ENG-1998 — Page 457

RECREATION, SPORTS AND THE ARTS

Upgrading hostel facilities was an important work focus in 1998. Funds were raised from charity trusts to support renovation and improvement works at Bradbury Hall and Sze Lok Yuen respectively. The works were being carried out by phases.

The association's volunteer group organised about 13 hiking and outdoor activities for HKYHA members as well as the public during the year. It also organised a touring exhibition at local universities in March and April to promote HKYHA services.

Provisional Urban Council Parks

Zoological and Botanical Gardens

The Hong Kong Zoological and Botanical Gardens, the oldest public gardens in Hong Kong, occupy a 5.4-hectare site overlooking the Central District. They were established between 1861 and 1871. Divided by Albany Road, the eastern or 'old' garden houses an extensive bird collection while the western 'new' garden, opened in 1871, is home to mammal and reptile exhibits. The botanical section is mainly in the old garden.

The gardens house 18 endangered species of mammals, birds and reptiles. Despite its urban environment, it is a successful conservation centre for endangered species. Its bird collection is one of the most comprehensive in Asia, with 684 birds of 223 species. More than 100 of these species have reared offspring. Although less comprehensive, the mammal collection has a good variety, including such diverse creatures as Australia's egg-laying mammal, the echidna, and the world's third- largest cat, the jaguar. More than 750 species of trees, shrubs, creepers and foliage plants are featured. The medicinal plant collection, established in 1987, and a new greenhouse built in 1993 have generated much interest. They contain some 500 species of herbs, orchids, ferns, cacti, succulents and other indoor plants. There are on-going programmes to upgrade the animal enclosures and facilities in the gardens.

Provisional Regional Council Parks

The Provisional Regional Council manages more than 532 parks and gardens of various sizes, including eight major parks. Tai Po Waterfront Park is the largest park in the New Territories, covering 22 hectares. A spiral lookout tower, which was constructed to commemorate the Reunification, offers panoramic views. Other attractions of the park include a 1000-metre promenade, the 'Wind and Water' sculpture and a scenic bicycle trail.

Country Parks and Marine Parks

Some 38 per cent of Hong Kong's total land area has been designated as country parks to provide opportunities for countryside recreation. In 1998, Hong Kong's 23 country parks, provided with barbecue sites, picnic sites, camp sites and extensive hiking trails, received over 10 million visitors.

Three marine parks and one marine reserve are managed for nature conservation and education. In marine parks, visitors may appreciate the beauty and diversity of marine life. The Agriculture and Fisheries Department manages the country and marine parks.

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