Suzanne says “it’s much easier running a

think Monique’s life is busy enough but she

As she says “I like the fact that if I need to go to

business than being a stay-at-home mum!”

is also the owner of a boutique hairdressing

the sports carnival at school I can; and that I am

but she feels blessed to be in a profession that

salon in Hermit Park. As she says, “running your

there to pick my children up every afternoon

allows her to balance her work with her baby

own business with children is both rewarding

after school”.

daughter, Anais. Of course, this balancing

and frustrating. Sitting watching your kids at

act comes with its challenges and time

school or kindy while talking on the phone to

She founded Entropy after having her two

management is probably the most difficult.

suppliers and staff is great because I can be

children, Connor 8 and Reilly 5. Prior to this she

Suzanne has overcome these challenges by

there for my children but it’s also frustrating

worked with elite athletes as a sports scientist

hiring more support staff both in the business

because I can’t just run down to the salon to

but after having children the travel involved

and at home. Her ‘above average team’ have not

sort things out!”.

made it difficult to balance her job with her

only kept the business running well while she

family life. She was considering a career change

was on maternity leave but it has experienced

Monique manages to juggle her two roles by

when she moved to Townsville. Spotting a

good growth during 2010 despite the GFC.

relying on a good support network including

gap in the local market for toys, Entropy was born and it soon became a thriving business in Townsville and online, with hundreds of orders being sent out around Australia every week.

Finding quality time for her children while growing a business is still a challenge (Entropy has grown from one employee to 12 in three

the juggling act Mumpreneurs are on the rise, writes Elaine Seager One of the most significant trends in the business world is the rise of the ‘mumpreneur’women who successfully manage to run a business at the same time as raising children.

These women are driving the significant increase in home-based and small business start ups, making a sizeable contribution to the economy and also accounting for many of the

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country’s new millionaires.

The motivation for mums to run their own businesses has less to do with money than finding a way to balance work and family life.

and do errands in the middle of the day. The solution for many mums is to become their own boss and, thanks to the internet, this is becoming a much more viable option.

Mums need flexibility more than anything

Townsville has a thriving mumpreneur scene

else and many ‘jobs’ simply don’t allow for

so we spoke to a few local mums in business to

that freedom to pick the kids up from school

find out how they manage this juggling act.

years). She copes by taking a break between 3pm-7pm and working after the kids have gone to bed. “I know customers are often surprised when their emails are answered at night time but thanks to the internet, I can work at any time that suits me”.

top tips

close family members and a good team. She In some ways becoming a mum has benefitted

claims the smartest things she ever did was

Suzanne’s business life – it has deepened her

to employ a manager who could handle all

understanding of her specialties in paediatrics and prenatal care. Suzanne’s passion for what she does and her desire to create wellness programmes for her clients are what gives her the motivation to make this juggling act work.

Her advice to other mums who are considering starting their own business is to do something you love so it’s fun. Far from resting on her laurels, motherhood has spurred Suzanne’s desire to grow her business further. She’s already planning to expand the business in to a wellness centre and spa.

the day to day bits and pieces of running a business which takes the pressure off Monique and allows her flexibility. Besides this, thanks to technology, she can do her administration jobs like banking and wages after the kids have gone to bed. Monique loves her business and clearly has the drive and ambition to overcome the challenges of juggling it with motherhood.

Of course, something has to give and in Monique’s case it’s the “housework which is at the bottom of the to-do list!”

To be a successful mumpreneur you will need to:

• Create a workspace – 65% of new businesses start from a home office so it’s important to create an area away from the kids.

in place to be professional and plan your week like a military campaign with a clear distinction between family and work time.

business plan (go to www.business-coachinginsights.com/simple-business-plan.html for an easy 2 page format)

• Get educated – use the internet and local library and look out for local training courses.

Keep an eye out for the Small Business Expo in March as well as the next NQ Mumpreneurs Expo on 12 March.

• Get support – Find expert mentors and advisors and connect with other mumpreneurs to share ideas and resources (try online networking community www.connect2mums. com.au).

• Have financial reserves - start-ups usually over-estimate how quickly their business will build. Assume it will take longer than you think.

• Organise & systemise – you’re establishing a reputation so make sure you have the systems

• Have a vision & clear goals – it doesn’t have to be complicated but you should have a

• Commit to marketing – there are lots of ways to promote your business without it costing you anything inc. networking and PR opportunities (like www.pakmag.com.au this one!).

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yes to sustainability

Catholic Education Federal Government funding under review

Catholic schools in the Townsville Diocese have said YES in response to the state Government’s 2010 Year of Environmental Sustainability (YES) for Queensland schools. all aspects of their administration, curriculum,

organisations such as Burdekin Water, the

teaching and learning, resources, physical

school’s outreach to others in need and the

environments and social action. These are used

prayer and liturgy that focuses on the gift

by both staff and parent groups as part of the

of creation. Mr Lucas also listed student

schools’ review and development plans.”

involvement as a major characteristic of

In an effort to further educate school

In Cinemas Dec 2

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child in the school being involved in some

‘YES 2010’ is the catchphrase that has been

communities about environmental

used to support the Government’s vision that

sustainability, Townsville Catholic Education

aims to empower schools and students to be

engaged the services of Mr Paul Lucas, Chair

Special environmental projects and everyday

more environmentally sustainable in their day

of the Diocesan Environmental Awareness

practices implemented in Catholic schools in

to day lives to reduce their ecological footprint.

Team (DEAT) to visit all Catholic schools in

an effort to reduce their ecological footprint

environmental activity throughout the year.

the Diocese. Mr Lucas worked with each

are highlighted on the Townsville Catholic

The YES 2010 logo that was designed by

school community in preparing a ‘School

Education website and in term magazines. “We

members of the Holy Spirit School Greening

Environmental Management Plan.’

believe ecological teaching is a cornerstone

Committee is being used by Catholic school

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sustainability at St Colman’s, with almost every

of the holistic education of a child,” Dr Day

communities as a way of branding and

After visiting all Catholic schools during the

promoting sustainability issues. According

year, Mr Lucas announced that the winner of

to Dr Cathy Day, Director of Townsville

the inaugural ‘Sustainable School of the Year’

Catholic Education, environmental education

award was St Colman’s School in Home Hill.

is embedded in the life of Catholic school

Mr Lucas commended the St Colman’s School

communities in the Diocese. “As Catholic

community for their work in seasonal market

educators, we consider the care of the

gardens, worm farms, recycling, the nature

Townsville Catholic Education operates the

environment to be our sacred duty and the

garden, resource and waste management

Gumburu Environmental Education Centre in

responsibility of the whole school,” Dr Day said.

and overall good sustainability practice and

the Paluma rainforest. This facility is available

“As an education system we have implemented

education. Other reasons for this award

to the community and further information is

policy and planning tools for schools to use in

included their involvement in local community

available at www.gumburu.tsv.catholic.edu.au

said. “Teaching children to be conscious of the environment and sensitive to its care not only gives them a solid framework for wise and moral decision-making, it also awakens their awareness of the gift of creation.”

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Red Hot Buys for Christmas For little kids...

Alphie the Robot

Magic Trick Kit

Play-Doh Shape & Spin

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Red Hot Gift Ideas Story thanks to Amanda Cranston

For big kids...

Books for Tweens

Murder Mystery

Duck Shoot

This popular carnival game can now be enjoyed at home by the whole family. The game comes in fast, slow and continuous modes of play, and the The Great Big Enormous Book of Tashi by Anna This electronic educational game encourages play

& Barbara Fienberg ($29.99) is full of tales about

and learning, and assists kids with counting and

giants, witches, monsters, ghosts and bandits.

