A U S T R A L I A N A N D N E W Z E A L A N D A S S O C I AT I O N
THE AUSTRALIAN & NEW ZEAL AND ASSOCIATION April 2018
Sin g a p o re
APRIL 2018
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E DI TOR’S NOTE
I
APRIL 2018
“…now I take a breath and remember that everyone is doing the best they can.”
THE ANZA TEAM THE AUSTRALIAN AND NEW ZEALAND ASSOCIATION 47A Kampong Bahru Road, Singapore 169361 Hours: Mon–Fri, 9am–5pm +65 6223 7992 www.anza.org.sg
GENERAL MANAGER & SPONSORSHIP Kerry Low gm@anza.org.sg
EVENTS Helena Biggin events@anza.org.sg
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’ve noticed that I have recently become increasingly impatient. In my streamlined life of immediacy – deliverable food, email, Google Maps, internet research – I see that my ability to just press pause is rapidly disappearing. Queuing? Forget about it. Sitting in a ‘traffic-jam’ of 10 minutes means about nine minutes of loudly “tutting” from the back seat of the cab. You’ve got in my way for a millisecond because you haven’t looked up from your phone? Uh-oh. If someone is pausing making a decision on their direction, they’re at risk of a passive aggressive rush past from me. And I know I’m not the only one like this. But, you know, sometimes that person needs that pause, that minute to work out where they’re going. Maybe they’re having one of those days, or they’ve got 110 things on their mind; their dad is in hospital, their cat is at the vet; their deadline has passed. I now try to be mindful of these little situations. Rather than think about my time and that I have to get on, now I take a breath and remember that everyone is doing the best they can. Suffice to say, I’m now consciously trying to be mindful of everyone’s precious moments. Which is particularly good timing for this edition.
For this issue, we’ve looked at this theme of mindfulness. From mental health and taking time for yourself, to being aware of others and little changes to be more conscious of everything around you, there are numerous ideas throughout this month’s pages. One of the greatest points covered is the guilt that some expats may have in lieu of depressive thoughts when they’re living this kind of lifestyle. But like being mindful of others’ feelings, it’s time not to be so hard on yourself. Being an expat isn’t all travel, accessibility and sunny swimming pools – it’s sometimes about feeling a very, very long way from home. Even if your family are only in the next room. Also with this time of year comes ANZAC Day (Wednesday 25), a pertinent reminder of what has passed before and an opportunity to remember the fallen. Join us at the Kranji War Memorial to take those stolen moments to reflect with the community. So, here’s to being mindful – of others and ourselves, past, present and always.
Charley Larcombe, Editor editor@anza.org.sg
ADVERTISING Karen Henaghan marketing@anza.org.sg
ACCOUNTS Ellie Mills accounts@anza.org.sg
DESIGN Skye Jefferys design@anza.org.sg
ACCOUNTS Elleneta Hocking accounts@anza.org.sg
WEBSITE Geoff King web@anza.org.sg
ADMINISTRATION Peta Hayes info@anza.org.sg
COMMUNICATIONS & MEMBERSHIP Mathilde Dujardin membership@anza.org.sg
ADMINISTRATION Mandy Reinders-Hall info@anza.org.sg
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C ONT ENT S
THE MINDFULNESS ISSUE FEATURES
26 Meet the Exec’
write for anza magazine We’d love you to write for us. Editorial deadline is 21 April for the June Magazine and 21 May for the July Magazine. Write between 400–600 words per page. If you’re interested, please email Charley, the
Introducing the ANZA Executive Committee for 2018.
38 Mental Health Check
Editor at editor@anza.org.sg.
Andrea McKenna Brankin talks mental health and where we can get help.
photographers Attention, all aspiring snappers – we want you! Please note photos need to be 300dpi. Email Charley at editor@anza.org.sg.
40 Bootcamp for Your Mind
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the fine print ANZA will not be liable for any consequential loss or damage occasioned by the failure of any advertisement to appear due to any cause whatsoever, nor does it accept any liability for error in any advertisement published or its failure to appear on a specific date. ANZA does not endorse or promote any product, service, or view offered through any advertisement, community service notice, or club or group activity that may appear in the magazine, nor does it accept responsibility for any specific advice or opinions offered by contributors or writers, and any subsequent reliance on such advice or opinions by its readers. ANZA magazine permit number:
A simple meditation technique to calm yourself in times of stress.
ANZA, Are You Ok?
ANZA, ARE YOU OK?
ANZA is proud to be supporting the RU OK? Foundation, aiming to reduce the stigma of mental illness. ANZA is proud to be supporting the R U OK? Foundation which aims to reduce
42 And Relax...
Mathilde Dujardin escapes city life to unwind for a long weekend in Bali.
the stigma surrounding loneliness, mental illness and suicide. So, how are you feeling? asks Melissa Johnston.
REGULARS 14
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01 Editor’s Note
April 2018
MCI (P) 135/04/2017.
04 President’s Message disclaimer ANZA offers many and varied activities and events to benefit its members. Occasionally, and due to circumstances outside of ANZA’s control, activities or events (including sporting competitions and seasons) may be cancelled or subject to date, venue or content changes. Every effort is made to avoid this, but where it does happen, neither membership or ticket fees are refundable. Current and prospective members and guests are encouraged to reference both the constitution and terms and conditions of ticketed events.
07 Post It 08 New Members 10 What’s On
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12 Australian High Commission 14 New Zealand High Commission
Into the Wild Adopted New Zealander, Marie Monmont is a business woman, social enterprise entrepreneur & a driving force for change.
16 ANZA Action 18 Check Out: Dempsey Hill 28 Out & About: The AGM, Ladies Night & New Members’ Drinks 32 Casual Coffee 36 Member Benefits 50 ANZA Click!
A U S T R A L I A N A N D N E W Z E A L A N D A S S O C I AT I O N
34 ANZA Tours
THE AUSTRALI AN & NE W Z E ALAND ASSO C I ATI O N April 2018
Singapore
54 Style: BonANZA Ball Inspiration 56 Hotspots 58 Sour Grapes 59 Tuckerbox 60 Soul Fuel 62 Wandering Yogi 64 MAF 66 ANZA Sports
Tribes & Tribulations Tatyana Kildisheva goes in search of adventure in West Papua, encountering tribesmen & scaling mountains.
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74 ANZA Groups
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75 ANZA Classifieds
APRIL 2018
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76 10 Minutes With… ANZA Scouts’ Toph Brown
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AN Z A PARTN E R S
THANK YOU TO THE FOLLOWING ANZA PARTNERS, VALUED GREATLY FOR THEIR CONTINUED SUPPORT OF THE ASSOCIATION. P R E M I E R PART N E RS
P LA T I N U M PART N E RS
G O LD P A RT N E RS
SI LV E R P ART N E RS
F E ATURED PARTN ER
EXPAT DENTAL
DR. JOEL COOPER, ORTHODONTIST & PAEDIATRIC DENTIST WHY IS IT SO IMPORTANT TO WORK WITH THE ANZA GROUPS SUCH AS SOCCER AND NIPPERS? Expat Dental is always keen to support activities for families that support a healthy lifestyle. Overall health and wellness is an important factor in oral health. So a child participating in regular exercise and team activities is something that proves worthwhile for overall health and makes our job easier in the long run. Seeing Expat Dental as a community partner and team sponsor may also cut down the ‘fear factor’ children may have about visiting the dentist. We would like to be seen as friends in the community
rather than scary dentists. Because many of our staff are expatriates themselves, we like to give back to the communities that support us. WHAT DO YOU FEEL ARE THE MAJOR TRIALS EXPATS FACE WHEN MOVING TO A NEW COUNTRY? As I have experienced, it is hard at first to find your way around a new city and find all the providers and services you would be able to find quite easily in your home town. It is great to have groups like ANZA to be able to assist newcomers to Singapore and help them find a community quickly. April 2018 anza
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PRESI DENT ’S MES S AG E
APRIL 2018
“I’m going to try to be deliberately mindful of the moment more often.”
G’day and welcome to the April edition of the ANZA magazine. This month’s theme is mindfulness. Wikipedia describes this as the “psychological process of bringing one’s attention to experiences occurring in the present moment”. The benefit of bringing one’s attention to the present appears pretty self-evident; if my attention is on the “now”, then it’s not on the million-andone other things that I would usually be fretting over. Quieting the cries for attention from experiences long since passed, is a goal I can completely get behind. One of the things I missed when I stopped playing soccer for a living, was the intense focus – mindfulness, if you like – on the task at hand, which came with the blow of the ref’s whistle that started a match. I didn’t have to work to get myself in that state – the physicality of the game, its defined time-limit and rules, and the fact that other people were depending on me, all meant that the mindfulness was imposed externally. After football, I wasn’t necessarily equipped to achieve that same state through internal processes alone – it takes a little work to be in the present. This is why this issue of the magazine is such a corker. We have content about our new association with the R U OK? Foundation and the importance of mental health. After a little thought, it seems obvious that something as basic as being fully engaged in the moment when we
are with our friends or colleagues might be the catalyst for asking something as simple, yet potentially life-saving as: “Are you ok?” We also have columns on being mindful of ourselves and others, and how we’re gearing up for our Volunteer of the Year Awards next month. This has provided me with reminders of all the wonderful things that our community has done, while providing examples of, and techniques to achieve, a focus on the present that can only be beneficial to our everyday life. I’m going to try to be deliberately mindful of the moment more often. Yet looking through the magazine, back at the fun we’ve had, reflecting on the good work of the community, and looking forward to all the great things coming up, it can be difficult to keep in the present. I still want to try though.
PJ Roberts, President
ANZA EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE CO-PATRONS His Excellency Bruce Gosper, High Commissioner for Australia | His Excellency Dr. Jonathan Austin, High Commissioner for New Zealand CHARITIES PATRON Antonia Kidman
President PJ Roberts
Vice President Adam Martin
Treasurer Zenaida Bharucha
Executive Secretary Mark Neo
Community Services Coordinator Fiona Harrison
Membership Secretary Megan Kinder
Committee Member Phillip Simmonds
Committee Member Don Northey
Committee Member Andre Casson
Committee Member Mark Thomas
Committee Member Tristan Perry
Committee Member Lee Carsley
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Joint Sports Coordinator Helen Soulsby
Joint Sports Coordinator Marnie Watson
April 2018
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POST I T
POST IT
K E E P U P -T O - D AT E W I T H T H E A N Z A C O M M U N I T Y E A C H M O N T H AT A N Z A .O R G . S G
REGISTER NOW! THE SPORTS GROUPS ARE NOW TAKING REGISTRATIONS FOR THE 2018/19 SEASON.
Don’t miss out, get registering today. ANZA Athletics, Netball and Soccer are now opening the lists for the next season and you need to get enrolling ASAP to avoid disappointment. For a full season of competitive sport, lessons in an enjoyable environment, and an opportunity to make new friends and bond with old ones, enrolling the kids in an ANZA sporting group is a must. Simply log on to anza.org.sg for further info and within a couple of clicks, the kids can be signed up for fun, fulfilment and fitness.
DID YOU KNOW? Qing Ming (‘clear and bright’), or tomb sweeping, is an annual Chinese festival honouring ancestors. It is observed on the first day of the third lunar month, when cemeteries and columbariums are visited and tidied. – Raelene Tan 1990’s
ANZA IS 70
2000’s
CONTRIBUTE YOUR STORIES AND EXPERIENCES OF THE COMMUNITY FROM YESTERYEAR, YESTERDAY & LOOKING FORWARD TO THE YEARS AHEAD.
2010’s
This year we are celebrating an incredible milestone – seven decades of supporting the community in Singapore. From our birthday event in September, to a dedicated issue, we want to share the stories from you, the members, that have made ANZA what it is today!
So, if you have an anecdote to share, a story you think needs to be told, maybe just an idea of ANZA and our history, then please do reach out. Drop an email to our Editor, Charley at editor@anza.org.sg. Let’s make the 70th Anniversary issue the best ever! Get in touch NOW!
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N EW M E M B E R S
NEW MEMBERS
WE ARE DELIGHTED TO WELCOME NEW MEMBERS EVERY MONTH TO THE ANZA COMMUNITY. Priyanka Banerjee Tate Barnes Troy Barnes Paula Barnes Rasmus Beck-Petersen Virginia Bethe Mark Blackmore Elizabeth Blanch Rachel Boyle Finbar Boyle Shona Brown David Brown Maree Bryson Robert Bryson Janice Burns John Butler Thomas Cameron Auspen Chia Alex Chumakov Janice Chumakov Sarah Clark Sarah Coleman Linda Collins Kartal Cona Angela Cristol Bruno Cristol Mary Cross Glenn Cross Kate Crowley David Crowley Amanda DaSilva Anthony Day Nicollee Dent Frederic Devos
John Dick Yolande Dick Clara Diez Emma Eggleton Grant Eggleton Wilma Elk Nicholas Everett Victoria Fagan Tony Fagan Jean-Baptiste Feat Abbey Fells Kate Fleming Brian Fletcher Matthew Flook Ebru Flook Milene Freire Ben Frost Katie Frost Megan Georgoulas Frank Georgoulas George Gibb Christopher Graham Cody Graham Jo Groarke Tania Grose-Hodge Simon Grose-Hodge Mike Hamilton William Hamilton Audrey Harris Fleur Heidenreich Lars Heidenreich Glen Height Collette Height Camilla Hewitson
Robert Hewitson Jacob Hook Andrew Jacobs Edina Johnson Thomas Karakalos Jude Kellett Tristan Kelly Claire Kewney Reemah Khawaja Shannon Kleehammer Kannan Krishnan Annemiek Kuijsten Melanie Lane Anne Laure Martin Leeuwen Maria Lewis Mac Lewis Macushla Londeman Luuk Londeman Jo Lu Rahul Madasu Marc-Herve Manouan Thomas McCormick Alpin Mehta Nikitha Mehta Claus Meister Claudia Meister Ellie Mills Peter Mitchell Beth Moller-Tank Fiona Moran Damien Moran Monique Morley Saswata Mukherjee
ANZA MONTHLY GIVEAWAY
Sudeshna Mukherjee Wanlop Navepap Alastair Nicoll Nicholas O’Brien Ben O’Malley Oonagh O’Neill Kevin O’Neill Rik Oberoi Victoria Pace Phillip Pace Miquel Pallares Helen Papafotiou Susannah Parsons Shinta Paulina Emmeline Payne Sandy Pike Peter Pike Arthur Pineda Grace Pineda Danielle Quinell Natasha Resnikoff Michael Resnikoff Edwina Rigby Mieke Rooij Marlo Russell Devos Ryoko Roger Schueler Nici Schueler Narelle Scritchley Greg Scritchley Emel Seker Michiel Selm Philip Simmonds Julie Simon
Eric Simon Ki Sin Kaylie Smith Jo Solberg Andrew Speck Tom Streitberg Holger Tank Jacob Taylor Andrew Terry Nicole Timbrell Anthony Tindall Jeremy Turner Angela Turner Robert Turvey Annabelle Viviers Gary Viviers Andrew Vroland Kym Wade Michael Warner Elin Watkins Lucy Wilkinson Nick Wilkinson Jane Williams Elissa Wills Damien Wills Dave Wilton Vanessa Wright Koay Yean Nicola Yeomans
NEW MEMBERS PREMIER PARTNERS
Congratulations to Nicole Timbrell Winner of this month’s $50 voucher from The Butcher.
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GREEN & GOLD GLORY WATCH BEN O’DONNELL, FULLBACK FOR THE AUSTRALIAN RUGBY SEVENS TEAM TAKE TO THE PITCH AT THE SINGAPORE NATIONAL STADIUM THIS APRIL. HSBC WORLD RUGBY SINGAPORE SEVENS SINGAPORE NATIONAL STADIUM 28 & 29 APRIL
TELL US A LITTLE ABOUT YOUR JOURNEY IN RUGBY SEVENS AS YOU’VE ONLY BEEN IN THE PROGRAMME A SHORT WHILE. My Sevens career is still only fresh, playing my first game just over a year ago. Since joining the programme the greatest difference (post switch from 15’s) has to be the physical change. You’re using a whole new energy system to keep throwing yourself around the field to make up the space that eight other players usually fill up in the 15s game. WHAT IS THE ONE ASPECT OF PLAYING THAT YOU LOVE THE MOST? Rugby in general, is a sport that really relies on every member of the team. The opportunity to run around every day with your best mates all over the globe... it’s a pretty tough gig…
SAVE THE DATES HILARITY FOR CHARITY 18 APRIL
EDIT O P I C K R ’S !
