KangaNews June 2015

KangaNewsa great mate in Hong Kong

June 2015

2 KANGANEWS | JUNE 2015

NEW MEMBERS | JUNE 2015

LOOKING AHEAD | JULY 2015 These dates may be subject to change

Jo Stanley & Jeremy Stanley

Jessica Rolfe-Flett & Andrew Mizzi

Rebecca Schott

Anita Gu

Pamela Sargant & Murray Sargant

Warrick Stephens & Tony Ng

Grace Ghattas

MONDAY TUESDAY WEDNESDAY THURSDAY FRIDAY SATURDAY SUNDAY

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ladies social golf

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mahjong

ladies social golf

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morning social

tennis

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The ClubThe VerandahThe Repulse Bay Hotel

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tennis

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JUNE 2015 | KANGANEWS 3

JUNE 2015CONTENTSNew Members 2

Looking Ahead (JULY 2015) 2

Regular Events 4

Who’s Who 5

President’s Message 7

Thank you to our contributors 7

Charity News 8

Out & About 9

From Your Consulate-General 11

Member Benefits 2015 12

Book Club 16

Past Events: SMB, Lunch Muster, Club Lunch, Trivia, Shenzhen Bus Trip, Chilli Fagara 17

Hong Kong Musings 27

Beauty Tips 29

Calendar: JUNE 2015 30

Hong Kong Musings 24

Upcoming Events: Day 31

Through Passport Control 37

Property 40

Healthy Habits 41

Healthy Eating, Aussie Style 42

Meet... 44

Travel Tips 46

Sports Report 49

The Valley Vet 54

Facebook Competition Winners 55

DEADLINE | JULY 2015

Advertising Booking Deadline 15 JULY

Advertising Material Deadline

19 JULY

Newsletter Material Deadline

15 JULY

DESIGN AND PRODUCTION

Dean Williams

Australian Association of Hong Kong Ltd.

11A, Shelley Court, 21 Shelley Street

Midlevels Escalator, Central, HKSAR

T: +852 2530 4461

F: +852 3020 0194

E: [email protected]

W: www.ozhongkong.com


BOOK CLUB Second Wednesday - this group is temporarily sus-pended. We are seeking a new coordinator for the group. If interested, please contact: Dee Longe | [email protected]

CHARITY WORK The Society for the Relief of Disabled Children 12 Sandy Bay Road Pokfulam Contact:Pommi Kaur | 2819 3050 | [email protected]

CHATTERBOX COFFEE Fridays 10:00

–11:30 am Wagyu Cafe Shop 12 & 14, G/F, Regal Court, Wing Fung Street, Wan Chai (next to Pacific Place 3). Contact:Ainslie Young| [email protected]

DRAGON BOAT For all enquiries please email Contact: Roshan Julian | [email protected]

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

MAHJONG Mondays 10am

– 1pm Dynasty Court Function Room Mid-Levels $80 members $130 non-members Contact: Christine Scullion | [email protected]

NETBALL For all enquiries please email [email protected]

TENNIS Tuesdays 9 – 11 am Wong Nai Chung Tennis Centre $40 members $60 non-members Contact: [email protected]

SMB LUNCH Second Tuesday of the month Contact: Michael Madigan | [email protected]

SUNDOWNERS Monthly - the next one will be on Thursday, 11 June. Contact: Adrian Ryan | [email protected]

MUMS & BUB's Meet fortnightly. Please note Mums and Bubs is on a break from April through June Contact: Leah Spies | [email protected]

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

REGULAR EVENTS | 2015

Would you like to join the Australian Association?Members, have you renewed your membership?

For more information, please contact: Adrian Ryan | [email protected]


2015 | WHO'S WHO

GENERAL COMMITTEE PRESIDENT Gavin McDougall | [email protected]

VICE-PRESIDENT Ivy Wong Stephens | [email protected]

TREASURER John Rasheed | [email protected]

SECRETARY (ACTING) Eleanor Coleman | [email protected]

GENERAL COMMITTEE Eileen Haley Roque Hammal Rochelle Howie Joan Leong Adrian Ryan Roshan Julien Dean Williams Bruce Andrews

PAST PRESIDENT EX-OFFICIO Jennifer Ferris

SOCIAL COMMITTEE SOCIAL COMMITTEE CHAIR Dee Longe | [email protected]

VICE CHAIR Julie Armstrong | [email protected]

TREASURER Kylie Reid | [email protected]

SECRETARY Manuela Guthrie | [email protected]

SOCIAL COMMITTEE Suelin Billingham Linda Kinnane Anthea Murray Liz Walsh Anslie Young

AUSTRALIAN ASSOCIATION OFFICEUnit 11A, Shelley Court, 21, Shelley St, Midlevels, Hong Kong T: 2530 4461 | F: 2530 4497 | E: [email protected] www.ozhongkong.com | Office Hours: 9am-5pm (Mon, Wed, Fri)

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

Membership Manager, Adrian Ryan: E: [email protected]

Sports Coordinator, Rosh Julian: E: [email protected]

Marketing Manager, Adrian Ryan: E: [email protected]

KangaNews Editorial, Bruce Andrews: E: [email protected]

Advertising Manager, Adrian Ryan: E: [email protected]

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

The views expressed in this news-letter are not necessarily those of the committee.

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


JUNE 2015 | PRESIDENT'S MESSAGE

Hello, I’m sure that you have heard the story behind the public holiday we now know, in English, as the Dragon Boat Festival. It’s a tale borne of tragedy and is said to commemorate the death, in 278 B.C., of a Southern Chinese poet known as Qu Yuan. It was a period of war and Qu was allegedly ban-ished from the Chu state’s royal court for opposing an alliance entered into by the king, whom he served.

When the Chu capital was later surrendered to the state’s rivals, in despair Qu committed suicide by jumping into a river. It was the act by locals, who rushed into their boats in an attempt to save the poet, which is said to have been the origin of dragon boat racing. The beating of the drums, now a call-to-action for paddlers, was an attempt to scare fish which were also thrown

rice to keep them away from Qu’s body.

Tuen Ng, as it’s more readily known in Hong Kong, is now the holiday that marks the city’s biggest indigenous sporting event.

As we all know, Australians can’t help themselves when it comes to sport. It is, without doubt, a national obsession even when we’re living an international lifestyle. It’s not surprising, then, that we have dozens of eerily dedicated paddlers willing to add Aussie flair to maintaining the memory of an ancient Chinese poet.

It’s not a new obsession in Hong Kong. The Australian Association has paddled-up to dragon boat races for decades and it appears that we’re not too bad at it. There’s plenty of “silverware” in the Association’s possession from Tuen Ng past.

Our dedicated OzHongKong “Diggers” (that’s what we’re calling them) have been hard at practice for months now – scaring fish and terrifying other water craft who dare to cross their path during Saturday morning training sessions. They’re revved-up and raring to go on race day. All they need is a cheer squad!

If you’ve never experienced the Dragon Boat Festival at Stanley, it’s a sporting and cultural must while you’re living in Hong Kong. If you can, join us on the OzHongKong Diggers Junk on the 20th of June, or try to get a space along the beachfront to experience one of the highlights of Hong Kong’s annual event schedule. And let’s try to see if we can, through cheering voice, bring a little Aussie tradition to this exciting Hong Kong ritual. Oi Oi Oi!

Gavin McDougall

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

John Batten Hong Kong Musings | James Carlile Dragons Report | Deborah Dewey Healthy Habits |

Bridget Emmins Beauty Tips | Grace Ghattas Travel Tips | Philip Hargrave Property | Sally Hasler The Fred Hollows Foundation |

Roshan Julian Netball & Dragon Boat Reports | Dr Lloyd Kenda The Valley Vet | Dee Longe Out & About |

Gavin McDougall Australian Consul General | Brigitte McNamara AISHK | Judy Morris Healthy Eating, Aussie Style |

Dean White Through Passport Control

Simon Fuller, 13th Element, for the photos, and Members of the Social Committee for the photos and event updates.


SPECIAL ANNOUNCEMENT | THE FRED HOLLOWS FOUNDATION

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

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

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

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

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

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

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


JUNE 2015 | OUT & ABOUT

With the weather warm-ing up, and the rainy season ahead of us, we will continue to bring you fun things to do just with either brollie in hand or wellies on your feet!

We had a fabulous turnout for our events in May and we are bringing more fun stuff in June.

Before it becomes unbearable with the heat, there is a hike for the energetic types on Thursday, 4th June to Pokfulam riding school and reservoir. It’s not hard ... and very enjoyable.

Our “Cooee Coffee” mornings at the new location, at Wagyu Cafe in Wanchai, have been growing each week and we have seen an abundance of new faces ... which has been wonderful!

So it doesn't matter if you've just arrived or haven't been for many years, please come and join us at 12 Wing Fung Street, Wanchai (up the street from Queen’s Road East and Three Pacific Place).

