Kate Pollitt | Executive Director | AustCham Shanghai

Tell us about the local Australian clubs and organizations.
I work for the Australian Chamber of Commerce (AustCham Shanghai) and we work closely with our alliance organizations including the Australian Womens Social Group (AWSG) which hosts coffee mornings and Koala Kids weekly playground. Shanghai's very own Australian Rules Football Team, the Shanghai Tigers, is open to anyone that can lace on a boot. The Shanghai Cricket Club administers leagues, competitions, tours and coaching activities.
What do you like best about these organizations?
Beyond being active and vital social groups, the AWSG, Shanghai Tigers and Cricket Club support charity projects in China, which is fantastic.
What sorts of activities are you involved with?
As a business organization, one of AustCham Shanghai's priorities is to keep our members up to date on key issues impacting their businesses. But AustCham also provides a dynamic program of events ranging from business oriented working groups, briefings and key note presentations to golf days, weekly networking drinks and the ubiquitous Summer Barbecues. I think our Great Australian Ball, now in its thirteenth year, is a bit of an icon on the Shanghai social calendar.
What has really helped you in your life here in Shanghai?
Definitely the Australian alliance groups have eased the transition, as well as social events like Aussie Drinks, Australia Day Barbecues and Anzac Day Celebrations. The Australian Consulate Office and Austrade also give fantastic support to the community, providing advice and fantastic Australian cultural events.

What: AustCham Shanghai
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