May 2014
We mums Hooked on game fishing Catching marlin in Hong Kong
Mother’s Day gift guide
Spanish inquisition
Best tapas in town
Into the blue Ways to float your boat
Your face here!
may 2014
Cover image by Paul Etherington, founder of Kayak + Hike. For details, visit www.kayak-and-hike.com.
PEOPLE
interview
4 Snapped! Sai Kung’s social life.
16 George Ng Sze-fuk A chat with the Sai Kung District Council Chairman.
THE PLANNER
VINES IN SAI KUNG
6 Happening in May There’s plenty to do.
18 Cock-up theory Examining the government’s attitude to country parks.
letters 10 Have your say The latest from our readers. COUNTRY PARKS 12 Dining with the enemy Lunch with the Heung Yee Kuk. FIVE MINUTES WITH... 13 Soup-er woman Chan Po Po serves soul in a bowl. NEWS 14 What’s going on? In your backyard.
FEATURE 20 Let’s get wet Junk trippin’ and other watery activities. EATING 24 Tapas story Sampling Sai Kung’s small plates. outdoors 28 Big fish Hooked on sport fishing.
EDUCATION 30 School news KGV’s new field, Hong Lok Yuen turns 30, and more. family 34 Mother’s Day guide How to spoil your mum. BIG DAYS OUT 38 Hooked on High Island Sai Kung’s Sunday favourite. sport 43 Let’s hear it for the girls Ray Sting on the rugby sisterhood. HEALTH & BEAUTY 44 Prom queens Trends, styles and party tips.
CREATURE FEATURE 47 Little egret This little birdie. MARKETPLACE 49 Your guide to shops and services Cool stuff to buy and do. CLASSIFIEDS 56 Loads of random useful local stuff. ULTIMATE GUIDE 60 All you need to know Numbers that make life easier. ON PATROL 62 In with the new Top cop Janet Chan says hello.
PETS 46 Weathering the storm When lightning strikes…
“If evolution really works, how come mothers only have two hands?” Milton Berle
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people Snaps from Sai Kung
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say cheese
Share your event photos with us at photo@fastmedia.com.hk. Get snapping!
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planner May 2-4 Dunsinane
Playwright David Greig’s sequel to Macbeth, presented by the National Theatre of Scotland and the Royal Shakespeare Company. Kwai Tsing Theatre. Tickets $200-$480 from www.urbtix.hk, 2111 5999.
May 2-Jun 28 Le French May
Ooh la la! It’s the annual celebration of French arts, including opera, music, theatre and Le French GourMay. For details, visit www.frenchmay.com.
MAY 4
Sai Kung Sunday Market Monthly indoor market featuring gourmet food, craft beer, organic goods, locally designed clothes, jewellery and more. 11am-5pm, Hong Kong Academy, Wai Man Road, Sai Kung, saikungmarkets@gmail.com.
May 1 Labour Day Public holiday.
May 1 Agua Plus Quiz Night
Teams of six test the grey matter. 8pm, Agua Plus, 72 Po Tung Road, Sai Kung, 2791 2030.
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Until May 11 Ocean Park Animal Discovery Fest
Exhibition of seahorses and their weird relatives plus behind-the-scenes tours. Adults $320, children $160. Ocean Park, Aberdeen, 3923 2323, www.oceanpark.com.hk.
May 3-7 Cheung Chau Bun Festival
One of Hong Kong’s most iconic festivals involves scrambling up bun “mountains”, Chinese opera, lion and unicorn dances and a colourful parade on May 6 with small children balanced on parasols and other unlikely objects. Pak Tai Temple, Cheung Chau, www. cheungchau.org.
happening in may May 6 Buddha’s Birthday Public holiday.
May 6-11 Ocean Film Festival
Fishy films at locations across Hong Kong. Tickets from $80 at www.oceanrecov.org.
May 8 Sai Kung Sampler
Monthly pop-up market for deli goodies, gifts and more. 6pm-10pm, upstairs at Steamers, 66 Yi Chun Street, Sai Kung, 2792 6991.
May 9-12 Our Country’s Good
Board the First Fleet from Britain to Australia with the talented young performers of Faust International Youth Theatre. McAulay Studio, 2 Harbour Road, Wan Chai. Tickets $150-$190 from www.urbtix.hk, 2111 5999.
Until May 10 Ice Hockey 5s
One of Asia’s largest icehockey tournaments for youth and adult teams. Free. MegaBox, 38 Wang Chiu Road, Kowloon Bay, www.megaice.com.hk.
May 11 Mother’s Day
Love Mum. (For gift ideas, see p.38.)
May 11 Bonaqua Action Sprint
On your marks… 13km race from Pak Tam Chung, Sai Kung, www.actionasiaevents.com.
May 11 Cesar Millan
Learn new tricks from the doggy world’s Leader of the Pack. Hall 10, AsiaWorld-Expo, Lantau. Tickets $480-$880 from www.hkticketing.com, 3128 8288.
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.
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planner May 17 Sai Kung Hash
Join the local hash on its monthly hare around Sai Kung. Details at sites.google.com/site/ saikungsaturdayh3.
May 17-27 Asia Week Hong Kong
A new showcase for Asian art with exhibitions, lectures, auctions and special events at venues across Hong Kong; www.asiaweekhk.com.
May 20-25 Tap Dogs
Tap dancing with attitude in Blundstones, up ladders, through water, on dustbins... Lyric Theatre, HKAPA, Wan Chai. Tickets $350-$850 from www.hkticketing.com, 3128 8288.
May 23-25 HKFC International Soccer Sevens
Featuring youth and masters teams from Kitchee, Chelsea, Manchester City and more. Hong Kong Football Club, Happy Valley, www. hksoccersevens.com. Tickets $160-$300 from www.cityline.com, 2111 5333.
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.
May 15, 29 Quiz Nights
Testing times at Hebe One O One. 8.30pm, 112 Pak Sha Wan, 2332 5515.
May 17-18 10th Classic Yacht Rally
Beautiful vintage sailing boats race to Tai Tam Bay for an overnight party, Sunday breakfast and return to Aberdeen Boat Club’s Middle Island clubhouse for prize-giving. For details, visit www.abclubhk.com.
MAY 25 Family Tennis Fun Day
Tennis fun and games for kids and parents, some English tuition available. 3.30pm-5.30pm. Tickets $60 ($50 for members) from 2783 7876. YMCA King’s Park Centenary Centre, 22 Gascoigne Road, Yau Ma Tei, www.kpcc.ymcahk.org.hk.
Book now Jun 7 & 14 Garage Sale
Book a table for this popular sale of secondhand treasures. 9.30am-3pm, LG3 Car Park, Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, Clearwater Bay, 9045 5942, gujean@ust.hk.
Jun 25-28 Oh, What a Lovely War!
Hong Kong Players and the Royal British Legion present the anti-war musical to mark the June 28 centenary of the outbreak of WWI. Shouson Theatre, Hong Kong Arts Centre, Wan Chai. Tickets from $290 from www.urbtix.hk, 2111 5999.
Jun 28-Jul 1 Sesame Street Live
Elmo’s Super Heroes take the stage. Star Hall, KITEC, Kowloon Bay. Tickets $150-$550 from www.hkticketing.com, 3128 8288.
Aug 12 Ellie Goulding
She’s gonna let it burn, burn, burn, burn... Star Hall, KITEC, Kowloon Bay. Tickets $540$640 from www. hkticketing.com, 3128 8288.
Aug 13 The Smashing Pumpkins Oceania Tour
Alt rock live. AsiaWorld-Expo, Lantau. Tickets $580-$780 from www.hkticketing. com, 3128 8288.
Sep 24Oct 22 Mamma Mia!
All your ABBA favourites plus a big fat Greek wedding. Tickets $395$896 from www. hkticketing.com, 3128 8288.
Got an event? We can publish the details for free. Email editor@saikung.com. 8 | WWW.SAIKUNG.COM
letters
in your havebackyard your say
was told it was now a luxury residential area. There are way too many buildings to leave room for a golf course – probably a driving range. In Tai Po Tsai, the government has approved drainage work, which is underway, and call it a comprehensive residential development. There’s no mention of how many buildings are involved. Alfred Beckers Pak Kong Au Old Village
Update on developments It was very interesting to read your article about the various developments in Sai Kung (Sai Kung Magazine, April 2014). As for the Pak Kong golf area, please see www.akaa.com.hk/pak_kong_golf.html for the original plan. I overlook the development and
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Why Hoi Ha needs a visitors’ centre I refer to Steve Vines’ article (Sai Kung Magazine, April 2014), especially the section on Hoi Ha where he comments on the conceptual proposal by AFCD for a Marine Park Visitors’ Centre. According to at least two independent surveys, the barbecue area he refers to is not “popular”. In fact, it is probably the most underused barbecue site in the Sai Kung Country Park. It’s an artificial construct made from the spoil of widening the road some decades ago. The trees that were planted are wrong for the area (a cheap, fast-growing nonindigenous species), the ground cover is also
wrong and the layout of the barbecue pits is not conducive to social interaction. The area is well known for dog and cow faeces. I have been to the meetings AFCD has held with local stakeholders over the past few months and I have seen no formal plans for any buildings, just some conceptual ideas for a Marine Park Visitors’ Centre. Although I admit that the draft illustrations were not inspiring, the concept of having such a centre close to the village seems acceptable to everyone I have spoken to. There needs to be improvement in the facilities and amenities at Hoi Ha. Having a centre where large tourist buses can turn around and where proper educational activities can take place is becoming a necessity. The current arrangement is unacceptable. As long as any proposal does not negatively impact the environment, while providing improved amenities, it would be most welcome to residents and, I know, to visitors. Dr Robin Bradbeer, Hoi Ha Former Director, Hoi Ha Wan Marine Science Laboratory, City University of Hong Kong
We see the individual.
Hong Kong Academy offers a rigorous international education that engages students as unique individuals with different interests, goals, and approaches to learning. As an IB World School for students ages 3 to 18, Hong Kong Academy challenges all students to reach their potential and prepares them for life in a dynamic and diverse world. To learn more about our school and community or to arrange a tour, please visit www.hkacademy.edu.hk or call 2655-1111.
learning, growing, understanding
five minutes with...
in yoursoup backyard song
Soup-er woman Old-town stallholder Chan Po Po serves soul in a bowl. By Cherrie Yu. My son, Ricky, runs a fruit shop in Sai Kung old town, and people buy fruit and my Chinese soup from us. I have seven children who help out with the shop. We are dedicated to a healthy lifestyle and to helping people. It makes me feel very happy and grateful to help others understand the different properties of fruits and how they benefit the body.
I am 84 years old and have been living in Sai Kung for about 50 years, ever since I got married. My husband worked in Sai Kung, so we moved here. There are a lot of reasons to stay here: peace, air quality, lovely neighbours and everything is just good.
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I came up with my own speciality soup two years ago. It has nine ingredients: wolfberries, dried longans, Fallopia multiflora [Chinese knotweed or Fo-Ti root], Taxillus chinensis [a species of mistletoe], dang shen [“poor-man’s ginseng”], dried red dates, black dates, black beans and eggs. It helps to nourish the eyes and with skin problems. We give out free cups of soup every weekend to anyone interested in trying it. I realised Sai
We give out free cups of soup every weekend Kung needed a place that offered healthy foods. We are more than happy to explain to customers what fruit is suitable to them according to their health conditions. I am really close to our customers; they treat me like family. I’m like a mother to some of them. I love to volunteer too, such as for Caritas Hong Kong. And sometimes when I travel with other elderly people, I act as a care person for them. Visit Chan Po Po’s soup stall in her son’s fruit shop at 43A Sai Kung Main Street, Sai Kung old town.
save our country parks
news from the green front
Dining with the enemy Paul Zimmerman has dim sum with the Heung Yee Kuk.
