Chill, Chat, Connect | Tuesday 5 March

Feb 8 2024

ANZA’s first Chill, Chat, Connect networking event of 2024 will be held at 7pm, Tuesday 5 March at the Singapore Cricket Club.

Join us at the Singapore Cricket Club on Tuesday, March 5, at 7pm as we welcome both new and existing ANZA members for a night of fun, friendship, and handy insights about life on the island.

Whether you’re new to the ANZA community or just looking to expand your social circle, this event is the perfect opportunity to make meaningful connections.

Don’t miss the Select Investors’ Espresso Martini Bar, where you can redeem your voucher for a welcome cocktail. Thanks to our generous sponsors, Select Investors, you’ll also stand a chance to win a Magnum of bubbles! An ideal companion for a night of frivolity.

Unwind with free-flow drinks and delicious nibbles in the Padang Room, offering gorgeous views of the iconic Padang and city skyline. Our friendly ANZA team will be on hand to welcome you, whether you’re coming with a friend or flying solo.

Don’t miss out on this exciting opportunity to socialise, network, hang out and unwind. Mark your calendars for 5 March at 7pm and join us. We can’t wait to see you there!

ANZA New Members: Complimentary

ANZA Members: $30

Non-Members: $50

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Easter fun-action holiday camps!

Feb 7 2024

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Bringing to you only the best for both parents and children is a wonderful selection of holiday camps by Singapore’s best and biggest holiday camp provider of 12 years (that’s one zodiac cycle!). Check out what’s in store this April holidays during Easter for kids aged 3 to 16 here.

Multi-Activity (ages 3 through 8)

Let your child explore a world of fun and adventure at our Multi-Activity camp! Designed for children ages 3 through 8, this camp offers a diverse range of activities that will engage both their bodies and minds with different themes every week! Under the guidance of our experienced coaches, your child will have the opportunity to try their hand at a variety of activities, from sports and games to arts and crafts.

Multi-Xperience (ages 5 through 12)

A fun packed day full of different activities from arts & crafts, sports and performing arts! With a variety of thrilling challenges, your kids will have the chance to try their hands at STEM, Cooking, Sports, Art and even Adventurous activities! Our coaches are experienced in their respective fields and dedicated to creating a safe and inclusive environment for all campers.

Passion for Art (ages 6 through 8)

Nurture your child’s creativity and unleash their inner artist at our Passion for Art camp! This camp is a haven for young, budding artists. Under the guidance of our expert art coaches, your child will dive into a world of colours, shapes, and textures. Through various art techniques and mediums, they will learn to express their emotions and ideas, and develop their own unique artistic style.

Drama Academy (ages 4 through 5)

Lights, camera, action! Introduce your little star to the captivating world of drama at our Drama Academy camp. From acting out their favourite stories to creating their own unique characters, your child will have the opportunity to shine on stage and develop essential communication skills. Whether they dream of becoming an actor or simply want to have fun and make new friends, our Drama Academy camp is the perfect choice.

Super Soccer (ages 5 through 14)

Calling all young soccer enthusiasts! Join us at our Super Soccer camp and unleash your passion for the beautiful game. Our dedicated soccer coaches have a wealth of experience, both as players and as educators. With their expertise and enthusiasm, they will inspire your child, helping them develop their soccer abilities and fostering a love for the game. Fun fact, they were former pro players, so you are really training with the best!

Super Gymnastics (ages 5 through 12)

Join us at our Super Gymnastics camp and let your child shine on the mat! Under the guidance of our experienced gymnastics coaches, your child will learn a variety of gymnastics skills, from basic tumbling to advanced routines on the balance beam and parallel bars. in a safe and supportive environment.

Super Basketball (ages 7 through 16)

Step onto the court and shoot for the stars at our Super Basketball camp! This camp is perfect for both beginners and young basketball enthusiasts looking to take their skills to the next level. Led by our team of expert basketball coaches, your child will learn fundamental basketball techniques such as shooting and dribbling. They will also improve their basketball skills while developing teamwork and sportsmanship.

