Tai Hang Fire Dragon Experience + Teacake Masterclass

Saturday 26th August, 9:30pm - 2:30pm
 

***Renew your membership & grab 2 free tickets for this tour***
 

When you hear "Tai Hang," the first thing that comes to mind is the incredible fire dragon dance, a tradition that's been going strong for a century. But there's more to this spot than meets the eye – it used to be a bustling Hakka village, and now it's a hub of cool shops and historical spots that everyone loves. That's why it's often called Causeway Bay's backyard! Join us for this one-off tour of the Tai Hang Fire Dragon Heritage Centre in English, for behind the scenes access ahead of the Mid-Autumn Festival celebrations.
Tour includes:

• 🥟 Hakka Steamed Buns making workshop
• A rendezvous with Fire Dragon itself
• 🍽️ Lunch at Hakka Ting
• A visit to the unique Lin Fa Kung Temple
• Private transfers (if required)

Inclusions: Local cultural heritage guide, lunch, Hakka teacake workshop, coach transfers, insurance for COVID-19 coverage

🎟️ Member: $250 Non-member: $350
Kids (11-years and younger): $150



***prize draw for tickets will take place 24th August - applies to renewing members only


 

Afternoon Amble: Victoria Peak & Peak Lookout 

Tuesday 22nd August, 2:00pm - 5:00pm



Join us for a leisurely afternoon amble around the picturesque Victoria Peak circle walk. Take in the stunning views on this very manageable 5km walk, and finish at the Peak Lookout for a special afternoon tea set just for the Australian Association.

Trip includes return tickets on the newly upgraded Peak Tram, plus a chance to visit and enjoy the sumptuous food at the newly reopened Peak Lookout Cafe.

Starting and end point: Lower Peak Tram Station, Garden Road
Inclusions: Licenced local guide, return tram tickets, afternoon tea set
Time: 2:00pm
Participants: 16
Member: $250
Non-member: $350
Kids (11 and under): $50

🤣 14th Hong Kong International Comedy Festival:
Ben Quinlan

Friday 8th September from 9:00pm

Get ready to roll with laughter at the 14th International Hong Kong Comedy Festival 🤣 Tickets are flying off the shelves for this uproarious event at Take Out Comedy club, showcasing the crème de la crème of Hong Kong's comedy scene. Brace yourself for a night of side-splitting humour as we welcome top-notch Aussie stand-up sensation, Ben Quinlan. And guess what? We've got an exclusive treat for our members – a discounted ticket to the comedy event of the year!



Date: 8th September
Time: 9:00pm
Venue: Take Out Comedy Club, 34 Elgin Street, Soho

Remember, it's BYOB drinks and we kindly ask you to leave the snacks at home – the spotlight's on the jokes, after all!

Ticket Pricing:
🎟️ Member: $300
Non-member: $350
On the Door: $400

But wait, there's more! Before the hilarity ensues, how about joining us for drinks in Soho from 7:30pm? Indulge in some pre-event drinks and fuel up for the laughter marathon at Flaming Frango, just up the street at 55. Elgin Street.

Grab your tickets now and brace yourselves for an evening of unadulterated fun! 🥳 #AllStarComedyNight #LaughsAndMoreLaughs #AustralianAssociationFun

Welcome to the newest section of the KangaNews....

KANGASPORTS

Sponsored by Oreana Financial Services

Valley RFC Hockey Open Day

Thursday 10th August, Saturday 12th August

Long time friends of OZHK, Valley RFC Hockey is one of the oldest and largest sports clubs in Hong Kong. They’re a great bunch that love to play team sports in an inclusive, fun and positive environment.

Valley Hockey has a large active community of around 200 players across 5 men’s and 4 women’s teams, and is one of the few sports that compete year-round (winter league September-to-April, summer mixed league June-to-August). Members enjoy a range of socials, team meet-ups, tournaments and hockey trips, in addition to the annual gala, charity, mental health and fitness events organised by Valley RFC. Valley Hockey has teams for every level (m/f), whether premier league, intermediate, played back in the day or have never tried it before – every one is welcome!

