Life on Lantau August/ September 2016 by Life on Lantau magazine

AUGUST/ SEPTEMBER 2016

TALK OF THE TOWN

MEET PUI O ARTIST MARTIN LEVER

SAY HELLO, WAVE GOODBYE

CAN KIDS’ FRIENDSHIPS SURVIVE RELOCATION?

W to s in thea Ven ee The tre tick ice Me ets to s , conc rchan e t e e-vo e Sued rt ticke of t e u Leo chers , and s ’s F ine from Foo d

IN THE SWIM

REVISITING LANTAU’S TOP FIVE BEACHES ALSO: ISLAND-WIDE EVENTS * PRIZES * COMMUNITY SNAPS * CLASSIFIEDS * THOUGHTS ON ISLAND LIFE

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AUG/ SEP 2016 FEATURES 16

DISPATCH Lantau’s top five (surprisingly accessible) beaches

26 PERSONA Meet Jacqui Green

of PALS – voted Lantau’s most inspiring woman

HEALTH How to help kids transition as they or their friends relocate

SPOTLIGHT Pui O artist Martin Lever reveals his latest Hong Kong landscapes ahead of the Asia Contemporary Art Show

REGULARS 34

14 39 40 44

GIVEAWAYS Win fabulous prizes LADA UPDATE News from Lantau Development Alliance LANTAU FACES Community snaps INSIDER A Cinderella story with a difference: Lloyd Belcher’s latest documentary Mira

AGENDA 02

HOT OFF THE PRESS Up-to-theminute island news

04 LANTAU FOCUS What’s happening in the community

21 PULL-OUT GUIDE Back to school: everything you need to know

HK HAPPENINGS Fun things to do across the harbour

41 CLASSIFIEDS Great deals,

employment, businesses and more

LOCAL NUMBERS Your ultimate guide in DB and Lantau

AUGUST/ SEPTEMBER 2016

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WHAT KIDS GAIN

FROM AN ARTS EDUCATION EXPAND YOUR FAMILY ON

INTERNATIONAL DOG DAY DO YOU LOVE YOUR OCTOPUS?

COVER TALK OF THE TOWN

MEET PUI O ARTIST MARTIN LEVER

SAY HELLO, WAVE GOODBYE

CAN KIDS’ FRIENDSHIPS SURVIVE RELOCATION?

Wi to seen theatr The e tic Ven ice Me kets to see, concer rchan t e-vou Suede t ticket of Leo chers , and s ’s Fin fro e Foo m d

IN THE SWIM

In the swim of things at Silvermine Bay Beach

REVISITING LANTAU’S TOP FIVE BEACHES ALSO: ISLAND-WIDE EVENTS * PRIZES * COMMUNITY SNAPS * CLASSIFIEDS * THOUGHTS ON ISLAND LIFE

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Photo by Terry Chow

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HELIUM3 ALSO: ISLAND-WIDE EVENTS * PRIZES * COMMUNITY SNAPS * CLASSIFIEDS * THOUGHTS ON ISLAND LIFE

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SPORTS • LIVING • PETS • HIKING • DINING • HEALTH • COMMUNITY

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LANTAU NEWS By Sam Agars

Publisher Corinne Jedwood corinne@baymedia.com.hk Managing editor Rachel Ainsley rachel@baymedia.com.hk ASSISTANT EDITOR Sam Agars sam@baymedia.com.hk

JUDICIAL REVIEW TO PRESERVE THE WETLANDS

DIGITAL STRATEGIST & COORDINATOR Claire Severn claire@baymedia.com.hk Advertising & sales manager Lissa Morris lissa@baymedia.com.hk SALES EXECUTIVE & ACCOUNTS Monika Carruthers monika@baymedia.com.hk, accountant@baymedia.com.hk Art direction Terry Chow terry@baymedia.com.hk PHOTOGRAPHERS Leah Ahmad Baljit Gidwani - www.evoqueportraits.com Jason Pagliari Contributors Lorraine Cook Emily Dowd (intern) Patricia Jover (intern) Elizabeth Kerr Martin Lerigo PRINTING Fantasy Printing Limited 7/F Tin Fung Industrial Mansion 63 Wong Chuk Hang Road Aberdeen, Hong Kong DISCLAIMER The views expressed in Life on Lantau 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.

Photo by Jason Pagliari

The Judicial Review that aims to halt the landfilling that is destroying South Lantau’s wetlands is taking place on September 27 at the High Court in Queensway, Admiralty. According to Martin Lerigo of Living Islands Movement (LIM), the Judicial Review will challenge the government on four points of law. First, that the wetlands are zoned as a Coastal Protection Area and that the appendix to the zoning clearly states landfilling is not allowed. Second, that the Waste Disposal Ordinance gives the director of environmental protection the necessary discretion to prevent landfilling on the grounds that it would damage an area of high ecological and biodiversity value. Third, that on one particular lot the director of environmental protection has allowed and condoned landfilling on top of an area which has previously been fly-tipped upon, in breach of the Waste Disposal Ordinance. Fourth, that the director has allowed landfilling that could only have been achieved by construction of illegal vehicle access ramps, themselves violations of the Waste Disposal Ordinance. “The potential outcome of the applicant (a Mui Wo resident) winning the Judicial Review would be that the government would likely not allow landfilling in this area in future,” Martin says. “The consequences of losing are that over 40 additional lots of land would be filled within the next 12 months and that the wetlands and everything within them would likely disappear within 10 years.” Residents looking to voice their concerns can email the undersecretary for the environment, Christine Loh at cml@ckwloh.net. You can visit www.livingislands.org.hk to contact LIM, and show your support at the courthouse at 10am on September 27.

HOT OFF THE PRESS

A NEAR MISS

MOUNTAIN BIKE TRAIL UPGRADES

Enhancements by the government’s Civil Engineering and Development Department (CEDD) to Lantau’s mountain bike trails have been given the go-ahead, subject to objections lodged being withdrawn. The ‘upgrades’ are planned for the Chi Ma Wan Country Trail circular route and the coastal route from Mui Wo to Shap Long.

The CEDD’s expressed aim is to create Photo by Jason Pagliari mutually safe conditions for both bikers and hikers, increase user enjoyment and improve sustainability, drainage and erosion control. The focus is said to be on improvement and enhancement, rather than new development, and no visible concrete or other artificial material will be used. Technical features, such as earth ramps, will be added in places. Hand rails for fall prevention will be installed along the 13-kilometre South Lantau water catchment road, also classified as a mountain bike trail.

www.planespotters.net

Air traffic control and a Shenzhen Airlines pilot have both shouldered the blame for an incident that saw Shenzhen Airlines flight ZH9041 abort its landing and enter a no-fly zone near the Big Buddha on June 26. It is understood the flight passed over the Big Buddha at just 3,000 feet before climbing to a safe 6,000 feet. Air traffic controllers were forced to intervene and instruct another aircraft, taking off from the south runway, to delay its ascent.

Local residents are voicing their concern, citing these upgrades as both unnecessary and destructive of the natural environment. Plans to compact the ground to allow drainage across the mountain trail could significantly alter the natural conditions. Additionally, many believe the so-called trail defects, that the CEDD plans to rectify, should be preserved since these natural features enhance the scenery, while providing a technical challenge for bikers.

According to a transcript derived from audio streaming site www.liveatc.net, the problem occurred when the pilot of the Shenzhen Airlines Airbus A320 intercepted a message from air traffic control intended for a nearby Saudia aircraft, which was on its final approach into Hong Kong. Air traffic control failed to clear up the confusion, causing the Shenzhen pilot to steer the aircraft into the no-fly-zone over Lantau.

Ham Tin resident Jason Pagliari, one of three residents present at a site meeting on the Chi Ma Wan Country Trail on June 29, says: “The main concern is that we don’t want them to make the trails look artificial. I have been mountain biking and hiking with my dogs across the Chi Ma Wan trails for over 10 years and I don’t think these changes are needed.”