HELPING YOU UNDERSTAND THE JOB MARKET 20 APRIL WHISKY & WATCHES 26 APRIL BONANZA BALL 12 MAY 10 anza
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Karen Watson RA Media
HOW DO YOU PREPARE FOR A MAJOR INTERNATIONAL TOURNAMENT? Prep’ for the World Series is a gruelling combination of running, analysing oppositions, running, rehabbing post injuries, running, learning/creating new tactics and did I say running? Our coaching staff are at the cutting edge and they’re the ones behind the curtain keeping all the players fit, healthy and ready to play. They do everything they can to prepare us for tournaments both physically and mentally. We’ll use facilities like the dreaded Heat Chamber, where the temperature is cranked up to +38 degrees and the humidity at a very wet 95% minimum, to help prep for the Dubai, Cape Town, Sydney and definitely the Singapore legs. WHAT DO YOU THINK MAKES THE SEVENS SO POPULAR FOR SPECTATORS? It’s the chance to see the most entertaining parts and most skilful players of rugby, all thrown together by 16 of the best professional rugby nations and all squeezed into two days of non-stop action. WHO ARE LIKELY TO BE YOUR TOUGHEST COMPETITION IN THE SINGAPORE TOURNAMENT? History shows that Singapore is the tournament where form means nothing. We’ve seen the likes of Kenya and Canada take out the Cup in the last two years, meaning everyone’s a threat and we won’t be taking any teams lightly.
DO YOU HAVE A ROLE MODEL? Hard to look past my old man, but since joining the Au7’s, Chucky Stannard has been easy to look up to and follow. Whether it be on the field running himself into the ground or off the field either when he’s looking after his body by always ice bathing, or engaging with the fans (Not at the same time obviously...). Or Happy Gilmore, a man who against all adversity after changing sports, went on to beat Shooter McGavin (reigning number 1) in the 1996 Waterbury Open. WHAT ARE YOUR INTERESTS AWAY FROM THE PITCH? When I’m avoiding class and extending out my Sport & Exercise Management Degree, I’m usually found on the sand. Both the sand of the beautiful east Aussie beaches and the sand of the bunker either side of the golf green I’ve missed… again. HAVE YOU SPENT MUCH TIME IN SINGAPORE? It will be my first venture to Singapore. I’m looking forward to checking out Marina Bay and some cultural eating. Not looking forward to sweating buckets in the harsh humidity. WHAT CAN ANZA MEMBERS EXPECT FROM YOU AND YOUR TEAMMATES? ANZA should be looking forward to seeing a mix of unrelenting, clinical and united Ra-Ra running rugby from the Green and Gold.
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WHAT ’S ON
12 APR
12 – 15 APR
Singapore Indoor Stadium This Irish indie and rock band combine heart-breaking ballads and get-to-yourfeet anthems for what promises to be an awesome gig. Ideal for date night or an evening with mates.
One 15 Sentosa Cove While away an afternoon amongst the beautiful super yachts and pick which one you’d sail away on whilst listening to live music and trying the wares from the different food stalls.
From $98
From $50
THE SCRIPT
SINGAPORE YACHT SHOW
18 – 29 APR
CIRCUS 1903 Mastercard Theatre Marina Bay Sands Step right up! Step right up! Feast your eyes on the sensational puppetry that puts elephants back in the ring alongside a huge cast of the most unique circus acts you’ll ever see. Also get a little inspiration for your BonANZA Ball outfit! From $65
25 APR
29 APR
30 APR
From $20
From $148
26 APR – 12 MAY
8 – 13 MAY
10 – 27 MAY
From $20
From $75
ANZAC DAY Kranji War Memorial Cemetery Attend the ANZAC Day Dawn Ceremony to commemorate the 103rd anniversary of the Gallipoli landings and take a moment to remember the fallen. ANZA Tours are organising buses to and fro the Cemetery; turn to page 34 for details.
INCOME ECO RUN Marina Bay From competitive half marathons to 10k team races and an 800m kids’ dash, this is a running event that champions not only your fitness, but also the environment by striving towards zero waste and using bio diesel for generators. Race to be green!
FALL OUT BOY Zepp @ BigBox Singapore Grammy award-winning rock band, Fall Out Boy hit up Singapore on their global MANIA tour with hits from their new album, American Beauty/ American Psycho as well as their classic anthems. Let your hair down and dive into the mosh pit.
$10
SIFA Various So much culture, so little time. Least that’s how the line-up for this year’s Singapore International Festival of Arts feels like. Start with an adaption of George Orwell’s 1984 at the Esplanade and finish with the Duke Ellington Orchestra jazz at the Botanical Gardens.
SWAN LAKE MES Theatre Swan Lake tells the love story of Prince Siegfried and the beautiful Swan Princess, Odette, a young woman transformed into a white swan by an evil sorcerer. Be taken up with the magic of this truly beautiful ballet performance by the St. Petersburg Ballet Theatre.
LEGALLY BLONDE Mastercard Theatre Marina Bay Sands Perfect your bend and snap for Elle Woods and her Legally Blonde castmates as they take to the stage here in Singapore in a show that promises to be “so much fun, it should be illegal”. Wear pink. From $65
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AUSTR ALIAN HIG H C OMMIS SION
Australian High Commission Singapore 25 Napier Road Singapore, 258507 Tel 6836 4100 Fax 6737 54810
The Guide Dogs Singapore is an organisation close to the Australian High Commission.
THAT’S A WRAP March saw the ASEAN-Australia Special Summit take place in Sydney, the first time Australia has hosted a Summit with ASEAN Leaders in Australia. The Summit was a historic gathering of leaders, business, government and innovators working together to unlock the opportunities in our region. It highlighted the strong and deep connections we share with the region and strengthened our joint
ON THE HORIZON STAY CONNECTED Stay up to date on events here in Singapore, and find information about Australia by following our Facebook page ‘Australia in Singapore’ (www.facebook. com/AustraliaInSingapore)
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contribution to regional security and prosperity, including by addressing shared security challenges and securing greater opportunities for our businesses. Australia is working closely with Singapore during Singapore’s year as ASEAN chair to advance our shared interests. To mark International Women’s Day, we celebrated with the opening of This Wild Song showcasing 21 female Australian artists and recognising the
In April we have a diverse program of events and activities, including Food and Hotel Asia, bringing the focus back on Australia’s great exports and fantastic produce. The Rugby 7s will once again be in Singapore and we will be backing the Australian team all the way. Leaders will gather in Singapore for the 32nd ASEAN Summit and; we will also mark ANZAC Day on 25 April with a gunfire breakfast at Kranji.
importance of women’s voices in both the arts and business. True Colours at the end of March was the first ever performing arts festival of music, dance and arts, celebrating the talents of the most exceptional artistes with disabilities from Singapore and other Asia Pacific countries. The Festival included Australian artist Tony Dee and Australian group No String’s Attached, along with over 20 local and international artistes with disabilities.
ANOTHER AUSTRALIASINGAPORE CONNECTION
The Guide Dogs Singapore (GDS) is an organisation close to the heart of the Australian High Commission. It is a not-for-profit organisation with a mission to enhance the quality of life of the blind and visually impaired here in Singapore. A collaboration has grown between established Guide Dog organisations in Australia and Singapore - the guide dogs used here are Australian born and trained dogs that are especially brought over and assimilated into the Singapore environment and culture.
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NEW ZEAL A N D HIG H C OMMIS SION
New Zealand High Commission Singapore One George Street, Level 21-04 Singapore 049145 Tel 6235 9966 Fax 6536 8180
COFFEE & CYCLING
STAY CONNECTED Follow us on Facebook: www.facebook.com/ NewZealandinSingapore Register when travelling: www.safetravel.govt.nz Find out more: www.mfat.govt.nz/singapore
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A fun weekend in Singapore activity: borrow a share bike, cycle down the Whampoa Park Connector and have a Kiwi flat white at Wheeler’s Yard! High Commissioner Jonathan Austin caught up with owner Tommy Ong, who was inspired to turn his family warehouse into a café and bike workshop from his years living in New Zealand. From the Karajoz coffee beans to the antique lamps, Tommy has made sure there are little Kiwi touches throughout the laidback warehouse conversion. IMAGES: High Commissioner Jonathan Austin & Wheeler’s Yard owner Tommy Ong / Singapore Airshow 2018 / Waitangi Day celebrations. That Camera Guy Photography
KIWIS FLY HIGH
New Zealand aviation companies waved our flag at the Singapore Airshow 2018, Asia’s biggest aerospace and defence event, which ran for seven days in February. From Oceania Aviation, a helicopter maintenance and repair firm, to the Air New Zealand Aviation Institute, the airline’s training division, Kiwi firms highlighted New Zealand’s long aviation history, worldleading aviation training and aircraft engineering and services. Aviation NZ, with close to 300 members, estimates that the value of the aviation industry in New Zealand is $16 billion and growing. The Airshow was a great opportunity to tap into the Asia-Pacific market, the world’s fastest growing region for aviation.
WAITANGI DAY FESTIVITIES
Over 1,000 people attended NZ Chamber’s Waitangi Day Family Celebrations in February. Thanks to the sponsors, partners, vendors and volunteers, the crowd enjoyed a range of Kiwi goodies such as L&P, Whittakers chocolate, wine and cheese and were kept entertained by the AV Dads Band, slip ‘n slide and other fun activities. High Commissioner Jonathan Austin played his part by ensuring that the three boxes of Air New Zealand lollies were flung far and wide during the Lolly Scramble. It was a fantastic day to celebrate our special culture, nation and community and for Kiwis (and friends!) in Singapore to come together.
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ANZ A ACT ION
FEELING THRIFTY ANZA ACTION’S RAE MOLLER IS LOOKING FOR VOLUNTEERS FOR THE NEW2U THRIFT SHOP; CAN YOU SPARE SOME TIME?
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anzaaction
ANZA Action is the community affairs arm for ANZA, supporting in the community charities in Singapore.
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he New2U Thrift Shop opened its doors back in May 2000 by a team of passionate ladies from ANZA. Their intention was to raise funds for Star Shelter, a temporary refuge for women and children who are survivors of domestic abuse. Since then, the shop has been managed and run entirely by dedicated volunteers. Many of our volunteers have been with us for many years and some even from the very beginning! The New2U Thrift Shop sells a wide variety of items, like clothes, accessories, household items, toys and books. Prices start from as low as $1 and you can easily find a full outfit for less than $15! All proceeds go towards the Star Shelter and other SCWO initiatives. Items that have been donated are brought to our sorting room to be sifted through and priced for the shop. For items that are deemed unsuitable for sale, we usually channel them to other areas such as recycling. The shop is open on weekdays from 10:30am to 2:30pm and on the last Sunday of the month from 11am to 2pm. We have a total of 60 regular volunteers and every day, a different team is running the shop.
From time to time, the thrift shop organises special events and promotions, like half-priced days and bazaars. The most anticipated is our bi-annual New2U Bazaar, which extends to the entire ground floor of the SCWO Centre, showcasing many more items. We even have a dedicated room for pre-loved designer items, which is always crowded for the entire bazaar. In 2018, the New2U Thrift Shop has expanded its operations and is now running two stores at the SCWO Centre. As such, we now need more volunteers to join our New2U family! Apart from running the daily operations, volunteers sort and price items that come through daily donations. We are seeking passionate and dedicated individuals who have a big heart, love interacting with others and would like toinbe a part of the the community thrifting community. If you’re interested or would like to find out more about our shop, please do drop us a message at volunteer@scwo.org.sg or call 6837 0611. For more information, please visit: scwo.org.sg. Follow us on Facebook @New2UShop.
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CHECK OUT
DEMPSEY HILL
WHAT BETTER AREA TO HAVE A WANDER AT THE WEEKEND? FROM PERFECT BRUNCH SPOTS AND EVENING DINING, TO GALLERIES AND INTERIORS SHOPS TO DECK OUT YOUR SINGAPORE PAD, A MOOCH AROUND DEMPSEY IS A MUST SAYS CHARLEY LARCOMBE.
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CHE CK OUT
1. OPEN FARM COMMUNITY 130E MINDEN RD., 248819
openfarmcommunity.com This is the social spot with a social conscience. Championing urban farming, the menu reflects seasonal produce and general ‘do-good-ing’. For a quick brunch try buttermilk pancakes or pulled pork eggs benny; for dinner, request the chef’s omakase menu; and all the while, keep an eye on the OFC Facebook page for pop-up restaurants, DJ nights and crafts classes for the kids.
5. REDSEA GALLERY BLOCK 9 DEMPSEY RD., 247697
redseagallery.com I came across this gallery when I first touched down in Singapore and was moping about looking for a job. A quick half an hour walk around this space proved fruitful – an unexpected showing of Picasso sketches and a lifted mood. Bar a nameless pig made from silicon – it’s worth popping in to just see it though – there are usually fabulous contemporary artists’ works on display. A cool space, with cool art.
2. THE WHITE RABBIT 39C HARDING RD., 249541
thewhiterabbit.com.sg Housed in the old 1930s Ebenezer Church, this is an oldie but a goodie with great food from Head Chef Benjamin Tan, but my particular favourite part is The Rabbit Hole gin garden out the back. Pretty fairy lights, an exhaustive gin menu, and a good charcuterie board make for a great evening. Date not included. But the staff are so nice, they could probably help you out with that too.
3. FARMERS MARKET AT LOEWEN GARDENS 75E LOEWEN RD., 248845
facebook.com/ Farmersmarketatloewengardens/ There’s not loads of choice at this monthly market but it’s good for a nose about for organic veg, fresh meat and olive oil. The aim is to encourage local businesses to test their produce so it’s a good idea to support; there’s an April edition on Saturday 14, and another on Saturday 12 May, both 9am-2pm.
4. BLU KOUZINA 10 DEMPSEY RD., #01-21, 247700
blukouzina.com/SG/ Take a trip to Greece by ordering up all of the goodies on the μενού. I’d opt for sardines shara with lots of lemon and black pepper ($29), a mezze of spanakopita – filo pastry filled with spinach, feta and herbs – ($16) and smoked eggplant melitzanosalata ($16) to share with a bottle of something chilled.
6. JONES THE GROCER 9 DEMPSEY RD., 247697
facebook.com/jonesthegrocerSG/ An obvious choice, but you’re always guaranteed a great breakfast here at this Australian café bistro. The other week, I took my mum for brunch; I nearly licked the plate clean of my huevos rancheros and mum didn’t leave a scrap of her salad. Delicious. We popped a couple of cheeses on our bill from the walk-in cheese room too.
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9. COMO DEMPSEY 17D DEMPSEY RD., 249676
comodempsey.sg I love everything about this little corner at Dempsey. I love the bar of the Cookhouse dripping in ferns and greenery and I love its restaurant of black and white tiles and ornate wicker chairs. I love the ‘Market’ installation and local straw lampshades overhead in Candlenut, the Michelinstarred Peranakan spot. I love how you feel you’ve found a secret when dining at the Osaka-style Ippoh Tempura Bar by Ginza Ippoh. I love the contemporary feel of Como. And I haven’t even touched on the actual food. You’ll have to go and love it for yourself.
10. DOVER STREET MARKET 18 DEMPSEY RD., 249677
singapore.doverstreetmarket.com Being an English bird, I know this fashion concept store from home where it was originally based on the London Kensington Market of the ‘60s that catered to sub-culture fashion. Now it’s a byword for cool and covetable labels – which is why it fits in so well in stylesavvy Singapore. For those who regard ‘faaasssshhhunnn’ as art.