Every year, green groups are invited to lunch with Heung Yee Kuk (HYK) representatives. This year I went along for the first time. It was a friendly occasion. Many people knew each other. But for both sides the maxims “know thy enemy” and “keep your friends close and your enemies closer” seemed to apply. The two groups have fundamental points of conflict, including the small-house policy, country-park enclaves and the use of agricultural land for open storage. The kuk seeks to maximize monetary land values;
green groups seek to conserve and enhance ecological land values. During lunch, a microphone was passed around. Many people heralded the values of good communications and everyone thanked Uncle Fat – Legislative Councillor Lau Wong-fat, chairman of the kuk – for paying for lunch. Kuk representatives expressed concerns over the environment and commented on their conservation efforts, including replacing genetically modified papayas and preventing illegal dumping on private land. I smiled when it was claimed that Uncle Fat successfully resolved the closure of the public footpath at Tai Long Sai Wan. Not only did HYK operatives initiate the action during last year’s Trailwalker, but opening the path only after government representatives were helicoptered in to discuss concessions seemed like blatant extortion. The government should have demanded public access before flying in. But why spoil lunch because Uncle Fat
had outfoxed the government yet again? Only public outrage over ecological destruction at the hands of indigenous villagers and rapacious developers can stop the kuk. During my remarks, I identified an area of common concern: if the government can’t be convinced to stop the construction of small houses in or near protected areas – such as country-park enclaves – the Town Planning Board should demand the provision of public sewerage and drainage facilities. The kuk liked that as it would enhance land values. Green groups hated it as a mitigation of environmental impact that could open the door to more development. But can we convince the government? 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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news
in your backyard
Cannibal cows conundrum Lantau Buffalo Association (LBA) is asking for its cows back. In November, the Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department (AFCD) relocated 21 Lantau feral cows to Sai Kung – and 29 Sai Kung cows to Lantau – in a bid to prevent the cattle from wandering onto roads and disrupting traffic. However, members of LBA believe the cows are “suffering physical and psychological stress” following reports of Sai Kung’s relocated “cannibal cows” foraging for burgers in rubbish bins in their new home. And now it has started a petition demanding the immediate return of the Lantau cows. “Cattle are highly social animals... Removal from their herd alone is stressful, and this has been exacerbated by being relocated to unfamiliar sites with uncertain levels of food and water resources,” says the LBA’s Kathy Daxon.
Sai Kung Buffalo Watch (SKBW), however, is not unhappy with the situation, arguing that the cows should not be put through the upheaval of another relocation and fears the government may decide to cull, fence or isolate the herd. “This is a terrible move and will ultimately prove detrimental to the currently free-roaming cattle populations,” SKBW co-founder Carol Biddell says. The AFCD claims it paid “great care” in identifying suitable sites prior to the relocation. “We have not observed cattle adapting to a carnivorous diet or feeding on trash extensively,” a spokesperson says. AFCD will continue to monitor the situation and review the relocation scheme later this year. For details about LBA’s petition, visit supporthk.org or call 8103 6312. For SKBW, call 9781 4703. Jodee Fong
Green light for Water World II
Green streets Hong Kong Flora, a new book by photographer Michael Wolf, launches this month. A former Sai Kung and Clearwater Bay resident, Wolf is renowned for bringing a fresh eye to Hong Kong, finding beauty in the city’s quirks from corner buildings to builders’ gloves, and from public housing to the creative webbing on the backs of delivery trolleys. Here he focuses on the city’s plants: pot plants tucked between pipes, growing out of air conditioners, locked behind shutters or wilting in plastic bottles with the tops cut off. The book launches on May 17, and the artist is opening his amazing studio to visitors at 3pm on May 16. Unit 4, 5/F Block A, Kailey Industrial Building, 12 Fung Yip Street, Chai Wan.
Happy birthday, Sense of Touch Detailed designs have been released for Ocean Park’s new Water World park, due to open in 2017, receiving the thumbs up from Southern District Council. “We liked the design very much,” says District Councillor Fergus Fung. “We were
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concerned about the traffic impact. We also suggested building a pier nearby to boost water-related tourism, to have some kind of water route to get there.” Ocean Park, Aberdeen, 3923 2323, www.oceanpark.com.hk.
Sense of Touch Sai Kung spa will celebrate its third anniversary with a party on May 8 for loyal customers and friends. There will be plenty of goodies, including free-flowing bubbles, canapes, goodie bags, a lucky draw and complimentary hand and arm massages for all guests. The day spa is inviting 20 lucky Sai Kung Magazine readers to the invitation-only event. To enter the draw, email ask@senseoftouchhk.com.
Happy 3rd Anniversary Sense of Touch Sai Kung! Celebrate with us and enjoy these fabulous birthday offers at only $333 : refresher facial | brazilian wax | ear candling head massage (30mins) | deep calm or detox massage (45mins) microdermabrasion add on | instant eye repair treatment sexy spa pedicure | shellac manicure
Girls spa treat for 3 - book any three facials or body treatments, and the third person is free Pampering trio - aromatherapy massage, body scrub and rose facial $1800 (orig. $2350) More special offers available - see our Facebook page for details
facebook.com/senseoftouchsaikung G/F and M/F, 77 Man Nin Street, Sai Kung (Open Monday to Sunday) T: 2791 2278 | E: ask@senseoftouchhk.com | www.senseoftouch.com.hk
interview
chairman of the board
Editorial Jane Steer jane@fastmedia.com.hk Hannah Grogan hannah@fastmedia.com.hk Cherrie Yu cherrie@fastmedia.com.hk Graphic Design Kelvin Lau kelvin@fastmedia.com.hk Evy Cheung evy@fastmedia.com.hk Sales Manager Jonathan Csanyi-Fritz jonathan@fastmedia.com.hk Business Development Manager Jackie Wilson jackie@fastmedia.com.hk Sales Executive Angela Tsui angela@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 Brunner Carolynne Dear Sally Andersen Stephen Vines Paul Zimmerman Nigel Griffiths Sophia Ho Jodee Fong Kelly Li Steffi Yuen 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.
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George Ng at his old-town office: “I step outside and there are my relatives.”
By George Sai Kung District Council Chairman George Ng Sze-fuk offers a glimpse of the area’s past and its future. By Cherrie Yu. My family has been in Sai Kung for five generations, originally as fishermen. I was born here in 1948 and have lived here all my life. My parents, brothers and sisters still live here. I step out of my office in the old town and there are my relatives and friends. My favourite places include Sharp Island and Kau Sai Chau. When we were kids, we would play on the islands while the adults worked. In the 1960s, I went to school during the day and helped my parents fish at night. After school I got a job in the city and had a career in the garment industry until 1976. In 1986 I joined Sai Kung District Council as a governmentappointed member. We oversaw the development of Tseung Kwan O new town from 1986-1994. The council then had 12 members; now it has 29. I am the longest working
member and district council chairman in Hong Kong. This is my sixth term as chairman. The government wants to keep Sai Kung as Hong Kong’s “back garden”. Sai Kung is internationally known for its beauty – the Hong Kong Global Geopark and country parks are natural gems. Out of Hong Kong’s 18 districts, Sai Kung is the best preserved. After receiving $100 million [grant from the government], we will halve it between two projects: the reconstruction of the Sharp Island Pier in the Geopark and construction of the Tseung Kwan O Heritage Hiking Trail. Sharp Island Pier [in the northeast of the island] used to be visited only by small boats but now there’s a demand from bigger tour boats. The pier cannot meet the safety standards and it’s dangerous to board and land. So $50 million is set aside
for a pier to accommodate the thousands of visitors going to Sharp Island every week. It is scheduled to be in use by 2018. Whether there will be additional facilities or guesthouses on the island on completion is uncertain. The government owns the beach but development companies own private land on the hillside. Government gives fewer resources to Tseung Kwan O than other areas, so we are spending $50 million in the area, setting up a heritage information centre at the former Tiu Keng Leng Police Station and two neighbouring houses. There will also be a heritage trail to connect sites with historical value, and provide a trail from Ap Tsai Shan. Sai Kung is becoming more tourist-oriented to meet changes in society. Since the 1960s, fishermen have switched to
Clear Water Bay Road
operating trips around the islands; most of the beach lifeguards were once former fishermen. It is a natural change. The government has to supply facilities to support this tourism – from one pier to two piers, more frequent minibus and bus services. There’s a dilemma regarding the preservation of the peace and quiet vs the development of tourism. Different voices are heard.
Clear Water Bay Road
Wilson Trail Sec. 3
Po Lam
Hang Hau
Tseung Kwan O Tiu Keng Leng
The route of the new Tseung Kwan O Heritage Trail. The council has earmarked $50 million for a heritage centre and trail linking historic sites.
In Sai Kung old town, I can’t see much chance of big malls replacing the local shops. It is hard for outsiders to enter. Business is fairly good and the land ownership is quite dispersed so it is hard for chains to take over the ownerships one by one. We are more worried about the increasing rent for shop owners. The empty former bank premises near the main square may be a result of high rents. We hope the government can speed up in providing the necessary facilities to meet the changes in Sai Kung. We want to balance tourism and local residents’ lifestyles. In 2015, the changes will be quite big. [Two sections of Hiram’s Highway] will be widened from two to four lanes and we’re urging the government to speed up the development of
In 2015, the changes will be quite big transportation links to other areas. With so much development going on, if transportation doesn’t happen on time, traffic congestion will get worse. We are urging government to plan the transportation facilities within Sai Kung town and add more carparks. The minibus terminal is often overcrowded at weekends. The District Council’s Working Group of Travel in Sai Kung has given the government a proposal for the minibus and bus terminals to be moved to the new carpark near Sai Kung Police Station and turn [the current bus terminals] into a plaza to spread out the crowds of visitors. We would love to connect with more Englishspeakers. We’re looking for bilingual speakers (Cantonese and English) to help build a stronger and more transparent relationship with the Sai Kung District Council. Contact George Ng at Chairman’s Office, 14 Tak Lung Front Street, Sai Kung Old Town, 2792 1482.
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vines in sai kung
stephen says...
The cock-up theory Stephen Vines examines the government’s attitude to country parks. Why the odds are stacked in the battle to preserve Sai Kung I have been trying to get my head round the question of why preservation of Hong Kong’s countryside – not least in our backyard of Sai Kung – appears to morph into a more or less permanent battle between officials seemingly set on eroding the countryside fighting those who are trying to preserve the environment. The same question could just as easily be turned on its head: why are people with no historic ties to the New Territories so determined to thwart its development and trample on the rights of indigenous villagers? After a long career in journalism and a shorter, but formative period as a political party researcher advising British government ministers on, among other things, aspects of agricultural policy, I am forcibly drawn towards the cock-up theory of policy-making as opposed to the idea of deliberate policy formation. Bureaucrats and their political masters are drawn towards solutions that cause the least trouble. Rarely do they aim for objectives that will do the most good because this aspiration is seen as a form of infantile idealism. In Hong Kong, things are far worse because the bureaucrats and the policymakers are largely the same people. It may be argued that our head of government is not a bureaucrat, but most of his ministers are. The system institutionally weakens the power of the Chief Executive because, unlike a leader elected by the people, he can never claim a popular mandate for his policies, a claim I heard British ministers make on several occasions when faced with bureaucrats trying to obstruct their
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plans. In the interests of honesty I need to report that, despite this, the bureaucrats usually got their way – but not always.
