Sai Kung September 2021

FA MI LY | C A K E S | CLASS E S | S TA R S

D

IR N EC EW TO R

saikung.com

September 2021

LEARN NEW THINGS

CAPOEIRA | MAHJONG | MARBLING BAKING & MORE

DOWN TO EARTH TRUTHS Janice Baird on why we should start composting

OUTDOOR FURNITURE Turn your home into an oasis

Y

CONTENTS — 09/ 21

21

COVER STORY Creative classes for adults

4 PEOPLE

The really useful magazine

6 THE PLANNER

17 LOCAL

Sai Kungers out and about

What’s on this September

HKU students save Sai Kung’s coral

8 NEWS

What’s going on in your backyard?

18 DINING

10 SECRETS

26 PHOTOGRAPHY

An ancient Hakka village converted into a museum

32 GARDENING

The best bakeries in town

Jane Ram on what to plant this September

33 PETS

Where to go stargazing this Mid-Autumn Festival

11 POLICE BLOTTER

Senior Inspector Ron Yung talks crime

14 FIVE MINS WITH

Composting queen Janice Baird

28 HOME & LIVING

Where to buy outdoor furniture

30 BIG DAY OUT

Rory Mackay explores Tung Ping Chau

10

14

Dr Pauline Taylor answers your pet questions

34 DIRECTORY For all your Sai Kung needs 36 IN THE KUNGDOM Toughing it out with Peter Wood 32

34 21 18

28

“A great local magazine is a community talking to itself”

SAI KUNG | 1

editor’s letter

Work in progress As Sai Kung turns 12, there are changes to be made.

A great local magazine is a community talking to itself. You know who said that? We did!... Way back in the first editorial of the first Sai Kung & Clearwater Bay Magazine, on September 1st 2009, 12 years ago.

Back then it was Jane Steer, Helen Rigby and me toiling away in the space above Ali Oli (thanks for the free cakes and wifi, Hazel!). Every issue was powered by hard work, love and favours. We begged and borrowed and worried about typos later.

Some of those early issues were rough. “It’s a work in progress,” Jane Steer would say as we sent another flawed publication to the printer at 3am. But those early magazines – each an amazing snapshot of its time – have one thing going for them. They are full of the people of Sai Kung. Local personalities. Local businesses.

Insider tips. And, always, a love of Sai Kung. It was a community talking to itself.

And the formula worked. As the years went by, Sai Kung Magazine grew up, had a sister magazine, and another sister magazine, and another. We moved to the big city and changed the company name to “Hong Kong Living”. A lot of this was good for Sai Kung Magazine. Our education coverage has become the best and most authoritative in the territory. Our travel, dining, hiking, and home sections are swish. (We invented the Listicle!) The quality of our printing,

design, sales admin and distribution improved a thousand fold. But we lost something…

Talking with residents and business owners these past few months, it is clear that what Sai Kung Magazine has lost is its connection to Sai Kung. A reader from issue one, Vickie Hu, who runs Ensemble Coworking space, said it most tactfully: “In Cantonese we say you have ‘got above the ground’”.

Well, Vickie (and everyone else who said it less tactfully), thank you. We hear you. And we are making changes. From this issue we are coming back down to earth. (Literally, on page 14 as Janice Baird gets into composting). But in every other way too.

We are prioritizing local content. We are creating spaces for local businesses to communicate for free. We are focusing on local people, local stories, local issues and local writers. (If you are a local writer please get in touch). We are also increasing physical distribution of the magazine, cranking up the website (saikung.com) and looking for our facebook password.

In the coming issues we hope we can again show a community talking to itself. Until then, please remember “it’s a work in progress”. And sorry about the typos.

Tom Hilditch Publisher

Editorial Editor / Publisher Tom Hilditch Managing Editor Nicole Slater Features Editor Cheyelene Fontanilla Senior Writer Charmaine Ng Dining Editor Amber Lai

Design Senior Graphic Designer Vicky Lam Assistant Graphic Designer Natalie Cheung

Sales & Marketing Director of Content Hilda Chan, hilda@hongkongliving.com Partnership Manager Debbie Ky Elaine Li Janessa Chan Events Manager Pranali Gupta, pranali@hongkongliving.com

Contact us Editorial: 2776 2773 | Advertising: 2776 2772 Whatsapp: 98119526 Published by Hong Kong Living Ltd, L1 Kai Wong Commercial Building, 222 Queen’s Road Central, Hong Kong Printer Apex Print Limited, 11-13 Dai Kwai Street, Tai Po Industrial Estate, Tai Po, Hong Kong

Thank you Lisa Fletcher for allowing the use of her photo on this month’s cover and thanks Connie Sai Kung Ma Ma for taking the shot.

saikung.com

editor@saikung.com

@hongkongliving

facebook.com/SaiKungMagazine

HONG KONG

Got a story? editor@saikung.com 2 | SAI KUNG

Sai Kung & Clearwater Bay Magazine is published by Hong Kong Living Ltd.This magazine is published on the understanding that the publishers, advertisers, contributors and their employees are not responsible for the results of any actions, errors and omissions taken on the basis of information contained in this publication. The publisher, advertisers, contributors and their employees expressly disclaim all and any liability to any person, whether a reader of this publication or not, in respect of any action or omission by this publication. Hong Kong Living Ltd cannot be held responsible for any errors or inaccuracies provided by advertisers or contributors. The views herein are not necessarily shared by the staff or publishers. No part of this magazine may be reproduced in any way, part or format without written permission from the publisher.

SAI KUNG | 3

people

Snaps from Sai Kung

4 | SAI KUNG

say cheese

Send your photos to editor@saikung.com SAI KUNG | 5

planner SEPT 2 Hungry Ghost Festival Appease the spirits of ancestors and other restless spirits who return to roam the earth or just enjoy the day off.

SEPT 4 Tamby Chan: CuteAnon Tamby Chan headlines Backstage Comedy with his new show: CuteAnon. $200. 8pm-9.30pm. The Hub, 1F Fortune Building, 150-158 Lockhart Road, Wan Chai.​​ thebackstagehk.com

SEPT 8-12 Hong Kong Watch & Clock Fair Asia’s premier unique showcase for international watch brands. Hong Kong Watch & Clock Fair. 10.30am-6pm.

Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre, 1 Expo Drive, Wan Chai. hktdc.com

SEPT 12 Chungking Mansion Tour Explore one of Hong Kong’s most notorious locations and gain a deeper understanding of what this place means to the African community before sitting down to enjoy

SEPT 11

Sai Kung mystery night adventure Discover Sai Kung’s nocturnal fauna on a unique night excursion around Sai Kung’s protected areas including orchards, farmlands, ponds and forests. 6.30pm-10pm. $300. Meet at Choi Hung MTR Exit C or outside Lions Nature Education Center. encompasshk.com

UNTIL 19 SEPT Extended Figure: The Art and Inspiration of Lanlan Asia Society Hong Kong Centre celebrates artist Xie Jing-Lan’s significance as a pioneer of cross-disciplinary art. 11am-6pm. Free.

Chantal Miller Gallery, Asia Society Hong Kong Centre. asiasociety.org

MID SEPT Hong Kong Disneyland Haunted Halloween Celebrations Celebrate early and skip the Halloweenhungry crowds. Trick or treat with Disney characters, enjoy the ghostly parade and revel in the pumpkin patches and haunted mansions. 10.30am–11pm. Starts at $639.

