DISCOVERY BAY'S ORIGINAL COMMUNITY MAGAZINE - PUBLISHED SINCE 2002 COMMUNITY | LOCAL INFLUENCERS | LIFESTYLE | PARENTING September 2022 | AROUNDDB.COM PRO VERSE DB literati: Gillian and Verner Bickley TOP TIPS COMPETITORSFOR IN THE HLG KART RA CE In it wintoit!winit! FIND THE RIGHT FIT Power through the university application process GET ON BOARD Sign up for DB Pirates’ 2022/ 2023 season
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Sponsors who have made this Festival possible. PATRONS OF THE CHOPIN SOCIETY OF HONG KONG SIR MICHAEL KADOORIE AND FAMILY Sponsorship in Memory of Muriel, The Lady Kadoorie Ticketing Information: Tickets for the events part of the 6th Hong Kong International Piano Competition / The Hong Kong Joy of Music Festival - 2022 will be available for sale at all URBTIX outlets starting on the 13th Sep 2022. They can also be bought from the office of the Society from now and until the 1st of October. To request tickets, please send us an e-mail to: afreris@netvigator.com URBTIX Internet Ticketing: http://www.urbtix.hk Credit Card Telephone Booking: (852) 2111 5999 Ticketing Enquiries: (852) 3761 6661 Programme Enquiries: (852) 2868 3325 www.chopinsocietyhk.org 10th 27th October 2022 - SEMI FINALS ＆ FINALS LIVE at the Esterhazy Palace, Eisenstadt, Austria STREAMED LIVE, in real time and point to point at the Hong Kong City Hall Concert Hall
MONTUEWEDTHUFRISATSUN 9:30 10:30 11:30 HATHA YOGA FOR SENIORS 17:30 www.greenwich-vinyasa.com.hk Unit 10 , 1/F , Office Tower Block 2, DB North Plaza, Discovery Bay likegreenwich@gmail.com
8 AROUND DB / SEPTEMBER 2022 PRO VERSE DB literati: Gillian and Verner Bickley TOP TIPS COMPETITORSFOR IN THE HLG KART RACE In it wintoit! FIND THE RIGHT FIT Power through the university application process GET ON BOARD Sign up for DB Pirates’ 2022/ 2023 season HIKE THE LANTAU TRAIL PACK LEADER JO TOLIVINGLODDERLIFETHEMAX WET ‘N ’ WILD RETREATDIVINETRAPPISTHAVENMONASTERY TICKETS TO HK FREE YEARRUNNING WE ALSO PUBLISH43 ON THE COVE R Get set for the HLG Kart Race on September 16 PHOTO COURTESY OF Harvey Law Group 3220 DB LOCALCLASSIFIEDSDBGIVEAWAYSNEWSFACESNUMBERS5754521810 AGENDA ACROSS HK Mid-Autumn Festival Quiz ESCAPES Bananas about Bali RECIPES Pho noodles and rice paper rolls OUT THERE Peter Sherwood talks back 60284648 REGULARS 43 SEPTEMBER WWW.AROUNDDB.COM2022 Profile Gillian and Verner Bickley, publishers of Proverse Hong Kong Community The DB Pirates want you! Sign up for the 2022/ 2023 season Parenting How to advise kids about their university applications Insider Smart ways to keep your fruit and vegetables fresher for longer Spotlight Tips for competitors in the HLG Kart Race 2024 FEATURES 323843 48 24
CREATING LEADERS SINCE 1572 For almost 450 years, Harrow has been the hallmark of a first class British boarding education. We are continuing this tradition in Hong Kong’s vibrant community, by preparing the leaders of tomorrow to thrive in our rapidly changing world. Harrow is a leading academic school in Hong Kong, and offers more than 250 Co-Curricular Activities to develop you as an individual. You can learn about the world via numerous trips and expeditions. Our pupils become doctors, engineers, artists and scientists, and attend the world’s most elite universities including Oxford, Cambridge, Yale, Stanford, UC Berkeley, Columbia, Toronto and HKU. Subscribe to stay in touch with upcoming virtual open events UK
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STUFF TO 10 CONTACT US @ BAY MEDIA GROUP P: +852 2987 0167 E: info@baymedia.com.hk W: www.arounddb.com PHILIP JAY Publisher/ Owner RACHEL AINSLEY Managing rachel@baymedia.com.hkeditor RAPHAEL BLET Assistant raphael@baymedia.com.hkeditor BEATRIX MALAN Digital beatrix@baymedia.com.hkmanager SARIN ALE Art sarin@baymedia.com.hkdirector CONTRIBUTORS RAY AU, IMOGEN CLYDE, ELIZABETH KERR, PETER SHERWOOD PHOTOGRAPHERS BALJIT www.richardgordonphotography.comRICHARDwww.evoqueportraits.comGIDWANIGORDON PRINTING CHAMPION DESIGN & PRODUCTION CO LTD Flat C & D, 9/F Sing Teck Factory Bldg, 44 Wong Chuk Hang Rd, Hong Kong BAY MEDIA GROUP Flat 6E Elegance Court, Hillgrove Village, Discovery Bay, Lantau Island DISCLAIMER The views expressed in Around DB are not necessarily those of the publisher, editor or contributors. The publisher and editor cannot be held responsible for differences of opinion or statements published in good faith. The publisher, contributors, their employees and partners are not responsible for the results of any actions, errors or omissions taken on the basis of information contained in this publication and expressly disclaim all and any liability for any such action of any person. The mention of specific companies or products in articles or advertisements does not imply that they are endorsed or recommended by this magazine or its publisher in preference to others of a similar nature which are not mentioned or advertised. No part of this magazine may be reproduced in any form without permission. © BAY MEDIA GROUP 2022
HeadDB. outdoors with your lanterns on September 10 to celebrate Mid-Autumn Festival in traditional style. As you moon gaze, remember to be responsible by avoiding glow sticks and single-use disposable lanterns. To test your knowledge about the traditions surrounding Mid-Autumn Festival, turn to this month’s trivia quiz on page 28.
10 AROUND DB / SEPTEMBER 2022 DB NEWS /
DB kart-race enthusiasts, aged 7 to 88 years, who are competing in the HLG Kart Race on September 24, can turn to page 43 for racing tips from event founder Jean-François Harvey. Held along Discovery Bay Road from 9am to 5pm, the HLG Kart Race is a community event with all proceeds going to charity. Registration closes on September 16, so book your spot now at www.hlgkartrace.com. [PHOTO COURTESY OF Harvey Law Group.]
Happenings
REGISTER FOR THE HLG KARTLANTERNSRACE! ON THE BEACH DB BAKING COMPETITION Now’s your chance to vote for the winners of the DB Baking Competition 2022! You can cast your vote from September 1 to 18 on Facebook @Around DB. This year there are eight teams of two in the running. You can view their submissions, which include a complete recipe, and photos showing the ingredients, key preparation steps, the bakers baking and the finished product, on page 16 or on Facebook @Around
PEONY MOONCAKES
THROUGH SEPTEMBER | DONATE PRELOVED FURNITURE to people in need through DB Mothers & Friends. To arrange for pick-up, visit Facebook @dbmf.collection. SEPTEMBER 4 | GATHER AT THE PLANT MARKET in DB Community Green Square from 2pm to 4pm. Visit Facebook @DynamicDBers. SEPTEMBER 11 | SHOP THE DISCOVERY BAY SUNDAY MARKET in DB Plaza from 11am to 6pm. Visit www.handmadehongkong.com.
& Events!
Want the DB Plaza ice rink to be yours? This is possible with DB Ice Rink’s Ice Hockey and Figure Skating venue rental service. Available on weekday evenings, the sessions are designed for corporate events, private parties or ‘large’ groups. DB Ice Rink also provides public skating sessions at HK$80 per person and iceskating lessons, with walk-in classes available at HK$200. To learn more, visit www.dbicerink.com.
GUIDEPOST MONTESSORI NOW IN
Community Smart Recycling Vehicle. This is a great opportunity to get the lowdown on the EPD’s specialist recyclables collection service, provided at Green Icon @DB, Parkridge Village. To find out more, visit [PHOTOwastereduction.gov.hk/en/pilot_smart_recycling_system.htm.www.COURTESYOFEPD.] HOP ON A COMMUNITY SMART RECYCLING VEHICLE
AROUND DB / SEPTEMBER 2022 11 DB NEWS / Happenings
DATES FOR YOUR DIARY Guidepost Montessori (previously Sunshine House International Pre-school) opened on August 23 at DB North, offering a quality Montessori education for children aged six months to six years. Guidepost is a growing school network in Hong Kong and a global community with more than 100 schools around the world. To book a private campus tour of the DB school or enquire about admissions, call 9126 6211; to find out more, visit www.guidepost.hk. [PHOTO COURTESY OF Guidepost Montessori.] DB(9.30am EPD’s
RENT DB ICE RINK To celebrate Mid-Autumn Festival, Peony Chinese Restaurant, now in the DB Plaza extension, has cooked up a tasty line of mini egg-custard mooncakes. The mooncakes are preservative free and come in at HK$288 per box. The mooncake package design is in line with the restaurant’s theme – Peony, which symbolises prosperity and sophistication. You can buy your mooncakes at the restaurant on or before September 10. [PHOTO COURTESY OF Peony Chinese Restaurant.]
NORTHWant to know more about Hong Kong’s smart recycling system? Head to DB Plaza on September 27
to 12.30pm/ 2.30pm to 5.30pm) and hop on the
KNOW IN SEPTEMBER!
To celebrate Mid-Autumn Festival on September 10, make your way to the amphitheatre at DB North to enjoy Busking Under the Moon, a music event organised by Hong Kong Resort. The event is free of charge with performances running from 6pm to 6.30pm, 6.40pm to 7.15pm, 7.25pm to 8pm, and 8.10pm to 8.30pm. To find out more, visit www.visitdiscoverybay.com. [PHOTO COURTESY OF HKR]. BUSKING UNDER THE MOON PGA professional Michael Stewart Long is celebrating 15 years of teaching after-school golf lessons at Discovery Bay Golf Club (DBGC). The club’s one-hour group lessons are open to children aged six years and above. Classes run Monday through Friday on the club’s covered range, bunker and practice putting greens. Kids learn golf etiquette, safety and swing techniques, and get to play short games. Limited space is available; for enquiries call 2987 7213. DBGC is at the forefront in grooming Hong Kong’s upand-coming golfers through its comprehensive junior training programme. Talented juniors have the opportunity to play in local tournaments held by the Hong Kong Golf Association, as well as internationally. For more on DBGC, visit www.dbgc.hk. [PHOTO COURTESY OF DBGC].
Local trail runners are reminded to enrol for Action Asia Events’ CBRE Lantau 2 Peaks. Entry is now open on a firstcome-first-served basis, and spaces are limited. Race day is October 2, with competitors choosing to run either 23km (two peaks) or 15km (half peak). Both courses start and finish in Tung Chung and can be run solo or in mixed teams of four.
DB NEWS / 12 AROUND DB / SEPTEMBER 2022
AFTER-SCHOOL GOLF LESSONS AT DBGC
Michael Maddess, Director and CEO of Action Asia Events, encourages everyone to get enrolled and get training, saying: “The CBRE Lantau 2 Peaks is not a walk in the park, we are talking about a total elevation gain of almost 1,800m inside the 23km course – you will be climbing some of the biggest peaks in Hong Kong – which requires hill training. “If you want to take part, I urge you to enrol now as there’s a limited quota this year due to government restrictions,” Michael adds. “Information about PCR/ RAT tests will be published two weeks before the event.”
REGISTER TO RUN THE CBRE LANTAU 2 PEAKS
COURTESY OF Action Asia Events.]
