Ever wondered about the story behind this tranquil bay? You are now standing in front of Kellett Bay. This bay has a past richer than its calm waters suggest.
Kellett Bay is located on the southwestern side of Hong Kong Island. It sits southeast of Waterfall Bay. The bay’s Chinese name is Kai Lung Wan. Interestingly, the “Wan” in Kai Lung Wan sounds just like the “Wan” in other Hong Kong locations like Cheung Sha Wan.
The name Kellett Bay comes from Sir Henry Kellett. He was a notable naval officer. Sir Henry Kellett’s name is all over Hong Kong. Kellett Island and Mount Kellett also bear his name.
Let’s rewind to the hill above Kellett Bay. It once served as a public cemetery for the Chinese community. It was called the Kai Lung Wan Cemetery. Victoria Road linked it to the northwestern part of the island. By the 1960s, things changed. The cemetery was replaced by Wah Fu Estate, near Waterfall Bay. Much of the area around here was reclaimed to build Wah Kwai Estate.
Did you know Kellett Bay is near a significant educational institution? In 1980, Kellett School moved to a purpose-built facility overlooking Kellett Bay. This school started small in the 70s. It has grown into Kellett School – The British International School in Hong Kong.
Kellett School’s first principal was Vivienne Steer. The school began with only 44 students from various countries. By 1977, enrollment had tripled. The school then moved to Tai Koo Shing. In 2009, Kellett School expanded further. A new preparatory school and a senior school were built in Kowloon Bay.
Ann Mc Donald, another principal, significantly contributed to Kellett School. She even received an OBE for her work in education. The Ann Mc Donald Fund was established to provide bursaries. In 2019, Mark Steed became the Principal & CEO. He focused on preparing students for the future. In 2020, The Kellett Foundation was established.
And now? Kellett Bay stands as a testament to Hong Kong’s ever-evolving story. From a cemetery to modern housing estates, Kellett Bay has seen many changes. It is a place where history and modernity meet.