Let’s talk about the weather, shall we? As a Brit, this comes very naturally to me! But I’m fairly sure the climate sits high on everyone’s radar here in Singapore. One thing we all have in common is our shared experience of the Lion City's heat and rain, often both at once, and frequently full-on. We dash for air con, own record-breaking numbers of umbrellas, and don’t get us started on our hair. And yet, we adapt.
With this in mind, this issue of ANZA magazine is all about making the most of tropical living on the red dot. On p18, Things To Do Indoors is your survival guide to getting through sweltering or soggy days. From board game cafes and creative workshops to play spaces for kids, we’ve rounded up the top ways to stay entertained without breaking a sweat. On p48, Weathering Life in Singapore explores how the elements can influence our mood. Tropical SAD, anyone? Meanwhile, The Life Aquatic on p26 looks at the growing trend of bathing houses. They may involve even more water, but these spaces are fast becoming top hang-out spots, come rain or shine.
As ever, we’re shining a light on inspiring people, both within and beyond our fabulous community. First up is Charlotte Lim, aka Pull-Up Grandma. Aussies and Kiwis may be famous for being fit and active, but at 80 years old, Charlotte is next level. Turn to p32 for a powerful reminder that passion and setting personal goals don’t have an age limit.
Elsewhere, we celebrate some of our brilliant ANZA members. On p30, From Trash to Triumph introduces us to Georgia Mor, who dedicates her spare time to keeping Singapore’s environment clean and tidy. We also chat to Mike Sabey on p34 about how ANZA’s Secret Men’s Business group helped him find his tribe in a new city.
Lastly, if you’re an ANZA member doing something great like Georgia, or with something insightful to say, like Mike, we’d love to hear from you. Our association is full of people getting on with some pretty impressive things, and we’re always keen to show off about them. Don't be shy – contact me on the email below with details!
Chrissy and I hanging out with Pull-Up Grandma. She had a firm grip!
TROPICAL LIVING
FEATURES
18 THINGS TO DO INDOORS
When the heat and the wet get too much, here's where to head for island fun!
26 THE LIFE AQUATIC
Discover SG's new water sanctuaries, which are boosting health and building communities
30 FROM TRASH TO TRIUMPH
Meet ANZA member Georgia Mor, who dedicates her time to keeping Singapore clean and tidy
32 DEFYING GRAVITY
Need gym inspo? Look no further than 80-yearold Charlotte Lim
34 SPOTLIGHT ON SMB
Mike Sabey shares how ANZA's Secret Men's Business helped him to settle in SG
36 STAY CYBER SAVVY
A cyber security expert shares his knowledge and tips for staying safe online
44 FOLLOWING IN THEIR FOOTSTEPS
PJ Roberts’ moving trek along the Kokoda Track, honouring his WWII relatives
48 WEATHERING LIFE IN SINGAPORE
From sunny highs to rainy blues, learn how the climate a ects your mood
I
Sizzle with ANZA!
Ask an Australian what epitomises true “Aussie Spirit”, and one thing that will quickly come up is the Bunnings Sausage Sizzle. These are run by community groups outside branches of Australia’s largest DIY stores on weekends and have been highly successful at raising funds for many worthy causes.
Ask a New Zealander and they ‘ll point to kai moana – the food from the sea. Everywhere in New Zealand is within reach of the ocean, and the relationship between mountains, land, and sea creates a unique living environment, celebrated through everything from the simple ritual of sh and chips on the beach to watersports or trawling for whitebait.
In Singapore, discussions often turn to a set of commonly cited traits – sometimes referred to as the “four C's” – such as kiasu and kiasi. I would argue that what really sums up Singapore is the table culture in hawker centres. While seats can and will be “choped”, everyone’s ne with sharing a table, particularly when dining alone. Community is always present.
I’ve been thinking about what constitutes the “sizzle” for ANZA – that special element that makes us far more attractive than the constituent activities, events, and other bene ts. I believe it comes back to those core Australian and New Zealand attitudes, and our close bonds with Singapore:
• INCLUSION: Australia and New Zealand, like Singapore, are melting pots. Heritage is celebrated and embraced, and there’s a shared curiosity in the customs and cuisine of friends from other cultures
• FAIR PLAY: While hyper-competitive in professional sport, fairness is valued. This extends into work, social relationships, and community activities. It’s telling that perhaps the biggest rift in Australian and New Zealand relations came about due to a questionably legitimate "underarm" bowl in a cricket match
• HUMILITY: Australians and New Zealanders tend to be understated. It’s seen as crass to boast, and respect is earned, not granted
These three qualities combine to make Aussies and Kiwis uniquely welcoming, if slightly cynical. They’re all embodied in ANZA and the daily contributions of our volunteers, sta , and Executive Committee.
Does this ring true for you? Share your thoughts with me at president@anza.com.sg
CHRISTOPHER BROWN
THANK YOU TO THE FOLLOWING ANZA PARTNERS, VALUED GREATLY FOR THEIR CONTINUED SUPPORT OF THE ASSOCIATION.
PREMIER PARTNERS
PLATINUM PARTNERS
Australian Wines Of Distinction
GOLD PARTNERS
SILVER PARTNERS
ANZAC Day 2026
Mark your calendar to join in a public ANZAC Day Dawn Service at Kranji War Cemetery on Saturday, 26 April 2026. The service will begin at 6.30am, and guests are encouraged to be assembled by 6.15am. The service will commemorate the 111th Anniversary of New Zealand and Australian troops landing at Gallipoli, Turkey during World War I as well as honour the courage, endurance, and sacrifice of all New Zealand and Australian troops who have served in all wars, conflicts, and peacekeeping operations. Please note that the venue has no parking, and attendees are encouraged to use public transport to the service. Event details will be posted on the New Zealand High Commission’s Facebook Page at facebook.com/ NewZealandinSingapore
DID YOU KNOW?
Meet A Featured Partner
ALEXIS LIVANES Partner sjp.asia/sg
What’s your role at St. James’s Place?
I’m a Partner, helping clients to take a mindful approach to their finances so they can enjoy life in Singapore without constant money worries. My goal is to ensure financial decisions make sense for their lifestyle, goals, and family. How do you make a difference to expat lives?
I focus on removing financial stress and guide clients to plan deliberately. Understanding cash flow, investing consistently, and making purposeful decisions allows clients to build wealth and create opportunities for their children, such as education, travel, or global experiences.
What’s something people misunderstand about wealth planning?
Many people underestimate how emotions influence money decisions, from keeping cash idle to chasing trends. Remaining mindful and planning with intention helps ensure their wealth
GOT SOMETHING TO SAY?
Email us at info@anza.org.sg or comment or send a message through our social media platforms
The exuberant annual festival of Holi, also known as Festival of Colours, is celebrated during the 12th Hindu lunar month, on Wednesday, 4 March this year, traditionally welcoming the colourful spring season after winter’s harshness. Funfilled celebrations are held on Sentosa, in Little India, and at some community clubs.
RAELENE TAN
grows while supporting their life in the present. What financial decision do you see expat families wishing they’d made earlier?
Clients often wish they'd structured their finances sooner to better balance immediate needs with long-term goals. Even small, regular contributions can grow significantly over time and fund opportunities for their children.
If you could share one piece of financial advice, what would it be?
Step back, breathe, and make deliberate decisions. Focus on what matters for your family, your lifestyle, and your future, rather than reacting to others or short-term market noise.
What are you up to when not at work?
My husband works in Saudi Arabia and travels frequently, so I spend much of my time with my two daughters exploring Singapore, enjoying outdoor activities, and making the most of family experiences.
As we approach International Women’s Day on 8 March 2026, I’ve been re ecting on the theme “Give to Gain”, a powerful reminder that progress for women and girls bene ts everyone, strengthening families, communities, and economies alike.
Giving to gain speaks to partnership rather than charity. It recognises that when we invest time, resources, and genuine allyship in the empowerment of women and girls, the returns uplift entire communities, economies, and societies. This is true not only in New Zealand and Singapore but across our shared Indo-Paci c region and the wider world. In New Zealand, we know that inclusive leadership leads to better outcomes. Women represent nearly half of our parliamentary seats, a fact we're proud of, but also a prompt to do more. We continue to support policies that ensure women have equal access to education, fair pay, and leadership opportunities. We recognise that the full participation of women in public life strengthens democratic institutions and fosters resilient communities.
Give
TO GAIN
GABBY RUSH, New Zealand
High Commissioner to Singapore highlights the importance of a shared commitment to equality and opportunity.
Here in Singapore and across Southeast Asia, New Zealand’s partnerships with governments, civil society, and business sectors re ect this same belief. Initiatives that support women’s economic empowerment, particularly through skills development and entrepreneurship, are not just the right thing to do, they are grounded in data and sound economics. When women thrive in business and innovation, markets grow and societies ourish.
Giving to gain also means listening. Speaking about values and vision is important, but hearing directly from women and girls about their aspirations and the barriers they face is essential. Their lived experiences shape better policies and programmes. In both Singapore and New Zealand, and increasingly through regional dialogues, elevating diverse voices ensures progress is not just for some, but for all.
On this International Women’s Day, let us celebrate the achievements of women who've led change, often against the odds, and acknowledge those whose stories remain unheard. Let us recommit ourselves to the work ahead: closing pay gaps, eliminating gender-based violence, ensuring access to quality healthcare, and supporting women’s leadership in every eld.
Ultimately, “Give to Gain” is a call to action that invites us all, governments, businesses, communities, and individuals, to invest in equality. When we do, the gains are profound: healthier families, stronger economies, and more just societies. Together, we can build a world where every woman and girl has the opportunity to reach her full potential and to contribute to the bene t of us all.
New Zealand
High Commission
Singapore One George Street, Level 21-04
Singapore 049145
Tel 6235 9966 Fax 6536 8180 nzhc.sin@mfat.govt.nz
STAY CONNECTED
Follow us on Facebook: facebook.com/ NewZealandinSingapore
Register when travelling: safetravel.govt.nz
Find out more: mfat.govt.nz/singapore
Providing cheer and New Zealand goodies to underprivileged children
Gabby with the Black Ferns after winning the Women’s title at the HSBC Singapore Rugby Sevens 2026 Women Heads of Missions at the International Day of Women in Diplomacy 2025
SHAMROCK & ROLL!
Looking for shenanigans and stout? Each year over St Patrick’s Day weekend, Singapore's Circular Road transforms into a sea of green as the annual St Patrick’s Day Street Festival takes over the neighbourhood. The celebration is packed with Irish spirit, featuring live bands, traditional music, and folk dance performances. It’s a family-friendly a air, with lots to keep little ones entertained, from face painting and glitter tattoos to balloon sculptures and street performers. Right in the heart of the action, Molly Malone’s Irish Pub will be buzzing with DJs, sports screenings, and a new menu of Irish classics such as Molly’s Famous Fish & Chips, Bangers & Mash, and – of course – Guinness!
Capitol Theatre is embracing a touch of old-Hollywood glamour. The iconic 1930's landmark is returning to its silver-screen roots with "Classics at Capitol", running until 28 April. Expect newly restored screenings of cinematic legends like "Singin’ in the Rain", "Lawrence of Arabia", and "North by Northwest." Don't miss this chic excuse to revisit timeless lms on the big screen, just as they were meant to be seen back in the day.
17 Stamford Road, 178907 capitol-theatre.sg
EXIT, STAGE LEFT
After 16 years of staging some of Singapore’s most hard-hitting productions, homegrown theatre company Pangdemonium is closing the curtain for good this year. The concluding season begins in March 2026 and is designed as a tribute to the loyal audiences who’ve supported the company from the start. Highlights include a new take on Chekhov’s "Three Sisters" in March, Sam Holcroft’s darkly satirical "A Mirror" in July, and the musical "Come From Away" in September. Let’s see this homegrown business out in style!
9 Changi South Street 3, #04-1, 486361 pangdemonium.com
MEOW-SICAL MAGIC
BOTERO GOES BIG
For a memorable dose of Colombian culture, "Botero in Singapore" makes a bold statement across the city until 15 May. Showcasing more than 130 original works, from paintings and works on paper to indoor sculptures and the artist’s iconic monumental bronzes, the exhibition unfolds across multiple venues, including Gardens by the Bay’s "Botero: Garden Grandeur." As Botero’s only Southeast Asian stop, it’s also the largest presentation of his work ever staged worldwide.
For the purrfect way to spend a few hours, "Cats" the musical comes to Sands Theatre at Marina Bay Sands this October for a limited season. As one of the longest-running shows in West End and Broadway history, the Andrew Lloyd Webber classic marks another return to local shores, following seasons in 2015 and 2019. If you’ve somehow missed it, don’t do it again!
10 Bayfront Avenue, B1-69/70 The Shoppes, Marina Bay Sands, 018971
marinabaysands.com
ANZA TOURS
From Peranakan heritage in Katong to a futuristic Forest City in JB, ANZA Tours uncover the best stories and hidden corners.
March April
GREEN ARCHITECTURE IN THE CBD
Discover how Singapore's Central Business District became a "City in a Garden" starting back in 1967 with a tree-planting scheme, thoughtfully designed parks, and strict standards for sustainable architecture. Our guide will explain what de nes a green building in
the tropics and introduce the architects behind SG's award-winning structures. We'll explore CapitaSpring, beginning with panoramic views from the rooftop Sky Garden, before strolling through the cascading green oasis spread over three levels. After a break at Lau
Pa Sat, we'll continue to Marina One, a joint Singaporean-Malaysian integrated complex. Our nal stop is the 27-storey Oasia Hotel in Tanjong Pagar, which resembles a giant living tree. There’ll be an optional lunch afterwards at OSO Italian restaurant.
THE PERANAKANS OF JOO CHIAT
By the 1950's, Katong had evolved from coconut plantations into a seaside enclave shaped by Peranakan, Eurasian, Malay, and Indian cultures. This walking tour explores the fascinating Peranakan culture, sharing stories about landmark shops like Red House Bakery and Tay Buan Guan, one of SG's rst supermarkets. We'll pop into Kim Choo Kueh Chang for their famous rice dumplings, then wander past iconic architecture and beautiful murals around Joo Chiat. At the Peranakan Mansion, we'll learn about Nonya dishes, traditional fashion, and wedding customs. The tour wraps up at Old Bibik's Peranakan Kitchen, where our guide will explain Peranakan cuisine, including intriguing Ayam Buah Keluak – chicken with gravy made from poisonous nut seeds.
MEET: 9.20am, Marine Parade MRT station TOUR GUIDE: Sarah Lev EXERTION: High. Substantial walking/exertion required in the heat $70
UNVEIL THE HIDDEN GEMS OF TAMPINES
Discover the heritage and everyday stories of Tampines, Singapore's rst regional town. Starting at Our Tampines Hub, we'll trace Tampines' evolution from its early past into today's buzzy residential and cultural centre. Along the way, we'll uncover lesser-known corners including a hidden eco-community garden, and take a stroll through Tampines Central Park, where urban farming re ects grassroots traditions. We'll visit Tampines market, rich with local avours and proper neighbourhood energy, before concluding at the Tampines Combined Temples, a rare heritage enclave that re ects Singapore's multicultural and multi-faith harmony. We'll end at the bustling town centre, the perfect spot to re ect on Tampines as a living heritage landscape shaped by its people.