Drop-by their Open Day on 10 August (Thursday) or 12 August (Saturday) for some skills practice, hangout with members over drinks, and watch a Valley team play a summer league game. If you’re looking for more, join the Pre-Season Trainings cost free. Scan the QR code and let us know what day you’re coming (so we get enough drinks!) or have any questions. Or drop-in on the day, no worries!
 

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Hong Kong Rugby League

Rugby League has made a strong start to the season! With the group games completed, our attention is on the HK Allstars vs Pacific TOA as an exhibition match on August 12th 7:30pm Kick off at Kings Park 1.

Pacific TOA have been a long established community of Rugby League players representing their heritage with proud and this will be a feisty encounter as they lay it all on the field. HK Allstars, made up of the best players so far that have played in the summer league will give them a stern test to overcome. 

The Grand Final of the Domestic Rugby League in 2023 will be hosted on August 26th 7:30pm Kick off at Kings Park 1 also. We see Sandy Bay RFC who have entered a Rugby League team for the first time, against Buccaneers RL who are also in their maiden season havgin being established through touch competitions. 

Come down with your friends and family and enjoy some live Rugby League, or if you're really keen, get your boots and contact Matt at sports@ozhongkong.com for more information on how to get involved.
 

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Hong Kong Tag Rugby Team

History in the making! Hong Kong is back and better than ever as we took on the Tag Rugby World Cup 2023 in Ireland from 2-5 August, making a historic moment for tag rugby in Hong Kong!  After a historic second year of qualifying, the HKTag have sent 3 teams to compete - Mixed Open, Men's 30 and Men's 40 - against the top national teams from around the world including Australia, New Zealand and Great Britain.  The Men's 30 team had a breakthrough performance, not only securing Hong Kong's first ever World Cup Series win but claiming the Bowl Championship title - a significant step forward. Our Mixed Open team also achieved an historic first win against France. And the Men’s 40 team have proved we've got a whole bunch of talented older gents in HK ready to show the world what HK tag rugby is capable of! This represents an incredible achievement demonstrating the talent and potential within our tag rugby community. 



And you can be a part of this journey as we bring it back to the domestic competition. We have a Summer Tag League August 12th, 19th, and 26th. You can enter as a single looking for a team, or as a full team but places are filling up fast! Contact us for more details on how to be a part of the Tag community

Instagram: @HKTAGRUGBY
 

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Hong Kong Social Touch 

Social Touch (Mornings) - There is a Social Touch game run every Wednesday at HKFC (and Monday's when numbers allow) 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.

Social Touch (evening) - every Monday from 6.30pm. Happy Valley Pitch 1 and/or Kings Park (Kowloon). Follow Social Touch at Happy Valley on Facebook or contact OzHK for more details.



Come down, bring a mate! Contact Matt at sports@ozhongkong.com for more information on how to get involved.

Unlock some of your Australian Association Membership Benefits 

Your Australian Association membership is your golden ticket to a world of incredible benefits and unbeatable savings throughout Hong Kong 

As an OZHONGKONG member, you'll enjoy exclusive discounts on fascinating local tours, no two months are the same. Plus reduced rates on our catalogue of regular and one-off special events.

  But hold onto your hats because the excitement doesn't stop there! This summer and autumn, your membership is your passport to 10% off local attractions such as HK Disneyland one-day ticket entry, the Ngong Ping 360 cable-car, and iconic Peak Tram. 

Contact membership@ozhongkong.com for more details or access the Local Attraction section of our website.

Commuity Round-up - AusCham are hiring!

Commercial Manager

Hau Wong Festival Tour

Sunday July 23rd, 11:00am - 2:00pm

Join this coming SUNDAY! Let @explore_hongkong jet you off to Tai O, Hong Kong's best-kept fishing village secret, for the spectacular Hau Wong Festival!



On the 6th Day of the 6th Lunar month, we're diving headfirst into tradition. Get wrapped up in a Chinese Opera , discover Tai O's rich history, and meet the Gods who rule the roost. Explore the iconic stilt houses and keep your eyes peeled for pink dolphins .

Hungry? We're sampling tea cakes and local treats whipped up by the Tai O aunties . Plus, we'll visit a 500-year-old temple that's stood the test of time .