Anyone who wants a good coffee and a chance to catch up with old friends or make some new ones should come and have a chin wag. For newbies to Hong Kong, it’s an ideal launch pad for informa-tion and meeting new friends.

We hope you will join us in June for some of our scheduled events. To book, go to the Australian Association website, then go to the Events Calendar and click on the event. This will take you to Eventbrite, our booking site. You can pay by Paypal or Credit Card.

Our Club Lunch in June is at the Royal Hong Kong Yacht Club on Kellett Island, Causeway

Bay, in the beautiful and elegant Compass Room, overlooking the spectacular Victoria Harbour. The Club Lunches have been booking out. So if you want to attend, make sure you secure your place when the bookings open up.

Looking ahead, in June we have a “Progressive Dinner” around Soho and Central; and, in August, a Cocktail Reception at the Australian Consul-General’s residence, hosted by Mr. & Mrs. P. Tighe. They are very generously opening the residence for us to enjoy for the evening.

The Australian Association Facebook page has been extremely active, and we invite all FB users to help boost our visibility by “Like”-ing our page when you see information posted.

All our events are open to family and friends. So if you have visitors on your door step, and you'd like to bring them along, or you need a breather, we'd love them to join us!

Non-Members are charged an extra $50-$100 per event; however, family members from Australia can enjoy the same prices as you. We would love to meet them, so we encourage you to bring them to enjoy the events when they are in town.

Until next month….

Dee Longe Chair, Social Committee

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

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

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

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

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

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

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


JUNE 2015 | AUSTRALIAN CONSUL GENERAL

Australian Consulate-General 23rd Floor, Harbour Centre 25 Harbour Road, Wanchai Tel: 2827 8881 Fax: 2585 4457 Email: [email protected] Our website: www.hongkong.china.embassy.gov.au

Consular & Passports Office Mon to Fri: 9am – 4pm to lodge, until 5pm for passport collection. Tel: 2827 8881 Consular and Passport enquiries Email: [email protected] www.passports.gov.au Notarial Acts: Wed only 9am – 1pm Certified copies, witnessing signatures, document authentication. Fees apply, check the website.

Visas & Citizenship Office 24th Floor, Harbour Centre Mon to Fri: 8.30am til 12.00noon Hotline: 2585 4139 (Mon to Fri: 9:00am to 11:00am, 1:30pm to 3:30pm) Fax: 2585 4459 www.immi.gov.au

Austrade 24th Floor, Harbour Centre Mon to Fri: 8:45am – 5pm Tel: 2588 5300 Fax: 2827 4145 Email: [email protected] www.austrade.hk

Education Section Email: [email protected] www.studyinaustralia.gov.au Travel Advice www.smartraveller.gov.au

Don’t forget:

• Check our website for the list of services available for Australians

• Also available from our website are

- Australian passport and visa forms

- Passport, Australian visa and documentation authentication fees

- Details of when passport officers will visit Macau

- Public holidays observed by Consulate staff

• Remember, passports take 10 working days to process

• Australians living in or visiting Hong Kong and Macau are encouraged to register at www.orao.dfat.gov.au. The informa-tion is used only in cases of emergency.

Hello,

Hong Kong is regarded as such a safe place to live that it is easy for us to become a little complacent about being prepared for the unexpected. That applies while here in Hong Kong but even more so when travelling. At the Consulate, we so often speak about Australians registering their travel plans with us, about keeping travel documents up-to-date, and about regularly checking travel advisories, that we probably sound a bit repetitive.

The safety of Australians overseas concerns us. The recent earthquakes in Nepal remind us about how quickly, unexpectedly and seriously things can change. More than 1500 Australians were in Nepal when the first destructive earthquake hit. Consular emergency teams were despatched from Australia and from this region. Among those responding was our own Vice-Consul, Steve Hodge.

Steve was sent to a remote region of Nepal where several Australians had been reported as staying when the earthquake struck. His job was to help locate those Australians and assist them to safely leave Nepal.

Steve’s task, and that of others like him, was helped by the more than 500 Australians who had pre-reg-istered their travel plans. Hundreds more Australians, who hadn’t registered, were also tracked down by our experienced and hard-working consular emer-gency officers.

My point is that we always hope that our holidays are exciting – but in the tourist sense. Like all of life’s predicaments, holiday emergencies happen when you least expect them. Being prepared, however, can make the experience less stressful and hopefully safer.

As you prepare for this coming holiday season, please consider registering your travel through www.smartraveller.gov.au. While you’re there, check the latest travel advice for your destination and please remember to get appropriate travel insurance. Above all else, enjoy your travels!

Paul Tighe, Consul-General


MEMBER BENEFITS | LIST FOR 2015

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

Please note, some discounts may not be available against alreadydiscounted offers such as set lunch, happy hour or ad hoc spe-cials, or available on public holidays.

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

BARS & RESTAURANTSAva 20% off F&BHotel Panorama, 8A Hart Ave, Tsim Sha TsuiT: 3550 0388 www.hotelpanorama.com.hkAzure 15% off F&BLKF Hotel by Rhombus, 33 Wyndham St, Lan Kwai FongT: 3518 9330 www.azure.hkthe BELLBROOK bistro oz by laris offer 10% off F&B 2/F, 77 Wyndham Street, Central T: 2530 1600The Boathouse 10% off on a la carte food and drinks menu with min. spend of $30088 Stanley Main Street, Stanley T: 2813 4467 BOMBAY DREAMS, Indian offer 10% off F&B4/F, 77 Wyndham Street, Central T: 2971 0001 Bouchon Bistro Francais offer 10% off F&B49 Elgin Street, Soho, Central T: 2525 9300Braza, Churrascaria Brazilian Steakhouse 10% off F&B 3/F, Grand Progress Building. 15-16 Lan Kwai Fong T: 2790 092 Bulldog’s Bar and Grill 10% on all F&B (excluding happy hour).G5 & UG15, Tsim Sha Tsui Centre, 66 Mody Rd, Tsim Sha Tsui. T: 2311 6993Café Deco Pizzeria 10% off on a la carte food and drinks menu with min. spend of $300Shop 3-4, G/F., Tower 125, 11 Po Yan St, Sheung Wan T: 2559 4100Café Siam 10% off F&B (excluding happy hour). 2-3/F., The Plaza, 21 D’Aguilar St, Lan Kwai FongT: 2851 4803Shop 2412, The Grand Canal Shoppes, St. Marks Square,The Venetian Macau Resort Hotel. T: 853 2882 8469 www.cafesiam.com.hkCaramba Mexican Cantina 10% off F&B (excluding happy hour).26-30 Elgin St, Soho. T: 2530 9963.Discovery Bay Plaza, Discovery Bay. T: 2987 2848 www.caramba.com.hk

Cecconi’s Italian offer 10% off F&B43 Elgin Street, Soho, Central T: 2147 5500Chicha 10% discount up to four guests only G/F, 26 Peel Street, Central, Hong Kong Opening hours: 12pm-3pm, 6pm-late Everyday Phone or Text Bookings: 9637 7701E: [email protected] Bar & Grill 10% off food only.114-120 Lockhart Rd, Wanchai. T: 2861 2221. www.coyotebarandgrill.comCRAFTSTEAK, Open Fire Cooking offer 10% off F&B 29 Elgin Street, Soho T: 2526 0999The Dog House 10% off f&b. Not valid on Set lunch or Happy Hour.Shop A3, G/F Hay Wah Building, 72-86 Lockhart Road, Wanchai; T: 2861 0351 www.thedoghouse.hk Don Gilato 10% on F&B (excluding happy hour).St Mark’s Square (by the Grand Canal) U/L, The Venetian Macao Resort HotelFlutes 15% discount on all drinks27 Elgin St, Soho T: +852 2810 0005Fogo Samba Churrascaria Brazilian Steak House 10% off F&B (excluding happy hour).Shop 2412, Grand Canal Shoppes,Venetian Macau. T: (853) 2882 8499. www.fogosamba.comForbes 10% off all food and beveragesG/F., 36 Forbes St, Kennedy Town T: 2974 9588FRITES 10% discount up to 4 guests onlyQUARRY BAY: G/F Oxford House, TaiKoo Place,979 King’s Road, Island East, Hong Kong.Bookings: 2250 [email protected]: Shop 6, 1/F, Causeway Centre, 28 Harbour Road, Wanchai. Bookings: 2877 2422 [email protected] 15% off F&BHotel de Edge, 94-95 Connaught Road West,Hong Kong T: 3559 9988 www.hoteldeedge.com.hk Grand Central Bar & Grill10% off F&B (excluding happy hour). Shop R001, 3/F., and Roof, Elements, 1 Austin Rd West, TSTT: 2736 4888 E: [email protected] Club 10% off F&B (excluding happy hour). 4/F, 21 D’Aguilar Street, The Plaza, Lan Kwai Fong, Central, T: 2851 4880The Jockey 10% on F&B (excluding happy hour).33 Wong Nai Chung Rd,Happy Valley. T: 2572 2266 www.thejockey.com.hkLil’Siam Soho 10% off F&B (excluding happy hour). G/F 38 Elgin Street, Soho. T: 2868 4445. www.lilsiam.com.hkLUPA by Mario Batali offer 10% off F&B3/F, LHT Tower, 31 Queens Road Central T: 2796 6500 MANZO Italian Steak House offer 10% off F&BShop 1104, 11/F, Times Square, 1 Matheson Street, Causeway Bay T: 2735 3980Marlin 10% off on a la carte food and drinks menu with