A spokesman for the Civil Aviation Department (CAD) said that air traffic control spotted the anomaly after the aircraft deviated from the standard approach track. The aircraft was immediately guided back to safety and landed 20 minutes later. The CAD went on to say that the safety of other aircraft within the Hong Kong Flight Information Region was not affected and that the incident did not pose a threat to public safety.

Jason placed an objection to the first stage of the works in June, which he has since agreed to cancel, subject to some comments passed to the CEDD being addressed. To find out more, you can call Kenny Ho, CEDD spokesman and engineer, on 2231 4421.

Shenzhen Airlines grounded the pilot after the incident and has pledged to enhance staff training.

DOUBLE-DECKERS FOR SOUTH LANTAU New Lantau Bus Company (NLB) is considering a trial of double-decker buses in South Lantau. This comes hot on the heels of the new doubledecker buses servicing the Discovery Bay to Sunny Bay route. According to Lantau Confidential , NLB is in discussion with the Transport Department about the prospect of trialling the vehicles on the 3M route between Tung Chung and Mui Wo. The idea is to have buses in place to cope with the expected rise in population. NLB deputy general manager Benny Chan told Lantau Confidential that the plan is still in its early stages and no timetable has yet been set. If it does go ahead, he said, it would likely be divided into two phases, first on Tung Chung Road and then on South Lantau Road. “The use of double-deck buses can increase the capacity of carrying passengers to cope with the development in [the] Mui Wo area,” Chan told Robert Clark’s popular Lantau blog.

Photo by Terry Chow

www.lifeonlantau.com AUGUST/ SEPTEMBER 2016 LIFE ON LANTAU 3

LANTAU FOCUS

WHAT’S BEEN HAPPENING ACROSS LANTAU Find more photos of community events @ www.lifeonlantau.com

Photos by Terry Chow and Hunt Smith

SUMMER FUN Lantau’s shores are seeing a lot of action this summer and, with the temperatures rising, the beachside fun is only just beginning.

4 LIFE ON LANTAU

AUGUST/ SEPTEMBER 2016 www.lifeonlantau.com

LANTAU FOCUS

www.lifeonlantau.com AUGUST/ SEPTEMBER 2016 LIFE ON LANTAUâ&#x20AC;&#x192; 5

LANTAU FOCUS

SNAKE DAY WITH WILLIAM

Lantau residents flocked to the Garden Centre in Pui O on June 12 to enjoy the Living Islands Movement Snake Workshop, presented by local herpetologist William Sargent.

Photos courtesy of Merrin Pearse

MIRA SCREENING

Tu n g C h u n g - b a s e d p h o t o g r a p h e r a n d filmmaker Lloyd Belcher enjoyed an excellent turnout at the screening of his latest documentary, Mira , at The Vine, Wanchai on June 29. For more on the film, which records the amazing stor y of Mira Rai, the Nepali village girl who has become a trail running superstar, visit www.mira.eventbrite.com; to read a review, turn to page 44.

Photos by David Fung

A NIGHT AT THE THEATRE At the latest YMCA of Hong Kong Christian College (YHKCC) musical production, A Night at the Theatre , on July 6 in Tung Chung, the audience revelled in comedy sketches from all around the world, plus songs from a medley of hit international musicals.

Photo by Terry Chow

Photos courtesy of YHKCC

6â&#x20AC;&#x192; LIFE ON LANTAU

AUGUST/ SEPTEMBER 2016 www.lifeonlantau.com

Positions vacant

PART TIME HYGIENISTS AND RECEPTIONIST At Diestel Dental Group, we have five modern clinics located in Discovery Bay, Tung Chung and Central. We have recently expanded and urgently require qualified hygienists and receptionists to join our team. We are looking for experienced people with a friendly and flexible attitude to assist across Discovery Bay and Central. We are a modern, high-tech practice with a full digital environment including CT scans and digital x-rays. We offer good working conditions, hours and salaries. Please email your resume and expected salary to our Operations Manager: manager@diestelandpartners.com.

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D’Aguilar Street, Central Tel: 2526 2383 www.smithandjaindentists.com

Caribbean Square, Tung Chung Tel: 2185 6550 www.baysidedentaltc.com

Dr Richard Tinlin & Associates D’Aguilar Street, Central Tel: 2117 4180 info@drrichardtinlin.com

LANTAU FOCUS

ISLAND-WIDE EVENTS FOR YOU TO ENJOY Find more information and events @ www.lifeonlantau.com Photo courtesy of the LBC

out Through August

WEEK-NIGHT RUNS WITH LBC Sunset Peak and Mui Wo

HELIUM3 ALBUM LAUNCH Grappa’s Cellar, Central

Lantau Base Camp (LBC) is holding three week-night runs a week during August. The run up and over Sunset Peak on Wednesdays is for advanced runners. The Thursday hill repeats and Friday 10-kilometre road run in Mui Wo are both beginner friendly. You can sign up via Hong Kong Trail Runners on www.meetup.com.

st 8 Augu

www.queensu.ca

COUNSELLING FOR DOMESTIC HELPERS IMI, DB Plaza, Discovery Bay

Photo by Vincent Ypersiel

14 st 7, u g u A 28 21 &

Integrated Medicine Institute (IMI) is offering a donation-based counselling service for domestic helpers, with net proceeds donated to Helpers for Domestic Helpers. The sessions run between 9am and 2pm on Sundays and aim to assist helpers in tackling stress, decisions, relationships, family challenges and loneliness. For bookings and further information, contact 2537 1087 or receptiondb@imi.com.hk. 8 LIFE ON LANTAU

AUGUST/ SEPTEMBER 2016 www.lifeonlantau.com

Doors open at 7.30pm for the launch of Helium3’s new album, Welcome to the New World . The Lantau rockers’ jangly, familiar, four-chord poprock is reminiscent of late-’70s and early-’80s post-punk, laced with a little new wave, a little classic rock and a little Prince. You can pick up Welcome to the New World from August 8 on iTunes and Spotify, and at Uncle Russ in DB Plaza. For tickets to the album launch, visit www.ticketflap.com/helium3.

IN&AROUND DB Like us on www.facebook.com/ LifeonLantauMagazine for event reminders st 28 Augu

RUN LIGHT PADDLE: LANTAU South Lantau

Why not spice up your summer with an exhilarating paddle and hike? Families start the 2-kilometre kayak and 3-kilometre trail at Pui O Beach and finish in Shap Long, while the open category (7-kilometre kayak and 19-kilometre trail) starts in Mui Wo and finishes at Pui O Beach. For an early bird discount, register before August 8 at www.terramar.hk.

Photo courtesy of TerraMar Events

TO JOIN A BEACH CLEAN-UP or dive against

debris, in and around Lantau, visit www.facebook.com/ecomarine.hk.

A HELPING HAND COOKBOOK

TO ADOPT A PET through Protection of Animals Lantau South (PALS), call Jacqui Green on 9197 4371, for Hong Kong Paws Foundation (PAWS), call Kat Cheung on 9485 5188.

CHILDHOOD CANCER AWARENESS MONTH

September is Childhood Cancer Awareness Month and Lantau individuals as well as schools are working to spread the word t ou and raise funds. Mui Wo resident Natasha gh er u o b Ramsey, whose nephew Vinnie lost his Thr ptem battle against leukaemia in January, is Se cutting her bum-length hair into a bob to raise funds to help build a teenage cancer unit at Poole Hospital in Dorset, UK. To find out more and make a donation, visit www.justgiving.com/fundraising/Natasha-Ramsey.