MEET: Tampines MRT Station
TOUR GUIDE: Diana Chua
NOTES: This is a rain or shine tour. Casual, respectful attire required, especially for places of worship. We’ll embark on an easy-paced trail combining a short coach journey with comfortable walking segments
A DAY IN JOHOR BAHRU: HERITAGE, HARMONY & MODERN WONDERS
Head across the Causeway and discover the colourful contrasts of Johor Bahru, Malaysia. Our journey begins with a scenic drive into JB's Old Town, where heritage shophouses line streets lled with murals, traditional bakeries, and local co ee shops. We'll explore artistic lanes, visit the Red House, and stop at the awesome Arulmigu Sri Rajakaliamman Glass Temple with its shimmering glass mosaics. Then it's retail therapy time at Johor Premium Outlets, Malaysia's luxury shopping destination. Concluding the tour, we'll visit Forest City, Johor's futuristic eco-metropolis built on reclaimed islands with visionary urban design and lush green facades.
$100 members $115 non-members 9am to 5pm
ANZA OUTINGS
MEET: 8.45am Marsiling MRT Station TOUR GUIDE: Chaqa Hill EXERTION: Medium. Some walking in the heat required, plenty of rest stops available Wed 29 April
Big experiences, small groups, endless discovery. ANZA Outings are a brandnew addition to ANZA Tours, offering small group adventures. Designed for those who love authentic local encounters, these bitesized excursions uncover Singapore’s hidden gems through cultural walks, neighbourhood explorations, hawker visits, and relaxed social meetups. Organised by our community volunteers, ANZA Outings offer a more intimate way to experience the stories, flavours, and everyday magic of the island. Perfect for newcomers and long-timers alike. Join us at anza.org.sg/outings
OUT AND ABOUT
LADIES NIGHT
January welcomed ANZA’s rst Ladies Night of 2026 at ANTI:DOTE, the super-chic cocktail lounge at Fairmont Singapore. As always, a fabulous group descended full of new year cheer, bringing great conversations, lots of laughs, and some good old female support with them. The bar has been set high for Ladies Nights in the year ahead –don’t miss them!
PICKLEBALL
ANZA's social pickleball group is growing! This lively gaggle had a strong start to the year with exisiting and new members getting together to smash a few balls on court. If you're free on Friday mornings, these sessions are ideal for hitting the weekend o properly.
INVESTOR INTEREST GROUP
While many of us like to debate our favourite restaurants, shopping malls, and Sunday hang-outs around the island, some ANZA members are getting down to the nitty-gritty of discussing how best to look after their nances and future! Find out about Investor Interest sessions at anza.org.sg/activities/investor-interest
GOLF
Got water, a hat, and a great sense of humour? You're perfectly prepared for our ANZA Golf group! They're the ones having all the fun on a Tuesday morning at Mandai Executive Golf Course. Head to anza.org.sg/sports/golf to join them.
SINGING
This lovely group continue to hit the right notes, meeting regularly for sessions to sing their hearts out, lift their spirits, and learn new snazzy vocal skills. Every session is loud, lively, and guaranteed to bring joy!
WALKING
ANZA Kill-o-Metres enjoyed pretty scenery around the Chinese and Japanese Gardens (above), and clocked up some serious kms walking along SG's Coast-to-Coast Trail Section 2 (below).
TENNIS
Once again, our ANZA Tennis group promises there were some great rallies and nifty moves taking place just before these photos were taken, though all we have is of them enjoying some wellearned post-match beers!
NETBALL
Not content with just being able to do the splits, our ANZA Netball players have been putting on a fantastic show across the courts, too! Our 2019 starters kicked o their season with smiles on day one, and the 2014's elded two teams in the U12 SGNA league for a six-week run. Proud doesn't even cover it!
TOURS
There’s been no slowing down for ANZA Tours, who’ve been busy soaking up the sights and stories of Holland Village, alongside some seriously immersive local culture. Thaipusam whisked the group to Little India for a front-row view of the festival’s colour, energy, and devotion, while a Chinese New Year walk and lunch uncovered wonderful traditions and dropped participants right into the heart of Singapore's celebrations in Chinatown.
MAHJONG
ANZA Mahjong not only know how to pack out a room, but they're also known to take over entire pavements! They also headed to the Gala Premier of "Luck My Life", a new lm where some members made a cameo appearance!
PADEL
Following in the footsteps of ANZA Tennis, the only proof we have that this group played padel is that they look really happy to be cooling o with a beer afterwards!
CASUAL COFFEE
If you're looking to make new friends on the island, ANZA's Casual Co ee sessions are ideal. They're warm, welcoming, and make you feel all cosy inside – just like a cuppa, infact!
THINGS TO DO INDOORS
Singapore has two seasons: hot and wet, and hotter and wetter. One minute you’re melting into the pavement, the next you’re grappling with a downpour. The good news? The island has indoor entertainment sorted. From innovative playgrounds to creative workshops and cooling beauty treatments, there’s endless activities to keep you happily occupied whatever the weather throws at you.
Weather-proof your plans with Singapore activities that don’t care if it’s scorching or pouring outside. Air conditioning included.
King and the Pawn
When the rain’s got you searching for indoor entertainment that’ll please everyone, King and the Pawn is your ace in the hole. This board game cafe boasts over 300 games for all ages alongside proper, delicious food. Those aged seven and under play for free, making it a brilliant family outing that won’t break the bank. Grownups, take note: there’s a Happy Hour Tuesdays to Fridays, 5.30pm – 8pm. 17 Purvis Street, #01-01, 188596 kingandthepawn.com
All of Singapore’s museums are excellent whatever the weather, but one of ANZA’s faves is The Intan. Tucked away in a post-war home in Joo Chiat that’s equal parts museum and passion project, The Intan is where you’ll nd owner Alvin Yapp surrounded by three decades’ worth of treasures. And what treasures they are – 1,500 Peranakan artefacts that tell the story of Singapore’s Straits Chinese heritage. Visits are strictly by appointment only, so you’ll need to plan ahead for this one-of-a-kind experience.
69 Joo Chiat Terrace, 427231 the-intan.com
Hi Roller Indoor Skating
Retro vibes meet modernhigh jinx at Hi Roller Skate Academy where you can choose between quad skates or inline. Either way, it’s an energetic way to dodge the elements while pretending you’re living your best 1980's life. Just mind the ankles. Various locations hirollersingapore.com
Terrarium Building at The Green Capsule
These terrarium workshops demystify the whole process, guiding even complete beginners to fashion a miniature ecosystem that’s both pretty and a cinch to maintain. It’s the perfect indoor activity for anyone who fancies getting green ngered without the fuss.
Funan Mall, 107 North Bridge Road, #04-11, 179105 thegreencapsule.com.sg
VroomTown Driving City
If the climate’s causing the kids to hit peak chaos levels make VroomTown at Marina Square your saviour. This indoor driving city lets kids from age four navigate a miniature metropolis in an electric car complete with working tra c signals and tiny versions of iconic Singapore landmarks. Playground access is included too.
6 Ra es Boulevard, #01-208, Marina Square, 039594 vroomtown.com.sg
Pottery Painting at Clayful Art Cafe
For just $20 (students) or $30 (adults), you get two hours of studio access with all painting materials included. Choose from over 100 pottery pieces – mugs, bowls, plates, vases –and get creative in this lush, beautifully decked-out space. Items are red in-house and ready for collection a week later. 181 Orchard Road, #03-23, Orchard Central, 238896 clayful.sg
Gin School at Brass Lion Distillery
This guided experience walks you through crafting your very own gin, o ering excellent insights into botanicals and distillation along the way. By the end, you’ll not only be something of a gin wizard, but you’ll have created something special to take home and enjoy with family and friends. That is, if you haven't qua ed it yourself.
40 Alexandra Terrace, 119933 brassliondistillery.com
Scentopia Singapore
At Scentopia, perfumemaking gets personal. A quick personality quiz helps guide your scent selection before you set about blending a fragrance that’s entirely yours. This is the sort of experience that makes you feel wonderfully creative, and it's an ace bonding activity. Bonus – you get to take your creation home.
If the heat's got you feeling a bit hot headed (or life’s just been a lot lately), The Fragment Room o ers therapeutic relief and zero chance of being arrested. Come here for the opportunity to safely shatter things to your heart’s content, and release all your pent-up stress without the fa of cleaning up afterwards. 490 MacPherson Road, 368198 thefragmentroom.com
Mr Bucket Chocolaterie
Skip the supermarket chocolates and head to Mr Bucket Chocolaterie where you can build your own bar at their Creation Station. Choose your choc, then pick three toppings from 16 options including dried fruits, nuts, and pretzels. You also get to watch chocolatiers work their magic through the open kitchen.
When the weather’s playing up, head to ANDSOFORTH’s absurd worlds. This immersive dining company hosts amazing brunches for all the family with supercool themes. Travel between rooms throughout your meal, meeting performers and discovering theatrical surprises. Secret locations revealed upon booking andsoforth.com.sg
Indoor Rock Climbing
Climb Central at Kallang Wave Mall is fabulously familyorientated with 45 climbing lanes. Kids aged ve and above can climb as long as they weigh over 20kg and are over 1.1m. Whether you’re a family climbing together or cheering from the sidelines with a well-earned co ee, it’s a bad weather winner!
For puzzle-lovers and amateur detectives, TRAPPED delivers a thrilling hour of dedicated teamwork and problemsolving with a di erence. Choose between mystery or horror-themed rooms and race against the clock – it’s perfect for a stormy afternoon when you fancy feeling rather clever.
The Centrepoint, #03-26, 176 Orchard Road, 238843 trapped.sg
Axe Throwing
Channel your inner lumberjack at Singapore’s rst axe-throwing range – yes, really. Guided by trained instructors (safety rst, folks), it’s surprisingly satisfying and turns a dreary afternoon into something you’ll actually want to tell people about. Who knew pretending to be a woodsman could be this much fun?
T2 Gunner Lane, #02-04/05, Mess Hall Sentosa Blk 17, 099567
axefactor.com.sg
Lee Kong Chian Natural History Museum
This spot at National University Singapore is home to over a million biological specimens. Three 150-million-year-old replica dinosaur skeletons steal the show standing multiple stories tall. Just don’t expect any Night at the Museum shenanigans after hours.
Aussie skincare brand Rationale offer a 60-minute CryoGenic Resilience Facial using fancy LED light therapy and advanced cooling technology to sculpt and lift.
Raffles City Shopping Centre, 252 North Bridge Road, #01-19, 179103 sg.rationale.com
Cooking Class
Climate-challenged days are made for pottering about in the kitchen – especially when someone else has done all the planning. Avant Cooking Lessons guide you through Korean and Singaporean dishes, from kimchi to nasi lemak and rojak, in a calm studio setting with experienced instructors who won’t judge your chopping skills.
Inspired by the Aurora Borealis, this treatment uses hot-cold techniques echoing the Nordic love for saunas and icy plunges. Super relaxing, this facial works to boost circulation and enhance glow.
Auriga Spa, Capella Hotel, 1 The Knolls, Sentosa, 098297 capellahotels.com
TactSim Indoor Airsoft Arena
When the skies open or the heat becomes unbearable, gamers have the perfect refuge at TactSim, HomeTeamNS Khatib’s rstof-its-kind indoor PvP airsoft arena. Kids can tackle missions like "Capture the Flag" and "King of the Hill". There’s also a dedicated target range. Various locations hometeamns.sg/tactsim
Kiztopia
For families seeking refuge from the temperature, Kiztopia is a reliable pit-stop. With obstacle courses, role-play zones, VR experiences, and even train rides, little ones can burn o energy while you take time out with a nice sit-down while checking the weather forecast. Various locations kiztopia.com
Snow City Singapore
When the tropical vibes feel relentless, Snow City ips the script entirely. Snowball ghts, icy slides, and actual igloos bring a taste of winter indoors and provide a heap of fun and conversation.
Whatever the weather, a visit here will banish any signs of SAD in a ji y.
21 Jurong Town Hall Road, 609433 snowcity.com.sg
Raffles Hotel Singapore
If you're staying at this grand dame, going outside will defo not be on your agenda! With exquisite rooms, dining, scenery, and history, ANZA members get special discounts on offers here. Don't miss out!
Part playground, part sports arena, SuperPark originates from Finland and is where you’ll nd over 20 activities spread across three zones. Whether you’re climbing, sliding, bouncing, or racing, it’s an all-ages destination. The kids will love it, but let’s not pretend, so will you. Thank you Finland!
Suntec City Mall, 3 Temasek Boulevard, #02-477, 038983 superpark.com.sg
Indoor Bowling
Bowling remains a rainy-day classic and the red dot does it with air. At K Bowling Club, you’ll nd glow-in-thedark lanes alongside darts and arcade games. Prefer something more traditional? Temasek Club o ers timeless bowling in super-relaxed surroundings. 313 Orchard Road, 313@Somerset, #03-27,238895 kbowlingclub.com
Singapore Oceanarium
Descend into an underwater world where sharks, manta rays, thousands of marine species, and potentially Nemo, glide past while you stay smugly dry. Awe-inspiring and educational, this is a place that whisks you into somewhere entirely di erent, which is exactly what's needed on a sultry or soaking afternoon.
24 Sentosa Gateway, Sentosa Island, 098269 singaporeoceanarium.com
Mandy T Skinlab
Escape to this skinlab for calm respite and special discounts for ANZA members. Treatments include the Hydraclear facial, Eye Rejuvenation Therapy, and the Gentlemen's Regime. 79 Anson Road, #22-01, 079906
anza.org.sg/discounts/mandy-t-skinwellness
ME Cafe & Games
This indoor playground hosts more than 30 activities and games in digital or physical format! Fab for families with teens, whether you're trying archery, checking out the racing simulator, or opting for some classic arcade fun, this world is your indoor oyster. Various locations mecafegames.com
Leather Crafting Workshop
Slow down with a leather crafting workshop where you’ll create functional pieces like pouches or accessories. It’s wonderfully tactile and mindful, making you forget all about what's going down with the climate outside. Various locations crafune.com
Heaven Spot Graffiti
Art Studio
Fancy legally vandalising walls? Heaven Spot is a gra ti art studio where you can go wild with spray cans in air-conditioned comfort. Don overalls and a gas mask, grab a can, and deface 30 square feet of wall to groovy rock music. Sta are on hand to share painting techniques.
3 Lorong Bakar Batu, #03-01, 348741 heavenspotsg.com
Adventure HQ
This indoor adventure centre brings all outdoor japes safely inside in the shape of rope courses, gliders, and Singapore’s longest indoor slide. It’s real adventure without the weather getting in the way, which is just the ticket on a hot or rainy day. Various locations hometeamns.sg
X-Scap8 Orchard Central
High-element courses, obstacle challenges, golf simulators, and arcade games make X-Scap8 your one-stop indoor playground. Head here and you're guaranteed to easily lose track of time –and the temperature outdoors – entirely. Orchard Central, 181 Orchard Road, #07-02, 238896 xscap8.com
Trick Eye Museum @ Southside
Interactive optical illusions turn you into part of the artwork at Trick Eye Museum. Strike creative poses, let your imagination run wild, and prepare for your camera roll to ll up rather quickly. It’s a silly, playful, and fun location to pass away a few hours – exactly what damp days are for.
Perfect for a group of friends, this beginner-friendly workshop walks you through soy candlemaking basics with experienced trainers. Choose from various scents, watch your candle take shape, and leave with something lovely you’ve actually crafted yourself. It’s creative, calming, and undeniably cheery! By appointment only.