Michael is looking for sponsors as he hopes to bring back Action Asia Events’ full roster of races in 2023, including the ever-popular Sprints and DB’s own Kayak ‘n’ Run. Meanwhile, runners across Hong Kong are in training for both the CBRE Lantau 2 Peaks – 23/15km and the Lantau 50 – 16/27/54km, which is scheduled for January 7. To find out more and sign up for either race, visit www.actionasiaevents.com. [PHOTOS
DELIVERY WITHIN 3 DAYS ALL ITEMS EX-STOCK 現貨供應 3天送到 Causeway Bay 2891 1855 Repulse Bay 2395 2778escapade.com.hk Central 2851 0769 Back to the Fields Explore our huge selection of field sports: Rugby, Hockey, Football
AWARENESS MONTH
DBICC SUNDAY SERVICE
14 AROUND DB / SEPTEMBER 2022 DB NEWS /
Book your seats to watch a live streaming of the Joy of Music Festival/ 6th Hong Kong International Piano Competition at Hong Kong City Hall Concert Hall. Organised by The Chopin Society of Hong Kong and University of Music and Performing Arts Vienna, the finals and semi-finals are being played out at Esterhazy Palace, Eisenstadt, Austria from October 10 to 27, and will be streamed live and at point to point at City Hall. You can purchase tickets at www.urbtix.hk starting September 13 or by emailing afreris@netvigator.com. To find out more, visit www.chopinsocietyhk.org.
REUSABLE MASKS BY DC STUDENTS In a joint DC and KGV competition, initiated by the DC Green Cobras to get people thinking about the environmental impacts of disposable masks, students were asked to create reusable mask designs. The four winning designs have since been made into masks by Tsunami Sport using fully recycled materials. The masks are comfortable, anti-bacterial and available in four sizes. To do your bit for the students’ cause and purchase a mask at HK$70, visit https://kgvanddc.tsunami-sport.com. [PHOTO COURTESY OF DC Cobras.]
Discovery Bay International Community Church (DBICC) resumes its in-person services at Discovery College Performing Arts Theatre this month, every Sunday at 10am. Sunday school is also back at DC, running at the same time as the Sunday service. Senior Pastor Danny Cullins reminds his congregation that they must use the LeaveHomeSafe app and hold a valid vaccine pass to enter the premises. For more on DBICC, visit www.dbicc.org. [PHOTO COURTESY OF DBICC.]
[PHOTO COURTESY OF Gaylene Meeson.]
HK INTERNATIONAL PIANO COMPETITION
Gaylene and Nigel are shaving for the 10th time to celebrate daughter Hannah's 10-year survivorship. “Hannah was diagnosed in Hong Kong in July 2012; it’s a miracle that she is still alive,” Gaylene says. “Hannah’s is an extraordinary journey of courage, tenacity and sometimes SUPPORT CHILDHOOD CANCER
It’s Childhood Cancer Awareness Month and, along with her husband Nigel, former DBer Gaylene Meeson is about to shave her head for the 10th time to raise funds for the non-governmental research funder St. Baldrick’s Foundation. On September 30, the couple will be in the Cayman Islands, where thousands will gather to witness over 100 people being shaved, raising money for childhood cancer “Childhoodresearch.cancer research is massively underfunded but with your help, we can help plug the gap, and fund researchers around the world to do what they do best,” Gaylene says. “We promise your donation will fund the very best research around the world for kids fighting cancer everywhere, St. Baldrick’s will take care of that!”
just pure grit to survive and thrive despite the multiple disabilities inflicted on her by the treatment.”
Gaylene is one of St. Baldrick’s most effective advocates, having raised over US$2.5 million since 2013. As this is our last shave, we’re aiming big and we need your support to honour Hannah and all the other kids out there fighting to survive,” she says. To make a donation, head to the Hero Fund list at www.stbaldricks.org/participants/gaylene2022.
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WINNERS
Now’s your chance to vote for the winners of the DB Baking Competition 2022! You can cast your vote from September 1 to 18 on Facebook @Around DB. This year, eight teams have reached the final stage of the competition. You can view more of their submissions, which include a complete recipe, and photos showing the ingredients, key preparation steps, the bakers baking and the finished product on Facebook @Around DB. The three finalists with the highest number of votes will win cash coupons to spend at Auberge Discovery Bay Hong Kong: 1st-prize winner: HK$3,500 1st runner-up: HK$2,500 2nd runner-up: HK$1,500. The results will be announced on September 20 on Facebook @Around DB Recipes by the 1st-prize winner, 1st runner-up and 2nd runner-up will be published in the October issue of Around DB . To find out more, visit www.arounddb.com.
16 AROUND DB / SEPTEMBER 2022 Love.Together@DB is a community-caring platform initiated by Hong Kong Resort Company Limited dedicated to serving the Discovery Bay community. The platform has been supporting and coorganising diversified corporate social responsibility initiatives with NGOs, community leaders and volunteers to promote the loving and caring culture in the sustainable and multicultural DB community. VOTE FOR THE Love to Bake! Bake to Love! DB BAKING COMPETITION 2022 FROM SEPTEMBER 1-18 ON FACEBOOK @AROUND DB
Under 12 Finalists 1 C pet i F alists Charlotte Jacqueline&Tilberis Alex Forbes & Eva Solway Cristal Matthew&Mills Chris & Evie Lord ANIMAL BREAD Jenny Tang & Nicole Mang Amelie Mrosek& WiesingerAbigail Selene & Alex Lam Abigail Read & ElisabethCheng CURLY BISCUITSWURLY2 4THAI GREEN CURRY CHICKEN PIE1 CARROTSWISS CAKE5 SHORTBREADSCOTTISH6 BEACHZEBRA CAKE7 CUPCAKESFAMILY3 HAPPY FARMHOUSECHICKEN8
www.852fabric.com.Catch
852 Fabric is the only independent fabric design house in Hong Kong to offer primarily Hong Kong- and Asian-themed designs. Founder Pui Chan Gardiner and her team create their exclusive designs inhouse and with this emphasis on craftsmanship comes a focus on quality materials. All their fabric is OEKO-TEX Standard 100 certified and therefore free from harmful substances. For high-quality, oneof-a-kind fabrics, pre-order options, subscription boxes and newly launched speciality gifts, shop online at
852 Fabric’s limited edition, 100% cotton Alice Tea Towels are at once highly artistic, absorbent and durable. Measuring 68cm x 41cm, they have beautifully constructed mitred corners and are fully bound along all edges. The unique Alice print comes in two colourways and combines original illustrations by Sir John Tenniel with iconic local images including the Hong Kong skyline, mahjong tiles and flowers.
Join Mouse on a daring adventure through the deep, dark wood in this magical, musical adaptation of the classic picture book by Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler. Searching for hazelnuts, Mouse meets the cunning Fox, the eccentric old Owl and the party-mad Snake.
The Gruffalo Live on Stage! from September 16 to 18 and September 23 to 24 at Rita Tong Liu Drama Theatre, Hong Kong Academy for Performing Arts, Wanchai. Presented by ABA Productions and Tall Stories (UK), the well-loved, 55-minute show is suitable for all ages and recommended for those aged three years or above.
18 AROUND DB / SEPTEMBER 2022 GIVEAWAYS / ABA PRODUCTIONS
Mouse manages to scare these hungry animals away with made-up stories of a terrifying Gruffalo, and the real fun starts when he comes face to face with the very creature he imagines. To find out more, visit kidsfest.com.hk; for ticket purchase head to premier.hkticketing.com.
FABRIC IS OFFERING ONE READER TWO ALICE TEA TOWELS (WORTH HK$150 EACH) Around DB prizes are incredibly easy to get your hands on, and you have until the 15th of the month to apply. Simply scan the QR code or go to www.arounddb.com/giveaways, select the giveaway you want, and enter your details into the online form. (Terms and Conditions apply.) HOW TO WIN! CONGRATULATIONS TO LAST ISSUE’S WINNERS William Ho, Ben Tear, Estelle Davies, Mary Change and
Yeung
IS OFFERING TWO READERS FOUR TICKETS TO SEE THE GRUFFALO LIVE ON STAGE! (WORTH HK$475 EACH)
852 Wing Cheng
for two one-day general admission park tickets to Hong Kong Disneyland Resort.
AROUND DB / SEPTEMBER 2022 19 WISH LIST / ASICS - ULTREZZA 2 AI JUNIOR (FOOTBALL BOOTS), HK$490 CAMELBAK – KIDS’ MINI M.U.L.E. 50 OZ HYDRATIONHK$480PACK, PARAKITO - KIDS WRISTBAND MOSQUITO REPELLENT WITH TWO REFILLS, HK$165 THINKSPORT - INSULATED FOOD CONTAINER WITH SPORK, HK$249 CANCER COUNCIL - EVERYDAY SUNSCREEN SPF50+, HK$139 ZOGGS - PHANTOM JUNIOR MASK GOGGLES, HK$179 GILBERT - SPECTRA MATCH NETBALL (PURPLE), HK$190) Phys Ed! WHICHEVER P.E. CLASS YOUR KIDS GET INTO THIS TERM, ESCAPADE SPORTS CAN HELP THEM EXCEL GRAYS - STK GX3000 ULTRABOW MC HOCKEY STICK (JUNIOR), HK$799
ON PUBLISHING Verner dates the expansion of the work of Proverse Hong Kong from 2002 with the publication by Gillian of a major academic work on early education in Hong Kong, The Development of Education in Hong Kong (1841-1897) . Its predecessors, Gillian’s The Golden Needle: The Biography of Frederick Stewart and Verner’s Searching for Frederick and Adventures Along the Way were published by other presses, but taken together with The Development of Education , provided the impetus for the establishment of Proverse as a publishing house to be reckoned with.
The couple tied the knot at Cotton Tree Drive Marriage Registry on May 7, 1986, less than a year after they met. With Hong Kong as homebase, the Bickley’s careers flourished. Gillian taught English Literature at the University of Auckland, New Zealand, and, for 22 years, at Hong Kong Baptist University. Verner led cultural and educational departments and projects
Write on!
It’s likely that you’ve heard of Gillian and Verner Bickley whether as educationalists, writers or publishers. Ray Au sits down with the 19-year DB residents
“Since those early days, Proverse has thrived as a general publisher, with growing international connections and an impressive list of poetry, fiction and non-fiction titles, first published in print form and then as E-book editions,” Verner says.
“We co-operate with other publishers, providing
PHOTOS BY Baljit Gidwani - www.evoqueportraits.com
G
The Bickley’s main motivation continues to be to get talented Hong Kong-based writers published.
illian and Verner Bickley met on November 28, 1985 at a party held at the Mandarin Oriental, Hong Kong. They were there to celebrate the 25th anniversary of the Royal Asiatic Society Hong Kong. The question is, was it love at first sight? “Verner was then immersed in arrangements for the first Institute of Language in Education Conference, soon to take place (and which I was already planning to attend). He talked a lot about Donald Moore, a well-known impresario and publisher from his Singapore days,” Gillian says, neatly avoiding my question with a flicker of a smile. What’s surprising is that Gillian and Verner hadn’t met sooner. Gillian moved to Hong Kong in 1970 when she was offered a lectureship at Hong Kong University (HKU) in the Department of English, teaching English Literature. Verner arrived in 1983, to take up the post of Founding Director of the Institute of Language in Education of the Hong Kong Government. They moved in the same academic/ literary circles, and they were both long-time expats, originally from the UK. (Verner started his career as a British naval officer, colonial servant and British Council officer, based primarily in Singapore; Gillian was Assistant Lecturer at the University of Lagos before moving to Hong Kong.)
across the world, including as Director of the Culture and Language Learning Institute of the East-West Centre in Hawaii. (Verner also found time for a spot of acting – cameo roles in Thunderbolt , with Jackie Chan; Bodyguard from Beijing , with Jet Li and City of Glass , with Leon Lai – but that’s a story for another day.)