Hong Kong Disneyland, Lantau Island.

SEPT 12 & 26 Puppy Adoption Day Give a dog a home.

Free. 12pm-4pm, 5/f, Centro Blg, Sai Kung. @catherinespuppies 6799 7530

6 | SAI KUNG

what’s on an African buffet style lunch. 11am-2pm. $250. Meet at East TST MTR Station, Exit K. africacenterhk.com

SEPT 20-22 Tai Hang Fire Dragon Parade Another example of Hong Kong’s traditional culture and a main part of the celebrations of the Mid-Autumn Festival. Free. 8.15pm10.30pm. Tai Hang, Causeway Bay.

SEPT 21 Full Moon Charity Yoga Led by Sandra Chan, Outdoor Yoga HK welcomes everyone to connect with themselves through Forrest Yoga and meditation under the full moon to celebrate the mid-autumn festival. 7pm-8.30pm. Tamar Park, Harcourt Road, Admiralty. meetup.com/forrestyogahk

UNTIL SEPT 30 Ocean Park Summer Nature Playground The waterfront theme park will transform into Hong Kong’s biggest nature playground, with interactive technology and a series of special missions for children to experience the wonders of nature. Free with general admission. Ocean Park, Aberdeen. oceanpark.com.hk

BOOK AHEAD OCT 1, 2 AND 9 “Mother and me” sewing workshop.

Take your kids to Ensemble for classes and make a Harry Potter Inspired outfit for Halloween. 2-5 pm, Ensemble Co-working space. ensemblecocreatingspace.com

SEPT 22 Mid Autumn Festival Celebrate the harvest by lighting up and lanturn and tucking into a mooncake. Enjoy colourful and bright lantern displays across Hong Kong including the Tsim Sha Tsui promenade.

Want to list an event?

Email editor@saikung.com SAI KUNG | 7

news

Hong Kong’s water quality is on the up

The Environmental Protection Department (EPD) has released the latest data related to water quality for 40 beaches across Hong Kong. In total, 17 beaches were rated as Good (Grade 1), including Chung Hom Kok Beach, South Bay Beach, Discovery Bay and Turtle Cove. In addition, 23 more beaches were graded as Fair (Grade 2). This list includes Anglers’ Beach, Deep Water Bay, Cheung Chau Tung Wan, Cafeteria Old Beach and Tai Po Lung Mei. The EPD releases its figures every week, following tests at 39 gazetted beaches and one non-gazetted beach (Discovery Bay). These tests measure the level of E.coli in the water, with “Grades” then calculated based on the five most recent samples. The latest results show a positive trend, with two locations (Golden Beach and Tong Fuk Beach) being upgraded from Grade 2 to Grade 1, although Cheung Chau Tung Wan Beach was also downgraded from Grade 1 to Grade 2.”The changes are generally within the normal range of fluctuation of the bacteriological water quality of the beaches,” said a spokesman from the EPD following publication of the new test results and safety grading. The latest results of water quality tests are published on EPD’s website every week.

To get the latest data, head over to epd.gov.hk

Application submitted for Sai Kung camping grounds According to recent reports, a proposal has been submitted to the Sai Kung Town Planning Board to develop a plot of land near Siu Hang Hau village. The application is for a camping ground that would have capacity for around 24 tents.

Covering an area of 1,205 square metres, the project would involve some minor excavation and building work, in order to provide campers with on-site amenities such as a toilet block and septic tank. Initial plans suggest the tank will be dug to a depth of approximately 1.5 metres, with a capacity of 4.32 square metres. It is not yet clear whether the plans will be approved by the Town Planning Board, but initial signs are promising for the development; some land clearing has already taken place at the site, including an access route via the Siu Hang Hau Road and Sheung Sze Wan Road. For the time being at least, the campsite continues to be talked about in the future tense.

8 | SAI KUNG

Property developers find groundbreaking solutions As construction begins on a new Sai Kung project, two of Hong Kong’s biggest property developers are turning to new technologies in a bid to reduce costly human error.

Following a saga of expensive mistakes on a previous construction project, Sun Hung Kai Properties (SHKP) and Chinachem are looking into using robots for plastering and painting tasks, along with a range of other electronic solutions to traditionally analogue tasks. “We are thinking of using robots to do painting and plastering to replace humans at our new residential project in Sai Sha, Sai Kung,” says Eddie Ho, who is deputy general manager

at Sanfield Management, one of SHKP’s subsidiaries. “Construction technology will certainly help to remove human errors,” he added. Ho is currently overseeing 18 projects under construction with SHKP. He says Sanfield Construction now monitors the quality and strength of concrete used in its projects using QR codes. This technology has the capacity to perform slump tests, cube casting and temperature measurements, all conducted through the use of a smartphone.

With a range of innovative technology at their disposal, SHKP’s project in Sai Kung represents new development in more ways than one.

in your backyard

New metres arrive in Hong Kong celebrates its most successful town Olympics At the end of July, Sai Kung welcomed the latest instalment in a series of 12,000 new parking metres from the Transport Department; part of plans to replace all existing machines by early next year. The latest batch of cutting-edge new meters can be seen in four major areas in Sai Kung.

These include Fuk Man Road, where 11 new parking meters cover 22 existing parking spaces; Hong Kin Road, where three new metres cover five existing spaces; Tin Chau Road, where four new parking cover the eight existing spaces; and Wo Mei Hung Min Road, where two new cover three new parking spaces. Across Hong Kong, a total of 4,365 are now operational, with almost 8,000 more expected to be up and running by June 2022.

Hong Kong’s Olympiads are celebrating the territory’s biggest ever medal haul at a Summer Olympics, following success in cycling, fencing, karate, swimming and table tennis at Tokyo 2020. A total of 46 Hong Kong athletes took part in 14 competitions during the games. The Hong Kong team brought home a total of six medals; three bronze, two silver and one gold, making 2021 the most successful year ever. The games had originally been scheduled to

take place from July 24 to August 9 2020, but were postponed due to Covid-19. Hong Kong has now made 17 appearances at the Summer Olympics since the territory’s debut as a British colony at the Summer Olympics held in Helsinki in 1952. This year, Hong Kong’s athletes made history, winning more medals than in all previous Olympics combined. Now, with the games completed, they have returned home as heroes.

Got a story? Email editor@saikung.com

SAI KUNG | 9

secrets

Hakka happenings Discover an ancient Hakka village converted into a museum Many have crossed the Pak Tam Chung barriers but few have ventured into nearby Sheung Yiu Village. The Hakka village is located along the borders of Sai Kung East Country Park and once lay on an ancient village path to Sheung Yiu Village.

Along the way, look out for plants such as bamboo groves, sandpaper vines, longan and incense trees, which were cultivated by the villagers.

The first indication that you’ve reached the village is the lime kiln (a stone construction with a hole in the top) on the riverbank. The villagers used this to turn shells and coral into building materials. The villagers would then deliver the materials via boats directly to Sai Kung Market to be sold.

Sheung Yiu Village was built in the late 19th century by Wong Fat-sing who came from Bao’an County of Guangdong Province.

He decided to build the village in order to accommodate his family. He started a lime kiln business and built houses, pig pens, a drying terrace and a watchtower so that he could easily spot pirates lurking closeby.