This is a must-have for those with preschoolers

This little box of tricks contains magic props

shape recognition. Elmo’s voice guides children to

Plain Truth (YA) by Jodi Picoult ($17.99) is about a

wanting a fun way to learn the alphabet,

and performance tips, and will teach your child

select shapes and rewards them with giggles and

teenage pregnancy in an Amish community.

rhyming, counting, colour and shape recognition,

how to perform six different magic tricks as well

positive phrases. • Age 3+ • RRP $39.99

animal names, matching games, instrument

as revealing a few other tricks. • Age 8+ • RRP

sounds and more. With an LCD screen to depict

$14.95 at Myers and Target

facial expressions and an animated personality, Alphie the Robot comes with 30 double-sided cards to keep little ones amused for hours. There

Great Picture Books

Foul Play & Cabernet

Another classic whodunit game with players

aim of the game is to shoot the target and win

having a wide range of suspects to choose from

points or beat the clock. • RRP $99.95 at Toyworld

and lots of who, what, where and when’s to answer. This is a great game for those who love a mystery and like the challenge of trying to outwit their opponents. • RRP $39.95 at Toys R Us & Myer

Flik Flak Watch

For parents...

Books for Adults

MYO Animal Puppets

are also Alphie Booster Packs available in letters, numbers or animal themes. • Suitable for age 3+ • RRP $70-$100 (Booster Packs $16.99 each)

Hall of Fame Toy Pack Jamie’s 30 Minute Meals: Mum’s will love Jamie Oliver’s new cookbook with 50 new This groovy watch for kids is part of the Swatch

meal ideas combining main meals, side dishes,

group and is the world’s bestselling children’s

desserts and drinks that can all be created in

watch. It is the first brand of children’s watch to

under 30 minutes. • RRP $49.95

The Legend of the Golden Snail by Graeme Base,

A great gift for those who are hard to buy for, love

introduce the concept of teaching the time which

Monkey Red Monkey Blue by Nicki Greenberg,

a challenge or just enjoy jigsaw puzzles. One of

it does through the brother and sister characters

This fabulous retro toy pack contains an Etcha-A-

Great for kids who love craft activities, this pack

Noni The Pony by Alison Lester, Precious Little

many puzzles in this range, this 1,000 piece jigsaw

‘Flik’ (the big hand) and ‘Flak’ (the small hand).

DILLIGAF: The Life and Rhymes of Kevin Bloody Wilson: A great

Sketch, a Slinky and a Yo-Yo and is the perfect gift

contains three super-soft socks, sticky peel-off

by Julie Hunt & Sue Moss, The Vegetable Ark by

game is a little quirky as players need to read the

Flik Flak watches are Swiss-made with quartz

gift for all the dads who love Kevin Wilson,

for children ages six and up, or even for the adult

felt shapes and fuzzy embellishments to make a

Kim Kane, Magic Beach by Alison Lester, and The

captivating story then put the puzzles together

movement, machine washable and shock and

an Australian icon and ‘the world’s funniest

who is young-at-heart and loves classic toys. •

trio of cuddly critter animal puppets. • Age 3+ •

Tall Man And The Twelve Babies by Tom Niland

to discover the hidden clues needed to solve the

water resistant. Prices start from $55. Available at

Australian’ according to Billy Connolly!

Age 6+ • RRP $29.95 at www.toys2go.com.au

RRP $29.95 at www.toys2go.com.au

Champion & Kilmeny Niland.

mystery. • RRP $29.95 at www.toys2go.com.au

www.entropy.com.au

• RRP $29.99

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PakHealth cancer

slip slop slap Need help cleaning your world?

Skin cancer story thanks to Dr Uri Scelwyn

Skin cancer affects nearly one in every two Australians. The further north you live, the higher your chances are of getting a skin cancer, so in Townsville the risk can be high.

The atmosphere blocks out some harmful UV

The Cancer Council recommends that any skin

rays but the sun up here shines nearly straight

mark that is irregular or changing needs to be

down so there’s much less protection for your

checked. The ‘ABCDE’ method that refers to

skin and that means a much higher risk of

‘Asymmetry, irregular Border, changing Colour,

damage from the sun.

Diameter and Evolving is a guide but the

The most important way of detecting skin cancer is to check your own skin regularly. I’ve

festive season

problem with skin cancers is that they can look like just about any sort of skin mark.

seen melanomas go from nothing to melanoma

Also be aware that skin cancers can grow

in a week, so just because you saw a doctor

anywhere, not just in sun-exposed areas. New

who gave you an “all clear”, it doesn’t mean

spots are especially important to notice because

that you can stop being vigilant. If you have a

many skin cancers come from normal skin, not

digital camera, one easy thing to do is to take

pre-existing moles. If you notice a new spot, or if

some photos of yourself and if you see new or

an old spot changes, get it checked by someone

Yes it’s that time of year again when our

changing spots, go and get them checked. Each

skilled in diagnosing skin cancers. See your GP

lives are full of excitement, shopping,

person has different skin cancer risk factors so

or a doctor trained in detection and treatment

parties and overindulgence. Generally after

see a doctor for a skin cancer check and risk

of skin cancer.

Christmas many people are so burnt out and

management plan.

exhausted it can take a long time to recover and get your health back on track. Many are left with digestive upset, irritability and a

dengue: stay vigilant

• Total cleaning solutions • Fast Vacuum repairs • Dust sensitive, Asthma and Allergy Products • Full commercial product range

Clothes Steamer

SPECIAL!

This STeAM WorkS steamer WAS $249

NOW $199

feeling of complete sluggishness so follow

Council & Queensland Health are urging residents to take action to prevent the current outbreak of dengue spreading.

Dengue mosquitoes are domestic mosquitoes

• Use personal insect repellent and reapply it

that live around and inside homes choosing

according to the label.

to lay their eggs in containers such as pot plant bases, buckets, roof guttering and boats and only feeding on humans. They breed in still fresh water, not swamps, drains, creeks or open wetlands and generally live within a 200

• Use plug-in mosquito zappers and use surface spray in dark and shady places such as under furniture, inside cupboards and behind curtains in the home.

143 Duckworth St (opp Harvey Norman) • PHONE: 4779 6664 • OPEN 7 DAYS: 8.30am-5.30pm Mon-Fri, 8.30am-4pm Sat, 10am-4pm Sun 10 www.pakmag.com.au

body: • Avoid over-eating, especially high fat and sugary foods.

• Eat smaller meals more frequently to increase your metabolism.

• Eat veges and salads first to fill you up.

• Drink plenty of water.

• Drink water between alcoholic drinks (or fill half your drink with sparkling water).

metre radius around homes and businesses.

• If household members display any

Prepare your property against dengue carrying

symptoms of dengue, apply insect repellent

• Drink water and an electrolyte supplement

mosquitoes:

and see a doctor immediately.

after drinking alcohol.

• Eliminate mosquito breeding sites in homes

Godfreys Domain Superstore - The Vacuum & Cleaning Specialists

these tips to minimise the stress on your

• Take a Vitamin B supplement (energy boost)

and yards, such as pot plant bases, tyres and

For further information visit Council’s

buckets, tin cans, plastic containers.

website www.townsville.qld.gov.au

• Keep active.

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pakhealth get moving!

junk food rules

green tips with Karen Keynes You’re already working hard on living green - you take your reusable bags to do your groceries, you’re saving so much energy you could be the next Ergon Energy Man and you make your kids shower under the sprinkler to conserve water...so what’s next?

Here are some small changes you can make in the kitchen that will help you to reduce your impact on the environment whilst also having a positive impact on your health.

Two studies have recently been completed

people who exercise are far less likely to suffer

that provide yet more proof of the benefits of

from colds etc. And, another has shown that a

regular exercise. One has proven that there is a

regular amount of light exercise in your leisure

link between regular exercise and immunity –

time minimises your risk of depression.

pass on the salt On average, Australian adults consume between eight to 12 grams of salt a day, almost double the six grams per day that is

[3] Use sustainable timber chopping boards for your food preparation needs. Studies have shown that provided timber boards are rinsed

[5] Reduce the amount of waste you send to landfill by using a kitchen compost bin to collect your food scraps before transferring to your garden compost pile. You’ll be amazed at the reduction in your waste levels just by

[1] When using the microwave, put food on a

and left out to dry properly, the bacteria don’t

Santa sometimes has the habit of giving

microwave safe ceramic or glass plate and cover

have the opportunity to breed as they become

out lollies to the kids on his rounds during

it with a piece of recycled paper towel. The

trapped in the timber grain and die.

