Sai Kung Magazine April 2014

April 2014

SAI KUNG HOTEL

A HOME ABOVE IT ALL

COMING SOON...

What’s in the pipeline for Sai Kung and Clearwater Bay?

For 35 years Woodland has set the standard in Hong Kong for quality early years education.

With ten schools, Woodland offers the only accredited early years education in Hong Kong.

• Nursery & Pre-School classes for children up to 6 years old • Extra Curricular Clubs for children aged 3 yrs plus • Buses available for neighbouring areas

For further information please contact Ms Angela Chan:

Sai Kung

Shop D, G/F Marina Cove Shopping Centre, Sai Kung, New Territories Tel: 2813 0290 Fax: 2719 2938 Email: saikung@woodlandschools.com

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APRIL 2014

PEOPLE 4 Snapped!

Sai Kung’s social life.

THE PLANNER 6 Happening in April Easter and other treats.

FIVE MINUTES WITH...

10 The tea master An old-town cuppa with Lee Kwok-ping.

COUNTRY PARKS 11 Road blocks Villagers vs the public right of way.

LETTERS 13 Have your say The latest from our readers.

NEWS 14 What’s going on?

In your backyard.

INTERVIEW 16 Teenage kicks 14-year-old novelist Jeremy Z.Y. Chan publishes book two.

VINES IN SAI KUNG 18 The good, the bad and the ugly Why the government does best when it does least.

FEATURE 20 Under construction A progress report on Sai Kung’s major projects.

sport 33 Put your boots up Ray Sting reviews the rugby season.

FAMILY 34 Happy Birthdays Top tips for kids’ parties.

BIG DAYS OUT 38 Going coastal Bring out the big guns at the Museum of Coastal Defence HEALTH & BEAUTY 40 Clean 9 review Nine days on a diet.

EATING 24 Down on the farm Pick-your-own strawberries. Plus Nibbles from the dining scene.

EDUCATION

PETS 42 Talk to the animals Sally Andersen speaks dog.

CREATURE FEATURE 43 Golden birdwing Hong Kong’s biggest butterfly.

MARKETPLACE 45 Your guide to shops and services Cool stuff to buy and do.

CLASSIFIEDS 52 Loads of random useful local stuff.

BUSINESS DIRECTORY 56 All you need to know Numbers that make life easier.

ON PATROL 58 Neighbourhood watch Joe Au-Yeung Tak is suspicious of an unmanned drone.

28 Camps for kids Spring fun for Easter bunnies.

“Shut your eyes and see.” – James Joyce

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people Snaps from Sai Kung

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are you in it?

Photos: Ben Wong & Byng Hum

Pole Paradise Studio

The Sai Kung Sampler

Lost in Hong Kong book launch

Share your event photos with us at photo@fastmedia.com.hk. Get snapping!

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planner Apr 4 Sai Kung Sampler

The monthly pop-up market upstairs at Steamers. Top up on deli goodies, gifts, cupcakes and more. 6pm-10pm, 66 Yi Chun Street, Sai Kung, 2792 6991.

Apr 5 Ching Ming Festival

Public holiday. Take to the hills.

Apr 5 International Pillow Fight Day

Wear pyjamas (or something more outrageous), take your own pillow – and prepare for war. 4pm.

Chater Garden, Central, www.hongwrong.com.

Apr 13

Christian Action Three-Legged Charity Walk

Tie yourself to a friend to raise money for orphans in Qinghai. 9am-1pm, Clearwater Bay Golf & Country Club, mandy.leung@christian-action.org.hk, 2716 8861.

Apr 1 April Fool’s Day

Don’t fall for it, people.

Apr 1 Public pools open First swim 6.30am.

Apr 3 Agua Plus Quiz Night

Teams of six test the grey matter. 8pm, Agua Plus, 72 Po Tung Road, Sai Kung, 2791 2030.

Apr 3 The Government Inspector

Satire, farce and outrageous physical comedy from Faust International Youth Theatre. HKAPA, Wan Chai. Tickets $160-$200 from www.hkticketing.com, 3128 8288.

Apr 4-5 Matilda

Hong Kong Youth Arts Foundation’s production of the Roald Dahl classic. Ages six and up.

7.30pm, Drama Studio, Chinese International School, 1 Hau Yuen Path, Tin Hau. Free. Preregister by emailing kerryL@hkyaf.com.

Apr 4 Friends of Sai Kung AGM

Get involved with Sai Kung’s lobby group. To join, email gerryhk88@hotmail.com. 8pm, The Village Restaurant, 1E Po Tung Toad, Sai Kung, www.friendsofsaikung.org.

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Apr 5 Homegrown Foods Harvest Feast

Ten talented chefs cook up an organic feast down on the farm. With live music and bus transfer from Central. Noon-5pm, Zen Farm, Ping Che, Ta Kwu Ling. Tickets $888 from www. facebook.com/HomegrownFoods, 2671 2771.

happening in april Apr 6 Sai Kung Sunday Market

The new monthly market featuring gourmet food, craft beer, organic goods, locally designed clothes, jewellery and more. Free. 11am-5pm. Hong Kong Academy, 33 Wai Man Road, Sai Kung, saikungmarkets@gmail.com.

Apr 6 Bonaqua Action Sprint

Off-road adventure race (8km and 12km routes) starting at 9am, Repulse Bay beach. Register at www.actionasiaevents.com.

Apr 7-20 International IT Fest

Discover the latest from the computer world at events across Hong Kong.

Details at www.itfest.hk.

Apr 9 Germaine Greer and The Rainforest Years

Wine, cheese and conversation with the Australian icon. 6.30pm, British Council, 3 Supreme Court Road, Central. Tickets $450 from www.eventbrite.hk.

Apr 9, 23 Quiz Nights

Testing times at Hebe One O One. 8pm. 112 Pak Sha Wan, 2335 5515.

Apr 11-28 ESF Easter holiday School’s out : )

Apr 11 Murder in Shanghai

Dastardly doings at the Hebe Haven Dinner Theatre’s comedy murder mystery. Dress for old Shanghai. Tickets $488 for members, $538 for guests, including a welcome cocktail, dinner and show. 7pm. Garden Bar, Hebe Haven Yacht Club, Pak Sha Wan, www.hhyc.org.hk.

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planner Apr 15 Total lunar eclipse Now you see it, now you don’t. 3pm.

Apr 12-13 30-Hour Famine

Join the World Vision Famine Camp: 30 hours of workshops, games and concerts, but strictly no food. Minimum donation $1,200. 2pm, Aberdeen Athletic Field, 30.wordvision.org.hk.

Apr 18-20 Barney’s Birthday Bash

Family musical with with the big purple dinosaur. Star Hall, KITEC, Kowloon Bay. Tickets $150-$650 from www. hkticketing.com, 3128 8288.

Apr 19 Sai Kung Saturday Hash

Kids and adults race around Sai Kung on a Magical Mystery Tour. Steamers, 2.30pm; sites. google.com/site/saikungsaturdayh3.

Apr 18-19, 21 Public holidays Apr 13, 20, 27 Island East Markets

Sunday farmers’ market selling everything from organic veggies to vintage goodies. 11am-6pm, Tong Chong Street, Island East, Quarry Bay, www.hkmarkets.org.

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Good Friday, great Saturday and Easter Monday.

Apr 20 Easter Sunday

Give thanks, eat chocolate.

Apr 21 Easter Brunch

International buffet, plus egg painting, balloon twisting and a visit from the Easter Bunny. Hop along. Adults $258, children $158. Noon-3pm.

Garden Bar, Hebe Haven Yacht Club, Pak Sha Wan, www.hhyc.org.hk.

Apr 22 Earth Day

Throw a party, save the planet. Details at www.earthday.org.

Apr 25 ANZAC Day Service

Australia and New Zealand’s 99th national day of remembrance. Wreath-laying ceremony at 6.15am, the Cenotaph, Statue Square, Central, www.austcham.com.hk.

Apr 28-May 10 Ice Hockey 5s

One of Asia’s largest ice hockey tournaments for youth and adult teams. Free. MegaBox, 38 Wang Chiu Road, Kowloon Bay, www.megaice.com.hk.

Book now May 2-Jun 28 Le French May

The annual celebration of French arts, opera, music, theatre and more. For details, visit www.frenchmay.com.

May 6-11 Ocean Film Festival

Fishy films across Hong Kong. Tickets from $80 at www.oceanrecov.org.

May 15-17 Art Basel Hong Kong

The giant international art fair comes to town.

Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre, 1 Expo Drive, Wan Chai, www.artbasel.com.

May 11, Jun 8, 22 Splash ’n’ Dash Aquathons Swimming and running races for adults and kids.

Entry $155-$780 at www.revolution-asia.com.

May 15-18 Asia Contemporary Art Show

A hotel’s worth of modern art. Conrad Hong Kong, One Pacific Place, 88 Queensway, Admiralty, www.asiacontemporaryart.com.

Jun 7 Garage Sale

Book a table for the twice-yearly sale of secondhand treasures. 9.30am-3pm, LG3 Car Park, Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, Clearwater Bay, 9045 5942, gujean@ust.hk.

Got an event? We can publish the details for free. Email editor@saikung.com.

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five minutes with...

in put your thebackyard kettle on

The fine art of tea Master Lee Kwok-ping brews up with Cherrie Yu. fishermen, locals and foreigners. My favourite place is the pier.

Tea is not just a complimentary drink with a set meal. We tea enthusiasts savour the essence of its colour, taste, smell and all the different tea varieties.

I have lived in Sai Kung for about 16 years – the same age as this tea shop. Most of my customers are frequent visitors and know what they are looking for, whether it is Chinese antiques, tea leaves or tea paraphernalia.

I moved to Sai Kung for convenience for work, but now I would not leave. It has a mixture of

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My interest in Chinese tea began in 1983. I was interested in how so many people in China drink it, with different teas being enjoyed in different regions. But the more I researched and read about tea in Hong Kong, I came to realise how little had been written about tea’s history and techniques.

I was lucky to meet my first teacher, who returned to Hong Kong from Taiwan to open a tea shop – perhaps the first of its kind in Hong Kong. I worked as a civil servant, but teaching the art of tea has always been my other profession.

I have been teaching workshops in teahouses since 1990, and quickly I started only training other enthusiasts to teach the arts of tea. One of my students won a tea art competition at the Hong Kong Art Museum in 1997.

Tea should be savoured the moment it is poured, before it gets bitter. The flavour depends on the quantity of tea leaves, water and timing.

The “king” of Chinese tea is Da Hong Pao Wuyi Rock tea from Fujian. It requires a unique environment to grow and only a limited amount is available once a year through auction. It can cost $200,000 for 20 grams. My old boss once let me try some.

Lee Kwok-ping’s tea shop is at 33 Sai Kung Main Street, Sai Kung old town (opposite D’Oli).

save our country parks

news from the green front

Road blocks Villagers vs hikers and the public right of way. By Paul Zimmerman.

When villagers blocked the MacLehose Trail near Tai Long Sai Wan during the Oxfam Trailwalker 2013, organisers had to change the route midway through the race.