THE WORDSMITHS
20 AROUND DB / SEPTEMBER 2022 PROFILE /
Arguably, the Bickleys are educationalists first and foremost. But right now, we find them focused on their writing careers, and the continued expansion of their publishing house, Proverse Hong Kong.
AROUND DB / SEPTEMBER 2022 21 PROFILE /
Proverse’s success led to the establishment in 2008 of the Proverse Prizes – the International Proverse Prize for Unpublished Non-fiction, Fiction and
We realised that most literary prizes had regulations which would rule out entrants like ourselves. We thought it would be a contribution to create prizes which anyone (over 18) could enter - VERNER BICKLEY "
editorial input and assistance, research (including picture and archival research), proof-reading and indexing,” Gillian says. “We can provide advice with UK contracts, and we now have a UK distributor, in addition to our Hong Kong-based distributor, the Chinese University of Hong Kong Press.”
Importantly too, Gillian and Verner mentor writers and authors to improve manuscripts and occasionally run creative writing workshops, which lead to publishable work. They are happy to work with texts by non-native-speaker writers of English, as well as by native English-speaking writers.
For those looking to submit manuscripts, the entry period for both prizes is May 7 to June 30 annually.
“We realised that most literary prizes had regulations which would rule out entrants like ourselves. We thought it would be a contribution to create prizes which anyone (over 18) could enter, irrespective of place of birth, nationality or residence,” Verner says.
So what would the Bickleys say to anyone who doubts the continued relevance of literature… of poetry?
FUTURE PLANS At a time when so many people are leaving Hong Kong, the Bickleys are definite about staying on. DB has been their home for 19 years; they settled here just before Gillian retired as Associate Professor at Hong Kong Baptist University. “During SARS, it was possible to afford to purchase an apartment in DB, so our planned retirement to Europe was put on the back burner,” Gillian says. “There are plenty of things that continue to interest us about DB – the pleasant environment, agreeable and quiet neighbours, helpful and friendly management and the residents’ clubs.” Editing the books they will publish, together with all aspects of publishing, continue to occupy nearly all of the Bickley’s time. Gillian has been commissioned to expand on her Oxford Dictionary of National Biography article on George Smith, the first Anglican Bishop of Hong Kong, and needs to find time to write a longer biography of this important 19th century figure, himself a writer, traveller and educationist, as well as a church leader and missionary. The Bickley’s are also looking forward to hosting two Proverse events – the first, later this year, on November 17, and the second on April 27, 2023. “Usually, we go to Andorra in the Pyrenees to administer the Proverse Prize judging,” Gillian concludes. “We hope we can resume this in 2023.”
The 2021 winners have been chosen and will be announced on November 17. The 2022 entrants are being judged at the moment, and the 2022 semifinalists will also be announced in November.
22 AROUND DB / SEPTEMBER 2022 PROFILE / Poetry and the International Proverse Poetry Prize for single poems, for work submitted and previously unpublished in English.
“The Proverse Prizes similarly do not rule out entrants on the basis of age, gender, prior publication status, or any other criteria, except that all entrants need to be at least 18 years old.”
On a pragmatic level, learning how to read a text is good training for the world of work. In particular, habits of critical thinking can serve as a guide in this world of mass information.”
“Verner’s Poems to Enjoy five-book graded poetry anthology shows his love of poetry, rhythm, rhyme, stories, complex experience, romance and his desire to share and encourage similar enjoyment. His two books of autobiography ( Footfalls Echo in the Memory and Steps to Paradise ) show his desire to make his own record, reflecting on his own experiences.”
THE BICKLEYS STAYING ON IN DB
“As for my historical work (19th century Hong Kong), seeking accuracy, finding as much recorded information as possible, analysing it and putting the results out as a (corrected) record,” Gillian says. “As for my poetry, simply putting down on paper things that strike me: People, ideas, experiences; then putting them out there to find those with whom these resonate.
“Literature and poetry are means of expression and the repository of human thought, emotion and experience with varying degrees of sophistication, including of language and style. Through reading, we can have access to a considerable variety of human thought, emotion and experience and become more informed, cultured, thoughtful and open-minded human beings.
ON WRITING Importantly, of course, the Bickleys are themselves prolific writers of fiction, non-fiction and poetry. What do they gain from the process? What do they set out to achieve through their work?
24 AROUND DB / SEPTEMBER 2022 COMMUNITY /
WANT YOU!
At the start of the 2022/ 2023 season, DB Pirates is looking to recruit players, coaches and sponsors. Here’s why you want to get on board
Ahoy there!
AGESPLAYERSCATERSPIRATESFOROFALLANDGENDERS
B Pirates isn’t your everyday sports club. For starters, it caters to players of all ages and genders, providing them with the opportunity to train and compete both locally and overseas in rugby, netball, hockey and dragon boating.
With the ongoing 2022/ 2023 season sign-up, Hank and his team are on the lookout for new players to join the club, whether for rugby, netball, dragon boating or Nothinghockey.if not inclusionary, DB Pirates now has something for everyone, with whole families regularly playing for the club’s various sections. There’s dragon boating for men and women over 18, and Mini Hockey for girls and boys aged six to 14. DB Pirates has three active netball sections for women and girls – the Nettas for under 10s, the Junior League (U12 to U18), and the Ladies “There’sLeague.aplace for everyone here!” says Head of Netball Sam Lewis, stressing how important gender balance and family involvement is to the club. That goes for the rugby section too: These days girls and boys as young as four years can sign up for Mini Rugby, and then graduate to Youth Rugby (age 13 to 17). There’s also the Seniors section (the Pirates Men’s D THEY
Hank Terrebrood, who took over from Simon Knight as DB Pirates Chairman in June, is cautiously optimistic at the start of the 2022/ 2023 season, one which he hopes will reset the club to its pre-COVID status. No doubt, the club has lost players, volunteers and sponsors in recent years but the Pirate spirit remains indomitable.
REPORTING BY Raphael Blet PHOTOS BY Col Sim & courtesy of DB Pirates DB
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Established in 2003 exclusively for rugby, the club now enjoys success across all sections, while enabling its 700+ members to train right here in Discovery Bay.
SEEKING NEW PLAYERS
The DB Pirates’ participation and success in local sport is perhaps the key draw for new and existing players, coaches, volunteers and sponsors. But, as Hank points out, the club’s achievements are often overlooked.
At the start of the 2022/ 2023 season, DB Pirates is also looking for volunteers. “We are in need of parents of existing players to step up,” says Hank. “We need help with our club management roles, in particular, a communications point person, I.T. and a board secretary. We are also looking for new leaders in a few areas – we need a netball coach for the juniors’ section and a new head of hockey.”
Most importantly, as a non-profit club, DB Pirates needs sponsors. “The more sponsors we have, the more we can do,” Hank says. “We couldn’t do all this without generous sponsors supporting and driving us forward.
“I think the DB community doesn’t hear of the club’s success and doesn’t know how well our teams do across all sections,” he says. “For instance, our U12 boys have won silverware in the Richard Hawks Trophy six times in a row but I see kids getting on the ferry wearing our competitors’ kits.”
Indeed, DB Pirates has grown over the past 16 years to become one of Hong Kong’s most successful rugby clubs, producing premiership teams and providing a breeding ground for future champions. “We are a feeder to Kowloon Rugby Club which gives these kids a pathway to premier sport, Hong Kong representational and Olympic rugby,” says Hank. “In the past few years, we have had, and currently have, several Pirates men
26 AROUND DB / SEPTEMBER 2022 and around Discovery Bay to get together, play sport and be part of a valuable social group.
SHOUT OUT TO SPONSORS AND VOLUNTEERS
“Whether you are completely new to the sport, or you’ve been playing your whole life, DB Pirates offers a platform for everyone. If you want to play for fun and meet new people or represent Hong Kong, we have everything you need to achieve your rugby goals,” says DB Pirates’ Head of Rugby Simon Tasker.
“We believe that any relationship we develop with our sponsors must be truly win-win,” Hank adds. “We want them to get to know us, work with us in a partnership and be part of developing a sports club to rival the best in Hong Kong. Sponsorship of DB Pirates creates a unique opportunity to access a passionate network of people who believe in community, healthy living, family values and shared experiences.”
ONGOING SUCCESS IN LOCAL SPORTS
“I’m especially keen to get more girls into rugby,” Simon adds, stressing that the physical strength needed for the sport has got nothing to do with gender.
THE PIRATES’ MOTTO IS ‘GIVE WHAT YOU CAN –LEAVE NO ONE BEHIND!’
and women make the Hong Kong national team or full international level at both 7s and 15s. In 2021, we had two women from our club on the Olympic repechage team in Likewise,Barcelona.”overin
“WE BELIEVE THAT ANY RELATIONSHIP WE DEVELOP WITH OUR SPONSORS MUST BE TRULY WIN-WIN
When it comes to the rugby section, Hank is quick to give a shout out to DB Pirates’ Mini Rugby players.
– Hank Terrebrood
Having just competed in the Kellett Island Cup on August 28, LBC Pirates is training hard for DB’s rescheduled Dragon Boat Race Day on October 9.
THE SOCIAL SIDE
Then of course there’s the social aspect: DB Pirates is a community-based club first and foremost and as such, it allows members from all nationalities and walks of life to meet and mingle. It’s billed as one of the friendliest clubs in Hong Kong and social events have traditionally been as important to members as tournaments and matches.
“We offer a seriously social approach to sport and play under the banner of work hard and play harder,” Simon concludes. “Pirates live locally and play locally. By joining us you can become part of the wider community, meet new people and benefit from a collaborative sporting environment.”
“In this year’s end of season for the culminating minis competitions, our U12 girls won the Kim Lam Cup, and our U12 mixed team took home the bowl in the Richard Hawks Trophy.”
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RECENT WINS In July, LBC Pirates competed in the Kellett Island Night Race hosted by the Royal Hong Kong Yacht Club, fielding mixed and ladies’ teams. “Both teams were up against tough competition and gave superb performances. The ladies had a phenomenal start in their first heat and made it to the semi-finals,” says Rachel.
DB Pirates’ netball section, the Ladies League is a feeder to the Hong Kong Netball Association, and players of all ages compete ably against local teams. Sam is quick to highlight the talent of the Junior League players, saying, “In 2021, we saw six of our juniors get selected for the National Squad. In 2020, we had nine. A huge congratulations to these superstar players!”
“The Black Pearls were in first position of Division 1 when the games were stopped, and another two of the teams were in the top three.”
For some, joining DB Pirates can be a pathway to sporting excellence, for others, it’s simply a way to get fit and active in a supportive environment – all that’s required of members is that they are up for a challenge and prepared to give a sport, or sports a go.
To join DB Pirates as a player or learn more about volunteering and sponsorship opportunities, email contact@dbpirates.com, or visit www.dbpirates.com.
Likewise, although last season was cut short by COVID restrictions, the DB Pirates’ netball teams managed to achieve outstanding results across all sections.
“Three of our teams were promoted and finished in prime position to bring home silverware,” says Sam.
DB Pirates’ Mini Hockey section has also earned a special place in the Hong Kong sporting community due to its players’ passion for sportsmanship, fair play and success. In time, Hank hopes to develop a Senior Hockey section, for girls and boys aged 16 and up. In recent years, the big news for DB Pirates’ dragon boat section has been its successful merger with Lantau Boat Club (LBC). “This is the second year we have joined forces with LBC as both clubs have lost members with many people leaving Discovery Bay. It has been a successful amalgamation as it has allowed both groups to continue paddling together as LBC Pirates,” says Rachel Ball, Head of Dragon Boating.