December, but what do you do when

bottom of most plastic wrap boxes detail advice

artificially flavoured and coloured junk food

against its use in the microwave with foods high

enters your child’s radar?

in sugar, fat and oil.

from phthalate free polyethylene but commercial

Health experts recommend having a set

Karen Keynes is the owner of GreenUrLife.

[2] Store veges in the crisper inside a recycled

plastic wraps are still being made with phthalate

of rules in place about ‘sometimes’ foods

For more info go to www.greenurlife.com.au

brown paper bag to keep them fresh, covering

containing PVC.

[4] Avoid buying produce in packaging and

undertaking this small change in habit.

So give these ideas a go and continue to green your life, one step at a time!

plastic wrap. Domestic plastic wrap is now made

like lollies, chocolate, biscuits etc. The trick with kids though is to let them know when

Try these tips to reduce your salt intake:

‘sometimes’ is. For example: • Chocolate is for Friday after school

recommended. Too much salt causes high

• Cut down on salty ingredients like soy sauce

blood pressure, which the World Health

and pre-made pastes when you make stir

Organisation blames for 62% of strokes and

fries and curries. (Use garlic, ginger, chilli,

49% of coronary heart disease.

fresh herbs and lemon or lime juice to

• Lollies are for Halloween, Christmas and

enhance flavours instead.)

birthday parties

Australia, about 75% of our sodium comes

• Make pasta sauces with fresh ingredients

Once you agree and set your new junk food

from processed foods (meats, cheeses, bread

rather than using a bottled pasta sauce.

rules with your children, follow it religiously

The problem ingredient in salt is sodium. In

the ends of cut veges with recycled paper towel.

and cereals). A further 15% is added either

• Pudding nights are Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday

so that when they have a meltdown in the

during cooking or at the table, and the other

• Roast your own meats instead of using

supermarket you can remind them “we can

10% is naturally-occurring.

processed meats in sandwiches.

buy some chocolate and save it for Friday” .

New Biz!

Work parT Time oNliNe $$$ Mum at home finds Real Deal, money fast! Not MLM, No seLLiNg! Work online part time 4 large profits. Proven, ethical, simple system.

Incorporating Tiggers Jumping Castle Hire Your place or ours! For more inFormation call 1300 555 879

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Take Control of your life Now! For more info call 0423 513 692 or visit www.trinavella.com

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What not to wear?

Or what to wear?

Christmas cooking

We can ansWer your question!

Story thanks to Nina Sutton

Kids in the kitchen a new web-based program, My Private stylist, is transforming lives and wardrobes everywhere. stylist and image consultant Gerlinda aras said the program makes fashion recommendations for women, based upon their personal measurements. “the program tells you what clothing you should wear for your body shape, age and measurements. no matter if you require clothing for business or pleasure, My Private stylist makes recommendations for your clothing, hairstyle, shoes, eyewear and accessories,” Ms aras said. “ To find out more about the My Private stylist program, go to website www.mirrorimageconsultations.myprivatestylist.com/

Mini Christmas Puddings

Little Bonbons

• 24 cocktail frankfurts

• 100g white chocolate melts

• 6 sheets ready-rolled puff pastry

• 12 Arnott’s Royals chocolate biscuits

• 1 egg, lightly beaten

• 12 Jaffas

• Ovenproof cotton or string

• Spearmint leaves, cut into smaller leaves

• Tomato sauce, to serve

Method

• Childrens, Teens & Adults Party Packages • Specialists for fundraising/corporate/social events • Full catering & licensed bar available

[1] Pre-heat oven to 180C. Prick frankfurts all

[1] Place the white chocolate melts into a

over with a fork. Cut each pastry sheet into 4

heatproof bowl. Microwave on Medium/50%

squares, brushing each square with beaten

power, stirring every minute until they are

egg. Place a frankfurt on each pastry square

fully melted.

and roll up. Gently press edges to seal. Tie ends loosely with string.

14

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sealable plastic bag and snip one corner of the bag to make a piping bag. Pipe enough white

tray, brush lightly with egg and bake for 15-20

chocolate on top of the biscuits; allow to drip

minutes or until golden.

down the side to resemble custard flowing

[3] Serve with tomato sauce. Small children

PHONE: 4771 3999 OPEN: 7 days 9am-9pm

[2] Spoon the melted chocolate into a

[2] Place bonbons on a lightly greased oven

• Amusement rides for all ages for hire on site

Kings Road, West End (opp Showgrounds)

Method

over the pudding.

may need to be reminded to remove the

[3] Place a Jaffa on top and a small spearmint

string before eating. Can be made the day

leaf each side of the Jaffa and secure in the

before and reheated on party day.

melted chocolate.

www.pakmag.com.au

15

LL U T P OU

out & about

submit your photos

email to: photos@pakmag.com.au

kids

mag Lucy out & about in Queens Gardens Makarla out & about in Queens Gard

ens

0 1 0 2 r e b Decem Jasmine out & about in Queens Gardens

Chloe clowning around at Playgroup

Big smiles for Lucas at Playgroup

ld win! u o c u o y & Colour it in ords! w n e d d i h e Find th ictures! p & s d r o w Match the Emily out in Queens Gardens

16

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Sasha jumping for joy

Gracie the fairy at Playgroup

Misch clowning around

In Cinemas December 2 www.pakmag.com.au

17

Colour-it-in & win

pakmag

what’s on dec

pink = family

RockMusic

Guns N Roses live at Reid Park 1 Dec For more information: (07) 4759 9500

DATE 1 Dec

2 Dec

3 Dec

4 Dec

4 Dec

VENUE

green = kids

NightMarkets 3 Dec starting at 5pm on the Strand For info: www.townsville.qld.gov.au

ENTERTAINMENT/EVENT NAME

City Libraries Thuringowa Central

Digital Preservation Information Session

Townsville RSL

Fiona Moran

City Libraries Thuringowa Central

Storytime for Preschoolers

Guns and Roses

Reid Park

City Libraries Thuringowa Central

Baby Rhyme Time

City Libraries Thuringowa Central

City Libraries Aitkenvale Townsville RSL

Two Iffick

The Strand

The Strand Night Markets

Perc Tucker Regional Gallery

TIME 10:00 AM

blue = adults

TwoIffick

Live music 3Dec at the Townsville RSL For more information: (07) 4759 9500

FOR MORE INFO

COST

4727 9661

Free

4759 9500

Free

4773 8819

Free

4759 9500

Free

10:00 AM

4773 8819

Free

Baby Rhyme Time

11:00 AM

4773 8819

Free

Storytime for Preschoolers

10:00 AM

4773 8819

Free

4759 9500

Free

5:00 PM

www.townsville.qld.gov.au

Free

Batik of Java: Poetics and Politics (3 month Exhibition)

All Day

www.townsville.qld.gov.au

Free

Townsville Civic Theatre

Alice in Wonderland

6:30 PM

4727 9797

Cost

Heatley Park

Friday Flicks (wet weather is Townsville PCYC)

6:00 PM

info@fridayflicks.com.au

Free

Townsville RSL

Two Iffick

4759 9500

Free

Townsville Civic Theatre

Alice in Wonderland

6:30 PM

4727 9797

Cost

City Libraries Thuringowa Central

Rhyming and Singing for Tiny Tots

10:30 AM

4773 8819

Free

Pinnacles Gallery

Shoot from the Hip (2 Month Lomography Exhibition)

All Day

www.townsville.qld.gov.au

Free

PCYC Aitkenvale

The Outback Players Sign on day/auditions

10:00 AM

theoutbackplayers@hotmail.com

Free

PCYC Aitkenvale

Townsville Babies and Kids Market

9:00 AM

PCYC Aitkenvale

$2

QCWA Hall (cnr Denham & Walker St) Fibres and Fabrics Annual Christmas Craft Fair

9:00 AM

4721 3877

Dairy Farmers Stadium

NQ Fury Vs Newcastle Jets (Soccer)

8:15 PM

www.nqfury.com.au

Cost

Townsville Dragway

STREET MEET

7:00 PM

admin@townsvilledragway.com

Cost

10:00 AM

In Cinemas December 9

18

To enter this great competition just colour-it-in and mail to:

Name:

PAKMAG, Colour-it-in December

Parent/Guardian:

PO Box 761, Hyde Park QLD 4812

Address:

and you could WIN a mystety prize!

