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Fifteen-year DB resident Stefano Passarello arrived in Hong Kong from Italy in 2004 as an unpaid intern and quickly made his mark. You may know him as the founder of leading Hong Kong accountancy firm People & Projects (PNP), or the co-founder of ground-breaking wellness resort chain Kapuhala. Maybe you’ve heard of him as three-time local champion of the Hong Kong Marathon and marathon record holder of the AG Ironman World Championship. To celebrate the DB opening of his latest venture – fintech accounting and tax firm, Monx – Stefano provides some inspirational advice for budding entrepreneurs. STEFANO PASSARELLO PHOTO BY Beatrix Malan - www.atscollective.com Ask Stefano Passarello about entrepreneurship and he opens with something unexpected: “Top performing entrepreneurs prioritise the optimisation of their physical and mental wellbeing. Mental health, physical health and financial health are deeply interconnected. Throughout my experience in business, I have observed that individuals who consistently achieve success in their ventures are those who devote time to training and enhancing their mind, body and spirit.” Is this why you opened the DB branch of Monx right by Kapuhala in DB Nor th? “Yes, this way I can combine the elements of physical, mental and financial health in one space. I like my employees to work out and also it allows those living and working around DB to commute less and focus more on wellbeing. We support people who are looking to re-establish balance in the brain and body. Effective entrepreneurship involves actively suppor ting others. The most powerful force in the universe is to help others. If I see somebody who really needs help, I make myself available 24/7 – not only on the financial side but also on the cognitive side, showing them how to be a better business person.” Can you elaborate on that? What advice do you give someone who wants to become a better business person? Is it about drive, about passion? “Our motto at Monx is ‘Devoted to Business’ – we call ourselves Monx because we are as devoted to business as monks are devoted to religion. It’s not about passion, it’s about obsession. Successful entrepreneurs are crazy, they are obsessed; they have a hunch and they go for it. You can have a passion for golf or football but to be successful in business, you need to be a crusader, you need to have a plan and a purpose. “If you want to start a business my advice is break it into parts: one aspirational, and the other technical. If you have a dream, go and chase it. The crusade is what drives you in the morning, what inspires you. But it’s not all about vision – you need to measure everything. If you don’t have a good accountant next to you suppor ting you with your numbers, you are done. Accounting is not just compliance; accounting is the compass that drives your ship.” How important is it to have a Unique Selling Point? “The most impor tant thing is to deliver top quality. Always deliver the best and create a perception of value between your firm and whoever else. My inspiration with Monx was to establish an accounting firm that would reinvent the industry. High efficiency, extreme customer service, no ties, no protocols. In our industry, accountants are usually slow and they tend to make lots of mistakes because of tight deadlines. We solved this problem with technology. I like to believe that I’m a bit of a revolutionary challenging the status-quo. Monx is fast, committed and also per fect. Fintech is the bad boy of finance and I like it.” Is there one thing a business needs to succeed? “Success in business is a moving target but what I can tell you is that it’s about company culture, not the money. You need sustainability in your financial models, happy customers and a happy team. Money comes and goes and it will come if you have these three elements in place.” How do you go about creating a strong company culture? “I do not see my team as employees; they are my extended family, period. This is the culture we have. What distinguishes us from anyone else is that our team has free access to physical and cognitive enhancement facilities. Whoever works at Monx can leave early, work remotely and use Kapuhala’s workout space. They get to meet futuristic entrepreneurs and all sor ts of interesting people.” What do you look for when hiring staff? “I look for adaptable people who will embrace our company culture. And I look for people who have a serious hobby – runners, pianists, ballerinas. This shows consistency and obsession. We like those people; we like those people showing off.” Monx was founded in 2021 and already has a global presence with 50 people in nine offices. How do you make time for family? “The day is very long but those who say they have no time for family don’t know how to prioritise. I have time to compete in sports at the highest level. I run an organisation of amazing people and we are very successful. I have a side business, Kapuhala, with my wife and I’m very happy with that. I also spend at least two-and-a-half hours each day with my kids, more at the weekends. “There are many times I bring my kids to business meetings, they sit there, who cares? I’m not ashamed of it. I’m very proud. I show them how my business works. I’m sure that they will soon start helping with the business because they grew up with it. There is no separation for us between business and family. We run a business like a family.”For more on Monx and to schedule a consultation with Stefano, call 5286 0155, email hello@monx.team or visit hongkong.monx.team .