37 Jalan Pemimpin, MAPEX Building, #03-10, 577177 craftlabs.sg
Museum of Ice Cream
This pastel-pink wonderland was freshly revamped in 2025 to o er 14 multi-sensory installations celebrating all things ice cream. Wade through the Sprinkle Pool, eat unlimited ice cream at ve stations with 19 di erent avours, bounce in the castle, and snap Instagramworthy photos. What's not to like when the weather’s being temperamental outside?
Join us at the New Zealand High Commissioner’s Residence for ANZA’s 2026 Annual General Meeting. Hear key updates from our sporting and interest groups, vote for the new Executive Committee, and enjoy an evening of networking in the Residence’s beautiful grounds with New Zealand wine, beer and canapés.
Wine Down at Dempsey
Three generations on, Petersons pour passion, tradition, and a touch of Aussie soul into Singapore’s Dempsey Hill.
We dropped into Petersons tasting room at Dempsey Hill for a chat with their Singaporean-based Sales Manager, Joe Keats. As the island's only winery-operated tasting room, Petersons has been hosting ANZA wine tastings since 2017, and is a major sponsor of wine for ANZA events. Joe is also a member of the ANZA Executive Committee.
Petersons is a family-owned business back in Oz. Please tell us more …
Petersons goes back three generations and was founded by Shirley and Ian Peterson in 1981. I worked for the family for a couple of years before I even knew they’d been crowned Champion Small Winery of Australia, Best Chardonnay in Australia, winner of the QANTAS International Wine Challenge (FRA, USA, AUS), and more. Arguably, what’s more important is the huge amount of support Petersons gives to the community, not-for-profits, and charities, both in Australia and Singapore. I always joke that part of my job is to do the bragging for them!
Who looks after the business now?
Shirley and Ian’s son Colin drove the process of getting them established here in Singapore. Colin’s daughter Savannah is the thirdgeneration winemaker in the family.
The whole family is incredibly supportive of their staff, and Colin has always empowered us to make decisions.
How long have you been based in lovely Dempsey?
Petersons has been operating a tasting room in Singapore since 2017, but we moved from Emerald Hill Road to Dempsey in 2024. As a side project, I opened Deviate Wine Bar next door in 2023. When we got the chance to take over the adjacent building, we jumped at it. It’s a magical oasis around there.
What’s your background with Petersons?
Although I’m originally from New Zealand, I moved to Australia from Europe in 2009 and worked across Petersons’ properties in the Hunter Valley, mostly in cellar doors and hosting tastings. When the Singapore tasting idea was floated, I volunteered to help out.
What made Petersons choose the red dot?
A lot of Singaporean visitors to the Hunter Valley were asking for wine to be shipped over. It’s pretty expensive to do that one case or two at a time, so we had the idea to send a shipping container instead. That reduced the
I’m really lucky to be selling quality booze, not flogging average wine with fancy labels
cost per bottle on freight dramatically, though the taxes stayed the same! It soon became obvious we needed a presence on the ground here.
How did the company cope during Covid?
Luckily, we’d been established for a couple of years before it hit. We had a small but wonderful crew here in Singapore keeping things running, initially Ting Yan, then the fantastic Caroline came on board. We also had some talented cellar door crew from Australia flying up regularly to host tastings and events. There are too many people to list them all here, but without the likes of Jax, Lisa, Steve, Hugh, Jason, and various Michaels, we wouldn’t be here today.
Didn’t you guys pivot quite nicely? We introduced "Zoom tastings" during the pandemic, which were lots of fun. By chance, we had 600 small medicine-
style bottles on hand, so we offered members the chance to sign up for online tastings which turned out to be a massive hit.
What makes Petersons different?
I’m really lucky to be selling quality booze – not flogging average wine with fancy labels – and doing it for employers who treat people with respect, give back to the community, and are genuinely innovative. But ultimately, it’s all about the people. I’ve met literally tens of thousands of people in my role in Singapore, which is amazing – although my memory often struggles to keep up!
What’s next for Petersons in Singapore?
We’ve been renovating our Dempsey tasting room, and a new shipment that arrived in January means we have some fantastic new wines on board. This year we’ll continue running our occasional dinners around the island, which are always a great time.
You'll remain focused on tastings though?
Absolutely yes, our bread and butter is hosting tastings. I honestly believe we have the best-value wines in SG, and we’re the only people – as far as I know –doing what we do. When you visit us, you’re buying directly from the winery. A surprising number of our customers still haven’t visited the Dempsey tasting room yet, so we encourage everyone to email us to book in, whether you’re two people or 25. We can also host tastings offsite.
Singapore’s new aquatic spaces turn recovery into a social ritual, connecting friends over hot pools and icy dips. ANZA soaks it up.
by
Pix
Capybara, Declan Blackall Photography
You could blame the rising mercury. You could hold Wim Hof responsible. You could point a nger at the increasing costs of a traditional night out on the red dot. Whatever the reason, when it comes to hanging out and forming new connections, Singapore’s aquatic social scene is booming – and it’s about more than just getting wet. It’s about pausing, recharging, and sharing time with others.
"Wet wellness" has been growing worldwide, from Australia’s surf-side communities to London’s contrasttherapy studios. What’s di erent in 2026 is how water immersion is being used, not just for recovery or relaxation, but as a way to reset and form friendships with others. Look no further than Singapore’s The Ice Bath Club (theicebathclub.com) launched by Australian founders just over a year ago. With locations in River Valley, Duxton, and East Coast, they’ve created neighbourhood hubs where people meet, chat, and share a ritual. Unlike gyms, which can feel transactional, water therapy is inherently collective.
“Cold plunging turns a personal challenge into a shared experience,” explains Beverly De Souza, Community & Partnerships at The Ice Bath Club. “People are craving meaningful moments, not just menus or nightlife. We are social connection reimagined: fun, energising, and grounding.”
A PLACE TO BE
Water therapy isn’t new. Scandinavian saunas and Japanese Misogi ceremonies have been using it for centuries. In Australia and New Zealand, cold baths are a post-training staple for surfers, swimmers, and rugby players.
“In Australasia, cold exposure is part of life, whether it’s post-training swims or ocean dips,” Beverly notes. “We’re translating that into Singapore where people crave connection alongside wellness. Members grab co ee together after sessions, stay for smoothies, chat in the sauna, or unwind in the chill area. We see bonds forming, accountability groups building, and people creating new routines together. It’s a place to intentionally be, not just dip and leave.”
Capybara Bathing (capybarabathing. com.sg), a mixed-gender Sydney-born bathhouse, opening in Singapore’s Tanjong Pagar in March, has a similar approach. Nicole Chew, Partner & Director of Capybara Bathing, says: “People are becoming more conscious of how they spend their time and energy. There’s a shift away from overstimulation."
On an island built for air-conditioning and iced kopi, where "third spaces" have long been bars, cafes, and malls, thermal hubs o er a place to unwind, and the fresh, modern aesthetic adds to the trend’s popularity. Capybara Bathing
Soma Haus
Find floatation therapy, saunas, and ice baths in Joo Chiat. Their guided “Sweat & Freeze” programme helps to boost immunity and circulation, and reduce inflammation. somahaus.co
YOU WITNESS RESILIENCE IN YOURSELF AND OTHERS, AND THAT CREATES INSTANT CONNECTION
occupies a heritage shophouse where the calm inside encourages "slow living." Step through the door, and a crafted, thoughtfully designed interior opens up, centred around a pool with a steam room, mineral spa, and cold plunge pool. "We’re bringing the same sense of ease and openness that de nes our Sydney space to the Lion City – a place where people feel comfortable lingering," explains Nicole.
Over in Dempsey Hill, Nowhere Baths (nowherebaths.com) is another great example of new design style made for unhurried visits. Opening last April, this tranquil escape is all curves and natural tones, and o ers two hot pools, a cold plunge, a steam room, a sauna, and an outdoor deck overlooking lush greenery. "In a city like Singapore, people are seeking an experience that helps them feel like they can escape the hustle and
Capybara Bathing
This Sydney-born bathhouse blends hot and cold pools, saunas, and minimalist design for slowliving, communal wellness experiences. capybarabathing.com.sg
Nowhere Baths Dempsey Hill’s serene hideaway offers hot pools, cold plunges, saunas, and a leafy outdoor deck, designed for lingering, relaxing, and connecting with others. nowherebaths.com
Pix by Capybara, Declan Blackall Photography
bustle for a while," Sarah Chan, CoFounder of Nowhere Baths, says. "They're more aware of the importance of wellness practices to balance out the fast pace that we live in. In a city where you don't have easy access to vast expanses of nature, having a pocket of quiet is very welcome."
Beverly agrees: “The Ice Bath Club is designed to feel like a neighbourhood living room. People cheer each other into the ice bath, share tips, and support newcomers. It’s a place where strangers become friends, and rituals turn into community.”
TRUST & CAMARADERIE
Of course, water therapy boasts many advantages beyond being a conduit for connection. Immersion, whether cold plunges, hot pools, onsens, or saunas, can boost circulation, ease in ammation, and refresh the body. Mentally, stepping into water o ers focus, resilience, and a pause from a busy day. What's more, research strongly supports that challenging activities, especially those involving physical discomfort, shared goals, or novel experiences create a signi cantly deeper rapport.
“When you breathe through the cold with others, there’s instant trust and camaraderie," continues Beverly. "You witness resilience in yourself and the
Ikeda Spa
person beside you, and that creates an a nity fast. People leave feeling energised, relaxed, and clear. It’s about presence and intention, not just the physical bene ts.”
Nicole sees this too. "Community is central to Capybara Bathing. Our space feels like a place you return to, not just for the baths, but for the sense of belonging."
With hot soaks, ice plunges, and steam rooms on the rise, Singapore's bathing culture looks set to boom. Even the island's big hitters are getting in on the trend with wellness developer
One of the first water sanctuaries in SG to feature an authentic Hinoki onsen bath, Ikeda Spa uses mineral oils to soothe the senses. Guests can enjoy a private soak alone or with a partner. ikedaspa.com
Therme Group building the country's rst dedicated wellness attraction in Marina South. The $1 billion project, opening by 2030, will pack in saunas, steam baths, and water slides. With this in mind, perhaps the only option is to dive in together. In fast-paced Singapore, these aquatic spaces suggest a di erent kind of social progress – one where slowing down, sweating it out, and building networks in new ways might be exactly what we need to add into our schedules moving forward. Are you ready to take the plunge?
Cold Plunge SG
Head here for a traditional Finnish sauna, recovery and listening lounge, breathwork sessions, and two ice baths. They also host R&B Soul Fridays, where you can soak to soulful music. coldplungesg.com
Joya Onsen
This Japanese-style bathhouse and cafe in Jurong offers public and private hot spring baths, including seasonal teainfused soaks, cold plunges, and saunas. joyaonsencafe.com
REVA Social Wellness
This semi-outdoor ice bath experience is designed to boost mental clarity, resilience, and social interaction, while connecting you to nature. revasocialwellness.com
Pix by Nowhere Baths
From Trash To Triumph
ANZA member Georgia Mor has grown One Planet Singapore from two volunteers to a huge community tackling beach and neighbourhood litter.
East Coast Park
Alove of the beach is in the DNA of most Aussies and Kiwis, and that care doesn’t stop when we live overseas. Singapore’s shores may not rival those back home, but it’s still heartbreaking to see thousands of tonnes of litter wash up each year. The National Environment Agency reports that 97 per cent of plastic waste on recreational beaches on the red dot comes from o shore, carried by wind and currents, while the island generated 6.66 million tonnes of solid waste in 2024, with an overall recycling rate of 50 per cent. It’s a stark reminder of why grassroots action matters. No one understands this better than ANZA member Georgia Mor, Co-Founder of One Planet Singapore. From two people picking up rubbish, she has built a thriving community movement, proving small actions can make a very visible di erence.
Please tell us a little about yourself and what first brought you to SG?
Like many expats, I came to Singapore with my family for my husband’s job. We’ve been here for just over seven years, with our two teenage children and a dog. In my former life back in Sydney, Australia, I was a Chartered Accountant.
What is One Planet Singapore?
We’re a social group that organises regular clean-ups across the island. We clean beaches, streets, parks, and reservoirs, and I also encourage others to organise their own clean-ups. While most volunteers are trailing spouses, everyone is welcome.
How did the initiative come about?
I haven’t always been eco-conscious, but when I rst moved to Singapore and started travelling around Southeast Asia, I was shocked by what I saw. I’d watched documentaries about polluted oceans, but seeing them in real life was something else entirely. In 2019 I started doing small clean-ups around town with a like-minded friend, but it quickly became clear that two people wouldn’t make much of a di erence. We decided to get more people involved, and the rest is history.
How has One Planet Singapore evolved?
It has grown beyond my wildest dreams! Seven years on we have a Facebook community of more than 1,200 people, I’ve organised over 175 clean-ups, and we’ve collected more than 19 tonnes of rubbish.
How often do you clean up?
I run several clean-ups every month. East Coast Park and Pasir Ris are regular spots and need attention, and we head to other parts of the island when those beaches are in better shape. A few times a year we get on our kayaks and clean Marina Reservoir.
What results have you seen along the way?
I’ve organised clean-ups with Australian and New Zealand Commissioners, international and local schools, social groups including ANZA, Friends of the Museums, the Public Hygiene Council, corporates, and several local community organisations. Reaching our tenth tonne of rubbish in March 2023 was a huge moment for me. Now we’re closing in on 20 tonnes, I’m even more excited.
How do you bring people together for clean-ups and sustainability initiatives?
You might be surprised to hear this, but not everyone wants to pick up rubbish in their spare time! It’s taken real e ort to inspire people to get involved. Over time, I’ve developed a winning formula. I advertise in a few key places, choose clean-up spots near good co ee, keep sessions short, and use a reward system to promote repeat attendance. More than 25 people have attended at least 10 clean-ups, and two have joined over 50. So something is working!
As an expat, how tough is it to get a project like this off the ground?
It takes a lot of time. I plan every clean-up, book the beaches, manage social media, talk to sponsors, organise equipment, handle enquiries, and more. Collecting the rubbish is the easiest part! I’m not a natural salesperson and social media doesn’t come easily to me, so learning how to promote both myself and One Planet Singapore has been a challenge. And this can be a heartbreaking hobby. Cleaning a lthy beach, only to see it just as bad the following week, can be disheartening. I have to keep reminding myself that it all makes a di erence.
Beyond the environmental impact, what other benefits have you seen?
I’m proud of the rubbish we’ve collected, but I’m even prouder of the community I’ve built. I’ve met people from all over the world, formed wonderful friendships, and seen connections grow between people who might never otherwise have met. It’s
also lovely how often people stop to say thank you while we’re cleaning – sometimes they even bring us cold drinks or snacks. On a personal level, once you start collecting rubbish, it changes your own habits. You think twice about straws and plastic bottles when you’ve seen how many wash up on our beaches.
Looking ahead, what are your hopes for One Planet Singapore?
I only have a few years left here, and I’m really hoping we reach 20 tonnes of rubbish collected before I go – we’re very close. I don’t claim to have solved any of the world’s big problems, but I truly believe we’ve done something special with One Planet. I’m eternally grateful to everyone who has volunteered their time to help collect rubbish and make Singapore a better place. Everyone is welcome to join a clean-ups and people are also encouraged to organise their own and share them in the One Planet Facebook group. I’m always happy to o er advice and can lend out equipment too.
one_planet_singapore
One Planet (Singapore)
IT’S LOVELY HOW OFTEN PEOPLE STOP TO SAY THANK YOU WHILE WE’RE CLEANING
Georgia (right) on her mission
Think it's too late to start getting fit? Let 80-year-old Pull-Up Grandma show you how strength, stamina, and fun don’t have an age limit.
