Geckos Newsletters

There were certainly some anxious moments prior to the launch on 20 July because of the rain. As it turned out the day was marvellous. The weather was perfect.
Those who came along were able to:
witness the End of an Era parade;
meet the new Chief of Army LTGEN Gillespie and the other VIPs;
participate in activities that ranged from metal detecting in the sandpit (3 CER); or, older children could attack an MP who was wearing very impressive protective equipment; or, young children could engage in CamKids activities;
cheer the teams in the 4 Fd Regt gun race;
enjoy the Taste of Deployment provided by 5 Avn Regt caterers (South Pacfic foods);
gather information at the static displays from Toll Transitions, DHA, DVA, ADCU, Defcredit, DCO, DSTAs,Padres, DSNG, Solid Rock, Jezzine Museum, and Geckos.
The 3 CSSB crocodile, snake and RAAF puppies were also a hit with patrons.
The generosity of GECKOS supporters was acknolwedged with the unvieling of the board. Defence Holidays (North Queensland) raffled off a number of prizes and gave out vouchers for significant disounts to a variety of holiday attractions. The registration prize was donated by DH(NQ) and drawn by Rod McLeod, President of the Townsville RSL.
There were so many things happening. The success was dependent upon every unit as they were all involved in some way. So much effort was made and it showed in a great afternoon of family entertainment. Thanks to everyone!

Now that the launch and parade are over we are focussing on programmes for the remainder of the year.

Belly dancing has commenced. This runs for 8 weeks on Wednesday evenings and costs $40. We had fun learning basic posture and lower body movement last week while middle eastern music chanted inthe background. Come along and enjoy Sarah's instruction and demonstration. Maybe one day we may be as 'fluid' in our movements.

Expressions of Interest are called for a Weight Watchers Australia group to start on Wednesday mornings (0900 to 1000hrs). Interested? Contact Katrina through Geckos.

The Domestic Goddess programme for the rest of the year is up and running. Every Wednesday from 1030 to 1130hrs. Come along and enjoy the variety of sessions. Over recent weeks we've enjoyed an introduction to Yoga and, massage, essential oils and aromatherapy. Next week: chemical free skin care. There is even digital photography composing coming up on 13 AUG. Everyone's favorite follows on 20th and 27th AUG when we have 'budget meals and menu planning'. Our guest presenters are each expereinced in their respective fields. We thank them for participating in these sessions. Come along and pick the brains of people who know about the areas being covered.

2008 GECKOS raffle is now underway. Rising Sun Honda in Townsville have donated a VT750c7 Shadow Honda. This motorcycle has to be seen to be believed and entry is avialable to all Defence members for only $5 per ticket or $10 for 3 tickets. It will be drawn on 07DEC08 or as soon as all tickets are sold. This raffle is a major source of our funds to be able to provide resources for members and their families at GECKOS. Please support it.

The library recently had a generous donation of books. Come in and check it out. Remember you can take the books home and never return them. There's no 'overdue' penalties here. You can read here too while you enjoy a cappacino for a gold coin donation. Bring some friends just for coffee!

Geckos staff look forward to you visiting us. Our door opens at 0900hr and closes at 1600hrs, Mon to Fri.

Playgroups Newsletters

CamKids meets the needs of Defence families for a playgroup where Defence parents can meet and talk while we play with our babes and children under school age in a safe and secure environment.

GECKOS has been a great place to come together. Here we've had a lovely outdoor area where our children have played, run around and engaged in the really messy activities such as 'gloop' and water games. There is a huge indoor space with lots of toys and books too. Craft time is full of surprises. Even our little babes have a colourful soft rug to roll on while mums can talk and support each other. Our two sessions have grown so much that we have needed to spread to a third morning. So, in January 2008 we started on Fridays too.

Dads are welcome to come along either with their children or to join their families during CamKids Playgroup. If you know any other Defence families that you think would be interested, please pass the word.

Our plan is to run a friendly, open, nurturing playgroup for both children and parents.

The main aim of a "Defence only" playgroup is to surround children with other families that are either going through or have gone through similar circumstances ie. Postings, deployments and all that comes with having a parent(s) in the military.

Please come along and enjoy.

Hope to see you often.

Special Needs Newsletters

DSNG Newsletter JUN08