10 | SAI KUNG

The introduction of cement and other modern bricks meant the lime industry declined and by 1965 the village was completely abandoned. In 1981, Sheung Yiu Village was declared a monument by the Antiquities Advisory Board and was eventually restored and converted into a folk museum.

Today the museum is open from 10am6pm and closed on Tuesdays. It showcases typical Hakka furniture and artefacts and tells the story of the village’s history. (heritagemuseum.gov.hk)

How to get there Take KMB bus 94 from Sai Kung Bus Terminal and get off at Pak Tam Chung.

Walk past the barrier and along Tai Mong Tsai Road for about 300 metres. Take the first right, across Fuk Hing bridge. Follow the Pak Tam Chung Nature Trail along the riverside.

on patrol

Senior inspector Ron Yung reports on recent cases around town

Life is a HIGHway

Now you see it now you don’t

The police spotted a car driving suspiciously on Hiram’s Highway towards Sai Kung Town Centre at 2.15pm. Upon further inspection they found five marijuana joints in the vehicle. Police performed a rapid drug test and the driver was arrested at the scene.

A woman was shopping at a supermarket in Sai Kung Town Centre on July 24. Upon leaving the store, she left her iPad and Apple pencil in the shopping cart. When she returned a while later, she asked the staff to check CCTV footage, where it was discovered that a man had taken her items and left. The case is still under investigation.

Troublesome trade-off A woman connected with a man via Facebook and developed the relationship on Whatsapp.

On August 3, while the victim was on a hike, she received messages from the man asking for $50,000, threatening to publish private photos online. The case is still under investigation.

Two crimes in one At 5.15pm in late July, two university students returned to Sai Kung Town Centre after a day out on the water. During a random inspection, police found the students in possession of marijuana.

One of the boys was also found in possession of an elderly Octopus card. They were both arrested at the scene.

Boat burglar On August 5 at 8pm, a sampan owner returned to his parked boat at the pier near Lakeside Garden to find the motor missing.

He reported it to the police and the case is still under investigation.

A sickeningly hot trek A 24-year-old woman was trekking on Yim Tsin Tsai with two friends when she suddenly became dizzy and began to vomit. Her friends called the police and she was airlifted to Pamela Youde Hospital and admitted for observation and treatment.

Eyes on the road A 70-year-old man was driving a van through Sai Kung Town Centre. He failed to see an 85-yearold woman who was stepping off the sidewalk to cross the road. Her left leg was run over and she was taken to Queen Elizabeth Hospital in a conscious state. The man was arrested for dangerous driving.

Burglary prevention: • • •

Secure doors and windows Activate anti-burglary measures Call 999 if you encounter a suspicious person

What’s happening at sea Dizzy day On the afternoon of August 1, a male and his friend went kayaking to Green Egg Island. During their journey they felt dizzy and called all the Marine Police for assistance.

They were rescued and brought to the shore safely.

Don’t forget to stretch While kayaking to Sheung Sze Wan at 2pm on August 7, a male reported a cramp in the middle of the ocean. The Marine Police located and rescued the kayaker. He was conveyed to Tseung Kwan O Hospital.

Three times the charm Two friends went kayaking around Lung Ha Wan on the afternoon of August 8. At 2:30 pm, they reported feeling dizzy and exhausted. The Marine Police located and rescued the men, taking them back to the base.

Upon arrival one of the men discovered a minor scratch on his hand and was taken to Tseung Kwan O Hospital for medical treatment by ambulance.

SAI KUNG | 11

12 | SAI KUNG

SAI KUNG | 13

five minutes with

Welcome Earthlings!

It’s the sh*t hot trend of 2021. Sai Kung resident, Janice Baird, started offering compost classes for friends last month. Now everyone wants to do it. Here she shares some down to earth truths...

What got you started on composing?

There is no neighbourhood composting here in Sai Kung. So we’ve got to do it ourselves.

How has it changed your life and your family’s life?

Well, for one, we use a smaller bin.

Composting has eliminated 80 percent of our household waste. We only go to the bin once a week and even then one big rubbish bag is only half full.

How does this make you feel?

Angelic - like we are doing something good for the planet every time we put food in the compost.

Can you tell us about your composting classes?

I am doing them online and in our backyard.

Online because busy parents sometimes have their hands full and it is harder to travel with kids. In person, because seeing the set-up can be hugely helpful for new composters.

How did your classes get started?

We just got our first batch of compost done.

It was amazing and didn’t smell at all. It wasn’t what I expected! I brought a bucket

14 | SAI KUNG

round for neighbours to sniff and touch. I rang everyone’s doorbells and got some strange looks. So, I thought a better way to get people started was to run some free workshops.

What can your students learn?

They learn the basics: what composting is, what they need to get started, and what goes in a compost bin. I think a lot of people worry about the hot and rainy climate in Hong Kong and whether composting attracts pests. It is really reassuring for people to be able to ask questions.

Is it complicated to get started?

No. If you can click a button on Amazon you can start.

Does it smell?

Compost bin or compost? No – it smells like the forest on a rainy day. People get scared because rubbish smells but that is because it is rotting not decomposing.

In your experience, once you start composting does that lead to other changes in your life?

Yes! You bring Tupperware to a restaurant because you are more aware of food waste!

Why should composting matter to Sai Kung residents?

Sai Kung residents often care passionately about the environment. Composting is one of the best ways to fight climate change on a personal level. It is empowering and also education for kids.

What kind of things can you compost?

All food waste and other stuff too... pizza boxes (we put eight in ours), old socks, bad poetry.

Can you compost old copies of Sai Kung Magazine?

I promise we don’t!

What the hell do you do with the compost?

Potting, loosening soil, nutrients, mulching, making friends...

How has composting helped you make friends?

Well, I’ve already received 40 responses to the lessons. So, I’m looking forward to meeting a lot of new people!

What’s your favourite shop in Sai Kung to buy things for your garden?

We haven’t had much success with our garden. I am good at composting but not growing plants!

Can you recommend any Sai Kung places to buy fresh organic food?

Sorry! We have ours delivered by our grocer - honestmarket.com.hk. He sources local produce and delivers it to our doorstep plastic free. We stick with Jeffrey because also gives helpful advice..like how to watch the Olympics on your phone!

Any other tips for Sai Kung residents wanting to live a more conscious lifestyle?

Buy second hand where you can. We have a great online community. Everyone is always giving things away or selling things at inexpensive prices. The more we re-use and have a circular economy, the better off our planet will be.

Can you add contact details so readers can learn more?

What is the price of a course?

The courses are free. This is the first time I am running the workshops. Next time I’ll post a notice in Sai Kung Magazine!

Want to get involved?

If you want to get your hands dirty and make your own compost, Janice Baird offers beginner composting classes online and in her backyard.

For more information about composting in Sai Kung contact janicebaird@earthevery.org

SAI KUNG | 15

16 | SAI KUNG

local

Scientists dive into Sai Kung coral problem Students at HKU use 3D printing technology to replenish coral reefs.

Christopher Alexander reports

A team of scientists and students from Hong Kong University have found an innovative way to replenish disappearing coral reefs in Sai Kung – by using the latest 3D printing technology.

In Hong Kong, like so many places around the world, coral is in big trouble.

Rising ocean temperatures, combined with extreme weather and local stressors, are damaging corals or causing them to bleach and die. In the last year alone, Sai Kung’s Double Island saw a massive 80 percent decrease in its coral population.

