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Showing posts with label Kids. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Kids. Show all posts

Sunday, 6 January 2019

Flip Out Prestons: Kid's Party REVIEW

Gone are the days when birthday parties were just fairy bread and sausage rolls. Actually, in my home they never were quite like that, and my kids didn't try fairy bread until they were five and discovered it served at a friend's birthday party.

These days, the stakes are high, and most of the criteria surrounding parties centre on impressing other kids. Or mums impressing other mums. EEK!

Full disclosure, none of the above has ever been me. The focal point of my parties for my kids - I have 11 year old twins, boy and girl, Rafael and Estella, so yesss I ONLY have to throw ONE party a year - is for my kids and their friends to expend AS MUCH ENERGY as possible during that 4-5 hour period.

For the past few years we have had some pretty fun pool parties at our home, plus some Maccas and playland style parties too, but when Miss-About-To-Turn 11 says she wants to try something different and it involves a party outside of our home, with someone else cleaning up the party madness, AND kids expend oodles of energy and are probably going to be a sweaty mess by the time the cutting of the cake happens... I am IN!

Estella specifically pinpoints FlipOut as her party place of choice, and she wants me to take the reins. When we discover there is a disco party option, dancing queen over here is super keen.

The staff at Flip Out Prestons (in NSW, in Sydney's South-West, and the closest one to where we live) are super nice, brimming with enthusiasm, and know their stuff. See the link HERE with all their details.

Oh, and by the way, Flip Out is Australia’s largest network of indoor trampoline parks! See more about Flip Out HERE.

They talk us through all the options possible (cake inclusion, socks for all participants, music on a Friday and Saturday night, the latter of which is an actual live DJ, the former is music streaming though the centre, which is based in an industrial style precinct).

The best part (or an additional job, depending on how you look at it) is that you are able to bring your own food along, with the only restrictions being the number of platters (four) which means the freedom to shape the party how you like, with the lovely staff at FlipOut setting up your tables for you. It's so great to turn up and the party table is ready for you!

Seasoned mums: you'll know this for sure... the kids won't care much for the food. They just WANNA PARTY immediately on those trampolines. And that, they do. There is so much fun to be had they simply don't want to waste time.

The party host takes the group of kids to the trampoline area, which takes up most of the whole FlipOut set up, and we're talking mega big trampoline space here, where the host takes the kids through their paces with activities and non competitive action, and basically expertly reigns in all that energy, while allowing them to have lots of fun and just be kids.

So, it's supervised and freestyle fun, utilising their time jumping as much as possible, then expertly coaxing them back to the table for food, then back again for cake, and off they go again for more party shenanigans.

The pricing structure is flexible and very reasonable: the best parts of it are knowing the hosts take care of all the elements for you, plus the kids will leave tired and happy! Everyone wins!

Here are some photos from our birthday party adventures!










You have a range of kids activities, birthday celebration packages, 'After Dark' events and fun fitness programs for all ages.

You have party options including the 'cool weekend party', the 'awesome weekend party', and the 'self-catered swagger' which is the one we chose.


At $25 per person, plus $75 table hire, it also includes 1.5 hours of jumping time, plus grip socks for all kids, plus a free 'little ninjas' voucher for every guest.

You could also upsize to the 'Insane Moves Party Night'.

This includes two hours of jumping time, grip socks, party food, patty lollies, birthday cake, unlimited water and cordial,  plus temporary tattoo, and a dedicated party station and party host (*T&C's apply. Min 10 people).

All in all, FlipOut is highly recommended and totally pre-teen approved, a BIG THUMBS  UP!

All details for FlipOut Prestons are here, call the friendly staff and they will answer all your possible questions (and I had plenty!).

Phone: (02) 9826 6314
Email: prestons@flipout.net.au
Address: Unit 2 – 238 Hoxton Park Road, Prestons


Hours at Flip Out Prestons are below, too:

Tuesday to Thursday: 10am – 8pm
Friday: 10am – 9pm
Saturday: 10am – 10pm
Sunday & Monday: 10am – 6pm 

Friday, 9 February 2018

Wet N Wild Sydney: WIN a family pass

Wet 'N' Wild Sydney has been our go to place all summer, and now Josie's Juice readers have the opp to go enjoy it with their family.

