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About this page
Here you can find more information about stories, events and products featured on 7News.

May 2008

Monday, May 12

Freedom of Information: Worst Roads
Authorities have promised to review the state of South East Queensland's most dangerous roads. A 7News investigation has discovered a list of accident hotspots, where extra caution, could save lives. Get the list of the worst roads here (PDF).


Wednesday, May 7

Aid workers race to reach Burma cyclone victims
Aid workers are battling to get food and water to desperate cyclone survivors in Burma, Thousands of people have died in what is being described as one of Asia's worst natural disasters.

You can make a donation to the rescue efforts at the following sites:
World Vision: www.worldvision.com.au
Care Australia: www.careaustralia.org.au
Caritas: www.caritas.org.au
Red Cross: www.redcross.org.au (or phone 1800 811 700)
Austcare: www.austcare.org.au (or phone 1300 666 672)

April 2008

Monday, April 21

New technology for patients with cardiovascular disease
Mater Private Hospital Brisbane has aligned with Qscan to deliver an Australian first technological solution that will significantly assist the diagnosis and treatment for patients with cardiovascular disease, the leading cause of death in Australia. For more, visit www.mater.org.au.

Friday, April 4

Download rental market report
To see the Rental Market Report mentioned on Seven's 4:30 News, visit www.homepriceguide.com.au.

March 2008

Monday, March 31

Donations for premature baby Jessica
Tiny baby Jessica was born weighing just 382 grams and survived. Her parents are now raising money for The Mater Foundation, and to help with ongoing medical bills. To donate to the Jessica Mater Premature Appeal, use the following Commonwealth Bank account details: BSB 064184, Account Number 10503055. For further information visit www.materfoundation.org.au.

Friday, March 21

Good Friday Appeal
Victoria's Good Friday Appeal is geared towards raising money for Melbourne's Royal Children's Hospital. To donate head to www.goodfridayappeal.com.au

Thursday, March 20

Petrol prices
West Australia's fuelwatch scheme helps motorists check what tomorrow's petrol prices will be in the state: www.fuelwatch.wa.gov.au

Also if you believe a petrol station is ripping off motorists you can now report them to the ACCC. The hotline phone number is 1300 302 502

Monday, March 17

Queensland schools - Freedom of Information document
A 7News Freedom of Information investigation has revealed a teacher who sexually harmed a student is still working in a Queensland school. Nine teachers also remain employed despite stealing from or defrauding Education Queensland. | Watch video
Click here to view the Freedom of Information documents (PDF file, 83Kb). Note: Dismissals figures are included in the figures for Disciplinary action.

Thursday, March 13

Lifeline
Lifeline is determined not to let loneliness, isolation or anxiety be the cause of death. Health professionals are ready to speak with you. Call 13 11 14 or visit www.lifeline.org.au for more information.

Wednesday, March 12

Landcare CarbonSMART
Individuals and families can now assess their carbon footprint online through Landcare CarbonSMART's emissions calculator. Click here for more info.

Tuesday, March 4

7News, RAC, Community Newspapers: Public Transport Survey
We are asking the wider community for their views on Perth's public transport network (buses and trains). Even if you’re not a regular public transport commuter, we'd greatly appreciate your views on what works, and what might need fixing. To take part, visit this website.

February 2008

Monday, February 25

Not enough help for teen binge drinkers
The Federal Government's advisory group on drugs has found one-in-10 high school students has been binge drinking in the last week. For more information, visit the Australian National Council on Drugs at www.ancd.org.au.

Wednesday, February 20

Royal Far West Children's Health Scheme
To learn more about the Royal Far West Children's Health Scheme, go to www.royalfarwest.org.au.

Tuesday, February 19

Olivia Newton-John's Great Walk to Beijing
Olivia Newton-John is planning her Great Walk to Beijing 2008, to raise money and awareness in the fight against cancer. For information on how you can help, visit www.greatwalktobeijing.com.

Monday, February 18

Reducing household water use
An initiative from Landcare Australia is aiming to save water nationwide by asking Australians to reduce their use by 10 per cent. For more on how to save water around the home, visit www.helpushelptheearth.com.au.

Thursday, February 14

Queensland's Earth Hour
All Queensland Government buildings will be plunged into darkness for an hour next month. Premier Anna Bligh has signed up for Earth Hour to raise awareness of climate change and she is encouraging residents and businesses to do the same.
Get more information at www.earthhour.org.

December 2007

Thursday, December 20

Child restraints: buyer's guidelines
The NSW Roads and Traffic Authority has released test results and guidelines to follow when buying a child restraint for use in a vehicle. Visit Click here to visit the RTA's website for details.

Wednesday, December 19

Contacting Chrisco
Some consumers have complained to online services and talkback radio about their Chrisco hampers not being delivered on the agreed date or not at all. Call 1800 830 830 or visit www.chrisco.com.au to contact Chrisco.

Monday, December 17

New drug Champix aimed at helping smokers quit
The first drug designed to stop smokers craving nicotine has been launched in Australia, but it comes with a health warning. For full details, see the Pfizer consumer information on Champix.

Tuesday, December 4

NRMA Reversing Safety Tests
The NRMA has released its annual test results rating the safety of car models when they reverse and how clear a view the driver has of what is behind the vehicle. For the full results, visit the NRMA's website.

Coastcare
The Coastcare movement has 60,000 volunteers in 2000 community groups around Australia who are all contributing towards keeping the coast beautiful.

Coastcare volunteers tackle a huge range of issues such as coastal erosion, pollution, weeds and looking after injured seabirds and marine animals.

Visit www.coastcare.com.au to look up your local group.

Monday, December 3

Migrane treatment
Topamax is a migrane which now available on the Pharmeceutical Benefits Scheme. The drug has been used to treat epilepsy in the past, but this new application of the drug to help prevent migranes, could help bring relief to thousands. You should consult your doctor for more details on the drug, plus you can gather more information from these websites: www.headacheaustralia.org.au; www.pbs.gov.au; www.topamax.com.

November 2007

Tuesday, November 27

Hoon police
Two police officers are in trouble after a video of them pulling donuts in their police car was posted on the internet: watch it here.

Monday, November 19

Christmas toy safety
Safety tests on a range of toys on sale for Christmas have found nearly half fail acceptable standards. Choice discovered the dangerous products in discount stores and it's calling for a national agency dedicated to checking imports. Full details of Choice's findings are available on their website: choice.com.au

Tuesday, November 13

Drug trial contact details
Researchers are calling for people with an irregular heartbeat to enrol in the trial of a new drug aimed at preventing blood clots and stroke. People wishing to register their interest were invited to call (freecall) 1800 883 888.

Lung cancer breath test trial
Doctors in Brisbane are trialling a revolutionary new machine that could detect lung cancer at a very early stage. The patient is breath tested with the machine able to detect small cancer growths before they spread. To take part in the trial contact Rebecca Pini at Made4media on 07 3366 9494.

Kayaking to New Zealand
Two Sydney Kayakers have started paddling to New Zealand on a world record attempt, expected to take seven weeks. You can check their progress through this website: crossingtheditch.com.au

Sophie Delezio and Acceptance day
The Acceptance Day walk is in support of community 'acceptance' of minority groups and is a celebration of difference. The day was officially launched today by Sophie Delezio and her Day of Difference Foundation.
Acceptance Day Walk, Sunday November 18th Commencing: the Archibald Fountain, Hyde Park, Sydney Start time: 11am
For further information please contact Nicholas Karandonis at Talent2Grow 02 9922 3111 or 0412 977 888

Monday, November 12

Recycling in your area
Recycling is a simple thing everyone can join in with to make a difference and reduce their impact on the planet. To find out more about recycling n your area visit www.recyclingnearyou.com.au.

October 2007

Thursday, October 25

7Bridges Walk
Online registrations close at midnight tomorrow. To register for the 7Bridges Walk, visit www.7bridgeswalk.com.au.

Monday, October 22

Lake Angel Memorial Fund
The Anglican Church in Rosemeadow is raising money to pay for the funeral of Dean Shillingsworth. You can donate to the Lake Angel Memorial Fund at:

National Australia Bank
BSB: 082494
Account No: 859529142.

Thursday, October 11

Sustainable schools
Landcare Australia is helping teachers and students embrace natural resource management and making it part of the curriculum. To find out more head to the website www.landcareonline.com.

Tuesday, October 9

Long range weather forecasting
The home of long range forecaster Ken Ring is Predict Weather. Visit his website at www.predictweather.com.

Art & About
See Sydney at its best for three weeks during Art & About, a feast of art exhibitions and events presented by the City of Sydney. Visit the website at www.artandabout.com.au for more information.

Monday, October 8

Girls Night In
This October women across Australia will be booting the boys out and getting the girls together for a Girls Night In. Money raised goes directly to research and support services for women's cancers. For more information and to register, visit www.girlsnightin.com.au.

Thursday, October 4

Happy Tails Day
Happy Tails Day on Friday, October 5 is your chance to get behind a great cause and to raise funds for the RSPCA. Visit www.rspca.org.au for more info.

