News in brief

New initiative targets families, fitness

The Cook+Phillip Park Aquatic and Fitness Centre and Ian Thorpe Aquatic and Fitness Centre have introduced new Family Timetables in an effort to encourage families to spend more quality time together and experience the benefits of an active lifestyle. Darren Crumpler, Metro Manager of the two City of Sydney sites, which are managed by the YMCA, said the aim is to make it easier for families to spend quality time together. “We are dedicated to providing a ‘third place’ away from the pressures of work and home where families can connect and be active together,” he said. Mr Crumpler said it was especially important for families to exercise together, given that 63 per cent of Australian adults and 25 per cent of children were now classified as overweight or obese. Visit www.cityofsydney.nsw.gov.au for more information.

Town Hall clock tower chimes again

The clock tower at Sydney Town Hall chimed for the first time in 532 days on Tuesday, following 17 months of restoration work designed to ensure the landmark’s longevity. The chiming bells marked the end of the first stage of an extensive restoration project, with scaffolding to come down in October. Sydney Lord Mayor Clover Moore said: “Expert stonemasons, tradespeople … staff and consultants have worked passionately and tirelessly to restore the 140-year-old sandstone clock tower.”

Indigenous Constitution push unites

The push to recognise Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people in the Constitution is uniting Australians across the political spectrum, new research shows. The latest data from the ABC’s Vote Compass shows most Australians, across the political divide, believe Indigenous Australians should be recognised in our nation’s founding document. “This is an issue that unites Australians,” said Tanya Hosch, Deputy Campaign Director of Recognise, the movement to recognise the first Australians in the Constitution. “We need to seize the momentum and … propel our country to a referendum.”