YES! It's still operating this summer and autumn, right through to Sunday April 29, 2018.


See opening hours HERE.


See more info on Wet N Wild Sydney HERE.

And, Josie's Juice is thrilled to giving away a family pass for a day trip to Wet 'N' Wild Sydney.


Now, let's deconstruct it all for you. For first timers, it may well seem overwhelming. Is it really big? What kind of facilities are there? Can I do the whole thing in one day? Let us break it all down for you.


If you like crazy, scary big slides - YES, this is the place for you. There are four distinct sections of rides you can take part in.


There best bit? You can avoid the waiting time for slides by doing a tap n go style reservation for your preferred slide.


But if you like to chill for the day, take it easy laying on 'the beach' whiling the day away under a massive beach umbrella, this place is also for you.


Want to laze around in pool floatie donut things and not even have to kick your way around, instead have the water coast you along as you enjoy the view - there's that too! All areas are supervised (though watch your kiddies at all times, of course) and Wet N Wild can become your fave Sunday hang out place.


It's a matter of navigating and having fun!


To go in running to win a family pass, follow the steps below:

- Like the Josie's Juice Facebook page

- Like the Wet N Wild Sydney Facebook page

- Follow @josiesjuice and @wetnwildsydney on Instagram

- SHARE THIS POST! We know you wanna keep it to yourself by you MUST share. Tag Josie's Juice and Wet N Wild Sydney on your share. This is the only way we know you've done it

- Comment below or send me an email at josiegags@optusnet.com.au with your story on why you'd like to win this family pass!














Wednesday, 17 January 2018

Kim Kardashian West: baby number 3

Kim Kardahshian West now has three children, with husband Kanye West.



She just made the announcement on her website.

And she was there every step of the way.

The gender? A baby girl, to join daughter North, 4, and son Saint, 2, adding that they were “especially thrilled to welcome their baby sister.”

A source revealed to PEOPLE that Kim was in the delivery room when her surrogate gave birth.

Kardashian West, 37, revealed she was born on Monday (US time) at 12.57am and weight of 7 lbs., 6 oz.

“Kanye and I are happy to announce the arrival of our healthy, beautiful baby girl," wrote Kim in a post titled, “She’s Here!”

“We are incredibly grateful to our surrogate who made our dreams come true with the greatest gift one could give and to our wonderful doctors and nurses for their special care,” added Kim.


And here was the gender reveal on Ellen:

 



Wednesday, 12 July 2017

'Disney On Ice Presents Frozen': TICKETS

'Disney On Ice Presents Frozen' is HERE!

Excuse my excitement...

You guys, I won't lie. I LOVE anything 'On Ice' shows.

Over the weekend I went to Snow Time In The Garden at Hunter Valley Gardens, gave skating a go, and whoosh, on my bum in two seconds flat.



So I truly admire people who can float and skate like they're walking on water and have conversations, sing, dance, remember lines, all it.

Add to that a storyline which parents know and love (c'mon, you KNOW you know the lyrics to every single song from the movie 'Frozen') and you have yourself a fun adventure with the kids which will keep you and them engaged (the most important things for family outings).

And so, for the first time in Australia, 'Disney On Ice Presents Frozen' is here and we think Sydney weather is reflective of being the right time and audience for a show on ice.

Rug up and head to Quodos Bank Arena for a limited season of shows, also happening at Hisense Arena in Victoria.

Here is a link to BUY TICKETS.






Saturday, 10 June 2017

Vivid at Taronga Zoo: Tickets + Info

You may have seen Vivid, this year, or last, or the year before that.

But have you seen Vivid at Taronga Zoo?




In a precinct that has "kiddie fun" written all over it, this collab at our fave Aussie zoo with our fave, and internationally renowned light show, Vivid, will be something to behold.

Called 'Lights for the Wild' it's an illuminated trail of giant animal lanterns lighting up Taronga Zoo, with Vivid as the world’s largest festival of light, music and ideas.