Phone:

Closing Date: 18 December 2010

Email:

www.pakmag.com.au

Age:

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19

what’s on dec

pink = family

5 Dec

StreetMeet

XmasTime

For more information: (07) 4759 9500

www.admin@townsvilledragway.com

For more information: (07) 4773 8815

VENUE

11 Dec at 7pm at TownsvilleDragway

ENTERTAINMENT/EVENT NAME

QCWA Hall (cnr Denham & Walker St) Fibres and Fabrics Annual Christmas Craft Fair

TIME

what’s on dec

6Dec rhyme time at City Libraries 11am

FOR MORE INFO

9:00 AM

4721 3877

COST

pink = family

Fiona Moran

BOM talk

For more information: (07) 4077 8819

For more information: (07) 4759 9500

For more information: (07) 4726 0600

VENUE

14 Dec City Libraries Thuringowa Central

blue = adults

Xmas Fun

14 Dec at 11am at Thuringowa Library

DATE

green = kids

Live music 15Dec at Townsville RSL

ENTERTAINMENT/EVENT NAME

TIME

14Dec Cyclone talk

by Greg Connors

FOR MORE INFO

COST

Christmas Fun

11:00 AM

4773 8819

Free

Stokes Street (near Flinders Street)

Cotters Markets

8:30 AM

www.townsville.qld.gov.au

Free

Young Circuit, Kirwan

102.3 4TO FM - Street Xmas Party - Bands, Entertainment & more!!!

6:00 PM

4729 2111

Free

City Libraries Thuringowa Central

Make your own Christmas Cake Decorations!

9:00 AM

4773 8815

$10pp

Museum of Tropical Qld

Cyclones Talk presented by Greg Connors from B.O.M.

12:00 PM

4726 0600

Free

City Libraries Aitkenvale

Baby Rhyme Time

10:00 AM

4773 8819

Free

CSIRO Education (JCU)

Double Helix presents: Crystal Creations

10:00 AM

4725 7887

$12/$15

City Libraries Aitkenvale

Baby Rhyme Time

11:00 AM

4773 8819

Free

CSIRO Education (JCU)

Double Helix presents: Crystal Creations

12:30 PM

4725 7887

$12/$15

City Libraries Thuringowa Central

Make your own Christmas Cake Decorations!

11:00 AM

4773 8815

$10pp

4759 9500

Free

City Libraries Thuringowa Central

Lecture in Queensland History #7

7:00 PM

4773 8815

Free

7 Dec

City Libraries Flinders Street

Christmas Stories for Preschoolers

10:00 AM

4773 8818

8 Dec

Townsville RSL

Bo Taylor

4759 9500

City Libraries Thuringowa Central

Christmas Stories for Preschoolers

10:00 AM

City Libraries Thuringowa Central

Vampire Trivia

City Libraries Thuringowa Central

City Libraries Aitkenvale

6 Dec

9 Dec

15 Dec Townsville RSL

Fiona Moran

City Libraries Thuringowa Central

Animation Station

10:00 AM

4773 8819

Free

Free

Dairy Farmers Stadium

NQ Fury Vs Sydney FC (Soccer)

8:00 PM

13 28 49

Cost

Free

16 Dec CSIRO Education (JCU)

Double Helix presents: Electronic Christmas Tree

10:00 AM

4725 7887

$12/$15

4773 8818

Free

CSIRO Education (JCU)

Double Helix presents: Electronic Christmas Tree

12:30 PM

4725 7887

$12/$15

3:30 PM

4773 8818

Free

City Libraries Aitkenvale

Christmas Fun

9:00 AM

4773 8819

Free

Baby Rhyme Time

10:00 AM

4773 8819

Free

City Libraries Aitkenvale

Christmas Fun

11:00 AM

4773 8819

Free

4759 9500

Free

17 Dec Townsville RSL

Vertigo

Discover Beading! (Booking Required)

10:00 AM

4773 8815

$5pp

City Libraries Thuringowa Central

Baby Rhyme Time

11:00 AM

4773 8819

Free

City Libraries Flinders Street

Christmas Fun

9:00 AM

4773 8819

Free

City Libraries Aitkenvale

Discover Beading! (Booking Required)

1:00 PM

4773 8815

$5pp

City Libraries Flinders Street

Christmas Fun

11:00 AM

4773 8819

Free

Townsville Civic Theatre

Showcast of the Stars

6:30 PM

4727 9797

Cost

Heatley Park

Friday Flicks (wet weather is Townsville PCYC)

6:00 PM

info@fridayflicks.com.au

Free

Creative Kids Play Centre

Creative Kids Christmas Celebration

4:00 PM

www.creativekidsplay.com.au

$15/$20

4759 9500

Free

4759 9500

Free

Dairy Farmers Stadium

NQ Fury Vs Brisbane Roar (Soccer)

8:15 PM

13 28 49

Cost

10 Dec Townsville RSL

Obsession

Townsville Civic Theatre

Showcast of the Stars

6:30 PM

18 Dec Townsville RSL

Vertigo

4727 9797

Cost

Townsville Entertainment Centre

JCU Graduation Ceremony

3:00 PM

www.jcu.edu.au

Free

STREET MEET

7:00 PM

admin@townsvilledragway.com

Cost

Cotters Markets

8:30 AM

www.townsville.qld.gov.au

Free

Perc Tucker Regional Gallery

Barrier Reef Institute of TAFE - Annual Exhibition (3 months) All Day

www.townsville.qld.gov.au

Free

Townsville Dragway

City Libraries Thuringowa Central

Basic Computer Literacy

9:00 AM

4773 8820

Free

19 Dec Stokes Street (near Flinders Street)

City Libraries Aitkenvale

Christmas Stories for Preschoolers

10:00 AM

4773 8819

Free

Strand Park

Stable on the Strand

5:30 PM

www.townsville.qld.gov.au

Free

Heatley Park

Friday Flicks (wet weather is Townsville PCYC)

6:00 PM

info@fridayflicks.com.au

Free

20 Dec Strand Park

Stable on the Strand

5:30 PM

www.townsville.qld.gov.au

Free

4759 9500

Free

21 Dec Strand Park

Stable on the Strand

5:30 PM

www.townsville.qld.gov.au

Free

22 Dec Townsville RSL

Sera Jane

11 Dec Townsville RSL

Obsession

Townsville Civic Theatre

Showcast of the Stars

1:00 PM

4727 9797

Cost

4759 9500

Free

Townsville Civic Theatre

Showcast of the Stars

6:30 PM

4727 9797

Cost

Strand Park

Stable on the Strand

5:30 PM

www.townsville.qld.gov.au

Free

Townsville Entertainment Centre

Townsville Crocs Vs Gold Coast Blaze (NBL)

7:30 PM

4771 4000

Cost

23 Dec Strand Park

Stable on the Strand

5:30 PM

www.townsville.qld.gov.au

Free

Townsville Dragway

STREET MEET

7:00 PM

admin@townsvilledragway.com

Cost

24 Dec Townsville RSL

Jeff Salter

4759 9500

Free

Cotters Markets

8:30 AM

www.townsville.qld.gov.au

Free

Carols by Candlelight

Reid Park, Boundary St, Railway Estate

5:45 PM

Reid Park

Townsville Bulletin Carols by Candlelight

5:45 PM

Bohle Wetlands (Woodlands Fire station)