Price: HKD$ 500 for members, HK 580 non-members

Transportation: Walking and boat ride through Pearl River Delta

Meeting: Tai O Ferry Pier

Inclusions: Small boat ride, 3 x street snacks/drinks, Cantonese Opera

Exclusions: Public transportation and personal spending

Language: English
 

Sundowners

Thursday August 3rd, 6:00pm

Clear your calendars, because it's time for the return of our regular drinks meet-up after the summer break. Sundowners will return on Thursday, 3rd August   – enjoy some good ol' drinks with the best crew in town (that's YOU, of course!).

Bring your friends, bring your energy! The more, the merrier – everyone's welcome to join the party!

Be there or be thirsty – and trust us, you don't wanna be thirsty. See you at the drinks night, party animals!
 

Summer Junk Trip

Saturday August 12th, 10:30pm - 5:00pm

Ready to set sail with The Australian Association for a day of care-free fun at sea? Hop aboard our luxury cruiser and get ready for the most relaxing Saturday filled with free-flow drinks and delicious grub that will make your taste buds do a happy dance 🕺 

Don't miss out - register your spot now by clicking the link below!

Afternoon Amble: Victoria Peak & Peak Lookout

POSTPONED to Tuesday 22nd August, 2:00pm - 5:00pm



Join us for a leisurely afternoon amble around the picturesque Victoria Peak circle walk. Take in the stunning views on this very manageable 5km walk, and finish at the Peak Lookout for a special afternoon tea set just for the Australian Association.

Trip includes return tickets on the newly upgraded Peak Tram, plus a chance to visit and enjoy the sumptuous food at the newly reopened Peak Lookout Cafe.

Starting and end point: Lower Peak Tram Station, Garden Road
Inclusions: Licenced local guide, return tram tickets, afternoon tea set
Time: 2:00pm
Participants: 16
Member: $250
Non-member: $350
Kids (11 and under): $50

Summer Update: Fun in the Sun with OZHK!

We're taking a little break to soak up the summer vibes (we hope you are too), and while we're away, we've got some exciting plans brewing for when we return!

July: We're giving our sunsets a break for a hot minute, but don't fret! We'll be back with a bang the first Thursday in August. Stay tuned for the return of our monthly drinks meet-up, Sundowners 

July (end): Join us for an afternoon amble around the picturesque Victoria Peak, where we'll embrace the tranquility of the surroundings and soak up the stunning views of Hong Kong's skyline. After working up an appetite, we'll gather at the delightful Peak Lookout for a scrumptious afternoon tea. Take your pick from their special afternoon tea menu accompanied with a delightful cuppa or coffee.

August: But that's not all! Get ready to sail the South China seas with us on an epic summer junk trip! We're cranking up the fun levels to maximum as we cruise through stunning Hong Kong, enjoying refreshing drinks, a full and tasty menu, and a whole lot of laughter. So grab your sunnies, your favourite swimmers, and join us for a day of pure bliss and seaside shenanigans!

We look forward to seeing you at our upcoming events!

Summer Junk Trip

Saturday August 12th, 10:30pm - 5:00pm

Ready to set sail with The Australian Association for a day of care-free fun at sea? Hop aboard our luxury cruiser and get ready for the most relaxing Saturday filled with free-flow drinks and delicious grub that will make your taste buds do a happy dance 🕺 

Don't miss out - register your spot now by clicking the link below!

Afternoon Amble: Victoria Peak & Peak Lookout

Tuesday 25th July, 2:00pm - 5:00pm



Join us for a leisurely afternoon amble around the picturesque Victoria Peak circle walk. Take in the stunning views on this very manageable 5km walk, and finish at the Peak Lookout for a special afternoon tea set just for the Australian Association.

Trip includes return tickets on the newly upgraded Peak Tram, plus a chance to visit and enjoy the sumptuous food at the newly reopened Peak Lookout Cafe.

Starting and end point: Lower Peak Tram Station, Garden Road
Inclusions: Licenced local guide, return tram tickets, afternoon tea set
Time: 2:00pm
Participants: 16
Member: $250
Non-member: $350
Kids (11 and under): $50

OZHK Sports Round-Up

Guess what? Rugby League is back and ready to rock in Hong Kong! Our men's domestic season is kicking off on 1 July, and we've got thrilling games lined up every Saturday night throughout July and August. But that's not all! We're proud to showcase the incredible skills of our women players too, with an exciting exhibition game scheduled for 22 July. And mark your calendars because we've got an international men's fixture coming up in November that's sure to bring the heat!

