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It’s party time! Where to celebrate New Year’s Eve in Singapore

New Year’s Eve in Singapore is always a dazzling affair, with restaurants and bars going all out to ensure revellers have a night to remember. Across the island, you’ll find special menus, exclusive events, food and drink deals, fireworks, and plenty of sparkle. Whether you’re celebrating with young children, teens, friends, a partner, or solo, here are our top picks for an unforgettable New Year’s Eve on December 31, 2024.

TRIFECTA FUNHOUSE: New Year’s Countdown Party

TRIFECTA FUNHOUSE lives up to its name this New Year’s Eve in Singapore with a free, carnival-themed celebration for the whole family. This hip Surf-Snow-Skate lifestyle destination offers complimentary entry, food and drinks (redeemable with dining coupons), and access to all activities and entertainment. There will also be a local and regional music lineup to keep the vibe alive. Festivities kick off at 5pm so families with kids can enjoy the event early, while partygoers can join in later and keep the celebration going until 3am.
TRIFECTA, 10A Exeter Road, Singapore 239958. Pre-registration is required here

Coastes Beach BBQ Buffet

See in 2025 with sand in your toes and a beachside BBQ buffet at Coastes, starting at 6pm. Feast on freshly grilled meats and seafood, including lamb T-bones, short ribs, soy honey-glazed pork belly, snow crab, and tiger prawns, all cooked at live BBQ stations. For those looking to continue on, head to Sand Bar for their annual New Year’s Eve Countdown Beach Party, featuring live DJ sets, fire-eating performances, and more.
50 Siloso Beach Walk, Sentosa, 099000. Click here to book

Sparkling 2025 Countdown at Mandarin Oriental

Celebrate at the Mandarin Oriental, Singapore, with a poolside New Year’s Eve bash overlooking Marina Bay. For $88 per person, which includes a glass of champagne, head to the Harbour Terrace at Level 5 and enjoy breathtaking views of the fireworks at midnight. For a more exclusive experience, book a private poolside cabana (minimum spend of $888) for up to five guests. It all kicks off at 10.30pm.
Mandarin Oriental Singapore, Marina Square, 5 Raffles Avenue, 039797. Purchase tickets here

Smoke & Mirrors

Ring in New Year’s Eve in Singapore at Smoke & Mirrors above the National Gallery Singapore. Enjoy the views of the fireworks while sipping on prosecco and cocktails. The Sunset Soiree offers free-flow prosecco and classic cocktails from 6pm. For a more luxe experience, opt for the Ultimate Finale Package, which includes four hours of unlimited drinks and an epic food platter while you enjoy unobstructed vistas of the festivities.
#06-01, National Gallery Singapore, 1 St. Andrew’s Road, 178957. Get in touch here

Pan Pacific Orchard’s Silent Disco Countdown Party

All talked out due to Christmas? Give yourself a break this New Year’s Eve at Pan Pacific Orchard who are hosting a fantastic international buffet followed by dancing at the Silent Disco Countdown Party. Fuel up on food at Mosella, then hit the dance floor to the beat of the silent disco. After midnight, head to Florette for champers, fresh oysters, and craft cocktails.
10 Claymore Road, 229540. Log on here for more

Diamonds in the Sky at CÉ LA VI

Take it to the max at CÉ LA VI’s themed New Year’s Eve countdown party on the 57th floor of Marina Bay Sands. Whip out your best sparkle (think ANZA Glitterball attire), and dig into Asian bites, craft cocktails, and panoramic views of the Marina Bay fireworks. Your ticket, starting at $48, includes a complimentary premium house pour to kick off the night. At midnight, see the sky light up as the fireworks explode.

