KangaNews May 2015

KangaNewsa great mate in Hong Kong

MAY 2015

www.ozhongkong.comKANGANEWS | MAY 20152

NEW MEMBERS | MAY 2015

LOOKING AHEAD | JUNE 2015These dates maybe subject to change

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Dragon Boat junk TUEN NG FESTIVAL

Chatterbox

Chatterbox

ChatterboxBook ClubMorning Tennis

Morning Tennis

SMB LunchMorning Tennis Club Lunch Mahjong

Golf Mahjong

Mahjong

Mahjong

Mahjong

Morning Tennis

Morning Tennis

Chatterbox

Golf

Golf

Golf

Golf

Joanne & Jeremy Stanley

www.ozhongkong.com MAY 2015 | KANGANEWS 3

MAY 2015CONTENTS

DEADLINE | JUNE 2015

Advertising Booking Deadline19 MAY

Advertising Material Deadline15 MAY

Newsletter Material Deadline19 MAY

DESIGN AND PRODUCTIONTesswick Communications CompanyRm 1903 Alliance Bldg., 130 - 136 Connaught Road C., H. K.

T: (852) 2136 3680F: (852) 2136 3698E: [email protected]

New Members 2

Looking Ahead (JUNE 2015) 2

Regular Events 4

Who’s Who 5

President’s Message 7

Thank you to our contributors 7

Charity News 8

From Your Consulate-General 9

Member Benefits 2015 10

Book Club 14

Past Events: Gallipoli, Lunch Club, Anzac Day Cenotaph, Anzac Day Cyberport 15

The Sound Of Music 20

Carolyn Bickerton - Behind the cover... 22

Beauty Tips 23

Hong Kong Musings 24

Out & About 26

Calendar: MAY 2015 27

Upcoming Events: Day 28

Upcoming Events: Night And Weekend 35

Property 39

Travel Tales 40

What’s Happening In Hong Kong And Around 40

Healthy Eating, Aussie Style 42

Healthy Habits 43

Expat Corner 44

Sports Report 45

Travel Tips 49

Australian International School Hong Kong 50

The Valley Vet 51

China Visa 52


REGULAR EvENTS | 2015

BOOK CLUBSecond Wednesday — this group is currently suspended

CHARITY WORKThe Society for the Relief of Disabled Children12 Sandy Bay RoadPokfulamContact: Pommi Kaur | 2819 3050 |[email protected]

CHATTERBOx COFFEEFridays 10:00 –11:30 amWagyu CafeShop 12 & 14, G/F, Regal Court, Wing Fung Street,Wan Chai (next to Pacific Place 3).Contact: Ainslie Young|[email protected]

DRAGON BOATFor all enquiries please email [email protected]

SMB LunchSecond Tuesday of the monthContact: Michael Madigan | 9384 2407.

SUNDOWNERSQuarterly - the next one will be on Wednesday 18 March.Contact: The office on 2530 4461

MUMS AND BUBSMeet fortnightlyPlease note Mums and Bubs is on a break from April through JuneContact: Leah Spies | [email protected]

THE CLUB Monthly lunch at a different private members club each month. Held second Wednesday of the Month Contact: Julie Armstrong | [email protected]

LADIES GOLFFirst Monday of the month at Kau Sai Chau. Mondays and Thursdays (handicap required) at Deepwater Bay.Contact Adrian in the office | [email protected]

MAHjONGMondays 10 am – 1 pmDynasty Court Function RoomMid-Levels$80 members$130 non-membersContact: Christine Scullion | [email protected]

NETBALLFor all enquiries please email [email protected]

TENNISTuesdays 9 – 11 amWong Nai Chung Tennis Centre$40 members $60 non-membersContact: [email protected]

Are you tying the knot?Have you tied the knot?

Do we hear the patter of little feet?PLEASE SEND IN YOUR NOTICE AND PHOTO TO:

[email protected]


2015 | WHO’S WHO

GENERAL COMMITTEEPRESIDENTGavin McDougall | 6473 8885

vICE-PRESIDENTIvy Wong Stevens | 9754 1194

TREASURERJohn Rasheed | 2238 7138

SECRETARYWarwick Jones | 9859 3226

FINANCE SECRETARYEleanor Coleman | 9885 2192

GENERAL COMMITTEEEileen Haley | 9222 5586Roque Hammal | 9502 2886Rochelle Howie | 6391 4878 Joan Leong | 2849 6989Wendy List | 9454 2985 Joanne Reed | 6908 4449 Adrian Ryan | 6609 7924Ian Whitton | 9727 0864

PAST PRESIDENT Ex-OFFICIOJennifer Ferris | 9104 4417

SOCIAL COMMITTEE

SOCIAL COMMITTEE CHAIRDee Longe | [email protected]

vICE CHAIRJulie Armstrong| [email protected]

TREASURER Kylie Reid | [email protected]

SECRETARYManuela Guthrie | [email protected]

SOCIAL COMMITTEE | [email protected] Billingham Linda Kinnane Anthea Murray Leah SpiesLiz WalshAinslie Young

The Australian Association office is open Monday to Friday. However, if no-one is there please leave a message which will be answered as soon as possible.

The views expressed in this newsletter are not necessarily those of the committee.

Images are the property of the Association and may be used on our website and for promotional purposes, this includes images of children from our events. If you do not want your children to be featured please contact the office.

AUSTRALIAN ASSOCIATION OFFICEUnit 11A, Shelley Court, 21, Shelley St, Midlevels, Hong KongT: 2530 4461 | F: 2530 4497 | E: [email protected] Hours: 9 am – 5 pm

Office: T: 2530 4461 | E: [email protected]

Membership Coordinator, Adrian Ryan: T 6609 7924 / 2530 4461 | E: [email protected]

Sports Coordinator, Rosh Julian:T: 6274 5869 | E: [email protected]

Partnership Marketing Manager: T: 9859 3226 | E: [email protected]

KangaNews Editorial, Carolyn Bickerton: T: 9022 4860 | E: [email protected]

Advertising, Carolyn Bickerton: T: 9022 4860 | E: [email protected]

Building,Being, Becoming

Located in Kowloon Tong, Australian International School Hong Kong (AISHK) is a leading Reception to Year 12 international school with a

reputation for outstanding academic performance. AISHK is the only school in Hong Kong to provide an Australian curriculum run according to the Southern

Hemisphere calendar.

AUSTRALIAN INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL HONG KONG | www.aishk.edu.hk | 3A NORFOLK ROAD, KOWLOON TONG, HONG KONG

Our mission is to provide a world-class international environment where students, through active participation, achieve their personal best and graduate as skilled, influential and

responsible international citizens.

KangaNews-May2015.pdf 1 4/16/2015 9:43:08 AM


Hello,

If time fl ies, it seems to hit supersonic speeds as you get older. Before you know it, and this is defi nitely the case with me, the year is practically half over. There is an undoubted contrast to the perceived passage of time as a child. I recall often lamenting with my primary school friends that life was laboriously slow. School holidays never came around fast enough and each Christmas seemed a lifetime away.

I realise this is nonsense of course. We all have the same amount of time – and all of the time that there is each day. The Gregorian calendar, under which we operate, does cheat a little. A year is a few hours longer than 365 days. Even then a leap-year doesn’t necessarily correct the difference. Remember a few years back when an extra second had to be added to Universal Time?

Ironically, that event proved that things are actually slowing down. Scientists explain that during the time of dinosaurs, the Earth completed a rotation in 23 hours. In 1820, it was exactly 24 hours. Now it’s a whopping 2.5 milliseconds longer. (Are you taking this all in? There’s a trivia quiz this month!)

What’s my point? No matter how long or short a day, month or year seems, there are some who always fi nd time for the noble pursuit of volunteerism. It’s the energy on which this Association (and many like it) thrives. That’s why, from time to time, we like to acknowledge those who do fi nd the time to help keep our little clock ticking over.

With this in mind, a big Aussie thanks to Suzanne Sadler. Suzanne, an event specialist, has for the past few years been a key operator on our committee. She’s expanding her work with charitable organisations in Hong Kong and so has stepped down. We thank Suzanne for all of her efforts and wish her well.

Another you beauty shout-out goes to Anne Campbell. Anne has for several years volunteered time each week in our offi ce helping us to maintain and update our membership database. Anne’s work has been invaluable and, as she repatriates to Australia, we’ll miss her efforts and good humour.

Finally, a Simpson Desert-sized thanks goes to Carolyn Bickerton. A human atomic clock in the way she approaches everything she does, Carolyn has contributed an enormous amount to the Association over almost 20 years. This includes two separate terms as president and two terms as editor of this magazine - a role Carolyn fulfi lled up to this edition of KangaNews. Carolyn has well-heeled, mostly red, and substantial shoes to fi ll. The Association, and I, have much to thank Carolyn for. We wish her all the best as she spends more of the time we all so desperately seek, focussing on her career.

Gavin McDougall.

MAY 2015 | PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE

Thank you to our contributorsThere is a team of diligent members and friends who prepare the regular articles in KangaNews. We would like to acknowledge them (in alphabetical order):

john Batten Hong Kong Musings | james Carlile Dragons Report |Ceri Silk Beauty Tips | Deborah Dewey Healthy Habits | Susan Cooney Book Club |Grace Ghattas Travel Tips | Karen Buckley Expat Corner | Brigitte McNamara AISHK | Lloyd Kenda Valley Vet | Sally Hasler Special Announcement, The Fred Hollows Foundation |Rosh julian Netball and Dragon Boat Updates | Gavin McDougall Australian Consulate General | Phil Hargrave Property | judy Morris Healthy eating, Aussie style|Members of the Social Committee for the photos and event updates.


SPECIAL ANNOUNCEMENT | THE FRED HOLLOWS FOUNDATION

The Australian Association is proud to announce an exciting new partnership with The Fred Hollows Foundation – one of Australia’s most iconic and respected charities. The Foundation’s new regional o�ce will lead their advocacy and fundraising e�orts to support urgent program work in Greater China and the Asia region where 31% of the world’s blind live – 20% in China.

Over the next two years, we will work with The Fred Hollows Foundation to support their sight-saving program work and deliver some exciting new events. We are delighted to support The Foundation as they build a community of local supporters and partners.

About The Fred Hollows FoundationThe Fred Hollows Foundation is a leading Australian NGO inspired by the work of the late Professor Fred Hollows (1929–1993). Fred was an eye doctor, renowned surgeon and social justice activist. Fred was committed to improving the health of Indigenous Australians and delivering sight-saving programs in developing countries to end avoidable blindness.

Through program work in 20 countries across Asia and Africa, The Foundation has restored sight to over 1 million people. Simple interventions - for as little as HK$150 - can restore people’s sight, productivity and livelihoods, giving lasting bene�ts for individuals, their families and whole communities.

To donate or �nd out more information, please visit www.hollows.org.hk or email Sally Hasler at [email protected].

In 2015, we’re helping to bring Fred’s dream to Asia

“4 out of 5 people who are blind don’t need to be.”

THE FRED HOLLOWS FOUNDATION | SPECIAL ANNOUNCEMENT


MAY 2015 | AUST CONSULATE GENERAL

Australian Consulate-General23rd Floor, Harbour Centre25 Harbour Road, WanchaiTel: 2827 8881Fax: 2585 4457Email: [email protected] website: www.hongkong.china.embassy.gov.au

Consular & Passports Offi ceMon to Fri: 9am – 4pm to lodge, until 5pm for passport collection.Tel: 2827 8881Consular and Passport enquiries Email: [email protected]

Notarial Acts: Wed only 9am – 1pmCertifi ed copies, witnessing signatures, document authentication.Fees apply, check the website.

Visas & Citizenship Offi ce24th Floor, Harbour CentreMon to Fri: 8.30am til 12.00noonHotline: 2585 4139 (Mon to Fri: 9:00am to 11:00am, 1:30pm to 3:30pm)Fax: 2585 4459 www.immi.gov.au

Austrade24th Floor, Harbour CentreMon to Fri: 8:45am – 5pmTel: 2588 5300Fax: 2827 4145Email: [email protected]

Education SectionEmail: [email protected]

Travel Advicewww.smartraveller.gov.au

Don’t forget:• Check our website for the list of services available for

Australians• Also available from our website are

- Australian passport and visa forms - Passport, Australian visa and documentation

authentication fees - Details of when passport offi cers will visit Macau - Public holidays observed by

Consulate staff• Remember, passports take 10

working days to process• Australians living in or visiting

Hong Kong and Macau are encouraged to register at www.orao.dfat.gov.au. The information is used only in cases of emergency.