Monx takes pride in being your trusted partner for all your accounting and tax needs. With a global presence and a local office right here in Discovery Bay, Monx offers a unique blend of expertise and personalised service that sets us apart from the rest. So, why is Monx special and why should we be your go-to firm for accounting and tax services? OUR COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE lies in our ability to provide global services at local prices. With offices spanning the globe, we have an in-depth understanding of international accounting standards and tax regulations. This allows us to effectively assist clients with their international tax planning and compliance requirements, while also helping them achieve their global expansion goals. Whether you are a multinational corporation expanding your operations or an individual with overseas investments, we have the knowledge and experience to navigate the complexities of the global financial landscape, all while offering competitive pricing tailored to the local market. TRADITIONAL MEETS THE FUTURE . At Monx, we go beyond the traditional role of an accounting and tax firm. We believe in nurturing and mentoring companies, especially those in the DB community, exposing them to the best practices in the industry, revolutionary cloud-software solutions to improve operations and much more. Our local presence and DB team are testament to our commitment to the community. We have already established strong relationships with more than 35 clients in the area, and our client base continues to grow steadily. SPECIFIC NEEDS OF DB CLIENTS. We have a multicultural team of dedicated experts who are fluent in over 10 different languages, including Italian, Spanish, French, Cantonese and Mandarin, which allows us to serve you in the language of your choice! This is especially important due to the diversity in DB. In DB people come and go, and so we offer tailored services such as company incorporations, visa consultancy for Hong Kong and abroad, tax services and MPF declaration and withdrawals for those just arriving, or planning to leave. Our physical presence in DB ensures that our clients have convenient access to our services. We believe in building personal and responsive relationships with our clients, and having a local office allows us to do just that! BEYOND NUMBERS. At Monx, we understand that accounting and tax services are not just about numbers, they are about people and their goals. We are passionate about helping our clients succeed, and we take pride in the role we play in their journey. When you choose Monx as your accounting and tax partner, you can expect a team of dedicated professionals who will go above and beyond to understand your unique needs and provide tailored solutions. Not only that, all Monx clients receive complimentary mentorship for purpose-driven and early-stage entrepreneurship. Monx is more than just an accounting and tax firm. We are your trusted partner, offering global expertise at local prices. Our commitment to nurturing companies and supporting entrepreneurs sets us apart. We are here to serve the DB community and help businesses and individuals thrive. Choose Monx for all your accounting and tax needs, and experience the difference of having a true partner by your side. CONTACT MONX TODAY Email hello@monx.team WhatsApp / Phone 5286 0155

Insights from Thorsten Allenstein, manager of OKAY.com in Discovery Bay Ask realtor Thorsten Allenstein, manager of OKAY.com in Discovery Bay, what makes the resort such a unique and desirable place to live, and he focuses first on the strong sense of community. “Many people think of DB as a transient society but in fact there are many long-term residents, who have been living here for years. DB is safe, convenient – 25 minutes to Central – and a real haven for outdoor enthusiasts. On top of that, it’s family friendly with excellent schools, like Discovery Bay International School, ESF Discovery College and Discovery Montessori School.” All this translates into high demand and high prices for homes. “Yields in DB are double those on Hong Kong-side, so it’s a great market for investors and home seekers alike,” Thorsten says. “After prices deflating for the last two years, we seem to have reached a plateau and expect to see price increases in the second half of the year.” In DB since 2003, Thorsten is in a good position to reflect on changes in the local market, and anticipate trends. “We are seeing shifts in buyer preferences: more and more locals and mixed couples from Hong Kong Island and Kowloon are interested in DB. Importantly too, due to the population cap of 25,000 imposed by the Government on the developer, we foresee a strong increase in prices in the coming years.” So what advice would Thorsten give to someone who is considering buying or selling a home in DB? “For sellers: find an agent/agency who has the potential to market the property beyond the borders of Hong Kong. For buyers: work with an experienced real estate professional, like OKAY.com , who has in-depth knowledge of the local market.” Thorsten is quick to point out that his team of expert realtors takes pride in working with clients to find homes that satisfy their needs and desires. “We ask our clients detailed questions about their lifestyle, preferences and budget, while also providing information about the area’s history, culture and amenities. We use our knowledge of the local market and community to guide our clients to find the best fit.” Just as importantly, OKAY.com’s DB team plays its part in fostering a sense of community and helping new residents feel welcome and integrated. “We make a point of connecting clients with local resources and events, and introducing them to their neighbours – other residents that we have relocated to DB,” Thorsten explains. “We organise events like BBQs in the common areas to welcome newcomers, and we join them in communitybuilding activities like beach clean-ups and dragon boat racing. All this helps our clients settle in faster and establish immediate connections.” OKAY.com The award-winning real estate agency that focuses on accurate property listings, with property agents dedicated to helping, not hard-selling.

Christoph Bauchinger moved to DB five years ago largely to ensure his baby daughter would grow up with plenty of green space to run around on. In January this year, he decided to bring more “green” to the community, opening The Golf Bay, a top-of-the range indoor golf simulator in DB North. The former sports journalist and sometime stay-at-home dad has some inspirational advice for budding entrepreneurs. REPORTING BY Kayli Liebenberg PHOTO BY Beatrix Malan - www.atscollective.com Ask Christoph Bauchinger to name the entrepreneur he most admires and he declines with a wry grin. “I admire any entrepreneur that opens something up because they think it’s a good idea and they see an opportunity. It takes guts and it takes risk to build a business whatever industry you’re in. “With a start-up, there’s always risk involved,” Christoph adds. “You can do all the research you want, you can feel so prepared but when you open, you still can’t be sure if it will work out or not. You definitely need to be a risk-taker but it should be a calculated risk. If you’re reckless, it can work out, but then luck comes into the equation, which you don’t really want to rely on.” Can you elaborate on that, Christoph? How do you ensure you’re taking a “calculated” risk when starting up a business? “You need to factor in two things: location and competition. The main reason I opened The Golf Bay in DB is because there aren’t any indoor golf simulators here or nearby. I thought I would use a simulator if there was one in DB, and I knew that friends of mine and other people in the community would want one here too. It’s very convenient. And we opened in the winter – prime golf season in Hong Kong. “There are a lot of simulators in other parts of Hong Kong, so the competition is much tougher. Anyway, I felt I could do it better in DB. We’ve got a large space in DB North – you need plenty of room in a simulator and you especially need height, otherwise, you can’t swing the golf club.” You’re a keen golfer. Should you only open a business if you’re passionate about it? “I’m sure there are lots of examples of people who are running successful businesses that they aren’t passionate about – people who just saw a niche in the market – but it’s going to be a lot easier if it’s something you like doing as well. If it’s something you’re not passionate about, you might get into trouble if things don’t go as you expected, whereas if you’re passionate about it, you’ll be more involved and you’ll know how to move forward. If you don’t care about it, you might give up when you start facing difficulties. “At the end of the day, what’s important in business is that you know what you’re doing. I know golf. I’m not an expert but I know it well enough to make a living from it. You need to have at least a degree of interest or passion in what you’re going to do.” Does this affect who you hire? Do you look for employees who share your passion? “I look for people skills more than anything. It’s not that important to know the ins and outs of golf. My employees aren’t going to give you tips on how to swing the club or anything like that but they can show you how the systems work and they can make sure you have a good time. “What’s important is that you have staff you can rely on, which I’m happy to have. In the afternoon, my employees take over so that I can pick my daughter up from school. My wife works full-time; there’s lots of coordinating and planning.” So, would you say successful entrepreneurship involves teamwork? “Absolutely. You need to know when to let other people do things that you’re not so good at. You need to be realistic about your strengths and weaknesses. Otherwise, you’ll take on too much and that’s not going to help you. “When running a business, you also need to know how to persevere and work through difficulties. You need to be as organised as possible because there are so many different aspects of running a business and there’s so much going on in the background. If you’re not organised, things can spiral out of control.” Can you pinpoint one thing that has ensured The Golf Bay’s success? “We didn’t cheap out on the equipment or facilities. The tech that we have is very high-end, very accurate. People who train here see results – it adds to their game and improves their skill – this keeps them coming back. It’s important not to take your customers for granted. You need to make sure they have a good time and get their money’s worth.” Lastly then, what is your end game? “To make The Golf Bay as successful as it can be, so people in DB have a place to play and practice and enjoy themselves. Most of our customers are from DB. I wanted to add something to the community that isn’t just another pizza place or real estate agency. I set up The Golf Bay to give people something new to do, and to encourage kids and teenagers to get into golf.” The Golf Bay provides bay rentals and multiple bay rental packages for both right- and left-handed players in DB North. Golf lessons are also on offer. To know more and make a booking, visit w ww.thegolfbay.hk .

