http://2ser.podOmatic.com Current Affairs from 2SER FM, Sydney, Australia. en-us podOmatic RSS Generator Mon, 06 Oct 2008 21:04:06 GMT Current Affairs from 2SER FM, Sydney, Australia. no no 2ser Selected reports from "Razors Edge" - a weekly news program on Radio 2SER FM. (Sat 1-2pm) To contact 2SER visit www.2ser.com One of Sydney's biggest parks is a step closer to being saved from commercial development. Under a new bill introduced by the Greens, the 60 hectare Park, near Balmain, might soon be managed through a community trust. This follows years of dispute about development on the site, which is also home to several heritage buildings. Leichhardt council has rejected plans by Sydney University to build student accommodation in the park, but community groups say that the state government is yet to agree to protect the site. 2SERs Anne von Fehrn spoke to Hall Greenland of the community group 'Friends of Callan Park'. More info: http://www.callanpark.com/ http://2ser.podOmatic.com/entry/2008-10-04T05_54_03-07_00 http://2ser.podOmatic.com/entry/2008-10-04T05_54_03-07_00 Sat, 04 Oct 2008 12:51:59 GMT 2008-10-04 2008-10-04 http://2ser.podOmatic.com 2ser 235 no One of Sydney's biggest parks is a step closer to being saved from commercial development. Under a new bill introduced by the Greens, the 60 hectare Park, near Balmain, might soon be managed through a community trust. This follows years of dispute about development on the site, which is also home to several heritage buildings. Leichhardt council has rejected plans by Sydney University to build student accommodation in the park, but community groups say that the state government is yet to agree to protect the site. 2SERs Anne von Fehrn spoke to Hall Greenland of the community group 'Friends of Callan Park'. More info: http://www.callanpark.com/ Taser stun guns are now available to all police stations across New South Wales for the first time in history. The rollout this week is aimed at saving lives and protecting the police by giving them a “less-than-lethal” option to subdue violent offenders. But 17 fatalities linked to the stun guns have been reported worldwide, and their safety has been frequently questioned. The decision to distribute the guns more widely was made despite the fact that The NSW Ombudsman is yet to release a report on their safety. Liam Burgess, from the Civil Liberties Council, believes that the line between the right and wrong use of tasers by police, is delicate, and could bring a serious breach of human rights in Australia. He’s speaking here with our reporter Esther Han. http://2ser.podOmatic.com/entry/2008-10-03T23_58_41-07_00 http://2ser.podOmatic.com/entry/2008-10-03T23_58_41-07_00 Sat, 04 Oct 2008 06:55:57 GMT 2008-10-04 2008-10-04 http://2ser.podOmatic.com 2ser 310 no Taser stun guns are now available to all police stations across New South Wales for the first time in history. The rollout this week is aimed at saving lives and protecting the police by giving them a “less-than-lethal” option to subdue violent offenders. But 17 fatalities linked to the stun guns have been reported worldwide, and their safety has been frequently questioned. The decision to distribute the guns more widely was made despite the fact that The NSW Ombudsman is yet to release a report on their safety. Liam Burgess, from the Civil Liberties Council, believes that the line between the right and wrong use of tasers by police, is delicate, and could bring a serious breach of human rights in Australia. He’s speaking here with our reporter Esther Han. A recent Human Rights Watch report has shown that twice as many bombs were dropped on Afghanistan in 2007 than were in 2006. Civilian deaths are also on the rise, yet in the West, Afghanistan seems to have an image as a ‘good’ or ‘just’ war, compared to Iraq. So are citizens in ‘coalition’ nations aware of these facts, and would the Afghanistan conflict enjoy the same public support if they did? Supporters of the coalition occupation say a return to Taliban control must be avoided at all costs. Journalist JOHN PILGER is a leading critic of the war effort. He regularly writes for the New Statesman and the Guardian newspaper, and he spoke this week with 2ser’s Nick Hollins. http://2ser.podOmatic.com/entry/2008-10-03T23_51_02-07_00 http://2ser.podOmatic.com/entry/2008-10-03T23_51_02-07_00 Sat, 04 Oct 2008 06:45:30 GMT 2008-10-04 2008-10-04 http://2ser.podOmatic.com 2ser 319 no A recent Human Rights Watch report has shown that twice as many bombs were dropped on Afghanistan in 2007 than were in 2006. Civilian deaths are also on the rise, yet in the West, Afghanistan seems to have an image as a ‘good’ or ‘just’ war, compared to Iraq. So are citizens in ‘coalition’ nations aware of these facts, and would the Afghanistan conflict enjoy the same public support if they did? Supporters of the coalition occupation say a return to Taliban control must be avoided at all costs. Journalist JOHN PILGER is a leading critic of the war effort. He regularly writes for the New Statesman and the Guardian newspaper, and he spoke this week with 2ser’s Nick Hollins. Nutritionists are questioning the health benefit claims of Vitamin and Sports Water Drinks as many contain high sugar levels and caffiene. Concerns are steadily growing and a formal complaint about labelling and marketing of "Glaceau Vitamin Water" has been lodged with the consumer watchdog, the ACCC and the NSW Food Authority. Enhanced water drinks are so popular, they make up $100 million of bottled water sales in Australia. The Nutritionist from Foodwatch.com.au, Catherine Saxelby, believes people are looking for healthy alternatives and says many companies are misleading consumers. She spoke to 2ser’s Peta Yoshinaga. http://2ser.podOmatic.com/entry/2008-09-28T20_28_31-07_00 http://2ser.podOmatic.com/entry/2008-09-28T20_28_31-07_00 Mon, 29 Sep 2008 03:22:31 GMT 2008-09-29 2008-09-29 http://2ser.podOmatic.com 2ser 331 no Nutritionists are questioning the health benefit claims of Vitamin and Sports Water Drinks as many contain high sugar levels and caffiene. Concerns are steadily growing and a formal complaint about labelling and marketing of "Glaceau Vitamin Water" has been lodged with the consumer watchdog, the ACCC and the NSW Food Authority. Enhanced water drinks are so popular, they make up $100 million of bottled water sales in Australia. The Nutritionist from Foodwatch.com.au, Catherine Saxelby, believes people are looking for healthy alternatives and says many companies are misleading consumers. She spoke to 2ser’s Peta Yoshinaga. Sex workers in NSW enjoy the best health and welfare, a new survey has discovered. Although Sydney was found to be the “highest risk city” for sexually transmitted infections due to the absorption of migrant sex workers from Asia, the decriminalised system allows Sydney