Hello,

I often talk here about the things that make Australia and Hong Kong good friends. Our cultural differences make each an enticing destination for the other, whether that is for tourism, study or for some other reason. But it’s the similarities that bind us and create lasting connections.

Those similarities occur at many levels including, interestingly, in the area of longevity. According to recent United Nations fi gures, Hong Kong ranks second and Australia fourth in terms of life expectancy. The main reasons for these results are wealth, lifestyle and, not surprisingly, our excellent healthcare systems.

In Australia’s case, Medicare has been in place now for more than 30 years. We should all be aware, though, that Australia and Hong Kong don’t have a reciprocal health care agreement, so Medicare doesn’t cover Australians in Hong Kong. But what many people may not realise is that Medicare may not cover you when you return to Australia for a holiday. This is particularly pertinent for Australians who have been living overseas for at least fi ve years.

Why is this important? Many people never consider taking out travel insurance for trips back to Australia. For non-resident Australians, travel insurance when you’re visiting back home is just as important as when you are travelling to other destinations. Should they require emergency treatment in Australia, expat Aussies can end up with an unwelcome surprise when suddenly presented with a bill. If you’re unsure about coverage, check with Medicare before leaving Hong Kong and note that the “non-resident” stipulation for Medicare is different to that for tax purposes.

If you’re planning to move back to Australia, it’s equally important to contact Medicare, as coverage is not automatic. You will need to establish that you have returned to Australia as your primary place of residence.

Finally, thank you to all who turned out to commemorate Anzac Day. It’s heartening to see that the spirit of the Anzacs isn’t lost, regardless of where in the world we may be.

Paul Tighe, Consul-General.

regardless of where in the world we may be.

Paul Tighe, Consul-General.


MEMBER BENEFITS | LIST FOR 2015

Carry your current membership card with you to take advantage of these great savings.

Please note, some discounts may not be available against already discounted offers such as set lunch, happy hour or ad hoc specials, or available on public holidays.

Please check www.ozhongkong.com for full terms and conditions, and confirm with the venue prior to ordering.

BARS & RESTAURANTSAva 20% off F&BHotel Panorama, 8A Hart Ave, Tsim Sha TsuiT: 3550 0388 www.hotelpanorama.com.hkAzure 15% off F&BLKF Hotel by Rhombus, 33 Wyndham St, Lan Kwai FongT: 3518 9330 www.azure.hkthe BELLBROOK bistro oz by laris offer 10% off F&B2/F, 77 Wyndham Street, Central T: 2530 1600The Boathouse 10% off on a la carte food and drinks menu with min. spend of $300 88 Stanley Main Street, Stanley T: 2813 4467BOMBAY DREAMS, Indian offer 10% off F&B 4/F, 77 Wyndham Street, Central T: 2971 0001Bouchon Bistro Francais offer 10% off F&B 49 Elgin Street, Soho, Central T: 2525 9300Bulldog’s Bar and Grill 10% on all F&B (excluding happy hour).G5 & UG15, Tsim Sha Tsui Centre, 66 Mody Rd, Tsim Sha Tsui. T: 2311 6993Café Deco Pizzeria 10% off on a la carte food and drinks menu with min. spend of $300 Shop 3-4, G/F., Tower 125, 11 Po Yan St, Sheung Wan T: 2559 4100Café Siam 10% off F&B (excluding happy hour).2-3/F., The Plaza, 21 D’Aguilar St, Lan Kwai Fong T: 2851 4803 Shop 2412, The Grand Canal Shoppes, St. Marks Square,The Venetian Macau Resort Hotel. T: 853 2882 8469www.cafesiam.com.hkCaramba Mexican Cantina 10% off F&B (excluding happy hour).26-30 Elgin St, Soho. T: 2530 9963.Discovery Bay Plaza, Discovery Bay. T: 2987 2848www.caramba.com.hkCARNEvINO offer 10% off F&B 5/F, LHT Tower, 31 Queen’s Road, Central T: 2352 7700Cecconi’s Italian offer 10% off F&B 43 Elgin Street, Soho, Central T: 2147 5500

Chicha 10% discount up to four guests onlyG/F, 26 Peel Street, Central, Hong KongOpening hours: 12pm-3pm, 6pm-late EverydayPhone or Text Bookings: 9637 7701 E: [email protected] Bar & Grill 10% off food only.114-120 Lockhart Rd, Wanchai. T: 2861 2221.www.coyotebarandgrill.comCRAFTSTEAK, Open Fire Cooking offer 10% off F&B 29 Elgin Street, Soho T: 2526 0999 The Dog House 10% off f&b. Not valid on Set lunch or Happy Hour.Shop A3, G/F Hay Wah Building, 72-86 Lockhart Road, Wanchai; T: 2861 0351 www.thedoghouse.hkDon Gilato 10% on F&B (excluding happy hour).St Mark’s Square (by the Grand Canal) U/L, The Venetian Macao Resort HotelFlutes 15% discount on all drinks27 Elgin St, Soho T: +852 2810 0005Fogo Samba Churrascaria Brazilian Steak House10% off F&B (excluding happy hour).Shop 2412, Grand Canal Shoppes,Venetian Macau.T: (853) 2882 8499. www.fogosamba.comForbes 10% off all food and beveragesG/F., 36 Forbes St, Kennedy Town T: 2974 9588 FRITES 10% discount up to 4 guests onlyQUARRY BAY: G/F Oxford House, TaiKoo Place, 979 King’s Road, Island East, Hong Kong. Bookings: 2250 [email protected]: Shop 6, 1/F, Causeway Centre, 28 Harbour Road, Wanchai. Bookings: 2877 [email protected] glo 15% off F&BHotel de Edge, 94-95 Connaught Road West, Hong Kong T: 3559 9988 www.hoteldeedge.com.hkGrand Central Bar & Grill10% off F&B (excluding happy hour).Shop R001, 3/F., and Roof, Elements, 1 Austin Rd West, TST T: 2736 4888 E: [email protected] Havana Club 10% off F&B (excluding happy hour).4/F, 21 D’Aguilar Street, The Plaza, Lan Kwai Fong, Central, T: 2851 4880The jockey 10% on F&B (excluding happy hour).33 Wong Nai Chung Rd,Happy Valley. T: 2572 2266 www.thejockey.com.hkLil’Siam Soho 10% off F&B (excluding happy hour).G/F 38 Elgin Street, Soho. T: 2868 4445. www.lilsiam.com.hkLUPA by Mario Batali offer 10% off F&B 3/F, LHT Tower, 31 Queens Road Central T: 2796 6500MANZO Italian Steak House offer 10% off F&B Shop 1104, 11/F, Times Square, 1 Matheson Street, Causeway Bay T: 2735 3980 Marlin 10% off on a la carte food and drinks menu with min. spend of $200 56 D’Aguilar Street, Lan Kwai Fong, Central T: 2121-8070MAYTA Peruvian Kitchen & Pisco Bar offer 10% off F&B 3/F, Grand Progress Building, 15-16 Lan Kwai FongT: 2816 9018


LIST FOR 2015 | MEMBER BENEFITS

McSorleys Ale House. 10% off F&B (excluding happy hour).55 Elgin St, Soho. T: 2522 2646. W: www.mcsorleys.com.hkDiscovery Bay Plaza, Discovery Bay. T: 2987 8280Shop 1038 Grand Canal Shoppes, Venetian Macau.T: (853) 2882 8198Nahm, vietnamese & Thai offer 10% off F&B Shop 1045, 1/F, Elements, 1 Austin Road West, Kowloon T: 2810 7575Nomads 10% off on a la carte food and drinks menu with min. spend of $300 55 Kimberley Road, Tsim Sha Tsui T: 2722 0733OLIvE, Greek & Middle Eastern, Soho offer 10% off F&B 32 Elgin Street, Soho T: 2521 1608Pickled Pelican 10% off on a la carte food and drinks menu with min. spend of $300 90 Stanley Main Street, Stanley T: 2813-4313Pulp 10% off on a la carte food and drinks menu with min. spend of $200 G/F and 1/F, 55 Wyndham Street, Central T: 2868 6026Pure Bar + Restaurant 10% off food only.2/F Kinwick Centre, 32 Hollywood Rd, Soho. T: 8199 8189 www.pure-dining.comThe Quarterdeck Club 10% on all F&B (excluding happy hour). G/F, The Fleet Arcade, Fenwick Pier, 1 Lung King St, Wan Chai. T: 2827 8882SOHO SPICE, vietnamese & Thai offer 10% off F&B 47 Elgin Street, Soho T: 2521 1600 SOUvLA 10% discount up to 4 guests only1/F Ho Lee Commercial Building, 40 D’Aguilar Street, Central, Hong Kong, Phone & Text Bookings: 9285 [email protected] Sugo Sushi 10% discount on all purchases G/F, Hop Hing Building , 30 Gilmans Bazaar, CentralT: 2259 5151E: [email protected] |www.sugosushi.com.hkStormies 10% off on a la carte food and drinks menu with min. spend of $300 Shop R005, Elements, Kowloon MTR Station, Kowloon T: 2196 8098TAKU. 10% off F&B (excluding happy hour).35 Elgin St, Soho. T: 2545 9966. www.taku.com.hkTAPEO 10% discount up to 4 guests onlyCENTRAL: G/F, Au’s Building,15 – 19 Hollywood Road, Central, Hong Kong. Bookings: 3171 [email protected] WAN HO: GA01-03, G/F Lei King Wan, Site A 55 Tai Hong St, Sai Wan Ho. Bookings: 2513 [email protected] Deck 10% off on a la carte food and drinks menu with min. spend of $200 Top Floor, Jumbo Kingdom, Shum Wan Peir Drive, Wong Chuk Hang, Aberdeen T: 2552 3331vI COOL offer 10% off F&B Shop 2101, Level 2, Gateway Arcade, Harbour City, Canton Road, Tsim Sha Tsui. T: 2735 7787

Wildfire 10% off on a la carte food and drinks menu with min. spend of $200 2 Knutsford Terrace, Tsim Sha Tsui T: 3690 15982B-07, G/F, 45 Tai Hong Street, Lei King Wan (SOHO East) T: 2261 2999

ON THE HARBOUR Hong Kong Yachting Free drinks package valued at $5,000 for 20 people on Jungle Jane or Tarzan boat bookings on weekdays or evenings. T: 25260151 E: [email protected] W: www.hongkongyachting.comSaffron Cruises 10% off boat rental (excluding f&b).T: 2857 1311. www.saffron-cruises.com

HEALTH & BEAUTYairplay 10% off all services7/f, w place, 52 wyndham st., central T: 2641 9888www.airplaybar.comBalance Health 5% off all treatments (exclusive of packages); 50% discount for first-time clients for our Tai Chi classes2705, 27/F Universal Trade Centre,3-5 Arbuthnot Road, Central. T: 2530 3315.www.balancehealth.com.hkBayside Dental 15% off all dental care servicesG/F Unit 1, Office Block 1, 92 Siena Avenue, Discovery Bay North T: 2987 0855http://www.baysidedentalhk.comChirocare Chiropractic Centre 15% off all chiropractic services; 10% off massage, traditional Chinese medicine and acupuncture.Unit A, 16th Floor, Lokville Commercial Building, 27 Lock Road, TST, Kowloon. T: 2490 3978 F: 2498 7966 E: [email protected]: www.chirocare.com.hkColour Me Beautiful 10% discount to members for any Colour Me Beautiful Colour, Style or Makeup Consultations Contact: Ella van Westendorp |[email protected]: 64310028 www.colourmebeautiful.hkDazhk (Hairdresser) 15% off all full price services and 20% off for all newcomers2/F., 86-90 Wellington St, Central T: 3956 3668E: [email protected] W: www.dazhk.com Deborah Dewey $300 off a package of 3 regular hypnotherapy sessions. 10% off all full priced ‘retox to detox’ menu. www.deborah-dewey.com62087321 |[email protected] Diestel & Partners (Dentists) 15% off all dental care services.1914 Melbourne Plaza, 33 Queen’s Rd, Central.G/F, Office Blk 1, 92 Siena Ave, North Plaza, Discovery Bay T: 2522 2099 www.diestelandpartners.comGlow 10% off all full price services.9/F Parker House, 72 Queen’s Rd Central.Tel: 2525 5198.E: glow-spa.net W: www.glow-spa.net


