ANZA Magazine November/December 2020 by ANZA Singapore

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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

T HE AUSTRALI AN & NEW Z EALAND ASSOCIATION November/December 2020 Singapore

Festive issue • CHRISTMAS AT HOME • REPATRIATION JOURNEYS • BEST PAVLOVA RECIPE • WHERE TO EAT, DRINK & BE MERRY!

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2020

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E DI TOR’S NOTE

HELLO “For a year that involved rather a lot of Netflix and time at home, this year has rocketed by at light speed. I feel like we were tossing a prosperity salad one minute, then we blinked and the Christmas decorations were going up on Orchard Road! I suspect this is because COVID-19 kept us constantly on our toes with a slew of challenges, changes and concerns.”

s we head into the festive season, (perhaps wearily and with a few extra grey hairs) it’s a great opportunity to press pause and stay still. Without planes to catch and holidays to plan, we can all exhale and reflect on the unforgettable 12 months we have survived as individuals and as a community. We can hug our loved ones a little tighter (or stay on the line a little longer if you’re Zooming) and thank this country we call home for tackling its greatest health crisis with organisation, intelligence, quick thinking and heart. I will never forget the sound of people clapping our health workers from the balconies of their homes or the efforts made by countless volunteers to keep us safe from the devastating force of the pandemic. Whatever you have on the agenda for these final months of 2020, remember that ANZA will be there for you in the New Year. Our sports and interest groups may have changed shape and size, but they still offer the same friendship, connection, and sense of community that they always have.

This issue celebrates a quieter, more reflective festive season. Discover ideas for gathering at home in our special Christmas feature, ponder the repatriation experiences of two recently departed expats, find out about ANZA volunteers making a difference to the lives of children in Myanmar and meet an Aussie on a mission to reuse and recycle Singapore’s glass. As always, my in-box is open to anyone wanting to contribute to ANZA magazine next year. These pages belong to you and your stories. Pip Harry, Editor editor@anza.org.sg

GENERAL MANAGER & SPONSORSHIP Kerry Low gm@anza.org.sg

ADVERTISING Deborah Gillies marketing@anza.org.sg

WEBSITE Geoff King web@anza.org.sg

THE ANZA TEAM AUSTRALIAN AND NEW ZEALAND ASSOCIATION 261A Beach Road, Singapore 199541 Hours: Mon–Fri, 9am–5pm +65 6291 6301 www.anza.org.sg

ACCOUNTS Ellie Mills accounts@anza.org.sg MEMBERSHIP SERVICES Mandy Reinders-Hall info@anza.org.sg COMMUNICATIONS Trudy Nearhos comms@anza.org.sg

facebook.com/anzasingapore @anzasg @anzasingapore linkedin.com/groups/ANZA-Singapore

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DESIGN Christina Lim design@anza.org.sg

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FESTIVE ISSUE 36

N OV E M B E R / D E C E M B E R 2 0 2 0

FEATURES

24 44

24 FESTIVE FUN AT HOME

While most of us would usually spend Christmas jet setting around the world, this year the festive season is more homespun and laidback.

29 OUR CHRISTMAS PLANS 32 GLASS HALF FULL

Australian expat B. Jane Cowie talks about a career in glass and Refind, her art glass recycling studio.

36 REPATRIATION JOURNEYS

Thinking about heading home sooner or later? Two freelance writers tell us how they’re coping with the ups and downs of repatriation.

40 VIRTUAL ENGLISH TUTORING

Fleur Maidment has launched a virtual English tutoring program - matching Karen students with ANZA volunteers.

44 COVID & MEN’S MENTAL HEALTH

IMC’s Dr Neil Forrest offers advice on spotting the signs of male stress, depression and anxiety, plus how to seek help.

REGULARS 01 04 06 08 10 12 14 16 18 20 48

Editor’s Note President’s Message Post It Partner’s Page Australian High Commission New Zealand High Commission ANZA Action Check Out – Novena Out & About ANZA Tours – What to Expect in 2021 Ask the Expert

50 ANZA Click! Photography 52 Hotspots DRINK 53 Hotspots EAT 54 Tuckerbox 55 Tastebuds 56 Soul Fuel 57 ANZA Writers’ Group 58 ANZA Sports 72 Groups 74 New Members 76 10 Minutes With…

NOTE: SOME ANZA ACTIVITIES HAVE RESUMED IN CIRCUIT BREAKER PHASE TWO, IN LINE WITH SINGAPORE GOVERNMENT GUIDELINES. THE SAFETY OF OUR MEMBERS REMAINS OUR UPMOST PRIORITY AND WE WILL CONTINUE TO MAINTAIN OFFICIAL COVID-19 RULES AND REGULATIONS.

COVER PHOTOGRAPHY: RAFAEL DALMAU / STYLING: JULIET HARPER

ANZA staff and the Exec Committee share festive tips and family rituals to get us into the Christmas spirit.

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: MCI (P) 073/10/2020

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PRESI DENT ’S MES S AG E

ANZA EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE

020, is it over yet?! Please, I hear you say! As we come into the year-end it’s a great opportunity to reflect over this past year, which truly has been one like no other. All the way back in January, which feels like a lifetime ago, we welcomed our beautiful third child, Isabella Rose into our family. With three kids under four at the time, we were not sure how our busy family would adapt from the man-to-man to zone defense. It’s been busy, chaotic and challenging at times; but we all learned to adjust, bouyed by a myriad of those adorable smiles that we all live for. It is impossible to look back on this year without mentioning COVID-19. It’s been a hugely challenging year, with lockdowns, travel restrictions and hard-hit industries. But it has been incredible to see how quickly we’ve been able to adapt – from family Zoom dates, to working from home, and our sports groups training online with their teammates. Particularly in Singapore, children have relished the opportunity to spend more time with their parents who haven’t been travelling so frequently. It’s been a time for many to reflect, pause and appreciate life’s little moments that perhaps may pass us by under a more travel intensive expat environment - a real silver lining. Over the year our sub-group volunteers and committees have worked astonishingly hard to deliver our programs in the context of COVID restrictions. I cannot thank them enough! What is normally a big job has been amplified with these increased demands, but I have no doubt our members appreciate our volunteer’s efforts even more given the extended period of time we all have faced without travel. Our office staff have again rallied above and beyond to support our Association in a very challenging year, so a huge thank you to Kerry and her rockstar team. Featured this month is Riding for The Disabled Singapore (RDA Singapore), an amazing charity ANZA Action has supported for many years, notably with financial support for their therapy pony Kodie and previous to him, the dearly departed Blossom. Our fundraising efforts have traditionally occurred via our major events throughout the year, which unfortunately haven’t been able to run in 2020. To enable our continued financial support for the wonderful work that RDA Singapore and Kodie do, we are seeking your kind assistance with fundraising. This will be our fourth Christmas in Singapore in 12 years living here, each one memorable and enjoyable for different reasons. For many this may be their first Singapore Christmas and I can genuinely say, while we have missed our families, we’ve embraced our home-away-from-home and had a rollicking good time with our “Singapore family”. Have a wonderful Christmas break and we look forward to seeing you in 2021!

Adam Martin

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President Adam Martin

Vice President Megan Kinder

Executive Secretary Mark Neo

Executive Treasurer Tristan Perry

Membership Secretary Philip Simmonds

Community Services Coordinator Louise Jones

Joint Sports Coordinator Marnie Watson

Joint Sports Coordinator Sommer Dunham

Committee Member Don Northey

Committee Member Zenaida Bharucha

Committee Member Sonia Heath

Committee Member Christo Fangupo

Committee Member Megan Scott

Committee Member Maria Taylor

CO-PATRONS His Excellency Bruce Gosper, High Commissioner for Australia | Her Excellency Jo Tyndall, High Commissioner for New Zealand ANZA AMBASSADOR PJ Roberts

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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

HELP US SPONSOR KODIE!

All our wonderful ANZA groups are getting together to raise money for the upkeep and care of Kodie, a Riding for the Disabled Singapore (RDA) therapy pony. Normally we would raise money to sponsor Kodie at our annual Melbourne Cup Race Day event in November, however due to COVID-19 cancellation our groups have found new ways to continue our support. Check out our different groups’ fundraising offers – from gorgeous bags and gift sets (perfect Christmas gifts!) to mini Tour Bites, a walking eBook and more. anza.org.sg/help-us-sponsor-kodie

ANZA CONNECTIONS

MEET A FEATURED PARTNER

PROFESSOR CHRIS RUDD OBE

Deputy Vice Chancellor and Head of Campus, Singapore James Cook University

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Why is JCU a good fit for ANZA as a partner? JCU is a key member of the Australian business community in Singapore. We sponsor several community events, including the ANZA Ball, and work with other Australian businesses to deliver joint projects, such as our response to the bushfires and the present COVID-19 crisis. What does JCU offer students here? JCU offers a premium education experience in Singapore with several carefully chosen degree programmes that fit with the needs of the region. What is your favourite day trip in Singapore? To take the ferry to St John’s Island and escape the hustle and bustle of city life. If you visit on a weekday you might even get invited to visit our offshore Aquaculture lab which is located on the same island. What’s the best thing about living in Singapore? The cultural tolerance and the thoughtfulness of the locals. I stopped for a cold drink at a Hawker Centre one Saturday morning. I was struggling to open a well wrapped delivery package and someone from a nearby table silently handed me a pair of scissors. Sometimes small things take on special significance.

Want to get the lowdown on living in Singapore and meet some new friends? ANZA has a new WhatsApp group called ANZA Connections. It’s a place to get lots of local tips and advice and to help you make the most of your ANZA membership. Connect with likeminded people and maximise your time on the Little Red Dot. Whether it’s upcoming tours, ANZA sports, new and existing ANZA interest groups, fun activities or you simply want to meet new people, this group will help you do it. Email info@anza.org.sg to join.

DID YOU KNOW? The birthday of the goddess of mercy, also known as Kwan Im, will be celebrated on Wednesday, 4 November at Kwan Im Thong Hood Cho Temple, Waterloo Street in the Bugis area. Built in 1884, this is one of the oldest Buddhist temples in Singapore. – Raelene Tan

GOT SOMETHING TO SAY?

Email us at info@anza.org.sg or comment on our Facebook page facebook.com/anzasingapore

STAY CONNECTED WITH ANZA! facebook.com/anzasingapore @anzasg @anzasingapore linkedin.com/groups/ANZA-Singapore

November/December 2020

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ANZ A PARTN ER S

THANK YOU TO THE FOLLOWING ANZA PARTNERS, VALUED GREATLY FOR THEIR CONTINUED SUPPORT OF THE ASSOCIATION. PLATINUM PARTNERS

GOLD PARTNERS

SILVER PARTNERS

Physiotherapy & Osteopathy

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AUSTR ALIAN HIG H C OM M IS SION

AUSTRALIA IN SINGAPORE IN 2020 2020 has been a challenging year but, even in these uncertain times, the AustraliaSingapore relationship continues to prosper.