Running for 23 nights from 26 May - 17 June, the Vivid Sydney / Taronga Zoo journey begins at the Zoo’s heritage-listed main entrance, brought to life with world-class dazzling projections. With your interactive wristband on, head through the gates and explore the illuminated trail that winds through the stunning grounds of Taronga Zoo.
For the first time, it will be a fully interactive and immersive event!
You can become part of the experience and interact with the light sculptures like never before with a state-of-the-art wristband that lets you become a light for the wild.
Alongside the festival favourites from last year’s Vivid Sydney at Taronga Zoo including the 10 legacy species lanterns, 'Lights for the Wild' 2017 will introduce us to a whole new cast of characters and surprises including a giant interactive Port Jackson Shark.

The giant multimedia light sculptures are here: meet the magnificent Sumatran Tiger, the vividly coloured Marine Turtle, a swarm of tiny buzzing bees and a giant interactive Gorillagram.
Created by Ample Projects, the collection of multimedia light sculptures is among the largest and most technologically advanced lanterns ever featured in Vivid Sydney.
“Each of these incredible installations and light sculptures tells a fascinating tale about conservation. People will have the opportunity to discover stories about these beautiful animals and learn how Taronga is working to help save 10 species from extinction over the next 10 years,” said Taronga’s Director, Cameron Kerr.

“Our aim through Vivid Taronga is to inspire guests to become as passionate for the wild as we are and take positive action for wildlife conservation.”

Here is preview:


After the animals have retired to their night quarters for the evening, the lights of Vivid Sydney at Taronga Zoo will take centre stage.

Vivid Sydney at Taronga Zoo is a ticketed precinct, with tickets on sale here: http://bit.ly/2p0CTpt
As Taronga is for the wild and not-for-profit, Taronga has an absolute commitment to the conservation of wildlife and to securing a shared future for wildlife and people. All ticket proceeds go directly back to Taronga Zoo’s work in conservation and wildlife care
Vivid Sydney at Taronga Zoo is open every night from Friday 26 May to Monday 19 June 2016, between 5.30pm – 9.30pm. For more information visit: taronga.org.au/vivid  

A note: animal exhibits at Taronga Zoo will not be open during Vivid Sydney hours. 

Also, of note: Vivid Sydney at Taronga Zoo is sourcing 100% Green Power, accredited renewable energy for all lighting installations and projections that will form part of the light show.  Sourcing 100% Green Power is part of Taronga’s commitment to sustainability and will help work towards Taronga’s 2020 Carbon Reduction Target.

Here is a snippet from last year's Vivid at Taronga Zoo:


About Vivid Sydney

Vivid Sydney is owned, managed and produced by Destination NSW, the NSW Government’s tourism and major events agency. Vivid Sydney features large scale light installations and projections (Vivid Light); music performances and collaborations (Vivid Music including Vivid LIVE at the Sydney Opera House); and creative ideas, discussion and debate (Vivid Ideas), all celebrating Sydney as the creative hub of the Asia-Pacific. For more information visit: www.vividsydney.com  
You can also buy a Blue Pass, but these are limited.
Each night there will be a limited allocation of Blue Pass tickets that include a round trip on Taronga's Sky Safari cable car experience. See the zoo like never before and gain a truly unique perspective of Vivid Sydney at Taronga Zoo.
Follow the social media conversation here:
And don’t forget to share your experience - and your photos - here #VividTaronga





Saturday, 22 April 2017

'13 Reasons Why': Netflix Phenomenon - VIDEO

You've very likely heard about '13 Reasons Why'... but why the deafening buzz?

Before we dissect the show seemingly everyone is talking about, here is the trailer for the show streaming right now on Netflix Australia and New Zealand, and globally:




Based on the best selling global novel by Jay Asher, '13 Reasons Why' launched on Netflix Australia on Friday March 31.

Executive produced by singer and actress Selena Gomez, with episodes directed by Academy Award winner Tom McCarthy (Spotlight), '13 Reasons Why follows teenager Clay Jensen (incredible newcomer Dylan Minnette) as he returns home from school to find a mysterious box with his name on it on his porch. Inside he discovers cassettes (remember those?) recorded by Hannah Baker (equally talented newcomer Katherine Langford) —his classmate and crush - who tragically committed suicide two weeks earlier.