The path to the village predates the hiking trail, however, the pavement and street lights were constructed and are maintained with public funds. This is a public path. But instead of ensuring public right of passage, the Agriculture, Fisheries & Conservation Department (AFCD) has posted notices advising hikers of an alternative route via Lo Tei Tun. Many trails in Hong Kong run in part over private land. Paths have also been blocked leading to the beach at Hoi Ha in Sai Kung and through Yi O and Sha Lo Wan on Lantau.

Initially, the government said individuals could take private legal action against the blocked paths. But when barrister and former lawmaker Margaret Ng reminded Justice Secretary Rimsky Yuen he was responsible for representing the public’s right to pass over footpaths on private land, he promised to take action. We’ll see.

Sai Wan villagers block the MacLehose Trail.

Blocking paths is just one “campaign” by the Heung Yee Kuk, which wants more roads, piers and the right to build houses under the small-house policy extended to private land deep inside the country parks. To avoid more land being protected for conservation, there has been a rush of “fake farming” with trees felled to reduce the ecological value and to pressure government into providing access.

Unfortunately, the government appears willing to acquiesce. To incorporate enclaves of private

land into country parks would raise compensation claims and require more AFCD staff to patrol these areas, costing money the government does not want to spend. Zoning enclaves for incremental development would please the Heung Yee Kuk, whose assistance is sought to develop new towns and extend landfills in the New Territories. Moreover, future development of enclaves would earn land premiums.

Cynical voices point out that the current Country Parks Authority, the director of the AFCD, is a former New Territories District Officer. Is his heart closer to the interests of the Heung Yee Kuk than conservation? And if it’s not, why does he tolerate intimidation, the destruction of habitats and the blockage of established public rights of way?

Paul Zimmerman is the CEO of Designing Hong Kong, a Southern District Councillor and the co-convenor of Save Our Country Parks alliance.

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letters Ammunition for Paul Zimmerman I would like to add my support to the sentiments raised by Paul Zimmerman (“Weapon of Mass Destruction”, March 2014) regarding the small-house policy and the country parks.

The government is failing to protect the parks. I appreciate the problem is multi-faceted, with many groups having vested interests, however the overriding principle should be simple enough – protect the parks. Protect them at all costs.

If the people and government of Hong Kong fail to protect these parks from development, that failure shall be the single remembered legacy of this generation.

Forget about new developments on Hong Kong Island or Kowloon; the permanent prevention of development in the parks should be the government’s number one developmental goal.

Dean Bailey

in your havebackyard your say

Tears for the cows It is distressing to read that Sai Kung cows are being removed.

I have been wondering what had happened to them. What a disaster the government and human beings are bringing on these wonderful and beautiful creatures.

On Sai Kung’s roads, I am far more stressed by cyclists than the cows. The cyclists do not have the sense to stop when their skills are not good enough. I have stopped for them far more times than for the cows.

If residents and drivers do not like the cows, they should be the ones who move.

Those who don’t like cows in traffic should not come to Sai Kung. Cows are part of country life. To control the number of cows, the government only needs to de-sex them.

Whoever made the decision [to move them] is a very mean creature. In tears for our lovely, harmless cows.

Joanne Chen

Alarm bells It may be helpful to highlight a story of public interest that occurred to my family.

We live in a rented house in Floral Villas, Sai Kung. One night at about 10pm, while the children were asleep and Carmina and I were watching TV, the air-conditioner in the dining area caught fire. We tried to fight the fire, but in vain and the only option was to evacuate and dial 999. The house is now a burned-out shell and uninhabitable.

Thankfully my family is safe and unharmed but the position could have been very different had we been asleep or out of the house when the fire started. We did not have smoke alarms fitted.

Our story was a stark reminder to our friends to improve their own fire safety: smoke alarms, fire and contents insurance, fire extinguishers, safety checks on electrical appliances. It may trigger other people in Sai Kung to be more careful.

Nick Harrison

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news Return to the City of Darkness

It’s 20 years since Kowloon Walled City succumbed to the bulldozers, but its dark alleyways and rich community life continue to fascinate people around the world.

Photographers Ian Lambot and Greg Girard captured its gritty glory in their book, City of Darkness. Twenty years on and demand continues to be such that the pair are working on a new edition, City of Darkness Revisited,

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with amazing photographs (above) and new sections that fill in the gaps, such as the role of the triads and the government’s attempts to knock down the walled city.

With the project nearly complete, they are seeking sponsors through crowdfunding, with donations starting at just US$10, and aim to print in July. For details and donations, please visit www.kickstarter.com.

Schoolboy ivory protest Five Clearwater Bay School students took to the streets of Tsim Sha Tsui last month to protest against the ivory trade.

Year 6 students (from left) Jonathan Riggs, Zac Hatton, Giacomo Fahy, Nicolas Gerigk and Shrish Venus took action as part of a school project after meeting photo-journalist Alex Hoffard, who went to the school to speak about the ivory trade and the plight of elephants.

The students took their protest to handicraft emporium Chinese Arts & Crafts, whose employees were filmed this year telling undercover reporters how to smuggle ivory through customs. The shop’s ivory is labelled “mammoth tusk” (commonly dug up in Siberia), but the boys argue even this trade should stop as it encourages a desire for ivory.

in your backyard

Nord Anglia Aussie rules in Sai Kung appoints principal Nord Anglia International School Hong Kong has appointed a principal ahead of its opening in September in Lam Tin. Brian Cooklin has almost 40 years’ experience, including 18 years as principal of Edron Academy, the leading British international school in Mexico. He took the school from 10th to first place among that country’s English-language international school. He is a former president of the Head Teachers’ Association of Scotland and the inaugural president of School Leaders Scotland.

“Being at the helm of a new school is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity,” he said.

“My priority has been the recruitment of exceptional teachers. I’ve also been meeting parents and talking about how our HighPerformance Learning philosophy can engage and motivate children.”

11 On Tin Street, Lam Tin, Kowloon, www.nais.hk.

Mini Aussie-rules football fans can have a go when Auskick arrives in Sai Kung next month.

The mini league for five- to 13-year-olds is a good alternative to soccer and rugby, and with the season running May to September it fits in perfectly with the rugby season.

Auskick launched three years ago in Hong Kong and has more than 300 players territorywide. It is working with Sai Kung Stingrays.

“A lot of momentum has come from getting the Stingrays on board,” said head coach Brian Jackson.

The league is hoping to kick off with at least

20 kids in each age group. Training will be held on Saturday mornings at the Sai Kung Stadium.

Registration is now open. For details, visit www. auskick-hk.com.

Desk spaces for busy bees The Hive co-worker space opened in Sai Kung last month in a 2,500 sqft space formerly occupied

by Wicka Designs.

Perfect for freelancers, entrepreneurs, start-ups and other small businesses, it leases desks on a part-time or full-time basis. Various packages are available, starting at $770 for use of a desk five days a month (or 10 half-days) on a hotdesk basis.

With successful spaces in Wan Chai and Kennedy Town, this is The Hive’s third Hong Kong location. Facilities include dedicated desks, hot desks, comfortable sitting areas, an outdoor terrace, meeting rooms and a postbox for each member. A one-day pass is $200.

5 Tai Mong Tsai Road, Sai Kung, 2780 5844, www.thehivesaikung.com.hk.

EXCELLENCE IN INTERNATIONAL EDUCATION KINDERGARTEN TO SECONDARY A STRONG COMMUNITY ETHOS BEAUTIFUL GREEN LOCATION

International College Hong Kong International College Hong Kong is a dynamic IB World School, across two campuses in the beautiful New Territories.

At our primary and secondary sites, staff work together to deliver a through train education to students of all nationalities.

ICHK Hong Lok Yuen has been providing high quality education for more than 30 years, and follows the IB Primary Years Programme, with a solid foundation in Maths and English.

At ICHK Secondary, class sizes are kept deliberately small, and learning is centred on the UK National Curriculum in Years 7-9 using an inquiry approach, GCSEs in Years 10-11 and the IB Diploma Programme in Years 12-13.

Sporting and non-academic achievements are broad and a diverse portfolio of extra curricular activities enhances the educational programmes.

The school has a strong community ethos, extensive facilities including a large green field for primary students, and provides a supportive environment where children of all cultures and abilities can thrive.

Kindergarten and Primary Campus Twentieth Street, Hong Lok Yuen, New Territories.

Tel: (852) 2658 6935 Web: www.hlyis.edu.hk Email: info@hlyis.edu.hk Secondary Campus 60 Sha Tau Kok Road, Sha Tau Kok, New Territories.

Tel: (852) 2655 9018 Web: www.ichk.edu.hk Email: info@ichk.edu.hk

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interview

a portrait of the artist as a young man

Editorial Jane Steer jane@fastmedia.com.hk Hannah Grogan hannah@fastmedia.com.hk Cherrie Yu cherrie@fastmedia.com.hk Graphic Design Evy Cheung evy@fastmedia.com.hk Kelvin Lau kelvin@fastmedia.com.hk Sales Manager Jonathan Csanyi-Fritz jonathan@fastmedia.com.hk Sales Executive Jackie Wilson jackie@fastmedia.com.hk Digital Content Editor Sharon Wong sharon@fastmedia.com.hk Accounts Manager Connie Lam accounts@fastmedia.com.hk Publisher Tom Hilditch tom@fastmedia.com.hk Contributors Adele Rosi Carolynne Dear Sally Andersen Stephen Vines Paul Zimmerman Hazel Knowles Vivien Yu Steffi Yuen Forrest Lau Sophia Ho Printer Gear Printing Room 3B, 49 Wong Chuk Hang Road, (Derrick Industrial Building), Wong Chuk Hang, Hong Kong Published by Fast Media Floor LG1, 222 Queens Road Central Hong Kong

Give us a call!

Editorial: 2776 2773 Advertising: 2776 2772 Sai Kung Magazine is published by Fast Media Ltd. This magazine is published on the understanding that the publishers, advertisers, contributors and their employees are not responsible for the results of any actions, errors and omissions taken on the basis of information contained in this publication. The publisher, advertisers, contributors and their employees expressly disclaim all and any liability to any person, whether a reader of this publication or not, in respect of any action or omission by this publication. Fast Media Ltd cannot be held responsible for any errors or inaccuracies provided by advertisers or contributors. The views herein are not necessarily shared by the staff or publishers. No part of this magazine may be reproduced in any way, part or format without written permission from the publisher.

Paperback writer I’m 14 years old and live in Clearwater Bay. I’m in grade nine at Diocesan Boys’ School in Mong Kok. I like to read, listen to music and play the piano and flute. I’m in the school orchestra.

When I was young, I read a lot of fiction – Harry Potter, Alex Ryder – which inspired me to write my own. As I have grown up, I’ve turned to non-fiction books. If you only base your writing on reading fiction, it’s not going to make sense. I’ve been researching.

I wrote my first book, Scott Connor Death Game, when I was 10. I attended a few English writing classes and during the summer I started to write. It was a lot easier to write when I was 10, because I was still in primary school and had more time. But there were quite a few mistakes owing to my lack of research – there’s a big step from that book to this one in knowledge and vocabulary.

but I had a piano competition so we put off finding a publisher until I had more time.

