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Hotspots: Sunday Brunch at Edge, Singapore

Brunch is our favourite! What’s making this one special?

Sunday brunch at Edge at Pan Pacific Singapore is not new – in fact, the extensive buffet here spanning Singaporean, Chinese, Malay, Indian, Japanese, Thai, and Western cuisines is regularly hailed as one of the best in town. If you’re on the hunt for a buffet line that seems to last forever, Edge is the place to be. But even with its already stellar reputation, this Sunday stalwart has just got even better.

Get them! How so?

With families in mind, Edge has created a fantastic space to entertain little ones with fun and exciting activities. Located towards the back of the dining room, yet cleverly designed to blend seamlessly into the surroundings, there’s a fabulous dedicated Kids Play Area packed with toys and games. Instead of causing mayhem among the dining tables (while you’re trying to enjoy Lobster Thermidor), this is the perfect spot for children to roam, relax, or just kick back on the loungey cushions (under the watchful eyes of the staff). There are creative activities to kids to get lost in such as cool hand painting. You might even spot a talented roving balloon sculptor, creating balloon animals and characters as they wander through the restaurant.

Well, this sounds fun.

It is! When we were there, we got our hands painted, huddled into the cosy teepee, and dived into all the kids’ sweets. Don’t worry, aside from the Willy Wonka-esque confectionery, Edge has also curated a new kids’ buffet offering a megamix of delicious yet nutritious dishes for children.

If I don’t have children, is it still for me?

This is the beauty of the Edge upgrade. The vast restaurant means you can sit as near or as far from the Kids Play Area as you like. It’s so subtly designed that you barely notice the space unless you’re actively looking for it. As a parent, you might want to be seated near the area so you can keep an eye on your kiddywinks. But if not, rest assured they’re in good hands with the reliable staff while you position yourself nearer to, say, the Tattinger Bar…

Oooh, now you’re talking!

We thought that might grab your attention! Exclusive to the Sunday brunch at Edge is the unlimited free-flow option, which includes bubbly, wine, spirits, and cocktails from PLUME, the destination cocktail bar located within Pan Pacific Singapore. We kicked off our brunch with a refreshing Peacock – a delightful mix of gin, lavender, thyme, cassis, and lemon – before diving into the free-flowing Tattinger (included in our package, $198pp with alcohol; $138 pp with soft drinks; and $69 per child aged 6–12 years old).

Any highlights from the buffet to soak this up?

It’s tough to pick one as there’s so much variety and every morsel is absolutely top-notch. Sunday brunch stand-outs include Australia Black Angus Beef Prime Ribs, Sustainable Boston Lobster, Poached Whole Norwegian Sustainable Salmon, Signature Nonya Laksa, and Singapore Chili Crab with Golden Mantou.

For seafood lovers, there’s an endless spread of fresh delights, including freshly shucked Oysters, Snow Crab Legs, Sustainable Boston Lobster, Tiger Prawns, Pacific Clams, Half-Shell Scallops, Sea Conch, Black Mussels, and Crawfish.

As it’s a brunch, there’s also a Breakfast Station serving your choice of eggs (including Lobster Eggs Benedict), waffles, pancakes, and more. Don’t miss the Chargrilled Station with handcrafted sausages and hams made in-house by the hotel’s esteemed Master Butcher. Plus, there’s a pizza and pasta station for all your comfort food cravings.

This all sounds so … dangerous!

Ha ha! Wait until you hear about dessert. Edge’s Sunday Brunch has not one, but two dessert stations equalling double the trouble. Aside from the Western dessert table there’s the cheese section – with 10 different types of cheeses to choose from – plus a host of locally-inspired sweet treats including ice creams, Peranakan kuehs, and old-school favourites.

What’s not to like?

Absolutely nothing. For families, friends and couples – or even if you’re flying solo and just fancy a quality Sunday roast with all the trimmings – Edge is hard to beat. This brunch boasts a fabulous reputation for a reason, and with its new family offerings, updated drinks menu and continual slap-up fare, it’s defintely taken Singapore’s dining stakes to another level!

