08-04-2016 by The Phuket News

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FRIDAY, APRIL 8, 2016

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The trio celebrate their history making achievment as they exit the water at Mai Khao Beach on Wednesday morning (Apr 6).

TRIO LED BY SWEDISH ULTRAMAN JONAS COLTING MAKES HISTORY WITH EIGHT-DAY SWIM TREK AROUND THE ISLAND The Phuket News editor@classactmedia.co.th

wedish Ultraman World Champion Jonas Colting and his training partners Thobias Peterson and Daniel Karlsson Engdahl made history on Wednesday (April 6) when they completed a marathon swim to become the first men on record to swim around the island of Phuket. Mr Colting, who led the epic swim, was joined by his training partners

Thobias Peterson and Daniel Karlsson Engdahl throughout the eight legs of the trek. Cheers and applause greeted the weary but fulfilled swimmers as they rose from the water and broke the finish tape at Mai Khao Beach, where they had embarked eight days earlier. To complete the ordeal, the three swam about 17 kilometres each day, from 6am to 1pm. The swim followed a counterclockwise route around Phuket,

passing the west-coast beaches, the island’s southernmost point Phrom Thep Cape, and Chalong Pier. The route then turned northward to Ao Por Pier, passing under the Sarasin Bridge before ending at Mai Khao. Aside from the mammoth total distance of over 140 kilometres, the team also prevailed against strong head winds, currents, jellyfish and the heat. “I was aware of the big challenges being the heat and the sun. We took

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lots of proactive measures like getting in the water early in the morning, lots of sunscreen, and [ate] some young coconut every day after finishing,” Mr Colting said. Characteristic of ultra-distance athletes, Mr Colting and his crew adapted to the workload and felt stronger every day along the way. “The winds, tides and waves have been harder than expected, especially since they haven´t been in our favour for the most part. So it’s been slow...

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FRIDAY, APRIL 8, 2016

Acclaimed movie ‘Patong Girl’ wins prestigious German award > page 7

Mum stabbed to death Police launch manhunt for suspects, robbery leading motive Darawan Naknakhon editor@classactmedia.co.th

olice are still investigating the death of 48-year-old Pa Khlok woman Ubon Romporee, whose body was found with multiple stab wounds at her home last weekend. Her body was reportedly discovered by her 11-year-old son who had just returned home. Thalang Police Chief Col Chanuchan Cholsuwat said on Monday (Apr 4) that no arrests had been made. “We have not made any ar-

rests yet, but we have brought in several people for questioning,” Col Chanuchan said. “Investigation officers are in the area questioning residents and looking into CCTV footage from the area to find the suspect or suspects. “We have brought in a couple of people suspected to be involved in the incident and questioned them. However, we hope to find the suspects/ suspect soon. “We have not ruled out robbery as a motive to the murder, and we will look into any personal issues that the

victim may have had with other persons,” he added. Police were called to investigate the murder after body was reportedly discovered at 3pm last Saturday (April 2) by her 11-year-old son at a home in Soi Khunluang Pa Khlok. Upon arrival, officers and rescue workers found the body of the woman, who had sustained multiple stab wounds to her stomach. Her son reported that a bracelet, necklace and ring belonging to his mother were missing.

Rescue workers prepare to transport Ms Bexar’s body to hospital.

Police yet to conclude probe into death fall Police have questioned several suspects over the stabbing death of 48-year-old Ubon Romporee, whose son reportedly found her body at their home on Sunday.

Ultra men make historic swim continued from page 1 ...going with longer swims than I had planned.” Thanyapura President Philipp Graf von Hardenberg was on hand to welcome the swimmers to the finish line on Wednesday. “We are extremely proud to have been part of making history,” he said. “At Thanyapura we had a dream to organise a swim around the island of Phuket. Thanks to Jonas who dared to dream with us and made it into a reality.” The group had the advantage of support and service from Thanyapura Phuket, their home base while on the island preparing for the event, which was organised in conjunction with Thanyapura Phuket and Apollo Sports Sweden from Scandinavia. Phuket Governor Chamroen Tipayapongtada praised the team and their support. “We

are proud that someone has made history to be the first man to swim around the beautiful island of Phuket,” he said. “This is a great activity to showcase Phuket as a sports and tourism hub of Asia. Big congratulations to Jonas, his team and to the organisers.” Mr Colting said, “It’s been great to feel the support of everyone involved in this project and the great organisation behind! As hard as it is to swim every day, supporting

and organising is probably just as hard and I’ve been very impressed by the dedication of those in the support team. The island of Phuket is truly beautiful and it’s a pleasure to experience it from the water.” The organisers plan to make Swim Around Phuket an annual event attracting marathon swimmers from all over the world to join in this challenge. The record-setting swim event received support from a wide range pro-Phuket agnecies and businesses, including Phuket Provincial Office, Apollo Travel Group, Thanyapura, Lee Marine (which provided the support boat), Oceanline Sunscreen, Yaowawit School, JW Marriott Phuket Resort & Spa, Mai Khao, the Mai Khao Marine Turtle Foundation, Sports & Tourism of Thailand Phuket, and the Marine Police and the Marine Department Phuket office.

POLICE HAVE YET TO conclude their investigation into the death of the young Finnish woman who allegedly jumped to her death from a Phuket guesthouse on March 28. The body of 19-yearold Ida Maria Bexar was found lying face down on the roof of a property at 2:15pm on March 28 by rescue workers and police. Capt Yingyong Chuykij from Kathu Police told The Phuket News on Tuesday (Apr 5), “We have yet to rule the death as suicide because we are still waiting for the doctor’s report. “The body has already been taken back to Finland by the embassy, and we handed all her personal belongings to them. Our investigation into this case has come to a dead end due to lack of evidence,” he said. “Unfortunately, the top floor where she allegedly jumped from from has no CCTV cameras and no one in the area witnessed anything suspicious prior to the incident,” he added. The Phuket News

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Safety on the sands

Patong night patrols ordered after knife attack on beach Eakkapop Thongtub editor@classactmedia.co.th

he island’s top cop has ordered increased night patrols in tourist areas as police have affirmed being hot on the tail of the three suspects who attacked four foreign tourists on Patong Beach early last Friday morning (April 1). Provincial Police Commander Maj Gen Teeraphon Thipcharoen ordered Kathu Police Chief Col Chaiyawat Uikham to assign top priority to apprehending the culprits, and ordered more night patrols in all major tourist areas. The attack, an apparent armed robbery attempt, saw two Australians and two Russians injured. According to police statements, the four tourists were playing in the water near the northern end of the beach when three teenagers arrived at about 4:30am. The Russians – Anton Lukin, 30, and Aleksandra Obodova, 22 – came to shore and were threatened by the

Tourist Police visit Russian tourist Aleksandra Obodova, 22, at Vachira Hospital. youths with a knife. The two sustained injuries whilst trying to grab the knife from the attackers. The two Australians – Daniel James Wade, 20, and Natasha Gibson, 21 – tried to assist the two Russians and also sustained minor injuries. The three youths then sped away on a motorbike towards Loma Park. Phuket Tourist Police of-

ficers and foreign volunteers last Saturday (April 2) visited the two Russians admitted to hospital. Mr Lukin sustained a knife wound on his left hand while Ms Obodova, 22, suffered slash wounds to her left wrist, stomach and knee. Lt Col Anukol Nuket of Kathu Police said: “We’ve now collected statements from all four tourists. The two Australians have already been

cleared by doctors to go home, but we’re still monitoring the condition of the Russian woman closely.” Col Anukol said that the investigation has gathered leads about the identity of the suspects from eye witnesses and CCTV footage from along the suspected escape route. “We’ve got the four-inch pocket knife used in the at-

tack as evidence and expect to make arrests soon,” he said. By Monday (April 4), police confirmed that they had identified the three suspects, but all three were believed to have fled the island. However, police will seek arrest warrants for the three from Phuket Provincial Court, Lt Col Suthichai Tienpo of the Kathu Police told The Phuket News this week. “We know the three suspects stayed in the Patong area and that they were also responsible for the stabbing of a Thai man in a recent attempted robbery in Thung Thong,” Col Suthichai said. “We raided their rented room, but they had already left the island. We think they fled to their home provinces. “However, we are in the process of getting arrest warrants for the three suspects. Finding the suspects is our top priority because this is affecting the safety of tourists,” he said. Additional reporting by Darawan Naknakhon

National park wildfire endangers villages north of Phuket FIREFIGHTERS AT THAI Mueang in Phang Nga province, north of Phuket, were on alert early this week after a wildfire raged for two days before being brought under control as it came within 800 metres of a village. Disaster officials became aware of the fire last Saturday (April 2), said Orathai Giasakul, Chief Executive of the Thai Mueang Municipality. “Right now, we have three fire teams on standby just in case,” she said on Monday. “We are keeping a close watch on the area and are coordinating with officers from the Department of Disaster

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The wildfire came within 800 metres of homes. Photo: Jimmy Jai Photographer Prevention and Mitigation (DDPM), the Department of National Parks, Wildlife and Plant Conservation and the

District Office.” Firefighters struggled to contain the blaze on Saturday, and had masks issued to vil-

lagers in Moo 5 and Moo 9, Ms Orathai explained. “They fought the fire until midnight, and thought that

they had put it out – but it came back on Sunday,” she said. Although the flames came within 800m of the two villages, residents were warned of the impending fire, but were not asked to evacuate their homes, Ms Orathai added. “About 500 rai of land was razed by the fire, including about 220 rai in Khao Lampi– Hat Thai Mueang National Park,” she said. “No villagers were affected by the smoke, and Thai Mueang Police are currently investigating what caused the fire,” Ms Orathai added. Tanyaluk Sakoot

Burana Tapondul (left) called for the underpass opening to be delayed.

Underpass opening postponed for safety A LAND INSPECTOR from the Thailand Ombudsman’s Office has called for the opening of the Sam Kong Underpass to be postponed, citing safety concerns that the promised April 9 opening would be too rushed. The Highways Department has repeatedly assured that the underpass would be ready for traffic by April 9. However, after an inspection of the site at the Sam Kong junction, land inspector Burana Tapondul and his secretary Rakkecha Chaechai last Friday (April 1) recommended to Phuket Vice Gover nor Kajor nkiet Rakpanitmanee to defer the opening until the end of April, or until May. “The tunnel is fully excavated through both sides now, and the workers are in the process of laying the [road] surface and installing electrical equipment inside the tunnel. It looks like it should be ready for use by the public by the end of April,” Mr Burana said. “Safety is our utmost priority. This [delay] is good news for residents who have long been concerned about [the safety of] this project,” he added. Darwan Naknakhon

PHUKET NEWS

FRIDAY, APRIL 8, 2016

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How do I get a tsunami warning on my phone? QUESTIONS & ANSWERS The Phuket News editor@classactmedia.co.th

QUESTION I will be in Phuket on holiday soon and I saw the news (last month) about the earthquake off Sumatra that scared everyone that a tsunami might be heading for Phuket. Thank heavens that didn’t happen, but it did make me think how I could get a tsunami alert or warning on my phone. I can’t speak or read Thai, so I have no idea where to look. – Byron Skiveuz, Canada

The Tourist Police's 'Tourist Buddy' app offers much, but no tsunami warning service.

ANSWER We do not have a tsunami warning service on our either of our tourist help applications. It is an interesting idea, but at this stage we

have no plans to introduce this service.” – Pol Col Archayon Kraithong, Deputy Commander, Phuket Tourist Police.

Our office has a tsunamiwarning app in development, but we do not have an app that people can access just yet. We expect the application will be completed by the end of

this year. For now, we will warn people of any impending tsunamis by sounding the alarm on the 19 tsunami-warning emergency towers located around Phuket. Following a recent test, we discovered that five of the towers were faulty. We are fixing those now. Our officers also distribute pamphlets explaining in different languages, including English, what to do in case of a tsunami to hotels and restaurants so that they can hand these out to their guests. – Trakul Thotham, Director, Department of Disaster Prevention and Mitigation, Region 18 office, Phuket.

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Poll: Should Songkran water play zones be regulated? EACH YEAR AUTHORIties announce “water play zones” for Songkran, with safety the primary reason given for delineating where people can – and cannot – enthusiastically join in the Thai New Year celebrations. However, police in different areas across Phuket tend to enforce the rules more strictly than others, unofficially giving a range of areas for people to join in the fun in their own preferred way. With this type of enforcement, it begs the question, do water play zones work? To this The Phuket News asks our readers, “Should Songkran play zones be regulated?”

Responses available are: The entire island should be made a special zone with regulated behaviour – no exceptions. Set zones with specific guidelines on behaviour, as is done now. Set zones, but rate them differently as zones for families and zones for adults. Abolish the zones – all normal laws regarding behaviour still apply during the holidays. To cast your vote, visit ThePhuketNews.com and select “Poll” from the “News” menu. The poll will continue until April 17. The Phuket News thephuketnews

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City-side residents hit as water supplies fade

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Suthicha Sirirat editor@classactmedia.co.th

ome residents in and around Phuket Town are starting to feel the effects of the island’s drought as the two water resources beside Suan Luang Park have dried out. However, officials believe that 70 per cent of residents in the area will remain unaffected by water shortages and will survive until the rainy season. Phuket City Deputy Mayor Thaworn last week said that most people supplied by Phuket Municipality will suffer no water shortages and will get through the dry period. The amount of water Phuket City supplies to its 20,000 consumers is about 30,000 cubic metres per day, he added. However, Deputy Mayor Thaworn warned; “Some areas will now suffer low water pressure or have no water at all. Areas include Moo Baan Chao Fa and around Suan Luang and this is because the reservoir at Suan Luang is ‘nearly’ dried up. “Other areas affected due to

Yan, 21, was attacked after he tried to shoot a local market vendor who refused to buy a sack of shellfish.

Man attacked at school to face gun charges

The reservoir next to Suang Luang Park, one that Deputy Phuket City Mayor Thaworn Jiraphatsophon says has ‘nearly’ dried up. Photo: Matt Pond the lack of water in the reservoir are Bangkok, Phoonphol and Sakdidet roads, which often have no water at all,” he said. “Normally Phuket City Municipality buys additional water from Provincial Waterworks Authority (PWA) to supply Sakdidet Rd, however, at this time of year, PWA wants to reserve as much of its water as possible, so Sakdidet is one area facing problems,” he added. Deputy Mayor Thaworn added that along Mae Luang Rd near Khao Rang also suf-

fers frequent water shortages. “We are currently trying to solve the problem in this area by using water supplied from the Phuket City area. But we are not sure if the water supply from the city will have enough pressure to go up the hill. If the pressure is too weak then we will probably supply water by fire trucks,” he said. “Areas outside city limits such as Moo Baan Chao Fa are getting help from Wichit Municipality and we are helping to bring in water to the area.”

Russian DJ based in Phuket arrested for ecstasy, cocaine A POPU LA R PH U K ETbased Russian DJ has been arrested along with one other man for attempting to smuggle nearly 90 grams of cocaine into their native Russia. Novosibirsk Police last week announced the arrest of the two men, who they said were taken into custody by police officers and Federal Security Service agents at Tolmachevo Airport, on March 27. Police did not name the two suspects, despite providing to the press low-resolution photographs that showed their passports and flight tickets. However, the ensuing outpouring of comments on Facebook by fans soon identified one of the men as a DJ who goes by the name “Kostya BenJamin”, better known as “Noise”. DJ Noise is well known among the Russian community in Thailand, especially for his performances on the party island Koh Pha-ngan, near Samui. On his Facebook page, he names Phuket as his place of residence. Following a search of the men’s bags on arrival, police seized two packages both @thephuketnews

Comments on Facebook by fans soon identified one of the men as a DJ who goes by the name “Kostya BenJamin”, better known as “Noise” (right). Photos: Russian Police containing white powder, six mobile phones, two laptops, 10 bank cards and a digital scale. Also among the items seized were a ticket for a ThaiSmile flight from Bangkok to Phuket, and a plastic bottle of Thai-brand baby powder that the white powder was hidden in. A test conducted later by drug experts confirmed that the men tried to smuggle into the country 500 milligrams of ecstasy and 89.7 grams of cocaine. When faced with the evidence, both admitted to carrying the drugs, said police. According to one of the suspects, the cocaine was

bought for 500,000 rubles (about B250,000) and could be resold for as much as 1.5 million rubles (B750,000). Asked by the police, the suspects said they had taken illegal drugs, but that they had have never tried to smuggle drugs before. Both men were to be charged with possession of an illegal drug with intent to sell, the police report noted. Police also reported that one other person was arrested in Novosibirsk in connection with the drugs and that they were now checking for other possible suspects and related crimes. Anton Makhrov

Deputy Mayor Thaworn explained that Phuket City Municipality has two reservoirs – in Samkong and at Suan Luang – but that other reservoirs in the area belong to private companies, including Anuphas. “The largest reservoir we have on the island is Bangwad Dam in Kathu, which we rely on to bring water to residents in our area. The volume of water at Bangwad, combined with the reserves at Samkong, I think will last us until June,” he said.