The government behaves like a fireman tackling sporadic blazes Cock up or deliberate policy? It is wrong, as some of my good friends claim, to say the government cares little about conservation. Nor can it be realistically said there is some kind of master plan to despoil the natural environment in favour of developers’ interests. A much more likely explanation is that the government has no real plan but behaves like a fireman tackling sporadic blazes, hoping they will not combine and become a major inferno. When the powerful Heung Yee Kuk puts forward a proposal, officials ponder how they can respond without offending the Kuk or its individual members, who have come up with yet another scheme for enriching themselves. The government sort of knows there is considerable public support for things environmental, but this support tends to be casual and quite low on most people’s priorities. Environmentalists occasionally mount impressive displays of support, but not often, and they are far removed from the centre of power. Therefore, there is little political cost attached to ignoring their demands. On the other hand, bureaucrats find that annoying the Kuk can be costly, not least because it has powerful friends in Beijing and, astutely, has made itself an indispensable
part of the pro-government camp, even to the extent of providing thugs to intervene in antigovernment protests. None of this means the government bureaucracy lacks people who genuinely care about the countryside. Some civil servants are battling within the machine to preserve as much as possible. However, promotion within the bureaucracy goes to those who make the least trouble and are regarded as a “safe pair of hands”. So these brave bureaucrats are few in number and doomed to relatively junior positions. The net result of all this is that the countryside, like all policy issues, is basically a matter of balance of power. The system responds to pressure, it rarely produces new initiatives itself, aside from master plans for massive projects, which the bureaucrats love. Should we just give up? Preserving an area of natural beauty, saving trees, protecting the shoreline and preserving historic buildings are regarded as “good”. But when “good” comes up against vested interests, it is easy to see who will prevail. So, should those of us who want to preserve Sai Kung, and elsewhere in Hong Kong for that matter, simply concede defeat? Of course not. But the battle for preservation needs to be ratcheted up to involve more people. It’s a slog, but a worthwhile one. Stephen Vines is a journalist, broadcaster and entrepreneur. He is the former editor of the Eastern Express and Southeast Asia correspondent for The Observer.
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feature
Junk trips and beyond. Carolynne Dear finds fun ways to get wet.
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wetter is better
From left: make some memories on a junk trip; the Aqualuna cruises the harbour; perfect your swan dive with Hong Kong Yachting.
Junk tripping Jaspa’s Junks Experience Jaspa’s legendary hospitality at sea. The fun begins the moment you climb aboard, with free-flowing Sea Breeze cocktails, beer and wine, a fully loaded iPod and an apparently endless series of canapes. Drop anchor – Millionaires’ Beach is a Jaspa’s favourite – swim, sunbathe, bob about on a noodle (staff will lob cold beers your way), somersault off the top deck, or whizz around on a banana boat or wakeboard (at additional charge). Lunch is a laidback barbecue, with steak, fish, chicken and salads and a special kids’ menu for tiny tummies. Then cruise home with freshly made pizza and chocolate brownies. Just bring a towel. Jaspa’s Junks sail from Pak Sha Wan or Central. Details at 2792 6001, www.casteloconcepts.com. Hong Kong Yachting This company has some of the most interesting charter boats in the territory, including classic junks, luxury motorboats, racing and cruising yachts, a sailing catamaran and a motorboat that can be run up onto a beach. Details at 2526 0151, www.hongkongyachting.com. Island Junks Classic teak motor junks with PA systems, Nespresso coffee machines, tandem kayaks, snorkels, sailing dinghies, beanbags and boxes of toys make Island Junks a great option for families. Optional catering and free-flowing drinks packages, wakeboarding, banana-boating and on-board Thai massage. Boats typically sail from Aberdeen; other pickup and drop-off locations may incur
extra charge. Details at 2877 5222, www. islandjunks.com.hk. Jubilee Choose from a fleet of 45 boats, including a teak sailing junk, top-of-the-range sleek white cruisers, huge ferries and a host of classic junks, with options for fishing, sightseeing, water sports, squid fishing and mahjong. Most boats come with an audio system and karaoke machine as well as an option to hire a speedboat with a banana and wakeboarding equipment. Details at 3555 5666, www.jubilee.com.hk.
Swim, sunbathe, bob about on a noodle, somersault off the top deck Koh Thai Junks Spice up your next trip with Thai snacks, curries and fruit platters on Koh Thai Junks. Its classic teak junks and white cruisers visit beaches in Sai Kung, Clearwater Bay and Hong Kong Island and, for a small surcharge, beautiful Tai Long Wan or even Lantau for dolphin-watching. Boats sail from Central, Aberdeen, Tsim Sha Tsui and Stanley, with a $700 surcharge each way for pickup or dropoff in Sai Kung. Details at 6014 8460, www.kohthai.com.hk. Lazydays If you want to chill, Lazydays ticks all the boxes. While the crew are happy to accommodate
small sailors with on-deck paddling pools, water sports and a kid-friendly menu, these sleek junks will appeal more to grown ups. Packages include free-flowing champagne and the indulgent Spa on the Sea (ladies’ day out, girls?). Party cruises and cruise and hike packages available. Details at 3488 1534, www.lazydays.com.hk. Michelangelo This meticulously restored, 80ft luxury junk is all sleek mahogany and shiny brass, with sun decks, a comfortable lounge, separate dining room, and reverse-cycle air conditioning to keep the temperature just right year round. Nine lucky guests can stay overnight in the cabins,12 can be seated for a formal dinner in the dining cabin or up to 59 can party all day. Day trips to Long Ke Wan and Tai Long Wan can be arranged. Details at 6621 1691, www.luxurysuperjunk.com. Standardboat Choose from a wide range of junks and cruisers, plus sailing junks and large ferries, for hire day or night, as well as lots of yummy catering options (there is a delivery surcharge for food). Or arrange your own catering. Details at 2570 1792, www.standardboat.hk. Vikings Charter Vikings Charter has a fleet of pleasure cruisers and junks. It offers a good-value weekday package: for $5,000, it includes a motor cruiser for 30 guests, pick up at any pier in Victoria Harbour to go anywhere in Hong Kong, and a speedboat with watersports. Details at 2814 9899, www.vikingscharters.com.hk.
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feature
Tap Mun
Wong Shek Pier
Ma Liu Shui Ferry Pier
chek keng Tai Wan ham tin wan
Sai Kung country Park
Sai Wan
Yim Tim Tsai Pak Sha Wan
Sharp Island
Tai Long Wan
Long Ke wan
golf course
Trio Kau Sai Chau
Pak Lap Wan
Port shelter
Public boat routes Kaitos, sampans, speedboats, ferries and junks that act as water taxis all sail from Sai Kung. Prices and routes may vary. Sharp Island & Hap Mun Sampan, $50-$80/person return. Wah Kee, 9437 3194.
Pak Lap Wan Junk water taxi, about $375/person (for eight people). Mr Cheung, KH Boats, 6736 3051.
Wong Shek Pier to Chek Keng Kaito, $15-$18. Transport Department, www.td.gov.hk.
Trio Sampan from Pak Sha Wan, $20/person return.
Long Ke Wan Junk water taxi, about $425/person (for eight people). Mr Cheung, KH Boats, 6736 3051.
Tap Mun From Sai Kung Speedboat, $1,600 for two to five people, return. Edward Shek, 5127 3053. From Ma Liu Shui Ferry Pier Kaito, $18-$28/person. Transport Department, www.td.gov.hk. From Wong Shek Pier Kaito, $9.50-$14/person. Transport Department, www.td.gov.hk.
Kau Sai Chau Golf Course Hong Kong Jockey Club ferries, $40-$70/ person return, www.kscgolf.org.hk. Kau Sai Chau Sampan, $150/person return. Mr Cheung, KH Boats, 6736 3051, www.khboats.com (website in Chinese only).
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Sai Wan, Ham Tin Wan, Tai Wan Speedboat (maximum 16 people), from $220/person return. Edward Shek, 5127 3053. Yim Tin Tsai Village Sampan $35/person return, 2791 6226.
feature Junk food Drop anchor for a seafood meal. Yau Ley, High Island, Sai Kung Laidback Yau Ley, with its fish farms, and pretty back beach, is a gem. Order a seafood feast – steamed fish, clams in black bean sauce, curry crab – and try to relax as the kids jump off the pier. It will even organise a boat to pick you up in Sai Kung. Sha Kiu Tsui, High Island, 2791 1822.
See Sai Kung at its finest with Kayak + Hike’s active day trips.
Party boats Aqualuna The familiar red-sailed junk Aqualuna was built by an 80-year-old local craftsman using traditional boat-building methods. As well as daily 45-minute harbour cruises, it can be hired for private parties of up to 80 guests. Details at 2116 8821, www.aqua.com.hk. Jungle Jane This party boat is seriously good fun, with zorbing, a giant slide off the top deck, 24ft bathing platform and huge open deck with space for 45 guests. Part of the Hong Kong Yachting fleet, the Jungle Jane was once an Australian crayfish boat. Now it’s party central, with floating loungers, beanbags, state-of-the-art sound system and anything-goes attitude. Details at 2526 0151, www.hongkongyachting.com. Star Ferry The Meridian Star is available for Victoria Harbour cruises with 290 of your nearest and dearest. BYO food. From $5,000 an hour, minimum of three hours. Details at 2118 6120, www.starferry.com.hk.
for underprivileged children. In 2005, the Hong Kong Jockey Club poneyed up for a new boat for the kids and the original vessel was bought by SpySea for private charter. Details at 2861 2911, www.spysea.net.
This party boat is seriously good fun Let’s get wet Stand Up Paddle-boarding (SUP) Not just a way to greet kids, “SUP” looks easy, but balancing on the board and paddling really works your core muscles. Give it a go with the qualified instructors at Blue Sky Sports Club (www.bluesky-sc.com, 2792 4938) or Hong Kong Stand Up Paddle Board Association (www.hksupba.com, 3502 1823). Motor, SUP and BBQ Blue Sky’s new Eco Tour includes a speedboat trip to the Geopark, two hours of kayaking or SUP with an instructor and a barbecue on Yim Tin Tsai island. $680 for seven hours from 2791 0806, www.bluesky-sc.com.
The Bounty A stunning 42m replica tall ship from Australia, The Bounty can accommodate up to 60 guests for a full dinner or cocktail buffet. The Bounty can pick up from Central or Tsim Sha Tsui for destinations anywhere in Hong Kong waters. Details from Hong Kong Resort Company on 2295 8288, enquiry@aubergediscoverybay.com.
Kayak and hike Kayak + Hike’s amazing day trips start with a junk or speedboat ride to the Geopark to paddle clear-bottomed kayaks through an arch, snorkel a coral reef, take a hike and indulge in a seafood lunch. Details from Paul Etherington, 9300 5197, www.kayak-and-hike.com.