Monday, October 1

Couch surfing
CouchSurfing is a worldwide network for making connections between travelers and the local communities they visit - find out more: www2.couchsurfing.com/.

September 2007

Wednesday, September 26

Well of positivity
Add a thought to the Well of Positivity to raise funds for breast cancer research at www.wellofpositivity.com.

Tuesday, September 25

NSW Corporate Games
For more information on the NSW Corporate Games, visit www.corporategames.net.au/nsw.

Monday, September 17

Thai air crash: DFAT helpline
The Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade phone number for those concerned about loved ones who may have been in today's plane crash in Thailand is 1300 555 135.

Monday, September 10

Steve Fossett
The search for missing aviator Steve Fossett has gone now public after he failed to return from a routine flight last week.

Satellite images of the search area in western Nevada, US, provided by DigitalGlobe are now available online.

An aviation Web site, www.avweb.com, provides links to review fresh satellite images and instructions on how to look for Fossett's plane or any image that might resemble a small aircraft.

Wednesday, September 5

Mattel toy recall
A full list of the latest toys to be recalled by Mattel is available here.

Tuesday, September 4

Seven Bridges Walk
Over 6000 people joined in the first Seven Bridges Walk last year, and the aim is to make this year's event even bigger. You can find out more and register on the website: www.7bridgeswalk.com.au.

August 2007

Wednesday, August 29

Heart Foundation support
To make a donation to the Heart Foundation Doorknock Appeal or volunteer as a collector, visit www.heartfoundation.org.au.



Tuesday, August 21

Flu trials info
Flinders Medical Centre is seeking people to take part in the trial of an influenza vaccine which has been 'boosted' by natural sugar.

Although the vaccine is only in trial stage, researchers believe it could be the world's best defence against an influenza or bird flu epidemic. To take part in the study or for further information, contact Professor Gordon on (08) 8204 4720.

Monday, August 20

OnCall Guardian
A new service could provide a lifeline to parents whose children have just gone missing. A Brisbane company has developed OnCall Guardian. It is an automated phone system that can instantly alert entire neighbourhoods, anywhere in Australia, when children are reported missing. The OnCall Guardian phone number is 1300 660 220.

Thursday, August 16

APEC traffic arrangements
There will be a large number of traffic changes around the Sydney CBD and major arterial roads during the Asia Pacific Economic Co-operation (APEC) from September 2 to September 9, 2007. For more information about road closures and how APEC will affect you, visit the RTA website or www.apec2007.org.

Wednesday, August 15

Mattel toy recall
American toy-maker Mattel has issued a world-wide recall of its toys because of safety fears, with more than 18 million Chinese-made toys affected.

The recall includes Polly Pocket dolls, Batman action figures, one Barbie playset and Sarge Cars. Click here to see the list of affected toys. (Requires Adobe reader).

Amy Gillett Foundation
The Amy Gillett Foundation is offering learner drivers the chance to win a new Volvo C30, plus a whole range of other prizes. Their Road-Right program is the first of its kind, designed to heighten learner driver awareness of people cycling on Australian roads. For more information head to www.amygillett.org.au

Tuesday, August 14

Run the bridge
For more information on the Sydney Running Festival and to register, head to the website www.runthebridge.com.au.

Monday, August 13

Camp Quality jokes
Submit your joke to Camp Quality and help raise money for children living with cancer. Visit www.campquality.org.au for info.

Wednesday, August 8

Vascular treatment for legs
Australian doctors have made a major breakthrough for those at risk of vascular disease by stimulating the growth of blood vessels. Patients are required for further trials to find out more call 1300 767 902 or head to www.allvascular.com or www.asdm.com.au.

Tuesday, August 7

Symptoms of Type 1 diabetes
Parents have been warned that children are being misdiagnosed with the flu, when they actually have Type 1 diabetes. Here is a full list of Type 1 diabetes symptoms:

Symptoms appear rapidly in days or weeks. Warning signs include extreme thirst, frequent urination, constant hunger, blurred vision, sudden weight loss, nausea, vomiting, infections and extreme tiredness. If not diagnosed or treated, a person can lapse into a life-threatening coma.

Macular degeneration treatment on PBS
A treatment called Lucentis, designed to help restore eyesight in people with age-related macular degeneration, has today been listed on the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS). An estimated 50 Australians are diagnosed with the condition every day. Consumer information on Lucentis is available from Novartis on: 1800 671 203

Skateboard art: Sydney weather
For more information on Across The Board Art and to bid for one of the skateboards, visit the website: www.acrosstheboardart.com.

Who On Earth Cares
Who On Earth Cares is a new climate change campaign by the Australian Conservation Foundation. It aims to show what people are doing to reduce greenhouse pollution. To join up, go to www.whoonearthcares.com.

More environmental advice and green tips are available from www.yahoo7.com.au/green.

Monday, August 6

Field of Women Live
You can register to take part in Field of Women Live and show your support for those affected by breast cancer. Register at the website: www.fieldofwomen.org.au.

Wednesday, August 2

Fisher-Price toy recall
Toy company Mattel in the US has announced a recall of many Fisher-Price toys made in China, due to possible high levels of lead in paint. Read more on this recall.

Wednesday, August 1

Sydney Design 2007
This year the Sydney Design team at the Powerhouse Museum has selected a festival program that will show you where design is making a difference in our lives. Visit the Sydney Design website.

July 2007

Friday, July 31

Rheumatoid arthritis drug price drops
A new drug treatment for rheumatoid arthritis will be added to the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS) from tomorrow, August 1, 2007, making it cheaper for patients. The PBS website has a downloadable PDF file with consumer information on Mabthera (Rituximab).

Information is also available from the Roche Information Line: 1800 233 950.

How to enter the City2Surf
To register for Sydney's big fun run, visit the City2Surf website.

Saturday, July 28

Petrol price monitoring
The ACCC has put oil companies on notice by tracking the wholesale and retail prices of petrol and publishing them. It is hoped this will stop big fluctuations in prices at the bowser. To check the details, visit www.accc.gov.au

Friday, July 27

Get involved in National Tree Day
For more information and to find a tree planting site in your area, visit www.planetark.com.au

Mark Schwarzer - UN in Thailand
Visit the Australia for UNHCR website: www.unrefugees.org.au.

Wednesday, July 25

Trace your ancestors - convicts or immigrants?
Search historical records at www.ancestry.com.au to find your ancestors.

Friday, July 20

NSW proposed rules for older drivers
The older driver discussion paper can be viewed from today until Friday 19 October 2007 at the RTA website or you can contact the RTA on 132213 and have a copy mailed out.

Jonah Lomu - Zaidee's Rainbow Foundation
Rugby legend Jonah Lomu has lent his name to the Zaidee's Rainbow Foundation (read news story), named for Zaidee Rose Alexander Turner, who died aged seven in 2004 and became one of only six children nationally to donate organs. The foundation aims to boost organ donation figures. Find out more at the Zaidee's Rainbow Foundation website.

Monday, July 16

National song writing competition
The Australian Children's Music Foundation has launched a national song writing competition. To enter, visit www.acmf.com.au.

Monday, July 9

Australian of the Year nominations
Prime Minister John Howard today launched the call for nominations for the Australian of the Year Awards 2008, encouraging all Australians to have their say about who should receive the prestigious award. Visit www.australianoftheyear.gov.au for more information.

Knitting for the homeless
The Salvation Army is desperately seeking blankets, scarves, beanies and socks for this year's winter and everybody in regional centres and capital cities across Australia can help. Find out more at www.salvationarmy.org.au .

Friday , July 6

School Holiday Fun: Sydney Olympic Park
For information on School Holiday Fun at Sydney Olympic Park, visit the Sydney Olympic Park website.

Tuesday , July 3

Freedom of Information: Housing Affordability
Secret Treasury documents are warning the Federal Government that another interest rate rise before this year's election will have an explosive consequence on family budgets.

A 7News investigation has found the housing crisis could get worse. Below are the documents obtained from Treasury.

The documents require Adobe Acrobat to be viewed, you can download it here.

Pages 1-29.
Pages 30-60.
Pages 61-100.
Pages 101-140.
Pages 141-187.

Monday, July 2

Moving the Pasha Bulker
Watch the salvage crews try to move the Pasha Bulker stranded at Nobbys Beach. There is a live webcam here.

June 2007

Monday, June 25

Macular Degeneration
For more about Macular Degeneration Awareness Week, visit www.mdfoundation.com.au.

Friday, June 22

OzHarvest dinner, Cockle Bay Wharf
Cockle Bay Wharf is hosting the first ever OzHarvest Awareness day. All 14 restaurants will donate their gross profits for the day to OzHarvest, a charity that delivers fresh food to 118 homeless shelters across Sydney.

For information on how you can help, book lunch or dinner at Cockle Bay Wharf on Saturday 23rd June to help OzHarvest. Visit the Cockle Bay Wharf website for more.