A MYANMAR NATIONal attacked at local school in Phuket Town is set to face charges for illegal possession of a firearm and ammunition, while his friend, who managed to avoid arrest, is still on the run. The man, named only as Yan, 21, had to be taken to hospital handcuffed to a hospital trolley after being assaulted by a group at the Phuket Municipal School on Phoonpol Rd on March 31. Maj Rakkhet Munmuang from Phuket City Police last Friday (April 1) confirmed that Yan was being held at Phuket City Police, where he was to face charges of illegal possession of firearm and ammunition, carrying a firearm into a public place

with out a permit and shooting in a public place. Maj Rakkhet explained that 64-year-old market vendor Somjai Usaha came forward after the incident and told them that two Myanmar men approached him at his stall at the fresh market on Ranong Rd offering to sell him a sack of shellfish. Mr Somjai said, “But I refused and they got upset. They started to argue with me, then one of them tried to shoot me, but missed. “I called for help and the two ran away into the school grounds,” he said. “I was told later that some people from the market followed them into the school and attacked them,” he added. Eakkapop Thongtub

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Navy says closed road to beach is on public land

he Royal Thai Navy officer involved in the investigation into a company closing a road leading to Laem Nga Beach in Rassada this week confirmed that government records show that the road was built on public land. Lt Sompop Kamkhana from the Navy’s Third Area Command at Cape Panwa told The Phuket News on Monday (April 4), “The Department of Rural Roads confirmed they built the road in 1994 and handed it over to Rassada Municipality to take care of in 1997. “According to the law, regardless of the time that has passed, the road remains a public road,” he said. The road was opened on March 29 after Phuket Vice Governor Khajornkiet Rakpanichmanee and Phuket Damrongdhama Centre (O mbud sma n’s Office) Chief Prapan Kanprasang inspected the site and held discussions with Laem Nga Development Co Ltd’s legal

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FRIDAY, APRIL 8, 2016

Chinese tour catch lands Similans ban Eakkapop Thongtub reporter2@classactmedia.co.th

Lt Sompop Kamkhana (centre, in military uniform) inspected the road a second time on Mar 31. representative. M i l it a r y p e r son nel armed with assault rifles accompanied the officials for the “talks”. However, the company blocked off the road again soon after the official inspection party had departed. “We visited the area again (on Mar 31) after lear ning that they had blocked off the road again,” Lt Sompop said. “We told them to keep the road open and will have a meeting with officials and the company soon to settle this,” he added. Eakkapop Thongtub

Phang Nga based tour operator who allegedly allowed tourists to fish in a protected area of the Similan National Park has been given a 30-day ban. The tour operator failed to provide solid evidence to prove the exact location where the illegal fishing took place. Lt Col Chakri Maigumponsuth of the Phang Nga Marine Police and his team on Monday (Apr 4) escorted the boat captain, Lahmarn Kuji, and crewman Weerapong Pethsiri for questioning after they allegedly took Chinese mainland and Hong Kong tourists to fish in Similan National Park territory and demanded they provide the location where they stopped to fish. “Lahmarn said that the location where he took the tourists to fish was four nautical miles from the Similans. He also said it was within his

The tourists refused to listen to the guide and insisted they wanted to dive and fish so were taken out of the park area. Photo: Phang Nga Marine Police normal route and not in the national park,” Col Chakri said. “However, officials noticed that the location given did not correlate with the AIS (location system) report,” he said. “Officers asked to check the boat’s AIS system, but Lahmarn said the AIS was not set up to locate the boat

when it stopped so it must not be working correctly. They also asked to see CCTV footage from the boat,” he added. Similan National Park Chief Nat Gonggeysorn said, “The captain said the area where the incident took place was not within the national park, but he cannot prove

that. In addition, all the fishing equipment on board does not help their case either as they only have a permit to operate as a tour boat not a fishing boat.” The operator was banned from entering Moo Koh Similan for 30 days effective Monday, he said.

Bus driver, 69, and attendant arrested for kratom coach smuggling A 69-YEAR-OLD BUS DRIver and his 26-year-old attendant have been booked for possession of the kratom plant after attempting to smuggle 19 kilos of the pyschoactive stimulant on a coach arriving in Phuket from Chumphon. Authorities – led by Si-

ripong Lipprasit, who is the Thalang District Palad (chief admin clerk) and chief of Thalang’s security division, along with Col Pricha Rakchan of the Thalang Police – presented their latest kratom bust to Phuket Governor Chamroen Tipayapongtada at 10am last Saturday (April 2).

Acting on a tip-off, officers last Friday (April 1) followed the coach as it arrived in Phuket, from Chumphon, and as it parked in front of Tesco Thalang to drop off passengers, officers stopped the coach and proceeded to board and search it. The search unveiled 19kg

of the kratom plant packed into the frame and concealed by a rubber mat. Police said that the driver, named as Seri Meesaeng, confessed to buying the illegal plant – which is a mild stimulant native to Southeast Asia and is consumed by Thais of various ages – in

Chumphon at the rate of B1,000 per kilo, and planned to sell it in Phuket for B1,300 to B1,500 per kilo. Police said that they had busted Mr Seri once already around the New Year holiday, at the Tha Chatchai Checkpoint, and that he confessed to having smuggled the plant to Phuket

regularly for at least a year. Both men were charged with possession of a Category 5 addictive drug (kratom) and booked at Thalang Police Station even though the attendant, named as Apichai Wongkaeo, refuted the charges. Eakkapop Thongtub

Chumphon-Phuket bus driver, 69, attendant, 26, booked for kratom coach smuggling attempt.

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at Acclaimed ‘Patong Girl’ Fire Chalong wins prestigious award home The Phuket News editor@classactmedia.co.th

he award-winning German movie Patong Girl is set to premiere in Thailand, fittingly in Patong, as well as three other locations, including Bangkok, on April 21. The film has won the coveted Grimme Prize for the best fiction/special category for 2016. Although the award jury has already publicly announced the winners of the prestigious awards for German television, dubbed the “German TV Oscars”, the gala presentation will be held in the city of Marl today (April 8). “Lead actress Aisawanya Areyawattana will be flying over to receive the award,” Tom Waller, Co-Producer of Patong Girl, told The Phuket News this week. Ms Aisawanya plays “Fai”, who German tourist Felix Schroeöder, played by Max Mauff, falls in love with while on holiday in Phuket with his family.

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Aisawanya Areyawattana, who plays the enigmatic “Fai”, poses during a film shoot. From there, the plot takes twists and turns, to resounding critical acclaim in Germany for highlighting the intricacies of cross-cultural romance. “Patong Girl had a theatrical release before it was shown on television, so the film is considered a feature

film but funded by television. So what happened is that the film was shown at festivals and then in cinemas before it was released on television,” Mr Waller explained. “But Thailand is still obviously catching up with this, so we decided to show the

film in theatres here (in Thailand) because it has won an award – and it is a prestigious award – and there are very few inter-cultural romances shown in the theatres here between Thailand and foreigners who come here and fall in love. “We felt it was entirely

appropriate to show not only to premiere in Patong but to show in cinemas in four cities across Thailand,” he said. Exclusive presentations of Patong Girl will be released only in participating SF cinemas: SF World in Bangkok, SF Pattaya Beach, SF Jungceylon in Phuket and SF Maya-Chiang Mai. Directed by Susanna Salonen, Patong Girl was created by De Warrenne Pictures Co Ltd, founded by Mr Waller in 2004. The studio is responsible for producing awardwinning films such as The Last Executioner (เพชฌฆาต), Mindfulness and Murder (ศพไม่ เง ยี บ), Soi Cowboy (ซอยคาวบอย), The Elephant King (ฤด แู ห่งรัก), Ghost of Mae Nak (นาก รักแท ้ วิญญาณ ความตาย) and Butterfly Man (ผ เี ส ื อ้ รอ้ นรัก).

For more details about Patong Girl, visit Patong-Girl.com or the official Facebook page. The Phuket premiere screening of Patong Girl is proudly supported by Live 89.5 and The Phuket News TV.

A FIRE BROKE OUT at a rented home i n Chalong last Friday (Apr 1), destroying the contents of one room. The occupants of the property were out when the incident happened, and officials suspect the fire was caused by an electrical short circuit. Local officials and firemen from Chalong Municipality were called to respond to a fire at a property in Soi Songkhun at 12:45pm. Chalong Mayor Samran Jindaphol, police and two fire trucks arrived to find a plume of smoke and flames coming from one room of the property. No one was at the home at the time, while firemen took 20 minutes to put the fire out and prevent the fire from spreading. “We believe the fire started by an electrical short circuit, but officials will investigate to find the true cause,” he said. Darawan Naknakhon

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KODCHANAT THINSEPON Editor

STEVEN LAYNE Managing Editor editor@classactmedia.co.th From the USA; BA in Communication Arts from Bangkok University International College; seven years’ experience at Nation Junior Magazine, Bangkok Recorder, Phuket.net, ThailandUSA.com, Farangs.com and Phuket Gazette.

CHRIS HUSTED Executive Editor 084 307 7408 execeditor@classactmedia.co.th Fifteen years working in news and covering local issues and events in Phuket, with 18-month hiatus spent working for the Brunei Times on Borneo. From Queensland, Australia; 10 years living in the UK before moving to Phuket in 2000. Degree in business management. Spare time spent sailing or with family.

MATTHEW POND News & Sports Editor editor3@classactmedia.co.th Originally from the UK; Has four years experience as editor and reporter for Phuketindex.com magazine and website, and InPhuket magazine.

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EDITORIAL

Phuket’s place on the map

or every handful of “image-tarnishing” headlines The Phuket News publishes, there’s occasionally a newsworthy lead that deserves positive press – such stories that effectively encapsulate the idealistic brochure image the world over has traditionally associated this tropical island paradise with; that original place we all fell in love with once upon a time, with its aquamarine waters, white stretches of beach and a vibrant nightlife where you just might find yourself lost in a crowd before waking up next to a beautiful stranger. Oh Phuket, thy international haven and melting pot, home to happy people on yachts and sailboats, rolling greens, stunning sea views and verdant vistas... Let’s face it, despite all the daily reminders of heaven’s

nemesis and her corruption, death, accidents, encroachment and environmental neglect – all that which keeps us here at The Phuket News so busy day in, day out – our little tropical island continues to maintain a powerful brand that people and businesses the world over still have a strong desire to be associated with (See news, page 13). A few headlines this past week underline this. Why did developers, as reported last week, decide to try to build the world’s biggest Ferris wheel here? And of all the islands around the world, why did a Swedish Ultraman and his backers finally decide on Phuket to make waves? (See page 1). And those German filmmakers, they could have, should have called their award-winning romance “Pattaya Girl”, but, in the end they settled on Patong

Girl (See news, page 7). What is it about Phuket that keeps us wanting more? Nevermind armchair trolls insisting the grass is greener somewhere over the rainbow – the Thai government knows it, just as all the investors and their respective contractors do too: Phuket is the prevailing Thai, Asean and Asian tropical capital for all things beach, real estate, transport, tourism, marine, leisure, shopping, education, art, music and culture. There will continue to be growing pains, but we will all be better off as a result. In the meantime, it’s an exciting month to be here, so go on and enjoy the festive fruit that we are privilege to: Phuket Bike Week (April 8-16), Phuket Balloon Fest (Apr 14-17) Phuket Pride Week (Apr 24-May 1), Phuket International Jazz Festival (Apr 27-30). See you there!

TOP 10 STORIES ON thephuketnews.com

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10

Phuket beach attack leaves two tourists injured Thai beauty crowned Miss Hooters Phuket in bikini pageant, eyes Vegas International glory Phuket-based Russian DJ arrested for ecstasy, cocaine Tourist area night patrols ordered as police ‘close to making arrests’ for Patong knife attack Nanny-for-hire Facebook page draws lustful men Two nabbed in B600m ‘pure meth’ bust Firefighters on alert as blaze endangers villages north of Phuket Armed negotiations reopen road to Phuket beach Boy, 11, reports finding body of stabbed mom, valuables missing Land inspector recommends opening of Sam Kong Underpass to be postponed, prioritize safety

Visit thephuketnews.com for all the latest news

HAVE YOUR SAY Jaundiced in my face! Re: Village boss held for teen attack Wish the Koh Tao investigation had been conducted with a similar disregard for the social standing of those who were originally named as “police have evidence that the named suspects are guilty”! I guess that this “charged person” is the village headman, he hasn’t got one to intercede with the necessary inducements! Jaundiced am I? Unfortunately, yes! Between the conviction of the young Burmese workers for two murders on impossibly, highly questionable evidence; a “hi-so” who, probably drunk at the time (but we’ll never know because she was allowed to go home untested and statement-less) killed a policemen man but “bought” her freedom; another “hi-so”, the Red Bull heir; now Janepob, driving at a now proven speed of approx 250km, killed a couple ... resulting so far in speeding charges being out of the question due to passage of time and no actual criminal charges having been laid (due to some “fair treatment” loophole that I wager is only available to those who can afford it. And of course we mustn’t forget the five dolphins (+ two seals) who are deemed by

a Thai dolphin “ex-spurt” to not being subjected to any suffering in the form of mental or physical harm from being doomed to a life of slavery in a tiny circular steel tank measuring 20 metres in diameter and having a depth of less than four metres. I love Thailand and its ordinary citizens, but I have a hard time respecting those who are supposed to be protecting their country and people against corrupt practices! So, yes, I cannot deny that I am saddened and jaundiced by some of what I see! Of course, corruption and favoritism to certain segments of society is not exclusive to Thailand, it’s just a bit more blatant and “in-your-face”! I do believe that eventually it will be rooted out, but how soon? Seaturtle55 Sea Turtle, Nom Sod (Toovichien) was a person of interest, and his uncle Mon was never on the list, was questioned only, never arrested as many claimed. I too believed, from all the propaganda on FB that Win and Zaw were innocent. When I looked at the misinformation and distortions, and more importantly the people spreading it and their motives (CSI La for one), I changed my mind. Now I think they were

convicted correctly, for the rape of Witheridge at least despite their angelic faces – which has been stated, “could not belong to brutal rapists…” The recent Solicitors International Human Rights Group observers report states clearly that they got a fair trial (under Thai laws). Christy Sweet

Attitude adjustment needed in Phuket

Re: Phuket commercial fishing operators warned to obtain new 2-year ‘E-license’ or else face stiff penalties Thai authorities still think they can fool the world outside Thailand with their huffing and puffing. Thailand seems not willing to change attitude in practice, just on paper. I am sure all the sneaky illegal Thai fishing continuing is well documented by USA satellites. Photos made by tourists and forwarded to international agencies doing the rest. NCPO, save your face as an authority. Act! Reform! That is why you took power, yes? I guess for NCPO, Phuket is a nail in the Thai coffin. Phuket ignores NCPO where it can. We see/ experience it every day. Phuket needs a large accommodation for Thai ‘attitude adjustment’. Well, there are small islands for it around Phuket.

Kurt

Who’s committing Phuket crimes?

Re: Phuket beach attack leaves two tourists injured Phuket has only 1,800 policemen for more than a million people living here, including 200,000 Burmese [sic] and more than 500,000 Thais from other provinces who are not registered with local administration. Most of the crimes in Phuket are from those two groups because they know they can avoid to be arrested if they hide in another province for a while. Whistle-blower If youths are out at 4:30am, then they can only be looking for opportunities. Difficult to speculate, but possible robbery motive? These tourists could have been the first and easiest target. As one commentator has said, it is only by chance that a murder is not being investigated, a slip of a knife and anything can happen. The police know that revelers leave the clubs late, and I would assume that a circular motorcycle patrol of the beach road and Rat-U-Thit would spot or deter these opportunists, one policeman is not too much to ask to protect tourists. LES

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FRIDAY, APRIL 8, 2016

THAILAND NEWS

Irregularities in Red Bull case

Flaws found in police’s handling of fatal hit-and-run BANGKOK

laws and irregularities have been found in the Thong Lor police handling of a 2012 hit-and-run case involving an heir to the Red Bull energy drink empire. Partial findings of a preliminary investigation into the officers’ conduct were disclosed by deputy national police chief Gen Pongsapat Pongcharoen last Saturday (Apr 2). The report came from acting Bangkok police chief Lt Gen Sanit Mahathaworn, who was assigned to probe the investigators at Thong Lor station responsible for the case involving Vorayudh “Boss” Yoovidhya. Vorayudh was allegedly driving the speeding Ferrari that crashed into a traffic policeman’s motorcycle, killing the officer, in the early hours of Sept 3, 2012. Vorayudh was charged with reckless driving causing death, failing to help a crash victim and speeding, the last of which has the shortest stat-

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Forensic police inspect the Ferrari driven by Red Bull heir Vorayuth “Boss” Yoovidhya. Photo: Kosol Nakachol ute of limitations at one year. The inquiry focused on why Vorayudh could not be indicted before the one-year statute of limitations on his speeding charge expired on Sept 3, 2013. Gen Pongsapat said the several f laws and irregularities were found in Thong Lor officers’ handling of the case. He declined to provide details, but said the issue of

whether investigators intended to purposefully delay the case is mentioned. The deputy police chief said further investigation was needed before any conclusive findings could be reached, and information would also be sought from public prosecutors handling the case to determine the exact cause of the delay. The report also focuses

on why police failed to issue an arrest warrant for the suspect before the statute of limitations expired. The report was to be presented to national police chief Chakthip Chaijinda on Tuesday (Apr 5), Gen Pongsapat said, adding that a police inspector-general may be assigned to gather additional information and help assign responsibility for the failures.

Any police officers found to have mishandled the case will face disciplinary action, as well as criminal action if they were involved in malfeasance, Gen Pongsapat said. The investigators responsible for the case were also criticised for their decision not to charge Vorayudh with drink- driving, a charge that has a statute of limitations of five years.

When Vorayudh turned himself in to police, he was tested for alcohol at Samitivej Hospital, close to Thong Lor Police station, instead of the Police General Hospital. His blood alcohol level exceeded the legal limit, though police noted in their case files that Vorayudh had only consumed alcohol after the accident due to “stress”. Prosecutors earlier said they had indicted Vorayudh on all three charges, but failed to proceed with the case due to the suspect’s requests for “fair treatment”. A series of petitions by Vorayudh slowed the proceedings. One day before the statute of limitations for the speeding charge was due to expire on Sept 3, 2013, Vorayudh’s lawyer asked for a postponement on the grounds his client was in Singapore and had fallen ill. Prosecutors suspected Vorayudh was trying to delay the case and asked police to seek an arrest warrant. But this did not happen because Vorayudh again requested fair treatment.