28 AROUND DB / SEPTEMBER 2022 ACROSS HONG KONG / PHOTOS COURTESY OF Pexels 1. On what date does Mid-Autumn Festival fall? A. The fifth day of the fifth lunar month B. The sixteenth day of the sixth lunar month C. The fifteenth day of the eighth lunar month 2. On which day is Mid-Autumn Festival 2022 according t o the solar calendar? A. September 3 B. September 9 C. September 10 3. For how long has Mid-Autumn Festival been a holiday? A. Since the Tang dynasty B. Since the Ming dynasty C. Since 1841 4. Traditionally, it was a time to give thanks for what? A. A good harvest B. Rain C. The coming of winter 5. Why are Fire Dragon Dances an important part of t he festival? A. To honour Vulcan, the God of Fire B. To drive away illness and bad luck C. To honour Fuxi, the Dragon God In the lead-up to Mid-Autumn Festival, test your knowledge of lantern parades, mooncakes and more A Little Bit of Trivia! MID-AUTUMN FESTIVAL QUIZ
A. Tai Po Waterfront Park B. C hoi Sai Woo Park C. V ictoria Park 10. W hat is another name for MidAutumn Festival? A. M oon Festival B. H arvest Festival C. D ouble Seven Festival
16. What were mooncakes originally used as? A. S acrificial offerings to Chang’e B. G ifts for friends and family C. A p lace to store coded messages
A. P ak Ngan Heung, Mui Wo B. Tai Hang, Causeway Bay C. P ak Sha O, Sai Kung 7. I n what others ways do we celebrate Mid-Autumn Festival?
17. What do the eggs in a mooncake represent? A. The full moon B. Fertility C. Rebirth 18. Which vegetable do we eat at MidAutumn Festival? A. P ak choi B. B amboo shoot C. Pumpkin 19. What type of shellfish do we eat?
12. How did Chang’e fly to the moon? A. O n a broomstick B. S he drank the elixir of life C. I n a golden chariot
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11. Who is the Moon Goddess Chang’e married to? A. H ou Yi, the Divine Archer B. Yudi, the God of Heaven C. Yanwang, the ruler of the underworld
15. W hy do we light paper lanterns at Mid-Autumn Festival?
14. W hen does Chang’e get to see h er husband?
A. B ecause fireworks are banned in HK B. S o Chang’e can see us from the sky C. S o Hou Yi can fire arrows at us
A. Oyster B. H airy crab C. Lobster 20. What do we drink? A. O smanthus-flavoured wine B. A pricot wine C. Vodka
6. W here is HK’s biggest Fire Dragon D ance traditionally held?
A. D uring a lunar eclipse B. Ev ery day C. A t full moon
A. We clean our ancestors’ graves B. W e light paper lanterns and join l antern parades C. We wear red and gold 8. W here is DB Lantern Festival traditionally held? A. Tai Pak Wan B. D B Lookout C. D B Rockpools 9. W here is HK’s biggest lantern parade traditionally held?
13. Who lives with her? A. C hang’e-5 B. T he Jade Rabbit C. A F ire Dragon You can check your sco re hk/mid-autumn-festival-quiz.www.arounddb.com/across-at
MALVERN COLLEGE HONG KONG: Transitioning from Primary to Secondary School: What matters most to pupils?
A SENSE OF COMPETENCE
“We usually launch the Prep 6 transition programme in the latter half of Term 3 to allow for a range of events and activities as the school year draws to an end,” Mrs Katrina Englart, MCHK’s IB MYP Coordinator explains. “Having said that, transition continues into Term 1 of the next academic year
The way a school handles this transition can enhance a pre-teen’s experience and prepare them to embark on their secondary school journey. For Malvern College Hong Kong (MCHK), good pastoral care lies at the heart of a high-quality education. As a school with an inheritance from Malvern College UK, a boarding school committed to providing an education that looks to the whole child, the emphasis is on ensuring children’s emotional wellbeing as well as their academic progress. This article explores the transition programme provided for MCHK Prep 6 (Year 6) pupils as they move from the final year in the IB Primary Years Programme (PYP) to the IB Middle Years Programme (MYP) to become Foundation Year 1 (Year 7) pupils.
Graduating from primary school and moving up to secondary school is one of the most important milestones in a child’s educational journey. It involves significant changes and therefore a fair amount of resilience from children who have to adjust to a different environment, new rules and procedures, an increased expectation of independence and lastly, changes in relationships with peers, teachers and even family. The transition can be quite intimidating, and – at least for some –stressful.
“The PYP is an integrated curriculum framework where different subject groups are taught in a transdisciplinary manner through Units of
“Transitioning from Prep 6 to FY1 is carefully planned between the Head of Foundation Years and the Assistant Head of Prep, together with the teachers involved in each section. The transition takes place over six weeks and provides pupils with several opportunities to experience life as well as the teaching and learning in the Senior Section,” explains Mrs Shelli Heathcote, MCHK’s Assistant Head of Prep.
For example, they share break time so they can meet, socialise and ask questions to learn first-hand what life in Senior School looks like. Another highlight of the transition programme is subject rotation: Prep 6 pupils attend FY1 classes to get a taste of the subjects they will study in the MYP, like Science, Individuals & Societies, Design and Drama. There are also combined learning opportunities through Learning Studios where FY1 pupils share highlights, opportunities and challenges of the academic year with Prep 6. In turn, Prep 6 pupils share and celebrate their end-ofyear personal inquiries with the Senior School (and the whole Malvern community) through the annual PYP Exhibition.
Apart from more formal information sessions about the new curriculum, Prep 6 pupils are given many opportunities to interact with current FY1 pupils.
Inquiry. In the Senior Section on the other hand, pupils study eight different academic subjects. It is important to prepare pupils for this change, so they know what to expect.”
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once the pupils have started in FY1. This year for example, we prepared a scavenger hunt for our new FY1s on their first day. They had a lot of fun moving around the campus looking for clues. This allowed them to make new friends, while getting familiar with the Senior School layout.”
“The daily and weekly routines in Senior School often evolve around Malvern’s House system,” says Mrs Englart. “In order to help Prep 6 pupils get a better idea of these routines, they join Senior School House assemblies so they can meet their House mates and learn about their House from the older House members. In addition, they build friendships with their future tutees. House tutor groups are from across the Seniors, so FY1 pupils get guidance and support not only from their Tutor but also from older members and leaders of their House.”
“While school takes a critical role in this significant phase of a child’s development, parents have a major role as well,” Mrs Englart concludes. “It is very important to keep the lines of communication open and encourage your child to talk about their experiences at school and to strengthen their friendship bonds. Despite all the challenges, secondary school is indeed a fun time, and being part of this exciting journey is very rewarding.”
A SENSE OF AGENCY As the most senior pupils in the primary school, Prep 6 pupils have a prominent role amongst their peers and enjoy a sense of agency. For example, they engage in the PYP Exhibition to mark their transition from the PYP to the MYP and carry out an extended, collaborative inquiry project which they share with the entire school community. Prep 6 pupils also often hold important leadership roles like House Peer Leader or Library Leader. When they enter Senior School, however, the tables turn – as FY1 pupils they become the youngest students once again, and they have to find their feet in a new environment with new routines.
Malvern College Hong Kong. Applications and Admissions: 3898 4688, admissions@malverncollege.org.hk,
www.malverncollege.org.hk.
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MRS KATRINA ENGLART, MCHK’S IB MYP COORDINATOR
The first week of transition also includes sessions on wellbeing, digital literacy and collaboration, designed to ease FY1 pupils slowly into the full timetable and to set them up for success in the years ahead.
“It is equally important to educate parents about the MYP curriculum as their children transition to this new academic phase,” Mrs Englart adds. “To this end, we provide information sessions at the end of Term 3 for our Prep 6 parents with new pupil and parent induction activities and workshops in August just before the new term begins. In addition, we invite parents to coffee mornings at the start of Term 1, so they can meet their children’s new teachers and ask any questions they might have about the Senior School.”
A SENSE OF BELONGING As a through-school with a cohesive leadership vision for all pupils, MCHK offers a major advantage for pupils when transitioning from Prep to Seniors. Both sections are located under one roof, and the vertical House system allows for an excellent integration between different year levels.
The increased interaction between Prep 6 pupils and their FY1 peers and teachers throughout the transition programme facilitates a seamless entry for Prep pupils into the Senior School.
MRS SHELLI HEATHCOTE, MCHK’S ASSISTANT HEAD OF PREP
It’s likely that most local Year 13 students planning on heading to university next year will attend one of the university fairs, held annually in Hong Kong. However, due to COVID quarantine regulations these events have been restricted in the past three years and university websites are now a major source of up-to-date information and chat-line opportunities.
TUTORS SEEK With the vast choice of universities worldwide, deciding where to apply can be stressful. Outcomes rely not only on knowing what a university offers and
In order to piece together the university application jigsaw puzzle and make the right choices, Year 13 students need to balance advice from parents and teachers with their own hopes and dreams. Barbara Cooper reports PHOTOS COURTESY OF Pexels
WHAT ADMISSIONS
I
what it is looking for, but also how to interpret our children’s abilities and passions. Let’s take the perspective of an admissions tutor from a well-known UK university, looking to fill 30 spots on an undergraduate Business Management course. What factors influence the tutor’s choice of applicant and whether a conditional offer is made? Demand for the course is obviously important as popular subjects generate more competition for places. A brand-name university means more competition too. Within Business Management, some courses are quantitatively focused, others are not. In the case of the former, a tutor can be more selective about an applicant’s predicted final exam grades, math ability, level of English and International English Language Testing System (IELTS) scores for second language speakers. Since COVID has restricted some specific aspects of a student’s development – for example work placement opportunities – universities are also looking to see how students have developed during lockdowns and school Gradesclosures.andscores outline an applicant’s academic abilities, but the personal information they provide to back up their application, for instance the Personal Statement (for UK applications) and the College Essay (for US applications), fills in their human side. What have applicants done with their first 17 years of life? How committed have they been to their interests during home learning? Do their passions line up with their academic profile?
t’s the time of year when parents and teachers discuss university applications with children who are graduating in 2023. Deadlines vary according to the country students are applying to study in, and individual schools set their own internal application deadlines. For the UK, in order to be competitive, both A-level and International Baccalaureate Diploma students apply from September through to Christmas. US and Australian application deadlines tend to be a little later. For practical advice, there’s no better place for students to start than school – whether applicants consult a favourite teacher who knows them well, or a dedicated counsellor. Careers and higher education counsellors are there to provide advice and organise workshops about further studies, university applications and promoting a student’s personal profile.
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APPLYING TO UNI
The Right Fit!
4. Get good academic grades: Achieve good results in your school subjects. Important!
APPLICANTS
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5. Identify teacher recommendations: While you don’t need to be a teacher’s pet, you do need to try to achieve exceptional recommendations from teachers.
1. Take a personal interest: Measure a university not by its national ranking, but by the programmes, organisations and opportunities that align with your interests.
TIPS FOR
3. Be perfectly lopsided not perfectly wellrounded: Universities are not looking for students who can tick all the boxes. They are looking for students who have realised their passions and ambitions and want to pursue these interests alongside like-minded individuals. So, when you’re choosing your extracurricular activities, don’t choose them because someone else suggested them – choose them because you actually enjoy them.