The Huan This three-masted, 89-foot Chinese junk is available for parties of up to 59 guests. Built in the 1970s for three Europeans who planned to sail to the Med but ran out of cash, it languished in an Aberdeen boatyard until volunteers transformed it into a training vessel
Kayaking, sailing and windsurfing Hire kayaks, SUPs and windsurf boards from Ah Kwok Aqua Centre on Sha Ha beach, Sai Kung (call Wing at 9235 7842 or 9170 7513). From $50 a day. Reservations recommended in summer. Learn to kayak, sail or windsurf at the government’s water sports centres at Wong
Rainbow, Lamma Island Watch the world go by over a plate of baby lobster or black-pepper prawns at one of the largest restaurants on the Sok Kwu Wan seafood strip. It also runs its own ferries from Tsim Sha Tsui, Central, Cyberport or Aberdeen. 24 First Street, Sok Kwu Wan, Lamma Island. 2982 8100. Ming Kee Seafood, Po Toi Island Half an hour from Stanley, this restaurant is famous for its big wooden deck and arguably the best black-pepper squid in the territory. It even has a freezer full of Haagen-Dazs for dessert. Take a postprandial perambulation along the beach to check out Po Toi’s famous rock carvings. Po Toi can also be reached by ferry from Stanley. Book at weekends, 2849 7038.
Onboard caterers Gingers, 2964 9160, www.gingers.com.hk Shamrock Catering, 2547 8155, www.shamrock.com.hk Delicious, 2559 0144, www.delicious-hk.com Pomegranate Kitchen, 2580 0663, www.pomegranate.com Percy’s, www.percys.hk Chicken on the Run, www.chickenontherun.com
Shek Pier (2328 2311, wswsc@lcsd.gov.hk) and Chong Hing on High Island Reservoir (2792 6810, chwsc@lcsd.gov.hk). Wakeboarding Ken at Blue Sky (2792 4938), charges $700/ person (three people a session) for two hours of instruction. Children must be aged nine or over to carve up Inner Port Shelter. Squid fishing Shine a light! Join a junk for a night trip to catch squid in Port Shelter, then cook up your catch onboard. 6.30pm-10.30pm, $140-$150/ person for a minimum of eight people. Booking essential. Wah Kee, 9437 3194.
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eating
New on the menu, Casa’s stylishly presented tuna ceviche and roasted garlic and feta salad.
Take three tapas With three tapas bars opening in six months, Cherrie Yu samples the small plates. Casa Casa is Spanish for “home”, and sure enough its menu is all about simple, homemade food. “We want to bring the right concept of tapas food. It is a type of drinking food, social food; a sit-down and talk with your friends experience,” says British owner James Bradshaw, who has spent a lot of time in Spain. “When I was 16, some friends and my brother and I had a cooking thing. We would always be cooking dishes to try to better the last one. I still love experimenting with new stuff.” Successful experiments end up on the menu, which has recently grown to include salad selections including roasted garlic and feta salad, roasted vegetable salad and zucchini and pesto salad, plus a sweet homegrown cocktail, the Sai Kung Iced Tea. At Casa, the concept was to be as transparent as possible, keeping prices reasonable, eliminating the service charge and
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not encouraging tipping. Judging by the buzz and the younger, more glamorous crowd on a Friday or Saturday night, the formula is working. Shop 1, Sui Yat Building, Hoi Pong Square, Sai Kung, 5594 0007.
We want customers to eat and drink like you would in Spain
What to order 1. Beef tenderloin, $140/120g “The beef is from Australia. I love how the Australians treat their cattle. Completely ethical. They treat them like daughters, giving them a lot of space to run around.” 2. Meatballs with tomato and basil or sour plum and wasabi, $60 “I wake up at 6am to knead and roll our own meatballs. I can make 400 meatballs in 90 minutes.” 3. Tuna ceviche marinated with yuzu, sake and fresh coriander, $70 “The fish is from Vietnam, but it’s the Japanese dressing that makes it so popular.”
Cava Cava opened in September on busy Po Tung Road. While it’s a good location it wasn’t the clincher for chef-owner Doug Marshall: he says he chose Sai Kung because “it is a place full of great people”. At the time, the tapas trend that has been sweeping Hong Kong Island for the past few years had yet to make it to Sai Kung and it seemed like the right fit. Cava offers a varied selection of hot and cold tapas as well as main courses such as classic Spanish paella, calamari and salad ($85)
delicioso
Newcomer Plaza Mayor is offering an authentic taste of Spain in dishes such as paella (left) and meatballs in tomato sauce (above).
and fresh clams in homemade tomato sauce ($110). Like Casa, it’s a popular bar that serves food, with a variety of beers on tap (including Victoria Bitter for the area’s Aussies) and cava, of course. It’s proving popular with Sai Kung’s longestablished expat community, thanks to its warm and friendly atmosphere and fun party nights, when Marshall digs out his guitar and plays a few tunes. Catch him in action on May 3. 54 Po Tung Road, Sai Kung, 2217 3389. What to order 1. Sauteed garlic mushrooms, $45 2. Tapas plate: Mediterranean flan, spring rolls, bruschetta, olives and serrano, $180 for two 3. Paella with chicken, squid, mussels and clams (pre-order), $280 for two
Plaza Mayor The latest and most authentically Spanish of Sai Kung’s new crop of tapas joints, with a leg of Iberico ham as its proud centrepiece, Plaza Mayor could have been lifted straight from Barcelona. Its two chefs both hail from Spain – and it shows. “We want diners to feel they are in Spain,” says co-owner José Martino Alba. “Tapas is in fashion all over the world, including China. We want customers to eat and drink like you would in Spain, and bring the culture of sharing the plate here. All the music, decorations...” Like the first Plaza Mayor in Wan Chai, it is more restaurant than bar, with the focus on the food and wine, which can be enjoyed in-house or taken away. It has a prime location in Sai Kung’s main square, and Martino Alba has
plans to introduce alfresco tables soon. The focus is on traditional Spanish dishes rather than more contemporary fare. “Customers find great flavours here and really like the quality of products,” Martino Alba says. “It is already very crowded on Sundays.” We’re betting the new Sunday brunch – your choice of two tapas, plus an egg dish (huevos or tortilla, both with chorizo and ham), salad, shared platter of Iberico ham and a jug of sangria ($220) – is an instant hit. 22 Wang King Path (main square), Sai Kung, 2362 7021. What to order 1. Meatballs in tomato sauce $95 2. Garlic shrimps, $130 3. Spanish rice with seafood, $290
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eating
Nibbles style gastro pub is rumoured to be taking its place. Watch that space. 18 Alley Grams opens Coffee lovers are in for a treat: 18 Alley Grams has opened in Sai Kung. It’s the brand’s fifth branch in Hong Kong. It uses state-of-the-art equipment to make superb latte, cappuccino (both $36) and black coffee. Owner Ken Chow is an awardwinning barista. 16 Sai Kung Building, 42-56 Fuk Man Road, Sai Kung, www.18grams.com.
18 Alley Grams
Moves in the square The face of Sai Kung dining is changing, with several changes afoot in the main square. Castelo Concepts has closed the Gourmet Burger Company in the old Occo location, with no word yet on what will replace it. Sushi Tenku has also shut up shop. A new British-
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Bonjour Chez Raymond de Paris Intimate new French restaurant Chez Raymond De Paris has opened in Sai Kung. Owner Raymond Vachaudez, who has managed restaurants in Copenhagen and Lisbon, is offering a three-course menu ($350) featuring mains such as Burgundy beef, duck confit and mussels, with organic and boutique wines from Bordeaux, Rhone Valley and Burgundy. He also plans to host monthly wine dinners and tastings. Private parties welcome. Closed Mondays. 183D, Po Tung Road (near Cozy Corner), Sai Kung, 6484 1400.
Mum’s Secret Ingredient For Mother’s Day, pre-prepared meal delivery company Secret Ingredients is offering a special three-course menu of panfried pink snapper fillets, chickpea, kale and pancetta fricassee, and cherry crumble pie from Tai Tai Pies Pies. Best of all, you can honestly say you cooked it yourself. $450 for two people. Pre-order until May 9 for delivery on May 10 or 11. For details and orders, call 2108 4000 or visit www.secretingredient.com.hk. Ruby Tuesday is here The new Ruby Tuesday outlet in Hang Hau is now open with more than 170 seats and a 4,000-square-foot dining area. An opening promotion for members and local residents includes buy-one-get-one-free annual membership and a complimentary dish of nine chicken wings with any main course purchase. Open daily, 11.30am-11.30pm. Level 1, East Point City, Hang Hau, 2871 1828, www.rubytuesday.com.hk.
outdoors Fisherman’s tales Hannah Grogan swaps fishy tales with Hong Kong’s sport-fishing captain, Kim Stuart.
Kim Stuart hauls in a billfish caught in waters off Hong Kong.
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Far off the coast of Hong Kong, a fishing line twitches and goes taut. As the reel screeches and the anglers scramble for their rods, it’s clear this isn’t any ordinary fish. It’s big. It could be a mahi mahi or a black marlin... oh wait, it’s a bluefin tuna. It’s a regular weekend for Hong Kong Fishings founder, Kim Stuart, who has been fishing since he was 10 and running sport-fishing trips from Aberdeen for more than 20 years. “When I first arrived in 1983 I was told there were no fish. There were the trawlers, but no sport fishing,” he says. “It started with two guys. There was a collection of anglers who set up the Mandarin Sports Fishing Club to fish international competitions around the world. That was the only real fishing we did until two guys happened to go out on a junk somewhere near Sai Kung. They decided to put out a line and,
tight lines
It was this big: a proud angler and his mahi mahi.
the next thing they knew, out of the water came this marlin.” With that, Hong Kong Fishings was born. Stuart runs regular weekend trips during the summer monsoon (about April to November) aboard his fishing boat, Kidusi.
Departing Aberdeen at about 7.30am, he typically heads south for about an hour to find blue water where the big fish swim. “We’re about 18 miles offshore by the time we start to fish,” he says. “We’ll fish until about 4pm and then head back. Afterwards, the deckies on board help to gut and fillet the fish. The best bit for me is when people come out and catch some fish and have a really good day; having them experience something they’ve never done before and teaching them how to go through it.” On a typical day, the anglers catch about 20 fish. Some are kept, others released. “There are so many fish out there,” Stuart says. “The policy on the boat is all billfish are released and some are tagged. We’re going to start tagging sharks soon too.” He sees plenty of sharks, mostly whitetips and blacktips, but also bull sharks and even tiger sharks, including an 18 footer. “Since trawling was banned we will probably see a recovery in fish stocks and, inevitably, when you get more fish you get
Near Sai Kung, they decided to put out a line and out of the water came this marlin predators. I expect to see more sharks over the coming year. It’ll be an indication of how good the stocks are,” he says. “During the shark attacks [off Clearwater Bay] in the 90s we were catching tuna very close inshore. We were seeing a lot of fish quite close in. People will become more aware. There are more junks and people in the water. With no inshore trawling, fish numbers are rising and you’ll get more sharks out there.” Kidusi can be chartered for $22,000 a day for 10 anglers, or individual anglers can book at $2,400 each. For details, visit www. hongkongfishings.com. Email Kim Stuart at hongkongfishing@gmail.com to receive a regular newsletter.