10 THAILAND NEWS

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

FRIDAY, APRIL 8, 2016

Six soliders jailed for beating of Yala privates YALA

he army on Wednesday (Apr 6) jailed six soldiers 30-45 days who allegedly colluded to beat two privates in Yala last Friday (Apr 1), leaving one dead and the other seriously injured. Sub Lt Patnat Lertchaikul was jailed 30 days at the 15th Infantry Division in Pattani province. Five other non-commissioned officers – Cpls Kasiti Chalok and Pathara Phetcharat, and three Private 1st Class Thasanai Chaipanyut, Natthaw ut Cherdsaeng and Jakrapong Sangmul – were imprisoned 45 days at the 46th Military Circle in Pattani. Defence Minister Prawit Wongsuwon said the suspects could face more punishment, including military discharge. He added that the relatives of the victims could file lawsuits. Army spokesman Winthai Suvaree said on Tuesday (Apr 5) that a panel set up by the 15th Infantry Division had concluded the six colluded in the assault on the privates. Col Winthai insisted the army will not protect the offenders and harsh punishment will be brought against them. Gen Prawit said on Tuesday that the six had attacked the privates in an altercation about theft. He said the military and police will conduct the investigation jointly as it involves

Police are going through the top two backpacker areas to shut down unregistered hostels and guesthouses. Photo: Pornprom Satrabhaya

Police target illegal guesthouses, hotels BANGKOK

The picture of Pvt Songtham Mudmad, 23, was placed at a local Buddhist temple in Sichon district, Nakhon Si Thammarat, for his funeral. Photo by Nujaree Raekrun criminal matters. The inquiry was launched after Pvt Songtham Mudmad, 23, and Pvt Chatpisut Chumphan, 23 – both attached to the 1st Battalion of the 152nd Infantry Regiment – were assaulted at Payak Camp in Yala's Bannang Sata district on Friday night. After the attack, Pv t Songtham was admitted to intensive care at Yala Regional Hospital while Pvt Chatpisut was admitted to Sirindhorn Military Hospital at Ingkhayuthaboriharn Military Camp in Pattani with serious injuries. Pvt Songtham was pronounced dead on Monday morning (Apr 4). According to Pvt Chatpisut, who spoke to police after the

beating, he and Pvt Songtham accused one of the officers who would later beat them of stealing their money. The accused officer made a counter claim, accusing Pvt Songtham of taking illicit drugs. Both privates asked to search the officer, but he refused, leading to a brawl. They dispersed after other officers intervened. About 9pm, both were allegedly attacked by six officers including the officer they accused of theft. They were kicked and beaten with hard objects. The assault lasted until 4am the next morning. Pvt Chatpisut found Pvt Songtham, who passed out during the

incident, and subsequently stopped breathing. Pvt Songtham was revived by CPR and taken to hospital. Col Winthai expressed his condolences to Pvt Songtham’s family, adding the 15th Infantry Division will provide them with assistance. Col Pramote Prom-in, spokesman for the Internal Security Operations Command Region 4’s Forward Command, said 4th Army commander Wiwat Pathompark also delivered his condolences and apologised to the public for the incident. Pvt Songtham’s family on Tuesday filed a complaint with Bannang Sata police station against the officers who beat the private to death. Bangkok Post

TWENTY-FOUR OPERAtors of guesthouses and hotels in downtown Bangkok have been arrested for operating without licences during security control crackdowns last Thursday (Mar 31) ahead of the Songkran festival. Tourist Police Division chief Surachet Hukpan said the operators on Khao San and Tha Phra Athit roads did not have hotel operating permits when authorities raided their offices. Four were found to have ignored previous warnings to register with authorities. Authorities wanted to check whether the operators were legally operating their businesses; whether the accommodation venues had been registered; whether they had kept records of their guests; and whether their guests had overstayed their visas, Maj Gen Surachet said. Khao San and Tha Phra Athit roads are the busiest areas in the city during Sognkran. Hundreds of tourists are expected to take part in water throwing activities during the Songkran festival from April 13 to 15. The division earlier launched a security control campaign to help keep locations in the city centre safe and secure during the upcoming festival.

A team of tourist police has been promoting legal hotel and guesthouse operations in the city centre. According to the Hotel Act, violators will face a jail term up to one year, a fine up to B20,000 or both. Meanwhile, the Office of the Vocational Education Commission (Ovec) plans to launch 250 “fix it centres” nationwide to minimise road accidents during Songkran. More than 250,000 students from 250 vocational institutions nationwide will offer free basic check-up services for cars and motorcycles under special purple tents along the four country’s main highways. The services run from 8.30am to midnight from April 11 to 17, the period known as the “seven dangerous days of the Songkran festival”. Refreshments will be available. Ovec’s secretary-general Chaipreuk Sereerak said the project aims to utilise the knowledge of vocational students while helping the community. Ovec expects to set up 250 service points and service more than 70,000 vehicle owners. Road Safety Directing Centre figures show 364 Thai travellers died and 3,559 were injured during the seven dangerous Songkran days last year. Bangkok Post

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FRIDAY, APRIL 8, 2016

ASIA NEWS 11

Dead and forgotten Bodies taking up New Delhi’s decrepit morgues INDIA

rusted carving knife and a mallet lie on a steel table, while inside the cold storage rooms, bodies take up every square inch of the blood-stained floors. More than 2,500 autopsies are carried out every year at New Delhi’s oldest and busiest morgue, but the air purifiers have long been broken and disinfectant supplies for washing floors ran out two months ago. “The mortuary is compromised at every level,” Sabzi Mandi mortuary’s chief doctor, L.C Gupta, said of the dearth of resources. The decrepit state of the Indian capital’s dozen-odd morgues, mostly state run, recently stunned the High Court which ordered the city’s government to take action. From outdated equipment to poor storage of bodies and sick staff, the results of a court-ordered investigation

made disturbing reading and shocked many in this deeply religious country. “It’s a clear cut case of negligence,” said lawyer Saqid, who uses one name, and was appointed by the court to conduct the probe. “There are a lot of rights under the constitution and people in India spend a lot of time fighting for them,” he said as he poured over photos and documents in his office. “But the dead cannot protest their rights.” The crisis is compounded by the sheer number of unidentified bodies, several thousand a year, that fill Delhi’s morgues after being discovered outside train stations, bus terminals and other public places. Many are homeless men who pour into the city of 16 million from villages every year desperately searching for work. They die from disease, malnutrition and the impact of living on the city’s harsh streets. Protocol says they must be kept for up to 72 hours in

A medic walks through a cold storage unit as he inspects a morgue in New Delhi. Photo:Chandan Khanna/AFP a morgue to allow families time to collect them. But many remain for much longer, unclaimed by relatives and shunned by the reluctant police who found them, placing a strain on the morgues themselves. The crisis repor tedly boiled over earlier this year when bodies were left on the street outside Sabzi Mandi, with frustrated staff refusing to take them back in. Mr Gupta denied the in-

Size matters at Japan phallus festival JAPAN JAPANESE REVELLERS ca r r ied g ia nt phal lu se s through the streets of Kawasaki on Sunday (Apr 3) to worship the humble penis and fertility in one of the world’s most unusual festivals. Size matters at the Shinto Kanamara Matsuri, where groups of locals parade three heavy phalluses around the city – the biggest as tall as a full-grown man. Giggling festival-goers, including young children and grandmothers dressed in kimonos, sucked on penis lollipops and posed with phallus-shaped sculptures. An anatomically correct radish-carving contest drew a large crowd of sniggering onlookers, while blushing parents perched babies on a giant see-saw of frighteningly accurate likeness to pray for fertility. Tens of thousands gather every spring for the festival, where they can buy keepsakes such as key chains, trinkets, pens, chocolates and even toy glasses with a plastic penis nose. For the local priest of the Kanayama Shrine, however, it is no laughing matter. @thephuketnews

Locals parade giant phalluses through the streets, and were said to have drawn some curious stares from visiting foreigners. Photo: AFP “If young children are not used to seeing [male genitalia], they could get into a bit of a panic when the time comes,” Hiroyuki Nakamura said, explaining the festival’s educational role. “People come to pray for good fortune and to ask the gods to protect them. The festival is steeped in the past but has still has a valuable part to play in modern society.” Known as the Festival of the Steel Phallus – or colloquially as the “Willy Festival” – legend has it that in the Edo Period (1603-1868) a sharptoothed demon inhabiting a woman’s vagina castrated several unfortunate young men on their wedding nights. A local blacksmith came to the rescue by forging an iron

dildo to break the demon’s teeth and today a three-foot black steel phallus sits in the shrine’s courtyard to honour the Shinto deities of fertility, childbirth and protection from sexually transmitted infections. Over the centuries, sex workers also made a pilgrimage to the shrine to seek its powers of protection before the festival became a tourist attraction in the 1970s. “I think it’s brilliant,” said Sayuri Kubo, a 14-year-old schoolgirl proudly holding an erotic lollipop. “The mikoshi (portable shrine) parade was awesome.” Not surprisingly, however, the festival drew a large amount of curious stares from visiting foreigners. AFP

cident, but added that police moved quickly to come and collect unclaimed bodies after the row was reported in a leading Indian daily. In the storage rooms, there are no shelves or racks to hold the numerous bodies. Encased in white plastic, most are lying on the floor, with many of the wrappings ripped and open. A single, scuffed boot sits on top of one body and a hand flops over the edge of a rusted trolley holding another.

According to the court’s report, a key problem is the large number of autopsies performed at the request of overcautious police, creating a backlog and placing pressure on morgue staff. “Police insist on post mortems as a matter of routine even though their own circular says there is no need if there are no suspicious circumstances,” Saqid said. Delhi’s health minister Satyendar Jain, who reportedly

said he felt ill after touring the morgues in the wake of the report, has promised to improve conditions. Jain declined requests for comment, but his officials have said that a review of the situation is under way. The court ordered the probe in 2014 after authorities discovered that the body of a prison inmate whose death was being investigated had been chewed by rats. The report found that a lack of funds impacts on the living as well as the dead, with staff falling ill from handling bodies infected with tuberculosis and other diseases. At Sabzi Mandi, staff use only bathroom soap to wash their hands, while a shortage of hospital-grade products means floors are cleaned instead with bleach, a doctor said. “It’s an occupational hazard,” Dr Komal Singh said of staff falling sick at his mortuary at the Deen Dayal Upadhyay Hospital in Delhi’s west. AFP

12 WORLD NEWS

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

FRIDAY, APRIL 8, 2016

Cat and dog companions

Animals, fighters’ best friends in east Ukraine UKRAINE hey fight rats, depression and even serve in combat roles – dogs and yes, some cats, have turned into a prized companion for fighters on both sides of eastern Ukraine’s separatist war. In Sartana, a suburb of the Sea of Azov port city of Mariupol that remains Kiev’s main stronghold in the conflict zone, two purring cats live alongside hardened government soldiers who face daily threats at the battle front. The pets were rescued from pro-Russian rebel shells that fell on the nearby flashpoint village of Shyrokyne, devastated and all but abandoned by its 1,000 residents. “We and the cats have a win-win relationship,” machine gunner Pavlo, a 28-yearold archaeologist from Kiev who was forced to stop work on his doctoral thesis after the insurgents revolted in April 2014, says while stroking his furry friend. “Cats are a domesticated animal. Where there is a cat, everything is alright.” The 23-month conflict has claimed the lives of nearly 9,200 people and driven more than 1.5 million from their homes. A series of periodic truces have helped quiet some of the war’s biggest guns, but increasing exchanges of fire

A Ukrainian serviceman holds a cat as he guards a checkpoint near the port city of Mariupol, which remains Kiev’s main stronghold in the conflict zone in Donetsk region. Photo: Aleksey Filippov and mines scattered throughout the conflict zone claim lives of civilians and soldiers almost daily, with night-time especially unsafe. For soldiers like Pavlo, any sign of the long-forgotten joys of normal life is cherished, with the pets around them treated like royalty. A large black dog that has been given the nom-deguerre Gilza (Bullet Shell) cuddles up at Pavlo’s feet as

he speaks. “Dogs are also an irreplaceable assistant,” he adds. “They work like an alarm when there is a threat. That is because they hear and see much better than people do. They warn us whenever the enemy nears.” A military medical attendant who only provided his codename, Rodon, treats cats like irreplaceable colleagues who help fight the spread of

infectious diseases by hunting down rats and mice. But Rodon admits that the animals’ greatest value comes from the morale boost they invariably give the homesick soldiers. “They are like an antidepressant – they lift your mood,” Rodon says. “You call them, and a whole swarm of them comes running your way. And you immediately feel better,” says

Rodon while a dog licks some food from his palm. Besides soldiers, Rodon also treats dogs, even giving them treatments from his own medicine chest. “We brought back many dogs from Shyrokyne who were abandoned by residents fleeing the shelling,” he says. “When they all suddenly fell ill, I treated them with antibiotics and made them drink vodka,” he says, referring to

a tipple renowned for being the antiseptic of last resort. On the other side of the front line, a 40-year-old rebel who is known to his fellow separatist fighters as Turok (The Turk), commands a squadron on the outskirts of the insurgents’ de facto capital Donetsk. He proclaims himself a sworn enemy of pro-Western Kiev’s forces, but worships animals in much the same way as his opponents. “We have a lovely German Shepherd that decided to live with us at the very start of the war. She was abandoned by the locals,” Turok recalls. “But she recently died when she stepped on a mine,” he adds gravely. “All she left behind were her puppies.” They have been kept in a pound to prevent them from running off to the front, where live exchanges of fire occur daily, accompanied by the periodic use of much heavier and more deadly weapons. “We call the red one Praporshchik (Warrant Officer) and the black one Mayor (Major).” But the Ukrainian gunner Pavlo refuses to christen his cats. ‘I do not want to give them any names associated with the war,” Pavlo says. “I will name my kitten once I take him home to Kiev,” he adds. AFP

Watchman at the end of the world CHILE BALANCING WORK AND family life is a challenge for most of us, but few come up with solutions as extreme as Jose Aguayo’s. The Chilean sailor, whose job used to keep him away from his family for long stretches, decided recently to move the whole clan to Cape Horn, near the tip of South America, where he watches over a lighthouse above the treacherous Drake Passage and spends more time – a lot more time – with his wife, son and daughter. It is a harsh environment of numbing cold and bitter wind, and the nearest town is more than five hours away by boat. But to the 36-year-old and his family, this remote outpost at the end of the world is home. “The kids motivated me a

Jose Aguayo watches over the treacherous Drake Passage. Photo: AFP little bit,” he said, explaining why he volunteered for the job. “I’m a sailor, so I spend a lot of time at sea. Vicente is 11 and I’ve been sailing for 10 years. So they wanted to be with their dad, and what better way than being here.” Manning a lighthouse that sits above the spot where the Atlantic meets the Pacific, Aguayo guides ships through a tempestuous stretch of sea that has killed more than 10,000 sailors and shipwrecked 800 vessels since the 17th century.

Known for its icebergs, large waves and strong currents, the Drake Passage between South America and Antarctica used to be an essential channel of world trade, until the Panama Canal was completed a century ago. These days, there is much less traffic. But Aguayo, who arrived in November, still starts his day at 3am, taking meteorological measurements. By six, he is greeting the tourist boats that ferry curious sightseers to this remote outpost during the southern hemisphere

summer. “We’ve had 4,000 visitors to the island so far. They ask me how I can still be smiling,” Aguayo said. The Aguayo family has spent the past two months keeping the Cape Horn lighthouse, which was built by the Chilean navy in 1991. They live in a treeless landscape swept day and night by winds of up to 100 kilometers an hour. Aguayo’s wife, Natalia Rodriguez, home-schools their children, Vicente and Montserrat, five. Besides the family’s house, which is at the base of the lighthouse, the only signs of civilisation are a landing strip and a chapel. There isn’t a lot to do, but “the kids are doing great,” said Aguayo. AFP thephuketnews

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FRIDAY, APRIL 8, 2016

BUSINESS NEWS 13

Boost for local enterprises ECONOMICS

Darawan Naknakhon editor@classactmedia.co.th

nterior Minister Gen Anupong Paochinda arrived in Phuket last week to launch the country’s first “Social Enterprise” specifically to help rural communities raise their standard of living by developing their local economies. Speaking at Phuket Provincial Hall on March 31, Gen Anupong said “Pracharat Raksamakkee Phuket is the first community enterprise in Thailand, and today we introduce many activities involving business development to push the new Pracharat (‘People’s State’) economic policy, which will help residents generate more income by focusing on three areas: agriculture, transformation and tourism.” “Phuket is the first province to pilot this project because the island is ready and has much produce here that is connected to tourism,” Gen Anupong explained. The island also has a large production foundation that connects with surrounding provinces and is already promoting the development

Some business operators who have already received the Phuket Brand logo. Photo: PR Dept

Governor unveils Phuket Brand Interior Minister Gen Anupong Paochinda (blue jacket) and Thai Beverage Managing Director Thapana Siriwatnaphakdee (left) inspect produce at the project launch. of organic vegetables, milk, lobster farming, batik fabric production, he added. The aim of the state enterprise is to educate local communities on business strategies and develop diversified revenue streams to mitigate any drastic effects on communities dependent on income derived from a single industry. “We want people to understand the five basic business concepts: production factors, management, education, marketing and communication,”

Gen Anupong said. The Phuket Pracharat committee will be led by Phuket Governor Chamroen Tipyapongtada and Thapana Siriwatnaphakdee, Managing Director of Thai Beverage Co Ltd. “We are focusing on helping people to understand many aspects, such as capital, investment, management all the way to selecting seeds,” Mr Thapana said. “We will educate them on transforming produce from

Qatar Airways eyes flights to Krabi AIRLINES QATAR AIRWAYS HAS announced it will inaugurate flights to Chiang Mai and Krabi as of December 2016. The airline’s Group Chief Executive, Akbar Al Baker, made the announcement at the ITB Berlin, the world’s largest international travel fair, held March 9-13. Four flights a week will be launched from Doha to Krabi on December 6 and three flights per week from Doha to Chiang Mai also in December, with

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the exact date to be announced later, Mr Al Baker said. The two Thailand destinations were the only new ones in Southeast Asia amongst 14 cities worldwide that will be added to the Qatar Airways network over the rest of 2016. With the launch, the airline, which already flies to Bangkok and Phuket, will become the first Middle East airline to serve Krabi and Chiang Mai. In 2015, Krabi International Airport, under the administrative purview of the Department of Civil Aviation, was served by 46 scheduled and non-scheduled

Qatar Airways Group Chief Akbar Al Baker (centre) announced the new services at ITB Berlin last month. airlines, which operated a total of 28,346 flights, up 28.52 per cent over 2014. The airport served 3,689,831 passengers in 2015, up 36.61% ver 2014. The Phuket News

agriculture into a community product and develop the area into a tourism community. We also will help them find markets for their products and provide them with related news and information,” he added. “Shareholders in the company will oversee the operation with the aim of benefiting society, not to generate highest income. All profits will be used to toward improving businesses, no dividends will be paid to anyone,” Mr Thapana explained.

