PakMag Townsville December Issue 49

FAMILIES AT CHRISTMAS FEATURE STORY

CHRISTMAS VINTAGE CRAFTS

SCHOOL'S

COVER PHOTO Cheeky Monkey Photography

OUT GUIDE

Free ISSUE 49 / DEC / 2014 TOWNSVILLE

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HELLO

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08 FAMILIES AT CHRISTMAS

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Hello and welcome to our very special Christmas edition. Christmas is a joyous occasion for most, but for some (myself included) it can be a tough time of year with family dynamics, distance from relatives, or job commitments that prevent a relaxing day of pure enjoyment. So I would like to dedicate this edition to all families, especially those who need some extra love on the day to get through.

It was an honour to interview our special family on the front cover with two parents in the defence force and how they manage this time of year.

Feature Story

11 24 CHRISTMAS TRADITIONS 15 GIFTS FOR LEARNING 17 HEALTH 19 BUMB & BUB 23 WHAT'S ON GUIDE 25 MINI MAG

We have so many fabulous Christmas ideas in this edition, lots of prizes to win plus information on all the great Christmas events happening around town.

I hope to see you at our fabulous Christmas event on December 19.

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Wishing you all a sensational Festive Season, be safe, have fun, create lots of memories with your loved ones and have a happy and safe New Year! (I can’t believe I just wrote that - where did the year go!?) Until next time, have a great month and don’t forget to tell everyone you read it in PakMag!

36 CHRISTMAS CRAFT

Bree x

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39 SCHOOL'S OUT GUIDE 40 HOME

Building a Home

45 GIVING FOR CHRISTMAS

BREE JAMES / PUBLISHERS NOTE

46 BIZ INDEX 47 BUSINESS

Net Distribution Per Issue 10,000 CAB Publisher Statement Period ending 30th July 2014

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PAKMAG HEAD OFFICE P 4053 3331 F 4053 3350 E info@pakmag.com.au T #pakmag SALES P 0499 725 624 PO BOX 761 Hyde Park QLD 4812 FB www.facebook.com/pakmag ON THE COVER MODEL The Jarvis family PHOTOGRAPHY Cheeky Monkey Photography WEBSITE www.cheekymonkeyphotography.com.au DISCLAIMER No part of this magazine, including the advertisements within it may be reproduced, in part or in whole without the expressed permission of the editor. Whilst the greatest of care is taken to ensure that the information in the magazine is correct at the time of going to press, readers are advised to check details before visiting. The publishers cannot accept responsibility for errors, inaccuracies or omissions. The expressions expressed within PakMag are not necessarily the views of the publishers, but those of individual writers.

TSV Sales Star Alisyn

Admin Ace Kelly

Design Diva Sara

Dazzling Designer Emma

Grand Poobah Bree

Epic Editor Carly

Sales Guru Angelina

MKY Sales Superstar Deb

Sales Golden Girl Tammy

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#TRENDING DECEMBER

NYE PICTURES IN THE PARK LOCATION Strand Park DATE December 31 from 7pm-12:30am COST FREE Townsville City Council's New Year’s Eve Pictures in the Park is a free community event for the whole family.

Bring a picnic rug and the family down to watch two movies, enjoy the fireworks at 9pm and midnight plus food and coffee vendors will be on site. Come along and join in the family friendly fun and welcome in the New Year in a traditional relaxed no-fuss North Queensland style!

MYLIGHT WEB www.mylight.com.au MYLIGHT is a handcrafted, personalised light box tailor-made to suit your taste and décor! They can be used for a range of purposes that are only limited by your imagination. Not only does the night light look fantastic, but it also encourages children with name recognition. If you’re feeling bogged down by all the plastic toys this Christmas they can also make an unusual gift idea!

MYLIGHT is offering PakMag readers a free upgrade to a remote controlled light for orders placed by December 15 (for pre-Christmas deliveries) but the code is valid for all of December.

ENTER Simply log onto mylight.com.au and design your light, selecting the remote controlled light type. Add the light to the cart and checkout entering the code: B&BRGB to redeem the offer.

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LOVE LOCKETS WEB www.lovelockets.com.au RRP $170.00 Love Lockets – beautifully capture life’s treasured moments and keep them close to your heart. Fill your Love Locket with mementos, charms and crystals to remind you of special times, loved ones and events in your life. The perfect way to tell YOUR story.

CHRISTMAS PAKCLUB

ENTER www.pakmag.com.au

DATE December 19 from 5:30pm LOCATION North Shore Display Village Park, Sita Retreat Burdell It will be a night to remember for the young and young at heart with a visit from Santa, a baby animal petting zoo, recycled art workshop, Twilight viewing of North Shore’s Display Homes, facepainting as well as free popcorn and fairy floss.

Polar Express movie will screen from 6:30pm so bring a blanket, picnic and snuggle in for a fun and festive evening. Proudly brought to you

by PakMag, Calanna Pharmacy, Queensland Country Credit Union, 4TOFM Townsville and Northshore.

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SKEANIE & UH-OH! WEB www.skeanie.com.au RRP from $49.95

WIN

Our L’il beach kids will rock the season in SKEANIE & uh-oh! new collection of coast- leather sandals. Available in sizes 2-8 (RRP $49.95), these colourful coastal sandals are made from genuine leather to ensure our little one’s tootsies stay ventilated and cool during the warmer months ahead. What’s more, they’re just $49.95 and available in sizes EU24 to EU35. Light, bright and LOVEABLE, these are the season’s MUST HAVES for our little beach babes. Buy locally from Elle J at Domain Central. ENTER www.pakmag.com.au

#TRENDING

pakmag

GET INTO THE SPIRIT AT WILLOWS Willows Shopping Centre has the following promotions running throughout December:

SMART RING

TECH ALERT

Ringly is a new smart wearable device conceived to deal with a problem that many women face: Missing important calls and text messages because their phone is buried in the bottom of a bag.

Ringly is a new piece of jewellery that will deliver notifications via Bluetooth from a smartphone that has the Ringly app installed. The device notifies the wearer when they receive a call, text, email and other notifications from various apps and can even alert the user if the phone is left behind. The user can assign different vibration and lighting patterns to various notifications. The difference that sets Ringly apart is that it is also a gorgeous, wearable piece of jewellery. Crafted with 18K gold plating and semi-precious stones, the ring will be available in various colours including black onyx, rainbow moonstone, pink sapphire, and emerald options.

Also important for a smart wearable device is battery life, and the company says Ringly can run for about three days on a full charge.

To recharge it, users will simply have to put it back in its box. Ringly is available for pre-order at www.ringly.com from USD$195 and orders will ship in early 2015.

LASER COMBAT NQ PRE-LAUNCH EVENT December 12, 6pm-9pm at Melville’s LAUNCH PARTY December 13, 5pm-9pm at Sk8way Townsville’s newest party experience will arrive with a bang in December and just in time for the holiday season. Join in the fun and of Laser NQ’s Pre-Launch on Friday December 12 at Melville’s or the Official Launch Party on Saturday December 13 at Sk8way. The Launch Party will include unlimited Laser Combat, jumping castle, roller skating and face painting, with food and drinks available to purchase. Entry is by gold coin donation with all proceeds going to The Cure Starts Now. Laser Combat NQ is the ultimate party destination and perfect for birthdays, functions, festivals and private events. There will also be an opportunity to win a Laser Combat birthday party (valued at $370) on the night.

Santa will be available for photos in his Christmas Wonderland through until Christmas Eve in the JB HiFi mall. Every child that meets Santa will receive a free chocolate and those purchasing photos will receive a free Paddington Bear Christmas bauble. A Santa letter-writing zone will also be located in the mall. Little customers are invited to write their wish list for Santa and pop it into the Santa mailbox.

The Activity Zone will run through December and is free for children to participate in.

Activities will include: Build a Snowman Workshop (December 1-7), Gingerbread Decorating Workshop (December 8-14), Santa Mask making (December 15-21) and the Ben and Holly Craft workshop (December 22-23).

FESTIVE FUN AT STOCKLAND Santa will host a special FREE breakfast on December 16 from 8:30-9:45am. All children attending will receive a free sub from Subway, fruit and drinks. There will be lots of entertainment including carol singing, craft activities, photos, face painting and giveaways.

The event is limited to 100 children so bookings are required. Call 4779 6033 to make a booking.

Join in the fun of Mummy Funday on December 15. From 10am-1pm, there will be face painting and activities to get you in the spirit with workshops on tree decoration, healthy treats and Christmas food cooking demonstrations. Brought to you by PakMag, Stockland Townsville and Myer.

Between the hours of 10am-2pm from December 11-13 at Kmart, keep an eye out for the fun characters roving the centre and from December 15-20 a photo booth will be set up to capture the Christmas magic.

www.pakmag.com.au DECEMBER 2014

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FAMILIES AT CHRISTMAS

Families at Christmas

The traditional family unit is changing and with it, the way we celebrate at Christmas.

Christmas has always been a time of celebration, enjoying the company of loved ones and taking time to appreciate the finer things in life that might be neglected in the demands of the day-to-day.

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hristmas is a time of the year when families congregate; cousins get to share (and often fight over!) new toys; games and family traditions are created; merriment is had and memories are made.

But for some families, Christmas traditions as adults can be vastly different to those we remember as children. Many families now have parents involved in work that takes them away from the home on Christmas Day - FIFO parents and shift-workers for example may not get to experience the Christmas at home with family that so many take for granted.