workers to seek proper health services without fear. Some other Australian states are struggling behind NSW in terms of their sexual health legislation. The newly elected Coalition government in Western Australia is determined to repeal the Prostitution Reform Bill and revert back to a system of tighter regulation over the sex industry. Professor Basil Donavan, a professor in sexual health at the University of NSW who led the survey, says this could result in the situation for Western Australia’s sex workers worsening dramatically. He spoke with 2ser’s Dinalie Dabarera. http://2ser.podOmatic.com/entry/2008-09-28T08_29_49-07_00 http://2ser.podOmatic.com/entry/2008-09-28T08_29_49-07_00 Sun, 28 Sep 2008 13:14:32 GMT 2008-09-28 2008-09-28 http://2ser.podOmatic.com 2ser 187 no Sex workers in NSW enjoy the best health and welfare, a new survey has discovered. Although Sydney was found to be the “highest risk city” for sexually transmitted infections due to the absorption of migrant sex workers from Asia, the decriminalised system allows Sydney workers to seek proper health services without fear. Some other Australian states are struggling behind NSW in terms of their sexual health legislation. The newly elected Coalition government in Western Australia is determined to repeal the Prostitution Reform Bill and revert back to a system of tighter regulation over the sex industry. Professor Basil Donavan, a professor in sexual health at the University of NSW who led the survey, says this could result in the situation for Western Australia’s sex workers worsening dramatically. He spoke with 2ser’s Dinalie Dabarera. How do we measure happiness or success? A representative from the Himalayan kingdom of Bhutan recently visited Queensland to speak about his country’s commitment to measure national success, not in terms of Gross Domestic Product – or GDP – but instead, through an index of happiness. Geoff Woolcock, from Griffith University hosted Karma Shiteem who spoke on happiness, progress and wellbeing and his nation’s measure of Gross National Happiness. Woolcock’s own work in urban planning reflects a similar outlook to that of Bhutan and other work that is currently going on in Australia. 2SER’s Cale Bain asked him why we need a different measuring stick than GDP to gauge happiness. http://2ser.podOmatic.com/entry/2008-09-27T23_50_08-07_00 http://2ser.podOmatic.com/entry/2008-09-27T23_50_08-07_00 Sun, 28 Sep 2008 06:47:37 GMT 2008-09-28 2008-09-28 http://2ser.podOmatic.com 2ser 286 no How do we measure happiness or success? A representative from the Himalayan kingdom of Bhutan recently visited Queensland to speak about his country’s commitment to measure national success, not in terms of Gross Domestic Product – or GDP – but instead, through an index of happiness. Geoff Woolcock, from Griffith University hosted Karma Shiteem who spoke on happiness, progress and wellbeing and his nation’s measure of Gross National Happiness. Woolcock’s own work in urban planning reflects a similar outlook to that of Bhutan and other work that is currently going on in Australia. 2SER’s Cale Bain asked him why we need a different measuring stick than GDP to gauge happiness. This week in the United States, the Bush administration has appealed to Congress to provide a seven hundred billion dollar bail-out, to save several failing financial institutions on Wall Street. It’s a desperate attempt to avert a major economic catastrophe that threatens both the American and global economy. The Wall Street crisis is in part a result of the sub-prime mortgage crisis, which has seen the downward spiral of real estate and foreclosures of homes all across the United States. But many observers are skeptical about the idea of taxpayers having to fork out huge amounts to protect the private sector. Associate Professor of Political Economy from the Sydney university, Dick Bryan, believes that while the credit crunch is largely the fault of sub-prime lenders, the bail-out is necessary to prevent a larger social crisis. He is speaking here with 2ser’s Paige Nguyen. http://2ser.podOmatic.com/entry/2008-09-27T19_59_00-07_00 http://2ser.podOmatic.com/entry/2008-09-27T19_59_00-07_00 Sun, 28 Sep 2008 02:56:08 GMT 2008-09-28 2008-09-28 http://2ser.podOmatic.com 2ser 352 no This week in the United States, the Bush administration has appealed to Congress to provide a seven hundred billion dollar bail-out, to save several failing financial institutions on Wall Street. It’s a desperate attempt to avert a major economic catastrophe that threatens both the American and global economy. The Wall Street crisis is in part a result of the sub-prime mortgage crisis, which has seen the downward spiral of real estate and foreclosures of homes all across the United States. But many observers are skeptical about the idea of taxpayers having to fork out huge amounts to protect the private sector. Associate Professor of Political Economy from the Sydney university, Dick Bryan, believes that while the credit crunch is largely the fault of sub-prime lenders, the bail-out is necessary to prevent a larger social crisis. He is speaking here with 2ser’s Paige Nguyen. Poverty rates around the world have improved in recent years, but almost half the earth’s population still lives on less than $2.50 a day. A report released by CARE Australia to coincide with the UN development Summit in New York this week, says the aid system is failing and needs an overhaul. The report said investment in long-term prevention and protection of livelihoods should take priority over short-term projects. Challenges to reducing poverty, like increasing food prices and climate change, are intensifying and aid programs need to change quickly, according to several Australian organisations. 2ser’s Jordan Bryon spoke with CARE Australia’s CEO, Dr Julia Newton-Howes. http://2ser.podOmatic.com/entry/2008-09-27T19_51_07-07_00 http://2ser.podOmatic.com/entry/2008-09-27T19_51_07-07_00 Sun, 28 Sep 2008 02:48:13 GMT 2008-09-28 2008-09-28 http://2ser.podOmatic.com 2ser 328 no Poverty rates around the world have improved in recent years, but almost half the earth’s population still lives on less than $2.50 a day. A report released by CARE Australia to coincide with the UN development Summit in New York this week, says the aid system is failing and needs an overhaul. The report said investment in long-term prevention and protection of livelihoods should take priority over short-term projects. Challenges to reducing poverty, like increasing food prices and climate change, are intensifying and aid programs need to change quickly, according to several Australian organisations. 