Parkour (ages 7 through 13)

Ready to defy gravity and move like never before? Join us at our Parkour camp and discover the exhilarating world of free-flowing movement. Our parkour coaches are not just skilled traceurs themselves, but also passionate instructors who prioritize safety and technique. Through structured training sessions and progressive challenges, they will guide your child to unlock their full potential in this freestyle discipline.

Junior Scientist (ages 6 through 8)

Calling all young explorers and curious minds! Join our Junior Scientist camp and dive into the fascinating world of science. Your child will have the opportunity to conduct exciting experiments, explore various scientific principles, and develop their critical thinking skills.

Who are Camp Asia?

Camp Asia is the region’s leading and most trusted holiday camp program, with an outstanding choice of activities for children of ages 3 to 16. Now in our 12th year, we are certain that you will find an activity that’s a perfect fit for your child’s interests and abilities. Professionally managed by experienced, trained teachers, teaching assistants and subject specialists, all activities are designed to be age-appropriate. They are run at Cognita group schools, with their inherently safe environment and superb facilities.

Age of Campers: 3 to 16 years old

Camp Dates: 1 April to 12 April 2024, 9am to 3pm, Monday to Friday (Excluding public holidays)

Prices: Starting from $715 (5 days), 2 delicious snacks and a nutritious lunch, free Camp Asia T-Shirt

Camp Location: Stamford American International School, 1 Woodleigh Lane off Upper Serangoon Road Singapore 357684 (1 April to 5 April) & Australian International School, 1 Lorong Chuan, Singapore 556818 (8 April to 12 April)

Email Address: Info@campasia.asia

Parent Hotline: +65 6289 5888

Camp Website: https://bit.ly/3OnOihH (Bookings Opening on 8 February 2024)

FB Handle: @campasiasingapore

IG Handle: @campasia

Where to find a Chinese New Year feast in Singapore 2024

Feb 6 2024

Chinese New Year in Singapore certainly knows how to pull out all the stops. This 15-day annual festival celebrates the beginning of a new year based on the traditional lunar Chinese calendar, with 2024 bidding farewell to the water rabbit, and hello to the wood dragon. Every year the festival seems to turn it up a notch in Singapore with dedicated locals working hard to continue local traditions, incredible events, deals and discounts, and foodie offerings around the island that go above and beyond.

Here’s where to find some excellent Chinese New Year menus in the red dot over the next few weeks. As food is a major part of the CNY festivities, we recommend that everyone gets curious and dives into the local cuisine and culture. It’s not to be missed!

15 Stamford

15 Stamford at The Capitol Kempinski Hotel Singapore is seeing red and all prepped to make your Chinese New Year celebration something to remember. Choose from a four-course set lunch menu ($68++) or a lavish five-course set dinner menu ($168++). Add a touch of class with optional wine pairings – an extra $58++ for lunch and $98++ for dinner.

Lunch kicks off with starters like Cured Sword Fish with Mandarin Orange or the Bak Kwa Salad. Mains feature highlights such as Chicken Essence Broth with Abalone and the irresistible Fried Black Cod. And the sweet ending? Persimmon Mousse ends it all on a sweet note.

For dinner, Korean Abalone with Oscietra Caviar is not for the faint hearted. Follow it up with the likes of Smoked Magret Duck Breast or the 2GR Wagyu Beef Short Rib.

Available until February 24, 2024. 15 Stamford Road, 178906. Click here for more.

Man Fu Yuan

Welcome the Year of the Dragon in grandeur at Man Fu Yuan. It’s all about symbolism and food status here with a feast that represents strength, power, and good luck, all crafted by Executive Chinese Chef Aaron Tan.

The spectacular “Dragon’s Wealth Yusheng” ($888) is an absolute showstopper for up to 10 pax. Then the set menus cater to every palate: Blissfulness Prix-Fixe menu and the Harvest Prix-Fixe menu offer signature dishes like Abundance Treasure Pot, Steamed Atlantic Cod Fish Fillet, and more. A la carte options are also available, featuring favorites like Roasted Suckling Pig and Tea-Infused Roasted Irish Duck.