Island Cleaning Solutions is a big hit in Discovery Bay not least because the founders are islanders and they like to recruit locally PHOTO BY Sarin Ale When Matthew Bentley and Jason Crisp co-founded Island Cleaning Solutions (ICS) in August 2020, they did not specifically set out to target Discovery Bay but the cleaning and wellness firm has quickly become a go-to for home and business owners across the community. “This has everything to do with the nature of our customer base,” Matt says. “Our services include cleaning of air-conditioning units, soft furnishings, upholstery and leather, as well as whole-home/ office deep cleaning and disinfecting. We are geared towards those who appreciate attention to detail and high standards. “I also feel like our brand image, service pillars and uniforms go a long way to getting our teams recognised within the community,” Matt adds. The fact that Matt is a DB resident and Jason is a former DB resident, now living in Peng Chau, further explains the firm’s local appeal. “Jason and I have a lot of contacts in the area and most of our first clients were DBers,” Matt says. “At the start, all of our advertising was through word of mouth. When a customer is impressed with our service and gives a personal recommendation, for instance through one of the local Facebook pages, like DB Mums, it has a big impact.” Matt and Jason also like to keep it local when recruiting staff. “When we were looking to expand our team, we reached out to the community and received a lot of interest,” Matt says. “We continue to use DB Facebook groups for recruitment: we’ve employed a lot of DB residents full-time and we also offer internships – part-time employment to DB students returning on gap years.” THE DB TEAM At the time of writing, ICS has three DB residents on staff: Andrew Escott (supervisor), Brandon Samuels (supervisor) and Jayden Gough (technician). Andrew came on board three years ago, during the pandemic, when the company he worked for was in trouble – he was recruited by Jason. Brandon, a former sports coach, joined at about the same time – his dad and Jason are buddies. Jayden was recruited just 10 months ago when he was fresh out of school and waiting tables – he and Jason got chatting in a DB coffee shop. Ask the DB trio what they get out of working at ICS and they all focus on the enjoyment they gain from being part of a dedicated team. “At ICS, we have a really good bunch of guys,” Andrew says. “We’re all striving for the same thing; we’re very ambitious about what we do and there’s great camaraderie in the company.” “We follow five core pillars at ICS,” Brandon adds. “We call it DIRTA: Development, Integrity, Respect, Transparency and Ambition. Learning these has made me more responsible, punctual and disciplined. That’s why I’m a supervisor now.” What then makes ICS so successful according to the core DB team members? “When we go to a client’s house, we explain exactly what we’ll be doing and we clean everything to our full potential; we also tell our customers if there’s a problem, for instance if an aircon needs replacing,” says Brandon. “And we always show up on time,” Jayden adds with a grin. “I think our customer service is great.” Andrew elaborates: “First of all, we take each other very seriously, and we hold each other accountable. My personal background, like Jason’s, is the British military, so we approach the job with military bearing in terms of punctuality, what we wear, the way we conduct ourselves. That, coupled with the camaraderie, makes for a very good working environment and it means we work to a very high standard.”