JIU ZHUANG 6D DEMPSEY RD., 247664
jiu-zhuang.com/ A bit of a find, this bar and Chinese restaurant has a touch of the 1920s Shanghai about it with antiques and interiors that give a speakeasy type feel. The food menu boasts dim sum hand made by the in-house sifu whilst the drinks menu offers up cocktails inspired by the seasons, a hearty wine cellar and Chinese Baijiu and Huangjiu.
8. ASIATIQUE COLLECTIONS 14A DEMPSEY RD., 249669
asiatiquecollections.com I go in here for interiors inspiration and wishes to deck out my pad with beautifully designed furniture and then realise my credit card can only handle buying the hand cream – although that makes me just as happy as it smells wonderful!
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ANZA, ARE YOU OK? ANZA is proud to be supporting the R U OK? Foundation which encourages us to look out for signs that a friend, colleague or loved-one may be struggling with life. So, how are you feeling? asks Melissa Johnston.
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ANZ A, AR E YOU OK?
“…helping ordinary people play a role in stopping feelings of loneliness and isolation…”
“A
re you ok?” Mmmm… seems like such a simple question, doesn’t it? But it is an important question that can make a real difference in the lives of people just like you and me. I moved to Singapore in late 2012 and literally days later my marriage collapsed. I found myself in a foreign country with three kids under 10, no family, no friends and no job. I pretended I was alright for months. Then half a year into this journey, my ex-husband moved out of our apartment and took the kids for his first ‘visitation’ weekend. It was my birthday. I remember waking that morning and for the first time ever, I could not get out of bed. I was not ok.
A friend who I had only known for a couple of months rang me that morning: “Happy Birthday, Beautiful. Are you ok?” “I’m fine,” I said. “Just going to have a lazy day.” “Great!” came the reply. “Hubby, the kids and I will be over in 10 minutes with bubbles and a birthday present.” “No need – we can catch up another day. I’m still in bed” “We’ll be there in 10 minutes – you can answer the door in your pyjamas or you can get out of bed and get dressed. Either way, we’ll see you in 10 minutes.” She knew I was not ok. Such a simple gesture, but one that literally saved me in that moment. It started with just asking if I was alright – but with the desire to really listen to the
answer and not accept the typical brush off that most of us do. There is such a fine line between being ok and being seriously not ok. And for expats, that line is sometimes harder to navigate than for most. In those early days we have so much to deal with – packing up homes, saying goodbyes, finding a new home, new job, new schools, integrating into a new culture, finding new friends! All without the typical support mechanisms we come to rely on like family and close friends. ANZA is all about helping you find your new support network when you’re away from home. So ANZA is particularly pleased to join forces with the Australian International School (AIS) and suicide prevention charity, R U OK?.
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ANZ A, ARE YOU OK ?
“Kindness and care cost nothing but deliver a lot.”
WHAT IS R U OK? In 1996, much-loved Barry Larkin was far from ok. His suicide left family and friends in deep grief and with endless questions. In 2009, his son Gavin Larkin chose to champion just one question to honour his father and to try and protect other families from the pain his endured. And with that R U OK? was born. The Foundation is all about helping ordinary people play a role in stopping feelings of loneliness and isolation among family members, friends and workmates by having regular, meaningful conversations. It’s also their aim to help reduce the stigma around mental illness and suicide, as well as increase the likelihood that those who need it will access professional support sooner rather than later. R U OK? is about prevention and early intervention. Their approach is based on the work of United States academic, Dr Thomas Joiner. After his father took his own life, Thomas focused his research on asking the question “Why?” His findings describe three forces at play in someone at risk. The first is the person thinks they’re a burden on others; the second is that they think they can withstand a high degree of pain; and the third is they don’t feel connected to others. This third force is why R U OK? places such a big emphasis on the power of connection. By inspiring people to take the time to ask “Are you ok?” and listen, all of us can help people who are struggling with life, feel connected long before they go down a path that is more difficult to come back from (we have all experienced those three forces to some degree – let’s be honest). It all comes down to regular, face-to-face, meaningful conversations. R U OK?’s four steps to starting a life-changing conversation are: Ask, Listen, Encourage Action and Check-In. For conversation tips and help-seeking resources go to ruok.org.au/findhelp. Remember to ask the question and check-in with someone you care about today.
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ANZA’S INVOLVEMENT At all ANZA events from now on, you will hear us talk about R U OK? We will encourage you to reach out to those around you – new and old (us long termers have challenges too). We’ll encourage you to seek support if you don’t feel 100% – remember, that fine line, don’t think you have to deal with everything by yourself. The anza.org.sg will direct you to R U OK? materials and guidance to help you have the conversations that are needed. AIS will also provide this material to their students and we are piloting an app that will help kids check in on each other in that most modern of ways. R U OK? isn’t a question to ask just one day a year. It is a mind-set you should employ every day of the year. Kindness and care cost nothing but deliver a lot.
DID YOU KNOW? • • • • •
About eight people take their own lives every day in Australia 65,000 people attempt suicide each year in Australia New Zealand has the highest rate of teen suicide in the world Men account for around 75% of all suicide deaths in Australia Twice as many men take their own lives in New Zealand as in Australia * As supplied
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ANZ A, AR E YOU OK?
SAILING TROUBLED SEAS Former Rugby professional Wendell Sailor is an Ambassador for the R U OK? Foundation. Was there a specific conversation that was a turning point for you? As a kid and a young rugby player, I never wanted to talk about my feelings. Sport is a macho world; you keep your problems to yourself and don’t ask for help. When I was 32, a conversation with rugby league coach Wayne Bennett and my wife changed all that. After I’d made a few stupid decisions, they both told me that I wasn’t acting like myself. I finally felt I could open up because they both clearly wanted to help me. They weren’t judging me at all.
What advice would you give to someone (especially other men) who want to connect with a friend and see if they are ok but are unsure of how to start the conversation?
What motivated you to support R U OK? I was very good friends with R U OK? Founder Gav Larkin, which is why I first became involved. Since then, I have had a few friends who have taken their lives, so my passion for this cause has deepened. I didn’t get a chance to ask them if they were alright. It’s something I regret because I feel like I let them down and I should’ve let them know that I was there for them.
Having experienced that loss, what advice do you have for others? You can never offer too many times to sit down with a mate and have a chat. As long as you show them you actually want to listen and won’t judge them, they’ll hopefully tell you what’s troubling them. If that day never comes, they’ll still know you’re there for them.
Be prepared to put yourself out there and feel a little uncomfortable (it gets easier). Talk to people in depth and really listen. Don’t just say “How are you?” in passing, but show them you care and then they may open up.
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into the wild
Adopted New Zealander, Marie Monmont is a business woman, social enterprise entrepreneur and a driving force for change. Charley Larcombe
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I N TO THE WI L D
Importantly, Marie is not only creating an opportunity for prisoners to learn new skills in graphic designing, printing, packaging and assembly of her chocolate products, she pays a proper wage – not a ‘prison rate’.
M
arie Monmont is chic, petite, and quick with a smile to break across her face. Her French accent is still strong even after nearly 20 years living in New Zealand and she speaks, like so many of her countrymen, by quickly peppering her answers with anecdotes and gesticulating with her hands. Sitting across from me drinking hot chocolate in an Italian coffee shop in Singapore, dressed in pristine preppy clothes with a jaunty hat nonchalantly pushed to the side, she seems the epitome of a stylish, care-free city dweller. However, where would you catch her on another day of the week? Working alongside her prisoner co-workers, under the watchful eyes of guards at a prison in Wellington, New Zealand. You see, Marie’s colleagues can’t nip out for espresso meetings or talk shop at lunch over an extortionately-priced salad, because whilst Marie goes home to her family, they do their shift and go back to their cells. Let’s just put this into some context. Marie is the creator of Wildness organic chocolate, a rich exotic confection that stands above the rest due to its magic ingredient of cupuaçu, a fruit discovered in the depths of the Brazilian rainforest. From the same family as cacao, it’s usually snapped up by the pharmaceutical and beauty behemoths for its health and wellness properties, but Marie has battled to get her slice of the shipment. By working closely with one solo farmer, Carlos, she has been growing, drying and exporting this little-known product back to New Zealand to add to her delicious chocolates. The connection to the cell mates? “I saw a French documentary about a former prisoner who had learnt new skills during his sentence and I thought it was really interesting,” explains Marie. “Moments later, I was calling prisons around Wellington, asking if employing prisoners was even an option. I called and called and called, and eventually I wrote a quick business plan. Within 10 minutes, I had a reply, and the next day I was putting it into action and on my way to offering employment to prisoners.” Importantly, Marie is not only creating an opportunity for prisoners to learn new skills in graphic designing, printing, packaging and assembly of her chocolate products, she pays a proper wage – not a ‘prison rate’. What also marks her out is that she physically goes inside the prison; she works alongside the offenders. With her elfin haircut and slight build, it must prove an interesting sight as she gets to work alongside her colleagues in their prison garb. I ask how she finds common ground? What do they talk about all day?
“I reserve all judgement; I’m not there to judge them on what they’ve done before or why they’re in prison. At the beginning, nobody wanted to work for me, because I was a ‘female company’; they saw that working for a chocolate brand was a woman’s job. But then they saw that I’m not a meek little girl, I graft hard, I have a bottom line and they respect that. We’re there to work but it’s an incredible environment to be in. There is no Wildness company without them, and we all take pride in that.” The importance of this social enterprise aspect of the Wildness business is integral – not just a sound-bite. And this is evident in Marie’s impassioned conversation and her stoicism in not caring that her approach hasn’t been done before. She’s not put off by attempting new methods, or employing a different staff base, simply because they’re not the norm. She’s here to shake things up and push the envelope. Wildness chocolate (and also the pure raw honey her bees produce back in Wellington) are used by Accor and Intercontinental hotels in New Zealand – and soon to be in Singapore too. Her family haven’t been here too long, but she is already looking at importing Wildness, as well as trying to set-up a similarly socially-conscious workforce here on the Little Red Dot. “Working in the prisons may not be viable, but I have found some incredible charities to potentially work with, where people can again learn new skills and be part of a growing company they can be proud of.” She is also incredibly mindful of the environment. She sources organic cocoa beans and is constantly striving to get the precious cupuaçu organically certified too. She experiments with the chocolate packaging to ensure everything is degradable and is produced ethically and is environmentally-friendly. She is just as passionate about the environment as she is about her social responsibilities. “It is important that we all do our little bit. The environment is incredibly important to me, as it is what will affect my three children. Making sure we are working for good in the environment is a major driver.” It’s important to say that Marie isn’t preaching or earnest. She’s very warm and funny and makes light of the way she charges through life. “I’m not wanting to change the world, but as a young business, I can implement these things straight away and as we grow and grow, I can prove that not only is it a commercial success, but being more socially and environmentally conscious is viable too. It does not have to be one or the other.” Oh, and by the way, the chocolate is delicious…
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MEET THE EXEC’ INTRODUCING THE 2018 ANZA EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE, DEDICATED TO IMPROVING AND BENEFITING THE COMMUNITY.
The 2018 ANZA Executive Committee with New Zealand High Commissioner, Dr. Jonathan Austin & Charity Patron, Antonia Kidman.
“ANZA is a wonderful organisation which contributes positively to the community – both expatriate and Singaporean.” – Andre Casson PJ ROBERTS
ADAM MARTIN
ZENAIDA BHARUCHA
What do you find most rewarding about being on the Committee? I adore the passion of our volunteers and their selfless dedication to providing awesome opportunities for others. As heard at this year’s AGM, the importance of building a community in Singapore, our home away from home, is integral to ANZA.
What do you find most rewarding about being on the Committee? It’s a privilege to be part of such a passionate, volunteer-led organisation. From our sports teams, to our interest groups, there is so much to be proud of with ANZA and I enjoy the feel-good factor of working with such avid champions of the association.
What do you find most rewarding about being on the Committee? That I can utilise my professional qualifications to give back to our community is incredibly rewarding. I am also fortunate to work with a nice group of people both within the Committee and the greater ANZA family of volunteers, supporters, sponsors and members.
President
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Vice-President
Treasurer
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ME ET THE E X E C ’
MARK NEO
HELEN SOULSBY
PHILLIP SIMMONDS
Executive Secretary
Joint-Sports Coordinator
Executive Committee
What do you find most rewarding about being on the Committee? ANZA’s success has been built on the time and effort given by so many volunteers who ask for nothing in return. By being on the Committee, I hope my small contribution will help ANZA continue to flourish and succeed well into the future.
Why did you want to join the Committee? My children and I have benefited greatly from ANZA in the seven years we have been in Singapore. I am a regular contributor to the ANZA single parents group, and a team parent for ANZA’s Saturday morning U14 Soccer. I’d like to now step-up and contribute at committee level. I believe that sports participation, from fun to representative, is a hugely positive force and I’d like to contribute in a small way to ANZA Sports.
Why did you want to join the Committee? I truly believe in ANZA’s purpose to serve and support the local and expat community here in Singapore, and feel as a resident for nine years I can share my experiences and contribute to our inclusive community. I’m keen to volunteer, learn and be inspired by the existing committee members.
DON NORTHEY
What do you hope to achieve for ANZA? I have always been involved with community service and volunteer organisations back in Auckland including my two sons’ sports clubs and my local residents’ association. My family and I like being involved with our local community, and helping out where we can. I’ve built up some great networks both professionally and socially, and would be pleased to contribute these to ANZA.
MEGAN KINDER
Membership Secretary What do you hope to achieve for ANZA? Generally, I would like to help with bringing homogeneity to the community. As we grow and branch out – which is all so positive – it’s important to keep the unity of the group. I am looking forward to personally assisting with this communication.
FIONA HARRISON
Community Services Coordinator What do you hope to achieve for ANZA? We have engaged with the Singaporean community through a close relationship with the People’s Association and have supported a variety of community service organisations. Best of all, we have enabled ANZA members to make a significant contribution to Singapore society. I would welcome the opportunity to build on our good work and forge deeper relationships within our community and our charity partners in Singapore.
MARNIE WATSON
Joint-Sports Coordinator *Not present in photo
What do you hope to achieve for ANZA? Providing more support to the amazing ANZA office team, who take on a huge amount of work which I believe could be even further supported by having a more proactive committee. I also want to further increase membership and volunteers for our groups. As most are expats, departures lead to extra responsibility falling on those who remain. This means we need to support our volunteers and I want to ensure this is happening in a structured manner.
Executive Committee What do you find most rewarding about being on the Committee? As a sole practitioner, most of my work is performed at my home office. Being involved with ANZA is one way of getting away from my desk to network and communicate with like-minded people with a view to being involved in making good decisions that will benefit ANZA in the foreseeable future.
ANDRE CASSON
Executive Committee *Not present in photo
What do you find most rewarding about being on the Committee? ANZA is a wonderful organisation which contributes positively to the community – both expatriate and Singaporean. It is a great privilege to be part of a group that is making a difference for good. When I look at the breadth of important programs that are occurring beneath the ANZA umbrella, I am always inspired.
MARK THOMAS
Executive Committee
TRISTAN PERRY
Executive Committee *Not present in photo
Why is it important to be a member of the Committee? I am thrilled to be a member of the ANZA Executive Committee! I’m a Chartered Accountant and manage Australian expats and Singaporeans with their affairs. ANZA has helped my family feel so welcome, so I have joined to give something back to all its members and also to be a part of such a wonderful community.
LEE CARSLEY
Executive Committee Why did you want to join the Committee? I have been on a few boards in my past corporate life, so I’m aware that they require commitment and energy to keep them moving. I’ve been active in ANZA for a few years, and feel that the time is right to contribute further. I also hope to keep on building the ANZA yoga community, and using our yoga money for good projects spear-headed by ANZA Action.
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ANZA AGM The New Zealand High Commissioner’s residence proved a perfect setting for an evening championing ANZA. Last month we welcomed the new Executive Committee as well as many of our sports and interests groups at the annual ANZA AGM. It was a particularly positive evening with the passion for the community really singing through the presentations from each of the volunteering members. From an adorable video by the Scouts, to the sheer incredible numbers of the Soccer group – 900 kids and counting –; from the call for medical professionals to join the veteran Lions team, to hearing all about the unbelievable charity work of ANZA Action, it was a wonderful showcase of all that the community do here in Singapore. A huge thank you to the New Zealand High Commissioner, Dr. Jonathan Austin and his wife Salotte for their terrific hospitality – and to all ANZA members for their attendance.