1 Bayfront Avenue, #57-01, Marina Bay Sands, 018971. Click here for details

Sentosa Fireworks & Beach Parties

This year on Sentosa you can catch two impressive displays on New Year’s Eve. Palawan Beach and Siloso Beach will each host their own fireworks shows, with the latter also featuring a drone show. Seeing as Sentosa is home to many beach clubs, it won’t be tricky to find a vibe – Luminous 2024 at +Twelve (with UV paint), the Yuewen Music Festival with top DJs like Afrojack and Wukong, and the Countdown 2025 Celebration at Resorts World Sentosa are just a few.
Sentosa, Singapore. For the full line-up head here

Lavo’s New Year’s Eve Party 2024

Sitting pretty above Marina Bay Sands, Lavo’s rooftop bar offers unbeatable views of the Marina Bay Countdown fireworks. This year there’s a ‘Great Gatsby Soirée’ which promises a glamorous night with two hours of free-flow canapés, unlimited champagne, cocktails, and pizza, plus entertainment from dancers, stilt walkers, and DJs. Prices start at $388 for second-release tickets – don’t miss out!
1 Bayfront Avenue, #57-01, Marina Bay Sands, 018971. Follow the link for more

Petersons Wine Tasting 5 February

Petersons Wine Tasting Event

Join us for an evening of wine tasting at Petersons Wines in their gorgeous tasting room at Dempsey.

Join us for a special evening hosted by Petersons Wines on 5 February, 7pm – 9pm. You’ll not only sample a range of outstanding wines but also gain expert insights into the art of wine tasting.

Unique in Singapore, Petersons Wines offers their award-winning Australian wines direct to the public, and we are thrilled to welcome them to share their passion for wines with us. Over two hours, their knowledgeable staff will guide you through a carefully curated selection of 8 – 9 wines, including sparkling, white, and red, from the renowned Hunter Valley and beyond.

Learn about the wines from a producer judged Champion Small Winery of Australia, while enjoying light nibbles. As a bonus for  ANZA members, all wines ordered on the night will be offered at exclusive member’s pricing, with free delivery included.

Spaces for this exclusive event with Petersons Wines are limited to just 20 guests, so don’t miss out on this chance to expand your wine knowledge and enjoy a relaxed, fun evening. Sign up now – we can’t wait to raise a glass with you!

Event Details

Deviate Wine Bar, 71 Loewen Road, 01-05, 248847
Date: Wednesday, 5 February 2025
Time: 7pm – 9pm

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Ask the Expert: What common money myths mislead expats in Singapore?

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In conversations with expatriates and locals in Singapore, several misconceptions about the financial landscape for foreigners often arise. As a major financial hub known for its stringent regulatory environment, it’s important to understand the local landscape to make better informed monetary decisions. Read on for clarity and advice on some common confusing matters.

  1. Expats Are Not Eligible for Tax Relief Schemes
    One of the most common misconceptions is that expatriates cannot enjoy tax relief schemes available to residents, but this is not the case.Those with dependents living with them may claim tax reliefs, along with deductions for business expenses and life insurance premiums. Furthermore, the Supplementary Retirement Scheme (SRS) is an excellent option for tax relief, allowing foreigners to contribute up to $35,700 annually. Notably, only 50% of the amounts withdrawn from the SRS are taxable, making it a great savings tool.
  2. Expats Cannot Access Affordable Medical Insurance
    Another misconception is that expatriates are unable to purchase local insurance plans, which results in expensive medical coverage. However, expats can purchase Integrated Shield Plans, which are generally more affordable than many international options. These plans are designed to provide adequate medical coverage tailored to the needs of those living in Singapore, making healthcare more accessible.
  3. Expats Are Barred from Buying Property
    Many individuals wrongly assume that expats cannot invest in the SG real estate market. It’s crucial to understand that foreigners can purchase condominiums and certain landed properties, although they must pay an additional Stamp Duty of 60% (some nationalities are exempt). Additionally, there are financing options available, including bank loans, which can assist in property investment endeavours.
  4. Investing in Singapore is Challenging for Expats
    Another widespread myth is that investment opportunities in Singapore are challenging for expatriates. This is not the case; the investment process is designed to be user-friendly and offers numerous advantages. Since expats do not contribute to Singapore’s Central Provident Fund (CPF), they can explore various investment avenues more freely. Singapore’s stable and secure investment climate also fosters potential growth.
  5. Insurance Coverage is Limited to Singapore
    Lastly, many expats believe that insurance coverage is confined to their stay in Singapore. In fact, life insurance and other policies can provide benefits that continue even after leaving the country. This feature is important for expatriates, as it ensures ongoing financial protection regardless of their location.

