Casey Cardinia Kids - Autumn 2024

AUTUMN 2023 2024

Slide into Silo Park

A NEW PLACE TO PLAY

AFLW star MP reveals Renee Garing

PATH TO talks FOOTY PARENTHOOD AND FAMILY Steve Biddhulph

hot onPiping raising dynamic duo kids MISSTA MUMS

www.CaseyCardiniaKids.com.au

AUTUMN 2024 1

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2 AUTUMN 2024

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About Us

You better be-leaf it’s autumn!

IT’S hard to think of autumn without immediately leaping to memories of fallen leaves, but there’s so much more to the season.

Yes, watching your kids throw armfuls of golden leaves into the air is one of life’s great joys.

And yes, the rustling sounds and squeals of delight as they plunge giddily into a pile of fallen foliage make your heart soar. And there are so many opportunities for beautiful family photos against a naturally stunning and ever-evolving backdrop.

But aside from the leaves, autumn provides a chance to step outside with relative ease compared to tackling the heat of summer.

You can check out those new local playgrounds without risking burns from that metal slide or black plastic swing; venture to a virtually deserted beach, river, or lake to enjoy some softer sunshine and a paddle without the jostling of summer demand; or step into the kitchen with the kids without worrying that switching on the oven will turn your house into a furnace.

And then there’s Easter! Autumn really is brimming with potential and fun.

Casey Cardinia Kids magazine is a Star News Group publication.

There really is so much to take away from this edition.

We’d love to hear your thoughts, any stories you’d like to share, and what you get up to this season.

Find us on Instagram or Facebook and share your autumn adventures including plenty of gorgeous photos of your little ones enjoying those ubiquitous leaves.

Of course, your autumn wouldn’t be complete without reading the heartfelt, funny, and insightful stories our interviewees and contributors have been kind enough to share.

Casey Cardinia Kids will be published quarterly prior to each of the school holidays.

Casey Cardinia Kids Cnr Princes Hwy and Army Road, Pakenham, 3810 PO Box 9, Pakenham, Victoria 3810 Phone: 5945 0666 Fax: 5945 0777 Editorial Melissa Meehan melissa.meehan @starnewsgroup.com.au Casey Neill casey.neill@starnewsgroup.com.au Photography Rob Carew Group Advertising Sales Manager

CONTENTS

Mandy Clark mandy.clark@starnewsgroup.com.au Phone: 5945 0608

IT’S YOUR LIFE

Egg donation drive

Slide into Clyde North’s new Silo Park for a play

PAGE 20 Peanut allergy hope

Billy Lidz shares autumn outfits for kids of all ages

PAGES 6-7

PAGE 21

PAGES 30-31

Kids in the Kitchen: Sweet pea and mint pesto pasta

ACTIVE KIDS

BORN TO PERFORM

PAGE 8

Ready Steady Go Kids: Go gives a start in sport

Dance Legacy: Fostering a love of dance

PAGE 22

PAGE 32

Hub for free mental health help

EDUCATION

Find more at Cathy-Lea Studios in 2024

PAGE 9

Trick Shot Trevor: Son inspires mum’s new book

Support for new parents PAGE 9

Steve Biddulph: The story of Grace’s new bike PAGE 10

Published by Star News Group Pty Ltd

FASHION

PAGE 23 Keeping all ages safe online

ACN 005 848 108.

Publisher/Managing Director, Paul Thomas.

All material is copyright to Star News Group Pty Ltd. All significant errors will be corrected as soon as possible.

AUTUMN 2023 2024

PAGE 32

Slide into Silo Park

A NEW PLACE TO PLAY

Dance On Academy: Dance to smile, inspire and achieve PAGE 33

Penny Moodie on parenting with OCD

PAGE 24

Opening Night Supplies: A thank you to the community

PAGE 11

St Therese’s: Committed to the whole

PAGE 33

‘We couldn’t cry hard enough’

PAGE 25

PAGES 12-13

Brentwood Park Neighbourhood House: Open for the community

Cardinia Lakes Shopping Centre: Shop local

Steve Biddhulph hot onPiping raising dynamic duo

kids MISSTA MISST MIS STA MUMS

Paint a Pot: Pottery painting and pizza www.CaseyCardiniaKids.com.au

PAGE 34

PAGE 14

Closing the digital divide

Berry Street: Become a foster carer

PAGE 26

Sk8 House: Book your skating party today

PAGE 14

Embracing nature through bush kinder

PAGE 34

Missta Mums spill the tea on motherhood and business

PAGE 27

REALITY BITES

PAGE 15

St Clare’s: Faith leads to courage, wisdom, and compassion

Mum talks mental health support

PAGE 27

PAGE 17

KU Kooweerup Kindergarten: New KWR kinder opens its doors

AUTUMN 2024 1

Cover Sadie makes the most of the autumn leaves with mum Amy and little brother Asher.

Picture: Rob Carew

AFLW star Renee Garing talks footy and family PAGES 36-37

BOOKS

PAGE 28

The Trees: Speaking for our foliage

PAGE 19

ENTERTAINMENT

PAGE 38

HEALTH

Celebrate Easter and the school holidays at Bunjil Place

Public IVF is delivering

PAGE 29

Looking after little smiles

PATH TO talks FOO FOOTY TY PARENTHOOD AND FAMILY

PARTY TIME

PAGE 25

DENTAL

AFLW star MP reveals Renee Garing

Discover new book releases for all ages PAGE 38

PAGE 20

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instagram.com/caseycardiniakids AUTUMN 2024 3

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AUTUMN 2024 5

11/8/2023 12:00 pm

it’s your life

Slide into Silo Park for a play!

AN inclusive playground for all ages and abilities is ready for your next play date in Clyde North.

Silo Park promises to be an inclusive place to boost your child’s confidence and promote lifelong connections.

Silo Park is a Livvi’s Place, designed in partnership with inclusion champions the Touched by Olivia Foundation.

The fully fenced play space features a tower with two slides, bells, speakers, a basketball court, grassed open space, toilets, drinking taps, barbecues, picnic tables, and more.

Lymphatic malformation took 8-month-old Olivia’s life in November 2006 so her family created a legacy in her name.

Livvi’s Place shines a light on the importance of play as a fundamental building block in a child’s development as well as a medium by which all ages can connect. Everyone can play!

6 AUTUMN 2024

Silo Park is at 16 Cavern Boulevard, Clyde North.

Photographer Rob Carew joined sisters Willow, Paige, and Quinn as they explored the play space for the first time.

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AUTUMN 2024 7

It’s Your Life

Sweet pea and mint pesto pasta Picture: www.lucystewartnutrition.com @lucystewartkidsnutrition

Ingredients: ■ 400g pasta of choice ■ 1 ½ cups frozen peas, thawed

iin th the he kitchen

■ 1 cup fresh mint and basil leaves

with Lucy Stewart

■ ¼ pumpkin seeds

■ ½ cup extra virgin olive oil ■ 1/3 cup grated parmesan ■ 1 garlic clove ■ 3 tbsp lemon juice ■ 1 tbsp lemon zest

WHEN it comes to kids and green vegies, I find peas are often the most favoured thanks to their small size, vibrant colour, and natural sweetness.

■ ½ tsp sea salt Instructions: 1. Cook your pasta according to the packet instructions and drain, reserving ¼ cup of the cooking liquid.

They’re a good source of plant-based protein and fibre and contain essential vitamins and minerals like vitamin K, C, manganese, and folate.

2. Add all your pesto ingredients to a blender and process until smooth and creamy.

I’ve paired them in this pesto with refreshing mint to bring out their sweetness even more, and pumpkin seeds as they’re a great source of zinc, magnesium, and nourishing fats that growing little bodies need.

While I’m all for increasing our kids’ vegetable intake by adding them into meals, sneaking or hiding them in foods without them knowing might actually hinder their ability to develop a taste for and accept them.

Remember, it’s about building up exposures, because kids know what they like and they like what they know

3. Mix your pesto through the pasta, adding a little of the reserved cooking liquid to help the pesto coat the pasta nicely.

Top with grated parmesan and peas. and it can take 20 or more exposures before a child will try a new food.

Looking at, playing with, smelling, and describing a new food without ever putting it in their mouth all count as exposures.

So why not leave a few peas out on the bench for the kids to play with while you make this together, and scatter a few whole peas through your finished pasta, too?

■ Optional: Parmesan and peas to garnish ■ Serves: 4 ■ Prep time: 10 minutes ■ Cook time: 15 minutes

Well Fed Kitchen is a range of healthy snacks for kids that you can make at home.

Created by Nutritionist and mum, Lucy Stewart, they’re made with only real wholefood and plant-based ingredients – no additives, nothing artificial, and without nuts, dairy, soy and wheat.

Well Fed Kitchen provides an easy snack alternative to the sugar-laden, healthy pro- cessed options, guaranteed to fill kids tummies, satisfy their hunger, provide a steady release of energy and some essential growing nutrients too. www.wellfedkitchen.com.au @wellfedkitchen_snacks 12562706-MS36-22

8 AUTUMN 2024

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It’s Your Life

Support for new parents NEW parents in Casey and surrounds have specialised support closer to home, with a new Early Parenting Centre now open in Clyde North.

Health Infrastructure Minister MaryAnne Thomas toured the new multimillion-dollar facility in January.

“Becoming a parent is an exciting time, but it can also be stressful and difficult too,” she said.

“That is why we are supporting families across the south-east.”

Designed to feel like a home away from home, the centre will support families with children aged up to four years of age.

They’ll receive expert advice and care, including support with sleep and settling, feeding, and extra care for babies and toddlers with additional needs. Sleep and settling is one of the biggest challenges facing new parents, with about half of Victorian parents who use Early Parenting Centres reporting problems with their child’s sleep.

Jordan Crugnale said.

The new centre features 10 residential family units and four day-stay places, providing both short-term and longer residential stay programs to improve the health, wellbeing and developmental outcomes of children.

The purpose-built centre also includes kitchen and dining areas, playrooms, and outdoor play areas, delivered in partnership with Monash Health.

“The completion of this new Early Parenting Centre will be a lifeline for families in the south-east who need that little bit of extra support,” South-Eastern Metropolitan MP Michael Galea said.

The residential family units are designed with flexibility in mind and support different family structures. Families can bring multiple children or accommodate an older sibling, grandparent, or other carer during their stay.

This can lead to post-natal depression, isolation and stress for parents and affect a child’s behavioural, mental and physical development.

“This will be such a welcomed centre for new parents and their families in the Casey area - a free service with tailored support and specialist care,” Bass MP

Hub for free mental health help A new mental health hub for kids is delivering free support in Cranbourne.

State Mental Health Minister Ingrid Stitt and Federal Assistant Mental Health and Suicide Prevention Minister Emma McBride officially opened three Children’s Health and Wellbeing Locals in December.

“For too long families have struggled to access age-appropriate mental health and wellbeing services – these new Locals will ensure more children are given the support they need to help them thrive,” Ms Stitt said.

Support includes specialist medical and allied health services for children who are experiencing developmental, behavioural, and emotional challenges, including paediatricians, psychologists, and speech pathologists.

“Backing our youngest Victorians is critical, but so is supporting their parents – we know how tough it can be to juggle everyday life, especially when a child is struggling, which is why this under-one-roof model is so important,” Ms Stitt said.

Focused on strengthening support for parents, the Locals will also deliver www.CaseyCardiniaKids.com.au

family services, group parenting programs, and culturally safe wraparound services.

Designed in consultation with local communities, people with lived experience, and local service providers, the services are tailored to local needs and build on existing services and capacity.

About 400 children and their families will use each of the three services each year as they scale up.

Monash Health operates the Cranbourne Local with funding from the Victorian and Australian governments.

“It is crucial governments work together to support children and their families to access wellbeing and mental health support,” Ms McBride said.

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The services in Cranbourne, Sunshine, and Bendigo form part of the national Head to Health Kids network and will provide specialist support for children aged 0-11 years and their families, free of charge and with no referral required.

AUTUMN 2024 9

It’s Your Life

The story of Grace’s new bike

GRACE is so excited! She has a new bike - her first ever two-wheeler - and at age six she is ready to roll.