2ser’s Jordan Bryon spoke with CARE Australia’s CEO, Dr Julia Newton-Howes. The New South Wales Premier Nathan Rees yesterday met with representatives of the credit agency Standard and Poors in Melbourne, in a bid to safeguard the states triple-A credit rating. Former Treasurer Michael Costa estimated that the Government is facing a budget blow out of up to 1 billion dollars. This would jeopardize the state's credit rating and result in higher interest payments for the Government. Mr Rees confirmed these figures but critics say that Mr Costa has blown them out of proportion and that the states credit rating is not at risk. The State was put on credit watch after the controversial electricity sell off under the Iemma Government fell through. The new Treasurer Eric Roozendaal says the mini budget due in November, will address the issue of cash flow, and some observers are expecting budget cuts and public service job losses. So what is a triple-A credit rating and can we trust the estimates of Mr Costa? This report from 2SERs Anne von Fehrn begins with Dr Kevin Daly from the School of Economics and Finance at the University of Western Sydney http://2ser.podOmatic.com/entry/2008-09-27T19_47_49-07_00 http://2ser.podOmatic.com/entry/2008-09-27T19_47_49-07_00 Sun, 28 Sep 2008 02:44:37 GMT 2008-09-28 2008-09-28 http://2ser.podOmatic.com 2ser 322 no The New South Wales Premier Nathan Rees yesterday met with representatives of the credit agency Standard and Poors in Melbourne, in a bid to safeguard the states triple-A credit rating. Former Treasurer Michael Costa estimated that the Government is facing a budget blow out of up to 1 billion dollars. This would jeopardize the state's credit rating and result in higher interest payments for the Government. Mr Rees confirmed these figures but critics say that Mr Costa has blown them out of proportion and that the states credit rating is not at risk. The State was put on credit watch after the controversial electricity sell off under the Iemma Government fell through. The new Treasurer Eric Roozendaal says the mini budget due in November, will address the issue of cash flow, and some observers are expecting budget cuts and public service job losses. So what is a triple-A credit rating and can we trust the estimates of Mr Costa? This report from 2SERs Anne von Fehrn begins with Dr Kevin Daly from the School of Economics and Finance at the University of Western Sydney A new study has found that children as young as four are trying to conform to society’s ‘ideal’ bodyshape. The study, conducted by Professor McCabe of Deakin University, claims that parents and teachers are sending potentially dangerous messages to preschoolers. Children are picking up messages that fat is bad and muscle is good, raising concerns that they are at risk of developing eating disorders. Eating Disorders Foundation psychologist Sarah McMahon spoke to 2ser’s Peta Yoshinaga. http://2ser.podOmatic.com/entry/2008-09-24T23_54_25-07_00 http://2ser.podOmatic.com/entry/2008-09-24T23_54_25-07_00 Thu, 25 Sep 2008 06:51:34 GMT 2008-09-25 2008-09-25 http://2ser.podOmatic.com 2ser 242 no A new study has found that children as young as four are trying to conform to society’s ‘ideal’ bodyshape. The study, conducted by Professor McCabe of Deakin University, claims that parents and teachers are sending potentially dangerous messages to preschoolers. Children are picking up messages that fat is bad and muscle is good, raising concerns that they are at risk of developing eating disorders. Eating Disorders Foundation psychologist Sarah McMahon spoke to 2ser’s Peta Yoshinaga. Violence against women was described by Prime Minister Kevin Rudd as “the great silent crime of our time”, in his speech at the White Ribbon Foundation dinner this week. Mr Rudd called for a drastic change in the attitude of men and of the wider society on the physical and sexual abuse inflicted on women by their partners. The Government has put this week announce a new $2-million grant to research new anti-violence measures. The current statistics on the issue are disturbing - almost half a million women experience each year. One in three are physically assaulted, one in five are sexually assaulted, but less than a third of cases were reported to the police. Kate Lappin, from the “Stop Violence Against Women Campaign” by Amnesty International Australia, says we’re finally heading in the right direction. She’s speaking here with reporter Esther Han. http://2ser.podOmatic.com/entry/2008-09-24T23_49_11-07_00 http://2ser.podOmatic.com/entry/2008-09-24T23_49_11-07_00 Thu, 25 Sep 2008 06:47:38 GMT 2008-09-25 2008-09-25 http://2ser.podOmatic.com 2ser 340 no Violence against women was described by Prime Minister Kevin Rudd as “the great silent crime of our time”, in his speech at the White Ribbon Foundation dinner this week. Mr Rudd called for a drastic change in the attitude of men and of the wider society on the physical and sexual abuse inflicted on women by their partners. The Government has put this week announce a new $2-million grant to research new anti-violence measures. The current statistics on the issue are disturbing - almost half a million women experience each year. One in three are physically assaulted, one in five are sexually assaulted, but less than a third of cases were reported to the police. Kate Lappin, from the “Stop Violence Against Women Campaign” by Amnesty International Australia, says we’re finally heading in the right direction. She’s speaking here with reporter Esther Han. Young people in Australia have been experiencing rising rates of the sexually transmitted infection Chlamydia in recent years. Over the past 12 months there were more than 7000 Chlamydia notifications in NSW within the 15-24 age group, double that of their older counterparts. The organisers of Sexual Health Week 08 have released a targeted campaign towards Chlamydia awareness in young people called ‘Check it Out’. The focus of the campaign is to encourage young people to go for regular STI check-ups and to be more informed about their sexual health. The Health Promotions Officer from the Sexual Health "Lemongrove Unit", Dave Worsley, spoke with 2ser’s Dinalie Dabarera http://2ser.podOmatic.com/entry/2008-09-24T23_43_59-07_00 http://2ser.podOmatic.com/entry/2008-09-24T23_43_59-07_00 Thu, 25 Sep 2008 06:42:27 GMT 2008-09-25 2008-09-25 http://2ser.podOmatic.com 2ser 273 no Young people in Australia have been experiencing rising rates of the sexually transmitted infection Chlamydia in recent years. Over the past 12 months there were more than 7000 Chlamydia notifications in NSW within the 15-24 age group, double that of their older counterparts. The organisers of Sexual Health Week 08 have released a targeted campaign towards Chlamydia awareness in young people called ‘Check it Out’. The focus of the campaign is to encourage young people to go for regular STI check-ups and to be more informed about their sexual health. The Health Promotions Officer from the Sexual Health "Lemongrove Unit", Dave