Sharon McEneff, director of DB-based T8 Corporate & Business Services , outlines the benefits for small businesses. Are you struggling with managing your accounts? Finding that as your business grows, you no longer have the time to manage your finances? From entrepreneurs to start-ups, this is a common issue that every growing organisation faces. Dealing with financial planning, cash flow, payroll, and other staffing issues can quickly become overwhelming, distracting you from focusing on what really matters. Here at T8 Corporate & Business Services, we know how tough it can seem, which is why we’ve taken a closer look at the biggest benefits of outsourcing your accounting. Trying to understand accounting processes and requirements can require a lot of time and effort, time that could be better spent focusing on expanding your business. Hiring an experienced professional will free up that time and allow you to focus on the things that matter most, like taking your business to the next level. Working with an outsourced accounting partner can be a cost-effective alternative to hiring a full-time member of staff. Although there is an initial outlay, an external accountant will reduce the costs that accompany payroll, as well as the costs of recruiting and hiring. Importantly, you do not need to provide an outsourced accounting partner with insurance and employee benefits. Outsourcing your accounting is also scalable; you can increase or decrease their services depending on your needs. A professional will have the experience and knowledge to meet your current demands, as well as give you the support you need as your business grows. When choosing a partner to work with, you want to ensure that they have the ability to adapt as your demands change. Technology is transforming the world the world we live in, and it is no different for your accounting partner. That is why one of the most important aspects you want to look for is the level of automation provided. The more automation you can enjoy, the less effort you need to put in, and the higher the accuracy of your reports. This will allow you to enjoy real-time insight, while also helping to reduce the risk of mistakes or fraudulent activity. Of course, that reduced risk of human error is another significant benefit. Trying to juggle managing your business and accounts can be a complex process,increasing the risk of making a mistake. Working with a proven accountant will take that pressure away from you. One of the biggest benefits of outsourcing your accounting is that you can benefit from unrivalled expertise. A talented, well-qualified accountant, with years of experience in working with small businesses, can tailor their approach to meet your exact requirements, giving you the confidence to grow your brand. What’s more, thanks to their years of experience, an outsourced accountant will be able to help answer any questions that you might have and give you the guidance you need. Lastly, there’s the full-service factor. An outsourced accountant will be able to provide you with a wide array of services that can support you in growing your business. From keeping your books and tracking expenses to managing payroll, a proven accountant will be able to support you every step of the way. So, are you considering outsourcing your accounting? Here at T8 Corporate, we pride ourselves on delivering a comprehensive and dedicated service that is guaranteed to help you take your business to the next level. With years of experience in finance, we have helped hundreds of small business owners reduce the stress of managing their accounts, allowing them to focus on what really matters. Sharon McEneff is the director of T8 Corporate & Business Services in DB North Plaza. T8 delivers business administration services including full-service outsourced accounting. For more information, email sharon.m@t8corporate.com or visit www.t8corporate.com .

Crossfitter and father of three Nicholas Worley was born and bred in Hong Kong and moved to DB just four years ago. A family man first and foremost, Nicholas launched Inalife in July, a digital family legacy platform which allows subscribers to share memories and time delayed messages with their loved ones and descendants. The former PR consultant turned tech start-up founder has some inspirational advice for budding entrepreneurs. REPORTING BY Kayli Liebenberg PHOTO BY Sarin Ale Nicholas, what’s the single most important thing to consider when setting up a business? “You need to ask yourself, does something like this already exist in the universe, or can I do it better than someone else. That’s what I admire about Steve Jobs. He changed the world with the iPod, Mac, iPhone, all that stuff, now everyone uses it. The impact he’s had on society is amazing. “I created Inalife specifically because there was nothing in the market that could do what I wanted. So, having an original idea is the thing, that and passion for what you are setting out to achieve.” You should only start a business if you’re personally invested in it? “Yes, 100%. There are always going to be challenges along the way and if you’re not passionately committed, you’ll just stop… you’ll take the easier, softer option, like going back into corporate. To make a success of a start-up, you also need patience, because things are never going to go exactly the way you want them to. And you have to be adaptable, you have to be willing to power through and make alternative plans. “One of my favourite quotes is Dulcius Ex Asperis – “sweeter after the struggle”. It’s one of the mottos I live by. If you achieve something really easily, that’s fine. But if you work really hard at something, like I do with Olympic weightlifting, and all the work pays off, it’s truly gratifying. If you’ve put the effort in, you feel like you deserve your success.” Do you have other motivational maxims to share? “Yes: “this too shall pass” or to put it another way, “you can’t stop to smell the roses”. Once you start something, you have to keep moving; you have to keep thinking about the next step. If things aren't going well from a business perspective, don’t dwell on it. Think: What’s next? How do I move on?” Do you need a business plan in place to help with that? “Yes, the launch of a business is one thing but when you reach the end of your first year, you should have already planned for the second and third year, and figured out your long-term objective. Your plan should be flexible, but if you have something mapped out, you can constantly look back and ask yourself: have I hit my objectives? What do I have to adapt here? What’s missing from a short-term and long-term perspective?” Looking back, how did you find the courage to launch your own business? “It was hugely personal. The idea for Inalife first came to me when my grandparents passed away in 1999 and, on and off through the years, it’s always been in my thoughts, driving me a little bit. Should I do this? Maybe I'll give it a try. How do I do it? When my mother-in-law passed away last year, leaving next to no digital legacy, I finally decided that I wanted to go full-forward with the start-up. I saw it firstly as a platform for my family to use and, of course, I hoped it would interest and benefit other families. My sister provided me with some great advice in the early stages: she told me to start making Inalife real – to choose a website name and get a logo done. “You really need your family behind you to make something like this work. My wife and kids are constantly supportive, as are my sister and parents who live in in South Africa. They check in all the time, they call, they WhatsApp; they’re very involved in the site. And this works both ways: I always put my family first. Here’s a tip my former boss gave me – no matter how passionate you are about work; you need to prioritise family. This will make you happier and want to work more and better.” So what’s your definition of entrepreneurial success? “If you create something that you want to use and others want to use it too, that to me is success. You need to define what success looks like for you. If your goal is entirely to make money, then that’s your success aspiration. If it’s to create the best fish and chip shop in town, then that’s where you’re headed. And finally, what’s your endgame? “My ultimate goal is to raise the profile of digital legacies. To me, success would be having everyone in the world really thinking about their digital legacy and working out how they want to be remembered. Inalife will grow, subscribers will go up, but for me that’s what success would be. Obviously, I’d like everyone to use our site and platform, but I’m also very keen to educate people because, especially post-COVID, there’s been a huge uptick in interest. I want to get people to stop and think about their legacy: you’ve got 100 gigabytes of data or whatever, what do you want to record?” Inalife allows users to connect with family members on a safe and secure interactive family tree, share personal memories on a personal profile page for loved ones now and in the future to learn about them, and record Time Delayed Messages for loved ones to receive in the future. It is available on desktop and as an app. To know more, visit www.inalife.com .