Edge, Pan Pacific Singapore, 7 Raffles Boulevard, Level 3, Pan Pacific, 039595

Inside the world of Singapore’s silent book club

Head to CIMB Plaza in Singapore on a Saturday afternoon, and you’ll witness a truly unusual sight: fourteen adults, aged from their late 20’s to late 50’s, sitting in silence together; no talking, no phones in sight, no fraught scrolling, no straining for a Selfie. This serene scene may sound like something from the 1980’s, but it is a modern-day phenomenon, all thanks to Singapore’s inaugural Silent Book Club®.

In today’s world, reading a book is experiencing a renaissance. ANZA’s very own book club (anza.org.sg/groups/book-club) is constantly growing in size, with several “mini-clubs” running in unison. Celebrities like Oprah Winfrey and Reese Witherspoon have long been advocates of a thrilling page-turner, and now younger stars such as Emma Watson and Dakota Johnson are making books cool again with their own book clubs, igniting a love for literature among new audiences.

But while most traditional book clubs focus on specific genres or certain tomes and lively discussions, Singapore has embraced the rise of the Silent Book Club, a movement with over 1,000 “chapters” (locations) in over 50 countries around the world. Led by volunteers, the clubs eschew assigned reading. Members simply gather in bars, cafes, bookstores, libraries, or online to read together in hushed camaraderie.

Sisilia Kodyat

Local chapter

Silent Book Club is a concept that originated in San Francisco in 2012. The founders, Guinevere de la Mare and Laura Gluhanich, envisioned a gathering where participants could enjoy reading without the pressure of analysis. “We launched because reading with friends enriches our lives and makes us happy,” they share on the global website (silentbook.club).

Here on the red dot, the local chapter was established by Sisilia Kodyat (@bookhoardersunite). Frustrated by her busy lifestyle, she sought a solution to her struggle to find time for reading a book after a full day at her banking job. “I loved reading but I also have a husband, Instagram, Pinterest, Disney+, and so on!” she says. “I was finding that there were so many distractions taking me away from my passion.”

In May 2022, Sisilia and her fellow book-loving friend Jennifer Tan (@thetirelessreader) launched Silent Book Club Singapore as a way to carve out their own reading time while welcoming others seeking similar solace in a communal space. “I’d heard about the global community and researched online about setting up the chapter here. After registering, I set a date, time and location for people to meet,” she says, admitting that initially, it was just her and Jennifer at Starbucks in Raffles Place! “It was hard at first for us not to chat, but over time we learned to focus on our reading.” Two years on, Silent Book Club Singapore boasts over 1,120 active members.

Global Silent Book Club sessions Group pictures: instagram.com/silentbookclub

To maintain order, the club adheres to a few rules. Sessions are advertised on Meetup (meetup.com) and despite the huge number of members, Sisilia sticks to welcoming only fourteen participants once a month. (“There is a huge waiting list!”). Using a stopwatch, sessions typically last two hours, beginning with a strict half-hour introduction from everyone to share their chosen book. This is followed by 90 minutes of heads down, no talking dedication. Says Sisilia, “Everyone is well-behaved and sticks to the regulations. There’s no pressure to share anything about yourself apart from what you’re reading, so while everyone is gathered together, it is also a private event without any social pressure.” She continues, “You can come and sit quietly to read without the pressure to provide an intellectual opinion. It’s perfect for introverts.”

There’s a lovely sense of connection, even though there’s little communication

Sense of solidarity

The participants of Silent Book Club Singapore come from diverse backgrounds. “One member is a busy mum who uses the session for dedicated ‘me-time,’” Sisilia shares. ”Another member signed up because he wanted to meet people after moving to the red dot from Canada. He says the club takes his mind off of work and he values the time he can spend to enjoy focused reading,” she continues. “Somebody else claimed that she had no discipline to read alone, but after joining us she now sets an alarm every day to read for 30 minutes.”

As for Sisilia, the club provides her with devoted reading time and small connections with fellow book fans. “The variety of reading material that members bring is fascinating, spanning across Chinese texts to modern fiction and Greek mythology. This provides inspiration for all of us when choosing our next book,” she says. “Even though there’s little communication between us, there’s a lovely sense of connection with the people you’re sitting and reading with. It creates a calming sense of solidarity.”