Worsley, spoke with 2ser’s Dinalie Dabarera Did you know that many of Australia’s beaches are now protected as surfing reserves? Declaring a reserve allows a Board of Management to promote and protect the site, as well as official recognition of the site’s historical significance. Our environment reporter Phil Stubbs is a keen surfer and tracked down Andrew Short, a co-founder of National Surfing Reserves Australia to find out more. http://2ser.podOmatic.com/entry/2008-09-22T07_06_18-07_00 http://2ser.podOmatic.com/entry/2008-09-22T07_06_18-07_00 Mon, 22 Sep 2008 14:03:25 GMT 2008-09-22 2008-09-22 http://2ser.podOmatic.com 2ser 324 no Did you know that many of Australia’s beaches are now protected as surfing reserves? Declaring a reserve allows a Board of Management to promote and protect the site, as well as official recognition of the site’s historical significance. Our environment reporter Phil Stubbs is a keen surfer and tracked down Andrew Short, a co-founder of National Surfing Reserves Australia to find out more. The next time Australia decides to send troops to war, who should make the final decision? The whole elected government, a few senior ministers, or just the Prime Minister? Or should such a grave decision be voted on by the Parliament? The five Green Senators introduced a new bill this week, which would give all MP's the ultimate power on the question of armed conflict. WA Greens Senator Scott Ludlam says it's absurd that Parliament currently has no say. He spoke with 2ser's Mark Robinson. http://2ser.podOmatic.com/entry/2008-09-21T02_06_28-07_00 http://2ser.podOmatic.com/entry/2008-09-21T02_06_28-07_00 Sun, 21 Sep 2008 08:56:37 GMT 2008-09-21 2008-09-21 http://2ser.podOmatic.com 2ser 284 no The next time Australia decides to send troops to war, who should make the final decision? The whole elected government, a few senior ministers, or just the Prime Minister? Or should such a grave decision be voted on by the Parliament? The five Green Senators introduced a new bill this week, which would give all MP's the ultimate power on the question of armed conflict. WA Greens Senator Scott Ludlam says it's absurd that Parliament currently has no say. He spoke with 2ser's Mark Robinson. The United Kingdom has just had its third "Climate camp" at the Kingsnorth coal-fired power station in Kent. The protest action was designed to oppose the construction of new, coal-fired power stations in the middle of the current climate crisis. This year campers faced some of their biggest challenges yet, with over a thousand police showing up to raid the camp, confiscate equipment and generally harass participants. The camp still had a record turnout of about 2,500 people throughout the week, and dozens of protesters managed to scale the fence into the grounds of the power station. Activist Steve Milligan was a participant in all three camps and he spoke with 2ser's Libby King. http://2ser.podOmatic.com/entry/2008-09-20T23_33_13-07_00 http://2ser.podOmatic.com/entry/2008-09-20T23_33_13-07_00 Sun, 21 Sep 2008 06:30:25 GMT 2008-09-21 2008-09-21 http://2ser.podOmatic.com 2ser 343 no The United Kingdom has just had its third "Climate camp" at the Kingsnorth coal-fired power station in Kent. The protest action was designed to oppose the construction of new, coal-fired power stations in the middle of the current climate crisis. This year campers faced some of their biggest challenges yet, with over a thousand police showing up to raid the camp, confiscate equipment and generally harass participants. The camp still had a record turnout of about 2,500 people throughout the week, and dozens of protesters managed to scale the fence into the grounds of the power station. Activist Steve Milligan was a participant in all three camps and he spoke with 2ser's Libby King. We often question the origin of commodities like meat and dairy products but have you ever wondered where your chocolate comes from? The Ivory Coast is the world's largest cocoa producer, providing 43% of the world's cocoa. Harvesting cocoa is intensive and back-breaking work, which for centuries was a job undertaken by poor people. In the last decade the declining cost of coca beans has brought about the exploitation of children in West Africa. Carol Off has documented the practices of slavery and the tainted history of cocoa in her recent book, Bitter Chocolate, Investigating the dark side of the world’s most seductive sweet. 2ser's Ellice Mol has this story. http://2ser.podOmatic.com/entry/2008-09-20T23_27_44-07_00 http://2ser.podOmatic.com/entry/2008-09-20T23_27_44-07_00 Sun, 21 Sep 2008 06:24:25 GMT 2008-09-21 2008-09-21 http://2ser.podOmatic.com 2ser 292 no We often question the origin of commodities like meat and dairy products but have you ever wondered where your chocolate comes from? The Ivory Coast is the world's largest cocoa producer, providing 43% of the world's cocoa. Harvesting cocoa is intensive and back-breaking work, which for centuries was a job undertaken by poor people. In the last decade the declining cost of coca beans has brought about the exploitation of children in West Africa. Carol Off has documented the practices of slavery and the tainted history of cocoa in her recent book, Bitter Chocolate, Investigating the dark side of the world’s most seductive sweet. 2ser's Ellice Mol has this story. It was revealed this week that the NSW government is considering radical proposals for a new anti-graffiti policy, including a total ban on the sale of paint in spray cans. While the issue of street art – or graffiti vandalism – continues to divide the community, one new lobby group is determined to address what it sees as a dangerous social problem, with wide-ranging implications for the community. 2ser’s Glyn Cryer spoke to Scott Hilditch, CEO of Graffiti Hurts Australia. http://2ser.podOmatic.com/entry/2008-09-17T20_53_32-07_00 http://2ser.podOmatic.com/entry/2008-09-17T20_53_32-07_00 Thu, 18 Sep 2008 03:51:35 GMT 2008-09-18 2008-09-18 http://2ser.podOmatic.com 2ser 293 no It was revealed this week that the NSW government is considering radical proposals for a new anti-graffiti policy, including a total ban on the sale of paint in spray cans. While the issue of street art – or graffiti vandalism – continues to divide the community, one new lobby group is determined to address what it sees as a dangerous social problem, with wide-ranging implications for the community. 