AUSTRALIAN ASSOCIATION OF HONG KONG

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Kanga News Volume 42, Issue 2, March 2024

A Message from the President

A Hello from Ivy!

Can you believe Easter and Ching Ming Festival are around the corner? I feel that I am only just getting over Christmas and Chinese New Year!
There is lots of work going on behind the scenes and no doubt that you may be noticing some changes. Celebrating 70 years in Hong Kong, a little “refresh” is just what the Doctor ordered and one of the many challenges is getting information to our members.

Therefore, we are VERY excited to launch our OZHK WhatsApp Community. Here you can join our regular meet-up groups looked after by our hard-working volunteers. Regular announcements and updates will also be made through this OZHK WhatsApp Community, and we encourage you to join.

Kanga News will also be emailed to you bi-monthly, so six times a year, in this format along with additional announcement mail-outs as needs require.

OZHK’s enthusiastic committee is excited to bring to our members (and members-to-be), a series of events to celebrate our 70 years strong in Hong Kong, starting with our ever-popular Sundowners (which is held on the 1^st Thursday of each month)

On Thursday 2^nd May 2024, we will be celebrating 70 years in Hong Kong at our special Sundowners - hosted at the Australian Consul General’s Residence and tickets are now on sale. Join us for a relaxed casual evening.

To keep an organisation running for as long as OZHK, we are very grateful to our sponsors. Without this generosity and support, it will be hard for us to maintain the day-to-day. With that, on behalf of the committee, I would like to extend a very special “Thank You” to Odin Mortgage, Oreana Finance and Australian International School Hong Kong for their ongoing commitment to OZHK. This allows us to continue being – a great mate in Hong Kong.

Last but certainly not least, a very special introduction to our new Vice President, Howard West. Howard or, as the AISHK alumni would greet him, Mr West, joins the general committee. Howard is well known and beloved amongst the Australian community and we are very lucky to have him join the general committee.

The ABC’s Leigh Sales and Annabel Crabb with Ivy and Howard at AustCham’s G’Day HK.

That’s all for now folks! See you at our 70^th Anniversary Sundowners on Thursday 2^nd May 2024.

President

Activites and Events

Mahjong on Monday

Currently we are a group of expat Mahjong enthusiasts gathering to learn share and challenge each other in the local style of Mahjong (with a small inflection of Western hands and scoring).

We meet Monday mornings 10am to 1pm at Dynasty Court, Old Peak Road.

Pre-game sign up is necessary to help facilitate table booking and membership of the Australian Association is strongly encouraged.

We are about to welcome three new players who will commence Mahjong lessons in March. We look forward to getting to know them as they continue to play in our group and develop their Mahjong skills along with us all.

If you are interested in playing, please join our OZHK Community Mahjong Group.

Sundowners: First Thursday Each Month

A fun and warmly welcoming Sundowners was held on Thursday 7 March at Flaming Frango. Early birds were there to watch the AFL match between Sydney and Melbourne and the AFL Footy Tipping competition was in its first night of the table. There certainly was a competitively keen vibe in play…go team!

A fun night was had in meeting old friends and new members. It was a blast to see Joanna and Robert Hartnett who were in town on a flying visit from their new UK base. And we also welcomed our newest member to the Association, fresh from Adelaide, who had joined during the week, Dr Li YU.

Sundowners continues each first Thursday of the month, so look for Thursday 4 April (Ching Ming holiday) as our next meet up. Join our OZHK Community Sundowners Group to keep updated! Cheers.

Friday Long Lunch

The Final Friday Long Lunch meets regularly on the last Friday of the month at Trafalgar, 5Fl 54 Lockhart Rd, Wan Chai. Join for a relaxed lunch, whether you are time poor or rich, all are welcome.

There was a vibrant group in place for January 26^th and a smaller contingent on February 23^rd and with March 29^th being the Good Friday public holiday, it’s another chance to enjoy. See you there.

Join the OZHK Community Long Lunch Group to keep up-to-date with venue and timing info.

Around the Grounds - Sports Roundup

Tennis

Join an energetic & friendly group for doubles games every Tuesday (except PHs) at Victoria Park 9am-11am. We usually have 2 - 4 courts and a mix-up of players after the first hour. We have a sign-up system, with priority given to OZHK members.

Each Wednesday morning we will post the games details for the following Tuesday for signup: The Hong Kong Tennis Meetup Group

On Monday morning a playlist is sent to the WhatsApp group. We will mix up players every four games, allow first ball in on first serve & prefer sudden death on the second deuce. After the first hour we will swap players between courts. We also like to take photos! Some of us usually go for coffee & bites after.

Contact Linda Lee M: 9305 9860 or email hkaussietennis@gmail.com for any queries.