Christmas Tree Planting with Conservation Volunteers

8:00 AM

NPA Stadium, Murray Sports Complex

Townsville Fire Vs Bulleen (WNBL) Christmas Fun

12 Dec Stokes Street (near Flinders Street)

14 Dec City Libraries Thuringowa Central

20

blue = adults

Bo Taylor

Live music 8Dec at the Townsville RSL

DATE

green = kids

Heatley Park

Friday Flicks (wet weather is Townsville PCYC)

6:00 PM

info@fridayflicks.com.au

Free

www.townsville.qld.gov.au

Free

Free

26 Dec Stokes Street (near Flinders Street)

Cotters Markets

8:30 AM

www.townsville.qld.gov.au

Free

27 Dec Dairy Farmers Stadium

NQ Fury Vs Wellington Phoenix (Soccer)

7:15 PM

13 28 49

Cost

0427 533 002

Free

31 Dec Reid Park

New Years Eve Celebrations

6:00 PM

www.townsville.qld.gov.au

Free

12:00 PM

4778 3400

Cost

Townsville RSL

Nothin Special

4759 9500

Free

9:00 AM

4773 8819

Free

Townsville Civic Theatre

NYE10 at the Civic Theatre

4727 9797

Cost

www.pakmag.com.au

submit your entries for free to pakinfo@pakmag.com.au by the 15th of the month

8:15 PM

www.pakmag.com.au

submit your entries for free to pakinfo@pakmag.com.au by the 15th of the month

21

what’s on dec

pink = family

green = kids

blue = adults

regular weekly events Riverways Lagoon Fri 10 Dec to Wed 26 Jan (excluding Fri 31 Dec) Friday 31 December Monday to Sunday – 9am to 9pm For more info visit: www.townsville.qld.gov.au Townsville Rockpark The Water Park is closed every Tue and Wed for cleaning and maintenance (except it is open daily on Queensland Public Holidays, and during Queensland and New South Wales State School Holidays). For more info call 4727 9000 Operating hours: April & May: 10am to 6pm June to August: 10am to 5pm September to November: 10am to 6pm December to March: 10am to 8pm” Northern Beaches Leisure Centre (1 Dec 2010 to 31 Jan 2011) Monday to Friday - 6am to 8pm Saturday - 7am to 7pm Sunday - 7am to 6pm Community TimeOut Community Time Out is an informal opportunity for you to visit your local community centre. Have fun, share your skills and interests with others, get new ideas and info, meet new friends, or just have a cuppa. For more info 4727 9050

Oonoonba Community Centre - Every Wed 9am-12noon Wulguru Community Centre - Every Fri 1.30pm-4.30pm Strand Presents: Entertainment on the Strand Free Live Entertainment on the Strand - see www.townsville. qld.gov.au/community/events/Pages/strandpresents.aspx For more info 4727 9000 North Queensland Jazz Club Regular Jazz Night (more info call 0413 456 542 Marie Gibson) Venue: Townsville PCYC, Wellington Street, Aitkenvale Time: Every 2nd & 4th Sunday 5.30pm - 9pm Cost: $10 members & $15 non-members We feature a range of very talented local bands playing great jazz music in a relaxed, friendly environment. The regular jazz night always has a sit-in bracket and visiting musicians are encouraged to come up and play. Dancers are most welcome!

Townsville Mini Golf Fun Park - For info 4771 3999 Traffic Light Tuesday: 7pm to 9pm. A meet and greet event for 18+ patrons, including half price Mini Golf. Wear the Traffic Light colours to show your relationship status: (Green - single, Yellow – nothing certain, and Red – unavailable.) Make new friends or maybe even find your perfect match. A fun filled night is guaranteed.

Wet Wednesday: 5pm to 9pm. All ages welcome. Each Weds evening in December, January, February and March. Summer nights are HOT!! So lets turn the sprinklers on and cool off.

Cool summer night fun with Wet Wednesday Mini Golf. Come prepared to get wet and also prepared for fun. Licensed Bar will be operating to cool off even more.

Thursday Social Competition: Come to win or just for fun.

Chances are you may do both!! All ages welcome. $10 per competitor for 18 holes of challenging Mini Golf. Register singularly or in pairs between 6pm and 6.45pm. Tee off at 7pm. Winning prize $50. 1st and 2nd runners up receive free pass to try again the following week. Bar operating throughout the evening.

Friday: (fortnightly) Youth Disco, Rides and Mini Golf. 6.30 to 9.30pm. Alcohol and Drug free event for High School Age patrons. $20 per person for Safe, supervised fun for teenagers. (Current High School ID essential) Friday: (fortnightly) Drive in Movie. Yes, Drive in Movies at Townsville Mini Golf. Relive the fun days of the Drive In era.

Space is limited so booking is essential. $35 per car (limit 8 seats) for Movie and Mini Golf. Food, Bar, and refreshments available. Mini golf from 6pm to 7.30pm and Movie screening from 7.30pm to 9.30pm. Seating areas also available if you wish not to bring the car.

regular markets COTTERS MARKETS 8.30am-1pm every Sun at Flinders Mall STRAND NIGHT MARKETS 5-9pm 1st Fri of the month (May-Dec) at Strand Park SHOWGROUND MARKETS 6.30am-1pm every Sun at Townsville Showgrounds WILLOWS MARKETS 8am-12.30pm every Sun at Willows Shopping Centre SUNDAY MARKETS – CASTLE HILL PCYC

BALGAL BEACH MARKET 3.30pm-7pm 1st Sat of the month Fisherman’s Landing Café

CHARTERS TOWERS STOCK EXCHANGE MARKETS 8am-12.00 noon 1st & 3rd Sun every month on Mosman Street

MOUNT VIEW PLAZA MARKETS 8am-2pm every Saturday

CHARTERS TOWERS SHOWGROUND MARKETS 7.30am-11.30am 2nd Sun every month

THURINGOWA COMMUNITY MARKETS 8am-1pm 1st Sunday of each month

INGHAM MARKETS 3rd Sun every month at Rotary Park

HORSESHOE BAY MARKETS (MAGGIE ISLAND) 9.30am-1.30pm last Sun of every month at Horseshoe Bay Foreshore

AYR MARKETS 8.30am-12.00 noon 1st & 3rd Sun every month at Plantation Park

www.stableonthestrand.com 22

www.pakmag.com.au

mini mag prize page Christmas word scramble

Christmas dot to dot

Unscramble these words and you could win!!!

Join the dots, name the xmas item & win a prize!

[1] tfgis

_____

[2] ykutre

______

[3] oeltmsite

_________

[4] ansta

_____

[5] eeendirr

________

[6] hmcrtsai eetr _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ [7] iymafl

______

[8] hrtno leop

_____ ____

[9] ieslhg

______

[10] mlup ddgpniu _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ Email us the words at the end & you could win a mystery prize! Send entry to: pakcompetitions@pakmag.com.au

Email us the xmas item name & you could win a mystery prize! Send entry to: pakcompetitions@pakmag.com.au

Christmas word search

Match the words & pictures

Find all of the Christmas words and when complete circle the remaining letters left to right, top to bottom to learn an interesting Christmas fact and you could win!

WORDS Celebrate Christmas Tree December Decorations Family Giving Holiday Lights Ornaments Presents Reindeer Ribbons Santa Claus Stockings Tinsel Turkey Dinner Twenty-Fifth Winter Wrapping Paper Wreath

Email us the word at the end & you could win a mystery prize! Send entry to: pakcompetitions@pakmag.com.au

Match the word with the right picture and win!!!

Money Elephant Skiing Castle Lighthouse Sail Boat Send in your entry and you could win a mystery prize!

Send to: Competitions, PO Box 761, Hyde Park Q 4812 Name: Address:

Phone: www.pakmag.com.au

23

out & about

submit your photos

email to: photos@pakmag.com.au

ens Willow out & about in Queens Gard Ava cooling down for summer at the

Best buddies Brooke & Tamara

Emily at her princess party

24

www.pakmag.com.au

Misch cooling down at Tobruk Pool

Sam chilling at Playgroup

Maya the little princess

Strand

Gracie smiles for Playgroup

Hannah out & about at the Strand

www.pakmag.com.au

25

27

Tummy time PakBaby story thanks to Dr Jane Williams

tummy time Dr Jane Williams explains why tummy time is so important for your baby’s healthy development Tummy time is the first developmental

television or over your shoulder as you walk

Dr Jane Williams is the Research and

step up the ladder of learning. Infant and

about the house.