But help is at hand. A restoration project was commissioned by the Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department (AFCD) as part of the active management of coral communities in the Marine Park.

A team from Hong Kong University (HKU) has stepped in to restock Sai Kung’s coral reefs, using a cutting-edge solution. HKU’s Swire Institute of Marine Science (SWIMS) and the Robotic Fabrication Lab in the faculty of architecture have 3D-printed a new reef, made to measure from tiles of eco-friendly terra-cotta.

The artificial reef tiles are specially designed to aid coral restoration by providing a foundation for coral attachment and help

dislodged coral fragments that are unlikely to survive on their own.

According to Dave Baker, a member of the team responsible for the new reefs, the materials were chosen because they are “highly porous with nice surface microtexture”, meaning marine organisms can more easily take root or shelter in the artificial reef. They’re also more environmentally friendly than more conventional building materials.

A total of 128 pieces of reef tile have been placed in key locations around the coast of Sai Kung. The tiles mimic the shape and texture of real coral, making them a perfect seeding ground for new populations

in the long term, while also providing shelter for reef fish and crustaceans in the here and now.

Want to learn more?

The new technologies pioneered

by HKU could have a major part to play in efforts to restore coral reefs worldwide. To find out more about what you can do to stop climate change and protect Sai Kung’s natural heritage, head over to the WWF-Hong Kong website: wwf.org.hk

SAI KUNG | 17

dining

Get baked

Kylie Chan rounds up the best bakeries in town Sai Kung Café and Bakery

Ali-Oli

Located by the waterfront, Sai Kung Café and bakery is well-known for its freshly baked pineapple buns, with lines for them extending around the block on weekends. The bakery also offers a range of savery and sweet treats including Portuguese egg tarts.

6-7 Kam Po Court, 2 Hoi Pong Square.

As a cozy Western café, Ali-Oli has just about every bakery item you can imagine.

Choose from a range of freshly baked pastries everyday or treat yourself to one of its popular Baileys cheesecakes and Banoffee pies.

11 Sha Tsui Path.

Culture Bakery

Cocolo Tokyo Cake Factory

From cocktail buns to creamy roll cakes, Culture bakery offers both Western and Hong Kong style baked goods. They also sell whole layered cakes that can be pre-ordered for special occasions.

11 Man Nin Street.

Stuffed with a warm filling of sweet Fuji apples imported from Japan, many make exclusive trips to Cocolo to try their flaky apple pies. Other than apples, other stuffings such as blueberry jam and hazelnut paste are available. 9 Hoi Pong Street.

18 | SAI KUNG

Crunch n Munch If you’re on the go, Crunch n Munch’s large selection of sandwiches are the perfect grab and go option. Made with freshly baked bread, each sandwich is customisable with a variety of spreads and fillings.

58-72 Fuk Man Road.

Patisserie Joanna Patisserie Joanna is a French dessert shop that offers sweet delights as well as baking classes. Popular orders include lemon tarts, mille-feuille and fruit tarts. Birthday or wedding cakes are also available for preorder. 58-72 Fuk Man Road.

Mushroom Bakery A popular choice for residents, Mushroom Bakery is a friendly neighbourhood bakery that offers a variety of homemade loaves, rolls and pastries. Pick up a few slides of their daily cooked ham for the perfect sandwich.

56 Po Tung Road.

nibbles

Dining news LQV opens in Tseung Kwan O Awarded Best Wine Shop in 2013, Le Quinze Vins has announced the opening of its new branch in Tseung Kwan O. The all-day restaurant serves up a variety of traditional French dishes including signature steak tartare, croque monsieurs and curated artisanal cheeses. The location also has a retail store which sells French wines, matured meats and cheese. lqv-group.com

A new king in the Kung Founder of The Butchers Club, Johnny Glover has recently opened a new retail concept in Sai Kung called Steak King. The store offers a range of frozen and chilled farm to fork meats including artisanal sausages, classic roasts and Beef Wellingtons. The new store is open seven days a week at 66 Yi Chun Street. steak-king.com

Oolaa opens its doors Popular all-day dining and drinks destination Oolaa opened its fourth restaurant in Tseung Kwan O. Set in the vibrant, seaside Capri Residential District, the restaurant promises to deliver the trademark Oolaa trifecta of delicious food and drink served all day in a laid-back yet sophisticated atmosphere. oolaagroup.com

of all-natural beekeeping practices, the kiosk offers a collection of teas, coffees and mocktails sweetened with its natural and fruit-infused honey.

Law of Yoghurt Fancy a chilled treat this month? A new yoghurt café, Law of Yoghurt, has opened on Fuk Man Road. Choose between frozen yoghurt, a yoghurt shake or yoghurt with a bagel for a more filling nibble. Mix-ins and toppings include fresh fruit, cookie crumbs and green tea mochi.

Booze By The Box Supporting wineries and breweries who painstakingly go out of their way to be ecofriendly, Booze By The Box makes buying wine more environmentally friendly. Swing by their Sai Kung based shop to sample organic wines and bring a box home. boozebythebox.com.hk

Causing a buzz Save the bees and support the new Buzz Stand in Tseung Kwan O. With over 72 years

SAI KUNG | 19

20 | SAIKUNG.COM

cover story

Adult classes near you We round up the best classes for adults in Sai Kung

Around Sai Kung Becandle Established in 2012, BeCandle is a fragrance product factory and lab located in the heart of Sai Kung. As well as selling handmade candles, the shop also lets you create your own during its popular Formulate Candle Journey workshops held every weekend at its atelier on Wang Street. becandle.com.hk

Casual Football Network Started by a football enthusiast in 2009, the Casual Football Network is for adult amateur soccer players looking for a casual game. The network organises at least seven games per week on Hong Kong Island and in Kowloon.

Sign up online on a first-come, first-served basis, note there is a strict no-show policy. casualfootball.net

Majong Classes Want to learn the art of mahjong? Sai Kung’s favourite Cantonese teacher, Catherine Man, has started Mahjong classes for adults. “It’s a great way to learn about Chinese culture, have fun and meet friends,” she says. Plus, mahjong tiles are so much more interesting than a pack of cards. So far she has trained more than 100 non-Chinese residents.

Whatsapp 64411227

SAI KUNG | 21

cover story Simply Sourdough Better than sliced bread! Converts say Sourdough is yummier, better value and – because it is handmade with wild yeast and lactobacillus bacteria – infinitely more healthy.

Stop fighting this wholesome trend and go to basic sourdough bread baking classes by Zuzana Sisiak. Ensemble Co-creating Space 91896936 cucinka@gmail.com

Sewing Classes Sewing strong for two years now, Ensemble has a fully equipped sewing room (with swiss brand machines, an overlocking machine and an embroidery machine). They offer group adult lessons (as well as lessons for kids). Want to create a truly original Halloween costume this year? Do as Captain Jean Luc Picard does and make it sew! 112 Man Nin Street, Sai Kung.

6725 2321 ensemblecocreatingspace.com

L’b3 Workshop Just a short bus ride away in Kwun Tong, L’b3 Workshop offers art jamming sessions centred around monthly themes. Workshops start from $200 for three hours and include a 30x40 canvas and complimentary drinks.