Whether you're a seasoned player or itching to try out the sport for the first time, we want you on our team! All abilities, ages, and genders are more than welcome to join in the fun. So, grab your jersey and get ready for a summer filled with epic tackles, exhilarating tries, and unforgettable moments on the field.

Want to be part of the action? Contact us at +852 61880823 or slide into our DMs on Instagram @hongkongrugbyleague for more details. It's time to unleash your rugby spirit and show off your skills. 

The Hong Kong Dragons are excited to be taking part in the upcoming AFL Asia Championship in Thailand, and the team is putting in the hard work necessary to prepare for the competition.

Beyond focus on the competition, they are also committed to building the sport of AFL in Hong Kong. Hong Kong Dragons are an inclusive and welcoming club, open to new members of all skill levels, whether you are an experienced player or a complete beginner, the Dragons are eager to help you develop your skills and become a part of our community.
 

Stay connected with the Dragons via their website and Instagram pages or or use the QR code to join the Whatsapp Bulletin. This is where all training, games, and socials related information is shared - it's a great way to stay informed and get involved with the club.

Sundowners - this Thursday!

Thursday 1st June 6:00pm - 9:00pm


 

Join us at Flaming Frango on Elgin Street, Central for our regular Sundowners.

We'll be serving up some cold drinks and the best part is, we have a special free-flow deal. This is the perfect opportunity to unwind after a long day, share a few laughs, and connect with the community in Hong Kong.

Time: 6:00pm - 9:00pm

Register now on our website to secure your spot and receive further details. 

 

Summer Nights Trivia Evening

Join us for our highly anticipated annual quiz, hosted at the Australian International School, and guided by the unparalleled expertise of our esteemed Quiz Master, Chris Bhojwani!

We extend a big thanks to Oreana Financial and Odin Mortgage & Tax for their generous sponsorship, ensuring an unforgettable evening filled with excitement and amusement.

Gather your teams and immerse yourselves in an evening of camaraderie and enjoyment with the vibrant Australian Association community in Hong Kong. All nationalities are warmly welcomed to join the event!

Includes:

• prizes for top spots
• spot prizes
• appetisers and snacks
• cash bar

DATE: Thursday 15th June
TIME: Doors open 6:30pm. Trivia begins 7:00pm
LOCATION: Staff Centre, Level 9, Australian International School, Kowloon Tong
COST: Individual $200 per person | discounts for teams of four $760 | teams of six $1,080

Email membership@ozhongkong.com for any questions!

Anzac Day Dawn Service in Hong Kong

 

Discovering Diversity in Chungking Mansions

Saturday 29th April, 10:00am - 1:00pm


 

Some say it’s the only place that makes Hong Kong different from any Chinese city. 

A symbol for globalisation, ‘home’ to many Africans and South Asians, a place Cantonese mothers warn their kids against.

Chungking Mansions is a lot of things to different people. Join our tour to understand what this place mean for residents and Africans in particular.

Also, enjoy an African buffet style lunch to try all kinds of African dishes in one go. The fee will cover both the event and the lunch.

Starting point: East TST MTR Station, Exit K (inside)
Inclusions: local guide, African buffet
Time: 10:00am
Participants: 12
Price: $320

Sundowners Kowloon

27th April from 6:00pm

Starting this month, a chance to catch up in Kowloon.

Join us at the Ashley Road Trading Company in Tsim Sha Tsui for our inaugural Kowloon Sundowners.

We'll be serving up some cold drinks and the best part is, it's happy hour prices all night long. This is the perfect opportunity to unwind after a long day, share a few laughs, and connect with the community in Hong Kong.

Location: G/F, 15 Ashley Road, Tsim Sha Tsui

Time: 6:00pm - 9:00pm

Register now on our website to secure your spot and receive further details. 

We hope you're doing well! As we dive into the month of April, we're excited to bring you a bunch of fun events to keep you entertained and connected with our Aussie community.

First up, we're getting together for some drinks and chit-chat at our Sundowners event on April 6th. Come along and meet new friends, bring new friends or catch up with old ones, whilst enjoying some cold beverages and nibbles.