2ser’s Glyn Cryer spoke to Scott Hilditch, CEO of Graffiti Hurts Australia. We know from polling at the last election and other surveys that a clear majority of Australians are concerned about the environment. But do they know where to start to make a difference? Well, one good place may be their own home. Tucked away in inner city streets and regional areas around the country, a small but growing number of homes have been made sustainable. This weekend some of those homes are being opened by their owners to show the public how energy, water and waste can dealt with sustainably. It's part of Sustainable House Day. Environment reporter Phil Stubbs spoke with Judy Celmins from Sustainable House Day. http://2ser.podOmatic.com/entry/2008-09-16T06_00_48-07_00 http://2ser.podOmatic.com/entry/2008-09-16T06_00_48-07_00 Tue, 16 Sep 2008 12:57:11 GMT 2008-09-16 2008-09-16 http://2ser.podOmatic.com 2ser 249 no We know from polling at the last election and other surveys that a clear majority of Australians are concerned about the environment. But do they know where to start to make a difference? Well, one good place may be their own home. Tucked away in inner city streets and regional areas around the country, a small but growing number of homes have been made sustainable. This weekend some of those homes are being opened by their owners to show the public how energy, water and waste can dealt with sustainably. It's part of Sustainable House Day. Environment reporter Phil Stubbs spoke with Judy Celmins from Sustainable House Day. With the US election getting closer by the day, the focus is shifting to the question of voter turnout, in a country where casting a ballot is not compulsory. Far more women voters have gone to the polls in the US, in recent years, and some commentators believe the balance of power lies with them. And since the announcement of Sarah Palin as running mate for Republican, John McCain, his popularity amongst women has greatly increased. Dr. Lesley Russell from Sydney University spent several years as a senior political adviser in the US House of Representatives. She says conservative, white women, whose major concern is the state of the economy, may hold the key to this election. Dr. Russell spoke with 2SER’s Mig Caldwell. http://2ser.podOmatic.com/entry/2008-09-16T05_54_50-07_00 http://2ser.podOmatic.com/entry/2008-09-16T05_54_50-07_00 Tue, 16 Sep 2008 12:52:01 GMT 2008-09-16 2008-09-16 http://2ser.podOmatic.com 2ser 331 no With the US election getting closer by the day, the focus is shifting to the question of voter turnout, in a country where casting a ballot is not compulsory. Far more women voters have gone to the polls in the US, in recent years, and some commentators believe the balance of power lies with them. And since the announcement of Sarah Palin as running mate for Republican, John McCain, his popularity amongst women has greatly increased. Dr. Lesley Russell from Sydney University spent several years as a senior political adviser in the US House of Representatives. She says conservative, white women, whose major concern is the state of the economy, may hold the key to this election. Dr. Russell spoke with 2SER’s Mig Caldwell. With a new team of ministers in NSW following the recent upheaval and cabinet reshuffle, many community groups are nervous about the effect on several policy areas. One group paying particular attention are cyclists. In recent years the government put forward a state “Bike Plan” proposed jointly by the then Minister for Roads Eric Roozendaal and Environment Minister Verity Firth. Now that the two ministers have changed posts, what does that mean for the plan? Alan Odds is the president of the National Roads and Cyclists Association, or NRCA, the cyclists answer to the much more powerful NRMA. He spoke to 2SER’s Cale Bain. http://2ser.podOmatic.com/entry/2008-09-13T07_31_47-07_00 http://2ser.podOmatic.com/entry/2008-09-13T07_31_47-07_00 Sat, 13 Sep 2008 14:26:25 GMT 2008-09-13 2008-09-13 http://2ser.podOmatic.com 2ser 297 no With a new team of ministers in NSW following the recent upheaval and cabinet reshuffle, many community groups are nervous about the effect on several policy areas. One group paying particular attention are cyclists. In recent years the government put forward a state “Bike Plan” proposed jointly by the then Minister for Roads Eric Roozendaal and Environment Minister Verity Firth. Now that the two ministers have changed posts, what does that mean for the plan? Alan Odds is the president of the National Roads and Cyclists Association, or NRCA, the cyclists answer to the much more powerful NRMA. He spoke to 2SER’s Cale Bain. New South Wales may have a new Premier but the political donations system remains. Increasing dependence on donations from property developers has raised questions about the independence of the labor party, especially after evidence of high level bribery on Wollongong council. This week Premier Nathan Rees promised to address the current system “as soon as possible” But the ministers in his new cabinet have raised the highest amount of money through donations. The Greens say this blatant conflict of interest must be removed. 2SERs Anne von Fehrn spoke to Greens MP Lee Rhiannon. http://2ser.podOmatic.com/entry/2008-09-13T07_15_41-07_00 http://2ser.podOmatic.com/entry/2008-09-13T07_15_41-07_00 Sat, 13 Sep 2008 14:13:11 GMT 2008-09-13 2008-09-13 http://2ser.podOmatic.com 2ser 314 no New South Wales may have a new Premier but the political donations system remains. Increasing dependence on donations from property developers has raised questions about the independence of the labor party, especially after evidence of high level bribery on Wollongong council. This week Premier Nathan Rees promised to address the current system “as soon as possible” But the ministers in his new cabinet have raised the highest amount of money through donations. The Greens say this blatant conflict of interest must be removed. 2SERs Anne von Fehrn spoke to Greens MP Lee Rhiannon. The deputy Prime Minister Julia Gillard has refused to ban a website run by university academics, after it was condemned by the Liberal Party and several Jewish groups. The NSW Opposition Leader Barry O’Farrell, wrote a formal complaint to Gillard about the blog written by a group of Macquarie University staff. O’Farrell says the blog, called KHALDOUN is “hate-filled” and contains “anti-Israel propaganda.” Some Jewish community groups have also attacked the site and called on the University to shut it down. But both Gillard and the University say they won't interfere with free speech. One of the sites contributors is Lisa Wynn, an anthropology lecturer at Macquarie University - She spoke with 2ser’s Jordan Bryon. And the website in question can be found at www.khaldoun.wordpress.com http://2ser.podOmatic.com/entry/2008-09-13T00_26_38-07_00 http://2ser.podOmatic.com/entry/2008-09-13T00_26_38-07_00 Sat, 13 Sep 2008 07:23:17 GMT 2008-09-13 2008-09-13 http://2ser.podOmatic.com 2ser 355 no The deputy Prime Minister Julia Gillard has refused to ban a website run by university academics, after it was condemned by the Liberal Party and several Jewish groups. The NSW Opposition Leader Barry O’Farrell, wrote a formal complaint to Gillard