In Zhangjiajie, Hunan, China, there is a world-renowned cableway known as the Tianmen Mountain Cableway. Stretching 7,454 meters long with a height difference of 1,277 meters, it is the world's longest single-line circular cableway and China's steepest cableway in certain sections. Regarded as one of the "Four Great Wonders" of the Tianmen Mountain Scenic Area, this marvel was co-designed by a senior member of Chung Wah Community Care (CWCC), Mr Yi Keliang.
Born in 1935 in Shenyang, Liaoning, Mr. Yi completed his vocational education at 20 and was assigned to work in Changsha, Hunan. This move took him from Northeast China to the central-southern region. At a design institute, he started as a draftsman and later pursued a degree in civil engineering while working.
Throughout his almost 50-year career, Mr. Yi climbed from draftsman to senior engineer and project leader at the design institute. He led various projects, showcasing his ability to collaborate across different specialties. Mr. Yi significantly contributed to China's infrastructure growth during its rapid economic development.
In 2003, at 68, Mr. Yi helped design the Tianmen Mountain Cableway in Zhangjiajie. He oversaw the implementation of his designs and continued to provide services after the project's completion. The cableway remains one of Hunan's must-see attractions, taking about 28 minutes to reach the summit of Tianmen Mountain from Zhangjiajie's center.
Mr Yi moved to Perth, Western Australia, in 2007 and began receiving services from CWCC two years ago. He enjoys a comfortable retirement and visits the CWCC Willetton Community Hub three times a week to read, chat with friends, and engage in cultural activities. With CWCC's help, Mr. Yi maintains an independent lifestyle, embodying his life principles of self-reliance and continuous contribution.