PHUKET GOVERNOR Chamroen Tipayapongtada has announced that a total of 32 local products will in future officially bear a Phuket Brand logo symbolising them as being a top quality product of the province. Gov Cha m roen a nnounced at a meeting at Provincial Hall on March 30 that Phuket had received a permit that will allow the island to launch a Phuket Brand as a symbol identifying the province’s quality products and services to help promote development of

local products and tourism. Gov Chamroen authorised the use of the Phuket Brand logo to 17 selected operators and to 32 products and services across the island. Products and services qualified to bear the Phuket Brand have been selected by a management committee and broken down into five categories namely; health services, restaurants, public car services, community products, and agricultural produce. Suthicha Sirirat

14 BUSINESS NEWS

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

FRIDAY, APRIL 8, 2016

IUU crackdown targets commercial operators FISHERIES

The Paul Poole ‘branded’ press release.

Paul Poole comes clean MARKETING THE CONTROVERSY over the news last week that Paul Poole (South East Asia) Co Ltd was providing corporate tattoos was only a 2016 April Fools’ prank, but was featured by national media, and social media platforms including social media videos going viral. The news article included photos showing the logos of well-known brands adorning the bodies of attractive models and the message: “In a world where traditional media is in rapid decline, marketers are faced with constantly changing and at times obscure non-traditional marketing platforms, which everyone is talking about but few seem to understand. Corporate tattoos offer an impactful, tangible and permanent alternative.” Later the same day, Bangkok Post/Post Today, ThaiVisa, The Phuket News and Pattaya Today ran stories highlighting the moral issues of encouraging young people to brand their bodies with company logos. YouTube phenomenon

and videography company, My Mate Nate, shot a video of Nate, an American living in Thailand who is known for his hidden camera pranks, going around showing off his new corporate tattoo. “Given the attention we have received from this, I’m starting to think we should start offering corporate tattoos,” joked Paul Poole, Founder, Managing Director and Chairman of Paul Poole (South East Asia) Co Ltd. Paul Poole (South East Asia) Co Ltd is an independent marketing consultancy based in Bangkok, Thailand specialising in commercial sponsorship and partnership marketing, working with both rights holders and brands – acting as a catalyst by bringing them together and maximising the relationship. “We have packaged, sold and managed sponsorship and partnership opportunities for a wide range of rights holders and worked with many of the world’s leading brands to source and engage the right sponsorships and partnerships for them to maximise,” said Mr Poole.

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Fishing without a valid fishing license is considered a “serious infringement” under the Royal Ordinance on Fisheries. Sanctions will be strictly applied, including a fine of: • 200,000 – 600,000 baht (5,000-15,000 euros) f or vessels of 20-60 GT • 600,000 – 6,000,000 baht (15,000-150,000 euros) f or vessels of 60-150 GT • 6,000,000 – 30,000,000 baht (150,000-760,000 euros) f or vessels of 150 GT and above • 5 times the total value of the catch (if this value exceeds the relevant fine)

Fishing boats line the dock at the Phuket Fishing Port. Photo: Jean-Frédérick Deliège new two-year E-licence, explained Mr Pisanu. “Fishermen who applied for the new licence have all been issued a temporary licence, which they must possess every time they go out to fish, otherwise they will face harsh penalties under the new regulations,” explained Mr Pisanu. Mr Yosothon went on to explain that as part of the new regulations stipulated in the Fisheries Act of 2015, the Fisheries Department are now implementing the “E-licence” system to replace the old paper licencing system (for natural resource commercial prospecting activities, including fishing) known as “Achaya Butt”. “The new E-licences will be issued to commercial fish-

ing vessels weighing 10 tonnes gross and up. Each of [these] vessels must have the respective permits for commercial fisheries equipment and must obtain its own fisheries marking by no later than April 30, 2016” reiterated Mr Yosothon. As part of the new E-licence protocol every vessel with a fishing licence will be given a QR Code, to be attached to the vessel’s control room, along with a marking, to be written at the front part of the vessel’s hull. Mr Yosothon noted that in Phuket Province, the Fisheries Department have issued new commercial fishing licences to 303 vessels already, which is in line with the Maximum Sustainable Yield (MSY) allocated to the province’s fishing sector.

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he Phuket Fisheries Department has warned commercial fishing operators who fail to comply with new licencing regulations of harsh penalties, including fines of up to B30 million. A meeting last Friday (April 1) at the Phuket’s Saphan Pla fishing port was told that the new fishing licence requirements, which stipulate that all operators of commercial fishing vessels equal to or larger than 10 gross tonnes, must possess a new E-license from April 2, 2016, or else face stiff penalties. Representatives of the province’s main commercial fishing operators attended the meeting, which was presided over by Pisanu Na-anan of the Phuket Fisheries and Yosathon Chaleewan of Phuket Muang District’s Fisheries office. The new two-year licences, which will all expire on March 31, 2018, are part of the government’s latest efforts to regulate the fishing industry so as to ensure sustainability of the Kingdom’s dwindling marine resources. Previous paper commercial fishing licences, which were due to expire by the end of the Thai fiscal year, on September 30, 2016, are no longer valid and must be replaced by the

“According to Section 129 of the Fisheries Act of 2015, any commercial fishing vessels caught operating without the correct licence face fines of between B100,000 and B30 million, in addition to seizure of fishing equipment and tools, and immediate halting of the vessel and evoking of [any of its] licences,” he said. According to Agriculture Minister Chatchai Sarikulya, a total of 10,666 commercial fishery operators had applied for the new fishing licences from among a total of 11,237 documented commercial fishing vessels. Unauthorised fishing activities in Thai waters – in both the Gulf of Thailand and Andaman Sea – may also be subject to criminal charges, Minister Chatchai warned.

Wyndham’s Days Inn debuts in Patong

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Suthicha Sirirat editor@classactmedia.co.th

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Proud to be the appointed supplier of windows and doors to: The British Ambassador to Thailand Bangkok. The German Honorary Consul, Phuket. The Australian Honorary Consul, Koh Samui

Oﬃce : 076 311 379 Eng : 087 061 7631 Thai : 081 539 2031

THE WYNDHAM HOTEL Group has launched its first Days Inn branded hotel in Thailand with the rebranding of the well known Aloha Villas in Patong. Days Inn Patong Beach Phuket, a 122-room hotel, is a franchise agreement with developer Roberts Phuket LLC, while KosMopolitan Hospitality has taken on the management of the hotel, announced Wyndham this week. Barry Robinson, President and Managing Director of Wyndham Hotel Group South East Asia and Pacific Rim noted: “Phuket is a major beach resort in Thailand and attracts millions of visitors annually. This is a timely opportunity for us to expand our offerings, with the country

Wyndham has launched its Days Inn brand in Thailand with the rebranded Aloha Villa Phuket in Patong. hitting a ground-breaking record of 29.99 million tourist arrivals in 2015, which is a phenomenal increase of 20 per cent from 2014. “The KosMopolitan group is a key partner in our joint efforts to expand our portfolio of hotels in emerging markets throughout Southeast Asia. Their team’s expertise in

managing and developing successful hotels and resorts is proven and well-respected in South East Asia. We share similar goals and our interests are aligned,” he added. Set in the heart of Phuket’s entertainment district, the economy hotel consists of 36 double rooms, 80 twin rooms and six triple rooms, all com-

fortably furnished with mini bars and satellite televisions. The hotel also includes two restaurants, a rooftop pool and an Internet centre. Glenn de Souza, CEO of KosMopolitan Hospitality added, “Days Inn is an esteemed brand with a wonderful concept that will appeal to budget conscious travellers with its great value. Wyndham Hotel Group’s Count On Me! service is one of its distinctive factors and we are confident of delivering the highest level of service excellence to our customers.” Wyndham’s collaboration with KosMopolitan will continue with several new-builds and conversions expected to take place within the next couple of years, including Wyndham Legend Halong in Vietnam. The Phuket News thephuketnews

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

FRIDAY, APRIL 8, 2016

Eco models take to fashion art catwalk

Ever heard of this Changsha before?

VEGAS OR

BUST

Miss Hooters Phuket 2016 stuns in bikini pageant , stands to vie for US$30,000 in Vegas finals > Page 18

Meena, 30, had much confidence on stage and will represent Hooters Phuket in the US. Photo: Wai Netiya

@thephuketnews

16 COMMUNITY

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

FRIDAY, APRIL 8, 2016

Beat heat with drum circle Songkran community solutions RHYTHM

NATION

Marco Monti is a drum circle facilitator and founder of the drumming event company SYNERGY EVENTS Co., Ltd. He is also the founder of the free and open group “Phuket Drum Circle” (on Facebook). He is a member of the Drum Circle Facilitator’s Guild, holding an M.A. in Psychology from the California Institute for Human Science. www. synergydrum.com info@ synergydrum.com Tel. (087) 8957284

huket island is one of the few places that formally holds celebrations for three different new year traditions: Western, Chinese, and Songkran, the Thai new year. Songkran will start on April 13 with festivities to take place for several days throughout Thailand. New year celebrations around the world share three universal themes that people tend to observe regardless of their culture. These include having fun, renewing oneself and building community. Exploring these three universal themes is something that can be done in Phuket not only during one of the new year periods, but any time, throughout the year, namely through a beneficial activity called “Facilitated Drum Circle”. To me it’s an event similar to a new year celebration in itself. This is a musical event where all participants play a drum or hand percussion together while sitting in a circle. No musical experience is required, a facilitator provides the appropriate guidance for all participants. The fun element is always present in a drum circle. Participating in a rhythm orchestra is a liberating experience for many. In this activity people tap into their hidden artist, and express themselves with freedom. People from all walks of life discover that they HAVE rhythm, and that they CAN play! This is more than fun, it’s musical empowerment. Renewal is another aspect of drum circles. The rhythmic pulsations of a rhythm event reach the bodies of participants and release tension in their bodies. The deep sounds of drums pave the way to relaxation, well being, and clear thinking. Renewal and change become a real possibility when our mind is calm and carefree. The drum circle is also a powerful community

A Facilitated Drum circle itsellf facilitates community building, fun and self-renewal. builder. It is not just intercultural fun, it is intergenerational fun too. Grandparents and grandchildren participate in an event where they have as much fun as each other. Group rhythm is a bonding experience that brings people together in musical collaboration. Every drum circle is a small community that expresses it’s voice with a unique musical creation. This voice is like a finger

print, it can’t be replicated. If you want to schedule a facilitated drumming event for your group contact SYNERGY EVENTS. If you want to enjoy a free public drum circle, come to the next “Phuket Drum Circle” event on April 10th in Naiharn beach. Details are on Facebook. The rhythm of community, renewal, and fun, are calling you. Do you hear the drum call?

Thai beauty crowned Miss Hooters Phuket, wins B20k, trip to Las Vegas

anna “Meena” Kithen, 30, of Thailand was crowned Miss Hooters Phuket at The Miss Hooters Phuket Swimsuit Pageant held at the iconic American bar and restaurant in Patong last Sunday night (April 3). Crowned runner-up and second runner-up of the inaugural Phuket pageant were Ms Maria Ann Paola Pmbrog Santiago, 24, and Aimee Ann Dulguimee Villar, 27, both from the Philippines. Meena takes home B20,000 and will join the winners of the Miss Hooters Bangkok, and Miss Hooters Pattaya pageants – Neera Wongai and Jessica Arra, respectively – on a trip to Las Vegas to compete in the international finals. The contestants showed off their assets in three main categories, including bikini, cocktail dress and Hooters uniform.

The competition was organised by Hooters International in order to select representatives from Hooters Thailand restaurants to take part in the 20th edition of the Miss Hooters International 2016 competition, which will be held later this year in Las Vegas. Ms Meena, as well as the other Hooters Thailand reps will now vie for the chance to win a grand prize of US$30,000 (about B1.05 million) cash as well as a lucrative contract to become the international brand ambassador for Hooters restaurants. Destination Resorts Co., Ltd. is Hooters representative in Asia, with plans to open 30 branches in the continent, including branches in every ASEAN country in the near future. Hooters of America, LLC began business in 1983 and grew to include 430 branches in 42 American States and in 26 countries by 2016.

Miss Meena will join Miss Hooters Pattaya and Miss Hooters Bangkok in Las Vegas. thephuketnews

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

EDUCATION 17

FRIDAY, APRIL 8, 2016

Trash to treasure

Creative, environmental genius showcased at QSI’s 8th Annual Recycle Fashion Show

rimary and secondary students – as well as a few parents and teachers – at Quality Schools International (QSI) Phuket had the opportunity to show off their creativity, fashion passion and environmental stewardship last Friday (April 1) at the school’s annual Recycle Fashion Show, the 8th edition. “The school’s annual Recycle Fashion Show truly felt like we were a big family coming together for a very worthy cause. I am proud of everyone associated with the school,” exclaimed School Director, Russel Page. Fifty two students worked individually or as a team on their creations behind the scenes over the last few weeks. Secondary students paired with the younger students (5-7 years old) to help them design and realise their visions... of a princess, a transformer, a samurai or other. Secondary students were more theme based with their costumes – for example nature vs. progress; a lonely bride; a Victorian London lady. Mr Page outlined various values and skills applied: “In addition to the artistic design skills learned in our art curriculum and the positive environmental effects that recycling and re-using has

Cowboy, Mr Page.

Preschool princess. @thephuketnews

on our surroundings, the students certainly practiced working independently, working with others for a common cause, respect for the earth and the environment around them and counting on each other to help save energy.” “By working together to create a fabulous show, I can say that we also practiced kindness and politeness and concern for others, something I see every day from our community members, and certainly in the days leading up to the fashion show,” he said. Joe Brogan, Secondary Teacher and Internal Coordinator, added, “Aesthetic appreciation and group interaction were all well represented by the students in the show.” Mr Brogan said this yearly event at QSI Phuket is always something to look forward to, not only by teachers and students, but the greater fashion and environment savvy Phuket community. “The students did not disappoint! For me, this year was especially exciting because my two year old son Mac got to walk the cat walk,” said Mr Brogan. Anneliese Storm, QSI Phuket Resource Teacher afforded praise for the communal effort. “The elementary students have

always shown enthusiasm and excitement when it comes to being creative and working with hands on activities. This year was no exception,” she said. Ms Storm noted that participation amongst the younger students has been parallel to former years, adding however, that this year there was more increased awareness of using recycled materials. “This year, there were only Khun Noi shows off ornaments made from recycled material. recycled materials for their costumes which stretched their imagination and their manipulaMr Page concluded, “This couldn’t tion of the items that were collected have been possible without the help of the over a five to six week period,” she said. entire staff at QSI Phuket. Thank you!”

18 EXPLORE

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

FRIDAY, APRIL 8, 2016

Take to the tree-tops at Hanuman World

kyworld Adventure, the company behind Flying Hanuman, are set to launch their latest project, Hanuman World, an aerial ecotourism and zip-line adventure theme park located in Wichit, today (Apr 8). According to Skyworld Adventure, total investment in Hanuman World is more than B100 million, and is Skyworld Adventure’s second aerial ecotourism & zip-line adventure theme park after Flying Hanuman. Skyworld Adventure is part of a business that operates water sports and tours on the popular Banana Beach Koh Hey, and also owns a string of highly popular restaurants in Phuket. With Hanuman World, there will be more of an adventure than just ziplining, a straight-line adventure, with the addition of a one kilometre “Roller” that will take riders curving around the trees. Also for the first time, along with Thai and English speaking guides, Chinese and Russian speakers will be on-hand to guide park visitors.

Hanuman World’s structures blend in naturally.

The 200-metre-long sky-walk sits above the trees.

The ‘Roller’ is latest aerial eco sport attraction at Hanuman World. In addition, Hanuman World boasts a 200-metre long sky-walk that sits above the tropical forest, platforms positioned high in the tree tops, and a 200seat Wanon restaurant with stunning mountain views. For its zip-line adventure, Hanumarn World offers three abseil points with heights ranging from 15-40 metres and a straight zip-line covering a distance of over 500 metres. Zip-lining has long been popular, but more recently it has gone in two distinct directions, the first as a more extreme sport, while the other as a eco-friendly activity. Many zip-line adventures around the world however, are a combination of the two. “To infinity and beyond,” is a phrase often yelled out by many on a zip-line before they take the plunge,

and it will certainly be no different at Hanuman World. Skyworld Adventure’s Flying Hanuman has been highly successful being ranked by TripAdvisor.com as the fourth best adventure tourism activity out of 1,012 reviews on the site. And based on this ranking, Hanuman World’s future has already been built on solid foundations. The Unites Nations has designated 2017 as the “Year of Sustainable Tourism” and thus, Phuket’s tourism leaders are stressing not only eco friendly tourism, but environmental sustainable tourism as well. Hanuman World’s utilisation of the higher layers of Phuket rainforest is done using wooden platforms and industrial strength slings to hold the platforms and bridges together and in place, with little

disturbance to the surrounding trees. Hanuman World uses equipment from PETZL, which is rated the highest safety equipment, and each group of tourist is accorded 2 professionally trained guide, with one being a senior guide. In addition, for every person on aerial adventure at Hanuman World, there are five safety connection points. Hanuman World, with a vast area of Phuket’s tropical rainforest as its main feature, is easily accessible being located on Muang Chao Fa Road. Hanuman World is an adrenaline and excitement filled Eco tourism adventure which gets its name from Lord Hanuman. Lord Hanuman, also known as “The Monkey King”, is a Hindu god and ardent devotee of the god Rama. He is a central figure in the Hindu epic Ramayana and its various versions. Thailand also has a versions of this epic and is accorded as a high Thai performing art. For more information, please visit hanumanworldphuket.com and facebook. com/Hanuman-World-109281682766744 or call +66 62 979 5533

thephuketnews

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

FRIDAY, APRIL 8, 2016

ENVIRONMENT 19

Loud and Proud

Sunday 24th April

Opening Party at CC’s Hideaway (Kata) including ‘2nd Annual STARGAZER Talent Contest “ Phuket Pride – http://www. ccshideaway.com/events/special-party. htm for more information

Calling all gays, straights and undecided partiers and patrons to join in the Phuket Pride Week fun!