MID-AUTUMN FESTIVAL

er 15

emb Sept

www.changmoh.com

Designed to help helpers provide delicious meals for their Western employees, A Helping Hand , by Singapore-based chef Frog Michaels, features recipes in both Tagalog and English. The book is already a hit in Lantau and boasts over 80 recipes for every occasion, with step-by-step instructions and easy-to-source ingredients. To grab your copy, head to www.blondemedia.asia.

www.onepiecetravel.com

Be sure to get together with loved ones on the night of September 15 (before the public holiday) to celebrate friendship, light lanterns and eat mooncakes. During the Mid-Autumn Festival, the moon is at its roundest and brightest, symbolising togetherness and reunion in Chinese culture. www.lifeonlantau.com AUGUST/ SEPTEMBER 2016 LIFE ON LANTAUâ&#x20AC;&#x192; 9

LANTAU FOCUS

BART’S BASH

OPPORTUNITIES FOR WORKING MUMS

East Lantau waters

Lantau mums looking to get back to work are advised to check out FLEXImums, the brainchild of Cheung Sha resident and mother of one, Marie Swarbreck. This invaluable resource connects professional mums with companies who are looking for flexible resources and value work-life balance. Visit www.fleximums.com.

er 17-18 Septemb

www.bartsbash.com

The day the world goes sailing: Bart’s Bash is an international sail race taking place at hundreds of different venues and involving thousands of sailors. Funds raised this year go to help promote and develop disabled sailing globally. To get involved, contact the Lantau Boat Club at www.lantauboatclub.com.

HONG KONG CYCLOTHON Tsing Ma Bridge

www.evoqueportraits.com

r 27

e Septemb

Bringing together local and international amateur and professional cyclists, the second edition of Sun Hung Kai Properties Hong Kong Cyclothon is set to be bigger in scale with extended routes and more participants. Since part of the cycling route covers the Tsing Ma Bridge, residents are advised to use the lower deck when driving to Kowloon on the North Lantau Highway between 1am and 8am. To find out more, email hongkongcyclothon@hktb.com.

er 25

emb Sept

Photo by Jason Pagliari

PRESERVE THE WETLANDS High Court, Queensway, Admiralty

Photo courtesy of Hong Kong Cyclothon

10 LIFE ON LANTAU

AUGUST/ SEPTEMBER 2016 www.lifeonlantau.com

A date has now been fixed for the High Court hearing of the Judicial Review that seeks to put an end to the constant plundering of South Lantau’s unique wetlands and natural environment. Join the Living Islands Movement in the High Court public gallery at 10am to show your support. To read more about the issue, turn to page 2.

LANTAU FOCUS

SAVE THE DATE READY TO RACE The Lantau trail

ber Octo 29 14 &

YHKCC ADMISSIONS Tung Chung

ber Octo

IMAGINE PEACE Pui O Beach 15

r mbe Nove 20 18-

www.barclaysmoontrekker.com

Trail runners and their fans will want to mark their diaries for a doublewhammy of hard-core Lantau races coming up in October. Check out Barclays MoonTrekker on October 14, and the Salomon Lantau Trail 70 on October 29. To find out more, visit www.barclaysmoontrekker.com and events.lantaubasecamp.com.

Photo courtesy of YHKCC

Get your introduction to YMCA of Hong Kong Christian College (YHKCC) at the admissions briefing in the school hall, from 2.30pm to 4.30pm. To reserve your place, contact Amanda Shek on 2988 2028, or amanda.shek@ymcacc.edu.hk.

Photo courtesy of Imagine Peace

The weekend-long Imagine Peace Festival will focus on inner peace this year – expect live music, yoga workshops and plenty of good vibes. For more information, visit www.facebook.com/ImaginePeaceHK.

Lantau International School Enquiries: 2980 3676 / 2984 0302 Website: www.lis.edu.hk E‐mail: lisadmin@lis.edu.hk FB: lantauinternaConalschool

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GIVEAWAYS Win tickets to see The Merchant of Venice

Here’s your chance to win great prizes!

Here’s your chance to win great prizes! Life on Lantau competitions are incredibly YOUR PRIZE: ABA Productions is offering easy to enter (you’ll even find the answers to our one reader two tickets (worth HK$795 questions right here). You have until August 10 each) to see The Merchant of Venice to submit your answers. performed by Shakespeare’s Globe at the To enter, email info@baymedia.com.hk, click on the competitions link at Hong Kong Academy for Performing Arts, www.lifeonlantau.com, or scan the Wanchai on September 7, at 7.45pm. QR Code below. Don’t forget to give us your name and FIND THE ANSWER: Showing from September telephone number!

7 to 11, The Merchant of Venice – Shakespeare’s darkest and most highly charged comedy – explores the meaning of justice and mercy. Jonathan Munby directs this thrilling adaptation. For tickets, visit www.hkticketing.com.

What is the name of Suede’s new album? www.academymusicgroup.com

Win tickets to see Suede Live in Hong Kong

www.cc.com

YOUR PRIZE: AsiaWorld-Expo is offering two readers two tickets (worth HK$780 each) to see Suede Live in Hong Kong at AsiaWorld-Expo, Chek Lap Kok on August 16, at 8pm.

Who directs The Merchant of Venice ?

Photo courtesy of ABA Productions

FIND THE ANSWER: After the huge success of its new album Night Thoughts, Suede is set to deliver an ‘evening of glamorous, theatrical sounds’ on August 16. According to New Musical Express (NME), the chart-topping British band, now on world tour, is sounding “bolder, braver and better than it has in 20 years”. For tickets, visit www.hkticketing.com.

Win an e-voucher from Leo’s Fine Food YOUR PRIZE: Leo’s Fine Food is offering two readers a HK$300 e-voucher to shop at its online store before August 31. FIND THE ANSWER: Founded by a Swiss master butcher in 1985, Leo’s Fine Food sells high-quality food and beverages, sourced from all over Europe. Specialities include tailor-cut steaks, BBQ combos, sausages, Swiss cheese, seafood and German beer and wine. Leo’s offers free delivery throughout Lantau and DB for orders over HK$1,000. Shop online at www.leosfinefood.hk.

When was Leo’s Fine Food founded?

www.leosfinefood.hk

Congratulations to last issue’s winners Evitta Torres and Jennifer Atepolikhine for a five-day theatre workshop with Faust; Zabrina Lo and Katy Day for tickets to see Pentatonix World Tour 2016; and Oliver Strobl, Sanyukta Gupta, Jamie Ghormley and Asher Tan to see Chitty Chitty Bang Bang . 14 LIFE ON LANTAU

AUGUST/ SEPTEMBER 2016 www.lifeonlantau.com

Put a Will in place! When you pass away, you need to leave written instructions as to whom and what your loved ones should receive (it is not automatic!) Most people do not consider the difficulty of Guardianship if you and your partner do not return home to your minor children. Although Hong Kong has an Appointment of Guardian facility, the surest way to ensure that your children are in the hands of people you want, should anything happen to you is through your WILL.

Do you have a Will?  Are you aware that your children could go into HK Government Care if you don’t write details of guardianship in your Will if you and your partner die prematurely?  Many taxes are paid unnecessarily upon inheritance in many parts of the world i.e. Death Duties because a Will has not been set up efficiently. Can your family survive net of these taxes?  With a Will in Hong Kong, it can take months to gain the Grant of Probate (the release of your assets) Without one, it can take years! How long can your family survive?  Your spouse does not inherit all! Your spouse is only entitled to the first HK$500,000 and is only entitled to HK$1,000,000 and 50% of the remainder, the other 50% is given to your parents or siblings. If you do not like this distribution, you need to write a Will.  Trusts are also a viable way to protect your estate and maintain control. Succession planning, being in the 21st Century with families of mixed nationalities and/or extended members is vital to ensure that the right distribution does to the right person, at the right time. Tax mitigation is also important for many countries and nationalities. There are many available to suit individual needs.  Retirement Funding is often missed in Estate Planning – this can be highly tax efficient and provide many areas of family protection that are needed if set up properly. Please feel free to contact me to discuss your own situation, you are under no obligation.