Her mum, Josie, has a well-thoughtout plan: there is a park near their house so they wheel their bikes over there and find a nice safe bit of path.

Off Grace goes, wobbling a little but peddling flat out to stay vertical, as she’s been told.

In fact, her mum is now a bit worried about her speeding away and pedals her own bike to catch up.

There is a bend in the path coming up. She shouts, “Slow down, Grace,” but it’s too late. Grace takes a tumble onto the (fortunately) soft grass. Two older girls nearby look concerned, but Josie is there in a second, helping Grace dust herself off.

But Grace is in tears. She is inconsolable throughout the short walk back to their house and inside to sit on the couch.

There are a heap of things Josie can do now.

She can look at the grazed knee and kiss them better. (Worth a try).

She can offer some ice cream or lemonade as a distraction. (Comfort eating, hmm, not sure). She can put a bandaid on the graze. (Always helpful to do).

She can also get cross and question why this girl is making such a fuss.

“Didn’t you hear me call out to slow down? You shouldn’t have gone so fast.”

(Grace probably knows this already.

The lesson was fairly self-evident).

We’ve all tried all of these strategies - sympathy, blame, distraction!

But Josie does an interesting thing.

She sits right beside Grace. She talks softly.

Josie: “You took a really bad fall with your new bicycle. You were doing so well. You dared to go fast. And now you have a scraped knee and it hurts!”

Grace nods emphatically but continues to cry and sob.

Josie: “You also have to sob really badly. Can you feel inside where that bad feeling is?”

Grace points to her stomach.

Grace: “… just like grabbing hands.

Josie: “Just like grabbing hands. If you keep feeling that, do those grabbing hands have a story to tell you?”

Grace, sobbing loudly now: “Yes! Those big girls should not have stood there looking like that…

I am sure they think I am a stupid little kid.”

Josie: “You hated that they were standing there looking. They are bigger.

And then you are afraid that they think you are small and stupid.”

There is a pause.

Grace: “Yes!” Josie: “Does that feeling have a colour inside? Maybe you can close your eyes for a minute and wait for what comes.”

Grace: “Yes. Red is coming and also something black.”

Josie: “Would you draw and colour it?

Your hand will put everything on the sheet of paper. It doesn’t have to be beautiful. The feeling will know what it means.”

Josie: “Can you sit with it in a friendly way and ask what it feels like there?”

Hesitantly, Grace starts with dark colours, then the stripes get stronger and the sobbing stops.

Grace: “It is in my stomach here, really bad.” She becomes more quiet and attentive.

She scratches with the crayon fiercely, adding more lines, and another colour.

Josie: “It is in your stomach. How is it there in your stomach?”

There is a deep sigh. Then there are yellow and orange circles. She looks up at Josie and smiles.

Grace: “It’s all going around.” She moves her hands around.

Who knows what is going on in the mind of a child?

Appearing ...

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Josie: “It just keeps going around inside.”

Sat. 30/3

We have to help them figure out when feelings are just too strong for them to handle.

Josie did such an interesting thing she used very explorative prompts.

She echoed the meaningful things that were emerging, just staying with the moment.

She enquired for the “message” that the feelings wanted to say, and the meaning shifted like a sudden change in the wind.

This wasn’t about a hurt knee. It was about a deep sense of humiliation. Who knows where it came from, but it doesn’t matter - it’s being healed.

These are what I call Wild Creature methods. You talk to the Wild Creature part of your mind, which knows things and has memories but talks through our body.

If a child can make friends with their Wild Creature Mind, by listening to the place inside that hurts, their fears come to the surface and are then easier to deal with.

Very often we parents don’t know what is going on inside our kids, but if we are willing to breathe deep and listen, then together you - and they - and their Wild Creature Mind, can team up and figure it out.

Steve Biddulph is the author of Raising Girls, Raising Boys, and Manhood.

His new book Make Friends With Your Wild Creature Mind will be out from Pan MacMillan in September.

Grace’s story is from the new book and is used courtesy of Dutch authors Marta Stapert and Erik Verliefte.

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280 BerwickCranbourne Rd, Clyde

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Sometimes there’s a voice inside us that we just need to hear, writes STEVE BIDDULPH

www. shoppingonclyde. com.au Techie Choice

10 AUTUMN 2024

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It’s Your Life

‘He’s the reason I sought that help’

By Casey Neill BECOMING a mum was the push Penny Moodie needed to take a step forward in controlling her OCD. In her book The Joy Thief, the Melbourne author said she’d always wanted kids and thought her husband, The Resilience Project’s Hugh van Cuylenburg, would make “an incredible dad”.

During her first pregnancy, Penny’s obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD) simmered down to what she described as a ceasefire.

There is a genetic component to it.

“If my kids do end up having OCD I feel like I’ll be in a good position to help them.”

Penny and Hugh speak very openly about mental health with their kids.

“My husband and I both talk a lot about seeing our worry doctor, which is our psychologist, and try to normalise talking to someone about your feelings,” she said.

“I think that can be really helpful. It’s just that general awareness.

But when Benji, now age 7, arrived the battle recommenced.

“My son was really angry at something a few months ago and said something like ‘I’m going to think of every swear word I can’.

Penny told Kids that a desire to be more present for her son made her seek help from a therapist with experience in OCD and exposure and response prevention (ERP) therapy.

“I told him ‘You can think whatever you want to think. No thoughts are bad.

Saying it would be different, that would be another thing, but you can actually think whatever you want to think’.

“That was all driven by my desire to be a better parent,” she said.

“He’s the reason I sought that help.”

Penny gave birth to daughter Elsie about six weeks before the Covid pandemic hit, and third child Patrick while writing The Joy Thief.

“In some ways it was cathartic,” she said of writing the book.

“It was therapy in a way, and therapy doesn’t always feel good.

“I was nervous putting it out there.

“There’s plenty of information out there about OCD but not so much lived experience.”

Penny said we can often look too hard for silver linings when it comes to mental illness, but her OCD does help her to be a more empathetic parent.

Penny said it was an ongoing convesrtation.

“I think often we think if we bring something up and we talk about how important it is and we make a plan then it’s going to improve straight away,” she said.

“It takes a lot of time and a lot of patience from both sides, and a lot of willingness to revisit it and reevaluate.

“I was so motivated to do it because I really didn’t want my daughter and two sons to absorb this - live in a household where it’s normal for Mum to be doing all the household tasks while Dad goes off to work.

“I really wanted them all to be seeing us trying to divide it up where we can.”

Alongside the weight of the mental load, Penny was also unprepared for how fun parenthood would be.

“Everyone tells you it’s going to be the biggest slog of your life - and it is - but from the get-go, the fun side of it, seeing these little people develop this personality from such a young age and seeing how that changes and evolves - that’s just so much fun,” she said.

“Kids kind of ground you so much and remind you of little things that are so important.”

Benji recently commented that the world was magic following a discussion about dinosaurs and evolution.

“As adults, we forget how fascinating the world is,” Penny said.

“Every now and then being reminded of that’s really beautiful.”

Parents can find OCD resources at soocd.com.au.

“We had that conversation.

“From such a young age, whether you have OCD or not, you can worry that certain thoughts can be bad or make you a bad person.

“To have that conversation with him was really important and made me more aware for my daughter and my younger son as well.

“Maybe if I hadn’t gone through all this I wouldn’t have been aware of these conversations.”

Speaking of conversations - Penny and Hugh spoke openly on his podcast The Imperfects about their efforts to better balance the mental load in their household.

On the flipside, she’s very aware of exposing her children to her illness.

“I’m sure I’m constantly anxious in front of my kids.”

Penny’s also “a little too vigilant” with her children’s mental wellbeing, as is Hugh.

“We can be hyperaware,” she said.“I think it’s probably better than being completely oblivious to it.

“I do worry if my child’s displaying signs of OCD and I start feeling guilty.

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“I fail at it all the time,” she said.

AUTUMN 2024 11

It’s Your Life

ADVERTISEMENT

Renee

Heath MP Member for

Eastern Victoria Region

By Casey Neill JACKI O’FARRELL had a cardiac arrest during her first birth and was unable to sit up for her first two weeks of motherhood. Her second baby was stillborn.

YOUR VOICE FOR EASTERN VICTORIA

ReneeHeathMP

After finally being admitted to hospital after three days in labour, monitors meant to be clocking Charlie’s heart rate kept slipping off her tight tummy.

Medical staff broke her waters, placed a monitoring clip on Charlie’s head, and told her Charlie’s heart rate had dropped.

“I said to Luke, ‘I hate the way it’s making me feel, I feel really yuck when I press it’,” she said.

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12 AUTUMN 2024

Jacki fell pregnant with her daughter Charlie in 2020.

The second time she pressed the button, her body felt drunk, but not her mind.

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Authorised by Renee Heath MP, 51 James Street, Pakenham 3810.

The Sunshine mum of three says there’s no silver lining to what she’s been through, but she’s determined to use her experience to support others.

An anaesthetist performed an epidural and Jacki settled in to get some rest, armed with a button to press every 15 minutes for drug delivery.

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‘There’s no silver lining’

Jacki had suffered a dural puncture and was being inundated with drugs.

“My hand started going a bit numb.

My mouth and tongue started to feel a bit similar,” she said.

“The last thing I remember hearing was ‘she’s turning blue’.”

Medical staff performed CPR on Jacki for 12 minutes.

“Luke witnessed a lot of the CPR, then someone took him out of the room,” she said.

“While that was happening I had an episiotomy and Charlie was forcepped out.“Luke watched them do CPR for about a minute on her. Then he heard her crying, so his attention focused back on me.

“He was picturing a life without me.

He was playing his life out, doing it by himself.”

Jacki woke up with “the worst headache”.

“It felt like someone was crushing my skull,” she said.

“My optic nerve was impacted.

Everything was really blurry. I thought I was blind.”

Jacki was in ICU while a healthy Charlie was in NICU for monitoring.

“A midwife had the forethought to take a photo of Charlie. She held the phone up really close to my face,” she said.

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Jacki was moved to high care and was finally able to hold Charlie - for about 10 minutes, laying horizontally.

“I was leaking spinal fluid from the epidural needle hole every time I sat up,” she said.

They had a night at home and returned for induction the following day, with wonderful support from the hospital.

Four months after losing Oakley, she fell pregnant again.

To their friends and family, Jacki says to avoid minimising their experience.

“His due date was four days after Oakley’s first anniversary,” she said.

“He was breech so his little bum came out first,” Jacki said.

“I just didn’t want to be pregnant on or after Oakley’s anniversary. I wanted them separate.”

“We did have friends who just came and sat on our kitchen floor and said ‘what happened, how are you doing?’ and just being comfortable sitting there watching us cry,” she said.

“At the end of the third day we finally got her and she didn’t leave my side.

“I was able to stand in the shower.

Luke caught him.

“The first two weeks of motherhood were spent laying flat on my back.

“I could bring him up onto my chest, which I missed out on with Charlie.

She was booked for an induction the week before and was in active labour for three hours before welcoming Conor.

“I’m quite maternal. Not being able to care for your baby was a massive hurdle.”

“We were able to have a positive birth experience, in how the labour went.

“I could not believe the difference in recovery from Charlie,” she said.

About six months later she was diagnosed with PTSD and medicated.

“I took a lot from it and found it really empowering.

“I was trying to do everything in my power to process it so I could be a better mum to Charlie,” she said.

“We sat in the shower. I put him down and we could have a look at him.

Jacki fell pregnant with Oakley when Charlie was about 10 months old.

“I was excited but then also terrified at the exact same time,” she said.

“I couldn’t have anything catastrophic happen again. I wouldn’t have been able to mentally deal with it.”

But at 31 weeks, she noticed a change in Oakley’s movements.

“We called him the hurricane baby,” she said.

“It was really easy for me to identify when the movements had reduced.”

Doctors confirmed there was no heartbeat.

“We just sat in the room wailing,” Jacki said.

“We couldn’t cry hard enough.

“It hit me like a shovel to the face, ‘I have to give birth, I still have to have the baby’.

“I was just screaming ‘I don’t want to do it’.

“How am I meant to get into the zone for labour when I’m dealing with the loss of my child?

“I never thought that would happen to us, especially after what happened with Charlie.