Education General Manager for Toddler Kindy

child development occurs in an orderly and predictable sequence of activities that form the foundation for healthy brain development

Tummy time is important for many reasons: • It stimulates development of vision;

GymbaROO and Adjunct Senior Lecturer at the JCU School of Nursing, Midwifery & Nutrition.

that underlies all higher levels of learning.

• It stimulates hand and finger development Tummy time is important as it allows infants

and sense of touch;

the opportunity to develop the head control and muscle strength required for later

• It avoids mis-shapen head development that

movement. It also allows babies to take

occurs when babies lie for long periods on

advantage of naturally occurring primitive

their backs;

movement reflexes that help them “wriggle” or move forward. These reflexes are only present for the first few months of life, that’s why it’s

tummy for several short periods of time each day to familiarise them with the position. Extend tummy time as they get stronger. Try these ways to encourage them to lift their head and look up:

• And, it is essential for strengthening the

tummies as soon as possible after birth. When

muscles of the shoulder, neck, arms and legs

babies are on their tummies the spontaneous

which are necessary for crawling (the next

look at your face

in-built wriggling movements become learnt

important part of a child’s development).

• Lie baby across your legs and stroke

who spend all their time on their backs can’t utilise these in-built reflexes and they end up like frustrated turtles stranded on their backs!

www.pakmag.com.au

infant pushes his toes onto the floor;

As early as possible, lie baby on their

essential to give our infants time on their

skills of coordination and movement. Babies

26

• It helps form the arch in the foot when the

TUMMY TIME TIPS:

Babies who are given lots of tummy time

• Lie baby on your chest so they can

down their back;

during the early months of development find

• Lie on the floor with them, sing songs

out about themselves and their world much

and talk to them

more quickly. It develops neck, back, arm,

Tummy time does not just mean time spent

leg and eye muscles that will enable them to

lying on a rug on the floor. They get the same

gain control over their body movements and

benefits from resting across your chest, along

get themselves moving forward along the

your arm, over your legs while you watch

developmental trajectory of life.

• Place a toy or mirror in front of them • Place a small rolled up towel under their chest and arms

www.pakmag.com.au

27

pakbaby

pakbaby Eeeni Meeni

Grubby Bubby’s As we all know babies are messy

the The Grubby Bubby® Extra Long Bib

creatures but Queensland business

which covers baby’s tummy and lap to

Grubby Bubby are on a mission to bring

keep clothes clean during mealtimes.

parents great innovative products to

Simple but extremely practical! They

minimise the washing and cleaning up.

cost $9.95 and are available online at

One of their most practical products is

www.grubbybubby.com.au

WIN a Grubby Bubby Bib pack!

Award winning children’s lifestyle brand eeni

For your chance to win a pack of Grubby Bubby Extra Long Bibs email us at pakcompetitions@pakmag.com.au and tell us what has made your bub the grubbiest. Competition closes 14/12/10.

meeni miini moh has just announced the launch of it’s latest PURE newborn collection.

Available in classic ‘pure white’ the new limited edition collection features an all-over ‘Welcome

No need to double up

to the World’ print in a soft grey. They are

Little Takas

Although some expectant parents may be

two cots!), some items your babies can

having two or three (or more!) babies at once,

share initially include swings, toys, change

it doesn’t mean you automatically need to

tables, play mats, baby baths and bathing

budget two or three times the money for

accessories. Many of these items take up a

equipment purchases. Infants can share many

large amount of space in your home, and will

items, so before purchasing two of everything,

rarely be used simultaneously often enough

think seriously about whether you will require

to warrant doubling up.

double.

Speaking to other parents of multiples is a

Whilst there are some things you will require

great way of establishing where you can cut

more than one of (eventually you will need

back spending on unnecessary items.

Postnatal depression is relatively common in new mums, but some studies seem to

Go to eenimeeni.com to view the full range of

suggest that as many as 6% of women may

clothes for 0-5 year olds. They can be bought

actually be suffering from post-traumatic

online or check local stockist Egg Maternity.

stress disorder as a result of experiencing an

Or, if you’re heading to Brisbane for a shopping

unexpectedly difficult childbirth.

trip check out their new concept store.

The symptoms are often confused but

WIN a gift pack!

For your chance to win a cute t-shirt, short and hat set (0-3mths) simply email us at pakcompetitions@pakmag.com.au and tell us which city eeni meeni’s new concept store is located? Comp closes 14/12/10.

Visit our online store at: www.little-stars.com.au Pick-up available for local Cairns residents

PTSD is different in that the focus is on the A recent survey of over 12,000 Australian

traumatic birth itself, with sufferers typically

Lactose is a carbohydrate or sugar that is

mums found that motherhood has made

experiencing flashbacks and seeking to avoid

found in all types of milk – cow milk, goat’s

mums more environmentally aware, with

anything that will remind them of the trauma.

45% saying their attitude to the environment

Quality furnishings, accessories & toys for little stars

dairy products. Breast milk contains about 7%

had changed since having a baby. It showed

lactose and it’s about the same for formulas.

that 83% of mums are concerned about

very fearful of childbirth or those who have

Lactose is important for the growth and

the impact of disposable nappies on the

high expectations about how they want their

development of baby’s but some can’t easily

environment but over 52% are still using six

birth to occur. Follow up counselling has been

digest lactose because of a lack of a certain

or more nappies a day.

shown to relieve symptoms. The first step is to

enzyme needed to break it down. Symptoms

talk to your midwife or GP.

of a lactose intolerance can include watery

However a new range of disposable nappies

poos, bloating, cramps, excessive wind and a

called Little Takas have just been launched which take only 6 months to decompose compared to 100 years for conventional

DID YOU KNOW: Approx. 1 billion nappies end up in landfill each year. That’s enough to fill the MCG stadium three times over!

Little Takas nappies are available in stores across Australia (IGA’s) and online at: www.littletakas.com

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milk, including human milk. It’s also found in

Those at greatest risk are women who are

disposable nappies.

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lactose intolerance

perfect for baby’s coming home clothes or for your cute newborn baby photos.

Multiples Expert Verity Hoyle shares her tips

post traumatic stress

very inflamed nappy rash.

babes in arms

Some babies can also get ‘secondary’ lactose intolerance after a bout of gastro.

This month’s Babes in Arms movie sessions

It should only last for a few weeks and

at Birch Carroll & Coyle Cinemas are:

should disappear once the balance of

DEC 1 - Harry Potter 7 DEC 8 - Fair Game

healthy bacteria in the gut returns. In the meantime doctors will generally suggest continuing with breastfeeding but if your

Don’t forget, it’s not just for babies, all noisy

baby is formula fed you can try switching to a

under-5 year olds are welcome too.

lactose-free version and adding probiotics.

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tackling teens

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Weekender activities

Columnist Denise Bewert answers your questions about handling challenges with today’s teenagers.

Escape to this great family weekender location

Reader’s Question:

they are inadequate. As parents we may need

Also encourage him to exercise for fun

My 15 year old son is becoming

to remind our teenagers that advertisers focus

because exercise improves self-esteem for

increasingly unhappy because he has not

on the way our young people look just to

people of all ages, shapes and sizes. The

started to go through the physical changes

make them buy things eg. gym memberships,

Australian National Physical Guidelines

linked to puberty. Many of his friends have

diet products, hair gels, designer clothes etc.

recommend at least 60 minutes of moderate

had growth spurts and have facial hair.

He is starting to isolate himself from his friends and is not joining in with them in physical activities such as swimming.