It was inspired by skateboarding.

I don’t know how to skateboard but thought it was pretty cool. I came up with this idea of teenagers going through challenges. Some people think it’s similar to The Hunger Games, but I wrote it before that book was published.

I’ve turned to non-fiction... I’ve been researching It’s basically a survival challenge in a desert. Scott (the main character) encounters different obstacles, monsters, mental challenges and nostalgia. There’s a lot of action. It took me a year to write.

My mum really helped me a lot. I did the writing and she helped with everything else.

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Jeremy Z.Y. Chan, 14, speaks to Hannah Grogan as his second novel is published.

I finished my second book, Scott Connor, when I was 12 years old,

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Jeremy Z.Y. Chan with his new book, Scott Connor.

I drew the cover myself for the first book [which was self-published] and then we found a designer to do the illustration. With the second book, I gave my design ideas to the publisher. It’s much cooler.

My friends are very supportive.

I don’t make it a big thing, my friends didn’t know about it until it was published. A friend who is younger than me said he wanted to try writing. Although he’s going to write in Chinese.

I would like to continue this series, but I’m really into music and it takes up a lot of my time.

When I have free time I’ll write.

I strongly encourage other kids to write – don’t be put off by thinking that writing takes a lot of planning or resources, just write what you want to say.

Scott Connor will be launched on April 11, 6pm-8pm, at Dymocks, 7 Man Nin Street, Sai Kung, 2791 9110. For more information, visit www.goindiebooks.com/474516.

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Be(e) inspired. the Hive. Sai Kung

Members coworking Space opens 24.03.2014 WORK Hotdesks Dedicated Desks Meeting Rooms Printing Storage Company registration Mailbox

SOCIAL CafĂŠ Walled Garden Terrace Safe outdoor kids corner

CONVENIENT Flexible membership From HK$1100/m 3 min walk from Town Centre Access to the Hive Wan Chai and Kennedy Town

For enquiries or to apply:

membership@thehive.com.hk Tel: 27805844 www.thehivesaikung.com.hk

vines in sai kung

stephen says...

The good, the bad and the ugly Stephen Vines argues that the government does best when it does least.

Nice one, Cyril Our Chief Executive Leung Chung-ying, who I like to call Cyril because of his Cyril-like tendencies, has urged us to “release positive energy”. It’s a very Cyril-like comment more or less devoid of precise meaning but implying that Hong Kongers should moan less.

So, here’s an attempt to think of all the really wonderful things the government has done in Sai Kung. Trust me, I’m thinking very hard here: there’s the waterfront development near the old Beach Hotel, that’s a lot better than the stunning non-development of Hong Kong’s harbourside.

What else? Oh yes, there’s the town-centre thingees – you know, that sort of okay flight of steps outside the temple, the revamped children’s playground and the other waterfront path by Tui Min Hui. Anything else? Well, I seem to remember a couple of days when Hiram’s Highway was not obstructed by roadworks – that’s good, isn’t it?

Basically, however, the government seems to do best when it does least. I hate to mention this, because it may provoke action, but we still have Sai Kung’s splendidly tatty old town and the government seems to be pouring less concrete on trails in the country parks.

That’s enough “positive energy” for the time being. Let’s get back to business as usual.

The board that never makes waves Business as usual seems to mean things that beggar belief. A prime example was the last meeting of Country and Marine Parks Board.

An attempt to discuss the pressing matter of enclaves in the country parks was blocked on the grounds that the board could only discuss matters referred to it by the Agriculture,

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Fisheries and Conservation Department, which is responsible for administering the country parks. The board, presumably, has a remit to protect the public interest and proffer advice on all matters concerning the parks.

Ag and Fish are now planning to destroy a popular barbecue site However, like every other government advisory board, it is stacked with appointees who are considered “safe” by the bureaucrats.

They don’t want independent advice, they want an echo chamber to endorse what they are doing. It is not surprising these safe pairs of hands shy away from upsetting the government or taking initiatives to improve things, because, as we all know, fresh thinking and new initiatives are anathema to a complacent bureaucracy.

A visitor centre for what, exactly?

One thing a decent country parks advisory board would be likely to look at is yet another scheme to make battered Hoi Ha a lesser place than it already is. Not content with plans that threaten its marine park and initiate a fresh wave of house-building in the area, the Ag and Fish people are now planning to destroy the popular barbecue site and replace it with a large visitor centre. The purpose and need for this centre remains oblique and local objections have been met with no more than pro-forma responses. So we will almost certainly have another large edifice built in the country park for some purpose or another. It would be nice to know what that purpose really is.

A “V” bad reason for vandalism Finally, I make no apologies for returning to the subject of the destruction of the 150-year-old Hakka houses in Pak Tam Chung, which has been the subject of wide concern. Replacement building continues at a pace, partly hidden by flimsy hoardings. Officials have responded to criticism of this vandalism by insisting that demolition and building of New Territories houses can be undertaken without planning permission if they are in a “V” zone, as this one is.

I rather fear that this determination to ignore the destruction of historic buildings in the country parks has a legal basis and emanates from the deals and compromises negotiated with the ever-powerful Heung Yee Kuk when the country parks were developed more than four decades ago.

The government remains nervous about upsetting the Kuk and basically takes the view that its interests lie in avoiding confrontation with this powerful body. Indeed, the more you hear ministers talk about preservation of the countryside the more you realize they regard all these green areas as being a bit of a nuisance and a barrier to Hong Kong’s development.

This attitude can and must be challenged, but it won’t be easy. This is not a defeatist statement, more a realistic assessment of the battles to come. At the end of the day these battles need to be fought.

Stephen Vines is a journalist, broadcaster and entrepreneur. He is the former editor of the Eastern Express and Southeast Asia correspondent for The Observer.

feature

Progress report

With Sai Kung already packed at weekends, Hazel Knowles seeks an update on the projects that will bring in yet more people.

Pak Wei

Marina Cove

Luk Mei Tsuen Road Ho Chung Road

Hiram’s Highway

Clear Water Bay Road

Key Widening Hiram’s Highway New construction Stage 1 of the Hiram’s Highway Improvement Project.

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It’s midday on a sunny Sunday and Sai Kung is heaving. The car parks are full, but a slowmoving trail of cars and buses continues to snake down Hiram’s Highway, bottlenecking at the Ho Chung traffic lights. In town, minibuses drop off more day-trippers every few minutes, and it’s standing-room only on the no.94 bus to Wong Shek Pier.

The seafood restaurants are doing great business and dog walkers are promenading proudly on the waterfront. In the supermarkets, shoppers are queuing five or six deep.

“The situation is getting out of control,” one resident complains. “The car parks are often full and, on Sundays, there are hundreds of illegally parked cars, with few or no tickets being given.

My family tries to avoid Sai Kung at weekends because of the thousands of visitors.”

There could be worse to come. In another five or 10 years, another 1,000 or so people will be living in the new Sino Land development at Sha Kok Mei, with many more in new village houses springing up all over Sai Kung.

Tourist numbers also look set to rise, with Sai Kung being pushed as “a tourism gateway” in the draft Sai Kung Town Outline Zoning Plan approved last year.

If construction goes to schedule, a planned waterfront hotel opposite the new Hong Kong Academy will sleep more than 500 guests in 250 rooms. An additional 32 rooms are almost ready for visitors at the old Beach Resort Hotel and a boutique hotel under construction at Pak Sha Wan will have another 40 rooms once completed.

All this development is great news for local businesses, some of which are doing a roaring trade, according to Friends of Sai Kung (FSK).

The group also acknowledges that the boom is attracting more varied shops and restaurants and has spurred a revival of parts of the old town.

However, it fears that development could rob Sai Kung of its charm and character. Chief among those concerns is the volume of traffic and whether the proposed upgrade of Hiram’s Highway, which will see sections made into a dual carriageway, will be a solution or just make matters worse.

FSK is pessimistic that rampant development is in danger of overloading Sai Kung’s infrastructure and sending the rental values of residential and commercial properties spiralling out of the reach of locals.

“Sai Kung used to be a place where people

the road ahead

Major construction projects planned or underway in the area include (from left) Hiram’s Highway works at Ho Chung and Marina Cove, a hotel in Pak Sha Wan, a golf course in Pak Kong, flats in Sha Kok Mei, a piazza, sports complex, visitor centre and hotel in Sai Kung and the redeveloped Beach Resort Hotel.

chose to live because it was cheaper than other areas near the city and for the quiet lifestyle,” said an FSK spokesperson.

“In the past five to 10 years many wealthier people have chosen to buy retirement houses in the area for the lifestyle. But the influx is inflating property prices and rents, threatening the very thing that attracted them in the first place,” he said.

Sai Kung District Officer Maureen Siu Mo-lin said that, although she was happy to see growing numbers of visitors and families making Sai Kung home, it was inevitable that this would be accompanied by development.

However, she stressed government departments were working together “to ensure that infrastructure and facilities are sufficient and not excessive, and put in place in time to support the community”.

Siu, who was born and raised in Sai Kung, said: “I have strong feelings for Sai Kung. The

small-town environ of old Sai Kung town is unique.

Sai Kung is a gem. It is our natural heritage that we should forever treasure and protect.”

She said a number of infrastructure projects were already in the pipeline, including improvements to Hiram’s Highway, the development of a new-town piazza and sports complex near the Tang Shiu Kin Sports Ground, improvements to the existing pier, and a new visitor centre at the waterfront park. Changes to bus routes and the creation of cycling lanes were also being considered.

However, all that will take time. As Easter approaches and businesses prepare for another busy holiday, residents are left pondering whether to face the hustle and hassle of town, stay at home, or get away from it all – out of Sai Kung.

What’s going on?

There’s so much construction going on in Sai Kung that some people joke the whole town is to be declared a hard-hat area. However, providing information to the community appears to be a low priority for the companies involved in the construction projects: they are exceptionally reluctant to give out information on the developments that will shape the town’s

future. Here’s our update on what they will – and won’t – say.

The Beach Resort Hotel The last guests checked out of the old Beach Resort Hotel more than 12 years ago and since then the property has changed hands three times, with the latest change-over taking place in February.

Reports claim the new owner bought the three-storey hotel for $190 million from New World Development Company; that’s $110 million more than the purchase price seven years ago. A spokesperson for New World Development declined to reveal details of the buyer, saying: “It is not convenient to disclose this information.”

The resort was once an integral part of Sai Kung life, with tennis courts, a popular outdoor pool on the waterfront and a Thai restaurant. In 2003, when property prices dipped following the outbreak of SARS, it was bought by Urban Entertainment, headed by Australian Brad Gotfried, for just $28 million. At the time, Gotfried – who also brought Xtreme (now Agua Plus) to Sai Kung – planned to turn it into a Hawaiian-themed resort.