Tuesday, June 19

Severe weather warning
There are current severe weather warnings for New South Wales and Sydney. Cyclonic winds and heavy rain are expected to hit the coast tonight. For more information about the storms and how you can get help read our story.

Thursday, June 14

Thomas the Tank toys recall
A range of Thomas The Tank Engine toys has been coloured with lead-based paint which could be toxic. If you are concerned about your child's toys you can get more information on this website.

Thursday, June 7

Severe weather warning
There are current severe weather warnings for New South Wales and Sydney. For more information visit the Bureau of Meteorology website.

Wednesday, June 6

Tim Cahill children's book
For more information on how to order the children's books featuring Tim Cahill and Brett Lee, visit the: Childhood Heroes website.

Darling Harbour Jazz & Blues Festival
Find out what's going on during the Darling Harbour Jazz & Blues Festival this June long weekend by clicking on the Darling Harbour website.

Tuesday, June 5

Coastcare grants
To find out more about applying for a Coastcare grant to help clean up the beaches and coastlines near your home, visit the Coastcare website.

Multiple Sclerosis Awareness Week
Find out how you can help support people with multiple sclerosis by clicking on the Multiple Sclerosis Research Australia website.

May 2007

Monday, May 21

Bear Cottage
To find out more about Bear Cottage - the first children's hospice in NSW - and to make a donation, visit www.bearcottage.chw.edu.au.

Saturday, May 19

Pregnancy and food safety
For more information about eating certain foods when pregnant, visit www.foodauthority.nsw.gov.au.

Thursday, May 17

Support Gold Week at Sydney Children's Hospital

Support Gold Week and help seriously ill children from all corners of NSW at Sydney Children's Hospital, Randwick: www.goldweek.org.au.

Child restraint laws
Register your comments about the proposed new car child restraint laws at www.ntc.gov.au.

Wednesday, May 16

Salvos: Red Shield Appeal

Support the Salvation Army's Red Shield Appeal: Support the Salvation Army Red Shield Appeal: click here.

Wednesday, May 10

Support the Yellow Crusade - Cancer Council

Click on the link: support the Cancer Council's Yellow Crusade.

Monday, May 3

Flagpole funding row - FOI documents
The Howard Government's patriotic push to have Australian flags flying at all schools has left it in a flap. Freedom of Information documents obtained by 7News show millions of dollars in funding has been wrapped up in red tape, with 1100 schools denied their money: Click here for the Freedom of Information documents on the flag funding row.

Do Not Call register
From today, the government's long awaited Do Not Call register is up and running. It means after May 31 it will be illegal for telemarketers to call if you register.

For more info, go to www.donotcall.gov.au and fill out a form, and forms will also be available from post offices from today. To register, you have to be the phone account holder or their representative.

National recall of Loewe television models
Loewe has recalled several models of television, over a possible fire risk. Concerned consumers can call 1800 661 922 or visit www.loewetv.com.au for more information. Product details:

Loewe 100Hz CRT Television, Date: 11/04/2007, Supplier Name: Loewe Australia

Product Info: The TV sets potentially affected are all 100Hz Loewe models produced between March 1999 and October 2001. Models that may be affected: Aconda 9381, 9581, 93102. Arcada 8672, 8684, 8755, 8772, 8784. Calida 5655, 5663, 5672, 5684, 5755, 5763, 5772, 5784. Cantus 3870, 3872. Contur 1670. Credo 7580, 7681. Ergo 6672, 6681, 6772, 6781. Planus 4663, 4672, 4681, 4781. Profil 3563, 3570, 3572. Xelos 5255, 5261, 5270, 5281, 5381. Vitros 6381.

Defect Details: The television set may be defective at certain soldered joints that may lead to overheating with a subsequent risk of fire.

Consumer action: Disconnect the TV immediately from the power socket, identify if your set requires inspection and arrange with Loewe for your free in home inspection and precautionary modifiction if required. To determine if your set is affected see www.loewetv.com.au or call Loewe's 24hr Inspection Identification Hotline on Freecall 1800 661 922.

April 2007

Monday, April 30

Miles Hilton-Barber: Blind pilot
Miles Hilton-Barber is a blind British pilot who has flown from London to Sydney in a Microlight. For more information and to make donations to his charity, click here.

Friday, April 27

KAZ II Search and Rescue
After receiving a number of cash donations, the families of missing sailors Peter and Jimmy Tunstead and Des Batten have arranged for a trustee to establish a bank account to receive contributions toward the search and rescue effort. If you would like to contribute, you can deposit funds to the following bank account:
Bank: ANZ
BSB: 016452
Account No: 489745824
Account Name: KAZ II Search and Rescue

Thursday, April 26

Post-natal depression in men: Beyond Blue
Australian men are being struck down by a condition normally associated with women: post-natal depression. Help is available: visit the Beyond Blue website.

Wednesday, April 11

World War I service records online
The National Archives of Australia has placed online 376,000 service records of Australian soldiers from the First World War. You can view them here: A Gift to the Nation - World War I service records.

Friday, April 6

Child discipline
The federal government has launched a multi-million dollar campaign supported by the Australia Childhood Foundation telling parents not to smack their children. Read the full report at www.kidscount.com.au.

Tuesday, April 4

Sutton manslaughter judgement
A NSW judge has released parents who admitted to the manslaughter of their severely disabled son as an "act of mercy". Read the full judgement online at Lawlink.

Tuesday, April 3

Queensland schools' performance
The Queensland Studies Authority has released data all Queensland Schools' performance in the Year 12 OP results. You can see the full list of school results by clicking here.

Monday, April 2

Stilnox advice
If you suffer any side effects from Stilnox or other medicines you should call the Adverse Medicine Events Line (9am - 5pm), 1300 134 237 for the cost of a local call.

March 2007

Saturday, March 24

NSW election results: official vote count
For full seat-by-seat details of the NSW election results and the latest counts for both houses, visit the virtual tally room at the Electoral Commission NSW.

Friday, March 16

Why Australia should be drug free
A competition is inviting schools to enter reasons why Australia should become drug-free. Tennis legend Margaret Court told 7News schools about the competition, which schools can enter at www.drugfree.org.au.

Thursday, March 15

World's Greatest Shave
This weekend is the time to be brave and shave, to help raise money for the Leukaemia Foundation. From Thursday to Saturday you can shave or colour your hair at one of 380 public venues across Australia. It's still not too late to register or sponsor and you can find out more by heading to the World's Greatest Shave website.

Sunday, March 11

Sydney Harbour Bridge celebrations
Sydney Harbour Bridge celebrates its 75th anniversary on Sunday March 18. Thousands of people will mark the occasion by walking across the bridge from North Sydney into the city. All places on the walk are now taken, but for information about other celebrations, click here.

Thursday, March 8

Red Cross Calling: how to help
The Red Cross is holding its "Red Cross Calling" campaign this week. To find out how you can help, click here for the Red Cross Calling website.

Wednesday, March 7

Garuda plane crash, Yogyakarta, Indonesia
The Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) has set up a hotline for Australians concerned about relatives and friends who may have been on board the Garuda flight which has caught fire at Yogyakarta in Indonesia. The number is 1800 002 214.

Dogs to help deal with diabetes
Specially-trained dogs are being used to help people with diabetes control their condition. For more information, visit the Paws for Diabetics website: www.pfd.org.au.

Monday, March 5

Drug to treat arthritis of the spine
A drug called Humira, which previously cost patients ,000 per year, has just been subsidised under the PBS. For more information about Humira visit www.humira.com.

To help Matthew Leibowitz climb Mount Kilimanjaro and raise money for arthritis, go to www.ascentforarthritis.com or call the team at 02 8230 0947.

Thursday, March 1

In memory of Billy Thorpe
Over The Rainbow, a memorial service for Australian music legend, Billy Thorpe, will be held this Sunday, 4 March, 2007, at the Sydney Entertainment Centre, at 3.45pm.

Seating has been arranged for general public through Ticketmaster free of charge. Tickets are available on a first come first served basis from 9am Friday 1 March via www.ticketmaster.com.au and selected outlets.

The Thorpe family has requested that in lieu of flowers or obituary notices, contributions be made to Support Act Limited (SAL):
Bank: St George Banking Corporation
Name: Moneypenny Business & Taxation Services P/L Trust Account - Billy Thorpe
BSB: 112-879
A/C: 455015743

For full details go to www.chuggentertainment.com/thorpie.

Thursday, March 1

Planting trees to fight carbon emissions
Actor Jack Thompson has helped launch Australia's first "carbon pool" to fight global warming, which will pay landholders to plant trees in an attempt to offset carbon emissions. CarbonSMART will pay landholders for up to 30 years. For information and eligibility requirements, call 1800 151 105 to request an information pack.

February 2007

Tuesday, February 27

Lane Cove Tunnel videos
To try to prevent traffic chaos when Sydney's new Lane Cove Tunnel opens, the RTA has made a series of videos showcasing travel changes. To view the films, click here.