“You focus on one problem and then another one surprises you.”

www.CaseyCardiniaKids.com.au

“He was completely perfect.”

A postmortem was inconclusive.

“He moved around so much, the cord was around his neck when he was born, and there was a knot in the cord,” she said.

“It’s nothing that anyone could have prevented or changed.”

Their families met and held Charlie, and then they went home.

“That was one of the most challenging things to experience.

Saying goodbye,” she said.

“You never want to leave your child anywhere alone.

“I left my baby by himself.”

Having to show up for 18-month-old Charlie every day helped Jacki through her grief.

“Just asking ‘are you happy to talk about it?’ is a good place to start.”

“I kept saying ‘I feel like I could run a marathon’.

“You felt like you could mother a child the way you wanted to and should be able to.”

Jacki now dedicates her spare time to raising awareness and money for Stillbirth Foundation Australia and Still Aware through her small business BHOOMI Babe.

She sells breastfeeding blankets and burp cloths and donates $5 from each purchase to the charities.

“You look for the silver lining and there is no silver lining, so what’s the next best thing I can do?” she said.

“It’s not going to change anything for us, but it might help someone else.”

To others who’ve lost a baby, Jacki says “it’s more common than people realise” and “it’s OK to feel what you’re feeling”.

“We have no idea what we’re doing in terms of how to talk about grief with a toddler,” she said.

“I have no idea what the answer is there, but we just do what we feel comfortable with.”

An urn containing Oakley’s ashes and a photo of their lost son are on display at home. They bought a baby oak tree to mark the first anniversary of his birth.

“When we have our forever home we can plant that and let it grow really big and sit underneath it,” Jacki said.

AUTUMN 2024 13

It’s Your Life

Free fun every Friday THE friendliness and familiarity of your local centre is a great place for all your shopping - and to keep your children entertained!

Bring the kids into Cardinia Lakes Shopping Centre for FREE fun Fridays, every Friday from 10.30am to 12.30pm.

Check the Pakenham centre’s Facebook page for details on the great activities guaranteed to keep your little ones occupied. The food options are varied and delicious at Cardinia Lakes Shopping Centre, with delivery and takeaway plus dine-in options.

The wonderful team at Sugarcoat Nails and Beauty are well-equipped to help you feel fabulous.

Pizza Fellas has a great range of pizzas that can be ordered online so they are ready for you when you pop in to pick up your dinner.

From their delicious salads to their tasty chicken, Uncle Sam’s Charcoal Chicken is a firm favourite in the

eighbourhood for a quick and healthy meal.

Cardinia Lakes Fish and Chippery has delicious burgers, along with crispy chips and tasty fish for a favourite takeaway option.

Wok to Go rounds out the takeaway options with tasty Asian dishes galore to tempt your tastebuds.

At Direct Chemist Outlet, the staff are dedicated to their customers’ well-being and will help you make the right choices about maintaining good health.

Their gift range is outstanding as well, and you’ll be able to find the perfect gift, or maybe something extra special for yourself.

Great breakfast and lunch options are on the menu at Urban Hype Cafe.

Come and meet the friendly staff and grab something for lunch or morning tea. Their coffee is just divine.

Stay up to date by following Cardinia Lakes Shopping Centre on Facebook.

Foster carer call FOSTER carers can make a lasting impact on a young life.

Berry Street needs foster carers now more than ever.

Join its dedicated team committed to nurturing and empowering children and young people on their unique journeys.

As a Berry Street foster carer, you’ll support local children and young people at a crucial moment in their life.

As one of Victoria’s largest providers of out-of-home care, Berry Street provides children and young people who have experienced trauma with a safe and secure place to live.

For more than 145 years, the organisation has supported children and young people in Victoria at whatever point in their journey that they need help.

“Childhood is a journey, but not every child has the same opportunities, which is why we need foster carers to play an empowering role in a child’s or young person’s life,” Melissa Robertson, Berry Street’s foster care recruitment, assessment, and training team leader said.

“We are encouraging people to start their foster care journey – you never know where it will take you.

“The team and I will be there to support you every step of the way, as you learn and grow in your new caring role.”

Berry Street welcomes foster carers from diverse backgrounds, cultures, and experiences.

For more information and to start your foster care journey, visit www. berrystreet.org.au/fostercare.

Every Friday at Cardinia Lakes Shopping Centre, join our Free Fun Friday activities March 15th - More Aussie Animals with Animals of Oz March 22nd - Art Fun with Sue April 5th - Storytime & Art with Sue

April 12th - Balloon Twisting Fun April 19th - Pebble Pets - make your own pet with Party World April 26th - Animavls of Oz and their cute critters

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Check out our Facebook Page for more dates...

Cardinia Lakes Shopping Centre | 140 Windermere Boulevard | Pakenham

14 AUTUMN 2024

www.CaseyCardiniaKids.com.au

Reality Bites

Valerie, Penelope, Leo, Ollie, Scarlet and Archie.

Missta Mums are heating up

By Casey Neill A dynamic mum duo is spilling the tea on parenthood in a new podcast.

Geelong business partners-turned-best mates Demi Duncan and Melinda Baxter are better known as the Missta Mums.

They launched the Missta Bottle in October 2019 after Mel slid into Demi’s Instagram DMs with a business idea she’d come up with while on a run.

“When I get something in my head, it’s really hard to get out of it,” Mel said.

“I knew I needed a business partner. I didn’t want to do it alone.”

Demi said: “We weren’t friends. We were just both from Geelong. We had our first-borns two weeks apart.”

They’d had some interaction on social media during night feeds.

When Mel pitched a chat over coffee, Demi figured she had nothing to lose.

Leaving the meeting, she thought she’d gained a hobby.

But Mel’s idea - a baby thermos designed specifically for safe formula feeding - evolved.

Demi and Mel. Pictures: Louisa Jones

“It grew in increments. If we knew the figure it would have cost to start it now, we would have run for the hills,” Demi laughed.

“We actually knew we were solving an issue. It was harder not to go ahead.

“People don’t really understand the product until they have a crying baby in front of them they have to formula feed.”

Establishing a business while caring for young babies was a big task, but the mums were on the same page.

“We always had this basic understanding towards each other that if something came up with your kid, your kid comes first,” Demi said.

“We didn’t even need to have that conversation.

Mel said: “The business could have been a lot bigger perhaps if we didn’t have children, but we both naturally agreed that our families came first.”

Mel and husband Aaron are parents to Penelope, Leo, and Valerie while Demi and husband Mitch Duncan, a Geelong Cats footballer, have Scarlet, Ollie and Archie, plus another baby due in April.

I m actually the most excited for my “I’m hospital stay of five nights,” Demi laughed.

“The kids will just adapt. It’ll be crazy but I’m actually not worried.”

Demi was 27 when she became a mum.

“It was always something I knew I was going to be one day,” she said.

“But I didn’t think I’d have four kids!”

Mel was “never the one to gravitate towards people’s babies or people’s kids” - Aaron was more enthused about starting a family than she was.

“I just always assumed being a mum was what you do as part of life,” she said.

“It obviously came naturally as the time came.”

Aaron quit his full-time job as a bricklayer to run the Missta warehouse and be a stay-at-home dad - a topic they cover in one of their first podcast episodes. They launched the candid Missta Mums in June to talk all things parenting, sharing stories from guests and their own experiences.

“It was another way to communicate to our customers,” Mel said.

“It was another level to us. It adds to our story as well.”

Demi ssaid they’d grown a social media fo following from sharing their lives on their b business pages.

“We w weren’t just trying to sell a product,” she said.

“We cr created a community that wanted tto know more and more.

“The p podcast was a way we could give that to our community.

“Hop “Hopefully our business is then in front o of them.”

M Mel said: “It adds another layer of tr trust as well.”

“We’re not this big corporation.

W We’re just trying to do the best for tthe customer.

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“People don’t trust the big corporations as much and really like to know where they’re spending their hard-earned money.”

Demi’s favourite episode so far was a chat with a Geelong mum whose daughter was diagnosed with type one diabetes - followed by the episode where she and Mitch announced they were pregnant with baby number four.

She was nervous about going public with the news.

“For so long we’ve been saying ‘we’re done, we’re done’,” she said.

“Telling people in person I wasn’t worried - friends and family.

“Going public…”

Mel’s favourite conversation was with Aaron and Mitch, their biggest supporters.

“That was just fun,” she said.

“They’ve all been such eye-openers.

“It’s pretty cool to speak to people directly about these stories.

“It’s good for our learning, too.

“The best feedback we get about our podcast is that they feel like they’re in the room with us just chatting.”

Demi said: “I speak in the podcast the way I would speak in person.”

“It’s another way for Mel and I to talk s***.

“It’s been received so much better than I thought it would be.”

Who’s coming up?

“We have a constant list that we keep adding names to,” she said.

“Everyone has a story, I believe.

“The hardest thing with a podcast is you get the listens if the person has a profile.

“But sometimes someone without a following has a better story.”

Now the podcast is out in the world, Mel and Demi are turning to expanding their product range, and looking into offering social media guidance to other small businesses.

“Compared to a beginner on social media, we have that bank of knowledge to help someone now,” Demi said.

AUTUMN 2024 15

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www.CaseyCardiniaKids.com.au

It’s Your Life

‘It’s such an emotional toll’

By Casey Neill PIETA Shakes is using her personal experience to support women who receive a prenatal diagnosis.

The Melbourne mum was anxious early in her pregnancy but had started to relax by 31 weeks.

“I had some extra pain and I had a scan,” she said.

“I thought ‘this is great, I have an extra chance to see my baby’.

“I was reassured at the scan that everything was fine.”

But at the bottom of the scan results was a note about the way her baby’s brain was developing. She plugged the words into Google and saw ‘severe intellectual disability’ and ‘death’ among the results.

Pieta got an urgent appointment with a specialist.

“I couldn’t work, I couldn’t sleep.

I was obsessed with trying to read things,” she said.

“I was crying lots, distressed.”

A further scan at 32 weeks confirmed the initial scan and Pieta was advised to terminate.

She had further tests and spoke to multiple specialists, who all gave her “pretty hard odds” and again offered termination.

A fetal MRI at 34 weeks changed the diagnosis a little and her baby’s odds improved.

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“It was such a whirlwind not knowing if I was going to have a baby, not knowing what her life would be,” she said.

“Not knowing if it was selfish for me to consider terminating, or selfish for me to consider having her.

“I had a whole nursery set up, I thought ‘what am I going to do with that?’.

“Then I thought I was a horrible person for thinking about material things.”

Guilt consumed Pieta. She told herself she hadn’t grown her baby properly, she must have done something wrong.

She had an unsuccessful appointment with a psychologist, then referred herself to a residential mother-baby clinic because her daughter wasn’t feeding or settling.

She was knocked back due to her baby’s condition, so sought help from her mental health nurse supervisor.

“I was so desperate and I didn’t know who else to call,” she said.

“I had phone sessions with her and went back to work and was able to pull myself out of a desperate situation.

“We design things to support new parents and connect them.

“I had to make the decision based on what I’d hate myself less for.”

“But when everything’s about parenting a typical baby who’s expecting typical milestones, it’s alienating.

Pieta’s mental health declined further after a complicated birth.

“There’s a lot of people out there who just try and cope.

“Her anomaly is quite rare so I was obsessed with reading what I could,” she said.

“It’s potentially impacting them long-term and impacting their family long-term.”

“The doctors didn’t know about it so I had to be the one with the knowledge.

New data from Gidget Foundation Australia shows perinatal depression and anxiety (PNDA) in a parent can impact the cognitive, behavioural, and emotional development of their child.

“It’s such an emotional toll,” she said.

“Every time I put her to sleep I’d worry if she’d live.

“I had all these intrusive thoughts, like all the cupboards were going to fall on her in the middle of the night.

“I tried to keep it all to myself. I chose this. I didn’t feel like I could tell people that it was hard or I wasn’t coping.”

But as a mental health nurse, she knew she wasn’t coping.

Gidget said early intervention dramatically improved an individual’s prognosis.

Gidget has experienced substantial growth in people accessing its free psychological counselling services over the past 12 months.

Fitzroy House experienced a 30 percent client increase and the increase was 123 percent at Frances Perry House.