Aussie Rules – HK Dragons

We are thrilled to bring you the latest updates from an action-packed start to the Hong Kong Dragons 2024 season.

Round 1 of the Hong Kong League (HAFL) was a resounding success, with our men's and women's teams showcasing their skills and numerous debuts taking place. We were particularly delighted to have our sponsors, Oreana, make special appearances during the matches, adding to the excitement.

In addition to the on-field action, we recently held our first club social event of the year - the highly anticipated Trivia Night. It was a fantastic afternoon filled with laughter, friendly competition, and an opportunity for members to connect off the field. We also kicked off the Footy season with Friday Night Footy at Bobby’s Rabble, 46 Wyndham St - we’ll be there with special Dragons deals every Friday of the season.

Looking ahead, we have an annual highlight approaching - the Jim Stynes match against Hong Kong GAA. This international-rules match promises to be a thrilling encounter, combining the best of Australian and Gaelic football.

2024 is set to be an exciting year ahead, while we’ll be adding more dates, for now, put these in your diary and come on down.

Important Dates for 2024

March 23rd - HAFL Round 2 at Sai Kung
April 19th-21st - Tour to Vietnam
May 4th - HAFL Grand Final Day at Sai Kung
May 25th - Inbound Singapore Tour at Sai Kung
August 17th - Shek O Beach Party
August 30th-1st September - Asian Champs, Thailand
September 28th - AFL Grand Final Event

We are always open to new members, whether you're a complete beginner or a returning player. Stay up to date with all the latest information about training sessions, club socials, and game details by joining our WhatsApp bulletin here.

Any questions or for more information please contact Lucy at +852 9364 0319

Rugby League

Exciting news - HKRL is back for another thrilling season in 2024! After a fantastic debut season in 2023 where the Buccaneers claimed victory, we are gearing up for another action-packed summer of rugby league. The Buccaneers, originally a touch team, have made an impressive transition to full contact, showcasing their skills and experience to become champions.

Join us this summer as the domestic league takes place every Saturday in July and August at Kings Park 1 (specific times to be confirmed). With three competitive teams battling it out, there will be plenty of excitement and bragging rights up for grabs. If you're keen to give it a try or get involved, we'll be hosting beginner training sessions leading up to the domestic season. Contact Jason at +852 5411 1887 or find us on Instagram @hongkongrugbyleague for more information.

As we look ahead to potential international matches, we are hoping to organise trials for the National Team. To earn yourself an official cap, participation in the domestic competition is required, so don't delay in signing up!

For those who prefer tag rugby, we also offer Tag competitions through HKTAG. Join us for fun and social tag sessions throughout the week. Reach out to Jason at 5411 1887 or find us on Instagram @hongkongrugbyleague / @hktag to register.

We are a growing community of rugby league enthusiasts and rely on volunteers to make everything possible. If you're interested in joining us, send us a message - we would love to have you on board.

HKTag

Fresh from the Tag World Cup in Ireland, our triumphant HK reps – men’s 30’s, 40’s, and mixed squad – are bringing the heat to our local 2024 season!
Our social tag sessions are here for all skill levels. Funding foibles mean pitch times are a bit of a lucky dip, so we're up at the crack of dawn to snag a spot. Fancy a run and some fun? We'll walk you through the basics at Happy Valley on Sundays. For the exact times, keep your eyes on our Instagram @hktagrugby – we'll post all the details there. Lock in 17 March, 1pm-2:30pm at Happy Valley Recreation Ground, pitch 3, for our next social session!

Ready to rumble in a more competitive game? Our Corporate Tag Challenge is your call to action, happening one day in May or June. And as the heat cranks up, so does our Summer League, every Saturday night in July and August at King's Park.

We’re on the lookout for sponsors to keep the spirit and sport of tag rugby flourishing in HK. Got the will to support a volunteer-run, not-for-profit sport? We’d love to hear from you at info@hktag.org.

Touch Football

There is a Social Touch game run 3 times per week - Monday, Wednesday and Saturday, at HKFC at 7am. All welcome - we have a great mix of men & women, boys & girls, many nationalities, different sizes, ages and skill levels. Fast and free flowing, with lots of banter.

If you would like to play you may contact either of the Aussies’ details below:
Contact Nick Mulcahy mulcahy.n@gmail.com or Shaun Cochran shaun.cochran@clsa.com

Committee News and Updates

New Committee Member

Meet Sally Ryder

Originally from Melbourne, Sally moved to Hong Kong in 2005 to pursue her career. After gaining experience at Merrill Lynch, she followed her dream of establishing a diamond trading company. Immersing herself in the world of diamonds, Sally attended trade fairs, built global connections, and gained industry insights.