Looking ahead, Sisilia hopes to secure a more permanent space in Singapore where Silent Book Club can take place, allowing for greater participation. “My dream is that we continue to thrive and provide a sanctuary for those looking for a quiet place to escape and read,” she says. “Our club isn’t just about reading; it’s about fostering a deep sense of community and helping people find joy in books once again.”

In a world that often feels overwhelming, Silent Book Club Singapore offers a tranquil refuge, highlighting how literature can connect us, and how connection is possible without the need for speaking.

Sisilia’s Top Book Recommendations

  • A Month in the Country by JL Carr
  • My Dog Tulip by J.R. Ackerley
  • The Fortnight in September by R.C. Sherriff
  • Moon Tiger by Penelope Lively
Right: Sisilia and Jennifer meet to quietly read War and Peace

Silent Book Club Singapore

The club meets every third Saturday afternoon of the month at CIMB Plaza. Find out more at meetup.com/silent-book-club-singapore Discover Sisilia’s other book clubs at NYRB Classics Reading Society at meetup.com/NYRB-Classics-Reading-Society, and Chunkster Book Club at meetup.com/chunkster-book-club

Can I really afford investing in property while living overseas?

  •  Sponsored Content 

We understand, life as an expat in Singapore is an incredible adventure, but it comes with its own set of financial hurdles. Increasing living costs, international school fees, and a volatile rental market can make saving for that dream home back in Australia feel like a distant goal. The upcoming holiday season, while exciting, adds another layer of expense, leaving many expats feeling that property investment is simply out of reach right now.

First, we want to challenge you to reframe your thinking: From thinking property investment is about saving for that one dream property back in Australia, to believing that you can strategically invest in multiple reasonably priced real estate and, over time, build up equity to get that dream home.

Unlocking the Door to Overseas Property Investment

Many expats believe that overseas property investment requires a hefty upfront investment and a deep understanding of the market back home – this can be true, but there’s smarter ways we can approach it. Time constraints and a lack of confidence in navigating the complexities of overseas property markets can also be barriers to getting into the property market.

This is where Property NXT comes in. We understand these unique challenges faced by expats in Singapore – because we have been there. We know that finding the right property, understanding the potential return on investment, and building trust with reliable partners takes time and expertise.

Your Partner in Property Investment

As a Singapore-based company, we offer personalised guidance and support throughout your property investment journey. We specialise in identifying high-growth areas with attractive opportunities like off-plan projects and house & land packages that are easier on the wallet and offer strong growth potential.

We can also introduce you to partners who can give you a preliminary evaluation on mortgage lending within days, that can help you feel confident about your capability to invest. Read more about the advantages of Australian Off-Plan investment here.

South-East Queensland: A Booming Opportunity

For those with their sights set on Australia, South-East Queensland presents a particularly compelling investment opportunity. This vibrant region, encompassing the Gold Coast, Brisbane, and Sunshine Coast, has experienced remarkable growth, with a 14% year-on-year increase in property values. It’s a great place to explore and if you are interested, you can attend our event at 1880 Singapore (details here).

Making Property Investment a Reality: How to start

At Property NXT, we believe that property investment should be accessible to everyone. We are passionate about empowering you to achieve your financial goals through strategic property investments. You can start with anything from $60K SGD as an initial 10% deposit for a property, you can read more about how much you need to get started here.

Get a free consultation with us today to explore the exciting opportunities that await you in the Australin property market.

You’re invited to our first Property NXT Present Series!

We’re launching our regional and market deep dives, our first focus area is South East Queensland.

This beautiful region is a prime location for property due to its booming population growth, massive infrastructure investment, and strong economic fundamentals, all while maintaining relative affordability and high lifestyle appeal.

Over drinks and canapés, we’ll share:

  • South-East Queensland Market Overview by Luke Pervan, Founder, Property NXT
  • Live Off-Plan and House & Land Opportunities
  • How to finance your next property with Tim Raes, Founder, Australian Expat Home Loans

Event Details

ANZA Netball shines at the 2024 Mixes Nations Cup

What a spectacular day it was for ANZA Netball at the 2024 Mixes Nations Cup. On 7 September, our enthusiastic group of sixty players and their families gathered at OCBC Arena, all decked out in bright pink “It’s a Great Day for Netball” t-shirts, ready to support Team Singapore in the finals.