On tape, Hannah explains that there are thirteen reasons why she decided to end her life. Will Clay be one of them? If he listens, he’ll find out how he made the list.

The viewer sees Hannah and Clay’s dual narratives, with '13 Reasons Why' weaving a gut wrenching story of teenage life that will deeply affect viewers.

Josie's Juice is a proud Netflix 'StreamTeam' blogger and has watched the series. Her nine year old... keen as, but it's a few years off for her. But the lessons... oh, the lessons. Filed for future use.

To subscribe to Netflix, go here: https://www.netflix.com

The show has come under scrutiny as, only three weeks since it started streaming on Netflix, and just a few days ago, the national Headspace School Support program, which supports school communities in the aftermath of a suicide, and eHeadspace, the national online and over-the-phone counselling service, issued a statement, in light of receiving a growing numbers of calls and emails directly related to the TV series.

“National and international research clearly indicates the very real impact and risk to harmful suicide exposure leading to increased risk and possible suicide contagion,” National manager of Headspace School Support, Kristen Douglas, said.

Meanwhile head of eHeadspace - Dr Steven Leicester - said professionals working for the service had been dealing with a steady stream of concerned parents and young people since the show first aired.

“There is a responsibility for broadcasters to know what they are showing and the impact that certain content can have on an audience – and on a young audience in particular,” he said. 

The foundation has urged schools, as well as parents, and mental health services to be aware of the dangers and risks associated for children and young people who have been exposed to the content of the program.

The warning at the end of each story on suicide on TV or in print media is important and there for a reason.

Here is that statement:

If you, or someone you know, is going through a hard time, support is always ready for you. 

If you need support, you can call Lifeline on 13 11 14. To contact SANE, a national charity helping Australians affected by mental illness, call their helpline on 1800 187 263. If you’re in an emergency, call 000.




Thursday, 24 November 2016

Glamping: Cockatoo Island REVIEW + PHOTOS

Are you a camper? You know, roughing it a little, your sleeping bag on a patch of grass, maybe feeling the lumps under your body?

For some people, this is their idea of heaven.


Me? Well, I don't know... I am not a camping gal, in the traditional sense of the word.


But: a raised bed, a table to pop in my mini 'home' to have a meal and snacks from, ample space to store my bags, and STILL have room to move?


Now THAT'S my kinda mini break.


That place? Cockatoo Island!





Glamping at Cockatoo Island is my new fave thing to do, and here are the many reasons why...




What I love most about my new fave destination is that it's right in the heart of Sydney, no driving hours from Sydney suburbia to get to your spot close to nature.


In fact, first things first - here is how you get to Cockatoo Island:


Harbour City Ferries offer a regular public service to and from Cockatoo Island seven days a week - see the timetable here

You can also catch a private water taxi - Google them if this is the way you want to go.


Alternatively, you can kayak over to the island and leave your kayak next to the slipway - yes, for real!


Or, if you have a boat (can we be friends?) you can berth your boat at the marina. 


Visit the Cockatoo Island Marine Centre(link is external) website for bookings.


You're already mentally packing, aren't you!


Okay, here's what you'll need to know:


There are two cafes on the island - Societe Overboard and the Cockatoo Island Marine Centre.
(link is external)
Opening times vary and can be weather dependent, so please check their websites for updates.
The Visitor Centre also has small sundry food items for sale (such as long life milk, two-minute noodles, etc). There are vending machines located around the island stocked with snacks and cold drinks.

A word about the truly wonderful staff - we arrived a smidge late to Cockatoo Island, and the lovely staff made us some bloody delicious burgers before they shut shop. Can I tell you, eating burgers and having wine overlooking the most beautiful in Sydney was a real travel 'moment' for me, and my crew in tow. My four person glamping tent companions were my daughter and I, and a friend and her goddaughter. It's SUCH a bonding experience to come with little ones. They are in awe of the vast expanse of Cockatoo Island, and roughing it (but not really) the whole time.