Monday, February 26

Queensland's land valuations
Today the Queensland Government released the latest property valuations. To see how your suburb fared, click here.

Wednesday, February 14

Ethanol in your fuel
Find out if it is safe to use ethanol-blended fuel in your car. Click here .

January 2007

Tuesday, January 2

NSW councils report
Click to read about the performance of your local council in the NSW local councils report (PDF file), as mentioned on 7News.

Pulmonary hypertension
For more information about pulmonary hypertension, visit: www.phaaustralia.com.au.
To find out about the pulmonary hypertension support group, email: stvphsupport@hotmail.com

December 2006

Tuesday, December 26

New Year's Eve fireworks
Where to find the family firework fun in your city:

BRISBANE
South Bank
9:00pm - Family Fireworks
Midnight - Main Fireworks
4:30pm - Entertainment begins

SYDNEY
Sydney Harbour
9:00pm - Family Fireworks
Midnight - Main Fireworks
1pm - Entertainment begins

CANBERRA
Civic Square
9:00pm - Family Fireworks
Midnight - Main Fireworks
7:30pm - Entertainment begins

MELBOURNE
Federation Square
9:15pm - Family Fireworks
Midnight - Main Fireworks
7pm - Entertainment begins

HOBART
Constitution Dock
Midnight only fireworks
11am - Entertainment begins

ADELAIDE
Brighton Jetty
9:30pm - Family Fireworks

Victoria Square & Glenelg
Midnight - Main Fireworks
9pm - Entertainment begins

PERTH
Gloucester Park, East Perth
11:40pm - Fireworks begin
4pm - Entertainment begins

DARWIN
Stokes Hill Wharf
9pm - Family Fireworks

SkyCity Casino
Midnight - Main Fireworks

Tuesday, December 26

Sydney Hobart yacht race
The official website of the 2006 Rolex Sydney Hobart yacht race is at rolexsydneyhobart.com.

Monday, December 25

Light up your life this Christmas
It's that time of year again with Christmas lights going up all over the country. 7News is giving viewers the chance to win a range of prizes around the country. So far we have competitions going on in Victoria and Adelaide. Just click on the city or state to find out more: Victoria , Adelaide.

Finalists of the Melbourne Christmas Lights Competition are:
Coniston Avenue, Airport West
Crana Court, Hoppers Crossing
Eagle Parade, Norlane
Campbell Court, Melton South
Taylors Road, Delahey
Garfield Court, Dandenong North
Lance Close, Aspendale Gardens
The Avenue, Sunshine West
Burwood Highway, East Burwood
Nepean Highway, Frankston South
Penllyne Avenue, Vermont

Friday, December 23

Recycling at Christmas
For more information about where to recycle your Christmas paper, cards and other items, visit www.recyclingnearyou.com.au.

Thursday, December 21

Surviving debt
For a free booklet put out by Care on surviving debt, visit www.carefcs.org .

Monday, December 11

Hormone patch trial
A new hormone patch which could offer hope for thousands of post-menopausal women with low sex drives is to be tested across Australia. For more information about the trial, call: (08) 8333 8121

Friday, December 8

Christmas lights around Adelaide
If you would like to see some of Adelaide's most spectacular Christmas light displays, here are some addresses to visit:

36 Marquisite Dve, Salisbury East
13 Marapana Dve, Salisbury North
22 Marapana Dve, Salisbury
5 Southdown Tce, Brahma Lodge
10 Holman Rd, Christie Downs
Leewood Crt, Paradise (whole street is lit up)
51 Traverse Ave, Salisbury North
44 Johnston Rd, Elizabeth Downs
6 Curtin Ave, St Agnes
12 Beaumont Rd, Smithfield Plains
5 Stuart Dve, Craigmore
32 Bright Tce, Gawler East
1 Rose Ave, One Tree Hill
91 Alice St, Sefton Park
58 Dunorlan Rd, Edwardstown

Insulin vaccine trial
Scientists developing a new insulin vaccine for people with Type 1 diabetes are looking for volunteers with the condition to take part in trials of the drug. They need 300 people, from the ages of four to 30, to test the new treatment, which delivers insulin directly to the immune system via a nasal spray.,br> If you would like to take part in the tests, call 1300 138 712

Thursday, December 7

Victorian bushfires
An information line has been set up for people who live in the fire zones in Victoria. The number to call is: 1 800 240 667.
It is only for people in the affected areas - please do not phone if you live outside the fire zone.

Wednesday, December 6

Adopt a sheep
You can adopt an Australian Purebred Merino Sheep, to help farmers battle the drought. To find out more and what exactly your money can do to help the sheep, head to the website.

Tuesday, December 5

Unsafe Christmas toys
Safety inspectors in New South Wales have cracked down on Christmas retailers banning 129 unsafe toys. The list ranges from electrical items to yo-yo's that can strangle kids, the full list can be found on the Fair Trading website.

RSPCA donations and Christmas message
As Christmas closes in the RSPCA has a message on how to look after your pets in the holiday and some key thoughts before giving a pet as a gift. You can also find out how to donate by using the RSCPA website.

NSW milk recall
Plain milk is being recalled across New South Wales by the National Foods company. The company says there's a chance of micro-biological contamination in products with a 'Best before' date of December 13. They include the Pura range, Woolworths, Daisy-fresh and Home Brand. The milk should be returned to retailers.

Friday, December 1

Coastcare week
As concerns for global warming, climate change and environmental issues hit an all time high, tennis legend Pat Rafter and swimming star Elka Graham are calling on all Aussies to focus on one area in particular - the coast. More information can be found on the coastcare website or by phoning them on 1800 151 105.

November 2006

Thursday, November 30

Sciatic pain trial
The Great Barrier Reef could hold the key to curing sciatic pain. Australian scientists have developed a drug using an extract from a venomous sea snail. Researchers are looking for participants who have suffered sciatic pain for more than three months. To take part call Adelaide University: 08 8222 5422.

Tuesday, November 28

Too much salt in the diet
Find out which foods have the Heart Foundation's tick for the amount of salt they contain. Click here for the Heart Foundation list (PDF file).



Tuesday, November 21

New seven wonders of the world
It claims to be the biggest global vote ever to take place. The bid to find the new seven wonders of the world is in its final stage. Millions of people have already voted and there are now just 21 finalists including the Sydney Opera House. To vote head to the Seven wonders website: www.new7wonders.com.

Nuclear energy review
The Uranium Mining, Processing and Nuclear Energy Review Taskforce has released its draft report on the future of nuclear energy in Australia. The Prime Minister has asked the Taskforce to report by the end of the year. so the taskforce is inviting feedback on the draft report by 12 December 2006, you can see the report here.


Friday, November 17

Belinda Emmett donations: McGrath Foundation
The family of Belinda Emmett has requested that flowers not be sent for her funeral. Instead, mourners have been asked to make a donation to the McGrath Foundation, which funds research into breast cancer. Click here to visit the McGrath Foundation.

Belinda Emmett's song
In celebration of Belinda's life, the Emmett family has made a song Belinda had recorded available to the public. You can listen to Less than Perfect by clicking here.



Monday, November 13

Polycystic ovary syndrome
The CSIRO is testing tailored programs based on its Total Wellbeing diet, to help women suffering with Polycystic ovary syndrome. The study is currently only taking place in Adelaide, for more information you can phone the CSIRO on 08 83038876 or email them at: studies@adelaide.hsn.csiro.au

Wednesday, November 1

Movember fun
November is Movember, and Mo Bros register clean shaven at the start of the month and then grow a mo to raise money for charity and awareness of men's health issues. The Movember website has more information.

October 2006

Tuesday, October 31

Mandatory smoke alarms
Legislation requires all NSW residents to have at least one working smoke alarm installed on each level of their home. More information is available from the Fire Service website.

Thursday, October 26

Queensland phone poll
Tonight in a Seven News phone poll, we're asking the very same question put to Queenslanders fourteen years ago. Are you in favour of daylight saving? To vote call: yes: 1 900 956 003 no: 1 900 956 004 Legion Interactive. Calls cost 55 cents. Mobiles extra. Voting closes at 16:00 (local time) on 27/10/06.

Sunday, October 22

NSW 'School Zone' flashing lights
The state government in NSW has announced a list of 100 schools to receive new 'school zone' flashing lights to mark 40km/h speed limits. The lights are due to be installed by Christmas this year. Click here for a full list of 100 schools.

Friday, October 20

Fend off osteoporosis with food
A landmark Australian report has uncovered a direct link between what we eat and our ability to fend off osteoporosis. Some of the good foods to eat include: dairy products, tinned fish, almonds, tofu, carrots, lettuce, spinach, broccoli, eggs and oranges. For more information head to the osteoporosis website or call them on 1800 242 141.

Thursday, October 19

Beyond Blue men's helpline
Beyond Blue is an organisation helping farmers and other men deal with depression and the emotional drain caused by the drought. To find out more you can visit the Beyone Blue website or contact them on 1300 789 978.

