In the Australian census, Hong Kong is listed as a separate "Country of Birth" to the People's Republic of China, acknowledging the different history of the two and the status of Hong Kong as a British colony for some 150 years. As a result Hong Kong and its people have their own distinct culture and outlook. Many have also found their way to Tasmania. In Anthony's case, it was his family's choice to come here, to learn from a Buddhist spiritual leader here who hade made his home in Tasmania in the 1980s.
Anthony got to experience high school in Tasmania in the 90s, a time when there were far less Chinese here than there are now, and the Chinese community looked very different. He continues to be heavily involved with the activities of the Chinese Buddhist Community, particularly with performances of the traditional Lion Dance. So although Anthony has spent much of his life living like a local, he still maintains many aspects of his Hong Kong heritage. It was interesting to here his perspectives as someone who has a foot in both cultural worlds.