about the blog written by a group of Macquarie University staff. O’Farrell says the blog, called KHALDOUN is “hate-filled” and contains “anti-Israel propaganda.” Some Jewish community groups have also attacked the site and called on the University to shut it down. But both Gillard and the University say they won't interfere with free speech. One of the sites contributors is Lisa Wynn, an anthropology lecturer at Macquarie University - She spoke with 2ser’s Jordan Bryon. And the website in question can be found at www.khaldoun.wordpress.com When Australia introduced sexual harassment laws in 1984, the way we treated each other at work and in education underwent some pretty drastic changes. Suddenly, making unwelcome sexual comments or advances wasn't just offensive – in all sorts of situations, it became illegal. And institutions had to develop polices to make sure complaints about harassment were investigated and offenders were disciplined. Twenty-four years on, Sex Discrimination Commissioner Elizabeth Broderick says the sexual harassment laws need updating to protect more people in more situations. She's concerned that gaps in the legislation mean school students and workers who deal with the public are still vulnerable to harassment. With the Federal Government currently reviewing the Sex Discrimination Act, the Human Rights Commission is weighing in with its suggestions for change. Sex Discrimination Commissioner Elizabeth Broderick spoke to reporter Jacinta Patterson about the changes she's recommending. http://2ser.podOmatic.com/entry/2008-09-09T17_27_47-07_00 http://2ser.podOmatic.com/entry/2008-09-09T17_27_47-07_00 Wed, 10 Sep 2008 00:24:47 GMT 2008-09-10 2008-09-10 http://2ser.podOmatic.com 2ser 345 no When Australia introduced sexual harassment laws in 1984, the way we treated each other at work and in education underwent some pretty drastic changes. Suddenly, making unwelcome sexual comments or advances wasn't just offensive – in all sorts of situations, it became illegal. And institutions had to develop polices to make sure complaints about harassment were investigated and offenders were disciplined. Twenty-four years on, Sex Discrimination Commissioner Elizabeth Broderick says the sexual harassment laws need updating to protect more people in more situations. She's concerned that gaps in the legislation mean school students and workers who deal with the public are still vulnerable to harassment. With the Federal Government currently reviewing the Sex Discrimination Act, the Human Rights Commission is weighing in with its suggestions for change. Sex Discrimination Commissioner Elizabeth Broderick spoke to reporter Jacinta Patterson about the changes she's recommending. More people are going to jail in NSW and the conviction rate for offenders is very high. That’s the conclusion of the latest review of prison and courts records, released this week by the Bureau of Crime Statistics and Research. In 2007, more than 80 per cent of people appearing in the courts were found guilty, and more of them were given jail time. Bureau director Dr Don Weatherburn says the perception that courts are becoming more lenient is false And while some may welcome a growing prison population, not everyone agrees. Professor Mark Findlay from Sydney university’s Institute of Criminology says we are wasting taxpayers funds. He spoke with 2ser’s Jordan Bryon. http://2ser.podOmatic.com/entry/2008-09-08T00_35_25-07_00 http://2ser.podOmatic.com/entry/2008-09-08T00_35_25-07_00 Mon, 08 Sep 2008 07:33:05 GMT 2008-09-08 2008-09-08 http://2ser.podOmatic.com 2ser 284 no More people are going to jail in NSW and the conviction rate for offenders is very high. That’s the conclusion of the latest review of prison and courts records, released this week by the Bureau of Crime Statistics and Research. In 2007, more than 80 per cent of people appearing in the courts were found guilty, and more of them were given jail time. Bureau director Dr Don Weatherburn says the perception that courts are becoming more lenient is false And while some may welcome a growing prison population, not everyone agrees. Professor Mark Findlay from Sydney university’s Institute of Criminology says we are wasting taxpayers funds. He spoke with 2ser’s Jordan Bryon. A Liberal Senator has spoken out against one of her colleagues over a plan to stop Medicare funding for late term abortions. Victorian Senator Judith Troeth says new legislation put forward by fellow Liberal, Guy Barnett, should be opposed, because the issue of abortion should be decided by individuals and their doctors. If passed, Barnett’s bill would end all public funding for abortions performed between 14 and 26 weeks of pregnancy. The two major parties have agreed to allow all senators a conscience vote on the issue, which makes the outcome unpredictable. Senator Troeth, says late term terminations are very rare and only account for 1 to 2 % of all abortions in Australia. She spoke with 2SER’s Mig Caldwell. http://2ser.podOmatic.com/entry/2008-09-07T19_19_32-07_00 http://2ser.podOmatic.com/entry/2008-09-07T19_19_32-07_00 Mon, 08 Sep 2008 02:14:55 GMT 2008-09-08 2008-09-08 http://2ser.podOmatic.com 2ser 324 no A Liberal Senator has spoken out against one of her colleagues over a plan to stop Medicare funding for late term abortions. Victorian Senator Judith Troeth says new legislation put forward by fellow Liberal, Guy Barnett, should be opposed, because the issue of abortion should be decided by individuals and their doctors. If passed, Barnett’s bill would end all public funding for abortions performed between 14 and 26 weeks of pregnancy. The two major parties have agreed to allow all senators a conscience vote on the issue, which makes the outcome unpredictable. Senator Troeth, says late term terminations are very rare and only account for 1 to 2 % of all abortions in Australia. She spoke with 2SER’s Mig Caldwell. In next weeks council elections some candidates for the Sutherland Shire will be running campaigns aimed at attracting the xenophobic vote. Candidates, like the Australia First Party, have been running an anti immigration platform and say the southern Sydney region should remain predominantly white. Another candidate, Darrin Hodges, has been linking high-rise developments with an influx of Asian immigrants. The Sutherland Shire has a history of racial tension with violence in 2005 at Cronulla. Independent candidate Darrin Hodges, holds the view that Australia has become ‘too’ multicultural and says we need to re-assess our position as a white Country. 