When Charlotte Lim retired in her late 50's, she wanted to add a little more movement into her life. But the local gym felt intimidating and serious, treadmills and weights felt tedious, and she often left wondering whether she was using the correct technique. A lack of progress, and the sudden death of her husband at 69 from a heart attack, propelled Charlotte and her daughter Yan, and son Tiat, to rethink their health.
As a result, Yan, 42, and Tiat, 53, co-founded Bespoke Fitness gym (bespoke tness. t). Knowing about her mum’s struggle to stay motivated with her exercise routine, Yan encouraged Charlotte to join her FitRX® gym sessions incorporating HIIT, calisthenics, strength training, and burst cardio. “That was eight years ago and I wasn’t keen at rst,” Charlotte admits. “I was 72 years old!
WHEN I EMBARK ON SOMETHING, I MUST AND WILL FINISH IT, NO MATTER HOW LONG IT TAKES
Never in my wildest dreams did I think I’d be doing chin-ups or pull-ups at my age!”
Powerful & resilient
Today, those sessions, which were personally developed by Yan and Tiat, are a non-negotiable part of Charlotte’s life. Now 80, and a ectionately known as "Auntie C" or "Pull-Up Grandma", she follows a carefully structured routine with Yan. Her tness cycle features three FitRX® classes per week, and every day has its own focus: Monday for chest and biceps, Tuesday for shoulders and legs, Wednesday for core, Thursday for back and triceps, Friday for legs, Saturday for a bodyweight bootcamp, and Sunday is
reserved for the Mega WOD (Workout of the Day).
Every session is broken into three parts: a warm-up of calisthenics, a strength and conditioning segment, and the WOD, which pushes burst cardio to the max. Each session lasts about an hour, but Charlotte admits that she'll sometimes take longer, and it takes her two hours to nish what younger clients complete in 40 minutes. “Once it took me three hours!” she recalls. Even on her days o Auntie C keeps moving. Active recovery usually means a 1.2km run, plus bodyweight exercises at home, or tackling the gym’s ongoing challenges like 5,000 sit-ups in two months.
Charlotte with her daughter and PT Yan
It’s a routine that keeps Charlotte feeling powerful and resilient. “The gyms I used to go to were full of people the same age as me, all complaining,” she says. “But exercising with my daughter keeps my energy levels up. She doesn’t let me slack o , and I can see the returns.”
At a petite 1.58m and 49kg, her achievements include six strict pull-ups, a 50kg barbell squat, and a dead hang lasting over four minutes. Charlotte confesses, “Pull-ups were the hardest to master – it took me four years to complete my rst one. I'm a perfectionist. I want to comply with instructions so I can perform to speci cations.” With true strength inside and out, she credits her motivation and dedication to growing up with strict Chinese parents from a poor background. “I'm governed by a value instilled in me from my youth: when I embark on something, I must and will nish it, no matter how long it takes.”
Nutritious food prep
Seeing her mum’s progress and being super-proud of her achievements, Yan, who's certi ed by the American College of Sports Medicine and FISAF Singapore, posted a TikTok video two years ago that catapulted Auntie C into stardom. “Yan is the one who manages my Instagram account and gave me the social media handle of Pull-Up Grandma. Now I have to work harder to live up to my name!” Charlotte says.
As well as committing to an exercise routine, Charlotte also began paying closer attention to her diet. Although she’s always loved cooking, she now channels her passion into meals that fuel her workouts. She starts the day with a healthy "breakfast bowl" packed with protein powder, cottage cheese, chia seeds, collagen, cocoa powder, and more –a powerhouse that keeps her energised for morning gym sessions.
Cooking more nutritious versions of her favourite local dishes soon evolved into a full meal plan including local comfort food such as chicken curry, nasi lemak, and rendang, using techniques like air frying to cut added oil while maintaining taste. With 21 meals across one week, Charlotte eats clean 19 times, with two cheat meals. The plan was coined by Tiat as BERP – the Bespoke Eat Right Programme. “It’s clean cooking with NO SOAP: no sugar, oil, additives, or processed food."
As Charlotte’s online following grew, so too did the popularity of her BERP meals, which are now available with meal ideas on Instagram.
Alongside food and exercise, quality sleep is also non-negotiable for Charlotte, with her prioritising seven to eight hours every night. As for her post-workout daily routine, mornings are spent at the market, followed by food prep and house cleaning. In the afternoons she enjoys a siesta after lunch followed by some quiet Bible reading. She does allow herself the occasional treat, her favourite being chendol, which the family tuck into on day trips to Malaysia.
Raising the bar
Training with your children may not be everyone’s choice, but it has brought Charlotte and her kids closer together. “I’m privileged to be trained by them. Their methodology is well researched and science-backed, and I’ve learnt that perseverance, discipline, and following instructions are key to enjoying the results of hard work," she says.
A self-confessed “Tiger Mum”, Charlotte admits she was once a strict parent who rarely smiled or had fun. Exercise has since transformed her – not just physically, but mentally. “My children constantly raise the bar for me, signing me up for competitions without my approval! I just do as Yan tells me!” It's a mindset that has taken Charlotte beyond the gym, from a 100-metre dash to a photoshoot with Singapore’s Health Minister, and even skydiving!
The biggest misconception about ageing, she says, is that older people are weak, frail, and injury-prone. However, she admits she struggles to convince friends her age to join tness sessions with her. “I tell people: I’m your blueprint. Exercise like me. Eat like me. Sleep like me. This is how you stay disease-free. I’m proud of my resilience. I don’t have high cholesterol, high blood pressure, or diabetes, and I’m not on any medication,” she says, adding with a smile, “I’m having the time of my life.”
Discover more at bespoke tness. t @ trx_singapore @pullup_grandma @coachwhy_yan
“I
tried Auntie C’s workout”
By ANZA's Chrissy Lim
“I started exercising for the first time last year and thought I was doing okay… but I couldn't keep up with Charlotte! She makes FitRX® look effortless, but within minutes I was sweating, puffing, and regretting my workout outfit. By the end, I was wiped out, but totally in awe. Pull-Up Grandma is next-level and a true inspiration.”
At Bird Paradise with Singapore's Minister for Health, Ong Ye Kung
“I consider the SMB guys to be my closest friends in Singapore”
Secret Men’s Business is the ANZA group where blokes find mates, solve world problems over beers, and feel supported in Singapore.
The name suggests clandestine operations and classi ed intel. But in reality, Secret Men’s Business (SMB) is ANZA’s brilliantly straightforward answer to a question many blokes struggle to ask: where do I nd my people?
It’s sad but true: for many guys living overseas, nding casual camaraderie can be surprisingly di cult. Back home, man-mates are often built into the fabric of life: the footy club, the local pub, workmates. For blokes who might not naturally reach out or know where to turn, the isolation can be profound.
Show up & be yourself
Research paints a concerning picture of men’s social health. According to a 2024 report by Healthy Male (Andrology Australia), 43% of Australian men have experienced loneliness, with 16% reporting high levels, and men aged 35 – 49 were found to be the most a ected group. The consequences aren’t trivial – prolonged periods of loneliness can be associated with serious physical health conditions like cardiac disease and immune de ciency, and mental health conditions like anxiety, depression, and even suicide.
Sadly, societal expectations often discourage men from admitting they’re struggling or actively seeking friendship. This is where SMB excels. It’s not therapy or a formal support group with an agenda. It’s golf, tennis, cycling, a few beers afterwards, and monthly lunches where blokes can just show up and be themselves. “SMB is very low key,” explains Mike Sabey, who’s been involved with the group for eight years. “We just try to provide a place in Singapore for trailing spouses and those who work to connect, share information, and solve the world’s issues over a drink.”
Above: Mike Sabey (left) and some of the SMB crew Below: Members visit Melrose Home – Children's Aid Society
Golf is a big SMB pastime
43% OF AUSTRALIAN MEN HAVE EXPERIENCED LONELINESS, AND THOSE AGED 35 – 49 ARE THE MOST AFFECTED GROUP
Mate network
The origins of ANZA's SMB are clouded in mystery and highly contested. “It was believed to have been conceived between 2001-3 by Alex and Peter McMenamin,” Mike tells us. “By 2006 SMB was playing golf on Thursdays and meeting up for lunch once a month. Early watering holes were Brewerkz Riverside Point, and The Wagon Wheel on Greenwood Avenue.”
By the time Mike joined in 2017 – introduced through his wife’s work colleague Simon, who roped him into helping with props for ANZA’s Black Tie Ball – the group had evolved. “When I joined, golf was twice a week, and we were meeting for lunch at The Penny Black. The guys would catch up for drinks after golf at Tango's Restaurant & Wine Bar in Holland Village, Mogambo Bar & Restaurant, and Hero's. We also had cycling and tennis sessions, all of which involved a few beers afterwards.”
The beauty of SMB has always been its casual, drop-in ethos, but when Covid hit in 2020, meet-ups were obviously disrupted. “Covid knocked the group around, and many long-term residents left the country,” Mike recalls. But like any good mate network, SMB adapted. “These days it’s very much based on a shout-out to the group; this is where we are if you would like to catch up,” Mike explains. “The general rule is, jump in, never hesitate!"
SMB is also dedicated to giving back, collecting donations for Melrose Home – Children’s Aid Society at every lunch. “We took the time to visit the sta a few years back and the story we were told is heartbreaking in a rst-world country like this,” Mike says. The funds provide residential care and specialised therapies to support children and youths who've experienced adverse life circumstances such as abuse or neglect.
In the same boat
There's no doubt the social side of SMB provides a lifeline for ANZA members. Today the group’s calendar includes monthly lunches, the highlight being the festive lunch in December, State of Origin and Grand Finals gatherings for NRL and AFL, golf trips to Batam and Johor, and tournaments including the biannual O'Brien’s (UK/Ireland vs Australia/New Zealand) in Batam, Indonesia, and the annual Masters tournament in Hua Hin, Thailand.
Mike’s own experience illustrates exactly why groups like SMB matter. As a trailing spouse of 11 years who spent three years in Tokyo before Singapore, Mike admits that connecting with likeminded blokes hasn’t always been easy. “It depends on who you are, but I found it a little hard. I hesitated joining the lunches for a while, even sitting at a di erent table to assess the group! That was a big mistake. I now miss not spending more time with the guys who have since left.”
For those reading this and debating whether to sign up, Mike’s advice is simple: “My suggestion is to dive in and introduce yourself. We welcome all ANZA members and there is so much intel the older members can share about every aspect of living on the island. We’re all in the same boat.” Indeed, the impact of the group runs deeper than golf handicaps and beer recommendations. “I consider the SMB guys to be my closest friends in Singapore,” Mike shares. “Even the members who have left our shores still keep in touch via the chat group.”
Secret Men’s Business proves that sometimes the most powerful support networks are the ones that don’t feel like support networks at all. Just blokes, beers, and the understanding that we’re all navigating life away from home together.
Log onto anza.org.sg/activities/secret-mens-business for more
Below: SMB Christmas lunch, 2025
Stay Cyber Savvy
Online crime is getting smarter, sneakier, and more personal. Security expert Troy Hunt shares what families need to know.
While we’re lucky to live in one of the safest countries in the world, none of us can escape the fast-moving, increasingly sophisticated world of cybercrime. In Singapore, as everywhere, online threats are constantly evolving, which means staying savvy, alert, and ahead of the latest scams and safety precautions is more important than ever. Thankfully, there are experts like Troy Hunt (troyhunt.com), who has his nger rmly on the pulse of digital mischief. An Australian International School (AIS)
alumnus who grew up on the red dot, Troy is a software developer and security researcher with more than 30 years of experience in tech. In 2013, he launched the data breach noti cation service "Have I Been Pwned", which helps people discover if their personal information has been exposed online. For anyone who doesn’t know what pwned means, never updates their passwords, or still thinks cyber crime only happens to other people (i.e all of us!), read on.
Going into cybersecurity was a forward-thinking move!
I nished secondary school at AIS and then went to Gri th University on the Gold Coast, right as the .com industry was taking o . The timing worked in my favour. "Have I Been Pwned" indexes data from cybercriminals, security researchers, and law enforcement agencies like the FBI and Europol, so people can see if their information has been exposed. "Pwned" is a word from gamer culture – if you were to shoot the opponent, you might say, “You’re pwned.” The origin comes from a typo: someone mistyped owned as pwned, and it was a term that stuck. As the criminal ecosystem online keeps growing, and with more of our lives moving online, the risks just keep multiplying.
What are the major risks in cybercrime today?
There are so many ways criminals can access information. Your email address is out there because it’s been leaked somewhere. You might have left it thinking you were entering a competition or winning a cruise, but it was really a service to harvest your data. Massive email lists oat around that scammers use to sh for personal data. Phishing, for example, is often a very indiscriminate, shotgun approach: “Let’s just send 100 million emails, and if we get 0.1% of people to give some personal data, that’s enough.” All of us are vulnerable that way.
So attacks are not personal? Cybercriminals are out to get everyone. Romance scams are a good example. Many originated in places like Nigeria. A large amount of emails will be sent out pretending to be a lonely person looking for a connection. A few people bite, and then those individuals are targeted more speci cally. But it usually starts very broad.
How does this fraud actually work?
Malware is still a big thing – infecting a computer, capturing credentials, and selling them on underground forums. Extortion is another major issue – even if you haven’t done anything wrong, emails might claim that you have. Anything from not paying a toll gate ne to “we caught you watching inappropriate content on your computer, and we have photos of you.” Many people freak out enough to make payments. In Australia, cybercrime results in about $3 billion a year in nancial fraud. Everyone has some net wealth, and there are opportunities for fraudulent tax returns, early superannuation withdrawals, or other schemes. There are many variations of crime, and unfortunately, some people fall victim.
Who’s behind these crimes?
The wild thing is that a lot of scammers themselves are victims. In places like Myanmar and Burma, people are enticed by organised crime gangs with work, then held hostage and forced to execute online scams in a cyber compound. O ers of work lure people, passports are taken, and they’re kept hostage, sometimes physically abused. You’ve probably had calls pretending to be your bank, telco, or Microsoft. Those callers could be people who've been scammed themselves, now trying to scam others.
How can we even start to protect ourselves?
The biggest issue is people reusing passwords, leading to account takeovers and potential loss of sensitive information or money. Passwords are one security paradigm that all of us struggle with. We all have lots of them and have probably done a terrible job of managing them. One big misunderstanding is that passwords need to be remembered. We’re past that point now – we have too many accounts. If you reuse a password, as soon as one gets compromised, someone has the keys to all your other accounts. Unique passwords are absolutely fundamental to personal cybersecurity.
What to do?
To have unique passwords across 100+ accounts you need a password manager. There are password managers built into iOS and browsers, and dedicated products too. They create genuinely random passwords, store them securely, and ll them in automatically when you log in.
Can you explain how cybercrime is being tackled globally?
Cybercrime isn’t bound by geography. Criminals can operate anywhere in the world, often from regions not as cooperative as Singapore or Australia. Law enforcement like Europol conducts takedowns of criminal ecosystems,
botnets, and ransomware campaigns, but it’s complicated when o enders are overseas. Many government programmes focus on prevention, helping teenagers and young adults to avoid cybercrime.