Gidget House Point Cook offers a vital lifeline to struggling parents, with no wait time to access free psychological counselling sessions.

Pieta has shared her story as a Gidget Angel and spoken with some of its clinical leaders.

“There’s a bit of a division between perinatal care and mental health,” she said.

“Each thinks the other is taking care of it.”

Eight years after her experience, Pieta was looking for a PhD topic and landed on the experience of mothers who receive a prenatal diagnosis.

“There’s 20 years of literature showing a third to 50 percent of mothers received a PTSD diagnosis after a prenatal diagnosis,” she said.

She founded charity Through the Unexpected, a small volunteer-run organisation developing training for health professionals.

“We’re working to fill the gap. There’s a huge gap in that training space,” she said.

AUTUMN 2024 17

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DENTAL

Looking after little smiles ONE in six teenagers consumes more than 5kg of sugar throughout the year from sugary drinks alone - about the same weight as a family cat.

Aside from food and flossing, mouthguards play an important role in looking after little smiles.

Australian Dental Association President Dr Scott Davis, a prosthodontist, said dentists often saw kids with traumatic dental injuries that could have been prevented - or damage reduced - had they been wearing a protective mouthguard.

According to the Australian Dental Association (ADA), 42 percent of Australian children aged 5 to 10 years have experienced tooth decay in their primary teeth.

In the 6 to 14 age bracket, 24 percent have experienced tooth decay in their adult teeth, and 27 percent of kids aged 5 to 10 years have untreated dental decay.

“The best mouthguards are from your dentist as they’re customised to fit the size and shape of the patient’s mouth,” Dr Davis said.

If a tooth is knocked out and has been found, dentists advise putting it in a glass of milk and heading straight to your dentist, as they might be able to reinsert it.

So how can parents help to protect their kids’ teeth?

Consider tooth-friendly snacks, such as savoury popcorn.

The ADA’s Tooth-friendly Treats Cookbook includes 20 dentistrecommended sweet treat recipes.

Profits from the sales go to the Australian Dental Health Foundation, which helps disadvantaged Australians access dental care.

Parents should steer clear of hard lollies for their kids.

They’re made of 100 percent sugar and are often responsible for accidents involving broken teeth or fillings.

They also take longer to dissolve in the mouth, meaning the teeth are exposed to sugar for longer, increasing the risk of tooth decay.

Dr Davis also urged parents to access their free dental entitlement, as only 38 percent of eligible families used their Child Dental Benefits Schedule entitlement.

When it comes to sugary drinks, there are typically 26 teaspoons of sugar in an average one-litre cola bottle.

So the ADA says parents should encourage their kids to drink tap water or milk instead of sugary drinks to help prevent decay.

Wait at least an hour between your last fizzy drink and teeth brushing.

Brushing too soon can damage tooth enamel, softened by the acidity in the drinks.

Don’t forget to floss daily. It only takes a few minutes and helps to remove all the food debris sitting between your teeth.

Brushing removes only 60 percent of food debris, leaving particles of food rotting between your teeth.

Qualifying families with children up to age 18 who receive Family Tax Benefit Part A or other Australian government payments are entitled to dental work up to the value of $1052 in every two-year period.

Families can check their child’s eligibility through their Medicare online account at MyGov. Visit www.teeth.org.au/teeth/Shop for the Tooth Friendly Treats Cookbook.

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AUTUMN 2024 19

Health

Public IVF is delivering VICTORIA’S public fertility care program produced 21 pregnancies in its first year.

The Royal Women’s Hospital (RWH) and Monash Health accepted almost 2000 referrals to the program in its first 12 months.

About 1100 patients started treatment, including in vitro fertilisation (IVF), intrauterine insemination (IUI) or Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection (ICSI).

The first baby conceived under the program - Felix - was born to Erin and Anthony in October last year, thanks to Monash Health’s fertility service.

Minister for Health Mary-Anne Thomas visited RWH to mark one year of the program on 12 November.

The program will enable up to 5000 Victorians to access these services every year – delivering up to 3375 treatment cycles - helping them save up to $10,000.

“For too long and for too many, treatments like IVF have been financially out of reach – it’s why we’ve invested in this Australian-first program to ensure more affordable and more accessible fertility care for all Victorians,” Ms Thomas said.

Other services available through the program include fertility preservation, such as egg freezing for people undergoing medical treatment for illnesses that might compromise their fertility, such as cancer.

RWH’s reproductive services head, Associate Professor Kate Stern, was proud of her highly specialised team providing the world-class service so more Victorians could become parents.

“I think it’s so brave for people to take the first step and have the conversation about their fertility and find out what can be done to help,” she said.

Monash Health deputy chief operating officer Andrea Rindt said the team at Monash Health and Monash Women’s were thrilled for Erin and Anthony, and for the opportunity to assist them conceive Felix.

“As the largest maternity service in Victoria, delivering over 11,000 babies per year, it’s been wonderful to expand our service through the public program, supporting couples like Erin and Anthony welcome a new addition to their family,” he said.

Egg donation drive BEFORE they were born, sisters Olivia and Zara Masucci travelled halfway around the world together.

The pair was among a special delivery of donated eggs from the United States that Melissa and Alfie Masucci hoped would help them create their much-wanted family.

The Epping couple started trying for a family in 2018, before turning to fertility treatment two years later.

Melissa’s fertility specialist advised her to seek donated eggs.

She received seven from an overseas donor and created two embryos - “two perfect babies”.

Olivia was born in September 2021 and Zara in 2023.

“We were never turned off by the fact they were donor eggs, we just wanted a family,” Melissa said.

“We were both in our forties and thought if this is our best option, then we’re willing to give it a go.”

Melissa is grateful to her overseas donor, but she and Alfie would like to see more Victorian women become

20 AUTUMN 2024

donors to give people like her greater options.

Monash IVF fertility specialist Dr Virochana Kaul, who guided the couple through their journey, echoed their wish.

Dr Kaul said last year marked the 40th anniversary of the first birth from a donor egg, which happened in Melbourne.

“Egg donation is a truly, amazing gift and I would urge anyone who can donate their eggs to consider helping others unable to use their own eggs,” she said.

According to the Victorian Assisted Reproductive Treatment Authority, 288 Victoria received egg donations in 2022-23, a drop of 27 percent on the previous financial year.

More information on how to become a Monash IVF egg donor is available at monashivf.com.

Australia’s first public sperm and egg bank is also accepting donations, at Victoria’s Royal Women’s Hospital. Visit thewomens.org.au/egg-and-spermdonate.

Melissa and Alfie Masucci with daughter Olivia and Zara. Picture: Monash IVF

www.CaseyCardiniaKids.com.au

Health

Peanut allergy hope NEW parents dread finding out their little one has an allergy - particularly a life-threatening response to peanuts.

But the fear of keeping a child safe from an anaphylactic reaction to peanuts could become a thing of the past.

A novel peanut allergy treatment is a step closer thanks to a research funding boost.

In January, the State Government announced a $12 million investment through Breakthrough Victoria to bring local biotechnology firm Aravax one step closer to an innovative new treatment that could save lives.

Aravax is a clinical stage biotechnology company focused on revolutionising food allergy treatment through its product, PVX108.

The immunotherapy uses synthetic peptides to mimic key parts of pean peanut proteins with the potential to retrain the immune system to tolerate peanuts peanu reactio without causing allergic reactions.

Early research at Alfred Health He and Monash University has developed this unique treatment, requiring a monthly dose rather than the daily dose required by current treatments.

These trials are a step forward in bringing cutting-edge healthcare to the more than five million Australians living with food allergies.

Breakthrough Victoria CEO Grant Dooley said: “This therapy, developed right here in Victoria, has the potential to change the lives of peanut allergy sufferers across the world.”

Aravax has received approval from the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and Australia’s Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) for Phase 2 trials in both countries.

“Victoria is home to world-class scientific research institutions.

From dream to birth and beyondwe’re with you

It’s exciting to receive the local support, global recognition and this investment Aravax needs to expand clinical trials in Victoria and the United States,” Aravax CEO Pascal Hickey said.

Phase 1 clinical trials were successfully completed for adults in Victoria in 2018. Phase 2 trials, which will evaluate the treatment’s effect in children aged 4 to 17 years, will take place in clinics in Australia and the United States.

“This investment is an important step forward in advancing healthcare for millions of Australians with food allergies and introducing life-changing health technology to the world,” Economic Growth Minister Tim Pallas said.

Becoming a parent is not always easy

Having a baby is a life-changing event. While it is usually a happy one, sometimes the change in life can be difficult for new parents.

When you choose to have your baby at St John of God Berwick Hospital, you’ll be supported with your choice of obstetrician, lactation support, room service, expert midwife care, a longer hospital stay and much more!

St John of God Langmore Centre’s specialist Parent and Infant Unit offers inpatient and outpatient services to care for new parents, allowing them to bond, learn new skills and coping techniques, all under the guidance of our experienced clinical team.

www.sjog.org.au/berwickmaternity or call 8784 5300

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AUTUMN 2024 21

Active Kids

Give kids a start in sports READY Steady Go Kids is Australia’s premier multi-sport program catering to toddlers and young children aged 1.5 to 6 years, offering a comprehensive approach to physical and emotional development.

Founded on the expertise of paediatric physiotherapists and occupational therapists, the program aims to enhance gross and fine motor skills, instill a love for sports, and prepare children for school.

With a curriculum designed to introduce 10 different sports, Ready Steady Go Kids provides children with a diverse range of skills and knowledge.

This variety not only keeps children engaged but also ensures they develop a broad foundation in sports, setting them up for a lifetime of physical activity and health.

One of the program’s key strengths is its focus on individual attention.

With class sizes ranging from 10 to 14 children and a maximum instructor-tostudent ratio of one to seven, each child receives personalised instruction and support.

This not only enhances learning outcomes but also boosts confidence and self-esteem.

The program’s structure, with sports taught in two-week blocks, allows for a deep dive into each sport while maintaining children’s interest.

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This rotation system not only introduces and reinforces basic concepts but also minimises the risk of children losing interest in any one activity.

Ready Steady Go Kids has also w introduced four new characters to the program - Rocket, nd Speedy, Giggles, and Keiko.

Join Ready Steady Go Kids for a FREE TRIAL class at one of its Berwick, Pakenham, Casey, and Narre Warren locations.

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New characters Rocket, Speedy, Giggles, and Keiko.

y With this, Ready Steady Go Kids hass added a multisport week during each term, e incorporating these e characters and the love of their sport.

Ready Steady Go Kids emphasises emotional development, recognising the ding importance of building confidence and ng self-esteem in young children.

By providing a safe and supportive environment, the ldren program helps children s, develop social skills, ositive resilience, and a positive attitude towards challenges.

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Education

Engaging young readers

By Casey Neill

A Glen Iris teen’s YouTube clips inspired his mum’s new children’s book series.

Toby, 14, has been running trick shot channel Trick’n Nuggets since he was 11 years old. He’s taken classes to learn to film and edit his trick shots, each of which takes countless hours.

Most are filmed at home, a local park, or his school - Preshil in Kew - and feature juggling, basketball, frisbee, darts, cup flipping, card tossing, ping pong, and more.

Children’s author Amy Adeney watched her son’s journey and saw the incredible persistence and creativity involved.

“I conceived a new junior fiction series about a boy who wants to grow up and be a world-famous trick shot star,” she said.

“As a former primary school teacher, I’m well versed in the interests and abilities of children at the stage of transitioning from reading picture books to short chapter books, and particularly with how to engage reluctant readers.

“I thought trick shots would be a great hook to draw readers at this level into a new series of stories.”

Trick Shot Trevor: Frisbee Fiasco is now on bookstore shelves alongside Amy’s first junior fiction series Tilda Teaches and picture book Turning Cartwheels.

www.CaseyCardiniaKids.com.au

Amy took a “very long, convoluted path” to becoming an author, working in England as a fitness instructor for a year and in New York in PR for a few years before returning to Australia to study primary school teaching.

“I was always a huge reader,” she said.

“I didn’t anticipate what I’d love most about teaching was sharing books with my class.”

She started a small business running a book club for preschoolers, where participants would receive a book, a craft inspired by the text, plus cues for singing and dancing.

