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SPORTS SPOTLIGHT: ANZA Cycling


(Photo by That Cameraman/ Darren Wheeler/Superleague Triathlon)

WHAT DOES ANZA CYCLING OFFER?
The beating heart of ANZA Cycling is the presence of our bunches on the road, every day of the year, around all parts of the island. Year-round warm weather, smooth roads, slow moving traffic, and relatively unaggressive drivers make Singapore a fantastic place to ride. Throw in the neighbouring islands of Bintan and Batam for their almost traffic-free roads, and there are plenty of great cycling opportunities.
Many of our members have a collection of bikes in their stable, so it’s not uncommon to find people dabbling in off-road riding or sandwiching their ride between a swim and a run leg in the world of triathlon. As far as road opportunities go, there is really something for everyone, from shorter 25-30km loops in no-drop groups, where no-one is left behind, and the focus is also on the coffee and chat, to groups that set off to ride the 125km ‘Round the Island’ (RTI) or further, up into Malaysia for the better part of a day or even overnight.

The original ANZA Cycling crew in 2001!

HISTORY
It all began in late 2001, when a couple of blokes came up with the idea of forming an official cycling club under the umbrella of ANZA. From two official members they amassed a contingent of 10 which saw ANZA (Singapore) Cycling represent at their very first race, an Individual Time Trial (ITT) in June 2002. Later that year the club cleaned up at the Team Time Trial (TTT), with seven of the eight teams of four racing in ANZA jerseys. Almost 20 years on, the club has grown to just under 400 members. Many have told us there is simply nothing else like it, particularly for the organisation and camaraderie, anywhere else in the world.

CLUB CODE OF CONDUCT
With a focus on good road-sharing etiquette, bunches are designated a Ride Captain (RC), capped at fourteen riders, and expected to follow the Club’s Code
of Conduct. Anyone with a roadworthy road bike who can ride competently in traffic is welcome to join. Previous group riding experience is not necessary as
each newcomer is asked to join our monthly Induction Ride before joining
a regular club ride. The Induction Ride gives us a chance to meet all newcomers and to advise which groups/rides/routes would be most appropriate for each person to join.

ANZA CYCLING CHIX
Women are welcome at every level of the club, but we also offer weekly women’s rides with the ANZA Cycling Chix. This group has been growing steadily over the last few years and now sees around 40 women regularly riding together and representing the club
at races and events across the region.

SOCIAL SIDE
From daily post-ride coffees to Saturday brekkies, monthly Club Drinks, parties and international trips, our members often talk about their ANZA Cycling mates as members of their Singapore family.
As far as families go, it’s a pretty mixed one, with around 30 nationalities represented, including a growing number of Singaporean members. Our members range in age from older teens, who are accompanied by their parents, to members in their 70s, with the bulk lying in the 30-50 age group, all sharing the same love for getting out on two wheels in great company!

OFF ROAD

What does ANZA Off Road offer?
Previously known as ANZA MTB (Mountain Bike) we now include cyclocross and gravel cycling as part of the Off-Road group. These two additional forms of off-road riding have been gaining huge popularity in Singapore, both recreationally and competitively.
Cyclocross has parallels with mountain bike racing, cross-country cycling, and criterium racing. Riders do laps of a short course featuring pavement, wooded trails, grass, steep hills, and obstacles. ​Thanks to Cycosports and Singapore Cycling Federation, cyclocross is becoming a regular race event on The Red Dot.


Gravel riding began in the US, where long remote stretches of fire road bridged the gap between the worlds of road, mountain biking, and cyclocross. The more remote and technical terrain allows riders to hone their passion for racing, exploration, and adventure. Gravel bikes are built to withstand some rather extreme terrain! With the help of ANZA members such as Will Price, gravel rides are becoming popular on weekends and public holidays. Linking roads, parks, tracks, and trails to create fun, multi-terrain adventure rides. Mountain biking is also alive and kicking in Singapore, thanks to organisations such as Singapore National Parks and Cycosports who have created designated trails and events.ANZA Off Road has regular trail rides on Thursdays, Saturdays, and Sundays.

TRIATHLON

What does ANZA Triathlon offer?
The ANZA Triathlon community is made up of those cycling members that also like to run and swim. Our members train and participate across the full range of the multi-sport distances from sprint and standard, to the longer half and full distanced triathlons. We welcome newcomers and also support seasoned athletes competing for podiums and Championship qualifying spots.
The ANZA Tri group regularly meet up on a Saturday for a ride, with a 20-minute run, before meeting our follow ANZA cycling members for coffee at Dimbulah MBFC. Once a month, we organise a Sentosa Brick Session – with a Swim, Ride and Run.
Living in Singapore we are spoilt for triathlon choice with our local MetaSprint and Tri-Factor race series; our neighbouring country races in Johor, Malaysia and Bintan, Indonesia, both only a drive or ferry ride away; and our holiday destination races only a short flight away in Malaysia, India, the Philippines, Thailand and Vietnam to name a few.