MEMBER BENEFITS | LIST FOR 2015

The Hairdressers Ltd 20% off all full fare servicesMonday to Saturday10am – 6pm. Cannot be used with any other offer. Valid membership card must be shown and inform staff on booking.7F Abdoolally House, 20 Stanley St, Central. T: 2973 0512 www.thd.com.hkDrs Bobby Hsia & Sandeep Jain Dental Clinic15% discount on all dental care servicesFlat A, 17/F, Johnson Centre,13 Hau Fook Street, Tsim Sha Tsui (MTR Tsim Sha Tsui exit B2) Kowloon T: 23676268 / 23685958 Hong Kong Optometric Services Ltd 10% off fixed priced items and 30% off selected priced items for all glasses, sunglasses and lenses. Comprehensive eye exam for $350. Suite 1003, Wing On Central Building, 26 Des Voeux Rd, Central. T: 2537 9219E: [email protected] W: www.hkos.hkHYPOXI 10% discount on all treatments (not inconjunction with any other offers).8/F EuBank Plaza, 9 Chiu Lung Street, Central.T: 2537 6637E: [email protected] W: www.hypoxi.com.hkIyara Beauty 15% off any body massage or facial at Iyara Ship Street, Prince’s Terrace and Hollywood Rd; 20% off any hair treatment at Hollywood Rd during weekdays (excl public holidays. Advance booking is required & mention the offer when booking 53 Ship Street, Wanchai. T: 2545 8637.www.iyarabeauty.comJAB Mixed Martial Arts Studio Casual Classes - $150 (usually $200), with the first class being free + An extra one month free membership with every 12 month membership5/F Kimley Commercial Building, 142-146 Queens Rd, Central. T: 2851 6684.E: [email protected] W: www.jabmma.comKinesiology Asia 10% off Kinesiology Consultations and $100 off Learning Enhancement and SportsEnhancement packages. 201 Ivy House, 18 Wyndham St, Central. T: 6114 8871 E: [email protected] Hair Removal - 20% off any treatment. 13/F, One Lan Kwai Fong, Central | T: 2915 0918 www.lavar.com.hk | www.facebook.com/lavarhkMindful Eating 10% off STOP Self-Sabotage Eating with The Mindful WayTM private sessions or group AdventureShopsTM. Complimentary 30 min “Get your pre-pregnancy weight back” health coaching consultation.T: 9610 8530E: [email protected] W: www.mindfuleatingHK.comSmith & Jain Dental and Implant Practice15% off all dental care services. 703 Century Square,1 D’Aguilar Street, Central. T: 2526 2383.E: [email protected]

Tala’s Hair 10% discount on all full price hair services. Member card required. 50% discount for client referralsG/F No 56 Po Tung Rd, Sai Kung. T: 2335 1694www.talashair.comTsim Sha Tsui Chiropractor Centre 10% off initial Chiropractic consultation and Examination;• 50% off initial consultation and examination for

family members who come in for the check up in the same week.

• $100 voucher for in-clinic ergonomic products (Pillows and backrest).

Room 1201B, 12/F, Hong Kong Pacific Centre, 28 Hankow Road, Tsim Sha Tsui, T: 2721 3999 E: [email protected]: www.tstcc.com.hk

HOMEAsian Artworks Gallery 10% VIP discount. Shatin Showroom open by appointmentE: [email protected] www.asianartworks.com.hkBaby Batches 10% off all baby hampers and productsT: +61 2 9797 4988 www.babybatches.com.auJervisBay Barbecues 5% off barbecues (non-sale items) & 10% off other products (non-sale items).T: 2656 4429. www.jervisbaybarbecues.com12/F Horizon Plaza, 2 Lee Wing St, Ap Lei ChauLife’s A Breeze 15% discount upon presentation of Member’s card. (not available in accessories and products already on sale.)Contact: Jennifer McBride - [email protected]: 25724000 www.lifesabreezehk.com

LIFESTYLEReady Flowers 20% discount - on-line code to obtain discount is HKOZS888 T: 2540 5711 W: www.readyflowers.com.hk

HOTELS & HOLIDAYSFlight Centre Complimentary return Airport Express ticket per Association member per booking.T: 2830 2866 E: [email protected] Discount of $200 Adults and $150 Children on return tickets from Hong Kong to Australia plus extra baggage allowance:first/business class up to 3 pieces of luggage each up to 32kg, premium economy class up to 2 pieces of luggage each up to 23kg, economy class 1 piece of luggage each up to 30kg ex HK to Aust only, and $100 Adults and Children on Qantas Holidays. Cash or cheques only, credit cards not accepted.T: 2822 9000 (flights)T: 2737 6798 (holiday packages)Hotel Bonapate 10% off ‘Best Available Rate” when booking on line.11 Morrison HIll Rd, Wan Chai T: 3518 6688www.hotelbonapate.com.hk


LIST FOR 2015 | MEMBER BENEFITS

Hotel LKF 10% off ‘Best Available Rate” when booking on line; 15% off F&B at Azure Rest Slash Bar33 Wellington St, Lan Kwai FOngT: 3518 9333 www.hotel-lkf.com.hk Hotel Panorama 10% off ‘Best Available Rate’ when booking on line; 15% off F&B at AVA Rest; 15% of buffet at Cafe Express; 15% off cakes at Sweet Corner8A Hart Ave, Tsim Sha TsuiT: 3550 0388 www.hotelpanorama.com.hk Hotel Pennington 10% off ‘Best Available Rate’ when booking on line13-15 Pennington St, Causeway BayT: 3970 0688 www.hotelpennington.com.hkMira Moon Hotel 20% off best available rates388 Jaffe Road, Wanchai, Hong KongT: +852 2643 8888www.miramoonhotel.com

FASHIONROSARINI 20% off regular priced items. Ho Lee Commercial Bld, 8D, 40 D’Aguilar Street, Central T: 2526 1036 / 2526 8836. Oceanic Industrial Bldg, 14/F., Unit 12, 2 Lee Lok St, Ap Lei Chau T: 2526 1036E: [email protected] W: www.rosarini.comSerenity Fair An additional 10% off total purchases over $2000 (excluding discontinued sale items)Unit 409 Stag Building, 148 - 150 Queen’s Road CentralAdeline Ma: 2886 3912 www.serenityfair.com

SERVICESDHL (local & international freight) 25% discount off published tariff for using DHL Express Worldwide service with weight up to 30kg. The offer is only for drop off shipments to DHL express Centres, pickup service will not be provided. Membership card must be presented. Drop off only to DHL Express Centres. T: 2564 8315. www.dhl.com.hkEnterprise Global Limited (IT support) 10% off normal retainer & hourly rates and 5% off any hardware or software purchase. T: 3102 8077. www.enterpriseglobal.comHolistic Business Consulting Complimentary expatriate checklist for tax planning. 15% off depreciation reports from our preferred supplier to maximise deductions on your Australian rental property.Contact: Tommy Ip - [email protected]: +852 6901 8136 www.myoztax.comNAB Private Wealth Advisory free initial consultation and preferential rates for investments, plus 25% discount on the cost of preparing a financial plan , including superannuation advise32/F., Hysan Place, 500 Hennessy Rd, Causeway BayT: 3185 0125 www.npwasdvisory.com

Servcorp 1 month rent-free for Serviced Offices for deals of 6 months or more; 3 months at half price for Virtual Offices for deals of 6 months or more; 25% off rental of meeting & video-conferencing facilities. These offers are applicable for all Hong Kong Servcorp locations: Two IFC, Central; HK Club Building, Central; One Peking Road, TST. Contact: Anki Li. T: 2251 1888.E: [email protected] W: www.servcorp.com.hkVillage Holdings Ltd [Insurances] 10% discount on your usual annual premiums for the following insurance products – Home, Fire, Helper, Golf, Travel, Motor, BusinessContact: Liam Morarjee: 2893 5718 www.villageholdingshk.com

SPECIALITY FOOD & WINEChicken on the Run 10% discount at the shop & freedelivery on catering orders. Shop A No 1 Princes’ Terrace, Midlevels. T: 2537 8285. www.chickenontherun.comIl Bel Paese (authentic traditional Italian shop). Members must present their cards 10% discount on orderis of HKD$300 and above. Not applicable to catering, hampters, done in and paid events. Cannot be used with any other discount card or promotional offers. www.ilbelpaese.com.hk23 Sing Woo Rd, Happy Valley. T: 2868 2818.G/F 85 Caine Rd, Midlevels. T: 2549 8893.G/F 25 Queen’s Rd East, Wanchai. T: 2804 2992.The Burlington, 51-53 Hennessy Rd, Wanchai. T: 2528 2200.Shop 1 & 2, Wilton Place, 68 Bonham Rd, Pokfulam.G31 & 32A, G/F, Block C, DB Plaza, Discovery Bay, Lantaumeatmarket.hk 10% off orders over HKD500.T: 8135 1394. www.meatmarket.hkThe Meatery 5% off on all purchases $100 and over. Free delivery available form the shop. G/F., 23B Mosque St, Midlevels Escalator (before Robinson Rd) T: 2698 8886 E: [email protected]

SPORTING ACTIVITIESGolf Hideaway 10% off golf simulator charges and 10% off venue charges. 5/F 659 King’s Road, Quarry Bay.T: 2561 2005. www.golfhideaway.comSideway Car Club 10% discountLG/F, 1-2 Chancery Lane, Central,T: 2523 0983 www.sidewaysdrivingclub.netTour Spin Golf 10% off our golf lesson programs, 15% off our golf holidays and 10% off equipmentT: 2522 6366 E; [email protected]

BOOK CLUB | MAY 2015

Greeting to all the bibliophiles out there. After many

years helping us navigate the plethora of books and

finding some fabulous reading for us, Susan Cooney

is stepping down from the book club. So here is

our shout out to anyone who might be interested in

helping keep this group going. For more information

please contact Dee Longe on [email protected]


GALLIPOLI | PAST EvENTS

LUNCH CLUB | PAST EvENTS


PAST EvENTS |ANZAC DAY CENOTAPH

Photos courtesy of Australian Consulate-General Hong Kong.


ANZAC DAY CENOTAPH | PAST EvENTS



PAST EvENTS |ANZAC DAY CYBERPORT



ANZAC DAY CYBERPORT | PAST EvENTS



THE SOUND OF MUSIC | MAY 2015

Meet cast members and the resident director from The Sound of Music

In the 50th year since the filmed version of The Sound of Music was released, a production from London’s West End of the musical will soon be brought to Hong Kong.

KangaNews caught up with two young Hong Kong-based Australians, Emilia Oliver and Sophie Connell, who will be performing the roles of Marta and Louisa von Trapp respectively, and the production’s resident director and choreographer, Jonny Bowles, who is based in London.

Emilia Oliver (age 8)

- What was it like to audition for The Sound of Music? It was tough and we all tried our hardest.

- How did you react when you were told you had been cast to play Marta?I came home, and my sister showed me

an email from my dad, and it said, “Emilia Oliver is going to be Marta.” I started jumping up and down, and then I was screaming.

- What are the most important things you have learned from the rehearsals for the show?One thing is we can’t yawn. The second is we have to respect our chaperones and all the other people in the cast. The third is we should practice over and over again so we get it in our system.

- What is your favourite song from the show?“My Favourite Things”.

- How long have you been in Hong Kong, and what do you most enjoy about living here? I was born here. I am really happy that I have the opportunity to go to a wonderful school [Chinese International School] and get to learn lots of new things. We have a few school productions here every year. It is just a really wonderful experience to be in Hong Kong because it is such a nice place.

▲ Group photo at rehearsal

▲ Emilia Oliver


MAY 2015 | THE SOUND OF MUSIC

Sophie Connell (age 13)

- What have you enjoyed most about being in the cast of The Sound of Music?I love meeting new people and making new friends. I also love learning new techniques for singing, dancing and acting.