LIST FOR 2015 | MEMBER BENEFITS

min. spend of $20056 D’Aguilar Street, Lan Kwai Fong, CentralT: 2121-8070McSorleys Ale House. 10% off F&B (excluding happy hour).T: 2522 2646. W: www.mcsorleys.com.hkDiscovery Bay Plaza, Discovery Bay. T: 2987 8280 Shop 1038 Grand Canal Shoppes, Venetian Macau. T: (853) 2882 8198Nahm, vietnamese & Thai offer 10% off F&BShop 1045, 1/F, Elements, 1 Austin Road West, Kowloon T: 2810 7575Nomads 10% off on a la carte food and drinks menu with min. spend of $30055 Kimberley Road, Tsim Sha Tsui T: 2722 0733OLIVE, Greek & Middle Eastern, Soho offer 10% off F&B32 Elgin Street, Soho T: 2521 1608Pickled Pelican 10% off on a la carte food and drinks menu with min. spend of $30090 Stanley Main Street, Stanley T: 2813-4313Pulp 10% off on a la carte food and drinks menu with min. spend of $200G/F and 1/F, 55 Wyndham Street, CentralT: 2868 6026Pure Bar + Restaurant 10% off food only.2/F Kinwick Centre, 32 Hollywood Rd, Soho.T: 8199 8189 www.pure-dining.comThe Quarterdeck Club 10% on all F&B (excluding happy hour).G/F, The Fleet Arcade, Fenwick Pier, 1 Lung King St, Wan Chai. T: 2827 8882SOHO SPICE, Vietnamese & Thai offer 10% off F&B47 Elgin Street, Soho T: 2521 1600SOUVLA 10% discount up to 4 guests only1/F Ho Lee Commercial Building, 40 D’Aguilar Street, Central, Hong Kong, Phone & Text Bookings: 9285 8846 [email protected] Sushi 10% discount on all purchasesG/F, Hop Hing Building , 30 Gilmans Bazaar, Central T: 2259 5151E: [email protected] |www.sugosushi.com.hk Stormies 10% off on a la carte food and drinks menu with min. spend of $300Shop R005, Elements, Kowloon MTR Station, Kowloon T: 2196 8098TAKU. 10% off F&B (excluding happy hour).35 Elgin St, Soho. T: 2545 9966. www.taku.com.hk TAPEO 10% discount up to 4 guests onlyCENTRAL: G/F, Au’s Building,15 – 19 Hollywood Road, Central, Hong Kong. Bookings: 3171 1989 [email protected] WAN HO: GA01-03, G/F Lei King Wan, Site A 55 Tai Hong St, Sai Wan Ho. Bookings: 2513 0199 [email protected]

Top Deck 10% off on a la carte food and drinks menu with min. spend of $200Top Floor, Jumbo Kingdom, Shum Wan Peir Drive, Wong Chuk Hang, Aberdeen T: 2552 3331Toro, Steakhouse & Gastro Bar 10% off F&BShop R008, 3/F, Elements, 1 Austin Road West, Kowloon 2696 9608 Wildfire 10% off on a la carte food and drinks menu with min. spend of $2002 Knutsford Terrace, Tsim Sha Tsui T: 3690 1598 2B-07, G/F, 45 Tai Hong Street, Lei King Wan (SOHO East) T: 2261 2999

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

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


MEMBER BENEFITS | LIST FOR 2015

Diestel & Partners (Dentists) 15% off all dental care services.1914 Melbourne Plaza, 33 Queen’s Rd, Central. G/F, Office Blk 1, 92 Siena Ave, North Plaza, Discovery Bay T: 2522 2099 www.diestelandpartners.comGlow Spa - Hair, Health & Beauty 10% off all full price services. 9/F Parker House, 72 Queen’s Rd Central.T: 2525 5198E: [email protected] W: www.glow-spa.net The Hairdressers Ltd 20% off all full fare services Monday to Saturday10am – 6pm. Cannot be used with any other offer. Valid membership card must be shown and inform staff on booking.7F Abdoolally House, 20 Stanley St, Central. T: 2973 0512 www.thd.com.hkDrs Bobby Hsia & Sandeep Jain Dental Clinic 15% discount on all dental care servicesFlat A, 17/F, Johnson Centre,13 Hau Fook Street, Tsim Sha Tsui (MTR Tsim Sha Tsui exit B2) KowloonT: 23676268 / 23685958Hong Kong Optometric Services Ltd 10% off fixed priced items and 30% off selected priced items for all glasses, sunglasses and lenses. Comprehensive eye exam for $350. Suite 1003, Wing On Central Building, 26 Des Voeux Rd, Central. T: 2537 9219E: [email protected] W: www.hkos.hkHYPOXI 10% discount on all treatments (not in conjunc-tion with any other offers).8/F EuBank Plaza, 9 Chiu Lung Street, Central.T: 2537 6637E: [email protected] W: www.hypoxi.com.hk Iyara Beauty 15% off any body massage or facialat Iyara Ship Street, Prince’s Terrace and Hollywood Rd; 20% off any hair treatment at Hollywood Rd during weekdays (excl public holidays. Advance booking is required & mention the offer when booking53 Ship Street, Wanchai. T: 2545 8637 www.iyarabeauty.comJAB Mixed Martial Arts Studio Casual Classes - $150 (usually $200), with the first class being free + An extra one month free membership with every 12 month membership5/F Kimley Commercial Building, 142-146 Queens Rd, Central. T: 2851 6684.E: [email protected] W: www.jabmma.com Kinesiology Asia 10% off Kinesiology Consultations and $100 off Learning Enhancement and Sports Enhancement packages.201 Ivy House, 18 Wyndham St, Central. T: 6114 8871 E: [email protected] www.kinesiologyasia.comLavar Hair Removal - 20% off any treatment.13/F, One Lan Kwai Fong, Central | T: 2915 0918 www.lavar.com.hk | www.facebook.com/lavarhk Mindful Eating 10% off STOP Self-Sabotage Eating with The Mindful WayTM private sessions or group AdventureShopsTM. Complimentary 30 min “Get your pre-pregnancy weight back” health coaching consultation.

T: 9610 8530E: [email protected]: www.mindfuleatingHK.comSmith & Jain Dental and Implant Practice15% off all dental care services. 703 Century Square,1 D’Aguilar Street, Central. T: 2526 2383.E: [email protected]’s Hair 10% discount on all full price hair services. Member card required. 50% discount for client referralsG/F No 56 Po Tung Rd, Sai Kung. T: 2335 1694 www.talashair.comTsim Sha Tsui Chiropractor Centre 15 % off initial Chiropractic consultation and Examination; 50% off on initial consultation and examination for family members who come in for the check up in the same week.$100 voucher for in-clinic ergonomic products (Pillows and backrest). We are a family orientated chiropractic clinic practising an holistic approach to health. Your body is capable of healing from the inside out, chiropractic can help unlock the healing power within you! Room 1201B, 12/F, Hong Kong Pacific Centre, 28 Hankow Road, Tsim Sha Tsui, Kowloon T: 2721 3999 E: [email protected] W: www.tstcc.com.hk

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

LIFESTYLEReady Flowers 20% discount - on-line code to obtain discount is HKOZS888 T: 2540 5711W: www.readyflowers.com.hkHOTELS & HOLIDAYSFlight Centre Complimentary return Airport Express ticket per Association member per booking.T: 2830 2866 E: [email protected] www.flightcentre.com.hkQantas Discount of $200 Adults and $150 Children on return tickets from Hong Kong to Australia plus extra baggage allowance:first/business class up to 3 pieces of luggage each up to 32kg, premium economy class up to 2 pieces of luggage each up to 23kg, economy class 1 piece of luggage each up to 30kg ex HK to Aust only, and $100 Adults