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OUT WITH THE GIRLS
R EG U LA EVEN R T
Fireworks, fizz and frickin’ loads of oysters at Ladies Night. Held at Angie’s Oyster Bar in Raffles Place, the super-popular ANZA Ladies Night saw the best dressed gals of Singapore step out for the evening. There was free flow wine, plates of oysters and a front seat view to the on-going Chinese New Year fireworks over-looking the Marina. The ANZA team were so pleased to meet recent editions to Singapore – some who had only been in town a mere two weeks – and friends of members just visiting for a few days but desperate to get a Ladies Night into their trip itinerary. It’s always our pleasure to make new friends and introduce new members to our ever-expanding community. Want to join us at next month’s Ladies Night? We’ll be meeting at LOOF on Tuesday 24 April. Register here: anza.org.sg/events.
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NEW MEMBERS DRINKS ANZA really know how to throw a new members party says Mathilde Dujardin. It was a perfect evening for new ANZA members to mingle and make friends at One Degree 15’s floating Boaters’ Bar at Sentosa Cove last month. With over 100 new ANZA members in attendance, cool breezes and chilled drinks flowed as guests indulged in tasty sliders and listened to the acoustic tunes from Duo Star. After sunset, guests were escorted to private yachts for spectacular sailing out to Marina Bay to view the dazzling lights of the Singapore skyline. A handful of lucky guests left with a magnum of bubbles thanks to AAM Advisory, and EGO ensured one member was sun safe with a pack full of Ego Sunsense products. Meanwhile the lovely team from One Degree gave away food and beverage vouchers, while another lucky new member left with $100-worth of meat thanks to The Meat Club!
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GRE AT AU STR AL IA DAY BB Q
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CASUAL C OFF EE
CASUAL COFFEE As Easter occurred at the end of March, it feels like it’s been so long between coffee catch-ups so this month we’re looking forward to getting back to our normal routine. We hope you can join us at the Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf on the 11 and 27 of this month for talking with old friends and hopefully making so many new ones. Please also join us in welcoming our new committee member, Kylie Bartley, who is enjoying her second stint living in Singapore. Having been here this time for just over two years Kylie is
JOIN US AT THE COFFEE BEAN & TEA LEAF FOR OUR TWICE-MONTHLY CATCH-UPS! bringing her wide experience of ANZA and the country to our get-togethers. Also, plans for our ANZA Biggest Morning Tea are underway so keep an eye out for details coming up soon! So lots going on! Whether you’re a regular Casual Coffee attendee or a new arrival, come along, have a chat and say Hi.
JOIN US FOR COFFEE AND A CHAT! APRIL Wednesday 11 Friday 27
The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf
#01-26 Orchard Central 181 Orchard Road
Look for these ladies at the venue!
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Sue Chamberlain 9390 6937
Sandra Poh 8189 5128
Collette Height 9181 3076
Naida Ginnane 8698 1026
Julie Johnson 9025 2430
Kylie Bartley 8138 7684
April 2018
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ANZA TOURS THERE IS SO MUCH TO SEE AND DO IN SINGAPORE SO COME AND EXPLORE WITH US. ANZA.ORG.SG/TOURS/
21 APR
25 APR
BATTLEFIELD HISTORY
ANZAC DAY DAWN CEREMONY
09 MAY
MONUMENTS & MEMORIALS
18 MAY
KEONG SAIK STORIES
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24 MAY
CELEBRATE VESAK DAY
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BATTLEFIELD HISTORY DATE: TIME: MEET: COST:
SAT 21 APR 9AM – 1PM 8:50AM NEWTON FOOD CENTRE MEMBERS $55 NON-MEMBERS $65
DATE: TIME: MEET: COST:
WED 25 APR 5:30 – 9AM 5:20AM NEWTON FOOD CENTRE MEMBERS $10 NON-MEMBERS $15
large-scale photo montages, weaving photographic strips into a tapestry of images with themes of the Vietnam War. Through his work, he merges eastern and western cultures, as well as personal and fictional realities. Following our guided tour of discovery, debrief over a coffee at your expense.
DATE: TIME: MEET: COST:
WED 9 MAY 10 – 11:30AM 9:50AM STPI FOYER. MRT: FORT CANNING MEMBERS FREE NON-MEMBERS $10
and their struggles to make life better for themselves and their loved ones. It is a tale of love, forgiveness and redemption. We end the tour at a bakery where Charmaine will join us to answer questions about her book and do signings.
DATE: TIME: MEET: COST:
FRI 18 MAY 9:30 – 11AM 9:20AM EXIT H MRT: OUTRAM PARK MEMBERS $45 NON-MEMBERS $55
DATE: TIME: MEET: COST:
THU 24 MAY 9AM – 1PM 8:50AM NEWTON FOOD CENTRE MEMBERS $45 NON-MEMBERS $55
To commemorate ANZAC Day, learn more about the history of Singapore’s fall to the Japanese in World War II. Our first stop will be the Kranji War Memorial, where over 30,000 military personnel are honoured. We’ll then head to see the beach where the first Japanese landings took place, passing by the site of the Kranji Beach battle
where the Allied Forces scored the only victory over the invading Japanese. To finish the tour we’ll visit the newly refurbished ‘Old Ford Factory’ and see the actual room where the British surrender was signed. This area in the northern part of Singapore is fascinating and quite unlike other parts of the island, so be sure to come along.
ANZAC DAY DAWN CEREMONY The Australian and New Zealand communities in Singapore will gather at the Kranji War Memorial Cemetery to commemorate the 103rd anniversary of the Gallipoli landings. This year we are providing buses to take the hassle out of parking: we’ll depart Newton Food Centre carpark at 5.30am sharp and
leave the Cemetery at approx. 8.15am, returning to Newton. The ANZAC Day Dawn Commemorative Service will be hosted by the Australian High Commission, in conjunction with the New Zealand High Commission. Take a moment to remember the fallen with all of us from ANZA Tours.
MONUMENTS & MEMORIALS Join us for an exclusive tour of the Singapore Tyler Print Institute, an art gallery promoting experimentation of print and paper. Be inspired by the current exhibition, Monuments and Memorials by acclaimed artist Dinh Q. Lê, who was born in Vietnam and at 10, immigrated to America to escape the Khmer Rouge. He is known for his
KEONG SAIK STORIES What does Keong Saik Road mean to Charmaine Leung, the author of 17A Keong Saik Road? A red-light district in the 1970s, for Charmaine it was where she grew up as the daughter of a brothel operator. In recounting her childhood, she brings to life stories of marginalised and forgotten women
CELEBRATE VESAK DAY What better way to celebrate Vesak Day than to sample the festivities at three different Buddhist temples in one day? Vesak is considered the most holy day observed by Buddhists in this part of the world. We’ll watch the preparations, rituals and celebrations as well as tour the extensive highlydecorated buildings and gardens,
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at the Bright Hill monastery and temple, Singapore’s largest monastery. We’ll then travel to the temples of Burmese and Tibetan worshippers. At each temple our guide will share the hidden stories, including those of education and medicine for the needy. You’ll come away both enlightened and enlivened.
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FEATURED
ANZA MEMBER BENEFITS APRIL Here’s a selection of our best offers available this month – exclusively for ANZA members.
FEATURED D IS C O UNT TOMATO PHOTO
tomato.sg
Mother’s Day E-Voucher worth $450. Looking for a gift a little different for this year’s Mother’s Day on Sunday 13 May?
Contact Tomato Photo by 30 April to redeem the voucher & organise the photoshoot before 30 June. Email info@tomato.sg & quote your ANZA membership number.
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EDES SPA HORSE CITY
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30% off any a la carte menu item at EdeS Spa Horse City with ANZA membership card shown. Exclusions apply. Please call 81819504 for an appointment.
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CHANDON
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Purchase 12 bottles of Sparkling Chandon for $399 & receive a BONUS $50 Seafolly voucher!
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Receive a special insurance premium of 3%, inclusive of cover for mould & mildew, pairs & sets, & mechanical derangement on any international moves.
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ANZA MEMBER BENEFITS APRIL Present your ANZA membership card – or use the discount code online – to receive an array of discounted products & services. To view the full list of ANZA member benefits & T&Cs, visit anza.org.sg
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Receive a 15% discount on food and an all-day happy hour price on drinks.
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Receive 20% off total food & drink bill when dining from a la carte menu, Monday-Sunday inclusive.
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10% off a la carte food & beverage bill at Aura.
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Exclusive to ANZA members, enjoy 10% off all Pilates group classes & private sessions as well as Physiotherapy & Kickstart packages.
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15% off on merchandise, food & beverage with ANZA membership card.
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jamieoliver.com/italian/singapore/ 15% discount off the total food bill with ANZA membership card.
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20% off regular hair services & 25% off regular hair services on birthday month.
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10% off the total bill at all The Providore Cafes (Mandarin Gallery, Tangs, Raffles Place & Downtown Gallery).
Interested in offering a discount to ANZA members? Email marketing@anza.org.sg
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15/3/2018 3:01:19 PM
Mental Health Check Andrea McKenna Brankin talks mental health and where we can get help.
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isclaimer: I am an expat who personally deals with mental health issues (I have bipolar disorder) and has written and spoken about this subject for many publications and blogs. My mental health story was featured in the 2017 book, Dear Ms. Expat; whilst my own book, Bipolar Phoenix, has yet to be published. However, I am not a medical professional, and this is not medical advice. This is peer advice based on my experience here. I am a mental health advocate, which means I seek to educate people and organisations about these issues. Take away what you will. I’ve been in Singapore going on seven years and each year I see more need for mental health support here for expats who either need a little help temporarily or are in full crisis mode. Too many people downplay mental health issues. But while this is common in every country around the world, I find that expats in Singapore tend to think they have no right to complain about their life because we have so much convenience and luxury here… This is nonsense. Everyone is allowed to feel sad, depressed, anxious, agitated or anything else. Stigma also keeps many expats from getting help. Ask yourself or others this: If you had Diabetes or a heart condition, would you refuse to take medication because of what people might think of you? Mental and physical health are inextricably linked. It’s imperative that people start changing their mind-sets as a whole on this because it’s your health on the line. You’ve probably heard of a lot of different mental health conditions, such as depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia and even post-partum depression. This is not the time to diagnose. Let the doctors do that. Let’s look at warning signs, because many are similar for different conditions. You need to know when to get help. But, how do you know if you, or someone you know, needs help - and what do you do about it? Where do you go for resources and assistance?
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Warning Signs LACK OF SELF-CARE: Not taking care of yourself, in terms of diet (eating/not eating), drinking too much alcohol (I see this a lot!), not showering, not sleeping or sleeping too much and spending too much money are the ones I see the most. Generally speaking, obsessing about anything (school, kids, social stuff, politics, hygiene, food, exercise) is also a key identifier of some mental health problems.
INTERPERSONAL CHAOS: Arguing with everyone, spouse, kids, workmates, helper, even on Facebook! Generally, having relationship problems can be a result of mental health issues. Expat women are facing issues like traveling spouses and change of lifestyle that can affect relationships. Men may feel resentment their wives are not working and contributing to income. Relationship problems of any kind can be a serious mental health trigger, so we must learn to take problems seriously early and get appropriate help.
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M E NTAL HE ALTH CHE CK
“Everyone is allowed to feel sad, depressed, anxious, agitated or anything else.” What to do? •
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In crisis, you can call Samaritans (SOS) 24 hours at 1800 2214444 or pat@sos.org.sg. It’s the only suicide prevention centre in Singapore and is trained to handle these situations. See a professional, including psychiatrist for medication if needed, and therapist, who can let you talk about your problems and suggest solutions in thinking and behaviour. In my experience, it’s prudent to go to the pros and not to tax friends and family. Not only is this to avoid uneducated opinions and judgements, but really to take it to someone who can give you unbiased, effective help. Alternative therapies like yoga, meditation, sound healing, essential oils, reiki, acupuncture, Chinese medicine…find something that suits you. * NOTE alternative therapies should not replace medical care, but they can be good complementary options to help manage mental health. Set up a support system - doctor, therapist, clergy, Facebook support groups, and when possible, supportive family and friends. In my personal experience, a team approach was most effective in getting me on track to better mental health.
Clinic & Therapist Suggestions As recommended by Andrea McKenna Brankin.
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* Friends and family MUST be educated on mental health issues, otherwise this can be counterproductive. How to educate yourselves and others? Online websites, such as R U OKAY (ruok.org.au), the National Alliance on Mental Illness in the U.S. (NAMI.org), Mind in the U.K. (mind.org.uk) and Mental Health Australia (mhaustralia.org). Facebook has groups that many expats rely on. We’ve seen a huge increase in anonymous posts on @RealSingaporeExpatWives and other pages, of women asking for mental health support. I often offer my personal assistance privately. You can also find groups that are tailored to your condition, such as the Depression and Bipolar Support Alliance (@DBSAlliance). Social and sporting communities, such as ANZA, can be a source of positive social support for those who are struggling to fit it and adjust to expat life.
People who suffer from mental illness, even temporary ones, are NOT ALONE. Many experience mental health challenges and there is no shame in admitting we need help. You do not need to suffer; there is always hope for recovery. When you take care of your mental health, you can truly lead a healthy and happy life.
PSYCHIATRIC CLINICS • Most private hospitals have walk-in clinics (Raffles, both Mount Elizabeth locations, Thomson Medical, Gleneagles etc.) who can refer you to psychiatrists in their hospitals. • Five government hospitals cover mental health, including Woodbridge Hospital, which has an outlet of the Institute of Mental Health. • IMC (International Medical Clinic) has three locations and can refer patients to psychiatric doctors.
THERAPY • SACAC (sacac.sg) is well-known for managing expat issues. • Take a look at Try Psychotherapy (trypsychotherapy.sg), Aspire Counselling (aspirecounselling.net), Body With Soul (bodywithsoul.com) • The women’s group AWARE (aware.com.sg) can help you deal with issues like spousal abuse and also provides counselling to women in crisis. • If you prefer help from a provider at home for cultural or language reasons, consider asking for Skype sessions. This has become more and more common these days. There also is an app called BetterHelp.com that does private, affordable online counselling chat sessions.
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B O OTCAMP F OR TH E MIN D
BOOT CAMP FOR THE MIND ANZA Member Melissa Johnston offers an easy exercise to get that biggest of muscles working; your mind.
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o what is mindfulness? It’s essentially boot camp for the mind; it enables individuals to find focus and calm in the craziness of the everyday. When you go to the gym you lift weights to build muscle; you do starjumps to build fitness. With mindfulness you undertake practice to train your mind (it is a muscle after all). Mindfulness has many layers, so let’s start by just considering one. What do you do when someone in your team misses a deadline? When you get a rude email from a colleague? When you are reprimanded by your boss? When the sales pitch you have worked on for days is rejected? React, right?
As human beings, we are conditioned to do this. A reaction is driven from deep in our subconscious – so we don’t even think about it before we do it. We experience and we react. Hands up if you’ve fired off an angry reply to a rude email only to regret your reaction immediately. When we react, we don’t always create the outcomes we desire. And it can become a vicious cycle – your angry email triggers a ruder email from your colleague that you react to… and so on. In comes mindfulness. If we can train our minds we can turn our reactions into responses by creating space. How? You remember your parents telling you when you were little to count
to 10 and take a breath? We don’t always have the patience but it’s a concept to reintroduce. Mindfulness doesn’t happen overnight; just like going to the gym, it takes time to see results. Remember, this is about focus and calm. It is hard to deny the benefits – whether you are a stay-at-home parent, a small business owner or a high-flying corporate type we can all benefit from being more mindful. If you feel like making a start on your journey, take a look at the simple exercise. For more info, check out the Search Inside Yourself Institute and book (siyli.org) or connect with the ANZA Wandering Yogis for more practice options.