The traditional Christmas lunch scene across Australia is also being influenced by the ever-changing makeup of families. In June 2012, there were 961,000 one parent families, making up 15 per cent of all families. Blended families - those made up of parent, step-parents and biological or step-children - who must navigate the balancing act of children

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celebrating Christmas with more than one nuclear family unit is also growing.

On the other end of the spectrum, extended families who are living together as a larger family unit is also on the rise due to many factors including the cost of living for retirees and pressures relating to day care and care of children, as grandparents increasingly take on the care of their grandchildren while their parents return to work. For kids who are used to living with grandparents, the ‘magic’ of spending Christmas Day with them may be different than for children who see family less frequently.

For those living far away from parents, grandparents and extended family; families who have children who may be spending all or part of Christmas Day with another parent, or for those who may not be able to celebrate with family due to other reasons like work taking them away for the day, there are still ways to feel close to your loved ones at Christmas without being physically present:

• Skype or Facetime on Christmas morning - Internet in Australia may still be far from world-class, but make the most of the technology we have and hold a Skype call with family and friends who live far away.

If you have small children, chances are it will turn into a squeal-fest, but the delight they will take in ‘seeing’ grandparents or other family members will make it worthwhile.

• Surprise family with gifts. Ensure you send them early enough to avoid the rush and they arrive on time. Gifts do not need to be expensive, just heartfelt. Receiving something that has obviously been carefully chosen will remind family that even though you can’t be with them for Christmas, they are never far from your thoughts.

• If you have a support network of friends where you live, spend time with them at Christmas. Your family will also be reassured that you’re surrounded with happiness and love during the festive season.

FAMILIES AT CHRISTMAS

pakmag

TELL US A BIT ABOUT YOUR FAMILY: Dad Michael is a pilot in the RAAF, while Mum Jasmine is a Personnel Capability Specialist in the RAAF Active Reserves. Matilda (8) wants to be a veterinarian or an officer in the RAAF when she grows up. Hamish (5) wants to be a RAAF pilot or a scientist when he grows up.

HOW DO YOU PLAN TO CELEBRATE CHRISTMAS THIS YEAR? This year we will be celebrating Christmas in Brisbane with family.

The kids are looking forward to seeing their Nan Nan and Poppy!

WHAT ARE YOUR FAMILY TRADITIONS? We are pretty laid back.

On Christmas morning the kids have to get dressed, tidy their beds, have breakfast and brush their teeth before presents get handed out. After that I whip up Christmas lunch and we all just relax for the rest of the day.

WHAT DO YOU LOVE MOST ABOUT CHRISTMAS? Being together and being able to enjoy Christmas through our kids. Seeing them excited about Santa and getting into the festive spirit is awesome. Oh and Christmas carols!

With both parents members of our defence force, the Jarvis family are looking forward to a laid back Christmas this year, travelling from their home base of Townsville to Brisbane to celebrate with family.

IS THERE SOMETHING YOU FIND CHALLENGING ABOUT CHRISTMAS? Being away from our families - Mike's parents live over in Canada! We get to see our families approximately once every two years.

WHAT DO YOU WANT FOR CHRISTMAS? Family, love, laughter, good health for all and perfect weather!

HOW DO YOU PLAN TO CELEBRATE CHRISTMAS THIS YEAR? We will no doubt start the morning off bright and early with an excited two year old and then head to mum and dad’s for a long lunch.

WHAT ARE YOUR FAMILY TRADITIONS? Christmas is all about family gatherings for us. Growing up we always had the big family traditional hot lunch but every Christmas morning we celebrated with my Italian grandparents by having a small nip of Cinzano. Even though they have passed on we still toast to them each year.

WHAT DO YOU LOVE MOST ABOUT CHRISTMAS? Moving to Townsville almost four years ago at Christmas time, we love having a swim on Christmas day. Melbourne weather is never predictable at Christmas.

IS THERE SOMETHING YOU FIND CHALLENGING ABOUT CHRISTMAS? The day is never long enough. I would love Christmas Day more than once a year.

WHAT DO YOU WANT FOR CHRISTMAS? This question gets harder every year, and I think it is because I am surrounded by all I need in family, friends and good health.

Amanda Delacy will be celebrating Christmas with husband Matt, two year old son Edward and her parents who have recently relocated to Townsville. They are planning to bring in the New Year with a spot of camping in Cairns.

WHAT YOU ARE EATING FOR CHRISTMAS? A smorgasbord of traditional Christmas fare. We all bring a dish or two and share it. This is the first year at my parents’ house as they recently moved up, but no doubt the table will be dressed in mum’s best cutlery, bon-bon’s, candles and little bowls of yummy delights hidden among the chaos of way too much food.

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TRADITIONS

Wrap 25 books relating to Christmas and place under the tree. Let the kids unwrap one each night in December and read before bedtime.

Have a craft night when every member of the family makes a new ornament for the tree.

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3 Give your child an ornament each year, or let them choose one for themselves. Write their name and year on the ornament so when they are grown and leave home, they will have a collection of ornaments to take with them to start a new family tradition in their own homes.

One night have a picnic by the Christmas Tree.

Eat finger foods on the floor with Christmas music playing.

h ew eac Intervi r of the e ir memb nd write the a k y l o a bo fami ses in g respon the followin s e g s n i u h to re d record t n n a e r m ts yea chieve om a s a h r suc tones f s e l i m and r. the yea

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45 Bundle the kids up in the car and take a tour around the city to look at Christmas lights. Make sure to bring lots of festive snacks!

If you have more than one child, start up a ‘Secret Santa’. Draw a name out of a hat and take the children to purchase a gift for that sibling. This way they take time out to consider what their sibling might like and experience the gift of giving.

8 11 Choose someone who you know may be working on Christmas Day with chocolates and cookies.

You will be amazed how much this might brighten their day. Options include doctors and nurses, paramedics, firefighters, volunteers at the RSPCA and staff at restaurants open for Christmas.

Start a Christmas diary by writing a short summary of the year, how you are spending Christmas and record your hopes for the new year.

Purchase a Lil Christmas door for Santa to use. www.littlefairydoor.com

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Cover each child’s hand in paint and have them grasp a plain bauble. Once dry, write their name and year on it. It will make a gorgeous decoration and memory.

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Have a family Christmas movie night! Make white chocolate popcorn and hot chocolates and make a fun time of it.

pakmag

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pakmag TRADITIONS

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Make a ‘virtual’ Christmas card for friends and family who may not live closeby and upload it to YouTube.

14 Track Santa’s journey on Christmas Eve using Norad Santa tracker: www.noradsanta.org

amily whole f eir e h t e k Ta have th along to ken with photo ta ne of his to Santa a es at a local c n a appear centre in the g in shopp to Christmas. lead up

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Don’t forget to put out carrots for the reindeer and cookies and milk (or perhaps something a bit stronger) for Santa on Christmas Eve.

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Help your children go through their toys prior to Christmas and encourage them to donate to charity for Christmas. It will foster the joy of giving as well as making room for new toys come Christmas Day!

17 Have Santa borrow Dad’s shoes to make 'snowy' boot prints with talcum powder leading from Santa’s entry point to the Christmas Tree.

The look on the kids’ faces when they see the prints will be priceless!

Make a DIY Christmas table runner. Take a light-coloured table runner (or piece of light coloured fabric cut to size) and use paint to record your child’s handprint each year as they grow, writing the year next to their handprint.

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18 Make a Christmas Eve box for the kids to open and include new Christmas themed PJs, some Christmas movies for the whole family to watch, a Christmas story to read before bed, movie treats, hot chocolate, reindeer food and a letter from Santa. It’s also a great idea to get a photo of all the kids on Christmas Eve in their new PJs (as it never really seems to work in the midst of the excitement of Christmas morning!)

Before bed, take children out to look for the Christmas star - the brightest one in the sky!

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20 Set out a ‘flight path’ of tea lights in mason jars in your yard for Santa to find his way!

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23 Ask Santa to crepe paper the kids bedroom doors on Christmas Eve after he has delivered their presents. When they wake on Christmas Day, be sure to pass on the message that Santa thought he should seal their doors to ensure they didn’t peek at their presents before morning!

Instead of opening ALL of the gifts on Christmas morning, have Santa hide one gift to open later in the day.

If your children are old enough, perhaps leave a riddle or clues to help them find it!

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PARENTING

pakmag

PARENTING

Gifts for

Learning

It’s that time of year again. Retail stores are busy stacking their shelves with brightly wrapped products to entice consumers into another season of overspending.

Let’s face it, as a parent there’s probably no sweeter feeling than when you get to witness the pure joy etched onto your child’s face when they open their carefully selected Christmas presents.

STORY Julie Sexton

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tatistics tell us that the average Australian adult will spend $993 on Christmas. With the emergence of newer and flashier technology released in time for the Festive Season (have you got your iphone 6 yet?) we are seeing a change in the variety of presents that are turning up in children’s Christmas stockings – they are more expensive, more electronic and as a result, less interactive!

Research shows that play is essential for children’s speech and language, cognitive, motor and social/emotional development. So, when you are going shopping this year, think about purchasing a present that will create more interactions between you and your child, or amongst their siblings.