LIST FOR 2015 | MEMBERS BENEFITS

and Children on Qantas Holidays. Cash or cheques only, credit cards not accepted.T: 2822 9000 (flights)T: 2737 6798 (holiday packages)Hotel Bonapate 10% off ‘Best Available Rate” when booking on line.11 Morrison HIll Rd, Wan Chai T: 3518 6688 www.hotelbonapate.com.hkHotel LKF 10% off ‘Best Available Rate” when book-ing on line; 15% off F&B at Azure Rest Slash Bar 33 Wellington St, Lan Kwai FOngT: 3518 9333 www.hotel-lkf.com.hkHotel Panorama 10% off ‘Best Available Rate’ when booking on line; 15% off F&B at AVA Rest; 15% of buffet at Cafe Express; 15% off cakes at Sweet Corner8A Hart Ave, Tsim Sha TsuiT: 3550 0388 www.hotelpanorama.com.hkHotel Pennington 10% off ‘Best Available Rate’ when booking on line13-15 Pennington St, Causeway BayT: 3970 0688 www.hotelpennington.com.hkMira Moon Hotel 20% off best available rates388 Jaffe Road, Wanchai, Hong KongT: +852 2643 8888 www.miramoonhotel.com

FASHIONROSARINI 20% off regular priced items.Ho Lee Commercial Bld, 8D, 40 D’Aguilar Street, Central T: 2526 1036 / 2526 8836.Oceanic Industrial Bldg, 14/F., Unit 12, 2 Lee Lok St, Ap Lei Chau T: 2526 1036E: [email protected] W: www.rosarini.comSerenity Fair An additional 10% off total purchases over $2000 (excluding discontinued sale items) Unit 409 Stag Building, 148 - 150 Queen’s Road CentralAdeline Ma: 2886 3912 www.serenityfair.comSERVICESDHL (local & international freight) 25% discount off published tariff for using DHL Express Worldwide service with weight up to 30kg. The offer is only for drop off shipments to DHL express Centres, pickup service will not be provided. Membership card must be presented. Drop off only to DHL Express Centres.T: 2564 8315. www.dhl.com.hkEnterprise Global Limited (IT support) 10% off normal retainer & hourly rates and 5% off any hardware or software purchase.T: 3102 8077. www.enterpriseglobal.comHolistic Business Consulting Complimentary expatriate checklist for tax planning. 15% off depreciation reports from our preferred supplierto maximise deductions on your Australian rental property.Contact: Tommy Ip - [email protected]: +852 6901 8136 www.myoztax.comNAB Private Wealth Advisory free initial consultation and preferential rates for investments, plus 25% discount on the cost of preparing a financial plan , including

superannuation advise32/F., Hysan Place, 500 Hennessy Rd, Causeway Bay T: 3185 0125 www.npwasdvisory.comServcorp 1 month rent-free for Serviced Offices for deals of 6 months or more; 3 months at half price for Virtual Offices for deals of 6 months or more; 25% off rental of meeting & video-conferencing facilities. These offers are applicable for all Hong Kong Servcorp locations:Two IFC, Central; HK Club Building, Central; One Peking Road, TST. Contact: Anki Li. T: 2251 1888.E: [email protected] W: www.servcorp.com.hk Village Holdings Ltd [Insurances] 10% discounton your usual annual premiums for the following insurance products – Home, Fire, Helper, Golf, Travel, Motor, BusinessContact: Liam Morarjee. T: 2893 5718 www.villageholdingshk.com

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

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


BOOK CLUB | JUNE 2015

Greetings to all the bibliophiles out there. After many years helping us navigate the plethora of books and finding some fabulous reading for us, Susan Cooney

is stepping down from the book club.

So here is our shout out to anyone who might be interested in helping keep this group going.

For more information please contact Dee Longe | [email protected]


SMB | PAST EVENTS


PAST EVENTS | LUNCH MUSTER


LUNCH MUSTER | PAST EVENTS


PAST EVENTS | CLUB LUNCH


SHENZHEN BUS TRIP | PAST EVENTS


PAST EVENTS | CHILLI FAGARA


TRIVIA | PAST EVENTS


PAST EVENTS | TRIVIA

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


JUNE 2015 | HONG KONG MUSINGS

Pure PhotographyPhotography is ubiquitous in Hong Kong. It is a photogenic place and with its free port status has been a magnet for camera equipment buyers for decades. As a stopover trading port, entrepôt and longtime foreign correspondents’ hangout a swath of photographers have brushed their mark on the city: Felice Beato, John Thomson, Henri Cartier-Bresson and Steve McCurry to name a few of the luminaries that indelibly con-tributed to the canon of photographic his-tory and passed through Hong Kong.

Especially now, with instant messaging through Instagram, F a c e b o o k a n d between friends, a camera or smart-phone conveniently, cheaply and rapidly produces digital photographs. Until quite recently, an intermediary, a photo-developing laboratory or shop, was required to print a physical photograph from an analogue camera. Possessing anything physical makes it closer, immediate and some-thing to be intellectually considered and possibly memorialised. It is the important physicality of photography that has been lost with the advent of digital media.

But, just as we buy flowers to bring beauty or nature into our homes, or print-out and frame pho-tographs of family and loved ones, art – including photography – will continue to have significance as a carefully chosen and physically placed object in the home, office or museum. There has been much debate about whether the glut of digital

photography and the notion of “everyone is a pho-tographer” have undermined photography’s purity. Of course it has – the amount of daily imagery that people sees is overwhelming. However, most images will be forgotten or filed in the brain’s inner recesses. Our brains have always worked that way

– most information is discarded as not being use-ful. Memorable and iconic photographs of events,

places, concepts and composition will remain important as the brain associates and retains still - not moving or cinematic

- imagery.

I am sure we could all build an improvised house with wood and galvanised iron if we had to, but a serious, solid house requires good mate-

rial, expertise and professionalism. Photography is similar. Unfortunately, the appreciation of a photographer’s traditional skills: a photograph’s composition, lens selection, reading lighting conditions off a light meter, adjusting apertures, precision printing in a darkroom etc has largely been debased by digital cameras and Photoshop. However, photographers who work carefully, in series around topics and prepare an exemplary body of work will always excel above the photo-snappers (like me!) who pepper their social media accounts with random images.

John Batten

A version of this article was published in The Peak, June 2015.

Zhang Xiao, Shift No. 01, 2012, instant film on paperfrom the exhibition 'About My Hometown,' at Blindspot Gallery until 27 June 2015


JUNE 2015 | BEAUTY TIPS

Some like it HOT! Top Tips on how to look HOT this Summer …For Frizz Free Hair - too much exposure to ultra-violet rays can break down the proteins in hair, making it dull and brittle and your colour fade faster. There is also the added damaged caused by pool chemicals, wind, and salty seawater. If you’re at the beach or in the pool, saturate your hair first using tap or bottled water then apply a treatment mask. This will prevent it absorbing the drying salt or harmful chemicals. Also, use a Hair SPF product, which works the same way sun cream does on your skin, blocking the harmful rays of the sun and preventing long-term dam-age. If your hair is particularly prone to frizz in the humidity, then I recommend Bhave from Australia: https://www.facebook.com/BhaveHair/. With over 29,000 fans in Australia, it eliminates 90% of frizz and is formaldehyde-free. Remember to keep up with trimming the ends regularly, espe-cially if you have longer hair, to prevent splitting.

For a Top-to-Toe Tan – I highly recommend LDN:SKINS, an organic self-tan influenced by the latest British lifestyle trends. LDN:SKINS is exploding onto the international fashion scene. Celebrities and top designers alike are acquiring this ‘must have tan’. For example, it’s the choice of Kate Middleton.

LDN:SKINS combines elite professional salon treatments with easy home-use products to achieve long-lasting bespoke tan tones to suit all skin types. The flexible tanning tones have been developed to naturally tan all complexions, whilst the light, smooth textures are easy to apply and absorb rapidly for effortless and flawless results.

For Long Luscious Lashes - while on the beach or in the pool, waterproof mascara is a must. But

don't use it every day as it tends to dry out your lashes. A gentle alternative is to have them pro-fessionally tinted at a salon. For a more glamorous look, you can also have individual false lashes applied that last up to four weeks. But remember not to wear mascara with them and gently remove eye make-up.

For a Slim Bikini Body – drink plenty of water and eat lots of fresh vegetables and fruit. You may find that regular, small, balanced meals help you manage your cravings. If you are finding it difficult to manage your weight try, Cambridge Weight Plans (nutritionally balanced, available for over 30 years and used by over one million people to lose weight safely). Their “meal replacements” come in a large variety of flavoured soups, porridges, shakes and bars, and provide all your daily nutri-tional needs.

For a glowing complexion - in Hong Kong, with its high UV and pollution, a good skincare routine and regular facials are musts. Highly recom-mended for this time of year are Vitamin C-based products and treatments due to their anti-ageing and de-pigmentation benefits. Not only are they some of the most powerful anti-oxidants, they also stimulate the skin’s metabolism and the for-mation of collagen; rejuvenating the skin from the damage of the sun and pollution, and promoting radiantly youthful skin.