Ironman stars
Some of our triathlon members also compete in Ironman races, like Jelte who signed up for his First 70.3 Ironman last year in Busselton, Australia. The 70.3 Ironman consists of a 1.9km swim, followed by a 90km bike, then the 21.1km run leg. New members, Maxime and Juliette enjoyed a family tri-cation to Bangsaen 70.3 Ironman in February – and were due to race in the Desaru 70.3 and also Port Macquarie Ironman this year, before these races were rescheduled. During the year, dependent on goals, we organise a training long weekend away to either Bintan or Phuket – to get some more intense swim, ride, run sessions in – while also enjoying some relaxing downtime by the
pool. If you would like to get involved, or find out more about what we do, email triathlon@anzacycling.com

WHAT THE CYCLISTS SAY:

Christopher Bloch
(Road Director – ANZA)
“The club prides itself on scheduling rides at different distances, speeds, and parcours (route profiles) around Singapore, virtually 365 days a year. These rides set off at varying speeds for all levels and keep everyone together for a great and safe morning out. Regardless of the route, our final destination will always be the all important coffee with mates. Let’s be honest – that’s the real reason we ride!”

Stephanie Lim
“I joined ANZA Cycling four years ago and ride regularly with them during the week, as well as off-road CX riding. The best part is the community. I’ve met a wide range of people, attend regular club breakfasts, social evening drinks, and have made friends both on and off the bike. The female specific Chix group has been great too!”

Lucy Pollock
“What appeals to me about ANZA Cycling is not only their mixed rides but also being a part of their supportive ANZA Cycling Chix sisterhood. These women encourage, support and inspire me constantly.”

Philippe Mouret
“While actively involved in ANZA’s road cycling schedule I’ve also been doing more MTB as riding the jungles of Singapore is truly a unique experience. Apart from great trails, riding with monkeys, wild boar, and giant lizards is a whole new thing for me! The club provides an excellent opportunity to integrate quickly to life here in Singapore.”

Haythem El-Ansary
“I joined ANZA Cycling prior to arriving in Singapore, back in 2014. It’s a very welcoming club and I quickly got to know the keen triathletes in the group. I’ve been involved in a few of the triathlon training camps, and the contingent for local races, as well as the 70.3 World Championships in South Africa. I’ve also really gotten into all the social side; quiz nights, club drinks, club breakfasts, Christmas functions, and kit launches…all good chances for like-minded people to get together and catch up off the bike.”

Words: Megan Kinder, Christopher Rawlings and Jason DuBois

Sign up now at anza.org.sg/sports/cycling

Makan Oz Style & the Aussie Avo Challenge!

AustCham Singapore President, Chris CoburnAustCham Singapore President, Chris Coburn, enjoying a drop in the #MakanOzStyle challenge

Thank you to everyone who took up High Commissioner Will Hodgman’s #MakanOzStyle challenge this year by ordering great Australian food and drinks to enjoy at home. While all sectors of the economy have been affected by the Covid-19 pandemic, the hospitality industry has been particularly hard-hit. One way to support our Australian restaurants, chefs and grocers in Singapore has been to continue to order meals and produce from them when dining-in was not possible.

Tiong Bahru Community Centre Chairman, Kenneth SeetTiong Bahru Community Centre Chairman, Kenneth Seet, ordering in for the #MakanOzStyle challenge

Team Australia in Singapore certainly rose to the challenge! Our social media channels were buzzing with messages and photos of your meals using the #MakanOzStyle hashtag. Please continue to support our Australian restaurants, chefs and grocers here by ordering in, checking out their amazing products online or in store, and dining-in when possible. We will continue to #MakanOzStyle wherever we can to support the Aussie food and beverage industry and increase demand for Australian produce here in Singapore.

BHP Chief Commercial Officer, Vandita Pant
BHP Chief Commercial Officer, Vandita Pant, taking part in our #MakanOzStyle challenge

We’re so fortunate to have fresh Australian produce on Singapore supermarket shelves, supported by the Australian Government’s International Freight Assistance Mechanism (IFAM). Australian agri-businesses were also given a boost to expand their export markets in 2021 as part of the Australian Government’s Agri-Business Expansion Initiative (ABEI).