In conclusion, separating fact from fiction is crucial for those navigating Singapore’s financial landscape. By debunking these myths, expats can make informed financial decisions that positively impact their lives here. Have you encountered any other misconceptions? Sharing these experiences can help foster a more informed expatriate community.

The levels and bases of taxation and reliefs from taxation can change at any time. The value of any tax relief depends on individual circumstances. You are advised to seek independent tax advice from suitably qualified professionals before making any decision as to the tax implications of any investment.

Danielle Teboul
Private Wealth Manager, Select Investors
Email: danielle.teboul@sjpp.asia / Mobile: 8445 7792

 

The ‘St. James’s Place Partnership’ and the titles ‘Partner’ and ‘Partner Practice’ are marketing terms used to describe St. James’s Place representatives. Members of the St. James’s Place Partnership in Singapore represent St. James’s Place (Singapore) Private Limited, which is part of the St. James’s Place Wealth Management Group, and it is regulated by the Monetary Authority of Singapore and is a member of the Investment Management Association of Singapore and Association of Financial Advisers (Singapore). Company Registration No. 200406398R. Capital Markets Services Licence No. CMS100851. St. James’s Place Wealth Management Group Ltd Registered Office: St. James’s Place House, 1 Tetbury Road, Cirencester, Gloucestershire, GL7 1FP, United Kingdom. Registered in England Number 02627518.

ANZA Wombats take off to Thailand!

This summer, two teams from the ANZA Singapore Wombats AFL club travelled to Thailand for the annual AFL Asian Championships. This followed a regular season that saw our men’s and women’s teams cover more miles than any year since Covid, travelling to Kuala Lumpur, Hong Kong, Bali and Ho Chi Minh City to test their mettle against some of AFL Asia’s top squads. Following months of Sunday training at the SCC Fields in Dempsey, and mid-week running sessions around Fort Canning, we fielded two squads with a mix of experienced players and first-timers, expats and locals.

The men’s squad started the day with a match against division favourites, the Hong Kong Dragons, matching their pressure and intensity for the full 20 minutes resulting in a draw on the final siren. Singapore continued to build, recording three wins from the remaining three heats against Thailand, China and last year’s division winners Malaysia, before facing Cambodia in the semi-final. Despite having played 4 x 20-minute games to this stage, the boys out-ran the Cambodian team to lock a spot in the Grand Final against Hong Kong. After going into the halftime break eight points ahead, we knew we’d need a big effort to bring home our first championship since 2014. Not only did Singapore hold the Dragons a single point in the second half, but they pulled ahead for a 20-point win, an undefeated day, and to claim the Avani Men’s Division 2 AFL Asian Championship!

Masterclass

Meanwhile our women’s team, the Wombettes, entered the year as the team to beat, following their inaugural championship in 2022, and heartbreaking three-point grand final loss in 2023. Much like the men, our Wombettes kicked off the day against Hong Kong registering the first of four hard-fought wins as they marched through the heats stage against Malaysia, Thailand and Indonesia as well. However, the finals series unfolded in dramatic fashion for Singapore’s women as Malaysia came out far stronger for their semi-final match. Both teams struggled to find any separation on the scoreboard and scores remained tied at the end of the second half.

It took six minutes of overtime for the Wombettes to finally pull their noses in front and lock a spot in their third grand final in three years. Facing the prospect of barely 10 minutes rest after the late overtime finish, the exhausted girls took on a daunting task in toppling the fast, hard-running Cambodian outfit for the cup. Despite the odds, they produced a defensive masterclass that held their opponents scoreless after 20 minutes to take out the 2024 ATG AFL Asia Women’s Division Championship – the first country to bring home a women’s and men’s championship in the same year!