Carey, Suen Will Services Limited 8B, Wing Yee Commercial Building, 5 Wing Kut Street, Central, Hong Kong (+852) 2542 2285 www.careysuen.com careysuen@gmail.com

Photos by Martin Lerigo, Jason Pagliari and Terry Chow, and courtesy of kotpolski.wordpress.com and islandtoislandblog.com

DISPATCH

BEACH LIFE

Whether your mood springs from youthful exuberance, infant inquisitiveness, the joy of family, or nostalgia for yesteryear, the sand and sea bring something out in us all. Martin Lerigo revisits his top five Lantau beaches

e are fortunate indeed to have wonderful beaches here on Lantau, from big open bays replete with lifeguard towers and Coca-Cola stalls, to small, hidden gems tucked beneath rugged cliffs. Serene, foreboding, dappled with sunlight, scoured by rain, bearing the brunt of the ocean’s anger, never to be tamed, always stirring our emotions, world-class beaches touch something in our souls, beckoning back memories of happy holidays, moonlit walks and romantic promenades.

great draws. Our beautiful country parks, with their mountains and beaches, are like protective packaging to the noise and din of our urban conurbations, some of the world’s densest areas of population.

Many Lantau families have the beach as their back door, and treasure their privilege with a passion. Living here, you can be in a meeting amongst the skyscrapers at 9am and on a remote beach sipping sangria by midday. This contrast is one of Hong Kong’s

Silvermine Bay Beach

16 LIFE ON LANTAU

AUGUST/ SEPTEMBER 2016 www.lifeonlantau.com

Here are five of the best Lantau beaches you might like to visit, or revisit. Not too far off the beaten track, they are perfect for a dip, for a game of beach cricket, or a quiet, contemplative stroll on your own.

Take the bus or ferry to Mui Wo and stroll along the promenade, which was widened recently to provide enough room for both

DISPATCH

Silvermine Bay Beach

cyclists and pedestrians. From here, you’ll see the beach – a perfect crescent of sand nestling in the shadow of Ling Fa Shan peak and the spectacular Mui Wo basin. Full lifeguard services are provided from April to October and Silvermine Bay Beach is deemed family-friendly, with relatively shallow drift and little by way of difficult currents. While there are plenty of dining options in Mui Wo, The China Beach Club provides a picturesque stop at which to enjoy a few sundowners with friends.

Pui O Beach Take the bus to Pui O, alighting at the bus stop adjacent to Lantau International School. From here, follow the beach road south

and take a right at the stall selling buckets and spades. You’ll be greeted by a long bay with good, though dark, sand. Pui O is a beach of two halves, one end well cultivated with barbecue pits and a campsite, the other carefree and wild, with trees and mangroves down to the waterline. Pui O has a near-unique herd of water buffalo that lives on the wetland plains just behind the beach. Oftentimes, on a sunny day, they will stroll down to the sands after sunset to cool off in the sea. You’ll also spot gaggles of clam pickers at low tide, collecting the local delicacy which is often served up for dinner from the campsite stoves behind. Overall, Pui O is a very safe beach and full lifeguarding services www.lifeonlantau.com AUGUST/ SEPTEMBER LIFE ON LANTAU 17



DISPATCH

Lower Cheung Sha Beach

are provided in season. If you are looking to get out on the water, Treasure Island facilitates stand-up paddle boarding (SUP), kayaking and more, including a host of surf and adventure camps for kids. Mavericks, a cool and funky beach restaurant, is the perfect place to soak up the view, while back on the main road, The Water Buffalo offers hearty British dishes, plus real ales on hand pump.

Water quality off Lantau beaches The waters surrounding Lantau are often murky but, thanks to tidal currents, this does not necessarily mean they are dirty. According to the Hong Kong Government rating system, which rates water quality off beaches as good, fair, poor or very poor, all of Lantau’s beaches are either good or fair, putting them on par or ahead of others in Hong Kong. For weekly updates on the water quality off beaches throughout Hong Kong, visit www.beachwq.gov.hk/en/map.aspx.

Lower Cheung Sha Beach Popular with day trippers and junk groups alike, Lower Cheung Sha Beach is a Hong Kong institution. Taking the bus to Cheung Sha, you’ll need to ask the driver where to get off if you’re not familiar with South Lantau.

Beach conservation

Quiet in winter, this beach can get pretty full in the height of summer. Long Coast Seasports provides plenty of options for water sports, with SUP, wind surfing and kayaking amongst the most popular. This beach now has four restaurants to pick from and a local grocery store offering organic produce.

The amount of litter that arrives courtesy of the sea is notorious in Hong Kong and, for Lantau beaches, there are times of the year when beach cleaners are kept fully occupied removing the detritus that comes ashore with every tide. Well managed in the main, they do suffer from time to time from the litter people leave behind, so do your bit to keep them pristine. To get involved in a local beach-clean up, visit www.facebook.com/ecomarine.hk, or email shonigrant@dsasia.net.

The sand here is good, lighter and more powdery than Pui O, making it a favourite with kids, who build castles and fortresses that battle with the incoming tides. While full lifeguarding services are provided from April to October, be aware of some difficult currents at the western end of the beach.

Development plans For so long, the green jewel of Lantau managed to hunker in the peripheral vision of hawk-eyed developers, but decisions made in recent months have wrenched apart any notion that its beauty will be left untouched. The likelihood of unsympathetic exploitation has come starkly into view. The latest government plans set forth a litany of projects aimed at attracting, retaining and entertaining large-scale tourism. To express your concern, email landac@devb.gov.hk.

Upper Cheung Sha Beach Upper Cheung Sha Beach is just a short walk from Lower Cheung Sha Beach over an afforested knoll, bedecked with customary Chinese pagodas. Wild in nature, it’s remote by Hong Kong standards and often windswept in winter. Walking here, you feel like you’re a million miles from city life. A resident herd of cows often sits on the sands at sundown, a serene addition to an already idyllic backdrop. 18 LIFE ON LANTAU

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DISPATCH

Shui Hau Beach

Nearly a mile in length, Upper Cheung Sha Beach has a long and thin profile, which produces a steep draw with some strong currents. Swimming can be difficult for children and care is advised. There are lifeguards at the far western end of the beach, which is safe for kids.

Shui Hau Beach This is a gem of a beach, wild, compact and bijoux, and you can have it to yourself out of season. Take the bus to Shui Hau and look out for the signposts at the western edge of the village pointing south to the sea. The beach lies on part of the Lantau Trail, so the yellow way-markers, with silhouettes of two hikers, will also take you in the right direction.

Upper Cheung Sha Beach

There are no facilities here save a roughly hewn area for camping, so you’ll have to bring whatever you need for the duration of your stay. The beach mainly attracts hikers and campers, being out of reach for most day trippers and casual tourists. It’s also home to the Kiteboarding Association of Hong Kong and a great place for beginners to test their mettle. Large, frondy trees dot the waterline and the sand is silky and white. Enjoy the splendour of the setting, nestled in a rocky inlet, with the glorious Lantau Peak rising behind.

Useful contacts • Kiteboarding Association of Hong Kong, www.kiteboarding.org.hk • Long Coast Seasports, www.longcoast.hk • Mavericks, www.mavericks.hk • The China Beach Club, 2983 8931 • The Water Buffalo, www.thewaterbuffalo.com.hk Pui O Beach

• Treasure Island, www.treasureislandhk.com www.lifeonlantau.com AUGUST/ SEPTEMBER 2016 LIFE ON LANTAU 19

ADVERTORIAL

SHARED VALUES AT YHKCC

MCA of Hong Kong Christian College (YHKCC) in Tung Chung sets out to nurture responsible, knowledgeable and respectful global citizens through an inclusive approach to education. While inspiring students to pursue academic excellence, YHKCC’s backbone is its core values. These shared values have established a common language within the school, which enables students and teachers to communicate with ease.

Principal Dion describes YHKCC as a mission-driven school. “By exposing students to the right values, we are moulding young people who, when they leave school, are ready to make a positive contribution to the community,” he says. “The YHKCC CARES mission statement and the school’s five core values are mutually supportive.”