Picture by HKAerial.com

The influx is inflating prices, threatening the very lifestyle that attracted people in the first place

WWW.SAIKUNG.COM | 21

progress report just what Sai Kung needs. The land was sold with planning permission for a 500-room hotel in October 2011 to Cheer Regal Ltd, whose directors include TVB non-executive director Dr Charles Chan Kwok-keung and Shaw Brothers executive Raymond Chan Wai-man. At the time, the company would say only that it hoped to open a hotel in four or five years. That schedule now seems somewhat ambitious given that the site, although cleared and fenced off, is still a blank canvas. Requests to talk to Cheer Regal’s directors about the hotel were turned down.

The development of a golf-course resort in Pak Kong Valley is one of three local projects run by New World Development. However, the company remains tight-lipped about the details.

That never happened and in 2007 Urban Entertainment sold it for $78.5 million as a derelict shell to Billion Earn International, a private company that lists several New World Development Company executives as directors and is registered at the same address. It has been renovated at an on-off pace ever since.

Today, the hotel also known as The Surf Hotel, looks pretty much ready for business with

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the higher floors displaying curtains and lamps, but the mystery over the new buyer has left many questioning whether it will ever open in this game of pass the parcel by property speculators.

The Cheer Regal hotel Occupying a prime spot on the seafront, opposite Hong Kong Academy, this new hotel development has been described as being

Sha Kok Mei apartments Initial work has begun on 240 apartments to be built in eight-storey blocks near the Sha Kok Mei roundabout. Two cranes and heavy construction vehicles swung into action a few months ago after the site was bought by Sino Land for $1.46 million.

When Sai Kung Magazine called the telephone number on the huge banner advertising “A home above it all” on Tai Mong Tsai Road, we were told it was still early days.

“We are now preparing our sales brochure, which will give a full picture and also applying for consent from the government to sell the units before they are complete,” a Sino Land spokesman said. “But we have no details yet and our sales schedule will probably start next year.”

progress report Pak Sha Wan boutique hotel Planning permission was granted in 2011 for a 40-room boutique hotel close to the Pak Sha Wan pier. Work is still in its early stages. In its January digest, the Buildings Department acknowledged it had received notification of work commencing on the general building and superstructure of this three-storey hotel.

According to the notification the application came from a company called Colhi Investments.

However, our attempts to track down the company turned up no results.

Pak Kong golf course and Tai Po Tsai News that a golf course was under construction above Tai Chung Hau Road has been greeted with excitement by golf lovers.

A crane moved on to the site behind KK Horticulture more than a year ago. In October the company behind the project, Hip Seng Construction, was reborn as New World Construction Company, “a wholly-owned subsidiary of NWS Holdings Limited, the infrastructure and service flagship of New World Development Company Limited”. The same company is also behind the residential development near the Hong Kong University of Science and Technology at Tai Po Tsai, Clearwater Bay – and, of course, the renovation of the Beach Resort Hotel.

The Beach Resort was sold in February for $190m.

The last guests checked out 12 years ago and since then the hotel has changed hands three times When asked about the golf course and the Tai Po Tsai development, a New World Development spokeswoman said only that further information would be provided “in due course”. But, inevitably, not now.

The road well travelled Nicknamed the “highway to hell”, Hiram’s Highway could hold the key to whether Sai Kung can cope with this expansion.

The government’s Hiram’s Highway Improvement project is in two stages, only the first of which has been approved. Stage 1 includes widening the top section near the junction with Clearwater Bay Road, improving access to Ho Chung and building a dual carriageway outside Marina Cove (as far as Pak Wei, near the Hing Keng Shek turnoff).

Stage 2, which has not been approved, proposes a dual carriageway from Pak Wei to the roundabout near Sha Ha beach.

Friends of Sai Kung has been vocal in its objections to the plan. A spokesperson said it was not against the “sensible” widening of the upper section and improving access to Ho Chung. However, the group believed the planned dual carriageways would cause disruption, environmental damage and inconvenience pedestrians.

Instead it urged planners to create more laybys for buses, access lanes at junctions, parkand-ride schemes and to pedestrianise the town centre at weekends and holidays.

With a lack of consensus on the way forward, it is likely to be years before the journey to Sai Kung gets any smoother.

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eating Farm to plate It’s strawberry season. Sophia Ho gets agricultural. available. Open Tuesdays-Sundays 9am-5pm.

131 Tseng Tau Tsuen, Shap Sze Heung, Sai Kung, 2792 8164, www.hkgardenfarm.org.

Picture courtesy of AFCD

Lions Nature & Education Centre The Lions park doesn’t allow visitors to pick their own produce, but it does offer a chance to see fruit and vegetables growing organically in its extensive 16-hectare grounds, and at weekends there’s a stall selling fresh organic produce grown in Hong Kong. There’s also a dragonfly pond, an insectarium, turtle pond and 5,000 seashells in Shell House. Open daily 9.30am-5pm. Exhibition halls open WednesdayMonday 9.30am-4.30pm, closed Tuesdays. Che Keng Tuk Road, Sai Kung, 2792 2234.

So that’s where vegetables come from. Sai Kung’s Lions park grows and sells organic produce.

Garden Farm Grow your own organic fruit and vegetables by renting an allotment from Garden Farm, with sizes varying from 36 sqft to 96 sqft and costing $600-$1,500 per quarter. Staff offer instruction

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on organic farming techniques from the basics of turning over the soil before planting to harvest. Prices include equipment, seeds, compost etc. After a hard day on the farm, reward yourself with a barbecue on site. Parking

Rainbow Organic Strawberry Farm Avid strawberry enthusiast Eddy Chan opened this farm in 2009 with a 300,000-square-foot field, where up to 200 people can pick their own strawberries ($80 a pound) until the end of April. He also grows organic peanuts, choi sum,

hand-picked

sweetcorn, cherry tomatoes and watermelons in season. Plus a petting zoo with lambs and rabbits, and a barbecue area. Open daily 9am6pm. 76 Hok Tau Village, Fan Ling, 9302 0258, www.strawberry-farm.com.hk.

Tai Tong Lychee Valley Set among lychee and papaya trees, this farm offers pick-your-own strawberries ($80 a basket), plus bike riding, a playground, pony rides, ox-cart rides, barbecue areas, organic food shops and a chance to feed baby goats and rabbits. English maps available. Admission $20, free parking. Open daily 9am-6pm. 11 Tai Tong Shan Road, Tai Tong Tsuen, Yuen Long, 2470 2201, www.taitong.com.hk.

Kam Tin Country Park Hong Kong This 100,000 sqft park grows strawberries from different countries (French strawberries $60 a pound, Korean strawberries from $90 a pound). It also has a children’s playground, war games, bicycle rental, bouncy castles, sports

activities and small animals to feed. Visitors can also bake and decorate cookies, barbecue, sample honey or buy fresh local vegetables.

Free parking. Open Monday-Friday 10am-6pm, Saturday 10am-10pm. Lot 109 Shui Tau, Kam Tin, Yuen Long, 5132 5131 / 2442 0909, yl.com.hk/ktcc.

Law’s Organic Strawberry Farm Pick-your-own quality strawberries, as seen at festivals such as the Spring Carnival and the Lunar New Year Fair at Victoria Park. In season, visitors can also harvest lettuce, spinach and white radishes in an exquisite setting near Lau Fau Shan, which has arguably the best sunsets – and oysters – in Hong Kong. Free admission, free parking. Pak Sha Tsuen, Yuen Long, 2470 7981, www.yl.hk/lawsb.

Kadoorie Farm and Botanic Garden On the slopes of Tai Mo Shan, the 148-hectare Kadoorie Farm runs regular short courses on organic farming and sustainable living (mainly

Pick your own at Law’s Organic Strawberry Farm until the season ends at the end of the month.

in Cantonese). It’s a beautiful location with fascinating exhibits of local wildlife, including black kites in the aviary and local freshwater fish in the aquarium house, plus pigsties, an orchid greenhouse and a butterfly garden with countless species. Lam Kam Road, Tai Po, 2483 7200, www.kfbg.org.hk.

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eating

Nibbles a branch in East Point City in Hang Hau. Due to open in mid-April, the new arrival is already causing a buzz among local meat-lovers, who are eager to sink their canines into its famous barbecued ribs, handcrafted burgers and premium steaks. Keep an eye on the website, www.rubytuesday.com.hk, for details.

Easter fun at Crowne Plaza Kowloon East.

Say hola to Plaza Mayor A new tapas restaurant, Plaza Mayor Sai Kung, has opened near Piccolo’s in the main square. Like its sister restaurant, Plaza Mayor in Moon Street, Wan Chai, it will focus on fine Spanish ingredients such as top-quality Manchego cheese, Iberico ham, olives and about 50 different wines, ranging in price from affordable to extravagant. Manager Jose Martino told Sai Kung Magazine, “The concept is the same as in Wan Chai, with fine ham, wines and other products that can be enjoyed in the restaurant or taken home – we have two prices.” Wan King Path, Sai Kung, 2362 7301.

Ruby Tuesday in Hang Hau Popular steakhouse Ruby Tuesday is opening

Island East Markets back Hong Kong’s weekly farmers’ market is back after a winter hiatus, with the usual mixture of organic produce, food stalls, live performances, crafty workshops, homemade deliveries and boothto-booth shopping. Every Sunday from April 13.

Free admission. Parking available and four-legged

The Sunday farmers’ market returns.

friends are welcome. Tong Chong Street, Taikoo Place, Island East. www.hkmarkets.org.

Easter fun at Crowne Plaza The Crowne Plaza Kowloon East in Tseung Kwan O is celebrating Easter with a Kids’ Funland in its popular buffet restaurant, The Chef’s Table. The whopping 3,000 sqft playground will have a bouncy castle, visits from the Easter bunny, egg painting and craft workshops such as cupcake decorating for children dining in any of the hotel’s restaurants, including Tze Yuet Heen and the rooftop Cielo. Available April 18-21. 1/F Crowne Plaza Hong Kong Kowloon East, 3 Tong Tak Street, Tseung Kwan O, 3983 0688.

Allergy alert cards Here’s a handy website for people with food and drug allergies and diet restrictions.

Select Wisely (www.selectwisely.com) will print cards with details of your allergy in the languages of your choice – including simple and complex Chinese characters – which you can show to waiters and other people when you order a meal. From $117, ships in one to three days.

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education

happy campers

Busy little bunnies Carolynne Dear finds Easter camps for kids.

Take to the waves at Tai Long Wan with Surf Hong Kong’s Easter day camps.

Below: junior sailors learn the ropes at Hebe Haven Yacht Club.

Surf’s up Catch the last of the winter swells curling into Tai Long Wan with Surf Hong Kong. The surf school recommends wetsuits for its Easter day camps (overnight trips start later in the year), which include minibus transport from Sai Kung (meet outside McDonald’s) or Central Pier 4 to the Sai Kung Country Park for a morning of surf tuition, lunch, beach fun and games and home before sunset. Suitable for children aged six to 17, who are split into three age groups (Super Groms, Groms and Surfers). $720. For details, please visit surfhongkong.com.

Salty sea pups Kids get wet and very salty on the Adventure Watersports Week at Hebe Haven Yacht Club.