The physical, social and emotional changes linked to puberty can be challenging. It may be appropriate for your husband or other male role models to speak to your son about their

to vigorous exercise for young people under 18 a day. Being involved in a range of activities

aussie farm entertainment

such as tennis, walking, photography, drawing, theatre, dance, cooking or scouts may take his mind off his appearance and help

Down on the Farm

Research shows that body image is the

experiences in becoming adult males. Sharing

number one issue for adolescents (males

some funny stories about their transition from

and females). Many teenagers are becoming

‘boy’ to ‘man’ may help normalise your son’s

Denise Bewert is a Guidance Officer, mother

a horse and chasing ducks and chicks around

stressed and anxious because they feel they

concerns. You can also reassure your son that

of two and author of two books, Tackling Teens

the paddock are just some of the things our

do not look ‘as good’ as their peers. The media

the way he behaves is much more important

and Troubled Teens. If you would like to ask

focuses on outward appearances and many

than the way he looks. Strength of character

Denise a question about your teenager send

kids had great fun doing on a recent weekend

young people may think that if they don’t

has little to do with muscle size or physical

an email to: denise.bewert@bigpond.com

meet (often unrealistic) body image goals,

strength.

him meet others with similar interests.

Patting new born lambs, milking a cow, riding

away at Spurwood Springs. Who needs the TV when there’s farm animals to feed and wallabies to spot!

pakmag

launch party FREE pakmag

event

want to make a longer stay of it, there’s also

modern kitchen and 2 bedrooms. There is one

accommodation available.

queen-sized bed and 4 bunks beds so it can

Farm Tours

or one family with lots of kids!). As its name

Personal farm tours at Spurwood Springs

suggests, Top Hill Lodge, sits on top of a hill

take about 2 hours and must be booked in

with gorgeous views in all directions. When

advance. They cost $110 per family for up to

your kids are being quiet (!) you can sit and

5 people ($10 per head for each extra person)

enjoy gorgeous views in absolute peace apart

and include a delicious Devonshire Tea. We

from the occasional bird noises.

Spurwood Springs is a cattle fattening

had a wonderfully relaxed morning watching

property located in the picturesque valley

the kids enjoying the animals and listening to

of Mena Creek just 2½ hours drive north

Tom’s cheeky bush poetry! Tom and Dianne

of Townsville. Whilst it’s a working farm, its

make fantastic hosts, making everyone feel

friendly and hospitable owners, Tom and

right at home and being very attentive to the

Dianne Mauloni, also welcome families to

kids.

come along and enjoy some country life away

sleep a total of 10 people (ideal for 2 families

Top Hill Lodge costs $160 per night for up 5 people including a self-serve tropical breakfast ($10 per head for each extra person).

Everything is provided so all you need to take is yourselves and food supplies if you wish to self- cater (there’s also BBQ facilities).

Alternatively, there’s a good little pub nearby

from the hustle and bustle of Townsville.

Accomodation

Surrounded by rolling hills, the farm is nestled

If you’d like to stay and enjoy the countryside

in a peaceful and beautiful valley about 5

overnight, there is a separate house on the

To book call 4065 3310 or email mtalbion@

minutes away from Paronella Park. You are

property called Top Hill Lodge. It is a clean and

bigpond.com. For more information go to

welcome to go just for a farm tour or, if you

comfortable fully self-contained house with a

www.aussiefarmentertainment.com.au

in Mena Creek that serves great food.

For more info go to: pakmag.com.au

9am-12pm Saturday 15 January at the Townsville Mini Golf & Fun Park 4tO BrOadcaSting live! yOu dOn’t want tO miSS it!

Free Mini Golf, face painting, jumping castle and heaps of prizes to win!

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Daytripper activities Check out these great daytripper locations

eco-friendly outings Townsville has lots of family fun opportunities that also contribute to the environment, writes Karen Keynes The school holidays are fast approaching, and

but one that fosters friendship, facilitates

is home to many types of birds, wallabies and

with it the need to find fun things to do with

communication, draws inspiration and most

lizards that are easily spotted in the open

the kids that don’t cost the earth. Here are my

importantly, one that builds community.

woodland environment.

The Full Moon Drum Circle has been operating

Short tracks lead to an historic display, picnic

at the Strand Amphitheatre since 2001 and it

spots, the beach and even to the remains of an

truly is a fun night out for the whole family. Go

old jetty destroyed by a cyclone in 1971. For

to www.therhythmconnection.com for more

more info go to www.derm.qld.gov.au

top five things to do around Townsville that help us contribute in a positive manner to our environment, plus they’re also heaps of fun!

[1] Conservation Volunteering If you are keen to foster a love of the outdoors and a commitment to the environment for your family, then head along and help out with a local Conservation Volunteers project.

Each week there are a range of activities to participate in involving planting, seed collection, surveys and weed removal.

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events will be running.

[3] Bike Riding

[5] Townsville City Council School Holiday Program The Council’s school holiday program always

Reduce the level of air pollution created by

includes a number of great eco-friendly

cars, save money on fuel costs and improve

activities. For example:

your family’s health by increasing your level of incidental exercise through bike riding. There

On 12th December, Conservation Volunteers

are plenty of places around Townsville to ride

are holding a special event, ‘Give the

your bike safely with your family, including

environment a Christmas present that lasts!’

around the Ross River Precinct and along the

which will give families the opportunity to

Strand.

plant a real Christmas tree.

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information and to find out when the next

Pick up your free copy of the new Bikeways

For more information about how to

and Walkways map of Townsville now available

get involved, contact the Conservation

from council’s Customer Service Centres,

Volunteers office on 07 4721 4077 or email

leading bike stores, Visitor Information Centres

townsville@conservationvolunteers.com.au

and at www.townsville.qld.gov.au

[2] Full Moon Drum Circle

[4] Cape Pallarenda Conservation Park

Every month on the night of the Full Moon,

At this scenic coastal park, site of a former

the sound of drums can be heard across the

quarantine station and strategic defence

Townsville foreshore as hundreds of people

location in World War II, historic buildings and

from all walks of life, culture, age & gender,

remains of gun emplacements and searchlight

gather to share in an activity that not only

towers can be seen. There are also good

creates a sense of fun and spontaneity

opportunities for viewing wildlife as the park

• UFO (Urban Fun Object) Movies under the Stars – take a picnic rug and enjoy an outdoor movie with the family at various locations around Townsville. The evening starts with a FREE Rock Climbing Wall activity from 4.30pm, with the movie screening at 7pm and finishing around 8.30pm.

• Yoga Play – a FREE fun and interactive session for 4 – 8 years presented by Kids in Harmony • Recyc Me – sculpture creation from all things recyclable for kids aged 7–12 years For more information contact the Townsville City Council on 4727 9000 or email youth@townsville.gov.au Karen Keynes is the owner of www.GreenUrLife.com.au which supplies kitchenware for the eco-conscious

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33

fav pet shots Fav pet shot of the month wins a mystery prize to the value of $30!

smart gardening this month’s entries A recent food summit in Brisbane predicted that fresh food prices will soar by as much as 50% in the next 10 years.

Gasket loved by Gage

A Bonnie lass

A recent food summit in Brisbane predicted that

remember to look after it that way). Beg or buy

• Other gardens: mushroom kits, sprouting

fresh food prices will soar by as much as 50% in

a few very basic supplies and tools, some seeds

jars, terrarium, tray of cacti in pebbles, native

the next 10 years. It has already doubled since

or seedlings and set them up in a place with at

plants.

2000 so there’s no time like the present to find

least four hours of full sun a day. Keep the plants

out how to grow your own fresh food produce.

well watered - check the soil just under the

Apart from the financial gain, gardening is also a great family activity. With so much focus on indoor living for children – books, television, toys, games, puzzles etc, spending time in the

Milo loved by Lincoln

has worked in the horticultural media Backyard and Better Homes & Gardens.

to use it.

She has recently released a book called

activity and, if you grow your own food, it can

• Easy snack plants: snow peas, beans, cherry

also be a great way to inspire picky eaters to

tomatoes, mild radish, French beans.

being outdoors; even supervised babies and toddlers enjoy time touching and eating things propagating seeds or jobs that involve moving are fascinated by life cycles, cacti, bonsai, cooking and crafts.

