News in brief

Chalk ‘graffiti’ laws prohibit rainbow crossings

Legislation has been introduced into NSW Parliament to ban the use of chalk on any premises without the permission of the owner. The plan would effectively prohibit chalked rainbow crossings and even children’s games such as hopscotch on footpaths and streets. Greens MP David Shoebridge said: “This Government is going to be putting on the statute books laws that make it an offence not just for kids to chalk a hopscotch court … but for Mr Stace to have chalked ‘Eternity’, or for a street artist to put a rainbow crossing on the road.”

Stormwater to bring down household bills

Sydney residents will reduce their use of drinking-quality water by using recycled stormwater for their toilets and laundries – and enjoy cheaper utility bills to boot – following a new agreement between the City of Sydney Council and a private water utility. The plan will see stormwater collected at 20 sites to service 7,000 residents and 8,500 workers in the Green Square neighbourhood. Sydney Lord Mayor Clover Moore said: “We’re pleased to be partnering with Green Square Water to make stormwater available for businesses and residents for the first time – and in a way that benefits the environment and is commercially viable.”

Don’t become a statistic – get moving

The Ian Thorpe Aquatic and Fitness Centre (ITAC) in Pyrmont has launched a new campaign to reduce obesity and health complications such as heart disease, diabetes and depression. ITAC Centre Manager Darren Crumpler urged people to make a commitment to healthier living today. “Don’t wait for tomorrow, today is the day to get moving,” he said. “The benefits … go further than just the physical; exercise has been found to reduce stress, boost ‘happy’ chemicals and improve self-confidence.” Mr Crumpler said new members could join ITAC for just $1. The campaign comes as statistics show that within two decades, half of all adults worldwide will be overweight. Visit www.itac.org.au for details.