Ask a bunch of entrepreneurs what drives them and most will say their passion; their belief in whatever it is they are sharing with clients. Three-year DB resident Jacques Derreumaux is no exception. “If you want to maximise your chances, and enjoy most of your working days, you’d better find a product that moves you,” the owner of online gourmet food shop Cheese Club opens. “My main success is in food; there is no coincidence. I have always been a gourmand!” Jacques earned his entrepreneurial chops in mainland China where he spent 16 years opening businesses both for himself and for investors. His lightbulb moment came in 2017 when he moved to Hong Kong and, along with a university friend Normann Gany, launched a business dedicated to delivering premium fruit and vegetables to high-end restaurants. After a few months, the duo added a fruit deliver y service for households. “When set ting up a business, the first thing you need to consider is what pain point your idea is going to solve. In our case, we noticed that artisan cheese was extremely expensive in Hong Kong, meaning cheese lovers had to limit their intake. From that observation, we decided to look for a cost-effective model.” Cheese Club launched in January 2019 and was an immediate success. “Thanks to our group pre-order offers, we could buy directly from European artisanal producers, save on logistics, avoid waste and ultimately propose prices 40-50% cheaper than the usual Hong Kong prices,” Jacques explains. “Successful entrepreneurs are adaptable. You star t with an idea, but you need to be open to adjust when it reaches the market. Your environment evolves constantly, external events like protests and Covid hit you – it’s important to stay flexible and be able to reinvent yourself.” The duo opened Cheese Club Singapore in 2021, and kept widening the scope of products offered, to finally become a complete grocer y store. “Today we sell more meat than cheese, maybe time for a rebranding,” Jacques says with a grin “Everything is a matter of timing. A good idea at the wrong time is worth nothing, move on! That ’s the best piece of entrepreneurial advice I’ve ever been given. That and keep a close eye on the competition. We order from our competitors regularly to make sure we are still on top in terms of quality, price and service. With the business doing well, how does Jacques ensure it stays that way? “You need to focus on your team,” he says. “You can’t possibly do everything by yourself, so you need to make sure you are surrounded by the right people. When hiring staff, I look for people who can multi-task, who are committed, and who are respectful to colleagues, suppliers and clients.” Lastly, when asked how he reaches his target audience, Jacques says he spends little on advertising. “Almost all our client acquisition is done through word of mouth: you invite some friends for dinner; they like the food and ask where you got it from. We are lucky to work in a field that’s about sharing pleasure.” Cheese Club Contact: +852 2178 2229 Website: cheeseclub.hk Cheese Club delivers to Discovery Bay every day – place your order before 3pm for next-day delivery

The autumn months mean barbeques and outdoor dining, if you’re lucky in the comfort of your own home. Here’s how it’s done Aaah. Autumn. Time to bask (if you can call it that) in the authenticity of sub-tropical urban humidity – cold drink in hand. Sticky as the Hong Kong climate can be, the right accoutrements and attitude can maximise that leisure time. When was the last time you heard of anyone turning down a barbeque invitation – rain or shine, 20 degrees or 40? That’s right. You haven’t. But first things first. There are plenty of ways to barbecue – with gas, with charcoal, with wood chips, with split logs – so which do you choose? Here in DB, where smoking out the neighbours is frowned upon, charcoal and gas are your only real options. So, let’s take that as our starting point. Purists will tell you to avoid gas grills, that the smoke is an ingredient in itself, and without it, you’re missing out on the nuanced flavour. Gas devotees, on the other hand, point to the way heat-distributing materials in gas barbecues work to vaporise drippings and create an aromatic smoke. What’s important is whether you can taste the difference. Do you prefer the strangely delicious over-done beef that only charcoal can provide, or are you good with gas? One thing’s for sure, it ’s easier and quicker to barbecue with gas. A gas barbecue requires no real warm-up time – the griddle gets nice and hot in just five minutes. With charcoal, you need to wait around 40 minutes for the initial flames to die down before you have the whitened cinders essential for your first hamburger. Generally speaking too, you can fire up gas barbecues with ease, and gas gives you more control – adjusting temperatures is as easy as turning a knob, so you are less likely to overcook things. On the other hand, if you are looking at barbecuing as a pastime – if you really want to make a meal of it – then gas is simply no fun. What you’re after is a fiery, challenging experience that can’t be compared to cooking at a stove; you’re satisfying a basic human need to make fire, and you enjoy the hands-on experience of working with charcoal. With that decision made, there are a few golden rules to follow. First, purchase brand-name items that come with strong product warranties, good customer support and are easily assembled. Second, choose a grill with at least 400 square inches of cooking space. There’s nothing worse than staggering too many items for larger gatherings, or making people wait during intimate dinners. Lastly, don’t get suckered by bells and whistles: select features that are essential, like stay-cool dials and adequate storage. Preparation surfaces are nice, but if space is limited, simply do your chopping in the kitchen. Retailers from Wing On to Japan Home Centre carry scores of grills at reasonable prices, but for serious cooks and those redesigning an outdoor space, Everything Under The Sun and Bru Living both car ry some amazing barbeques in varying sizes – gas or charcoal, fitted and /or portable. Your first port of call could well be Cadac: the range encompasses charcoal and gas grills in various sizes to fit all outdoor spaces. Cadac grills are sturdy, easy on the budget and reasonably compact – from the modest Leisure Chef to the four-burner Meridian. Other brands regularly appearing on the best grills of 2025 lists are CosmoGrill, VonHaus, Weber and House of Home. On the space-saving side, look no further than Grand Hall’s T-Grill, designed for acclaimed Australian chef Neil Perry. The T-Grill is modern, sleek and best of all, compact, with a smooth curved hood and hidden gas-tank compar tment. The barbeque works on Crossray infrared sidemounted burners, which reduces the smoking and flare-ups that char your food and make the neighbours crazy. Infrared provides an even, consistent heat while using up to 50 percent less fuel than traditional open flame burner systems – if you’re energy conscious, this could be the grill for you. Eco warriors will also want to note that solar-powered barbecues are now readily available. Take the Helios Grill, by designer Sean McGreevy, which uses a reflective parabolic dish to focus sunlight onto a solar receptor, transforming