"Pwned" is a gaming term, which is a big pastime for children everywhere …
This concern has gained a large amount of traction, especially around Roblox, the massively popular gaming platform where kids build and share their own games. Gaming, unlike when I was at school playing Doom, is now social and online with people from all over the world. It's great for connection, but it also exposes kids to manipulation from older players or adults looking to take advantage.
What can parents do?
My wife and I encourage our 13 and 16-year-olds to use devices in the living room. Being present helps start conversations. You can’t isolate or block everything; parents must be part of the discussion. We actively involve our kids in scams. When I get a scam call, I let the kids talk to the scammer. A long pause, an unusual accent, and generic instructions like, "Press one for PayPal" are a clear scam and becomes a teaching moment. We make it a challenge: how long can the kids keep the scammer on the line, what are they trying to get?
Are there new ways to ensure devices are safe for children?
Modern operating systems have built-in parental controls. We set our kids up in a family group on Apple devices. Controls manage purchases, ag nudity, and help monitor activity. Use native controls –Apple, Google, Microsoft all have them. Avoid third-party tools that capture photos, voice messages, or activate cameras and microphones. Most have "spy" in the name which is a giveaway. A healthy distrust of everything online is a good starting point.
How about protection against cyberbullying and online interactions?
Perpetrators seek shock value, often with racial, sexist, or o ensive content. Kids being bullied are generally well-behaved in real life, but anonymity brings out the
THE BIGGEST ISSUE IS PEOPLE REUSING PASSWORDS, LEADING TO ACCOUNT TAKEOVERS
worst. Social media has huge bene ts for children; it’s part of growing up, but guidance should be tailored by family.
What should parents watch for?
Your child spending a lot of time alone on devices isn’t necessarily a concern, but very late hours, becoming withdrawn from normal social interactions, or suddenly having money from unexplained sources are red ags.
Fast forward 10 years – will we be safer online?
The online world will just be di erent. AI will be a major issue, making it harder to know what’s real. But AI can also detect anomalies, like business email compromise, where emails appear legitimate but aren’t. AI helps identify threats humans might miss.
How Singapore Stays Cyber Safe
In December 2025, the Commercial Affairs Department of Singapore Defence Force said police believed 143 people were involved in over 400 scam cases with losses of almost $4m, mainly involving e-commerce, friend impersonation, job, government official impersonation, investment, and rental scams. From 30 December 2025, scammers and scam syndicate members or recruiters face mandatory caning of at least six strokes, up to 24, while scam mules who launder proceeds or provide SIM cards and Singpass credentials may receive discretionary caning of up to 12 strokes.
THRIVING IN SINGAPORE
Whether you’re new to Singapore or a long-term resident, join us at the Australian High Commission to learn more about life on the island. Hear about all of the activities happening in the ANZA community, get tips and advice from our guest speakers, and meet new friends over a relaxed morning tea. Everyone is welcome - bring a friend!
10 March, 9.30am-11.30am
AUSTRALIAN HIGH COMMISSION
For a snack on-the-go, or at your leisure, these SG favourites hit the spot. Find them at supermarkets, food courts, ethnic eateries or heartland mamak shops. By RAELENE TAN.
APPALAM are spicy, wafer-thin, crisp Indian crackers made from lentil our, roasted or deep-fried.
BANANA CHIPS (kerepek pisang in Malay), comprise sliced rm bananas, roasted or deep-fried until crisp and golden.
Fried or baked, individual CURRYPUFFS are pastries shaped like Aussie pasties, containing thick chicken curry, enjoyed by many Singaporeans, and others.
Glucose-rich DATES are a well-known source of energy, particularly in tropical countries.
EGG TARTS, deliciously classic eggcustard encased in round shape pupastry Eurasian Portuguese-style, and presented in diamond shape short-crustpastry Chinese style.
Popular FISH BALLS, made from minced sh shaped into balls then boiled or fried,
conveniently served on wooden skewers.
GORENG PISANG, or fried banana fritter, rmly established in Singapore as a crowd-pleaser, makes this Malay treat a winner.
HALIA is the Malay word for ginger. Dried ginger makes a healthy snack.
Originally from South India, IDLI are steamed rice-cakes, best enjoyed with coconut-chutney.
Preserved (dried) fruit, JERUK, encompasses sweet and spicy tastes, including apricot, mango and plum, sold in packets.
TARTS, lled or topped with pineapple jam fragrant with spices, are rm favourites in Singapore.
Made from tapioca starch, the bouncy texture of Q PEARLS appeals in bubble tea.
ROTI (bread) JALA (net), a traditional Malay snack, has a golden (turmeric) netlike appearance.
SUGEE CAKE, a Eurasian specialty, made with semolina our and ground almonds, is deliciously dense yet light; a personal favourite.
Indian-style pancake THOSAI uses fermented batter of rice and lentils, accompanied by coconut-chutney.
KAYA TOAST comprises kaya (coconut and pandan jam) and butter-slabs nestled between toast slices; a quintessential Singapore favourite.
LING GE, a hard black nut shaped like a bull’s head with horns, enclosing white crunchy esh.
Pretzel-like, crispy and crunchy, deep-fried MURUKU is an Indian-style snack.
UPPALAM, also known as Papadam, are crispy Indian-style lentil-based crackers. Deep-fried donut-shape VADAI is made with ground lentils, green chillies and ginger.
NUTS are popular, especially cashews, groundnuts (peanuts) in their pods, and almonds, all with healthy vibes for snacks on-the-go.
Nonya OTAK-OTAK is minced sh meat with a spicy taste, placed securely in coconut leaves before grilling.
Individual Nonya PINEAPPLE
Individual WHITE RABBIT CANDY, soft and chewy, has nostalgic appeal for many. Refresh with XIGUA LAO (watermelon jelly) consisting of thickened, chilled, watermelon juice.
YU CHAR KWAY, a Chinese long, curly, deep-fried dough-stick, often dunked in co ee.
ZONGZI Chinese steamed glutinous-rice dumpling with savoury or sweet lling, wrapped in leaves.
Snack to your heart’s content!
Born in Adelaide, Raelene Tan is an etiquette consultant and a food and travel writer. She has authored ve books and has been a regular guest on radio and television.
Photographs
courtesy of Ashley Ang; egg tarts, ling ge; curry pu , groundnuts, yu char
kway
We’re eating at the National Gallery Singapore? It’s going to be fancy, yes?
Some restaurants announce themselves loudly. Gilmore & Damian D’Silva does the opposite. You’re right that it’s set within the former Supreme Court wing of the National Gallery Singapore, but rather than being full-on jazz hands, it has a quietness about it – understandable when you realise it’s standing on sacred ground, not only architecturally, but personally.
Oooh, what do you mean?
Gilmore D’Silva, an ex police detective, was the rst and only custodian of the Supreme Court from 1939 – 1960, safeguarding the building for 21 years. He lived within its quarters, held its keys, and cooked for the judges despite having no
KERRY LOW discovers a restaurant that’s equal parts family memoir and culinary archive, where Chef Damian D’Silva honours his grandfather’s Eurasian legacy.
GILMORE & DAMIAN D’SILVA
1 St Andrew’s Road, #01-02/03 National Gallery, 178957 gilmore.sg
formal culinary training. For his grandson Chef Damian D’Silva, putting the restaurant within the same building where his grandfather resided isn’t a coincidence. This is a homecoming and full-circle moment in Chef Damian's career.
Is Gilmore's presence felt when you're there?
Talk us through the food ...
The menu centres on heirloom Eurasian recipes, some more than 200 years old, alongside Chinese dishes inspired by Gilmore’s cooking. Everything is made from scratch using traditional methods.
What's on the menu?
Family photographs line the walls and personal artefacts are displayed. One standout is Gilmore’s treasured recipe book, reserved for the most complex dishes – everything else lived entirely in his head! The recipe book now hangs on the restaurant wall, a reminder of how easily culinary knowledge disappears. When a young Damian once asked to learn those recipes, his reason was simple: “So that I can still eat the food you cook when you are not around.” Now Damian honours this daily.
Who was Gilmore beyond the kitchen?
People remember him for his impeccable manners, generosity, and thoughtfulness. He was also an adventurous cook, deeply versed in Eurasian cuisine. His in uence shaped Damian’s palate, values, and instinctive sense of hospitality.
Teochew ngoh hiang, fragrant with ve spice and wrapped in caul fat, is about technique rather than reinvention. Chicken soup steamed inside a coconut husk carries the comfort of specialoccasion cooking, while Kristang dishes such as cowdang and Christmas Debal surface avours at risk of slipping quietly into history. The sugee cake for dessert is a pure step-back-in-time. Food arrives family table-style, meant for sharing.
With all the history, how's the vibe?
Service is warm and precise, shaped by the same gentlemanly hospitality Gilmore embodied all those years back.
Final thoughts?
Gilmore & Damian D’Silva is more than a restaurant. It’s a living archive of a grandfather’s in uence, and of a cuisine that survives because someone chose to remember. Where Gilmore once safeguarded the Supreme Court, Chef Damian now safeguards Singapore’s Eurasian culinary heritage.
Left: Damian D'Silva Above: Gilmore's recipe book
Christmas Debal
Sugee cake
WEDNESDAY, 15 APRIL HARD ROCK CAFE
6.30pm - 9.30pm
50 Cuscaden Rd, #02-01 Hpl House, 249724
ANZA Social Night welcomes non-members. Register at anza.org.sg/events/social-night
Singing Group
Group host, Bernadette Nagy, is a singer and a passionate music educator.
We cover pop, rock, musicals, old favourites, classical, karaoke –you name it! Don’t be shy, all abilities are welcome. Find out more at anza.org.sg/ groups/singing-group Come sing with us – where every voice is welcome!
ANZA Singing welcomes all voices for fun, relaxed sessions exploring folk, pop, and more. No experience needed - just laughter, harmony, and community spirit. Join us! Find out more at anza.org.sg/ activities/singing-group
For roasts carved with confidence, classics done properly, and mustards that steal the show, RAF DALMAU recommends Moutarde, sans hésitation.
MOUTARDE
26 Sentosa Gateway, B1-219-221
WEAVE, Resorts World Sentosa, 098138
We’re off to France?
Mais oui! Join me at Moutarde, a French bistro that feels instantly welcoming and easy to enjoy. The room feels familiar with cues of a classic bistro, but the energy is modern and relaxed. There's movement without chaos, and a sense that this is a place built for people who love eating well and doing so often.
That's us! Who’s cooking?
Moutarde is shaped by Chef Paul Pairet, best known for his three-Michelin star restaurant
Ultraviolet in Shanghai. The end of that chapter is part of what brings this team to Singapore. Rather than chasing accolades, the focus here feels refreshingly simple: cook well, cook often, and cook for people who genuinely love food.
Is this trad French fare?
The food is rmly rooted in classic casual French bistro style, built on comfort, familiarity, and quality ingredients. It’s not about reworking classics or adding unnecessary ourishes. The carvery lies at the heart of the menu.
Tell us more!
THIS IS A PLACE FOR PEOPLE WHO LOVE EATING WELL AND DOING SO OFTEN
The live carvery anchors the menu and dining room. Whole cuts are roasted, rested, and carved in various elements. The roast beef and the short ribs are particularly memorable, not just for their avour, but for how generous the portions are. What elevates the dishes further is what comes with them. Of course, living up to the restaurant’s name (Moutarde is “mustard” in French), the mustards are exquisite.
How strong are the starters?
Very – and far more than a warm up. They're dishes you order because you really want to eat them and make a meal in their own right. The Eggs Mayonnaise deserves a special shout out. Having eaten several versions across Paris, this dish ranks among the best. Elsewhere, the pâté de campagne and charcuterie are rustic and deeply avoured, while the Tamara Za’atar brings a fresh element that reminds you of modern French bistros.
Is dessert worth saving room for? Absolutely. Desserts are treated with the same care as the rest of the menu. The sou é is light, warm, and satisfying, while the French toast leans into nostalgia without heaviness. Lighter citrus options o er a clean nish, and the Sundae Royale should not be ignored if you're not quite ready for the evening to end.
Are Chef Paul's Michelin-level details visible?
While the food remains proudly humble, the technique is unmistakably top level. Small moments appear throughout the meal, a sauce with unexpected depth, a sou é that feels e ortless. They de nitely reward diners who notice them.
What about value, especially in Singapore?
This is where Moutarde stands apart. The pricing feels thoughtful and grounded, particularly given the quality of the cooking and pedigree of the kitchen. Moutarde delivers something that's been missing from the red dot's dining scene: a laid-back classic French bistro with world-class roots, a comfortable atmosphere, generous portions, and prices that make return visits a pleasure to experience.
Charcuterie
French Toast, Sundae Royale
Eggs Mayonnaise
Moutarde's maturation room
Following in Their Footsteps
PJ ROBERTS trekked the legendary Kokoda Track with his oldest mates, taking in the history of his grandfathers and great-uncles who fought there during WWII.
“The alarm goes o at 4.30am. Again. My body aches from yesterday’s relentless climb, and I know today will be no easier. Outside the tent, the Papua New Guinea (PNG) jungle is already awake – bird calls permeate the pre-dawn darkness. I pull on still-damp socks and emerge to nd my nine mates doing the same. We’re Day Five into the Kokoda Track – the famous 138km jungle path in PNG’s Owen Stanley Range –and every muscle in my body is telling me why this trek has legendary status.
Taking small steps on the Kokoda Track. Lots of them!
Morning de-brief before setting off
But as I stand there in the mud, I’m thinking about my grandfathers. Both my grandad on my father’s side and grandpa on my mother’s side fought in PNG during World War II. Grandad’s brother also served during the war. My great-uncles Frank and Clem fought on the Kokoda Track and were also among the fabled Rats of Tobruk. Uncle Frank never made it home; he’s buried at Bomana War Cemetery in Port Moresby. Suddenly, my damp socks don’t seem like much to complain about.
Mates & Plans
This journey to PNG began eight years ago when ten of us – all childhood friends from Marist Brothers in Canberra – took our rst trip together to Cuba, Mexico, and the United States. When we were in our mid-thirties, we all decided to set up a holiday savings plan, with a bid to travel together and celebrate the friendship we shared despite now living scattered across the globe. We’d talked about tackling the Kokoda Track for a while. As Australians, the track holds immense cultural and historical signi cance. For me, living in
Singapore where the Japanese captured the city in 1942, there’s an even deeper connection. When you understand that the Battle of Kokoda was pivotal in stopping the Japanese advance toward Australia, you realise just how critical this ground is to our nation’s freedom.
After lengthy planning, we locked in dates for September 2025. The trek would be 11 days total, with nine days of actual trekking, covering 15–20 kilometres daily through rugged jungle terrain.
I prepared like I was heading into football pre-season. Having played professionally in the past I knew about rigorous training, but this was something unfamiliar and unique for me. I focused on stairs, hill climbs, strength work, core stability, and training with weight on my back.
What I didn’t expect was how much the emotional preparation would matter. I immersed myself in the history of the trail, watching documentaries, listening to podcasts, reading everything I could.
Learning about the battles, what those soldiers endured, and how it connects to my family’s story transformed this trip from a physical challenge into something profoundly meaningful.
Into the Jungle
The trek itself is unlike anything I’d experienced. It isn’t a ‘track’ in any traditional sense; it’s navigating deep jungle, traversing ridges, dealing with constant mud, tree roots, and constant steep inclines and declines. You’re wet the entire time from sweating in the humidity or from pouring rain.