“Mindfulness, I declare, is useful everywhere.” – Buddha MINDFULNESS 101 This practice is designed to just run over a couple of minutes. Two minutes a day will still help to train your mind.
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Begin by getting into a comfortable seated position. Ensure you’re relaxed, but still alert. You can be on a chair or on the floor… just find a spot and body position that works for you.
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Now take three slow and deep breaths; in through your nose and out through your mouth. These are deliberate breaths while you bring your attention away from everything around you and onto your breathing.
03.
Continue to just breathe naturally. In and out… but take time to become conscious of your breathing. Can you find the space between the end of your ‘in’ breath and the start of your ‘out’? Just focus… if you find your mind wandering that is ok. Be aware and consciously bring your mind back to your breathing.
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Think of this exercise as a way to rest your mind. Breathe in and out… visualise somewhere peaceful and keep focusing on your breathing. Relax.
05.
When you are ready to end this practice, remain focused and say these affirmations in your mind. “(‘In’ breath) I am calm; (‘Out’ breath) I am happy.”
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NEV ERL AND
AND RELAX... Mathilde Dujardin escapes city life to unwind for a long weekend in Bali.
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f you’re in need of a zen holiday, then look no further than the Royal Tulip Saranam Resort and Spa found in central Bali’s lake district, just an hour north of Ubud. The Husband and I headed here for a long-weekend back in February and I can’t recommend it enough for a break to re-charge and re-boost. Built into the side of a tropical valley, the resort is a mere two-hour drive from Ngurah Rai International Airport and offers a serene, relaxing experience in the heart of rural Bali – perfect for nipping away for a spoiling weekend. We felt our bodies instantly relax from the craziness of life in the outside world as soon as we checked-in. Surrounded by native jungle, verdant rice paddies, glorious mountains, natural spring pools and traditional Hindu temples, we had no idea this part of Bali had so much to offer – and it was a welcome retreat away from the hustle and bustle of touristy Seminyak. From the moment we were greeted at the airport by our private transfer chauffeur, to the minute we were checkedin and shown to our room, the service was impeccable. The
Balinese truly offer some of the kindest hospitality in the world! Honestly, anything we needed was available to us – and with a genuine smile too. Living in Singapore has so many pros, but sometimes we desperately crave a bit of peace from the endless construction, cars tooting, motorbikes roaring past and just the day-to-day chaos of living in a big-small city. Going to the Royal Tulip was indeed a search for that much-needed quiet, with only the sound of birds chirping and insects humming filling our ears. The blissful sound of nature was truly a highlight of the trip and set the tone of the weekend. With our room facing the lush green rice paddy terraces and mountains, it was so easy to let go of modern day stresses. For The Husband, he didn’t even realise how much he needed this break until day two, once the soothing soundtrack had worked its magic and he’d been able to unwind. Travelling to this part of Bali in the first part of the year – i.e. in the off-season – meant that we had to deal with a little bit of drizzle, but we felt like we had the place to ourselves.
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“The Husband, not typically one for anything slightly ‘spiritual’ or stretchy, surprised me by enthusiastically looking forward to each of our daily yoga and meditation classes.”
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Who cares about a little rain when you’re lying under a shady pagoda, reading a good book and watching an afternoon storm roll in? Because the resort wasn’t busy, there was no worrying about competing for the ideal lounger location – when the sun did make an odd appearance – or that dinner table with the best view. Having said that, every sunbed ensured a truly tropical vista and each table was perfectly placed for memorable moments. We had booked a four-day wellness retreat. Not entirely sure what this meant, we knew yoga, meditation and other wellness activities were included – but really we went in a little blind. We discovered over the weekend that in addition to yoga and getting our ‘om’ on, each day the resort offered a vast selection of daily activities, from stretching exercises and nature walks, to water blessings from a local holy man and creating our own herbal teas. The variety was impressive. The Husband, not typically one for anything slightly ‘spiritual’ or stretchy, surprised me by enthusiastically looking forward to each of our daily yoga and meditation classes. After each session, we felt both totally relaxed and fully re-energised. And the bonus? The Husband now wants to learn meditation with me! #winning. And just in case we weren’t relaxed enough, we embraced our total retreat from the world with the resort’s full selection of natural therapies including cleansing facials, detox baths and invigorating body treatments. Reflexology for me; a fullbody, reduced-to-mush massage for him. We booked again and again, and at $50 per 60minute massage, how could we really say no? The menus at the resort were varied, with much of the produce grown on-site or locally-sourced. It wasn’t necessarily ‘health retreat’ food, but they offered healthier options for those looking to give their body a well-being boost. Whether you’re looking to simply unwind and be pampered in style; or for the more active types, who like hiking to waterfalls, discovering paddy terraces or visiting local villages, this resort satifies all travellers. We had planned to do a mixture of both, but as we eased into our getaway, leaving the resort became more and more unappealing. I mean, why leave when everything you need is at your fingertips?
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April 2018
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15/3/2018 12:28:18 PM 15/3/2018 4:37:00 PM
T RI BES & TRIBUL ATION
TRIBES & TRIBULATIONS Tatyana Kildisheva goes in search of adventure in West Papua. Tatyana Kildisheva
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T RI BE S & TR I BUL ATION
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urely you’ve been to Indonesia. Most likely it was a Bali visit, or temple-hunting in Yogyakarta, or maybe a paradise island beach resort? However, there is another part of Indonesia, which is not often visited by tourists: West Papua. The island, which became Indonesian territory in the late ‘60s, still has ongoing conflict between its indigenous population and the Indonesian government and its settlers. Because of this in-fighting, it’s important that you get a trusted guide if visiting the region – but don’t let that put you off exploring this part of the world. I have always wanted to visit Papua to see the indigenous tribes and to climb Mount Trikora (the second highest peak in Australasia), but it took a while to find partners adventurous enough to embark on this challenging journey. Eventually we succeeded and our small expedition included myself, my partner John and our fearless friends, Susanne and Thomas. Looking at the map, Papua appeared to be only a stone’s throw from Singapore – in fact there were no international direct routes. Four flights and 30 hours after leaving Singapore, our small propeller plane landed in Wamena, the largest town in Baliem Valley. Knowing close to nothing about Papua before going there, we quickly absorbed information from our Indonesian guide Nanang Link Sunarko (who had lived in Wamena for 16 years), and from simply observing the people and our surroundings. There are over 300 indigenous Papuan ethnic groups living in the valley (the most prominent of which are the Dani, Lani and Yali), and every August they stop their tribal wars and get together in Wamena for a festival.
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While there are quite a few problems with the local population including violence, substance abuse and high rates of HIV, watching the tribal festival unfold was quite a spectacle. There was dancing, never-seen-before musical instruments, concerts, singing, and mock warfare. Villagers showed up in their tribal attire, adorned with conch and bead necklaces, plant fibre skirts, animal tusks and teeth, bird feathers, and koteka (penis gourds). Their faces and bodies were daubed with paint, and they were carrying spears, bows and arrows. Needless to say it all looked super exotic to us and was huge fun to photograph. After two days of the festival, we left Wamena and trekked through the mountains, staying with locals in their wooden huts with roofs made from long grass. We witnessed traditional ways of living off the land, like cultivating sweet potatoes and raising pigs. We saw the way a huge meal was prepared for the whole village with the pork and potatoes cooked in a hole in the ground. The ditch was laid with sizzling hot rocks, covered with grass, then layers of potatoes, pork and edible grass with more hot rocks on top. After a couple of hours the rocks were removed and the meal was ready for everyone to dig into. There was no need for cutlery and plates; it was just our hands and leaves. As we spent further time in the villages, we learned a few facts about life in Papua. For example, money was not so widely used in the region; pigs were a much stronger currency. Men practiced polygamy; the more pigs they owned, the more wives they had. Some men never marry because they do not have any pigs. We met quite a few ladies who were missing parts of their fingers due to a custom to cut them off when a family member died to show grief. Many of the older women were missing most of their fingertips, which made for quite a shocking sight.
April 2018
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T RI BE S & TR I BUL ATION
“The scenery was like the backdrop of a sci-fi movie.”
The next few days we spent walking to Mount Trikora. We climbed up and down quite a few hills and vertical terraces on the way, struggling with the terrain as there were no paths cut through. Very few tourists visit the area and there was absolutely no one around. Our permit, obtained from the authorities in August, was the first one issued that year. According to our Indonesian guide, on average about 30 people visit the mountain annually. If you try to do any research, there is literally no information on a Mount Trikora climbing route – hence why it’s so very important to have a knowledgeable guide, as it’s pretty easy to lose your way up there. It was pretty warm during the day but very cold, windy and dark at night as we reached over 3,000 metres. It was super helpful to have hiking sticks, gloves, strong hiking boots and protective gaiters – put those on your must-buy lists – as we walked through the bush and, at times dropping down into wet parts of a swamp. The area was very quiet; there were no wild animals or even birds in those desolate highlands. The mountain itself was a massive vertical face and very eerie looking as we scrambled over rocks and traversed its long ridges. The formations were very sharp; the bottom of my boots had numerous cuts from climbing over the piercing rocks. We even stumbled upon a propeller plane wreck; the last remnants of a crash that happened over 20 years ago. We never found out what exactly happened or how many people died. There was very little left from the plane, most of the debris blown by the winds and washed off by rain. We spent the night before reaching the summit at the highest camp on Trikora, pitching our tents at 4,150 metres above sea
level. The next morning we started out at 4am to reach the top of the mountain, climbing the final peaks, scrambling up and down the ridges. The climb didn’t require much special equipment but it was challenging with vertical cliffs, loose rocks and sharp boulders. It was best to hold on tight and not look down! Despite the cutting wind and icy cold the views were amazing. The scenery was like the backdrop of a sci-fi movie. There were no signs of any life as far as our eyes could see. Only grey spikes of rocks under our feet and very dry land with thick brush and tall dead trees at the foot of the mountain. We got very lucky with the weather at the top as it was sunny and bright, and gave us unobstructed views of the valleys. However, when we were trekking back down, the weather suddenly changed and it became cloudy and foggy. Visibility worsened and it took a while to reach the camp for the night. We were extremely happy and relieved to make it back in time before the darkness and cold set in. The trek to the mountain and back took five days. Each night we passed out in our freezing tents, exhausted from the challenging physical activities of the day. All our porters, who took care of our gear and food, were Papuan and didn’t outwardly seem so affected. They were singing during our breaks from trekking and some painted their faces with berry juices and decorated their hair with flowers they found along the way. For most of them it was their first trip to Mount Trikora and I hope they found it as adventurous as we did.
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A FEELING OF EMPTINESS GUEST CLICK! CURATOR FLORENCE MWAGWABI SHARES THIS MONTH’S PHOTOGRAPHS FROM THE GROUP.
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i everyone, this month, our guest curator is new member Florence Mwagwabi. She has attended most of the photowalks and has been a great contributor to the Facebook page. This month’s theme is ‘Empty’ and despite many great interpretations being shared, Florence has selected Brendan, Stefan, and Rose to showcase this April. Well done folks! To see more of the great work being shared, please join the Facebook group @ANZAClick. Apart from the monthly
themes, it is great to see photos displaying the variety of interests, techniques and camera types that people have. The group is also a great resource for all things photography related, whether you are just starting out, or have a few years’ experience. For those who are interested in photography, whether it’s a point-andshoot, a camera phone, or something more advanced, we would love to see you join our photowalks and discussions. The only pre-requisite is enthusiasm.
This will be my last issue as the Click! Coordinator – Brendan Paget will be taking over. Brendan and his lovely wife Janet have attended many of the photowalks this year, and I am glad that Brendan has agreed to take over the role. Please contact Brendan on click@anza.org.sg for more info about upcoming events. Guy Keating
BRENDAN PAGET “This was taken on the road to Lake Tekapo in New Zealand’s South Island, with the majestic southern mountains in the distance. There wasn’t even one car in sight!”
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AN Z A C L IC K ! PHOTO GR APHY
ROSE OXLEY “I chose this particular photo as it seemed to symbolise a sense of emptiness or wistful longing. Two rickety old lounge chairs on the beach; empty, weatherworn and slightly unbalanced. The jaunty blue paint seems at odds with the deserted beach.”
STEFAN WOOD “Wandering the streets of Izumisano, Japan on a zero degree morning with a wind blowing at 50km/h. I ducked up a side street to escape the wind and the sun shining on the Coke bottles just said “take a pic of me…”
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13/3/2018 10:30:31 AM
THE ANNUAL ANZA BLACK TIE CHARITY BALL
A Spectacular Night at the Circus PROUDLY PRESENTED BY THE AUSTRALIAN INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL
12 MAY 2018 Shangri La Hotel
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UNLOCK & WIN THE BREITLING FOR BENTLEY FLYING B NO. 3 TIMEPIECE.
Although there can only be one Grand Prize winner, those five remaining finalists won’t leave the stage empty handed – they will each win a luxury travel prize courtesy of Minor Hotels.
THE WINNING KEY OWNER CAN STRAP THE BREITLING FOR BENTLEY FLYING B NO. 3 TIMEPIECE TO THEIR WRIST THERE AND THEN!
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Mad About Fashion’s, Beck Dahl offers some dinner jacket options whether renting or buying.
Covetella Halter One-Shoulder Flounce Gown covetella.com
TO RENT tuxedorentalsingapore.com.sg Orchard Plaza #02-01, 150 Orchard Rd. This has had excellent recommendations from my friends as this tailor has a good choice of rental tuxes to choose from and a stress-free returns policy. TO BUY Pakali Shirts Tailor & Singai Tailoring #01-06 & #01-11, 2 Seah Im Rd. Two recommendations from friends who had excellent suits and shirts made at these two tailors residing in the same building. If you get in quick, you may just have time to get yours made before the ball on 12 May!