A Christmas message from the High Commissioner Australian High Commission Singapore 25 Napier Road Singapore, 258507 Tel 6836 4100 Fax 6737 5481

STAY CONNECTED Follow us on Facebook: facebook. com/AustraliaInSingapore LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/ ahc-sg

Even though our celebrations over the festive season will be different in 2020 and we may be separated from loved ones, it remains a time to connect with the people who matter most to us. From my family to you and yours, I wish everyone a happy, healthy, safe and merry Christmas and enjoyable and prosperous start to 2021. SEASON’S GREETINGS, HE Mr Bruce Gosper, Australian High Commissioner to Singapore

Ministry of Communications and Information (MCI)

ustralia was one of the first countries to establish diplomatic ties with Singapore. So as Singapore marked 55 years of Independence this year, we celebrated 55 years of diplomatic relations. We also celebrated the 30th anniversary of the Singapore Armed Forces’ training base at the Shoalwater Bay Training Area in Queensland. These longstanding defence ties are an important pillar of our relationship. Singapore was quick to lend a hand during the Australian bushfires. The The virtual Annual Leaders’ meeting (PM Lee and PM Morrison speaking over video call) Singapore Army supplied two Ch-47 heavy-life helicopters and troops to assist in the relief effort. During the COVID-19 pandemic, we Australian education providers adapted quickly to a greater used technology to strengthen our relationship. In March, the demand for home-based learning. In April, Austrade launched a Australia-Singapore Annual Leaders’ meeting convened virtually Study with Australia campaign, in partnership with FutureLearn for the first time. It saw Prime Minister Scott Morrison and Prime and Australian universities. The pilot offered free taster courses Minister Lee Hsien Loong’s expand our countries’ Comprehensive to a worldwide audience, gaining 732,000 enrolments, with Strategic Partnership (CSP). The meeting demonstrates the 133,000 students earning certificates of completion. Find out shared conviction to continue the CSP’s momentum, even as we more at futurelearn.com/courses/collections/study-australia. face the challenges of the COVID‐19 pandemic at home. Science and innovation remained a focus in 2020. The The ground-breaking Australia-Singapore Digital Economy Australian High Commission in Singapore is home to CSIRO’s Agreement was also concluded in March. The Agreement will ASEAN hub which continues to build on its impressive track reduce barriers to digital trade and build an environment record. Highlights include Singapore hosting a taste-testing in which Australian businesses and consumers are able to of Australian plant-based meat from V2Foods based on participate and benefit from digital trade and the digitalisation CSIRO science, extending our partnership with SGInnovate of the economy. to support “DeepTech for Good”, and the launch of the As global supply chains were disrupted by the pandemic, Challenges and Missions initiative, opening up new the Australian Government assisted exporters with grants, avenues for Singapore partners to engage in working charters and block bookings through the International Freight with Australia to solve challenges such as biosecurity Assistance Mechanism (IFAM). With Singapore named as an IFAM preparedness, food security, sustainable energy sources and global hub, we’ve continued to see high-quality Australian food disaster resilience. and agriculture products, fish, meat and poultry on supermarket We look forward to a brighter year in 2021 and further shelves and plates here. strengthening our great friendship with Singapore.

COVID-19 AND TRAVEL

We’ve updated our website with details about potential travel between Australia and Singapore while COVID-19 border restrictions and quarantine arrangements are in place. This advice is subject to change so please check the High Commission’s website regularly for updates. More info at: singapore.embassy. gov.au. Please also subscribe to smartraveller.gov.au for updates.

Twitter: @AusHCSG

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NEW ZEAL A N D HIG H C OM M IS SION

END OF YEAR WISHES

MESSAGE FROM HC TYNDALL

N New Zealand High Commission Singapore One George Street, Level 21-04 Singapore 049145 Tel 6235 9966 Fax 6536 8180 nzhc.sin@mfat.govt.nz

eedless to say this year didn’t turn out the way any of us expected. I am aware that many of you have had to manage the impact of COVID-19 in different ways – by shifting your work routines, grappling with home schooling, having to cope with being away from family and friends, or learning overnight the ins and outs of Zoom, Microsoft Teams and WebEx. COVID-19 has been nothing short of a test of courage, patience and resilience for all of us. Yet, it has also taught us what’s most important in life. For me, it’s been a reminder of just how inter-connected and reliant we are on one another – as individuals, communities, and as countries. Although we may have been prevented from meeting up, the team and I have still been able to stay in touch with many of you, through virtual events, small in-person meetings or even conversations through our Facebook page. These interactions, albeit at a distance and often fleeting, have been a cornerstone for all of us at the High Commission, giving us a great sense of purpose and fulfilment when they have been needed most. I am personally grateful for the wider Kiwi whānau that has grown here in Singapore. It is a source of mutual strength and a reminder we’re all in this together (he waka eke noa). It is still a wee while to go till Christmas, but if this year has been any indication it’ll be here before we know it. So let me take the time to wish everyone Meri Kirihimete me te Hape Nū Ia (Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year), from all of us here at the High Commission. Note: Please note that the New Zealand High Commission office will be closed for the holiday period between Friday 25 December and Friday 1 January. We will re-open on Monday 4 January 2021. HC Tyndall hosting the raffle at the virtual New Zealand Chamber Ball

STAY CONNECTED Follow us on Facebook: facebook.com/ NewZealandinSingapore Register when travelling: safetravel.govt.nz Find out more: mfat.govt.nz/singapore

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MANAGED ISOLATION AND QUARANTINE

As the end of the year rapidly rolls around, we are aware that many of you are considering flying back to New Zealand for the holiday period. At this point, please note border restrictions are still in place, so only New Zealand citizens and PRs can enter the country. Travellers who do head back to New Zealand are also required to serve 14 days in managed isolation (i.e. a designated hotel) upon arrival. A system for booking your slot in managed isolation is available at miq.govt.nz Please head to the website for a step-by-step guide on how to secure a space at a managed isolation facility before you board your flight.

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FESTIVE PAVLOVA RECIPE

Is it really a festive celebration without a pav? The origin of this beloved meringue cake has been debated for decades, with both New Zealand and Australia claiming it as theirs. Legend has it that Chef Bert Sachse, from the Esplanade Hotel in Perth, named his cake in honour of Russian ballerina Anna Pavlova in 1935. However, Chef Sachse later acknowledged that the recipe he used was from a 1929 cookery book, The New Zealand Dairy Exporter. So with all due respect to our Tasman neighbours, we’re staking our claim on this one – here’s one of the most widely used pavlova recipes in New Zealand. Give it a go and let us know what you think! Send us a photo at nzhc.sin@mfat.govt.nz and we’ll feature the best-looking shots on our Facebook page.

INGREDIENTS

6 egg whites Pinch of salt 2 cups caster sugar 1½ tsp vinegar 1½ tsp vanilla essence 1½ tsp cornflour Whipped cream and fresh fruit (we recommend Kiwis!)

METHOD

1. Preheat oven to 150˚C. Line a baking tray with baking paper and draw a 20cm circle on it. Turn over the paper so that the pencil line doesn’t transfer to your pavlova! 2. Using an electric mixer, beat the egg whites and salt until stiff, then add the sugar very gradually while still beating. Keep beating for 5 minutes to dissolve the sugar. 3. Slow the beater speed and add the vinegar, vanilla and cornflour. 4. Pile the meringue in the centre of the circle and use a spatula to spread it out to the edge of the circle, keeping it as round and even as possible. Make a slight dip in the top. 5. Bake for 45 minutes, then leave to cool in the oven overnight. 6. Using two spatulas, lift it carefully onto a serving plate and fill the central depression with whipped cream and fresh fruit.

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A N Z A AC T IO N

Help Kodie the Wonder Horse! Riding for the Disabled (RDA) Singapore provides equine-assisted therapy to the disabled community. ANZA has been a proud sponsor of several RDA therapy horses, including former show pony, Kodie. Find out more about RDA and how you can help ANZA continue our support for this special animal. Who benefits from the RDA? RDA works with adults and children with disabilities, aged from six years. Beneficiaries are not required to pay for therapy. The RDA rely on raising funds through events, private and corporate donations, and government grants.

How does the program work? The program provides a rider with one session per week for a period of 10-weeks. The rider is assigned a team of volunteers and a horse that aligns with their physical and intellectual needs. In each session a rider will be challenged with a series of physical and cognitive tasks, speech and social engagement, and activities on horseback.

How does the RDA program help people with disability? It has been well documented that there is a symbiotic relationship between animals and humans and healing powers are derived from our 14 anza

interaction and connection with each other. Hippotherapy enables riders to benefit from the sensitive and gentle disposition that the horses instinctively have when dealing with disabled riders. Horses communicate in a unique way, which makes them perfect for riders who have difficulties in

communicating; they seem to understand they are carrying people with special needs and are extra sweet, calm and careful with their riders. For persons with Autistic Spectrum Disorder (ASD), the gait of a horse provides a gentle rocking movement which delivers a soothing sensation allowing the rider

to relax and interact in ways that are not accessible in a classroom environment. For a person with a physical disability, unable to walk unaided, riding therapy can provide enormous physical benefits through muscle development, improved posture, range of movement and an overall sense of confidence and freedom. The RDA team carefully tracks the progress of each rider, and extraordinary improvements in both

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The RDAIn Numbers

7000+

riders in Singapore have benefited from RDAsince it opened in 1982 At peak capacity RDA can serve up to

120perriders week 20 horses

3+ months

is the time it takes to retrain a horse for RDAtherapy.

have come to the RDAto be retrained after retiring fromother walks of life, such as former polo and show ponies.

to the lives of people with disability. No experience with horses or persons with disabilities is required, as full training is provided. A minimum commitment of 10 weeks is requested, so that you can support a are needed to conduct a participant through the full program, therapy session with is required per year understand their 6 horses + unique needs and to operate ultimately enjoy supporting 6 riders. RDA their progress. You’ll need to RDA be able to walk actively for 40 beneficiaries minutes per session. have gone on to represent While there are no immediate volunteer Singapore in the Paralympics: opportunities due to Jemma Rose Foo COVID-19, if you’d like to volunteer at RDA, email &Max Tan your interest for when full operations resume at The number of volunteer@rdasingapore.org.sg years ANZAhas Our amazing groups sponsored Kodie fundraising fundraising offers include drive! mini ‘Tour Bites’ around RDA! ANZA are asking for your Singapore, the Walk Around support to help us raise Singapore eBook, bags or gift the S$12,000 needed for packs from our needlecraft therapy horse Kodie’s annual group Stitches, tennis lessons, sponsorship fee, usually or a ride with the ANZA raised at our annual ANZA Cycling Chix. Go to anza.org. Melbourne Cup Race Day sg/help-us-sponsor-kodie to event, which is unable to go find out more or make a direct ahead this year. donation.

1.2 Million

physical and mental wellbeing have been achieved through this unique therapy and the impact of the relationship between horse and rider. The benefits often extend beyond a riders time in the program, as they continue to build on physical and social developments.

Volunteering Working with RDA is something truly special; you get to make a great difference

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18 Volunteers

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CHECK OUT

Australian expat PAULA BARNES from trulyexpat.com checks out the low key charms of Novena, located in Central Singapore.

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1 NOVENA CHURCH 300 THOMSON RD, 307653

novenachurch.com The first mass was held at this beautiful church on 31 July 1948, a far cry from its 15,000 plus devotees today. Refurbishment of The Church of Saint Alphonsus (better known as Novena Church) was completed in 2017, and when visiting, you can see the intricate details of what this Catholic church has to offer.

2 CLIMB CENTRAL NOVENA SQUARE, 238 THOMSON RD, #03-23/25 307683

climbcentral.sg Climb Central has climbing packages for children, adults and families, along with all types of classes. Take a monthly membership or a one-off day pass. It’s fantastic strength training and a fun way to get out of the rain or heat and get yourself and the kids climbing walls (literally). There are varying levels, so no need to worry if it’s your first time or if you are an expert. Check out the many varieties of classes online before you go.

3 UNITED SQUARE SHOPPING MALL 101 THOMSON RD, 307591

unitedsquare.com.sg Originally built with families in mind; this is a one-stop-shop for the little ones - from Cotton On Kids to children’s learning centres. You can also find many restaurants (including my favourite poke bowl outlet “Poke Lulu”) dotted around the shopping facility.

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4 VELOCITY NOVENA SQUARE 1238 THOMSON RD, 307683 velocitynovena.com If you’re seeking anything sports-related, this is the shopping mall for you. With its distinctive basketball hoop out the front, you’ll see youngsters shooting hoops, or if you arrive early enough (pre-COVID days) a group of yoga enthusiasts stretching the morning away. Find everything from Decathlon to True Fitness gym, health food supplies, and loads of sports clothing and equipment.

5 COMFORT ZONE FOOT WELLNESS NOVENA SQUARE 2, 10 SINARAN DR #B1-99/100/115/116, 307506

facebook.com/Comfortzonefw Comfort Zone Foot Wellness is ultra relaxing (it has a sign asking all customers to turn off their phones and be quiet), the friendly service is impressive and the massages are great. Find this massage specialist on the lower level of Novena Square 2 shopping complex and find out for yourself why it gets glowing reviews.

6 AH CHEW DESSERTS 181 THOMSON ROAD, GOLDHILL SHOPPING CENTRE, 307627

ahchewdesserts.com/about-us If you’re like me and love trying local delicacies, but don’t know where to start with desserts, don’t worry, the friendly Ah Chew staff are on hand to help you with your selection. They have everything from the more subdued grass jelly desserts (which I now love) to the more outrageous (to my Western palette!) bird’s nest soup with red dates. If all else fails, the ice-cream is delicious.

7 THE CLUELESS GOAT 189 THOMSON RD, SINGAPORE 307631

facebook.com/thecluelessgoat This no fuss, affordable cafe has a raw, earthy feel about it and some delicious things on its menu. Brunch is my favourite time to visit; choose from the restaurant’s all-day breakfast menu, waffle or sandwich options. Everything in this popular eatery is delicious.