2ser’s Paige Nguyen reports. http://2ser.podOmatic.com/entry/2008-09-06T23_53_55-07_00 http://2ser.podOmatic.com/entry/2008-09-06T23_53_55-07_00 Sun, 07 Sep 2008 06:48:57 GMT 2008-09-07 2008-09-07 http://2ser.podOmatic.com 2ser 377 no In next weeks council elections some candidates for the Sutherland Shire will be running campaigns aimed at attracting the xenophobic vote. Candidates, like the Australia First Party, have been running an anti immigration platform and say the southern Sydney region should remain predominantly white. Another candidate, Darrin Hodges, has been linking high-rise developments with an influx of Asian immigrants. The Sutherland Shire has a history of racial tension with violence in 2005 at Cronulla. Independent candidate Darrin Hodges, holds the view that Australia has become ‘too’ multicultural and says we need to re-assess our position as a white Country. 2ser’s Paige Nguyen reports. We all know that exercise is good for the body - Now there’s another incentive to get active – one to do with the mind. Research by the University of Western Australia has found WALKING helps memory and may even combat and delay the onset of dementia. Two-and-a-half hours a week can lessen memory problems for over 50s. Globally, 26 million people suffer from dementia, including 200,000 Australians, and this figure is expected to quadruple by 2050. Delaying the onset of dementia by just one year can cut the number of people suffering around the world by 9 million. Professor Nicola Lautenschlager, led the study involving 170 volunteers, at the University of Western Australia. She’s speaking here with 2SER’s Esther Han. http://2ser.podOmatic.com/entry/2008-09-06T03_04_58-07_00 http://2ser.podOmatic.com/entry/2008-09-06T03_04_58-07_00 Sat, 06 Sep 2008 10:02:19 GMT 2008-09-06 2008-09-06 http://2ser.podOmatic.com 2ser 306 no We all know that exercise is good for the body - Now there’s another incentive to get active – one to do with the mind. Research by the University of Western Australia has found WALKING helps memory and may even combat and delay the onset of dementia. Two-and-a-half hours a week can lessen memory problems for over 50s. Globally, 26 million people suffer from dementia, including 200,000 Australians, and this figure is expected to quadruple by 2050. Delaying the onset of dementia by just one year can cut the number of people suffering around the world by 9 million. Professor Nicola Lautenschlager, led the study involving 170 volunteers, at the University of Western Australia. She’s speaking here with 2SER’s Esther Han. The Federal Government's climate change adviser, Professor Ross Garnaut has provided clarity on the target Australia should aim to achieve. He has called for Australia to cut 10% of carbon emissions, based on levels in the year 2000, by 2020. But the target is conditional on the next global emissions agreement– and if other developed countries fail to agree to this level, Garnaut suggested a 5% target. Environment groups have labeled both targets as soft – suggesting that 25 to 40% reductions are the minimum required 2ser's Nick Hollins spoke with John Connor, CEO of the Climate Institute and David Spratt, the author of 'Climate Code Red'. http://2ser.podOmatic.com/entry/2008-09-06T02_48_47-07_00 http://2ser.podOmatic.com/entry/2008-09-06T02_48_47-07_00 Sat, 06 Sep 2008 09:46:08 GMT 2008-09-06 2008-09-06 http://2ser.podOmatic.com 2ser 315 no The Federal Government's climate change adviser, Professor Ross Garnaut has provided clarity on the target Australia should aim to achieve. He has called for Australia to cut 10% of carbon emissions, based on levels in the year 2000, by 2020. But the target is conditional on the next global emissions agreement– and if other developed countries fail to agree to this level, Garnaut suggested a 5% target. Environment groups have labeled both targets as soft – suggesting that 25 to 40% reductions are the minimum required 2ser's Nick Hollins spoke with John Connor, CEO of the Climate Institute and David Spratt, the author of 'Climate Code Red'. Australian cinemas are being asked to do their share for those who are deaf and hearing impaired. The Deafness Forum of Australia says we should increase the number of screens showing captioned movies, because those affected by this disability are being discriminated against. With one in six Australians having some form of hearing impairment, the Forum and the Human Rights Commission are calling for more government funding to boost captioning rates. At the moment only 10 theatres in Australia offer this service. The CEO of the Deafness Forum, Nicole Lawder spoke with 2ser’s Peta Yoshinaga. http://2ser.podOmatic.com/entry/2008-09-04T19_31_48-07_00 http://2ser.podOmatic.com/entry/2008-09-04T19_31_48-07_00 Fri, 05 Sep 2008 02:30:00 GMT 2008-09-05 2008-09-05 http://2ser.podOmatic.com 2ser 300 no Australian cinemas are being asked to do their share for those who are deaf and hearing impaired. The Deafness Forum of Australia says we should increase the number of screens showing captioned movies, because those affected by this disability are being discriminated against. With one in six Australians having some form of hearing impairment, the Forum and the Human Rights Commission are calling for more government funding to boost captioning rates. At the moment only 10 theatres in Australia offer this service. The CEO of the Deafness Forum, Nicole Lawder spoke with 2ser’s Peta Yoshinaga. A new campaign is targeting councils around Australia in a bid to replace water bottles with public bubblers or water fountains. Environment groups argue that in some cases we are spending more on water than petrol, and that tap water has benefits that bottled water doesn't. Manly council and the Bottled Water Alliance have joined forces and will send letters next week urging councils to upgrade their water fountains and make them more attractive to the public. The company "Culligan Australia" has also agreed to provide councils with free filter equipment. But not every one is convinced - The Bottled Water industry says sprucing up fountains would be a waste of taxpayers’ money. Jon Dee heads the Bottled Water Alliance, and is the former director of Planet Ark - He spoke with 2ser's Peta Yoshinaga. http://2ser.podOmatic.com/entry/2008-09-01T05_05_08-07_00 http://2ser.podOmatic.com/entry/2008-09-01T05_05_08-07_00 Mon, 01 Sep 2008 12:02:59 GMT 2008-09-01 2008-09-01 http://2ser.podOmatic.com 2ser 234 no A new campaign is targeting councils around Australia in a bid to replace water bottles with public bubblers or water fountains. Environment groups argue that in some cases we are spending more on water than petrol, and that tap water has benefits that bottled water doesn't. Manly council and the Bottled Water Alliance have joined forces and will send letters next week urging councils to upgrade their water fountains and make them more attractive to the public. The company "Culligan Australia" has also agreed to provide councils with free filter equipment. But not every one is convinced - The Bottled Water industry says sprucing up fountains