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education
school news
KGV field opens It’s been a long couple of terms for students at King George V School as its much-loved sports field – a luxury in crowded Hong Kong – has been resurfaced and redeveloped. Work is now complete, and the school planned to celebrate last month with more than 600 students taking part in a world-record attempt bleep test. Professional players from the Hong Kong national rugby squad also held a training session: the Hong Kong Rugby Union helped sponsor the new pitch. The new multi-purpose sports ground features an internationally certified soccer pitch, athletics track, long jump pit and facilities for cricket, hockey, rugby and netball, to name a few. For details, visit www.kgv.edu.hk or call 2711 3029.
Happy Birthday, Hong Lok Yuen The primary division of International College Hong Kong in Hong Lok Yuen is celebrating its 30th anniversary this month. The school has grown from humble beginnings as a kindergarten in a private house on Hong Lok Yuen estate into a state-of-the-art education facility for children of all ages, from preschool tots to pre-university teens. For its anniversary, the school planned a
variety of activities around the theme of turning 30. Among the events will be an exhibition of students’ artwork, an action-packed day and picnic lunch for families on May 30 and an elaborate evening celebration for students, former students, parents and staff. For more information, email info@hlyis.edu. hk or call 2658 6935.
Colour My World at Art Basel Children can channel their inner Picasso by getting creative at the Colour My World programme at Art Basel on May 15-18. Art Kids is a dedicated space for children aged five to 18 to create and collaborate in visual and performing-art activities, while Kids Explore is a one-hour tour around key artworks and installations at the event, led by art aficionados. While the kids are busy, parents can enjoy Art Basel’s diverse collection of art from established and newly emerging artists as well as discussions about timely topics such as the contemporary art scene. For more information, email info@colourmy-world.com or call 2580 5028. Hong Kong Convention & Exhibition Centre, Harbour Road Entrance, Wan Chai.
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Hong Kong Academy kids go green Dear Sai Kung Magazine At Hong Kong Academy, we are fighters. We are fighting to keep the ocean healthy. We love coral reefs. They are really beautiful, but not only that, they supply a habitat for countless marine species. They protect coastal villages from strong waves. They also help the economy by attracting tourists. But these amazing creatures are dying. Did you know Hong Kong once had more coral species than the Caribbean? The coral is dying because of us. We are building septic tanks too close to the ocean. We are building houses next to the streams and letting pollution run into the ocean. We have to stop. We have to be careful. Four kids can’t save the coral around Hong Kong. But with everyone’s help, maybe we can. It’s easy to help us. Please sign Newbery’s petition at supporthk.org (“Object to Plans to Develop and Destroy Hoi Ha”) to stop developers building 60 houses next to streams that empty into Hoi Ha Marine Park. Join our fight! Learn more about us at coralreefinggroup2014.weebly.com (password: “dragonfly”). Candice, Chris, Christina and Gracie Coral Reefing Group
promotion
Global expertise, local knowledge A look at one of the city’s leading realty firms, Hong Kong Sotheby’s International Realty. Set up in 1976, the Sotheby’s International Realty® organisation has become renowned for the luxury properties it represents. Vision, passion and momentum are the modern hallmarks of this quintessential luxury real estate brand - and its Hong Kong office is no exception. The company prides itself on offering not only international expertise, but also intimate local knowledge. With a team of realty experts from all across the globe living within Sai Kung and Clearwater Bay, they not only know the properties they represent but understand the community and lifestyle of the area itself. Continuing the brand’s prestigious heritage
and tradition, Hong Kong Sotheby’s International Realty (HKSIR) offers an extensive variety of professional property services from residential leasing and sales to investment in new and overseas developments. HKSIR’s professional agents have extensive knowledge of the Hong Kong real estate market and make a point of keeping abreast of market trends. This capability is backed up by a comprehensive database of active property listings and clients. Nor is HKSIR’s expertise limited to the local sector. The company has access to distinctive properties around the world and is also able to tap into a network of approximately 500 offices in more than 40 countries and territories. Its talented teams of agents are themselves as international as they come. Originating from 15 different countries and collectively speaking 13 languages, they are multilingual and multi-cultural. Many of them are expats and understand the often difficult process of relocating and finding the perfect home away from home. Several agents within this team live in Sai Kung. Extremely well acquainted with the district, its various neighbourhoods, schools and communities, they are well placed to offer informative advice to any client thinking of moving to the area. HKSIR prides itself on its tailor-made service and its understanding of the specific
requirements of each individual client. The highest levels of service, courtesy and integrity are maintained at all times and the quest to find a dream home for each and every client is the company’s enduring mission.
CONTACT: Suite 2001, Three Pacific Place, 1 Queen’s Road East, Hong Kong, 3108 2108, enquiry@hksothebysrealty.com, www.hksothebysrealty.com.
sponsored column
Boarding in Britain How to choose a British boarding school. In an increasingly global community, there are many options around the world for boarding schools, which offer facilities for students to live on campus during term time. Britain continues to be a popular choice for families in Hong Kong, thanks to its reputation for educational excellence. Types of schools In most areas of the country, students go to primary school from age five to 11 (school years one to six), moving to secondary school from age 11 to 18 (years seven to 13). Full-time education is compulsory until age 17; this will be increased to age 18 in 2015. Publicly funded schools are referred to as state schools. There are 37 state boarding schools, which offer free education and charge fees for boarding. Private and independent schools charge for both education and boarding; confusingly, this category also includes “public schools”, which are among the oldest, most exclusive and most expensive in the country.
More than 300 private schools in Britain offer boarding facilities, and most accept both boarders and day pupils, with the proportions varying considerably between schools. Many of the most famous British schools – such as Eton College, Harrow School, Rugby School and Winchester College – are senior schools for students aged 13 to 18 years old. Entry to British schools Due to common examinations in years 11 and 13, most senior schools limit their entry to Year Seven (state sector), Year Nine (private sector) and Year 12 (both sectors). The competition for places is fiercest for Year 12 entry for several reasons. Most British schools require students to sit entrance tests, typically in English and maths, and sometimes in science, verbal and non-verbal reasoning. Relatively few schools require students from overseas to sit the Common Entrance (CE) examination, preferring to set their own tests, most of which are similar in content to CE. Schools may also use tests in other
subjects for streaming students into classes of similar levels of ability. Some schools allow students to take entrance tests when they apply for a place, others require tests to be taken at a particular time. Most schools allow tests to be taken in Hong Kong and tests typically take place from November to January of the academic year before entry. Students who perform sufficiently well will be invited to interviews. For more information about British boarding schools, call Edmund To at 2116 3916 or email info@itseducation.asia.
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@itseducation.asia, 3188 3940 or www.itseducationasisa.com.
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family For Mum, with love Sophia Ho finds perfect gifts for Mother's Day on May 11. Sha Kok Mei Calf Ink on paper, 260mm x 310mm. $4,600 from Sascha Camille Howard Artist Studio, 787 Po Tung Road, Sai Kung, 9254 8803, www.saschahoward.com.
Pink Neon Photographic collage on canvas by Belinda Bath. Price on application, belindabathimages@gmail.com, 6117 8854, www6.clikpic.com/belindabath.
Soho81 Cowhide Cushion $690 from HK Hide Rugs, 2/F, 41-43 Graham Street, Central, 2790 3801, www.hkhiderugs.com.
Octopus stacking cups $460 for four from IMM Living, K11, 18 Hanoi Road, Tsim Sha Tsui, www.imm-living.com.
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Hong Kong Toile Teapot By Mariko Jesse for Faux. $880 from TREE, 116 Man Nin Street, Sai Kung, 2791 2802, www.tree.com.hk.
xoxo
Dazzling blue earrings $300 from Polkadot Boutique, 2/F, 29 Hollywood Road, Central, 2521 0636, www.shoppolkadot.com.
Card by Metropolis $55 from Dymocks, 7 Man Nin Street, Sai Kung, 2791 9110, www.dymocks.com.hk.
Kimono teacup and saucer $120 from Indigo Living, 2/F, HomeSquare, 138 Sha Tin Rural Committee Road, Sha Tin, 2634 1618, www.indigo-living.com.
DeLonghi coffee maker Model EC680. $1,998 from Sogo, 555 Hennessy Road, Causeway Bay, www.delonghi.com.
Kung-fu silk scarf $1,280 from G.O.D, 2 Yi Chun Street, Sai Kung, 2791 7122, www.god.com.hk.
Floral arrangements Start at $520 (plus $200 delivery charge to Sai Kung) from Flowers From The Heart by TREE, 2870 2118, www.tree.com.hk.
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family
Make her day
love mum
Clockwise from left: This Mother's Day, decorate a cake at Renaissance Harbour View Hotel, spend the weekend at the Auberge Discovery Bay, or go for tea at the InterContinental Hong Kong's Lobby Lounge.
Sophia Ho finds things to do on Mother’s Day. Steamers Sunday means roast dinners for lots of families. On Mother’s Day, get mum out of the kitchen for a slap-up roast beast feast at Steamers. Choose from chicken, beef or lamb, with all the trimmings, including Yorkshire pudding, for $128. On May 11, Steamers is treating all mums to a free glass of Prosecco with the purchase of any main meal. 66 Yi Chun Street, Sai Kung, 2792 6991. Lobby Lounge What mum doesn’t love a good view? They don’t come much better than the panorama of Victoria Harbour and Hong Kong Island's stunning skyline from the Lobby Lounge of the InterContinental Hong Kong, where the tables are arranged in tiers so everyone gets to soak in the view. Give her a seat facing the floorto-ceiling windows and ply her with Parisianstyle pastries from the special Mother’s Day afternoon tea. A live quartet will provide the soundtrack and executive pastry chef Cyril Dupuis will get creative in the kitchen. $588 for two; $388 for one. 18 Salisbury Road, Tsim Sha Tsui, 2313 2323, www.hongkong-ic. intercontinental.com.
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Renaissance Harbour View Hotel Let the kids decorate a half-pound white chocolate mousse cake specially for mum at a cake-decorating workshop in the Renaissance Harbour View Hotel, then stay for the Mother’s Day buffet dinner in The Lounge. The spread will include lobster, king crab and blue mussels, plus hot dishes and desserts – although we’re betting she’ll save space for that lovely cake. Message for the Beloved Mum cake decorating workshop, 4pm-6pm; buffet, 6.30pm-1pm. $568, children $288. 1 Harbour Road, Wan Chai, 2584 6970, www.marriott.com.
dinner on May 9-11 ($2,680 for four) including braised bird’s nest with Chinese yellow wine and superior soup, and pan-fried garoupa with pumpkin and cinnamon. And two guests booking the Melo Spa’s Floral Embracing Journey – osmanthus body scrub, regenerating facial and relaxing aroma massage – will receive a complimentary 30-minute aromatherapy bath in a private couple’s spa suite. $1,988 for two and a half hours of bliss for mother and daughter, or ma and pa, perhaps. 18 Chak Cheung Street, Sha Tin, 3723 1234, www.hongkong.shatin. hyatt.com
Ply her with Parisianstyle pastries from the special Mother's Day tea
The Auberge Book a staycation on lovely Lantau at the Auberge Discovery Bay boutique hotel. In May, it is offering discounts of 10 per cent for two-night stays and 15 per cent on three-night stays. For Mother’s Day, it will be holding a sumptuous seafood buffet ($398-$438) and, throughout May, is offering a free 30-minute back massage to all mums booking a one-hour facial treatment in the Spa Botanica. From $1,097 for two nights in a Mountain View twin room. 88 Siena Avenue, Discovery Bay, Lantau Island, 2295 8288, www.aubergediscoverybay.com.