According to YHKCC’s principal Dion Chen: “The school’s five core values give students the foundation to become responsible for themselves, their studies and their actions, as well as their family, friends and even their country. Honesty is encouraged and a caring environment fostered in a community that works together to help each other.”

Photos courtesy of YHKCC

YHKCC cares about its students and its teachers and strives, first and foremost, to create a place where everyone feels encouraged and supported. Students are taught to care for their peers and their teachers. The school believes that a listening community is of the utmost importance and also promotes three-way cooperation between parents, teachers and students. Various events are held throughout the year, including a Back to School Night, parent conferences and an International Fun Fair, to encourage bonding and strengthen joint partnerships. Service to others is another big part of the YHKCC philosophy, and students are encouraged to take an active role in their community. Social service training, including outward-bound trips, is given to all students, so that they may develop a sense of personal responsibility and dedication to fostering social welfare. 20 LIFE ON LANTAU

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From an academic perspective, YHKCC sets a standard of excellence and encourages its students to challenge themselves to achieve their best. YHKCC students leave armed with the skills to prosper in a multi-cultural and globalised world, through a holistic approach to development. Built around strong Christian beliefs and values, YHKCC prides itself on its international composition and the fact that it welcomes students from all backgrounds, cultures and religions, from all parts of the globe. The school creates an inclusive environment to ensure that students from all religious backgrounds feel comfortable in their learning environment and are able to reach their full potential. For more information about YHKCC and how your child can benefit from a holistic education at the school, visit www.yhkcc.edu.hk. To reserve your place at the YHKCC admissions briefing on October 15, contact Amanda Shek on 2988 2028, or amanda.shek@yhkcc.edu.hk.

PULL-OUT GUIDE

BACK TO SCHOOL

www.alysonschafer.com

Read on to discover a treasure trove of exciting extracurricular activities for kids

www.lifeonlantau.com AUGUST/ SEPTEMBER 2016 LIFE ON LANTAUâ&#x20AC;&#x192; 21

PULL-OUT GUIDE

CODINGKIDS HK, DB 2987 4338, info@dmr-hk.com, www.dmr-hk.com Children, aged three and up, and teenagers have the opportunity to learn to dance in a professional and enjoyable environment in DB Plaza. The full schedule covers a wide variety of styles from Ballet and Tap to Modern and Jazz.

6274 1167, info@tmrwdigital.com, www.codingkidshk.com CodingKids helps prepare children for modern life by providing them with skills for the future. Technology is the future and being able to communicate with it is the most valuable skill children can learn. Classes, starting in September for children aged six to 16, teach problem solving, logical thinking and, of course, code.

DANCE FOR JOY, TUNG CHUNG

FAUST INTERNATIONAL YOUTH THEATRE, DB

9264 8597, info@danceforjoyhk.com, www.danceforjoyhk.com Dance for Joy offers fun and engaging fitness and performing arts classes for children and adults of varied experience. Aimed at sharing the fun and joy of dance with the community, classes include Hip-Hop, Jazz Funk and Kids Pop. Dance for Joy also offers dance parties and events services.

2547 9114, info@faustworld.com, www.faustworld.com Faust International Youth Theatre is set to host a new season of theatrical adventures on Saturdays at Discovery Bay International School. Fun and exciting drama classes are available for kids aged four to five, six to seven, eight to 11 and 12 to 16. Workshops begin on September 17 and are now open for registration.

ISLAND DANCE, MUI WO AND DB

ARTS & EDUCATION

2987 1571, dance@islanddance.com.hk, www.islanddance.com.hk Island Dance offers a variety of dance styles, including Disco Freestyle, RAD Ballet, Hip Hop, Tap and Contemporary, for students aged 18 months to 18 years. Classes are held six days a week at Discovery Bay Recreation Club and Club Siena in Discovery Bay and at Mui Wo Sports Centre in Mui Wo.

ACTING ANTICS, DB 8122 9475, admin@actingantics.com, www.actingantics.com Through classes focused on drama, acting and performing, children boost their creativity, confidence and communication skills at Acting Antics. Classes, for kids aged four to five, six to eight, and nine to 13, are held on Tuesdays and Wednesdays at Discovery College. Term starts on August 24.

22 LIFE ON LANTAU

ARTS & EDUCATION

DANCE

DMR SCHOOL OF BALLET, DB

THE STORY STUDIO, TUNG CHUNG, SOUTH LANTAU AND DB 6341 3989, thestorystudiohk@yahoo.com, www.thestorystudiohk.com The Story Studio’s writing workshops for creative kids are perfect for children who love to read and write. Children practise their writing skills and explore their own unique creativity in engaging and varied workshops.

KIDZNJOY, TUNG CHUNG AND DB

PIANO TEACHER, TUNG CHUNG

6273 7347, info@kidznjoy.com, Facebook: Kidznjoy.HK Kidznjoy English playgroup offers a unique programme designed for kids aged nine months to three years. Through a variety of fun activities, children learn all the basics, such as letters, numbers, colours and shapes. Kids enjoy a fun, social time that helps build confidence.

9467 4633, sydneychui@gmail.com A professionally qualified piano teacher with over 20 years’ experience caters to kids aged four and up. During classes, students work towards passing recognised exams. Classes are held at Caribbean Coast.

AUGUST/ SEPTEMBER 2016 www.lifeonlantau.com

EPICLAND, DB

FUNFIT, DB

2441 0098, events@epiclandhk.com, www.epiclandhk.com Hong Kong’s largest indoor adventure playground (in DB North Plaza) keeps families entertained year round. It features state-of-the-art laser tag equipment, function rooms, the only air-trek course in Hong Kong and a party and teambuilding venue. Monthly and annual passes are available.

6302 6327, info@funfit.hk, Facebook: FunfitHongKong An active learning programme for kids aged six months to three years, Funfit helps develop balance, coordination, fine and gross motor skills and hand-eye coordination. Activities strengthen and stretch children’s muscles, which promotes their body awareness and helps them become natural, confident movers.

RUMPLE AND FRIENDS, THROUGHOUT LANTAU

iGYM, DB

9830 8287, info@rumpleandfriends.com, www.rumpleandfriends.com Rumple and Friends Big Top Academy is running term-time courses on Mondays, Thursdays and Saturdays, from September, for kids of all ages. The winter term sees students looking at circus, magic, drama, puppetry and musical theatre, and preparing for a Christmas show. Discounts are available for siblings.

FITNESS

ENTERTAINMENT

PULL-OUT GUIDE

6077 2758, igymhk@icloud.com, Facebook: iGymGymnastics iGym offers weekly gymnastics fun, for children aged three to 15, through beginner- to advanced-level classes. Innovative programmes are designed to support healthy, happy children and include a motor-skills development programme for toddlers.

KIDDING AROUND YOGA, DB ESF SPORTS, DB

2987 5852, admin@movementimprovement.com.hk, www.movementimprovement.com.hk Kidding Around Yoga makes yoga fun for kids. By combining creative and interactive activities with music, children learn about breathing, meditation and physical movement, while improving their coordination and concentration. Classes are available for kids, aged two to five, at Movement Improvement, DB North Plaza.

FITNESS

2711 1280, sports@esf.org.hk, www.esf.org.hk/sports Term starts on August 26 and there is now an expanded offering of ESF Sports at Discovery College. In addition to its progressive basketball and swimming programmes, ESF Sports is adding gymnastics and girls’ football classes. Through fun classes with qualified coaches, children, aged infant to 15, develop their love of sport.

KIPMOVIN, DB

EMBODY, DB 6624 8712, susan@embody.hk, www.embody.hk Embody for Kids enables children aged three to 11, as well as teens, to enjoy everything from Yoga and Pilates to Hip-Hop and Zumba. Qualified instructors and small groups ensure a personalised service. With its primary goal to improve flexibility and body awareness, Embody also offers classes for adults in Pilates, Yoga, Zumba and Piloxing.