Monday 25th April

rganisers have announced the itinerary and theme for the Phuket Pride Week 2016, which will be held from April 24 until May 1. Now in its 5th year of organising Phuket Pride Week, the Phuket Loves You Club (PLU) have selected this year’s theme to be “Hand in Hand in Thailand”. The organisers said every year’s theme is meant to highlight the struggles and challenges that the LBGT community experiences daily. This year, the organisers said the theme is meant to emphasize not only within the LBGT community, but the broader community, that LBGT people are people, just like everyone else. That said, PLU and the LGBT community of Phuket have extended an invitation to all gays, straights, as well as those who are still undecided, to take part in this year’s Pride Week celebrations, not only to enjoy themselves with festive fun, but to help raise money and ensure that members of Thailand’s LBGT community can lead healthier lives. During the past four years, PLU has

Tuesday 26th April

@thephuketnews

Pool competition at Sundowners bar in Soi Paradise in Patong Show Dining Extravaganza at MO2 in Soi Paradise Gay day Cruise to James Bond Islands

Wednesday 27th April

Volleyball Tournament Sunset Beach Party at Iguana Beach - White Party

Thursday 28th April

Adventure Mini Golf Evening event to be announced soon – see www.phuket-pride.org for more information raised over B1 million to help fight HIV in Phuket; 30 per cent of all proceeds from the festival will be donated to the Life Home Project Foundation in Phuket, who support children affected by or infected with HIV; the remainder of the money is spent working with the health community in Phuket, especially to help the Thai LGBT communities in Patong. This past year, Karex Berhad has donated 100,000 free condoms and gel, to be distributed freely to the gay Thai workers in Soi Paradise. These “Safer Sex” kits, packed by the students of PSU, include a safer sex messages, and include

a listing of the number of Sabaidee Clinics, where individuals can get free HIV testing. Phuket Pride Week was first held in 1999 and is the only Gay Pride Festival still being held in Thailand. “Hand in Hand in Thailand” will include over 12 events around Phuket. All – LBGT, heterosexual and those still undecided – are welcome. For more info please visit www. phuket-pride.org. Live 89.5, The Phuket News and Phuket News TV are continuing proud media sponsors of Phuket Pride Week.

Friday 29th April

Cabaret Gala Diner including ‘Grand Charity Auction’ & Party ...At Higher restaurant (above Seduction Club in Bangla Road

Saturday 30th April

The Big Event including ‘Mr Phuket Pride 2016’ contest at The Andaman Embrace Resort

Sunday 1st May

Grand Parade through streets of Patong Soi Paradise Street Party

20 DINING

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

FRIDAY, APRIL 8, 2016

Living the Dream Savouring Sundays at Layan’s hottest poolside brunch

Dalia Hilmi editor@classactmedia.co.th

hey say brunch is not just about the food, it’s also about the experience. It’s one of the many favourite pastimes amongst the expat and local community in Phuket and there’s certainly plenty to choose from. But to be considered one of the best Sunday brunches in Phuket requires a number of factors to set it ahead of the many contenders for this esteemed honour and there’s certainly no doubt that the recently opened Dream Beach Club has attained such status. For anyone that enjoys a magnificent view, delicious food and a vibrant atmosphere, then be sure to check this fabulous place out. They recently launched the popular #LiveTheDream Sunday Brunch, which I was fortunate enough to review. Set on the island’s stunning west coast, the newest beach-club on the island is a paradise for any bruncher.

Friendly staff ready to serve your Dream meal.

Upon arrival, you will be faced with all the trappings of a truly entertaining day: stylish white sun-loungers and umbrellas for the sun worshippers, each surrounding a large and welcoming lavish swimming pool; as well as two pool-side bars. To top that off, there is also a swim-up bar where you will find Dream’s very own friendly, magnetic resident DJ pumping out all the right tunes to create an uber-cool, electrifying, and memorable atmosphere. Behind the luxurious and attractive pool area lays the stunning beach, creating an idyllic setting for a truly mesmerising sunset and remains one of the only beach-clubs with direct access to the sea. The design is cosmically cool; a simple, yet stylish blue and yellow theme that is minimally displayed throughout the entire venue (you’ll see them in the umbrellas and the towels). But for the rest of the venue, a simple stylish white theme is used. Naturally, all this fabulousness has food to match. My colleague and I were greeted by the warm, friendly staff who took us to our table. We had the option of eating alfresco or within the main restaurant area. The large, tantalising buffet impressed us even before we filled our plates. The delightful spread of international cuisine inspired by influences from Japan, the United States and Italy, seemed to have it all. From the large, fresh seafood station, to the cold-cuts and cheeses, to the meat carving station, we really were spoilt for choice. We ordered some classic cocktails from the enticing drinks menu, as well as a few glasses of bubbles to go alongside. First up, I headed to the salad station where I was faced with impeccable options such as pasta salad, quinoa, potato salad, Thai beef salad, tuna salad, and cute mini bruschettas. Then I

The open-air seaside atmosphere is conducive to total relaxation and enjoyment, like a Dream. headed to the meat station where I was given generous portions of roast chicken, roast beef and deliciously cut pieces of lamb, each oozing with flavour. There were options of grilled vegetables, corn on the cob, roast potatoes, fried rice, as well as homemade breads. Being a great fan of all things tapas and mezze, I largely took advantage of the coldcut station and indulged in some fresh salami, chorizo, olives, pickles and brie cheese. But, after all that, I have to say that the star of the show lay within the dessert station. Each of them artfully presented and as delicious as the next. From chocolate walnut cake, to panna cotta, to brownies, to ice cream, the choices were magical. But the one option which left me weak at the knees was the pancake and crepe station. Boy oh boy, were we in for a treat. The chef whipped up some fresh pancakes and once they were ready, there was a delightful choice of toppings waiting for us including sprinkles, chocolate gems, icing powder, lemon, sugar and maple syrup. Absolutely divine. When we finally finished eating we were taken to one of the poolside plush beds, where we got to soak in the heavenly sunset with a few more cocktails. There was a great blend of chill-out and

Western favourites are among the offerings. upbeat music played throughout the day, and it seemed everyone was having a great time. Overall, Dream Beach’s service is second-to-none, the staff are attentive, and well trained to ensure your experience is memorable and relaxing. It’s one of the more livelier brunches on the island, yet still attractive for families, and there’ll be no Sunday blues at this club. And what’s more, if you fancy making a weekend out of it, the beachclub is less than five minutes from Dream Phuket Hotel & Spa. The consistently fresh flavours, along with the magnificent views and aura of the entire beach-club and, not to mention the staff who go above and beyond to ensure guests are happy, all make Dream Beach such a cracking venue. My experience at this enchanting playground was exceptional, from the food, to the staff, to the music, I really was living the Sunday dream. For more information visit facebook.com/dreambeachphuket thephuketnews

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

TRAVEL 21

FRIDAY, APRIL 8, 2016

Three lessons from Changsha JP Mestanza sales3@classactmedia.co.th

hina is littered with metropoles across a vast region of the Asian continent, many of which are relatively unknown in the west. For every Shanghai, there are about a dozen Qongqing’s, with just as many people. It was in one of these lesserknown Chinese metroples that I found myself in recently as I accompanied a friend, Matthew Semper, who was to fight a kickboxing match in the country’s newest promotion, Superstar Fight Series. The city of Changsha has over 7.3 million people sitting on just under 12,000 square km in Hunan province. As one of the largest cities in southern China, it’s played a key role in Chinese history dating back 3,000 years. From being the capital of the Han Dynasty (207 BC), to (one of) the cultural epicenter during the Warring States period (5th century BC) to modern times as the place where Mao Zedong converted to Communism. These days, Changsha serves as a stopover for tourists looking for cheaper prices and an authentic experience. The city is just now opening up for international tourism but vestiges of local Chinese life remain in tact.

@thephuketnews

While my friend sweated away the remaining kilos in our hotel room (he had to make weight the next day), I took the Changsha Metro down to a few stops to “get lost”. But first I learned a big lesson! I forgot to convert Thai Baht into Yuan at the airport. This proved to be a huge mistake. A receptionist agreed to walk me over to the bank, since all the signs are in Mandarin. We took the Changsha Metro down to Furong Square, to the Bank of China. After an hour of waiting on line, getting a copy of my passport, I finally acquired Chinese currency. The lesson? Exchange your currency BEFORE you leave the airport (unless you’re in Shanghai or Beijing). Half the day almost gone, I tipped the receptionist and was on my way. I stopped at a random station down the Changsha Metro, hoping to see how locals live. It was here that I finally found “it” – the place where residents gather as schoolchildren made their way home and the ring of bells on bikes simply ting. After several minutes, I stumbled on a cross-section of back alleys where tall apartments stained by years of pollution covered your sight line – a Chinese ghetto if I’ve ever seen one. This is where I learned lesson two: Chinese locals in Changsha love games, especially if money is on the line! Gambling dens, each with tables

full of patrons playing a variety of card and dice games, were on every block with men and women of all ages waiting in the wings for a sucker to leave. If restaurants were empty, waiters played against cooks with bets in the making. Not a huge revelation, but when you see grandmothers pounding their cards on the table before taking all your money with a smirk, it puts a new perspective on things. I wouldn’t return to see the city until after my friend’s fight, which he won via unanimous decision (one of the few foreigners to win their bout that night). With full bellies, Matthew and I embarked on a journey to Juzizhou, on Orange Island, which is smack dab in the middle of Changsha. On this sunny

afternoon (a fog-less day!) I learned lesson number three, which is more of a note than a lesson: learn how to fly a kite! The park on Orange Island was full of families enjoying the day, with kids and their parents flying colorful kites. A relaxing sight that stirs the innocence in even the most hardened kick boxer. Of course, some kites failed to take off which set off cries from more than a few kids. Lessons from Changsha are simple but will serve me, and you, well. Change your money before entering the city. Use that money to bet in a gambling den. Use that money to buy a kite, which you’ve already learned how to fly! Thanks China, for teaching this Jersey kid a thing or three.

22 ISLAND SCENE

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

FRIDAY, APRIL 8, 2016

Alastair Carthew and Jaspal Singh. Live89.5’s Donna Toon (left) and RPM Health Club Manager Hayden Rhodes.

ASIALIFE RADIO MUSIC FESTIVAL

Milla Chappell, 6, (left) and Michelle Clowes.

Allan Mathewson and Michael Way.

From left: Sea Bucher, Leyla Bilginel, Storm Morze, Maria Yorukoglu and Jaqueline Wild.

SUSTAINABLE FASHION Quality Schools International (QSI) Phuket held their annual Recycle Fashion show last Friday (April 1). See Life, page 17, for more information.

The AsiaLIFE Radio Music Festival – an all-day open air carnival of music and family-friendly entertainment – was staged in the grassy surrounds of the park at Royal Phuket Marina last Saturday (Apr 2) to “funraise” charity funds for needy local children. A hand-picked line-up of international and local bands provided stellar rock & roll, while family entertainment, arts & crafts, gourmet fare, refreshments and assortments of wares were available from local vendors.

Vassana Tipayapongtada, wife of Phuket Governor Chamroen Tipayapongtada, prepares to cut the ribbon to open the MontAzure Show Suite Preview with Setthaphol Boottho (in royal blue jacket), Associate Director Project Management, ARCH Capital Management, beside her, and Roland Bleszynski (in steel blue jacket), Managing Director, MontAzure, to her left.

HOW SUITE IT IS... The Show Suite Preview at the MontAzure Sales Gallery in Kamala brought together an eclectic collection of Phuket people from all walks of life on Friday March 26 to enjoy a stunning sunset over Kamala Bay and a relaxing evening in fine company. The event provided the opportunity to walk through the show suite, with music mixed by Goldie and catering tastes created by TwinPalms.

The team from Agoda.com enjoying the evening

MAIKHAO DREAM'S 5TH ANNIVERSERY Maikhao Dream Hotels & Resorts celebrated its 5th year anniversary last Saturday (Apr 2) hosting an energetic and joyful evening for its esteemed guests, who joined hotel staff and executives for a timeless sunset and evening of drinks, tapas, toasts and revelry.

The contestants had to show off their assets in bikinis, evening dress and Hooters uniforms.

PHUKET HOOTERS ON SHOW Hooters Phuket last Sunday (Apr 3), held a swimsuit pageant to select Miss Hooters Phuket 2016, who will represent Hooters Thailand, along with Miss Hooters Pattaya and Miss Hooters Bangkok, to vie for Miss Hooters International later this year in Las Vegas. For more information, see Life, page 16. thephuketnews

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FRIDAY, APRIL 8, 2016

ISLAND SCENE 23

HOLY ENERGY @ GECKO The Gecko school and community in Thalang recently hosted five Buddhist monks who chanted and conducted a blessing ceremony.

2nd place Genius Team

VNEA RACKS UP SEASON 3

Congratulations to team Reality who defeated team Genius in the VNEA Season 3 Final held last Saturday night at Tazmania Pool Lounge on Bangla Road in Patong. The two teams went neck in neck until the end, but for the second year, it is Reality who will now have a shot at world glory at the VNEA international finals in Las Vegas from May 29 to June 5.

The Winners, Reality

From left: Angkana “Meow” Thanasiriphong, Aimwadee “ Tangmo” Suchatpong and Sumana “Air” Vorachun. The guest of honour Mr. Chatchawan Suksomjit – Ex-Permanent Secretary Ministry of Justice – presiding over ribbon cutting, along withMr Phom & Mrs. Wanna Sinla (centre).

CHABANA KAMALA GRAND OPENING

SRI PANWA’S NEW BABY The grand opening of The Habita @ Sri Panwa was held at March 23, with VIP guests and media invited to view the project featuring 20 new Pool Suites, before having dinner at the new Chinese restaurant “Baba Chino”.

The Chabana Kamala Hotel held its grand opening on Friday (April 1). The former Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Justice presided over the ribbon cutting ceremony to officially open new hotel. The Chabana Kamala Hotel has 69 rooms, and the Chabana Restaurant, which features fusion food and a variety international cuisine.

From left: Fagib Jang, Wuttichai Sooksen and JackPort Bum

CHEER CHEER FOR PHUKET FC Some 700 plus fans showed their support for the Andaman Dragon in a league match at Surakul Stadium on Sunday (April 3) against Yala United. See Sport pages for match report and results. @thephuketnews

EPL PREDICTIONS MARCH WINNER Congratulations to Phil Seaman, who with a score of 18 points was the March winner for The Phuket News EPL Predictions Competition, taking home a B3,000 voucher for The Thailand Property AwardsYou presented Hansgrohe returns for for the a successWalkabout Sports Bar, Karon Beach. can still by enter the competition remainder 11th simply editionregister to reward finest developers and current developments in of the ful season, at: the http://www.thephuketnews.com/login-game-premierthe country’s resilient real estate sector. The annual event was launched to league-competition-ex.php the media on March 29 at the Renaissance Bangkok Ratchaphrasong Hotel.

24 EVENTS

FRI

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

SUN

8 APR

10 APR

BISP Art exhibition - The Mad Artists Tea Party

Black Moon Festival ‘Zoo In Paradise’

PARADISE BEACH PHUKET presents the Biggest and Coolest Black Moon Paradise on the island with the Professional open air beach SUPER PARTY production VS the International famous DJs. Come with us, taking a great music journey to Paradise together.RSVP, Paradise Beach, Patong, info@paradisebeachphuket. com, 076 609 609.

British artist Goldie MBE will open ‘The Mad Artists Tea Party’ on Monday 21 March at 3pm in the main lobby at BISP. The Grand Opening is open to the general public, and the exhibition runs until 27 May 2016. For more information about visual art at BISP, please visit bisphuket. ac.th/visual-arts.

PHUKET BIKE WEEK 2016 ‘ASEAN RIDE TOGETHER

Live entertainment Friday and Saturday evening at ceramic Kitchen

Welcome to Ceramic Kitchen Bar and Restaurant. Charming Phuket Restaurant serving Western and Thai food in the cozy atmosphere of a clay house. Opening every day 12pm 12am except Tuesday. Book your table for this weekend! Live entertainment Friday and Saturday evening. www.facebook.com/ceramickitchenphuket/ RSVP, 185/15 Moo 7, Srisoonthorn Rd., T.Srisoonthorn Thalang, Phuket, Thailand 83110, 099 410 0956.

PHUKET BIKE WEEK 2016 “ASEAN RIDE TOGETHER” The biggest motorcycle event in Asia. Celebrating the 22nd anniversary. This event expects to gather over 10,000 motorcyclists and 50,000 visitors from 30 countries. Which will be held on 8-10 April 2016 at Loma Park in Patong and 15 -16 April 2016 at Anuphas courtyard, Phuket Town, Phuket province. Visit our website http://www.phuketbikeweek.com/ or call 076 352 069.Proudly supported by The Phuket News Khun Wittaya Singkalah, ridethailandtour@hotmail.com

SAT

9 APR

Indian Curry Night on Fridays Come to Navrang Mahal in Karon Sea Sands Resort & Spa for an authentic Indian Feast First Week Friday and the Third Week Friday, in Karon Beach. Try out our delicious Aloo Tikki, Samosas, Chicken Tandoori, Aloo Gobi, Navrang Korma, Butter Chicken, Lamb Vindaloo, Naan, Rice, Salads, Chutneys / Achars, Pistachio Ice Cream, Gulah Jamun, Fruits. And extra dishes on the menu:ONIONBHAJI, BOMBAY ALOO, DAL MAKHINI, VANILLA ICE-CREAM. For only 499/- nett and special reduced prices on drinks.

Pool Competition at Expat Sports Bar The competition at 9pm Expat Sports Bar at the Expat Hotel Soi Taipan Patong. See map at www.expathotel.com.