Join us!

The ANZA Singapore Wombats are Singapore’s premier AFL club for men and women, training weekly at the Singapore Cricket Club fields in Dempsey from February – September, and touring overseas throughout the year to play some of Asia’s best talent in the AFL Asia league. We’re always looking for new players, whether new to the game or experienced, and enjoy hosting social events throughout the year as well. Follow us on singaporewombats and singaporewombats to keep up to date.

How men can mind their wellbeing in Singapore

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As an expat guy in Singapore, you might be so taken by your new life that you find yourself saying, “I’m not sure how I’ll ever go back”. But away from the thrill of locating overseas, it’s essential that you remain mindful of your wellbeing.

First, give yourself a big pat on the back. You’ve likely juggled a new job in an unfamiliar work culture and anchored in the Singapore expat community. However, don’t underestimate the whirlwind of changes that take place as you settle into this switched-on and sleepless city.

Facing challenges

The Lion City is busy, so you may be unaware at how your role as a person – which may include being a husband and/or father – may have shifted.

If you’ve employed a helper, your usual home duties might be redundant (it can hurt when nobody appreciates your ironing anymore). You might find yourself facing new challenges, perhaps supporting your spouse in a new role, sending kids to an international school, or striving to help your child preserve their cultural identity and values as they navigate adolescence in a diverse and often affluent student community.

These might feel minor, but don’t underestimate how a few extra business lunches and after-work drinks can impact your usual fitness routine. Throw in a few more coffees and screentime, and potentially disrupted sleep patterns can undermine your focus and resilience.

Who am I now?

Changes can stack up, and the initial excitement of a new country can turn into feeling overwhelmed.

You might start thinking, “What kind of a person am I now?” or “Is my identity just my ever-changing career?” These are healthy questions to ask, but the answers we feed ourselves play a big part in our wellness.

For example, when we hit an unexpected obstacle, does our inner dialogue remind us of challenges we’ve tackled before? Do we remember that we wouldn’t be living overseas if we didn’t have a sense of adventure and grit? We need to give ourselves compassion and celebrate our achievements.

Just as athletes rely on coaches for peak performance, expat men can benefit from professional support. It can be a game-changer, helping you to unlock your full potential with practical, personalised strategies. Whether you’re looking to boost your resilience, improve relationships, or better support your family, the right support can turn challenges into opportunities for growth.

At The Counselling Place, we specialise in helping expatriates navigate life changes. New team member, Nicholas Smith, brings a fresh perspective as an Australian father of two with nearly two decades of experience across Asia.

Whether you connect with Nicholas or another of our counsellors, you’ll find personalised and practical strategies tailored to expat life. Take that step towards thriving with us.

 www.thecounsellingplace.com

ANZA Adults Netball Term 1 2025

Adults Netball

Join ANZA’s Adults Netball Sessions!
After the successful launch of Adult Netball Training sessions in 2024, we are delighted to open registration for Term 1 Adult Netball starting on 23rd January! It will be a 10-week block to align with the ANZA Netball Term and provide a more consistent training schedule to better support players working towards tournaments.

What’s In Store:
A senior coach will lead these sessions, designed for both beginners and those looking to return to the game. Whether you’re new to netball or dusting off your skills, these sessions are perfect for everyone!

Session Details:

  • Dates: Thursdays, 23 Jan – 3 Apr 2025 (CNY Break 30 Jan)
  • Time: 7:00pm – 8:30pm
  • Location: Tanglin Trust School
  • Cost: $250 for 10 weeks
  • Registration Deadline: 10 Jan 2025 (or once session is full)

What To Expect:

Social Activity: We want these sessions to be fun and engaging—a perfect chance to meet like-minded netball enthusiasts! Expect plenty of fun games and matches to keep you fit, active, and connected.

Skill Building: The initial sessions will focus on skill development and building strength and agility to prevent injury, working towards strategy and match play for players joining leagues and tournaments.