“I always thought it was a bit of a pipe dream that I’d write something myself,” she said.

Then Amy got an internship at Writers Victoria, attended workshops, and formed a writers’ group.

“I just threw myself at it and got quite lucky through the people I met,” she said.

“It took about three or four years to have my first book published.”

The main character in Tilda Teaches wants to grow up and be the world’s greatest teacher.

“I used to run lunchtime classes for my friends teaching cartwheels,” Amy said, explaining where the concept came from.

She’s been so exposed to Toby’s trick shot hobby it seems inevitable she’d write on the subject.

“Some of Toby’s favourite YouTubers have become my favourite YouTubers,” she said.

“I thought trick shots would make a great structure for a series.

“I know as a parent when your kids are that age, series are a godsend.”

The first one focuses on frisbee, the second on basketball, and there are plans for 12 more.

“When I was teaching full time I taught grade one,” she said.

“I saw students shift from picture books to chapter books, the pride and excitement that can happen when you read a book ‘this thick’ and feel like a grownup.

“It was about finding the right books that make that switch exciting.

“The series that are aimed at boys lean towards sports, or they’re fantasy.

“In terms of a real-life series about kids that age, things they’re going through, there wasn’t much that wasn’t sport.

“There are lots of non-sporty kids.

“Particularly in Australia there’s a lot of emphasis on team sports.

“Toby’s never really been into team sports.

“This is a great way of being active.

“You’re competing against yourself, with internal motivation rather than winning against another team.

“The persistence is just astounding.

“It’s hours and hours of sitting in a room by yourself.

“I hope that we can grow Trevor to be something that will get kids into trick shots, and the interest in the skills that come from that.

“The fast-paced and relatable stories were a good way to hook their kids into the series.

“I do try to deal with real-world situations in the books without ramming the message home too hard.

“The next one delves more into school friendships.”

It’s fair to say Toby is low-key chuffed that his mum found inspiration in his trick shots.

“I was honoured that anyone had taken the time to write a book about trick shots considering how unknown it is to the general public,” he said.

“I started watching other YouTubers doing trick shots.

“In 2018 I made one short video - it was a bottle flip video.

“In 2019 I picked up a frisbee.”

And it’s snowballed from there to dozens of videos and hundreds of followers.

“They’ve always been well-received but I didn’t get that many followers. My videos weren’t getting that many views,” he said.

“Last year I decided I needed to up the quality of my videos, and I started getting more followers.”

He doubled his subscribers in only a few months and started getting attention from other YouTubers.

“One of my Instagram videos was reposted by one of my favourite trick shooters,” he said.

Toby is always working on more videos and new skills.

“I hope to take the editing skills and expand that into becoming an editor for Hollywood or in the film industry,” he said.

AUTUMN 2024 23

Education

Keep all ages safe online PARENTS must have age-appropriate chats about online safety with their kids from toddlerhood, according to the Australian Federal Police.

The AFP said just over half of parents and carers regularly discussed online safety at home, but almost all children regularly used technology for educational purposes or entertainment.

Research by the AFP-led Australian Centre to Counter Child Exploitation (ACCCE) revealed 87 percent of children aged between four and seven years old were using the internet, and 16 percent were unsupervised.

Only three percent of research participants listed online grooming as a concern.

The AFP-led ThinkUKnow program released a range of age-based tips and content to help parents and carers keep children and young people safe online across all stages of development.

AFP Commander Helen Schneider said parents and carers needed to have regular conversations with their children about online safety from early childhood to help them understand the challenges they might face online and how to get help and support.

“The AFP is urging everyone to continue the chat throughout their child’s development and stages of life to ensure they are protected every step of the way,” she said.

Commander Schneider said the ACCCE received reports involving young children accessing social networking, live streaming, and instant messaging.

“ThinkUKnow is about providing Australians with the tools they need and empowering them to keep our community’s most vulnerable – our children – safe online,” she said.

ThinkUKnow provides factsheets, videos, presentations, guides, children’s picture book Jack Changes the Game, home learning, and family activities.

Under five years old Introduce and talk about what the internet is and how it allows us to connect with other people, eg “My phone is connected to the internet and I can send a photo from my phone to Grandpa’s phone.”

Supervision online is always recommended for young children. This looks different for every family, but it is important to be aware of what your child is doing online in case they need your help.

If you need to know more about an online game, search for videos of gameplay to see what it looks like and how it works.

Supervision is always recommended and looks different for different families.

Have open conversations with your child about what they do online, who they talk to, and how they can come to you for help if something goes wrong.

Implement privacy settings and parental controls, but balance this with regular check-ins and encourage critical thinking while online.

Implement strong privacy settings and consider parental controls on the devices your child uses. This can give you more control over what they do online and limit the possibility of interaction with others.

Encourage your child to come to you if they see anything online that makes them scared or uncomfortable.

Between five and 12 years old Research what apps, websites, and games your child is using.

Be aware of any that have a chat function.

13 years and over Learn about the features of the apps, games, and sites your child uses and the safety challenges so you can talk to them about implementing safety measures to keep them safe online.

Encourage ‘friends only’ or ‘private’ security settings.

If your child has public social media accounts, be aware of the privacy challenges and encourage your child to think critically about information sharing.

Your level of supervision or oversight may vary across this age group, but you should always stay in touch with what your child is doing online and encourage them to come to you for help and support.

Encourage your child to recognise safe or unsafe situations and inappropriate contact. This can empower them to make informed decisions, including when they are in unsupervised environments.

For all ages Ensure your child knows that they can come to you for help and support if something goes wrong online.

If a child or young person might not seek help if they’re scared they will be blamed for what happened or have their device taken away, making them more vulnerable to exploitation.

Anyone with information about people involved in child abuse should contact the ACCCE. If you know abuse is happening right now or a child is at risk, call police immediately on triple-zero.

Online safety advice and support for parents and carers can be found at www.thinkuknow.org.au.

Taking Enrolments for 2024 and 2025

OFFICER PRIMARY SCHOOL GRATITUDE We appreciate the people and resources around us and act kindly

A small school that cares for its families through inclusivity, meaningful learning experiences and respect.

CARING & FAMILY FRIENDLY

ENROL NOW

RESPECT

Contact us today!

We behave appropriately all the time

03 5943 2315 | officerps.vic.edu.au

OUTSTANDING

officer.ps@education.vic.gov.au

Kool Kidz Narre Warren is a purpose-built Early Learning, Childcare and Kindergarten facility that provides a safe, fun and exciting environment to explore, learn and grow in for children aged 6 weeks to 6 years.

We strive for excellence in all that we do

WELLBEING We are always considerate of each other’s and our own health and happiness.

TEAMWORK We work together to achieve success and positive outcomes

24 AUTUMN 2024

12670529-JB11-24

HONESTY We are truthful in our conduct and actions all the time

Phone 9705 1532 to speak with Janette or Maria to ENROL NOW 17 Cranbourne Road, Narre Warren www.koolkidznarrewarren.com.au

12670815-AA11-24

G.R.O.W.T.H

www.CaseyCardiniaKids.com.au

Education

Committed to the whole ST THERESE’S is a Catholic Parish Primary School and is part of the St Agatha’s Parish.

We are committed to educating the whole child - spiritually, intellectually, physically, socially, emotionally, and creatively.

We continually strive to create a Catholic learning community in which Christian values are taught, not only through formal lessons but through our values and relationships with all members of the learning community.

■ The wellbeing of each member is nurtured through building positive relationships and respecting the dignity and talents of individuals; and ■ We are successful learners. Our school is a safe, harmonious, and engaging learning environment.

Everyone works together cooperatively and is responsible for their learning.

St Therese’s aims to develop a partnership between parents, teachers, children, and the wider community, all working together.

To learn more about what St Therese’s has to offer, call the school on 5996 7525 to book a personalised tour or visit www.sttcbourne.catholic.edu.au.

We are committed to connecting with the local community including our neighbour, Merinda Park Learning and Community Centre.

We look forward to welcoming you and your family to St Therese’s Primary School, 131 Endeavour Drive, Cranbourne North.

Felicity Broughton, Principal

Teachers at St Therese’s are focused on ensuring each child learns fundamental English and mathematics skills to prepare them for their future.

In addition, the school offers rich and diverse learning opportunities that include weekly classes in visual arts, physical education, Japanese, and a digital and design technologies program.

At the St Therese’s Catholic community, we envisage a school where: ■ An individual’s personal relationship with Jesus is nurtured within the tradition of a Catholic community that is prayerful, accepting, and loving;

Open for the community from the garden so you can take a part of the centre home with you.

BRENTWOOD Park Neighbourhood House loves hosting its annual Open Day for the community.

This year’s open day on 20 April will include pony rides, face painting, and a fire engine for children to climb all over and explore!

As well as activities for the children, there will be stall holders in the marketplace, performances from the house’s performing arts programs, hirers, and food stalls.

Brentwood Park staff, volunteers, and tutors will be at the centre for you to chat to and find out more about the centre and its programs, along with hirers so you can find out about their programs as well.

Brentwood Park Neighbourhood House has been a constant in the community for more than 13 years and loves engaging with the diverse community it’s a part of in Berwick.

The community garden will also be open and they will be selling seedlings

As always, the house is open for the community to pop in and see the facilities and let the team know what they want from the centre.

Do you have a skill you can share?

Or have an interest you want to learn more about? Let the team know and they do everything they can to make it happen. The BPNH team looks forward to seeing you at Brentwood Park Neighborhood House soon.

Email admin@bpnh.org.au, call 8743 0671, or search @BPNH3806 on Facebook or Instagram.

Open Day Market stalls Face painting

Food Stalls Performances

Come visit YOUR neighbourhood House St Paul Apostle North School

Brentwood Park Neighbourhood Hous 21A Bemersyde Drive Berwick

ENROLMENTS NOW OPEN for 2025 and 2026 Call 9700 6068 or visit spanhills.catholic.edu.au for more information | 76 Mossgiel Park Drive www.CaseyCardiniaKids.com.au

12672009-MS11-24

Endeavour Hills | One Family

Connect with us:

bpnh3806

bpnh.org.au

12670816-AV12-24

AUTUMN 2024 25

Education

Closing the digital divide INADEQUATE computer access is further hampering struggling students.

Eight in 10 students in lower socioeconomic schools surveyed for a new report had trouble finishing class work and assignments because they didn’t have a computer.

National Device Bank for students who can’t otherwise afford to access vital educational technology.

side of the digital divide due to affordability and confidence barriers,” Mr Muller said.

The organisation said digital learning increasingly dominated classrooms and online resources were an essential part of learning.

“Our report found that students, who are from schools in areas that identified as having greater relative socioeconomic disadvantage, experienced reduced or no access to a computer after school.

KPMG prepared the report pro-bono for WorkVentures, a not-for-profit supporting Australian communities through technology, skills and meaningful career pathways.

Access issues put children at risk of falling behind academically and grappling with the social impacts and limitations of future employment opportunities.

It also found two in five (44 percent) Year 6 students and a quarter of Year 10 students did not have access to a computer outside of school.

WorkVentures IT solutions and social impact director Jacob Muller said not everyone was afforded the same opportunities when it came to digital technologies.

One in two (51.6 percent) lower income families reported their children could miss out on the digital devices needed for schoolwork because they couldn’t afford them.

So WorkVentures is calling for a

“Australia is undergoing a rapid digital transformation but despite increased connectivity, socially and financially disadvantaged families have found themselves on the wrong

“This reduced access outside of school is likely to have a negative impact on the educational outcomes for students from lower socio-economic backgrounds.”

The report found schools commonly provided laptops for Year 6 students (57 percent), but only a third (32 percent) of Year 10 students received a device from their school.

“We have been addressing digital exclusion by refurbishing end of life corporate laptops and PCs and distributing these to individuals who otherwise couldn’t afford them, including school students,” Mr Muller said.

“Unfortunately, there have been various hurdles to scaling this up including a lack of device donations and lack of consistent funding to support the ongoing costs.”

The WorkVentures report highlighted the benefits to students of access to a laptop out of school, with 83 percent of surveyed students experiencing improvement in their grades, and 97 percent indicating that their new laptop supported them in completing their homework and assignments.