The very well set up and equipped kitchen nearby (make your own brekkie in the morning with that awesome view on the BBQs set up in the open air (but undercover) kitchen area, and you want want to leave as you lap up the sunshine and have your bacon and egg rolls in the seated area (you can order the breakfast pack in advance, and pick up from Societe Overboard).










In line with that, you might wonder: can I bring my own food and beverages?

Yes, you can.


But, no alcohol is permitted on the island - though you can buy it, which is what we did. Can you imagine sipping some bubbles on your personal deck as the sun goes down? Yes... exactly like that.


The two cafes listed above are licensed to serve alcohol. Takeaway beer and wine can be purchased from Societe Overboard to be consumed at your tent, the campground kitchen or the campground firepit.


You can order the prepared BBQ packs for dinner (in addition to the breakfast packs), again pre-ordered from Societe Overboard, a minimum of 48 hours in advance.




A note on money: come with cash, as there are no ATMs on the island, however EFTPOS facilities are available in all retail outlets and minimum purchase amounts may apply. Cashouts are not available.  
Camping, especially if you are wanting to go for a walk at night around Cockatoo Island (which I highly recommend; it's so serene and a touch eerie... if you and the kiddies are into that, you'll have a surprising amount of fun) might elicit fears for belongings. You can use the Cockatoo Island lockers, located in the Muster Station (close to the Visitor Centre), which is also for day visitors and campground guests to store luggage. They have power outlets inside them for charging devices.

Charges apply to use lockers and only gold coins are accepted. Small lockers $2 / Medium lockers $4 / Large lockers $6 - for 8 hours. Lockers are recommended for overnight campers who arrive early or want to stay after checkout and explore the island.
It may be an obvious thing to know, but in case you don't: you can't bring your vehicle to Cockatoo Island. The closest parking is available at Woolwich, with plenty of unmetered spaces. Valentia Street Wharf in Woolwich is just one ferry stop from the island.

Or, train it in and catch a ferry across to Cockatoo Island.

There is disability access - Cockatoo Island has wheelchair access and disabled toilet facilities (because of the heritage nature of the island some surfaces are uneven).

Here are some Instagram pics from my truly wonderful time at Cockatoo Island glamping:



A photo posted by Josie Gagliano (@josiegags) on









A photo posted by Josie Gagliano (@josiegags) on


A photo posted by Josie Gagliano (@josiegags) on

You can also undertake various tours on Cockatoo Island. It's all right here, you don't even have to move around much, or leave Cockatoo Island at all.


We did the Ghosts of Biloela tour... scary stuff, but very interesting!

Here is more on Ghosts of Biloela:

It's is an interactive geo-locative audio drama app for smart-phone users. A site-specific work which takes place on Cockatoo Island, it is a fictional drama which tells the story of the girls incarcerated in the Biloela Reform and Industrial School for Girls (1871-1888) who suffered terrible treatment through this ill-conceived government program. The interactive story transports listeners back to Cockatoo Island’s reformatory school through storytelling and audio-rich soundscapes.

The story of Cockatoo Island’s industrial training school and reformatory for girls is far less well-known that the island’s convict and shipbuilding history. It is a story that needs to be told and  by integrating this little-known chapter of Australian history to an app that will lead users to the actual sites on the island where the story took place is an interesting and unusual way of telling it. It also has some contemporary resonances considering the work of the current Royal Commission into Child Abuse and the important focus on this issue.

The Ghosts of Biloela app

Ghosts of Biloela is an interactive geo-locative story app for smart-phone users. A site-specific work which takes place on Cockatoo Island, it is a fictional drama set in the Biloela Reform and Industrial School for Girls (1871-1888).

A “reformatory” institution based in the island’s former convict prison, Biloela housed a congregation of wayward girls, both orphaned and delinquent, who suffered terrible treatment from this ill-conceived government program.

The interactive story of Ghosts of Biloela takes listeners back to Cockatoo Island’s reformatory school through storytelling and audio-rich soundscapes.

Follow the adventures of Mary Anne Meehan, the newest inmate and the app’s central character, as she plans her escape from the island and the despotic regime of the heartless Superintendant Lucas with the help of her new friend Sarah Bourke. Despite the bleak conditions under which they live, the girls find comfort and strength through friendship and solidarity.