Wednesday, October 18

Sleep drug trials
A new drug to help with insomnia is being trialled in Sydney by the Woolcock Institue of Medical Research. It is hoped the new drug will eliminate many of the harmful side-effects of current treatments. To find out more about the trial phone 1800 828 717, or head to the Woolcock website.

Bear bile farming ban
Animals Asia wants to persuade the Chinese Government to ban bear bile farming. Bear bile is used as an anti-inflammatory in traditional Chinese medicine, but results in toture for many Moon Bears. Volunteers help save thousands every year and to help you can head to the Animals Asia website.


Monday, October 16

National script writing competition
Inscription is a new national script writing competition for film, theatre and television. There are cash prizes available plus the chance to work with some of the world's best script writers. For more information head to the inscription website.

Thursday, October 12

NRMA crash list
The NRMA has carried out a survey of the worst crash sites in NSW, they have compiled the list in terms of frequency. You can check out this year's results at the NRMA's website.

The girl's night in
The Cancer Council NSW is having a fundraising throughout October. You simply invite all your girlfriends around for a night in and donate the money you would have spent going out to help the cancer council fund important support and research programs. To find out more head to the Cancer Council website.

Monday, October 9

School resourcing list
7News carried out a freedom of information application to find the South Australia education department’s ranking list. The rankings are based on social and economic data, and the education department says they are used to allocate resources where they are needed most. The state's poorest schools are meant to get the most money, but parents at some schools are still waiting. You can see the complete list and check out your school here. This is a PDF document which requires Adobe Acrobat Reader to view and print.


Friday, October 6

SA water saving tips
South Australian green thumbs are under pressure to make their beloved gardens more water wise.

For more water saving tips, visit www.sawater.com.au or www.lifeisagarden.com.au.

Thursday, October 5

Find Harry the Blue-Tongued lizard
A thief broke into seven-year-old Ethan Payne's Melbourne home on Tuesday. He stole a priceless 246-year-old violin, but also something much more important, his pet Harry the Blue-Tongued lizard.

Ethan described Harry as "very flat and smooth".

"He's thirty centimetres long and he's got pink around his nose," he said.

If you know anything about Harry's whereabouts, call Crimestoppers on 1800 333 000 or www.crimestoppers.com.au.

September 2006

Wednesday, September 27

Emergency service for kids
Tighter water restrictions will be in place throughout South Australia next week. To find out more you can head to South Australia Water's website www.sawater.com.au or call the drought hotline number - 1800 130 952.

Wednesday, September 27

Emergency service for kids
NETS is the state-wide emergency service for medical retrieval of critically ill newborns, infants and children in New South Wales. Read more at www.nets.org.au.

Herbs and spices to fight cancer
Research published in the Medical Journal of Australia has indicated that herbs and spices can help inhibit the growth of certain cancers. Below is the list of the most potent herbs and spices.

Common name: Clove
Botanical name: Syzygium aromaticum
Antioxidant activity: 465.3 mmol/100g*

Oregano
Origanum vulgare
137.5 mmol/100g*

Cinnamon
Cinnamomum zeylanicum
98.4 mmol/100g*

Peppermint
Mentha piperita
78.5 mmol/100g*

Thyme
Thymus vulgaris L.
74.6 mmol/100g*

Rosemary
Rosmarinus officinalis L.
66.9 mmol/100g*

Marjoram (sweet)
Origanum majorana
55.8 mmol/100g*

Basil
Ocimum basilicum L.
30.9 mmol/100g*

Ginger
Zingiber officinale
22.5 mmol/100g*

Dill
Anethum graveolens
15.9 mmol/100g*

Curry
Murraya koenigii L.
13.0 mmol/100g*

Chives
Allium schoenoprasum
7.1 mmol/100g*

Parsley
Petroselinum crispum
3.6 mmol/100g*

Coriander
Coriandrum sativum L.
3.3 mmol/100g*

Vanilla seeds
Vanilla planifolia
2.6 mmol/100g*

Garlic
Allium sativum L.
2.1 mmol/100g*

* Mean total antioxidant activity per 100g.

This research was published in the Medical Journal of Australia, and you can find out more about it here.

Friday, September 22

Coping with the HSC
For more information about coping with the NSW Higher School Certificate, visit www.kidshelp.com.au,
www.anikafoundation.com or
www.boardofstudies.nsw.edu.au .

Wednesday, September 20

Assistance Dogs Australia
Nuala was joined for tonight's weather by assistance dog Nuala, you can find out more about how they help people with physical disabilities on the assistance dogs website.

Monday, September 18

South Australian fishing tips
For the latest fishing hot spots in South Australia, click here

Friday, September 15

Steve Irwin tribute song
Singer Colin Buchanan has penned a tribute song dedicated to the life of wildlife warrior Steve Irwin. You can listen to the song at Colin Buchanan's website.

Wednesday, September 13

Foster Care Week
The Department of Community Services is in urgent need of foster carers, and on any given day more than 3700 children need foster care.

To find out more about how you can help or to get involved in Foster Care Week, visit the DoCS website.

Thursday, September 7

Prostate cancer call-in
The Cancer Council NSW is encouraging men to call 13 11 20 between 9am and 9pm today for advice on prostate cancer prevention, treatment, and support services.

Top prostate cancer specialists, nurses, and prostate cancer survivors will be available on the Cancer Helpline throughout the day. For further details, visit the Cancer Council website.

Wednesday, September 6

Seven Bridges Walk
To find out more about the 22 kilometre Seven Bridges Walk, which is being held on Sunday, October 29, around Sydney's waterways, to raise money for a number of charities, visit www.7bridgeswalk.com.au.

Tuesday, September 5

Steve Irwin "Crocodile Hunter" donations
Steve and Terri Irwin set up an organisation called Wildlife Warriors to help wildlife in Australia and overseas. You can make an online donation to their organisation via www.wildlifewarriors.org. Alternatively, call 1800 334 350 (international +61 7 5436 2026) or email donations@wildlifewarriors.org.

Donations can also be made at any ANZ branch upon the mention of "A Tribute to Steve Irwin" fund. Cheques payable to Wildlife Warriors can be sent to PO Box 29, Beerwah QLD 4519 Australia.

International donors can give at any bank with the following details:
Australia Zoo Wildlife Warriors Worldwide Ltd "A Tribute to Steve Irwin"
ANZ Beerwah, BSB 014 507, Account Number 493555839, Swiftcode: anzbau3mxxx

Those wishing to acknowledge the loss of Steve Irwin can also go to www.qld.gov.au to send a message which will be passed on to the Irwin family. You can write letters to Australia Zoo at Glass House Mountains Tourist Route, Beerwah, Queensland 4519.

August 2006

Thursday, August 24

Sydney's contaminated water
The NSW Government is expanding its management of groundwater use in areas that sit above the Botany Sands Aquifer. A number of contaminated sites have resulted in the contamination of groundwater in the aquifer and there has been an increase in groundwater use in the area due to the current drought. Get more information here.

Australian of the Year
The search is on again for the Australian of the Year. You can nominate for the Local Hero, Young, Senior and Australian of the Year. Nomination forms are available from www.australianoftheyear.gov.au.

Wednesday, August 23

New arthritis treatment
Australian researchers believe they have discovered an anti-inflammatory compound which could help ease arthritis. The compound has been named chaperonin 10.

For more on the new arthritis discovery, visit www.cbio.com.au.

Ethanol compatibility
Find out whether your car is able to run ethanol blended petrol. The 10 per cent ethanol blend on the market is called E10: Driving Australia: ethanol compatibility.

Friday, August 18

The Battle of Long Tan
The most well known Australian engagement of the Vietnam War was the Battle of Long Tan on August 18, 1966. Today is the 40th Anniversary of the battle.
Read more about it here.

Tuesday, August 15

New car crash tests
The NRMA has resuls from the Australian New Car Assessment Program, rating the protection provided by vehicles in serious front and side crashes: ANCAP crash tests.

Monday, August 14

Omega 3 benefits and concerns
For more on the amount of Omega 3 fatty acids recommended in your diet visit www.diagnosticinsight.com.au.

Tuesday, August 8

Willoughby Council's Civic Place
Sydney's Willoughby Council is holding a fundraising drive to build a new library and civic centre in suburb of Chatswood. To find out more about the million project, visit the Civic Place website.

Monday, August 7

Complete the Census online
To complete Australia's Census online, or if you would like more information about it, visit www.abs.gov.au/census.

Friday, August 4

Binary fire EPA water sampling program
Since the Binary fire in August 2005, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has been conducting a water-sampling program in Saltwater Creek and areas affected by contaminated firewater. Firewater contaminated with the chemicals stored in the Binary factory flowed from the site into a nearby tributary of Saltwater Creek. Read more about the EPA report here.

Tuesday, August 1

Childhood Hero appeal
Kate Ritchie and Chris Hemsworth from Home & Away helped Nuala show you how to become a hero by donating to the Australian Childhood Foundation's Childhood Hero appeal. Read more about it www.childhoodhero.com.au.