Jigsaw puzzles are ideal for all age groups – and are also an essential “toy” for cognitive development as they develop so many skills including problem solving, visual processing, and fine motor skills. Parents often interact and communicate with their child when completing puzzles by explaining the strategies of figuring out where the pieces go, as well as describing aspects of the picture once the puzzle is complete. Young children often learn their colours, alphabet and numbers through puzzles because the parents name the pieces as the child is putting them in and they can be played with over and over.

These days parents are falling into the trap of having to buy two ipads/

ipods because otherwise “they will only fight over it”. While this leads to a quieter house, it is also robbing our children of the opportunity to learn to share and take turns with their toys.

This has huge social implications.

Turn-taking in play is a crucial developmental skill that leads to turntaking in conversation – talk, wait/ listen while the other person talks and then take another turn at talking. By not encouraging turn-taking through play we are delaying the development of this essential social skill.

Board games are a fantastic alternative to teach children to wait, listen and take turns. For young children, traditional board games like snakes and ladders are a great starting point. As children get older there are more cognitively challenging board games like Articulation, Trivial Pursuit, Cranium, Pictionary, and Charades for Kids. All of these games encourage interaction and can be pulled out when the children are complaining about being bored over the school holidays. Imaginative play toys are another great idea to foster independent and group play.

A good starting point for encouraging imaginative play in young children is to provide them with miniature versions of adult objects such as tea sets, an ironing board, toy broom, cash register, shopping trolleys, prams and dolls. These types of toys are important for toddlers of both genders.

Boys are often given the same types of toys (that is, cars, trains and trucks)

which can limit the vocabulary they are being exposed to and slow down their language development. Little figurines will allow your child to expand the types of storylines of their play. Dressup costumes and props are also a good way of encouraging imaginative play so when your daughter asks Santa for that Princess Elsa dress you can be assured that you are helping her development when that one gets popped under the Christmas tree.

We also cannot forget those time Christmas favourites: outdoor play activities! Anything that encourages children to get away from a screen and get active gets a big tick in my book. Active play not only strengthens children’s motor skills and helps concentration, it also tends to be more sociable. If you don’t believe me, compare the amount of communication that occurs when two children are watching a TV show compared with two children jumping on a trampoline.

So this Christmas, try to make a conscious decision to help your child’s development by making smart choices when it comes to buying Christmas presents – and enjoy playing with your child this Christmas!

Julie Sexton is a Speech Pathologist at TalkNQ. If you have concerns about your child’s communication development please call 0467 239 554 or visit www.talknq.com

www.pakmag.com.au DECEMBER 2014

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HEALTH

STORY Dr Elizabeth McIntosh The self-empowerment journey is very liberating as you begin to take ownership over your life. In taking responsibility for your life, you become accountable. You slowly start to put the pieces together and begin to see where you are in life today is a reflection of your behaviour and choices you made yesterday or at least in the past.

I often use the analogy of being the driver of your own bus, having a sense of direction of where you want to be in life and taking control of your life as much as you are able. This is a huge subject in itself, but is the first basic step towards self–empowerment.

Unfortunately the more common behaviour in society today is not taking responsibility but instead is called the Victim response - we see this in the U.S.A in ridiculous insurance claims of people shifting the blame for their accident on other parties when it was clearly their own fault .

We all know people like this who constantly blame their predicament

on others. I even hear people trying to blame their weight gain or obesity on other people. Some people actually like playing the victim and will enjoy laying blame at someone else‘s feet.

This type of person often has drama following them around wherever they go and they gain attention when relaying all the details to an audience.

But in fairness there are those that always blame others because they don’t know any other way. Perhaps it is just out of ignorance following their parent’s lead and it is purely a case of conditioning.

However once people see the light and let go of playing the victim and start taking responsibility for their life, amazing changes can happen. A new level of joy can be reached as you understand the power is yours along with a new attitude to move your life into whatever direction you wish.

So in summary, stop the blame game!

Take control of your life by taking responsibility for you, your words, your actions and your behaviour. It truly is your choice.

Remember the only limitations in your life are the ones you place on yourself.

that proper sun protection during childhood and adolescence reduces the lifetime risk of skin cancer.

BE SUN SMART It’s shocking, but it’s true – Queensland has the highest rate of skin cancer in the world – around 370 skin cancers are diagnosed every day in the Sunshine State.

In North Queensland alone, around 150 people are diagnosed with melanoma each year.

Cancer Council Queensland and the Queensland Department of Health are calling on not-for-profit organisations and schools in North Queensland to get SunSmart by applying for the 2014 SunSmart Grants Scheme.

Katie Clift from Cancer Council Queensland said it is well known

“Skin cancer is largely preventable, and it’s worrying to think that inadequate shade may be putting our kids at risk of long-term skin damage.

We need to ensure Queensland kids are best protected every day they’re out and about,” she said.

PERCENTILE BABY CHARTS From the day they are born, a baby’s weight, height and head circumference are measured and then plotted on the growth charts in the back of their Red Book. So what are these growth charts and what do they mean?

Imagine lining up 100 healthy six month old baby boys in a row.

One of them is going to be the smallest and one of them is going to be the biggest. There is nothing wrong with the smallest one or the biggest one – that is just the size they are. The smallest baby’s growth will be sitting on the bottom centile curve on the growth charts and the biggest baby’s growth will be on the top percentile curve. The baby that is about 50th along in the row will be on the middle line (the 50th centile line). Another way of thinking of it is that if your baby’s weight is on the 25th centile it means that 25 percent of other babies their age weigh less than them and 75% of other babies weigh more than them.

Sun protective behaviours, including seeking shade, are required whenever the UV index is three or above. In Queensland, the UV index is above three everyday – so sun protection is required throughout every season.

Plotting your baby’s growth on the percentile charts is just one way for doctors and other health professionals to monitor your baby’s health. If, for example, their weight was always on the 75th centile line then suddenly they were on the 25th centile, it can be an indication to see if there are any problems. Remember however that numbers are definitely not everything! How your baby is developing, feeding and behaving are equally important measures in assessing your child’s wellbeing.

“There are no shortcuts – take care in preparation for outdoor activity and remember that one method of sun protection is never enough!”

Dr. Claire Stewart has a one year old son and works part time at Fairfield Waters Medical Centre in Townsville.

The SunSmart Grants Scheme offers funds for portable and permanent shade items for not-for-profit organisations and schools that cater for children up to age 17.

HEALTH DECEMBER

LIFE MASTERY

pakmag

www.pakmag.com.au DECEMBER 2014

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THUMBSUCKING AND DUMMIES Many new parents are torn on whether to introduce a dummy or pacifier to their newborn. Conflicting information, some modern stigmas associated with dummy use and the much used concept of “nipple confusion” can war with the need to provide mum and dad with some much-needed respite and some babies require the comfort of sucking to settle.

STORY Dr Anita Griffin

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ost children stop sucking on thumbs, pacifiers or other objects on their own between two and four years of age.

No harm is done to their teeth or jaws until permanent teeth start to erupt, so the only time the continued sucking of dummies or thumbs might cause concern is if it goes on beyond six to eight years of age. At this time, it may affect the shape of the oral cavity or teeth, causing the upper front teeth to tip toward the lip or not come in properly. Thumbsucking can lead to an open bite and often a high arched palate.

Addressing the problem when the child is ready and willing to give up is more likely to be successful than attacking it head on and forcing your child to stop.

SOME TIPS TO ENCOURAGE YOUR CHILD TO STOP SUCKING INCLUDE: Praise children for not sucking, instead of scolding them when they do.

If a child is sucking its thumb when feeling insecure or needing comfort, focus instead on correcting the cause of the anxiety and provide comfort to your child.

If a child is sucking on their thumb because of boredom, try getting the child's attention with a fun activity.

Involve older children in the selection of a means to cease thumb sucking.

A pediatric dentist can offer encouragement to a child and explain what may happen to teeth if the sucking is continued.

Only if these tips are ineffective, remind the child of the habit by bandaging the thumb or putting a sock/glove on the hand at night.

If you are concerned that your child’s adult teeth are coming through and none of the above methods have worked, seeing an Orthodontist can help. Removable or fixed appliances to disrupt thumb sucking can prove successful and usually after a month or so of continuous use, children are likely to stop thumb sucking altogether.

In the case of dummies, it is recommended that waiting until breastfeeding is well established, typically around six weeks, before introducing any sort of pacifier.

Using a dummy may prevent the development of thumb sucking in

children but parents should endeavour to avoid prolonged sucking for more than six hours at a time. Dummies should never be dipped in sugary substances such as honey or fruit juices as they can lead to dental decay and erosion of teeth.

In addition, pacifiers should be kept very clean and if holes or cracks develop they can act as a harbor for bacteria which can lead to infections of the mouth.

In what is great news for dummyusing parents everywhere, it has also been found that the use of a dummy is associated with a substantial reduction in the risk of SIDS (Sudden Infant Death Syndrome).

WHEN IT COMES TIME TO WEAN YOUR CHILD OFF HIS OR HER DUMMY, THE FOLLOWING TIPS MAY BE USEFUL: Limit the use of dummies to key times in the day like bedtime or when your child is ill.

Positive reinforcement through modeling of other children who have grown out of dummies.

Use a reward charts with stickers recording everyday completed without the dummy.

www.pakmag.com.au DECEMBER 2014

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BUMB&BUB

WIN

WIN

WIN

MAYA THE BEE DVD

NUZZLIN SLEEP BAG

LITTLE BOSSY BOOTS

RRP $24.99 WEB www.mayathebee.com.au WIN a Maya the Bee DVD

RRP $44.95 WEB www.lovetodream.com.au WIN a Nuzzlin Sleep Bag

To celebrate the DVD launch of the brand new feature film Maya the Bee Movie , one lucky fan will win their very own copy!