it into usable energy. The energy travels from the dish to the grilling platform and heats a coil in order to cook food. After dark, or under polluted skies, a retractable plug, stored in the base, provides an alternative energy source. Compact and fully portable, you can grill whatever you choose, wherever you choose, while reducing your carbon footprint. At the other end of the spectrum, when major remodelling is on the cards, are the Viteo (Austria) and Tao (Italy) outdoor kitchens, which is where designers will tell you the formerly humble barbeque is heading. Decked out in Corian, stainless steel and fine woods, these are the cream of the grilling crop, and an excellent way to bring the resort lifestyle home. Got the hardware, got the (organic) food and you’ve clearly got at least a bit of alfresco space. The last problem is your lack of desire and time to pull a Mar tha Stewar t and deck out the terrace in order to set the perfect mood. First and foremost: keep it simple, and remember that IKEA can be your best friend for colourful matching napkins and shatterproof tableware. What you want to prioritise is creating a fully functional space in which to eat, drink and have a good time with family and friends. Don’t overcrowd it. That’s the biggest thing: overpowering might just be a balcony decor’s cardinal sin. At the end of the day, you won’t use it and it won’t be inviting. Go smaller rather than bigger and you’ll actually enjoy the space more. All that being said there’s nothing to stop you getting creative with the essentials. Everything from pest-control devices to fans and heaters are now being designed to make the outdoors a prettier and more practical place in which to entertain. Certainly, the latest outdoor lamps look like they belong indoors, but waterproof and washable, they are specifically designed for year-round outdoor use. Rechargeable lights in various shapes and colours are also popular, as are ‘no flame’ candles for the table top. A crucial element to throwing an outdoor shindig is seating. For last-minute af fairs (which can happen with a barbeque), much depends on how much traffic your outdoor space sees. If plans are for the same day, simply move some of the indoor furniture outside to create an entertainment area. But most owners of a ter race are at least partially prepared. If you have outdoor furniture in place then all you need are a few accessories to dress up the space – sofa pillows, side tables for drinks and so on. Likewise, plates and utensils that we would normally keep for indoor use are now making it outdoors. You can, for instance, add a dash of contemporary restaurant luxe by serving your appetisers on wood or marble serving platters. Pop a platter in the fridge beforehand and it will help keep your deli meats and cheeses cool. With all this under control, ambiance is the last hurdle. Potted plants instantly add life to a space but if you don’t have a green thumb, simply splash out on flowers. And finally, get some candles and put them on everything. Just don’t forget the iPod dock and a strong fan.

Production for the new Harry Potter TV series began in the UK this July with the aim to go deeper into the books and capture a new generation of fans. What is it about the hepatology that makes it so bankable, asks Ray Robertson Potterheads who grew up with Harry Potter (or enjoyed a second childhood with Harry) by reading J.K. Rowling’s seven-book franchise are counting the days until the new Harry Potter TV series starts to air. Production began in July and the series is planned to roll out on HBO over a 10-year period (2027 to 2037) with one season dedicated to each book. That’s a whole lot of Potter coming soon! While HBO and Warner Bros. are aiming to capitalise on the franchise’s financial potential, there are other factors at play. The TV format will provide a more book-accurate adaptation and allow for an in-depth portrayal of all the plot points, characters and magical details that didn’t make it into the movies. The series aims to capture a new generation of fans with a fresh cast including Dominic McLaughlin as Harry, Arabella Stanton as Hermione and Alastair Stout as Ron. So what is it about the Potter books that makes Warner Bros. so sure they will appeal to a new generation, and Potterheads so excited by the prospect of a lengthy TV adaptation? J.K. Rowling’s ability to take us into a fantasy world where magic is a natural part of everyday life is certainly a key factor. But the greatest books provide more than just a ‘good read,’ they impart goodness and wisdom; they support and carry us through life. The Harry Potter hepatology, like Tolkien’s Lord of the Rings trilogy, does just that. A MORAL EDUCATION It becomes easier to take on a bully at school once you have fought Lord Voldemort, Severus Snape, Bellatrix Lestrange and Dolores Umbridge alongside Dumbledore’s Army. Children learn that it’s wrong to be prejudiced or to seek power over others. Intelligence, loyalty and nerve are important; our choices determine who we are Anyone who labels J.K. Rowling a transphobe should note that the hepatology also has a fiercely inclusionary message to impart. In the world of Potter, children are taught always to support and be accepting of those who are ‘different’. They learn to empathise with outsiders and to stand up for anyone who is mistreated simply for being themselves – Harry, Luna Lovegood, Remus Lupin and, of course, Dobby, the House-Elf. In Potter, only people like the Malfoys use the word Mudblood. Muggle-born Hermione is the smartest witch of her age, and all the central female characters are warriors – they are not the sort to sit by while others save the day. What’s more, the Potter books are profoundly spiritual, focusing on the importance of the soul, the consequences of choices and the concept of life after death. The after-life is a particular focus in the last book where we see Harry using the Resurrection Stone to summon the spirits of his parents, Sirius Black and Remus. After being hit with the killing curse, Harry meets Dumbledore (who died in the previous book) at a clean, empty version of King’s Cross Station. At this symbolic crossroads between this world and the next, Harry is given the choice to go on or return to his body. A THRILLING RIDE A profound, classic example of beautifully written fiction, the hepatology shows kids what literature – or more specifically, fantasy – is all about. First and foremost, it’s a thrilling adventure story, filled with unexpected plot twists, edge-of-your-seat suspense, and magical surprises. A true page-turner, it keeps readers captivated from start to finish. Immersed in a mind-blowingly complex fantasy world, children connect powerfully to the characters, they live vicariously through their potentially fatal challenges and, when the last page is turned, they return to their real lives having saved the wizarding world from Voldemort and his Death Eaters. There’s a lot of fun to be had, fear to get through and bravery to be found before the ‘happily ever after’. Importantly, J.K. Rowling doesn’t talk down to children or pull any punches. There’s not much sugar coating in Potter. When Sirius dies, Harry’s pain is almost too much to take. Children discover, the hard way, that people (even Dumbledore and Sirius) aren’t all good or all bad