Activities include sailing, kayaking, dragonboating, mucking about on inflatables, a junk trip to deserted island beaches and mini beach Olympics. And that’s before lunch. The five-day camp is for children aged seven-12. 10am-5pm;

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members $2,500, non-members $3,500. Sailing courses at various levels and race training are also available. April 14-18 and 21-25, 10am5pm. HHYC, Pak Sha Wan, sailadmin@hhyc. org.hk, www.hhyc.org.hk.

Camps with tents Put the tent back into camps on Blue Sky’s overnight watersports camp on April 12-13.

For children aged eight-18, the action-packed

two-day camp is based at its training centre in Sai Kung and includes kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding (SUP), with an overnight camp on an island. Blue Sky is also running a fiveday watersports camp (April 14-18) including kayaking, dragon-boating, SUP, wakeboarding and surfing. Sai Kung Watersports Training Centre, Sha Ha Road, Sai Kung, 2791 0806, www.bluesky-sc.com.

Get moving Get up and go with ESF Educational Services’ four- and five-day Easter sports camps (from $2,400). Children aged three-11 take part in all sorts of sports activities at school campuses across Hong Kong. “Wet” camps including swimming activities are available at the Australian International School (April 7-11) and Renaissance College. “Dry” camps (no swimming) are held at Kowloon Junior School.

Four-day clinics in gymnastics, basketball, swimming, kung fu and tennis are also available

education

Left, from top: learning ball skills at Sport4kids; getting creative at Anastassia’s Art House. Above: kayaking with Blue Sky.

at various locations ($1,500). April 14-17. For details, visit www.esf.org.hk.

Join the team If your kids love to run and play games, sign up for an action-filled multi-sports camp. Held at two locations, Sport4Kids camps for children aged four-10 promise a week of fun in athletics, basketball, soccer and rugby. April 14-18, 9.30am-noon, French International School, Blue Pool Road, Happy Valley. April 21-25, 10am1.30pm, Parkview Spa & Resort, 88 Tai Tam Reservoir Road, www.sport4kids.hk.

Arty pants Let busy little fingers weave some magic at Anastassia Art House’s Easter workshops.

Sai Kung Ad March 2014V4.indd | WWW.SAIKUNG.COM 30HK

1

Options include still-life canvas, collage, Easter egg decoration and the intriguingly named “snail paper sculpture”. Each class runs for about 90 minutes depending on the session and is suitable for children aged three to 12 years. Prices start at $340, including all materials. 9 Hoi Pong Street, Sai Kung, 2719 5533, www.arthouse-hk.com.

Get crafty Little knitters and knotters will love Craft Camp. On April 15-16, projects include transforming a bag with heat transfer-printing and accessorizing, as well as jewellery-making.

Kids Can Knit (April 23-24) teaches young handicrafters to knit their own tiny Easter bunny and blankie. No experience required. 2pm-4pm,

Lightjar Photography Studio, 1/F, 1 Wan King Path, Sai Kung. Details from Kate Ackerman at crafthourasia@gmail.com.

The play’s the thing Youth theatre group Faust International is running five-day drama and creative-writing workshops based on the theme Woodland Adventure (think Wind in the Willows, Robin Hood and so on). Young thespians will explore skills such as improvisation, clarity of expression, movement and script-work with parents invited to the final session. The creative-writing course follows the same theme.

April 14-18 and 22-26. 359-361 Queen’s Road Central, Sheung Wan, 2547 9114, www.faustworld.com.

03-03-14 16:29 PM

sponsored column

Surviving school admissions ITS School Placements answers some common questions.

The school admission process in Hong Kong involves lots of worry and uncertainty.

Parents are particularly stressed after Lunar New Year as they wait for offers – or rejection letters. After months of applications and interviews, there is nothing to do, but wait… and wait. Despite all the stress about making the “right” decision, most children will be accepted to the school where they will be happy and successful. But not always. Here are the questions parents ask when the outcome isn’t the one they had hoped for.

My child passed her interview at two schools, but has been put on the waitlist?

What should I do?

Although most schools offer places to children with priority first, your child has a great chance of acceptance as spaces become available before the academic year starts or even mid-year. You will also have the opportunity to re-apply the following year. This is good because your child will be offered an interview owing to being waitlisted the previous year. While it’s disappointing

choices? Revisit the school before paying the deposit to determine whether it might be the best option after all.

when your child is placed on a waitlist, it is helpful to think of this as an opportunity to learn more about the right fit for your child to prepare for future interviews.

My child was accepted to a bilingual school but not the one I preferred; should I accept the offer?

You know your child better than anyone else. Think about how your child learns best.

Is it in a structured environment or a more progressive one? Would your child be happy at this school? Would this school be suitable for a few years while you pursue your top

How should I deal with the disappointing news of my child not being offered any places?

Firstly, make sure your child does not perceive your disappointment as this may damage his or her confidence at the next interview. Keep the frustration between parents and discuss very little about the situation with your child. Make a new plan and consider other schools. The school that is the right fit for your child is the school that ultimately chooses your child.

ITS School Placements provides an education consulting service that works with families and employers to find the right schools for individual children in Hong Kong, from nursery to secondary schools. ITS also offers research, policy and advisory services for corporations. For more details, contact es@tuition.com.hk, 3188 3940 or www.itseducationasisa.com.

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Education for the Mind Written by Nicola Weir, Western Co-Principal, YCIS Early Childhood Education Section The famous Chinese proverb, “Tell me, I’ll forget. Show me, I’ll remember. Involve me, I’ll understand”, rings true at the heart of education for learners of all ages. It is even more so for our youngest students.

Too often adults make the mistake of seeing young children as empty vessels, in need of being filled with meaningless information, which is often demonstrated through the passive learning opportunities children are subjected to in a classroom.

The latest research on brain development in young children confirms the ancient Chinese proverb, as its findings show how children at the age of two have the most active synaptic connections than any other time throughout their life. The brain receives this information through the five senses, allowing children to construct knowledge of their world around them, and do so by engaging their whole self in the educational experience. The young brain is waiting and receptive for the varied tactile experiences to construct understanding, strengthening those synaptic connections.

At the same time, the toddler’s brain is pruning all synapses that are not making connections; fundamentally shaping the young learner’s mind. Again, a very delicate reason for ensuring a child is given ample opportunity to actively explore their world with their five senses.

Repetition of these explorations strengthens the brain connections, embedding within the child’s mind, understanding, reflexes, skills and attitudes.

Providing opportunities for a toddler to experiment with their world is one thing, having the child motivated and confident to engage with that world is another. To develop a proactive learner within the child, they need to be involved

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At YCIS, children are provided with stimulating environments, responsive adults, and positive relationships on a daily basis

in their own learning. Active learning takes place in meaningful contexts; situations that are true to life and organic in their implementation. Placing young minds at tables while trying to ‘fill’ them with content does not give learners the same real-life experience and brain stimulation that ‘doing’ will provide the child.

YCIS philosophy embraces education that provides students with ‘life’ learning

Yew Chung International School’s (YCIS) philosophy embraces education that provides students with ‘life’ learning, where capturing the child’s heart, mind, and soul drive the daily teaching and learning. This is evident at YCIS’s kindergarten where children are provided with stimulating environments, responsive adults, and positive relationships on a daily basis.

Each and every young learner is respected as an active and rightful owner of their learning journey, demonstrated through the support given by teachers who allow the child to follow their curiosities, wonders, and interests.

The result of providing such learning

opportunities can be seen when young learners enthusiastically research, investigate, experiment, and explore; stimulating those very active synaptic connections, all in all, developing a strong intellect.

An example of this was seen at YCIS when a group of three year old children noticed new seedlings growing in the garden. Their questions regarding this ‘new’ visitor prompted the teachers to allow them to pull a seedling out. The children studied and surveyed this seedling from top to bottom. Many questions followed. Next the teachers provided a variety of plants at different stages of their growth, which the children studied by pulling them out their soil, analyzing the root system, discussing the different parts of the plant, and drawing conclusions about their research.

Children expressed their motivation to plant their own seeds, which they subsequently did.

In learning how to look after their plant, they gained knowledge of plants needs and life cycle.

Their interest and investigation deepened as they began finding seeds in their fruits and vegetables during lunch time together. Further research into differences between fruits and vegetables took place as children juiced, cooked, tasted, and compared their experiences and observations.

This learning process engaged all of the children’s senses, inspiring them to gain meaningful and relevant knowledge and understanding of our world. This journey continued at YCIS as it presented many offshoot opportunities for the children, constantly feeding their curiosities.

An education feature brought to you by YCIS Yew Chung International School, 3 To Fuk Road, Kowloon Tong, 2338 7106.

sport

you said it

The best bits Ray Sting and the Sai Kung Stingrays coaches reflect on the highlights of the season.

For most Sai Kung Stingrays, it’s time to hang up the boots for another season. It has been another memorable season for players, coaches, managers and parents. Without exception, every age group has war stories to share. The amazing mini-rugby coaches sum up this season’s achievements.

On player growth: “A hugely successful season. Since September, the players have come a long way and work through their drills with impressive skills and expertise. Their boundless enthusiasm and sense of fun has made the season so enjoyable.” Coach Jim, Under-5s.

On learning new skills: “Super year all round, with kids getting used to the new skills of rucking and counter rucking, training twice a week and trying very hard at each and every tournament.” Coach Fergus, Under-10 boys.

On Stingrays’ reputation: “The successes can be summed up when, on two separate occasions at tournaments, the referee and coach from the other side said the Stingrays were one of the most impressive sides they’ve seen. It’s a real compliment when your rivals provide the praise.” Coach James, Under-8s.

On the future: “Some of these boys will go on to form the backbone of the Peninsula team for the next few years.” Coach Simon, Under-11 boys.

Congratulations, Stingrays! We are proud of your victories, commiserate with your losses and salute your spirit and sportsmanship.

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family Happy Birthdays Kids’ party planning sorted. By Cherrie Yu. Eezy Peezy Parties Take the stress out of your next children’s party with this online one-stop shop. Use the website to create and send invitations, choose a wish list from the gift registry, order party essentials for delivery to your door, book an entertainer and even send thank-you notes. Easy peasy, lemon squeezy. Details at www.eezypeezyparties.com.

Sai Kung Outdoor Recreation Centre Kids can run wild at this fabulous outdoor facility in the heart of Sai Kung. Facilities include archery, a rope course, roller-skating rink, cycling area, tennis court, barbecues and more. The only problem is deciding where to begin… Sai Kung Outdoor Recreation Centre, Tui Min Hoi, 2792 3828, www.lcsd.gov.hk.

Party time at the Hyatt Regency Sha Tin. Opposite: design your own mini-figure at a Bricks4Kidz event.

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YSO War Games The whole nine yards for teenagers: protective camouflage gear, weapons, lunch and a full

let the games begin

day of waging war on your friends in a large rural battleground. Take cover behind piled-up tyres, sneak through the undergrowth and hold shootouts inside an abandoned warehouse. It’s not politically correct, but it’s fun. From $260 per person. Minibus transport available.

Yung Shue O, Sai Kung, 9837 5764, www.ysowargame.com.