July 2006

Monday, July 31

Reverse Mortgages: fact sheets
A series of guides to reverse mortgages, produced with the help of Infochoice:
1. Reverse mortgages - a quick guide
2. Reverse mortgages explained
3. What to look for in a reverse mortgage
4. Reverse mortgages - tips and tricks

Missing Persons goes online
The Australian Federal Police has put Australia's entire Missing Persons database online, in the hope of solving thousands of cases. Visit the the AFP website to search.

Wednesday, July 26

Red Cross Middle East Appeal
With the violence in the Middle East showing no signs of abating, the Australian Red Cross has launched an appeal to help people affected by the crisis. To donate to the appeal, call 1800 811 700 or visit the Australian Red Cross web site.

Red Cross "Red Rocks" event
The Australian Red Cross in NSW is holding its "Red Rocks" event at the Grand Ballroom, Westin Hotel, on Friday July 28 at 7pm. For details on ticket prices and booking numbers visit the Red Cross Red Rocks web page.

Tuesday, July 25

New contraceptive pill trial
A trial of a new pill that promises fewer side-effects than other contraceptive pills will include women in Sydney, Perth, Adelaide and later in Brisbane. The as yet unnamed pill should be available in two years pending the outcome of the trial.

To participate in the study, or for more information, contact:

SYDNEY
Family Planning NSW:
Ph: 8752 4350
Fax: 9716 5134
To register online, contact Family Planning NSW at: www.fpahealth.org.au

Royal Hospital for Women, Sydney
(02) 9382 6621

Sydney Centre for Reproductive Health Research
(02) 8752 4350

For general information on the trial and to contact the Royal Hospital for Women: www.rhw.org.au

ADELAIDE
Adelaide Hormone and Menopause Centre
Phone (08) 8333 8151

PERTH
King Edward Memorial Hospital, Perth
Phone (08) 9340 2717

BRISBANE
Brisbane will be joining the study in late August or early September.

Monday, July 24

Complete the Census online
If you would like to complete Australia's Census online or you would like more information about it, visit www.abs.gov.au/census.

Sunday, July 23

Support number for Lebanon evacuees
Australians affected by events in Lebanon who need support services or counselling can contact the Middle East Support Hotline on 180 2211.

The number will have information about Federal, state and territory services from counselling to visa and passport advice. Centrelink staff will operate the hotline around the clock.

Friday, July 21

Breast cancer website
A website has been set up to support men who suffer from breast cancer. The National Breast Cancer Centre is concerned those sufferers are forgotten about and generally ill-informed. About 100 Australian men every year are diagnosed with the disease. You can visit it at www.nbcc.org.au/men.

Wednesday, July 19

Variety Brookvale to Bundaberg
For more information on Variety's Brookvale to Bundaberg Bash, visit www.varietynsw.org.au.

Yahoo!7 Fuel Price Watch
Motorists can use the free Yahoo!7 Fuel Price Watch to track the cheapest petrol in their local area, with an easy-to-read online map. The service covers large areas (approx 65 per cent) of Adelaide, Brisbane, Gold Coast, Melbourne, Perth, Sunshine Coast and Sydney. Search by postcode or suburb to show petrol stations on a map of your area, with up-to-date pricing. The fuel price information is provided by Motormouth and the Department of Consumer & Employment Protection (WA). Visit yahoo7.com.au/fuelwatch.

KR Castlemaine meatgoods recall
More than 36,000 packets of ready-to-eat meatgoods will be recalled from the nation's supermarkets after a Toowoomba meat processer was found to have contracted Hepatitis A. Queensland Health said there was a small chance that the disease could be passed on if contaminated meat was consumed.

Concerned Queenslanders can call the 24-hour Health hotline on 13 43 25 84. Further information about KR Castlemaine products can be obtained from 1800 155 150. More information can be found at Queensland Health.

Dr Jeannette Young from Queensland Health told Sunrise this morning if you have eaten the meat you should not be concerned, as getting sick from the products is highly unlikely.

However if you have any symptoms, such as fever, abdominal pain or feeling off your food, you should go straight to your GP. Your GP will do a simple test but the test can not be done unless you have had the symptoms.

Sunday, July 16

DFAT numbers for Beirut crisis: updated
If you are concerned about relatives in Lebanon and you are calling from Australia, ring 1800 002 214. If calling from Lebanon, the number is 1300 555 135.


Thursday, July 13

Name a Sydney redevelopment
A competition is underway to name Sydney's newest harbourside address at the redevelopment of East Darling Harbour. Submit your name suggestion at www.newharbourheadland.com.

DFAT number for Beirut crisis
Australians concerned for relatives or friends in Beirut who have been unable to contact them can phone the DFAT hotline on 1300 555 135.

Monday, July 10

Australian of the Year
The search is on again for the Australian of the Year. You can nominate for the Local Hero, Young, Senior and Australian of the Year. Nomination forms are available from www.australianoftheyear.gov.au.

Thursday, July 6

Brimble family appeal
Dianne Brimble's former husband, Mark Brimble, said the family continued to rely heavily on public donations to fund legal expenses and its travel to Sydney for the coronial inquiry into the death of the mother-of-three from an overdose of date-rape drug GBH onboard P&O's Pacific Sky in 2002. The inquiry is scheduled to run until February. Mr Brimble said he wanted Mrs Brimble's children to know the truth about their mother's death.

Money can be donated to:
The Estate of Dianne Brimble
P.O. Box 112
Everton Park
Queensland 4053


You Tube
You Tube is a website which allows you to watch, upload and share videos. People watch more than 70 million videos a day. US television networks originally tried to ban the website as episodes of their TV shows appeared on it, but have since changed their tune because of its burgeoning popularity. Find out more by visiting youtube.com.

Thursday, June 29

Ride for Sophie
A motorcycle ride is being held on July 1 to raise money for Sophie Delezio's Day of Difference foundation. The organisers - a collection of motorcycle riding groups will donate 100 per cent of money raised to the foundation for the brave Sydney two-time car accident victim, Sophie, and other children like her. The ride departs from Sydney Olympic Park. To find out more, visit www.ride4sophie.com.au.

Wednesday, June 28

Children's Hospital Westmead
Nuala Haffner presented the weather from the Sydney's Children's Hospital at Westmead this evening. The hospital is holding a Winter Appeal, called Making Dreams Come True, to help the many sick kids who come through its doors every year. To donate and find out more, visit The Children's Hospital Westmead.

Outback Cattle Drive
If you would like to take part in the Outback Cattle Drive, please call 1300 655 276, visit www.cattledrive.com.au or e:mail informationandbookings@southaustralia.com.

Tuesday, June 27

Used car safety
Researchers from Melbourne's Monash University have released the details of the largest ever study of the safety of used cars, examining 350 models from more than 1.7 million crashes between 1987 and 2004. To find out how your car rates, visit www.howsafeisyourcar.com.au.

Tuesday, June 20

Male body image research
Men are increasingly worried about how they look. The increasing pressure to look perfect has even been linked with stress and eating disorders. Not enough is known about how to treat this, so Flinders University researchers are looking for volunteers to take part anonymously in a male body image study. To take part, visit www.ssn.flinders.edu.au.

Sunday, June 18

St Kilda star collapses on TV
St Kilda AFL star Justin Koschitzke has collapsed live on Seven's Sportsworld: watch the video on Seven's Weekend Sunrise: Koschitzke collapse.

Thursday, June 15

Adelaide viewers: Free money
Tonight's 7News fact sheet is on Allowances available for students
To obtain a hard copy of the 7News Adelaide "Free Money" fact sheets, send an A4 sized, stamped self-addressed envelope to: Seven News, PO Box 701, Kent Town 5071.

Wednesday, June 14

Sydney's online dictionary
The website mentioned in our story: www.dictionaryofsydney.org.

Adelaide viewers: Free money
Tonight's fact sheets:
Superannuation contributions - Age pension - Seniors' discounts

To obtain a hard copy of the 7News Adelaide "Free Money" fact sheet, send an A4 sized, stamped self-addressed envelope to: Seven News, PO Box 701, Kent Town 5071.

Tuesday, June 13

Adelaide viewers: Free money
7News "Free Money" fact sheet: Payments for Familiies

CENTRELINK
Age Pension 13 2300
Families 13 6150
Youth and Students 13 2490
www.centrelink.gov.au

SENIORS INFORMATION SERVICE
45 Flinders St, Adelaide
08 232 1441 or Country Freecall 1800 636 368

To obtain a hard copy of the 7News Adelaide "Free Money" fact sheet, send an A4 sized, stamped self-addressed envelope to: Seven News, PO Box 701, Kent Town 5071.

Thursday, June 8

Multiple Sclerosis Research Day
Friday is MS Research Day. You can help raise money for a cure by buying a wrist band. More information is available from Multiple Sclerosis Research Australia.