Relaxing afternoon by the poolside featuring a lavish spread of international delicacies and fresh seafood from the Ocean. Special Promotions: · A group of over 10 people receive 20% discount · Birthday celebrations – birthday person receives a complimentary Brunch. The rest of the party, if over 10 people receive 20% discount. All prices are subject to a 7% government tax and a 10% service charge. All children’s prices are applicable to those aged from six to twelve. Children under the age of 6 dine with our compliments.RSVP, HYATT REGENCY PHUKET RESORT, fnb.phuhr@hyatt.com, 076 231 234.

MON

11 APR

All you can eat BBQ night

6pm – 11pm: beef, pork, chicken, burgers, sausages, prawns & squids, salad buffet, choice of potatoes & sauces, bread, buns & garlic bread Reservation recommended 350 baht P.P., shakersphuket@gmail.com, 081 891 4381.

WED

13 APR

Every Wednesday! All-you-caneat Pasta and Pizza

Sunday Brunch at Novotel Phuket Surin Beach Resort

“Indulge yourself in a culinary experience like no other a wide selection of Thai delicacies alongside sushi platter, pasta, pizza, meat carving station and a variety of desserts. Only THB 399++ per person. Toddlers below 4 years old eat for free. Children aged 4-12 receive 50% discount. Advance booking recommended. RSVP, info@novotelphuketsurin.com

Every Wednesday Eat all you can for Pizza and Pasta only for 500 Baht. Drink all you can Peroni & Belleville only for 450 Baht or Both EAT DRINK ALL YOU CAN ONLY FOR 890 Bath with DOUBLE EXPRESSIONS LIVE! Wednesdays 6pm to 11pm. info@pastabellini.com. Located at Chalong Circle, Chao-Fa East.

All you can eat BBQ Ribs night

All you can eat Sunday Roast Buffet

Beef, Pork & Lamb – Cauliflower, Broccoli, Peas, Carrots, Fried mushrooms, Grilled Tomatoes – Yorkshire pudding – Roasted Potatoes, Mashed Potatoes – Gravey, Mushroom sauce, Mint Sauce. Reservation Recommended 350 baht P.P., shakersphuket@gmail.com, 081 891 4381.

6pm – 11pm: All you can eat BBQ ribs served with salad buffet, potato salad & choice of sauces. Reservations recommended THB295 P.P., shakersphuket@gmail.com, 081 891 4381.

THU

14 APR

Bollywood Phuket’s Weekend Special Indian Lunch Set

Come and enjoy the authentic flavour of India by indulging in our weekend ‘s special lunch set for only B399++ per person between 11am-3pm. Menu includes 3 staters, 4 main course and dessert served with Gulab Jamun/Phirni Vanilla Custard/Ice Cream (choose 1). All for just B399++ per person. For more info please call 076 304 034.

Sunday roast at Gallery Cafe By Pinky @ new Chalong branch

Every Sunday from 12pm and all-day brunch and dinner every day from 7am-10pm. 0891037000 FB : Gallerycafe by Pinky, thegallerycafe@yahoo.com, 089 103 7000.

Mussels night @ Shakers

1.2kg mussels served with french fries your choice, your style: nature, mariniere, provencale, garlic & cream or Thai style reservations recommended B295 baht P.P., shakersphuket@gmail.com, 081 891 4381.

of either roast beef, chicken, loin of pork or leg of lamb served with roast and boiled potatoes, three fresh vegetables, Yorkshire pudding and gravy. Only B350 per person which includes a free glass of house red or white. Opposite Centara Karon Resort. See otools-phuket.com.

A CASUAL SUNDAY BRUNCH BY THE POOLSIDE

Weekends Special Lunch Menu at Café & Restaurant

We are a Western & fusion café & restaurant in the heart of Old Phuket Town, offering fine dining experiences in the relaxing contemporary Peranakan café atmosphere. The restaurant opens daily from 4:00–11:00 pm, closed every Wednesday. From we are open for lunch during weekends from 11:00 am–11:00 pm with variety of new mouthwatering lunch menu. info@ texturephuket.com, 081 916 1430.

FRIDAY, APRIL 8, 2016

BBQ at Expat Hotel Time 8pm, Expat Sports Bar, Expat Hotel, Soi Taipan, Patong. www.expatsportsbar.com

Traditional Sunday Roast Angus O’Tool’s Karon Beach

Lunch or dinner served from 2pm. Your choice

Thailand Balloon Music Festival 2016

Coming to Phuket this April is the Thailand Balloon Music Festival! Hot off the celebrations of Songkran 2016, this years festival will be taking place between April 14th and 17th in Paradise Park near the British Internal School Phuket. Featuring some of the Kingdom’s most prolific musicians, nightly DJ sets and some of the most eye-popping Hot Air Balloon displays in SE Asia. Festivities begin April 14th for VIP guests, and the following day for the general public. Don’t miss the party, book your tickets now at www. chortickets.com Proundly supported by The Phuket News

thephuketnews

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EVENTS 25

FRIDAY, APRIL 8, 2016

TUE

19 APR

Retro Night at SKYE Beach Club

Retro Night at SKYE Beach Club on April 19, 2016. Live Music - Dancers - Fire show. BBQ seafood station.RSVP, Naiyang Beach, 093 582 7700.

Toastmasters Phuket Looking to develop your public speaking and leadership skills? Ignite your career? Join Toastmasters Phuket and start making yourself a leader today! Invitation only. Contact Jason on 086 479 7471 for more info.

THU

21 APR

at Lady Pie’s premises and for baked goods we ask you to drop them off the day before or the morning of the sale from 9am onwards. For further details and inquiries please contact Valerie on 084 189 2281 or email to info@piwc-phuket. com Maggy Wigman, info@piwc-phuket.com

SUN

24 APR

InterBike Hash #4 Thanyapura Superkidz Triathlon 2016 Exciting, challenging triathlon event for children aged 4 to 18. Participants will be divided into Categories Tri Tot (4-6 years). Junior (710 years). Intermediate (11-14years). Senior (15-18years). the triathlon event will give young athletes the chance to experience the world class sports facilities at Thanyapura including its 50m Olympic standard outdoor pool with biking and running routes set within the surrounding nature of Khao Phra Thaew National Park. Register online at http://www.thanyapura. com/ Proundly Supported by Live 89.5

Phuket Pride Week 2016 Patong Girl In Thailand, Felix falls in love with the mysterious Fai. He follows his heart…but things get complicated.“A touching intercultural story without any wrong notes..” - Hamburger MorgenpostAward-winning romance released in SF Cinema City Jungceylon from 21 April. Proudly supported by Phuket News TV.

PIWC April luncheon Not to be missed. April 21, 2016 – Phuket International Women’s Club Monthly lunch at Bampot Kitchen & Bar in Cherngtalay. Limited seating, only 30 people will be accepted. Registration starts at 11.30 am. Members 600 baht, non-members 750 baht. Reservation essential: please contact Maggy Wigman at info@piwcphuket.com Proudly supported by The Phuket News.Maggy Wigman, info@piwc-phuket.com

SAT

23 APR

Treats and Treasures

23 April, 2016 - Phuket International Women’s Club Treasures and Treats Sale at Lady Pie Restaurant and Bakery 32 Srisoonthorn Rd, Cherng Talay, Phuket Quality used clothing and delicious home-baked goods will be for sale from 11a.m. to 2p.m. All proceeds from the sales will go towards the PIWC scholarship fund for under-privileged children. Donations of clean, quality used clothing are gladly accepted

@thephuketnews

most popular author! Theatrix and HeadStart will present William Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet on the HeadStart stage on April 29 at 6 p.m. Outta the Box Classics part two is not to be missed! Romance! Action! and even comedy! It’s got everything! Proudly sponsored by Phuket News and Live 89.5, Two Chefs, Green Man, and Oasis Ed.Joel Adams, theatrixphuket@gmail.com

Phuket Pride Week Sunday 24th April 2016 to 1st May 2016. This event was started in 1999 and is the only Gay Pride Festival still being held in Thailand. “Hand in Hand in Thailand” is the theme for the week of FUN & Celebration with over 12 events being held around Phuket. All are welcome: LGBT community, straights & the undecided, to join in celebrating Pride week and raising monies to help fight HIV infections in Phuket. More info please visit www.phuketpride.org Proudly supported by Class Act Media.

THU

28 APR

The Quintessential Wellness Workshop The inspirational 4 days 3 nights programme has selected the best nutritional specialists, Celebrity performance coaches & yoga enthusiasts to ensure you will receive the best education. Discover benefits of stress & sugar management, hormonal balancing & weight loss, by wellness practitioners; Hayden Rhodes, Craig Burton & Kim White. THB 25,000 per person for 4 days 3 nights program. A day package or single classes are available. Phuket residents get 15% off. For more infomation, log on to jwmarriottphuketresort.com Mandara Spa Director, Linda Overman, linda. overman@marriotthotels.com

FRI

29 APR

Phuket Mountain Bike Hash will be hosting the InterBike Hash #4 between 29 April & 1 May, drawing Hashers from all over SEA and beyond. Enjoy the lush tropics of the Andaman Sea, with 3 days of guided off-road rides for strong-willed and meeker hearts. Indulge in Phuket’s history, folklore, and hash festivities. We promise COLD drinks, wet water, and hot weather….along with your favorite ‘forget-me-not’ souvenirs. Registration required and limited to 200. Special lodging arrangements, find all details on our website - http://phuketinterbikehash.com.

SUN

30 APR

15 Year Anniversary Andaman Sea Surf

SUP race, CPR training, surf rescue race, beach cleaning and live music. Registration 9am - 11 am. The race starts at 1am. Andaman Sea Surf, 076 296 071.

The 5th Edition of Phuket UNESCO International Jazz Day.

The world’s most famous love story by the world’s

SAT

4 JUN

11th LAGUNA PHUKET INTERNATIONAL MARATHON 2016

On behalf of Phuket City Municipality. MMC presents the 5th edition of Phuket UNESCO International Jazz Day. Open to the public at 7 PM at Chanacharoen Road ,Phuket City. Main events featuring Phuket local,Int’l jazz and guest. For more info please call 089 588 2347.Proundly Supported by The Phuket News and Live 89.5 radio.

Asia’s largest destination marathon, the Laguna Phuket Marathon, will be taking place on 4-5 June 2016. More than 8,000 runners from around the world are expected to enjoy 2 days of races and fun. The 10.5km run, 5km Walk & Run, and 2km Kids’ Run will take place the afternoon of 4 June while the half marathon and marathon will start early morning on 5 June. For more info and to sign-up, visit www.phuketmarathon.com or www.gotorace.com Proundly Supported by Live 89.5

Free Football Trials

EVERY DAY

This is your chance to join The HeadStart Football Academy. Saturday, March 19th 10:30 12:00 pm. Open to player from 12-15 years of age.JR, jr@headstartphuket.com, 076 612 8756.

SAT

7 MAY

POP UP AT BLISS - 7MAY 2016 Romeo and Juliet

by to taste delicacies from the chefs of Anantara Phuket Layan Resort & Spa, Angsana, Aziamendi at Iniala, Bampot, Bliss Beach Club, Novotel Phuket Surin Beach, ENZO, Higher, Kata Rocks, Metzo’s Bistro & Bar at Outrigger and Paresa. Andaman Wine Club, BB&B, Two Tales & Chalong Bay will provide free flow! More info - info@phukethasbeengoodtous.org or 076 278 146. Media sponsorship proudly provided by Live 89.5

11 award winning chefs, one location, one night only! Phuket’s 11 hottest restaurants will Pop Up at Bliss Beach Club on Saturday 7th May in support of Phuket Has Been Good To Us! Pop

Great Mexican, Thai and Flamegrilled Burgers in a beautiful setting! If you have time this month get down to Sea Breeze located in Royal Phuket Marina. Open 9am to 10pm everyday serving home-made mexican specialties, flame grilled burgers and Thai specials! All sport available shown live, Contact: Reservations, info@seabreezerpm.com, 076 360 806.

26 TIME OUT

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FRIDAY, APRIL 8, 2016

Crossword by Myles Mellor & Sally York Across

1. How much is a gross? 2. On computer screens and in website colours fuchsia is exactly the same as what other colour? 3. Which planet in the solar system is the hottest? 4. What type of cherries have the nickname ‘cocktail cherries’? 5. Which American sculptor is famous for wrapping things up? Answers below, centre.

SUDOKU

67. Extensions 68. Cuckoos 69. Gardener’s soil

29. Bristle 30. Hi-___ graphics 1. Billiards move 32. Compass 6. Certain network reading 10. Allergic reaction Down 33. Furnace fuel 14. None of the 34. Big shooter above 1. Cartoon cat 35. Safe places 15. Allege 2. Goddess of 37. Genetic stuff 16. Fizzy drink wisdom 38. Listening device 17. Flightless birds 3. “Gee whiz!” 39. Kim ending 18. Like some 4. Large amounts 40. Addr. book entry agreements 5. Formerly, once 41. Union 20. Restoration 6. Browning’s Ben agreement? 22. Officeholders Ezra, e.g. 45. Relatives of 23. Guts 7. Contents of Tahitians 24. 1943 Bogart film Pandora’s box 46. O’Neill’s “___ 27. Open 8. Purposeful in Christie” 31. Wretched grammar 48. Dress 36. Be beholden to 9. Demagnetize, as 49. Fonda and 37. Shake-ups a tape Prince 42. Masefield play 10. The Jackal, e.g. 50. Stands for 43. Did a tailor’s task 11. Dashed things 44. Bouquet 12. The Kennedys, 52. African capital 47. Woman’s hat e.g. 53. Climber’s tool 51. Metrical foot 13. “Stop right 54. Tropical tree 56. Pastoral place there!” incense 57. Balancings 19. Kind of traffic 55. Factions 62. Hammed it up 21. Embodiment 57. Harried 63. Cavern, in poetry 25. Visa statement 58. Daring Knievel 64. Kosher-style store abbr. 59. Hive component 65. “La Dolce Vita” 26. Semi 60. Old Chinese setting 28. Bleacher bum’s money 66. ___ alcohol shout 61. Excited about

Solutions to last week’s puzzles:

Answers to this week’s Pop Quiz: 1) 144; 2) Magenta; 3) Venus; 4) Maraschino cherries) 5. Christo

GOT YOUR NUMBER

ISLAND VIEW

This week in history ■■ April 8, 1820

The Venus de Milo is discovered on the Aegean island of Milos.

■■ April 9, 1288

Mongol invasions of Vietnam: Yuan forces are defeated by Trần forces in the Battle of Bach Dang in present-day northern Vietnam.

is the number of websites in the world in 1991.

per cent of British people are willing to have sex with an android – and 11% are willing to raise an android baby.

396

RMS Titanic departing Southampton on April 10, 1912.

■■ April 10, 1912

RMS Titanic sets sail from Southampton, England on her maiden and only voyage.

is the average number of friends a British person will have over the course of his or her life.

■■ April 11, 1981

7,000

A massive riot in Brixton, south London, results in almost 300 police injuries and 65 serious civilian injuries.

is the number of New York City subway cars painted all white in 1981 in an effort to stop graffiti – it had the opposite effect.

■■ April 12, 1204

The Crusaders of the Fourth Crusade breach the walls of Constantinople and enter the city.

850 million is the number of websites in the world today. Source: Uberfacts

■■ April 13, 1997

Tiger Woods becomes the youngest golfer to win the Masters Tournament. ■■ April 14, 1986

Longtail boat at Rawai Pier. Photo by Jethro Rimando Abagao Got an unusual or particularly beautiful picture of Phuket? Email it to execeditor@classactmedia.co.th

The heaviest hailstones ever recorded (1 kilogram) fall on the Gopalganj district of Bangladesh, killing 92. Source: Wikipedia thephuketnews

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MARINE SERVICES

MOVING SERVICES

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STORAGE

SURF BOARDS

Reserve Your Storage Space

Call 076 29 29 09

or visit mystorageasia.com

 Sizes to Suit all Budgets  Personal & Business Storage  Motorcycle Storage  Left Luggage Service  We Sell Boxes  Storage Insurance Inclusive

Secure, Clean & Cost Effective Self Storage Jungceylon Shopping Center, Patong, Phuket

TRAINING

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Buy&Sell BOATS, YACHTS FOR SALE Dual banana boat for sale Dual banana boat for water activities. 4.2 m long, 1.6 m wide. Up to 14 riders. This banana boat is brand new, packaging still intact. Stored in a warehouse in Chalong. 40000, Vladimir, sales@joydive.asia, 084 182 8685.

Dive boat for sale Dive boat Asian Adventure, Length–18m, Width– 4.6m, Depth–1.7m, 1 Eng–315 H.P. capasity 40 passengers +3 crew. Located in Chalong, sales@ joydive.asia, 084 182 8685.

1 engine speedboat for sale Honda 250 H.P. 15 passengers+3 crew, Length–8.10m, Width–2.40, Depth-1.6. Excellent conditions, sound system Located in Chalong. Vladimir, sales@joydive.asia, 0841828685.

Boston Whaler conquest 255 Immaculate condition, Mercury 150hp x 2 very low hours, Thai registered. This boat comes with full inventory. Lying AoPo marina Phuket. mikehigh1@gmail. com Mike, mikehigh1@gmail.com, 088 768 4701.

Yacht Chartering and Resort Big A Swan 55 Yacht Chartering and Resort in Phuket Thailand Sailing : Big A Swan 55, Accommodation: Big A Resort 076-383080 Email: bigasail@samart.co.th.

ACTIVITIES, GROUPS Free Tiya’s Hammocks campaign Win Free hammock from Tiya’s Hammocks Phuket. Winner will get V Weave hammock, handmade from North of Thailand, weight capacity 250 kgs. Value 5,200 THB. More details visit Facebook: Tiya’s hammocks, Contact: Tiya, tiya@ tiyashammocks.com, 089 600 0041.