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April 2018
14/3/2018 12:29:35 PM
PART 2
HELPING YOU UNDERSTAND THE JOB MARKET IN SINGAPORE PART 2 OF 3
FRIDAY 20 APRIL 10.30AM – 12.30PM
UNdERSTANdING WORK PASSES
AAM Advisory 138 Market Street, #06-01 CapitaGreen, 048946
GUEST SPEAKER KAThERINE ChAPmAN CSLB ASIA
organiser
MEMBERS: $20
venue sponsor
NON MEMBERS: $35
partner
TO BOOK YOUR TICKET VISIT ANZA.ORG.SG
LADIES NIGHT
candle making WITH
TO BE CALM
$10 S! INK DR GET CREATIVE WITH THIS BRAND NEW ANZA WORKSHOP Tuesday 15 May 10am – noon The Providore, Downtown $60 members / $70 non-members Register: anza.org.sg
TUESDAY 24 APR 6.30 - 9.30pm LOOF, 331 North Bridge Rd, #03-07 Odeon Towers Extension Rooftop, 188720
EVENT PARTNER
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VENUE PARTNER
ORGANISED BY
14/3/2018 12:29:37 PM
HOT SPOT S
HOTSPOTS RAF DALMAU SIPS DELICIOUS WINES ON TELOK AYER WHILST CHARLEY LARCOMBE INDULGES IN COMFORT FOOD AT MARINA BAY. 13% GASTRO WINE 123A Telok Ayer St., 2nd Floor, 068592 13gastrowine.com
“C
onsistently great… my go-to place… an oenophile heaven… surprisingly good food… an excellent hideaway… fab little gem… great value for money”; these are just some of the many compliments one can find online about this fantastic wine bar. Tripadvisor alone has a 98% favorable review rate and 13% Gastro Wine appears in most of the bloggers’ Top Ten wine bars. I can personally give you some of the reasons why this superb gastro wine bar is worth a visit. And best of all, it won’t break the bank. 13% Gastro Wine has three locations: Aliwal St., Killiney Rd., and the recently opened Telok Ayer. All three venues are well-suited for a romantic date, after-work drinks, or for a birthday treat. They have a great vibe and avoid gimmicky décor. The focus is on the wine of course and the list changes regularly but never disappoints. Feel like a classic French Bordeaux or perhaps an Australian chardonnay? Or maybe you are in the mood for a robust Spanish red, or after-dinner port; well, you’ll find a top selection here. And while it is all about the wine, trust me the food does not disappoint in any way - it’s simple but very well executed. There is a good selection of modern European dishes perfect for sharing; and not-to-be-missed are the iberico ham and cheese boards If you have any questions about the wines or food, all you have to do is ask the knowledgeable staff. Although for quick reference you can check out their cleverly displayed blackboard which has pairing suggestions for wines and food. One of the reasons why this is a to-go place for us is the fantastic people working here. The staff are attentive and friendly, and always on hand to answer questions, offer suggestions or pass on knowledge. What makes 13% even more special is the value it offers. Very few places on our beloved Red Dot offer such great wines at such reasonable prices. 56 anza
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THE BIRD SOUTHERN TABLE The Shoppes at Marina Bay Sands 2 Bayfront Av., 018972 marinabaysands.com/restaurants/
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t’s difficult to be a foodie stand-out in Singapore. Restaurants open and close, scarcely a week goes by without a hot new pop-up getting rave reviews, and the city is a place where a hawker centre can be as hard to get into as a Michelinstarred venue. Also, Singaporeans pride themselves on being so food-woke, that it’s a tough crowd to please. However, for something that is pretty different from the other 101 restaurants in Lion City, try out The Bird, found along the water front at Marina Bay Sands. This relaxed eatery and bar dishes up a classic, American menu as a tribute to the best of the South. It’s mama’s home cookin’, it’s the food equivalent of a cosy jumper, it’s not the place to take the health-conscious or the diet-prone. You go to The Bird for some southern fried chicken, waffles, grits and whiskey-based cocktails. You make sure you haven’t eaten all day in the lead-up and you wear your loose-fitting pants. Living in such a climate, I wonder when would be the ideal time to visit such a place, but if you’re ravenous, want to try something new, have friends in town and have just taken them to the light and fountain show, then this is a good bet. On the evening we popped in, we started with a signature blackberry bourbon lemonade ($27) which was an easy intro to someone who isn’t really a
whiskey drinker. On the cocktail menu are US classics like old fashioneds and southern peaches – perfect for a-porchsittin’ – but there are also some nods to the region like the watermelon sling. We took the staff’s lead on dinner but the menu is very easy to navigate. For entrée, we shared devilled eggs with dill, chives and smoked trout roe ($14) and fried green tomato and crispy pork belly ($14), both delicious – and my personal favourites from the full meal. Next, we tucked into the chicken ‘n’ watermelon ‘n’ waffles ($45). I could take or leave the waffles but the homemade honey hot sauce is aaaahhhhmmmaaazzzziiiinnnnnggggg. When I was told, I couldn’t buy a bottle, I contemplated stealing one – but couldn’t risk ANZA’s integrity. Just promise me, you’ll try it. If you even have space for dessert, pop the top button of your jeans and pick a dish like butterscotch cake, rum-soaked banana cake, or fried Oreos (approx. $14). I then definitely suggest a post-dinner walk to at least try and work off some of the mammoth meal. The sister restaurants are in Miami, Vegas, and a soon-to-open one in Beverly Hills so this is the first foray outside of the States – and it looks like it’s paying off as the tables were booked with a mix of people on dates, out with friends and the odd working dinner. It all lead to a relaxed vibe, mirroring the Southern hospitality that is so integral to the concept. Give it a shot.
April 2018
13/3/2018 4:06:53 PM
whisky & watches ThURsDAy 26 ApRil 7.00pm-9.30pm BReiTling BoUTiqUe
390 oRchARD RoAD, #01-03/04 pAlAis RenAissAnce, 238871
Take flight with Breitling at its boutique and experience the world of aviation. ANZA members will also be able to preview the exclusive boutique editions. Complementing the evening is a special whisky masterclass, run
TickeTs $50
by world-class spirits aficionado Lewis J Mitchell. Experience flavours from the fresh and delicate Lowlands, spicy Highlands, fruity Speyside and peaty Islay whiskies as we journey through Scotland. Welcome aboard!
To B ook yoU R T i cke T v i si T w w w. An zA.oRg.sg
Gu e St S p e Ak e r
Michael Kiss
D ir ector, Bt com p lex S ecu r ity S olu tion S, Bt G loBal S er viceS, a Sia, miD D le ea St & afr ic a.
P R O U D LY P R E S E N T E D B Y C O N N E C T B Y C R O S S B R I D G E
C h i l l. C h at
Connect Check out some of the newest places around town, meet likeminded people and unlock networking opportunities.
Cyber SeCurity: A reAl world perSpeCtive
MeMbers $25 NoN MeMbers $35 PriCe inCludes a $20 token Card to be used on the evening.
tuesdaY
12 JuNe 6.30Pm – 8.30Pm v e n ue
OR GANISE D B Y
S E R I E S S PON S OR
V E N U E S PON SO R
PA R TNER O R GA NISATIO N
E VENTS PA R TNER
Club Co,
20 Cross street, #01-05/06 China Court, 048422 (aCCess via China street)
To booK Your TICKeT VIsIT ANZA.orG.sG
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15/3/2018 4:39:12 PM
SOUR GR APE S
A ROSÉ-TINTED LIFE THE PERFECT ACCOMPANIMENT TO A POOL-SIDE LIFE IS A GLASS OF ROSÉ SAYS ROBERT REES.
“From the cafes of St. Tropez, rosé has spread its particular brand of good times, sunshine and the pursuit of an endless summer to every corner of the globe.”
R
Robert Rees runs Sales and Marketing for www.wineexchangeasia.com. Originally South African, he lived in Sydney for a decade before moving to Singapore. (Views expressed do not reflect the views of the company).
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osé is all about that which embodies the South of France. It’s as much a part of the lifestyle as Brigitte Bardot was in her ground-breaking bikinis of the ‘60s, and all the way to the sleek, zillion-dollar superyachts of today, nosing their way into the harbour at sunset with party-going passengers wearing those same bikinis. From the cafes of St. Tropez, rosé has spread its particular brand of good times, sunshine and the pursuit of an endless summer to every corner of the globe. It has become a benchmark for Provence and even further afield. The critics have (somewhat begrudgingly) dragged themselves towards acknowledging that it’s much more than just a fantasticallypopular, party-girl of a wine. Nothing seems to rile them more than when consumers make a choice about a wine without the critics’ studious ratification. The reality is that rosé is a market-beater
because the consumers are completely on trend with just how good the wine really is... Fortunes have been made and lost in the development of rosé. It seems that the purpose-made operations are the most famous and get the most amount of attention. In the new world, the production of rosé always seemed to be something that the more serious of winemakers avoided. In some cases they actively disliked the idea of promoting it. I always got the feeling that they saw it as ‘easy’ and preferred that consumers address their wallets and minds to the pursuit of more complex (and expensive) pinot noir for example. Many a sales manager has confessed to the fact that the rosé sells out before anything else – leaving them to the task of working even harder at selling the other varietals. Styles of rosé change, but what has remained a firm consumer favourite for the past few years has been a straw-dry palate and as much red berry action as the winemaker can begrudgingly pack into the glass. Whatever your preference, there is legion of options available to us in Singapore. At my house, rosé is best served freezing cold with a poolside location view. However, I have been strongly advised that despite my obsession with Bridgette Bardot, rounding off the experience with a bikini is definitely a step too far in pursuit of happiness on a lazy Sunday afternoon.
April 2018
13/3/2018 10:41:37 AM
TUCKE R B OX
PENANG PALATE RAELENE TAN SHARES HER LOVE OF THE ‘PEARL OF THE ORIENT’.
nestled in its lush tropical gardens and a host of activities for young and old alike. Connected by a nature-path lined with exotic plants to its sister property Shangri-La’s Rasa Sayang Resort & Spa makes it ideal for a wide choice of amenities.
Raelene Tan
SPICY NOTES
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enang, the ‘Pearl of the Orient’, an island off the north-west coast of Peninsular Malaysia, is just a one hour flight from Singapore.
HISTORY Malaysia’s second largest city, Penang’s capital George Town has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2008. It is a sister city with Adelaide, South Australia. The betel-nut tree (Malay, pinang) gave the island its name. Also known as arecanut palm, it is the State emblem, featuring on Penang’s flag. With a long-held reputation for good hawker fare, visits are keenly anticipated. Malay, Chinese, Indian, Nonya and Eurasian tastes abound. Gurney Drive, along George Town’s esplanade, is particularly popular for its hawker stalls. After admiring historic buildings, steelrod sculptures and unique wall murals, this is the place to stop to appreciate wellknown delicacies. Born in Adelaide, Raelene Tan is an etiquette consultant and food and travel writer. She has authored four books and has been a regular guest on radio and television.
SETTLING IN During a recent family visit, Golden Sands Resort was our choice of accommodation, as it has been on previous occasions. With its Cool Zone Kids Club and Adventure Zone, this family-friendly resort, situated on Batu Feringgi (‘foreigner’s rock’) Beach, has three swimming-pools
Penang and nutmeg go hand-in-hand for this writer. Whether fresh, dried or juiced, the fragrant taste is a must-have. Dried shredded nutmeg sprinkled over yoghurt is a favourite breakfast item. Drinking freshly produced nutmeg juice made each day special during our stay. Herbs and spices are part-and-parcel of life in Penang, readily available and highlighted in many signature dishes. Cloves, cinnamon and coriander come to mind, as well as bay leaves, basil, ginger, star anise, pepper and ginger, to name but a few.
TASTES A-PLENTY The island’s culinary gems include Penang assam laksa (rice-noodles in spicy soup), roti canai (Indian pancake served with curry or sugar), pasembur (Indian vegetable salad with spicy sauce), chicken curry kapitan (mild Nonya curry), Penang char kuay teow (fried ricenoodles) and satay. At Golden Sands’ Garden Cafe we enjoyed Indian curries, Chinese noodles and Malay kueh (cakes). Next-door at Rasa Sayang’s Spice Market Café seafood, poultry and vegetables are enhanced by subtle additions of spices. At both places, ‘rooted in nature’ cooking uses sustainably farmed fish, locally sourced organic fruit and vegetables, free-range poultry and beef, with spices and herbs grown in their garden, even honey from their own beehive. Such dishes include grilled king prawns, citrus mesclun salad with chicken, grilled baby sea bass, plus fish and chips. Nasi lemak (coconut-rice with a spicy condiment, fish, egg and vegetable) and hokkien mee (noodles) can also be enjoyed. Sedap (delicious)! I hope you visit and enjoy Penang’s precious gems as much as I.
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SOUL FUEL
THE BENEFITS OF GIVING KIM FORRESTER REFLECTS ON THE TIRELESS WORK OF OUR ANZA VOLUNTEERS AHEAD OF NEXT MONTH’S VOYA EVENT.
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Kim Forrester is a holistic wellbeing author, consultant and educator. www.kimforrester.net
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ext month, we honour the volunteers who hold the ANZA community together. Giving of ourselves to others in our community is not just a pleasant and honourable trait, it is the very foundation of human society. Ever since our early ancestors walked on the African savannah, hundreds of thousands of years ago, it is cooperation that has bound communities together. In fact, throughout human history, it has been the most cooperative societies that have thrived. Put simply, we, as a species, have achieved all that we have because of the willingness of individuals to share their skills and talents for the good of the wider community. Just as our ANZA volunteers share their time, energy and wisdom with us, now. There are real benefits to giving to others. Studies have shown that volunteering induces a “warm glow” effect in our brains, leaving us feeling happier, more trusting and more uplifted. Those who give of themselves also enjoy stronger social connections, a greater sense of purpose and, incredibly, longer lives. Of course, in our demanding world, it’s not always easy to be generous with your time, energy or money. But don’t underestimate the impact you can make by being more forthcoming with other valuable assets. Even if you are unable to volunteer in a more traditional sense, there are other ways you can give of yourself and enhance the lives of the people around you. You, as an individual, have an incredible and valuable effect on our community when you choose to be generous with:
Thank you to those honoured at the 2017 VOYA event.
YOUR PRAISE. We are intrinsically wired to seek and respond to positive feedback from others. So, when you choose to openly compliment or praise someone it has a wonderful effect on their mood and, by extension, the people in their life. When you see something you like, experience something enjoyable or notice something extraordinary… speak up! Tell people if they have done a great job; share a compliment if someone or something impresses you; write an email of appreciation if you have received excellent service.
YOUR SMILE. You may be unaware of the magic in your smile but studies have shown that your beautiful grin is stressrelieving, attractive and delightfully contagious. One simple way to give to others around you is to consciously smile throughout your day. This practice may not be completely effortless - you may have to train yourself to smile more often - but the value of your grin cannot be underestimated.
YOUR ATTENTION. This is not necessarily about giving up time to spend with others but about ensuring that, when you spend time with others, you are interested in them; you are curious, present, willing to listen. It’s about choosing to talk less, and listen more. Not everyone has the capacity to volunteer, but there is something we can all give to others, at any time. Our gratitude. So, to those who give up their time, energy and creativity for the ANZA community, I say “I see you. And thank you”.
April 2018
15/3/2018 4:48:40 PM
SOUL F UE L
anza
VOLUNTEER OF THE YEAR AWARDS
2018
Volunteers are ANZA’s most valuable asset, and we would like to thank them for their generous effort, time, talent and energy.
2017 WINNERS
At our volunteer appreciation evening in May we will present the Volunteer of the Year Awards 2018, and we need your help: Please tell us who you would like to recognise by completing the online VOYA nomination form by Friday 4 May.
Organised by
April 2018 anza
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13/3/2018 10:55:21 AM
WANDERI NG YO G I
DEEP THOUGHT LEE CARSLEY VISITS A SILENT RETREAT FOR SOME DEEP REFLECTION – BUT NOT ALL MEDITATION PATHS NEED TO DELVE SO DEEP.
Lee Carsley is the ANZA Wandering Yoga founder teacher, and Yoga Alliance CE trainer. When not teaching yoga to students and other teachers, she also leads meditation workshops and bespoke yoga retreats. Be the light, show the light, and travel light.
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am two hours from the Bali seaside, surrounded by lush jungle on the slopes of Mount Batukaru. Local villagers believe this sacred mountain welcomes back their souls after their death; it is a place of contemplation. I am here for Vispassna. It is a silent retreat where meditation is key - up to seven hours a day, with one super-longsit of three hours. There is limited food consumption (usually only one meal a day), no reading, no writing, no talking, and no recognition of others. It’s often touted as the ‘supreme’ meditation practice and heralds life-changing views – if you can stick it out… which is tough. It’s not so tough here though. I mean you’re allowed to speak - provided you are prepared to walk 500 metres up to the guardhouse and wait there for some equally word-starved guest to join you. There’s no power in the bungalows or single-room dormitories (men and women are separated), but there are charger spaces at the Ashram (food hall) where you can give your devices some electrical juice for a US$1per day. There is a walking labyrinth of everdecreasing circles where you can chant mantras; a sacred water site for contemplation and a massive yoga octagon for guided yoga and meditation practice morning and night. There is even a crying bench tucked away, overlooking the river – which gets some use from me. Suffice to say, it’s intense – and obviously not for everyone. At my check-in at the guardhouse on Day One, I was asked “what is Vispassna?” – by a woman who had been at the retreat for 10 days already… it seemed enlightenment wasn’t going to come easy and my tests started ASAP. It was rice-harvesting season. Every morning, my bungalow with its superb view of the fields, was greeted with the sounds of scythes swishing through the rice, chatter of the workers, the occasional song. It was a reminder that peace is not always silence. It was also cremation season. In Hindu tradition, cremation frees the spirit
for reincarnation. In Bali, communities decide the date for a group cremation as many cannot afford the individual expense. This season requires the cutting down of special wood – with a chainsaw. There’s a party, with music, speeches, fireworks, lasting well into the night. Every night. It was a reminder of my most sacred duty in meditation: to practice karma so my soul may be liberated. And there were the night frogs and insects which seemed noisier than NYE in New York. Being kept awake was only a reminder of the importance of breath in calming the mind, body and soul – and remembering to take ear plugs. Each day, these challenges came and went – I still remained in silence. Then on Day Six, our regular guide turned up with a nagi, an Indian instrument that looks like an accordion. He was happy; the retreat owner had given permission to practice meditation with Kirtan, a call-and-response practice of devotional singing. I surrendered to sound – and came out of Vispassna. Yet, not all meditation paths have to be this deep. Like other people at this retreat, you can choose the depth of your silence. MEDITATION TIPS: • If you can’t commit to a regular meditation practice (at least 20 minutes, three times a week) you may be better off with a massage. Irregular meditation has an instant feel good effect; which wears off rather quickly without ongoing mind-training. • Not all meditation practice offers the same outcomes – speak to experts who will tell you the difference. • Do not meditate if you are experiencing clinical depression, or some form of personality disorder as it can make it worse. And remember, the path is both wide and deep. Seek which suits you.