The excitement was palpable as we watched the matches unfold. The Singapore Vandas faced a tough game against Kenya, losing 61 – 33. Despite the defeat, their resilience was commendable. Kenya showcased impressive skill and energy, leading to a victory with a remarkable 92% shooting accuracy.

In other matches, the United Arab Emirates secured the bronze medal after defeating Ireland 52 – 46 in the third-place playoff. Meanwhile, the Singapore A team concluded their tournament on a high note, triumphing over Canada with a score of 61 – 38 in the fifth-place classification match.

Our parent volunteers made sure not to miss out on the event

The ANZA girls had the chance to meet Team Singapore in person during special appearances at the Fan Zone. Adding to the excitement, two of our talented ANZA Netball players lit up the arena during the mid-match entertainment, shooting goals and rallying support from the crowd. Waving Singapore flags, our players truly represented the spirit and excitement of the sport.

Bags of fun was had

A huge thank you to Netball Singapore for inviting ANZA Netball to be part of this incredible event. It was a day brimming with fun and camaraderie, leaving our young athletes inspired and excited for the netball season ahead. To all aspiring players, remember to dream big and work hard – your passion and dedication could one day take you to the international stage!

Elevating ANZA Netball: A Special Visit from ex pro player Sharni Norder

We’re thrilled to announce an extraordinary opportunity for the ANZA Netball community as we welcome ex-professional netball defender Sharni Norder, formerly known as Sharni Layton, to the community from 16 – 19 November. With a remarkable career that spans from 2011 to 2019, including 46 international caps with the Australian team, Sharni brings a wealth of experience and expertise that promises to elevate our netball players and coaches.

Sharni’s visit is not to be missed. We’re excited to see her impact on our players and coaches, helping to cultivate a supportive and driven netball environment. Stay tuned for more details and this unique opportunity to learn from one of netball’s finest.
We look forward to welcoming Sharni Norder and making her visit a memorable and enriching experience for the entire ANZA Netball community in Singapore.

Singapore’s Tanglin Trust School turns 100

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This year marks Tanglin Trust School’s Centenary – a celebration of 100 years of excellence. The year-long series of Centenary events provides the perfect opportunity for the school to reflect on its past, celebrate its present, and look toward the next 100 years.

The school’s Centenary celebrations began with the opening of the exhibition 100 Years of Tanglin: Celebrating a Century of Excellence. The exhibition, which runs all year, showcases the history of the school, from its beginnings in 1925 on the grounds of the Tanglin Club, through the tumultuous World War II years, and its subsequent growth and evolution to become the dynamic international school of 2850 students that it is today. Fascinating artefacts from the school’s archive include historical uniforms, letters, and stories from students spanning the decades. At its centrepiece is a letter from Buckingham Palace congratulating the school on its momentous milestone. The opening event was attended by over 150 guests, including alumni, parents, Tanglin Foundation members, and staff – some of whom have dedicated over 15 years of service to the school – alongside past Heads of School. The exhibition set the tone for what promises to be an exciting year ahead, with many more events planned, including a grand birthday party for the entire Tanglin community, a Gala at The Clifford Pier and a special reunion event in London for Tanglin alumni.

The launch of the Tanglin Centenary Exhibition

Tanglin Trust School has also published a book entitled 100 Tanglin Tales to commemorate its Centenary. This special coffee table book written by students, staff, alumni, and parents, brings to life fascinating stories about Tanglin in the last century. All these events will be the perfect opportunity for parents to try the Tanglin Trust 1925 Centenary Gin crafted with botanicals inspired by herbs from the Cameron Highlands, where the school’s founder, Miss Griffith, ran a boarding school during the 1930s. The gin is a distinctive tribute to her legacy and the adventurous spirit that still pervades Tanglin today.

Left Tanglin Gippsland Campus Right: Miss Griff and the Cameron Highlands Boarding School

Inspiring Future Generations: The Institute at Tanglin

While the Centenary is a time to celebrate Tanglin’s rich history, the school is also focused on the future. As part of the Centenary year, The Institute at Tanglin is hosting a series of talks under the theme ‘The Future of…’. Each talk will explore the opportunities and challenges different industries will face in the coming years, covering fields such as healthcare, robotics, and geopolitics.