WorkVentures CEO Caroline McDaid said a

key component to closing the digital divide was a national strategy.

“WorkVentures is urging the introduction of a National Device Bank to aid digitally excluded Australians by providing free digital devices,” she said.

“We want to ensure all children have access to digital learning essentials so they can make the most of their education and not miss out due to their individual circumstances.”

Over a five-year period, the Australian public and corporate sector will refresh 10 million laptops, PCs, and tablets.

Most of these devices are currently diverted into international markets for profit, recycled, or sent to landfill.

“While we have had some Australian companies and government agencies donating devices for social good for a number of years, there is substantial scope to amplify this across the corporate and public sector landscape,” Ms McDaid said.

“We want to see a system where these devices are kept in Australia and redistributed for free to people who are digitally excluded.

“We are calling upon these organisations to get involved and for the public to advocate for a National Device Bank to help students get connected for the good of their education and their future.”

A National Device Bank aims to secure one million pledged devices to support digital inclusion programs within five years while providing more than 100,000 Australians with devices, connectivity, and digital coaching.

It also looks to divert 2500 tonnes of potential ewaste, promoting a circular economy while also combating its environmental impact.

Visit workventures.com.au/nationaldevice-bank to find out more.

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www.CaseyCardiniaKids.com.au

Education

Embracing nature through play THOUSANDS of Victorian children will have the chance to learn and play in the great outdoors, thanks to a bush kinder expansion.

Minister for Children Lizzie Blandthorn announced in February that 150 kindergartens across the state would receive $6000 grants to offer a bush kinder program in 2024.

Bush kinder is delivered outdoors at places including parks, bushland, and beaches.

Children can learn through play with natural materials in the outdoors.

The programs are educational and exciting, with a significant positive impact on a child’s development, as well as on their physical and mental

health and wellbeing.

The $6000 grants will help kindergartens buy the equipment they need to run programs that focus on getting outside, playing with natural materials, and learning through activities such as climbing trees and watching wildlife.

Kindergartens without access to a

suitable off-site location can use their grant funding to enhance the biodiversity of their existing outdoor environment.

Applications for the 2025 round of another 150 bush kinder grants will open in the second half of this year.

Visit vic.gov.au/bush-kinder-grantsprogram for more information.

St Clare’s expects students to ROCK EVERY school has a motto or mission statement that outlines how each member of the community can benefit from being part of the school community.

The final stage of landscape and garden works was recently completed, including a new playground and sports field.

Before your children even come to school, you, as parents, have taught them so much.

St Clare’s Primary School, Officer, has the following school motto: Faith leads to courage, wisdom, and compassion.

They’ve learned to listen, to ask questions, to be filled with wonder, to say thank you, to wash their hands, to pick up after themselves, and to look out for each other.

To live out this motto, all members of the community are asked to follow the school-wide expectations of respect, optimism, courage, kind, and safe (ROCKS).

St Clare’s students follow these in their daily actions at school by doing their job, having a go, making positive choices, seeking help when needed, modelling and practising kindness, and keeping themselves and others safe.

At St Clare’s these expectations are modelled and explicitly taught and reinforced in an ongoing way.

Student awards are based on living out ROCKS and the school links these expectations to scriptures in the Bible.

The hope is that all members of the school community will leave St Clare’s with the school-wide expectations and motto instilled in their minds as they go through life.

The St Clare’s team looks to nurture the holistic development of each child at the school.

For the St Clare’s family, numeracy and literacy skills are core elements of education, but so is religious education, www.CaseyCardiniaKids.com.au

developing empathy, social justice, and a strong moral compass.

St Clare’s encourages active play and healthy bodies; understanding other cultures through learning languages; and the confidence that comes with developing creativity through the performing and visual arts.

Student achievement is measured not only by academic growth but by each child’s emotional, social, and spiritual wellbeing.

Being part of faith-filled community instils students with a sense of identity, a feeling of belonging and, above all, a powerful sense of self-worth.

The aim at St Clare’s is to have each child reach their potential and be a well-rounded individual within a supportive and caring learning environment.

As part of the parish of St Patrick’s in Pakenham, the school is on-site with the early learning centre and the Officer campus of St Francis Xavier College.

This provides a seamless transition from early childhood to secondary education with state-of-the-art facilities.

Visit www.stclaresofficer.catholic. edu.au and take a virtual tour to get a real feel for the school. School tours are also available in person. Call 5940 6777 to book a time.

St Clare’s is accepting enrolments for 2025.

To receive enrolment documentation or for more information, call 5940 6777 or email enrolments@stclaresofficer. catholic.edu.au.

Each learning space has been designed by education awardwinning architects to provide a rich environment conducive to relevant, meaningful learning.

Areas are spacious and well-resourced so as to meet the diverse needs of all learners.

AUTUMN 2024 27

Education

New KWR kinder opens its doors AS KU Kooweerup Kindergarten welcomes its first group of children and families since opening in January, the community embraces the new educational opportunities in the area.

Located on the grounds of Kooweerup Primary School, the kindergarten serves as a cornerstone for families seeking quality early learning experiences in a nurturing environment.

Reflecting on her return to the town where her early childhood journey began, Melissa Luxford, director at KU Kooweerup Kindergarten, shares her sentiment.

“As I started my early childhood career in Kooweerup many years ago, I was excited to return to the town to engage with the children, families, and community again,” she said.

“It’s lovely to see how much the town has grown and to be a part of children’s learning journeys again.”

The brand-new building featuring two generous kindergarten rooms and a spacious outdoor environment compliments its natural surroundings, offering an inviting space for exploration and growth.

scaffold children’s learning and support each child’s development.”

“KU Kooweerup provides a calming natural environment for children to engage in a wide range of learning opportunities with our open-plan playrooms that seamlessly flow out to our picturesque outdoor play spaces,” Melissa said.

“As KU Kooweerup is located alongside Kooweerup Primary School, children will engage in a wide range of experiences to support their transition to their first years at school,” Melissa said.

Central to KU Kooweerup’s program and approach is the dedication to nurturing each child’s individuality.

“Our educational play-based program provides children with opportunities to explore their ideas and make connections to their world,” Melissa said.

“Our caring and qualified teachers and educators use these moments to

St Therese’s Primary School “Do all that you do with love”

St Therese of Lisieux

A key aspect of KU Kooweerup is its connection with Kooweerup Primary School, adding value to the educational experience for young children.

“The kindergarten overlooks the school oval, and children have the opportunity to engage with the school students during recess and lunch times, as well as going on excursions on the school grounds to explore the environment and engage in school activities.”

KU Children’s Services CEO Christine Legg acknowledged the collaborative efforts that made the opening of KU Kooweerup Kindergarten possible.

“We wish to offer our special thanks to the Department of Education and the Victorian School Building Authority (VSBA) for their support and funding,” she said.

KU Kooweerup invites families to visit on Thursday and Friday mornings from 9.30am to 11am to explore the space and meet the dedicated teachers and educators.

KU Kooweerup is taking enrolments.

Call Melissa on 7003 1704 or visit www. ku.com.au/childcare/centres/ku-koowee-rup for more information.

Visit www.ku.com.au/careers for information about career opportunities.

Established in 1895, KU Children’s Services remains not-for-profit and enriches the lives of more than 10,000 children and their families each year through services including kindergartens, preschools, long day care, NDIS services, inclusion services, family programs, and more.

KU Koo Wee Rup Kindergarten Now Open and Enrolling KU Koo Wee Rup Kindergarten, co-located on the site of the Koo Wee Rup Primary School, provides high quality early childhood education for children aged 3 and 4 years old, in a brand new building, featuring two generous kindergarten rooms and a large outdoor play area.

To learn more visit www.ku.com.au or contact: KU Koo Wee Rup Kindergarten 28-34 Moody St (access via Maughan Rd), Koo Wee Rup T 03 7003 1704 E ku.kooweerup@ku.com.au

St Therese’s Catholic Primary School is a welcoming and happy place where children are nurtured to become independent and responsible learners.

To learn more about what St Therese’s has to offer, contact the school on 5996 7525 to book a personalised tour, or visit the school’s website: www.sttcbourne.catholic.edu.au

131 Endeavour Drive, Cranbourne North Victoria 3977 Telephone: 5996 7525 www.sttcbourne.catholic.edu.au 12670796-HC12-24 28 AUTUMN 2024

12666625-MP11-24

Principal: Felicity Broughton

We look forward to welcoming you and your family to St Therese’s Primary School.

www.CaseyCardiniaKids.com.au

Entertainment

Easter celebrations and more!

LOOKING for exciting Easter activities and school holiday fun for the whole family?

Look no further than Bunjil Place!

It has a jam-packed program of events to keep everyone entertained, from creative workshops and family films to live shows and interactive exhibitions.

Highlights include: ■ Cubby Village and craft: Build your own cubby and unleash your creativity with curated craft activities.

■ Easter family films: Enjoy screenings of Zootopia and The Bad Guys, plus an Easter bunny appearance.

■ The Umbilical Brothers - The Distraction: A mind-blowing live performance that combines stage and screen.

■ Studio - A Little Bit of Blue: An interactive puppetry show about environmental awareness and workshop.

■ Nylon Zoo: A world of imagination where you become the dancers and performers.

■ Emergent 2023 - Graduate Showcase Exhibition: Discover the future of art and design with works by talented local graduates.

■ Drop-in art workshops: Get creative with free art activities inspired by the Kungka Ku?pu (Strong Women) exhibition.

Plus, there’s much more. Visit bunjilplace.com.au for the full program and bookings.

■ Polite Mammals: A hilarious neovaudevillian variety show celebrating all things animal.

Summer – Autumn 2024 Season

Chris dives deep to save the sea

All singing, all dancing, one man show!

Wednesday, 20 March Morning Tea 10:00am Show 11:00am

From his earliest memory of spotting a seal at Phillip Island to his present life living, sleeping, and dining alongside more than 2000 native creatures, nobody understands Australian wildlife quite like Chris Humfrey.

It’s written for children aged five to seven years. They’ll love the exciting and funny photos, along with QR videos that enhance their understanding of detail.

The interactive digital vision plunges readers from the page into the intricacies of each animal’s classification, adaptations, habitat, environment, and ecological role - all intertwined with fascinating and quirky fun facts from Chris.

“Our seas are essential to our very existence,” he said.

“Did you know at least half the planet’s oxygen which we breathe is derived from oceans?”

ON SALE NOW

THE DANCIN MAN

AN Aussie zoologist is diving headfirst into the underwater realms of Australia’s shorelines, continuing his mission to educate and inspire the nation’s young minds.

In his third book, Incredible Coastal Critters, Chris invites readers to get up close and personal with our most fascinating sea creatures, including the deadly southern blue-ringed octopus, purple sea urchins, pot-bellied seahorse, little penguins, and more.

Don’t miss out on the fun!

All Tickets $22

Chris Humfrey dives deep into the world of sea creatures in his new book.

Chris believes kids are the key to saving Australia’s precious wildlife and, through his books, he aims to empower a young army of animal allies to change the future.

“Remember, education is the key to conservation,” he said.

The book is intended as a companion, guiding children through an ongoing wildlife adventure.

Incredible Coastal Critters by Chris Humfrey, published by New Holland Publishers, is available in bookstores or from www.au.newhollandpublishers. com for $24.99.

THE UMBILICAL BROTHERS: THE DISTRACTION Enabling your screen addiction.

Sunday, 7 April Time 5:00pm Tickets from $49.90

For more information and ticket sales visit www.cardiniaculturalcentre.com.au or call 1300 887 624 40 Lakeside Blvd, Pakenham 12669828-HC12-24

www.CaseyCardiniaKids.com.au

AUTUMN 2024 29

Fashion

Find autumn fashion in-store FIND fashionable additions to your child’s autumn wardrobe at Billy Lidz.

New label Country Road Kids is now available in-store at the Berwick boutique.

The Billy Lidz team has been doing the hard work for shoppers since 2009, selecting the best high-quality designer baby and kids wear from Australia, Europe, and America.

Shop your local baby and kids store for all your baby needs, from change mats to Charlie Crane Rockers, clothing, and nappy bags from great local Australian brands plus beautiful international brands like Moonie bears, Silly Silas tights, and the ever-popular Quincy Mae, Rylee and Cru, and Banwood bikes, scooters, and trikes.