TEAM & WATER SPORTS

6180 3256, thomas@kipmovin.com, www.kipmovin.com KIPMOVIN offers fitness and running classes for kids aged five and up. The new term begins on August 15.

Adventure Sports Academy

ADVENTURE SPORTS ACADEMY, DB 3998 4042, info@adventuresportsacademy.com, www.adventuresportsacademy.com Adventure Sports Academy has partnered up with EpicLand to offer sports classes, followed by a one-hour play session. Classes, running from September, are catered to kids aged 18 months to six years, and aim to help children have fun, while introducing them to football and basketball.

www.lifeonlantau.com AUGUST/ SEPTEMBER 2016 LIFE ON LANTAU 23

PULL-OUT GUIDE

ASIA PACIFIC SOCCER, TUNG CHUNG 2385 9677, admin@apsoccer.hk, www.apsoccer.hk With more than 20 full-time coaches, Asia Pacific Soccer Schools (APSS) runs professionally planned training sessions for boys and girls of all skill levels. The Kinder Kicks programme introduces soccer to children under five, while APSS sessions focus on building soccer skills for older players in fun and demanding lessons.

2516 7397, admin@dbpirates.com, www.dbpirates.com DB Pirates is a non-profit, community sports club offering rugby, hockey, netball and dragon boating for players from four years to adult. Anyone can join the DB Pirate community by contacting the club’s membership team.

2987 4274, office@dragons.hk, www.dragons.hk As Lantau’s premier football coaching company, HK Dragons Football Club welcomes all players, aged three to 21. Challenging, fun and interactive sessions are coached by professionals, and there are league and tournaments opportunities.

TEAM & WATER SPORTS

DB PIRATES RUGBY FOOTBALL CLUB, DB

HK DRAGONS FOOTBALL CLUB, TUNG CHUNG, MUI WO AND DB

KINDER BOUNCE BASKETBALL, TUNG CHUNG 2385 9677, admin@apsoccer.hk, www.kinderkicks.hk/basketball Kinder Bounce offers a fun, basketball-based programme that uses different games to improve hand-eye coordination, as well as teaching children how to catch, throw and dribble the ball. Kids, aged two to eight, learn the basics of basketball, while learning to follow instructions and interact with others.

DISCOVERY BAY ANGELS FOOTBALL CLUB, DB dbangelsfc@hotmail.com, www.dbangelsfc.hk The only all-girls football team in DB, Discovery Bay Angels Football Club is a community-run club, open to all girls between the ages of six and 14. Providing hands-on coaching, the Angels’ season runs from September to May and includes 25 training sessions and up to four tournaments.

CMY

TUNG CHUNG RUGBY CLUB, TUNG CHUNG tc.rugby.fc@gmail.com, www.tcrc.org.hk, www.tungchungrubgyclub.org Part of the Hong Kong Mini Rugby Football Union, Tung Chung Rugby Club is a community rugby club that welcomes girls and boys aged four to 13.

VIKINGS FOOTBALL CLUB, DB 9533 2600, vikingshk@outlook.com, www.vikings.hk Vikings Football Club offers structured and progressive programmes designed to ensure enhanced motor skills and coordination. Students, aged five to 11, enjoy professional soccer coaching. Sessions are held at Discovery College.

2575 6279, swimming@harrywright.com.hk, www.harrywright.com.hk Established in 1975, Harry Wright International offers a successful programme of swimming lessons and training for children. It provides lessons once or twice a week for swimmers of all abilities, aged four months to 12 years. Courses run from August 15 to December 17 at Club Siena.

AUGUST/ SEPTEMBER 2016 www.lifeonlantau.com

HARRY WRIGHT INTERNATIONAL, DB

24 LIFE ON LANTAU

DBEES ICE HOCKEY, DB 9867 9240, dbeesicehockey@gmail.com, www.dbeeshockey.com The DBees is a non-profit community-based ice hockey team committed to the development of youth ice hockey in Hong Kong. Kids of all skill sets, aged five and up, can get involved. DBees aims to ensure all players enjoy the game and feel good about their development. Classes are held at Elements Ice Rink in Kowloon.

Photo by Terry Chow

PERSONA

Jacqui Green, Lantau’s Most Inspiring Woman

26 LIFE ON LANTAU

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PERSONA

AN INCITING

WOMAN

Animal advocate and island inspiration, 27-year Mui Wo resident Jacqui Green talks cats, dogs and the good ol’ days, with Elizabeth Kerr

itting in a standardised coffee shop at Citygate, Jacqui Green’s silver-white hair pops out against the greys and neutrals of her surroundings. That shouldn’t come as a surprise, as Lantau’s Most Inspiring Woman (voted by Around DB and Life on Lantau readers) is indeed a force unto herself. Few islanders were surprised when the Mui Wo resident romped home as the winner of Bay Media’s International Women’s Day Competition in April, or when she modestly accepted the award on behalf of others: “I feel blessed for the support. I never think of myself as a person. What I do – my supporters and volunteers, people who foster and adopt… It’s not just me.” Jacqui took the honour largely for her work with Protection of Animals Lantau South (PALS), the rescue organisation officially incorporated in 2004. Some 20 years ago, Jacqui recalls seeing “kittens in rubbish bins and puppies in paddy fields or cardboard boxes” across Lantau and Peng Chau, and that was when the activism began. She and a few friends set out to remedy the situation – either by education, taking on LegCo (more on that later) or simply finding homes for abandoned animals. It’s taken most of her time and energy for the past two decades, and she’s ready to step away. But assuming Jacqui is simply the sum of her animal parts would be to drastically underestimate her – and how inspirational she truly is.

At home in Mui Wo – since 1989 A self-described late bloomer, Jacqui was 29 in ’79 when she landed in Hong Kong at the tail end of the disco era, recovering from a failed romance. “That was one of the reasons I came here. It’s the reason my mother sanctioned it – to mend a broken heart with a change of scenery,” she says. “The idea was to get a new start. And it worked wonderfully.” Upon landing in the colony, she took a job at the legendary Bull and Bear on the ground floor of the stock exchange. “In those days there was a glass ceiling for women. It was all women; we

were Tudor maids. The highest I could get was supervisor – of the women,” she says of the job she had for eight years. Figuring her time as a barmaid was running out, one friend at the British Council lured her into private tuition at the same time another friend, with a weekend home on Lantau, went back to the UK. Jacqui took his Mui Wo flat. That was 27 years ago. Though born in London, Jacqui spent much of her childhood in the English countryside, which is the reason she gravitated to Lantau. “I don’t think I could have stayed in Hong Kong if I hadn’t found Lantau,” she says. “I’m not a city person. I love the beach, the sun, the mountains.” Early on, Jacqui started travelling around Asia armed with Tony Wheeler’s trusty, bright yellow Southeast Asia on a Shoestring, the only Asia guide in print at the time. She recalls hitting the highlights – Fuji, Tiger Leaping Gorge, Kinabalu – most of them solo. In her time, she’s seen nearly as many changes in the region as in Hong Kong and laments the commercialisation of China’s (and the world’s) greatest historical sites. These days, she’s not interested in returning to formerly “charming” Lijiang or Shanghai, and wouldn’t even recommend “crowded, polluted” Hong Kong for visitors – Lantau excepted. “It makes me feel really old, you know, talking about the good old days,” Jacqui reasons, while remaining unapologetic about calling it like she sees it. Ask if she has a lesser half or children and the response is a scandalised: “Noooo!” Jacqui never married and knew at 14 that children weren’t on the cards. Contrary to popular belief, she’s happy, and is an inspiration for 40-something women who are still being asked when they’re going to settle down.