8 TWO MEN BAGEL HOUSE 103 IRRAWADDY RD, #01-04 ROYAL SQUARE, 329566 twomenbagels.com There’s usually a fast-moving line-up at this New York style bagel joint. Grab a delicious, freshly made bagel in Plain, Salt, Sesame, All Sorts, Cheese, Multigrain, Garlic, or Blueberry. Top with different ‘schmears’ of flavoured cream cheese, or more adventurous combos like the ‘Primal’ of Smoked Brisket, Cheddar, Chimichurri, and Charred Peppers or ‘Bobow’ of Tarragon Ricotta, Double Sunny Eggs, Sundried Tomato Relish, Avocado, and Balsamic. Worth the wait in the queue.

9 IRAS GALLERY REVENUE HOUSE, 55 NEWTON ROAD

iras.gov.sg/irashome/About-Us/OurOrganisation/IRAS-Gallery This finance gallery is located on the 1st story of Revenue House. Interesting exhibits outline Singapore’s tax history, dating back to 1819. You can wander through the space on a self-guided educational tour, with displays and interactive games which help explain Singapore’s taxation system. This small museum is educational and packed with loads of fascinating history and information.

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OUT & ABOUT

PETITE PINK EVENTS

During October, Casual Coffee teamed up with ANZA Action and invited members to host a Petite Pink Event in support of Breast Cancer Foundation (BCF) and Breast Cancer Awareness Month. The results were nothing short of spectacular, as groups of five held all kinds of rose coloured gatherings across the island.

Petite Pink Events ranged from pool parties, to relaxed lunches, high teas and even pink mahjong!

From blush to fuscia and neon pink masks, the Petite Pink outfits were attention grabbers!

All aboard! This group set sail for the high seas, all for a good cause!

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ood cause!

It wouldnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t be a pink party without some rose coloured glasses! Cheers! It was pink pungs as the ANZA Mahjong group raised funds for BCF

THANK YOU!

This year, we couldnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t hold our usual large Casual Coffee morning tea at Boomarang to raise money for BCF, but our groups pivoted beautifully with their Petite Pink Events. Thank you to all who participated in this unique fundraiser.

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ANZ A TOUR S

TOURS – WHAT TO EXPECT IN 2021 Wondering what’s in store for ANZA Tours in 2021? KRISTEN HOBBY from the Tours Committee reveals the exciting line-up of activities planned for next year.

Family and fun weekend activities

Grab your family or friends, check out some fun weekend activities and discover Singapore’s hidden gems.

20 MARCH

WALKING FROM DOWNTOWN TO LABRADOR PARK Rev up your step count with this 15km charity walk from Downtown to Labrador Park. Stroll back in time as we pass the Buddha Tooth Temple, Jinrikisha “Rickshaw” Station and the old headquarters of the Tiger Balm empire.

11 SEPTEMBER

Chinatown

KUSU ISLAND/ST. JOHN’S ISLAND Discover Kusu Island, one of Singapore’s southern islands, a short 5.6 kilometre ferry ride away. “Kusu” means “Turtle Island” in Hokkien. Stop at St John’s Island, home to white sand beaches and nature trails.

9 NOVEMBER

AMAZING RACE AROUND CHINATOWN Join us for our third ‘ANZA Amazing Race’ – this time in Chinatown. Collect clues, solve riddles and discover more about this historic neighbourhood.

Family fun

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Get Arty

Designed with beginners in mind, these art and craft tours may help you discover a new passion.

27 FEBRUARY

WALKING AND SKETCHING IN TELOK AYER Join our guide Adam as we visit Telok Ayer, stopping along the way for sketching lessons and practice. Come away with a beautiful handmade souvenir of the morning.

11 MAY

ACRYLIC POUR Get in touch with your creative side with this fun new art form - Acrylic Pour - where acrylic paint is mixed and poured onto a surface to form interesting patterns. Create a unique, abstract artwork in only a few hours. ARTY AFTERNOONS AT STPI Bring the kids to try their hand at a new craft and explore the amazing space that is STPI Creative Workshop and Gallery. With huge printing presses and equipment, to engaging art exhibitions, there is so much to explore. Dates TBA.

Exploring Singapore Neighbourhoods

No matter how long you’ve lived in Singapore, there are always fascinating new neighbourhoods to explore.

Acrylic Pour

21 MARCH

ART AND ARCHITECTURE ALONG THE SINGAPORE RIVER Join Sarah, our art and architecture expert, and discover Singapore’s significant public artworks.

24 FEBRUARY

SECRETS OF HOLLAND VILLAGE Our walking tour begins at Chip Bee Gardens before visiting Singapore’s last Hakka graveyard and then discovering some of the speciality shops and hidden treasures of Holland Village.

25 AUGUST

EXPLORING THE WONDERFUL ART OF KAMPONG GLAM Walk with us as we discover public art, colourful street murals, trendy shops and art galleries in Kampong Glam.

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Food and Culture

Singapore would not be Singapore without its vibrant food scene and unique South-East Asian culture. Join us as we dive into the fascinating culture that is all around us.

Ceremonies and Events

Learn about the history of yearly ceremonies and events we experience in Singapore.

4 MARCH

A VISIT TO THE SPIRIT MEDIUM Discover the fascinating and mysterious world of the Spirit Medium. Yes, right here in trendy, cosmopolitan Singapore! This traditional, enigmatic practice of communicating with the Gods through a medium still thrives.

27 APRIL

BABA HOUSE AND PERANAKAN LUNCH Discover the history of Baba House – a heritage townhouse in the historic Blair Plain district. Marvel at the architecture of the house and its domestic interior, including furnishings, household materials and decorative features, all lovingly preserved and restored.

6 FEBRUARY

CHINESE NEW YEAR Chinatown is always fascinating and the area is even more vivid during Chinese New Year celebrations. Our guide Charlotte will explain the customs, taboos and traditions of this exciting and colourful holiday.

25 APRIL

ANZAC DAY Kranji War Memorial Cemetery is atmospheric at any time of day; however nothing compares with arriving as a group to remember the fallen at the ANZAC Day Dawn Ceremony.

25 MAY

21 SEPTEMBER

DISCOVERING MOONCAKES Hear the origins of the Mid-Autumn Festival and the significance of lanterns and mooncakes as we wander through Chinatown during this special time of year.

VESAK DAY Vesak is considered the most holy day observed by Buddhists in this part of the world. Informally known as “Buddha’s Birthday”, it encompasses the birth, enlightenment and death of Buddha. On this tour, we will visit three different Buddhist temples as they prepare to celebrate the holiest day in the Buddhist calendar.

** Some activities may change due to COVID-19 restrictions. Please check ahead at anza.org.sg/tours for the latest updates

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PINE CENTREPIECE

Like the native pine and birch trees of Norway, this large, low profile centrepiece is in pine (purchased from Far East Flora, fareastflora.com) and the candles are wrapped in birch, (purchased from Hooga, findinghooga.com) Little pops of white and red flowers make it look naturally festive. With a longer period of celebration, an artificial Christmas tree is a sustainable idea. But having some pine on the table gives you the smell of a conifer forest. Otherwise buy a diffuser and get some pine pure essential oil! For the best artificial Christmas trees go to Masons Home DĂŠcor, mason.com.sg.

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While most of us would usually spend Christmas jet setting around the world, this year the festive season is more homespun and laidback. STYLING: JULIET HARPER | PHOTOGRAPHY: RAF DALMAU

tylist Juliet Harper has some simple, beautiful ideas for finding your holiday cheer in this unusual year. “In so many ways we need to embrace Christmas 2020 with more vigour and enthusiasm than ever before and reward ourselves for getting through one of the toughest years we have known,” says Juliet. “This year, I took inspiration from the Nordic regions of Sweden, Finland, Norway, and Denmark – where celebrations traditionally start earlier, in midDecember - and the celebrations lift spirits in preparation for the long winter ahead. Without some of our children and special family members here and not being able to travel home, Christmas won’t feel the same, but like those in the Nordic countries it’s possible to celebrate in small groups over a much longer period of time! Get the children to help along the way, from baking, to making gifts and planning the Christmas décor.”

A MINIMAL TREE

On the Christmas tree we went for a minimalistic look and my children made edible gingerbread decorations, threaded with natural rope twine. With a few white balls and some feathers, this simple decoration complemented the colours used on the table.

MONOCHROME TABLE SETTING WITH A POP OF GREEN

A Nordic Christmas look can be achieved with a simple monochrome colour palette and greenery. A great table setting always starts with a good tablecloth and napkins. Pop into Spotlight or any fabric store and make your own. You’ll only need 2-3 metres of cloth and if you don’t have a sewing machine, cut the edges with shearing scissors. I used a simple black and white gingham fabric for the tablecloth. The napkins are made from charcoal linen and finished with a stitched ribbon.

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STOCKINGS & CRACKERS

Instead of the traditional red colour, I made Christmas stockings in grey felt with a fur trim. Pre-cut the felt in a sock shape and get them embroidered with names at one of the printing stores at Queensway. If you are feeling truly inspired, make your own Christmas crackers or a little gift for each guest by wrapping in special paper and adding a touch of rosemary, a sprig of thyme or eucalyptus leaf.

PERSONALISED GIFTS

Homemade gifts are a wonderful way to personalise Christmas and are great to have on hand when youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re invited to friends or they come to you. Get in early to order soap making kits from Amazon (they take some time to arrive) and decorate with dried rose petals, dried fruit slices (make them yourself by drying slices in the oven on a very low heat) or lavender. Likewise, homemade bath salts make a great gift and an activity for the children to do. Make sure you always have a big stash of ribbon, twine, gift cards and wrap to add the final touch to any gift, the Christmas tree, table, or decoration.

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To get into the spirit there is nothing better than starting early and soaking the fruit for a spicy, aromatic Christmas cake well ahead of time.

CHRISTMAS CAKE

To get into the spirit there is nothing better than starting early and soaking the fruit for a spicy, aromatic Christmas cake well ahead of time. For a fool proof recipe try this one from the New Zealand Edmonds Cookbook, edmondscooking.co.nz

INGREDIENTS 1¾ cups orange juice ¾ cup dark rum or brandy 2 tbsp finely grated orange zest 500g raisins 2 cups sultanas 2 cups chopped dates 150g crystallised ginger, chopped 150g mixed peel ½ tsp vanilla essence 150g dried cranberries ¼ tsp almond essence 2 tsp finely grated lemon zest 1 cup blanched almonds 500g currants 2½ cups Edmonds high grade flour ½ tsp Edmonds baking soda 1 tsp cinnamon 1 tsp mixed spice ½ tsp ground nutmeg 250g butter 1½ cups Chelsea brown sugar 2 tbsp treacle 5 eggs, beaten

METHOD

Place the orange juice, rum and orange zest in a saucepan and bring to the boil. Remove from the heat and add the dried fruit. Cover and leave the fruit to soak overnight. The next day stir the essences, lemon rind and almonds into the fruit mixture. Sift the flour, soda and spices into a bowl. Preheat the oven to 150ºC. Line a deep 23cm square tin with baking paper and tie a double layer of brown paper around the outside of the tin. Cream the butter, sugar and treacle until light and fluffy and add the eggs a little at a time, beating well after each addition. Fold in the sifted ingredients alternately with the fruit mixture. Scoop the mixture into the prepared tin then wet your hand under the cold tap and smooth the surface. Bake for 4 hours or until an inserted skewer comes out clean. Cool in the tin on a wire rack, covered with a clean cloth Wrap in tinfoil and a cloth and store in a cool place. If you want a more flavoursome cake, pour 2–3 tablespoons of brandy or sherry over the cake after it has cooled and before storing it. If the top is crusty, make little holes with a skewer or toothpick to help the alcohol soak in.

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DRINK UP!

For a non-alcoholic cocktail try Seedlip with a dash of ginger ale and a slice of orange peel. For other great recipes go to their website seedlipdrinks.com

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OUR Festive Plans We asked our ANZA STAFF AND EXEC COMMITTEE to share some festive tips and family rituals to get us all into the Christmas spirit.

TRUDY NEARHOS, COMMUNICATIONS

“We landed in Singapore at Christmas time three years ago, so this year we plan to re-visit all the special places we first discovered on arrival. Burgers on Orchard Road, followed by a stroll to see the Christmas lights and a very relaxing Christmas morning beachside.”