With a double degree in Arts and International Trade from Monash University and a diploma in Japanese from Osaka University, Sally enhanced her expertise by obtaining certification from the Gemmological Association of Australia and studying jewellery design at the Asian Gemmological Institute and Laboratory.

In 2009, Sally launched Ryder Diamonds in Hong Kong, where skilled artisans created fine jewellery using rare handcrafting techniques, while her expertise and passion have earned her a reputation as an accomplished expert in the diamond industry. Recently, Sally expanded her ventures with the launch of Diamond Marketplace—an online platform enabling secure diamond trading for consumers. This new endeavour and her commitment to innovation, along with Sally's dedication and passion, have made Ryder Diamonds a trusted name in fine jewellery.

Sally is very excited to be a recent addition to the general committee of the Australian Association of Hong Kong.

Refreshed Activities

Keep your eyes on the next editions of Kanga News for updates on gathering favourites such as a refreshed Cooee Coffee, walk activities and family fun days. Also, our new OZHK Community Announcements Group will provide more immediate notice of forthcoming events, changes and updates. You can also communicate with us via WhatsApp Chat.

Events and Activities coming next

Use the link to the website to register and participate:

Event	Date	Details and Registration
Cycle to the Border	Friday 29 March (public holiday)	OZHK Website
Sundowners	Thursday 4 April 6:00pm	Flaming Frango, 55 Elgin St, 6:00pm OZHK Website
Street Art Tour	Thursday 11 April 5:30pm	OZHK Website
Investment Info by Sponsors	Thursday 18 April 6:30pm	OZHK Website
Anzac Day Service	Thursday 25 April 6:15am	Cenotaph, Central. 6:15am.
70th Anniversary Sundowners	Thursday 2 May 6:30pm Consul General’s Residence	OZHK Website
Sundowners	Thursday 6 June	Flaming Frango, 55 Elgin St, 6:00pm OZHK Website
Dragon Boat Aberdeen Tours	Monday 10 June (public holiday)	OZHK Website
Quiz Night	Friday 14 June 6:30pm AISHK, Kowloon Tong	OZHK Website
Annual General Meeting	Tuesday 25 June 6:30pm	Open to all members, venue tbc.
Melbourne Cup 70th Anniversary Edition	Tuesday 5 November	HKJC Happy Valley

Support Australia Group (SAG) Updates

The SAG comprises all the Australian associated organisations in Hong Kong, including the Consulate, federal and state government entities and all professional and friendship associations. OZHK is proud to be a long-term member of the Support Australia Group.

From the Consulate

A statement from the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade on proposed laws under Article 23 of the Basic Law of Hong Kong:
https://www.dfat.gov.au/news/media-release/statement-proposed-laws-under-article-23-basic-law-hong-kong?fbclid=IwAR3IrzWShd2xmiQnZyDk6vX1UcqFY7LdlTlqYs_BhT6QSa_pZKuZwJyveuc

National Foundation for Australia-China Relations and ABC Australia Wang Gungwu Lecture
The third Wang Gungwu lecture was delivered by respected business leader and Chair of Diversity Council Australia, Ming Long AM. She shared her vision of the future where Australia “will need all the talent and diversity in our community to create the future we want.”
Watch via ABC: https://www.abc.net.au/asia/wang-gungwu-lecture-2024/103532684

Robotics, AI and inclusive futures with Marita Cheng
The Australian Consulate-General Hong Kong invites the Australian global alumni community to join technology entrepreneur and women in technology advocate, Marita Cheng (Founder and CEO, Aubot) for an inspiring talk on the impact of technology on our work and lives, inclusive robotics, and tips for women in STEM (science, technology, engineering and mathematics).

Date: Friday, 22 March, 5-7pm HKT
Location: Australian Consulate-General, 24/F, Harbour Centre, 25 Harbour Road, Wan Chai
Registration essential: https://www.eventbrite.hk/e/robotics-ai-and-inclusive-futures-with-marita-cheng-tickets-857864845847?aff=oddtdtcreator This event is open to anyone who has studied in Australia.

From the SAG

🖼️ Art Basel Hong Kong
Two leading Australian First Nations artists have been announced for Art Basel’s Encounters section: Daniel Boyd and Naminapu Maymuru-White, curated by Artspace Sydney’s Alexie Glass-Kantor. Also participating in the fair are Australian galleries: Sullivan+Strumpf, Fine Arts, Sydney and Station.