Australia’s Trade Minister Dan Tehan MP and Singapore’s Sustainability and the Environment Minister Grace FuAustralia’s Trade Minister Dan Tehan MP meeting with Singapore’s Sustainability and the Environment Minister Grace Fu in Singapore in July 2021

Australia’s Minister for Trade, Tourism and Investment, The Hon Dan Tehan MP, visited Singapore in July 2021. Minister Tehan had fantastic meetings with Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong and several Singaporean Government Ministers to discuss our food security partnership, agrifood trade and how a new Green Economy Agreement between our countries will support sustainability goals. Two-way open travel with Singapore was high on the agenda – both countries remain committed to this, when the COVID situation allows. The Minister wanted very much to meet more of our Aussie expats, but COVID restrictions made this difficult.  He did get to speak to business leaders at an AustCham Singapore event.

DID YOU KNOW…
…the word ‘makan’ is a Malay term for ‘eat’ and is a commonly used word in Singapore? Food is an activity so close to the heart in Singapore that “have you eaten?” is a common heartfelt greeting.  

Avocado

Go green with Australian avocados in Singapore!
Avocados are just one example of Australian produce arriving in Singapore this year with support from the Australian Government’s IFAM. To celebrate these delicious green beauties, we invite you to take up Taste Australia’s #AussieAvoChallenge, by buying some Australian-grown avocados and trying out some of the incredible avocado-based recipes at australianavocados.com.au. If you’re feeling creative, come up with your own creation!

Australian High Commission Sg Logo

 

 

 

 

 

Australian High Commission Singapore
25 Napier Road Singapore, 258507
Tel 6836 4100
Fax 6737 5481

Stay connected
Follow us on Facebook: facebook.com/AustraliaInSingapore

LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/ahc-sg

Twitter: @AusHCSG

Hotspot: Swatow Seafood Restaurant

Swatow Seafood Restaurant

Toa Payoh, Serangoon Gardens Country Club, HomeTeamNS Bukit Batok
swatow.com.sg/

Swatow Seafood Restaurant has gained a loyal following for its traditional Teochew cuisine and handmade Hong Kong dim sum. The restaurant’s energy was palpable the moment we stepped into the buzzing dining hall. The wait staff were in constant motion, delivering food to customers anticipating their favourite dishes. Even with today’s social distancing and limitation in numbers (strictly followed), Swatow was a hive of activity and energy that made for fun dining.

We started with an intriguing plate of Deep-fried Snow Gyoza and Deep-fried Xiao Long Bao. Both dishes were a fantastic way to start this local food adventure. A plate of warm, buttery Hong Kong Polo Bun soon followed. These were a favourite of the table for their flaky crust, combined with a tender, juicy pork filling.

Next up was the Teochew Siew Bee (steamed prawn dumpling) and Teochew Kai Lan Fried Kuay Teow with preserved radish; both dishes were fantastic. These dim sum dishes are served with a variety of sauces that match each bite. The chilli sauce is made inhouse daily and it adds the perfect spicy kick.

Authentic Teochew Braised Duck

One of the restaurant’s most popular specialities, and our final savoury course was the Teochew Braised Sliced Duck. Unlike the most common roasted version, this authentic Teochew dish offers juicy, delicious slices of meat that simply melt in the mouth.

Purple Potato Cream & Golden Salted Egg Toasts

It’s Mooncake season and for dessert we were treated to the Crispy Mini Orh Nee – a yam paste mooncake, and Mixed Nut mooncake – a perfect sweet treat, enjoyed with refreshing Chinese tea.

VERDICT: Swatow Seafood restaurant offers authentic Teochew cuisine and excellent dim sum. If you’re craving memorable local food, head over to wallet-friendly Swatow for a fun atmosphere and satisfying meal.

Anniversary offer:

Swatow is running a special anniversary offer which includes the Afternoon Tea Dim Sum Buffet, priced at $25.80++ per adult and $16.80++ per child on weekdays, and $28.80++ per adult and $19.80++ per child on weekends. The buffet is available daily at the Toa Payoh outlet, and on weekends and public holidays at the Serangoon Gardens and Bukit Batok Home TeamNS outlets.
Roasted Duck with Black Truffle

From now till the 27th of October, Swatow Seafood Restaurant is offering HBL Bundle Deals for only $60! (UP $75). The HBL bundle deals include a 6-course set meal for 2 adults with 2 kids bento. Diners can add-on the kids bento at $12.80 each. These bundle deals are available daily, for both self-pickup and island-wide delivery through Oddle. Let’s stay strong and get through these tough times together!

Online Order though Oddle:
Swatow Seafood

Swatow City

Swatow Garden Seafood

 

Dress for Success Singapore

choosing workwearWhen and why was Image Mission set up?Li Kin
I started Image Mission in 2015 to manage the Dress for Success Singapore affiliate, which is part of an international network of 150+ affiliates. I come from a humble background, my mother had to single-handedly raise eight children and I believe that employment is the solution to overcoming poverty. 