DEBORAH GILLIES, ADVERTISING

“If you’re thinking of eating Christmas dinner at home with the family this year, order a turkey cooked to perfection with all the trimmings from The Fullerton Hotel. We had the most amazing meal that fed eight people, plus plenty of leftovers for turkey pie and sandwiches. Amazing value and you don’t have to be stuck in the kitchen!’

KERRY LOW, ANZA GM “Every year our Singapore family gathers together on Christmas Eve to celebrate. We are eight nationalities from five couples and everyone brings a traditional Christmas dish to share from their home country.”

PIP HARRY, EDITOR

ADAM MARTIN, ANZA PRESIDENT “My pick for Christmas lunch is Capella Singapore – they serve an amazing lunch, with a brilliant kids club to keep little ones entertained on the day. We also go to Cluny Court as a family ritual and get our photo taken with Santa Claus in the Christmas lead up.”

CHRISTINA LIM, DESIGN “Feasting on Christmas gammon hams and homemade gingerbread cookies are the highlights for me every Christmas. Gathering with friends is also at the peak during this period tiring but a worthy and fruitful time.”

“Our tradition is to have an early Christmas day swim at the beach or pool and egg and bacon rolls for breakfast. One year we went to a traditional Christmas Eve dinner with all the trimmings at W Hotel in Sentosa, taking the cable car over to the island. The next day we celebrated with local food at a hawker. You can really mix it up here!”

MEGAN SCOTT, COMMITTEE MEMBER “I had my first and only live Christmas tree five years ago when my family came here for Christmas. It was such a treat to walk around the nursery and pick out my tree - just like I’d seen in so many American Christmas TV shows and movies.” MARNIE WATSON, JOINT SPORTS COORDINATOR “I’ve never stayed in Singapore for Christmas, but my suggestion this year is to pick up a fresh Christmas tree so that wonderful fresh scent of a conifer pervades the house!”

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SP O N S O R E D F E AT U R E

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Australian expat B. JANE COWIE talks about her brilliant career in glass and how she’s aiming to make her company, Refind, Singapore’s leading art glass recycling studio.

. Jane Cowie has lived in Singapore since 2003, when she took up a teaching position at Lasalle College of the Arts. She has since started her own company, Art Glass Solutions, creating and installing artworks and architectural installations and is working with recycled glass through Refind. The sustainable studio repurposes Singapore’s used bottles with a range of traditional and modern glass making techniques. “I’ve been glassmaking for over 30 years, blowing glass since the late 1980’s and more recently undertaking large art glass installation artistry and project managment,” says Jane. “Glass has a beauty and intensity like no other material – symbolic of the fragility and beauty of life.”

Where are you from in Australia? I was born in Wollongong, south of Sydney in NSW. In 2019 it was lovely, and a proud moment, to return to Wollongong and install the Swirling Surround installation in my hometown in a temporary installation at Sculptures@Killalea.

How long have you been working with glass?

What glass work have you done in Singapore? I moved to Singapore in 2003 to take up a teaching position at Lasalle College of the Arts. This didn’t last long as the institution was undergoing a restructuring, resulting in the closure of many of the Applied Arts Departments – including Glass. I was then offered a position as an artist in a local art glass supply company. It was my job to build and operate a hot glass facility with a small team, to make blown glass pieces and design art glass installations. I worked there for four years. This opportunity opened another new and exciting career direction

I was first introduced to glass at Sydney College of the Arts in the early 1980s. Glass was then a newly introduced art material and new area of creative practice in Australia. I majored in Glass and Sculpture and graduated in 1983. I’ve since worked all over the world in many different glass related roles.

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Left to right: “Swirling Surround” installed at Sculpture by the Sea, Cottesloe Beach, Western Australia 2018; Wild Flowers (entrance driveway artworks) at The Boutiq Condominium, Singapore; Drifting Clouds (suspended installation) at South Beach Complex, Singapore.

for me - creating large, multi-component artwork installations for architectural spaces. I ventured out of employment and started Art Glass Solutions in 2008, with a focus on large scale architectural installations. Predominately I work with developers, architects, interior designers and private clients to bring artworks of inspiration and beauty into public spaces.

What are your career highlights so far? 17 years in Singapore has flown by so quickly. Some recent highlights have been working on large-scale projects, such as the Complex Simplicity at the Ocean Financial Centre. It’s a large outdoor installation, 24 metres by 4.5 metres. This project took four years, completed alongside numerous other projects. I was also traveling and working in China regularly to produce the many different components required in the artworks. Being an art glass installation artist, predominantly working within the construction industry in Singapore, has been an exciting time. I’ve had the opportunity to work with many different people from different countries and cultures. I really enjoy meeting new people and learning about their culture.

What is Refind and how did you conceive the idea? The last few years have been slow for the construction industry in Singapore, so with time on my hands, it was my neighbours who encouraged me to work with recycled glass. As enthusiastic consumers of wine, they gave me their bottles and jars to create artworks. I’ve since focused on researching and developing new ways to work with packaging, machine-made glass. Through this initial process of investigation, I decided it was time Singapore had a glass recycling and education program, so I engaged a branding consultant to help formulate the right look and brand to allow my new small company of one (me) to grow into a larger recycling and sustainability asset. I’m

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Refind is not only on a mission to re-purpose and re-use all of Singapore’s imported glass bottles and jars, we additionally strive to enrich the lives of many through the creation of quality artworks, glass making experiences and glass sustainability. - B. JANE COWIE

confident this concept and company will develop into a serious and large-scale operation that re-purposes and re-uses glass packaging containers imported into Singapore.

How has your work changed during this year? During the circuit breaker and within the confines of my conveniently adjacent home studio, I undertook a 30-day challenge to work with a different type of bottle glass each day. I wanted to explore and experiment with this glass, with the kiln and hot glass making processes - to see what could be achieved. November/December 2020

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What is the sustainability mission of Refind? Refind’s mission is to become Singapore’s number one art glass recycling studio. The vision is to re-purpose and re-use Singapore’s used bottles with a range of traditional and modern glass making techniques to create artworks, installations and objects of re-found value. Education will be a strong focus of the company; we will offer our knowledge and experience in innovative workshops and events, while sharing our love of glass and glassmaking processes. We hope to transfer our knowledge about how glass contains a constant potential to be reinvented and remade. Refind’s focus is to develop new ways to stop, or at least slow down, the production of glassware that is ‘one use only’.

How can people do a class and what do you offer? Refind encourages people interested in glassmaking to attend one of our various workshops - listed on our website at refind.sg to learn more about what we are doing and experience the magic of glassmaking for themselves. Hopefully, we will excite and inspire more Singaporeans and expats to take up glassmaking with recycled glass as a viable small business, supplying others with their recycled products.

How is Refind being received in the community?

Do you also sell products?

Already I have a following of like-minded people keen to participate in our recycling efforts; a community of people collecting, cleaning, de-labelling and delivering their bottles to the studio to be recycled. We are creating sustainable solutions and hope to go some way to address the huge amount of glass packaging waste that is imported into Singapore – to innovate, re-purpose and re-use glass in a cost-effective manner.

We have a range of recycled glass products available at the studio. We’re also looking to develop working relationships with a variety of retail outlets interested in stocking our products for retail and online sale. Contact us at 98274760 or bjanecowie@refind.sg.

How can people donate their glass to you? We still take limited amounts of glass bottles and jars to undertake the research and development required to make trendy and interesting products. Currently, I am particularly interested in receiving Bombay Sapphire blue bottles, cold brew coffee bottles and champagne bottles. 34 anza

What are you excited about for 2021 and beyond? With over 30 years of glassmaking experience, I am excited to continue my journey - researching, developing and innovating with glass. Now with a new focus on sustainability, I look forward to working closely with local businesses and Singaporeans and creating bespoke solutions, recycled and reused glass capabilities. refind.sg

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We Speak The International Language Of Dance Tanglin Arts Studio provides a welcoming place for expat and locally raised dance students to make wonderful friends and grow their passion for music and movement. Working closely with dancers from around the globe, we understand the unique challenges expat students face and aim to help them thrive in our shared environment. Tanglin Arts Studio Hollandse Club, 22 Camden Park Singapore 299814 phone 81236770 info@tanglinartsstudio.comÂ www.tanglinartsstudio.com

ANZA MEMBER OFFER:

$20 exclusive discount for ANZA Members Enjoy a $20 discount on your first order when you purchase online using the code ANZA at the checkout (minimum spend of $80 and free delivery for orders above $180).

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Our REPATRIATION Journeys Thinking about heading home sooner or later? Two of ANZA’s favourite freelance writers tell us how they’re coping with the ups and downs of repatriation from Singapore to Melbourne and Singapore (via Bali) to the Netherlands.

KAROLA CLARK FROM SINGAPORE TO MELBOURNE

he first repatriation shock came as soon as we stepped off the plane in Melbourne. As it was mid-summer, I had assumed the clothes in which we left Singapore would be fine. To welcome us back, Melbourne brought out its best four-seasons-in-one-day weather. The chilly morning breeze brought tears to my three-year-old’s eyes and I had to hastily dig around in my suitcase for something warm to wrap us up in. After nearly five fabulous years in Singapore, we returned to our hometown of Melbourne in January this year. It was amazingly lucky timing – if our departure had been planned for just ten weeks later, COVID would have made it far more complicated. On arrival, we went straight to our new house (bought unseen 18 months earlier), which was in the final stages of a renovation. The plan was to move into the tiny studio above the garage for a couple of weeks while the builders were finishing. After half an hour of trying to scrub the construction dust off the bathroom vanity while the builders were enthusiastically hammering in the next room, we decamped to my in-laws house. For the next ten days we balanced daily visits to the renovation site with the mountain of life admin that comes with repatriating. A quick trip to Target to buy school lunchboxes turned into a three-hour spending spree as I picked up décor for the kids rooms, kitchen gadgets, crafting supplies and kids 36 anza

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clothes. Target, how I missed you! The craziness of the first few weeks masked a lot of mixed emotions about returning to Melbourne. Leaving Singapore was a hard decision as we loved our life there. There was genuine heartache when saying goodbye to great friends and farewelling our helper, who was as much of a co-parent to my kids as we are. Repatriation blues were a real issue at times. I had assumed that returning to our hometown would be like slipping back into our old life. But we’d left Melbourne with a six-month-old baby and returned with a school-aged child, plus a pre-schooler. I hadn’t considered that many of our local friends had moved away or were not at the same life stage anymore. Going from an environment where we had a dozen good friends in our condo building and were always meeting friends at the pool or playground, to not knowing anyone in our neighbourhood, was a shock. About two months after arriving my three-year-old asked when we were going home. When I told him we were home, he replied, “no, our real home, Singapore.” It has taken a few months, but in a strange way, the enforced slow pace of COVID life has actually helped us settle into Melbourne better. We’re spending more time together as a family, and have plenty of time for ‘nesting’ and discovering our local streets. Little pieces of Singapore have made their way into our home and lives. The antique cupboards we bought at Dempsey Hill, the photos of the stunning Marina Bay skyline on our wall, knowing how to make a perfect Singapore Sling, still saying ‘cannot’ instead of ‘no’, and above all the lifelong friends we made though a shared experience of good times on the Little Red Dot.