2. Write Personal Statements/ College Essays early: By so doing, you can ensure that you have put optimal thought into your application and that you have presented yourself to best advantage.
For the jigsaw puzzle pieces to fit together easily, parents and students need to have a realistic discussion about ability and the eventuality of success early on.
Talking as a family before the university application process starts raises understanding, clarifies choices and better ensures that a school can effectively support a child’s university application with more meaningful written recommendations. This is a partnership, where keeping to deadlines is highly important, eases stress and aids progress. Schedule time for redrafting essays, and for on-going discussions. Be ahead of the game, it pays off!
A former international school teacher in Hong Kong, DB resident Barbara Cooper now works independently in supporting families making university selections and applications. She provides specialised 1:1 mentoring to build ongoing student confidence, motivation and maturity, both supporting school curriculum and university guidance. Contact her at 9754 2244, barbaracooper358@gmail.com.
INTERPRET
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“OUTCOMES RELY NOT ONLY ON KNOWING WHAT A UNIVERSITY OFFERS AND WHAT IT IS LOOKING FOR, BUT ALSO HOW TO OUR CHILDREN’S ABILITIES PASSIONS
These are questions a family must consider. Our experiences as parents and employees show that the international employment market thrives on innovative, critical thinkers, who nurture positive work relationships and contribute individual efforts towards collective results. We know that university degrees provide us with knowledge and skills, and the ability to acquire them. Yet, these can often receive less priority than softer, more intangible skills as one moves towards top leadership roles. Where is the ‘natural fit’ for our child in the work world?
Parents’ perspectives, however, can sometimes be at odds with tutors’ priorities. We all want our children to join top classes at highly ranked universities and go on to get well-paid jobs. Our natural focus is to ensure our children’s future security. The discussion points are not always the same as an admissions tutor’s, who is building an inspired class of critical thinkers who will generate ideas. As parents, how much do we invest in matching our children’s abilities, skills, passion and personalities with three years of study in a particular subject area? Is Law or Accountancy really in a child’s best interest? Or, are we biased because we want them to be employed in a secure occupation? Given the amount of change in the world today, can we reliably predict the job market in a decade? How does one do a cost-benefit analysis of supporting a passionate student through a college course that shows poor employability? What about the opposite scenario?
Admissions tutors read hundreds of Personal Statements and College Essays, so it’s easy for them to spot young people with a unique ‘edge’. These students have intangible skills to offer universities. Admissions tutors are tasked with seeking them out and building a class of confident, bright young talents, who provide creative perspectives at discussion seminars and enliven university life. What is an applicant going to bring to the university campus?
Where do they see themselves in five, 10 years?
STUDENT PERSPECTIVE We need to have meaningful discussions with our children in order to better understand their potential.
AND
Year 13 students in particular, are under pressure to ‘tick boxes’ and earn high exam results. The task is immense and it can be difficult for them to envisage life beyond it. Sometimes their university discussions can be very random: “My friend is applying to the same college.” “Someone, last year said it was a great course.” They may not be looking at university choices thoroughly enough. Listening to applicants as young adults is important. Some children may lack world experience, but their self-understanding can be quite realistic if they’ve done the proper research.
PARENTAL PRIORITIES
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For example, many US states require an individual to live in a state between 90 days to six months before filing for divorce.
A lot of families are managing transition at this time, both in the workplace and at home. The environment in Hong Kong has changed. While I am optimistic that Hong Kong will recover, the reality is that many families are choosing to relocate and, as a result, they can find themselves in a jurisdictional limbo, particularly if divorce is under consideration.
What is the better solution, a Pre or Postnuptial Agreement? To enter into a Postnuptial Agreement, the parties must be married. This is a sensible option when spouses have already decided to divorce, or in some cases, when spouses have decided to reconcile and remain together but if a reconciliation does not work, the spouses enter into a Postnuptial Agreement to protect themselves. A Prenuptial Agreement on the other hand, is entered into prior to marriage and has no legal effect until after the marriage. A Postnuptial Agreement brings clarity with respect to divorce settlements. It is recognised by courts both in Hong Kong and overseas so long as the spouses are properly represented, there is full financial disclosure and the needs of the spouses are met.
One of the best people to unpack this topic is Stephen Peaker, head of the matrimonial department at Oldham, Li & Nie (OLN). Stephen is a long-time DB resident. You may find him around the resort playing tennis and spending time with his wife and daughter. Stephen has spearheaded OLN’s support for the DB Pirates, DB Cricket Club, DB Beach Tennis and Forward Motion, and he continues to bring positive energy to the community.
So Stephen, how do Postnuptial Agreements play into the current climate?
If individuals want to remain in Hong Kong, the courts will have jurisdiction over a divorce, but once individuals leave Hong Kong, the courts no longer have jurisdiction. Individuals who move to another jurisdiction will find that courts in their new home also do not have qualifying jurisdiction until sufficient time is completed in the new jurisdiction.
Stephen Peaker heads the Matrimonial Department at Oldham, Li & Nie. He has been practicing matrimonial law for over 30 years and specialises in cross-border matrimonial issues. Stephen is a Fellow of the International Academy of Family Lawyers which means that his department works with family law experts across the world. To find out more, email Stephen at sjpeaker@oln-law.com or visit www.oln-law.com.
A POSTNUPTIAL AGREEMENT: IS IT FOR YOU?
DB resident Stephen Peaker, head of the matrimonial department at Oldham, Li & Nie, shares his expertise
A preferred solution may be a mediation agreement, which is a sensible and cost-effective approach to resolve issues. This is a great option if the Hong Kong courts no longer have jurisdiction and cannot deliver a solution. A Postnuptial Agreement is a more formal document. A Postnuptial Agreement can set out how the divorce is to be resolved in terms of finances and children.
When it comes to marital agreements, there has been much talk about Prenuptial Agreements but less discussion about Postnuptial Agreements. The question is what is a Postnuptial Agreement and do you need one?
36 AROUND DB / SEPTEMBER 2022 CONTRIBUTED ARTICLE /
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Top Tips!STORESPENDBETTERLESS! Looking for smart ways to keep your fruit and vegetables fresher for longer? Here are a few useful hacks PHOTOS COURTESY OF Pexels INSIDER / 38 AROUND DB / SEPTEMBER 2022
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And a tip for storing potatoes. The trick is to find a dark, dry place where the potatoes aren’t exposed to moisture. (You will know there is too much light if the potatoes turn green). Ventilated baskets are ideal for storing potatoes of all kinds – yams and sweet potatoes too.
Here’s another useful hack: Instead of watching your fresh herbs dry out in the fridge, freeze them in ice cube trays with water, olive oil or butter, depending on how you plan to use the herbs in the future. This works best with fresh thyme, sage, rosemary or oregano. The freezer is also the best place to keep your fresh ginger. Not only does keeping ginger in the freezer make it last longer, it also makes it easier to work with. Frozen ginger doesn’t need to be peeled because it grates so fine. A storage solution for spring onions? After washing and chopping your spring onions, remove any excess moisture and put them in a dry water bottle. Close the water bottle and stick it in the freezer. Frozen in this way, green onions will last for a month or more without getting freezer burn.
TREAT ASPARAGUS AND HERBS LIKE FRESH FLOWERSSOAK BERRIES IN VINEGAR
Another winning combination? Apples and potatoes. Apples produce ethylene gas on ripening which not only encourages other fruits to ripen more quickly but also helps keep potatoes from sprouting. A word about ethylene gas. Most fruit produces it, and it accelerates the ripening process of other fruit and vegetables that happen to be nearby. While you might sometimes want your fruit to ripen faster, that isn’t the case with vegetables. With vegetables, ripening means spoilage, so you need to store them away from your fruit. If your fridge has two crisper drawers, reserve one for vegetables and the other for fruit.
JUST ADD WATER Did you know that placing asparagus in water can extend its shelf life? Simply cut the stems, put them in fresh water and cover with a secured plastic bag. This will keep the asparagus fresh for up to a week, as long as you remember to change the water every day. This hack works for celery and some fresh herbs (parsley, coriander and basil) as well.
H
Too often fresh berries turn mushy and mouldy if they aren’t eaten right away, and these too can be stored in the freezer – or combined with vinegar. Yes, that’s right. To keep your berries fresh for around two weeks, swirl them in a mixture of one-part white vinegar and 10-parts water, then simply drain, rinse and refrigerate. The water dilutes the vinegar, so you won’t taste it.
ow annoying is it when, only a few days after you’ve been to the supermarket, you find yourself throwing out half the things you bought? As you toss mushy cucumbers, wilted lettuce and mouldy berries, you can’t help but think about all the money you’ve wasted, particularly these days when you’re spending double on organic and/ or locally grown produce. Here are some storage solutions to extend the shelf life of all that quality fruit and veg. Let’s start with a weird hack to pique your interest. Did you know you can make onions last up to eight months by storing them in nylon stockings? Yes, that’s right. Put your onions in pantyhose and tie knots between each one, then hang them. This is a neat trick because it means you only have to buy onions when they are in season – you can buy them when they are best and save them – and you get some interesting ‘wall art’ thrown in as a bonus.
WINNING COMBINATIONS
STICK IT IN THE FREEZER
Beeswax food wrap, an eco-friendly alternative to aluminium foil, is also your friend when it comes to vegetable storage. Wrapping stalks of celery, broccoli and cauliflower in beeswax wrap and storing them in the fridge will keep them fresh and crisp for up to four weeks. Placing beeswax wrap around the tops of bananas will keep them fresh for three to five days. We hope these simple hacks help you store better and spend less! Other options for long-term fruit and vegetable storage include canning, pickling and drying. Watch this space!
Likewise oily herbs, like thyme, should be loosely tied together and hung in the open air rather than refrigerated. This will help them last longer, and make your kitchen smell delicious.
NEAT TRICKS
The paper towel absorbs excess moisture, meaning they will last for an entire week. Leaves also benefits from air circulation, so another way to keep them from going soggy, is to wash them, spin them dry, and then store them in a perforated container (like a colander) in the fridge.
Find yourself continually throwing away parts of lemons that have gone hard in the fridge? One solution: When you slice a lemon, don’t throw away the ends; use a toothpick to secure the end back onto the half you want to keep. You can also freeze lemon wedges to use as ice in Anddrinks.how about cucumbers? The secret to keeping them fresh is to store them on the countertop, where they can stay at room temperature. Usually, whichever way you buy fruit and vegetables is how you should store them. Cucumbers aren’t refrigerated at Wellcome, so you shouldn’t store them in the fridge at home.
Likewise, when you buy carrots, put them in water after removing the green stems. Change the water every four or five days. This hack also works for whole baby carrots.
We all know that avocados turn brown quickly when exposed to the air, and that brushing the flesh with lemon juice helps prevent this. Storing cut avocado with an onion also helps keep it fresh and green, as does leaving the pit in.
SAY NO TO PLASTIC
The best way to store tomatoes? Place them stem-side down in a paper bag and refrigerate. Tomatoes should never go in plastic bags because the trapped ethylene gas causes them to over-ripen. The same goes for mushrooms – store them in a paper bag in the fridge rather than in a plastic bag. The reason for this is that mushrooms have a high water content, and as that water evaporates, it gets trapped in a plastic bag. A paper bag lets the mushrooms breathe, meaning they won’t get slimy.
40 AROUND DB / SEPTEMBER 2022 INSIDER /
Want to know how to keep your lettuce, mixed greens, spinach or kale crisp after you’ve opened the bag? Line a storage container with paper towels and throw your leafy greens inside without packing them in too tightly.
