Hong Kong House in Sydney (80 Druitt Street) explodes with colour and activity next Thursday 28th June, to celebrate the 15th Anniversary of the establishment of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region.

Many will still recall that momentous time in history when Hong Kong’s handover from British to Chinese sovereignty took place and the incredible celebrations and fireworks that shook Hong Kong to mark the occasion.

That handover event, now 15 years ago on the 1 July, marked the establishment of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR). This launched the city into the world spotlight not only as a leading international financial centre but also as the all important business gateway to China.

Under the principle of ‘one country, two systems’ Hong Kong has different systems from mainland China. Its independent judiciary functions under a Common Law Framework while its constitution, the Basic Law, governs its political system stipulating a high degree of autonomy in all matters except foreign affairs and defence.

Following are 15th Anniversary activities to look out for:

• Laser Show - Stunning laser light show on the façade of Hong Kong House in Sydney, free for all to view from dusk-midnight from 28 June – 2 July 2012. Best vantage point from QVB forecourt
• Hong Kong Cinema - Featuring Hong Kong movies from 28 June – 1 July 2012. Bookings through Events Cinema, George Street, Sydney
• ‘Australia: through Hong Kong eyes’ art exhibition by the Yi-shu Association, free entry at Hong Kong House, Sydney
• Hong Kong Children’s Symphony Orchestra - Concert tour of Australia and New Zealand from 19 July 2012, free seat registrations at all venues
• ‘dupliCITY’ multimedia exhibition by artist Alex Ma at Hong Kong House Sydney from 25 Aug – 8 Sept 2012