New Extra-Light Muslin Sleep Bag For Summer. The Nuzzlin Sleep Bag by Love To Dream is an extra-light 0.2 Tog sleeping bag that offers all the benefits of traditional muslin but in a soft, stretchy fabric that is much more gentle and comfortable for bubs.

RRP $40.00 WEB www.littlebossyboots.com WIN a pair of Little Bossy Boots moccasins, in your choice of size and colour!

Born into a hive where conformity rules, the film follows Maya's inquisitive desire to escape her heavily regimented existence and experience the freedom to explore.

For more info visit www.mayathebee. com.au and www.facebook.com/ studio100.mayathebee ENTER www.pakmag.com.au

Perfect for day sleeps or those extra hot summer nights, the Nuzzlin features a knitted (not woven) fabric that offers more comfort than muslin whilst retaining its light and breathable characteristics. Available in three designs and three sizes (4-12 months, 12-18 months and 18-36 months).

ENTER www.pakmag.com.au

20

DECEMBER 2014 www.pakmag.com.au

Babies need to feel the ground they're walking on in order to learn how to walk properly. It's best to invest in a really good pair of first walker shoes, which is why Little Bossy Boots moccasins are the perfect choice.

Colours include Star Dust, Cherry, Sapphire and Honey, plus a NEW range of animal print moccasins (including Cheetah and Zebra print).

All moccasins come packaged in a signature Little Bossy Boots multipurpose tin.

ENTER www.pakmag.com.au

BUMP&BUB

WIN

pakmag

WIN

WIN

CLOSER TO NATURE BOTTLE

BABYMEL BACKPACKS

STORKSAK LUCINDA BAG

RRP $24.99 per set of 3 WEB www.closertonaturebaby.com.au WIN a Closer to Nature Bottle Pack

RRP $34.99 Backpack RRP $29.99 Food Bag WEB www.babymel.com.au WIN a Babymel Backpack and matching Food Bag

RRP $399.99 WEB www.storksak.com.au WIN a Storksak Lucinda Bag

Add a splash of colour into your baby’s world with the new Colour My World bottles from closer to nature®.

The limited edition range makes switching between breast and bottlefeeding easier than ever before and comes in a selection of bright, fun colours for boys or girls.

ENTER www.pakmag.com.au

Babymel delivers contemporary, practical bags for modern parents.

Featuring original prints and multifunctional compartments, their bags are the ideal choice for parents on the move!

This year, Babymel welcomed a new range of playful backpacks – the perfect companion for little explorers!

Made with high quality, wash-clean material inside and out and padded shoulder straps, they’re designed to suit pre-school, child care, sleepovers, holidays, or anywhere out and about.

Storksak Bags are an international phenomenon. The functional, fashion savvy collection is adored by parents worldwide, with some of Hollywood’s hottest stars choosing the Storksak as their preferred accessory.

The Storksak Lucinda Bag is a minimalist tulip shape Tote, made from luxurious textured leather and lined with Storksak’s signature lining. The deceptively minimalist appearance conceals an organised interior and comes in three fabulous colours; sunset orange, black and taupe.

ENTER www.pakmag.com.au

ENTER www.pakmag.com.au

www.pakmag.com.au DECEMBER 2014

21

WHAT'S ON GUIDE

DECEMBER 01 Mon PREP OPEN DAY Aitkenvale State School 4221 2333 9.00am / Free / Kids MONDAY MORNING ART GROUP Pinnacles Gallery, Riverway Arts Centre www.townsville.qld.gov.au/ facilities/galleries/pinnacles 9.00am / Cost / Adult

02 Tue

Family

MACHINES & MONSTERS AFTER SCHOOL ART Denham St and Flinders St, Townsville 4727 9011 3.30pm / Cost / Kids TOWNSVILLE TOY LIBRARY 23 First street, Railway Estate townsvilletoylibrary@hotmail.com 9.30am / Cost / Kids GIGGLES FOR GOD PLAYGROUP Northreach Baptist Church 4723 2371 / 9.30am / Cost / Kids MOUNT LOUISA SCOUT GROUP Mt Louisa House of Praise, Bayswater Rd 0403 862 449 / 6.30pm / Free / Kids ART-BOX: ART ACTIVITIES (Under 5's) Pinnacles Gallery, Riverway Arts Centre www.townsville.qld.gov.au/facilities/ galleries/pinnacles 10.00am / Gold Coin Donation / Kids AFTER SCHOOL ART PROGRAM MONSTERS FROM THE DEEP PT. 1 (Mixed Media) Perc Tucker Regional Gallery www.townsville.qld.gov.au/facilities/ galleries/perctucker 3.30pm / Cost / Kids PERCIVAL'S LIFE DRAWING Perc Tucker Regional Gallery

www.townsville.qld.gov.au/facilities/ galleries/perctucker 6.30pm / Cost / Adult

03 Wed ENDEAVOUR FOUNDATION MOVIE AND LUNCH Burdekin Delta Cinemas 4783 2833 UMBRELLA FILM FUNDRAISER Event Cinemas Townsville www.eventcinemas.com.au/ cinema/townsville-city 5.30pm / Cost / Adults

04 Thu PLAYGROUP 1143 Riverway Drive 4774 0144 9.30am / Cost / Family BREAKDANCING CLASS PCYC Wellington Street 4781 9100 6.00pm / Cost / Family THE NUTCRACKER 41 Boundary St, South Townsville 4727 9797 6.30pm / Cost / Family BELGIAN GARDENS STATE SCHOOL Belgian Gardens State School Hall 4417 1333 10.00am / Cost / Family

05 Fri THE NUTCRACKER 41 Boundary St, South Townsville 4727 9797 6.30pm / Cost / Family THE NOOK, CHILDRENS BOOKCLUB PCYC Upper Ross

pakmag

"MINTY PICKS CAROLS

BY CANDLELIGHT ON SATURDAY 6 AT 5.30PM" 4789 2145 4.00pm / Cost / Kids JUPITERS ROCK N ROLL CHRISTMAS DANCE Jupiters Townsville Hotel and Casino 4722 2333 7.00pm / Cost / Adult FLICK N BOWL MOVIE NIGHTS 16 High Range Drive, Cannon Park 132 695 6.30pm / Cost / Family MENTAL BUFFET (Ends 25th January) Perc Tucker Regional Gallery 4727 9011 10.00am / Free / Adult TOWNSVILLE CROCODILES VS ADELAIDE 36ERS Townsville RSL Stadium 4727 9797 7.30pm / Cost / Family OONOONBA STATE SCHOOL PLAYGROUP Oonoonba State School Hall 4728 5538 9.00am / Cost / Family

06 Sat THE NUTCRACKER 41 Boundary St, South Townsville 4727 9797 6.30PM / Cost / Family CAROLS BY CANDLELIGHT Reid Park, Railway Estate Townsville 1300 878 001 5.30pm / Free / Family THE NUTCRACKER 41 Boundary St, South Townsville 4727 9797 1.00pm / Cost / Family TOWNSVILLE TOY LIBRARY 23 First Street, Railway Estate townsvilletoylibrary@hotmail.com 9.30am / Cost / Kids

TRAMPOLINE CLASSES PCYC Wellington Street 4781 9100 9.00am / Cost / Family JUPITERS GIANT CHRISTMAS PARTY Jupiter's Townsville Hotel and Casino 4722 2333 7.00pm / Cost / Family STRAND NIGHT MARKETS Strand Park, Townsville bookings@ townsvillerotarymarkets.com.au 5.00pm / Free / Family COMMUNITY OPEN DAY Petit Early Learning Burdell Drive, Burdell www.petitjourney.com.au 11.00am / Free / Family TOWNSVILLE CITY COUNCIL CAROLS BY CANDLELIGHT Reid Park, Railway Estate www.townsville.qld.gov.au/community/ events/pages/council.aspx 5.30pm / Free / Family

07 Sun CENT SALE PCYC Wellington Street 4781 9100 / 1.00pm / Cost / Family SANTA' S SEA-TACULAR PHOTOS Castletown Shopping Centre www.castletown.com.au/events/ 9.00am / Cost / Family BUSHLAND BEACH MARKETS Bushland Beach www.facebook.com/ bushlandbeachmarkets 8.00am / Free / Family

08 Mon NEWBORN AND FAMILY DROP IN SERVICE

www.pakmag.com.au DECEMBER 2014

23

pakmag WHAT'S ON GUIDE

DECEMBER

"CHOOKY PICKS VISIT SANTAS WONDERLAND ON FRIDAY 12 AT 10AM"

Aitkenvale Library 1300 878 001 9.00am / Free

Bayswater Rd 0403 862 449 6.30pm / Free / Kids

70-102 Flinders St Townsville 4726 0600 9.30pm / Cost / Family

www.townsville.qld.gov.au/facilities/ galleries/pinnacles 11.00am / Free / Family

YAH (YOUNG, ACTIVE, HEALTHY) PCYC Wellington Street 4781 9100 9.00am / Cost / Kids

AFTER SCHOOL ART PROGRAM MONSTERS FROM THE DEEP PT. 2 (Mixed Media) Perc Tucker Regional Gallery www.townsville.qld.gov.au/facilities/ galleries/perctucker 3.30pm / Cost / Kids