Available until February 29, 2024. InterContinental Singapore, 80 Middle Road, 188966. Book up here

5 ON 25

Chef Lim Hong Lih at 5 ON 25, Andaz Singapore, invites you to a modern Chinese reunion feast. Crowd-pleasers like Steamed Black Cod Fillet with 12-year-old Dried Tangerine Peel and Braised Whole Jade Tiger Abalone sit next to classics such as Lotus Leaf Steamed Glutinous Rice. For a private celebration, book one of the exclusive dining suites with stunning city views. Leave space for cocktail at Mr Stork afterwards.

Available until February 24, 2024. Find out more at this link

Red House Seafood

There’s everything fishy about the Lunar New Year celebrations at Red House Seafood. Set menus range from $598 for four to six people, spotlighting Nanyang-style cuisine. Indulge in some unique yusheng options featuring salmon, abalone, and lobster tossed in a dragonfruit-passion fruit sauce. Alaskan King Crab served two ways, Crispy Roasted Chicken and Purple Glutinous Rice Cake are all yours for the taking until February 25, 2024.

Multiple locations, including Esplanade and Clarke Quay. redhouseseafood.com

Momentus Hotel Alexandra

All eye will be on the succulent oriental-inspired roasts, decadent Black Garlic Truffle Pork Belly Char Siew, and Kumquat Honey Glazed Rotisserie Chicken at the Treasures of Spring Buffet Dinner here.

A live carving station serves expertly prepared delights like Peking Duck and Bak Kwa Kueh Pie Tee alongside Steamed Grouper Fillet, Scallops with Australian Broccoli, and more. Desserts include Mandarin Orange Crème Brulee and Osmanthus Jelly. Guests receive a complimentary Prosperity Yu Sheng with Cured Salmon with every four paying adults.

Until February 24, 2024. 323 Alexandra Road, 159972. momentushotels.com

Yan

Traditional Cantonese dishes that promise a hearty feast at Yan. Choose from a la carte options or gear up for one of the six dine-in set menus (starting from $128 per pax). Don’t miss the vibrant Kaleidoscope of Prosperity Yusheng and the indulgent Harvest Pen Cai.

Main dishes include Steamed Live Marble Goby Fish and Golden Pumpkin Broth with Dried Fish Maw, but it’s the decidedly different dessert that helps this menu to make its mark – Chilled Taro Paste with Coconut Ice Cream.”

Available until February 24, 2024. National Gallery Singapore, #05-02, 1 St. Andrew’s Road, 178957. Here’s where to make a reservation

One Farrer Hotel

Join the elegant reunion dinner celebrations at One Farrer Hotel’s Grand Ballroom ($128 per pax) on February 9, 6.30pm to 9.30pm. The spread here will be one to remember with traditional delicacies, and live band performances. Alternatively, explore the Nest’s Longevity Set Menu featuring yusheng, pen cai, and more.

Until February 16, 2024. 1 Farrer Park Station Road, 217562. onefarrer.com

Dian Xio Er

Using only the finest quality of Cherry Valley ducks paired with the freshest ingredients, Dian Xio Er’s signature Herbal Roast Duck is prepared, roasted daily, and legendary! As always, this popular chain restaurant celebrates the festivities with a selection of new year specials such as pork ribs, prosperity pouch and pineapple and cranberry tarts. The Herbal Roasted Duck, marinated in herbs and spices, then roasted till the skin is crisp and the flesh tender and packed herbal notes, is what CNY is all about.

Various locations. dianxiaoer.com.sg

Singapore’s best vintage playgrounds

Feb 5 2024

Kids these days, eh? Playtime is all about fancy electronics, customised content, and something called AI. Scraped knees, slide-burns, and tyre-swings that are only fun when more than two little humans are squeezed onto them are a thing of the past. But wait! There are still a few playgrounds dotted around the island offering retro fun for families wanting tech-free time together.