but a mixture of both. Many of the characters kids care about most die at the Battle of Hogwarts – Nymphadora Tonks and Remus, Colin Creevey and even Fred Weasley. The hepatology may end well but it’s still a tragedy of epic proportions. J.K. Rowling writes as if she were recounting both history and legend, and draws children into a world that feels every bit as real as their own. Kids reading the books for the first time, literally grow up with Harry. They walk with him on the road to maturity, sharing his setbacks and breakthroughs, choosing between hallows or horcruxes. PURE ESCAPISM The other side of it is that Potter gives kids the chance to experience a really potent fantasy and almost live it, without any of the consequences. They get to visit a place where impossible things are suddenly, temporarily, possible. And they get to have all these experiences in the safety of their own homes. Like all the best children’s fantasy books, Potter is written in such a way as to help kids differentiate between what is real and what is not. The hepatology opens in the real world, one with which young readers are familiar, that is populated by characters not unlike themselves. Then, after a page or two, something happens that announces the transition into a world of make-believe. ‘Magic’ is introduced gradually, first with subtle hints like a vanishing glass at the zoo, then with the conspicuous appearance of Rubeus Hagrid, who arrives, on a flying motorcycle, to deliver Harry’s acceptance letter to Hogwarts. Children know when the bridge between reality and fantasy has been crossed, and they adjust their fear threshold accordingly. With these parameters in place, kids are free to sit back, suspend disbelief and really have some fun. They can get so caught up in the story that they scream when Aragog attacks Harry, Ron and Fang in the Forbidden Forest, or when Nagini emerges from the corpse of Bathilda Bagshot in Godric’s Hollow. What they are enjoying is the thrill, the hyperarousal of the fight-or-flight response within safe parameters. It’s true that certain scenes in Potter can cause nightmares (none of us has ever really gotten over our fear of Dementors) but, generally speaking, the fears children experience in a story like this are manageable. By age seven, most kids know the difference between what is real and what is not and, once they are able to do this, most can cope with the scares they experience in the make-believe world of a book. Kids can handle the fears they face in the wizarding world because the wizarding world doesn’t actually exist. Or does it? A FORBIDDEN FOREST EXPERIENCE Wands at the ready! Harry Potter: A Forbidden Forest Experience is launching its inaugural China tour in Shenzhen’s Longhua District in the first week of October. Running through March 2026, the globally acclaimed outdoor adventure unfolds on an illuminated forest trail, and features magical creatures and wizarding wonders inspired by J.K. Rowling’s Harry Potter stories. Tickets are on sale now at Klook.

HARVEY LAW GROUP REVEALS THE RISE OF CITIZENSHIP-BY-ANCESTRY PROGRAMS AND HOW EASY IT CAN BE TO CLAIM CITIZENSHIP THROUGH LINEAGE As interest in dual citizenship surges, more people are exploring foreign citizenship options than ever before. Citizenship-by-Ancestry (CBA), which allows applicants to claim citizenship through their lineage, has emerged as a popular choice for those seeking a second passport. One of the key advantages of CBA is that it simplifies the pathway to citizenship without the need for job offers, relocation, or hef ty investment funds. Unlike other immigration routes that can be complex and costly, CBA allows individuals to obtain citizenship based on their family heritage, making it a more accessible and straightforward option for those looking to pursue a second passport while staying rooted in their home countries. “If you think you don’t have any ancestors with foreign nationality, take a closer look at your family tree. You might just find an ancestry link that opens the door to a second nationality and passport, which can really enhance your lifestyle and career opportunities,” advises DB resident Jean-François Harvey, Global Managing Partner of Harvey Law Group, the leading international business and immigration firm headquartered in Hong Kong. CBA hotspot: the European Union Did you know that over 50 countries worldwide offer some form of CBA? Popular destinations for claiming CBA include Canada, France, Italy, Slovakia, Spain and Portugal. While most countries require you to have at least one citizen parent to qualify – think France and South Korea – others allow you to claim citizenship through a grandparent, like Greece, Spain and Ireland. Some nations, like Slovakia, even extend this opportunity to great-grandparents. Recently, there’s been a remarkable surge in interest in CBA programs across the European Union. This is because, with an EU passport, one gains not just a powerful travel document but also the right to live, work and study anywhere within the EU. Plus, EU citizens can access consular protection and social benefits across member states, making this pathway to citizenship increasingly attractive for non-EU nationals. France’s CBA program is particularly appealing, as it allows children of French citizens to apply for French citizenship regardless of their birthplace, language proficiency, or familiarity with French culture. Similarly, Portugal’s citizenship law offers a citizenship pathway for grandchildren and children of Portuguese citizens, regardless of their birthplace. Relaxation of CBA rules With the world becoming more accepting of dual nationality, some countries with historically rigid rules are now relaxing their requirements. For instance, Austria, which typically does not recognise dual citizenship, has recently allowed descendants of Nazi persecution victims to claim citizenship wi thout renouncing thei r foreign nat ional i t y. Slovakia has also made significant strides in making citizenship more accessible to its diaspora. The country has streamlined the application process for Slovak descendants, allowing many to reclaim their citizenship through relaxed requirements. Remarkably, qualified descendants can still apply for Slovak citizenship, even if their ancestors lost or renounced their Czechoslovak citizenship. In a similar vein, the United States is now accepting DNA tests as valid proof of a connection to a qualifying ancestor. This development is a game-changer for those who may lack sufficient documentation to support their claims, opening new avenues for citizenship that were previously out of reach. The Global Ancestry Index If you’re interested in claiming CBA and have roots in multiple countries, consider using the Global Ancestr y Index (globalancestryindex.org) to explore your options. With a comprehensive evaluation of 197 CBA options worldwide, this index empowers you to compare and contrast various programs and discover which nations offer the most favourable conditions and streamlined application processes for obtaining citizenship. If you have any questions about CBA, we encourage you to reach out to us at harveylawcorporation.com/citizenship-by-ancestry . The experienced team at Harvey Law Group is here to provide the guidance and support you need to move forward with confidence.