TOWNSVILLE ARTIST MARKETS Pinnacles Gallery, Riverway Arts Centre www.townsville.qld.gov.au/facilities/ galleries/pinnacles 3.30pm / Free / Family

MUMMY FUN DAY Stockland Townsville 4779 6033 10am / Free / Family

PREP OPEN DAY - AITKENVALE STATE SCHOOL Aitkenvale State School 4221 2333 9.00am / Free / Kids MUMMY FUNDAY Stockland Shopping Centre Townsville www.shoppingcentres.stockland. com.au/shopping-centres/stocklandtownsville 10.00am / Free / Family MONDAY MORNING ART GROUP Pinnacles Gallery, Riverway Arts Centre www.townsville.qld.gov.au/facilities/ galleries/pinnacles 9.00am / Cost / Adult

09 Tue TOWNSVILLE TOY LIBRARY 23 First street, Railway Estate townsvilletoylibrary@hotmail.com 9.30am / Cost / Kids MACHINES & MONSTERS - AFTER SCHOOL ART Denham St and Flinders St, Townsville 4727 9011 3.30pm / Cost / Family BABY CAPSULE HIRE 225-227 Hugh Street 3854 1829 / 9.30am / Free / Family

PERCIVAL'S LIFE DRAWING Perc Tucker Regional Gallery www.townsville.qld.gov.au/facilities/ galleries/perctucker 6.30pm / Cost / Adult

12 Fri VISIT SANTAS WONDERLAND Castletown Shopping Centre www.castletown.com.au 10.00am / Free / Family BELGIAN GARDENS SS PLAYGROUP Belgian Gardens State School mdall10@eq.edu.au 10.00am / Cost / Kids

13 Sat EXPERIENCE IT LIVE Riverway Precinct 1300 878 001 3.30pm / Free / Family TINY TOTS TEA PARTY 41 Boundary St, South Townsville 4727 9011 10.00am / Cost / Family

GIGGLES FOR GOD PLAYGROUP Northreach Baptist Church 4723 2333 9.30am / Cost / Family

TOWNSVILLE ARTIST MARKET Riverway Arts Centre pinnacles@townsville.qld.gov.au 12.00pm / Free / Family

MOUNT LOUISA SCOUT GROUP Mt Louisa House of Praise,

CROC COUNTRY HOLIDAY PROGRAM

24

DECEMBER 2014 www.pakmag.com.au

LAUNCH PARTY - LASER COMBAT NQ Sk8way - 72 Hervey Range Road www.lasercombatnq.com.au 5.00pm / Gold Coin Donation / Family

14 Sun SANTAS PHOTO FACTORY Myer Store Townsville 9576 9977 10.00am / Cost / Family BUSHLAND BEACH MARKETS SCHOOLS OUT CHRISTMAS FUN DAY Bushland Beach www.facebook.com/ bushlandbeachmarkets 1.00pm / Free / Family

15 Mon CRAFT GROUP 1143 Riverway Drive 4774 0144 9.30am / Free / Adult SHOP N PLAY Willows shopping Centre pinnacles@townsville.qld.gov.au 11.00am / Free / Kids SANTA'S ART FACTORY: FREE DROP IN ARTS AND CRAFTS ACTIVITY Willows Shopping Centre

16 Tue SHOP N PLAY Willows shopping Centre pinnacles@townsville.qld.gov.au 11.00am / Free / Kids MORNING TEA WITH SANTA Castletown Shopping Centre www.castletown.com.au/events/ 9.00am / Cost / Family TOWNSVILLE TOY LIBRARY 23 First street, Railway Estate townsvilletoylibrary@hotmail.com 9.30am / Cost / Kids ART BOX ACTIVITIES (Under 5's) Denham St and Flinders St, Townsville 4727 9011 10.00am / Free / Kids MOUNT LOUISA SCOUT GROUP Mt Louisa House of Praise, Bayswater Rd 0403 862 449 6.30pm / Free / Kids RESTORATIVE YOGA RELAX BEFORE CHRISTMAS St Matthews Hall, 6 Carmody St, Mundingburra theyogaandfitnessstudio@gmail.com 6.00pm / Cost / Adult ART-BOX - ART ACTIVITIES (Under 5's) Perc Tucker Regional Gallery www.townsville.qld.gov.au/facilities/ galleries/perctucker 10.00am / Gold Coin Donation / Kids

IN CINEMAS JANUARY 1 NEW YEAR'S DAY IN 3D

WIN ONE OF 2X PACKS & ONE OF 12X FAMILY PASSES

TSV

NAME___________________________ AGE______________ PARENT/GUARDIAN_______________________________

TO ENTER COLOUR IN & MAIL TO: PAKMAG, COLOUR IN DECEMBER 2014 PO BOX 7433, CAIRNS QLD 4870 YOU COULD WIN ONE OF 2X PACKS & ONE OF 12X FAMILY PASSES (COMP CLOSES 5/1/15)

ADDRESS_________________________________________ PHONE___________________________________________ EMAIL____________________________________________

HIDDEN OBJECTS

WIN ONE OF 3X PACKS & ONE OF 13X FAMILY PASSES

©2014 DISNEY

CAN YOU HELP BAYMAX LOCATE THE SEVEN MISSING MICROBOTS THAT ARE HIDDEN IN THE CITY OF SAN FRANSOKYO?

FROM THE CREATORS OF WRECK-IT RALPH & FROZEN

IN CINEMAS BOXING DAY TSV

NAME___________________________ AGE______________ PARENT/GUARDIAN_______________________________

TO ENTER HIDDEN OBJECTS & MAIL TO: PAKMAG, HIDDEN OBJECTS DECEMBER 2014 PO BOX 7433, CAIRNS QLD 4870 YOU COULD WIN ONE OF 3X PACKS & ONE OF 13X FAMILY PASSES (COMP CLOSES 5/1/15)

ADDRESS_________________________________________ PHONE___________________________________________ EMAIL____________________________________________

DISCOVER THE HIEROGLYPHIC MESSAGE

YOUR ANSWER CAN YOU DECIPHER THE ANCIENT MESSAGE? In the new movie, Night at the Museum: Secret of the Tomb, there is an ancient tablet that possesses great powers. There is a race against time to uncover the mystery nehind the malfunction of the golden tablet. On its fave there is a cryptical message in an unusual language. Using the key, can you work out what is written on the mystical object?

Write your answer in the space provided.

You could even use this key to write secret messages to your friends.

WIN ONE OF 2X PACKS & ONE OF 12X FAMILY PASSES

IN CINEMAS BOXING DAY NIGHT AT THE MUSEUMTM. SECRET OF THE TOMB © 2014 Twentieth Century Fox Film Corporation. All rights reserved.

TSV

NAME___________________________ AGE______________ PARENT/GUARDIAN_______________________________

TO ENTER HIEROGLYPHIC MESSAGE & MAIL TO: PAKMAG, HIEROGLYPHIC MESSAGE DECEMBER 2014 PO BOX 7433, CAIRNS QLD 4870 YOU COULD WIN ONE OF 2X PACKS & ONE OF 12X FAMILY PASSES (COMP CLOSES 5/1/15)

ADDRESS_________________________________________ PHONE___________________________________________ EMAIL____________________________________________

www.pakmag.com.au DECEMBER 2014

29

pakmag WHAT'S ON GUIDE

DECEMBER

EMAIL EVENTS TO ADMIN@PAKMAG.COM.AU

SANTA'S ART FACTORY - FREE DROP IN ARTS AND CRAFTS ACTIVITY Willows Shopping Centre www.townsville.qld.gov.au/facilities/ galleries/pinnacles 11.00am / Free / Family

www.townsville.qld.gov.au/facilities/ galleries/perctucker 11.00am / Free / Family

PERCIVAL'S LIFE DRAWING Perc Tucker Regional Gallery www.townsville.qld.gov.au/facilities/ galleries/perctucker 6.30pm / Cost / Adult

SHOP N PLAY Townsville Bulletin Square 4727 9011 11.00am / Free / Kids

17 Wed SHOP N PLAY Willows shopping Centre pinnacles@townsville.qld.gov.au 11.00am / Free / Kids AUSTRALIAN BREAST FEEDING MEETINGS IMPS Building, Kirwan 0409 062 087 9.15am / Free / Adult SANTA'S ART FACTORY: FREE DROP IN ARTS AND CRAFTS ACTIVITY Willows Shopping Centre www.townsville.qld.gov.au/facilities/ galleries/pinnacles 11.00am / Free / Family

18 Thu STABLE ON THE STRAND Strand Park, Townsville 4774 4542 5.30pm / Free / Adult SHOP N PLAY Townsville Bulletin Square 4727 9011 11.00am / Free / Kids SANTA'S ART FACTORY: FREE DROP IN ARTS AND CRAFTS ACTIVITY Townsville Bulletin Square

30

19 Fri CHRISTMAS WITH ABBA LIVE 719 Flinders St Townsville 4724 7800 6.00pm / Cost / Family ULTIMATE CHRISTMAS PARTY The Townsville Brewery sales@townsvillebrewery.com.au 6.00pm / Cost / Family SANTA'S ART FACTORY: FREE DROP IN ARTS AND CRAFTS ACTIVITY Townsville Bulletin Square www.townsville.qld.gov.au/facilities/ galleries/perctucker 11.00am / Free / Family CHRISTMAS PAKCLUB Sita Retreat Park North Shore www.pakmag.com.au 5.30-9.30pm / Family