Facebook: lb3workshop

Mindfulness Inner Rainbow Mindfulness has been running groups for adults and kids in Sai Kung since 2017. Held in the activity room above the Flying Fox shop in the old town. kate@thebalancesession.com WhatsApp: 9863 0766

Ebru Marbling Workshops Ebru marbling – the ancient Turkish art of marbling paper – gives everybody a chance to make beautiful art.

Symone Dolai taught herself the art during the 2020 Covid lockdown. Friends loved the results so much that Symone has started to offer workshops from her home in Clearwater Bay. So far, she has taught over 50 individuals both young at heart & young of age this highly creative technique. “Each and every piece is completely unique and cannot be replicated,” she says. “It’s just like a thumbprint, one of a kind”. There are many applications you can do with the papers once dried including framed artwork, picture framing, small wrapping papers, bookmarks and more. Workshops are open for booking upon request at her home with a maximum of 3 people per session $200 per person. Birthday packages are also available.

Symone 98342365

22 | SAI KUNG

adult classes Capoeira on Sai Kung beach Capoeira classes have started up in Sai Kung every Friday. The unique Brazilian art form incorporates elements of music,dance,gymnastics and martial arts. No previous experience or high levels of fitness required. Classes are held around Sai Kung including beside the tennis courts and on the beach. capoeirahk.com

Hong Kong Academy of Flower Arrangement

SAI KUNG | 23

cover star important thing? My Granny used to say the most important ingredient is love. Great rice dumpling is made with love.

What’s your favourite Sai Kung shop to buy food ingredients?

I shop at Sai Kung Wet Market. It’s the freshest food. And it feels good to support local traders.

Sai Kung Ma Ma holds occasional lessons at Secret Garden located in No. 5 Hung Fa Village, Po Lo Che , Sai Kung. For information connect to facebook.com/SaikungKeungKeeStore

Connie Ma and her student Lisa Fletcher making dumplings

Zhong Classes Connie Ma - aka Sai Kung Ma Ma is the Sai Kung Rice Dumpling Queen. At festival time she offers lessions.

What gave you the idea to start a rice dumpling class?

What do people enjoy about your dumpling class?

My classes started with me helping Western friends prepare food for the Dragon Boat festival and it grew from there. Rice dumplings is a classic Hong Kong recipe and good fun to make. It’s a fun way for everyone to come together and celebrate Chinese festivals.

Most people who join my classes have never made dumplings before. I teach them the secrets of making great dumplings. It’s lots of fun. We get to share some great food. Being able to make rice dumplings is a good life skill.

Do you need cooking skills to join?

Not at all. It’s fun for young and old alike.

24 | SAI KUNG

What is the secret?

Rice dumplings are a Hong Kong tradition. I teach my students the secret ingredients and tricks my family taught me. What’s the most

Hong Kong Dumplings Want to learn how to make real Hong Kong dumpling? Connie 92863711

adult classes

Worth the Journey Glazden From necklace charms to drinking glasses and sake bottles, this independent studio allows you to create one-of-a-kind glass creations.

Offering one-on-one classes, its team of four experienced artists will guide you step by step to make your personalised glass work. On top of glass blowing, Glazden also holds hot sculpting and lampworking classes for more creative fun. glazden.com

Rosey Cloud Located in the heart of Central, Rosey Cloud teaches a range of adult classes including soap and perfume making to aromatherapy candle making. Each one and half hour workshop teaches students the basics so they can make and take home their own creation. roseycloud.com

LUMP Studio

Home Crafts

A community of potters and ceramic makers of all levels. Inside LUMP studios workshop you will find dedicated areas and special equipment for pottery and stocks of different clays, glazes, oxides and slips. lumpstudio.com.hk

Spruce up your old jars Keep any leftover glass jars and put them to good use around the house. Using paint or paint-pens, doodle some designs or even personalised them with friends and family’s name.

Hong Kong Academy of Flower Arrangement (HKAFA) Just a short bus ride away in Kwun Tong, L’b3 Workshop offers art jamming sessions centred around monthly themes. Workshops start from $200 for three hours and include a 30x40 canvas and complimentary drinks.

Facebook: lb3workshop

Create a floral wreath Cut a piece of card or cardboard into any letter or shape before hot gluing some faux flowers onto it. This will be the perfect decoration for a birthday or themed party.

SAI KUNG | 25

photography

A sky full of stars

Nicole Slater steps outside to admire the night sky this Mid-Autumn Festival With limited light pollution, Sai Kung is one of the best places in Hong Kong for stargazing.

We’ve rounded up the best places in town to marvel at the sky this Mid-Autumn Festival.

The Astropark Nestled within the Sai Kung East Country Park, the Astropark is a great spot to observe the star-filled sky. Open 24-hours a day, the park is just a 10-minute walk from the Chong Hing Water Sports Centre. Telescopes, binoculars and star dials are available. If you’d like to bring your own telescope, you can apply in advance for a power supply. You can also stay the night at the Sports Centre – book ahead to borrow camping equipment for free.

26 | SAI KUNG

How to get there: Take a taxi from Sai Kung town centre for about $100 or hire a “kaito” (small ferry) at Sai Kung Pier.

Register as a camper with the Sports Centre beforehand to take the free shuttle bus from the Sai Kung Tang Shiu Kin Sports Ground.

Long Ke Beach If you fancy a more relaxing stargazing experience, head over to one of Sai Kung’s secluded beaches and lie on soft sand while enjoying panoramic views of the Milky Way above.

How to get there: From Sai Kung waterfront, hop on any boat heading

towards the beaches.

Tap Mun The outlying islands are perfect for escaping the light pollution in the city. Grass Island (Tap Mun) offers camping facilities and a clear sky.

Arrive at the island early in the afternoon to secure a good camping spot, you may have to share your spot with the occasional friendly cow.

stars in the sky How to get there: Tsui Wah Ferry offers scheduled services to Grass Island, two ferries from Ma Liu Shui and seven to 12 ferries per day from Wong Shek Pier.

High Island Reservoir Hike down to High Island Reservoir during sunset and enjoy unobstructed views of the stars once you reach your destination. Be sure to pack a beach mat and some snacks for the perfect date night this autumn.

How to get there: Take a green taxi to the East Dam from Sai Kung town centre, or take bus 94 to Pak Tam Chung and then walk along to Sai Kung Man Yee Road. From here you can walk to the dam in about two hours.

Tai Hang Tun

Credit: Kelvin Yuen, facebook.com/kelvinlandscapes

Part of Clearwater Bay Country Park, Tai Hang Tun is a popular location for star photography enthusiasts. With barbecue and picnic areas, many families come up to the area during the Lantern Festival to enjoy uninterrupted views of the sky.

How to get there: From Tseung Kwan O station, take bus 103, 103M or 16 and alite at Tai Hang Tun and walk up towards the picnic area.

The Hong Kong Space Museum The stars still shine, even if it’s raining. If the weather isn’t on your side, head to the Hong Kong Space Museum for an indoor extraterrestrial experience.

How to get there: From Tsim Sha Tsui Station Exit J, walk towards Salisbury Road.

The museum is opposite the Peninsula Hotel. Closed on Tuesdays.

Night photography

by Kelvin Yuen Kowloon Tong resident and photographer Kelvin Yuen won first prize in the National Geographic International Photo Contest, Taiwan Section’s Youth Division in 2015.

Top tip: Do your research Visit the Hong Kong Observatory’s website for weather updates. It’s best to go when the sky is clear, so check the phases of the moon and pick days when moonlight won’t interfere.