We're also putting together a dragon boating team to participate in the Hong Kong Dragon Boat Festival. If you're keen to paddle with us, sign up at our Sundowners event on 6th April - more info below.

Of course, we're not forgetting about the important stuff. We'll be commemorating Anzac Day on Saturday April 22nd with a family day poolside BBQ and swim in Tai Po. More details below.

And for something completely different, we're organising a guided tour of Chungking Mansions hosted by the Africa Center of Hong Kong, one of the most iconic and eclectic buildings in Hong Kong. This maze-like complex is home to a diverse mix of people from all over the world, and we'll be exploring its nooks and crannies, sampling its exotic cuisine, and learning about its history and culture. This is an experience you won't want to miss!

Check out our website for the full list of events and sign up ASAP. We can't wait to see you there and have a ripper of a time!

Sundowners

6th April from 6:00pm

Sundowners drinks are back on April 6th in Hong Kong.... the day before the Good Friday public holiday, whoop!

Join us at Flaming Frangos on Elgin Street for a fun-filled evening of networking, socialising, and celebrating all things Aussie. We'll have free flow of drinks, tasty snacks, and plenty of good vibes to go around - all for just HK$225 per person.

This is a great opportunity to connect with like-minded individuals in a relaxed and social setting. Whether you're an expat, a local, or simply love everything Australian, you're sure to have a great time!!

Register now on our website to secure your spot and receive further details. 

ANZAC Family Day at Hong Lok Yuen Country Club

Saturday 22nd April 12:30 - 4:00pm

We're excited to invite you to our Anzac Day poolside BBQ at Hong Lok Yuen Country Club, where we'll come together to remember and honour the brave men and women who served and sacrificed for our freedom and values. We promise not to throw any shrimp on the barbie, but we will have some tiger prawns plus other delicious BBQ fare and refreshments to enjoy by the pool! BYOB.

We'll be firing up the grill and diving into a day of relaxation, fun, and games. Whether you're a master at pool noodle races or just looking to soak up some sun, we'll have something for everyone.

So grab your swimsuit (towels are provided), and join us for a day of laughter and connection in the beautiful surroundings of Hong Lok Yuen Country Club. We can't wait to see you there!

Coach pick-up: City Hall, Edinburgh Place
Time: 11:45am
Return: 4:00pm from Hong Lok Yuen
Adults: $588
Kids: $128

Menu includes: Sirloin, mini beef patties, lamb chops, pork chops, tiger prawns, spring chicken, mini Cervelat sausage, portebello mushrooms, assorted bell peppers and zucchini, corn, roasted new potatoes, steamed rice and fresh fruit salad. Free-flow soft drinks for two hours.

2 hour free-flow option: + $288
Includes: House red and white wine, bottled beer (Heineken, San Miguel, Carlsberg)
 

Discovering Diversity in Chungking Mansions

Saturday 29th April, 10:00am - 1:00pm


 

Some say it’s the only place that makes Hong Kong different from any Chinese city. 

A symbol for globalisation, ‘home’ to many Africans and South Asians, a place Cantonese mothers warn their kids against.

Chungking Mansions is a lot of things to different people. Join our tour to understand what this place mean for residents and Africans in particular.

Also, enjoy an African buffet style lunch to try all kinds of African dishes in one go. The fee will cover both the event and the lunch.

Starting point: East TST MTR Station, Exit K (inside)
Inclusions: local guide, African buffet
Time: 10:00am
Participants: 12
Price: $320

Sundowners Kowloon

27th April from 6:00pm

Starting this month, a chance to catch up in Kowloon.

Join us at the Ashley Road Trading Company in Tsim Sha Tsui for our inaugural Kowloon Sundowners.

We'll be serving up some cold drinks and the best part is, it's happy hour prices all night long. This is the perfect opportunity to unwind after a long day, share a few laughs, and connect with the community in Hong Kong.

Location: G/F, 15 Ashley Road, Tsim Sha Tsui

Time: 6:00pm - 9:00pm

Register now on our website to secure your spot and receive further details. 

Welcome to the newest section of the KangaNews....