20 Sat SHOP N PLAY Townsville Bulletin Square 4727 9011 11.00am / Free UNLIMITED AFTER -SCHOOL BOWLING 16 High Range Drive, Cannon Park 132 695 3.30pm / Cost / Family COUPLES BIRTHING WORKSHOP (PRE-REGISTRATION REQUIRED) Oonoonba Community Centre, 2

DECEMBER 2014 www.pakmag.com.au

Shannon St, Oonoonba www.theyogaandfitnessstudio.com.au/ couples-birthing-workshops.php 9.30am / Cost / Adult SANTA'S ART FACTORY FREE DROP IN ARTS AND CRAFTS Activity Townsville Bulletin Square www.townsville.qld.gov.au/facilities/ galleries/perctucker 11.00am / Free / Family

21 Sun WILLOWS ROTARY MARKETS Willows Shopping Centre Carpark www.townsvillerotarymarkets.com.au 7.30am / Free / Family FAMILY FUN DAY - FREE ARTS AND CRAFTS ACTIVITIES FOR THE WHOLE FAMILY Perc Tucker Regional Gallery www.townsville.qld.gov.au/facilities/ galleries/perctucker 9.00am / Free / Family COTTERS MARKET HANDMADE ARTS AND CRAFTS PRECINCT Perc Tucker Regional Gallery www.townsville.qld.gov.au/facilities/ galleries/perctucker 8.30am / Free / Family

22 Mon MONDAY MORNING ART GROUP Pinnacles Gallery, Riverway Arts Centre www.townsville.qld.gov.au/facilities/ galleries/pinnacles 9.00am / Cost / Adult

23 Tue MOUNT LOUISA SCOUT GROUP Mt Louisa House of Praise, Bayswater Rd

0403 862 449 6.30pm / Free / Kids

25 Thu JUPITER'S CHRISTMAS LUNCH IN THE GRAND BALLROOM Jupiter's Townsville Hotel and Casino 4722 2333 12.00pm / Cost / Adult CHRISTMAS DAY IN AQUA Jupiter's Townsville Hotel and Casino 4722 2333 6.00am / Cost / Family

30 Tue MOUNT LOUISA SCOUT GROUP Mt Louisa House of Praise, Bayswater Rd 0403 862 449 6.30pm / Free / Kids

31 Wed JUPITER'S NEW YEARS EVE BALL Jupiter's Townsville Hotel and Casino 4722 2333 8.00pm / Cost / Family NEW YEARS EVE PICTURES IN THE PARK 90 The Strand, Townsville 1300 878 001 / 7.00pm / Free NEW YEARS EVE AT THE CIVIC 41 Boundary St, South Townsville 4727 9011 8.00pm / Cost TOWNSVILLE CROCODILES VS SYDNEY KINGS Townsville RSL Stadium 4727 9797 7.30pm / Cost / Family

ENTERTAINMENT

pakmag

CAROLS BY CANDLELIGHT DATE December 6 from 5:30-9pm LOCATION Reid Park Celebrate the Christmas spirit with the 2014 Carols by Candlelight under the big top, the evening will kick off with pre-show entertainment from 5:30pm showcasing some of Townsville’s local dance schools and up-and-coming soloists. The main show will commence at 6:45pm.

Santa Claus will also pop in for a special visit and some of the finest musical talent in the region will be performing. With free entertainment, safe-flame candles, amusement rides for the kids and a brand new food court layout with much more food and beverage stalls, the night is sure to be one to remember! ©Disney. All Rights Reserved.

WEB www.disneylive.com.au FACEBOOK www.facebook.com/DisneyLiveAustralia The magical, timeless fairy-tale adventures of Cinderella, Beauty and the Beast and Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs will be performed live on stage when Disney Live! presents Three Classic Fairy Tales comes to Townsville on January 24 and 25 at the Townsville Entertainment and Convention Centre.

It is only the second time Disney Live! has visited northern Queensland as part of a national tour. This spectacular live show stars Cinderella, Snow White and Belle, along with their handsome Princes and an all-star cast including Mickey Mouse, Minnie Mouse, Donald Duck and Goofy.

Audiences will be enchanted as some of their favourite Disney characters come to life in this heart-warming and magical show full of spellbinding stories. The dynamic storytelling, award winning music, stunning costumes and glittering special effects captivates from beginning to end. Children can dream with the princesses, cheer for the heroes, and marvel as these classic tales are brought to life in a theatrical experience that’s pure magic and sure to get them up on their feet singing, dancing and clapping along!

Tickets are now on sale and can be purchased at www.tecc.net.au PakMag has three family passes to the show on Saturday Jan 24 at 4pm (four ‘A Reserve’ tickets valued at $155). To enter visit www.pakmag.com.au

STABLE ON THE STRAND WEB www.stableonthestrand.com DATE December 18th - 22nd 2014 TIME 5:30pm - 9:30pm LOCATION Strand Park / Free Now in its thirteenth year, the tradition of Townsville’s Christmas Festival, Stable on the Strand is one of Australia’s most spectacular Christmas events delighting crowds over five nights.

This year highlights will include the Town of Bethlehem, where the story of the birth of Jesus is told using live actors. The wise men, shepherds, Roman Soldiers, King Herod, and of course Mary, Joseph and baby Jesus will all play their part. Children will have the opportunity to pat camels, chickens, goats, sheep and donkeys which means many memory-making photos! There will also be a huge carousel on site and loads of other great entertainment for the whole family.

www.pakmag.com.au DECEMBER 2014

33

WIN PRIZES

pakmag

01.

Win 02.

04.

03.

05.

06.

01. BEER DAYS CHRISTMAS BEER BOX (www.beerdays.com.au) (RRP $69.95) 02. POSTER CANDY (www.postercandy.com.au) (RRP $15.00 - $99.00) 03. VS SASSOON I-PRO INTENSIVE CUTTING PERFORMANCE (signed by Tatafu Polota-Nau) (www.vssassoon.com.au (RRP $132.95) 04. POWERALL PORTABLE POWER BANK (www.thepowerall.com) (RRP $179.99) 05. MOTHER'S HEART NECKLACE SET (www.bellefever.com.au) (RRP $ 119.00) 06. BRITE LIGHTNING PACK (www.lighteningcleans.com.au) (RRP $25.00)

www.pakmag.com.au DECEMBER 2014

35

pakmag CHRISTMAS CRAFT

A Very Vintage Christmas

BY

FOLLOW IMAGES & INSTRUCTIONS TO MAKE THESE THREE CRAFTS! 36

1 2 3

DECEMBER 2014 www.pakmag.com.au

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CHRISTMAS CRAFT

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1. STRING BAUBLE

2. PAPER GARLAND

3. SNOW GLOBE

Christmas trees which were once decorated with fruit and candles have evolved to become styled centrepieces for our home throughout December. The Christmas bauble often takes centre stage in various colours, patterns and sizes. Starting with a simple foam ball, why not make your own?

Use last year’s Christmas cards or invest in some traditional or modern patterned light card to match your current Christmas décor. Paper garlands are simple to make and get kids of all ages involved in Christmas craft. Use them to decorate your tree, wall or Christmas table.

The magic of a snow globe has been creating wonderment for children as far back as the 19th century: a miniature world within a winter wonderland. Create your own snow globe this Christmas.

YOU WILL NEED:

A Jar Distilled Water Glycerine Glitter Waterproof Glue (hot glue / super glue) A Plastic or Ceramic Ornament

YOU WILL NEED: Foam Ball String Ribbon Lace, or a Decorative Braid Beads Pearl Head Dress Pins Craft Glue

TO MAKE: Begin by cutting a length of ribbon to become the hanging loop of your bauble. Glue the ribbon into a bead and then the bead onto the top of your foam ball. For added strength, place a dress pin through the ribbon and bead and into the foam bauble.

Using the edge of the bead at the top of your bauble as a starting point, glue and wrap your string in a spiral pattern around the bauble. Glue as you go, as it can become a sticky process.

To add a vintage touch, finish your bauble with a lace trim or decorative braid around your bauble.

HINT: Consider using a thicker string to create a different look and easier application.

Light Card (scrapbooking paper is a good thickness and is often double sided for a variety of prints and colours) Hole punch or awl Scissors (scissors with a patterned blade for an interesting edge) String Beads, optional Pencil Round object to trace around

TO MAKE: From your selected card, draw multiple circles by tracing around your round object. Cut out your circles.

Using the hole punch or awl, cut a hole in the centre of each of your cut circles. Thread your string through each of the holes in your paper circle to form your garland. Consider adding a bead in-between the paper circles to help space them out evenly.

HINT: If involving kids in the threading

process, consider taping a piece of sticking tape around the end of the string to make threading easier, or invest in a large plastic craft needle in which the string can be threaded through first.

YOU WILL NEED:

TO MAKE: Before beginning to assemble your snow globe ensure that your chosen ornament fits in your jar when the lid it attached. Separate the jar and lid.

On the inside of the jar lid arrange and glue your ornament into place. Allow glue to set and dry.

Inside your jar, add about 1 teaspoon of glitter. Fill the jar will distilled water and add a ‘dash’ of glycerine. Adding Glycerine is not absolutely necessary, however, it helps to thicken the water and slows the movement of the glitter through the water, making it ‘snow’ for longer within your snow globe. Gently stir the glitter, water and glycerine mixture together.

