It has been another tough year for us all, but as 2021 draws to a close we can look back and celebrate many highlights in the Singapore-Australia relationship. Our Prime Ministers met in person in June and agreed to take forward initiatives to increase collaboration in the areas of defence, low emissions technology development, health technologies, fintech, technologies to support policing, and arts and culture exchanges. A visit by our Trade Minister, Dan Tehan, followed soon after to advance discussions about a Green Economy Agreement between our countries, for which negotiations were launched in September. The Pfizer vaccine dose swap deal agreed in August enabled Australia to receive 500,000 doses when we needed them most, with a commitment to return the same number to Singapore in December. And the Australian Government’s International Freight Assistance Mechanism (IFAM) continued to help fresh Australian produce reach Singapore supermarket shelves for us all to enjoy. Great mates working together and supporting each other, despite global difficulties.

A message from the High Commissioner Will Hodgman

Thank you for being a great support to each other this year – which was another challenging one – especially as many of us are missing our loved ones back home. From my family to you and yours, I wish everyone a healthy, safe and happy Christmas and bright start to 2022.

Australia High Commissioner
High Commissioner and Maisie at Residence Photo: InDiplomacy

#MakanOzStyle this holiday season

The countdown to December is on, and while our celebrations are likely to be different from previous years once again, there are a few ways to add a taste of Australia to your festivities. Singapore is home to many great Australian restaurants, chefs, grocers and creators, many of whom have been featured in our #MakanOzStyle Instagram campaign this year. With this in mind, here are some of our top picks for a seasonal Australian tipple or treat to celebrate Christmas and ring in the new year. For more ideas, head to our Instagram page.

1. Christmas Day The Whole Kitchen Way

Whole Kitchen
Photo: The Whole Kitchen

Whether you’re after special options for your grazing table or looking for that delicious gift to take to your mate’s place, The Whole Kitchen has got you covered. Their story began in 2015 when two Singapore-based Australians, Anne and Susan, joined forces to create the healthy and tasty foods they were struggling to find from back home. With Susan’s affinity for delicious ingredients, and Anne’s knowledge as a certified health coach, The Whole Kitchen was born. Today, this gluten-free bakery crafts freshly baked goods, full of natural flavour and goodness. Check out their Christmas bakes and treats at thewholekitchen.com.sg

2. The scoop on Mrs Plump’s ice Cream

There’s always room for something sweet no matter what time of year, an when that treat is healthy too, you’re onto a winner. Australia-born Mia Kusen founded Mrs. Plump’s to share her unique superfood, healthier ice creams and popsicles, with those who crave ‘guilt-free’ indulgence. Handcrafted in Singapore in small batches, Mrs. Plump’s superfood range uses all-natural ingredients, is free from refined sugar, and comes sweetened with fruit, dates and organic agave. The luxurious range of Christmas ice creams include Mint Chocolate Kale, Raspberry Almond Tart and Salted Caramel and Speculoos. They may not be quite as “guilt-free” as the superfood range, but they still contain all-natural ingredients and no nasties. Check out these pints of cheer and a range of cocktail popsicles at mrsplumps.com

Mrs Plump Christmas Ice Cream pints

Photo: Mrs. Plump’s

3. Get merry & bright with Four Pillars Gin

Drink to your own good elf with these festive cocktails from Australian gin producer Four Pillars Gin. As Australia’s leading craft gin, it’s available in Singapore at select Cold Storage and NTUC FairPrice stores, as well as online at paneco.com.sg and cellarbration.com.sg

Pav Punch
Ingredients
• 700ml Four Pillars Australian Christmas Gin
• 750ml champagne or sparkling wine
• 700ml soda water
• 500ml fino sherry
• 300ml fresh lemon juice
• 300ml sugar syrup (1:1 mixture)

Method
Mix all ingredients except for the champagne and soda water in a punchbowl. When ready to serve, add in the champagne, soda water and ice and stir. Garnish with passionfruit hulls, orange and lemon wheels, fresh berries and mint.

G&T Smash
Ingredients
• 45ml Four Pillars Rare Dry Gin
• 2-4 strawberries
• 4-6 mint leaves
• Fever-Tree Mediterranean
• Tonic Water

Method
Slap the mint leaves to release aroma and place with berries in the bottom of a collins glass. Gently press the fruit and muddle together. Add the gin, half the tonic and stir to combine. Add ice and top with remaining tonic. Garnish with a mint sprig.

We’re now on Instagram!

Early Christmas present alert – the Australian High Commission, Singapore is on Instagram! Follow us @AustraliaInSG to see and share the very best of Australia in Singapore, plus hear the latest about what our team is up to on the Red Dot and our region. Tag us at @AustraliaInSG or using #GreatMatesAUSG when you post about your favourite Aussie things on the island.

 

 

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

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