25-31 March Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre & Pacific Place

https://www.artbasel.com/basel/buy-tickets?lang=en

WestK FunFest
Presented by the West Kowloon Cultural District Authority the inaugural WestK FunFest presents three weeks of family-oriented activities over the Easter holidays, including four Australian acts:

Sydney-based design studio Atelier Sisu will transform Harbourside Lawn East of Art Park with Ephemeral, an immersive art installation that delves into the fleeting nature of beauty and life.
Polyglot Theatre from Australia will present the international premiere of Pram People (Hong Kong Edition) at Harbourside Lawn West from during the Easter holidays.
Patch Theatre, a renowned Australian theatre group from Adelaide, specialising in performances for children, will present the Asian premiere of award-winning interactive production ZOOOM at The Box, Freespace from 23 to 24 March.
Joseph O’Farrell (JOF) – 10 Minute Dance Parties a celebration of dance and community created by Australian artist JOF inviting people of all ages to come together for a party with tunes spun by teenage DJs at the Harbourside Lawn
16 March – 7 April West Kowloon Cultural District (various venues)
https://www.westkowloon.hk/en/westkfunfest?tab=overview

Cathay/HSBC Hong Kong Sevens
This will be the last Hong Kong Sevens played at the iconic Hong Kong Stadium, grab your tickets to cheer on our Australian Men’s and Women’s team. You can expect three days of action, entertainment and electric energy.

5-7 April Hong Kong Stadium https://www.svns.com/en/events/hong-kong

SHAYDA (2022) presented at the 48th Hong Kong International Film Festival
The Consulate is proud to support the screening of SHAYDA, the debut feature from Iranian-Australian director Noora Niasari, as part of the 48th 香港國際電影節 Hong Kong International Film Festival next month.

A powerful drama about female empowerment, SHAYDA tells the story of an Iranian mother who finds refuge in an Australian women’s shelter with her six-year-old daughter.

Executive produced by Cate Blanchett, and starring Zar Amir Ebrahimi, Osamah Sami, Leah Purcell, Jillian Nguyen, Mojean Aria, Selina Zahednia, Rina Mousavi.
SHAYDA, directed by Noora Niasari

02/04 (Tuesday) 9:45pm & 04/04 (Thursday) 5:15pm
PREMIERE Elements 🎟️ https://www.hkiff.org.hk/film/getdetail?fid=2567

Experience a Day at AISHK | K2-Year 2 Interactive Open Day

Explore Australian International School Hong Kong in a special tour of our celebrated campus.

For students born between 1 May, 2016 and 30 April, 2022

From creative arts, music and sports to reading and class activities, experience snapshots of our vibrant school, where students flourish in learning.

Date & Time: Saturday 20 April, 9am – 11am
Venue: Australian International School Hong Kong, 3a Norfolk Rd, Kowloon Tong
Register: Scan the code or sign up online here, by Friday, 12 April, 2024

Invitation to visit HKTDC April Lifestyle Fairs (20-23 & 27-30 April 2024)

Invitation to visit HKTDC April Lifestyle Fairs (20-23 & 27-30 April 2024)
Exclusive visiting programme to members:

Free admission badge (Admission fee of HK$100 waived)
Complimentary 45-minute thematic guided tour to introduce the fairs' highlighted products (subject to availability)
Shopping coupon per guest will be offered upon completion of the guided tour (each guest will be entitled to receive one coupon in each fair period, subject to terms and conditions.)

Individual members may sign up with HKTDC directly.
Please complete the online form: https://forms.office.com/r/fM6s3tGs6G

Home InStyle and Fashion InStyle
20-23 Apr 2024 (Sat-Tue).
HKCEC Wan Chai.
www.hktdc.com/event/homeinstyle/
www.hktdc.com/event/fashioninstyle/

HKTDC Hong Kong Gifts & Premium Fair and HK International Licensing Show
27-30 Apr 2024 (Sat-Tue).
HKCEC Wan Chai.
www.hktdc.com/event/hkgiftspremiumfair/
www.hktdc.com/event/hklicensingshow/

Hong Kong Int'l Printing & Packaging Fair and DeLuxe PrintPack Hong Kong
27-30 Apr 2024 (Sat-Tue)
Asia World Expo, Lantau.
www.hktdc.com/event/hkprintpackfair/
www.hktdc.com/event/deluxeprintpackhk/

Kanga News Connections

If you would like to contribute to the next Kanga News, please drop us a note via the WhatsApp Chat or via our website.

Best wishes until the next Edition on May 21^st.

KANGANEWS

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Past Issues

March 2024	2024 AFL Tipping and Sundowners
February 2024	Good Wishes for the Year of the Dragon
January 2024	2024 Australia Day Events In Hong Kong
December 2023	Seasons Greetings and Christmas Shenanigans from the Australian Association of Hong Kong
September 2023	Melbourne Cup - TICKETS ON SALE NOW!!
August 2023	Last chance for two free tickets if you renew membership!

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The Australian Association of Hong Kong was established to encourage support, have fun and good fellowship whilst naturally creating opportunities amongst Hong Kong based Australians and their friends to get the most out of Hong Kong.

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