The keynote lecture, ‘Winning with AI’, will be delivered by Dr Ayesha Khanna, a global thought leader on the future of AI. These talks, which are free and open to both the Tanglin community and the public, aim to foster discussion and engagement, ensuring that the next generation of Tanglin students are well-equipped to navigate the rapidly evolving global landscape.

A highlight of the Centenary calendar of events will be the Centenary Gala Concert at the Esplanade Concert Hall in April 2025. This event will feature the world premiere of a specially commissioned piece by renowned British composer Jonathan Dove, performed by Tanglin’s talented musicians, including the school’s first group of Centenary Music Scholars.

Tanglin Trust School at The Tanglin Club

The Highlands Programme: A New Chapter for Tanglin

As part of its Centenary in 2025, Tanglin will launch the Highlands Programme at the new Tanglin Gippsland campus in Australia, nestled in the foothills of the Victorian Alps. The Highlands Programme is a five-week immersive programme designed as the pinnacle of Tanglin’s Middle School education. Mark Cutchie, the Head of Campus, will head up the programme which will focus on fostering three essential attributes: curiosity, confidence and community.

Under Mark’s direction, students will immerse themselves in experiential learning, and engage in outdoor education, building a deeper connection with their peers and the natural world. The programme underscores Tanglin’s commitment to offering a holistic education. “The Highlands Programme will draw together many key elements of Middle schooling in early adolescent education, and offer an inspiring space to instil some of the wonder and awe that is part of each person’s development,” says Craig Considine, CEO of Tanglin.

Looking to the Future

As Tanglin Trust School celebrates its Centenary, it remains dedicated to providing a world-class British education with an international perspective. From its humble beginnings of five British students schooled in two Attap huts, Tanglin’s journey over the past 100 years is a testament to the strength of its community and the enduring legacy of its founder, Miss Anne Griffith-Jones.

What’s on in Singapore this November & December

Holiday Highlights 2024

There’s a whole lot of fun to be had over the coming months in Singapore. As we roll up to the holiday period there’s plenty of cosy family events, fun nights out for friends, and cultural happenings to keep everyone entertained and curious as we see 2024 out with a bang.

Silent Disco: Christmas Moon

The ultimate Silent Night will take place this December with a Silent Disco under the full moon. Grab your friends, get your headphones comfortable, and let yourself go to a DJ spinning pop, rock and dance.
14 December. Marina Bay Sands SkyPark Observation Deck, Level 56, Tower 3, Sands SkyPark, 10 Bayfront Avenue, 018956
 pelago.com

Ice Magic

Head to Asia’s largest touring pop-up winter playground with frosty fun! Enjoy the ice merry-go-round, double-lane ice slide, and the city’s longest snow slope. Kids can try the new five-lane mini ice slide, and snap pics of the glacial art and illuminated icicles. Afterwards, visit the food village for Swiss rosti, spiced wine, and s’mores toasties.
9 December 2024 – 21 January 2025. Bayfront Event Space, 12A Bayfront Avenue, 018970
 icemagicasia

A Universal Christmas

Experience the joy of Christmas at Universal Studios Singapore. Don’t miss Santa’s North Pole Headquarters in New York, featuring the North Pole Flying and Toy Divisions. Meet the Penguins of Madagascar, Po, Master Tigress, and the Minions, and enjoy the W.I.S.H. show with its dazzling performances and snowfall. Don’t forget to check out the stunning Christmas Tree of Wonders outside Gourmet Park, featuring daily light shows from 5:30pm – 9:30pm.
2 December 2024 – 1 January 2025. Universal Studios Singapore, 8 Sentosa Gateway, 098269
rwsentosa.com

Wonderland Delights

Singapore’s Christmas Wonderland also returns to Gardens by the Bay on 1 December. Expect Santa and his elves to whip up something special as the fairground covers three zones: Supertree Grove, Frosty’s Fairground at The Meadow, and Gingerbread Grove. Illuminating light displays, the chance to experience “snow” in the tropics, carnival rides, games, and actual Santa Claus also await!
1 December 2024 – 1 January 2025, 6.30pm – 10.30pm. 18 Marina Gardens Drive, 018953
 gardensbythebay.com.sg