Hyatt Regency Sha Tin Hyatt Regency Sha Tin has plenty of treats for Mother’s Day. Pastry chef Kelvin Lai is cooking up white chocolate mousse and cherry cake, $320 a pound, available May 1-11 (order a day in advance). Chinese restaurant Sha Tin 18 is offering an eight-course Mother’s Day
big day out
way out east
The almost-deserted village of Pak A.
Hooked on High Island Nigel Griffiths ambles through the Sai Kung weekend favourite.
A favourite Sunday destination for junk trippers and hikers, High Island or Leung Sheun Wan was once an island in Sai Kung East Country Park. In 1979, it was connected to the peninsula by two dams to form the High Island Reservoir. About 400 villagers were displaced by the rising waters, but there are still four former fishing villages on the west coast: Pak A, Tung A, Sha Kiu Tau and Pak Lap. There are public piers at the first three villages, which can also be reached by an easy walk; reaching Pak Lap is more challenging. A good starting point is to alight at Pak A (near the now-closed Jaspas Beach Club), then follow the footpath past the houses and ruins, keeping an eye open for skinks, fungi, birds and butterflies. The path curves around the coast for a 20-minute walk to Tung A. Leung Sheun Wan Tin Hau Temple First constructed in 1741, and rebuilt four times subsequently, this is an interesting temple. Tin Hau is the central deity, lions guard the entrance and the roof is made of ornate Shek Wan pottery. Beyond the door gods is a spirit
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screen (dong chung) that keeps ghosts and evil spirits out, a spacious lobby and an offering table with five brass pots for joss-sticks. There are three statues of Tin Hau, including one used for parading on festive occasions and an unusual porcelain statue. The deity is accompanied by two female attendants dressed as maids and two demon servants – red-faced Thousand League Eyes and green-faced Favourable Wind Ears – which warn Tin Hau of impending bad weather at sea. The temple also houses two excellent model sailing ships, symbols of the Eight Immortals, a bell and drum and, outside, two dragon boats. Villagers often dry fish on the quayside beyond the forecourt. Sea Urchin Restaurant Just beyond the temple on the way to Sha Kiu is the Sea Urchin Restaurant, serving urchins farmed locally. The delicate shellfish features in various freshly prepared dishes, including steamed egg white with sea urchin, sea urchinfried rice and spring rolls. The restaurant is open on weekends and public holidays, 10am until late. It also offers a free boat service to and
An unusual porcelain statue of Tin Hau.
From left: The Sea Urchin Restaurant; a bluebottle butterfly; Tin Hau Temple; a spiky delicacy.
from Sai Kung for groups of 10 or more who order the nine-course set meal ($288 or $328 each). For details, call 2791 2668 or 6681 6667. Tung A The village of Tung A is at the end of the inlet: the walk takes you past bushes filled with butterflies, including bluebottles and tigers. Photo opportunities abound – landscape,
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seascape, wildlife: a 1/200th shutter speed is great for capturing butterflies’ flapping wings. There’s a private ancestral worship hall for the Jiang clan and beautiful lilies grow further along the path, which climbs and then descends gently to the village of Sha Kiu. Sha Kiu This village has a public pier, a number of
houses and Yau Ley seafood restaurant, a favourite with the boating fraternity. There’s also a small sandy beach and pagoda with views out to sea. Yau Ley also offers a boat service for diners (for details, call 2791 1822). Pak Lap With a beautiful long sandy beach, Pak Lap is popular with junk trippers and for water sports.
To get there, take the footpath to the left behind the Tin Hau Temple, or the footpath behind the Jiang clan worship hall. The path is clearly marked – if steep in places – and there are superb views and wildlife. Before you go Download the free mobile app MapsWithMe and its China map for a clearer idea of where
the footpaths are. The app works offline, although most areas have network coverage. Getting there There is no public ferry to High Island. From Sai Kung pier, hire a speed boat ($900 for up to 10 passengers) or sampan ($700 for up to 16). The trips take 30 or 60 minutes respectively and cost slightly less on
weekdays. Book with Mr Lewey on 5604 2658, or haggle with the waterfront boat operators. Boats will drop you at one point and collect you at another. Pak Lap does not have a pier, so you will have to wade. Alternatively, walk or take a cab along Sai Kung Man Yee Road; the path to Pak A is signposted down a set of steps beyond the West Dam.
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sport
pink and blue
Let’s hear it for the girls Ray Sting cheers on the rugby girls. any other in Hong Kong. The percentage of girls has consistently run at more than 45 per cent, peaking at 64 per cent in 2006/07. In the club’s Youth teams, there are more girls than boys. Only a small percentage of players in any sport will compete at elite level. But expatriate children can dream not only about playing for their country but deciding which country to play for. What an extraordinary privilege, and one that by definition increases their chance to compete at national level.
Rugby is a man’s sport. Girls should not play rugby. Mercifully we have moved on from such antiquated beliefs. Women’s rugby is one of the fastest-growing sports in Asia, particularly following the inclusion of rugby sevens as an Olympic sport. At Sai Kung Stingrays, we have a rugby club that boasts a higher proportion of girls than
So how do you get there? The player development pathway for rugby starts with the minis. From age four, girls can join one of 18 mini rugby clubs in Hong Kong. The contact game starts at U9/10 and girls play against other club teams as they progress through U12, U14, U16 and U19. This does not mean girls must choose between dance or gymnastics and rugby. Just ask the girls’ coaches. It’s widely acknowledged
that the body control and balance acquired at ballet and the strength-to-weight ratio and flexibility from gymnastics help to improve rugby performance. Girls also have access to a host of other team sports – football, netball, volleyball and more – all of which complement each other, reinforcing basic skills, building confidence and teaching respect, commitment and teamwork. Don’t give up anything; try them all. If the sport you are passionate about turns out to be rugby – and you want to go all the way – your club, union and government are behind you. At the end of May, a selected group of U16 girls and boys will attend a three-day training camp at the world-class Hong Kong Sports Institute, giving players a glimpse of life as a professional athlete in Hong Kong. Last year, the Hong Kong Under-19 (U19) Girls team won bronze at the Youth Asian Games. Four players were Stingrays. Ice bath, anyone?
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health & beauty Prom queens Sophia Ho gets on trend for prom season. Makeup “A favourite look this season is glowing skin, clean brows, nude eyes with a subtle smokey liner (or cat liner, if you know how), and bright lips,” says Eve Roth Lindsay of Savvy Style. “This look is relatively easy to pull off and complements many different hairstyles.” Chanel makeup counters offer evening makeup packages from $600. Or try a full makeup session, from $380, at MAC, Metro City Plaza, 8 Yan King Road, Tseung Kwan O. Beaute Par Zai offers evening makeovers at Sea Bird House, 22-28 Wyndham St, Central, 9364 5271, www.spabpz.com. Dress “Buy the dress your daughter loves – not the one you want her to love,” advises fashion consultant Sheryl Bolden, founder of Make My Wardrobe Work. “It is her night, allow her to feel comfortable and special.” So what will this year’s prom queens be
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wearing? Expect lots of mesh, lace and chiffon in on-trend colours mint, blush, orchid and orange. Try Causeway Bay’s Yiu Wa and Matheson streets or go online at Asos.com and Net-A-Porter. This front-drape jersey gown (pictured) is $5,599, from Germain Studio, 17-21
From left: Beaute Par Zai makeover, Germain dress, Princess Natalia necklace from Accessorize, shoes from Zara.
you shall go to the ball
Buy the dress your daughter loves, not the one you want her to love Matheson Street, or New Town Plaza I, Sha Tin, 2574 7196, www.germainstudio.com.
offers updos for $450, 56 Po Tung Road, Sai Kung, 2335 1694.
Shoes Wedges are out, four-inch heels are in. Create your own at DYOS (Design Your Own Shoes), 1/F, 33 Yiu Wa Street, Causeway Bay, 2204 3043, www.dyos.hk. Or try Zara’s ankle-strap platform heels, $499, Metro City Plaza II, 8 Yan King Road, Tseung Kwan O, 2164 0250.
Accessories “The accessories for prom this year feature a lot of metallic details. Jewellery has been very chunky – collar-style necklaces, bejewelled cuffs – handbags have chains in various sizes, sequins or jewels. Make sure your accessories complement your outfit, not overshadow it,” advises Eve Roth Lindsay. Try the Princesss Natalia necklace ($410, Accessorize, Festival Walk and Ocean Terminal) or Imaï Guipure gold cuff ($1,650, from Nuage Concepts, 26-28 Hollywood Road, Central, 2810 0000. www.nuageconcept.com). For a bag or clutch, Zalora (www.zalora.com. hk) has the Something Borrowed laser-cut bow clutch, $149, and Perllini faux-lizard leather coin purse, $94.90. And finally, three things to avoid: watches, flowers in your hair and tiaras.
Hair “Sometimes less is more,” says Vincent Lann of Amika Hairdo Bar, which specialises in blowdrying and styling hair rather than cutting. “With prom, girls tend to over-do their hair. Keep it sexy, simple and sophisticated. Your hair is your best accessory – it is supposed to highlight and accentuate you.” Styling, blowouts or updos, $180-$550, Amika Hairdo Bar, UG/F, 8 Elgin Street, Central, 2291 0070. In Sai Kung, Tala’s Hair & Beauty
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pets Weathering the storms Dogs regard their owners as guardian angels – and not just during bad weather, says Sally Andersen.
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Their trust in my ability to keep them safe even from a lightning strike is touching Picture: Vivian Chan
I’ve just got back from my regular morning walk with the dogs during which we were caught in an unexpected thunderstorm and downpour. I enjoy a good thunder and lightning display from the comfort of home, but being out in an electrical storm is a different matter. I will never forget witnessing a lightning strike that electrified the trees around me and sparks flying when I touched a trunk. But while I wouldn’t choose to go walking during a thunderstorm, bad weather often moves in so fast that I don’t see it coming. When this happens the dogs cluster round my legs as if I can somehow protect them from the thunder and lightning, and it takes twice as long to get home. I have to physically push the dogs from behind while urging them to “go, go!” (the command they understand means they must hurry up). This works for a few feet before they stop again, glued to my legs in a mass.
Their trust in my apparent ability to keep them safe even from a lightning strike is touching, but it is so for every dog and their humans. We are their everything, from provider of food to walking companion and ear
scratcher, while they offer undying loyalty and devotion. No matter how badly treated a dog is, it will stay and accept its treatment, such is their nature. This morning, just after being reminded that my dogs view me as their saviour and guardian, I received a request to take in a young, very friendly and loving mongrel in need of a home because the couple whose dog it was were moving to a new place that didn’t allow pets. If Hong Kong Dog Rescue wouldn’t take her, they said, they “may need to have her
scaredy cats?
creature feature Little egret aka Egretta garzetta
put down”. In my wildest dreams, or perhaps I should call them nightmares, I can’t imagine contemplating taking such action with a dog that has shown nothing but affection and loyalty. To abuse the trust of an animal that would almost certainly die for you, but would much rather live, is a terrible thing to do. There are rare times when re-homing a pet is unavoidable, but moving house isn’t one of them. And it’s certainly not a reason to take a dog’s life. Getting a dog is a serious commitment, particularly if you expect to move not only between houses but between countries, so please think carefully before doing it.
Sally Andersen is the founder of Hong Kong Dog Rescue, a charity that rescues, rehabilitates and re-homes unwanted or abandoned dogs.