You can find some of Kelvin’s photographs here: facebook.comkelvinlandscapes

SAI KUNG | 27

home and living

Where to buy outdoor furniture Cheyelene Fontanella helps you build an oasis at home Establo Stocking over 15 European brands, you can find both classic and stylish European designer furniture and accessories for the balcony. With a showroom in Wong Chuk Hang you can see each product in person. establo.hk

Lift Lifestyle Offering an array of colourful outdoor furniture and cushions, hammocks and bean bags, Lift Lifestyle lets you personalise your space.

They also supply decking, cordless outdoor lighting, bamboo fencing, storage units and shade sails. liftlifestyle.com

28 | SAI KUNG

outdoor furniture Hedge

Home Essentials

Hedge is an Australian company based in Hong Kong, headed by experienced landscapers who value quality as much as aesthetics. If you’ve got a vision for your garden or outdoor design, this company sells collapsible planters, easy-to-install decking and more to upgrade your home’s outdoor space. Most of Hedge’s products are also either recyclable or made from recycled materials. hedge.net.au

Get plant pots of basil, chili and lemon mint for a little herb garden on the balcony and liven up your space with vibrant, modern rocking chairs and matching tables. homeessentials.com.hk

Zzue Creation

Ikea Known for its simple, diverse and affordable designs, Ikea has a wide range of outdoor furniture that can fit even the smallest of balconies with some colourful options for children too. ikea.com

Zzue Creation represents over 50 overseas renowned brands of outdoor products.

Offerings at the showroom and online are handpicked by Zzue’s team and include daybeds and loungers, sofas and dining tables, swings and hammocks, awning and pergola, green tiles and rugs, outdoor accessories and facilities and more. zzuecreation.com

Where to buy plants Hay Fever Floral & Gifts Located in Prince Edward flower market, Hay Fever Floral & Gifts has a range of freshly cut and potted plants to spruce up your home. The shop also has a quaint cafe overlooking the market.

Garden Plus Selling a range of plants, herbs and seeds, Garden Plus has everything you need to grow the garden of your dreams. gardenplus.com.hk

Everything Under The Sun If you’re one for having big get-togethers, Everything Under The Sun quite literally has everything you need for an alfresco gathering.

From sun lounges and sofas to barbecues and fire pits. For those hot Hong Kong summers, the brand also stocks misting fans, parasol bases, terrace covers and awnings. everythingunderthesun.com.hk

Wah King Garden Established in 1983, this Sai Kungbased nursery and garden centre is the largest wholesaler of plants in the city.

The family-run business offers a range of plants and gardening equipment for those with large outdoor areas. wahking-garden.com SAI KUNG | 29

TK, wiki commons.

big day out

INVESTIGATING TUNG PING CHAU

Rory Mackay explores Hong Kong’s most remote isle Rugged, windswept and diverse, Tung Ping Chau possesses something for everyone. From family-friendly walks and pristine white sandy beaches to rock formation adventures and historical rekeys. No matter how you wish to play things, this will be a full day outing at the very least. There are only two ways to reach Tung Ping Chau, either by private/chartered boat or by taking the public ferry (weekends and public holidays only) from Ma Liu Shui in Sha Tin. The ferry journey from Ma Liu Shui takes one and a half hours to complete, so sit back, relax, and enjoy the views of Tolo Harbour. A landscape of tranquil channels lined with red rocks (unique

30 | SAI KUNG

to this part of Hong Kong), before emerging upon the open waters of Mirs Bay. Located in the heart of the Tung Ping Chau close to the pier, lies the only major settlement of note on the isle and definitely deserves a pit spot upon arrival. After a refreshing drink and bite to eat, one could easily spend the best part of a couple of hours strolling the adjacent Northeastern beaches, interspersed by crumbling Hakka houses and shade yielding Banyans.

The unique geology of Tung Ping Chau on the other hand is a much more enduring attraction to spend your time exploring.

The best way to discover the island is by circumnavigating the Ping Chau Country Trail,

U ISLAND

TK, wiki commons.

island hopping

Rock formations

which at 5km typically takes around two hours to walk in one go without any long breaks.

However, stopping along the way to explore all the incredible sedimentary rock formations on show, or delving into the interior of Tung Ping Chau is what this Island is all about. Possessing the youngest rocks in Hong Kong, there are numerous laminated coastal shelfs and sea cliffs to witness.

Be sure to catch the final boat leaving the island to Sha Tin at 5pm, unless taking your own boat back or camping overnight is more your thing. Camping in Hong Kong can be an awesome experience and Tung Ping Chau is a superb illustration of this. Beware that there is a lot of ambient light coming from China at night, so try to orientate your camp towards Mirs Bay and get more breeze in the process.

Among the list of Hong Kong’s many outlying places, the castaway isle of Tung Ping Chau is worth the trip at least once. The adventure to and from it, is as much an attraction as the being there is.

Rory Mackay runs adventure company Wild Hong Kong. For more details visit wildhongkong.com

Sandy shores

SAIKUNG | 31

gardening

Moth hunting Why moths matter to your Sai Kung garden

September gardening tasks Seed raising This is the season for raising most kinds of seed. any seeds of flowers and vegetables that you would normally consider for spring sowing in a temperate climate should succeed through our autumn and winter. until the tiny plants are ready to be transplanted, it’s easier to control conditions in a pot rather than in the ground, but if you have the space, you can rig up a small nursery bed and see how your seeds fare directly in soil. at least they will be spared transplant shock!

Herbs When we think about them at all, we tend to dismiss moths as the ugly sisters of butterflies.

However, for local gardener Jane Ram that all changed after spending a “moth night” with Hong Kong lepidopterist Dr Roger Kendrick.

“His enthusiasm and erudition opened my eyes to the rich range of moth colour, markings, size and form”, said Jane.

One late afternoon, Kendrick set up three light traps in varied locations in a Hong Kong garden. The evening’s total was about 2,000 moths of more than 100 species. “I was impressed,” said Jane, “until Roger said that an autumn moth-catching night in Hong Kong could net almost 500 species”.

Hong Kong has about 250 butterfly species, but 4,500 moth species. Evidently we should pay more attention to our moths. According to Kendrick, they may be more important pollinators than bees: mangoes, papayas and many other food crops depend on them.

Butterflies and moths share similar tastes.

If you would like to attract more of them to your garden Dr Kendrick recommends such easily grown favourites as duranta, all types of clerodendrum, pentas, plumbago (but keep it out of reach of small children as it is poisonous), Ligustrum sinense (Chinese privet) and citrus, especially types with large flowers and those that bloom throughout the year.

All moths and butterflies love lantana, but keep it under control as it is a rampant grower.

White flowers show up well after dark and if they are scented they will draw moths like magnets. If it is evening as you read this, go outside with a torch and check them out.

32 SAI KUNG |

Persuade any surviving herbs from last summer that they should take an interest in life. Trim the plants and give them a weak dose of fertiliser. Try sowing seeds of basil (all kinds), coriander and parsley.

Cuttings Put in cuttings from roses, pelargoniums and geraniums, bougainvillea and hibiscus.

Be sure to label them with details of the colours – they will all look more or less the same until flowering time which might be a year or more in the future.