Bridget Emmins Senior Therapist & Skincare Expert GLOW SPA – Health, Hair & Beauty www.glow-spa.net


CALENDAR | JUNE 2015M

ON

DAY

TUES

DAY

WED

NES

DAY

THU

RSD

AYFR

IDAY

SATU

RDAY

SUN

DAY

01 mah

jong

ladies

soc

ial g

olf

02 mor

ning

soc

ial

tenn

is

0304 lad

ies s

ocial

gol

f

05 chat

terb

ox

0607

08 mah

jong

09 mor

ning

soc

ial

tenn

is

smb

lunc

h

10 The

Club

Lun

ch

Roya

l Hon

g Ko

ng Y

acht

Cl

ub

11 ladies

soc

ial g

olf

Sund

owne

rs

12 chat

terb

ox

1314

15 mah

jong

16 mor

ning

soc

ial

tenn

is

1718 la

dies

soc

ial g

olf

Prog

ress

ive

Dinn

er

Hike

- Po

kful

am

19 chat

terb

ox

20 Drag

on B

oat

Junk

21

22 mah

jong

23 mor

ning

soc

ial

tenn

is

2425

ladies

soc

ial g

olf

26 chat

terb

ox

2728

29 mah

jong

30 mor

ning

soc

ial

tenn

is

Booking Deadlines:The Club - Royal Hong Kong Yacht Club - Tuesday 9th JuneProgressive Dinner - Wednesday 17th June Hong Kong Hike - Pok Fu Lam Reservoir - Wednesday 17th JuneDragon Boat Junk - Friday 12th June


MO

ND

AYTU

ESD

AYW

EDN

ESD

AYTH

URS

DAY

FRID

AYSA

TURD

AYSU

ND

AY

01 mah

jong

ladies

soc

ial g

olf

02 mor

ning

soc

ial

tenn

is

0304 lad

ies s

ocial

gol

f

05 chat

terb

ox

0607

08 mah

jong

09 mor

ning

soc

ial

tenn

is

smb

lunc

h

10 The

Club

Lun

ch

Roya

l Hon

g Ko

ng Y

acht

Cl

ub

11 ladies

soc

ial g

olf

Sund

owne

rs

12 chat

terb

ox

1314

15 mah

jong

16 mor

ning

soc

ial

tenn

is

1718 la

dies

soc

ial g

olf

Prog

ress

ive

Dinn

er

Hike

- Po

kful

am

19 chat

terb

ox

20 Drag

on B

oat

Junk

21

22 mah

jong

23 mor

ning

soc

ial

tenn

is

2425

ladies

soc

ial g

olf

26 chat

terb

ox

2728

29 mah

jong

30 mor

ning

soc

ial

tenn

is

Mahjong Mondays 1, 8, 15, 22 and 29 June Did you know that a winning hand in mahjong actually contains 14 (or 17) tiles? And that the goal is to make four or five melds (also depending on the variation) and one pair, or “head”?It may sound complicated, but it isn’t and we will have you play-ing like a pro in no time.Beginners are welcome. Come and join in the fun.Time: 10 am – 1 pmWhere: Dynasty Court Function Room, 23 Old Peak Road, Mid-levels Cost:

Members: $80 / Non-Members: $130Contact: Christine Scullion | [email protected]

GolfMonday 1 June, Thursdays 4, 11, 18 and 25 JuneEvery Thursday and the first Monday of each month (unless it is a public holiday). Please contact Adrian | [email protected] for more information.

Mums and BubsPLEASE NOTE there is no baby group from April through June

Morning TennisTuesdays 2, 9, 16, 23 and 30 JuneCome for a hit and giggle or if you want a “work out” we can do that too. We are looking for anyone that can hit a ball, preferably over the net. You need to be available on Tuesday mornings from 9am until 11am. We are the tennis group for you if you:

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

• enjoy a little chat.We have two courts booked every week.If this interests you, please come along to tennis.When: 9am - 11amCost: Members: $40 / Non-members: $60Contact: [email protected]: Please contact the HK Tennis Centre on 2574 9122 if weather doubtful.Rachel is stepping down as the coordinator of our tennis and so we are looking for a replace-ment. Please contact Rosh via the office if you would like to help.

DAY | UPCOMING EVENTS


ChatterboxFridays 5, 12, 19 and 26 June, 10-11.30amChatterbox is our casual coffee morning get together, perfect for both newcomers to Hong Kong and also to catch up with old friends. No need to book, just turn up and enjoy some great coffee, maybe a treat and a chat. Each session is hosted by a member of the Social Committee so there will be someone to meet and greet you and introduce you to others if it’s your first visit. If you have particular questions about life in Hong Kong, we’ll be able to help answer them or at least point you in the right direction.For any questions email Ainslie | [email protected]

CLASSIFIEDS | JUNE 2015

UPCOMING EVENTS | DAY



The ClubRoyal Hong Kong Yacht Club Wednesday, 10th June 2015Hong Kong has many private clubs that only members can enjoy. This month, we are going to the Compass Room at the Royal Hong Kong Yacht Club in Causeway Bay, which has stunning views over Victoria Harbour. The lunch will be buffet starter and dessert with the main being served at your table. The lunch includes favourite items such as sashimi, sushi, fresh oysters, and an extensive salad and dessert bar, including an international cheese board, plus tea and coffee. Time: 12.30pm to 2.30pm.

Meet in the restaurantLocation: RHKYC, Causeway BayCost: Pay on the day, cost depending on menu choices. Non-Members extra $50Booking: Go to www.ozhongkong.com and click on the event link or via the calendar.

For any questions contact Julie Armstrong at [email protected] Booking Deadline: Monday, 9th June 2015Payment: Please pay cash on the day. Remember to bring small notes as the exact

amount is appreciated. Cancellations 24 hours before the event will be charged and the money donated directly to charity.


UPCOMING EVENTS | DAY

Hike – Hong KongThursday, 18th June 2015This is a great “combo” walk. The initial path is well paved, with some steep sections, before we peel off onto a track that remains mostly flat throughout (there are a couple of steps along the way), before dropping back down to the reservoir via a flight of stairs.. Time: 8.00am.

The hike will take approximately one hour.Location: Pok Fulam Riding School,

Pok Fulam Reservoir Road. Meeting Time: 8:00amCost: Members: Free Non-Members: $50.00Booking: To register please go to www.ozhongkong.com and click on the link on the

home page or through the Events Calendar. If you have any further questions please email Anthea Murray at events@

ozhongkong.comBooking Deadline: 17th JuneWhat to Bring: Hat, sunscreen, water, insect repellent. Make sure you have comfortable

clothes and a good pair of trainers / walking shoes.

Secret Soho Progressive DinnerThursday, 18th June 2015Enjoy a secretive yet social dining experience across three fabulous Soho restaurants. A sumptuous three-course meal has been carefully curated with fantastic food and wines in mind.Enjoy the element of surprise as we wind our way through Soho for entrée, main, dessert & drinks at each location An email will be sent to your inbox the morning of the event revealing our entrée destination… but the rest is a secret. So all you have to do is sit back and enjoy the surprise!Enjoy three gorgeous restaurants & drinks for an exciting night!Guests will be emailed the day before the event with the first restaurant.Time: 6.45pm, for a 7pm startLocation: Three gorgeous restaurants in sensational Soho! Guests will be emailed the

morning of the event with our first dining location. Cost: Members: $770.00 Non-Members: $870.00Booking: To register please go to www.ozhongkong.com and click on the link on the

home page or through the Events Calendar. If you have any further questions please email Ainslie Young at events@

ozhongkong.com

Booking Deadline: 17th June



The ClubThe Verandah. The Repulse Bay Hotel. Wednesday, 8th July 2015This month, we are not going to a Club. Due to the hot weather, we are going to the exclusive Repulse Bay Hotel to enjoy its stunning restaurant, The Verandah. The Veranda maintains the relaxed and spacious atmosphere of the original Repulse Bay Hotel but with a Grand Hall to create a more spacious and welcoming arrival experience and a revitalised inte-rior. We will enjoy a Luncheon Buffet overlooking the spectacular Harbour whilst enjoying the Hotel’s signature dishes.Time: 12.00 noon to 2.30pm.

Meet in the restaurant Location: The Verandah Restaurant, The Repulse Bay Hotel, 109 Repulse Bay Road, Repulse Bay.Cost: Pay on the day, cost depending on menu choices. Non-Members extra $50.Booking: Go to www.ozhongkong.com and click on the event link or via the calendar.

For any questions contact Julie Armstrong at [email protected] Deadline: Monday, 6th July 2015Payment: Please pay cash on the day. Remember to bring small notes as the exact

amount is appreciated. Cancellations 24 hours before the event will be charged and the money

donated directly to charity.