If you’re not yet a gardener start simply and grow something you love to see or eat (you’ll

www.pakmag.com.au

Marcelle Nankervis is a horticulturist who

small plot to the kids and let them decide how

dirt, using water or harvesting. Older children

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for a large veggie plot!

and to have some peaceful space outdoors.

in the garden. Preschoolers love the magic of

Email your photo, name/s & address to: pakcompetitions@pakmag.com.au • Deadline is 14 December for the January edition of Pakmag.

or a small bed before digging up the whole yard

WIN a copy of Smart gardening

If you’re already a gardener try giving over a

try a wider variety of foods. All children enjoy Sumo loving his chew toy

parts of the day. Try some container gardening

garden is a great way to reconnect with nature

Getting involved in gardening is a good healthy

Baz chillaxing on the beach

surface, when it’s dry water well in the cooler

• Simple flowers: sunflowers, marigolds, bulbs, nasturtiums, sweet peas.

for several years including on Burke’s

‘Smart Gardening’. It has a handy monthly reference guide to take the guesswork out of when to plant and harvest. It also has tips on preparing soil, pruning, companion planting and more. It is the ultimate one-stop reference to growing your own

• Exciting plants: pumpkins, gourds (for craft),

food with specific sections each month on

luffa sponge, passionfruit, everlasting daisies,

tropical climates.

purple beans and corn.

• Perfect in pots: strawberries, a capsicum

For your chance to win a copy email us at pakcompetitions@pakmag.com.au and

plant, a tomato bush, baby carrots, all herbs

tell us what is the recommended most

and flowers such as cosmos, pansies and

humane way to get rid of cane toads?

petunias.

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35

HotPak

Crafty Xmas

Out of the mouths of babes

By Creative Kids Play Centre

We’ve been pondering recently on the strange things babies

paint, glitter and sequins you and your kids can create almost anything

put in their mouths. Steve’s son Reneas for example eats

including simple Xmas decorations. Try making these with your kids:

everything from dead geckos to paper clips, gecko poo and

What you need

Lego. Even bits of broken mugs have found their way into that dark and damp mouth of doom.

A simple paper plate offers endless craft possibilities. With the addition of

• Paper Plates • Green Paint • Paint Brush • PVA Glue • Glue Brush • Sequins • Glitter • Hole punch • Gold or silver ribbon

Banksy’s next door neighbour (Reilly) takes pleasure in putting living things in the guzzler and there’s video evidence to back this one up. He thinks nothing of keeping a

Step 1 - Paint your paper plate on the bottom of the plate, the desired colour ( we have used green) allow to dry (5-15minutes).

live hermit crab in his mouth. Is this the beginning of a future

Step 2 - Apply glue to the plate in a circular pattern on the painted side.

career as a Japanese game show champion?

Step 3 - Apply glitter and sequins to the coloured side allow to dry.

It seems as though children’s curiosity about the taste of

Step 4 - Using scissors cut the plate in a circular pattern.

things knows no bounds and most families have got a story

Step 5 - Hole punch through the centre, this becomes the top of tree.

to tell about it. We decided to ask the people of Townsville about their experiences on our Breaky show and we received quite a few calls. There were stories of super glue, backyard Tiger slugs, toilet cakes, mechanical grease and even some fathers convincing their kids that ladybeetles are quite nutritional.

Step 6 - Hang it up with ribbon, you can do lots of these & use different lengths, to create depth.

Tips - You can change the effects by gluing crepe paper to the paper plate instead of painting and using different colours of Glitter, sequins or confetti. Paint both side of the plate if you intend to hang them up high.

Banksy and I felt slightly better after chatting to those listeners as it confirmed the fact that this is all just normal behaviour as our children discover the world of textures and taste. There’s no point trying to stop them; the best we can do is keep them safe by putting a lock on the cupboard below the sink with the bleaches and washing up liquids.

So it seems there’s nothing that kids won’t put in their mouths…except vegetables. Good luck with that.

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38

Children’s activities Check out this kid friendly shopping location

Lamberts Grocery shopping with kids needn’t be painful, writes Heather Dixon Sometimes I am in a quandary. If I don’t pick

I always manage to make a trip to Lamberts

If you take your children to Lamberts you do

up some fresh fruit and vegetables or some

educational as well as fun. It’s a great

need to be aware that because of the nature of

meat then we won’t be eating dinner, but

opportunity to explain to the kids how the

what they sell they have a drive through service

the last thing the kids want to do is to head

chicken with the top-knot and the chicken with

so keeping kids close is important for their

off to the shops and get dragged around the

the fancy tail may look very different but they

safety but with all the animals to befriend it’s

supermarket. It’s then that you can hear my cry

are both still chickens. We also make a note of

tearing them away that’s usually the problem.

“Who wants to go and visit the chickens?” My

the differences between the babies and the

kids never say no to that.

adult birds and the noises they make as well

Lamberts Produce on Fleming Street is the perfect solution. It’s a farm visit for the kids, only I don’t end up standing in any... well, you know, and I can also pick up fresh produce for dinner while we are there. Lamberts has been around since long before I started having children but I’ve been passing it off as a trip

as discussing what they eat and whether they like to perch up high or have bedding on the ground. We have also been known to sing a Wiggles song or two to entertain them as well. “Here comes the chicken, here comes the chicken, chicken down the road...” ahem, the kids sing to them, not me.

to the farm since my first was old enough to

Then, while their guard is down and they are

appreciate the animals.

still chatting happily about animals and what

The farm animals are always a hit and since our very first visit our favourite fluffy friends have been the baby chicks. Tiny balls of soft fluffy feathers cheeping for our attention, the kids love it. It’s always a surprise to see what other birds will be there; chickens, geese, finches or maybe something different.

38

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16

they would name a chicken if we had one, we move on over to the fresh produce and I get them to help me pick out everything I need.

By this time the whole experience of grocery shopping has become so much fun that the kids happily help me select extra random items

Lamberts is open to the public

that I don’t need. But I don’t mind because it’s a

8am-5.30pm weekdays, 8am-4pm Saturdays

far cry from my usual supermarket experience.

and 8am-3pm on Sundays

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39

time for a break jokes Dressing Up

Offspring

A woman will dress up to go shopping, water the plants, empty

Ah, children. A woman knows all about her children. She knows about

the garbage, answer the phone, read a book, and get the mail.

dentist appointments and romances, best friends, favorite foods, secret

A man may put on shoes for weddings and funerals.

fears and hopes and dreams. A man is vaguely aware of some short people living in the house.

natural

Thought for the Day

Men wake up as good-looking as they went to bed.

Any married man should forget his mistakes. There’s no use in two people

Women somehow deteriorate during the night.

remembering the same thing.

Mini Crossword

Down (2) Dry red Spanish wine (5) (3) Too (4) (4) Capital of Tibet (5) (5) Porcelain tableware (5) (6) Nail-like fastener (5) (7) Droops (4) (11) Be seated (3) (13) Fish eggs (3) (14) Arranges in groups (5) (15) Kingdom in SW Europe (5) (16) Artist’s support (5) (18) Diminish (5) (19) An auction (4) (20) Inquires (4)

Across (1) Rope-like hairstyle (10) (8) Tiny particles (5) (9) Person used as one’s excuse (5) (10) Oceans (4) (12) Self-defence (6) (14) Female sibling (6) (17) Hearing organs (4) (21) Harvests (5) (22) Will (5) (23) Eyeglasses with tinted lenses (10)

Quiz?

40

Question 1

Question 4

What is the most frequently diagnosed cancer in men?

What is most likely to occur when your diaphragm goes into spasms?

Question 2

Question 5

What does “CPR” stand for in medical emergencies?

What is the most itchy skin condition tinea pedis better known as?

Question 3

Email your answers to pakcompetitions@pakmag.com.au and you

What disease accounts for two of every three cases of dementia?

could win a Special Prize Pack thanks to Calanna Pharmacy.

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www.calannapharmacy.com.au

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It’s worth the drIve from townsvIlle!