Please note that a minimum number of committed participants is essential for these sessions to continue.

Don’t miss out on this fantastic opportunity to get back on the court with ANZA Adults Netball, improve your skills, and have fun!

Registration to ANZA Adults Netball is only available to ANZA members. Click here to Join ANZA!

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Things to know about gum disease

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Gum disease isn’t just about oral health – it’s a window to your overall wellbeing. From mild gum inflammation (gingivitis) to severe infection (periodontitis), gum disease can affect your quality of life and are linked to systemic conditions like heart disease and diabetes. Understanding the symptoms and importance of gum disease prevention is essential for maintaining a healthy smile and a healthier body.

The Foundation of Healthy Gums

Healthy gums form the cornerstone of oral health. Early-stage care focuses on preventing gum disease through:

  • Regular Check-ups: Professional cleanings remove plaque and tartar, the main culprits behind gum disease.
  • Advanced Diagnostics: Early identification of gum issues allows timely intervention.
  • Proper Oral Hygiene: Learning effective brushing and flossing techniques helps protect against gingivitis and periodontitis.

Tailored advice on oral care products ensures patients use the best tools to maintain gum health, significantly improving outcomes for gum inflammation treatment.

Honest & Personalised Dental Advice

A good dental clinic prioritizes clear and honest communication about gum health. Key aspects include:

  • Understanding the Cause: Patients are guided on what triggers their gum issues.
  • Treatment Options: From managing gingivitis during pregnancy to selecting gum-specific toothpaste, dentists provide solutions tailored to individual needs.
  • Effective Action Plans: Personalized plans address risk factors such as smoking or diabetes.

By answering questions like “What are the treatments for periodontitis?” and “How can I stop bleeding gums?”, clinics empower patients to make informed decisions about their care.

Building Trust Through Comprehensive Care

The relationship between patient and dentist is crucial for managing gum diseases. Regular visits help:

  • Develop a complete understanding of each patient’s oral health.
  • Offer customised care and treatment options.
  • Build trust, encouraging patients to maintain their oral hygiene routine and attend follow-ups.

This partnership ensures better long-term outcomes for gum health.

Embracing Prevention

Prevention is always better than cure, and proactive steps can help avoid gum disease entirely:

  • Oral Hygiene Habits: Brush and floss regularly with gum-specific products.
  • Lifestyle Choices: Quit smoking, eat a balanced diet, and manage stress.
  • Routine Dental Visits: Consistent check-ups catch potential problems early.

Good gum care protects your smile and enhances your overall health. By prioritising prevention, you can enjoy a pain-free, confident smile

Conclusion

Gum diseases are preventable with early intervention and proper care. From tailored advice to regular dental visits, maintaining gum health safeguards not just your smile but your overall wellbeing. Take charge of your oral health today -because a healthy smile is the foundation of a healthier you.

At Pure NZ Dental,  our friendly and highly professional team are passionate about providing you with the dental care that you deserve!

Have a question or a concern? Contact us at +65 64630257 or via email at info@purenzdental.com 

+65 96798770
 
@purenzdental
purenzdental.com

The power of scent during the holiday season

Presents, turkey, the relative who consumes one too many Baileys … the holiday period is synonymous with many things. One is scent. Certain aromas truly come into their own during the festivities, creating the power to comfort us, excite us, and send us into a spin of nostalgia with recollections of the old days.

No matter what time of year, specific aromas can have an incredible ability to influence our mood, emotions, and even our physical state. This is because our sense of smell is directly linked to the limbic system, the part of the brain that controls emotions, memories and arousal.

When we inhale a scent, it triggers a cascade of physiological responses: fragrances like lavender and chamomile can soothe stress by lowering cortisol levels and promoting relaxation; citrus smells such as lemon and orange boost mood and energy by stimulating the production of serotonin, the “happy” hormone; and a whiff of pine or cinnamon can instantly transport us back to Christmases past.