Clearwater Bay Equestrian Centre Hold a horse-riding party. There are four packages ranging from two hours to a fullday adventure. Activities include pony rides, gymkhana (horse-back games), arts & crafts, pizza lunch, grooming, tacking up and more. Prices start at $650 a child.

115 Mau Po, Clearwater Bay, 6398 6241, www.ceec.hk.

Bricks4Kidz LEGO lovers can build to their hearts’ content at parties for 10-20 children. Party packages

include one or two party hosts, LEGO-based games, free play with a big tub of bricks, and options such as building a zipline, creating your own minifigure, goodie bags, pizza and juice. Available at Bricks4Kidz centre or the venue of your choice. 1/F, 65 Man Nin Street, Sai Kung, 2791 0007, www. bricks4kidz.hk.

Pole Paradise Studio This new fitness centre is offering two-and-a-half hour party packages in its oceanic blue studio. Throw a gymnastics party for little kids or, for older children, try a 90-minute pole, silk or hoop fitness class. Prices start at $2,000 for 10 children. 2/F, 16 Yi Chun Street, Sai Kung, 2603 2618, www.poleparadisestudio.com.

FunZone A 5,000-square-foot indoor playground packe with equipment such as a giant ball pit, big yellow slide, climbing wall and lots of other

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family Party people Rachael’s Fun House Sai Kung’s leading Disco Diva for dance parties, shows and children’s entertainers, 2705 9556, www.funhousehk.com.

Birthdays.hk Equipment rental, including popcorn and candyfloss machines, bouncy castles, balloons... www.birthdays.hk Rumple & Friends Let them entertain you: magic, circus skills, puppets, balloon twisting, face painting, www.rumpleandfriends.com.

Penney Pang Beautiful homemade birthday cakes, www.penneypang.com.

things to explore, crawl through, jump from and swing on. Party packages from $2,000 for 10 children (maximum 20), including free entry for the birthday girl or boy and two adults, a personalized banner, two hours’ use of the private party area, play-all-day admission.

Food available. 1/F, The Waterside Mall, 15 On

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TwoPresents In place of a gift, ask party guests to donate to this birthday website: one present goes to the birthday girl or boy, and the rest of the money goes to a Hong Kong charity of your choice, www.twopresents.com.

Penguin Paint Force Sai Kung-based facepainting services, 6117 1256, www.penguinpaintforce.wordpress.com.

Treasure Island Toys, cards, giftwrap, cake stands, paper plates, decorations and more. 22 Yi Chun Street, Sai Kung.

Hub Venue Find the perfect party venue anywhere in Hong

Chun Street, Ma On Shan, 2631 4001, www.funzone.com.hk.

Hyatt Regency Sha Tin Yes, Cinders, you shall go to the ball. Hire the Hyatt Regency Sha Tin Ballroom or Salons for children's parties, complete with

Penguin Paint Force

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big day out

The Museum of Coastal Defence was built in the 1887 Lei Yue Mun Fort.

Going coastal Hannah Grogan visits the Hong Kong Museum of Coastal Defence.

It may not be the Louvre or the Smithsonian, but Hong Kong does have its own gem of a museum: the Museum of Coastal Defence.

Where is it?

The museum is located in the former Lei Yue Mun Fort, built by the British in 1887 and strategically situated on a knoll in Shau Kei Wan overlooking the eastern entrance to the harbour. The view alone – across Lei Yue Mun Channel to Kowloon and Tseung Kwan O – is a major draw for visitors.

What is it?

Slightly off the beaten track, the museum is one

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of the city’s lesser-known treasures, containing military memorabilia from the colonial period and earlier. Rich with history, the museum is in the beautifully restored main redoubt – now covered with a sail-like roof – and grounds of the fort. In its day, this was one of Hong Kong’s most formidable military installations, built to ward off a potential invasion from the sea.

Why go?

In contrast with the glamour of Hong Kong’s bright lights and big-city vibe, the museum is a step back in time. Well-executed exhibits explore successive periods of Hong Kong’s coastal defence, including the Ming period, the

fort knocks

Clockwise from top left: the view across Lei Yue Mun Channel; the redoubt’s central area and new roof; a typical display; the old tunnels have been turned into exhibition spaces.

Opium War, colonial days, the Battle of Hong Kong and the Japanese occupation all the way through to the handover and the modern People’s Liberation Army.

There are weapons, uniforms, paintings, maps and photographs displayed in successive underground galleries in the old redoubt tunnels, which are fun to explore. A children’s section includes interactive games and a theatre shows a 12-minute feature on defence weapons in both Cantonese and English.

The well-maintained grounds contain restored military relics along a purpose-built

In its day, this was one of Hong Kong’s most formidable military installations historical trail (maps are provided with your tickets). The old defences include a British Comet tank, an armoured personnel carrier, a 10-inch breech-loading gun and even a torpedo station down on the harbourside.

It’s surprisingly quiet and peaceful,

particularly on a weekday, when it can feel as if you have the place to yourself – a rare find in Hong Kong.

When to go?

The museum is open Friday-Wednesday 10am5pm, closed on Thursdays. Entry is $10; free on Wednesdays. To get there, take the MTR to Shau Kei Wan; the museum is a 15-minute walk. Parking available.

Hong Kong Museum of Coastal Defence, 175 Tung Hei Road, Shau Kei Wan, 2569 1500.

WWW.SAIKUNG.COM | 39

health & beauty To diet for Adele Rosi tries the Clean 9, the detox and weight-loss plan du jour.

Dieting trends come and go (cabbage soup diet, anyone?). The programme du jour is Clean 9, a detox and weight-management regime.

Over nine days, it aims to rid your body of harmful chemicals, develop new dietary habits and shed weight by drawing on fat reserves.

Clean 9 is delivered to your door as a complete nine-day package: supplements such as bee pollen for energy enhancement, Garcinia Plus (a natural appetite suppressant), aloe vera gel, protein powder for total nutritional support, and instructions on what to take when. Sign up with either the British package or the more expensive Hong Kong version, which includes three extra detox supplements (Omega-3, Field of Greens and probiotics).

Day one Having drunk too much, eaten too much and slept too little yesterday, I need detoxing. I embrace the supplements and water as the start of a journey to a newer, cleaner me. Come

Day two I wake up with a banging headache, craving food. I feel light-headed, dazed and confused, forgetting some things (keys, phone, people’s names) and losing others (my son’s rugby kit).

After having only a shake and water during a barbecue lunch with friends, I am badtempered, snarly and starving. There is nothing good about day two except that it is the end of the most brutal part of the Clean 9.

lunchtime, however, I have ferocious munchies, which are only slightly allayed by a chocolate protein shake made with skimmed milk. As powdered shakes go, it’s very palatable and I feel full. I get through the afternoon on gallons of hot water and herbal tea, but with only aloe vera gel and supplements for dinner, I go to bed early.

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Day three Starting the day with a shake for breakfast makes life instantly better. My energy levels are boosted by a second shake for lunch. The light-headedness goes. I attempt some exercise, but with dragging feet and zero energy, I cut my usual route in half. On the upside, I eat my first proper meal in three days: white-bean chilli with brown rice and a simple salad. Every mouthful is heaven. I am so full that I can’t eat my total allowance of 600 calories.

a new regime

Day four I have lost 1.5kg. Most of that is probably water, but I’m encouraged. Today’s challenge is a school trip with 60 seven-year-olds, travelling on every conceivable form of public transport in Hong Kong. I swap my lunchtime shake for a chicken salad from my evening’s allowance, but it takes all my willpower to resist stealing snacks from the children. My head aches, I’m exhausted.

The hardest parts are refusing wine... and being in a room with biscuits Days five to nine My energy returns on day five as my body gets used to the shakes and healthy eating. By delaying the lunchtime shake until 1.30pm, I can last the afternoon with just a few raw carrots, almonds and rice crackers. I think about food more, but I have few cravings. What food I do

eat tastes better and, amazingly, I don’t miss carbs or sugar. As my goal was to detox rather than lose weight, I’m not as strict as I could be about weighing food and counting calories. The hardest parts are refusing wine while out with friends and being in a room with freshly baked biscuits. On the upside, my skin and eyes are clearer and I have lost 4kg. I feel pretty good.

A week later As I still have some supplements, aloe gel and shake powder, I continue taking them, choosing a shake for breakfast and even lunch on busy days. I can eat whatever I want, but I don’t go on a feeding frenzy. Sugar, coffee and pasta creep back into my diet, but far less regularly than before and I keep drinking more water.

A fortnight later I have regained 2kg and my love affair with the protein shakes has abated, but I am still eating more healthily than I did before the Clean 9.

Clean 9 tips * Do the Clean 9 when you have a relatively free work and social calendar, and bags of willpower. * The aloe vera gel tastes better straight from the fridge. Holding your nose when you drink it also helps.

Verdict Clean 9 is a good way to kickstart weight loss and get eating habits on a healthier track.

Those who don’t need to lose weight might be better off with a less severe regime.

For details and Clean 9 detox packs (British version $1,400, Hong Kong version $2,060), email Monica Wong at monica.pswong@gmail.com or Emma Linnitt at chibbles@netvigator.com.

WWW.SAIKUNG.COM | 41

pets Talk to the animals

Illustration by Evy Cheung

Sally Andersen explains how to communicate with dogs, no telepathy required.

Animal communication is becoming more and more popular in Hong Kong and I’m frequently asked if I believe it’s possible for humans to communicate with animals via telepathy. The short answer is yes, I do. I took a course myself many years ago when I owned and ran The New Age Shop, where such things weren’t considered strange or out of the ordinary.

Now here comes the “but”...

It’s fairly widely accepted that dogs and cats have a sixth sense – a way of hearing, seeing or just knowing something that’s not visible or audible. Humans have the same ability, but we either don’t believe it or simply don’t have the need to develop that sense.

My reservations about courses that teach animal communication is they require no knowledge or experience in the art of meditation, or stilling of the mind, which is the only way any unspoken message is

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The moment you think about giving an unwilling dog a bath, it disappears

going to make itself heard. And there is no way to confirm whether something a dog has supposedly communicated is true or not – it could just as easily have been imagined.

Nevertheless, anyone who has lived for long enough with an animal, particularly a dog or cat, will have experienced that uncanny connection – such as the moment you think about giving an unwilling dog a bath and it disappears. My own dog hates having a haircut, and a fleeting thought about getting the clippers out will make her leave the room. How does she know?

For the most part, these messages that seem to be picked up telepathically are really the result of almost imperceptible cues that we give without realising. Dogs can pick up signals that we don’t notice, and it’s the way they communicate with each other.

the sixth sense

creature feature Golden birdwing aka Troides aeacus

If you’ve ever seen two dogs start a fight without any apparent reason, you can be sure there were signs but they were too subtle for human eyes. The slightest movement – a twitch of a muscle, a glance – means something to dogs.

Knowing that these “invisible” signals convey so much may help owners to better understand their dogs, and their sometimes apparently inexplicable behaviour. It’s also the reason why some dogs find it difficult being around young children: a child’s body language can be uncontrolled, erratic and very confusing for a dog.