Since then, Image Mission has served more than 780 clients through its two programmes – Dress for Success Singapore and IM Ready – with 30 percent of participants securing employment. We managed this without staff in the first five years, using a pool of dedicated volunteers from both the local and expat communities. In fact, ANZA Action was one of the first organisations I approached for support, and we are very grateful to have had many regular ANZA volunteers.

What do you do for women?
Many of the women we serve come from low-income households or disadvantaged backgrounds. They’ve been out of the workforce for a long time and often have low self-esteem. Our programmes are designed to cover every facet of our client’s journey, from job search to employment and beyond.

The Dress for Success programme provides interview and career coaching as well as professional attire for job interviews and employment. Our boutique has workwear, shoes and accessories that we give to women who have secured a job interview or employment. Clients are referred by community partners, who make an appointment for a styling or coaching session. 

Dress for Success SingaporeLi Kin conducting an interview skills session

How do the coaching sessions work?
At a coaching session, a volunteer coach provides one-to-one interview or resume preparation coaching. At an interview or employment styling session, the client is fitted by a volunteer stylist who shares dressing tips and selects an appropriate outfit for the interview, adding a finishing touch of professional make-up. Once employed, the client returns to receive a set of workwear to start off their new job.

Do you provide other training?
The IM Ready programme is a structured 4-6 weekly programme to equip clients with the skills, resources, and knowledge to become workforce ready. We now offer this programme one-to-one as well as in a workshop format.

IM Ready begins with a competencies diagnostics assessment so clients can discover their strengths and skills and better align their job search to match these. We then help clients to create a job search action plan, which will also track their progress. Other services include resume crafting/review, interview techniques and image styling.

Both programmes help them improve their confidence – to believe in themselves, their abilities, skills and experience, the way they look. This newfound confidence is most apparent after a makeover session or when they complete an assignment. 

This confidence empowers them to present themselves well at the job interview because they are dressed professionally and have prepared for the interview questions. Getting the job, in turn, boosts their sense of self-worth and gives them the means to work towards achieving financial independence and creating a brighter future for themselves and their family. For many of our clients, this newfound confidence also helps them in other areas of their lives – they are more confident dealing with their children for example.

Dress for Success SingaporeDFS Kathmandu founder with Li Kin (centre) and Elizabeth (right) in 2018

How can ANZA members support Dress for Success?
We are very grateful to the many ANZA members who have supported us over the past six years as coaches and stylists. ANZA members also gave strong support at our fundraising events, especially in our start-up years. 

We’re also always in need of volunteers who can help in ad-hoc event management. Whether you can commit to a regular schedule or on a project basis, we’d love to have you. Do subscribe to our mailing list at imagemission.org/contact-us so you’ll be updated on volunteering opportunities.

Alternatively, you could champion our cause by adopting us as a charity of your choice for your birthday or celebration!

Dress for Success SingaporeAn IM Ready workshop

How has Covid affected women in the work force?
The onset of COVID-19 and the circuit breaker in April 2020 had a great impact on our clients as they are among the most economically vulnerable in Singapore – being disproportionately represented in the retail, F&B and hospitality sectors. 

With kids at home and unable to go to school, women were often the ones who had to sacrifice their jobs for child care, especially single mums. Many of those in contract or part-time roles lost their jobs or had their jobs suspended. 

For Image Mission, we had to quickly move our services online to meet our clients pressing needs for employment support. We redesigned our programmes to suit an online format and trained our career coaches and stylists to facilitate virtual coaching and styling sessions.

This worked out well and the move to virtual allowed us to serve women in need of support, which we continued even after physical sessions resumed. In all, we managed to conduct more than 400 sessions last year, about the same as pre-Covid in 2019.

Any future plans?
We aim to serve 2025 women by the year 2025. One of our new programme initiatives is to engage employment partners who can offer expertise in areas relevant to our clients (e.g. recruitment or insights on the types of jobs/careers available in their industry) or who have job opportunities for our clients. 

Hotspot: Meet The Bartender at Mo Bar

Tell us about the latest cocktail list at MO BAR?
MO BAR’s current Volume Three cocktail menu is inspired by our latest travels and virtual collaborations around the region, focusing on using indigenous ingredients, local spirits, traditional techniques, and modern equipment.

SARIMANOKWhat’s one drink visitors must order at MO BAR?
“SARIMANOK”, inspired by the mythical creature from the southern part of the Philippines that looks after the region, bringing fortune and good favours. It’s made with croissant fat-washed rum, jasmine green tea kombucha, mango and peaches, and finished with edible rice paper printed with edible ink featuring the beautiful colours of the Sarimanok and the Philippines.

cocktail White Rabbit“WHITE RABBIT” is a clarified kimchi Bloody Mary. The Korean-inspired cocktail is made with poblano infused tequila, fresh tomatoes, kimchi, Korean black garlic, spices, and finished with a tomato crisp from the clarification method, topped with black garlic cream and micro shiso leaf.