“During the party season, people gravitate towards comforting scents that incite the spirit of Christmas,” explains Dan Terry Jacobson, founder of the Singapore perfume emporium with a chemistry lab event space, Oo La Lab (oola-lab.com). “Compared to the rest of the year, festive fragrances are generally richer, more complex, and designed to create a cosy, inviting atmosphere,” he says.

  • Cinnamon and Clove: These spices are quintessential Christmas aromas that add warmth and depth, reminiscent of holiday baking and mulled wine.
  • Pine and Fir: The fresh, earthy scent of evergreen trees is tantamount to Christmas, bringing the outdoors in and filling the home with a crisp, natural fragrance.
  • Orange and Cranberry: These fruity notes add a zesty twist to the season, balancing the heavier, spicier aromas.

While Dan shares that due to spending many festive seasons on Australia’s Bronte and Bondi beaches, “Christmas to me smells like coconut suntan lotion, salty air, and battered fish,” these scents will not be en vogue for the coming months! Rather, Dan says he’s seeing a rise in the popularity of earthy, grounding fragrances that reflect a connection to nature and wellness – think vetiver, cedarwood and moss paired with unconventional festive notes like black pepper and cardamom. “There’s also a trend towards more complex, layered fragrances that tell a story, such as blending smoky oud with the sweetness of tonka bean and vanilla,” he explains.

Whether travelling overseas or staying put for the celebrations, read on to discover how to invoke the spirit of Christmas through scent this season.

Your Seasonal Scents Shopping List
Dan’s top 20 Christmas aromas and how they add to the holiday spirit:
1. Cinnamon: Warming, comforting, and festive.
2. Clove: Spicy and rich, perfect for adding depth.
3. Nutmeg: A sweet, earthy spice that enhances other festive scents.
4. Pine: Fresh and invigorating, reminiscent of Christmas trees.
5. Fir: Earthy and woody, bringing the outdoors inside.
6. Orange: Bright and zesty, uplifting for the spirits.
7. Cranberry: Tart and sweet, adds a fruity freshness.
8. Ginger: Spicy and warm, evokes holiday baking.
9. Vanilla: Sweet and comforting, great for creating a cosy atmosphere.
10. Frankincense: Sacred and resinous, adds a spiritual note.
11. Myrrh: Earthy and balsamic, pairs well with other resins.
12. Cedarwood: Woody and grounding, perfect for creating a calm environment in the home.
13. Peppermint: Fresh and cooling, energising and uplifting for the mind.
14. Eucalyptus: Refreshing and clear, helps with focus and breathing.
15. Sandalwood: Soft and creamy, adds a luxurious touch.
16. Tonka Bean: Sweet and warm, with notes of vanilla and almond.
17. Black Pepper: Spicy and bold, adds an unexpected twist.
18. Cardamom: Sweet and spicy, perfect for holiday blends.
19. Oud: Deep and smoky, adds a touch of magic and mystery.
20. Bergamot: Bright and citrusy, uplifting for the soul and senses.

Top Festive Fragrance Mood Mixes

Create these combinations to boost health and happiness.

  • For: Brain Fog
    Mix: Rosemary + Peppermint
    Both are known for boosting clarity and focus.
  • For: Anxiety
    Mix: Lavender + Bergamot
    Calming and soothing, great for reducing stress.
  • For: Staving off Illness
    Mix: Eucalyptus + Tea Tree
    Both have antiseptic properties and are invigorating.
  • For: Feeling Tired
    Mix: Citrus (Lemon, Orange) + Peppermint
    This is an energising and revitalising combination.
  • For: Sore Party Feet
    Mix: Peppermint + Eucalyptus
    Both are cooling and refreshing for tired muscles.
  • For: A Hangover
    Mix: Ginger + Lemon.
    Both help to settle the stomach and refresh the senses.
  • For: Sleep
    Mix: Lavender + Chamomile
    These are well-known for promoting relaxation and a restful sleep.

