RECREATION, SPORT AND THE ARTS
Below the Headland, the park's Tai Shue Wan site features an aviary and the Middle Kingdom. Ocean Park continues to open new attractions for visitors. Among them is the Abyss Turbo Drop, a thrill ride giving a free-fall experience, which is scheduled to open in 2001. A 225-metre outdoor escalator provides a link to the Headland.
Outward Bound Hong Kong
Outward Bound Hong Kong (OBHK) is a registered charity and non-profit making organisation established in 1970. It is also a member of Outward Bound International, the world leader and originator of outdoor experiential education operating more than 50 schools in 30 countries for almost 60 years.
With a mission 'to stimulate personal development and encourage understanding between people', Outward Bound provides training for the public and clients from schools, colleges, universities, special organisations and the corporate sector. The training aims at fostering personal development, leadership, teamwork, problem solving skills, interpersonal relationships and social responsibility.
Outward Bound uses the experiential learning model that is 'learning-by-doing' through the process of 'plan, do, review, apply'. The outdoors is the classroom, resembling the changing and unpredictable world. Through involving close-knit teams in different activities and problem-solving situations, participants experience a series of physical, mental and social challenges. Every year, more than 6 500 people join these training courses.
Continued support from the Hong Kong Jockey Club Charities Trust has allowed for the construction of additional dormitories at the Tai Mong Tsai Headquarters and renovation of the Wong Wan Chau training base. The total capacity is now 160 participants.
Training facilities have been expanded to include the new Vertical Challenge Course and a Parachute Challenge, which are unique in Hong Kong. The brigantine Ji Fung has been retired after 20 years' service, and a replacement vessel is awaited.
Much effort has been devoted to developing programmes for students, teachers, principals and social workers in co-operation with schools, colleges and universities. The programmes help to create well-rounded individuals who can become community leaders and caring members of society.
A wide variety of tailor-made programmes are provided for corporate clients, government departments and special groups including the mentally and physically handicapped, the socially deprived, youth at risk and former drug addicts. Other innovative programmes include the Weekend courses, a creative intercultural course called 'Intertouch' and communication and leadership programmes co-organised with the business sector.
Outward Bound Hong Kong supports the activities of Outward Bound China, opened in 1999 in Guangzhou, which can accommodate up to 48 trainees, by providing professional trainers and resources.
Adventure Ship
Adventure Ship is a registered charity that maintains the 27.5 metre Chinese sailing junk, Huan, and provides nautical training programmes for underprivileged and
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