Visit the boutique at Blackburne Square, Berwick, or check out the range at www.lovemybillylidz.com.au.

AUTUMN SEASON IN STORE NOW PLUS GREAT GIFT IDEAS OPEN Mon - Fri 9am-5pm, Sat 9am-3pm Shop 6, Blackburne Square, Berwick Phone: 9707 5593 12669867-KG12-24

30 AUTUMN 2024

www.CaseyCardiniaKids.com.au

www.CaseyCardiniaKids.com.au

AUTUMN 2024 31

born to perform

Fostering a love of dance DANCE Legacy is a dance studio based in Pakenham offering expert tuition by experienced teachers for students aged 18 months to adult.

students skip for the first time, wing for the first time, and achieve personal goals they have set for themselves.

It offers classes for not only the serious dancer but also those who purely want enjoyment and recreation.

The faculty has lots of exciting opportunities planned for the students in 2024, including the Moomba Parade in March as well as two whole-school performances throughout the year, where every student gets their time to shine on the stage and perform for their friends and family.

The team at Dance Legacy prides itself on having an experienced faculty that promises to provide excellent training coupled with fun, fitness, and endless laughter.

Dance Legacy offers a wide variety of classes for ages 18 months through to adults in ballet, tap, jazz, lyrical, contemporary, hip hop, acro, and stretch/conditioning.

Studio owners and teachers Miss Danielle and Miss Loren have a combined 30-plus years of dance teaching experience.

Over the years they have not only produced award-winning choreography but fostered a love of dance in hundreds of students and celebrated many achievements, no matter how big or small.

Dance Legacy is moving into its fourth year in 2024 and has already grown to almost 200 students, with more joining every week.

They have welcomed many new faces through the door and seen

Students will also prepare for their Royal Academy of Dance (RAD) ballet examinations and Australian Teachers of Dancing (ATOD) tap and jazz examinations.

Dance Legacy will also take company students to represent Dance Legacy at local performances and competitions.

They have had a 100 percent success rate in their examinations and have seen students achieve top marks.

But what Miss Loren and Miss Danielle love to see the most and are the proudest of is students gaining or re-discovering a love and true enjoyment of dance.

The school owns three purpose-built studio spaces for more than 60 classes throughout each week.

Dance Legacy promises to provide an inclusive and safe environment to help develop the person as well as the dancer.

The team pledges to nurture and further a dance legacy for every student who dances through the studio door.

Enrolments for season 2024 are open! Love to dance? So does the Dance Legacy team.

Call 0422 774 665 or email admin@ dancelegacy.com.au to book a free trial.

Everybody who walks through the doors of Dance Legacy mentions the awesome energy and vibe that the studio exudes, and walks out of class with a smile on their face.

More at Cathy-Lea Studios in 2024 CATHY-LEA Studios has been training students in dance, music, and drama since 1990 and is proud to offer students more in 2024.

More styles: Classes in classical ballet, jazz, tap, hip hop, contemporary, lyrical, acrobatics, drama, musical theatre, production class, singing, drum, piano, guitar, and bass guitar.

More levels: From pre-school to professional, recreational, and vocational.

VET Dance, Musical Production, and Elite Training Program.

community events such as Berwick Show and Relay for Life.

More classes: Offering more than 150 classes per week in dance, music, and drama.

More achievements: Cathy-Lea students win many awards and scholarships each year, including local, state, and national championships.

More teachers: Cathy-Lea can engage teachers who are specialists in their fields, so students benefit from expert training in a range of disciplines.

More qualifications: Cathy-Lea has exceptional qualifications including a Master in Education and Licentiate qualifications in several dance styles.

Staff are highly trained professionals and educators trained in first aid and child safety.

More ages and abilities: From 18 months to adult, boys and girls, all abilities, and special needs classes.

More programs: Ready Set Dance, Ready Set Ballet, Cecchetti International Ballet, ATOD Jazz and Tap, Progressing Ballet Technique, AMEB Music, Rock School Music, VCE

More opportunities: Students perform in concerts, soirees, cabarets, competitions, showcases, and

More value for money: Reducing hourly rates, family fees, and unlimited class passes ensures you can do more for less cost.

More experience: This year is CathyLea’s 35th. The team knows its programs work, so you can be assured that your children can train with Cathy-Lea safely to professional levels.

Contact Cathy-Lea Studios today to book a free trial class via office@ cathy-lea.com, 9704-7324, or www.cathy-lea.com.

Creating stars since 1990 *All ages *All abilities *Free trials *Family discounts *Recreational and Pre-Professional training *Ready Set Dance for 2-5yrs *VCE & VET Dance top marks 2023

Enquire now 5/15-19 Vesper Dve, Narre Warren

32 AUTUMN 2024

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www.cathy-lea.com

9704 - 7324

office@cathy-lea.com

www.CaseyCardiniaKids.com.au

Born to perform

Dance to smile, inspire, achieve DANCE On Academy offers quality training to anyone with a passion for dance.

Principals Taryn Jacobs and Emma Zinner love creating a friendly, fun, and encouraging atmosphere while also delivering quality training and experiences to help each dancer through their journey - whether that be for fun, personal growth, or towards becoming a professional dancer.

“We pride ourselves in having fun, caring, and approachable teachers who have an immense passion in both dance and teaching dance,” Emma and Taryn said.

The studio offers ballet, jazz, tap, contemporary/lyrical, hip hop and acrobatics.

For students who want to further their dancing, Dance On offers ATOD Ballet exams as well as competition work in solos, duos, trios, and troupes.

For its youngest dancers, the studio offers tiny tots, 2/3-year-old and 3/4-year-old dance as well as ballet and combined jazz/tap for 4/5-year-olds.

“We know that one size doesn’t fit all so make sure that we tailor each students’ dance experience to their goals,” Emma and Taryn said.

Dance On is in its second year of business.

Emma and Taryn have been teaching together for more than a decade, building knowledge on how to best run a dance school as well as continually working to improve their teaching methods and choreography.

Dance On has three pillars: Dance to smile - The goal is to see dancers and their families light up with excitement, enthusiasm, and engagement.

“We have seen first-hand the positive impact dance can have on students and the pure joy this can bring to them at any level of both class and performance,” Emma and Taryn said.

“We smile when we see you smile!”

Dance to inspire - Emma and Taryn have created an academy where dancers can be inspired and inspire others to be themselves, show emotion in dance, reward effort, be inclusive, and always show team spirit.

“Through inspiration, anyone can grow as a dancer,” they said.

Dance to achieve - Achieve Achievements veme ment ntss co come me in all forms. ar about “We love to see and hea hear ho ow big or achievements no matter how nd taking that small; from being brave an and first step into a new class, through to accomplishing a new skill o orr being performan nce,” Emma proud of a stage performance,” and Taryn said. e Team is Dance On’s Performance uos in working hard on solos and d duos Eistteddfod in preparation for the Moe Eisteddfod any April as well as troupes for m many performance opportunities throughout the year. e able to give “We are also excited to b be opportunitty to perform our students the opportunity xciting at Disneyland and other ex exciting n 2025, which locations around the USA in

has created a really positive vibe around the studio,” Emma and Taryn said.

“We would love to welcome many more new faces and would be more than happy to chat about our FREE trial classes and help find the right pathway for you.”

Dance On Academy is at Factory 3, 108 Mulcahy Road, Pakenham.

Email info@danceonacademy.com.au or call 0433 513 769.

A thanks to performers

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WE would like to say a thank you to our studio and club owners and a bigger thanks to our extended community.

We pride ourselves on going above and beyond for the community that supports us.

Through their continued support, our retail shop space is now in its fifth year (nine years online).

We were able to get through the tough Covid times and enjoy successful growth at the other end.

We enjoy exploring new product lines to assist families, having everything they need in one space.

Their continued support helps us employ four local staff and sponsor several eisteddfods and competitions to help our performers to access opportunities.

The team has loved seeing so many of our families return in-store to tell us about their new year performance and class plans, and we have very much enjoyed getting to know new faces who have visited.

We are excited to be working on a big project that has been four years in the making. We can’t reveal what it is just yet, but we’re excited to let parents know we will be making their costuming needs that all-time easier.

Opening Night Supplies is at 2/32 Treloar Lane, Pakenham. Call 5941 5713 or visit openingnightsupplies.com.

- Opening Night Supplies

The team at Opening Night Supplies - Melanie, Melinda and Jess.

Proud to be supporting our local community for over 5 years. Stocking all your class, performance and costuming needs.

Join the fun at Pakenham’s newest & most exciting dance school.

www.CaseyCardiniaKids.com.au

Find out more: danceonacademy.com.au 12671072-JC12-24

Shop contact details: ph: 03 5941 5713 S Shop 2, 32 Treloar Lane, Pakenham 3810 online: www.openingnightsupplies.com

Factory 3, 108 Mulcahy Road, Pakenham /danceonacademy

@dance_on_academy

Book your FREE TRIAL CLASS

AUTUMN 2024 33

Party Time

Book your skating party today SK8HOUSE Roller Skating Rink in Carrum Downs is a fantastic place for old-fashioned family fun.

The local, family-owned spot offers great entertainment for everyone, making it perfect for parties and get-togethers.

Pottery with a side of pizza

The centre can take care of everything, leaving you free to enjoy all the fun and games that will keep the kids and adults entertained.

Every skating party includes admission, skate hire, protective gear, invitations, table decorations, plates, cups, cutlery, serviettes, food, drink, and even icy poles for bigger groups.

Beyond the creative hub lies a cozy cafe, where visitors can unwind with a steaming cup of coffee or tea amidst their artistic endeavors.

Here, connections are forged, conversations flow, and masterpieces come to life.

Paint a Pot and Pizzeria emerges as the go-to destination for families seeking quality time and artistic expression.

Whether hosting a lively children’s party or seeking a leisurely outing, the studio promises an unforgettable experience.

With its kids’ cafe and perpetual toddler play area, the establishment ensures continuous entertainment during opening hours.

Additionally, adults can explore a myriad of workshops and classes, catering to diverse artistic interests.

Join the team in celebrating the inception of Paint a Pot and Pizzeria — a beacon of creativity and culinary excellence in the heart of Fountain Gate.

Visit paintapot.com.au for more information.

Paint a Pot and Pizzeria is at shop 2102, 25-55 Overland Drive, Fountain Gate Shopping Centre, Narre Warren.

Paint a Pot Studio is at 4/1 Vesper Drive, Narre Warren.

OUR CHILD FRIENDLY VENUE OFFERS A RANGE OF ACTIVITIES FOR KIDS

You also get your own table for the party, a special birthday song, and the birthday child gets two free Learn-2-Sk8 Class Passes for another time.

Sk8house has different party packages for all ages, including standard parties, tots parties, and teen parties.

Sk8house is at 3/2 Amayla Crescent, Carrum Downs.

For more information, call 9773 6799 or email info@sk8house.com.au today, or visit www.sk8house.com.au to book in your very own skating party package.

12670817-SM11-24

A fusion of artistry and gastronomy, Paint a Pot and Pizzeria has made its grand entrance into Fountain Gate Shopping Centre.

Following the triumph of its Narre Warren establishment, this familyowned enterprise unveiled an innovative concept that marries pottery painting with authentic Italian cuisine.

While retaining its core identity of pottery painting, art workshops, and vibrant parties, the new locale introduces an enticing addition — an Italian pizzeria.

Headed by the esteemed chef Krizan Popov, patrons can relish the traditional Canotto-style pizza alongside a meticulously crafted menu.

Families are invited to immerse themselves in a world of creativity and flavor.

Whether it’s painting pottery, indulging in delectable pizza and pasta, sipping on artisanal cocktails, or savoring the finest St Ali coffee, there’s something for everyone.

Moreover, the experience extends beyond mere consumption.

Both adults and children can partake in the joy of crafting pizza and pasta during birthdays and group events, fostering memorable moments of togetherness.