Our days followed a punishing rhythm: wake at 4.30am, quick breakfast, and set o by 5.30am. We’d then trek until 5pm. Accommodation was basic one-man tents. Food was simple with lots of carbs. We washed in rivers, used the jungle as our bathroom, and turned discomfort into fun. Each of us had an individual porter
Papuan Soldiers and Carriers Memorial Naduri
PJ (front, second right) with his mates and Uncle Frank's headstone
carrying our main pack of about 20kgs while we carried day packs of 8–10kgs. Our group of porters were a constant support system, preparing meals and setting up camp. Learning about the wartime porters made this even more powerful. They carried food and supplies, transported injured soldiers to safety, and navigated this brutal terrain, many of them barefoot. Their strength and sel essness were vital to the Australian soldiers’ survival.
The toughest section was Brigade Hill. We trekked from Port Moresby to Kokoda, and Brigade Hill felt like walking up a near-vertical, slippery incline for ve hours. We pushed through by literally taking one step at a time. You focus on the person in front of you – usually a porter or a mate – and place your feet exactly where they step. Rhythm, patience, and persistence were key, plus plenty of laughs along the way.
One of the great bene ts of doing such a historic trek was the daily re ection. Each morning, we’d discuss what lay ahead and what those locations meant during the war. Our trek leader 'Handbags' was an ex-soldier deeply familiar with the wartime history. As we crossed peaks and ridges, we stopped at signi cant battle sites where he shared stories of what happened there. We saw remnants of small dugouts where soldiers would dig in along ridgelines. Standing there, experiencing the jungle at its most challenging, I kept thinking: could you imagine doing this knowing the enemy was out there trying to kill you? While we were simply trekking, they were ghting for their lives.
The memorial at Isurava was particularly moving. Learning how outnumbered the Australian soldiers were, yet seeing how clever, tough, and resilient they remained was incredibly impressive. The Four Pillars of Kokoda – Mateship, Sacri ce, Courage, and Endurance – aren’t just words. They’re embodied in what those young soldiers did on this ground.
Brotherhood on Track
Of course, taking on the Kokoda Track with my mates made it even more signi cant. Being completely present without our phones, we had funny conversations, deep chats, constant banter, and a bit of mickey-taking. We
UNDERSTANDING WHAT THOSE SOLDIERS ENDURED TRANSFORMED THIS TRIP INTO SOMETHING PROFOUNDLY MEANINGFUL
relived old school stories and shared new ones around campsites. There were hilarious moments like when one mate slipped on a steep section, his feet moving like Fred Flintstone as he tried to stay upright! Another mate slid down a ridge, hanging on for dear life before porters caught him (don't try this at home, kids!). Once, while bathing during a torrential storm, another mate’s clothes disappeared downstream as we all scrambled out laughing 'from an incoming ash ood'.
On our nal day, we visited Bomana War Cemetery. Standing at Uncle Frank’s headstone, surrounded by over 4,000 graves of young soldiers who lost their lives ghting for our country, was very emotional. The cemetery is beautifully maintained, re ecting the appreciation both PNG and Australia have for these soldiers.
Travelling to PNG was a wonderful opportunity to honour their sacri ce and celebrate my family’s history. Living overseas for 28 years, I’ve always had
a major love for Australia and a strong connection to family, but walking that track, understanding how pivotal the Battle of Kokoda was to Australia’s freedom, brought everything into sharp focus. The incredible opportunities I had growing up in Canberra, from my education to the football experiences that shaped me, were all built on the sacri ces of those soldiers.
For those considering Kokoda, my advice would be to just do it. Physical preparation is crucial to ensure you can enjoy it, but equally important is gaining an insight into the history before you go. If you can immerse yourself in the resources available, the richer and more meaningful the experience will be.
As for our group’s next adventure, options range from travelling to Everest Base Camp to seeing the Hong Kong Sevens. What matters most though, is coming together again and creating more lasting memories. Standing in the Papua New Guinea jungle at dawn, surrounded by my oldest mates and following in my grandfathers’ footsteps, puts what really matters in life into perspective.”
Kicking back after a hard day
Gifting the local kids a football
Rash Decisions
Spotted a rash on your child? Don’t panic. Dr Bernadeta Wibisano shares spot-on advice for worried parents.
Almost every parent will notice a rash on their child’s skin at some point. When this happens, it’s natural to worry. e reassuring news is that most childhood rashes are common, mild, and temporary. ey’re o en caused by irritation, allergies, or everyday infections, and most clear up with simple care. Understanding what’s behind a rash can help parents feel more confident about when to watch and wait, and when to call the doctor for help.
Dermatitis means inflammation of the skin and is one of the most frequent reasons children develop rashes. Nappydermatitis is especially common in babies. It happens when moisture and friction irritate delicate skin. Frequent nappy changes, gentle cleaning, and protective barrier creams – such as those containing zinc oxide – can make a big difference. If a nappy rash doesn’t improve or seems to worsen, your paediatrician can check for a yeast infection and recommend treatment.
Dermatitis
Viral Rashes
Bacterial & Fungal Infections
Atopic dermatitis (eczema) o en shows up as dry, itchy, irritated skin on the face, elbows, or knees. Children with eczema have more sensitive skin that
Bacterial & Fungal Infections
Board certified by the American Board of Paediatrics, Dr Wibisano specialises in caring for newborns, children, and adolescents, and is based at the Children’s Clinic in Camden.
starts with a high fever for a few days. Once the fever settles, a so pink rash appears on the trunk of the body and fades quickly. Chickenpox causes itchy blisters that crust over within one to two weeks. Children are contagious until all the blisters have scabbed. Hand, foot, and mouth disease leads to painful mouth sores and rashes on the hands and feet, but usually improves within one to two weeks. Molluscum contagiosum causes small, flesh-coloured bumps that can linger for months. Although stubborn, it’s harmless and eventually clears on its own.
Dermatitis
reacts easily to soaps, heat, fabrics, and even stress. Daily moisturising with fragrance-free creams helps protect the skin barrier. During flareups, prescription creams may be needed. Keeping nails trimmed and discouraging scratching can also help prevent infections.
Contact dermatitis occurs when the skin touches something irritating or allergenic, such as certain soaps, fragrances, or poison ivy. e rash is usually itchy and limited to the area of contact. Avoiding the trigger and using soothing topical treatment or antihistamines can ease symptoms.
Viruses are another very common cause of rashes in children. Roseola typically
Bacterial & Fungal Infections
Some rashes are caused by bacteria or fungi. Scarlet fever comes with a sandpaperlike rash and sore throat and needs antibiotic treatment. Impetigo causes crusted sores, o en around the mouth and nose, while ringworm creates circular, scaly patches and responds well to antifungal medication.
When to call the doctor
Trust your instincts. Contact your paediatrician if a rash spreads quickly, looks severe, becomes painful or oozes, or if your child has a fever or seems unwell. Rashes are a normal part of growing up. With gentle care, good information, and support from your child’s doctor, most skin concerns can be managed easily, bringing comfort to your child and peace of mind to you.
To book a consultation with Dr. Wibisano, schedule an appointment via the IMC Health app, call +65 6733 4440, or visit imc-healthcare.com
Viral Rashes
Dermatitis
Viral Rashes
WEATHERING Life in Singapore
Life in the tropics is fabulous, but are you aware of just how much the climate affects your mood and mind? Read on for a full forecast.
Crowded House might have sung "Everywhere you go, always take the weather with you," but in Singapore, that's impossible. The weather you knew back home stays behind, and the tropics take over! Without distinct seasons, the sun blazes, humidity wreaks havoc (don't get us started on our hair), and monsoon downpours can strike at any time. For those who’ve been on the red dot for a while, it’s likely you still bear the scars of last year’s temperatures regularly exceeding 34°C, and of September bringing more than double the usual rainfall.
“When you live in Singapore, the weather isn’t just a backdrop – it shapes how we feel, think, and navigate life. Living in such a climate, where it’s hot and humid almost constantly, in uences how we feel from one day to the next,” explains Diandra Andersen, Counsellor at New Leaf Counselling and Integrative Health (newleaf.com.sg). “Without the rhythm of the seasons, we miss natural cues that shift our mood and behaviour, such as reduced sunlight, a drop in temperature, or a natural change in our body’s internal clock. Everything stays fairly constant, and while that predictability is comforting, it can leave us feeling a bit low. Days blur together, and a lack of novelty can make us fatigued, irritable, and less motivated.”
Newcomers to the island quickly notice that the heat is draining. “High temperatures trigger the stress response,” Diandra continues. “Heart rate climbs, sweat increases, and systems work overtime to stay cool. Cortisol levels rise, leaving people more tired than usual.” Research shows that hospital ER visits for mental health concerns increase on extremely hot days, highlighting the real physical and mental toll of Singapore’s climate.
Rainy days bring their own challenges. “Grey skies and frequent downpours mean less natural light and a dip in serotonin, which can leave people feeling sluggish or unmotivated. Even small tasks feel harder than usual,” Diandra notes, adding that there’s growing evidence that climates such as Singapore’s can produce their own form of "tropical SAD" (Seasonal A ective Disorder).
Unlike winter SAD, it’s the heat and humidity, not darkness, that wears people down. Symptoms like low mood, insomnia, and loss of interest in activities can appear, often with decreased appetite and sleep rather than increased.
The good news? The weather is a small price to pay for all the bene ts of living in Singapore. The island o ers excellent weather-friendly activities (see p18), amazing infrastructure, and epic air conditioning, so we can move around comfortably. There are small personal changes you can make to stay well in body and mind, too. As Diandra points out, the weather may be constant, but we don’t have to respond to it in the same way. By building routines, getting natural light, moving mindfully, and practising simple self-care rituals, it’s possible to thrive in the tropics, no matter what the thermometer says.
Slow down
Don’t rush through the hottest part of the day. “Stay hydrated, carry an umbrella, and try calming breathing exercises to keep your body feel cooler. A tip – make your exhale longer than your inhale to calm your nervous system.”
Practice hygge
While a grey day can bring on a grump, it also o ers the chance to embrace a bit of Danish "hygge." Says Diandra, “Hygge is more than cosiness – it’s small, meaningful rituals that make life feel comfortable and uplift your mood. Little things like a hot chocolate, lighting a candle, or catching up with friends all make a di erence.”
Go outside
Natural light is a powerful tool for lifting a low mood, according to Dr Roger Seheult, Associate Clinical Professor at the University of California. “Exposure to full-spectrum light helps regulate key neurotransmitters like serotonin and dopamine,” Diandra says.
“Try to spend time outdoors in the morning without sunglasses or behind glass, even if it’s hot or raining.”
Boost energy
Hydration, nutrition, and movement all support mental energy. “Drinking water, eating light protein-rich meals, and taking short movement breaks during cooler parts of the day help to combat fatigue. Heavy meals make you sluggish; a quick stretch, a few stair climbs, or getting o the bus one stop early leaves you feeling more energised.”
Bring nature indoors
Air-conditioned spaces, while lifesavers in the heat, can a ect mental health. “Spending most of our time indoors reduces fresh air and removes natural cues our body clocks rely on. Without these signals, internal timing drifts and people can feel disconnected from the natural world. Bringing small touches of nature indoors – plants, owers, wooden furniture – can help. Listening to recordings of nature sounds and using essential oils can also be grounding.”
Maintain a routine
Routines act as emotional anchors, keeping restlessness at bay when days feel the same. “Sticking to schedules for sleep, exercise, and work gives your day structure and keeps mood steadier. Sleep routines are especially crucial. Quality, quantity, regularity, and timing all support mood stability and lower stress.”
Stay present
It's important to try and maintain focus and energy. Suggests Diandra, “Mindfulness, gratitude practices, or the 5,4,3,2,1 grounding technique are excellent ways to centre yourself. Notice ve things you see, four you feel, three you hear, two you smell, and one you taste. Focusing on your senses restores energy and awareness.”
Be kind to yourself
Looking ahead, climate change points towards hotter, more humid, and less predictable weather conditions. “Pace yourself, focus on what’s in your control, and create small habits that boost mood
and energy,” continues Diandra. “We often overestimate what we can do in a day but underestimate what’s possible over a month or a year. Staying exible and kind to yourself is key. These little actions help keep a positive mindset.”
Ubin by bike to evaluate available campsites, then discussed and lmed their advice on what makes a great stay. They also debated what each Patrol should bring individually and collectively to the camp, did a test hike with their loaded backpacks, and packed their camp boxes with what was needed for shelter, cooking, and entertainment. Talk about “Always Be Prepared”!
Arriving just before dusk on Friday night, each Patrol quickly put up their tents before dark. Collaboration in loading and unloading the boat and van transport, and prior practice in setting up tents paid o and they were all settled before dark. For some, the relative silence of Ubin was a new experience, though it was disturbed by the sounds and the lights of the ights into Changi Airport.
Preparing for a night under the stars
On the bumboat to adventure!
Jokes & stories
Camp breakfasts were super special. Although co ee came rst, the breakfast cooked over the coals was another opportunity to learn by doing. The Scouts prepared toast and scrambled eggs, then discussed the day ahead. The discussion to get a consensus was a valuable learning experience, and only needed minor mentoring to weigh the options.
They decided to have a morning at the campsite, enhancing their tents with annexes for Patrol fun, followed by a longer hike in the afternoon to Ubin village for a drink and energy-boosting ice cream. The afternoon surprise was an otter scurrying through the campsite. Dinner was once again cooked over the open coals: traditional Aussie sausages with bread, caramelised onions, and roasted potatoes. The evening wrapped up with marshmallows toasted on the re, jokes, and stories.
The Scouts exemplary teamwork shone through again on Sunday morning as they cooked the nal breakfast and got the gear down to the docks. Loading and unloading everything on the swaying bumboat was pretty tough, but also provided some comedy moments – a human chain works every time!
Sadly, this will be the last activity for ANZA Scouts until new Scout Leaders emerge, but the memories of our Pulau Ubin trip providing friendship, personal challenges, and sheer fun will remain.
THE SCOUTS PREPARED TOAST AND SCRAMBLED EGGS, THEN DISCUSSED THE DAY AHEAD
A pit-stop on Pulau Ubin
The Scouts made sure they didn't go hungry
Got a need to lead?
ANZA Scouts enter 2026 without Age Section Leaders, pausing operations until new volunteers step up. Seasoned Scout Leader, Toph Brown shares his reflections.
Throughout my adult life, I’ve volunteered in various roles. Hands down, being a Scout Leader has been the most ful lling. Here's why:
IT’S PURE FUN. Scouts dive into various activities and leaders do too. We keep everyone safe while ensuring they’re included and having a blast. Great leaders stay engaged and join in
IT’S AUTHENTIC. Kids see through fakes. Feedback is instant and honest, keeping you sharp. The best way to connect is to be genuine. Scouts mirror that openness, sharing their feelings and enthusiasms
IT’S CHALLENGING. I was a Cub and Scout in my youth, thirty years before my daughter joined ANZA Scouts. When I started leading, just one experienced leader mentored us. Scouts Australia’s online training lled the gaps. I still regularly revise materials as they have application beyond the narrow needs of being a Scout Leader
What you don’t need to lead:
PRIOR SCOUT OR GUIDE EXPERIENCE. It does make it easier to understand the symbolic framework that makes Scouts di erent from a youth group, but this is easy to learn
OUTDOOR EXPERTISE. Bear Grylls inspires many, yet our diverse programme spans community and creative pursuits too
WEEKLY AVAILABILITY. At our peak, ANZA Scouts had four Leaders in the Scout age section alone. Two were required to be present at any given meeting, leaving lots of time for other work and family commitments I’ll cherish these memories and eagerly mentor the next generation of leaders. Will you be one of them? If you’re interested in getting involved in ANZA Scouts in any capacity, contact us at anza.org.sg/activities/scouts/join
ANZA Social Pickleball
We play 9am – 10.30am on Friday mornings at centrally located courts in a friendly, social atmosphere.