Sally Andersen is the founder of Hong Kong Dog Rescue, a charity that rescues, rehabilitates and re-homes unwanted or abandoned dogs.

Found in: Po Lo Che, Tai Po Kau, Ngong Ping, Tai Tam Country Park and Shing Mun Country Park.

One of the rarest butterflies in Hong Kong, the golden birdwing is also the largest with a wingspan up to 16cm. Typically, the females are larger than the males.

As its name suggests, the golden birdwing has a striking yellow pattern on its hindwings and mainly black forewings with pale markings. Its body is black with yellow stripes and the underside of the thorax is coated in red hair.

All birdwing species – including the golden birdwing and its close relative the common birdwing, which is also found in Hong Kong – are listed by the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species (CITES) and classified locally as “vulnerable” and protected under Hong Kong law.

Birdwings are found near Indian birthwort, a protected climbing vine usually found on shrubs, which is their only food. Adults sip nectar from the flowers while caterpillars feed on the buds, shoots and leaves.

Golden birdwings are found in India, China, Thailand, Vietnam, Cambodia and Taiwan.

Steffi Yuen

WWW.SAIKUNG.COM | 43

distribution

where to find us

Sai Kung Magazine continues to extend its reach in the community, here is the latest in distribution news.

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classifieds LOCAL PROPERTY STROLL TO SAI KUNG TOWN HKD $ 90K Ref~SK123 Beautifully Renovated Family Home in an Attractive sought after Development. 4 Bedrooms (2 en-suites), Fabulous Kitchen, Spa style Bathrooms, Large Terrace, Shared Pool, Covered Car-park. www.thepropertyshop.com.hk 27193977 | C-027656

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Walking distance to beaches. Personnel Available. www.phuketvilla4rent.com. Email the owner: info@ phuketvilla4rent.com

GARDEN HOUSE HKD $ 63K/20.88M Ref~SK560, SOLE AGENT 4 Bedroom Family Home.

Large Enclosed Garden.

Popular Development near Sai Kung Town.

Spacious Accommodation, Living/Dining, Separate Family Room, Fitted Kitchen, Helpers Q, Balconies, Roof. Mountain Vistas, Shared Pool. Car-park www.thepropertyshop.com.hk 27193977 | C-027656 Village Block Next To Town HKD $20M 2100sf village block. Will consider selling each floor separately. Located 5mins walking distance from Sai Kung town in a quiet and peaceful area. Welcome and Fusion 2mins away. Reluctant to sell, only due to moving abroad. Fui Yiu Lane property rarely up for sale. For more details please contact: Canaan Property Agency LTD (C-012503) Samuel Yeung Mobile: 90352683 Tel: 27923678 JADE VILLA HKD $21M With >1000’ Garden in deed. 2100 sq ft, Asking 21M >3.6% return.

4 Bedrooms + Maid Room, 4 Toilet. Fully fitted Kitchen, Quiet and convenient location.

Swimming Pool, good management. 5 minutes to Sai Kung City Centre. 1 Carpark.

SOLE AGENT: LEO’S PROPERTY AGENCY CO-OP ARE WELCOME 25776652 | C-041854 BUYING LANDS TO BUILD SELF DESIGNED HOUSE HKD $3,600,000 Expat community. Hilltop with Green living. Private & tranquill. Managed Complex. Communal pool. Parking in gate. Rare Opportunity. Flexible Installment. If interested, contact Sai Kung Homes on 2719 4000 or visit G/F,No.26AA, Luk Mei Tsuen,Sai Kung,N.T

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SERVICES NATIONAL HARBOUR RENOVATIONS Home and office reno upgrades. Plumbing, electrical and handyman services. Call Charles 90851886 info@nationalharbour.com.hk www.nationalharbour.hk CONCORDE TRAVEL Leisure Travel and Cruise specialists since 1978. www.concorde-travel.com . Call 2526 3391 License No 350343.

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CARS & BOATS VW POLO 1.4 ME FOR SALE NOW DISCOUNTED HKD $112,000 European car of the year 2010 - 5-door supermini, manufactured 2011 (First Reg late June 2011), 0 previous owners, license valid till June 2014, 1.4L engine, 7-speed automatic gearbox, alloy wheels, electric tilt/slide glass sunroof, VW full service history since new, 5 yr manufacturer’s warranty from new. Was $118K but NOW REDUCED TO $112K. Contact James 9187 4628 BMW FOR SALE HKD $63,000 2003 BMW X5 3.0.

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LEARN MUSIC MIXING & PRO TOOLS SOUND DESIGN Want to get into audio and music engineering?

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“Life is what happens to you while you’re busy making other plans.” - John Lennon

random but interesting CHINESE NANNY Mandarin and Cantonese speaking nannies available. Not only can our trained nannies take care of your children but also read and play with them. We also tutor students from ISF, CIS, HKIS etc. Please visit www.call-a-tutor.com to learn more or email nanny. mandarin@gmail.com IRISH DANCE CLASSES HKD $150 Irish dance classes in Sai Kung CWBS! Contact info@echoesirishdance.com for further information CLARINET TUITION Now available in Sai Kung. Teresa Thornton has experience in teaching all levels of players. She offers tailored learning experiences at reasonable rates.

Contact on 5598 9945

EMPLOYMENT

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CAFE ASSISTANT HKD $11,000 Small but busy cafe looking for a full time person to join our team.

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SUMMER GARAGE SALE & MARKET - 7 JUNE 2014 Located at LG3 covered car park at HKUST on Saturday, 7 June 9.30am to 3pm. Parking, food & drinks available.

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FOOD & BEVERAGE BETTER MOTORS LOOKING FOR SALES PERSON HKD $10,000 New motor company in Sai Kung looking for salesperson. Working times are from 10.30am to 6.30pm. Basic salary and commission given! Contact Jeffrey on 2881 7088

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REAL FRENCH FINE DINING IN SAI KUNG HKD $350 Private parties, romantic, friendly or business diner in an elegant environment in Sai Kung? We offer you outside and inside sitting, selection of hand picked French wines and classic French cuisine. We even do private parties. Opening at 7.00 pm, Tuesday to Sunday. Lunch can also be offered on booking. Chez Raymond de Paris Booking number: 64841400 - We are just next to “The Light House” kids playing center, 2 minutes from Honey Moon” desserts.

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classifieds BABY & MATERNITY TWO INDOOR SLEEPING BAGS FOR KIDS HKD $100 Never used. The material is really comfortable.

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Was originally $300. Contact Iris on 6999 4111 USBORNE VERY FIRST READING COLLECTION 50 BOOKS HKD $1300 Recommended age is 4+. Perfect for sharing at bedtime and for children to learn how to read themselves. Contact Jas on 6324 6056 HAPE COUNTRY CRITTERS 5 SIDED ACTIVITY CENTRE PLAY CUBE HKD $1345 Brand new and recommended for 12 month olds and over.

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PART TIME HELPER AVAILABLE Available 10AM to 5PM everyday. Capable to do all household chores and baby sitting. $70/hour.

Contact on Sheila on 6718 8751

FURNITURE OSIM EMEDIC MASSAGE CHAIR HKD $8800 Excellent conditions. Fully operational. Only one past owner. Contact Rowena on 9484 5987

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UPHOLSTERY ARMCHAIR FROM JOHN LEWIS UK HKD $450 Very comfortable and in great condition. Contact Rowena on 9484 5987

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Contact Iris on 6999 4111 OUTDOOR TABLE WITH TWO CHAIRS HKD $1800 Balcony table with two comfortable armchairs.

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GREAT CONDITION GLASS DINING TABLE HKD $300 Round glass dining table for two to four pax. Fits any space. Chairs and other furniture available for sale too. Contact Teresa on 9182 3185 EXOTIC CHEESE PLANT WITH BEAUTIFUL MAROON CERAMIC POT HKD $300 Large leaves for all seasons - indoors or outdoors. Easy maintenance. Water once a day. Comes with beautiful maroon ceramic pot.

Contact Teresa on 9182 3185 BROWN IKEA BAR TABLE HKD $300 Great for breakfast table or sipping wine. Contact Teresa on 9182 3185

STORAGE TRUNK HKD $1500 Wooden and aluminum storage trunk in perfect condition. Looks great as coffee table. Two bottom drawers for storage.

Contact Paul on 6310 7825 UNION JACK STORAGE TRUNKS HKD $1250 Top quality in new conditions. 1x Large trunk (69.5 x 43.5 x 44.5cm) and 1x Medium trunk(60.5 x 37.5 x 38.6cm) Contact Paul on 6310 7825 BIG CYLINDRICAL SHAPED POT WITH CHINESE CHARACTERS HKD $480 95% new. Hand crafted with Chinese characters.

Includes a drain hole.

Contact Iris on 6999 4111

IKEA DOUBLE BED (WITHOUT MATTRESS) HKD $300 Sultan lade slate bed base full/double. Fjellse bed frame full/double pine. Packed and ready to be picked up! Contact Hamed on 5918 9488 or hmd.sadeghi@gmail.com

random but interesting

HIGH QUALITY NUTRITIONAL SUPPLEMENTS AND VITAMINS Imported directly from the manufacturer in USA. Available from stock within 2-3 days. Pick up by arrangement in Sai Kung. 10% discount for orders delivered in March. Email forevercleandetox@gmail. com or call 9613 3076 for more information

MISCELLANEOUS

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VINNY is a gorgeous friendly boy found wandering in DB. Desexed and amazingly rescued from epiphany.

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ZIPLOC VACUUM FREEZER BAG STARTER HKD $100 Comes with a pump and three bags. Brand new.

Removes air for freezerburn protection. Contact Florence on 5503 0369 FIRE PROOF SAFE WEIGHT 78KG HKD $3200 Two hour fireproof safe weight. Able to drill the safe on the wall with alarm. Measurements: 43cm wide x 67cm high x 40cm deep.

WILLY is a sweet and friendly kitten who loves a cuddle.

Completely healthy, he was rescued from a breeder. Contact Kirsten on 5595 1933 or info@ kirstenszoo.com to give some TLC to Willy!

ZENA & ZETA are very unique tricoloured 10 month old girls. Up to date with all required, health checked and deemed healthy.

Contact Kirsten on 5595 1933 or info@kirstenszoo. com to see them!

PETS & PET PRODUCTS PUPPY MIST is a very sweet gentle pup who loves everything.

Growing into a very endearing personalities and her own funny little quirks. Contact Kirsten on 5595 1933 or info@ kirstenszoo.com

ROSAMUND is a delightful 5-month old puppy girl whose whiserky face is as cute as her happy and friendly nature.

Refer to the adoption precedure at www. hongkongdogrescue.com

“If you want to build a ship, don’t drum up the people to gather wood, divide the work, and give orders.

Instead, teach them to yearn for the vast and endless sea.”

Antoine De Saint-Exupery, Author of The Little Prince

To advertise, email: ads@saikung.com or call 2776 2772

WALNUT is a very affectionate cat who loves cuddles and will pur till the end of time! Contact Kirsten on 5595 1933 or info@ kirstenszoo.com

2.