Wednesday, June 7

Yahoo!7 Fuel Price Watch
Motorists can use the free Yahoo!7 Fuel Price Watch to track the cheapest petrol in their local area, with an easy-to-read online map. The service covers large areas (approx 65 per cent) of Adelaide, Brisbane, Gold Coast, Melbourne, Perth, Sunshine Coast and Sydney. Search by postcode or suburb to show petrol stations on a map of your area, with up-to-date pricing. The fuel price information is provided by Motormouth and the Department of Consumer & Employment Protection (WA). Visit yahoo7.com.au/fuelwatch.

Diabetes drug trial
A revolutionary new drug for diabetics is being trialled in Australia, aiming to provide long-lasting relief and help people with diabetes lose weight. The clinical trial is being organised by South Australian Endocrine Clinical Research. Phone (08) 8293 6533 or email saecr@internode.on.net.

Monday, June 5

Drug effective in fighting cancer
Worldwide trials have shown a new medication was effective in shrinking tumours and improving the survival rates of patients with breast and brain cancer. Trials show Lapatinib, also known as Tykerb, blocks proteins that cause cancer. Tykerb is not yet available in Australia. For more information, visit the GlaxoSmithKline website.

Friday, June 2

Computer game to ward off Alzheimer's Disease
For more information on how to keep your brain active and reduce the risk of developing Alzheimer's Disease, visit the Alzheimer's Australia website or call the National Dementia Helpline on 1800 100 500.

Thursday, June 1

Bowel cancer call-in
Anyone can call the Cancer Council Helpline to receive free advice, information about treatment, early detection and prevention of bowel cancer from some of the state's top bowel cancer experts.

It means free specialist advice about bowel cancer is on hand between 9am and 8pm today by calling 13 11 20.

May 2006

Tuesday, May 30

Support the Ranaweern quads
If you would like to help the Ranaweern family, who had a naturally conceived set of quadruplets last week, contact Judith Saffigna at the Australian Multiple Births Association at saffigna@bigpond.net.au or phone: 03 9790 1022. The Ranaweerns, who emigrated from Sri Lanka in February need to find accommodation for their extended family.

Saturday, May 27

Red Cross Timor Leste Appeal
To donate to the 'Timor-Leste Appeal': visit the Red Cross website to make a secure online donation or call 1800 811 700 toll free. Alternatively, send a cheque to GPO Box 2957 Melbourne VIC 8060 marked 'Timor-Leste Appeal'.
Red Cross staff and volunteers in Darwin have been registering people evacuated from Timor-Leste, collecting their details and entering them into the National Registration and Inquiry System (NRIS). Family and friends seeking information on people being evacuated can contact the Red Cross on (08) 8924 3900.

Tuesday, May 23

Pedestrian crossing upgrades
The pedestrian crossing where Sophie Delezio was injured three weeks ago is one of 59 locations being upgraded in NSW. You can see the full list of crossings here.

Monday, May 22

Harvard fluoride study
Boys who drink water with levels of fluoride considered safe by federal guidelines are five times more likely to have a rare bone cancer than boys who drink unfluoridated water, according to a study byHarvard University scientists published in a peer-reviewed journal.

The Australian Dental Association is in favour of safe levels of fluoride in water. You can see their perspective on fluoridenow.com.

Thursday, May 18

Superannuation concerns
A 7News survey has revealed many Sydneysiders were worried they did not have enough money to retire on. To find out more about investing and to read fact sheets prepared by experts, visit the Investment and Financial Services Association's website.

Wednesday, May 16

Raising children For more information about the new raising children website visit www.raisingchildren.net.au.

Tuesday, May 16

Gastro vaccine
Researchers have developed a vaccine against a virus that causes gastroenteritis. Babies can be given the new gastro vaccine at two months and then four months old.
It costs per dose and is said to give at least 85 per cent protection against rotavirus - the most common cause of gastro in children under five. The vaccine is available on prescription through a GP.
For advice, speak to your family doctor or for more information, visit the Glaxo Smith Kline website.

Tonsilitis information
A new surgical technique allows patients to eat properly a few hours after having their tonsils out. It may also help chronic snorers. More information: cyril@brctenterprises.com.au or (02) 9809 0002 during business hours only.

Thursday, May 11

Song for Beaconsfield
Colin Buchanan has written a song about the rescue of trapped miners, Brant Webb and Todd Russell. Read more about Colin Buchanan by visiting his website.

Beaconsfield miners' appeal
To donate call 1300 362 298 or make a donation to:
Beaconsfield Miners' Support Fund
Commonwealth Bank BSB: 067 028 A/C: 10175554.

Gladstone factory explosion
The South Australian Government and the Red Cross have launched an appeal for the victims of the Gladstone munitions factory explosion. You can make a donation to the council offices at Jamestown, Gladestone, and Spalding. Alternatively, you can contact the Red Cross on 1800 811 700 or visit the website.

Monday, May 8

Above average kids
With Australia currently suffering an obesity epidemic, it seems we are in the grip of super-sizing and it's not just people getting bigger. From clothes, to coffins, to toilet seats, expanding waist-lines, mean expanding products, and it's costing billions of dollars. The above average kids website, offers clothing for plus-size girls.

Sunday, May 7

Another Shane Warne sex scandal
Shane Warne is embroiled in another sex scandal with a UK newspaper showing pictures of him with two women. Take a look at the Shane Warne pictures here. *Warning: Some people may be offended by the content of the pictures. They include nudity.


Saturday, May 6

Sophie Delezio
Sophie's father, Ron Delezio, has requested that concerned members of the public do not call the Children's Hospital at Randwick to check on the five-year-old's condition.

To check on Sophie's condition and find out about the charity Ron has set up, you can call 02 9266 0913 or visit www.dayofdifference.org.au. You can also leave messages for Sophie on a website, www.wishesforsophie.com, which was set up by a member of the public.

The Sydney Swans have also set up a special section on their website to receive messages of support for Sophie who is a fan of the AFL team.

Friday, May 5

National Council on Drugs booklet
Alarming new statistics show 1.8million Australian are using Cannabis every year, with 300,000 using it every day. In an attempt to tackle the problem, the National Council on Drugs has launched a new education campaign. You can download the booklet - 'Cannabis - your questions answered'

Thursday, May 4

Help the Pacific Flava youth group
A Blacktown youth group which helps troubled kids get off the streets is facing closure. It needs $18,000 by Monday, but the State Government and local council are refusing to help. However you can help Pacific Flava keep kids off the street, simply call Tony Turanga on 0410 071 824.


Wednesday, May 3

Interest rates rise
The Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA) has increased interest rates by 25 basis points to 5.75 per cent. For more information on the RBA, visit www.rba.gov.au.

Tuesday, May 2

Walking against heart disease
Alan Waddell is an inspirational 91-year-old who has made it his mission to walk every street across more than 200 Sydney suburbs. You can check his progress via his website - www.walksydneystreets.net.

Alan is helping lead the fight against heart disease, this week is heart week and the Heart Foundation's website has more information on how you can help.

Monday, May 1

AWU Miners' fund
The Australian Workers Union has started a fund to assist the family of Larry Knight, the miner who was found dead last week in Beaconsfield. To donate, call the Commonwealth Bank on 1300 362 298.

April 2006

Sunday, April 30

Smoke alarms
From May 1, 2006 it is compulsory for all homes in NSW to have a smoke alarm installed on each level of the house. Read more about smoke alarms.

Friday, April 28

Baby Maria Soares
Tiny East Timorese baby Maria Soares has just had life-saving heart surgery in Sydney. You can read more about Maria Soares, view a picture gallery or donate money to help Maria and other sick East Timorese children. Want to find out more about helping people in our region? Visit the Australian Foundation for Peoples in Asia and the Pacific. Find out more about the Hope Orphange in East Timor. If you want to help the Sydney Childrens Hospital in Randwick where Maria had surgery, you can follow the links to the "how to help page". ROMAC is the Rotary division that was responsible for bringing Maria to Australia.


Thursday, April 27


Wednesday, April 26

Shutting down the peep hole website
The Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA) will take your complaints about the website that lists toilet peep holes. Email you complaints to online@acma.gov.au.

Miners trapped in Tasmania
A rockfall in a mine shaft at Beaconsfield near Launceston in Tasmania's north has trapped three miners. There is an information line for concerned relatives of miners working in the area: (03) 6383 6355.

Monday, April 24

Anzac Day road closures
Several roads will be closed in Sydney's CBD for Anzac Day services, visit the RTA website for details.

We also have details of Anzac Day services around the country.

Sunday, April 23

Cyclone Monica
For more information on the latest cyclone threatening Australia, visit the Bureau of Meteorology.


Thursday, April 20

Indonesian travel warning
The Australian Government has advised against travel to Indonesia due to the high threat of terrorist attack. Read the Indonesian travel advisory here.


Tuesday, April 18

Breast cancer hope
A US study has found that a drug called Raloxifene already approved for osteoporosis could significantly reduce the number of post-menopausal women getting breast cancer. Find out more about the study here.

Monday, April 17

Ginger drink
To find out more about the ginger punch which is supposed to fight cancer and heart disease, visit Dr Red.