Karola’s Repatriation tips

Find a community in your new home. If you have kids, the local school is an easy way, or local sports clubs, gyms, art groups etc. I joined two neighbourhood Facebook groups,

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Little pieces of Singapore have made their way into our home and lives.

which are a great source of info on local activities and events. Try not to become a ‘Singapore bore’. Friends and family will quickly get tired of sentences that begin with “In Singapore…” If you’re really - KAROLA CLARK struggling with the loss of your expat bubble, find other expats/repats in your area. The Facebook group ‘Aussie Expats Coming Home’ has meet-ups in various cities of Australia. Get some help. If you won’t have family nearby, try to line up contacts for babysitting, cleaning etc, even before arriving. It helps you to hit the ground running and if you had a helper in Singapore, it will smooth that transition. Allow yourself time to settle into your new life. I spent a lot of time feeling guilty because I wasn’t immediately loving my amazing new house and my privileged Melbourne life. Repatriation blues are real and it takes time to recover. Play tourist in your new town, even if it’s somewhere you’ve lived before. Find something for each member of your family to love about the new location. November/December 2020

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KARIEN VAN DITZHUIJZEN SINGAPORE (VIA BALI) TO THE NETHERLANDS

o here we are, the wind has turned. The breeze blowing hot and dry weather from the East, with temperatures that the Dutch call a heatwave but make us feel right at home, has been replaced with a stout zuidwester, that fierce sea wind from the West, right off the North Sea. Dutch sea winds bring moderate temperatures and rain, making me shiver as I type this in clothes that are better suited to the tropics. The Netherlands are beautiful when the sun shines. At the end of our road we walk straight into the dunes, where pathways meander between wild roses and seaberries, all the way to the sea. Dutch beaches are wide and white, worlds apart from the black lava sands of Bali, both equally gorgeous yet so different. The first time we walked onto the beach here, we almost got blown off again. The North Sea is grey and frothy, its waves flat compared to Bali. My menfolk won’t get their wax out for it, but as I see them staring at kite surfers scooting across the waters, I’m thinking those sea winds may serve their purpose yet. Of course, getting used to living in a new country is about more than the weather. And although many people tell us we’ve moved ‘home’, it doesn’t feel like that, not yet. The Netherlands are new to us. It has been fourteen years since we lived here, the kids never have. Repatriation is strange, you have all the hassle of an intercontinental move, without the excitement of an exotic location. You have changed, with a lot of different cultural experiences, yet you still look and sound the same as a ‘local’. Often, as I stand in a shop or talk on the phone, I feel like an awkward outsider. The Dutch don’t cope well with people that don’t fit into boxes and it makes me feel for ‘real’ foreigners, that 38 anza

Repatriation is strange, you have all the hassle of an intercontinental move, without the excitement of an exotic location. - KARIEN VAN DITZHUIJZEN don’t speak the language and have no network of friends and family to advise them how to navigate the Dutch bureaucracy where, unlike in Asia, rules are rigid and the same for everyone. This move was a tad unexpected, and with children that haven’t been at school in half a year, I still feel in limbo. Once school starts, hopefully life will become more normal. As normal as this family gets. When people ask me whether we moved ‘back for good’, I cringe, smile politely and give the only

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answer I can; ‘for good is a very long time.’ I’m sure the wind will eventually turn again, and who knows where it will blow us? We are here now and will stay as long as we like it. And there are plenty of things I like about the Netherlands and living in Den Haag. When I feel too cold I list them and I feel better: Family and friends old and new. Kids sleeping over with aunts and grandparents. Cousins. Boating in Friesland. The dunes, the fresh air (although I might revisit this in winter when it becomes too fresh), the wind in my hair on the beach, and the fact that the sun is friendly enough to sit in (ironically I’m much more tanned now than I ever was in Asia). Seaberry kefir and kids picking blackberries. Public libraries. Kringloop winkels (recycled goods shops). Cheese. Petting zoos. My new old fermenting crock. Wild green herbs and flowers. Museums. Sheepskin rugs and wild duck down duvets. A lot to love and we are here, in the Netherlands. The newest adventure in our long list.

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During COVID-19 ANZA member FLEUR MAIDMENT saw a need to support continued education in Myanmar, for students stuck in remote villages without textbooks and with weak data connections. She launched a virtual English tutoring program - matching Karen students from the Thai-Burma border region with ANZA volunteers. The program has grown to 50 tutors from around the globe. What is Virtual English Tutoring? We’re matching people from around the world with Karen students from the Thai-Burma border region. I had a number of students asking me to help them with their English and it expanded to a group of ANZA members who were also assisting with English proficiency skills. We were having so much fun and found it such a hugely rewarding experience that we decided to expand it. Groups like Friends of the Museum Singapore and Rotary International joined with the ANZA members and their friends and families. Now we have over 50 tutors from Australia, Singapore, Thailand, Belgium, UK, Ireland and the USA working

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with 50 students. Because of poor bandwidth in the region we do all our tutoring one-on-one.

Why is it important they continue their English studies? Schools and colleges were closed during the pandemic, like in other places around the world. Many students were stuck in their remote villages without textbooks and with weak data connections. The students in this region are particularly

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ay Our tutors s hly that it’s a ricg rewardin to experience ent d tu see their s in progress English , foren e others it’s bive s r an imme e experienc t ou learning ab and re Karen cultuy. r histo – FLEUR MA

IDMENT

able to Students are with ely study remot ring Virtual Tuto

susceptible because many are in refugee or Internally Displaced Persons (IDP) camps or are stateless. This means travel back to migrant schools in Thailand is impossible or at best very dangerous.

What impact has COVID-19 had on schools and tertiary institutions in this region? Many students travel from areas in Myanmar where there is civil unrest, to stay in school and college dormitories in Thailand. Attending school is not only about accessing education, but also having a safe place to study. Unfortunately, COVID-19 has meant that the students are again in a precarious position, so we are trying to bridge the gap until travel and education is again possible for them.

What sort of volunteers are you looking for? The volunteers need to have a willingness to grapple with the various challenges that are thrown up, such as technological breakdowns. They must have the ability to be creative about teaching with few or no resources. Most students have only a phone, an exercise book and a low budget for data.

What do volunteers need to do the job? To volunteer you do not need to be a teacher. Anyone who is willing to work on English speaking, listening, reading and writing with the students, we will embrace. We love to incorporate exchanges about our countries and cultures into the learning experience.

Are the sessions informal? How do they work? We don’t have a set curriculum, but rather try to meet the student where they are at and build on their interests. Our English as a Second Language (ESL) teachers have curated a list of resources that the volunteers can use. We ask that volunteers spend at least one hour a week with their student, but it needs to be flexible for both volunteer and student. Some tutors and students work together five times a week if they are aiming to pass English proficiency tests such as IELTS, or enter Thai university - other pairs just chat informally. November/December 2020 anza

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What are some of the challenges? Bandwidth and purchasing data are two of the biggest constraints. The most affordable and stable communication is via Facebook messenger. If the student has access to Wi-Fi, some lessons can be on Zoom, but in remote villages we need to fall back to text only. Something is better than nothing! It also gives the student connection to the outside world and a feeling that someone is looking out for them in these crazy Covid times.

What are the benefits for both volunteer and student? Most of our tutors say that it’s a richly rewarding experience to see their student progress in English, for others it’s been an immersive experience learning about Karen culture and history. The students have not only developed their English skills but have also learnt about technology, business, science, and politics and have a connection with someone from another country. If the students are in lockdown in a refugee or IDP camp they have something to look forward to, and it engenders hope for the future.

Do you have any success stories or great matches? We have a couple of matches made in heaven. There are some highly qualified ESL teachers that will assist students to take up scholarships, one in a Masters program at an international university as a result of the program. There are other more practical connections, such as a tutor who was involved in the tourism business that was fortuitously matched with a student 42 anza

who has dreams of pursuing a career in the industry. They are working on English and future job opportunities together. There have been other surprising positive effects. I was discussing the transmission routes for diseases with one of my students when he promptly informed me he would give up eating rats after the discussion. Rats are a common food source when families need to flee from their villages and hide from conflict in the jungle.

How can people get involved? We have an expression of interest form for volunteers bit.ly/33L64Di or people can contact me on safewatermyanmar@gmail.com

November/December 2020

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The COVID-19 pandemic has presented many mental health challenges, especially for men. DR NEIL FORREST, a British trained GP based at IMC Camden looks at how to spot the signs of stress, depression and anxiety – and when to seek help.

OVID-19 has thrown most lives into disarray and uncertainty, but for some men, it can be hard to speak up or seek help if they feel overwhelmed or unhappy. “The COVID-19 pandemic has put pressure on us all – job security, money concerns, fears for the health of loved ones far away and the feeling that the world is irrevocably changed,” says IMC GP, Dr Forrest. “Surveys show that men find it difficult to open up about mental health, however they are significantly more at risk of attempting suicide than women.”

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What is depression? It’s not uncommon to experience days of feeling blue – especially if you’re mourning your old way of life, the freedom of travel, or missing your friends and family back home. “This is normal,” says Dr Forrest. “Mood swings do happen but for some people, the mood just does not swing back up. The days turn into weeks or months, and can turn into a major depressive disorder, or clinical depression. Depression is a disease, caused by changes in chemicals in the brain called neurotransmitters. It’s not a choice, and it does not mean you are weak, bad or going crazy.”

Stress in Singapore Many men have been under greater stress during the pandemic, either under the fear of losing their job or increased hours. They might be finding it hard to juggle work responsibilities with childcare during extended work from home periods. “Stress is a common human emotion and it’s completely natural to experience stressful periods at certain points in our lives, but especially now,” says Dr Forrest. “Unfortunately stress is an expected part of life in Singapore, particularly for those working in executive roles with regular deadlines, long hours and high levels of responsibility.”

The stress response Stress serves a protective function in our evolutionary history by mediating the ‘flight or fight’ response to protect us from danger. “Being stressed heightens our awareness and focus and prepares the body to respond to a threat,” says Dr Forrest. “What humans have not evolved very well to cope with is persistent stress. When we are exposed to even low-level stress on a day-to-day basis, problems can arise.”

Stress vs. anxiety Anxiety and stress can seem similar, but they are not the same. “Anxiety frequently occurs in people who have been chronically stressed, however in many it can happen with no obvious trigger,” says Dr Forrest. “One of the key differences between stress and anxiety is that most people can clearly recognise why they feel stressed. In anxiety, the focus shifts away

from the trigger/situation and onto the feelings and emotions being experienced. You can start to feel anxious about feeling anxious.”

Symptoms of anxiety

As it becomes more severe, anxiety can lead to physical symptoms: Sleep problems Restlessness, agitation, anger Loss of appetite Low mood/depression Palpitations, dry mouth, nausea, chest pains Panic attacks

Anxiety related disorders These disorders include the following: Generalised anxiety disorder (GAD) is a common anxiety disorder, characterised by uncontrollable worrying. Sometimes people worry about bad things happening to them or their loved ones, and at other times they may not be able to identify any source of worry. Panic disorder is a condition that causes panic attacks, which are moments of extreme fear accompanied by a pounding heart, shortness of breath and a fear of impending doom. Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a condition that causes flashbacks or anxiety as the result of a traumatic experience. Social phobia is a condition that causes intense feelings of anxiety in situations that involve interacting with others. Obsessive-compulsive disorder is a condition that causes repetitive thoughts and the compulsion to complete certain ritual actions.

When to seek help If you’re experiencing issues in coping with feelings of stress and anxiety, help is available. “Come and speak to your GP and we can help you find ways to feel better,” says Dr Forrest. “This can be anything from exercise, meditation and relaxation techniques, referral for psychological therapy and occasionally medication. It is important to remember that most people will experience symptoms of anxiety at some point in their life and most will make a complete recovery. The key is recognising the problem, sharing your feelings and seeking help before things get worse.”

Depression is characterised by different symptoms that are present for at least two weeks and represent a change from how someone normally functions, says Dr Forrest.

SIGNS OF DEPRESSION Depressed mood most of the day, every day (feeling sad or empty, being tearful) Loss of interest in activities that you normally enjoy Changes in appetite Changes in sleep patterns (either insomnia or sleeping more than usual) Loss of energy or fatigue Inappropriate feelings of guilt or worthlessness Difficulty thinking or concentrating Possibly recurrent thoughts about death and suicide

Dr Neil Forrest is a British trained GP based at IMC Camden. For appointments please visit: imc-healthcare.com or call 6733 4440 November/December 2020 anza

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ANZA EDITOR WINS BOOK OF THE YEAR!

The winners of this year’s Children’s Book Council of Australia (CBCA) Book of the Year Awards have been announced and ANZA Editor PIP HARRY has taken out top spot in the Younger Reader category.

NZA Editor Pip Harry has won the 2020 Children’s Book Council of Australia’s Book of the Year Awards for her verse novel for 8-12 year old’s, The Little Wave. Chosen from shortlists announced in March, the winning books were revealed in a digital presentation on 16 October. The CBCA awards are presented annually to writers and illustrators whose books have made an outstanding contribution to Australian children’s literature. Pip’s first novel for young adults was published in 2012, and since then she’s dreamed of winning the coveted award. “I’m absolutely thrilled to win Book of the Year for The Little Wave – it’s my first major literary prize, and what a special one to win. The CBCA Awards have been running since 1946 and feature a diverse range of beautiful children’s books that help foster a love of reading in Aussie kids and teens.” The Little Wave tells the story of three grade five kids who set out to bring a class from a small outback town to the beaches of Sydney, getting to know each other in a series of pen pal letters.