Click on

Post an Ad 3.

Fill out the form and publish!

ANDY is a handsome boy in every way and loves to be stroked! If you are interested, contact Kirsten on 5595 1933 or info@ kirstenszoo.com

URGENT FOSTER HOME NEEDED Amadeus is a French Bulldog with a great friendly personality. Thrown out of home because family was expecting a baby. If you can give Amadeus a forever home, please contact Kirsten on 5595 1933 or info@ kirstenszoo.com

it’s on saikung.com!

WWW.SAIKUNG.COM | 55

business directory Sports & Fitness Advanced Tennis Performance 6135 7606 | atpltd.tennis@hotmail.com www.advancedtennisperformance.com Auskick Hong Kong www.auskick.hk.com headcoachauskick@gmail.com Escapade Online www.escapade.com.hk Everfine Membership Services Limited 2174 7880 | enquiry@evergolf.com.hk www.evergolf.com.hk

Food & Beverage Hebe One O One 2335 5515 | info@101.com.hk www.hebe101.com

Hazel Ltd 53161456 | saleshazel@biznetvigator.com www.mcl-sources.com

Schmidt Vinothek 2792 6113 www.schmidtvinothek.com

Home Styling 9673 9443 email@thehomestylist.org www.thehomestylist.org

The South African Shop info@thesouthafricanshop.com 9457 0639 Thiackery Group 5990 2588 | thiackery@gmail.com

Hong Kong International Tennis Academy 9048 2810 | lea.lai@hkita.com | www.hkita.com Sai Kung Stingrays www.saikungstingrays.org Sport4Kids 2773 1650 info@sport4kids.hk www.sport4kids.hk

Health & Beauty Allure Beauty 2792 2123 Bronze Mobile Spray Tanning 6234 8594 bronzemobilespraytanning@yahoo.com.au Liberty in Yoga 6112 1826 | www.libertyinyoga.com Pure Swiss Limited 852 2358 3998 admin@e-pureswiss.com www.e-pureswiss.com Queen’s Castle Organic Day Spa 2719 4444 Sense of Touch Sai Kung 2791 2278 Still Point Osteopathy 9634 5848 | www.stillpointdrja.com evolveatstillpoint@gmail.com Tala’s Hair & Beauty Centre 2335 1694 | talashair@biznetvigator.com www.talashair.com Yo Yo Yoga 93023931 | yingying_yu@hotmail.com

Children’s Toys & Supplies Bumps to Babes

2552 5000 (Ap Lei Chau Main Store) 2522 7112 (Pedder Building Branch) www.bumpstobabes.com

Homevet 9860 5522 pets@homevet.com.hk www.homevet.com.hk Animal Behaviour Vet Practice 9618 2475 | cynthia@petbehaviourhk.com www.petbehaviourhk.com Ferndale Kennels 2792 4642 | boarding@ferndalekennels.com www.ferndalekennels.com Animal Emergency Centre 2915 7979 www.animalemergency.com.hk Mega Pet 2626 0818 | www.megapet.com.hk

Motoring & Boating Kwong Hing Motorworks 2791 4949 | enquiries@khmwhk.com www.khmwhk.com

Home & Interiors

The Australian Shop info@theaustralianshop.hk 5509 7993

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JCAW Consultants 2524 9988 | jcawltd@biznetvigator.com Opus Design Ltd 97337328 www.opusdesign.com.hk Patio Mart 2555 8988 | patio@kh-group.com www.patiomart.com.hk ProShade Limited gb4@me.com 9088 2820 www.proshadesail.com Sai Kung LifeStyle 5990 2588 saikunglifestyle@gmail.com Sai Kung Marketplace 5503 0369 www.saikungmarketplace.com

Pets & Vets

Food & Beverage South Stream Seafoods Units 202-204, Lai Sun Yuen Long Centre, 27 Wang Yip St East, Yuen Long, N.T. Hong Kong | 2555 6200 fish@south-stream-seafoods.com www.south-stream-seafoods.com

Home & Interiors

Brooks Thompson Ltd 2851 3665 | iqbalhk@netvigator.com Eco Living 2792 7998 | askus@ecoliving.hk www.ecoliving.hk Everything Under the Sun 2544 9088 www.everythingunderthesun.com.hk

Smiling Winds Landscape & Maintenance 60569010 smilingwindslandscape@gmail.com Wofu Deco 2768 8428 | info@wofudeco.com.hk www.wofudeco.com.hk

Education ITS Education Asia

2116 3916 es@tuition.com.hk www.itseducationasia.com English for Asia 2392 2746 | bianca@englishforasia.com www.englishforasia.com Everest Education 6013 7827 | mdrin1998@yahoo.com International College Hong Kong 2658 6935 | 2655 9018 info@hlyis.edu www.hlyis.edu.hk Jumpstart Mandarin Learning Centre 2791 4838 | jumpstart@netvigator.com www.jumpstartmlc.com Kellett School www.kellettschool.com admissions@kellettschool.com Lighthouse Playroom 2791 2918 | info@lighthouseplayroom.com www.lighthouseplayroom.com Norwegian International School 2658 0341 | office@nis.edu.hk www.nis.edu.hk”

handy Education Sai Kung International Pre-School 2791 7354 skip@skip.edu.hk www.skip.edu.hk Sai Kung Tutors 5321 4400 | info@saikungtutors.com www.saikungtutors.com Woodland Pre-Schools Sai Kung 2813 0290 | saikung@woodlandschools.com www.woodlandschools.com Yew Chung International Children’s House/ Kindergarten 2338 7106 | enquiry@hk.ycef.com www.ycis-hk.com

Financial Services Infinity Financial Solutions Ltd 2815 5828 | hongkong@infinitysolutions.com Kwiksure Contact Lain Warren 3588 2927 www.kwiksure.com

Extracurricular Russian Ballet School 5467 4674 rbssaikung@gmail.com

Events Hotels & Private Clubs The Country Club at Hong Lok Yuen 2675 8899 enquiries@cchly.com www.cchly.com

Tap Dogs May 20-25 | HKAPA www.htticketing.com 31 288 288

Hebe Haven Yacht Club 2719 9682

Community Services Services and Professionals Hong Kong Hive Limited www.thehivesaikung.com.hk The Mandala Group 9634 5848 themandalagroup.org Resurrection Church 2358 3232 admin@resurrection.org.hk www.resurrection.org.hk SPOT Centre 2807 2992 | contact@spot.com.hk www.spot.com.hk

Parties & Entertainment Beads Galore HK 2358 1452 www.beadsgalorehk.com www.busybees.asia Beau Party adriana@beauparty.com www.facebook.com/beauparty Eezy PeezyParties www.eezypeezyparties.com Rumple and Friends www.rumpleandfriends.com

Real-Estate

OKAY.com

2102 0888 | support@okay.com www.okay.com Hong Kong Sotheby’s International Realty 852.3108.2108 www.hksothebysrealty.com Vegas Suites 3963 7888 www.vegassuites.com.hk

Easy Peasy Services www.easypeasyservices.com Marco the Contractor 6190 8051 Anna Massage 9354 7606, 6622 5398 Annerley www.annerley.com.hk Indo Handyman 2578 1865 | sales@indohandyman.hk Expert-Transport & Relocations Warehouse 2566 4799 | www.expertmover.hk Mordicus www.mordicus.hk Professional Wills Limited 2561 9031 | www.profwills.com Sunkoshi Gurkha Security Ltd 2199 7774 | www.sunkoshigurkha.com Tri Style - Fitting Models 9777 2486

Extracurricular Tutti Music

2176 4028 tuttimusic.tko@gmail.com www.tmusic.com.hk

The Reading Room (Sai Kung) 5 Tai Po Tsai, Clearwater Bay Road, Sai Kung, New Territories | 9199 5900 seasidereadingroom@gmail.com Bricks 4 Kids 2791 0007 | info@bricks4kidz.hk www.bricks4kidz.hk

Get listed call 2776 2772 email marketing@saikung.com WWW.SAIKUNG.COM | 57

on patrol...

neighbourhood watch

Spy in the sky?

After being badly hit in January, Sai Kung Police have made some strategic plans to combat village burglaries. With uniformed officers from the Police Tactical Unit (PTU) assisting us by covering burglary black-spots during the most vulnerable period (5pm-10pm), the Rural Patrol Unit has been able to devote more manpower to covert ambushes. As a result of this joint effort, only four village burglaries were reported in February and the situation is still stable as I write in early March.

A suspicious unmanned drone with a camera hovered over a house for about 15 minutes Po Lo Che remains a blackspot, however.

The modus operandi (MO) of drilling holes in window frames continues and we suspect the culprit lives locally. Our intelligence section is working hard to find him. Meanwhile, please brief your helpers and family members to be cautious, especially during the vulnerable hours.

Recently, I received an interesting email from an informant stating that a suspicious unmanned drone with a built-in camera had hovered over his house for about 15 minutes.

My first reaction was that the drone could be used for observation by burglars. Another remote-controlled wireless camera was seized

from an II who was caught redhanded burgling a property on Tai Mong Tsai Road, near Chi Fai Path, on March 10.

I immediately sent a low-profile deployment of my colleagues to try to find the controller of the drone, but it was flown away when the police appeared. Fortunately, my clever informant had taken a picture, which we have used for research.

The Civil Engineering and Development Department (CEDD) is currently employing unmanned drones, but they use a different model. However, we have found similar drones with built-in HD cameras online for $500-$5,000.

These drones can fly for 10 to 30 minutes and can be controlled from a distance of 20m to 100m.

We have no solid evidence this drone has any connection with burglars – it could be used by a peeping Tom, or simply for fun. To help us investigate further, please report any similar incidents to the Rural Patrol Unit (tel: 6148 0658) as quickly as possible. They may be able to approach the location, possibly in plainclothes, without alerting the controller.

Last but not least, owing to unexpected personnel movements, I will be leaving Sai Kung for Wong Tai Sin’s Task Force Sub Unit.

photo competiton Submit your shot We love receiving beautiful pictures of the area from our readers. Each month we publish our favourite. To enter, simply email your best shots of Sai Kung and Clearwater Bay, along with a brief description, to photo@fastmedia.com.hk.

This month’s winner: Mel Namattoc.

“This is my favourite weekend escape during the summer: Pak Lap Wan. I took this photo one awesome day before the junks and campers started to show up and occupy the beautiful shore.”

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Illustration by Forrest Lau

In his final column, Joe Au-Yeung Tak investigates a suspicious drone.

My successor, Janet Chan, will take over this column as an excellent platform to share our message with the public.

May I take this chance to express my immense gratitude to all of you. I will be back in Sai Kung to combat the burglars, but in a different role. I wish Sai Kung all the best.

Joe Au-Yeung Tak is the ADVC OPS for the Hong Kong Police Sai Kung Division Tel: 3661 1630

shoot for it

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Kellett School, The British International School in Hong Kong, is now accepting applications for the Sixth Form A Level Programme - Year 12 and Year 13.

Kellett School is an English National Curriculum School, engendering a love of learning and confidence for life.

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