Mo Bar SnacksWhat’s special about MO BAR and why should people visit?
Inspired by the Pacific Ocean, the rich culture of Asia’s ports and the travellers who journey between them, MO BAR has designed a series of cocktail menus for guests to experience the rich culture and history of the region. 

We aim to give each guest a unique experience with a full menu explanation and storytelling of the nomadic journey of MO BAR’s menu. Our team shares knowledge and expertise with our guests and takes them on a “Behind the Bar” tour, showing all the indigenous ingredients, unique (even hand-made by the team) vessels and modern equipment.

It’s all about recognising each guest and personalising each visit. We do this by sharing small tasters of upcoming menu experiments and other sorts of fun treats and shenanigans. Once we know that guests are celebrating special occasions, the team pulls out all the special tricks… if you want to know more, come and experience it for yourself! 

Cocktail MikywayHow hard has Covid been on the team?
As soon as Singapore went into the Circuit Breaker, the team and I explored opportunities immediately and were able to launch the first bottled cocktails in Singapore on our website, within 36hrs of the start of the lockdown. The positive feedback of our guests and the collaboration with our local community, such as the taxi drivers, gave us the energy to continue develop this further and we came up with a full range of MO BAR Signature and Classic cocktails. 

Besides the takeaway cocktails, we also engaged with our regular guests and clients to organise virtual cocktail classes and tastings. After the reopening of F&B in Singapore, we started with virtual bar takeovers where we featured bartenders from around the region by preparing their signature cocktails at MO BAR and vice versa.

After the launch of the new Volume Three menu, we quickly noticed that a Virtual Menu would be useful to be able to give guests an enhanced experience at MO BAR, while also showcasing our team and concept to a wider audience, outside of Singapore. 

During difficult times right now, our message is to be strong and don’t give up. Keep pushing boundaries and find new opportunities that times like these provide too. It’s a time to engage with the community more than ever, either physically or virtually, we all need each other. 

Adrian’s Faves 

  • Favourite cocktail?
    Smoked Boulevardier
  • Bar snack?
    Wasabi chips
  • Singapore bar?
    Jigger and Pony
  • World bar?
    Bamboo Bar, Bangkok
  • One person you’d like to share a cocktail with?
    Italian conductor Michele Mariotti 

How to Find Your Ideal Property in Sydney

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Sydney Skyline

Defining the brief
To secure the right property, clearly define your specific needs. Not sure what you want? The Brady Marcs team can work with you to determine a clear brief from the outset and are experienced in asking questions that give you a clear and complete picture. Expats should consider the usual property considerations – personal style or taste, location, local amenities, the flow of the floorplan, and the presence of natural light – but also additional needs such as having a strong rental profile to maximise rental yield, scope to renovations, and value for money.

Unique and timely opportunities
One of the key strengths in using the services of a Buyer’s Advisor is access to properties you usually wouldn’t get. Our team have established relationships with a wide network of selling agents across Sydney, allowing direct access to off-market properties and direct lines of communication. We take a thorough and proactive approach for clients, delivering exceptional results that would not otherwise have been possible.

Choosing an area
The most fundamental question when buying property from overseas is knowing where in Sydney to live or invest. Personal factors must be considered, including being close to friends and family, or wanting to explore an entirely new region. In either context, current knowledge and research of neighbourhoods and suburbs becomes essential. The depth of local knowledge held by the Brady Marcs team is invaluable.

Knowing the schools, transport and amenities
Knowing the location of international and private schools can be particularly relevant for expats and is just one of the many areas of expertise that our team can assist with. A good understanding of transport routes and how they align to family needs is a huge factor in decision-making, such as proximity to schools, the CBD, local parks, and family.

Inspections and auctions
Not being able to physically visit an open house or auction can be limiting for expats. Our team members will visit opens on your behalf and provide detailed video walk-throughs, photos, and live video calls.

Bidding at auction
One of the most valuable services we offer is bidding at an auction on behalf of clients. The Brady Marcs team removes emotion from an often highly stressful situation and brings experience in forming a key bidding strategy. Whether in person at a physical auction or online, our team have the expertise to ensure the best outcome while ensuring clear boundaries are established before an auction.

Due diligence
Our team can manage and coordinate all required due diligence on a property, including pest reports, researching local development applications, and accessing Strata reports. We act as a single point of contact for all external professionals during this process.

Facilitating time differences
The Brady Marcs team pride themselves on offering exceptional customer service and always going the extra mile to deliver great results. The team strives to balance the challenges of different time zones and busy work schedules for their clients when communicating.