PICKLEBALL CLINICS
New to pickleball or looking to build confidence? Our 4-week clinics cover the fundamentals, skill development and match play.
Register at anza.org.sg/sports/pickleball
Mixed Social Tennis
The ANZA Mixed Social Tennis group gets together on Friday mornings 9am - 11am. Players of all abilities are welcome.
ANZA Tennis Clinics
ANZA’s six-week Tennis Clinics offer something for everyone. Beginner Clinics teach fundamental skills, while Intermediate Clinics help current players sharpen technique and build game strategy.
Register at anza.org.sg/sports/tennis
Discover Singapore on foot with ANZA Kill-o-Metres. Walking groups depart from all over Singapore.
ANZA Kill-O-Metres FIND OUT MORE anza.org.sg/activities/walking-group
9 Hole Golf
Looking to kickstart your golf game? This relaxed group of golfers meet on Tuesday mornings. Other activities include group lessons and social events. Suitable for beginners and those seeking a handicap.
No surf in Singapore? No worries. ANZA Nippers headed to Desaru for waves, waterparks, and winning community vibes.
Singapore doesn’t have waves. So while we can tackle most surf lifesaving club activities that Nippers requires down on Sentosa, actual sur ng isn’t one of them. Fear not – we have a plan, and it’s rather brilliant: the nowannual tradition of whisking our entire Nippers gang to Desaru in Malaysia. A drive or ferry ride from Singapore, Desaru’s golden beaches and warm waters provided the perfect backdrop for a weekend of sur ng, swimming, eating, relaxing, and a great deal of fun. The Hard Rock Hotel Desaru Coast became our home away from home. Known for blending rock-n-roll charm with family-friendly facilities, it made an ideal base. The band playing each night gave everyone a reason to let their sandy hair down after a day on the beach, and the kids absolutely loved bopping away. The adjoining waterpark gave everyone not out on the real waves a chance to stay together, whether on the giant wave machine, the rollercoaster, or the many slides. Being able to walk straight from the hotel to such a huge waterpark was a massive bonus.
Honing surf technique
But the weekend wasn’t really about any of that. It was all about getting out on the water, putting ANZA Nippers’ skills into practical action, and learning or honing surf technique. Even when the surf was a little disappointing, the teachers were excellent, making sure everyone – including the parents who decided to have a go – were safe, sur ng, and having the best time. “This was our third annual Desaru Surf Trip. We had 21 Nippers families, including 41 kids, join in on the action. Together we had 68 surf lessons, with everyone catching a few awesome
Fun in the surf in Desaru!
Lessons and lots of laughs were on the agenda
Parents get some downtime while Nippers take on the water
IT WAS ABOUT GETTING OUT ON THE WATER, PUTTING ANZA NIPPERS’ SKILLS INTO PRACTICAL ACTION
waves,” shares Lindsay Withaar, who once again was the amazing organiser and chief herder of cats for the event.
Trips like this are more than just a break from routine. They’re a great way for the community to come together, share stories, and create memories that extend well beyond the beach and the waterpark. Sunday afternoon was adult time, and a large part of the Nippers group opted for a relaxing lunch at Ember Beach Club, Mandarin Oriental Desaru, complete with excellent food, plenty of rosé, and a kids’ club that kept the little ones entertained as well. Lindsay’s already thinking about 2026: “The excitement is already building for this year’s trip. We can’t wait to do it all again!”
Nippers is back outside Ola Beach Club, Sentosa, from 1 March.
Perfect positioning
Hard Rock Hotel Desaru Coast
The annual Desaru surf trip brings parents, Nippers, and teachers together
Photos by Caspar Schlickum
It’s A Family Affair
Same bikes, different pace! ANZA Cycling report on the club members adding family rides into their busy schedules.
For many ANZA Cycling members, riding starts out simply enough. Maybe they opt for an early-morning escape before the day kicks o , use the bike as a way to stay t, or get on the saddle to catch up with mates while looping Singapore. For some members, the rides don’t stop when the club sessions end. Indeed, for many ANZA Cycling members, riding has found its way into family life, not as a goal or a programme, but because it’s a fantastic way to spend time together.
Frank and Abe are two such members. Both great mates, they ride regularly with the club, but also ride in di erent ways and at di erent times with their children, Casper, Max, and Alexia. It’s a brilliant opportunity to get a bit of shared time with the kids, plus a chance to hang out.
Riding slows down
Family rides look nothing like ANZA's club rides, and that’s the whole point. They’re
TOn the road in Rottnest
relaxed, loosely organised, with routes chosen for safety, scenery and, crucially, somewhere that sells pastries. Along the way, they might explore a new route
ravelling with bikes, or hiring them on arrival, can be a great way to explore new places with children. The key is choosing destinations with minimal traffic, flat terrain, and reasons to stop as you go. ANZA Cycling member Falk Brauer discovered this on Rottnest Island, Western Australia. With no cars, gentle gradients, and more wildlife than you can shake a stick at, it’s made for family excursions. Bikes can be
or show o a new cycling trick. Stops happen often, and snacks are essential! For kids, riding feels like an adventure. For parents, it can also double up as a
Abe cycling with his son Max
The Brauer family on Ro nest Island Rest stops essential!
reset. The pace of riding slows right down, and it’s amazing how familiar paths feel di erent when you’re with a child who’s seeing them with fresh eyes.
“You pick a starting point, head out, see how it feels, and turn back when it’s enough,” Abe says.
Without a strict training plan or nish line, family rides are about time without alarms, targets, or schedules. Their kids chat as they go, and while parents join in, they travel at half the speed and with a lot more laughter. Along the way, children pick up basic road sense, how to ride around others, and essentials such as when to stop, start, and signal, without even realising it. More than anything, they see cycling as enjoyable, not a chore or a competition, but something adults choose to do because they genuinely like it.
CHILDREN PICK UP BASIC ROAD SENSE, AND HOW TO RIDE AROUND OTHERS, WITHOUT EVEN REALISING IT
rented straight from the ferry terminal, and the routes are short enough for smaller riders. Just as appealing are the beaches for quick swims, playgrounds to burn off energy, cafes for coffee stops, and the many moments when the bikes get parked and exploring happens on foot.
“Rottnest Island is hard to beat for family cycling,” Falk says. “No cars, flat terrain, and
Change shape
Of course, ANZA Cycling’s friendly, easygoing culture plays a role in cultivating the same vibe for family rides. For many members, connections stay rmly within the club. For others, like Frank and Abe, their friendship extends
into co ees, beers, and bringing their families together. Heading out doesn’t replace club riding, or happen every week, but when it does, it’s a reminder that cycling can change shape.
“You don’t have to give anything up,” Frank says. “You just ride di erently.”
This adaptability is part of what makes cycling such a great lifelong activity. It can be fast or slow, social or solo, structured or spontaneous. Cycling with family proves that sometimes the best bike rides aren’t the longest or the hardest. They’re the ones where the pace eases, and cycling becomes a breezy, joyful way to hang out.
quokkas around every corner. We rented bikes at the ferry terminal and let the girls set the pace, stopping whenever someone spotted wildlife or needed a beach break.”
For families considering cycling while travelling, places like this tick all the right boxes. Safe riding, flexible pacing, and plenty to do off the bike keeps everyone happy, and turns the ride into a highlight, not a hurdle.
Caspar and Max's two-wheel adventures
The girls set the pace
ANZA Claims the Clam!
Beach cricket got serious as ANZA headed to Sentosa in a bid to claim the Golden Clam.
Ben Frost spins it up on a sandy pitch
Slog Streakers make history!
The ANZA squads
Every year, Singapore’s cricket community descends on Tanjong Beach Club for the Mis ts Athletica Beach Cricket tournament, in pursuit of the coveted Golden Clam trophy. The event brought together SG’s mighty players for a glorious day in the sun (and sand) with ANZA elding two strong teams: the Slog Streakers, captained by Guy Hudson with Drew Norris, Manish Naik, Abhishek Vishnoi, Jake Frost, Gavin Parker, and Tyler Coventry-Searle; and the Trav-ballers, led by David Vu alongside Kane Stavens, Abhishek Ravish, Ben Frost, Patrick Winters, Abhilash Bhagat, and Mann Garg.
As usual, ANZA combined erce competitive spirit with fair play on the pitch – this year, as you can see by the photos, the boys beefed themselves up with some hard training! Both ANZA teams were drawn on the same side of the bracket, forcing an early showdown for beach bragging rights that everyone had hoped would be the nal.
The Slog Streakers claimed that crucial early battle thanks to big hitting from Guy Hudson and Jake Frost, earning their spot in the knockout draw for the Golden Clam, the trophy ANZA has never won before. Meanwhile, the Trav-ballers went into the Silver Conche knockout, narrowly missing out on their nal but ghting hard throughout. This left the Slog Streakers to face The Reverse Swingers in the Grand Final with everything at stake. The Swingers went out hard and posted a strong total, but ANZA stayed focused, protecting wickets, and steadily worked through the gears without letting the target slip out of reach.
It all came down to the last over. Critical sixes from Guy and Tyler sailing into the ocean brought the match within touching distance, and it was left to Tyler to block out the last ball and secure the win for ANZA and the treasured Golden Clam!
ANZA STAYED FOCUSED,
PROTECTING WICKETS, AND STEADILY WORKED THROUGH THE GEARS
2026 season now well underway!
Check out the ANZA website at anza.org.sg for details on our 2025 – 2026 cricket season. Whether you’re a seasoned player or just starting out, there’s plenty of cricket on o er and available to all. We hold weekly NETs sessions at The Cage Dempsey, making it a great way to ease back into the game and enjoy the social perks that come with it. It’s very relaxed and welcoming, so even if you haven’t picked up a bat in years, you’ll t right in. Email info@anza.org.sg
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.” Contact David Bennett at JuniorCricket@scccricket.com
Sponsored by
The Golden Clam, finally in their clutches!
Guy Hudson receiving the winners voucher
This month, we handed the mic to our kid journalists to chat with their teammates about what makes ANZA Soccer so much fun. BY ELLIOTT, OWEN, AND ALISON CANNON.
Chester
Plays in: Mixed 8 Saturday League & B8 Competition League
“I just like to score goals, and I really like my teammates!”
Aran
Plays in: Mixed 7 Saturday League & B13 Competition League
“ANZA Soccer is very fair and it’s really fun to play with.
Also there’s really nice people in this team.”
Owen
Farrah
Plays in: Mixed 7 Saturday League & B7 Competition League
“I like how my teammates play and I love to play with them.”
Plays in: Mixed 8 Saturday League & B9 Competition League
“I like that the coaches are really kind, but they make you work a bit hard. Our competition team is great and we got to travel to Indonesia for a tournament last year. I play goalie, so I’m thinking of checking out ANZA’s special goalie training.”
an e
Plays in: Mixed 11 Saturday League
“I like the football and the pitches.”
ePlays in: Mixed 11 Saturday League
“I love ANZA Soccer because the coaches are nice, and the teams are fair.”
Antara
Plays in: Mixed 11 Saturday League & B12 Competition League
Os
ar
Plays in: Mixed 11 Saturday League
“I never want to leave ANZA Soccer because the coaches are nice, and the training sessions are long and fun.”
Plays in: Mixed 6 Saturday League & B7 Competition League
“I like scoring goals, I like my team mates, and I like getting ‘man of the match’.”
e s
Plays in: Mixed 8 Saturday League & B8 Competition League
“My friend played for ANZA Soccer and asked me to join. I like that I’m able to play with friends.”
“I stay with ANZA Soccer because I feel like the girls’ team is very inclusive, and they’re really nice to play with.”
Plays in: Mixed 11 Saturday League & B12 Competition League
“The coaches are very encouraging, and they guide you on what to focus on so you can get better at the game.”
Ch e
Plays in: Mixed 5 Saturday League
“My favourite thing about ANZA soccer is … um … passing the ball!”
Plays in: Mixed 11 Saturday League & B12 Competition League
“I love playing with ANZA because the coaches are kind, and when you make a mistake, all the players are saying, like ‘You can keep on trying!’ and ‘You won’t fail!’”
ANZA Mahjong meet up on various days and locations around the island. It’s a great way to learn this brain
ACTIVITIES GROUPS
ANZA SCOUTS
Open to everyone aged 5–17, ANZA Scouts is about meeting new friends, developing leadership skills and being outdoors. They meet Saturdays at various locations. Scouts is currently on pause while we recruit more leaders.
ANZA ACTION
The community a airs arm for ANZA supports charities in Singapore through fundraising and volunteering activities. For info visit the ANZA website.
BOOK CLUBS
We have a number of social book clubs that meet monthly in the morning or evening. Options are posted on the ANZA website.
INVESTORS INTEREST GROUP
This money-minded group meets monthly to connect and discuss investments and important nancial matters for expats.
CASUAL COFFEE
Sometimes you just need a good cuppa and a friendly welcome. Casual Co ee catch ups are being held on various days and locations around the island.
MAHJONG
Join our group mahjong sessions on Monday evenings and various days in di erent locations. It’s fast paced, social and great fun.
WRITERS’ GROUP
Connect, create and grow with ANZA Writers' Group, a welcoming space for writers of all levels. Whether your passion is ction, poetry, memoir or blogging, this is the place to share ideas, network, and hone your craft.
ANZA members are an active bunch, which is why we offer a plethora of interest groups. Find out more and register at anza.org.sg
SINGING
This group of passionate singers comes together to celebrate the joy of music, exploring a wide range of songs across various genres. Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned vocalist, all levels are welcome.
SECRET MEN’S BUSINESS
Secret Men’s Business (SMB) is a laidback, social group made up mainly of male trailing spouses from all walks of life – all looking to connect over a few beers, a good lunch, and some friendly banter.
STITCH 'N' CRAFT
This group meets at the ANZA o ce and welcomes anyone keen to work on their own needlework, craft, or creative project in a relaxed setting. It’s a great way to share ideas, enjoy conversation, and get inspired while you create.
SET LUNCH
We seek out great value set lunch deals around Singapore to enjoy together in group outings. Discover new restaurants and cafes, meet new friends, and enjoy Singapore’s delicious food scene.
KILL-O-METRES
Join ANZA’s walking group to get moving around some of Singapore’s great nature reserves and interesting neighbourhoods.
LADIES NIGHT
ANZA organises monthly girls-only get togethers at various hotspots in Singapore. They’re a great way to widen your social circle, and always a good night out.
ANZA OUTINGS
This group is an exciting addition to ANZA Tours, o ering small group adventures. These bite-sized excursions go deeper into local life through cultural walks, neighbourhood visits, hawker trips, and social meetups.
SPORTS GROUPS
ANZA ADULT NETBALL
Welcomes beginners and those looking to get back into the game. A senior coach leads upbeat sessions, teaching new skills, re ning existing ones, and o ering advice for friendly matches.
ANZA CRICKET
Three cricket teams. Two leagues and one social side. 1-2 teams play every week. NETs are on Wednesday evenings. It’s a great way to meet people, enjoy some banter, and keep t while having a hit.