Over a sink, top your jar with distilled water so that it is almost overflowing.

By filling your jar to the top with water the presence of air bubbles in the mix will be reduced. Gently screw the lid with the attached ornament back into the jar. Screw the lid on tightly. Stand your snow globe on the lid of the jar and watch your winter wonderland come to life.

www.pakmag.com.au DECEMBER 2014

37

School's Out Guide Who can believe the school holidays are upon us again? We are so lucky to live in Townsville with an abundance of fantastic facilities and offers available! Why not take advantage of some of these local “Boredom Busters”.

SK8WAY Tots On Skates will be held every Tuesday and Thursday from 9-10am.

Sessions are for skaters six years and under (plus parents). Cost: Free (admission/skatehire). Please note sessions will not be held on Christmas Day or New Years Day. Cheaper Tuesdays will be held every Tuesday from 6.30-8.30pm. Skate along to music from the 70’s and 80’s.

Cost: Admission $6.00 Skate Hire $4.00. No free tickets or vouchers are accepted at this session.

Holiday skating sessions will also be held Monday-Friday from 10am-12pm.

Cost: Normal admission/skate hire fees apply. Visit www.sk8way.com.au or visit their facebook page for more information.

DEERAGUN ART FEST A Christmas Holiday Art Festival will be held in partnership with the North Townsville Community Hub between December 16 and December 18.

On December 16 Mixed Media UBP Artwork, Skins and Mad Mosaics and Tiling It up Workshops will be held. On December 17 it’s all about Recycled and Christmas Totems and working on a mobile graffiti wall.

On December 18 Grouting and Paint Play, Christmas Art and Trying Tie Dying workshops will be held. Cost: Free. For more information contact Sandra on 0414 647 709 or email recre8tiv@gmail.com.

KALYNDA CHASE A Summer holiday intensive training program will be held at Kalynda Chase between December 15 - December 19 and January 12 - January 16. ·

·

·

3-5 years, Launch Pad and Red Racquets, 4.30pm to 5pm, $45 (Individual session $15 each) 5-8 years, Red Rockets and Super Red, 4pm to 5pm, $45 (Individual session $15 each) 8-10 years, Orange Ball, 5pm to 6pm, $45

·

·

(Individual session $15 each) 9+ years, Green Ball, 5pm to 6pm, $45 (Individual session $15 each) Squad Players, Yellow Ball, 6pm to 7.30pm, $75 (Individual session $22.50)

Enter as your favourite player or super hero and come along dressed to play the part at the Tennis Blast Hot Shots Australian Open. · Red Ball January 20 to January 21 4.30pm-5.30pm · Orange Ball January 20 to January 21 4.30pm-6.00pm · Green Ball January 22 to January 23 4.30pm-6.30pm · Yellow Ball January 22 to January 23 4.30pm-6.30pm Cost: $30 (for 2 day tournament).

Contact Kalynda Chase via email kalyndachasetennis@outlook.com or call 0457 041 074 for more information.

CASTLETOWN SHOPPINGWORLD Santa photos are available from Santa’s Sea-tacular Island Wonderland at the Target Forecourt to December 24. Children can also post their letters to Santa in the forecourt until December 24.

Castletown is also running a competition to “Win a date with Santa” on Christmas Eve at your house.

Download your colouring entry form from www.castletown.com.au.

From January 5 to January 11 children can take part in a Bob’s Build it Bricks activity from 11.00am to 2.00pm daily.

Cost: Free.

A Loom Band Craze program will be held at the Target Forecourt on January 12 to January 18 from 11.00am to 2.00pm daily. Cost: Free.

Children can take part in a Hat Decorating Workshop from January 19 to January 25 between 11.00am to 2.00pm. Cost: Free.

JOIN IN OUR BRAND NEW SCHOOL HOLIDAY CHALLENGE & YOU COULD WIN THANKS TO OVERFLOW! WWW.PAKMAG.COM.AU/ CHALLENGE

MUSEUM OF TROPICAL QUEENSLAND Head along to the Museum for serious fun and discover more about things that bite and sting. Meet live dangerous snakes, insects and spiders, see Ranger Dan’s new snake pit and become a Croc Crusader. The Croc Country holiday program runs from December 13 to January 26.

For more information visit: www.mtq. qm.qld.gov.au.

SUNFISH NQ Up for a spot of fishing? Sunfish NQ are holding kids fishing clinics for children aged 8-16 on January 11 and January 18. Cost: $20. Bookings are essential. Call 0404 068 396 for more information.

LASER COMBAT NQ Townsville’s newest party experience will arrive with a bang in December and just in time for the holiday season.

Join in the fun of Laser NQ’s PreLaunch on December 12 at Melville’s or the Official Launch Party on Saturday December 13 at Sk8way.

The Launch Party will include unlimited Laser Combat, jumping castle, roller skating and face painting, with food and drinks available to purchase.

Entry is by gold coin donation with all proceeds going to The Cure Starts Now. For more information visit www.lasercombatnq.com.au www.pakmag.com.au DECEMBER 2014

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01. PENDANT (Lightly) (RRP $292)

02. REPLICA TOM DIXON ETCH WEB PENDANT (Zanui) ($349)

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TILES 01. ALTO NERO SEALED POLISHED PORCELAIN (Beaumont Tiles) 02. THREE D WHITE (Beaumont Tiles) 03. CARRARA BIANCO HEXAGON MOSAIC (Beaumont Tiles) 04. CONCRETE FUSE LAPPATO RECTIFIED (Beaumont Tiles) 05. ALTO NERO POLISHED PORCELAIN (Beaumont Tiles) FLOORING 01. MPT 2015 (Mafi) 02. MPT 2008 (Mafi) 03.

MPT 2010 (Mafi) 04. CARVING KIDS II (Mafi) 40

DECEMBER 2014 www.pakmag.com.au

06. OVEN (Limport Appliances) (RRP $3081)

05. TAP (Methven) (RRP $199.95)

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HOME

BUILDING a Building a new home is probably one of the most exciting and monumental life events a family can experience - besides the arrival of children! Creating a home that has never been lived in before, personalised to the needs of your family is a dream for many. But it can also be extremely daunting and stressful, as many people who have built a home will tell. We’ve compiled some handy tips to consider BEFORE you embark on your dream build.

STORY Carly Hammersley

BEFORE YOU START Do some groundwork. What do you want out of your new home and its surroundings? Think about what makes it onto the ‘must have’ list versus the ‘like to haves’ and the ‘luxuries’ list. This is where your budget will come into play. Things you should consider when deciding on a piece of land include: LOCATION - the distance to work, shops,public transportation, schools and child care, hospitals, libraries, green spaces and recreational facilities all need to be considered.

DESIGN - think about the design of your new home. What style will it be? Size, number of bedrooms, whether you need home office space, how much privacy is required (and where) and will it be flexible for what you require of your home now and in the future.

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NOW THE FUN (AND OFTEN OVERWHELMING) PART!

organisation and is an indicator of their professionalism.

Now you are ready to see what’s available in home designs. As you drive around visiting display homes and sales centres, it’s a good idea to take notes. That way it is much easier to make comparisons later.

COMMUNICATION

The key to successful home hunting is to take your time. Take a thorough look at everything and ask a lot of questions. The builder or salesperson should be ready and pleased to answer each question. Sales centres will often have information packages available for home designs, or if looking at land estates, consider the development and the community, including proximity to schools and other facilities. Keep in mind that a builder’s display home is usually just one of several designs offered by the company.

HOUSE AND LAND OR CUSTOM DESIGN? Depending on your budget, you may wish to consider a house and land package. This is generally a more affordable option than commissioning an architect or building designer to custom design a home for you. Today, project home builders offer a myriad of house design options and many can customise their basic plans to suit your family, lifestyle or your block of land.

When visiting display homes, be sure to ask if the features are standard or upgrades (extra cost) and consider whether the design will work with your block (if you already have one). If you don’t already have land, the builder may be able to assist you in finding one suited to the design you like.

DEVELOPMENT REQUIREMENTS - are there any covenants or planning restrictions on the land? Changing land usage or seeking council approval for planning relaxations can cost precious time and money.

if you choose to engage a building designer or architect to design your home, they are often also able to offer a project management service and can act as a ‘go-between’ with your builder. This can help ensure a smooth and successful build.

FINANCING - consider how much you have available for your deposit, the monthly mortgage repayments you are comfortable with and your other financial obligations and needs.

Regardless of which option you choose, check if your builder is a member of the Housing Industry Association. The HIA is Australia’s largest residential building

Communication is key to a successful and smooth building process. Stay in touch with your builder throughout the process to discuss any issues or queries you may have, while also keeping in mind that they require the room and space to manage the construction and during the build, they are in control of the building site - not you. Wherever possible, try to only communicate with your builder - not their contractors or tradespeople. This will prevent any unnecessary confusion.

MOVING IN You can’t move into your new home until the builder has formally advised you of ‘practical completion’ - where the home is completed for habitation in accordance with the building contract and relevant statutory requirements.

At this stage, you will need to inspect the property with your builder prior to handover and ensure you are happy with the home.

DEFECTS LIABILITY PERIOD This is the specific period of time after you have taken possession of your new home where your builder is required to rectify any faults or issues that may occur. This is usually around six months after the date of completion.

You must notify your builder in writing of any defects during this time.