A smooth transition period
One of the biggest unknowns during an international relocation is the overlap in time between arriving in Australia and being able to move into a home. Even if settlement is fast and the property becomes physically available, furniture can take months to arrive. Our team are experienced in organising short-term accommodation in a similar area. They’ve even arranged for a complete furniture fit-out, ready for clients to move into as soon as they arrive in Sydney. The key is in pre-empting each step of the process with helpful tips, tricks, and professional connections.

Negotiating the contract
Our team are very experienced in successfully negotiating on price and amendments to a sales contract, and managing the process between vendors, selling agents and solicitors. Even if a property is going to auction, terms can be agreed prior to auction should the client be the successful bidder. Brady Marcs helps manage the process to run as smoothly as possible while ensuring the best outcome for clients.

Understanding tax implications
There are many tax considerations for expats, and it’s best to enlist professional help. Brady Marcs can make recommendations of professional accountants and financial advisors who can help demystify any issues. As an independent advisory, our team can offer objective advice and recommendations for choosing professionals unique to your circumstances.

Property management
For any investment property, ensuring trusted Property Management is in place is essential. We offer a range of Property Management solutions to ensure a complete service for our clients.

At the end of the day, buying property from overseas doesn’t need to be stressful. What’s required is a trusted partner and clear, meaningful communication. Brady Marcs Buyers Advisory has an exemplary track record in delivering exceptional results for clients.

If you are an expat returning home, or you are keen to explore investment opportunities while overseas, Brady Marcs is here to help.

For more information, including case studies and resources, or to book an obligation-free video consultation with a member of the Brady Marcs Buyers Advisory team, email lucy@bradymarcs.com.au or visit bradymarcs.com.au/expats.  

North London Collegiate School (Singapore) Celebrates its Founding Year

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North London Collegiate School (Singapore)

Launching a new international school in Singapore during recent global events has been an unforgettable and truly remarkable journey, demonstrating the resilience, grit and innovation of teachers and students alike. The positivity of our community shone through during our tenure in our temporary campus at the beginning of the academic year and the move to our state of the art, purpose-built home on Depot Road in January 2021. As the year progressed, and all schools were required to move to Home Based Learning, our ability to support each other and adapt to the ever-changing landscape was demonstrated once again.

Founding Principal, Paul Friend, reflects on the year; “It’s been about growth, development, and broadening horizons. It’s been about building character and resilience, about supporting each other and, above all, making the most of what’s before us. As Principal, I quite literally couldn’t be prouder.”

A rich history and tradition
NLCS (Singapore) takes pride in being the fourth school in the prestigious NLCS network, drawing on the rich history and tradition of the founding school in the UK. Our aim is to provide our students with an inspirational and life changing educational experience that will ensure they become successful, well rounded and compassionate human beings. NLCS (Singapore) produces scholars and critical thinkers, individuals who have the ability and drive to bring positive change to the world around them.

Our first-class education is delivered by a team of passionate teachers who are all subject specialists and experts in their field. We empower our teachers to inspire a love for their subjects and deliver a broad and flexible curriculum that goes beyond the syllabus. With a focus on academic rigour, we build on students’ confidence to aim high and fulfil their potential and ambition. This paves the way for a “floors, not ceilings approach” and inspires life-long learning.

North London Collegiate School (Singapore) A supportive environment
A focus on outstanding pastoral care ensures we meet the needs of the individual, not just the needs of the cohort. We recognise that each and every classroom is filled with unique individuals who have different interests, skills, talents, experiences and world views. We create a caring and supportive environment both in and out of the classroom, fostering a community built on positive relationships between staff and students and between students themselves. 

Our Senior School team explains; “The heartbeat of any successful school is its students and, despite the restrictions on movement, interaction and performance, ours have comfortably exceeded even the most optimistic expectations that we had of them. They have truly embraced the NLCS ethos, facing academic challenges head-on as well as setting up academic societies, committing to genuine community service programmes and taking part in myriad co-curricular activities.” 

A spirit of scholarship also enables all students to recognise excellence and realise that it is attainable no matter where they come from. This stems from the school’s core belief in the transformative power of academic engagement, and that a culture of scholarship should extend beyond the classroom and permeate the wider life of our schools. 

To further our students’ understanding, we deliver a series of ‘McCabe Lectures’, named after former NLCS (UK) Headmistress Bernice McCabe OBE, providing opportunities for students to hear from industry experts, exposing them to high-level academic discourse. 

Enrichment is another essential element of our educational programme and serves to support and enhance each student’s academic development, as well as helping to shape their character and personality. We offer a rich and vibrant co-curricular provision across academic subjects, music, drama, sports, the creative arts and beyond.