Cocktail PartyFriday 28th August 2015The Social Committee of the Australian Association of Hong Kong invites you to a Cocktail Party hosted by the Consul-General of Australia and his wife, Mr. & Mrs. P. Tighe. Please take this oppor-tunity to come and enjoy the stunning Art Deco Australian Residence with its beautiful and rare collection of Australian Artwork whilst taking in the fabulous views of Deep Water Bay.Time: 6.30pm to 9.30pmLocation: The Residence. Details will be provided with a confirmation letter once pay-

ment has been received.Cost: Members: $850.00 Non-Members: $950.00Booking: To register please go to www.ozhongkong.com and click on the link on the

home page or through the Events Calendar. If you have any further questions please email Julie Armstrong at

[email protected] Booking Deadline: Monday 24th August


JUNE 2015 | THROUGH PASSPORT CONTROL

Siem Reap and the ancient temples of Angkor

I t ’s p re -dawn and , despite the many human silhouettes, people like me are waiting for the sun’s rays to bring to life the ancient temple before us and there’s an undeniable serenity. The silence is broken only by the gently-rising

chant of 500 monks, adding to the spiritual magic I feel sitting near the east entrance of Angkor Wat. The contrast to the hustle-bustle, jackhammer-ing, neon-filled skyline of Hong Kong couldn’t be starker.

I recently moved to Siem Reap after thirteen great years in Hong Kong. It was coincidental to me that both places celebrate Buddha’s birthday and that this was the day I chose to visit this amazing tem-ple. It’s the one thing that everyone must set the alarm for when visiting the ancient Khmer capital of Angkor. As the sun rises, the gently subsiding

chanting merely adds to the awe that engulfs me in being at one of the great monuments of the ancient world.

The Angkor Wat temple complex is the largest reli-gious monument in the world. Built in the twelfth century, it was originally dedicated to the Hindu god Vishnu. In the late thirteenth century, Angkor Wat moved from Hindu to Theravada Buddhist use – a practice that remains to this day. The workmanship is astonishing. What is little known is that, while it is also constructed of sandstone, Angkor Wat boasts both a greater volume and mass than the Great Pyramid of Giza in Egypt.

Now it is not surprisingly a UNESCO World Heritage site. While it may have been overlooked for centuries for its grandeur, in my humble opin-ion Cambodia has every right to claim it as the Eighth Wonder of the World. It holds such a place in Khmer history, that it is the central feature on the Cambodian flag. It should be experienced at least once during your time living in the region.


THROUGH PASSPORT CONTROL | JUNE 2015

While Angkor Wat stands as the majestic sym-bol of a once proud and advanced civilisation, it doesn’t stand alone. There are as many as a thousand ancient temples of various sizes and in varying states of repair that dot the landscape. It’s a significant archaeological region and one worth spending time to explore. Find yourself a Tuk Tuk driver who can act as a guide as to which of the many temples you should discover.

Not far from the temples is the relaxed town of Siem Reap. Dotted with French colonial archi-tecture, it’s filled with people from all walks of life, all of whom are prepared to exchange their stories with you in “Pub Street”. It’s a less-than-glamorous description for the district lined with restaurants (and yes, bars!) present almost every variation of local and international cuisine. While not on the scale of dining in Hong Kong, the selection of cuisine could certainly rival some of Hong Kong’s restaurant hotspots. An enjoyable way to spend the evening is wandering the streets and alleys surrounding Pub Street, consulting menus and restaurant staff on what local delica-cies are available. Will it be the traditional Khmer fish Amok? Or will I grab a thin crust pizza? It's a great way to spend the evening after a day of temple exploration.

Another indigenous experience is sidling up to one of the local moto-vendors who serve up fresh crepes. Among the choices are Ovaltine, banana or plain. My favourite is plain but with

condensed milk. It’s a great way to finish your Siem Reap dining experience while contemplat-ing a local style foot massage: a treat at just US$6.

Siem Reap is a small town and a short flight from Phnom Penh or reached via Bangkok. There are limited direct flights from Hong Kong via Dragonair, which will be supplemented later this year with direct flights by Hong Kong Express Airways. The town is easily negotiated by Tuk Tuk, on bicycle or, for a bit more comfort, you can hire drivers with a car. While the temples of Angkor are the central attraction, tours to local floating fishing villages are also worthwhile.

I am fortunate to experience this wonderful part of Asia through my new role with the Anantara Angkor Resort and Spa, a stunning, luxury bou-

tique resort less than 10 minutes from Angkor Wat. I’d love to host my Australian Association col-leagues who’d like to visit. We’re currently offering a Great Mate Rate as advertised in this edition of KangaNews. Please look me up if you plan to take advantage of the offer so I can ensure that you are given all the tips to ensure that your Siem Reap experience is as magical as mine has been so far.

Dean White is a former president of the Australian Association


PROPERTY | JUNE 2015

Running Hot Without a doubt in the twenty-plus years of buying resi-dential property I have never seen the market so hot. There are a number of reasons including the fact that interest rates are at an all-time record low. But, most importantly, the players have changed. Australia is seen by our Asian neighbours, in particular China, as a safe haven to place their money and invest in property.

Despite the fact that non-residents need to fulfil certain requirements as set down by the Foreign Investment Review Board and that there are further restrictions and taxes coming into effect next month, these changes are unlikely to alter the demand for Australian property. As a result, the cost of buying property in Australia, and in particular in Sydney and Melbourne, has increased in the last six months in certain areas by 30 percent or more.

The dilemma many local buyers are faced with is whether they put their search on hold and hope that there is a correction (which is highly unlikely) to re-think where they can now afford to buy - usually further away from the CBD - or stay in their current home and plan to renovate or extend. In reality, there is no apparent reason for the property market to slow down and in six months’ time many people might wish they had bought now.

Areas such as Toorak have long been seen as among the most expensive suburbs in Melbourne. Now it is quite common for other suburbs to attain individual house prices well in excess of the median Toorak house price. An example of this was seen in the recent sale of a grand eight-year-old house in Sackville Street, Kew, which is rumoured to have sold for $11.5 million (some-what higher than the $5 million-plus price tags on the surrounding houses).

Another example of such trophy houses was a beach-front home in Seacombe Grove, Brighton. It sold last month for a figure north of $20 million, breaking the record for the sale of a Brighton beachfront property by

at least $2 million. In Walsh Street, South Yarra, there is currently a grand Victorian mansion with a tennis court and a pool on a substantial block for this inner city location where they are touting that it may smash the $24-million Melbourne record.

It is not only in the traditionally upmarket suburbs that house prices are increasing substantially but also in the

“working class” suburbs. Recently, a renovated timber cottage in Altona North sold for $762,000; the highest price ever paid for such a house in the suburb. Another record was broken in Caroline Springs where an ultra-modern three-level town house sold for $1.1 million. It was the second home to surpass the million-dollar mark in this new development. In Richmond, which has largely been gentrified over the last decade, a renovated Victorian house in Rowena Parade sold off market for in excess of $4 million. In Dods Street, Brunswick, a mod-ern penthouse sold for $1.29 million, which was some $275,000 above the previous highest-recorded sale for an apartment in Brunswick.

The buoyancy of the market is also reflected in outer suburbs like Glen Waverley where a suburban family home in Panoramic Drive, ideal for redevelopment, sold for $2,178,000; some $500,000 over the reserve. There were eight bidders, all of whom were developers. One of the reasons for the renewed interest in this area is that it is in the highly sought after Glen Waverley Secondary College zone. Properties within well-respected Secondary School zones, such as McKinnon Secondary College and Balwyn Secondary College, are also in demand. Often the existing houses are being demol-ished and replaced with new and very large houses.

With such activity and the clearance rate averaging over 80% at weekend auctions in Melbourne during May, it is imperative to have a plan and be guided by experts who should be objective and hopefully take some of the stress and hype out of the buying process.

Philip Hargrave [email protected]


JUNE 2015 | HEALTHY HABITS

Natural Birthing at its best!

What is HypnoBirthing?HypnoBirthing is more than just hypnosis. It is a philosophy of birth as it is a technique for achiev-ing a satisfying, more relaxed and memorable birth experience. The sessions teach mum, along with her partner, the joy and art of experiencing birth in a more comfortable manner.

What are the benefits of HypnoBirthing?The benefits of HypnoBirthing are a relaxed and comfortable mindset for both mum and partner because of the techniques that are covered. The course teaches deep relaxation to eliminate the fear that causes tension and, thus, pain. Further, the techniques help to shorten the first phase of labour, and HypnoBirthing helps to keep oxygen supplied to the baby during birthing. Mum ben-efits from less fatigue, which is greatly reduced as well as the need for an episiotomy.

How does this differ from other birthing preparation techniques?One of the key elements to the HypnoBirthing phi-losophy is how it gives dad (or the birthing partner) an integral role in the birthing. Most mums follow up after the course and report how useful the HypnoBirthing breathing techniques are. Birthing preparation techniques for breathing can vary widely and HypnoBirthing has three breathing exercises that help mums through the different stages of labour. The course also addresses the mind, whilst other more traditional birthing prepa-

ration courses forget the mind totally. When the mind is relaxed, the body relaxes too. Lastly, how the body prepares for birthing is covered in depth, thus giving a better understanding of a how a woman’s body is designed for labour.

What is a typical HypnoBirthing session like?Each session shows birthing videos. Techniques covered include breathing exercises, visualiza-tion and deep relaxation using self-hypnosis. Understanding how the body and mind work

together for birthing is also covered in every session.