Surround Yourself With Scent

Topical Fragrance: Perfumes and colognes are great for a personal, long-lasting scent. Applying to pulse points (wrists, neck, inside the elbow) ensures the fragrance evolves with your body heat throughout the day.
Topical Oils: Essential oils can be applied to the skin for a more therapeutic effect. For example, lavender oil can be rubbed on the temples for relaxation. (Ensure the oil is mixed in a carrier base before applying directly to the skin and avoid any possible irritants like cinnamon).
Candles: Ideal for setting a mood in a room, candles can fill your space with a soft, diffused scent.
Bathing: Adding essential oils or scented bath salts to your bath provides both aromatic and physical benefits.
Diffusers: Ideal for a consistent, subtle scent in your home or office, diffusers work well for larger spaces.

Want to gift scent this Christmas? Oo La Lab’s ‘The Chemistry of Kindness’ campaign features three different gift sets – The Go-Getter, The Sensorialist, The Peacemaker – each containing an assortment of genderless perfume, body washes, and diffusers. For something really special, Oo La Lab can create gorgeous bespoke scents for loved ones without recipients even being there. Defo a pressie to be sniffed at!

10 minutes with: Willing Hearts

Cooks and volunteers cooking at the community kitchen in the early morning

Who are Willing Hearts?
Founder Tony Tay began Willing Hearts in 2003 with the mission of serving the underprivileged, needy and marginalised members of Singapore society. A secular, non-affiliated charity, we operate on a handful of staff and 95% of our tasks are carried out by volunteers from all walks of life.

Your core programme is operating a community kitchen …
Yes. We prepare, cook and distribute about 10,000 daily free meals to over 70 distribution points islandwide, 365 days a year.

Left: Tony Tay cooks for the needy. Right: Chinatown distribution point

How did this begin?
We started by collecting unsold bread from bakeries that would otherwise dispose of it at the end of the day and distributed it to homeless people. This led us to providing rations such as rice, vegetables, canned food, and more. We initiated a cooked food programme when we realised that rations were not helpful for the homeless – without a kitchen, they had nowhere to cook them.

How has the kitchen changed over the years?
Willing Hearts has operated only one kitchen throughout our 21 years of service. We’ve moved locations five times, each time into a larger premises. In 2022 we settled at No. 1 Lorong J, Telok Kurau, a much bigger space, which allows us to offer other activities alongside our community kitchen programme.

“95% of tasks Are carried out by volunteers from all walks of life”

What are the other activities?
We provide a transitional shelter called Gift of Joy for families and individuals in need of accommodations whilst they’re working on their long-term solutions. There’s also the “Safe, Sound Sleeping Place” (S3P) for rough sleepers while they look for housing. We also arrange elderly services and activities which vary from dental clinics, healing services and dietary programmes, to more social activities such as karaoke, dancing, games, and sewing sessions. Lastly, we host youth training for marginalised persons to improve employability.

Mr Teh Eng Hua distributes meals to the elderly in Singapore

Does the need for your services change around the festivities?
As we’re providing daily needs and not seasonal, the number of beneficiaries remains much the same throughout the year. However, during Christmas, Chinese New Year, Hari Raya or other festive days, we try to provide something better for everyone.

How can ANZA readers get involved in your work?
They can join hands with Willing Hearts by donating. Committing to community work has always been a passion for expats living in Singapore. We’re open seven days a week and you can volunteer in our activities, food preparation and distributions.

 

Meet the ANZA family who went trail-blazing in Austria!

“When it comes to family holidays, my husband Alain and two boys Tayen, 16, and Mika, 14, and I are all about the great outdoors. We crave adventures that involve hiking, biking, and exploring nature rather than lounging by a hotel pool. This year, as summer approached in Singapore, we found ourselves dreaming of snowy peaks, lush landscapes, and fresh mountain air. A trip to Austria’s famous Lechweg Trail caught our attention, promising an escape into wilderness along what is known as the last unspoiled river in Europe.