As you explore the ruins and remains of the girls’ school on Cockatoo Island, Ghosts of Biloela uses your phone’s GPS location to trigger the audio stories. Listeners are encouraged to roam freely, using the map to find the hotspots unlocking different chapters of Mary Anne’s tale. The path you take is up to you. If you’re away from the island, you can still experience Ghosts of Biloela in armchair mode.

A historical drama anchored in the geo-locative technology of the future, this smart phone app blends electrifying binaural soundscapes with a compelling choose-your-own-adventure.

Ghosts of Biloela features an all-star cast including Ashleigh Cummings (Puberty BluesMiss Fisher's Murder Mysteries); Jada Alberts (ClevermanWentworth), Sophie Hensser (Love ChildUnderbelly), Nathan Lovejoy (Sammy J and RandyThe Code) and Marcus Graham (Secret CityHiding).

More on the history of the Biloela Reform and Industrial School for Girls

After the closure of Cockatoo Island’s convict gaol in 1869, the prison buildings were put a new use in 1871 as the home of the Biloela Reform and Industrial School for Girls.

Designed to provide care, education and training for neglected and abandoned girls, the Industrial School housed orphans and neglected girls while the Reformatory incarcerated girls convicted of crimes.

During the institution’s first few years, the girls’ treatment was appallingly harsh under the cruel and violent regime of the Superintendant George Lucas and his wife Mary Anne. Following the investigation by the Royal Commission into Public Charities (1873-74), both Lucas and his wife were dismissed and conditions gradually improved.

In 1879 the reformatory was closed but the industrial school remained until 1888 when it was moved to the former Roman Catholic Orphanage at Parramatta.



For more, go here:





Or you can do the solo tour with personal headphones provided, on each important landmark on Cockatoo Island. You can even skip ahead on your headset recording if you want to hurry it up it a tad if you have tired kiddies. Or you want to focus on your fave Island spots.





You guys, there is SO much to do! That's why it's highly recommended you stay for two nights.

Here are the ways to glamp:

Glamping (for two people on the waterfront)
The glamping package includes: 
  • One pre-erected tent (3m x 3m)
  • Two single raised camp beds with all linen, quilts and towels
  • Two sun lounges
  • Lantern
  • Cool box
  • Toiletries
Rates: 
Monday to Thursday: From $150 per night 
Friday to Sunday: From $175 per night

Two-bedroom Glamping (for four people on the waterfront)
Ideal for families or larger groups, our two-bedroom option includes:
  • Two pre-erected tents with covered communal area in the middle
  • Four single raised camp beds with all linen, quilts and towels
  • Table and chairs 
  • Lanterns 
  • Cool box
  • Toiletries
Rates:
Monday to Thursday: From $310 per night 
Friday to Sunday: From $360 per night 

Mini glamping (for 2 people)

All the fun of glamping on a smaller scale:
  • One pre-erected tent (2.4m x 2.4m)
  • Two single raised camp beds with all linen, quilts and towels
  • Two chairs
Rates:
Monday to Thursday: From $130 per night 
Friday to Sunday: From $155 per night

Check-in and check-out times

Check-in from 2:00pm; check-out 10:00am
The whole campground is also wheelchair accessible, with a disabled shower and toilets available. The tents have a raised platform which is not suitable for wheelchair access. To discuss accessibility contact stay@cockatooisland.gov.au

For all info: http://www.cockatooisland.gov.au/stay/glamping

or
General Enquiries:
02 8969 2100 
Email info@harbourtrust.gov.au(link sends e-mail)
Accommodation Enquiries:
02 8969 2111 
Monday - Friday 8.30am - 4.30pm 
Email: stay@cockatooisland.gov.au(link sends e-mail)

Cockatoo Island Rangers: 0434 652 153
8:00am - 4:00pm daily
Cockatoo Island Security: 0433 632 791
4:00pm - 8:00am daily
Josie's Juice highly recommends Glamping on Cockatoo Island!
More pics from Glamping!