Designed by Mr. Khor Ean Ghee, a former designer at the Housing Development Board throughout the 70s and 80s, the playgrounds were built to be functional, convey a sense of Singapore’s identity, and depict local heritage. A veritable vision of concrete, mosaic tiles, fruit, animals, and wild colours, no-one’s quite sure just how long they’ll remain, so get there before they go.

DRAGON PLAYGROUND: Toa Payoh

A social media feed-filler, the Dragon Playground at Toa Payoh is the crown jewel of retro playgrounds on the red dot. Built around 1978, Mr Khor transformed a formidable, mythical creature into an imaginative play structure where children could crawl along its metal spines, swing on tethered ropes, and zip down terrazzo-tiled slides. While safety restrictions may prevail today, it’s still an absolute joy to visit. In 2024, besides the famous Toa Payoh dragon, you’ll also see smaller dragons in the same area. Sadly, many other dragon playgrounds in Singapore have been tragically slayed over the years.

Blk 28 Toa Payoh Lor 6, 310028
Ang Mo Kio Ave 3, 560570
Blk 54 Pipit Road, 370054

DINOSAUR PLAYGROUNDS: Kim Keat Avenue & Woodlands

Forget the modern-day dinosaurs that hang out around Changi, also hidden within Toa Payoh estate are some original dinosaur structures (okay, they’re millennial!). Built in the 00s, they don’t showcase mosaic or terrazzo tiles, but the dinosaurs are still iconic landmarks in the Kim Keat neighborhood. The three-metre tall Tyrannosaurus Rex with five eggs by its side takes centre stage, while a green Stegosaurus offers a platform for little ones to play on. Another dinosaur-themed playground from the 90s can be found at Woodlands – this one features Ouranosaurus and Brontosaurus with backs perfect for sliding on.

Blk 27 Kim Keat Avenue, 730827 Fushan Garden, Woodlands St 81,730827

WATERMELON & MANGOSTEEN PLAYGROUNDS: Tampines Central Park

Distinct red, green and yellow mosaic tiles give this fruity fun spot away from afar. Built in 1989, the watermelon playground was designed as a nod to the fruit farms of rural Tampines before the town was developed. Practically next door, you’ll find mangosteen domes which are ideal for hide-and-seek, or a shelter from the sun. When these playgrounds first opened, they stood on sandpits before the introduction of rubber mats. Today, they’re both part of the Tampines Heritage Trail.

Tampines Central Park, Tampines Street 83, 520865

ELEPHANT PLAYGROUND: Pasir Ris Park

Much like its traditional counterparts, Elephant Playground offers a seriously nostalgic selection of play structures designed to help children refine their skills. It features swings and crawl tunnels, but the elephant’s trunk-shaped slide is the out-and-out winner!

125 Pasir Ris Road, Pasir Ris Park, 659003

Sampan Playground: Pasir Ris, Elias Mall

Located beside Elias Mall in Pasir Ris, this sampan-shaped playground was built in 1994. Inspired by the iconic bumboats that have sailed the Singapore River for over 150 years, you’ll note that the colour scheme of this space reflects a sampan with its green, red, brown, black and white tiles. This charming playground is not your typical sampan with its mosaic creation divided into two distinct halves: one half features a tire ladder, while the other half boasts a terrazzo slide.

623 Elias Rd, 510623

AIS host successful MUN4C conference

Feb 5 2024

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Model United Nations (MUN) conferences provide a distinctive platform for students to simulate diplomatic scenarios, representing nations and engaging in fervent debates on global issues. Recently concluded, the MUN4C conference, orchestrated by three committed Year 11 students – Yujin, Beth, and Kiana – not only showcased the collaborative efforts of young minds but also made a significant contribution to charitable causes.

AIS’ Principal, Adam Patterson acknowledged the conference’s impact, noting its role in fostering critical thinking, research, public speaking skills, and a deeper understanding of global affairs and diplomacy. He expressed gratitude to the organising committee, stating, “I would like to express my sincere appreciation to the Model United Nations (MUN) organising committee for their outstanding efforts in making this conference possible. Your hard work and dedication have provided us with a remarkable platform for diplomacy and global learning. Thank you for your invaluable contributions to this event.”