Is HypnoBirthing safe for all pregnant women?Yes, HypnoBirthing is safe as it allows mums to use their natural birthing instincts (that mirror nature) to birth their baby. As long as there are no complica-

tions during carrying her child, a woman is fit to go ahead and do HypnoBirthing to facilitate a bet-ter and more natural birth experience.

When is the best time in preg-nancy to undergo HypnoBirthing?A mum can start the HypnoBirthing course in her first trimester, as soon as she likes. Most mums


usually start the course at about 20-30 weeks. We also allow mums up to 36 weeks but we try to encourage starting a little earlier for best results. The sooner she starts, the more time she has to practise the techniques at home.

Anything else we need to know?You will learn that hypnosis is not a “trance state” or sleep state but a natural heightened state of

relaxation where you are aware and fully in con-trol, but profoundly relaxed. HypnoBirthing helps to eliminate the fear-tension-pain syndrome and teaches mums to trust in their body and work with it.

Deborah Dewey, D.Hyp. Hypnotherapist & Detox Diva 6208 7321 www.deborah-dewey.com

Pure Organic Tea from Nature to Your Cup!Nature’s Cuppa is an Australian-owned company producing fine certified organic tea from its sus-tainable Fairtrade plantation in the Sri Lankan highlands.

Ken Henderson chose the highlands of Sri Lanka to grow his tea, as the area has historically proven to be one of the best locations for premium tea growing. Ken was determined to grow tea that is vastly superior to anything offered by the big commercial tea companies and wanted to show people what tea should really taste like! He felt that the big producers had diminished the quality of tea through mass-production blending.

This quest also led Ken to organic farming prac-tices to deliver the purest flavour from natural tea. Nature's Cuppa holds organic certification from leading world organisations showing their products have been grown in organic conditions which are beneficial to consumers and also more gentle to the land and the environment. More on Nature's Cuppa organic certifications can be found on http://www.naturescuppa.com/.

In addition, Ken also wanted to avoid produc-ing premium tea that typically ends up as a gift item. He maintains good tea should be a privilege

every day and has steered away from expensive packaging and gone for a simple packet with cheerful graphics. However, no expense has been spared on the tea bag material, which is unbleached paper specifically designed for infus-ing tea. Nature's Cuppa has achieved premium quality, organic and Fairtrade certification at a drink-everyday price. Quite an achievement for a small Australian company!

Nature's Cuppa produces seven organic teas in both leaf form and tea bag: English Breakfast,

Pure Organic Tea from Nature to Your Cup

HEALTHY EATING, AUSSIE STYLE | JUNE 2015


JUNE 2015 | HEALTHY EATING, AUSSIE STYLE

Ceylon, Earl Grey, Green Tea, Chai, Chamomile and Peppermint.

Even though an everyday tea, you can't stop good produce being recognised by good chefs! In June, French chef Louis-Antoine Giroud from IPC Foodlab in Hong Kong will partner with Meyer Cookware to do a tea food pairing work-shop. Chef Louis-Antoine serves Nature's Cuppa in his restaurant and believes good tea with all of its complexity is undervalued as a beverage to accompany good food. He sees himself as a kind of “food warrior” with a life mission to educate people on the benefits, joy and simplicity of good, healthy food. Louis-Antoine is currently running Saturday morning baby-food classes at his IPC Foodlab restaurant in Fanling at no charge.

If you are interested to know more about the Meyer HK & Nature’s Cuppa workshop, please contact Judy Morris at Cooee Foods.

Nature’s Cuppa Organic Tea currently can be found at these retail outlets in Central: Organic 21, Good Life Supermarket, Patchun, Jolly Bazaar and SpiceBox Organics. Also available in Kowloon and the New Territories at IPC Food Lab Hong Kong, Organic Footmark, One Vegan Shop, T.C. Deli Shop and these online stores: Berrytime, EatFRESH, HKTV Mall, Health eShop-ping, South Stream Seafoods, Coffeeclickcafe and OrganiCorner.

Judy Morris | [email protected] www.cooeefoods.com www.facebook.com/cooeefoods1

Nature’s Cuppa Sri Lankan Plantation


Meet … Bruce AndrewsWhere do you live and how long have you been in Hong Kong?Kam Tin (New Territories), and I’ve been in Hong Kong for almost eight years.

What was your introduction to the Association?It was through the Association’s Dragon Boat team. This is my third season with the team.

How are you most involved with the Association these days?Well, now it is as the editor of KangaNews! But I’m also co-captain with Peter Winslow of the dragon-boat team. Very much looking for-ward to the big race day at Stanley on 20th June. Hopefully, there will be some good results, and it’s sure to be a lot of fun.

What makes a perfect weekend for you in Hong Kong?Saturday morning dragon-boat practice, a nice dinner with my wife at Le Blanc in Wan Chai fol-lowed by a gig with my band at the Wanch Bar. On Sunday, explore somewhere I haven’t been before, watch the sun set over Shenzhen Bay in the Lau Fau Shan area, and finish with a seafood dinner at my mum-in-law’s place in Yuen Long.

If you could choose six famous people for dinner at your place, who would they be and why?My first choice would have been Richie Benaud. But as he is sadly no longer with us, I would choose Kerry O’Keefe. Great laugh, wicked sense

of humour and a lovely personality.

Daniel Kahneman. A Nobel prize-winner for eco-nomics, who pushed psychology into economic

theory, where it belongs. The most interesting person I’ve been lucky enough to interview.

Elizabeth Warren. A US Senator and a former Harvard law pro-fessor. The person you dream every politician was like. Led the charge in calling for accounta-bility for the 2008 financial crisis, and set up a consumer financial protection agency to keep the banks honest. Did some great interviews with Jon Stewart on the Daily Show.

Joni Mitchell. Love her music, and what a fasci-nating life she has led.

Stephen Chow. All his movies are bonkers, and Kung Fu Hustle is one of my all-time favourites.

Bill Murray. Anything could happen with him at a party.

Favourite holiday destination?The next one. But New Orleans, Budapest, Sapa (Vietnam) and my honeymoon in Barcelona are standouts.

Restaurant or food secret in Hong Kong?I like trying restaurants that are tucked away in the New Territories. I’ve enjoyed eating at One Thirty-One, just north of Sai Kung, Chez Les Copains at Hebe Haven, and O Veg at Kam Tin (previously

MEET... | JUNE 2015


JUNE 2015 | MEET...

in Happy Valley). And Golden Castle Restaurant, across the road from where I live, does a cracking roasted pork knuckle.

What would you change about Hong Kong if you could?Air pollution, waste management, and income inequality.

Anything about Australia that you miss or cannot get here?The great Vegemite shortage of 2010 was traumatic.

Tell us something we all need to know about you?As KangaNews’ editor, I look forward to your feedback about the magazine – what you enjoy and what could be done better – and also if you have an idea for contributing a column or article about life in Hong Kong for Aussie expats. It’s your magazine, and I’d love you to be in it. You can contact me at [email protected].

Meet … Peter WinslowWhere do you live, and how long have you been in Hong Kong?Southside – South Bay. Eight years.

What was your introduction to the Association?The Dragon Boat team.

How are you most involved with the Association these days?Dragon-boating as a paddler and part-time coach and co-captain, and other ad-hoc functions.

What makes a perfect weekend for you in Hong Kong?Get an ocean swim in each day. Play with the kids, and swim at the beach. Go for a hike.

If you could choose six famous people for dinner at your place, who would they be and why?

Roald Dahl (imagination and humour), Bill Clinton (history & stories), Keith Richards (stories), Joan Rivers (humour), Captain James Cook (adventure, sailing), Cate Blanchett.

Favourite holiday destination?The Amalfi Coast, Italy.

Restaurant or food secret in Hong Kong?Sav’s Cooking – private kitchen

and cooking classes (www.savscooking.com).

What would you change about Hong Kong if you could?Pollution.

Anything about Australia that you miss or cannot get here?Clean beaches, to be able to see the stars, and go on a driving holiday.


TRAVEL TIPS | PHILIPPINES

The Philippines is perfect for... Part OneWithout being too controversial, when you walk through and around Central on Sunday, the last place you think of visiting for a holiday to escape Hong Kong is the Philippines, right?

Let’s think outside the Central box and look into the clear waters for inspiration.

The Philippines and its surrounding islands has consistently been voted in the top five dive and snorkelling spots in the world, due to its value for money, location, variety of islands and its offer-ings for both seclusion and activities. This makes it ideal for families, couples, groups and solo travellers.

Back in Melbourne, when my clients had trav-elled to their hearts’ content to Indonesia (Bali), Thailand and Fiji, but still wanted good value for money, beachfront beauty and variety, the Philippines was always suggested. Although the

Cook Islands, Vanuatu and New Caledonia were possibilities, it starts to add up due to time differ-ences and expenses.

