No, Jerry and the girls is not a singing group. It is a hard-core walking group. Jerry Wong is the only male, and the leader and organiser of interesting walks, to places like Pulau Ubin and Coney Island. Our latest trip was to the Southern Islands.
Jerry had to make 2 trips beforehand to recce the islands so he could plan the detailed itinerary for the girls.
Southern Islands
We boarded the ferry at Marina South Pier, and after a 20 minute ride, arrived at St John’s Island, which used to be a quarantine station for cholera and leprosy cases, and even beri-beri (which is due to Vitamin B1 deficiency, and is not infectious). From 1955 it was a drug rehabilitation centre. In 1975, it was transformed into a picnic area with beaches and a swimming lagoon.
I was most impressed when the ferry approached St John’s Island. Having lived in Singapore all my life, I have been aware of the Southern Islands, but have never visited any of them. St John’s Island looks an idyllic holiday island. It is linked conveniently by road to Lazarus Island, another beautiful island with white sand and a swimming lagoon. However, no food or drink is sold on any of the islands, so you have to bring your own if you want to have a picnic. Lazarus Island is uninhabited. There are signs that food waste should be taken away.
Kusu Island is known as a place of worship for Tua Pek Kong, a god of prosperity and wealth. It is also known as Tortoise Island or Turtle Island. It is a tourist attraction with pristine beaches, lagoons, picnic tables and barbecue pits.
We spent a pleasant morning on the 3 islands, and we exceeded the targetted 10,000 steps. I regard the islands as gems in our busy metropolis, unspoilt, easily accessible, with lush vegetation.
If you have not considered the Southern Islands as worthy of a visit, I recommend one. It would be your loss otherwise. For the price of a ferry ticket($15), you can enjoy exploring 3 beautiful islands, practically in your backyard. Your children (or grandchildren) will enjoy the sand and the sea.
Many thanks to Jerry and the girls for your company and snacks.