The conference, featuring nine international schools in Singapore, aimed to enhance participants’ diplomatic skills and support the International Committee of the Red Cross and the Singapore Red Cross through a substantial donation. Despite challenges with a smaller organising team, the trio ensured meticulous planning for the event’s seamless execution. Yujin served as the Secretary-General, with Beth and Kiana as Deputy Secretary-Generals.

Collaborative efforts

Reflecting on the challenges faced during the planning process, Yujin shared, “We encountered numerous challenges while organising this event. Hosting the MUN conference demanded a significant amount of time and effort, so it was very important for us to balance our school life and MUN commitments.” The trio navigated tasks such as managing finances, coordinating with charities, ordering MUN materials, and confirming various details. Beth added, “Making a weekly schedule helped me a lot in managing both my school life and MUN commitments.”

The MUN4C conference comprised eight committees, each addressing critical topics from the impact of digital technology on women’s rights to measures for emergency care provision. Participants engaged in collaborative efforts to propose resolutions on issues such as ending violence against the LGBTQ community and legislating for cross-border international cybercrime.

Kiana highlighted the conference’s role in raising awareness about global issues, stating, “We believe that researching these global affairs, addressing them at the conference, and discussing future actions that nations should take will help raise awareness of these global issues.” She shared her most memorable moment, expressing gratitude for the support of her fellow organisers, Yujin and Beth, stating, “This whole experience would not have been so rewarding, fulfilling, and fun if it weren’t for them.”

The financial success of the conference extended beyond diplomatic discussions. The funds raised for the Red Cross organisations will contribute to global crisis alleviation efforts. While the exact utilisation remains unspecified, the organisers are optimistic that addressing global affairs through MUN conferences can have a lasting impact on future generations.

In conclusion, the MUN4C conference stands as a testament to the power of student-led initiatives in nurturing diplomacy, critical thinking, and global awareness. The dedication of the organising committee and the participation of international schools in Singapore underscore the significance of such events in shaping the perspectives of future leaders.

Find out more about AIS, contact us here.

Race like the pros at the Singapore T100

Feb 3 2024

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Going into the Professional Triathletes Organisation (PTO) Asian Open 2023, reigning men’s
Olympic triathlon champion Kristian Blummenfelt had never clinched a PTO title – until he
crossed the finish line at Marina Bay and crumpled with relief and elation.

Come April 12-14, sports fans can go through the same emotions as Blummenfelt and race like a professional athlete when they take on the exact same 100km (2km swim, 80km bike, 18km run) course at the T100 race for amateurs. This includes a freshwater swim in Marina Bay, a rare chance for experienced open water swimmers to experience swimming in the bay.

The route will also likely take triathletes past iconic landmarks in the Marina Bay area, including Marina Bay Sands, the Singapore Flyer and the ArtScience Museum. Athletes will also see themselves cycling up the famous Benjamin Sheares Bridge, while enjoying a stunning view of the city. Roads along the route will be closed, allowing athletes to participate safely. For those who prefer not to swim, fret not. You can still join the fun and be part of the action.

Besides the 100km triathlon, the Singapore T100 also offers two duathlon events for amateurs – Standard (4.5km run, 32km bike, 4.5km run) and Long (9km run, 64km bike, 9km run). If tackling such long distances sounds lonely or daunting, you can also opt for the triathlon or duathlon relays for some extra fun with friends. Whether you’re new to triathlon or a seasoned competitor, there’s something for everyone and the Singapore T100 is the perfect event for fitness enthusiasts to challenge themselves and scale new heights.

Sign-ups for the triathlon and duathlon are open.

Spectators will also be treated to two days of exhilarating live sporting action. Following the
success of the inaugural edition in 2023 – which saw over 6,000 participants – the Singapore T100 pro races will also return bigger and better. Will Singapore T100 women’s world No. 1 Anne Haug get the better of defending champion Ashleigh Gentle? Will two-time Olympic men’s triathlon champion Alistair Brownlee make his Singapore T100 debut after an ankle injury ruled him out of most of the 2023 PTO season?