Immensely appealing, it would take us away from the sweltering heat, far from the usual overun tourist spots in Europe, and straight into nature. I knew that my sons would also relish the hearty local food of meat and cheese. We had the option to hike or bike in the area, and we let the boys make the final decision: hiking it was!

Mika, Belamie, Alain and Tayen on the trail

Stunning scenery

After a bit of research online, we enlisted the help of Wild Rover Travel (wildrovertravel.com). They helped us out by booking charming chalets and small hotels along the trail so we didn’t have to think about where we’d be sleeping. They also provided us with an app for navigation and ensured we had all the necessary information for our journey. While we could have hiked with other people, we decided to go it alone, preferring to have the freedom to spend our days as we pleased, just the four of us.

The Lechweg Trail promised to be anything but a typical “fly-and-flop” holiday. Over the course of eight days (with one day for travelling), we hiked approximately 125 kilometres through stunning alpine scenery, starting in idyllic Lech am Arlberg and hiking the Lechweg to Neuschwanstein Castle in Füssen, Bavaria.

Tayen testing out the waters of the Lech River

We traversed pine forests, postcard-perfect villages, and alpine meadows heaving with vibrant wildflowers. Each day felt like a new chapter, and our daily routine followed a simple rhythm: waking up to a hearty breakfast, hitting the trails in the morning, and stopping at a local supermarket for fresh bread, meats and cheeses for a picnic along the way. We’d often throw in some music from our portable speaker, creating a memorable soundtrack of our adventure against the backdrop of nature.

The evenings were left unplanned, allowing us to explore local eateries in cosy local villages before hitting the sack at one of the pre-arranged accommodations. These varied from 3 to 4 stars – nothing fancy, but each stay was clean and welcoming.

While we took on the Lechweg Trail at our own pace, we were never truly alone. A few fellow hikers shared the path, and we formed a friendly rapport with a Dutch family we kept bumping into. Amidst the landscapes, we discovered two breathtaking lakes, Formarinsee and Alpsee, that beckoned us in for a refreshing dip. One day, we took a ski lift up the mountains and stumbled upon a couple getting married whilst being serenaded by traditional Austrian Alphorn – a magical scene.

‘We traversed pine forests, postcard-perfect villages, and alpine meadows”

Changing landscape

Though we generally enjoyed pleasant weather, one day tested our mettle. Caught in a downpour without adequate gear, we trudged a few kilometres through the rain, quickly realising it perhaps wasn’t the best use of our holiday time. Thankfully, there are buses available along the trail to rescue weary (and wet!) hikers, so you never feel truly stranded.
Another lasting memory was when we found ourselves in the village of Maurach am Achensee, set at the foot of Mount Vigolana, which boasted a traditional Austrian spa. I was excited to try out the local custom of enjoying the facilities au naturel, but this left Tayan and Mika horrified, so they opted for mini-golf instead!

As we continued through charming villages, we couldn’t help but admire the meticulous flower boxes adorning the windows of the houses. The kaleidoscope of colours – vibrant reds, yellows, and purples were outstanding. With the Lech River constantly by our side we all became experts on its melifluous nature and marvelled at how it transformed with the changing landscape. At times narrow and meandering, it would suddenly widen into a majestic body of water reflecting the blue sky. The kids often debated the river’s taste and clarity as we stopped to sip from its cool waters.

While the trail itself was moderate in difficulty, it wouldn’t suit families with young children due to the long walking distances covered each day. However, for families with older children it’s a hidden gem for those looking for easy discoveries surrounded by incredible landscapes, without the chaos of crowds.

My favourite part of our holiday was simply being together with my family, immersed in stunning surroundings and enjoying the perfect climate – crisp blue skies and clement temperatures. Tayen would say his highlight was being able to legally order a beer aged sixteen! (Much to the annoyance of his younger brother!).

While we do enjoy exploring new places and embarking on new experiences, I can’t help but feel that we’ll be returning to Austria in the future. The Lechweg Trail was a sanctuary where adventure and the earth reign, and an ideal destination for families seeking to reconnect with nature and each other. There’s so much more to discover there.”

 

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