Luckily for us, both expense and timings from Hong Kong are on our side, geographically speaking.

When there are approximately 7000 islands, where do we start? Let’s travel from the north and work our way down.

1. MANILA – The hub to help with regional and domestic connections. Good for a couple of nights of night life and shop-ping. the Makati area is best as it is central and has better-quality hotels, facilities and shopping destinations.

2. From Manila, you can drive or be transferred to BAGUIO CITY and keep venturing north for

good surfing and national park-hopping.

3. CEBU – Although there are direct flights with Cathay Pacific, it’s a case of first-come, first-served due to popularity. Cebu is a sampler for the Philippines’ beach life. There are a handful of five-star and four-star hotels, which are better value for money than doing it on the cheap. The service, facilities and location will reflect this, too. Most of the resorts offer a kids’ club and non-motorised water sports, so beachfront activities and family-friendly room types make this ideal for a four-night break.

Cebu


PHILIPPINES | TRAVEL TIPS

4. BORACAY – Alrighty, !’m just going to come right out and say it: this is what I like to call, the “poor man’s Maldives.” Think of the power-white sand, the crystal-clear water, the diving and snorkelling activi-ties and a selection of five-star resorts. It has all the features of the Maldives, but is half the distance and half the price. The majority of the resorts are located on White Beach and Station One bordering on Station Two and are ideal loca-tions for comfort, convenience and choice. Also, if you really want to, you can take the kids because there is a wide range of activities for them. The kids’ clubs at the four- and five-star resorts are great. You can go all-terrain vehicle riding and parasailing (minimum age 16 years old) and island-hopping with the younger ones (minimum age 10 years old). Both are weather permitting and depart daily with return hotel trans-fers included. We go through reliable companies based in the Philippines, so that we can change dates, without penalty, but subject to availability. There’s also a golf course!

As I’m writing this, China has confirmed that Thursday, 3rd September 2015 will be a public holiday. HKSAR is still waiting to confirm this legislation. We can never have enough public holi-days. So stay tuned, get ready and I look forward to sharing Part Two with you next month!

The Experience Will Always Outweigh the Expense!

Safe travels, Grace Ghattas [email protected]

Boracay


DRAGONS | SPORTS REPORT

FOOTBALL The month of May will see the HK Dragons demonstrate the diversity of AFL in Asia by competing both locally and internationally in two different footy competitions. The month begins with the fifth round of the local SCAFL 2015 competition in Guangzhou followed closely by the club travelling to the capital of the Philippines to represent Hong Kong against nine other countries in the annual Manila Cup.

Next month, for the first time in the HK Dragons’ 25-year history, a tour group will travel to the United States to compete in a USAFL tournament in San Francisco. A detailed preview will be contained in the June edition of the KangaNews.

SOCIAL With the most competitive and evenly-matched AFL season in decades now well underway, Rula Bula in LKF has successfully been playing host to footy fans every Friday night. Our generous hosts at Rula Bula play the feature fixture live on the large screen with 2-4-1 drinks from the first bounce at 5.50pm until the conclusion of the game. We welcome any expats and/or AFL fans wanting to enjoy Friday night footy with some like-minded individuals. So join us each and every Friday night at Rula Bula.

Following the success of our ANZAC Day 2015 function and the ANZAC Centenary Luncheon co-hosted with the Port Adelaide Football Club, the social calendar now looks towards the second half of the year. The Annual HK Dragons Ball will be held on 15th August at the Hong Kong Cricket Club. This event is aimed at bringing together those from the Australian expatriate community to celebrate the growth and development of AFL in Hong Kong. We look forward to welcoming all those involved with the Australian Association to this event.


SPORTS REPORT | NETBALL

Mixed NetballThe Foxy Morons have made their annual appear-ance in the mixed netball summer league, which is organised by the Hong Kong Netball Association. This year, there are two teams: The Foxy Moron Dingoes and The Foxy Moron Drongos. Extremely inappropriate names; however, both teams play hard and they enjoy the social side off the court. The Foxies also have bright pink shirts to light up the court.

Both teams have played their first game, both with a tough first quarter and both pulling it back but with unfortunate end results. Now the first

game is down, everyone is ready to make a come-back! Both teams are gearing up for their next match, which will be played at the Wong Chuk Hang Recreation Ground. All supporters are wel-come to come down and lend their support for the matches on the Monday nights.

Scribe Roshan Julian


NETBALL | SPORTS REPORT


Dragon BoatingThe Australian Association Diggers have been training for the past 13 weeks andhad their Warm-up Races on Saturday, 23rd May. The team has a number of returning paddlers and new members who have come together well, and eve-ryone is excited about the competition to come.

The HuNu training tops have made the team look very official among the other amateur teams. The team has received their competition uniforms (see next page), which is sponsored by Royal Brunei Airways. These were worn at the Warm-up Races and will be worn again for the Stanley International Dragon Boat Championships on Saturday, 20th June from 8am to 5pm at Stanley Main Beach.

The Diggers have been working hard on the water thanks to our coaches Bruce Andrews and Peter Winslow and also off the water thanks to our social officer "Mr. Motivator" Adrian Ryan, as he leads us over to the Pickled Pelican for a much-deserved pint and debrief.

The dragon boat team would like to invite our Association members to come down on the 20th June to spend the day on our junk boat. It will be a full day of food and beverages to help you all support us on the water. Thanks to Hong Kong Yachting for reserving their new boat “Tarzan” for us. Contact us at [email protected] to book your place on the OzHongKong Diggers’ Junk.

Scribe Roshan Julian

SPORTS REPORT | DRAGON BOATING

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


DRAGON BOATING | SPORTS REPORT


VET | JUNE 2015

Lepto: The Rat’s Urine DiseaseThis serves as a timely reminder of a disease that is actually quite rare but has devastating consequences! Leptospirosis is a disease of the summer months. It is important that you know about “lepto”, what to recognise and, most importantly, how to prevent your dog from con-tracting this generally fatal disease. You may have heard about the “Rat’s Urine” disease - this is leptospirosis. Here are the facts.

The CauseLeptospirosis is caused by infection from bacteria called leptospira interrogans. The bacteria is found most com-monly in environments where there is stagnant or slow moving warm water, which is very common in Hong Kong during the summer. The bacteria can potentially enter the dog via the mucus membranes (gums, eyes) or any open wound on the skin.

The SymptomsIf a dog contracts leptospirosis, typically the initial symp-toms would be fever, not eating, vomiting, dehydration and little-to-no urination. If the dog is seriously affected with lep-tospirosis, there would be yellow colouring (jaundice) of the mucus membranes (gums, eyes) and sometimes the skin.

Reports from North America estimate that leptospirosis kills up to one in five affected dogs and is the most infec-tious cause of acute renal failure in dogs. In some instances, severe infections can result in the sudden death of the ani-mal. The general experience in Hong Kong is that most (but not all) dogs that contract leptospirosis, even with treatment, die. The deterioration of the dog is from fit and healthy to intensive care or death within about 48 hours.

The Diagnosis Accurate diagnosis is very important in treating leptospiro-sis. At Valley Veterinary Centre, we use a DNA test called a PCR, which allows a rapid and accurate diagnosis to be made. This test not only diagnoses leptospirosis, but

potentially can also identify the actual types (or "serovars") of the disease.

The TreatmentTreating a dog with leptospirosis is a complex process involving prolonged antibiotic therapy and supportive meas-ures. Initial intensive care and hospitalisation is required to support and prevent further organ damage.

With intensive treatment, some dogs can recover; how-ever, many animals will still have serious organ damage, particularly to the kidney and liver, and may excrete the lep-tospirosis organisms in their urine for up to four years, thus contaminating the environment. Many dogs, despite early diagnosis and intensive treatment, will not recover from the leptospirosis infection and die.

The PreventionGenerally the most effective way for your dog to avoid contacting leptospirosis is to ensure that it is vaccinated against leptospirosis. However there is no vaccine available specific to the serovar of leptospirosis seen in Hong Kong. This obviously poses a serious problem. If your dog has had a vaccine against leptospirosis, do not be complacent as the vaccine is unlikely to be effective in preventing the disease in Hong Kong.

Preventative methods to reduce the likelihood of contract-ing leptospirosis include preventing your dog from drinking or swimming in streams or ponds when out walking in Hong Kong, particularly in the hot summer. Good hygiene in keeping the dog’s bedding, food and water bowls and environment clean is also important. Please note, cats are rarely affected by the disease. Please remember it is poten-tially zoonotic; i.e., it can spread to people, causing very serious illness for humans.

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


JUNE 2015 | FACEBOOK COMPETITION WINNERS

The Australian Association is proud to launch our NEW Facebook page. We aim to keep it up to date with all of our activities in real time. This is a great way for you and your

friends to see what we’re up to in HK. Don’t forget to send a “friend request” to The Australian Association of Hong Kong.

KangaNews June 2015

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Transcript of KangaNews June 2015