WHICHEVER WAY YOU BUY FRUIT AND VEGETABLES IS HOW YOU SHOULD STORE THEM. CUCUMBERS AREN’T REFRIGERATED AT WELLCOME, SO YOU SHOULDN’T STORE THEM IN THE FRIDGE AT HOME
STORE MUSHROOMS IN A PAPER BAG – NEVER IN PLASTIC
ADVENTUREHIGH-SPEEDTRIPS! Kids learn: - Confidence - Self-defense - Injury prevention - Body coordination - Being considerate - Discipline Classes in MUI WO, PENG CHAU & DISCOVERY BAY with Cedric & Emily 4th & 5th DAN @darumajudo+85262446093 T8 Corporate offer a professional dedicated service with a wide range of solutions to help all company needs. • MPF & Payroll • Bank account set up • Virtual office • Registered address • Company Incorporation • Company secretariat • Accounting services • Government filings and returns Accounting from $1200 a month. Book a call with us www.t8corporate.comtodayUnit 2, G/F, Office Block 1, 92 Siena Avenue, Discovery Bay North, Lantau Island, Hong Kong Drop in for a chat or call 2517 8248 or email sharon.m@corporate.com corporate & business services Partner +852 5210 7208 (Jazz) and Tap for dancers
fter three years in idle mode, the Harvey Law Group (HLG) Kart Race is making a comeback on September 24. Launched in 2015 by HLG’s Managing Partner, DB resident Jean-François Harvey, the event takes place on Discovery Bay Road with roughly 100 competitors expected to take part this year. For 2022, the race is divided into two groups: 7 to 10s, racing in one-man karts provided by HLG, and freestyle, in which kids get to race in their own kitmade karts, without or without their parents riding behind. The spec for freestyle karts is brief but precise. They must be capable of being steered, they need to have a braking system and they are limited to gravity power (no propelling mechanisms). The maximum width of each freestyle kart is 91 centimetres, and the minimum distance between the front and rear axle is 72 So,centimetres.let’ssayyou’re
A IN IT TO WIN IT!
AROUND DB / SEPTEMBER 2022 43 SPOTLIGHT /
Looking at the big picture, Jean-François says there aren’t any complex race-strategy or kart-handling tips to share with competitors. “All our carts are the same; they all have the same wheels, the same steering system,” he explains. “As long as the kids know how to drive left and right, they will be fine.” Point and shoot, right? Well to a degree… success in this race comes down to maintaining speed and avoiding unnecessary turns.
In the lead-up to the HLG Kart Race on September 24, founder Harvey introduces Raphael Blet to the event and provides some tips for competitors
about to send your seven-yearold down an 8-foot-high ramp, almost 16-foot long and 8-foot wide, and watch him race 150 metres along Discovery Bay Road. What tips can you give your enthusiastic young racer and how apprehensive should you be?
Jean-François
PHOTOS COURTESY OF Harvey Law Group & by Raphael Blet
RACING TIPS
KEEP YOUR FOOT OFF THE BRAKE AS MUCH AS YOU DARE
Ready, Set, Go!
Jean-François is quick to acknowledge the support of the HLG Kart Race officials, many of whom are parents of competitors, who work together to ensure racers’ safety. “We are also fortunate to have many volunteers – including the Sea Cucumbers, DB Dragons and DB Pirates – who have provided safety nets and crash barriers,” he says. “I need to also underline the great support of HKRI and DBSML, without them, simply said, there would be no race at all.”
What’s more, each kart is checked and serviced throughout the race. “Our karts have been built with custom-made parts thanks to our sponsor Milwaukee,” Jean-François says. “The 14 karts will be used around 250 times on the day of the race so you can imagine that we need to spend some time fixing them. Bumpers get broken, each kart will break down two or three times during a race so we have mechanics on the spot.”
While race officials are on hand to help, no outside support is allowed between the start and finish lines of a race. Parents are asked not to push a racer along any part of the track. They can however shout out words of encouragement or advice. Point and shoot, right?
44 AROUND DB / SEPTEMBER 2022 SPOTLIGHT /
JEAN-FRANÇOIS AT HOME FINE TUNING THE HLG KARTS
Registration for the HLG Kart Race closes on September 16, so book your spot now at www.hlgkartrace.com. There’s no enrolment fee for participants in the freestyle category, as building a kart involves some costs. For those competing in HLG karts, the entrance fee is HK$250 per person with all proceeds going to charity.
SAFETY FIRST While the logistics of the HLG Kart Race are fairly simple, parents can rest assured that participant safety is paramount. For starters, competitors are required to wear properly fitted bike helmets, closed-toe shoes (trainers) and race shirts. They are advised to wear long trousers and gloves… masks too this year.
“Competitors should keep in mind that the race is all about speed, so they need to steer their karts to the finish in a straight line, as much as possible. Every time they make a turn, they lose speed, so the key is to keep to a straight line,” Jean-François explains. Since 2018, all HLG karts have been fitted with double bearing wheels, which Jean-François says makes them very fast. “If you are building your own kart, be sure to choose wheels that roll very well,” he advises. “Avoid lawnmower wheels. Bicycle wheels could be a very good “Stayingchoice.”calm and steady is very important,” JeanFrançois adds. “It’s quite something for kids to go down that 8-foot ramp. Then the track goes down quite fast all the way to Seabee Lane. Some courage is necessary, especially in the first heat. Self-confidence is Kartskey.”like these don’t have engines but they come off that ramp at high speed – they have to, in order to make it to the finish line without losing impetus. For this reason, competitors are advised to keep their foot off the brake as much as they dare. “Ideally, they should brake only after crossing the finish line,” JeanFrançois confirms. Often times, of course, racers will need to brake during a race, for instance if their opponent swerves across their path or they find themselves approaching a corner too fast. In 2016. an improved handbrake system, devised by the event’s main sponsor Milwaukee, allowed Jean-François to lower the participant age to seven years old from the previous edition’s eight. This year, he has taken things a step further by doing away with the handbrake and fitting all karts with a pedal brake instead. “In previous years, kids were having problems using the handbrake, particularly at corners when they didn’t want to take one hand off the wheel to slow down,” Jean-François explains. “Now we have a pedal brake system that should solve this problem, meaning more competitors will make it to the finish.”
46 AROUND DB / SEPTEMBER 2022 ESCAPES / PHOTOS COURTESY OF Pexels
YOU’LL FIND RICE FIELDS and small villages at the island’s centre, and you’re also well advised to take a trip to Mount Agung, the active volcano in the east. Perched on the side of Mount Agung, the Mother Temple of Besakih, is the largest and holiest temple complex in Bali. It miraculously survived the eruption of 1963, which was one of the most devastating in Bali’s history. It’s Heaven on Earth! Why holiday anywhere else?
BANANAS ABOUT BALI
THE PLACE NAME NUSA DUA is used in two ways – either it refers to the entire eastern side of the Bukit Peninsula at the southern tip of Bali, or it refers to the purposebuilt tourist enclave at the southeast side of this peninsula. The latter is a fantastic family destination, with swanky resorts, amazing kids’ clubs and white-sand beaches that are safe for swimming.
On the Horizon?
THE WORD ‘PARADISE’ IS USED A LOT in Bali. The combination of friendly, hospitable people pursuing a vibrantly spiritual way of life truly engages visitors. Unlike any other island in largely Muslim Indonesia, Bali is a pocket of Hindu religion and culture, and most of its people are animist, believing all things have a soul.
EVERY ASPECT OF BALINESE LIFE is suffused with animism, but the most visible signs are the tiny offerings ( canang sari or sesajen ) found in seemingly every Balinese house and workplace. These leaf trays are made daily and can contain an enormous range of items: flowers, glutinous rice, cookies and salt, and evenandcigarettescoffee.
SEMINYAK IS POSSIBLY THE TRENDIEST area in Bali, situated on the west coast just north of long-time tourist destinations Kuta and Legian. Favoured by surfers due to its challenging beach breaks and magical sunsets, Seminyak has become increasingly upmarket with plenty of sophisticated options when it comes to partying, dining, and shopping.
AROUND DB / SEPTEMBER 2022 47 ESCAPES /
BALI IS SURROUNDED BY CORAL REEFS, making it ideal for diving and snorkelling. Menjangan Island in the Bali Barat National Park offers some of the best coral walls and most colourful dive sites in Indonesia. The quiet beaches of Lovina in the north provide a fantastic marine sanctuary.
IF YOU’RE SEEKING SPIRITUAL HEALING, head to Ubud, a charming village set in the cool mountains of southern central Bali. It represents everything that attracts people to the island – from the scenic rice fields and plunging valleys, to the thriving arts-and-crafts and New Age communities. If you’re a fan of Elizabeth Gilbert, be sure to sign up for an Eat Prey Love tour.
/ 48 AROUND DB / SEPTEMBER 2022
1 carrot, grated 80g of rice vermicelli, 6cookedsprigs coriander 18 mint leaves 3 limes, juice only
VIET SONG! Makes 6 18 sheets of 22cm rice paper 18 prawns,
RICE PAPER ROLLS
AROUND DB / SEPTEMBER 2022 49 RECIPES /
1halvedredcabbage,
PHOTO COURTESY OF Adobe Stock
These quintessentially Vietnamese dishes are simply delicious, and surprisingly easy to make cooked and shredded Put some hot water into a large bowl, take a sheet of rice paper and dip the sheet into the water to soften it. Place 2 half prawns horizontally and face down, about two-thirds of the way down the sheet. Top with red cabbage, carrot, noodles, coriander and mint, all aligned down the centre of the sheet. Garnish with the juice of half a lime. The roll should be about 2 inches in diameter, don’t overfill it or it will break. To form the roll, fold the sides into the centre over the filling. Then fold the bottom of the paper over and start rolling bottom to top. Tuck the filling under whilst rolling tightly. Serve with hoisin sauce.