- What was it like to audition for this show? It was very nerve-wracking and exhausting. But it was great at the same time. I learned so much throughout those three days.

- How did you react when you were told you had been cast to play Louisa?I was on a bus and my mum texted me. So I called her and asked, “Did I make it?” I then asked her to double-check and make sure it wasn’t a fake email. I cried on the bus with tears of joy, and everyone just looked at me, and someone asked, “Are you alright?”

- What is the most important thing you have learned from the rehearsals for the show?I have learnt a lot of discipline. I am sometimes quite noisy, so I have to tone that down a bit and concentrate. Listening is very important, too.

- How long have you been in Hong Kong, and what do you most enjoy about living here? This is my eighth year. I love that it is so different from Sydney. I am able to learn Mandarin [at West Island School], which is great.

jonny Bowles, resident director

- What is the most rewarding thing for you about working on several productions of The Sound of Music around the world? You really see the journey of the kids. By the time they finish the end of a run, they often are very different children from when they began. Their skillset is so much more than when they started.

- What are the special challenges involved in producing this musical?With the tight labour laws here, we can only rehearse at certain times and on certain days. There is so much to do in the time that I have got to get the kids ready for when the company arrives from London and South Africa.

- How difficult was it to narrow over 400 children who auditioned in Hong Kong down to the 20 selected who will cover the six roles in the show?It was a lot to get through in three days. We had to do singing and acting auditions, and then teach them some of the three-part harmonies to see who can pick it up quickly. Also, I am really watching to see who can concentrate. If they are distracted easily, they are not going to be the right kids for this show because they won’t progress fast enough.

- What is your impression of the talent you saw in Hong Kong during the auditions?This cast has the potential to be the best I have ever had. There is some really outstanding talent within the three teams.

The Sound of Music will be performing at the Lyric Theatre, Hong Kong Academy for Performing Arts, 15 May-21 June.

▲ Jonny Bowles▲ Sophie Connell


CAROLYN BICKERTON | BEHIND THE COVER…

After almost a decade as editor of KangaNews, Carolyn Bickerton is finally looking forward to going on holidays without a production deadline. Also a two-time president, Carolyn is handing over KangaNews to a new editorial team and tells current president Gavin McDougall that being at the helm of the Australian Association’s membership magazine has been a memorable and rewarding experience.

If you’ve been to an Australian Association event over the past 18 years, it is more than likely that you have encountered Carolyn Bickerton. It’s not that she is especially tall which makes her stand out in a crowd; it is Carolyn’s energy, enthusiasm and penchant for wearing red that makes it difficult not to be drawn into her circle.

“We arrived in Hong Kong in May 1997 after just over a year in Manila,” Carolyn recalls.

Carolyn’s husband David, a banker, was behind the move to The Philippines as they both began their expatriate life. Carolyn dived headlong into the experience, volunteering to run the blood-type registry with the Australian and New Zealand Women’s Association. Eventually, David’s bank transferred the couple to Hong Kong.

“After the challenges of The Philippines (regular ingredients for favourite meals not always available, driving being an experience that takes your life in your own hands, and a house with a pool and garden), Hong Kong was small, frenetic, efficient, and clean by comparison,” Carolyn says. The move opened new doors.

“We joined the Association within a heartbeat of arriving in Hong Kong. From our Manila experience, I knew it would be a great way to make new friends and become involved in something exciting,” she says. “I joined the committee in 1998, I think, but I am also the sort of person that likes to make a contribution and be involved.”

Carolyn joined the general committee and then had the opportunity to take on the role of president.

“It was a fun couple of years, during which time we started work on a new website, held some amazing balls, looooong Melbourne Cup days,” she adds with emphasis, “and generally arranged an event calendar so busy that it was hard to decide what to do.”

It was around this time that Carolyn took on her first of two stints as KangaNews’ editor. The second round, and her second presidency,

came after she and David spent two years as expatriates in Tokyo and Seoul.

“Not long after my first term as president, I was also going through a change in career starting my own consulting business. The Association was looking for an editor. It all seemed a natural fit.

“I have, over the years, had the opportunity to meet and work with some wonderful people who contribute to KangaNews with a dedication and commitment that is amazing. And then there are those occasions when I met the Australian cast of productions such as Singing in the Rain and Mama Mia. It has been a great experience.”

It is an experience enhanced by the people Carolyn and David have met.

“People are what make a membership-based organisation great. The people who become involved in our Association are amazing and the effort they put into ensuring the Association is on track with great events is extraordinary.

“The Association was, and I hope always be, run by volunteers who are keen to make sure fellow Australians enjoy this wonderful city as much as we do. I certainly know that was part of my motivation. The Association has just turned 60. We have been doing something right and I am sure we can continue to be relevant in an age of social media and easy connections.”

Carolyn’s holidays are sure to have less work-related distractions now that she is handing over the reins of KangaNews to a new editorial team.

“I am almost not sure what to do with the apparent extra time,” she ponders. “I am stepping away from KangaNews so I can re-involve myself with the charity that I help, and because my work is increasingly busy. And I will be able to go on holiday without having to take KangaNews with me.”

As for Carolyn’s thoughts on what has been her favourite KangaNews cover after a total of almost ten years as editor? She thinks some of the Anzac Day covers have been “fabulous”, and “I will always like the ones that had red in it.”


MAY 2015 | BEAUTY TIPS

Aromatherapy – It’s not only a nice smelling massage!Aromatherapy is the therapeutic use of plant-derived, aromatic essential oils to promote physical and psychological wellbeing. Often the oils are applied using relaxing massage techniques but they can be used for so much more than that.Clinical aromatherapy takes a holistic approach to health and wellbeing. The oils chosen and the way in which they are used are tailored to each individual during a detailed initial medical questionnaire. After that, oils are chosen based on the individual’s medical background, the way they are feeling physically & emotionally at that time and how they wish to feel after the treatment. Many people want to feel relaxed, but certain oils can make you feel too drowsy to drive or get through the rest of the day. The treatment can leave you calm and invigorated at the same time if you need to continue with your busy day.Aromatherapy can help to:• Relieve muscular aches & pains• Reduce stress & aid relaxation• Balance hormones, easing menstrual &

menopausal symptoms• Encourage restful sleep & combat

insomnia• Reduce anxiety• Speed up the healing process• Increase circulation• Relieve headaches• Aid digestion & reduce digestive

discomfort• Stimulate the immune system to combat

infections• Fight fatigue & jet lag• Reduce pain• Ease chronic skin disordersOne of the most common ways of using the oils is to apply them using a relaxing, fl owing massage. It is not uncommon in Hong Kong for massage to sometimes be quite uncomfortable and occasionally a little embarrassing. The UK style of aromatherapy utilises the essential oils to help to loosen tight and uncomfortable muscles while the fl owing massage helps to reduce stress levels and induce a feeling of wellbeing. The massage will allow the oils to be absorbed through the skin while increasing blood fl ow and relaxing the body overall. The whole experience should be an enjoyable one.However, the benefi ts of essential oils don’t end there. They can be used at home in a variety of ways, including:• Added to a warm bath• Diffused using an oil burner or electric

diffuser• Mixed in a cream applied to the skin

• Steam inhalation• Hot and/or cold compresses• Applied neatEssential oils can be a pleasant and safe alternative for everyday ailments. In our home, the fi rst sign of a sore throat sees us rushing for the tea tree oil. Our basic fi rst aid kit of tea tree, lavender, peppermint and mandarin travels everywhere with us to cover a multitude of conditions including bites, nausea, headaches, colds, jet lag, burns & travel anxiety.While essential oils can be very powerful, they need to be used cautiously too. Very few oils can safely be applied directly to the skin. Less is more, because a little bit works, it doesn’t mean that more is better. Always seek advice from a qualifi ed aromatherapist when pregnant, for babies and other serious health conditions. Some people do take essential oils internally but this is not advocated in the UK. Also be aware that diffusing essential oils at home can be harmful to some pets.A fi nal thing to consider when buying essential oils for home use is that price is not always a good indicator of quality. Take advice from an expert as to where to buy your essential oils.

Emma Ross, MIFA - AromatherapistGLOW SPA – Health, Hair & Beauty

www.glow-spa.netTel: +852 2525 5198

The Healing Properties of Aromatic Essential Oils

come from FLOWERS

SEEDS HERBS ROOTS RESINS TREES

PETALS LEAVES SHRUBS FRUITS


HONG KONG MUSING | MAY 2015

M+, the new multifaceted museum being built at West Kowloon, has just concluded Moving Images, a two-month exhibition of fi lms and video at various venues across Hong Kong. The depiction of immigration and displacement in a new city or country was the major theme running through the exhibition. It is a feeling many of us have in Hong Kong, a city of new or recently arrived residents or residents that will travel temporarily or permanently for study or work.

If you missed this exhibition then search out the fi lms that were screened or read one of the best depictions of the Hong Kong immigrant experience, Timothy Mo’s Sour Sweet. The excellent fi lm version with a screenplay by Ian McEwan was recently screened at this year’s Hong Kong International Film Festival.

Mo’s story follows a newly married Hong Kong couple that immigrates to London from their New Territories village in the 1960s, and quickly adapt to living in Britain. However,

this hard-working couple fails to decisively deal with the consequences of an unpaid gambling debt to thuggish triad enforcers from London’s Chinatown. Rather than taking a ‘modern’ approach to the problem, the couple individually and inadequately resort to ‘old-style’ Hong Kong behaviour: including social avoidance and a refusal to talk openly about their problem. This leads to a violent outcome. In contrast, a younger sister, seemingly immature and naïve, embraces London’s opportunities, marries and sets out on a new life by refusing to live her Hong Kong past in London – in complete contrast to her older sister.

Chinese immigration has been widespread for centuries and seen successful assimilation with local cultures (as in Thailand, Indonesia and The Philippines), and as an often temporary or dislocated experience, as until recently in the USA and Australia, that had until the 1970s, strict, predominantly “whites-only” immigration laws. There is now a new wave of wealthy mainland immigrant seeking out opportunities around the world. But, there is also offi cial acknowledgement that mainland corruption has made some of these would-be immigrants wealthy. This is an intriguing, and about to be played-out, twist to the usual immigration story.

John Batten


I hope everyone enjoyed the many activities in April, especially the Anzac

Day lead up events, and the remembrance day for our fallen soldiers who

perished to make our great nation a free and democratic country...Lest we

Forget.

Last month has been a hive of activity with all things new.....the electronic

KangaNews, FB page, and soon the new Webpage.

Friday’s “Cooee Coffee” launch saw a rise in numbers with some new faces,

and returning folk at our new place of residence, Wagyu Cafe, in Wing Fung St, Wanchai.

A big thank you to our man in the office, Adrian Ryan, who is doing an amazing job with our

membership drive, and Dragon boating, new look Sundowners, and of course Anzac Day.

There is, however, a lot more work to be done to make the Australian Association “a great

mate in Hong Kong”, and we need your help.

If there is anyone that can spare time to volunteer in the office to help Adrian with admin stuff

please let us know, as we could always do with an extra pair of hands.

May sees Hong Kongers with two long weekends in the month: firstly, Labour Day on the May

1st and Buddha’s Birthday on May 25th, so enjoy this double dose of long weekends.

We have loads of fun stuff planned and the first cab off the rank is a:

May 12th - Shenzhen Homewares Bus Trip

This is always a huge success, and seats sell fast. China Visas are required prior to this trip.

May 13th - The Club Lunch will be held at the Kee Club, another fabulous private club...our

last visit, was made extra special with Australian Celebrity Chef Neil Perry coming to snap a

photo with us.

May 20th, we are celebrating with a Lunch to get to know our newer members to the

Association, new members to the social committee and friends. The venue is Mostacillo

Brothers in Elgin St, Central. So if you are ‘newish’ to Hong Kong, arriving in the past two years,

and would like to meet new friends then, please come join us.

Numbers are limited so please book early to avoid disappointment.

May 21st takes us back to Shenzhen and the fabric market in Shaibu: the fabric market in

Lowu shopping centre is closed. Some tailors are still working, so it is the perfect opportunity to

come buy some lovely fabrics to start preparing your outfits for the summer months ahead.

Please see my write up regarding how to obtain a China Visa, without the headaches?!