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PETS

ACTIVITIES, GROUPS Roof top Patong Mini Golf

The best sea view 18 Holes, roof top Mini Golf. Located on the 4th floor of Banana Walk Plaza in Patong, 091 762 2628, http:// patongminigolf.com

BUSINESS OPPORTUNITIES Bangla agogo club for sale

Horse and Dog Vet Hospital Open from 10am. â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 8pm.*Service all types of animals. * Experienced professionals.Contact: 076 620 136 /084 210 6868 and contact@horsedogvet.com www.horsedogvet.com

A newly refurbished bar/club with great returns is for sale. Fully fitted out over 2 floors. Very cheap and very low rent. Reliable landlord. Steve, stevepearcergj@hotmail.co.uk, 089 587 0819.

Pets Magic Planet Open from 9am. - 7pm. *The best international brands. * The ultimate choice. * Luxury accessries & jewels. Contact: 076 620 106 / 091 040 4000 and contact@petsmagicplanet.com

Unique Stretch Limo Business Only available Stretch Limo in Thailand. 9 meters long 8 pax, in good condition with all documents and green plates. Turn key business incl. website just to take over and start to make money! 2,500,000.-, Patitta Apichotjarus, Patong, phuketstretchlimo@gmail.com, 080 145 0082.

Business for Sale Non tourist/bar related business for sale, yearly turnover of 15MB. Call 087 276 0529 or 081 968 6051 for more details.

Newly renovated hotel for rent Newly renovated hotel/guest house in Patongâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s heart for rent from owner. 12 rooms, 2 shops to busy street, many facilities. More details check thephuketnews.com, search Listing ID 55398 or call +66(0)81 538 1399.

MOTORBIKES FOR SALE

German bakery & deli & snack Main road, 8 years clientele, take over + incl. training complete equipment, staff room, 3 or 5 years leasing contract. Yearly volume 4 mio. hansibakery@gmail.com, Price: 3.5 million, Contact Mr. Stark.

Best Deal Rawai business for sale. Area approx 2Rai, can do restaurant or other business.Five mins from beach. Long term lease, yearly rent B200,000. 4 bedrooms house included. Reduce from B980,000 to B520,000. Contact Khun Asoke at 089 646 7176 / big_redchili@yahoo.com

CAR FOR SALE TOYOTA CORALLA ALTIS TRD Sept. 2011. 57000 km. 1 farang owner no accident. Toyota service. Top condition. Tel: 086 043 4315 (English and German). 440,000, Per Dompert, Phuket, perdompert@hotmail.com, 086 043 4315.

TOYOTA ALTIS 1.6G AT

2008. 62K kms. White. Usual G refinements. Insurance, FSH, Lady driver 395K baht ono 395K, Clive Roberts, crob58@gmail.com, 081 087 9237 or 086 270 8727.

Chevy Captiva LT 2008 Chevrolet Captiva LT 2008, 499,000 Baht, 62.000 KM, 1 Owner, 2.0L Turbo Diesel, Full Chevy Service History, No Accidents, 1st Class Insurance. Tel. 082 804 1742.

Kawasaki Versys 650 ABS 2012

Two cute Poodles We are 2 cute Poodles, both under 5kgs & the best of friends & wish to find a new loving home together, both of us are sterilized, vaccinated & healthy. Please contact Sherin.peace@gmail. com for adoption enquires.

CAR WASH DELIVERY

Nissan Teana 2.5Lt Model 2014 17,000km. New price 1.7Mln NOW 1,050,000Baht Eng: 081 788 8280 Thai: 090 163 2140, Contact Maurice, maurice.phuket@gmail. com , 090 163 2140.

e Urg

e s al

Honda Jazz 2009 1500cc Auto

57,000kms. One owner since new. Regularly serviced by Honda. Tax and Insurance until the end of June and available now at right offer. Reduced by 40,000bht, REDUCED to 330,000bht o.n.o, Andy +66846909144, andysmalster@gmail.com.

CARS WANTED Urgent need Toyota hilux vigo Want to sell your Toyota hilux vigo Champ ? vigo4u is the best palace to sell your Toyota. Vigo4u now in Phuket, Pataya and Bangkok also. 084 344 3444, 02 810 8117.

MEMBERSHIPS Blue Canyon Membership

Tired Of Waiting? We clean your car at your place - at your time. No.1 car wash delivery in Phuket. Call 076-355-042 or go to CleanCar.me for more details.

PERSONAL SERVICES De Laguna By Dr.JaQ International Clinic English Speaking Doctor By Appointment 095 0851188 FB: DrJaq Warnnissorn Providing Anti-Aging (Botox, Filler, Live Cell Therapy, Alternative Cancer Treatment, Chelation Medical, House Call). Integrative and Advancement in Medicine for individualized treatment programs for patients of all ages and with various disorders, Email: tosawcute@gmail.com.

FURNITURE FOR SALE Swinging Sun Loungers For Sale Swinging, sun loungers, brand new, excellent quality- 6,000 baht only, Contact: Eddy, eddyelan@ yahoo.com, 0899710278.

MOVING SERVICES Looking for Moving Company? With over 15 years of experience Bigmove Phuket is the number 1 provider of moving and shipping in and out of Phuket Thailand. We provide storage in a state of the art clean, secure, storage facility located centrally in Phuket. www.bigmovephuket.com, 081-797-5377.

TOYOTA Fortuner 2009 7 seats, Silver, GPS video, Family car Diesel 2,694cc, Blue book Service history Toyota Pearl 78,000kms. AUTOMATIC transmission, golfguru2005@yahoo.co.uk, 076 615 827.

PETS FOR ADOPTION

Showroom condition, new from Kawasaki Phuket May 2012, 2,000km, Hepco & Becker Engine Bars & Rear-rack, Kawasaki Handguards and Pyramid Hugger., 220,000 THB, Paul, 084 1 303 234, Plongmore@hotmail.com.

Restaurant on Main Street Large, tastefully decorated restaurant in Cherngtalay. Fully fitted and equipped kitchen, 100 seats, bar. Walk in and start business. Now only B790,000, 089 400 5907.

FRIDAY, APRIL 8, 2016

COMMUNITY

Blue Canyon Membership for sale. 1 corporate nominee for sale THB 630,000 inc transfer fee. grahamhaslam@hotmail.com.

PUBLIC NOTICES Notice In June 2016, Bangkok Hospital Phuket will have to destroy patient records being inactive for over 10 years. For assistance & information, call 1719 or e-mail us at info@phukethospital.com.

OTHER For Sale Industrial over locker. Whitehouse Brand. 3 Thread. Brand new never used. Full tool kit. Bargain at 12,000 Baht. Call Sandi 087 264 0778.

Office Space Laguna

Office Space Laguna - Plaza del Mar Fully Furnished offices 4 Office Suite plus boardroom Rent entire unit or individual office 080 045 4474.

PROPERTY FOR SALE Horst Lakits Resort for sale/lease long term, in Chalong/Rawai Area own big well 22 rooms 2 Rai land large pool Restaurant parking No Agents. lets talk, Horst Lakits, 67/18 Soi Sermsuk, bigasail@samart.co.th, 086 940 1860, 076 383 080.

2 New Resale Condos 3.9 MB. 7%net ROI 1 bed condos on the market 7%net ROI for 14 years! Rare Pool access modern hilltop unit. Panoramic views of Andaman Bay & city lights of Patong. Also 1 bed city & ocean views, fully furnished & professionally managed. You just collect 7% net/year hassle free. Contact phuketjon@gmail.com, 084 842 2262.

Sea View Land 265 Met. Pub.Rd. Great investment. 3/5 Rai Plots. NS3G Titles. Price start 4 M/Rai. Full infra. 265 Met. Pub. Rd. Frontage. Located on Koh Yao Yai resort area, just 25 min. speed boat from Phuket. We can make easy half day trip 10am-2pm. Call Charlie /more info, charlesaraines@hotmail.com, 062 069 1965.

Laguna - Luxury 1 Bed & Golf Membership For Sale

Totally renovated: new kitchen, wood floors, furnished, sound system. Price includes Laguna Golf Membership and Privilege Card. THB 6.9M. Owner 084 247 1632 - E-Mail: phuket3203@gmail.com.

Patong Tower and Andaman Beach suite for sale Mountains and Sea Views, Call David 080 692 6114, email: patongrealestate@gmail.com.

Karon Beach New House For Sale/Rent 80 Sqm. 2 Bedroom, 2 Bathroom, Terrace carport. Nice Sea view. Sale 5.8 MB. Rent long term 18,000 per month. Gunter Kraus, Phuket, naruchai@gmx.de, 091 040 2471.

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FRIDAY, APRIL 8, 2016

Buy&Sell

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PROPERTY FOR SALE

Luxury Apartment hotel in Kata

House for sale

Luxury Apartment hotel for sale in Kata beach. 356sqm, 3 floors. 12 rooms, all have sea view, kitchen, Thai chanote or 90 years lease. 30 MB., Noi (Thai & EN), Kata Beach, t_senrum@live. com.au, 083 391 5525.

Private pool villa with lovely garden half a rai. Quite and safe area. 3 bedroom 2 bathroom open kitchen. 160 m2 Situated in Ban Pahra. 12 minutes to PIA, Phuket Airport, Nay Yang beach, and Blue Canyon Golf course. 2 min to Mission Hill Golf course.Price 8 million baht, 225 000 euro, bergsstigen@ telia.com, 090 701 4204.

Villa For Sale / Rent Located at Naiharn beach Soi Naya 3, Mountain view, Swimming pool, Balcony, 2 floor, 4 bed room. Total 92 sq.m. Thai 081 958 0542 ENG 081 956 6813.

Phuket Beach Front Land 14 RAI Beach front Phuket,Phungnga Close 5 -7*hote,Chanode title,90 meters of water frontage More than 100 m wide beach&small piece of land close to the beach 25MB/ RAI, Ms.Pam, phuketmyhouse@gmail.com, 089 868 8668.

Owner Sales Appartment “ The Pearl of Naithon “ Leasehold Total area 226,66 SQM including terrace 41,25 Sqm. 3 bedrooms with 3 bathrooms Price THB 13.5 million. MP: 089 814 1458.

PROPERTY FOR SALE New Sea View Villa

Chalong Villa for sale

Living area 450 sq.m, Land 800 sq.m. 1st floor: Living room, Master bdr with en-suite bth, Kitchen, Seaview terrace, Pool, Carpark. 2nd floor: 4 bdr with bth, 2nd living room, Office. 19.5M, oliver@thurmanngroup.com, 087 877 2320.

SPACIOUS 4-BED RAWAI VILLA Beautiful home in 1,038sqm gardens.Three en suite beds, guest house, 9x4m pool, maid’s room. Living space 320sqm. Private access. Reduced to 12,000,000THB, alangath@ gmail.com, 087 273 0141.

Premium villa 8B in the prestiques Sunrise Ocean Villas developement is now for sale. Being built on the highest point in the estate, only 80 meters from the ocean and located 3 mins away from Grand AoPor Marina, 10 mins from golf course, 20 mins from the airport,, shopping centers, schools and hospitals, this villa is a perfect place to live with no traffic, no pollution and no mass tourism..., Over than 600 Sqm usable building area, 3 bedrooms, guest apartment, maid quarters, games room, 10 meter infinity swimming pool, roof terrace and breath taking views. Can be ready to move in within 8 weeks and still can be customized to the wishes of new owner. For sale at only 24.9 mill Baht. For viewing or more information please contact our sales director, Khun Montha 081 343 0777 Email : montha_phuket@yahoo.com.

Two-story house in Phuket City Land 400 sq. m, living area 344 sq.m, 6 rooms, 3 bathrooms, maid’s room with bath. Fully furnished. Very good for living and business. 15,000,000.-, Pauline Haldemann, haldemwa@hotmail.com, 081 895 0038.

@thephuketnews

Land for sale - Mission Height NICE LAND FOR SALE AT MISSION HEIGHT, JUST OVER ONE RAI. Phone 093 629 4400 English, 082 421 4842 Thai.

Alexander Kolesnikov 3 Bedroom Villa for sale. Building 320 s.m. Land 900 s.m. Nice garden, 2 cars garage, study. Just 3 minutes from BIS. 15 MB, Contact Alexander, alexkolinz@gmail.com, 089 651 3250.

34 CLASSIFIEDS

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Buy&Sell

FRIDAY, APRIL 8, 2016

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PROPERTY FOR SALE

For Sale or Rent 4 bedroom 3 bath room excellent view Chalong bay 3 storage,Fully furnished all new swimming pool in quiet area Rawai beach. All inquires. Tidarat, 087 466 5635.

Alexander Kolesnikov

Land & 4 storey Commercial building for sell.Patong. Just 60 m from the beach. Guesthouse 6 luxury rooms + restaurant 40 seats. 17 MB, Contact Alexander, alexkolinz@gmail.com, 089 651 3250.

SMALL RESORT BY LAGUNA

4 Luxury villas, office, 2 pools, 1 Rai - Chanote. Secure investment, price below replacement cost, money maker. Owner 82 retiring. 30 Mil Baht. Lets talk. Owner, 089 594 4067.

House For Sale Located in Rawai soi Samaki3 2 bedroom 2 bathroom 1 Laundry room 1 storage room Living area 160 sq.m, Chanot title 280 sq.m. 3.2 MB., Rico9963@hotmail.com, 083 640 9041

Fire sale 7 shop houses for sale, 20 meters from Chalong round about. On the way to pier for Sale. 25 Million, kieranpmadden@hotmail.com, 096 924 4661.

Brand new 3 bed villa Onyx Living area 160 sq.m. Land 200 sq.m. Fully luxury furnished. Open plan living room with kitchen, Private & Peaceful area, Security gate estate, Gym. 8.9M, oliver@thurmanngroup. com, 087 877 2320.

Villa for sale

Exclusive Villa with Pool and Garden In Phuket, Rawai/Nai Harn, Land size: 1’700 m2, build up area 400m2. Private sale, no agents please. 36 MB, JasminConsulting@gmx.net.

The Base Downtown - Sale/Rent 1 Bed (35sqm) & 2 Bed (60sqm), fully furnished, pool view. Near Central, BIS, Big C, Lotus, Siriroj hospital, Darasamut School, Thai Hua School (Close to new Central Embassy- good investment). Swimming pool, fitness & library. Rent:15,000-25,000 THB/month and 35,000-45,000 THB/month. Panattaporn.c@gmail.com, 093 639 4654.

Beachfront House 4-Bedroom house on semiprivate beach available for sale and rent. Can easily be divided into two separate and identical properties. The rental/sale can also include a self-contained 1-bedroom bungalow, Price: 18.2 MB, Rent 110,000 THB, Alex Seago, home@thaivillaboutique.com, 087-8923876.

Waterfront Condominium The Cleat Condo, residence project in Krabi Boat Lagoon Marina. Price 3-9MB, size 37119 Sq.M., 1 or 2 bedroom, marina view. For rent/sale. marketing@phuketpropertytrip.com

Ocean View Land Kamala Half rai 797sq.m. cleared and leveled, power connected, sealed road, MUST SELL 6.75million. For ENG 090 492 3101 THA 093 768 6694.

House For Rent at tennis club

Partner for resort wanted

5 Rai. hillside Maikhao beach. Main buiding finished. Nice sunset seaview, 087 267 1192, Julius_schuster2001@yahoo.de

2 bedrooms,1 en suite bedroom,2 bathroom, living area and big veranda. Idea for tennis Coach. Prefer long term rent. Viewing by appointment only. Patra, patbittersweet@gmail.com , 081 607 2805.

Sale. Semi detached house

D Condo Creek Short term offer

Living room 2 double bedrooms 1 fitted furniture and en-suite fitted kitchen office bathroom carport garden Land 188sqm, house 75sqm. 2,000,000, Khun Peter, Baan Pleunjan 2, Paklok, Talang, lowprofile@mail.com, 086 905 1406.

1-6 months offer. Free stay 2 week on conditions. Fully furnished w washing machine. Mountains view, 5th fl. Bike rental. See room from Mar 12, move in from 15 Mar. Tiya, lodchong77th@yahoo. com, 089 600 0041.

Anuphas Golfville House- Kathu

Land 162 sqwa. Large Pool/Jacuzzi-3 Bed-4 Bath-Office-2 Storage Building-Alarm System and much more. Reduced 22MB to 18 MB for Quick Sale. mrgeoffcurry@yahoo.com, Si +6681 970 8896 TH/ENG, Geoff+6681 854 0061 ENG.

Vassana Residence. Rawai Fully furnished 2 Bedroom 2 Bathroom. Swimming pool on ground. WiFi and cable TV included in price. 160M.S. in size. long term only. 35,000, Art, Rawai / NaiHarn, vassana.residence@gmail. com, Eng.087 882 9604.

Land For Sale 3 Mil Baht

In Thalang area 2.5 Rai beautiful, flat land with access road, Chanote title, only 5 minutes from Thanyapura (PIA International school). sk.thanya@ gmail.com, 081 737 8624.

For Sale/Rent (5 Days - 6 Months) 4 Floors, 6 Bedrooms, 4 Bathrooms. Fully furnished. Kuku, Phuket Town. Contact Joy, 093 596 2757, joyfulphuket@gmail.com.

Kata Seaview Condo For Sale New 1 bedroom with great sea and sunset views! 44sqm. Leasehold with foriegn freehold available. Swimming pool, sauna and clubhouse. Flexible furniture options. Great management and rental program, 082 254 0760.

LUXURY POOL VILLA BY LAGUNA Has everything, comfort, security, live in a small resort - lush tropical garden. 35,000 Baht per month. Long lease. Owner, 089 594 4067.

Townhouse for sale. Chalong. Townhouse 150sq.m, 2 storey, 2 bedroom, living room, kitchen, 2 balcony, 2 bathroom, office, parking. Fully furnitured. Chalong circle, Price: 3700000, Contact: Mariya, mvs97@yandex.ru, 0822751146, Fax: 0918053725.

Chalong Villa for rent Living area 450 sq.m, Land: 800 sq.m. 1st floor: Living room, Master bdr with en-suite bth, Kitchen, Sea view terrace, Pool, 2nd floor: 4 bdr with bth, 2nd living room, Office. 90,000/month/ year., oliver@thurmanngroup.com, 087 877 2320.