/ Serves 2 1l beef stock 1 large onion, quartered 2 thumb-sized pieces ginger 1 cinnamon stick 2 star anise 1tsp coriander seeds ½tsp cloves 1tsp palm sugar 1tbsp fish sauce 1½tbsp soy sauce 200g flat rice noodles 230g sirloin steak, sliced thin Tip the beef stock along with 500ml of water into a large saucepan. Fry the onion and ginger in a frying pan over a high heat and char on all sides, before adding to the beef stock. In the same pan, toast the spices for 2-3 minutes and once they begin to smell fragrant, add them to the beef stock. Bring the stock to the boil, then simmer for 30 minutes before straining. Add the palm sugar, fish sauce and soy to the beef stock. Cook the noodles and split between two bowls, topping each with the sliced beef. Bring the stock to the boil and then pour into the bowls (the heat will cook the beef). Top each with a sprinkling of spring onions, chilli slices, Thai basil and coriander. Serve with lime wedges to squeeze over. BEEF PHO NOODLES
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52 AROUND DB / SEPTEMBER 2022 Baljit GidwaniSNAPSCOMMUNITYPHOTOSBY Baljit www.evoqueportraits.comGidwani UNCLE RUSS INSTAGRAM COMPETITION WIN PRIZES FROM UNCLE RUSS COFFEE AND THE PIER BAR! The best snap wins! Your mission this month is to share your favourite photo of DB on Instagram, hashtag #arounddb. You have until the 10th of the month to enter. This is your chance to win four complimentary coffees from Uncle Russ, or four beers from The Pier Bar. We will contact the winner via Instagram. Good luck! UNCLE RUSS INSTAGRAM COMPETITION CONGRATULATIONS TO LAST MONTH’S WINNER: Veronica Huang @veronicahyy
54 AROUND DB / SEPTEMBER 2022 CLASSIFIEDS / Packing, Moving & Storage Services. Provide fix price quote upon onsite survey or choose from rates below. Hire a Truck: $220/Hour. Minimum 3 Hour Short Trips: $200.00 up. Hire Movers: HK$120/hour per Mover. Minimum 3 Hour. Cartons and Packing Materials: 16x14x14" (Small): HK$12.00. 23x15x15" (Medium): HK$15.00. 24x18x16" (Large): HK$18.00. 36x23x11" (Flat carton for Hanging Clothes): HK$30.00. 24x22x47" (Wardrobe Boxes) : $90.00 Plastic Wrap: HK$60/Roll. Packing Paper: $160/Ream. Bubble: HK$50/Roll. Packing Tape: $8/piece. Plastic boxes and used cartons can be provided free of charge. (Subject to availability) Serve Lantau, DB, Tung Chung and rest of the HK. www.akash.hk 2421 8088 info@akash.hk Whatsapp 67612007
AROUND DB / SEPTEMBER 2022 55 CLASSIFIEDS / www.arounddb.com www.lifeonlantau.com Register with us and receive our newsletters Win prizes in our monthly giveaways! Join our 20,000+ (and growing) Facebook followers AnonymousAlcoholics If you want to drink, that’s your business. If you want to stop, we can help. No dues or fees. 24hr hotline: +852 9073 6922 w ww.aa-hk.org CREATE YOUR OWN UNIQUE HOME STYLE WITH TAILOR-MADE FURNITURE, TO HOME DECOR AND MORE! Contact El Heng of Lewis & Co., Limited at 6333 6891 to Discuss Further Is It Possible to Buy Custom-Made Household Items at a Reasonable Price? Yes! Tailored Pest Control Solutions for Rodent, Cockroaches, Fleas, Mosquitoes, Termites, Ants, Ticks etc… For info please call Thomas 9871 0771 or Baguio 6776 8400 Email: baguiowong@hotmail.com Greenland Pest Control
56 CLASSIFIEDS / D B P R OPE RT IE S FOR RE NT If you are looking to rent or sell a property and would like to see it listed on this page, email info@baymedia.com.hk DB PROPERTIES FOR RENT MODERN APARTMENTS IN DISCOVERY BAY Short or Long Term rents. Next to Tunnel and Club Siena with quiet sea views over park, Fully furnished, washer/dryer, bed linen, kitchenware. 600 sq ft, 60 inch TVs, Wi-Fi, Sound bar. Please contact owner: 93170624 or nialady2011@gmail.com S h o r t o r L o n g t e r m R e n t a l s , S e r v i c e d a s r e q u i N e x t t o T u n n e l a n d N o r t h P l a z a w i t h q u i e t v i e w s o v e r S i e n a P a r k . . F u l l y f u r n i s h e d , 6 0 0 s f t , w a s h e r d r y e r , W i F i , b i g T V , S o u n d b a r MOD ERN APART ME NTS I N DI S CO VE RY B AY C ON TAC T THE OW NER 9317 0624 or nialady2011@g m ail . co m If y ou are look i ng to r ent or sel l a p ro pe r ty an d w ou l d li ke t o see i t p romot ed on this pa ge, email in f o@b a ymedia .com.hk #Covid #Hospitalization #IncomeProtection #EducationFund #RetirementPlan #Annuity DO YOU HAVE PLAN B? *Assessing the Different Risks in Life *Taking Actions Now and Tackling Future Challenges DISCUSS WITH JOEY VIA WHATSAPP 9193 7531 CMYCYMYCMYMCK Pink20 Sammi AroundDB FP OP.pdf 1 14/8/2020 11:01 AM www.arounddb.com If you’re reading this, so is everyone else To advertise in print or online, email info@baymedia.com.hk
EMERGENCY SERVICES 999 Lantau South Police 3661 1696 Mui Wo Fire Department 2984 1570 HOME & REPAIRS Koon Wah Hardware 2984 8487 Lee Wo Construction Engineering 2984 1802 Man Shun Construction & Engineering 2984 9833 New Look Design 9783 5840 HOTELS Silvermine Beach Resort 6810 0111 Tai O Heritage Hotel 2985 8383 LEARNING CENTRES Ashville International Kindergarten & Nursery 2109 9886 Buddhist Fat Ho College 2985 5365 Lantau International Kindergarten 2984 0302 Lantau International School, Reception, 2984 0302 Lantau International School, Lower Primary 2980 3676 Lantau International School, Upper Primary 2984 0302 Little Lantau Montessori Kindergarten 3689 7033 Mui Wo Language Cafe 5511 6107 Silvermine Bay School 2984 0006 MEDICAL North Lantau Hospital 3467 7000 REALTORS Findley Leung 2984 8334 HomeSolutions 3483 5003 REMOVALS & RELOCATION Akash Removals 2421 8088 FTC Relocations 2814 1658 Lee Hing Loong 2984 2268 ReloSmart 2561 3030 SwiftRelo 2363 4008 RESTAURANTS & FOOD DELIVERY Bahçe Turkish Restaurant 2984 0222 Bathers 2504 4788 Cafe Isara 2470 1966 Caffe Paradiso 2984 0498 China Bear 2984 9720 La Pizzeria 2984 8933 Lantana Italian Bistro 5465 5511 Long Island 2320 2001 Pause Cafe 5267 5549 The China Beach Club 2983 8931 The Gallery 2980 2582 The Kitchen 5991 6292 Treasure Island Beach Club 5236 7013 RETAIL Friendly Bike Shop 2984 2278 Garden Plus 2980 2233 Island Wines 9521 8481 Loi Chan Frozen Meat Co. 2984 8346 Lantau Base Camp 9889 4375 Lantau Grocer 2702 0050 Red Hall Chinese Antiques 2988 1368 Tony’s Salon 2984 0990 Value Vigilantes 6132 9120 VIBE Book & Music Shop 9088 2370 SPORT & RECREATION Long Coast Seasports 5545 5625 South Lantau Paddle Club 6058 8843 Treasure Island Beach Club 2546 3543 WELLBEING & BEAUTY Pause by the Banyan 9708 0187 Spa Ambiance 2984 2488 EMERGENCY SERVICES 999 Tung Chung Ambulance Depot 2988 8282 Tung Chung Fire Station 2988 1898 Tung Chung Police Station 3661 1999 HOME & REPAIRS Mega Power Engineering/Locksmiths 2109 2330 Mr Chan 24-Hour Handyman 9343 3718 Shun Yu Engineering 2988 1488 HOTELS Hong Kong SkyCity Marriott 3969 1888 Novotel Citygate Hong Kong 3602 8888 Regal Airport Hotel 2286 8888 Sheraton Tung Chung 2535 0000 The Silveri Hong Kong - MGallery 3602 8989 LEARNING CENTRES Clement Art School 9757 9157 Discovery Mind International Play Centre 2987 8070 Greenfield International Kindergarten 2162 5538 Salala Kids’ House 2611 9193 Soundwaves English Education Centre 2164 7210 Sun Island Education Foundation 2420 1068 Guidepost Montessori 2185 6134 Tung Chung Catholic School 2121 0884 YMCA of Hong Kong Christian College 2988 8123 MEDICAL Bayside Dental 2185 6550 Essential Health Family Clinic 2109 9396 Human Health Medical Centre 2109 2288 North Lantau Hospital 3467 7000 North Lantau Physiotherapy 2194 0020 Quality Health Dental 2403 6613 Quality Health Care Medical 2403 6623 Raffles Medical 2261 2626 Raffles Medical Emergency 2261 0999 REALTORS HomeSolutions 3483 5003 REMOVALS & RELOCATION Akash Removals 2421 8088 FTC Relocations 2814 1658 ReloSmart 2561 3030 SwiftRelo 2363 4008 RESIDENTIAL SERVICES Caribbean Coast Clubhouse 2109 9277 Caribbean Coast Management Office 2109 9288 Coastal Skyline Clubhouse 2179 6678 Coastal Skyline Management Office 2179 6621 Seaview Crescent Clubhouse 3473 8700 Seaview Crescent Management Office 3473 8833 Tung Chung Crescent Clubhouse 2403 6770 Tung Chung Crescent Management Office 2109 1222 RESTAURANTS & FOOD DELIVERY A Tavola Bar & Grill 2321 5500 Andante, Novotel Citygate 3602 8828 Cabana Breeze 2777 8982 Café Aficionado 2286 6238 Café Lantau, Sheraton Tung Chung 2535 0021 Funky Monkey 2427 1111 Jasmine Tung Chung 2162 8018 La Rosabelle Bar & Grill 2881 8788 La Vista 2368 6866 Lobby Lounge, Sheraton Tung Chung 2535 0023 Maison Du Mezze 2330 0131 Mint & Basil 2762 8077 Moon Lok Chiu Chow 2116 8149 My Thai 2907 6918 Nha trang Vietnamese Cuisine 2234 9199 PizzaExpress 2297 3588 Regala Café & Dessert Bar, Regal Airport Hotel 2286 6618 Rouge, Regal Airport Hotel 2286 6868 Skycity Bistro, SkyCity Marriott 3969 2500 Sunset Grill, Sheraton Tung Chung 2535 0025 The New Chapter 2907 6988 The Tavern 2907 6822 Upper Deck 2757 8889 Yue, Sheraton Tung Chung 2535 0028 Velocity Bar & Grill, Hong Kong SkyCity Marriott 3969 1888 RETAIL FTC Apparel 2428 2566 Lantau Balloons 9733 5483 SPORT & RECREATION Asia Pacific Soccer Schools 2385 9677 Aqua Gym 2914 0658 B & S Art Gallery 2493 8895 Dance for Joy 9264 8597 Edge ’n Pointe Dance Centre 6688 2167 ESF Sports 2711 1280 Fitness in Motion 9744 4736 HK Dragons 2987 4274 Kinder Kicks Soccer 2385 9677 Perun Fitness 6443 6597 Rugbytots 5307 6677 Tung Chung Public Swimming Pool 2109 9107 Tung Chung Sports Centre 2109 2421 Tung Chung Rugby Club 6079 0825 VETERINARY SERVICES & PETS Royal Pets (Pet Sitting) 6314 9887 Tung Chung Animal Clinic 2988 1534 Tung Chung Vet Centre 2328 7282 WELLBEING & BEAUTY Max Beauty Spa 2162 5752 OM Spa, Regal Airport Hotel 2286 6266 Tung Chung Nail Ninjas 9551 6468 Quan Spa, Hong Kong SkyCity Marriott 969 21888 LOCALTUNGNUMBERSCHUNGSOUTHLANTAU AROUND DB / SEPTEMBER 2022 57 LOCAL NUMBERS /