Gardens by the Bay Christmas Train Show

A century-old American Christmas tradition is arriving in town this December, as the Gardens by the Bay Christmas Train Show floral display, presented in collaboration with the Embassy of the United States in Singapore, makes its debut in Flower Dome. Experience the magic of model trains chugging past miniature versions of iconic American landmarks like the Statue of Liberty, Golden Gate Bridge, and Grand Central Station – all crafted from botanical materials such as pine cone scales, twigs, bark, seeds, and leaves.
2 December 2024 – 5 January 2025
 gardensbythebay.com.sg/christmastrainshow

Affordable Art Is Back

Courtesy of Andre Tan, “Chinese Bride #43, @utterly_art

The 15th year of Affordable Art Fair Singapore is back at the F1 Pit Building on 7 – 10 November. With all artworks priced under S$15,000, prepare to browse through 80+ galleries hailing from all around the world, witness large-scale installations, join hands-on workshops, and keep your eyes peeled for a few Christmas gifts.
1 Republic Boulevard, 038975
 affordableartfair.com

 
 
 

Calling all Phantom Fans!

Courtesy of TM@1986 RUG ltd.

Andrew Lloyd Webber’s acclaimed musical The Phantom Of The Opera stops at Marina Bay Sands from 9 May – 1 June, 2025. This showstopper has garnered over 70 major theatre awards after almost 40 years on the stage and is widely considered one of the most spectacular productions of all time. For a night of beauty and emotion, it’s a big yes from us.
10 Bayfront Avenue, 018956
 baseasia.com

Fruity Wonders

Courtesy of @wonderfruitfestival

If your kids are back for the holidays and looking for something to perk them up, the annual Wonderfruit Festival in Thailand might be just the ticket! This year the festival that showcases art, music and sustainability is heralding its 10th birthday. Happening from 12 – 16 December, there’s an eclectic lineup of international and local artists, diverse music, interactive art installations, wellness workshops, culinary experiences, and more. Perfect for a pre-Christmas party!
The Fields at Siam Country Club, Chonburi, Thailand
wonderfruit.co/tickets

Wild Times Ahead

Get set for a cinematic adventure as Singapore’s only Nature Film Festival Earth in Focus comes to Sentosa on 2 – 3 November to unite film lovers and eco-enthusiasts together through captivating films, photography, ecological art exhibitions and vibrant workshops. For those with kids, there are special films and hands-on workshops aimed to ignite their passion for caring for the planet.
Siloso Beach, Sentosa Island, 099989
 earthinfocus.co

ANZA Soccer Job Vacancy

About Us
ANZA Soccer is a not-for-profit youth sports club providing soccer training and competition for over 500 children at various venues across Singapore. We are a welcoming, inclusive club dedicated to helping young players, ages 3-18, learn soccer skills, develop teamwork, and grow in sportsmanship in a fun and engaging environment. Our goal is to be a place where players love to learn, and coaches love to coach.

Our club thrives thanks to the dedication of parent volunteers and the expertise of professional coaches, led by our passionate, full-time Head Coach. We offer a diverse range of activities, including recreational training, competition-focused sessions, and our special Matildas program designed to inspire and encourage girls to embrace soccer.

The Role
As the Program Manager, you’ll be responsible for the day-to-day organisation and smooth operation of ANZA Soccer activities. Reporting to the ANZA Soccer Committee, you’ll collaborate closely with the Head Coach and Age Group Coordinators (AGCs) to deliver an exceptional program. Although primarily operational, this role requires weekend and evening availability to oversee training and competitions. You will serve as the main point of contact for members, fostering strong relationships to promote and enhance and grow the program. You’ll need to work strategically, be self-motivated, and demonstrate exceptional organisational skills. The ability to prioritise tasks effectively and ensure all program elements are aligned will be crucial to success in this role.

Key Responsibilities

  • Oversee the planning, delivery, and strategic development of the soccer program.
  • Develop and implement a seamless pathway for players from grassroots to competition.
  • Support and train volunteers and coaches, ensuring a high-quality experience for all.
  • Ensure a safe environment for participants and volunteers, championing safeguarding practices.
  • Manage communications effectively, keeping members informed of events, updates, and changes.
  • Optimise use of ANZA Soccer resources, ensuring accountability and adherence to budget.
  • Develop and maintain a seasonal calendar for training, games, tryouts, camps, and special events.
  • Coordinate competition pathways, including team selection and event registration.