North London Collegiate School (Singapore) Our location and campus
Located centrally, the NLCS (Singapore) school campus on Depot Road has a built-up area of approximately 300,000 sq ft, with modern and impressive facilities to support students’ learning. 

These include, but are not limited to, a 50-metre Olympic sized swimming pool, indoor and outdoor basketball courts, sports field, fully equipped gymnasium, tennis courts, fitness studio, dance studio, purpose built performing arts centre, 700 seat auditorium, lecture theatre, music technology suite and recording studio.

Our sports provision offers opportunities for students who would not only like to participate in the recreational CCA programme, but also in school representative sports teams as well as elite coaching. We are also a full member of the Athletic Conference of Singapore International Schools (ACSIS) which allows our students to compete in a wide range of sports with other international schools across Singapore.

As we look forward to August 2021 and welcome our first cohort of Sixth Form students, we are incredibly excited by the prospect of what they will achieve in the years ahead.  NLCS (UK) has maintained its record of being the most successful IB School in the UK since first offering the IB Diploma Programme fifteen years ago. 

NLCS (Singapore) offers an exceptional British education for students aged 3 – 18. Enrollment is open throughout the year. For more information on availability, the admissions process or to book a tour, please contact our Admissions team on +65 6989 3000 or email enquiries@nlcssingapore.sg and we will be very happy to support you.

North London Collegiate School (Singapore)

130 Depot Road, Singapore 109708

nlcssingapore.sg

How should I structure my investment property for tax purposes? 

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investment and house

With all the hype in Australia now on the very hot property market, this is an extremely common question, so below I have set out some of the factors which should be considered.

Finance: This can largely dictate your structuring options and with interest rates at record lows, this can be attractive (however make sure you run your numbers if there is a rate rise). As an expat, any tax loss that your property makes, if not utilised that year, will continue to roll forward forever, until used against future Australian sourced income such as positive rental income, capital gains or salary and wages. This can have quite an accumulative effect over several years and can result in a lovely bonus when you eventually return to Australia and can enjoy some tax-free income. Importantly, you should always start with a mortgage broker to check your borrowing capacity, structure options and obtain a pre-approval before you make an offer.

Individual or Joint Ownership: This is generally the easiest option to secure a loan and the benefits can include access to an apportioned 50% capital gains tax discount upon sale, access to the losses which the property derives (as the losses stay aligned to the ownership) and access to the principal place of residence exemption should you decide to move into the property in the future. On death, the property will also transfer stamp duty free in accordance with your Will, however the capital gains tax cost base will be retained.

Discretionary Trust: Lending can be a little tricky through a trust, and the trust also cannot distribute a tax loss. However, if the property is positively geared, the trust can distribute the income over several different resident beneficiaries such as children (up to $416 each), adult children (18 or older and adult marginal tax rates apply), non-working spouses and parents (watch Centrelink Pension benefits). Land Tax can be higher in a trust, and there are additional compliance costs to keep the accounts and file a trust tax return. The trust can also run for 70 years so good for asset succession planning.

Australian Company: Lending can also be tricky through a company and the company cannot distribute a loss. You can claim travel to inspect your property if owned through a company, however you miss out on access to the 50% CGT discount. Further,  a company will generally tax the profits at 30%, then it can pay a dividend to a non-resident shareholder without any top up tax.

SMSF: Acquiring a property in a self-managed superannuation fund (SMSF) is sadly not an option for an expat so you will have to wait until you return to Australia before considering this.

Other Considerations: 

  •  Land Tax can be a nasty surprise if you have multiple properties in the one state, a part foreign ownership or large land holdings. 
  •  Stamp Duty cannot be avoided however some concessions are available if you plan to move into the property within 6-12 months. 
  •  Most importantly, the above is very general and each person’s circumstances are unique so we highly recommend contacting us for an obligation free consultation so we can tailor the right advice for you.  

Tristan Perry

Contact Tristan on  Tristan.perry@selectinvestorsaustralia.sg /
+65 9108 6398 (WhatsApp/Call)


The levels and bases of taxation, and relief from taxation, can change at any time. The value of any tax relief depends on individual circumstances.

Meet the Kill-O-Metres walking group!

We talk to the ANZA Kill-O-Metres walking group founder Louise Jones about what makes stomping around Singapore so addictive (and fun!).

ANZA Walking group 2021Who are they? The Kill-O-Metres walking group get together in groups of five (group sizes change in accordance to COVID restrictions) to enjoy the great outdoors and experience moving in a fun, social environment. The walks are organised by ANZA group members on various day of the week throughout the year, including evenings when the air is cooler. The objective is for walkers to explore a different side of Singapore, with walking trails that take participants to undiscovered parts of the island while also highlighting all of the rich biodiversity that Singapore has to offer.”