There are few people, if any, more qualified than Thomas Corbin to talk about why Discovery Bay loves Team Fear. After all, the race was first held for him and his friends, writes Mervyn Black One of the highlights of the year for kids from DB and beyond, the Team Fear Junior Challenge has been running since 2001, when an eight-year-old Thomas Corbin convinced his dad Steve to create an adventure race. “Back then, my dad was part of a semi-professional adventure racing team and used to travel around Hong Kong and Asia,” opens Thomas. “I always really wanted him to take me with him. I used to say I could keep up – I didn’t know what I was talking about – but I wasn’t allowed to go. So I asked him if he could make an adventure race for me and my friends. “My dad talked to his team, which at the time was called Team Fear – the Far East Adventure Racers – and they set up the first race in 2001. Forty kids took part, and it’s taken off from there.” While Steve no longer lives in Hong Kong and isn’t as actively involved in organising Team Fear these days, Thomas is very much at the coal face as one of a group of 17 committee members that bring the event together annually. Held each November, Team Fear has become an institution in DB and is something of a rite of passage for many youngsters. It challenges kids aged eight to 17 with running, coasteering, hiking, gorging and kayaking; there’s also a water jump and an obstacle course. Registration is open for this year’s race, scheduled for November 30, at www.team-fear.com. Team Fear is open to teams of two across seven age groups – under 9s, under 10s, under 11s, under 12s, under 13s, under 16s and under 18s. Each team – all girls, all boys or mixed – must start, run and finish the race together. “This mutually supportive dynamic forges great bonding opportunities for the racers,” chimes in Chris Mackreth, chair of the Team Fear Race Organising Committee. “In fact, we often see the same teams come back year after year to compete or defend their titles. Every racer gets a finisher medal but there are special medals and a mention for category champions and first runner-up teams.” There are two course lengths: 8km for the youngest and 12km for the older racers. The courses are not set and they change every year. “We’re still in the process of planning the 2025 route, and racers can always look forward to a different route than they experienced in previous years,” Thomas says. “Looking to the future, we are considering bringing back some elements that were in place pre-Covid, like the biking and abseiling, or adding new elements that haven't been seen before.” “The actual course is kept completely confidential each year,” says Chris. “We purposely don’t release the route till just before the event. This means it is always fresh and ensures that racers who live in DB, versus the rest of Hong Kong, don’t get an advantage.” “There’s another really good reason, we keep the route under lock and key until the day before the race,” says Thomas. “In the past, when we divulged the route earlier, a lot of parents tried it out and injured themselves!” On race day, children’s safety is, of course, the number one priority. “In our long history we can report a very safe event with no more than cuts, bruises and sprains,” Chris reassures. “Children can expect a well-marked course with ribbons and dedicated marshals throughout to ensure safety. “We rely on the support of over 250 volunteer marshals who help us all around the course. The marshals manage their section of the route and are well-versed on the particular challenges and any potential hazards. We use sufficient marshals so that we can operate an ‘always nearby’ system to quickly identify any issues. “It is in fact mandatory for each competing team to have a nominated marshal, aged at least 16 years, available to help on race day,” Chris adds Additionally, a sweep system is in place so no one can get left behind on the course, and a team of first responders, many of whom are nurses or doctors, volunteer their skills on race day Roughly 600 brave racers will tackle Team Fear this year, significantly less than the pre-Covid highs of close to 1,000. “It’s building back to what it was, and that’s a good thing,” says Thomas. “Right now, we’re growing the committee with several new members, and we’ve limited participant numbers so that we can scale back up safety. “I think one of the reasons Team Fear is so popular is that people in DB are normally quite active. Families do a lot of hiking and sports in general and either the kids are interested in taking part or their parents want them to experience it,” Thomas adds. “I’ve done the race many times and I’ve done it with friends who didn’t want to do it, and they’ve done it and they’ve loved it.” So what are Thomas’ top tips for racers enrolled to compete this year? “I would say there are two things you need to do in terms of preparation. Number one is to make sure you are comfortable moving over rocky terrain. That’s where you can save a lot of time and overtake people. If you practice coasteering, with supervision of course, and build some experience doing it, you’ll be able to fly through that section. It can be quite difficult if you haven’t done a lot of training. “Number two is to work on endurance. There’s a cutoff time of four hours, and if you’re fit enough to run most of the course, or at least the flat and downhills, you’ll finish that much faster.” Thomas is quick to remind, however, that winning is not the be-all and end-all. “It’s not easy, no matter what age you are. Some kids walk most of the way and others train for months and months, but there is always a sense of achievement. It’s not about being the person who gets there first: you feel that overwhelming sense of achievement to have made it to the end wherever you finish.” Another satisfying element of participating in Team Fear is raising money for charity, with sponsorship funds directed to Youth Outreach, a local charity that supports disadvantaged youth in Hong Kong. “Team Fear has been able to donate over HK$1,000,000 to Youth Outreach since it first started,” Thomas concludes. “The racers get a real kick out of that.” 2025 race date: November 30 Enrol at www.team-fear.com