Baby Sounds for Silence
Ballarat paediatrician Dr Harry Zehnwirth has created a CD of sounds which claims an amazing success rate at getting babies to settle down to sleep. Our own Princess Mary of Denmark is thought to be a fan. Find out more here.

Thursday, April 13

Kylie's new look
New photos of Kylie Minogue have been released, sporting a short, pixie-like hairdo. They were taken by her boyfriend, French actor Olivier Martinez. Check them out here.

Wednesday, April 12

Rugby World Cup 2007
Tickets are now on sale for the Rugby World Cup 2007 in France, Scotland and Wales, so you can get in early to support the Wallabies. Click here to purchase tickets.

Shire Horse Society
For more information about the Shire Horse Society and its mission to create a trophy in memory of two friends murdered in January this year, call (02) 4683 1664 or visit www.shirehorsesociety.com.au.


Tuesday, April 11

Genetically modified chocolate
To find out more about genetically modified chocolate, visit www.greenpeace.org.au/truefood.

Saturday, April 8

Call goes out for Census workers
The Australian Bureau of Statistics is recruiting 26,000 people to be Census workers. For details, visit www.abs.gov.au/recruitment or phone 1300 236 787.

Friday, April 7

Petrol prices set to hit $1.40 per litre
The Prime Minister has called for scrutiny of a petrol price hike to co-incide with Easter. Some consumers are using the web to find cheaper fuel.

The lowest fuel price in your area may be found at Motormouth: motormouth.com.au. Data on petrol prices is tracked by Fueltrac: www.fueltrac.com.au. In WA , the Department of Consumer and Employment Protection tracks prices at www.fuelwatch.com.au.

Katherine floods
Viewers have sent in photos of the floods in the Northern Territory town of Katherine. Check them out here.

Wednesday, April 5

Royal Easter Show
For more information on Sydney's Royal Easter Show, visit: www.eastershow.com.au.

Monday, April 3

Queensland school reports
The Queensland government has today released report cards on every school in the state

The figures have stirred a hornets nest with the State's most expensive school falling outside the Top 100, and has left teachers and principals warning parents to ignore the rankings.

Some general information regarding the report can be found here.

And a copy of the full table is available here.

Sunday, April 2

Industrial relations reform
The Australian Council of Trade Unions (ACTU) is encouraging workers who have been treated unfairly as a result of the workplace reforms to tell their stories at the ACTU website: www.rightsatwork.com.au.

Sydney's tank stream
A hidden part of Sydney's colonial history, the tank stream, has been opened up giving a rare look at how our city was born. Read more about the tank stream here.

Sydney fatal shooting
NSW Police are appealing for witnesses following a fatal shooting in Sydney's west yesterday. They are interested in anyone who noticed a man and woman near a gold Holden Astra sedan between 3.30pm and 3.45pm yesterday in the vicinity of the roof top car park of a shopping centre in Cunningham Street, Fairfield.

Contact Fairfield Police on 9728 0399 or Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.

March 2006

Wednesday, March 29
Government travel warning
The Australian government has updated it travel advice on Indonesia, to include a warning to avoid protests outside its Jakarta embassy. Read more about the travel warning here.

Tuesday, March 28
Public transport timetables on your mobile
Telstra or Optus mobile customers can now check NSW train, bus and ferry information on their phones via WAP or GPRS.

The NSW government service, using data from the popular 131500 transport info hotline, is also available on the web at mobile.131500.info.

Monday, March 27
Australians richer than ever
Wealth for Australians has more than doubled in the past 10 years with the average Aussie worth $305,000.
The Economic Roundup Summer 2006 report shows Australia's private wealth is more than $6000 billion.
You can read more here.

ADHD drugs and side effects
There have been reports that children as young as five have suffered strokes and heart attacks after taking drugs such as Ritalin for the treatment of Attention Defecit and Hyeractivity Disorder. Read more about ADHD here.

Thursday, March 23

Speed Camera Lawyers
To contact the lawyers compiling the case against the RTA, the firm is Nyman Gibson Stewart, phone 02 9264 8884 or email bg@notguilty.com.au.

Wednesday, March 22

Manly raising funds
Manly Sea Eagles player Michael Monaghan is raising funds to buy a new bus for the Arranounbi School. If you would like to help raise the money, you can call the Manly Club on (02) 9970 3000.

Tuesday, March 21

Cyclone Larry appeal
Queensland premier Peter Beattie has launched a disaster relief fund to help Cyclone Larry victims, kicking off fundraising with a donation of $100,000.

To make a donation to the cyclone Disaster Relief Fund, you can ring 1800 150 411 with your credit card details, between 8am to 6pm, Monday to Friday.
Cheques can be made out to the "Premier's Disaster Relief Appeal Fund" with the account number being 064-013-1000-6800.

Donations can also be made at any branch of the Commonwealth Bank and any gifts over $2 are tax deductible.

Centrelink assistance
If you have lost your house in the cyclone, you can call Centrelink for an assistance payment via the Hotline number - 1802 002.

Cyclone Larry information
For information about family members, friends or loved ones affected by Cyclone Larry, phone 1800 100 188.
For victims of the cyclone who need help, phone 1800 440 074.

Sydney ferry strike
For updates on the wildcat strike by Sydney Ferries staff that has crippled the city's public transport system, visit the Transport Information website.


Monday, March 20

Cyclone Larry
To keep track of one of the strongest cyclones to hit North Queensland in years, visit the Bureau of Meteorology. Larry, which has reached wind speeds of up to 280 km/h (compared to Cyclone Tracy's 220 km/h) hit near Innisfail this morning. Click here for information on how to prepare for cyclones.

Assistance line
Queensland Police have activated their Assistance Line to assist people who are enquiring about those evacuated in the affected areas. The number is 1800 100 188.

Saturday, March 18

Memorial event for Sydney man
The friends of Aaron Lacrosse, the 26-year old killed when he drove into a tree in Merrylands on Saturday morning (his son Cody, aged 3, survived) are organising a road trip to raise money for the family and funeral.

The event is planned sometime this week as a get-together of hotted-up cars along the NSW coast. Anyone wanting further information can contact Aaron's friends on 0403 207 329. Either Bill, Tony or Ibbie will answer.

Emma Snowsill's triathlon gold
Read a profile of Australia's triathlon golden girl and her career in the sport at the RunnersWeb site.

RU486 abortion drug deaths
The US Food and Drug Adminstration has an online report about the death of two women who took the controversial abortion drug RU486 (mifepristone).

Thursday, March 16

Melbourne Games links
The official website for the 2006 Commonwealth Games is www.melbourne2006.com.au. You can also find out the latest sporting information from Seven Sport.

Wednesday, March 15

Rock Hall of Fame
Seminal UK punk act Sex Pistols spurned their induction into America's Rock Hall of Fame. This year Blondie, Black Sabbath and Lynard Skynard were also inducted. Artists are only considered for Hall of Fame entry 25 years after their first recording. Find out more here.

Tuesday, March 14

Neil Tobin memorial account
A fund has been established to help Kian Tobin, the boy who walked barefoot for two hours after a car crash that killed his father at Bourke, New South Wales.

Donations can be made to: The Neil Tobin memorial account at the Commonwealth Bank. The account number is 251 010 068 574.

Desperate Housewives clothing
You can purchase clothes worn by the stars of Desperate Housewives here.

GM Holden safety recall
GM Holden has issued a safety recall on specific locally built vehicles from April 2003 to December 2005 sold in Australia and export markets and fitted with side impact airbags as standard or optional equipment. Click here
for more information

Slobodan Milosevic trial online
The death of the former Yugoslav leader has brought his trial at the UN War Crimes Tribunal in The Hague to a premature end. However, details of the tribunal's proceedings, including an autopsy report for Milosevic, are still available at www.un.org/icty

Wednesday, March 8

Strike force Enoggera
Police investigating the Cronulla riots have released photos of 20 men identified as persons of interest with whom they wish to speak.

Click here to view the pictures. If you can help the police with their investigation, call 1800 333 000 or visit the Crime Stoppers NSW website.

Monday, March 6

Academy Awards
For a full list of the winners or to watch the 78th Academy Awards unfold, go to www.oscars.com.

Sunday, March 5

Clean Up Australia Day 2006
To volunteer at an existing clean up site simply visit www.cleanup.com.au or phone 1800 CUA DAY (that is 1800 282 329) and locate a clean up site in your neighbourhood.

Friday, March 3

Asbestos in NSW schools

Asbestos has been removed from 230 schools across NSW in the last three years, with further works planned in a another 16 schools. Full details of all these schools are available here.

Thursday, March 2

New blood glucose machine
A new machine which measures blood sugar levels every five seconds could help diabetics reduce the risk of contracting complications. Read the Seven News story. For more information, click here.

Wednesday, March 1

Sizzler food contamination
The Queensland department of health has set up a hotline number to handle queries about the Sizzler food contamination scandal. The number is 1800 427 799.

Tropfest
"Carmichael and Shane" wins Tropfest. Check out who else won prizes here.