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“I wrote The Little Wave after seeing a group of rural school kids run excitedly onto the sand at Curl Curl Beach, near Manly,” says Pip. “I wondered what had gone into planning their trip, and whether some of them were seeing the ocean for the very first time.” The CBCA Book of the Year Awards are voted by a panel of independent judges, who deliberate on over 500 books and vote for the winners based on literary merit, design and appeal to the intended age group. “It’s lovely to have won this award with a gentle novel about community, kindness, friendship and the environment,” says Pip. “I hope it encourages greater empathy and compassion in readers.” While the gold CBCA winner sticker is a lovely accolade, Pip says it’s the reaction

from her young readers that’s been the true reward. “Kids from all over Australia have been inspired to try writing verse poems, they’ve sent cross country pen pal letters, worked on class projects about ocean conservation, dressed up as the characters during Book Week and have even made cookies featuring the book cover. As an author I couldn’t have hoped for more engagement and enthusiasm!” This year’s official Australian Book Week celebrations ran from Oct 17-23, two months later in the year, due to COVID-19 restrictions and school closures. Luckily, primary children in Victoria were back in the classroom in time to celebrate the theme, ‘Curious Creatures, Wild Minds’. For more on the awards: cbca.org.au/shortlist-2020 For more on Pip’s writing: pipharry.com

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WE ARE BACK AND READY FOR A BIG CATCH UP! We have launched mini Casual Coffee Catch Ups so you can gather in smaller groups of five for a cuppa and a chat. These are held on various days and locations around the island. Whether you are new to Singapore, new to ANZA or a long term expat, Casual Coffee mornings are a fantastic way to meet new people, pick up advice and tips for living your best expat life in Singapore and find out more about what ANZA offers its members.

9h dies ol

es golf

anza.org.sg/groups/ casual-coffee

Join us at Ladies 9 Holes Golf

Are you looking to get on the golf course to obtain that elusive handicap, or are you just after some practice playing this wonderful game? We also hold group activities including group golf lessons and social events.

VENUE: Mandai Executive Golf Course Upper Seletar Reservoir, Mandai Rd Track 7, 779384 anza.org.sg/sports/golf-9 -hole-ladies

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SP O N S O R E D C O N T E N T

TRISTAN PERRY, Head of Tax, Australia at Select Investors Australia, answers a reader question about the right time to buy an Australian investment property.

My family and I are considering buying an Australian investment property; however, we are not sure whether it is the right time and if there are any adverse tax consequences whilst we are expatriates?

he Job Keeper program in Australia is in the process of scaling down until it finishes at the end of March 2021, together with bank loan repayment holidays coming to an end, largely in quarter 1, 2021. The combination of removing two relief programs from the economy could result in an additional supply of properties, which in turn could push some prices down and result in good buying opportunities. That said, the property market is complex, and I would always recommend speaking with an expert in this area. There are however Australian Tax considerations for buying (and selling) Australian property when you are living offshore as a non-resident. These include: CAPITAL GAINS TAX: As a nonresident of Australia for tax purposes, you are exempt from the 50% capital gains tax discount for the period when you resided offshore post 8 May 2012 (when this new rule came in), compared to the total period of ownership on a pro-rate basis.

So, if you held an investment property for 10 years, 5 of which you were a nonresident, then on sale, you would qualify for a 25% capital gains tax discount only. Also a major change that came into effect from 1 July 2020 was the removal of the capital gains tax Principal Place of Residence (PPR) exemption for nonresidents, meaning that if you sell a property which has a PPR exemption period (i.e. you used to live in it for a period of time) while you are a nonresident of Australia for tax purposes, you will forgo this exemption. This does not affect those buying a future family home as an expat as you need to live in the property first for it to start accruing this tax free period, however this is a consideration for those selling a former family home during their time as an expat. If you are considering buying a future family home and renting it out until you return to Australia, these concessions are still available to you, however only for the period when you

live in the property in the future and providing you sell it when you are a tax resident.

NEGATIVE GEARING BENEFITS are still available as an expat buyer, meaning that if you make a tax loss at the end of the year, this will then carry forward (assuming you have no other Australian sourced income to use it against) and be a future benefit to you against future Australian salary and wages, capital gains and other Australian sourced income and these losses will carry forward indefinitely. Interest, genuine repairs and maintenance and depreciation are all deductible (just to name a few) which can result in creating some useful additional tax losses for the future. When considering a future property purchase, ensure you have done your cash flows to make sure you can afford it, now and into the future, including taking into consideration rental reductions and interest rate rises.

The above commentary is general in nature and we always recommend speaking with us about your specific situation so we can provide tailored tax advice. Please do reach out for an obligation free tax consultation. Please contact us to discuss your specific circumstances on tristan.perry@selectinvestorsaustralia.sg The levels and bases of taxation, and relief from taxation, can change at any time. The value of any tax relief depends on individual circumstances.

Tristan is an Australian Tax Agent and expatriate tax advisor based in Singapore, contact him below to discuss your situation in further detail. Select Investors Australia also presents regular webinars around these topics. The most recent Australian Property Market Update webinar is accessible at selectinvestorsevents.com 48 anza

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anzaaction in the community

Volunteer with

Find out more at anza.org.sg/groups/anza-action

Mahjong Max 5 While Singapore’s Phase 2 COVID-19 restrictions mean we can’t hold Mahjong mornings in our usual weekly format, we’re launching mini Mahjong so you can gather in smaller groups of four (max 5) for a game. These will be on various days and locations around the island. Let us know you’re interested by providing your details below. From beginners and beyond, all levels are welcome!

anza.org.sg/groups/mahjong

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ANZ A C LIC K! PHOTO G R A PHY

WILD WEATHER

“I set this theme for our photographers because of the strange weather we’ve been having this year, fitting with the strange year in general. It seems to have rained every single Saturday lately!” says ANZA Click! organiser HEIDI HUTCHISON.

DARK CLOUDS OVER THE MIGRANT WORKERS BRENDAN PAGET “At the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, Singapore’s migrant workers were housed in cruise ships, floating hotel-rigs and tentcities. These are truly “dark clouds” over the migrant workers.”

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CANDY FLOSS CLOUDS SILVIA HAJAS “This cloud looks like giant candy floss. It was taken on Bintan Island.”

22 DEGREE HALO KATE TAYLOR “This photo is a reminder to look outside once in a while when you are working from home. I nearly missed this rare 22-degree halo!”

Interested in photography? We would love you to join our photowalks and discussions. Please contact info@anza.org. sg for more info and upcoming events.

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November/December 2020

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12/10/2020 10:44:45 AM

HO T SP O T S

EAT

DEBORAH GILLIES tries a trendy Asian fusion bar and grill in Keong Saik and PIP HARRY checks out a lunch deal in Robertson Quay. SUMMERLONG

60 Robertson Quay #01-04, 238252 summerlongsg.com

BUTCHER BOY

31 Keong Saik Rd, 089138 butcherboy.com.sg

uring the circuit breaker my family fully embraced the island-wide delivery service, as restaurants quickly adapted to the unique challenges of the times. As diners we had access like never before to fabulous restaurant food, delivered to our doors. As soon as dining out resumed, my husband and I headed out to a restaurant responsible for delivering home cooking bao kits and freshly prepared steak dinners to our home during the CB. Butcher Boy is a vibrant and trendy Asian fusion bar and grill, located along bustling Keong Saik road in the Chinatown neighbourhood. The ambience is lively and fun, with modern LED screens exhibiting artwork, retro chairs and glass lightshades artistically dangling above the bar counter. Diners can opt for bar or table seating, plus there are a few outside tables on the busy sidewalk. The menu predominantly offers a tantalising variety of sharing plates, including a selection of their signature Bao, Buns and Dumplings. Unlike the name suggests, Butcher Boy has a plentiful array of seafood and vegetable dishes, such as the Crispy Baby Squid, Whole Grilled Snapper with Vietnamese Dressing, Aubergine with Furikake and Onion Dashi, Roasted Curry Cauliflower with cauliflower couscous and riata, alongside the butcher’s bounty of steaks, pork belly, duck and the ubiquitous burger. We enjoyed the chargrilled Padron Peppers ($12), a zesty, refreshing Hamachi Sashimi with crème fraiche and ginger ($25), Beef Tartare, ponzo, and Avruga caviar, served with crisp lettuce and prawn crackers ($25) and a tower of Salmon, Ikura, Wasabi Nachos ($18). The house cocktails are great. Try the Holy Smokes ($18), a blend of coffee-infused Monkey Shoulder whisky, bitters, and a whiff of smoke, or the Cymbo ($22), which features jalapeno lemongrass-infused tequila, agave and citrus. There’s also a quality selection of sake and wines. Craving a Sunday roast? Butcher Boy serve a selection of meats with all the trimmings; Yorkshire puddings, carrot miso mash, and signature Szechuan brussel sprouts on Sundays from 12pm-4pm.

reezy and atmospheric Greek and Mediterranean restaurant, Summerlong, is now open for lunch with a new à la carte menu and a fourcourse Summer Set lunch priced at a very affordable $29++. Each Summer Set menu offers diners a choice of Dip, Mezze, Souvlaki, and a Baklava dessert. We start proceedings with two refreshing Aperol Spritzes ($19) and dive into creamy, garlicy Cucumber and Yogurt Tzatziki dip, and Chickpea, Lemon, Black Sesame Cauliflower Hummus, served with warm flatbread. Both are excellent, although the tzatziki is the clear winner. This is followed by a fresh, crunchy salad of Cucumber, Feta Cheese, Cherry Tomatoes, Barley Rusk, and a drizzle of olive oil, and an excellent Seabass Carpaccio of barramundi fillet, lemon, wasabi, and herbs. A shame that our Falafel and Lamb Souvlaki’s - stuffed with fries and very pleasing to look at - fall below taste expectations. They arrive lukewarm, lacking sauce and flavour. The filo pastry baklava is also only so-so, lacking that syrupy nutty crunch and freshness.

VERDICT: While this lunch deal is undeniably great value, the menu still needs some refining.

VERDICT: Delicious food and exceptional service, with a relaxed yet energetic vibe. Suitable for date night, dinner with friends or the family.

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DRINK

A Wine Bar with a Rebellious Streak Terroir-driven wine bar, REBEL REBEL has moved into a cosy shophouse on Bukit Pasoh Road, dishing up excellent artisanal wines and an elevated bar menu.

REBEL REBEL

14 Bukit Pasoh Road, Singapore 089828, +65 94317040 rebelrebelwinebar.com

ebel Rebel might sound like a grungy live music spot, but this Keong Saik newcomer is a sophisticated wine nook. The avocado hued shophouse setting is low key, welcoming and unpretentious, with exposed hanging lightbulbs, original tiled floors, exposed brick and a soundtrack of Brit alt rock. There’s alfresco seating on the outside terrace and living room style leather chairs for lounging, but we opt to try the menu in The Dining Room.

Promising ‘a mutiny in every glass’ Rebel Rebel is committed to highlighting artisanal wines from makers who are shaking up the industry - making wines produced in small quantities with minimal intervention. Our delightful Japanese sommelier has a comprehensive wine knowledge and suggests a series of paired wines to match our food choices. With over 250 wines to choose from, spanning burgundies, champagnes, rosé, skin contacts, whites, reds, and rare old vintages we are glad to let her steer the ship! We start with an acidic, zingy champagne – the NV Henri Billiot Rose Brut Grand Cru ($26) and chewy Sourdough ($6), served with whipped pork fat, farro and barley. Both delicious. We also crunch on a Prawn Uni Toast ($12), with coriander, and spring onion on brown butter toast. It’s a more delicate version of a yum cha style prawn toast. Next is a ‘skin contact’ orange wine – a 2019 Fujimaru Table Top Daidai Iro ($20) which is aromatic, dry and slightly sweet. It’s well matched with a tender, peppery and acidic salad of Octopus ($28), with blackened corn, olive, sundried tomato and a sprinkle of crunchy breadcrumbs. It’s my favourite dish on the menu.

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Our main is a rich and gamey Pig’s Head Tagliatelle ($28) with house made pasta, lime, basil, chilli and chunks of pork, topped with fried pig’s ear. While I’m not quite convinced by the unusual flavours, it is a good pairing to the light, cherryscented 2018 Pure Oh!rigine 2018 from Les Bertrand in Beaujolais, my pick from the wines of the evening.

What’s for Dessert?

Swirl a cognac and tuck into the Churros ($8) with lime and miso chocolate dipping sauce. The texture isn’t as dry as traditional churros, with a gooier centre and a salty miso kick in the creamy chocolate sauce. Chef Deborah Yeo, of Burnt Ends fame, is behind the intriguing, inventive menu.