April 2018
14/3/2018 12:41:00 PM
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MAD AB OUT FASHION
HOME GROWN TALENT BECK DAHL WAS ON A MISSION TO DISCOVER LOCALLY-MADE FASHION HERE IN SINGAPORE.
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Beck Dahl is a stylist and fashion lover living with her family here in Singapore. Get in touch at dahldesignstyle@gmail.com.
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erhaps unsurprisingly, I love to travel and, when visiting other countries, I love to buy locally-made garments. Sometimes because they’re must-haves; sometimes because of the craftsmanship; and sometimes just for the memory. It’s left me inspired to do the same here. This idea led me to my mission for this issue: to find some go-to Ready To Wear (RTW) labels that continue to produce their garments here in Singapore. Purchasing close to home shows we’re not only lessening our footprint, we’re embracing where we live and supporting local business – all whist finding our Monday outfit just hanging out there on a rack. I’m pleased to say I found a few, not many but a few, labels on my hunt this month! I found that asking where garments were manufactured was usually met with uncertainty, but I soon realised if its produced here in Singapore, it will proudly say so on the label. If there’s no label at all, one has to assume it’s not made on the Little Red Dot. One of my favourite ‘Made in Singapore’ finds was Max Tan. With a Comme des Garçons-esque style, Tan’s is a modern, easy-to-wear range (see pic). You can see his pieces at The Comma Store
(thecommastore.com) which is a funky curated store in Orchard Gateway. Womb (womb.com.sg) is another locally-designed and manufactured label, which offers generally office wear with a twist. They have new stock once a month and there is definitely something there for everyone. Not everything in B.S.Y.M (bysmshop. com) is made locally, but a good percentage of the collection is. The majority of the stock is free size which is a bit difficult for some of us, but it’s definitely worth taking a look to see what is in stock. They have three locations on the Island: Suntec City, Bugis Junction and Plaza Singapura. I would be remiss not to mention Atelier Ong Shunmugam (ongshunmugam.com), who not only has a RTW range, but will also do custom designs. It’s by appointment only at Holland Village. It’s not strictly always made here in Singapore, but for an opportunity to discover more local fashion, check out Tangs Department Store dedicated to Singaporean designers. One thing I loved about my mission was discovering not only clothing and accessories, but also funky Singapore souvenirs to take home to my friends and family. For novelty gifts and Singapore memorabilia drop into Megafash (megaxstore.com) at Suntec City or Naiise (naiise.com) at Orchard Gateway. And a ‘must’ purchase for this month is Singapore - Lost Guides from Books Actually (booksactually.com); it’s a fantastic guide to have in your bookcase as a go-to for loads of great new discoveries of this fascinating country. Familiarity with fashion in Singapore takes time. It’s a unique shopping experience and yes, at times frustrating, but the variety is definitely there to be discovered. There are numerous opportunities for Made-To-Measure wardrobe additions here of course and hopefully you’ll take a look at some homegrown labels to buy straight off the rack. Happy Shopping! Love Beck XX
April 2018
13/3/2018 11:03:50 AM
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13/3/2018 11:03:50 AM
ATHLETICS
WHAT MUM SAID NEXT... THIS MONTH, LUCY JAMES TALKS TO AN ANZA ATHLETICS MUM, FIONA ZDUN.
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thought this month I’d interview one of our ANZA Athletics families – the Zduns. Fiona Zdun is a mother of three kids, two of whom take part in ANZA Athletics. I asked her about getting involved. WHY DO YOU DO ANZA ATHLETICS? Our family really looks forward to Fridays. I think it’s great in teaching children to try their best and to improve their own performance – they love getting a PB. It’s very convenient that it’s an activity which my children can do at the same time. HOW LONG HAVE YOUR KIDS BEEN PARTICIPATING? My son, Joshua started when we moved here so this is his third season, whilst my daughter Amberley is enjoying her second. My five-year-old was too young to start this season but there’s no keeping her at home. She loves to come and swing on the playground equipment and dance to the DJ’s tunes. She’s desperate to start next season.
REGISTRATION NOW OPEN
ANZA Athletics caters to kids aged 5 to 14-years-old, with a focus on fun, fitness and skills. Yio Chu Kang Stadium. athletics@anza.org.sg
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WHAT DO YOU LIKE ABOUT ANZA ATHLETICS? I like that my kids are learning a range of skills from throwing, to jumping, to track events; that’s not something they can do at school every week. I also like that it’s a great healthy thing to do to finish the working week with more time with the children, yet it still gives me time to get the kids home and head out myself. It’s nice to be a part of the activities with the kids rather than sitting on the sidelines as that’s what we do at most
other children’s activities, so this is quite unique, and the children love that! It’s so vital that we have parent volunteers - do sign up if you can! AND WHAT DO YOUR KIDS PARTICULARLY LIKE? My kids love being with their friends and making new ones. They like that I’m with them to watch their achievements. Joshua enjoys the long races and high jump, whilst Amberley enjoys the hurdles. CAN YOU TELL US ABOUT YOUR KIDS’ ACHIEVEMENTS? In his first year, Joshua achieved second place and last year he was third in his age group. Last year, Amberley was first in her age group and broke the hurdles record which had been held for 17 years. This year she has also broken the under-7 hurdles which was held for seven years and has gone on to break her own record a further three times. If we didn’t do ANZA Athletics I wouldn’t know that hurdles is something she is naturally good at as she’s never had the opportunity to try such a specific event. WHAT WOULD YOU SAY TO ENCOURAGE OTHERS TO JOIN? Give it a try – but be prepared as your children will most likely love it and will want you to sign them up! It’s a great atmosphere. In the beginning I was hesitant to give up my Fridays, but as I’ve said, I can still be finished and on the road by 7, and a wine in hand by 7.30!
April 2018
13/3/2018 11:13:20 AM
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13/3/2018 11:13:22 AM
CRICKET
BACK IN THE SWING THE 2018 ANZA CRICKET SEASON RETURNS TO SPEED SAYS CLIVE TILBROOK.
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Social Media Keep up with ANZA CC’s fixtures and events by following our social media pages: facebook.com/anzaccsingapore Twitter: @anzaccsg Instagram: @anzaccsg
NZA Cricket has been back in full swing for the past month, playing up at the Dempsey fields. The bowling and fielding has been of a good standard, which we hope to keep up throughout the season. As with last year we are training under lights at the nets at the Singapore Cricket Club on Monday evenings, and have had strong turnouts throughout the beginning of the year. It has been heartening to see all of the new guys down at the Club too. This year we have three League teams. The ANZA Bushrangers lead the Club in Division 3 under the captaincy of Ash Perrott again. ANZA Champs and ANZA Diggers are both in Division 6 with skippers, Ian Gibb and Graeme Gardiner returning to their roles. As usual, ANZA will put in teams in the Dennis Amar Sixes in June, and a Masters team for that
competition later in the year. Our social side, the ANZA Dream Team have also been playing – check the ANZA website for further details on being involved. Our grounds have been organised with our League teams’ home games at the Singapore Cricket Club’s Dempsey fields. I would like to thank them for their support in this. Josh Ghosh organised the kit this season – and was on it back in January, way ahead of schedule. The early order was required as our supplier also handles some of the Indian IPL teams, and we needed to get in before them! We are delighted that Hero’s Bar is sponsoring the Club again, and we’ve already had a few functions to celebrate the fact and to support our sponsor. Finally, anyone interested in a game is welcome to come down to the nets or contact us via anza.org.sg/sports/cricket.
ANZA Cricket fields four teams from Division 2 through 5 of the Singapore Cricket Association. Training is on Sundays. cricket@anza.org.sg
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April 2018
13/3/2018 5:31:44 PM
AN Z A SPORT S
CYCLING
CYCLING FOR CYCLES ANZA MEMBER, LIESBETH KANIS SHARES THE STORY BEHIND THE BICYCLE FUNDRAISER HELPING TO STOP MALARIA IN ITS TRACKS.
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Interested in coming out for a ride? ANZA Cycling runs a Newcomers’ Ride on the first Saturday of each month. cycling@anza.org.sg
ambodia has been battling drug resistant malaria for several decades. Luckily, the number of malaria cases has significantly declined in the last six years. The decline in these mortality and prevalence rates are related to the increased usage of bed-nets and greater knowledge on malaria prevention – largely as a result of the crucial work undertaken by Village Malaria Workers (VMWs). They play an instrumental role in conducting the rapid diagnostic tests and dispensing medication to malaria patients in malariaendemic villages, in both high and low burden areas. Cycling for Cycles is a bicycle fundraiser in support of these VMWs who are working tirelessly in the region. Initiated by Soroptimist International Singapore (SIS) together with clubs in Melbourne and Sydney, this fund-raising initiative is also supported by the ANZA Cycling community. Aware that many of the volunteers do not have means of transport and often find themselves having to walk to the homes of malaria patients and to the district health centres for the monthly malaria meeting, the Soroptimist clubs decided to embark on the Cycling for Cycles project, realising that bicycles would be critical in helping the VMWs conduct their work more efficiently. Although 75-80% of VMWs are women – they tend to have more time since they stay in the village and look after the
children while their husbands are away either working on the farm or engaging in forest activities – the majority of the affected and treated patients are men. The VMWs thus play a critical role in the village community and in securing the stable livelihoods of the families affected. The work as a VMW also enables women to take on an active role in their community and provides them with responsibility and an outreach function, often challenging and softening gender stereotypes and roles. ANZA Cycling has joined the Cycling for Cycles project and is helping to raise funds to provide nearly 170 VMWs in Battambang Province, Cambodia with bicycles.
JOIN US TO SUPPORT THE CAUSE… ANZA Cycling hosts Club Breakfast the first Saturday of each month at Dimbulah Coffee – where breakfast is on the club for all members and first time joiners. This year, ANZA Cycling has pledged to promote a charitable cause that is close to us, each quarter. On Club Breakfast days in April, we will be asking that while the club covers breakfast, each member digs into their pockets to support the cause. Come and try a ride, enjoy a Club Breakfast and help raise funds for Cycling for Cycles. Exact dates and further information will be posted on the Facebook ANZA Cycling group (@AnzaCycling).
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NETBALL
FRIENDLY OPPORTUNITIES ANZA NETBALL SHOWS ITS COMMITMENT TO COMPETITIVE AND FUN SPORT.
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REGISTRATION NOW OPEN
ANZA Netball offers coaching and competition for girls aged six and upwards. For more info, email netball@anza.org.sg.
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he parents and players asked for it, and ANZA Netball delivered. On February 10, our 2008 age group of keen netball players were lucky enough to participate in two tournaments, one on Malaysian soil and another here at home. Two friendly round-robin tournaments were put together to provide additional competitive opportunities as requested by our members. For the first time, our 2008 girls had the chance to travel to Marlborough College’s campus in Malaysia. We sent two teams across and they played in a round-robin format against the College’s top team. Despite an extra early morning departure from Singapore at 6am, the girls were very excited to travel together as a team, and with their parents, on the bus that ANZA provided. Many of the girls, now well-seasoned at crossing the border to Malaysia, were also excited for another stamp in their passports. We were warmly welcomed by Marlborough’s Sports Director Alistair Halls and given the privilege of playing in the school’s brand new, state-of-theart multipurpose facility, which was very impressive for both visiting players and supportive parents. The girls represented ANZA with pride and demonstrated the true ANZA spirit by having a great time with their friends, playing a game they love. Although
the girls weren’t playing in their usual teams, they showed true sportsmanship by coming together quickly. Under the guidance of their fabulous Coaches Nic, Mel, Alex and Zoe, they competed fiercely against a strong Marlborough side. Kristina Ucchino, a member of the team, shared her thoughts on the day: “It was a fun experience. I liked that we had a new team to play against to challenge ourselves and to learn new skills. On the bus, we got to know our teammates better and talk about netball. I made some new friends and we had lots of fun.” Meanwhile, on the same day, the remaining 2008 age group were at our home base at Tanglin Trust School for a friendly with Centaurs. It was another great opportunity for the girls to play against a strong club, and to gain more experience. With Centaurs numbers low due to CNY holidays, once again ANZA showed true sportsmanship by rotating players to play a mixed team with Centaurs. This ensured that the girls got maximum game time in the round-robin tournament. The coaches were most impressed with how all the girls stepped up. A huge thanks to ANZA Netball for supporting our age group, and especially all our wonderful coaches and parents for volunteering to make these events a success for our girls.
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AN Z A SPORT S
SOCCER
A PRIZED PRESENTATION THIS MONTH SEES THE END OF THE 2017/18 ANZA SOCCER SEASON – AND WE’VE GOT LOTS PLANNED FOR THE ANNUAL PRIZE PRESENTATION DAY.
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REGISTRATION NOW OPEN
ANZA Soccer runs programs for kids aged 3 to 18-years-old. soccer@anza.org.sg
n Saturday 21 April expect a sea of children, coaches, cheering families and an awards ceremony to beat them all. Yes, it’s the annual ANZA Soccer Finals Day with competitive yet fun matches to be played, and trophies, medals and certificates up for grabs. ANZA is the only soccer league in the country that is large enough to boast its own internal competition so Finals Day is a fantastic demonstration of the success of ANZA Soccer. We’re so proud! Kick-off for the big event is from 8am with all age groups getting their pitchtime, playing their hearts out, whilst their parents shout themselves hoarse on the side-lines. And there’s plenty of entertainment away from the goal too. Who doesn’t love balloon sculptures or face-painting? What about dancing through a bubble machine or getting faces covered in sticky candy floss? It’s all the fun at the fair at this season’s event. Feeling peckish? There are bags of popcorn courtesy of Allied Pickfords, pots of gelato ice cream from Jamie’s Italian and plenty of BBQ food for when the kids – and volunteers – are
exhausted from so much soccer. This year, we also have an awesome Light Painting Photo Booth from VividSnaps – so you can take away mementos and medal!. We hear a little more from Lim Zhi Wen, Project Coordinator: WHAT CAN THE KIDS EXPECT? Kids can go into our dark room that is near pitch black inside, move the lighting props around and draw in the air. Their light trail will appear in the photos just like a painting. They will love it! WHAT PROPS WILL YOU BE BRINGING ALONG? We will provide glow in the dark sticks and lighted props! DO THE KIDS NEED TO BRING ANYTHING? If they have toys that produce light, they may get a new and unique effect. We look forward to seeing you there! And now the registration is open for the 2018/2019 season – just go to anza.org.sg for further details. April 2018 anza
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AFL
IN THE HOT SEAT NEW COMMUNICATIONS WRITER RICHARD CONEY SPEAKS TO THE 2018 ANZA SINGAPORE WOMBATS PRESIDENT, DION SHAW.
On the field, we’ll be looking to replicate the Malaysian Warriors’ form from last year by winning The Asian Champs! It’s been a few years since the Wombats had their hands on some silverware and it would be a nice touch to add to our 25th year celebrations.
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i all, my name is Richard Coney and I’ll be writing for the ANZA magazine this season. I would like to thank my predecessor, Dion for all of his interesting pieces last year and I look forward to keeping you informed in the months ahead. To kick things off, I had the chance to sit down with last year’s writer and the 2018 ANZA Singapore Wombats President.