Looking forward to seeing you all at our events.

Dee Longe

Chair, Social Committee

OUT & ABOUT | MAY 2015


MAY 2015 | CALENDARBOOKING FORM can be found at www.ozhongkong.com and click on Event Booking Form icon on the calendar

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BOOKING DEADLINES: HIKE: Hike Hong Kong Peak Walk – 4 May; THE CLUB: The Kee Club – 8 May; SHOP CHINA: Home-wares shopping in Shenzhen by Coach – 8 May; LUNCH MUSTER – 15 May; THE CLUB: Royal Hong Kong Yacht Club – 9 June

MAHjONGMondays 4, 11 and 18 MAY

Did you know that a winning hand in mahjong actually contains 14 (or 17) tiles? And that the goal is to make four or fi ve melds (also depending on the variation) and one pair, or “head”?

It may sound complicated, but it isn’t and we will have you playing like a pro in no time.

Beginners are welcome. Come and join in the fun.

Time: 10 am – 1 pm

Where: Dynasty Court Function Room, 23 Old Peak Road, Mid-levels

Cost: Members: $80 / Non-Members: $130

Contact: Christine Scullion | [email protected]

GOLFMonday 4, Thursdays 7, 14, 21 and 28 MAY

Every Thursday and the fi rst Monday of each month (unless it is a public holiday).

Please contact Adrian | offi [email protected] for more information.

UPCOMING EvENTS | DAY


MUMS AND BUBSPLEASE NOTE there is no baby group from April through june

MORNING TENNISTuseday 5, 12, 19 and 26 MAY

Come for a hit and giggle or if you want a “work out” we can do that too. We are looking for anyone that can hit a ball, preferably over the net. You need to be available on Tuesday mornings from 9am until 11am. We are the tennis group for you if you:

• don’t want to commit to competition but want a hit of tennis.

• enjoy a little chat.

We have two courts booked every week.

If this interests you, please come along to tennis.

When: 9am - 11am

Cost: Members: $40 / Non-members: $60

Contact: [email protected]

Weather: Please contact the HK Tennis Centre on 2574 9122 if weather doubtful.

Rachel is stepping down as the coordinator of our tennis and so we are looking for a replacement. Please contact Rosh via the office if you would like to help.

HIKE: Hike Hong Kong Peak WalkThursday 7 MayOur first hike will be the Morning Trail around The Peak, with the option of the walk down Old Peak Road at the end for anyone keen for a bit extra. The Morning Trail is a largely gentle 3.5km loop around The Peak with wonderful views from Pok Fulam right around to Wan Chai. It is stroller & dog friendly.Time: 10:30am – 11:45amLocation: Meet at Starbucks at the PeakMeeting Time: 10:15amCost: Members – Free. $50 for Non MembersBooking: Email Anthea Murray via [email protected]

If you have any further questions please email us Booking Deadline: Monday 4 MayWhat to Bring: A hat, sunscreen, water & insect repellent. Be sure to wear comfortable

shoes & clothing, and if bringing a dog please remember to bring bags etc to clean up any mess they make.

DAY | UPCOMING EvENTS


UPCOMING EVENTS | DAY

CHATTERBOX Fridays 8, 15, 22 and 29 MAY, 10-11:30am

Chatterbox is our casual coffee morning get together, perfect for both newcomers to Hong Kong and also to catch up with old friends. No need to book, just turn up and enjoy some great coffee, maybe a treat and a chat. Each session is hosted by a member of the Social Committee so there will be someone to meet and greet you and introduce you to others if it’s your first visit. If you have particular questions about life in Hong Kong, we’ll be able to help answer them or at least point you in the right direction

For any questions email Ainslie | [email protected]



SHOP CHINA: Home-wares shopping in Shenzhen by CoachTuesday 12 May

Home-wares is made up of approx. six large buildings of several floors made up of items such as crockery, cutlery, glassware, silk flowers, bedding, furniture, pillows/throws, decorative items, kitchen utensils, rugs, lamps, etc etc. (You must have a valid China visa for this trip)

Time: 9am - 6pm (meet at 8.30 for prompt 9.00 coach departure)

Location: Central Pier 4 (this is a convenient location for the coach to stop and also for anyone coming from DB)

Cost: Members $350.00 / Non Members $400.00

Payment: Via below link

Booking : Go to www.ozhongkong.com and click on the event link or via the calendar. For Questions contact Julie Armstrong |[email protected]

Booking Deadline: Wednesday 8 May

What to Bring: Your Passport with China Visa Your HK ID, for a quicker transition thru the border. RMB (Yuan), as there may or may not be ATM’s that are working. A large suitcase or trolley device, for easier handling of your purchases. Pack a lunch, as there may or may not be any coffee shops/lunch venues. Also, it will be quicker, so you don’t waste valuable shopping time.

Age Group: This is an over 18yrs old event only.

Further info: Please email [email protected]

SECRET MEN’S BUSINESS: LUNCHTuesday 12 May

Whether you are a regular or have never been to one of our lunches before, come and enjoy the company in a relaxed setting.

Time: 12:15pm (the pub opens at 12 noon) to whenever you need to leave

Venue: Delaney’s Irish Pub, 18 Luard Road, Wanchai

Cost: Pay for food and drinks on the day

Booking: Not required, just show up

For more information on SMB events or to make suggestions for future events contact Michael Madigan on 9384 2407.

Australian Federal Budget 2014Australian Treasurer Joe Hockey presented his first Federal Budget to Parliament on the 13th May 2014.

The Budget has been very poorly received in Australia as it is the “tough medicine” that the Liberals promised to deliver in order to fix the “budget crisis” that has seen Australia’s

Government debt spiral from nil in 2007 to over A$300 billion now.

Ironically, this fixing of the budget was one of the main platforms that saw the Liberal party get re-elected with an overwhelming majority in the lower house. Sadly in the election, the incoming Government failed to secure a majority in the Senate that would allow ease of passage of legislation.

The Labour Government had made many significant funding announcements in their past few budgets that had yet to begin, leaving the incoming Government with many tough choices. These spending decisions saw Australia lead the world in Government spending increases and were based on overly optimistic revenue forecasts that have been proven incorrect in each of Labor’s six budgets delivered while in office.

Instead of discussing the past misfortunes, public opinion has turned to debate as to whether a there is even a need to repair what may not be broken. The basis of the argument that Australian Government finances rests around the value of Australia’s debt as a proportion to GDP which remains among the lowest in the world at just over 30%.

The argument from the opposition parties, which now include the Palmer United Party which will soon hold the balance of power in the Senate, is that this is very low so the government should continue to run deficits and increase the debt even further without any concern.

This was clearly the attitude of the past Labour Government who set records in the level of annual budget deficits and accumulation of debt during their brief 6 year tenure. The below table shows the budgetry position of the past 12 years in Australia.

For the record, Australia’s past peak debt was approximately A$96bn in 2002 and under the leadership of then Liberal Prime Minister John Howard and his Treasurer Peter Costello this was paid off entirely in 2007. This debt level was the result of over 100 years of nation building and was created by both sides of the political fence when Australia had no infrastructure, fought in two world wars and dealt with numerous crisis while still creating an enviable lifestyle and label as the “lucky country”.

It seemed impossible in 2002 to consider that the debt could ever be paid off, but somehow this was achieved and it was a proud moment in the countries rich history. Being debt free gives any country the real chance to plan its own future and not be beholden to financial interests or global uncertainty. This was clearly evident in the fact that Australia, more than any other country, came through the Global Financial Crisis of 2007-08 relatively unscathed.

Being debt free allowed the new Rudd Government to spend its way out of recession and keep the economy moving when others were falling into recession. Had Australia been deep in debt at that time perhaps a totally different outcome would have occurred, hence the fact that the books were in such good order proved to be a decisive protective element in an otherwise dangerous financial world.

Given the debt has now increased so rapidly in such a short period of time is why the new Liberal Government feels there is a crisis and wants to take remedial actions to remedy it. They were concerned that the debt was due to escalate further to a very uncomfortable level, almost A$700bn by 2022 with no action, and have made a series of unpopular decisions and cut backs on spending promises of the last Government. This is proving a very tough headline for the Government to sell.

For almost 15 years, the Australian public has been used to some form of Budget handout, be it lower tax rates, allowances, rebates or improved

services. Sadly this year that cycle of handout comes to an end as a tightening of the purse strings now occurs.

However, given the public backlash, many of the announcements in this Budget are genuinely at risk of not becoming law as they will struggle to pass the required legislation through the Senate and carful negotiation and compromise may be required in order to achieve their desired outcomes.Some of the key announcements in the budget include:• Introduction of a Budget Repair Levy of 2% of any taxable income above

A$180,000pa for the next 3 years only.• Removal of the Mining Tax & Carbon Tax.• Medicare Co-Contribution payment which will initially go to fund the

creation of a A$20bn Medical Research Fund.• Re-introduction of the indexation increase on Fuel Excises with new funds

dedicated to road infrastructure.• Deregulation of University Fee Structures and increase to University Loan

interest rate to reflect the cost of Government borrowing.• Freezing of increases and thresholds for many Government Welfare

payments that usually increase with inflation.• Removal of almost A$80bn of forward funding promises to the State

Governments for Health & Education initiatives of the previous Labor Government.

• “Work for the Dole” rules for recipients of Unemployment benefits requiring them to either undertake training, education or controlled work duties together with more stringent qualification rules.

These are but a few of the announcements and perhaps the more contentious ones at that.

Australia now faces a great test in how it reacts to this budget.

Do we want to continue an “Era of Entitlement” or create a stable platform that safeguards our countries financial future and allows is the ability to afford to support those in need from a strong financial footing.

It is easy to forget that the past 2 decades saw the Australian Governments finances generally on the improve on a regular basis, and this allowed us to increase support, lower taxes and enhance the services in the community for the benefit of all Australians.

This position of improvement is not the current trend, with massive budget deficits and escalating Government debt being the norm of the past 6 years.

The softening of Government revenues has been the reason that the Labor Party has claimed it has not been able to achieve its past Budget Forecasts, and a slow economy and contracting mining sector played a large part in that.

The most important aspect of this budget was to try the delicate balance act of protecting the needy, having everyone contribute to the repair effort while ensuring the economy had the opportunity to expand.

The last point seems to have been lost on the general public and media, as should the economy expand then the Government revenues improve and then there is more funds to start the historical level of generosity that Australians have grown accustomed to.

Now is not the time to complain, that should have been done when the massive budget deficits were being recorded and the debt jumped ever higher. Now is the time to let the new Government do what they said they would need to and let them move forward with conviction.

Let us not forget that when in the Budget forecasts of last year, the final budget presented by Labor Treasurer Wayne Swan, the expected deficit was A$18bn and this had ballooned out to a staggering A$49.9bn when the final numbers came in. During this time the economy was in good order, not in recession and Government revenues actually increased 3.5% to a record inflow of A$363.5bn, yet we still blew the forecast significantly due to rises in expenditure, If this is acceptable, then we have set a dangerous precedent.

Whether they are wrong or right will be for history to judge, but stopping them before they start could be a bigger problem indeed. We will monitor the passage of Budget measures with great interest.

ASK STEVE DOUGLAS - AUSTRALIAN TAXATION ADVICEASK STEVE DOUGLAS - AUSTRALIAN TAXATION ADVICE

Singapore | Perth | Sydney | Hong Kong | Dubai | UK | USA | Malaysia | China | Indonesia

Australasian Taxation Services Pty LtdLevel 24 Onfem Tower, 29 Wyndham St Central, Hong KongTel: +852 3571 8700 Fax: +852 3571 9210Web: www.smats.net Email: [email protected]

Steve Douglas is the co-founder and Managing Director of Australasian Taxation Services (ATS), established in Singapore in 1995. ATS provides specialist taxation services to people of any nationality investing in Australian property, as well as Australian expatriates living overseas. Areas of specialisation include the Australian taxation aspects of property investment, as well as expatriate and migration planning.ATS



THE CLUB: The Kee ClubWednesday 13 May

Hong Kong has many private clubs which only members can enjoy. This month we are going to the Kee Club. Discreetly situated in the heart of Central, KEE Hong Kong is an exclusive private members club which offers a cozy and homely atmosphere for their members to get away from the hustle and bustle of Hong Kong.