With a multi-lap course for each leg of the race, the Singapore T100 is the place to be for a
front-row seat to world-class triathlon action. Spectators can line themselves almost anywhere along the course – for free – to witness their favourite athletes in action live or cheer their loved ones on up-close.

Event Goers can also find an array of activities at the event venue, Bayfront Event Space with booths selling merchandise and sports gear as well as multiple food and beverage options. With the best of triathlon and exciting fringe activities on offer, the Singapore T100 2024 promises to be a fun-filled event for all.

T100 | T100
MetaSport Singapore | MetaSport Singapore

Hotspots: Butcher’s Block

Feb 2 2024

Korean BBQ with Wagyu Tartare, Scallop with Parsnip Blini, Kumquat Kosho & Shiso, Roasted Beetroot Tartlet with Taleggio & Macadamia

Butcher’s Block harmoniously blends butchery and contemporary wood-fire cooking, embodying a journey rooted in Chef Jordan Keao’s Hawaiian heritage. Each creation is infused with an array of flavours, aromas, and textures, only achieved through the use of pure wood-fire.

The newly presented ‘Imua’ tasting menu (“Moving forward with strength and spirit” in Hawaiian) highlights these intricacies with exceptional signatures and seasonal dishes. For a midday treat, the three-course set lunch offers great choices, while the A La Carte options are ideal for communal sharing.

Dry-aged Duck, Black Garlic & Grilled Dumpling

Open kitchen

Upon entering Butcher’s Block, guests are immediately greeted by The Larder and the open kitchen, which engages the senses with captivating sights, smells, and sounds. Floor-to-ceiling glass unveils premium cuts of meats and artisanal pickles create a visual feast. Adjacent to The Larder, the open kitchen showcases the preparation of meat, seafood, and herbs above a lively fire. The kitchen team’s choreography is on display as they skilfully manoeuvre custom-built grills and ovens. The brass-accented marble-top counter acts as both a visual centrepiece and a functional butcher’s block amid the whirl of prep and plating activities.

Embarking on our gastronomic adventure, we were presented with a dazzling array of appetisers that included Scallops delicately perched atop a parsnip blini and adorned with Kumquat kosho. This was followed by a decadent Wagyu tartare crowned with caviar, concluding with a delightful Roasted Beetroot Tartlet complemented by Taleggio cheese and macadamia nuts.

In a nod to Chef Jordan’s hometown of Hilo, a smoked Sashimi Poke graced our palate, featuring belly cuts carved from a whole Hamachi and Tuna. The cold-smoked delicacy was infused with inamona, a traditional Hawaiian relish of roasted Kukui nut, Ogo seaweed, and a visually stunning herb dashi. To intensify the flavours, the dish incorporated house-aged garlic shoyu and ponzu, crafted from fish bones and dried over an open fire.

Mackerel, Starfruit Curd, Hokkaido Yumepirika Sushi Rice

Zero waste philosophy

Next was the Malaysian Dry-Aged Duck accompanied by black garlic and grilled dumpling, showcasing the restaurant’s commitment to a zero-waste philosophy. This offering applies various culinary techniques to highlight the distinct taste and texture of each duck part. The duck breast, dry-aged for up to 21 days, is delicately cooked above an open fire, ensuring a crisp skin and delectable tenderness. Complementing this, another component features minced duck leg and kaffir lime leaf encased in a hand-made dumpling skin, seared and grilled for a smoky touch. It’s elegantly completed with a black garlic puree and a jus crafted from a 1990 Madeira.