58 AROUND DB / SEPTEMBER 2022 LOCAL NUMBERS / MEDICAL Bayside Dental Practice 2987 0855 DB Medical Centre 2987 5633 Health & Care Dental Clinic 2666 6183 Island Health 2987 7575 North Lantau Hospital 3467 7000 Quality Health Medical Centre 2987 5633 Quality Health Physiotherapy 2473 6200 Lok Kwan Home Care Service 2803 2103 Tung Wah Group of Hospitals Lok Kwan District Support Centre (Islands) 2548 0060/ 2546 3739 Yulana Stynder Physiotherapy 5514 1008 PLACES OF WORSHIP DB Alliance Church Community Centre 2987 8136 DB Anglican Church 2987 4210 DB International Community Church 2987 7061 Trinity Chapel 3590 8017 REALTORS Headland Homes 2987 2088 Kingsland 2987 2987 Land Master Property 2987 6238 Okay.com 2102 0888 Savills 2987 1919 REMOVALS & RELOCATION Akash Removals 2421 8088 FTC Relocations 2814 1658 ReloSmart 2561 3030 SwiftRelo 2363 4008 RESIDENTIAL SERVICES DB Office Centre 2238 3388 DB Lost & Found 3651 2345 DB Management 2238 3601 The Neighbourhood Advice-Action Council 2259 3422 Typhoon Signal Enquiries 2835 1473 RESTAURANTS & FOOD DELIVERY 101 Tasty House 2658 9696 22º North 2987 2298 Bones & Blades 2383 0792 Café Bord de Mer & Lounge 2295 8299 Caffe Pascucci 2591 1426 Cali-Mex 2904 7698 Coffee Academics 2882 2280 Coyote Mexican Cantina 2987 2848 Ebeneezer’s 2987 0036 Epic Foods 2172 6111 Figos Seaside Café 2987 2995 First Korean Restaurant 2987 9123 HanMade Teahouse 2322 8858 il Bel Paese 2987 0202 Island Café 2987 9311 Koh Tomyums 2987 0767 La Creation & Châteraisé 2987 1829 Levain Bakery 2726 4922 Lekker Laa 6857 1620 McDonald’s & McCafe 2987 1033 Mirch Masala 2987 1387 Moofish by Zak’s 2987 6318 Osmanbey Turkish Restaurant 5401 8350 Pacific Coffee 2987 1662 Paisano’s 2673 4445 Pascucci Italian Caffe & Fine Food 2591 1426 Peony 2215 0833 PizzaExpress 3164 1340 Raf & Sons/The Rink 3611 8369 Robata Master 6636 3303 Shanghai Breeze 2987 7808 Solera 2555 0772 Starbucks 2246 8172 BUSINESS SERVICES T8 Consulting Ltd 2517 8248 EMERGENCY SERVICES 999 China Light & Power Emergency 2728 8333 DB Fire & Ambulance 2987 7502 Gas Leakage Emergency Hotline 2435 4511 Lantau North Police Report Room 3661 1694 FINANCIAL SERVICES Bank of China 2160 8585 HSBC 2233 3000 HOME & REPAIRS China Light & Power Information 2678 2678 DRS Company 9156 0360 Good Luck Engineering 2987 1313 Hung Kee Co 2987 5087 May’s Furniture & Curtain Design 2987 0222 Rich Point Hardware Materials 2987 0789 Water Fault Reports 2811 0788 Water Supplies Department 2824 5000 Well Supreme Laundry 2987 5151 HOTELS Auberge Discovery Bay 2295 8288 LAWYERS & INSURANCE Manulife 9172 9152 LEARNING CENTRES Bayview House of Children 6114 2436 DBIS 2987 7331 DBIS Kindergarten 2914 2142 Discovery College 3969 1000 Discovery Mind International Play Centre 2987 8088 Discovery Mind Kindergarten 2987 8088 Discovery Mind Primary School 2914 2202 Discovery Montessori Academy 2812 9206 Dr Bear Education Centre 9685 7856 Epic Adventurers 2441 0098 Eye Level Education Learning Centre 9366 0000 Funfit 6302 6327 HKILA 2416 3198 La Petite Enfance Kindergarten 8191 0813 Mandarin for Munchkins 2480 3909 Mathemagic (home tutoring) 9135 4724 SKH Wei Lun Primary School 2987 8608 Sunshine House International Preschool 2987 8143 Treasure House 2987 4217 Woodentots 6108 9131 Zhi Zhi Chinese 9648 2966 Little Explorers The longest running playgroup in DB, Little Explorers eases the transition between home play and kindergarten for children aged 18 months and up. Contact 6331 7215, littleexplorersdb@gmail.com Tree of Joy A fun, engaging & supportive environment in which children play & learn. Programmes include a drop-off nursery class, parent-toddler class, afternoon camp & cooking class. Contact 3742 8772, info@treeofjoydb.com, www.treeofjoydb.com Harvey Law Group International law firm offering a wide range of commercial & personal legal services. Meeting facilities available in DB. Contact 24168618, dboffice@harveylawcorporation.com, Discovery Montessori School A reputable & well-known international school for authentic Montessori bilingual (English & Chinese) education for children aged 1 to 12 years. Beautiful campus & highly qualified teachers. Contact 2987 1201, enquiry@dms.edu.hk, www.dms.edu.hk DISCOVERY BAY
AROUND DB / SEPTEMBER 2022 59 LOCAL NUMBERS / Subway 2914 0005 Sushi No En 3705 9984 Taste of Thai 2987 2010 The Pier Bar 2520 2166 Three Sheets Marquee Bar 2987 0966 Uncle Russ 2840 1188 Viet Bu Tong Kitchen & Bar 2338 8970 Zak’s 2987 6232 RETAIL & DAILY NECESSITIES 7-Eleven 2299 1110 Bloom 6117 7653 Bones & Blades Butcher 2383 0683 Bookazine 2987 1373 Circle K 2991 6337 DB Post Office 2987 6046 european touch 2918 0868 felix and mina 2130 7013 Fusion by PARKnSHOP 2987 7486 Garden A r temis 9137 4833 Gillian Florist 2529 8256 Havana@ DBay 2918 0868 Island Wake 2636 0601 Japan Home Centre 2987 1041 Market Place and IKEA 2947 9092 Nomadic 2987 8460 Open Kitchen 2987 8720 P-Solution 2987 1777 Polishfood.hk 9546 0374 Rapee-living 2557 9233 She Creates Stories 9166 8077 Slowood 2944 5189 Star Mart 2366 6534 Tai Fat Hardware Store 2987 0789 The Dog’s Garden 2987 2077 The Optical House 2987 1368 Red Velvet 9010 5832 Toysland 2987 7859 Watson’s Pharmacy 2987 4089 Watson’s Wine 2987 0268 Wing On Department Store 2987 9268 YOPE 2185 6044 SPORT & RECREATION BMSE Community Centre 2259 3422 Club Siena 2987 7382 DBees 9867 9240 DB Ice Rink 2234 0187 HK Dragons Football Club Football for girls & boys aged 2.5 years to 14 years. Contact 2987 4274, dragons.hk Island Dance ISTD Freestyle, ISTD Hip Hop, RAD Ballet, Tap & AcroDance classes at DBRC, Club Siena & DB Plaza. Five professional instructors, teaching six days a week. Contact 2987 1571/ 9159 0663, info@islanddance.com.hk, www.islanddance.com.hk Tekkerz Football programmes for boys & girls for age groups U5 up to U14. Contact 9770 4548, train@tekkerzfootball.com, www.prosportsasia.com The Beat A premium fitness centre situated in two convenient locations at north and south plaza. Offering group fitness, pilates reformer, barre, yoga, kids fitness, personal training and latin dancing. Contact 5721 3000, info@thebeat.com.hk, www.thebeat.com.hk DB Pirates 9255 6133 DB Golf Club 2987 7273 DB Recreation Club 2987 7381 DMR 5210 7208 Embody 6624 8712 EpicLand 2441 0098 Future Stars Dance Academy 2987 6867 Gallery Jeeum 9819 7176 Greenwich Yoga School 9685 8366 Harry Wright International 2575 6279 HK Yoga 6113 6770 Kapuhala Train-in-Space 6101 8434 Korea Taekwondo Cheung Do Kwan 9663 8077 Lantau Yacht Club 2987 9591 MGK Fight Club 9688 4744 Yoga Bay 6704 9851 Yogika 6749 7836 YogaUP 6805 4996 TRANSPORTATION DB Golf Cart Services 2914 2727 DB Transportation Services 2987 7351 Limousine Rental 5303 3489 Wiselink Golf Cart Services 2987 9368 VETERINARY SERVICES & PETS Island Veterinary Services 2987 9003 My Pet Shop 2987 8873 Pets Gallery 2987 0428 Pet Space Club 2788 1599 Ready, Pet, Go! 5721 6181 The Dog's Garden 2987 2077 WELLBEING & BEAUTY Afflatus Hair Workshop 2987 0283 Bay Spa 9837 0969 DB Pure Spa 9794 0918 Head to Toe Spa By Nailed it 2988 1188 Herbal Health Care 2834 7276 Nailed It! 2987 2266 Salon De Coiffure 2987 4112 Sophia Essentials 2527 0118 Spa Botanica, Auberge Discovery Bay 2295 8129 Ingredients of Wellness Mindfulness training for children, teens & their parents and teachers. Offering Mindfulness Matters, Mindfulness in Education (for adults), AMT Mindfulness Teacher Training. Contact 9048 5425, www.ingredientsofwellness.comangie@ingredientsofwellness.com, DISCOVERY BAY To add your own directory listing box, call the Bay Media office on 2987 0167, or email www.arounddb.comBUSINESSVIEWinfo@baymedia.com.hkTHEDIRECTORY@
Unimpressed by findings from the James Webb Space Telescope, Peter Sherwood reflects on the awesomeness of awesome
60 AROUND DB / SEPTEMBER 2022 OUT THERE /
Breaking news: We inhabit a planet that is being destroyed by food. Agriculture, and particularly animal farming, is the greatest cause of environmental destruction and climate change, bigger than all other causes combined. Read that again. We are rapidly eating our way to extinction. So, what are we doing about it?
PHOTO COURTESY OF www.wikimedia.com GETTING SPACEMEASURETHEOFWHATALOADOFBALONEY!
t’s possible I’ve not the slightest idea what I’m talking about, but here goes. It has cost huge amounts of money to put astronauts into space (real ones, not the bozo billionaires exercising their inalienable right to egomania). The world’s best brains slogged over the problems for decades. Here’s a result: A former spaceman waxing lyrical on CNN about the view from space and how marvellous is the tiny blue dot we call home – and how it must be protected from deadly climate change. He was genuinely amazed at something an Amazon Indian (or me) could have told him without leaving home. Now we have the James Webb telescope that can peer into space forever, if there happens to be one. It makes the Hubble predecessor look like a 1950s Kodak Instamatic. It can take pix of things that don’t exist yet, and stuff that was there long ago and is no longer there, wherever ‘there’ was. They would call this awesome if the word hadn’t already been taken by every Australian waiter giving thanks for a tip, or for Federer’s forehand, Trump’s coiffure and Melania’s primary school graduation certificate, self-cleaning toilets and Tik Tok.
Peter Sherwood has lived in DB for 20+ years. The former head of an international public relations firm, he is the author of 15 books and has written around 400 satirical columns for the South China Morning Post.
The first images most people saw from the Webb were spread on Twitter by one Etienne Klein, a research director at France’s Alternative Energies and Atomic Energy Commission. “A new world revealed every day,” he enthused. We agreed. These shots showing Proxima Centauri, the closest star to our sun were stunning. Klein later admitted the picture was a slice of Spanish chorizo.
DB Lampoon!
Practical joking and dangerous gastronomy aside, Klein’s hoax spoke volumes about what we think we see depending on what we’re told we see. I had a ‘so what?’ moment: If we can’t distinguish between the galaxies and some pork fat, peppers and paprika what’s the point of the Webb? Astrophysicists tell us we will see stars 13.5 billion years away. Terrific. Can you imagine what that distance is like? No, you can’t. And if it’s a matter of imagination isn’t an Iberian sausage just as good? Worse, we’re told the source of light, like the dead parrot, has ceased to be. It is no more, leaving the question of where the light from a non-existent planet goes now?
Here’s what: We observe smoked sausage or the real images of the cosmos and go wow! Then we order another half-pound hamburger and watch reruns of Seinfeld. Our CNN astronaut made no mention of the trillions spent on his world view, while the distant blue speck is being devoured by 7.8 billion of his fellows. We destroy vital ecosystems like the Amazon rainforest to grow food for 70 billion farm animals. That should be worth an ‘awesome’ or two. As for the chorizo, at least you can eat it – if you’re desperate.
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