KEE Hong Kong is made up of distinctively opulent rooms tailored for art and wine appreciation, fine dining and mingling. This luncheon will be an intimate experience

Time: 12.30pm to 2.30pm Meet in the restaurant

Location: KEE Private Members Club Hong Kong 6/F, 32 Wellington Street, Central, T 2810 9000

Cost: Pay on the day, cost depending on menu choices Non Members extra $50

Booking: Go to www.ozhongkong.com and click on the event link or via the calendar. For any questions contact julie Armstrong | [email protected]

Booking Deadline: Friday 8 May

Dress : Smart Casual

Payment: Please pay cash on the day, exact amount is appreciated. Cancellations 24 hours before will be charged and the money donated directly to charity

LUNCH MUSTER: MOSTACCIOLI BROTHERS (Mo Bros) RestaurantWednesday 20 May

We are sending a call out to any members who have arrived in Hong Kong over the past two years. Come and celebrate living in Hong Kong and being a member of the Australian Association, come and meet other members you may not have crossed paths with as yet. Chef Mick is lining up an awesome three course lunch for us, with Prosecco on arrival and free flow Pino Grigio and Sangiovese. BUONE FESTE!

Time: 12.30pm – 3pm

Location: Mo Bros Restaurant. 16 Elgin Street, Central.

Cost: Member $480.00 NON Member $580.00

Booking: To register please go to www.ozhongkong.com and click on the link on the home page or through the Events Calendar. If you have any further questions please email [email protected]

Booking Deadline: Friday 15 May


UPCOMING EvENTS | DAY

SHOP CHINA: Shai Bu Fabric AreaThursday 21 May

The bad news is that sadly, the Fabric Market on Level 5 of the Commercial Centre at Lo Wu has closed. The good news is that we have now had to venture out to Shai Bu to the Fabric Area, and it is well worth the extra effort to get there…….. Fabrics, Curtains, Bedspreads, Accessories, it’s all here. Pick out your fabric from the massive, multi-shop selection spread over several fl oors, across two buildings. Everything from Sheets, Knits, Denim, Silks, Satins and everything in between. Very few shop owners speak English, so have some phrases written in simplifi ed Chinese. So come on this tour and have some fun and discover a new area of Shenzhen.

Time: 10am to 5pm

Location: Meet at Admiralty Station, Exit A. Inside the station near Café O & the ticket machine

Cost: $100.00 Members $200.00 Non Members

Bookings: To register, please go to www.ozhongkong.com.Click on the link for this event through the Events Calendar.

Booking Deadline: Monday 13 April

What to Bring: Your Passport with China Visa and Octopus Card. Your HK ID for quicker transition through the border. RMB (Yuan cash) as there may or may not be ATM’s working on the day. Bring some lunch and water. There is a McDonald’s and a KFC if required.

Age Group: This is an over 18 year olds event only.

Further Info: If you have any questions please email Julie Armstrong | [email protected]

THE CLUB: Royal Hong Kong Yacht ClubWednesday 10 june

Hong Kong has many private clubs which only members can enjoy. This month we are going to the Compass Room at the Royal Hong Kong Yacht Club in Causeway Bay, which has stunning views over Victoria Harbour.

The lunch will be buffet starter and dessert with the main being served at your table. The lunch includes favorite items such as sashimi, sushi, fresh oysters, and an extensive salad and dessert bar including an international cheese board, plus tea and coffee.

Time: 12.30pm to 2.30pmMeet in the restaurant

Location: RHKYC, Causeway Bay

Cost: Pay on the day, cost depending on menu choices Non Members extra $50

Booking: Go to www.ozhongkong.com and click on the event linkor via the calendar. For any questions contact Julie Armstrong | [email protected]

Booking Deadline: Monday 9 June

Payment: Please pay cash on the day, remember to bring small notes as the exact amount is appreciated.Cancellations 24 hours before will be charged and the money donated directly to charity


NIGHT AND WEEKEND | UPCOMING EvENTS

Members Price $500Non-Members Price $600Bookings will incur a small administration charge.

Sorry no refunds but bookings are transferableDrinks available at rseturaunt prices

[email protected]

Members Price $500Non-Members Price $600Bookings will incur a small administration charge.

Sorry no refunds but bookings are transferableDrinks available at rseturaunt prices

7:00pm Thursday,14th May 2015

Chilli Fagara, G/F, 7 Old Bailey Street, Central

A showdown between four distinct wines against five of Chilli Fagara signature dishes. Which wine will pair best with

which entrees? You decide in this unique and fun take on a wine pairing event.

7:00pm Thursday,14th May 2015

The Australian Association of Hong Kong

M a y S u n d o w n e r sPrivate Dinner & W i n e P a i r i n gat Chilli Fagara


UPCOMING EvENTS | NIGHT AND WEEKEND

7:00pm - 10:00pm Doors open at 6:30pmThursday 28 May 2015

Delaney's 1st Floor, 1 Capital Place, 18 Luard Road, Wan Chai

[email protected] | www.ozhongkong.com Must be over 18 to attend. Bookings will incur a small administration charge.

Adjudicated by

Members Price $150 Non-Members Price $250

Ticket price is per person

The Australian Association of Hong Kong

Quizmaster “Prez”Gavin McDougall


NIGHT AND WEEKEND | UPCOMING EvENTS

DRAGON BOAT DAYTHE 'OZHONGKONG DIGGERS' JUNK

Join this international party of thousands to cheer on our dragon boat teams - The Royal Brunei Airlines Aussie Diggers

at the Stanley International Dragon Boat Championships

Experience this years event and escape the crowds to view the energetic and colourful dragon boat races. The crew will positon the junk the night before to

ensure a prime viewing location along the racecourse. A private speed boat will then transfer you to and from the wharf to the "OZHONGKONG DIGGERS" Junk.

The Australian Association of Hong Kong presents

Limited spots. Must be over 18 to attend this event. For futher information regarding this event please got www.ozhongkong.com.

SATURDAY 20TH JUNE 2015 Stanley Main Beach 8:00AM - 7:00PM

Early Bird Member Price: $1000 Early Bird Non Member Price: $1100

Member Price: $1200 Non Member Price: $1300

Earlybird price ends 22 May 2015

ALL DAY DINING INCLUDEDBreakfast, BBQ lunch & afternoon tea, beer, wine and soft drinks & water.

[email protected] | www.ozhongkong.com

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MAY 2015 | PROPERTY

The property market in both Melbourne and Sydney continues to have an upward trajectory. Record house prices are being smashed at a constant rate and now seem to be the norm rather than the exception. Elements impacting this very buoyant property market are: Australian interest rates are at an all-time low, the Australian dollar is favourable for overseas investors, but probably the biggest factor is the Chinese are heavily investing in the safe and secure Australian property market.

Whereas in the past the number of houses which sold well in excess of the reserve was in the minority – now it seems that every second house being auctioned within certain areas are exceeding vendor expectations, not by tens of thousands but hundreds of thousands. Buyers are fiercely competing against each other and often it is at least a three-way tussle with invariably one of the parties being a foreign investor.

With the last auction weekend in April behind us where 1,077 auctions took place in Melbourne and 737 in Sydney – the clearance rate reinforces the strength of the property market. In Sydney the clearance rate was a staggering and record-breaking 88.2% of reported auctions while in Melbourne it was 80%, which follows the 2015 trend.

It is not that long ago that there were only about a dozen suburbs in Melbourne where the median price was one million dollars. Now nearly every suburb within 10 kilometres of the CBD qualifies and the number of suburbs in the outer areas meeting this threshold is growing.

The following Melbourne auction results reinforce the strength of the current market across the board:

Sapphire Street, Preston, a tired three bedroom timber house sold for $840,000 with a reserve of $730,000. Interestingly a similar house in the same street sold for $680,000 only two months ago.

Albert Place, Richmond, a modern three bedroom townhouse sold for $1,335,000 with a price indicator of $1.1 - $1.2 million.

Hardy Street, Brunswick, a renovated double fronted timber Victorian house sold for $1.3 million with a price indicator of $1 - $1.1 million.

Cavill Court, Vermont South, a dated 1970’s house sold for $1.3 million, it was on the market at $960,000 and had been quoted at $900,000 - $1 million selling range.

Gladwyn Avenue, East Bentleigh, a three bedroom 1950’s brick house in the coveted McKinnon Secondary College zone, sold for $1.35 million with a price indicator of $1 - $1.08 million.

Graham Street, Port Melbourne, a single fronted renovated three bedroom timber cottage sold for $1.9 million with a price indicator of $1.6 million.

Simpson Street, East Melbourne, a bluestone cottage with two bedrooms sold for $2 million with the reserve being $2 million.

Harrison Crescent, Hawthorn, a modern multi leveled town house sold just shy of $2.3 million and was being quoted at $1.8 million plus.

It was a similar story in Sydney where a six bedroom mansion with tennis court and pool in Highgate Street, Strathfield sold for $4,420,000 with 25 registered bidders! It was last sold in 1992 for $1,046,000. Interestingly the same property had been on and off the market since 2011 until mid 2014 without finding a buyer.

A renovated three bedroom terrace in Johnston Street, Annandale sold for $1.81 million and was last sold in 2004 for $602,000.

The Australian property market is certainly very hot and there are no obvious indications that the market will slow down in the near future particularly given the amount of interest and activity we are seeing from Chinese buyers.

Although the property market is hot, to give up and wait for the market to have a correction may result in buyers being unable to afford to get into the market.

Philip Hargrave [email protected]


TRAvEL TALES | ANTARCTICA – YOUR NEXT STEP

As you read this, cast your imagination back 100 years to May 1915. Anglo-Irishman Ernest Shackleton, charismatic leader with a wreckless streak, has ignored advice of the whalers of South Georgia and proceeded with his Imperial Transantarctic Expedition. It is a bold venture. He is to cross the Weddel Sea, make land in West Antarctica and trek via the South Pole to East Antarctica where the crew of the Aurora planned strategically placed supply depots to facilitate his crossing.

The whalers were right. There was heavier than normal Weddel Sea ice formation. His ship is trapped and eventually destroyed on 27 October 1915. With the bold words, “So, now we’ll go home” he plans their escape.

Like a giant washing machine the icebound men are spun out into the Southern Ocean. In three small boats they make Elephant Island. Then with his crew of men he sets out for South Georgia 800 nautical miles or 1300kms away. In a small 6.9 metre whaler, the James Caird they make the eight day journey landing on the inhospitable southwest coast of South Georgia. Salvation lies at one of the whaling stations on the

▲ Brown Bluff 63degrees 32mins south. One is awed by its vastness and contrasts. Zodiac, our means of landing, is seen in the bay.

▲ Penguins (adelie) and seals (fur) learn to share. Some penguins flat out keeping cool in the summer heat (2C)

▲ Sea Adventurer in a sea of ice.

▲ Another scene marked by beautiful blue skies, enabling us to make 19 landings, something of a record.

Date What Contact Additional InformationMay 1 Labour Day

May 15 - June 21 The Sound of Music hkticketing.com Lyric Theatre, HKAPA

May 25 The Birthday of the Buddha

June 20 Tuen Ng Festival

June 20 Dragon Boat races, Stanley www.dragonboat.org.hkFor information on the Aust Assoc team please email [email protected]

July 1 Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Establishment Day

September 28 The day following the Chinese Mid-Autumn Festival

October 1 National Day

October 21 Chung Yeung Festival

December 25 Christmas Day

WHAT’S HAPPENING IN HONG KONG AND AROUND | 2015


Our first leg across the Drake Passage to the South Shetland Islands was favourable, the ‘Drake Shake’ was more like the ‘Drake Lake’. Our first landing was at the former British base on Danko Island. Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh, officially opened it in 1956 after attending the opening of the Melbourne Olympics. It is said he played the first game of tennis in Antarctica, maybe on the deck of the Britannia and white balls were not used! Our 19 landings, four on the Antarctic continent, were in a ten-man zodiac. We travelled into the Weddel Sea, our ship followed Shackleton’s journey via Elephant Island to South Georgia. There we visited his grave. According to custom we toasted ‘the Boss’ with a tot of Jameson Irish Whisky, (Mackinlay’s was his favourite) and shared the toast by pouring half onto the grave.