Found in: New Territories’ wetlands, including Wetland Park, Mai Po, Yim Tso Ha and A Chau. Little egrets, also known as yellow-footed egrets, are medium-sized white herons. They are common in Hong Kong, where they are year-round residents. The birds’ range is expanding and they are a frequent sight in freshwater marshes and intertidal mudflats in many countries. They prefer open areas and shallow water where they wade, snapping at prey: fish, insects, reptiles, amphibians and crustaceans. These wading birds can reach 65cm long, with a wingspan of 106cm. Adults typically have black legs and yellow feet, and juveniles have greenish-black legs and duller yellow feet; chicks are covered in white down. They lay oval, blue-green eggs. During breeding season (mid-March
to August), adults develop long plumes on their heads and necks and black bills. They gather in egretries in the northwest New Territories, sometimes shared with other species, including the great egret and blackcapped night heron. Tolerant of disturbance, little egrets often form colonies in bushes on the edges of villages or near main roads. Generally solitary and silent, they make occasional alarm calls and in breeding colonies adults make croaking and bubbling calls. There’s a Little Egret Restaurant at the Lake Egret park in Tai Po Kau – although the birds are apparently a bit thin on the ground. Steffi Yuen
For franchise information please contact us at: info@bricks4kidz.hk HK Bricks 4 Kidz Lego® is a registered trademark of the Lego® group of companies which does not sponsor, authorize or endorse these programs.
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classifieds INVESTMENT BUYING LANDS TO BUILD SELF DESIGNED HOUSE HKD $3,600,000 Expat community. Hilltop with Green living. Private & tranquil. 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
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 Water’s Edge $58K Ref~SK028 Nicely Renovated Detached House. Quiet hidden location,10 mins from Sai Kung Town. Spacious separate Living & Dining Rooms, 3 Bedrooms, Floor to Ceiling Windows, Magnificent Sea Views. Large Private Terrace, 2 Carparks. www.thepropertyshop.com.hk 27193977 | C-027656 Executive Residence $180K / 73M Ref~CWB266 Designer Décor Renovation, 4 Double Beds, Very Spacious Living, Dining & Family Rms, Fabulous Master Bedroom, High Ceilings, Lovely Mountain Views, Private Pool, Double Garage, Fantastic Club House, Resident’s Shuttle Bus. www.thepropertyshop.com.hk 27193977 | C-027656 GARDEN HOUSE HKD $ 63K/20.88M Ref~SK560 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. SOLE AGENT www.thepropertyshop.com.hk 27193977 | C-027656
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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 (C012503) 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
Benz ML350 for sale HKD $55,000 2003, black color, sunroof, new tyres, parking camera, good condition, license till Nov 2014. Interested parties, please call 6010-776. 1985 Classic Mercedes 280SL for sale HKD $180,000 Classic Mercedes. A joy to drive. Black soft top. 143,000 miles on the clock. Original log book and paperwork. New registration and MOT. Contact 23282644 (h) 95445450 (m). Nigel BMW FOR SALE HKD $63,000 2003 BMW X5 3.0. It has done 130,000km. Please contact Jeffrey on 9485 2103.
OVERSEAS PROPERTY Property for Sale in the Philippines HKD $2.53M Pangasinan, Philippines Superb 80,000sf property For more details: www.TheSpiritHouse. jimdo.com Owner: Jim 9218-0851
GALLE, SRI LANKA Superb 4b/r Villas, Rent and Sale. Close to beach & Galle Fort. Private Pool, Fully Staffed www.watura.com Owner: Sue 9754 5967
CARS & BOATS Jaguar XF for sale HKD $278,000 08 Jaguar XF 3.0 SE, 1 owner, sunroof, keyless, bluetooth phone system, parking cam, 33,000 km, maintained by dealer since new. Please call 9485 2103 Jeffrey (Better Motors). 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
2005 VW SHARAN MPV HKD $65,000 Very good condition. Silver - automatic transmission, leather seats, built in child seat, ABS, etc. Only owned by one owner. Contact Rowena 9484 5987.
SERVICES Lovely Homestay for Dogs Your dog will be kept indoor-cage free, can walk around within roof or in a pleasant environment. Cared for on 24 hours basis, well fed and walked twice a day. I am a dog lover with over 25 years experience in taking care of dogs and cats. Welcome those that are living in Sai Kung or Clearwater Bay area. Call me at 6377 5567. Cambridge Weight Plan – Nutritional Weight Loss Plan CAMBRIDGE WEIGHT PLAN is in Sai Kung & Clearwater Bay. Balanced and nutritional weight loss plan with support and motivation. Contact Jean 9045 5942 Jean@cambridgeweightplan.hk or Alison 9618 1777 alison@cambridgeweightplan.hk Resurrection Church 10am Sundays, Everyone Welcome, Children’s Programs, Biblical Teaching, Life Groups, English Speaking Tel: 2358 3232 Email: admin@ resurrection.org.hk Website: www. resurrection.org.hk
random but interesting Computer Services Apple & Windows. Onsite Troubleshooting and support for Apple, Windows computers & peripherals. WiFi Networks & Extensions, Data Transfer Window, Mac, Windows to Mac, Data Recovery, connect iPhone, iPad, Apple TV, iCloud, etc. Email: chrisk@netvigator.com or Call: Christopher Krishnan: 91470230 Outcall Massage HKD $500/ 2 HOURS ITEC qualified Holistic Massage Therapist offering customized treatments in the comfort of your home/hotel. Please contact Pamela 6695 3518 (whatsapp / line) Party Magician HKD $2600 Andy Ko’s Children Magic Show is popular among local celebrities, Expats and Japanese family. Frequently performs in HK Gold Coast, Saikung, Discovery Bay, HK American Club, HK Football Club, HK Disneyland.
http://kids.koandy.com. Email: info@koandy.com. Tel: 97002469 (Available in Fluent English, Cantonese & Simple Japanese.) Clean 9 Cleanse Detox Clean 9 is a 9 day plan whereby your body is gently cleansed of harmful toxins and built up waste matter. Lose around 7-14lb, results vary from person to person. It is endorsed by doctors/nutritionists as a sensible safe plan. Feel amazing after- energy, glowy skin, and feel clean. You’ll achieve a new attitude towards food and dieting plus. Call 9180 9308 or email foreverclean9hk@gmail.com. Negotiation Program: Lead Like Water HKD $1200 Chorev Consulting International presents “Lead Like Water Series: Advanced Negotiation Skills”. This is a half-day program designed for those who have hands-on negotiation experience and would like to enhance their capability. Address: Hong Kong Training Center. 13 Mei Lai Road, Mei Foo. Mei Foo MTR station exit B.
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.
TUITION Swimming Lessons Experience: Swim Australia Teacher & Hong Kong Open Medallist Are you looking for effective swimming lesson? Well-qualified instructor to help you learn to swim effectively or improve swimming techniques.
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classifieds Swim lessons for kids (5+ years old). Adult lesson is also welcomed. 1:1 Private and Group lessons are available. Contact Gary Fong at klgf@hotmail.com or Whatsapp 9750 9679 for more details. NATIVE SPANISH TEACHER Spanish for all levels, IB, I/GCSE. Experienced teacher. Private and group lessons. Flexible hours. Kids, teenagers and adults. ilsabeth@hotmail.com 9043 5105. Advanced Photography/ Private Lessons from World famous American Photographer A renowned American Photographer with experience in career as an editorial and commercial photographer in 50 countries is accepting applications for private teaching--anywhere in Hong Kong. One-to-one lessons are offered to creative individuals. Participants may also enter less expensive small group lessons. Call 94115472 for details and pricing. NATIVE US EXPERT TUTOR- ENGLISH, WRITING, PHOTOGRAPHY Native American expert English Tutor, Writer, Publisher and Photographer offers to tutor students and adults at their homes anywhere in HK. Please call Scott for more information at 9411-5472. TENNIS TUITION Maple Leaf Tennis is back! Children, Mini-tennis, Beginner & Advanced adult lessons in Sai Kung, Ma On Shan, TKO. Certified Canadian female tennis pro teaches in English or French CONTACT Liz at 53213663 mapleleaftennis@hotmail.com German Tuition HKD $400 Native German provides private tutoring in German as a foreign language. Travel to all HK-places. Phone 64324172, e-mail: sabine_dlu@web.de Irish Dancing Classes HKD $160 Irish dancing classes in Sai Kung / Clearwater Bay and all over Hong Kong! A unquie form of dance and a great way to form new friendships! All ages welcome! info@ echoesirishdance.com Learning Cantonese HKD $200 Learning Cantonese with ease.We provide tuition on Cantonese, which range from primary and secondary students, expatriates working in Hong Kong, or others who are interested to learn Cantonese. We teach in line with student’s ability and can go to their residents for the tuition. Please feel free to call 9779 7342 or email ritaf_sshh@yahoo.com.hk for further information. http://ritafan.wix.com/learning-cantonese
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EMPLOYMENT FREELANCE FEMALE MODEL WANTED Local based milliner wants a female model to model bridal hats and headpieces for a indoors photo shooting session. No experience is required. Students are welcome. The model should expect to be styled with bridal look and should be photogenic and confident. Shooting time and date is flexible. The photography studio is in Wanchai. Interested parties, please send your photos, self description and expected rate to beingoflove.irene@ gmail.com. Website: beingoflove.net. Freelance Digital Marketing Available No time to work on your Marketing strategy? Helping entrepreneurs to boost their business by creating an online presence through community management (Facebook, Twitter, Google+ etc.), marketing content creation and brand storytelling. Please call 66743696.
CHARITY Bipolar Support Group Are you affected by Bipolar? All welcome Bipolar support group - First Monday of each month. Email bipolarhongkong@gmail.com for more information.
everyone is welcome. Stalls will be filled with a wide variety of new & secondhand goods for sale. For more information contact gujean@ust.hk or call 9045 5942 SUMMER GARAGE SALE & MARKET- Saturday, 14 June 2014 Located at LG3 covered car park at HKUST 9.30am – 3 pm. Reservation necessary for tables. Parking food & drinks available. Admission is free and everyone is welcome. Stalls will be filled with a wide variety of new & secondhand goods for sale. For more information contact gujean@ust.hk or call 9045 5942
FOOD AND BEVERAGE MUNG HONEYHANDMADE. ORGANIC. SKINCARE. Good for: Facial cleanser, Facial scrub, Facial Mask, Acne & eczema relieving and more. Details https:// sites.google.com/site/ munghoneyac/home 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.
EVENTS Sunday Social HK HKD $120 Craft beer, DJs, live instruments plus more. And a fabulous new warehouse venue (detail in photo). The first Sunday Social will be a relaxed affair, on Sunday May 4 – from 3pm til later on. There will be sampling of beer carefully chosen from homebrewers by HK Brewcraft, food from Tai Tai Pie Pies, a robust musical palette from Paragon Sound System and interesting people to meet. HK$120 at the door includes entry, beer samples and corkage for wine and spirits. Out the Box, 6/F, 8 Shipyard Lane, Wah Ha Factory Building, Tai Koo: MTR to Tai Koo. Exit A1. Cross the road and you’re there. SUMMER GARAGE SALE & MARKET – 7 June 2014 Located at LG3 covered car park at HKUST on Saturday, 7 June 9.30am – 3 pm. Parking food & drinks available. Admission is free and
Local Honey HKD $250 Farm grown honey. Fresh without processing (for example heating). Honey extraction regularly to ensure the quality. For detail, visit our facebook www.facebook.com/jovial.diy
BABY&MATERNITY Crocs for kids HKD $200 Crocs Kosmoboot Kids (Yellow) Size J2 – Brand New with tag on. Whatsapp 91974826. HAPE COUNTRY CRITTERS 5 SIDED ACTIVITY CENTRE PLAY CUBE HKD $1345 Brand new and recommended for 12 month olds and over. Will encourage critical thinking, creative problem solving and color and shape learning. Contact Jas on 6324 6056
random but interesting
SEEKING WORK Mature and experienced helper with calm and patient nature. Have 6 years experience with same employer. Available immediately. Contact on Girlie on 6140 0237 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 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!