Sea view land in Patong The Last Piece of Sea View Land on Prime Location in Patong, just 500 m. from Patong beach, 1.3 KM. to Jungceylon Shopping Mall, Contact: Karuna, kpattarawalee@ gmail.com, 089 967 5373.

Outstanding Villa for sale

3 bed/3 bath, Living area 370 sq.m, Land 600 sq.m. Located at the 4 Star Residence. Spacious living quarters, open plan living, dining areas, gourmet kitchen, private pool. 14.9M, oliver@thurmanngroup.com, +66 (0)87 877 2320.

PROPERTY FOR RENT Rawai Sea View Condominium For Rent

Short/long-term rental. 1 and 2 bedroom apartments, Stunning sea view, Fully furnished, Large swimming pool, Lift. reservation@ almaliresidence.com, 0935742533

Office/Shop for Rent

Ground Floor space with excellent positioning on Chalong Pier Road. For more information, please call 081 416 4177 or 076 381 341.

Retail space for rent

Retail space available in the Ocean Plaza Patong for massage, beauty, coffee, souvenir shops etc. Low rent contracts for up to 12 yrs. For info call Natty at 086 281 8883 or 076 343 506. 3632, Nattida Thaboondee, g.cummings@hotmail.com, 086 281 8883.

House in Karon for Sale. Hard

to find 3 bed room , 3 bath room house for sale in the perfect location near Kata & Karon beach, well maintained with a salt water pool, Price : 16,000,000, Narrisara (Tic), 7/8 Patak Soi 10, Karon, g-a-coates@ hotmail.com, 0991642991.

Make money NOW - Kata Beach House for sale

West coast Phuket Great Location, Spa, 7 Bedroom, 7 Bathroom, all with kitchens. Rent or live with good income. 5 minutes walk to Kata beach. ขายของได้ 9 MB or Offer, Khun Arreerat, kataari@ yahoo.com, 086 595 8512, 081 970 4638.

PROPERTY FOR RENT

Amazing Sea view Penthouse in Rawai FOR RENT Amazing Sea view Penthouse in Rawai. 360 p ํ anoramic breathtaking views of Chalong bay, mountain view and big Buddha. Two bedrooms, 310 sq.m of spacious living area and balconies. Please contact Izzy 086278 8300 or Danai 090 170 0429. propertysales@serenityphuket.com.

Surin Andaman Apt - 2 beds

100 sqm w 2 beds, close to Surin & Bangtao beaches. Common Pool. Fully furnished with AC, fans, internet, cable TV. Short term possible. 24,000 THB, 081 273 1740.

House for rent - Near Pah-klok

Long term, quality furnishings, near Heroines Monument, 3 bed, 2 baths plus office. Good garden. THB35,000 per month. Call 087 878 5804.

PATONG: 1 and 2 Bed Apartments

2-Bed/2-Bath & Studio for rent. Balcony. Full A/C. Western Kitchen. Modern furnished. All Extras. Fast WIFI free. Ouiet Location & well maintained. Email : khunrei@gmail.com, 084 185 8536.

CHALONG BEACH FRONT LAND Direct beach front land for rent. Long and short term. Area 2400 sq meter with beach front of 40 meter, Contact: Mr. Narin, narinpga@ gmail.com, 081 826 9390.

thephuketnews

36 SPORT

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

FRIDAY, APRIL 8, 2016

Phuket FC seal first season win FOOTBALL

Matt Pond editopr3@classactmedia.co.th

espite having a growing list of starting 11 players already out through injury, Phuket FC managed to seal their first win of the AIS Southern Region Division 2 season against Yala United last Sunday night (Apr 3). A number of key players have picked up knocks in previous games and Phuket FC’s Coach Pittaya ‘Odd’ Phimarnman has been forced to use some of the team’s younger players to make up a starting 11. However, two players who were fit to return to Sunday’s starting 11 were first-choice keeper Donloh Ma-i who missed the previous game against Hatyai FC due to injury, and South Korean striker Park Goen Yong, who made his league debut for the Andaman Dragon. Phuket FC started the game brightly despite playing against a strong Yala, who have been building their team over previous seasons and just missed out on a play-off place last year. And it was Phuket who

Phuket FC’s Sukree E-tae scored his second goal in as many games and once again opened the scoring, this time against Yala FC. Photo: Hari Jib opened the scoring in the 16th minute with a goal from Sukree E-tae, scoring his second goal in as many games. The remainder of the first 45 saw both teams creating chances, but neither managing to find what was needed to score. Coming out for the second 45, Phuket looked like they were going to play safe with

many players sitting back in their own half, and with three Yala players already on yellow cards they were not as physical as in the first but were still playing to get the equaliser. But just three minutes in, Phuket increased their lead with a goal from South Korean defender Baek Yongsun, making amends for his own goal against Hatyai last week.

Phuket decided to sit back even more after the goal, and Yala decided to up their game despite Phuket playing so deep in their own half. And they were rewarded for their efforts in the 68th minute when their Ivory Coast forward Zana Brahima Ouattara narrowed the deficit and brought the game to 2-1. It was a tough last 20 minutes for Phuket with Yala desperately trying to find an equaliser, but the Dragon managed to hold-out and gain their first three points of the season, and bringing them to 7th place in the league table. Speaking to The Phuket News after the game, Coach Odd said, “Today was a very hard game, the player’s fitness is low, and we have been badly affected by injuries to key players. “It certainly wasn’t beautiful football today, but it was three points.” Meanwhile, there was also an addition to Phuket’s team who left everyone mystified, a foreign player wearing the number 19 shirt. Asked whether he was a new player, Coach Odd said, “This is a new coaching

The addition to the team who left everyone mystified, Nather Jarrar from Jordan. Photo: Matt Pond assistant, however, he may also sign to play as we are very low on our quota for foreign players. “He is Nather Jarrar from Jordan. He is a coach and player and I’m hoping he can help me run the team, and also get some playing time too. He is very experienced and will be a benefit to the team,” he said. Nather, 32, is the founder of Jordanian side Amman FC and former player for Canada’s Quebec League side Concordia University Stingers. Asked about his career, Nather told The Phuket News that he first started playing

AIS SOUTHERN REGION DIVISION 2 Team

MP W

GD Pts

Hatyai FC

Pattani FC

Ranong Utd

Satun Utd

Nara Utd

Phangnga FC

Phuket FC

Phatthalung FC

-1

Suratthani FC

-1

Nakhorn Si Heritage

-3

Trang FC

-3

Yala Utd

-3

in Jordan but later moved to Canada. It is his first time in Thailand, and he has already played in a friendly game for the Andaman Dragon prior to the season kicking-off. “I played for the coach and he asked me if I would be prepared to stay on and play for the club. However, I am also here to assist Coach Odd in his role. He is very open-minded and open to ideas, and I can help him with regards to the team’s tactics and systems. “I’m glad that I’m here today to see the team pick up their first three points,” he said. At the time The Phuket News went to press, Phuket were due to play a postponed Toyota League Cup qualifier against Suratthani FC. Should they have won that game they will play Bangkok United in the first round of the league cup on Sunday (Apr 10) at Surakul Stadium with kick off set for 7pm. However, should they have lost, they will then be on a break for Songkran and will return to league games on April 23 when they will travel to take on Nakhorn Si Heritage. The Phuket News is proud media sponsor of Phuket FC. thephuketnews

38 SPORT

Phuket golfer, 14, to head to San Diego

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

Reality take second VNEA Pool League title POOL

GOLF BR I T ISH I N T ER NAtional School, Phu ket (BISP) student and BISP Golf Academy member Mark Vanchai Luangnitikul won the Thailand Golf Association ‘TGA Junior Golf Champion (Class A-B) Qualifier’ last Sunday (Apr 3) in the Junior World tournament at the Royal Hills Golf Club in Nakhon Nayok province. Featuring the best young golfers in Thailand, the four day event was played over four rounds (72 holes), and Mark scored an even par total score of 288, beating the next best player by three shots. Mark is now officially ranked as the number one golfer in Thailand in the 15 and under age group, a position that grants him a place at the prestigious IMG Academy Junior World Championships taking place in San Diego this summer. At last year’s championships in San Diego, Mark came an impressive third after leading the tournament over the first 15 holes – in the last four years he has come 5th, 4th, 4th and 3rd – and his goal this year is to win. “Over the last year, I have worked on my control in the game, to go alongside the technical side, and I’m confident that this will be my year to take the title,” says Mark. For more information about the BISP Golf Academy, email Director Jeff LaMantia at jlamantia@bisphuket. ac.th or visit bisphuket. ac.th/golf

FRIDAY, APRIL 8, 2016

t’s another year and another title for the “Reality” team as they won the 3rd Annual VNEA Pool League Phuket last Saturday (April 2) at Tazmania Pool Lounge in Patong, earning a trip to the world championships in Las Vegas later this year. The squad, made up of a mix of Thais and expats, defeated the “Genius” team with just two games to go in their 25-match final in front of dozens of spectators at Tazmania. The win marks the first time a team won back-to-back Phuket pool league titles. “I hope we do better than before because there’s always a chance to improve. I think in Phuket there are a lot of players and the level is not so different than what we saw over [in Las Vegas],” said Giovanni Nanni Bechetti of the Reality team. This year’s competition began back in October with

Reality won an all expenses paid trip to the VNEA World Pool Chamionships in Las Vegas. Photo: JP Mestanza 30 teams across four divisions, in Phuket and Koh Samui. The Reality team will now represent Team Thailand in the 2016 VNEA World Pool

Championships this May at Bally’s Las Vegas Hotel and Casino, all expenses paid. Hosted by Live 89.5s Jason Wilder, the final night of the

VNEA Pool League was the conclusion of a seven month long competition with raffles and prizes awarded to players who participated throughout

the season, all sponsored by Thailand Pool Tables. Class Act Media is a sponsor of the VNEA Pool League.

HASH HOUSE HARRIERS Run #1574: Saturday April 9, 2016 Run Start Time: 4PM Hares: No Hope, Not Cleaver, Singha Location: Baan Lipon area - under pylons Directions: Head north from Heroines Monument up the main Highway for approximately 3.7km and turn right at the traffic lights (NO SIGN). Head east for approximately 1.4km then turn right. Follow the road through the village for approx 1.6km and turn left. Follow the road for approx 1km to the pylons. Laager is on the right approx 100m up the track. Pick ups park to one side of the track, cars park on the road past the sharp bend. HHH truck will be marked.

The teams from Dirty Nellies and Champs Bar. Bus pick- up: Patong @ E xpat Hotel: 2:30pm Kamala @ Black Cat’s Bar: 3pm More info: phuket-hhh.com

Natalie Bar regain top spot in PPL POOL LAST WEEK IN THE PAtong Pool League, Natalie played their game in hand on Monday (Mar 28) against Andaman Sea. They played well and beat Andaman 7-4 taking them back to the top of the league. Meanwhile, on Thursday night (Mar 31) all teams took part in their scheduled matches. Natalie played away to Old Sailor and walked away with a nice 9-2 win, extending their lead at the top. Dirty Nellies played at home against Champs and took an 8-3 victory, while Martin Swiss played away to Sports

Bar and came out 7-4 on top with Mr Tak playing a seven ball in his singles game. There was also two big wins on Thursday night, first being for Genius who won 10-1 away to Andaman Sea, the other being Ting Tong who moved up to 3rd place with a 10-1 win away to Simon & Oils. Ting Tong Bar appear to be the team to watch now as they have been quietly moving up the league table unnoticed and are just behind 2nd placed Dirty Nellies and still have a game in hand on everyone. Friendly games are now starting to be set up on a Monday, this is not part of the league and is open to any bar and is just for practice and a

bit of fun. Any bars interested in taking part in the friendlies should contact Scott on 0817289509 or go to watch on Monday at Dirty Nellies when they play the first friendly leg against Champs Bar. League Standings

Natalie

Dirty Nellies

Ting Tong

Genius

Champs

Old Sailor

Martins

Sports

Simon & Oils

Andaman Sea

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FRIDAY, APRIL 8, 2016

SPORT 39

PREMIER PREDICTIONS: ENTER NOW AT THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

Chelsea Conte

Antonio signs three-year deal FOOTBALL

@thephuketnews

MONTHLY SPONSOR

The overall competition winner receives 1 voucher staying 2 nights in a Prestige Suite including breakfast for 2 persons and a 30-minute spa treatment at Sofitel Krabi Phokeethra Golf & Spa Resort, overall value THB 90,000. The monthly competition winner for April will receive a B5,000 voucher to spend at any Two Chefs outlet on the island.

EPL PREDICTIONS

taly coach Antonio Conte was named as Chelsea’s new manager on Monday (Apr 4) after the reigning Premier League champions announced he had signed a three-year contract that will start following Euro 2016. “I am happy we have made the announcement now so everything is clear and we can end the speculation,” said Conte, first tipped as a successor to interim manager Guus Hiddink at Stamford Bridge last month, in a statement on Chelsea’s website. The 46-year-old former Juventus boss took over the Italian national team in August 2014 and secured their qualification for the European Championship finals in France, which start in June. “I will continue to focus on my job with the Italian national team and will reserve speaking about Chelsea again until after the Euros,” added Conte, who guided Juventus to three straight Serie A titles from 2012-14 before taking charge of Italy. He added: “I am very excited about the prospect of working at Chelsea Football Club. “I am proud to be the coach of the national team of my country and only a role as attractive as manager of Chelsea could follow that. “I am looking forward to meeting everyone at the club and the day-to-day challenge of competing in the Premier League. “Chelsea and English football are watched wherever you go, the fans are passionate and my ambition is to have more success to follow the victories I enjoyed in Italy.” Chelsea have been without a permanent manager since the London club ended Jose

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1. 2. 3. 4. 5.

OVERALL STANDINGS celticpride 143 graeme64 142 phils64 142 chook 140 cskaza 139

English Premier League 2015 - 2016 Team 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20

Leicester Tottenham Arsenal Man City Man Utd West Ham Southampton Stoke Liverpool Chelsea West Brom Everton Bournemouth Watford Swansea Crystal Palace Norwich Sunderland Newcastle Aston Villa

MP W 32 32 31 31 31 31 32 32 30 31 31 30 32 31 32 31 32 31 31 32

20 17 17 16 15 13 13 13 12 11 10 9 10 10 9 9 8 6 6 3

9 11 7 6 8 12 8 8 9 11 10 11 8 7 10 7 7 9 7 7

3 4 7 9 8 6 11 11 9 9 11 10 14 14 13 15 17 16 18 22

A GD Pts

55 57 52 56 39 49 41 36 46 49 30 51 38 30 33 34 35 36 31 22

31 25 30 32 27 37 33 39 41 41 37 42 54 36 42 42 56 55 58 62

24 32 22 24 12 12 8 -3 5 8 -7 9 -16 -6 -9 -8 -21 -19 -27 -40

69 62 58 54 53 51 47 47 45 44 40 38 38 37 37 34 31 27 25 16

Live Sports TV Schedule Italy coach Antonio Conte has been named as Chelsea’s new manager on a three-year deal starting after Euro 2016. Photo: Emmanuel Dunand/AFP Mourinho’s second spell at Stamford Bridge in December after they lost nine out of the first 16 games of their Premier League title defence. Under Dutch coach Hiddink, they have mounted something of a recovery and last weekend’s 4-0 win away to bottom of the table Aston Villa left Chelsea tenth in the 20-team Premier League. Nevertheless they will now end the season without a trophy and won’t qualify for the elite Champions League, with even a place in Europe’s second-tier Europa League now looking beyond them. Conte becomes the fifth Italian manager of Chelsea following Gianluca Vialli, Claudio Ranieri, Carlo An-

celotti and Roberto di Matteo. His appointment will also make him the eighth fulltime Chelsea manager during Russian billionaire Roman Abramovich’s 13 years as owner of the Blues. One major item in Conte’s Chelsea in-tray will be the future of veteran club captain John Terry. The 35-year-old former England central defender, who has spent his entire senior professional career with Chelsea, announced in January he would be leaving at the end of the season only for the club to respond by saying he could yet be offered a new contract. Several other players may have been considering their future at Chelsea, given the

lack of Champions League football next term, but the fact the Blues have signed a manager with Conte’s track record could persuade them to stay put. Chelsea director Marina Granovskaia, welcoming Conte’s appointment, said: “We are very pleased to have recruited one of the most highly regarded managers in world football and we are equally pleased to do so before the end of the current season. This aids our future planning. “I would also like to take this opportunity to thank Guus Hiddink, who has done a great job since he joined us in December.” AFP

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editor3@classactmedia.co.th

FRIDAY, APRIL 8, 2016

Chelsea appoint Antonio Conte as coach > page 39

SHAMBLES

Phuket FC caught up in league cup fiasco FOOTBALL Matt Pond editor3@classactmedia.co.th

This is as good as the action got on Tuesday night (Apr 5). (Inset) By what should have been the half way break Coach Odd confirmed the officials had not turned up. Photos: Matt Pond

round 500 fans slowly descended upon Surakul Stadium on Tuesday night (Apr 5) to see Phuket FC play Suratthani FC in the final Toyota League Cup qualifying round which was due to kick off at 7pm. By 7pm, and with fans still making their way into the stadium, players from both teams, rather than being in their usual formation lined up in the tunnel ready to come out onto the pitch, sat talking on the sidelines. Being an official game, by 7:15pm, and kick off nowhere near looking to be taking place, fans started to think about what was going on as no official announcement had been made at that time.

At 7:30pm it was first announced that the officials assigned to officiate the game had failed to arrive at Surakul Stadium. By what should have been the half way break, The Phuket News spoke to Phuket FC coach Pittaya ‘Odd’ Phimarnman who said that all he knew was that the officials had not turned up. “I don’t know why the officials haven’t turned up, that is not my responsibility,” he said. “The game has to be played soon as the winning team has to play Bangkok United in the first round on Sunday (Apr 10), he added. It wasn’t until 8:30pm that it was officially announced that the game was to be postponed until 7pm the following day (Wednesday, the day The Phuket News goes to print). Meanwhile, the Andaman Dragon secured their first league win of the 2016 season last Sunday (Apr 3) against Yala United, see match report on page 36.

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