Qualifications

  • Degree or certification in sports or event management or organisational management
  • 8+ years of experience in planning, coordination, and management.
  • Strong communication and relationship-building skills.
  • Exceptional attention to detail and organizational abilities.
  • Proven ability to collaborate with diverse teams and stakeholders.
  • Proficiency in Microsoft Office, including Excel and PowerPoint.
  • Social media experience.
  • Familiarity with Singapore’s soccer landscape and international alignment a plus but not essential.
  • Knowledge of athlete pathways and youth sports programs is desirable but not essential.
  • Experience in competitive sports management is a plus but not essential.

What We Offer

  • Flexibility around the structure of your working role – full-time, part-time, fractional options are possible
  • Competitive salary
  • Access to professional development and training opportunities.

Interested applicants please email your cover letter and CV to Justine Bower Justine@intuitiverecruit.com Applications close 1 December 2024.

ANZA Magazine November – December 2024 is out now!

 

Singapore’s famous void decks – as you’ve never seen them before!

As an expat in Singapore, have you ever been to a “void deck”? Located in the heartlands, these large open expanses of sheltered space underneath the island’s HDB blocks are instrumental in developing a sense of community and racial unity.

According to The Straits Times, the oldest void deck on the red dot was built in 1963 in Bukit Merah. They’re where residents can gather to meet friends, children can run around in all weather, students can study, aunties and uncles can play a ferocious game of mahjong, and pet owners can hang out with their furry friends. They’re a venue for birthday parties, weddings, and funerals. They’re where entire neighbourhoods gather together.

Jonathan Tan grew up in HDB’s around Jurong and has fond childhood memories of waiting for the school bus with his grandparents at the void deck tables. It was noticing these tables with fresh eyes years later that led him to his photography series, Lepak Downstairs (“lepak” means “relax” in Singlish).

“Singapore is a small city-state and at times there is a perception by the locals that our landscape is boring and there is nothing much to see here,” the business director tells ANZA. “However, I believe we have many unique sights that go unnoticed by Singaporeans, just because we’re so used to seeing them every day and taking them for granted.”

Unique perspective

On a whim, Jonathan started to wonder what the void deck tables might look like from a bird’s-eye view. Armed with just his iPhone and a three-metre-long selfie stick (no fancy drones here, folks!), he embarked on a personal project to capture these Singapore icons from a unique perspective. “I’ll extend the selfie stick until my phone is close to the ceiling, and aim it downwards to shoot,” he explains. “Because I can’t check the shots while shooting, there’s a lot of trial-and-error. I have to reshoot numerous times before getting the ‘perfect’ image. I try to keep things simple so that I don’t have to spend much, too. You can always find innovative ways to capture creative images.”

What’s more important than simple equipment, says Jonathan, is finding the right subject to capture. Not knowing exactly where he’ll find an interesting void deck table (although they tend to be found at the older estates), he simply picks an estate, visits it on a weekend around his day job, and hopes to get lucky. Alternatively, you’ll find him trying to spy a glimpse of potential shots from the windows of a bus.

“There were many days where I made wasted trips,” he admits. “Sometimes I wouldn’t find any of these tables when I got there, while other times I would come across designs that I’d already taken in other locations.”

There are currently 36 shots in the series, completed over two seasons with 18 shots each. Jonathan admits that through seeing Lepak Downstairs on social media, he now has friends and followers who send him locations of tables to photograph, which makes life a bit easier.

As for his personal favourite shot, he says this changes often. “For now, it’s the pale green configuration taken at Block 112, Bedok North Road,” he says. “I like it because the colour is nice and unique, and the sunlight fell in place nicely. As a bonus, if you look really closely, you can see my selfie stick in the reflection of the table.” (See above left).

See more of Jonathan’s images and enquire about purchases at @jontannn

“How ANZA Cycling transformed my expat life”

Yann, Ischa, and children Bastiaan and Milane

“I’m originally from the south of France and have lived overseas for over 15 years. After meeting my wife, Ischa, we decided to base ourselves in her home city of Sydney with our daughter, Milane, and son, Bastiaan.