Jane Ram is a professional writer with a passion for plants. She has been gardening in Hong Kong for over 30 years. janetaipeng@gmail.com

September Weather facts Average high temperature: 30°C Average low temperature: 25°C Average rainfall days: 14.7 days Planthoppers and hoya.

pets

Ask a vet

Dr Pauline Taylor answers your questions about pet dental hygiene Your fur friends can have dental problems too.

What is dental disease and how can I avoid my dog getting it?

Unlike what happens in humans, where there is tooth decay, this rarely happens in dogs. In dogs the most common dental disease is so called periodontal disease.

An inflammation/infection of the tissues surrounding the teeth (like the gums and bone). It leads to mild gingivitis first. The best way to prevent this is daily dental care (brushing teeth or dental treats).

My dog has really bad breath, is this a result of bad dental health?

Chances are high that a bad breath is caused by dental disease. Very seldom there are other reasons (like an acidy stomach).

Best is to get the teeth checked by a vet. As already mentioned dental disease in dogs is progressive so the earlier treated the better.

Should I be taking my pet to the vet for dental cleaning or should I do it at home?

Normal dental care should be done at home unless there are signs of dental disease.

Tartar which causes dental disease is not only found on the surface but also hides under the gum line and needs to be removed which is rather unpleasant so its better done under an anaesthetic. Also, if you just remove the tartar without polishing the teeth afterwards you leave a rough surface and it will reappear very quickly.

How often should I be brushing my dog’s teeth and do you have any tips to make it easier?

Teeth should be brushed once a day (twice would be perfect). Do not try to brush teeth fully at the beginning, lift the muzzle first and then touch one tooth with the brush and proceed like that. Most important: offer the absolute favourite treat after brushing so that teeth cleaning becomes a routine your dog will be looking forward to.

How efficient are teeth cleaning treats and toys?

Brushing teeth is the gold standard. If for some reason you are not able to do it, teeth cleaning treats are the second-best option.

They should be offered once a day, they act like a mechanical toothbrush. Very important is to ensure that the size of the treat is appropriate for your dog’s size to prevent choking. Many dental toys are also available.

The plan is to coat them with something your dog really likes and let them chew the toy.

Very tasty dog friendly toothpaste is made in flavours like chicken and tuna, I don’t suggest the flavour mint toothpaste for dogs.

Dr Pauline Taylor, Pets Central veterinarian.

Got a question for Dr Pauline Taylor?

Email us at editor@saikung.com

SAI KUNG | 33

SAI KUNG BUSINESS DIRECTORY ADDICTION

CO-WORKING / SPACES FOR RENT

LAWYERS & INSURANCE

Alcoholics Anonymous 90736922 aa-intergroup.org

Ensemble Co-Creating Space 6725 2321

Professionals Wills Limited 25619031

The Hive Sai Kung 2780 5844

PEST CONTROL

CORRECTIONS

Biocycle - fighting pests with safe & ecological products 35752575 biocycle.com.hk

ADULT CLASSES Be Candle - Candle Making Workshops 84817684 Composting workshops janicebaird@earthevery.org Cantonese Classes 60366275 Marbling & Other Arts n Crafts 98342365 Majong Lessons 64411227

Did we get something wrong on this list?

Or want to be listed?

Email us at editor@saikung.com DOMESTIC HELPER IN NEED? Pathfinders 51904886 pathfinders.org.hk EMERGENCY SERVICES

Easy Peasy Services 92870200 Rentokil 58033055 rentokil.com/hk Snake in the house? Call the police 999 Termites? TrulyCare 24588378 trulucare.com.hk

AFTER-SCHOOL ACTIVITIES FOR KIDS

China Light & Power Emergency 21608585

PLACES OF WORSHIP

The Arts Factory - language and performing arts 68947555

Gas leaks emergency hotline 24354511

Haven of Hope Christian Service 27019019

Ballroom Bees - dance program for boys & girls 56817673

Sai Kung Police HQ - 24/Hr Report Room 36611630

Beat Street Dance & Fitness - for adults and kids 98586487

Sai Kung Marine Police 36611718

Resurrection Church 23583232 resurrection.org.hk

Drew's Workshop - woodworking for kids 63456965

GOVERNMENT

Tae Kwon Do for kids & teens 94677787

Sai Kung Pentecostal Holinesss Church 90395039 Sai Kung Pentecostal Baptist Church 27923918

Sai Kung District Council 37405200 districtcouncils.gov.hk/sk/english

RESIDENTIAL CLUBS

Drum lessons for kids & adults 55085027

HOME & REPAIRS

Club Marina Cove 27196622

Cantonese lessons, Mandarin lessons 64411227

China Light & Power Information 26782678

Stage Right Youth Theatre WA 92258924

Water Fault Reports 28110788

Anastasias Art House - Russian Art Academy 27195533

Water Supplies Department 28245000

REALTORS

BAKERIES

Tung Tai Key Cut - ocksmith and key cutter 63235232

Mushroom Bakery - friendly neighbourhood baker 27926826

New Technology Mobile Phone - phone repair 24072377

OKAY Property Agency Limited - expert real estate services 21020888 okay.com

Ali-Oli Bakery - quality western cakes, delicatessen 27922655 alioli.com.hk

Eco Living - air purification 27927998P

Sai Kung Bakery - traditional local bakes 27923861

HAIR & BEAUTY

CAFES & COFFEE SHOPS

Nail House 27198718

A&A Property Consultant Limited 26311988 info@a-property.hk

Allure 93453545

WINE & BEER SHOP / DELIVERIES

Coffee Academics - speciality coffee & brunch 28822902 the-coffeeacademics.com

HOTELS

Winerack 2253 6929 winerack.com.hk

Black Smith Coffee 26131010

The Pier Hotel 90392171

The Bottleshop 27911600

Starbucks 2792 7725

WM Hotel 28 21966888

Le Magasin 27910292

Sewing Classes for kids 67252321

Cena Latin Cafe - Latin,tapas, cocktails 27571020 casagroup.co

34 | SAI KUNG

Tala's Hair and Beauty 23351694

Marina South Clubhouse 21484013 Residence Oasis 2141 0078

The Property Shop 27193977 Homelife Property Shop B 27190606 Rich on House Property Agency Ltd. Ms Connie Ip 27910080

directory REMOVALS & RELOCATION

RESTAURANT & FOOD DELIVERY

SPORTS & RECREATIONS

Santa Fe Relocation 25746204

Dutch Cheese 27926179 thedutch.hk

Kids Swimming lessons 97419152

Expert-Transport & Relocations 2566 4799 RETAIL & DAILY NECESSITIES Shek Kee Frozen Meat Company 27920503 Today Speed (Photo Finish) 27925815 Butcher King 27920159 Patsy House Electrical store 27920010 T.C. Deli 23582332

Paisanos 27914445 paisanos.com.hk Singalings 27923318 singalings.com

Jaspas 27926388 casteloconcepts.com/our-venues/jaspas-sai-kung

SCHOOLS

2084 64208456 2084.casa

SPEEDBOATS

The Conservatory 27921105 enotecagroup.com/home-all

Taxi Lost Property 1872920 td.gov.hk

Big Fish 27519177 Piccolos 27919233 casteloconcepts.com/our-venues/piccolo039s

VETS & PETS

Chip In Fish & Chips 97615091 www.chipin.com.hk

Pets Central - Sai Kung's number one, 24 hr vet 27920833 pets-central.com

Pepperoni's 27911738 casteloconcepts.com/our-venues

Hong Kong Dog Rescue hongkongdogrescue.com

Takka Fusion 27922202 / 27922223

Lost dog? Sai Kung Stray Friends 91992340 saikungstrayfriends.com

Sawasdee Thai 27910522

Homevet 98605522 homevet.com.hk Ferndale Kennels & Cattery - pet Hotel, pet relocation 27924642