KANGASPORTS

Sponsored by Oreana Financial Services

Hong Kong Aussie Rules

The season for the HK Dragons kicked off with Round One on 11^th February. Remaining games and tours planned for 2023 are as follows:
 
Saturday 15 April
8am - 12.30pm
HAFL Round Two, Sai Kung

Saturday 13 May
All day
HAFL Final Round, Sai Kung

Saturday 27 May (long weekend)
Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia Tour
AFLW and Mens teams

To Be Confirmed
All Asian Champs 2023
 

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Hong Kong Tag Team

Season Competition
June - corporate tag fest (12 teams)
July - battle of origin (play against HK national teams) 
Aug - Tag World Cup in Ireland
 

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Hong Kong Rugby League

Season Competition

• Men Round 1 – 1 July
• Men Round 2 – 8 July
• Men Round 3 – 15 July
• Women Exhibition Game – 22 July
• Men Round 4 – 29 July
• Men Round 5 – 4 August
• Men Round 6 – 11 August
• Pacific Toa vs Rest of World Exhibition Game – 18 August
• Men Grand Final 8 – 25 August

 
International Fixture vs Japan - To be confirmed

 

If you’re interested in any of these sporting organisations, please reach out to Matt Jones at sports@ozhongkong.com so we can link you up! 

Firstly, we are planning an outdoor family friendly event to gather together, socialise and enjoy the beautiful weather. Keep an eye out for more details, which will be shared soon.

The AFL season is back, and so is our highly competitive Footy Tipping Competition... who will be crowned the greatest AFL tipster in the world... or at least Hong Kong. Side-note: can someone please beat Liam this year!!

We also have some exciting local tours lined up for you starting with an exploration of Kowloon City this March - views, history and culture all covered.  

Moreover, we are committed to providing you with a platform to connect and engage with fellow members. Our regular events are a great place to share experiences, learn something new, begin a new skill or just get to know the OZHONGKONG community better. 

Lastly, we would like to thank all our members for their continued support and contributions to the association. Your involvement and engagement are what make this community thrive, and we are grateful for your commitment.

We look forward to seeing you at our upcoming events!

AFL Footy Competition

Starting betting now!


Are you ready to kick some balls and make some cash? Join our AFL footie tipping competition and show off your skills in predicting the winners of the upcoming games. 

You should feel very privileged to be one of the select group of people to receive this invitation (the select hundreds of others who also got an invitation are also feeling very privileged indeed).
Amazing though the games in the 2023 season will undoubtedly be, the real excitement for us in Hong Kong will be generated by the fierce and merciless tipping that will no doubt take place in this competition to decide once and for all (or till next season) who is the greatest AFL tipster in the world…or Hong Kong…..or at least between some hopefuls in Hong Kong….or elsewhere :)

Anyway, the 2023 season starts Thursday 16 March. Sign up and get your tips in before then. Getting started is easy. After you buy your “ticket” you’ll get a unique link, code and the instructions required to join the competition.

Cost is only HK$200
The entire prize pool will be paid out to 1st, 2nd and 3rd placed winners.

We promise you a fun-filled competition culminating in an AFL Grand Final event, all tipsters invited, you might just come out on top as the ultimate football tipster.

Kowloon City Delights Tour: Discovering Hidden Gems, Culture, and Cuisine

Saturday 25th March, 10:00am - 1:30pm

Join the Association for a chance to learn about one of the most unique and intriguing places in Hong Kong, the Kowloon Walled City! Once known as a lawless enclave, the city was a densely populated maze of buildings that housed over 50,000 people in just 6.5 acres. Today, it has been transformed into a fascinating park that showcases its rich history and cultural significance.

The tour also includes a mini-hike to see Chequerboard Hill, a revitalised attraction in Kowloon City, and intrinsically linked to the infamous Kai Tak Airport. So be ready to put on your walking shoes, bring your camera, and get exploring the fascinating history and culture of this unforgettable place.

Whether you're a foodie or just looking to try something new, you won't want to miss out on the chance to taste some of the best Thai food in Hong Kong. So come hungry, and get ready to savor the flavors of Kowloon City. There is an optional lunch at additional cost at the end of the tour for those who wish to stay on.

Starting point: Lok Fu MTR Station
End point: Sun Wong Toi MTR Station
Inclusions: Licenced local guide, street snacks
Time: 10:00am
Participants: 16
Member: $300
Friends of members: $300
Non-member: $400
Kids (17 and under): Free