Following the duck, the mackerel course unfolded, accompanied by starfruit curd and Hokkaido Yumepirika sushi rice, reminiscent of the widely enjoyed ‘aku’ or Skipjack tuna in Hawaii. The grilled mackerel is gently laid on sushi rice and accompanied by house-fermented Swiss chard achar and star fruit puree. To enhance the experience, a rich broth is served on the side, inviting sips between bites or as a comforting end to this elegant offering. Concluding our savoury courses was a buttery Saga beef accompanied by a mouthwatering squash puree elevated to new heights with the addition of bone marrow.
The meal culminated in a sublime dessert featuring pumpkin pie, burnt marshmallow ice cream, hazelnut chocolate bonbon, Lilikoi Pate de fruit, and a charcoal macaroon. At this point, guests are encouraged to select from the Digestif Trolley, which is artfully presented tableside. Postprandial options include madeira, sherry, whiskey, Armagnac, rum, mezcal, calvados, and more, ensuring a smooth and satisfying conclusion to the dining experience.
There is a lunch menu ($168++ for five courses) and dinner menu ($218++ for six courses) with tailored wine pairings ($118++ for five glasses and $138++ for six glasses respectively). In addition, the Sommelier Flight ($148++) is a wine experience that focuses on a single varietal each time, offering a horizontal tasting of three pours from different vineyards.

VERDICT: The ‘Imua’ menu at Butcher’s Block is highly recommended. For those wanting flexibility, the A La Carte menu is an unparalleled experience, complemented by a captivating wine selection. While your wallet may feel lighter, the post-meal conversation will revolve around the remarkable food. A dining experience here is totally deserving of a special occasion.

Butcher’s Block
1 Beach Road, 189673. butchersblock.com.sg

Home Upgrade: In the mix

Feb 2 2024

Sponsored Content

When it comes to our homes, we adore mixing and matching materials, fabrics, and colours – this is what sets Originals apart. Our interior collections are carefully curated from around the world to blend diverse home decor pieces seamlessly. Modern design trends reveal that not everything has to be matchy-matchy. Embracing patterns, textures, and varied materials can elevate your space and provide a unique and personal touch. The key is to lean more towards high style than hot mess.

Begin with neutrals
Start with neutrals as your canvas. They’re perfect for layering textures and patterns without overwhelming the space. Think neutral hues for major elements like walls, furniture, and floors. It’s your base to build upon.
Blend materials
Combine soft textures like cotton or velvet with rougher ones like linen or wicker. This adds depth to your design. The combination of wood and travertine is also on trend now.
Old & new
Blend contemporary designs with antique pieces for a unique contrast. Play with antique proportions to bring a sense of grandeur into a small contemporary space. Start with a stately vintage focal point like a stripped-down dining table, and complement with modern accent pieces.
Nail the colours
Choose colours that mesh with your room’s vibe. One bold shade with a few secondary ones ties everything together. Coordinating patterns and textures with a coherent colour scheme also avoids overwhelming the space.
Accentuate
Add texture and pattern subtly. Think throw pillows, rugs, curtains – easy elements until you find your perfect mix.
Embrace nature
Balance textures with natural elements like plants, wood, or stone. They bring harmony and serenity, making your space inviting.
Create a focal point
A centerpiece ties everything together. Standout furniture, striking artwork, or a feature wall draws the eye and unifies textures and patterns.

Mixing textures and patterns can seem daunting, but it’s a game-changer for your home. Start neutral, mix materials, play with patterns, focus on colours, and have fun with accent pieces. Dare to be different! Experiment until your home feels just right.

Originals, 1 Bukit Batok Street 22,
Level 5, 659592
Open weekdays 10am – 7pm, weekends and PH 10am – 6pm

Get rolling with ANZA Cricket

Feb 1 2024

For the uninitiated, away from a cricket match, cricket NETs are a staple of practice sessions and give batters and bowlers the chance to brush up on their technique. ANZA Cricket got together for NETs just about every week throughout 2023, with a steady 10 – 15 players turning up to participate. Unlike in Australia, where NETs are an essential part of team selection and training, in Singapore we take on a more social attitude: everyone is welcome to come down.

If you haven’t rolled your arm over for many years, ANZA Cricket is the right place to go. There’s no judgement and friendly batsmen and bowlers await. NETs is a great way to get back into the game and allows you to leave the stress of Singapore life behind for a few hours. With cricket NETs installed, players don’t need to have another person around to fetch the ball for them during a practice session, so it’s the ideal scenario in which to concentrate on practicing your style without spending time running around a pitch (or accidentally hitting spectators or nearby windows).