Animal instincts In between trips Jacqui founded PALS. “The animal rescue thing raised its head when I started living in Lantau full time,” she says. “It wasn’t intentional; it just started in a very small way and www.lifeonlantau.com AUGUST/ SEPTEMBER 2016 LIFE ON LANTAU 27

PERSONA escalated.” That escalation led to addressing LegCo, re-homing on Lantau, and rubbing people the wrong way. Jacqui bristles at animal returns: “PALS has quite a detailed questionnaire that tries to prevent such an event but we are constantly being asked to ‘re-house’ pets that have come from other sources. The reasons are endless and not a single one surprises me anymore. I’m not the most tactful and I have gotten abuse for calling out slack pet owners.” Aside from re-homing and rescue, Jacqui is on a mission to put an end to the way unneutered, mistreated guard dogs are abandoned and left to proliferate at construction sites – like Disneyland and Ngong Ping. Getting new regulations for breeders pushed through LegCo – putting an end to puppy mills – is also high on her agenda, something PALS is fronting along with 18 animal charities and societies, including the SPCA. “The last meeting with the government [was in May], to convince them to bring in new regulations for breeders,” she explains. “The regulations will be much more controlled, with inspections, authorisations, licensing, to try to weed out the hobby breeders. It’s not perfect, there are plenty of groups that won’t join us because [the proposals] don’t go far enough, but it’s a start. We’ve been talking for years and now we have a chance to get this into legislation in September and we have to take it. Once it’s passed we can make amendments.”

Now 66, Jacqui is looking at retiring to the UK where her sister still lives, though she admits she’s been ‘leaving’ Hong Kong for about a decade. Determined to stay on long enough to see the policy changes she’s dedicated to made into law, Jacqui will, however, make one sad prediction: PALS is likely to close down when she goes. “It’s very stressful and time-consuming, and no one else wants to do it. There’s a lot of politicking that goes on, and it’s true: You can’t please all the people all the time,” she comments, referring to her support of less popular, media-unfriendly animal welfare positions, like euthanasia. “People don’t understand about homing. Unless you want overcrowding and animals suffering, euthanasia is an alternative. It’s quite contentious.” Contentious is something overly deferential Hong Kong will miss and it’s part of what makes Jacqui an inspiration. After being voted Lantau’s Most Inspiring Woman, her phone was loaded with congratulatory messages. “And I couldn’t think why,” she says self-deprecatingly. But as one friend put it: “Who else was in the competition? No one.”

FIND IT • Protection of Animals Lantau South (PALS), www.pals.org.hk

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Shop G, G/F Retail Seaview Crescent, No.8 Tung Chung Waterfront Road, Tung Chung, Lantau, Hong Kong.

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Tel: 2886 3156 www.resto.com.hk

Tel: 2886 3646 www.kimos.com.hk

Free Delivery for order over $100

Tung Chung Rugby Club We are a community-led rugby club for girls and boys aged 4-13, plus touch rugby for youth and adults.

We welcome all. Join us via : Tung Chung Rugby-Club, www.tcrc.org.hk / www.tungchungrugbyclub.org or email: tc.rugby.fc@gmail.com Tung Chung Rugby Club Limited is company limited by guarantee, and part of the Hong Kong Mini Rugby Football Union. SR_Ad_135x185_OUTPUT_PDF.pdf

CMY

4/20/11

5:40:58 PM

HEALTH

INSPIRING

POSITIVE CHANGE Illustrations courtesy of www.wikimedia.org

For children in our community, life can be an endless circle of goodbyes as they or their friends relocate to pastures new. Lorraine Cook looks at ways to help with the transitioning

ealing with change is considered to be one of the most stressful aspects of life, which is why this time of year can be so difficult for many families. Over the summer, our schedules fill with leaving parties and posts of moving sales, reminding us of one of the hardest parts of living in such a transient society – that once again, our familiar social fabric is going to lose ‘threads,’ and soon, familiar faces will no longer be here, teammates and hiking buddies will be far away and, often, best friends will be moving away. As difficult as this is for adults (and many consider this to be one of the worst aspects of being an expat), for kids and teens it can be overwhelming. And yet, this is inevitably a part of the life of a Third Culture Kid (TCK). The term TCK was coined in the 1950s by anthropologist and sociologist Ruth Van Reken, who recognised that the experience of living a significant part of your developing

years in a different culture from the one in which your parents were raised has a significant impact. While there are undisputed benefits to being an expat or TCK, it is the leaving of the life they’ve created or loss of good friends from the life that they have, that is one of the greatest challenges. Whether they are the ones moving, or among those left behind, there can be a quagmire of emotions to deal with. Fortunately, there are things that you can do as a parent to help everyone adjust.

Parenting strategies In the time leading up to ‘the goodbye’, the most important thing you can do is listen to the sadness in your children’s hearts. Listen to them try to find the words to express how they feel about the www.lifeonlantau.com AUGUST/ SEPTEMBER 2016 LIFE ON LANTAU 31

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HEALTH upcoming change and how overwhelming it is for them. And then, listen some more. As parents, we often feel compelled to interrupt and talk ourselves, to try to say things that will make our child feel better. But this tendency to ‘fix’ things tends to stunt the process. At the start, rather than minimising or diminishing their feelings by butting in, simply hear your children out. You should also be prepared for emotions that will go up and down and may give rise to unexpected doubt (that new friends will be made) or anger, that this change is occurring. Children often shift blame onto their parents for being an expat family. Typically, this is not real anger but just frustration at a situation that can’t be changed. Again it’s important to hear these emotions. And try to avoid the tendency to overcompensate with gifts, or special privileges, or promises to ‘make it up’ to your children. Being a TCK is an advantage going forward, as being a ‘global nomad’ provides far more benefits to a child than it does disadvantages. Try to keep this in mind when your devastated and teary-eyed child is blaming you for his pain.

Finding the balance It’s important to plan the best way for kids to say goodbye, whether that’s with a big party or a quiet dinner, or perhaps just a familiar play date. For some children, a big celebration and retrospective is wonderful, but for others, even within the same family, it can be a painful reminder of what is ending. In celebrating the life you are leaving behind, try not to suggest that what has been is unbeatable going forward. In attempting to help a child feel better about a move, don’t oversell how wonderful it will be. This can backfire when he is actually settling in and the weather is bad or there is too much homework to do. Similarly, if you talk up the next step too much, children may perceive this as dismissing the importance and the irreplaceable aspects of their current world. It’s all about finding the balance. Keeping in touch is so much easier than it used to be – kids can now go online and continue to game with their buddies, or keep up with each other via social media – but again, don’t present this as a given. When kids don’t see each other every day, and when they are dealing with different time zones and routines, some friendships are inevitably lost. 32 LIFE ON LANTAU

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Children grieve differently and often it is almost invisible, but it can be a daily hurt when they realise that they no longer have their BFF class partner to pair up with for activities, or are faced with playtimes where everyone else seems to have their own groups defined – and don’t seem interested in inviting someone else in. Often, it’s in doing the same things that are now different that sparks pain, so taking a term away from an activity your child did with their BFF can be a good idea. Signing up for a new activity can help your child meet new friends. Novelty can do a lot to renew enthusiasm and excitement. The experience of dealing w i t h st r u g g le s l i ke t h i s , and then moving forward to recreate things, teaches children important life skills. And, ironically, you and your child will be more prepared when it happens again. The next time for a great exodus will be at Christmas. Ah, the life of a TCK…

Essential tips 1 Be there to listen. While there may be a tendency to promise that it will all be OK and ultimately, of course, life will take on a new shape and sadness will fade, don’t dismiss your child’s pain. Listening is what is needed most. 2. Give it time. Making friends takes time and it’s a different process for each child. Try to encourage your child to reach out, while knowing that he might not be ready yet. 3. Provide a sense of continuity. Maintaining family traditions and routines will help your child adjust to so much else that is changing. This can also provide an opportunity to invite others to join, building new friendships. 4. Make changes. While this might seem counter-intuitive, it can sometimes help to shake things up with a new activity, or sport, or even by doing familiar things in a different way.

Lorraine Cook (M.A. Psych) is a counselling psychologist at The Development Practice in DB North Plaza. You can email her at growingupgreat@gmail.com, or visit www.childfamilydevelopmenthk.com.