Burger Deli 36899052 Padstow 23355515 www.padstow.hk

Creature Comforts Veterinary Clinic 9773 0372 creaturecomforts.com.hk

SPORTS & RECREATIONS

SERVICED APARTMENTS

Capoeira Beach Acrobatics 68460787

Sai Kung Serviced Apartments 2407 6161 saikungservicedapartment.com

Hebe Haven Yacht Club 27197931 Hong Kong Golf & Tennis Academy 67702726

Thai Dao 27926189 facebook.com/thaidao.saikung

TAXI LOST PROPERTY

CWB Golf & Country club 23353700

The Picture House 27926991 enotecagroup.com/thepicturehouse

Park n Shop / Fusion 23355506 / 27912080

Blue Flag, Miss Ma 94893297

Equestrian Centre 63986241

Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu for Kids 95748523

Pilates with Nocky 96692710

Mills International Preschool 27176336 millsinternational.edu.hk Malvern College Hong Kong 38984688 malverncollege.org.hk Australian International School 23046078 aishk.edu.hk Creative Secondary School 23360233 css.edu.hk ESF Clearwater Bay School 23583221 cwbs.edu.hk Kellett School 31200700 kellettschool.com Hong Kong Academy 26551118 hkacademy.edu.hk Hong Kong Adventist Academy 26230431 / 37270291. hkaa.edu.hk Hong Kong International School 31497246 hkis.edu.hk Renaissance College 35563556 rchk.edu.hk Sai Kung Montessori 53698587 saikungmontessori.com SKIP (Sai Kung Pre-school Group) 27917354 skip.edu.hk Shrewsbury International School 24801500 shrewsbury.edu.hk Sunshine House International Pre-Schools 23583803 sunshinehouse.com.hk

Horizon Suites 3157 8888

Sally G Fitness - pilates, boxing and dance 95290477

TUTORS

Hong Kong Golf & Tennis Academy Management Company Limited 31878900

Sai Kung Tutors - group lesson for beginners 53214400

Rugby Tots www.rugbytots.hk

Woodland Pre-Schools 28130290 woodlandschools.com

Maths Club - maths programs for Y5-Y11 56446410

Sai Kung Stringrays www.skstingrays.com

Delia School of Canada dsc.edu.hk

Easy English For Kids 61144219

Sai Kung Bulldogs Football - trails this month 90851886

Po Leung Kuk Sixth Form College www.sfc-plk.edu.hk

Dragon FItness & Coaching 95550358

Clearwater Bay School cwbs.edu.hk

GET LISTED FOR FREE. EMAIL EDITOR@SAIKUNG.COM

Yew Chung International School 2338 7106 ycis-hk.com

SAI KUNG | 35

36 | SAI KUNG

Peter Wood talks Sai Kung

Toughing it out in the Kungdom

sai kung They say that moving house creates the same stress levels as a divorce. Having never been divorced, I cannot corroborate this strange fact. But the morning of September 16, 2018, certainly felt like a divorce.

After more than 20, largely happy years on Hong Kong island, I had taken the plunge and made the momentous decision to sell my stylish bachelor pad in Kennedy Town for the distant hills of Sai Kung.

The morning of the move began with that fleeting sadness as I stood among the 30 large boxes containing my life. There was little time for contemplation. The Hong Kong Observatory had just raised the T8. A typhoon called Mangkhut had swept through the Philippines and now bore down upon our glittering city. I was fretting. The removal company had just called. “I am so sorry Mr Wood,” the voice crackled on the other end of the line. “We have to cancel. I simply cannot allow our boys to operate during a T8.” Thankfully my Hongkonger friend Larry, over for the weekend from Sydney, spent the next hour on the blower trying to find an alternative company.

You have to love this city. Where else would you find a removal company willing to drop what they are doing during a T8 and hurtle across the city to rescue a distraught gweilo? The onset of Mangkhut had quite literally sucked the air out of the city and the three shirtless tattooed young guys arrived at my flat, huge smiles on their faces and drenched in sweat.

“Whoooar, so hot. So crazy,” they shouted. This was followed by a mad dash across the city to get my life off-loaded and into my new home on top of a steep hill overlooking Sai Kung town. Not a single item had been broken.

No sooner had the three boys waved goodbye, the Observatory raised the T10. My baptism by fire – and brimstone had begun. Few of us will ever forget that catastrophic 24 hours of hell – said to be the worst tropical storm to hit the city since 1983.

Surrounded by my unpacked boxes, a bed plonked in the middle of the room and a fridge stocked with cold beer and little else, Larry and I helplessly looked on in horror as the typhoon slammed into the city.

I moved to Hong Kong in 1993 and employed a somewhat laissez-faire attitude where typhoons were concerned. But that evening, my casual mindset took a turn for the worse. Everything seemed to be going sideways. The driving rain, the garden furniture, the trees. The wind hit the hill in deadly blasts that sucked at the glass doors, lifting my heavy steel BBQ up like a rag doll and banging it against the glass – again and again like a madman in a rage. We watched gobsmacked, waiting for the windows to shatter.

As the sheets of rain continued unabated, hour after hour, the water began rising up on the terrace – and to our dismay – bubble and splutter beneath my front doors. My bed was becoming an island, surrounded by the rising water which was getting disturbingly close to the electricity sockets.

“Quick!” shouted Larry above the raging noise

outside. “We need to build a dyke – what can we use?”

“Hold my beer,” I hollered. “I have an idea.”

Together we began tearing into the cardboard boxes, pulling out shirts and socks, bed linen and towels – and quickly constructed a colourful, but moderately effective dam wall. And there we sat, all night, quietly getting sloshed.

By mid-morning on Sunday, silence descended upon the territory. Ragged and tired, we ventured outside to be greeted by a scene reminiscent of Armageddon. As far as you could see, across the Sai Kung hills, hundreds of mature trees had been felled. Those remaining were devoid of all their leaves. Roads were blocked and, in some cases, cars flipped onto their hoods. In the distance, the sounds of power tools, chainsaws, axes and leaf blowers could be heard as Saikungers emerged, dumbstruck, but largely unharmed. Despite the carnage, dozens of people, many dressed in suits, women in heels, began helping each over fallen logs. In this city of dreams, the work must go on. It was to be my first experience of that wonderful, resilient community spirit that embodied country life – the very reason why I had chosen to move away from the city. I wandered among the families, picking up the pieces, clearing roads and searching for lost pets.

My neighbour was leaning over the remains of my garden wall. “Hello,” he said cheerfully, hand outstretched. “My name’s Mark,” He gestured to the valley below and the town nestled in the valley far below. “Welcome to Sai Kung!”

Writer, podcaster and Sai Kung resident, Peter Wood

Wood landed in Hong Kong in 1993. He worked as a photographer for the Eastern Express newspaper and for AFP. His first book, a memoir, Mud Between Your Toes, is available.

Listen here: mudbetweenyourtoes.podbean.com

SAI KUNG | 37

38 | SAI KUNG