Don’t miss:

Take a moment to peruse the walls of Rebel Rebel, which are adorned by candid portraits of rebels from the wine world, who the owners have developed relationships with over the years. The pièce de résistance of the space are the rare and beautiful bottles shelved within the gritty cavernous walls.

November/December 2020

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Review: Pip Harry

Order up!

20/10/2020 3:02:22 PM

T UCKERB OX

NEW YEAR GIFTS

RAELENE TAN looks forward to the New Year and offers tips for celebrating with food gifts and comforting traditions.

ew Year’s Eve is a time to reminisce about the year drawing to a close, while on New Year’s Day we look forward positively, being thankful for the continuation of life. On both occasions, get-togethers with family and friends add to the merriment, enjoying much-loved festive fare, giving and receiving gifts, and making New Year resolutions.

COMFORTING TRADITIONS Gifts of traditional New Year food add to celebrations. If you are tired from Christmas planning and organising amidst these unusual times, let ‘Tuckerbox’ introduce some ideas. Age-old traditions provide a sense of security, and comfort, adding meaning to special occasions.

AGE-OLD GIFTS

due to preservation. Still with nature, carrots and cabbage represent gold and silver, respectively, and can be incorporated into a hamper together with the fruit mentioned for a meaningful gift. SYMBOLISING THE HARVEST OF THE SEA, fish is also a traditional gift at the beginning of a year, in particular sliced salmon with its pretty pink hues. BREAD, symbolising life, is sure to be a welcome present, with so many styles available. Cakes represent an abundant harvest due to the grains made into flour, while doughnuts carry similar wishes. A box of attractive cup-cakes, or colourfully frosted doughnuts, will surely bring a smile to the recipient. When I was growing up in Adelaide, pancakes were standard New Year fare. As a gift, one could cheekily give a box of instant pancake mixture, together with a jar of gourmet fruit mince.

Born in Adelaide, Raelene Tan is an etiquette consultant and a food and travel writer. She has authored five books and has been a regular guest on radio and television. 54 anza

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NEW YEAR DRINKS Should you prefer to present a drink as a gift, look further afield than wine or champagne, perhaps choosing bottles of apple cider, cans of egg nog or bottled mulled wine with its spicy aroma. A selection of packaged fruit juices could include fruit-punch for this festive occasion.

GOOD WISHES After the drama of 2020, let us look forward positively to the coming New Year, encouraging one another with traditional gifts and sincere wishes that symbolise good health, happiness and prosperity for us all.

Photograph of cookies courtesy Crabtree & Evelyn

A SALT-CELLAR immediately comes to mind as a New Year gift, with salt symbolising ‘life’. Give salt with a modern touch, such as a packet of Himalaya salt mint candy with its lemon overtones. Or, a selection of salted mixed nuts. MINCE PIES also rate highly. Encourage your recipient to eat mince pie on each of the 12 days of Christmas, up to 5 January, with each pie representing one month of good luck, adding up to a fortuitous year ahead. GIFTS OF LOLLIES, CHOCOLATES OR HONEY signify sweetness in the New Year, while nuts traditionally symbolise fertility of the harvest and of the family. Gingerbread and shortbread also carry festive greetings. APPLES APPEAL, alluding to good health, while grapes carry wishes similar to those of mince pies, by eating 12 on New Year’s Day. Dried fruit (apricots are my favourite) indicate a plentiful supply of food

November/December 2020

12/10/2020 11:02:11 AM

STICKY DATE PUDDING

TA ST E BU D S

(Serves 8) INGREDIENTS

240g dates 215ml water 1 tsp baking soda 60g butter 2 eggs 140g brown sugar 1 tsp vanilla extract ¼ tsp salt 180g self-raising flour, sifted Ice cream, as desired

BANANA BRÛLÉE 2 bananas 1 tbsp sugar

CRISPY BUCKWHEAT 100ml light olive oil 40g buckwheat

SALTED CARAMEL SAUCE

200g sugar 4 tbsp water 350ml fresh cream 1 tbsp sea salt, or to taste

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METHOD

1. Preheat the oven to 150°C (300°F). Line a 21cm (8in) square baking pan with baking paper, then place into a larger, deep pan for creating a water bath. Set aside. 2. Prepare the pudding. Place the dates and water in a pot and bring to a boil. Lower the heat and simmer for two minutes, then add the baking soda. Press down on the dates, using a whisk to break them up slightly. Add the butter and stir to mix. Remove and set aside to cool. 3. Beat the eggs, brown sugar, vanilla and salt in a bowl. Add the date mixture and mix well. Fold in the sifted flour until just mixed. 4. Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan, then place both pans in the oven. Fill the larger pan with hot water until it comes halfway up the sides. Bake for 40 minutes or until a skewer inserted into the centre of the pudding comes out clean. Remove from the oven and let it sit in the water bath for 15 minutes before removing to a wire rack to cool completely.

Prepare the banana brûlée

1. Peel, then slice the bananas in half lengthways and cut again in half. Sprinkle the flat side with sugar and caramelise with a blow torch (or grill). Set aside. 2. Prepare the crispy buckwheat. Heat the olive oil to 140°C (285°F) and fry the buckwheat until golden. Remove and set aside to drain on paper towels.

Prepare the salted caramel sauce

1. Place the sugar and water in a small saucepan and let it boil until the mixture turns amber. Remove from the heat and add the cream, being careful as it may splatter. Return the pan to the heat and whisk until smooth. Stir in the sea salt.

To serve

1. To assemble, slice the pudding and place on individual serving plates. Drizzle with a spoonful of salted caramel sauce, then top with a scoop of your favourite ice cream. Finish with a slice of banana and some crispy buckwheat. November/December 2020

anza

Reprinted with permission from COOK: Food to Share ($40), available through bakerandcook.biz/collections/cookbooks

Nothing spells comfort food quite like Baker & Cook’s warm sticky date pudding. When topped with brûléed bananas, salted caramel sauce, crispy buckwheat and a generous scoop of vanilla ice cream, it’s perfect for a festive gathering.

12/10/2020 11:00:12 AM

SOUL FUEL

ENJOY A RED DOT CHRISTMAS H

KIM FORRESTER offers tips for surviving the festive season without being able to travel from Singapore.

ow do you handle the holidays when you’re not where you want to be? The reality for most ANZA members is that travel will be impossible for the coming holiday season. It’s likely that being away from beloved family and friends at Christmas will amplify feelings of isolation, homesickness, longing and loneliness. How do you cope when circumstances keep you away from the traditional family gathering in the festive season?

Acknowledge the significance

It can be easy to dismiss the impact a special holiday can have on the intensity of your emotions. But that one date on a calendar can make an enormous difference. Acknowledge that the influence of distance is greater at this time of year and understand that extra self-care will be needed to help you keep your emotional equilibrium.

Get active!

A long day of ‘nothingness’ can only increase your likelihood of feeling lonely and broody. So, be prepared. Fill your day with pre-organised activities and events. You’ll wake with a sense of purpose, spend the day in delightful distraction and, hopefully, fall into bed exhausted.

Kim Forrester is a holistic wellbeing author, consultant and educator. kimforrester.net

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Formulate, don’t emulate

Resist the temptation to recreate hometown traditions. Trying to follow the same traditions or cook the same food will only amplify the difference in culture, ingredients and/or companions and highlight the divide between “there” and “here”. Instead, invent new, more achievable celebrations that are fun, fulfilling and location-friendly. This will not only negate the constant reminder that you are far from home, but you will create life-long memories and fun anecdotes for the future (“Do you remember our Singapore Christmas when we …”).

Create connection

Loneliness is always the result of disconnection; a sense of being apart from others, or not belonging. Therefore, make meaningful connection an important part of your day. Celebrate with friends that you know well or socialise with people you would like to know better. Spend time with the underprivileged of Singapore, bond with your immediate family or simply get out and consciously connect with nature. Gift yourself the feeling of valuing something or someone outside of yourself and being valued in return.

Boost happiness

No external factor can ever “make” you feel good about the day; nobody around you is responsible for your happiness or enjoyment. It’s vital for your own wellbeing that you practice acceptance and gratitude to the best of your ability. Sure, you may experience moments of sadness or isolation over the holiday period – this is to be expected – but if you make a conscious effort to be grateful for what you have (however small and insignificant) you will find you always have a foundation of happiness to return to.

November/December 2020

12/10/2020 11:04:04 AM

T H E W R I T E SP I R I T

The ANZA writing group has kicked off its next writing course - ‘The Secrets to Gripping Fiction’. KRISTEN HOBBY reports on the digital re-emergence of this popular writing group.

fter a hiatus of some months, COVID-19 seemed the perfect time to relaunch the ANZA writing group via Zoom. With many of us finding our travel and other commitments curbed, we suddenly had time to pursue new or forgotten interests. Initially a four-part course was put together, encouraging writers to tell their story. A supportive and enthusiastic group began meeting, starting with creating a timeline of our lives, noting major and significant events, as well as key relationships. We then undertook a series of fun writing exercises, exploring some of those key life moments from different angles and perspectives. For example, describing the house we grew

up in, things we remembered from our childhoods and even writing about the ‘life we never lived’. By the end of the four sessions, writers had a series of draft stories for further development, and the beginnings of a memoir. The next focus of the group is ‘Writing Gripping Fiction’, a 6-part online course, aimed at turning the germ of an idea into a first draft of a manuscript. It’s based on the book ‘Story Genius’ by Lisa Cron. This work explores the intersection of neuroscience and writing, and points to what makes a book a real page turner. The course will take participants from the very beginnings of understanding our main character, their fears and motivations, through to a full blueprint of

the story. We will explore the opening scenes, story logic, subplots, and cohesive storylines, right through to the ‘aha’ moment where the story ends. By the end of the six-month course, we’re hoping everyone will have the makings of a gripping, can’t-putdown’ novel. The group has a wide range of writers engaged in fantasy, sci-fi, dystopian, memoir, and fiction. So, wherever you are on your writing journey and whatever your particular passion and genre, you’ll be welcome. Whether you have a draft sitting in the bottom drawer that needs dusting off or just a desire to write, join us, as together we create something new.

‘Writing Gripping Fiction’ kicked off on 6 October and runs monthly. Notes will be provided for each session so you can join at any time. Each month will feature writing prompts and guides to take you from initial idea to well on your way to completing your manuscript. Be guided by published authors Russell Darnley and Kristen Hobby and the supportive ANZA writing group community. Find out more about the ANZA Writers’ Group at anza.org.sg/ groups/writers-group

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November/December 2020

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12/10/2020 11:07:49 AM

AT H L E T IC S

ATHS ATTACK!

SONIA HEATH is mum to two eager ANZA Athletics kids (and an 18-monthold in training) who are so excited to get back to Toa Payoh Stadium. She explains why ANZA Athletics has become a highlight for many families in Singapore.

a healthy dose of competition and a sense of ‘community’ away from school and home. Through ANZA Athletics my girls discovered rewards come not just from winning but participating.

What is ANZA Athletics all about?

or parents with energetic kids (that’s most of us), the start of ANZA Athletics is much anticipated. If 2020 has taught us anything, it’s to appreciate the simple things in life, like the great outdoors, fresh air and exercise. ANZA Athletics offers all of that, and much more. As a former ‘Little Aths’ enthusiast, I was keen to get my own children involved in ANZA Athletics when my family moved to Singapore three years ago. I wanted my kids to experience all the benefits of sport in a supportive, friendly environment. ANZA Athletics gives them 58

ANZA Athletics is the perfect blend of sports and fun. Held every Friday afternoon at Toa Payoh Stadium from 4.30pm to 6.45pm, it’s a great way to wrap up the school week and herald the start of the weekend. Open to kids from 5–14 years of age, it develops skills in running, throwing and jumping, builds confidence and teaches children the importance of participation and sportsmanship. Children are grouped into an age category based on their date of birth, and remain in that group for the whole season, and every season thereafter. This helps them make new friends and form friendships that continue for years. There’s healthy competition among all the athletes but a large focus is made on

achieving individual personal bests (PBs) through the season. This encourages athletes to find the best in themselves week after week.