The 110 Sea Adventure expeditioners marvelled at the breathtaking vastness, rugged beauty, and prolific wildlife of the remote preserved wilderness of Antarctica. Penguins of many varieties, seals, whales, albatrosses and other birds aplenty filled many a memory card. And who are these adventurers you ask? There were 33 Australians, 29 British, 19 Americans, nine Chinese, nine Canadians, three Dutch, two Taiwanese and a sprinkling of other nationalities. A bonus was a landing at Stanley in The Falklands before the four-day sea and River Plate passage to Buenos Aires.

The Quark Team were brilliant expedition leaders. No one regretted making the effort to visit one of the greatest sanctuaries on our planet. We returned home with indelible memories and the task of becoming Antarctic Ambassadors. Maybe you too will one day visit the seventh continent.

Contributed by Kevin FitzPatrick, your editor Carolyn’s stepfather

ANTARCTICA – YOUR NEXT STEP | TRAvEL TALES

▲ Another king penguin welcoming committee.

▲ Shackleton’s grave, Grytviken, South Georgia, a British territory.

▲ Baby fur seal. These, like the whales, were almost extinct until sealing/whaling was banned.

▲ Morning has broken, St Andrew’s Bay, South Georgia.

northern side of the island. In 36 hours, ill equipped, still recovering from their open boat ordeal, they traverse the icy mountainous terrain. Their time of 36 hours for the crossing has never been bettered. They reach Stromness whaling station and set about rescuing the 22 men on Elephant Island.

In 2008 Shackleton’s grand- daughter, the Hon.Alexandra Shackleton invited English born scientist and Australian citizen Tim Jarvis to recreate the epic escape. Earlier attempts by the Irish (1997) and Germans (2000) failed. In February 2013 Tim and his crew in the Alexandra Shackleton replica of the James Caird completed the ‘Shackleton Double’. To contextualise this achievement I describe it as completing the Sydney to Hobart race in a surfboat with Bass Strait conditions and then complete a Kokoda crossing.

How did I come to embrace this Antarctic Odyssey? In the 70s I attended an illustrated talk by Howard Brady, a five time Antarctican scientist. His pictures were breathtaking. Sometime later I viewed the BBC production, starring Kenneth Brannagh as Shackleton. His leadership, adaptability, stubborn streak, and intolerance of negativity impressed me. I read widely about his Epic Survival journey and Antarctica and began addressing Rotary, Probus and Historical Societies.

My ambition to travel to Antarctica materialised when my sister, Mary, shouted me a trip this year. I journeyed there aboard the Quark sponsored Sea Adventurer, a vessel of 4.376 tonnes. Just boarding the vessel in Ushuaia, the most southerly city in the world, was challenging enough. The 12 hour flight from Sydney to Santiago is followed by a flight to Buenos Aires, a night’s rest, then a four-hour flight to Ushuaia where most Antarctic journeys commence.


HEALTHY EATING, AUSSIE STYLE | MAY 2015

Hippocrates said, “Let Food be thy medicine”, and so good food can be! Unfortunately, our friend chocolate has a tarnished reputation! This is caused by over refinement, all sorts of additives, including high levels of sugar, additional fats, artificial dairy, colourings and poor agricultural practice. If those are stripped back, chocolate should get a tick from Hippocrates.

Cocoa, from which chocolate is made, is particularly rich in polyphenols, a group of protective antioxidant compounds which are also found in other plant foods such as tea and red wine. These polyphenols are of particular interest to medical researchers for their protection of cells from premature destruction and in some areas of cardiovascular disease prevention.

In the township of Bright in North East Victoria, a chocolate company is busy making chocolate in a more stripped back natural form. Bright Chocolate makes a range of single origin chocolate with varying percentages of cocoa. This is chocolate being made from bean to bar using only ethically sourced, single origin cacao beans, minimal cocoa butter and minimal cane sugar. The range includes Ecuador 72% cocoa, Madagascar 72%, Dominican Republic 70%, Trinidad 68%. There is an additional milk chocolate with 44% cocoa.

Simeon Crawley, head chocolate maker and his wife Shannon, the founders of Bright Chocolate are dedicated to their craft and to their supply chain. They have taken time to visit afar and get to know the growers, who are mostly small cocoa farmers practicing traditional farming methods without the use of pesticides, with most farms achieving or working towards organic certification. Bright chocolate has been awarded three gold, silver and bronze in the 2015 Melbourne Fine Food Awards, along with three silver medals at the 2015 Sydney Royal Fine Food Awards.

The end result is a different treat from each origin type, with very unique flavours, all complex and well balanced, that will not give you the chocolate guilts! Each nibble is to be savoured and compared, a bit like enjoying good wine. This is not comfort food to be quaffed!!!

And what a place to make chocolate! Bright is nestled in the Ovens Valley in North East Victoria, below the lofty peaks of Mount Buffalo, Mount Feathertop and the nearby ski fields of Mount Hotham. The area is a haven for skiers, hikers and rock climbers alike. Bright is famous for its Autumn colours created by the cool air that sinks off the surrounding mountains. A perfect place to enjoy the outdoors and fine single origin chocolate. Both good medicine!

Bright Chocolate is now being brought to Hong Kong by Cooee Foods!

Judy Morris [email protected] www.cooeefoods.com

www.facebook.com/cooeefoods1

Bright Single Origin Chocolate from North East victoria

▲ Bright Chocolate Factory and Store

▲ Chocolate makers at work


Consultant can guide and motivate you. Cambridge Consultants are with you all the way through your weight loss journey, from helping you choose a plan

to advising you on how to maintain your new slim figure.

When we make small, simple changes and stick to them, we can completely change our weight and how we feel. And that’s what Cambridge does. Samantha Orson, a successful weight loss dieter who went from a UK size 18 to size 10 using the Sole Source program said, “Cambridge Weight Plan has taken me from a depressed, unconfident person to finally feeling comfortable in my own skin; it has given me the confidence to achieve things I never thought were possible”. It does take hard work to lose weight, we have to usually give something up, as well as make some changes to get the results.

However, usually the hardest part is starting something rather than the doing. For some people following a total meal replacement plan can be a too much of a removal from real food and from ones social calendar, however for others the short term commitment is a long term gain with their food choices and feeling fabulous. By taking time out to commit to a weight loss program we can stop to evaluate our daily consumption of what we eat, whether it is big portions, junk food, business lunches or unhealthy grab-on-the-go food. As Samantha says, “I am careful about what I’m eating now. Losing the weight has given me such a positive attitude and I always accept any invitation to push myself to the limit. I’ve joined a gym, have a personal trainer, regularly hike and I really enjoy running”. Cambridge can be the stepping-stone to arriving at long-term better habits.

Deborah Dewey, D.Hyp. Hypnotherapist & Detox Diva

6208 7321 www.deborah-dewey.com

SUMMER WEIGHT LOSS | HEALTHY HABITS

We seem to be heading swiftly in to the Hong Kong summer and it is that time of year where we bare more skin in the hot and humid weather. It is that time of year when we want to fight the flab and de-wobble our bum, de-flab our legs and shrink the bingo wings.

Not many Australians have heard of Cambridge Weight Plan (CWP), a weight loss system designed in the UK 40 years ago by medical doctors and one of the most successful weight loss plans in the UK. Dr. Alan Howard and Dr. Ian McLean developed the diet as medical products to fight the battle of the bulge, and Cambridge is available in

Hong Kong.

Cambridge helps to address the modern day problem of overweight through the specially developed ‘Steps’ or programs that can comfortably suit different lifestyles and weight goals depending on the individual. The diet is a safe option as a low calorie diet (LCD) compared to other weight plans because it is medically backed and proved. Depending on the program that is chosen, daily calorie intake can be 550 kcals for super-fast, safe weight loss or the popular 810 program that gives room for food with a real meal or 1200 kcal per day that balances Cambridge products with breakfast, lunch and dinner meal options.

We all want to have a quick fix for weight loss, especially when we see summer is approaching, but sometimes we can be reluctant to start a plan or follow a meal replacement program because we question whether we can stick to it, will get enough nutrients and if we have the will-power to succeed. Any weight loss plan takes commitment, determination and wanting to look and feel better in t-shirts and shorts, and that’s when a supportive Cambridge


ExPAT CORNER | THE NUTRITION MINEFIELD

Every time I pick up a magazine (which is generally when I go to the dentist or doctors) it seems there is a new wonder diet emblazoned across the front cover. They all promise you will achieve your goal bikini body in next to no time if you follow the eating plan provided. Some advocate cutting out carbs, some say cut out fats, some encourage you to eat according to your blood type then others want you to only have juice for a week. They all seem to be backed up by “scientific” research and offer people struggling with their weight a lifeline to cling on to.

Over the past 20 years of working in the fitness industry, I have seen countless “fad” diets come and go. Everyone I speak to seems to have a different idea of what works and what doesn’t, and the information coming out in the mass media is constantly changing and contradicting itself. People pay a fortune for powders, pills and detox kits that they think will help them finally manage to control their weight. Any wonder I have so many confused clients coming to me asking me to help them work their way through this nutrition minefield.

My advice is the same now as it was when I first started working in the Industry. DO NOT DIET. It’s simple, stay away from the fads and don’t be enticed by the lure of quick fix products, they don’t work. Getting caught up on the “diet’ treadmill can be demoralizing.

Before I go any further, let me make it very clear that this is my opinion only, and I respect anyone that feels differently.

The best results I have had is when my clients have learnt to understand the relationship food has with their body, and to set up an eating plan that they can sustain for the rest of their lives.

Our food today has become so processed and modified that it bears little resemblance to what it started out as and has lost a lot of

the nutritional value along the way. A good example of this is rolled oats. In their original form, they are full of fibre and goodness. A bowl of porridge is a satisfying, healthy way to start your day. However to fit in with our busy lifestyle, you can now get oats in the quick cook form. They have been refined so they only take 1min in the microwave. To make life even easier you can also get them in little packets with different flavour’s added (artificial sweeteners). Now they taste better, take less time to prepare but have lost a lot of the goodness they started with.

What I advocate is to eat as many unprocessed, whole foods as possible. Try to sit down to a meal that hasn’t come out of a packet or a tin. Simple meals full of fresh fruit and vegetables along with some protein are not only delicious but also good for you. While it might take a bit more time to prepare, the results for your body will be worth it. Eat bread that is full of grains and fibre. Brown rice is better than white, snack on fruit and nuts, not biscuits and cakes. Drink lots of water and stay away from soft drinks and processed juices. It doesn’t have to be confusing or difficult.

Don’t beat yourself up if you have a bad eating day, just put it behind you and get back on track the next day.

If you incorporate consistent exercise and healthy eating into your lifestyle you can get off the “diet” treadmill and achieve your goals.

Remember, “We are what we eat”.

Karen Buckley Strive Lifestyle Coaching

Certified Life Coach/Fitness Consultant Ph: 6299 0766

www.strivelifestylecoaching.com


DRAGONS | SPORTS REPORT

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HONG KONG DRAGONS AUSTRALIAN RULES FOOTBALL CLUB

As the dust settles on ANZAC Day 2015 it has become clear that the Hong Kong Dragons AFL community has demonstrated the positive influence sport can have on maintaining a sense of patriotism and national identity when living abroad.

With ANZAC Day falling on a Saturday and the Hong Kong weather turning it on, Happy Valley played host to the fourth round of the 2015 SCAFL competition. The day involved 3 teams from Hong Kong competing against two touring teams from Guangzhou and one from Macau. With each Hong Kong team having at least 25% non-Australian participation and the Guangzhou teams having almost exclusive mainland chinese participants this auspicious and culturally significant day on the Australian calendar had an obvious and unique international flavour. In keeping with the theme and tradition of ANZAC Day players from all teams gathered on the ground for a stirring rendition of The Last Post and a minutes silence. For the 60 participants and over 300 spectators gathered, the event will be remembered as a quintessentially Australian ANZAC Day celebrated with the unique backdrop of Hong Kong’s towering Skyline; a special experience for all involved.

A post-match ANZAC Day function was held on the Saturday evening. The social aspect of the day allowed some of the non-Australians involved to become educated and embrace the connection between ANZAC day and the sport of AFL.