Take all of the stress out of party planning with a Sk8house catered party!

a Pot 4/1 Vesper Drive, Narre Warren• Ph: 8794 9997 • www.paintapot.com.au Paint Paint a Pot Follow us on paint.a.pot.narrewarren and Paint a Pot Narre Warren KIDS Paint a Pot Pizzeria: Level 2, fountain gate shopping centre Shopping Centre,Narre Warren • 03 9765 6415 • fountaingate@paintapot.com.au

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DINING OUT YOUR CHOICE OF DELICIOUS TAKEAWAYS

The

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Family friendly with huge new kids play area

Come in and grab a delicious pie and hot coffee or choose from our great range of cakes and pastries Great place to sit and relax for lunch.

Book a night stay in our newly refurbished rooms

Open 7 days early until 3pm

• Parma Night - Tuesday • Trivia Night - Wednesday • Steak Night - Thursday • Live Music - Saturday Night • Breakfast - Saturday & Sunday 655 Princes Way, Drouin Ph: 5625 4884

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• Parma Night - Tuesday • Trivia Night - Wednesday • Steak Night - Thursday • Live Music - Saturday Night • Breakfast - Saturday & Sunday

655 Princes Way, Drouin Ph: 5625 4884

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AUTUMN 2024 35

Reality Bites

Renee Garing with husband Tony and son Parker.

Picture: Louisa Jones

When footy meets family

By Angie Hilton RENEE GARING simply oozes loveliness.

The 35-year-old has a sweet, angelic face with a matching spirit on the inside.

But Angie Hilton learned that for all her sweetness, she’s equally tough, driven, and a super-talented athlete.

Mother of Parker, 19 months, Renee loves children so much that she dedicated her life to becoming a teacher and, rumour has it, she is an absolute favourite with the students.

Renee’s genuine care and passion for the growth of young people is evident and she is a big believer in using her own life experiences to help others.

So lovely to catch up. So where do we begin? How about can you give us a snapshot of life before babies?

Childhood, school life, ambitions?

I grew up in Geelong, and went through Christian College from kindergarten. I enjoyed school.

I liked to do well and always strived to achieve the best I could. I got involved in all sporting opportunities that came up and AFL was one that I loved, even though we only got to play it one day a year in secondary school.

I played netball from a young age and did athletics and basketball too.

36 AUTUMN 2024

I am the middle child. I have a sister two years older and a brother two years younger.

Growing up, I always dreamt of playing sport at the highest level.

I thought I wanted to be a physio until my final year of school when I realised I actually wanted to be a teacher.

After spending some time in the USA working at a summer camp, I realised I would like specifically to teach PE to kids and decided to do a P-12 health and PE teaching degree.

I had the opportunity to travel to Europe and do an exchange in Missouri in the USA in my third year of uni. I did some other overseas travels with friends.

Tony and I met in 2010, were engaged in 2012 and married in 2013.

We really enjoyed travelling together to various countries and got some great trips in together before having Parker.

We also have moved houses a few times. My husband has an interest in real estate so we have had a few projects over the years and we have some investments that we look after together.

How did you meet your Tony? Tell us how the romance unfolded and any funny/interesting moments.

While I was overseas on my exchange, Tony started to attend the church that I went to.

It started as a friendship and I didn’t realise at first he was interested, but you could say Tony ‘courted’ me with some very kind and romantic acts, including some group dinners which he cooked up a storm, ice-cream nights where he made ice cream - again for multiple people, hoping I would come along - then asking me out for a dinner by putting roses on my car windscreen with a note.

Oh, how lovely. Tony sounds like quite the romantic! Let’s fast forward to becoming parents… How was your experience of bringing Parker into the world?

Well, he was born 41 plus 6. I began some early labour on a Monday but was very slow to progress. I went in for balloon catheter on the Thursday night to find that I was 3cm dilated so didn’t need it. I went back in on the Friday morning to get induced and after a long day with little progress (got to 5cm by around 7pm) and Parker’s heart rate dropping, we had to have an emergency caesarean.

So your career path was headed for teaching and then you also had a great added surprise to your career. How did it all unfold?

I studied a Bachelor of Education (Physical Education) at University of Ballarat (now known as Federation University) after having a gap year working at summer camp in the USA and working some part time jobs to save for travel.

I was lucky enough to get a position at Christian College for my first year out and have been there since (other than having some time out on maternity leave).

When I was 28, the AFLW started.

Geelong Cats did not have a team in the competition in the first year but they created a VFLW team.

They held a trial at Deakin university.

I decided to go along as I had enjoyed footy at school and gone for Geelong my whole life. I was very surprised when I made the squad. I then was lucky enough to make the team and played VFLW in 2017 and 2018.

In 2018, I only got to play a few games as I got a fracture in my sacrum (a bone in the lower back).

Thankfully, the club still decided to sign me and I was signed for our inaugural AFLW side to commence in 2019.

I played 33 games throughout the six seasons I was in the AFLW program. I missed out on playing in the two seasons in 2022 while being pregnant and then returning to playing after having Parker.

I worked hard that season to get my body right to play again and was able to get involved in some scrimmage matches and got named as an emergency, but it was wonderful to get back into the team for round one of the 2022 season.

www.CaseyCardiniaKids.com.au

I retired at the end of the 2023 season in our Preliminary Final against Brisbane.

How amazing! What was it like to experience the AFLW world? Was it hard to juggle parenting duties?

To play and train in an elite facility with wonderful coaches and having the support of our great fans was very special.

I have learnt so much and met incredible people. I have loved the opportunities I have also had in the community to serve others and be a role model to younger kids wanting to play the game.

It was a challenge to juggle with parenting but I was very well supported by family and the club.

Prior to having Parker, I was managing a different kind of challenge when I was managing full-time work and playing AFLW. In some ways, it was easier and less of a rush and the mental load was a lot less. In other ways, working around a baby that you can’t control their needs or schedule was more challenging, and the physical challenges of gaining back fitness, strength, skill and ensuring adequate fuelling for training but also breastfeeding a baby.

The club allowed me to return as soon as I was comfortable.

I was pregnant for the first season in 2022 and gave birth to Parker a week before pre-season began for the second season that year.

I attended a little bit at first and slowly increased the time.

www.CaseyCardiniaKids.com.au

As our routine with Parker allowed me, I would stay longer, and eventually he was able to stay at home while I trained.

I have balanced it by being very organised and trying to make things as easy as I can for whoever is caring for Parker when I have to go to training.

I would say that it is so important to reach out for help when you need it and that it is OK if you don’t feel like you know everything.

This only worked once he was able to take a bottle and I would make time to pump during sessions.

We have been really lucky to have local support of both sets of grandparents and I am so thankful to have had a husband who is fully supportive and able to take the time from his own workplace to have Parker one day a week.

I would also say self-care is key, so prioritising some time for each of you to do something you need for yourself.

Doing things to fill your own tank can help to ensure you are giving your child your best.

In the early days, when I took him in, I stopped when he woke to feed or play with him and I remember many moments rocking the pram while doing workouts.

I was also allowed to come in during the day to do some of my sessions in the gym while the men’s program was in, and all of them were really accepting of Parker being around.

As Parker got older it got easier and the club got a nanny to support me on some nights before Tony finished work, which was really helpful.

As we got to time for travel in our season in 2023, Parker was old enough to stay home while I went interstate.

If I didn’t have footy, I definitely don’t think I would have left him overnight that early, but it was all fine and Tony has been incredibly supportive.

I also think the time they have had together with me being out at footy from when he was so little has helped them build a wonderful bond.

So how do you manage work life and parenting?

I have only had AFLW and commitments associated with that up to this point, but the hours required to play AFLW are equivalent to a part-time job in terms of how often we are physically at the club, but there are also things to do outside of that in our own time to ensure we are best prepared to train and play.

How would you describe your parenting style?

I would like to think I am a supportive and caring parent.

I was really lucky that my job (AFLW) provided me with that. Being active is something that I really enjoy and makes me feel good. I was thankful to have the time to do this.

I try to put things in place to create a safe and positive environment for Parker and reinforce clear boundaries where needed.

How do you picture your ultimate future work/family/life?

What did you learn from your own parents that you do (or don’t) want to pass on?

We have just moved into a new house which has great space for Parker to run around and play which we love.

My parents demonstrated unwavering love for us and I hope we can show that to Parker.

Like all kids, we did things to push the boundaries but they always acknowledged at the time that they may not like certain things or a particular action or behaviour but they still loved us.

That is so important.

We would love to extend our family if possible when the time is right.

Over the next few years, we hope to have a good balance between parttime work and spending time with Parker.

What do you hope for your children’s futures?

Like all parents, I am sure, I hope for good health and for a child that is kind to others.

They also are so selfless and always put our needs first. I would love to do the same and do what I can to make it possible for Parker to follow his passions.

I hope that he has the opportunity to explore, learn, and have fun with us and family and friends by his side.

What advice would you have for new parents?

We hope he enjoys keeping active and getting outdoors as we know how important that is for our mind and body.

To enjoy each stage as time really does fly.

Beyond that, I hope that he can dream big and try different things.

AUTUMN 2024 37

Books

Speaking for our foliage

By Casey Neill AUTHOR Victor Steffensen is giving a voice to the trees.

He wrote picture book The Trees to help future generations manage our landscapes and ensure that they thrive.

“It’s really important to connect with the young ones,” he said.

“It’s also a really fun way to share knowledge and to give different perspectives of knowledge.

“I wanted it to be appealing for all age groups and something everyone could sit down together and read and enjoy.

“It’s a good way for adults to learn with the kids and discuss things like climate change.”

The picture book is about more than just trees.

People have cared for trees for thousands of years, and how the trees cared for them in return through seeds, flowers, wood, and more.

There’s a balance between giving and taking from the land.

In the book are lyrics and a QR code for a video of Victor’s song We Are the Trees.

“It gives me a chance to write music,” Victor said.

“It’s a really fun way to share knowledge.”

His sister, Sandra Steffensen, illustrated the book.

“I’ve always watched her painting,” he said.

“She’s good at what she does.

“It turned out to be perfect. She knows my work, knows what I do, knows what I’m passionate about.

“It’s really important that we’re taking care of the country and important we’re listening to First Nations knowledge systems in how we care for the land,” Victor said.

“It’s nice to share the work with my family and friends.”

“Writing The Trees was actually giving a voice to the trees.”

The Trees is published by Hardie Grant Explore and available in stores nationally.

The book explains how First Nations

This book is the follow-up to Victor’s Looking after Country with Fire, which explains Aboriginal burning practices.

Children’s books...

Kevin the Sheep

Bad Bunny the Pirate

Jacqueline Harvey

Jonathan Bentley

A laugh-out-loud picture book perfect for children who love Pig the Pug and Macca the Alpaca.

Bad Bunny, the meanest pirate to sail the seas, is on the hunt for treasure!

Why can’t Kevin be more like the flock?!

Kevin the Sheep is unusual, he does things his own way.

But will being different help him save the day?

Puffin $17.99

But when his crew comes up against a nasty enemy, will Bad Bunny prove that he’s not the meanest pirate after all?

Scholastic Australia $18.99

Shower Land 1: Break the Curse

Raising the Stakes

Nat Amoore, James Hart

Ham Helsing and his pals are snowed in at the old Helsing Manor…and they aren’t the only ones haunting its dusty halls.

Felix hates Mondays. Dad’s yelling at him to get up. His little brother, Olly, is being super annoying.

So when Felix shuts the bathroom door, he wishes he could get away. He turns on the shower and…Felix finds himself standing in the middle of a field…naked…with an army of soldiers charging at him.

Puffin $14.99

38 AUTUMN 2024

Rich Moyer

All Ham wanted to do was visit his family home but he finds nothing but trouble!

Between the world’s oldest vampire and his monsterhunting dad, Ham will have his hands full just trying to keep his friends safe.

Scholastic Australia $17.99

I Hope This Doesn’t Find You Ann Liang Sadie Wen is perfect on paper: school captain, valedictorian, and a “pleasure to have in class.” It’s not easy, but she has a trick to keep her modelstudent smile plastered on her face at all times: she channels all her frustrations into her email drafts.

Sadie doesn’t hold back because nobody will ever read them…until they’re accidentally sent out.

Overnight, Sadie’s carefully crafted, conflict-free life is turned upside down.

Penguin $19.99 www.CaseyCardiniaKids.com.au

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