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
FURNITURE Ikea Poang Chair HKD $700 2 Ikea Poang chair in black & red colour. Call 96400353.
Glass-top Stone Table with 4 Chairs for sale Glass-top Stone Table: In good condition. Can be used as dining table or outdoor furniture. Dia: 90cm. HK$2,480. Grey Velvet Upholstered Chairs: 4 piece. HK$480 each. Table and chairs can be purchased separately. If interested, please call 852-31700224. BRAND NEW 10 FEET TRAMPOLINE HKD $2100 Comes with setup instructions, safety net and ladder. Thick material - is very sturdy. Packing box size: 160cm x 50cm x 30cm. Free delivery to Clearwater Bay area. Contact Iris on 6999 4111
MOSQUITO UMBRELLA FOR SALE HKD $1600 Brown and Green umbrella with removable and washable mosquito net 2.7 meter diameter including 4 piece marble base. Able 360 degree turn. New condition. Please call Frances 55030369. L-SHAPE SOFA FOR SALE The Benson L-Shape 3-Seater Sofa is an elegant statement piece for your living room. Simple and understated, it works in both contemporary and traditional living spaces. Fabrics and colours of your choice can be easily changed. With back support pillows – small cushions can also be customized using same fabric and sold separately. Call Decor 8: 5104-8325 / Address: 20 Bute St. Mong Kok.
EW N
DOMESTIC HELPER
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MISCELLANEOUS Jewelries for sale We do free delivery within Hong Kong EXCEPT Hei Ling Chau, Cheung Chau, Discovery Bay, Lamma Island, Lantau, Ma Wan, Peng Chau, Po Toi Island, Soko Island, Sunshine Island and Park Island. Call 97322072. www.yinmankee.com Xbox 360 Kinect 200 GB for sale HKD $2500 Xbox 360 Kinect with 200 GB. This xbox will come with 7 games, forza motorsport 3, Call Of Duty Black Ops 2, Alan Awake, Halo Anniversary, Fifa 12, Grand theft Auto 5 and the Kinect Adventures Game! Throwing in 4 xbox wireless remotes, a manual wifi cable in case your wifi is weak and a microphone for online gaming! Text 62992797
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Second hand printer for sale HKD $100 HP Deskjet 3070A e-Allin-One – Second hand printer for sale! The Fast Media office got a brand new printer so we don’t need this anymore. Functional but you will have to buy ink. Call 2776 2773 for more info! or email sharon@fastmedia.com.hk
To advertise, email: ads@saikung.com or call 2776 2772
CD/MP3 Sound Machine for Sale HKD $370 German brand, unused, still in box. Must pick up item on your own from Clear Water Bay Road. Please WhatsApp / SMS 6776 1505
it’s on saikung.com! WWW.SAIKUNG.COM | 59
business directory Sports & Fitness
Food & Beverage
Advanced Tennis Performance 6135 7606 | atpltd.tennis@hotmail.com www.advancedtennisperformance.com
Hebe One O One 2335 5515 | info@101.com.hk www.hebe101.com
Auskick Hong Kong www.auskick.hk.com headcoachauskick@gmail.com
HK Caffe www.hkcaffe.com
Escapade Online www.escapade.com.hk
Schmidt Vinothek 2792 6113 www.schmidtvinothek.com
Everfine Membership Services Limited 2174 7880 | enquiry@evergolf.com.hk www.evergolf.com.hk
The South African Shop info@thesouthafricanshop.com 9457 0639
Hong Kong International Tennis Academy 9048 2810 | lea.lai@hkita.com | www.hkita.com
Thiackery Group 5990 2588 thiackery@gmail.com
Sai Kung Stingrays www.saikungstingrays.org Sport4Kids 2773 1650 info@sport4kids.hk www.sport4kids.hk
Health & Beauty Allure Beaut 2792 2123 A-Nails 2792 1099 www.a-nails.com.hk Bronze Mobile Spray Tanning 6234 8594 bronzemobilespraytanning@yahoo.com.au Liberty in Yoga 6112 1826 | www.libertyinyoga.com Nonie Studio 2333 2027 | info@noniestudio.com Pure Swiss Limited 852 2358 3998 admin@e-pureswiss.com www.e-pureswiss.com 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
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 The Australian Shop info@theaustralianshop.hk 5509 7993
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Children’s Toys & Supplies Bumps to Babes
2552 5000 (Ap Lei Chau Main Store) 2522 7112 (Pedder Building Branch) www.bumpstobabes.com
Home & Interiors Home styling 9673 9443 email@thehomestyling.org www.thehomestylist.org Indigo Living Ltd. 2552 3500 | info@indigo-living.com www.indigo-living.com 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 Sai Kung LifeStyle 5990 2588 saikunglifestyle@gmail.com Sai Kung Marketplace 5503 0369 www.saikungmarketplace.com Smiling Winds Landscape & Maintenance 60569010 | smilingwindslandscape@gmail.com Wofu Deco 2768 8428 | info@wofudeco.com.hk www.wofudeco.com.hk
Pets & Vets 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 Mega Pet 2626 0818 | www.megapet.com.hk
Motoring & Boating Kwong Hing Motorworks 2791 4949 | enquiries@khmwhk.com www.khmwhk.com
Home & Interiors
Education ITS Education Asia
2116 3916 es@tuition.com.hk www.itseducationasia.com English for Asia 2392 2746 | bianca@englishforasia.com www.englishforasia.com ESF Educational Services Sports Programme Sports@esf.org.hk 852 2711 1280 www.esf.org.hk Everest Education 6013 7827 | mdrin1998@yahoo.com Hong Kong Academy office@academy.edu.hk / +852 2655 1111 / www.hkacademy.edu.hk International College Hong Kong 2658 6935, 2655 9018 info@hlyis.edu www.hlyis.edu.hk
Brooks Thompson Ltd 2851 3665 | iqbalhk@netvigator.com
Jumpstart Mandarin Learning Centre 2791 4838 | jumpstart@netvigator.com www.jumpstartmlc.com
Everything Under the Sun 2544 9088 www.everythingunderthesun.com.hk
Kaplan Higher Edu www.kaplan.edu.hk 2836 0332 l info@kaplan.edu.hk
Hazel Ltd 53161456 | saleshazel@biznetvigator.com www.mcl-sources.com
Lighthouse Playroom 2791 2918 | info@lighthouseplayroom.com www.lighthouseplayroom.com
handy Education Nord Anglia International School www.nais.hk 3107 8158 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
Community Services The Mandala Group 9634 5848 themandalagroup.org
Financial Services Infinity Financial Solutions Ltd 2815 5828 | hongkong@infinitysolutions.com Kwiksure 3588 2927 | www.kwiksure.com
Hotels & Private Clubs The Country Club at Hong Lok Yuen 2675 8899 enquiries@cchly.com www.cchly.com Hebe Haven Yacht Club 2719 9682
Extracurricular
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
Services and Professionals
SPOT Centre 2807 2992 | contact@spot.com.hk www.spot.com.hk
Parties & Entertainment 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
Tech Appnificent Eclipse www.apnificent.com
Events Tap Dogs May 20-25, HKAPA 31 288 288 | www.htticketing.com
Onsite Computer and Internet Services Co 23976418 www.microtechhk.com enquiry@microtechhk.com Anna Massage 9354 7606, 6622 5398 Annerley www.annerley.com.hk Best United Eng. Ltd. / Lawnings, Roll Shutter & Insect Screen 2344 9028 | info@bestunited.com.hk www.bestunited.com.hk Biocycle 3575 2575 | info@biocycle.hk www.biocycle.com.hk Centro Car Wash 2543 9288 | promo@centrocar.hk www.centrocar.hk Easy Peasy Services 2468 3749 | ask@easypeasyservices.com www.easypeasyservices.com Expert-Transport & Relocations Warehouse 2566 4799 | www.expertmover.hk Indo Handyman 2578 1865 | sales@indohandyman.hk Marco the Contractor 6190 8051 Professional Wills Limited 2561 9031 | www.profwills.com Sunkoshi Gurkha Security Ltd 2199 7774 | www.sunkoshigurkha.com Village Holdings Insurance www.villageholdingsinsurance.com
Get listed call 2776 2772 email marketing@saikung.com WWW.SAIKUNG.COM | 61
on patrol...
catching the tea-leafs
Trunk call New top cop Janet Chan uncovers a nest of thieves deep in the country park. Hello Sai Kung, my name is Janet Chan and I have replaced Joe Au-Yeung Tak at Sai Kung Police Station. After three months in Sai Kung, I’m finding it a lovely place to work, away from the concrete jungle and with a great sense of community and the “human touch”. Many residents are willing to share their views on crime prevention, which gives us useful insight on our policing strategies. Effective policing can be significantly enhanced with input from you – yes, you personally. If you see me around, please come and chat. I have received several calls regarding the new modus operandi of burglars that we reported in March; people are shocked that a villager would act as a “tour guide” for the criminals and found it unbelievable. Nevertheless, after reviewing all the information from various sources, this remains the situation and would like all of you to be aware of it. If you notice suspicious activities or strangers near your home, don’t hesitate to call. Enhancing your security measures – such as installing CCTV, floodlights and door and window alarms – could help to deter burglars, particularly if there is scaffolding erected around your home. Also, make sure all members of your household have some knowledge of crime prevention, including domestic helpers. In cases I have come across, information from domestic helpers has been very useful. Do not underestimate their assistance.
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: Stephen Wong Ho-tung. “The picturesque environment of Sheung Sze Wan is the envy of most Hongkongers.”
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I was amazed at how organised the thieves’ camp was Another area of concern is the cutting of incense trees, or agar wood, in the country parks. The market price of agar wood ranges from a hundred dollars to several thousands or more, which entices some people to steal them from our countryside. Recently, through intelligence and careful planning, the Rural Patrol Unit successful raided a den of thieves on a hillside and seized more than 100 kilograms of agar wood. I attended the scene personally, hiking more than 45 minutes from the main road. I was amazed at how organized the thieves’ camp was. The location was well hidden, helping to protect the thieves against discovery, and well equipped with a cooking area with utensils and food, living area with tents and quilte, and working area with cutting tools. It occupied almost a thousand square feet. The hiking season is coming and we are looking forward to making more successful raids. If you see our Rural Patrol Unit, please provide them with your observations regarding illegal activities out in the hills. Cheers! Janet Chan is the ADVC OPS for the Hong Kong Police Sai Kung Division Tel: 3661 1630
shoot for it
Nord Anglia International School is delighted to welcome its first students this September. We still have limited places, so please give us a call, or come and meet the team on 8 May at Hebe Haven Yacht Club. Please visit www.nais.hk or call 3107 8158 for details.