The ANZA Singapore Wombats invite adults of all experience levels with an interest in Aussie Rules football to get involved. For more info: info@singaporewombats.com
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DION, WELCOME BACK TO ANOTHER GREAT YEAR OF FOOTY. THIS YEAR YOU’VE TAKEN THE STEP-UP FROM INTERIM PRESIDENT AT THE END OF 2017, TO THE OFFICIAL ROLE OF PRESIDENT. WHAT HAS THE COMMITTEE GOT PLANNED? Richo, great to be back and well done on taking over the writing role. As a committee, we’ve looked at what went right and what went wrong last year. We obviously didn’t have the greatest end result by not winning a game at The Asian Champs and bowing out before the Finals. But on the positive side, we had the most members we’ve had in quite a few years. Looking forward, it’s our 25th anniversary. We’ll be celebrating the occasion with a home game against Malaysia followed by a formal event on 30 June. We’ll also be looking to continue that growth in membership.
WHY DO YOU THINK WE WERE UNSUCCESSFUL AT THE ASIAN CHAMPS? A number of reasons – although we don’t really like to make excuses down here at the ‘Bats. There were some really strong teams who definitely got the better of us. Injuries were probably our biggest downfall as we lost a number of key players - both our leading goal scorer Tim Nash and spiritual leader Pete Turner to calf problems. Also, as we had an influx of new members, it meant many guys hadn’t played together very long, some of them meeting each other for the first time at the Champs! ANY CHANGES TO THE COACHING STAFF? We found that we really needed a few more guys to help out with coaching. It’s tough with the amount of travel people do for work to be able to get down every week. So alongside Ed Clarke, we have Fez and Jono helping out at training who both boast pretty impressive football résumés. Of course we have club legend, Tim Cuthbert, continuing his role as the Mighty Magoos coach. WHAT SORT OF ADVICE CAN YOU OFFER NEW PLAYERS LOOKING TO JOIN THE WOMBATS? Look us up online, find us on Facebook/ Instagram, contact us via email or just get down. You and I both started at the club in 2016 and it was the best decision I made after moving to Singapore. It’s an easy way to meet a large network of people and get some fitness into the regime. I can guarantee no matter your skill level, you will enjoy it. We have people from all over the world come down and give it a crack.
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W N E tast Ng an evening of....
HOSTED BY – PETErSOnS WinES
Thursday 17Th May 6.30pM – 8.30pM
$35 per person nOn mEmBErS $45 PEr PErSOn
gEt your tickEts from WWW.aNza.org.sg
ANZA Yogis Yoga in nature, connecting to the earth and air, five days a week. Feel the difference to yourself and to your life. 03 APRIL 2018 –- 02 JUN 2018 BoTANiC gARDENs MoNdAy 8.30 - 9.45AM YiN/YANg TUesdAy 8 - 9AM HATHA/UNiVERsAL WedNesdAy 8.30 - 9.30AM HATHA FRIdAy 8AM - 9.15AM YiN sATURdAy 8.30 - 9.30AM HATHA
Price includes canapes, cheeses and cold cuts to accompany the selection of 6 wines that will be showcased
5 Sessions: Members $100, non-members $140 10 Sessions: Members $200, non-members $280
BOOK: ANZA.ORG.SG
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ANZ A GROUP S
SPORTS GROUPS AFL Adults of all experience levels who are interested in Aussie Rules Football can get involved with the ANZA Singapore Wombats. Training is on Thursday evenings and Saturdays, with regular social events too.
ATHLETICS A track-and-field programme run by parents for kids 5 to 16, with a focus on fun, fitness and skills.
on participation and family fun. Matches on Saturday mornings at The Cage Sports Park @ Turf City; training on Thursday evenings.
SOCCER / LIONS ANZA’s men’s soccer team is a group of fun-loving, hardworking, soccer-crazy guys aged from their 30s to 50s. The Lions play mid-week Futsal team on the East Coast, and Saturday Over 35s around the island.
BOARD RIDERS
TENNIS / CASUAL
Plan your next ‘surfari’ with the ANZA Board Riders. Surfing enthusiasts get together to plan surf trips to the region’s beautiful beaches.
Social tennis at the Fairmont Hotel, Friday 9-11am. Afterwards, take time out for coffee and a chat.
CRICKET Fields three teams in the Singapore Cricket Association. Training is at Singapore Cricket Club nets from 7pm on Monday evenings.
CYCLING From 30km rides to long distance, rides are held every morning to suit all skill levels, embracing road, MTB, triathlon and Audax disciplines.
TENNIS / EXPERIENCED Mens, ladies and mixed doubles for players with reasonable skills. Wed 8-10pm, limited to 20 players.
YOGA ANZA Yogis practice Hatha and Yin Yoga in the Singapore Botanical Gardens and on the East Coast
INTEREST GROUPS
GOLF / 9 HOLE Aimed at beginners, those seeking a handicap and those with a handicap over 25.
GOLF / LADIES The ladies meet every Thursday in Singapore and Malaysia.
NETBALL / KIDS Netball offers coaching and competition for girls aged 6 and upwards. Sessions are held on Saturday mornings from 8.30am at Tanglin Trust School.
NIPPERS Children from 4 to14-years-old can learn beach and ocean awareness through fun activities, and connect with the great outdoors – meeting on Sunday mornings.
RUNNING Looking to find some running buddies in Singapore for regular casual runs? The ANZA Running Group meets Monday evenings at 7.30pm in the Singapore Botanical Gardens.
SOCCER / KIDS Running programmes for children aged 3 to 18-years-old, focusing
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ANZA SCOUTS The only Australian scouts group outside Australia. Fun activities for children. The ANZA Scouts meet Saturdays at AIS from 2-4pm.
ANZA ACTION The community affairs arm for ANZA, supporting charities in Singapore through funding and volunteering activities. For info on the charities we support visit the ANZA website.
CLICK PHOTOGRAPHY
NEEDLECRAFT
The group meets regularly to share knowledge and advice in a friendly environment as well as going on photowalks across Singapore. All levels of experience are welcome.
Cross-stitch, tapestry, long stitch, knitting, embroidery, smocking and more. Bring your work-in-progress or come along to get started. Social needlecraft on Thursday mornings.
INVESTORS INTEREST GROUP Meeting monthly to connect and discuss investments and important financial matters for expatriates. Whether just starting out in investing, or a seasoned professional, you can benefit from being part of the group.
KILL-O-METRES Join ANZA’s walking group each Monday to get together and get moving around some of Singapore’s great parks. Check the website for times and locations.
KNIT FOR LOVE Come along and knit beanies for Singapore Cancer Society chemotherapy patients. New knitters welcome – there will be friendly souls there to help you learn. The group meets on the third Friday of the month in the ANZA office.
LADIES NIGHT A monthly get-together at different, funky locations. Bring your friends or come alone and meet new members. Ladies Night is just for the girls!
QUILTING Quilters of all levels are welcome to learn, mentor and sew.
SECRET MEN’S BUSINESS Lunch and lager every third Wednesday of the month. Just turn up at The Penny Black, Boat Quay at 12.30pm. The lads also play golf in Singapore each Thursday.
SINGLE PARENTS NETWORKING FORUM Being a single parent is never easy, and can be even more challenging when away from family and close friends. This group aims to provide support, advice, friendship and fun for single parents in Singapore.
WINE CLUB Robert Rees holds regular wine tasting evenings with industry experts. A fun and social event with great wines.
WRITERS GROUP This group of new writers and published authors meets monthly to read and discuss their work.
MAHJONG This friendly group meets every week on Thursdays from 10am–1pm at Boomarang on Robertson Quay.
BOOK CLUBS We have a number of social book clubs that meet monthly in the morning or evening. Contact us to be connected with a group that meets at a time that suits you.
CASUAL COFFEE Join us for our Casual Coffee mornings, where you get to meet other members and relax in a lovely spacious leafy indoor setting. We meet at Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf, first floor of Orchard Central, on the second Wednesday and last Friday of each month, from 10am.
WANT TO SIGN UP FOR AN ANZA SPORT OR GROUP? GO TO
ANZA.ORG.SG
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CL ASSI F I E DS
TO PLACE AN AD, CALL 6223 7992 OR EMAIL MARKETING@ANZA.ORG.SG
CLASSIFIEDS OFFER YOUR SERVICES HERE INTERNATIONAL DENTAL
internationaldental.com.sg At International Dental, we believe prevention is better than cure. A place where we listen to your concerns and provide you with the best solution to achieve your healthy natural smile. Treatments we provide for the whole family: General Dentistry, Children’s Dentistry, C-Fast Treatment, Cosmetic Dentistry, Crown Dentistry, Implant Dentistry, Sedation Dentistry, Whitening Dentistry, Mouth-guards for Sports, Nightguards for Teeth Grinding. For enquiry or appointment booking, please contact us at 6887 3353, SMS to 8339 0092 or email info@ internationaldental.com.sg.
SNACK & SHAPE
admin@snackandshape.com +65 84179769 Snack and Shape offers a range of protein and superfood bars delivered to your door including: • The Australian Superfood Co. – Raw Bars containing superfood blends that offer nutritional benefits • Rawfusion Bar – Satisfying protein hit made from organic ingredients and only using plant sources of protein. Vegan approved • Aussie Bodies Mini Lo Carb Protein Bars – Portion controlled 30g snack size with around 100 calories, 9g protein and 2g carbs make this the perfect afternoon or mid-morning snack. Or…. Opt for a Combination Box!
CLUB MEMBERSHIP SALES & BUYING SERVICES
matrixxmanagement.com Phone: +65 8587 8575 At Matrixx Management Pte Ltd we are 100% in the sport & club business. We connect buyers and sellers locally & internationally. Departing or arriving in Singapore? We can assist you with professional services selling or acquiring a club membership. Contact us today for a ‘no obligation’ quote & information on our services.
AUSTRALIAN TAX RETURN
smats.net diana@smats.net Need to lodge your Australian Tax Return? If you are an expat or collect rental from Australian property, you must lodge an annual return. Let us do it for you here in Singapore. For Australasian taxation services, call 6293 3858 or email.
AUSTRALIAN PROPERTY FINANCE
smats.net helen@smats.net Find out who has the best loan to suit your circumstances. Specialist Mortgage can independently assess all your options and give you an unbiased and objective assessment, all at no cost and no obligations. Call 6293 4148 or email.
SMARTPHONE & DSLR PHOTOGRAPHY WORKSHOPS
naidaginnane.com/upcoming-workshops/ Learn how to improve your photography with sessions for all levels from beginners to advanced. Workshops are friendly and fun with all participants achieving immediate results. Naida Ginnane has 35 years teaching experience and is an exhibiting artist in Singapore and internationally. ANZA Members enjoy $10 off - use the discount code “LoveANZA”. Email Naida on naida@naidaginnane.com.
FIRST AID & CPR CERTIFICATION COURSES
sassisafety.com American certification recognised internationally. Learn care for choking, breathing, cardiac emergencies, how to use an AED and basic first aid for all ages. Monthly courses available or set up a course for your group. See website for dates and details. Email office@ sassisafety.com or call 6466 8598 for more information.
STRUGGLING WITH MATHEMATICS? Tutor with over 30 years relevant experience available for 1-on-1 or small group coaching for all your mathematics needs at all levels to Grade/Year 12. Proven track record with students from various international schools in Singapore since 2006. For further enquiries, contact Andrew on HP 9299 4822 or email mathsolution4me@gmail.com
ACCOUNTING HELP FOR SMB’S-SINGAPORE SMBer’s. Are you in need of help with your Singapore accounting software, GST, income tax, accounts preparation, annual returns, financial procedures & projects or business advice? Specialising in Xero, QuickBooks, Reckon & MYOB software, and accounting/govt. requirements for small/ medium business & personal needs. I can also help with financial issues back in OZ from being in Singapore. Call Don on 9850 5521 or email smallbusfinsol.don@gmail.com
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10 MI NUTES W ITH
10 MINUTES WITH... NEXT MONTH’S VOYA CELEBRATES THE ANZA MEMBERS WHO GIVE BACK TO THE COMMUNITY – LIKE TOPH BROWN OF THE ANZA SCOUTS GROUP.
WHEN DID YOU FIRST BECOME INVOLVED WITH ANZA SCOUTS? My son was one of the founding members of the second ANZA Scout Troop back in 2013 and I helped with some activities during the year. The following year the Troop was down to one leader. Grant Reid, an inspirational and dedicated guy, appealed for help and I saw it as a great chance to get involved. WHAT DO YOU PARTICULARLY LOVE ABOUT WORKING WITH THE SCOUTS? The feedback when working with youth is immediate; they are either enjoying it or not, and you know straight away. We’re lucky that the adult leadership group is highly collaborative, and it never feels like hard work. APART FROM OBVIOUS HANDS-ON SKILLS, WHAT ELSE DO YOU THINK SCOUTS TEACHES THE KIDS? The best thing about the Scouting programme is that it encourages kids to develop independence and team work. It’s a good environment to learn from both your successes and failures without being judged. The youngest Joey Scouts are only five-years-old so obviously need guidance and supervision, but by the time we get to Venturers (15-18 years) they are planning and leading the activities themselves. The adult leaders’ role by then is to mentor the kids and ensure a safe yet adventurous environment. WHAT ARE YOUR PLANS FOR SCOUTS? We have expanded the programme to cover ages 5-18 and in Joeys and Cubs we have parity between girls and boys. 76 anza
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Having gender balance in ANZA Scouts and Venturers is the current goal. James Mansfield-Page and I would also like to establish a Rover Crew which continues the Scouting adventure to the 18-25 age group. It’s a great fit with the ANZA ethos of making friends and contributing to the community. WHAT ARE YOUR DEAREST MEMORIES OF SCOUTS AS A KID? It’s definitely not wearing shorts on freezing Melbourne nights! I have vivid memories of our Patrol entering a billy cart in a regional competition, and the wild ride down the hillside track. The billy carts had to have brakes and ours relied on a lever that dug into the earth. Simple but effective – and hair-raising when I actually used it. HOW ARE YOUR SURVIVAL SKILLS? The Scouts motto is very apt – ‘be prepared’. The biggest challenges if you’re lost are water and shelter, and if I go somewhere remote I make sure I have these two covered. When trekking, I also have a map and track our current location with GPS, just in case. Without going full Bear Grylls, some water purification tablets or a filter, and a good quality poncho should be enough to keep you safe until rescue comes. Getting lost is never fun even for a short while, but I’d prefer it happened in the tropics than a harsher environment. I love jungle trekking and there is surprisingly little information around on it. We’ve been collating our own knowledge to make it more enjoyable and pass on learning.
WHAT DO YOU ENJOY MOST ABOUT LIVING IN SINGAPORE? The people, the food and constantly finding new things to explore are the highlights. Singapore used to have a reputation for being sterile but that was always a superficial stereotype. I enjoy the subtle differences between neighbourhoods and the sheer amount of cultural activity. WHERE ARE YOUR FAVOURITE PLACES TO GET OUTSIDE AND ENJOY HERE? We are constantly exploring the outdoor destinations in Singapore, and regularly hike along the trails in the central catchment and Bukit Timah. If you go at night, you will see luminous fungus, fireflies and sometimes nocturnal animals. Please take care not to disturb the flora and fauna. The ANZA Venturer Scouts love exploring old ruins such as the Marsiling Tunnels near the Causeway which are an incredible experience. This underground site was used during WWII to store aviation fuel and subsequently abandoned. TELL US ABOUT A GREAT LITTLE PLACE. If you’re interested in outdoor activities, then the Army Market on Beach Road is an essential destination. It’s on top of the Golden Mile Food Centre. The stalls have a wide range of adventure gear and the staff are always friendly. Afterwards, enjoy a meal at the hawker centre or cross the footbridge for Thai food at Gold Mile Complex. VOYA is held on Wednesday 23 May. Make your nominations at anza.org.sg/ events/voya-nominations/
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AN Z A C L IC K ! PHOTO GR APHY
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A U S T R A L I A N A N D N E W Z E A L A N D A S S O C I AT I O N
THE AUSTRALIAN & NEW ZEAL AND ASSOCIATION April 2018
Sin g a p o re
APRIL 2018
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