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To enrich their understanding and appreciation of local geology and rock formations in the Hong Kong National Geopark, members of the public are invited to take part in the Geopark Festival, which runs from October, 2010to February, 2011. The festival will feature an array of interesting activities, including booth games, exhibitions, a photo competition, paper-cutting workshops and a poll for the best geo-tour route.
Co-organised by the Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department (AFCD); Home Affairs Department; North, Sai Kung and Tai Po District Councils and local conservation groups, the four-month festival aims to promote geo-conservation and local culture.
A fun fair will launch the festival at the amphitheatre in Tai Po Waterfront Park this Saturday (October 30). For two consecutive days, members of public will not only be able to participate in booth games designed by conservation groups, but can also enjoy cultural performances by the local community. Other programmes include a sightseeing boat tour, photography and paper-cutting workshops. These activities will provide visitors with the chance to explore the multiple facets of Hong Kong's unique geological landscape, and the cultural heritage in areas adjoining the geopark.
Another highlight of the festival is the "Magnificent Rocks and Magic Cameras" photo contest, which will be held from November to December. Participants are encouraged to seek inspiration from natural landforms when taking pictures. The competition is divided into two groups – "youths" (aged 15 to 18) and "open" (aged 19 or above). Entries may showcase either the interesting rock features in the geopark or the cultural and human activities in the geo-areas. A judging panel will select the best entries and each winner will be awarded prizes.
To complement the photo contest and encourage the public to appreciate the scenic landscape and the surrounding culture, the AFCD will offer two photography workshops free of charge. Participants will be able to visit High Island, Double Haven, Port Island, Bluff Head and Tung Ping Chau areas of the Geopark. Professional photographers will demonstrate geo-photography techniques on site. Places are limited and will be available on a first-come, first-served basis.
In addition, the "Magnificent Rocks and Magic Scissors" roadshow will be held from October 2010 to February 2011 at six large shopping malls in Hong Kong, Kowloon and New Territories. In this exhibition, the artworks of the renowned modern paper-cut artist, Ms Lu Xue, will unfold before us the unique geological features and spectacular natural landscape in Hong Kong.
Hong Kong's interesting rock formations and natural landforms are numerous and easily accessible. Many of them are near country trails or in close proximity to urban areas. To encourage people to visit the Geopark, the Geopark Festival will also involve the "Magnificent Rocks and Magic Scenery" best geo-tour route poll. Six land and two boat-tour routes have been designed. From November 1, 2010 to January 31, 2011, people are welcome to cast their votes online for their favorite geo-tour route. Each person can only vote once. Voters will enter a lucky draw to win special prizes.
Details are available on the Geopark Festival's website: www.geoparkfestival.hk.
Ends/Wednesday, October 27, 2010
Issued at HKT 18:35
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