My love for cycling began back in Sydney, a city that initially posed a tough transition for me as an expat. While it’s an amazing place, the high cost of living, the need for a car to get around, and the overwhelming traffic were challenging. I also found it difficult to make friends, as the city is quite spread out. Although I was exposed to work colleagues and other parents, I preferred smaller, more intimate interactions centred around a shared interest.

When Ischa bought me a road bike for my birthday, it reminded me of how much I’d enjoyed cycling in the past. Eventually, I started cycling to work from Sydney’s Little Bay to the CBD. It helped me reduce my commute time, avoid public transport, and stay active without having to hit the gym.

Game changer

Joining a cycling group in Sydney was slightly intimidating for me as I’m naturally introverted. However, Ischa discovered BarCycle on Facebook (facebook.com/BarcycleAustralia), and one of the members invited me for a ride. It was a game changer. Signing up not only enhanced my rides but also introduced me to a community that offered social connections with both locals and other expats.

Riding with BarCycle not only improved my fitness and resilience but also boosted my social skills, which was important for someone who tends to be a bit shy. There’s something I appreciate about simply cycling and chatting, rather than sitting in a café and talking.

Long rides, like a six-day trip from Sydney to Byron Bay, tested my physical, mental, and emotional endurance. Looking back, it was one of the highlights of my time as an expat in Sydney, and I’m still in touch with many people from that trip today. The pandemic underscored the importance of community more than ever. Riding through a car-free Sydney during lockdowns with the group lifted my spirits and offered a different perspective of the city – exploring by bike revealed hidden gems I’d never have found otherwise.

The sense of family that came with BarCycle was new to me and deeply impactful. So, when we moved to Singapore in 2021, I was determined to find a cycling community that could offer the same feeling of unity and friendship. Within our first few weeks of arriving, I sought out clubs and joined ANZA Cycling through our ANZA membership.

Sense of belonging

The atmosphere within ANZA Cycling differs from that of BarCycle, with a team effort in leadership, but the spirit and the positive rewards remain just as strong. As an expat bunch, we share a common bond, often meeting people from similar backgrounds or with shared experiences. Sometimes acting as a Ride Captain on Saturdays, I’ve seen how valuable support is for newcomers to a country. Transitioning to a new home takes time and the adjustment can impact your health. Regular rides promote physical fitness and mental wellbeing, providing an outlet to stay active and reduce anxiety, especially during a period of change.

While there is a mix of males and females within ANZA Cycling, I notice that men find it helpful to have a space in which to bond and share stories. Ischa has a lot of different social circles she taps into when we move countries, but as I have less time and am less comfortable with new people, heading out on a bike offers camaraderie with less effort. As the largest expat cycling group in Singapore, ANZA Cycling is perfect for those seeking a sense of belonging. It offers an opportunity to meet not just other expats, but also locals which helps us to integrate into Singaporean culture – everyone agrees this adds a unique dimension. Together we explore the city, including Singapore’s lesser-known countryside, discovering new places and getting familiar with the local geography.

With ANZA Cycling at the ANZAC Day Dawn Service

Support system

Cycling clubs offer an automatic support system of like-minded individuals, fostering a sense of belonging and camaraderie. I like that you get a good mix of teamwork and personal achievement. It can be competitive, but mainly it’s collaborative. Sharing tips, supporting each other on challenging rides, and just enjoying the journey together makes the group incredibly enriching. Not to mention the fun of the post-ride coffee sessions, where discussions about outfits, accessories, food and travel provide some great life hacks in general.

Cycling offers a unique blend of solitude and social interaction unlike other sporting activities. Some days I just want time out, to clear my head or process life with no pressure to talk. When I don’t ride for a few weeks because of travel or sickness, I notice a drop in my energy and I’m more easily frustrated. I’m also restless, so cycling helps my energy to recharge. For me, it goes beyond exercise; it’s uplifting and grounding at the same time.

My bike has been a lifeline for me as an expat in Singapore, Australia, and beyond. Joining ANZA Cycling made my transition to the Lion City smoother and more enjoyable, and I’m grateful for the community and friendship it continues to provide. My advice to those looking for more human connection in life – as an expat or otherwise – is to consider getting out and about with others on two wheels. It might just change your life.”

Discover more about ANZA Cycling at anza.org.sg/sports/cycling

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