Trial sessions are welcome

During the season there are trial sessions so your child can see if AA is for them. Starting something new can be nerve wracking. Most children feel a real sense of achievement having been brave enough to give ANZA Athletics a go and they walk away with all the endorphins that come from increasing their heart rate. If your children are worried about long distance or hurdles, there’s great coaching and support to help them every step of the way. Whether it’s walking over the hurdles to start with or trying to run part of the race one week, then a little further the next week, your children will have all the reassurance they need to thrive. For more information: anza.org.sg/ sports/athletics or email athletics@anza. org.sg

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FUN FACT

Outdoor activity reduces the prevalence of myopia in children. A person with myopia or short sight can see objects close to them clearly, but not far away.

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VOLUNTEERS

Just like Little Athletics Australia, ANZA Athletics is only possible with the help of parent volunteers who help roll out the program each week. There’s a rotating roster so it’s not a weekly volunteering commitment. Parent involvement is also what makes ANZA Athletics so special. Parents interact with each other and also inspire and motivate the children, which adds to the friendly and supportive atmosphere.

The 27th season of ANZA Athletics has been postponed due to restrictions from COVID-19. We will continue to post updates on our website: anza.org.sg/sports/athletics November/December 2020

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15/10/20 5:31 PM

C R IC K E T

CRICKET CATCH UP

GRAEME GARDINER rounds up the latest from the cricket crew – including the introduction of indoor nets sessions.

INDOOR NETS SESSIONS

Ben - aka Fros

Bringing back memories of the days we were actually young enough to play cricket from morning tea until we were called home for dinner, the Circuit Breaker safe distancing measures gave ANZA Cricket Club team an opportunity to sharpen their skills - indoors and under lights. Although they missed playing in the Singapore sun, the team found their way back to the action and organised weekly nets sessions. In well organised groups of five, our cricketers are enjoying the opportunity to throw some balls and have a bat in the undercover net lanes at The Cage, Turf City and taking advantage of what could be described as a well extended pre-season for 2021! If you’re interested in joining us in the nets, it’s a great way to meet a few new people and have some safe social fun. We will slot you in with one of the groups. No skills required and all judgements left at the door! anza.org.sg/sports/cricket

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Cheers, Tim Loughnane!

November/December 2020

12/10/2020 12:13:39 PM

ANZA DREAM TEAM

A healthy dose of social cricket is happening in Singapore. During an active season, games are held at Dempsey, Turf City or the Indian Association and with around 30 matches played between “pub teams” it certainly provides a lot of fun for all. Each match has a max of six overs per bowler and players of all ages are united in their love of the sport. The ANZA Cricket Club provides an opportunity for former players to get back out on the field and back into the sport. The competition is not as “intense” as you may have experienced in the past and those who are a little rusty are welcomed with open arms. When the fields are reopened and the new season starts, we’re looking forward to playing the other local social teams, like Spirits, SCC, British Club, Loose Cannons and the appropriately named Misfits!

FAREWELLS

Farewell and best wishes to Gary Hawker and John Dick of ANZA Champs - two great players who have contributed so much to the club over many years and also to the ANZA community in general.

Gary (in orange) enjoying a few farewell beers

John (left) receiving the team signed bat

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CALL OUTS CALLING OUT FOR NEW RECRUITS! We’re looking for new players of all abilities, ages, shapes and sizes to fill our teams in preparation for the next season. Come and join ANZA Cricket League or our Social Teams for a fun day out. All nationalities are welcome. We will start with a few nets sessions if you’re rusty or just can’t wait to get at it! WANT TO SPONSOR ANZA CRICKET? ANZA Cricket Club is looking for sponsors to help build the ANZA cricket family and support an exciting schedule planned for the year ahead, including virtual and in person events (as safety measures allow) and family and community programs. Contact us on cricket@anza.org.sg

November/December 2020

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12/10/2020 12:13:44 PM

C YC L I N G

PINK PEDAL POWER ON PULAU UBIN

October is Breast Cancer Awareness month, so the ANZA CYCLING CHIX decided to forgo the club kit and don the pink to escape mainland Singapore. The group enjoyed a day of wild action on Pulau Ubin and fundraised for Breast Cancer Foundation.

he excitement was palpable as the Chix (split into two #Max5 groups) arrived at Changi Point Ferry terminal with the immense anticipation of going for a ride ‘overseas’. Ordinarily ANZA Cycling members take regular international day trips to places such as Bintan, Batam, and further afield. Since the arrival of COVID-19 and border closures, the idea of going for a ride anywhere apart from the usual Singapore “Best day so far in 2020! Felt like going on holiday when we boarded the boat. streets has become a Plenty of fun on the Island on and off the bike with amazing girls!” distant memory. LAURENCE (FRANCE) Calendars cleared, we chose an earlyish weekday start of 8:30am, with the hope of having as authentically rustic and crowd-free an experience as possible. Word has gotten out about the ‘overseas experience’ and the little island of Ubin fills up on the weekends with nature-seekers, families on tandems and the more hardcore MTB riders. Boarding the bumboat was seamless, with our two #Max5 groups straight onto different boats, chugging their way across the water with beautiful blue sky overhead. At $4 per person and an extra $2 for anyone who wanted to bring their own bike, the trip would’ve been cheap at twice the price! With most of the Chix having road bikes in their stables, and a more rugged type of bike being called for, we opted to go with MTB rental bikes on the island. This was the first point of group differentiation, with Group 1 heading straight for the cheapest no-frills ‘Sunny’ bikes, secured at $10 each, while Group 2 sought out proper ‘quality’ bikes. Chief negotiator Lucy was mid-closing at a “It was the perfect day - fantastic weather and superlative discount on bikes for the quality group when company and it was so relaxing to be away from the Ann strolled in and casually agreed with the proprietor that ‘city’. Great to ride among the greenery and meet the original asking price of $30 per bike seemed pretty fair... local wildlife. Really fun day - thanks ANZA Chix!” negotiation over and deal done!

ANN (AUSTRALIA)

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“After spending six months in Singapore without travel, going to the small island of Pulau Ubin felt like a wonderful mini vacation. Spending the day with like-minded ladies, cycling and hiking was everything I could wish for to feel recharged and energised. And doing it in the spirit of Breast Cancer Awareness Month made it that much more special!” TSVETI (BULGARIA)

“ANZA Cycling Chix are a rare breed. We share a love of fun, adventure and exercise. Together we have explored many fabulous space, of which Pulau Ubin was no exception.”

Words: Megan Kinder, President, ANZA Cycling

LUCY (AUSTRALIA)

Each group then set off on their separate journeys around the island. Dodging wild boar on the trails, there were plenty of stops for photos, attempts at mountain bike sections, sightings of other wildlife, hunting for fruit, history and architecture appreciation, and turnarounds at designated ‘no entry’ areas (at least by most of the lawabiding riders). On the way back for lunch and beers and donation collection for pink ribbon pins at Changi Point’s Little Island Brewery, everyone seemed to feel the same way, with declarations that it had really been a great day ‘away’.

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ANZA Cycling is Singapore's largest registered cycling club with members from 26 different nationalities. Members enter road, MTB and triathlon events locally and across the globe and often grace the podium - but many say what they enjoy most about the club is the group camaraderie and the post-ride coffee! anza.org.sg/sports/cycling/ November/December 2020

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13/10/20 2:26 PM

SOCCER

Soccer Time!

KERRY LOW heads out to ANZA Soccer at The Cage, Turf City, to see how the group is enjoying being back on the pitches in their brand-new kit…

“ANZA Soccer is the go-to thing to do with my son every Saturday, it’s great to have time with him while the other kids are at home. It’s well organised and my son really enjoys the football. I’ve seen a lot of improvement in his game.” LEO’S DAD

“My six-year-old daughter plays in the Matildas and my three-year-old son also plays. I get to relive my childhood playing soccer on Saturday mornings. ANZA Soccer has such a great sense of community.” COACH LUKE, DAD TO KINSALE (6) & KEENELAND (3)

“I love playing for the Matildas. I have a lot of fun and I’ve made new friends. The coaches are really nice and we always have fun.”

“I love coming to ANZA Soccer because I like scoring goals!” GEORGE (7)

ANNA (12)

“It’s great seeing the girls out on the pitches together, running around having a great time. I love to see them exercising mask-free so we can see their big great smiles and how much fun they are having. ANZA Soccer is different from any other club because of the parent involvement; volunteer parents are doing it because they want to be here, and it creates a great sense of community.” CHRISTINA, MUM TO SYLVIE (8)

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“Sam only started soccer a year ago - we love ANZA Soccer because it is very inclusive and his team mates really accepted him, even though he was new to the game. They are so encouraging; they include him and make sure he gets passed the ball – he is really improving. We love our coach Henry, he makes all the kids feel welcome. He’s friendly and very encouraging.” “I love ANZA Soccer because, even with COVID, we can still get outside and play. We just cannot go over the midway line because we have to stay in our groups of five. It is great to be outside playing soccer with our friends.” JACOB (9), SNIPERS

ANN, SAM’S MUM.

“I love ANZA Soccer because the coaches are really nice and you get to stay in the same team, so you get to make new friends. I love playing soccer outdoors, it’s really fun! SAM (10), SNIPERS

“I love being part of a team. All the girls are fun, no one is trying to outdo each other, and everyone plays well together. It’s not too competitive and we all are friends.” SAKURA (12), MATILDAS

“This is my second year with ANZA Soccer. It’s fun! I was excited to see my friends again. ANZA has great training sessions and fun coaches. My coach is really good, he’s fun and he’s fair; he makes sure everyone gets a turn on the pitch.” RORY (10), GORDONS

“I’ve been with the Matildas for four years. I have a lot of fun playing with them and my coach is great. I play three days a week and I’m also coaching now. Because of COVID, each group of five kids needs one coach. I offered to help out and I loved it. I’m coaching my little sister Alina’s team.” ANIKA (16), MATILDAS

“This is my third year coaching the Snipers team. I love their team spirit, and that they have different skillsets, all playing together. I enjoy encouraging them and watching them learn and become better than they think they can be.” COACH OLAF

“ANZA Soccer is a lot of fun and a great way to make friends.” ORLANDO (9)

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14/10/20 2:27 PM

SP O N S O R E D F E AT U R E

Balancing school and aspirations for a career in professional sport can be extremely demanding. Talented footballer Hari McCoy talks about his experience of going through Dulwich College (Singapore) Student Athlete Support Programme (SASP).

MR WILLIAM BAIN

Hari McCoy, Headmaster Nick Magnus and Kevin Shaw, Director of Sport.

esigned for elite student athletes, SASP provides technical and tactical support, individual health and fitness plans, cognitive support and training and lifestyle mentoring to support students’ academic futures. Hari, who now plays professional football in Portugal for Primeira Liga team Rio Ave FC in their Under 19 squad, reflects on his time at Dulwich and how he managed to balance the academic rigour and focus required, without having to compromise on his sport. What were the challenges in juggling sports and academic studies? I found it very challenging at first. I was attending 14 sessions a week of football training and at the same time studying for my I/GCSEs. I had to get up early for training, then do a full day at school. I would go home and do some of my homework, followed by another training session. After that I would go home and finish my homework and then go to bed. The SASP programme at Dulwich really helped me manage my time well between my football training and my studies. My motivation and commitment, alongside the support of my teachers, helped me through it. What support did you receive through the SASP programme? My SASP mentor was always checking in with me and all my other teachers and coaches regarding how my football training was going

and how I was getting on with my schoolwork. If I was tired or struggling, he was always there to motivate me. This made the situation much less stressful and really helped me understand how to balance my time well. Did sport help your motivation to study? I’m very motivated to train and play football and this motivation translates into my studies. My experience of winning and losing, and the disappointment that comes with the latter, helps me cope with striving to achieve greatness in academics as well as sport. The two disciplines are intertwined and helped me to get where I am today. Do you have any tips for younger students who dream of a professional sports career? When I was younger, I just enjoyed playing football. That’s the key – enjoy it when you are

young. Focus on school, play as much sport as you can and enjoy it. Once you’re older and you realise that your dream is to have a career in professional sport, that’s where you need the support from the school to help you realise these dreams. SASP provided the necessary framework to support my sporting and academic future. The sport and academics literally went hand in hand. What are your favourite memories of Dulwich College (Singapore)? My favourite memories are meeting friends for life and the teachers who supported me all the way. They are still supporting me now. What are your aspirations for the future? Long term, I hope I will be playing for a first team somewhere in Europe. Short term, I want to climb the ranks in Portugal, complete my A-Levels and become fluent in Portuguese within the next two years.

To learn more about the Dulwich College (Singapore) SASP programme and to arrange a personal consultation and tour, please visit singapore.dulwich.org

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