ANZA Walking Group 2021Where do they walk? The Kill-O-Metres have hiked all over Singapore, exploring MacRitchie Reservoir, Bukit Timah, the Southern Ridges and many other lesser-known routes that you can only truly experience on foot.
How far are the walks? They tend to average between 6-13km. Due to the unique nature of the walks being chosen hosted by the group members, there’s one for every level of participant from the super-speedy, to moderate and breezy, to slow and steady as you amble scenic landscapes. “Everyone is welcome and the pace varies to accommodate all involved,” explains Louise. “Our focus is fitness, no-cost therapy support, stretching, advice and best of all friendship – we are a social, fun gang, and you get all the amazing physical and mental health benefits of regular walking as you go!”
How do I join? To join the walkers, you must be a current, registered ANZA member. “It’s free, there’s no commitment required, and it’s an activity which helps you settle into Singapore while discovering more about this beautiful island,” says Louise.
Best thing about the group? “Definitely the therapy of fitness and friendships.”

Walk the Green Corridor

Find out more about upcoming walks and how to join the Kill-O-Metres at anza.org.sg/groups/walking

 

Relive ‘Bishan ANZA WALK’

Home Style: Birds, Bees and Botanicals

Andaman free-form dinner plates, KRA SanctuaryWhen we were able to freely travel, I would discover ceramics of all kinds in every corner of the globe – from the blue and white Delftware I found in Holland, the Azulejo in Portugal, to the colourful Majolica ceramics spilling out of the stores in Positano, Italy.  Equally, I was drawn to fine bone china mugs from Harrods in London or Beatrix Potter collectibles, which line the shelves of Duty Free shops throughout the UK. There’s nothing prettier than eggs served in dainty Polish egg cups, tea in fine china cups, or rich coffee in large mugs. There’s nothing better than a long alfresco lunch, with food served on a complete set of Mediterranean tableware.

Confined to the shops of Singapore, where do we find similar items to serve as a reminder of exotic places we may have explored this past summer and those familiar spots we miss visiting?

Sophie Auport bird series mug

Sophie Auport (www.sophieallport.com) mugs in her bird series available at Culina.

Sophie Auport (sophieallport.com) has a stunning collection of fine bone china mugs made in the UK – a perfect gift for every family member. They’re available online or at Culina Dempsey (culina.com.sg).  They go quickly so snap them up when you see them in store.  For animal or garden lovers, Sophie’s whole collection is heavenly. There’s also a sports series!

Melamine plate from Iggy’s Crafts

Melamine plate from Iggy’s Crafts

Recently I stumbled across Iggy’s Crafts pop up at Cluny Court (facebook.com/iggyscrafts.sg) and discovered a colourful collection of melamine plates and tableware that are the exact replicas of those found in Spain and Morocco. They come in all shapes and sizes and are perfect to use poolside, but the oversized platters are the winners. If the Med vibe isn’t what you are looking for, there is a tropical range with green leafy platters and coastal colours. For more melamine copies of the ceramic originals from Positano, Italy, go to Smallable online (smallable.com/en). Lighter than hauling a set home from Europe and delivery is free with larger orders! 

After a mid-afternoon siesta in Spain, tapas and sangria are usually on the agenda before transitioning to the evening meal a few hours later. Invest in a dozen or so small tapas plates, buy some good olives, octopus and manchego cheese and you have what it takes to get you through to dinner at 11pm. 

Daiso (daisosingapore.com.sg) often has a very good selection of small plates in black and white that look like handmade pottery with rough edges.  

At $2 a piece they are a steal and wash very well in the dishwasher. For a more sophisticated look, Bowerbird (bowerbird.com.sg) has dainty little tapas plates with brass edges in leafy patterns and various colours.

Karst dinnerwear set, KRA Sanctuary

Karst dinnerwear set, KRA Sanctuary

Closer to home, you can purchase incredible stoneware inspired by the limestone karsts of Southern Thailand at KRA Sanctuary (krasanctuary.com). The Karst or Andaman collections are an indulgent expense you won’t regret. Set the table with a collection of 4, 6 or 8. 

Napkins from Island Living

Napkins from Island Living

Style tips:

  • Pondering your table setting? Make a mood board and play around with colour, kitchen items, flowers and leaves. 
  • Currently organic shapes in ceramics, and wooden or brass utensils are on-trend. 
  • Use colours that represent nature in cool sage green and florals. Go either light or very bright but don’t mix the two!
  • Kitchen tiles set the scene, with stoneware dinner plates and napkins with raw edges from Island Living (islandliving.sg) inspired by eucalyptus leaves, another reminder of home.
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