ANZA CYCLING
Join our keen cycling group and you can get out on two wheels every morning of the week. Suits most skill levels and includes road, racing, MTB and also triathlon disciplines.
ANZA GOLF / 9 HOLE
ANZA Golf is a great way to get outdoors, meet new people, and enjoy the game. The 9-hole golf group is relaxed, fun, and perfect for players of all levels.
ANZA NETBALL
ANZA Netball o ers a fun, inclusive and competitive netball programme for players aged 5-16. Teams play Saturday mornings at Tanglin Trust School, with a mix of parent and professional coaches.
ANZA NIPPERS
Children aged 5-14 learn ocean awareness through fun surf lifesaving activities, including paddling, drills and swimming. Sunday mornings at Ola Beach Club, Sentosa.
ANZA SINGAPORE WOMBATS AND WOMBETTES (AFL)
This welcoming Aussie Rules Football programme is open to men and women aged 18+. Training is on Thursday evenings and Saturdays, with regular social catch-ups.
ANZA RUNNING
Looking for some running buddies in Singapore for regular casual runs? The ANZA Running Group meets on Monday evenings in the Botanic Gardens.
ANZA SOCCER
Get your kids kicking with ANZA Soccer! Our programme is open to children aged 3-18, focusing on fair play and community. Saturday games and mid-week training for all levels of players. We also o er a competition league for competitive players.
CASUAL TENNIS
Join our social tennis group. Sessions run Friday mornings, 9am - 11am. Six-week clinics that focus on the fundamentals of tennis run throughout the year.
ANZA PADEL
ANZA Padel provides an ideal setting for players of all levels to get together and enhance their gameplay. Sessions take place on Sunday afternoons.
ANZA PICKLEBALL
ANZA Pickleball meets for social play on Friday mornings at centrally located courts, o ering fun and friendly games for all. We also run coached beginner sessions and clinics for newcomers, as well as intermediate sessions for players looking to sharpen their skills.
ANZA WATERSPORTS
Join our stand-up paddleboarding and kayaking sessions at Ola Beach Club, Sentosa.
ANZA BASKETBALL
ANZA launches junior and adult basketball for players of all ages and abilities. Whether you’re a seasoned competitor, enjoy shooting hoops socially, or have a keen basketballer in the family, registrations are now open at anza.org.sg/sports/basketball
DISCLAIMER
ANZA o ers
Member Discounts
From cut-price dining at Singapore’s finest spots, to deals on wellness pros, ANZA members unlock more than 55 special perks to amp up your red dot lifestyle! Dive in for discounts unavailable elsewhere.
Accommodation, Dining & Spa Privileges at Raffles Hotel Singapore
As one of the world’s most celebrated heritage hotels, we're super-lucky to receive a range of exclusive privileges for ANZA members. Enjoy 15% savings across Ra es' signature dining venues, including Ti n Room, Writers Bar, and Butcher's Block, along with 20% o selected treatments at Ra es Spa. Members also bene t from special rates on suite accommodation, and more!
anza.org.sg/discounts/ra es-hotel-singapore
FREE WINE
Complimentary wine at Wine Connection
We all love a bit of Wine Connection, so we're thrilled that ANZA members get a complimentary glass of selected wine on every visit. Enjoy this exclusive perk at 10 outlets and watch your non-member mates turn green with envy. All they need to do is sign up at anza.org. sg/membership to join the fun! anza.org.sg/discounts/wineconnection
15% off Low-Carb Desserts at Locaba
Finding low-carb snacks that actually taste good can be a chore, but you can stop your search at Locaba. From cakes and cupcakes to gelato and cookies, ANZA members enjoy 15% o a wide range of keto, vegan, and nut-free dessert options. anza.org.sg/discounts/locaba
15% off Food & Beverages at Hard Rock Cafe Singapore
Hard Rock Cafe Singapore is a go-to for a good night out, and if you're an ANZA member, it just gets better! With its iconic memorabilia, classic American dishes, and signature cocktails, ANZA members enjoy 15% o food and beverages. The party starts here! anza.org.sg/discounts/hard-rockcafe-singapore
15% off Healthy Fruit Snacks with Blue Skies
This Singapore-based distributor stocks a top selection of health-focused goodies from Europe and beyond. From Bob Snail fruit snacks and smoothies to vegan Patifu spreads and Roshen sweets, ANZA members get 15% o selected products online. Add them to packed lunches and little pockets for familyfriendly, clean-label snacking. anza.org.sg/discounts/blue-skiesenterprise
Enjoy $20 off at The Meat Club
Feeling meaty? Stock up on premium Australian and New Zealand meats, farmfresh fruit and vegetables, plus collagen-rich snacks and supplements with The Meat Club. ANZA members receive $20 o , with the added convenience of free next-day delivery on orders over $100 placed before 2pm. anza.org.sg/discounts/the-meat-club
ALPHA CHIROPRACTIC HEALTH
alpha-chiropractic.com
50% o initial consultation (UP $150)
SARNIES sarnies.com
50% o 250g bags of co ee beans purchased online; 10% o in-store
SKAI
fairmont-singapore.com/restaurants-bars
25% o food & beverages
SKAI BAR
fairmont-singapore.com/restaurants-bars 25% o food & beverages
PREGO
fairmont-singapore.com/restaurants-bars 25% o food & beverages
ASIAN MARKET CAFÉ
fairmont-singapore.com/restaurants-bars 25% o food & beverages
CLOVE
fairmont-singapore.com/restaurants-bars 25% o food & beverages
THE STAMFORD BRASSERIE fairmont-singapore.com/restaurants-bars 25% o food & beverages
ANTI:DOTE
fairmont-singapore.com/restaurants-bars 25% o food & beverages
THE EIGHT
fairmont-singapore.com/restaurants-bars 25% o food & beverages
BQ BAR
bqbar.com
20% o during birthday month; 10% o total bill
MOLLY MALONE’S molly-malone.com
20% o during birthday month; 10% o total bill
CAFÉ MELBA cafemelba.com.sg
20% o during birthday month; 10% o total bill
BROKERFISH
broker sh.com/anza 20% o international health insurance plans
ATICO LOUNGE & BAR 1-atico.sg 1-for-1 on selected cocktails
ROMPIN FOREST LODGE rompinlodge.my
3D2N stay @ SGD $275 nett per person
RAWA ISLAND RESORT rawaislandresort.com
3D2N stay @ SGD $458 nett per person
NEW MEMBERS
We are delighted to welcome new members every month to the ANZA community.
Cassie Chan
Nicholas Chan
Jane Lim
Ivan Phuah
Aileen Lai
Anita Elangovan
Sudarsan Seshasai
Elangovan Velautham
Irina Baburga
Valentins Baburgs
Vimal Kaur
David Christmas
Stephen Adams
Sonakshi Dagur
Lana Chung
Mark Williams
Kseniya Williams
Louise Barbagallo
Jesian Alam
Shaheed Alam
Lucia Scrimizzi
Matthew Lonergan
Chantal Giles
Emile Avramides
Vivian Lee
Ho Ken Wu
Meerim Sultanova
Rowan Harwood
Andrew Harwood
Carl Hovy
Belinda Hovy
Douglas Parry
Tabitha Mok
Emma Game
Matt Game
Henri Moore
Deanna Albonico
Chris Albonico
Emma Graham
Jay Graham
Aditya Gupta
Megha Gupta
Linda Pennington Benton
Garry Steiner
Ishani Banerjee
Colin George McAlpine
Lauren McAlpine
Anna Gallagher
Samuel Gallagher
Miller Sampson
Robert Collins
Melissa Pollock
David Kelly
Bertram Boie
Mandy Leena Tan
Nurul Shahida Sharafudin
Umer
Varun Dutt
Sandy Ma
Amesha Silva
Izzy Silva
Maiko Hirai
James Schmidt
Daniel Lasnitzki
Tammy Lasnitzki
Szewei Julian Teoh
Emily Teoh
Nerida Oliver
Elena Kozhukhova
Tricia Phng
Cameron Bean
Sarah-Cate Agnew
Sam Porter
Adrian Loughnan
Felicity Loughnan
Bek Anderson
Michael Anderson
Lau Amy
Jasmine Sahota Bajaj
Sameer Bajaj
Aurore Gonzalez
Anthony Gonzalez
Suki Lin
Vernessa Loo
Lim Wai Mun
Steven Brun
Nellie Brun
Sophie Krohn
Wian Verwoerd
Alexandra Baxter
Yvonne Richter
Andre Richter
Siobhan Kennedy
Tom Smith
Madi Drake
Noah Drake
Natalie Diggines
James Diggines
Purvi Irwin
Allen Irwin
Deepthi Desai
Nikunj Desai
Joyce Angevaare
Joris Angevaare
Ariana Basafat
Loes van den Brule
Petter Haugen
Blair Day
Samantha Day
Trishita De Mello
Anselm De Mello
Freddie Noble
Alexandria Noble
Katie Terry
Hugh Terry
Akihiro Mochizuki
Moe Mochizuki
Sun Danli
Jonathan Wong
Ksenia Simons
Jon Simons
Lyudmila Razumova
Pavel Svatos
Katerina Svatosova
Rosie Short
Amanda Merrick
Brent Merrick
Sam Adams
Zureena Habib
Tracy Lee
Dean Jones
Lauren Ware
Adam Ware
Huang Zhourui
Huang Zhoutong
Ahn Jieun
Carmen Spangler
Earl Dancel
Audrey Siek
Kevin Wu
Ela Salisbury
Kristina Camerieri
Chris Camerieri
Kate Williams
Andrew Creswick
Yoko Itadoko
Edward Winter
Kate Winter
Judy Stonebridge
Chloe Merdjanian
Loic Abbes
Marilyn Tang
Jeik Sohn
Maria Levanti
Johann Pacher
Patrick No
Rachel Ryoo
Johan Hundertmark
Maggie Hundertmark
Kairu Chen
Olivia Nicaise
François De Crane
Rohit Shawarikar
Girija Shawarikar
Ishana Rai Sethia
Abhijay Sethia
Inderjit Kundi
Zuzanna Kundi
Eliza Finlay
Dale Finlay
Daniel Clarkin
Hasreen Kaur
Nishtha Pandey
Rohit Agarwal
Nysa Agarwal
Pearl Chan
Conrad Lim
Russell Devine
Neil Falconer
Hatty Wetzki
Christiaan Torres
Edson Pereira De Castilho
Junior
Juliana Ledo Costa Castilho
Samit Malkani
Saanwari Malkani
Andrew Poole
Nicole Poole
Annabel Poole
Preetha Krishnan
Eimear Neary
Michael Neary
Jeyakumar Janakaraj
Vidya
Congratulations to LYUDMILA RAZUMOVA
Anne-Marie Viguier
Romain Pochon
David Mclaughlin
Stephanie Goveas
Luke Banks
Howard Parker
Anna Kristina Parker
Danielle Lesser
Steven Lesser
Brendan Miles
Grace Grande
Amy Ong
Claudio Michael Mettler
Jenny Nguyen
Richard Smith
Alistair Barnhill
Linda Barnhill
Mehreen Athar
Saad Ullah Usman
Catherine Tout
Andrew Tout
Leung Pui Chu Zoe
Caspar Green
Sharon Levi
Winner of a $125 Thunderwear Gift Voucher
Thinking of joining ANZA?
WE BREAK DOWN YOUR BURNING QUESTIONS!
Whether
you’re new to Singapore or have been here a while, an ANZA membership is your shortcut to fun, friendship, and feeling at home. Here’s how we fit together.
1Do I need to be a member to join ANZA’s sports and activity groups?
Yes – ANZA’s sports and activity groups are run by members, for members. However, some of our events also welcome nonmembers, so there are plenty of ways to see what we’re all about.
2Are there any special perks?
Lots! ANZA offers a range of super-cool ANZA Benefits – a host of brilliant discounts on dining, travel, shopping, and more, exclusive to members only.
3Do I have to be an Aussie or Kiwi expat to join ANZA?
No! While ANZA began with Antipodean roots, our members now come from over 40 nationalities. If you’re up for connection, community, and good times, you’ll fit right in.
4Is ANZA familyfriendly? Totally. ANZA has sports and activities for all ages – from soccer and pickleball to mahjong and singing. Whether you’re chasing fitness, a new skill, or both, there’s something for everyone.
5Will I actually meet people?
100%! Alongside our groups, we host networking events, coffee mornings, and cultural tours around the island. ANZA is where you will find your people, without the cringe of forcing new friendships.
6How do I sign up to ANZA? Easy – just scan the QR code below or head to anza.org.sg. A few clicks and you’re in!
SCAN TO SIGN UP INSTANTLY AND START YOUR ANZA JOURNEY WITH US!
THEO CORNFORD, 7, is from Sydney, Australia. He moved to Singapore 2.5 years ago with his mum Jolene, dad Adam, and brother Toby. On Sundays, there’s only one place you’ll find him!
Where did you learn to swim, and have you always loved the water?
I learnt to swim at a pool called Andrew Boy Charlton in Sydney. It has an amazing view of the harbour, and I was so excited to go there. I’ve always loved being at the beach or in the pool.
How did you find out about ANZA Nippers?
When we lived in Australia, I would always see the Nippers on the beach on weekends and wanted to join in. It was so cool watching them run into the sea in their pink hats, and I really wanted to go on the boards. I was too young, but when we moved to Singapore Mum and Dad found out about ANZA Nippers. I was so excited to sign up.
What’s the best part about being an ANZA Nipper?
I love all of the activities, but running and jumping across the oating lily pad when it’s moving is my favourite. Also, the annual surf trip to Desaru is the best weekend of the year. I love it so much.
What’s the coolest thing you’ve learned?
It has to be learning to surf. We do weekly practice on the boards to balance, which was great to learn to do before our trip to Desaru. Even my little brother, who is only four, was able to surf on the last trip.
Is there one thing you’re really proud of mastering?
I love the ag race because I try to be as fast as possible. I’ve learned to grab the ag better and focus on my own aim instead of watching others.
What would you tell someone who’s not been to Nippers?
There are so many activities every week
There are so many activities every week which is so fun and never boring!
which is so fun and never boring! You get to be with your friends. We do team competitions, which I really like, as you get to cheer on your team. Tug of War is always a big battle, and the parents are always jumping in, too. Plus, it’s at Ola Beach Club on Sentosa so we get to have ice pops afterwards.
The group in SG welcomes kids from many different countries. How’s that?
That’s what’s so great about Singapore, I meet people from di erent countries all the time. At Nippers we're all learning something new, so it’s great for everyone.
What’s one funny moment you’ll never forget?
I love it when Justin dresses up as Santa at Christmas as we all chase him around the beach with his candy bag!
If another kid your age was thinking about joining ANZA Nippers, what would you say to them?
Do it! It’s really fun, and my mum says it’s the best Sunday on the island!
Discover more about ANZA Nippers at anza.org.sg/sports/nippers
The best learning happens when learners are engaged and excited. By empowering learners with the agency to explore their interests, we instil an entrepreneurial mindset that inspires them to carve their own path to success.
Many opportunities to take part, every opportunity to excel.
Sport is an integral part of a Tanglin education. Over 160 teams compete in 17 different sports, including rugby, touch, swimming, football, gymnastics, netball, basketball, volleyball, and badminton.
Thanks to world-class facilities, our specialist coaches provide a dynamic learning environment which encourages each child to achieve their personal best. Whether a student aspires to excel, or is learning a sport for the first time, we aim to inspire and nurture lifelong participation in sport and physical activity.