GIVING LIFE SHOULDN’T BE SO DEADLY

serious Shade Sails made for you

Ramatoulaye, who lives in Burkina Faso, was about to give birth to her fourth child, but the boatman was nowhere to be found. Unable to get to the health centre across the river, she gave birth alone on the river banks. Maternal health is a human right — join Amnesty International to defend human rights for women like Ramatoulaye. Learn more at www.amnesty.org.hk.

www.ProShadeSail.com info@proshadesail.com Tel: +852 9088-2820

SPOTLIGHT

Photos by Terry Chow and courtesy of Martin Lever

PORTRAIT OF

THE ARTIST D

Patricia Jover sits down with Pui O-based artist Martin Lever, as he prepares to present his latest Hong Kong landscapes at the Asia Contemporary Art Show in September

o you have to be ethnically Chinese to create contemporary Chinese art? Absolutely not according to one rising talent on Hong Kong’s internationally celebrated art scene, UK-born Martin Lever.

Martin has made Hong Kong (now Pui O) his home for the past 37 years, and his abstract canvases are all about the city 34 LIFE ON LANTAU

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he grew up in. Working with metallic acrylic paint and oil on textured canvases, his style (simple, bold and symbolic) is as Chinese as his subject matter. Vibrantly hued and iridescent, the landscapes embody Hong Kong’s “colourful spirit,” as well as its “incredible contrasts”. Martin sketches his designs with a chopstick, before painting

SPOTLIGHT

Eco-camps are a lot of fun Martin Lever at his studio in Pui O

directly onto the relief, and each canvas is emblazoned with the chop of Li Wah, a name given to him by his father’s co-workers back in the ‘70s. “I sign my work using a traditional Chinese chop engraved with my Western surname – it’s a simple, symbolic nod to the contrasts my work celebrates,” he explains.

Celebrating the city

with Hong Kong and his personal connection to the city. Early works focused on Hong Kong’s working-class heroes, from the sampan boy rowing across Aberdeen to your local neighbourhood lady pushing her four-wheeler trolley. Today, Martin is best known for his Above/ Below collection – a series of bold, visually dynamic, abstract landscapes that take a fresh look at Hong Kong’s most iconic locations, such as Hong Kong Harbour, Victoria Park, Happy Valley Racecourse and The Peak.

Moving from the UK to Hong Kong as a schoolboy in 1979, Martin “A lot of the magic of Hong Kong is under the surface, it’s not the was educated at Island School in Mid-Levels. After studying tourist clichés, so I hit on the idea of looking at Hong Kong from a History at Keele University, he dived headfirst into the world of different perspective – from above,” Martin explains. “It’s created advertising – still his day job. A fan of many styles of art, from the a fresh and very graphic visual dynamic.” bold graphic power of Pop Art to the haunting figurative sculptures of Antony Gormley to the comic self-portraits of Yue Minjun, he recalls years of “threatening to paint” but it wasn’t until his mother Martin’s work came under the spotlight in September 2015, when died 17 years ago that he actually picked up a brush. “My mother’s he held his first solo gallery show (at the PubArt Gallery, Central). YHKCC drama teacher death kick-started the art,” he says. “It was a very cathartic time A month later, he was presenting 24 of his canvases at the Asia Hannah Crowe, with Form 5 students in my life.” Contemporary Art Show. This September, he is again exhibiting at Sadithi de Zilva and Alyssa Ramos the internationally celebrated Hong Kong show – 30 canvases this time, including a dozen of Lantau. From the offset, Martin’s paintings have expressed his fascination www.lifeonlantau.com AUGUST/ SEPTEMBER 2016 LIFE ON LANTAU 35

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SPOTLIGHT

Above/ Tai O from Martin’s celebrated collection

In Above/ Below, Martin tells “stories that are meaningful to [him] about Hong Kong” and this is clearly resonating with big local corporations, such as The Wharf (Holdings), and private collectors alike. The collection has also led to multiple commissions from the likes of Hong Kong AIA Great European Carnival, but Martin remains modest about what he calls his “professional hobby”.

For Martin, who recalls attending school camp on Lantau, aged about 10, not a lot has changed on the island. But he has concerns about the future. “The hope is that the government has some kind of balanced vision of things and doesn’t destroy the natural assets that don’t need developing,” he says. “I really hope they don’t ruin what is a very special place.”

“Art’s a funny thing – what one person likes, somebody else sees nothing in,” he says. “It’s a very personal thing. I believe the people who admire my work feel a unique connection with Hong Kong, in the same way I do.”

Martin’s latest collection, Home , is inspired by the fastdisappearing architectural heritage of Lantau. Admitting to being obsessed by the beautiful village houses with their traditional Chinese sloping roofs, Martin says, “I want to celebrate all that before it disappears.”

The Lantau collection In July of last year, Martin, his wife Max, daughter Remi and dog Khali, made the move to Pui O. “After so long living in the urban areas, with the pressures of space and rent, it was time for a change of scene,” he says. “And we absolutely love it. Living here feels like Hong Kong has doubled in size.” The Lantau move has provided Martin with fresh inspiration for his work, and he is busy applying the Above/ Below theme to some of his favourite Lantau locales, such as Pui O, Tai O, Mui Wo and the Tung Chung Road. 36 LIFE ON LANTAU

AUGUST/ SEPTEMBER 2016 www.lifeonlantau.com

You can view paintings from Martin Lever’s Above/ Below and Home collections at the Asia Contemporary Art Show, September 15 to 18, at the Conrad Hong Kong, Admiralty. Visit www.asiacontemporaryart.com. To see more of Martin’s work, visit www.asiacontemporaryart.com/artists/artist/ Martin_Lever/en/.

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3 FUN THINGS TO DO IN HK THIS MONTH

ARNIE’S AWESOME MULTI-SPORT FESTIVAL

JIMMY CARR: FUNNY BUSINESS

Contributed by Lantau Development Alliance founding chairman, Allen Ha

King George V School, Ho Man Tin British comedian Jimmy Carr is best known for his guest appearances on various panel shows, notably Stephen Fry’s QI. His often controversial stand-up tours have been seen by over 1.5 million people, and his dark, politically incorrect humour is at full throttle in Funny Business. Purchase tickets, starting at HK$488, at www.hkticketing.com.

e’re all looking forward to watching the Summer Olympics this month, but have you ever wondered what it would be like to find yourself face to face with top international athletes, in a setting where you can discuss, learn and share? The Arnold Classic Asia MultiSport Festival, running from August 20 to 21 at AsiaWorld-Expo (AWE), provides you with the perfect opportunity to do just that. Live sport, health and fitness workshops and even a seminar by the event’s founder, Arnold Schwarzenegger himself, are included in the exciting line-up of events.

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SLIDE THE CITY

Among leading venues in the Asia-Pacific region, AWE has successfully attracted the show (the world’s largest, annual multi-sport festival) to Hong Kong. What will be the city’s largest ever sport event promises to bring together a powerhouse of both international and local elite sportsmen. Designed to attract health and fitness enthusiasts of all ages, all manner of sports are represented, ranging from chess and table tennis to arm wrestling and the martial arts.

Central Harbourfront, Central Back for the second summer and bigger and better than before, Slide the City features higher and steeper waterslides, plus an artificial beach. Expect to get soaked as you squirt, spray, splash and slide. For tickets, starting at HK$180, head to www.slidethecity.hk.

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In addition to the interactive workshops and live sport events, AWE expects to play host to over 300 big-name brands. You’ll find the latest health and fitness products, nutritional supplements and related services all under one roof, plus information on current trends and developments in the industry.

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Through training and competition, sport encourages children to set goals, develop their stamina and build their physique. It helps them cultivate teamwork, develop a mental and physical balance, and grow up healthy and happy. For this reason, I hope you will join me in bringing your children along to the Arnold Classic Asia Multi-Sport Festival. There are plenty of interactive parent-child activities on offer to entertain, educate and inspire. Don’t miss this awesome opportunity to have fun here in Lantau.

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