In keeping with the ANZAC commentary celebrations the Port Adelaide Football Club (PAFC), in conjunction with the HKFC, will host an ANZAC commemorative luncheon on Thursday 30th of April. PAFC Club Chairman and TV personality David Koch will MC the event with entertainment from John Schumann. Channel 7 Australia will be filming the days festivities including an All-Chinese curtain raiser between ‘Team China’ and ‘Pearl River Power’ and an Auskick Clinic led by AFL legends Dom Cassisi and Troy Clements. The Hong Kong Dragons are proud to be partners in this great event and look forward to continuing our efforts to promote the connection between Australian sport and culture within the Greater China region, as well as providing a medium for Australian expats to express a sense of patriotism and national identity while living abroad.

▲ Photos with compliments of www.13thelement.net for photos and gifts uniquely Hong Kong.


Netball Wedding Season!

Congratulations to our two Geckos who got married March 2015! Sharon Julian (now Stringer) to Mark Stringer and Jess Harris (now Hargraves) to James Hargraves. The Australian Association wish you both the very best for the future and you all looked fantastic on your wedding day!

ScribeRoshan Julian

Netball has now come to an end! Well done to everyone who played in one of the three Australian Association Teams; Magpies (Division 4), Geckos (Division 5) and Cockatoos (Division 6). Each team

performed well throughout the year, with 15 new members to the netball club and 25 returning players playing each Monday night down at the Wong Chuk Hang Recreational Ground. The level of each league is getting stronger each year and each team had a good time battling through. We look forward to welcoming the Netballers to the 2016 season in August.

SPORTS REPORT | NETBALL

CLASSIFIED | MAY 2015

Leisure Travel and Cruise specialists since 1978.

www.concorde-travel.com

Call 2526 3391 License No 350343.

LIKE TO PLACE A CLASSIFIED HERE?HK$230 per 30 words. Extra words $3 each.Email & website addresses will be counted as 5 words. Maximum number of words - 50. Image or logo extra HK$50.Contact: Adrian RyanTel: 9022 4860 Fax: 2530 4497Email: [email protected]

jUST ARRIvED OR LEAvING HONG KONG?If you need someone to assist with sales or rental for apartments or houses in Hong Kong, please contact Anita To at (852) 9181 4048 or [email protected]


Dragon Boating is now in full swing. Thank you to HuNu for supplying our paddlers with the fantastic training vests. The weather has been warming up and after training the paddlers are welcomed with open arms

at the Pickled Pelican each week for a much deserved beverage. If you would like to come down for a socialize, come down after training.

Dragon Boat dates for your diaries

• 23rd May - 8am - 5pm at Stanley Main Beach for Stanley Warm Up Race

• 20th June - 8am - 5pm at Stanley Main Beach for the Dragon Boat Championships. We will be on the NEW Tarzan that Hong Kong Yachting have recently brought up from Aust. Make sure you purchase your tickets for the boat as soon as they come online!

Scribe Roshan Julian

DRAGON BOATING | SPORTS REPORT

▲ Photos with compliments of www.13thelement.net for photos and gifts uniquely Hong Kong.


Want to share an o�ce with us?

�e Australian Association of Hong Kong is looking to share its o�ce space located in Mid-Levels. �e space has a relaxed and friendly atmosphere for

you to create, work and meet new people.

�e o�ce is open plan and o�ers lots of natural light. �ere are a total of three desks with open views of the Mid-Levels.

�e o�ce is conveniently located on the Mid-Levels Escalator and to many cafes and shops that are situated nearby. �e Central MTR Station is

only a 15 minute walk away.

Please contact Adrian Ryan on 2530-4461 or email [email protected]

Australian Association of Hong Kong Ltd.11A, Shelley Court, 21 Shelley Street

Midlevels Escalator, Central

IncludesInternet & Wi-Fi

Printing & scanningKitchen

BathroomRooftop

Utilities included


MAY 2015 | TRAvEL TIPS

What if...contingency planning for holidays and business trips!A couple of weeks ago I received a heart sinking message from some friends saying that they had left their backpack with their USA passports, in the back of a taxi, in Beijing, the day before they were due to fly back to Hong Kong.

Thankfully, they were able to get emergency passports, however have had to re-apply and pay for their 10 year multi-entry China.

A couple of years ago, two of my clients back in Melbourne were in Cambodia. Before they were allowed to hire two mopeds/bikes, they were asked to surrender their passports as proof/guarantee that they would return their bikes. They parked their bikes in front of a massage/spa retreat only to return two hours later to find they were missing. They reported this to the police who advised them that this is common scam and that eventually the bikes are found and returned. However, they also had to report this the place where they hired the bikes. Remembering that their passport were still there and used as a guarantee, they thought the police report would be enough to verify that this was a legitimate theft and have passports returned without question. Not so.

They were told the pay USD1500 per passport, if they wanted them back. Out of trepidation, they paid.

When they told me this story, I was shocked and upset that they a) didn’t call our Flight Centre After Hours Emergency Assist AND b) the Australian Consulate. Just as importantly, I had a copy of their passports and could have assisted from here with a quick email.

All Flight Centre Travel Group team members are bound by privacy and confidentiality laws, through the terms and conditions signed by our clients. This means that unless explicitly specified in writing to advise of emergency contacts (family or an allocated colleague), we are not to disclose any of your travel arrangements. To anyone.

Regardless of the relationship, again, unless advised by you.

We keep all your travel documentation secured and we have 24/7 EMERGENCY AFTER HOURS ASSIST offices in Hong Kong and Guangzhou (as well as around the world, the largest being manned in Brisbane). We have English, Mandarin and Cantonese speakers to assist our clients. There are also team members who speak fluent French, Spanish and Arabic, to name a few.

TOP TIP:

When I travel overseas, I ensure that I have colour copies of my passport, HKID card, work visa and business cards. I send this to my family members and my immediate colleagues (ie manager and head of HR). I will also email myself this information too.

I also provide my travel documents: E-ticket, accommodation, tours and insurance to my team and family.

Over the years, I have learned to memorise my passport, HK ID, Frequent Flyer numbers, Medicare Card number and credit card details. If you can, please do so.

Your Flight Centre Travel Group consultant and probably heard and assisted with several holiday horror stories, but always know that there is always a solution and it could always be worse. In the end, preparation and over-communication is key.

Safe and happy travels,

Grace Ghattas [email protected]

Flight Centre


Thank you and FarewellAs Term 1 at AISHK drew to a close, it was also time to say “farewell and thank you” to Co Head and Primary Principal Mrs Leonie Drew. Leonie ends her post to return to Western Australia, having very successfully led the Primary Division of the School in particular for over 11 years. Fellow Co Head of School and Secondary Principal Mr Phillip Waugh will take on the role of Head of School for the remainder of the year.

Since her commencement in 2004, Leonie has been a truly passionate and inspiring figure to students of AISHK. With her door always open, and always with a smile, she has provided unfaltering guidance, support and an open line of communication to staff, students and parents.

Leonie leaves the legacy of a united school community. She was a driving force behind the School’s implementation of the Australian Curriculum in the Primary Division and the application of best practice in Early Childhood education. Her dedication and support during her service at AISHK has cultivated an environment where teachers, support staff and leaders ensure academic excellence and world class teaching and learning on a daily basis.

When asked about what she would miss most about Hong Kong, Leonie cited the staff and students of AISHK “because it’s usually people who you miss the most.” She added that while she will miss the energy and vibrancy of Hong Kong, some aspects about her return to Australia that she is most looking forward to include walks along Cottesloe beach, the smell of eucalyptus trees and “a slower pace of life with more time to read, and live and learn.”

On behalf of students, staff and the wider school community we thank Leonie for many years of service and support to AISHK. We wish her the very best for the future and every happiness in the new chapter of her life and in her return to Perth.

Mrs Leonie Drew has successfully led the Primary Division of AISHK for over 11 years.

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The vet says to you, “Just one tablet twice a day for seven days”. It sounds easy enough but you still fl inch. You know that giving your cute little kitten a tablet can instantly turn her into a ferocious lion.

As a vet I do understand the diffi culties of medicating your pet at home. Here are a few hints to help you!

• Discuss the medicating options available with your vet. Most pet medications come in a variety of forms including, regular tablets, palatable and chewable tablets, liquids, pastes, prescription foods and injections. The palatable and chewable tablets are designed to be eaten as a treat and do work well. Some deworming pastes for cats can be applied onto the cat’s fur and they then “groom” it off and swallow it - this can be a bit messy! Liquid medications can be gently trickled onto the tongue - these are much more diffi cult for the pet to spit out.

• Some pets will let you “drop the tablet down their throat”. To do this you may require an extra pair of hands. The easiest way is to wrap your pet in a towel to restrict its legs (from scratching you!). Hold your pet’s head from the top around the upper jaw and tilt its head back. Then, pull your pet’s lower jaw down and drop the tablet in as far back as you can. Shut the jaw and hold the mouth closed while stroking the chin to encourage your pet to swallow.

• There are some nifty little devices called “Pet Pillers”. These essentially save the tips of your fi ngers from being nipped as you use the device to insert the tablet on the back of the tongue.

• You may be able to “hide” the medication in your pet’s food. Hide the whole pill rather than crushing the pill into food (so the taste does not spread through the whole meal). Put the pill in a small amount of the food at the beginning of the meal. Give this fi rst to

ensure the tablet is eaten, then give the rest of the meal.

• You may be able to make the tablet a treat by encasing it in some cheese or meat and giving it to your pet as a reward!

• When your pet is young, it is a good time to “train” them to take tablets. Use some vitamin tablets and get into the routine of administering one a week (or a day) so the pet gets used to the idea!

• As a last resort, you may want to visit the veterinary centre daily for your vet to administer the tablet or give the medication by injection.

Dr Lloyd Kenda BSc(Psych) BSc(VetBiol) BVMS(Hons) MRCVS

MACVSc(SASurgery)Valley Veterinary Centre

[email protected]

MEDICATING YOUR PET…AND KEEPING YOUR FINGERS! | vET


How to obtain a China visa without the headaches!!

CHINA vISA | MAY 2015

The easiest way of obtaining a China visa is at:

Grossman TravelCall Anita 9232 3399Located at Admiralty Lippo Centre Tower 2 Suite 2207 22/FYou will need a passport photo, passport and HK ID card.The Chinese Immigration usually will only give you a one-entry visa on your first attempt. The second attempt will usually get you a double entry, the third a multiple entry, and then only after that will they give you a yearly visa.The China Visa will be issued only if your HK immigration visa has over a one year’s validity.In other words if you only have six months left on the HK immigration visa, you will only be able to obtain a one-entry visa.If you have two year’s validity on your HK immigration, and have been into China before, you maybe able to get a one-year multiple entries visa for China.

The second-easiest way is to head into the China Visa building 7/F, 26 Harbour Rd. Wanchai.Be prepared for a long wait. Doors open at 9am, so the best time to go is either very early and be one of the first in queue, or go after lunch (closed for lunch between 12pm-2pm)

http://www.fmcoprc.gov.hk/eng/zgqz/bgfwxx/

You will need a form filled out, however, the form on their website is incorrect, so don’t bother filling it out, as they will not accept it, once upstairs. So, once upstairs take a form from the left hand side table, and fill it out, and then they will give you a number, to sit and wait.

Tips:Take a pen with you.

In the section where it asks where and what address your staying at, just write Lowu Shopping Centre, if you don’t have a genuine hotel or just going for the day.

At about 3pm, there is no queue downstairs but plenty of people waiting upstairs. The numbers are called quite quickly, and the wait doesn’t seem to be as long, as the morning session.

The other way to get it is to have a family member do it for you, or your helper...they will need to have all your originals with them.

I always play it safe with an accompanying letter of authority for whoever is taking it in or picking it up, as you never quite know what the rules are that week!

If it is a renewal of visa, and you have a new passport, bring the old passport also, so they can see the previous China Visas.

The third way is at the Shenzhen border, it takes approx 10-15 mins, fill out a quick form and pay 168 RMB. They take a picture there, and issue the visa.This visa is valid for stay in the Shenzhen area for five days, from entry. In other words you cannot come in and out.

We hope this helps... Please note also this is only for Australian passport holders and this information is my experience only. We recommend you check the website regularly.

Prepared by the Social Committee

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