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03. ROOMBA IROBOT 780 ROBOTIC VACUUM CLEANER (Harvey Norman) (RRP $1198)

05. AUSSIE VAC KITS (RRP From $800)

08. REPLICA HERR MANDEL WOOD LAMP FRAME PENDANT LAMP (Zanui) (RRP $389.00)

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04. GRO-WALL VERTICAL GARDEN (Gro-wall) www.pakmag.com.au DECEMBER 2014

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PARENTING

pakmag

GIVING FOR CHRISTMAS

THE REAL SPIRIT of Christmas Christmas is a time of celebration, family and giving. Christmas is also a time to spare a thought for the less fortunate who may not have the means to provide their families with the ‘picture perfect’ Christmas we dream about.

STORY PakMag work experience student Jasmin Hayes

DEAR......

FROM....

M

any parents strive to give their children the best Christmas possible, but it can be at the detriment to the real spirit of Christmas. Think about it, how many times have you given your children a Christmas gift only to find they stop using it within a week?

Giving back is easy and many parents will be surprised at the kick their children get from helping others. So, if you're in need of a few ideas on how to give back to your community this Christmas season, look no further.

You can get the whole family involved, even the kids!

THE KMART WISHING TREE: For 26 years, Kmart together with The Salvation Army has been working to help make Christmas brighter for thousands of families in need with the Kmart Wishing Tree Appeal. To participate in the Appeal simply take a gift tag from the tree and specify the age and gender of a suitable recipient, place it with your gift (wrapped or unwrapped) under the Wishing Tree located in any Kmart store or at the Express Gift Drop point located at the front of the store. Gifts do not need to be purchased from Kmart, they can be purchased from any retailer or handmade.

THE TOWNSVILLE HOSPITAL FOUNDATION: In the Christmas spirit, 106.3FM and Zinc 100.7 are currently promoting their

generous "Toys for Tickets" community campaign, asking Townsville listeners to donate new unwrapped toys in exchange for a double movie pass to Reading Cinemas. People can leave their donated toys at either Radio reception on Martinez Avenue at the Lakes, or at Harvey Norman at Domain Central. For more information visit: www.thfoundation.org.au.

Members of the public are also very welcome to donate gifts directly to Townsville Base Hospital.

Whilst every donation is wonderful, the hospital does ask that gifts are able to be wiped over, due to health and safety. Gifts can be left at the entrance desk on the ground floor.

THE TOWNSVILLE MAYOR'S CHRISTMAS TREE APPEAL: The Townsville Mayor's Christmas Tree Appeal aims to raise money, food and gifts for members of the Townsville public who cannot afford to give their families a Christmas dinner or even a simple gift. The appeal calls on people who are fortunate enough to celebrate Christmas with their families to make a pledge to give up a little luxury and donate the value to the Appeal. From giving up your daily coffee, to taking your bike and donating your fuel money – every dollar counts!

www.pakmag.com.au DECEMBER 2014

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BIZ INDEX

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BUSINESS

STORY Andrew Griffiths

Andrew Griffiths lists the second half of hisTop 10 things to consider before starting your business! If you missed the top five - check out the part one of Andrew’s article at www. pakmag.com.au in our November edition!

MAKE SURE YOU ARE GOING TO BE CHARGING ENOUGH: One of the biggest mistakes that new businesses make is not charging enough. They look at being the cheapest as their marketing strategy to attract new customers. The problem is that it is very hard to put your prices up once you develop a reputation for being cheap. It is far better to sell on quality not price. Do your sums, ensure that your prices will enable you to make a good profit.

WORK OUT HOW YOU ARE GOING TO GET CUSTOMERS: Sadly too many businesses invest a fortune in their new business, set everything up, fit out the premises, build the website, stock it and staff it - and then open the doors, expecting hoards of customers to come barging in.

This never happens. You need to have a very good plan (developed well ahead of time) that clearly identifies how you will attract customers. This is considered a Marketing Plan and smart businesses invest in this before they spend a cent on anything else.

GET YOUR ADVISORS IN PLACES: Source your advisors early and get them involved in the set up of the business. Ensure you have a great accountant (ask other business owners for referrals), a great lawyer (especially if you are leasing a premises), a great marketing advisor to help develop your Marketing Plan ahead of time and possibly a few other advisors like a graphic designer, website developer, IT consultant etc. It does depend on the type of business you are planning to open. Invest in getting the right advice before you start your business and your chances of success will be dramatically increased.

MAKE SURE YOU HAVE YOUR INSURANCE IN PLACE: Just as there are statutory rules and regulations that need to be adhered to, your insurance needs to be firmly in place before you open your doors. If it isn’t, you run a very real risk of being sued. As a minimum you will need Public Liability insurance - which protects you from people being injured on your premises.

This is pretty simply to organise from anyone who offers business insurance, but there are other, more specialised types of insurance covering businesses for everything from fire and theft to income protection for the business owner. Find a great insurance broker, specifically one that deals with businesses and get advice. Once again, talk to other business owners for their opinions on what is needed and what is not.

LOOK FOR A MENTOR: Having someone who you can talk to and ask for business advice in the form of a mentor is very advantageous to help avoid making all of the common start up mistakes. A mentor is normally someone older, who has “been there and done that”, who is able to give their time freely, and who has been successful. Having a good mentor to offer advice in the early set up stages of a business would be very wise.

WEB www.andrewgriffiths.com.au BOOK Australia’s #1 small business & entrepreneurial author with 12 books sold in over 60 countries.

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Want to keep up With the latest neWs on facebook?

TOP EVENTS DEC CHAMBER OF COMMERCE DATE 11th December 2014 TIME 8.00am VENUE Flinders Square INFO Visit www. townsvillechamber.com.au

BUSINESS DECEMBER

WHAT TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING!

pakmag

THE DEPARTMENT OF STATE DEVELOPMENT, INFRASTRUCTURE AND PLANNING ½ Day workshop on tendering for government business in Townsville DATE 4th December 2014 TIME 8.00am VENUE Building Level 4, 445 Flinders Street,Townsville INFO Visit www.tbdc.com.au

KEYSTONE EXECUTIVE COACHING Masterclass in InfluencingBehaviour DATE 6th December 2014 TIME 1.00pm VENUE Townsville Business Development Centre INFO Visit www.tbdc.com.au

join our community

www.facebook.com/pakmagtownsville www.pakmag.com.au DECEMBER 2014

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SNAPPED

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SNAPPED! 03

04 PHOTOS THANKS TO CHEEKY MONKEY PHOTOGRAPHY

Email photos, name/s & locations: photos@pakmag.com.au (Deadline for photos 15 DEC for the JAN 2015 Edition of Pakmag)

01

02

05 01. RIVER - Baby’s Day Out 02. MITCHELL, SETH AND HUNTER - Halloween PakClub 03. ILAH - Halloween PakClub 04. LIAM - Halloween PakClub 05. JOE AND LIZZY - Baby’s Day Out

www.pakmag.com.au DECEMBER 2014

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pakmag RECIPE

RECIPE CHRISTMAS COOKIES

PEPPERMINT FUDGE

FRUIT CAKES

SUGAR COOKIE DOUGH

250g Nestle Dark Chocolate Melts 250g Nestle Milk Chocolate Melts 1 Can Condensed Milk 1 Tablespoon Butter 2 Peppermint Crisp Bars, crushed

1kg Mixed Dried Fruit 620g Milk (white, coffee, chocolate, soy or almond milk) 280g SR Flour (or Gluten Free SR)

METHOD

METHOD

01. Add chocolate, condensed milk and butter into saucepan and melt on low heat until it becomes smooth, continuously mixing. Remove from heat. 02. Add the crushed Peppermint Crisp Bars. Stir in quickly. 03. Pour into a lined lamington tray, leave to cool.

Then place into refrigerator to set. 04.

Once set remoe from fridge and cut into small bite-sized pieces.

01. Soak the fruit in milk for 4-6 hours.

02. Preheat oven to 150 degrees.

03. Line 25cm cake tin with baking paper or lay out silicone cups on a baking tray. 04. Put mixed fruit mixture and flour into mix master and combine on low speed for 1-2 minutes. 05. Bake for 1 hour 10 minutes for large cake or 30-35 minutes for muffin sized (or until skewer comes out clean).

125g Butter 200g Caster Sugar 300g Plain Flour, Sifted 1 Egg 1 Teaspoon Vanilla Essence Pinch Salt 1/4 Teaspoon Baking Powder Coloured Cachous

METHOD 01. Preheat oven 180 degrees. 02. Add butter and sugar to mix master and mix for 2-3 minutes or until light and fluffy. 03.

Add rest of remaining ingredients, mix for another 1-2 minutes or until mixture comes together. 04. Tip out onto cling wrap, wrap and place in refrigerator for 1 hour. 05. Take dough from fridge and roll out onto a floured board with a rolling pin to approximately 5mm thickness. Cut shapes and place onto a lined tray with baking paper ready to bake. Cookies can be decorated with coloured cachou balls or left plain. 06.

Bake for 6 to 10 mintues (depending on the size of the cookie cutter). Remove from the oven when they are just starting to colour, cool on a rack.

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DECEMBER 2014 www.pakmag.com.au

TIP: Work very quickly as soon as it stops mixing pour straight into tray before it starts to thicken, if it thickens it's harder to work with. If you get called away and it's too thick to pour reheat slightly to bring it back.

www.trendyliltreats.com.au

www.pakmag.com.au DECEMBER 2014

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