Regular NETs practice is great for building team spirit, and after a session the ANZA Cricket lads usually get sidetracked by a few cool-down beers, so there is a big social element to “training” the elbow.

Currently, NETs is held from 7 – 8pm every Wednesday at The Cage Sports Park, Kallang. And as their nets are under-cover, it’s always on! ANZA Cricket has a WhatsApp group where we tally up who can make it each week so we book the correct number of lanes. To find out more about ANZA Cricket go to anza.org.sg/sports/cricket/

NETs stuff to know

NETs kick off each Wednesday at The Cage Sports Park, Kallang from 7pm. We assemble 5-10 people through our WhatsApp chat to roll the arm over. It’s not a problem if you don’t want to play games, don’t have equipment, and/or just want to do NETs. They are social NETs and everyone is welcome.

SCC Youth Development

As yet, ANZA doesn’t run a junior team, but Singapore Cricket Club offers a youth development programme for kids aged 5 – 10. With a variety of sessions running weekends and mid-week, the Cubs Cricket environment is “all about fun and enjoyment through our brilliant game.” To find out more contact David Bennett at JuniorCricket@scccricket.com

ANZA Netball keep shooting for success

Jan 30 2024

The second half of 2023 was overflowing with a range of tournaments and opportunities for ANZA Netball. The players were keen to take advantage of any possibilities that emerged as the netball landscape in Singapore continued to evolve.

As we begin a new year, not only are we participating in more leagues and tournaments than ever, but ANZA Netball continues to provide additional opportunities for girls at all development levels. We’ve been arranging intra-club regular matches with different age groups, as well as inter-club friendly matches with other clubs. We’re also training our players in the umpiring space and providing regular scenarios where they can practice their whistle blowing!

Sport Ready Junior League

The Sport Ready Junior League was open to players in the U11 and U12 age groups. ANZA Netball entered more teams than ever before to max out on player participation. The matches were held at Dulwich College on Sunday mornings in September and October. With three ANZA teams in each age group, the club performed well with the following teams finishing in medal winning positions:
U11: ANZA Suns (1st place) , ANZA Moons (3rd place)
U12: ANZA Cyclones (1st place), ANZA Tornadoes (3rd place)

The SGNA Cup

The SGNA Cup was held over a couple of months in late 2023 for the U16 and U14 age groups. Once again ANZA entered multiple teams, with three teams in the U16 Division and two teams in U14. The netball clubs participating were Singapore Netball Academy, Sport Ready, Centaurs, TKSS, Nanyang Lions, and The Netball Academy. ANZA proved to be particularly strong in the U16 age group, with ANZA Storm and ANZA Lightning fighting it out in the grand final. A brilliant effort from all of our players!

SCC Ladies League

Our U16 and U17 players participated in the SCC Ladies League, which took place midweek at UWC Dover. The ANZA team remained in Division 2 this season, defeated only by the SAFSA (Singapore Armed Forces Sports Association). In a reversal of fortune for the final in November, ANZA emerged as Division 2 Champions. Whoop!

Straits Netball Tournament

In December, five ANZA Netball teams travelled to Malaysia to participate in the Straits Netball Tournament at Marlborough College Malaysia. Teams in this tournament were representing U11, U13 and U15 age groups and kicked off the first overseas opportunities for our U11 players.

ANZA Accelerator

The ANZA Accelerator mini league for our younger girls aged U8, U9, and U10 happened at the end of November. This was a friendly tournament with even skills-based teams and a positive experience for all. Many other Singapore clubs were invited which allowed the younger players to put their skills training into practice.

SCC Netball Academy Junior Carnival 2023

In November, ANZA took part in the Singapore Cricket Club Netball Academy Junior Carnival. Our teams competed in the U9, U12 and U14 age groups, resulting in medals and prizes. The carnival provided light-hearted fun and exposure to a competitive environment through mini-games with place playoffs.

ANZAAustralian and New Zealand Association