would be a waste of taxpayers’ money. Jon Dee heads the Bottled Water Alliance, and is the former director of Planet Ark - He spoke with 2ser's Peta Yoshinaga. Print journalists have gone on strike in response to Fairfax Media’s decision to cut five hundred and fifty jobs, or 5% of their workforce. They walked out on Thursday and the strike will impact major publications, including the Sydney Morning Herald and The Age in Melbourne. High profile Herald columnist and radio broadcaster, Mike Carlton, has been sacked for refusing to file for today's edition. Meanwhile, journalists and photographers from regional Fairfax publications have been brought in to fill the gaps, and publish the Herald. Work is meant to resume on Monday, but will they be allowed back? 2ser’s Nick Hollins was at the picketline yesterday. http://2ser.podOmatic.com/entry/2008-08-31T19_35_25-07_00 http://2ser.podOmatic.com/entry/2008-08-31T19_35_25-07_00 Mon, 01 Sep 2008 02:28:53 GMT 2008-09-01 2008-09-01 http://2ser.podOmatic.com 2ser 336 no Print journalists have gone on strike in response to Fairfax Media’s decision to cut five hundred and fifty jobs, or 5% of their workforce. They walked out on Thursday and the strike will impact major publications, including the Sydney Morning Herald and The Age in Melbourne. High profile Herald columnist and radio broadcaster, Mike Carlton, has been sacked for refusing to file for today's edition. Meanwhile, journalists and photographers from regional Fairfax publications have been brought in to fill the gaps, and publish the Herald. Work is meant to resume on Monday, but will they be allowed back? 2ser’s Nick Hollins was at the picketline yesterday. The Salvation Army and the National Council on Drugs, have warned politicians and the public not to become complacent about deaths from drug overdoses in Australia. In recent years the number of lives lost to overdoses has dramatically decreased – from a high 10 years ago of 1200 deaths per year, down to an average of 400. But that’s still more than one death per day from a very preventable cause. The Salvation Army is one of the groups behind Overdose Awareness Day, which is being held this Sunday. The organizers of the event say that it’s an opportunity to stimulate discussion on the stigma associated with drug use, as well as overdose prevention and drug policy. 2ser’s Paige Nguyen spoke with Michelle, a recovering drug addict, about her experiences and her views on the best methods to combat drug misuse. http://2ser.podOmatic.com/entry/2008-08-30T20_29_57-07_00 http://2ser.podOmatic.com/entry/2008-08-30T20_29_57-07_00 Sun, 31 Aug 2008 03:27:20 GMT 2008-08-31 2008-08-31 http://2ser.podOmatic.com 2ser 334 no The Salvation Army and the National Council on Drugs, have warned politicians and the public not to become complacent about deaths from drug overdoses in Australia. In recent years the number of lives lost to overdoses has dramatically decreased – from a high 10 years ago of 1200 deaths per year, down to an average of 400. But that’s still more than one death per day from a very preventable cause. The Salvation Army is one of the groups behind Overdose Awareness Day, which is being held this Sunday. The organizers of the event say that it’s an opportunity to stimulate discussion on the stigma associated with drug use, as well as overdose prevention and drug policy. 2ser’s Paige Nguyen spoke with Michelle, a recovering drug addict, about her experiences and her views on the best methods to combat drug misuse. The ongoing crisis over electricity privatisation in NSW looks set to continue, despite the plan by Michael Costa and Morris Iemma being rejected by parliament this week. The sell off was due to go to a vote on Thursday, but the Premier faced opposition from the Liberals, The Greens and at least five of his own Labour party MP's, who were prepared to cross the floor. At the last minute the bill was withdrawn before a vote was taken. Over recent months the issue has split the Labour party with the recent state conference voting seven to one, against the plan. But rather than accept defeat the Treasurer is now pushing for a partial sell off of electricity retailers, and says the government can take this action without a vote in Parliament. So with Morris Iemma facing dismal polls what does the future hold for the government? Alex Mitchell is a former state political reporter for the Sun Herald and is now a commentator with the Crikey website. He spoke with 2SERs Anne von Fehrn. http://2ser.podOmatic.com/entry/2008-08-30T07_43_30-07_00 http://2ser.podOmatic.com/entry/2008-08-30T07_43_30-07_00 Sat, 30 Aug 2008 14:39:09 GMT 2008-09-01 2008-08-30 http://2ser.podOmatic.com 2ser 349 no The ongoing crisis over electricity privatisation in NSW looks set to continue, despite the plan by Michael Costa and Morris Iemma being rejected by parliament this week. The sell off was due to go to a vote on Thursday, but the Premier faced opposition from the Liberals, The Greens and at least five of his own Labour party MP's, who were prepared to cross the floor. At the last minute the bill was withdrawn before a vote was taken. Over recent months the issue has split the Labour party with the recent state conference voting seven to one, against the plan. But rather than accept defeat the Treasurer is now pushing for a partial sell off of electricity retailers, and says the government can take this action without a vote in Parliament. So with Morris Iemma facing dismal polls what does the future hold for the government? Alex Mitchell is a former state political reporter for the Sun Herald and is now a commentator with the Crikey website. He spoke with 2SERs Anne von Fehrn. Are young Australians apathetic about politics? According to a new study from the Whitlam Institute at the University of Western Sydney, the answer is no. The report, titled “Young People Imagining a New Democracy”, found that many young people are in fact politically engaged, just not in traditional ways. Web based activities, grassroots campaigns and cause-based projects are increasingly a more common means of engagement. The review found that young people feel marginalised by formal, institutional politics but are concerned with issues surrounding environment, poverty and health. 2ser’s Jordan Bryon spoke with the director of the Whitlam Institute, Eric Sidoti. http://2ser.podOmatic.com/entry/2008-08-30T05_48_51-07_00 http://2ser.podOmatic.com/entry/2008-08-30T05_48_51-07_00 Sat, 30 Aug 2008 12:44:24 GMT 2008-08-30 2008-08-30 http://2ser.podOmatic.com 2ser 225 no Are young Australians apathetic about politics? According to a new study from the Whitlam Institute at the University of Western Sydney, the answer is no. The report, titled “Young People Imagining a New Democracy”, found that many young people are in fact politically engaged, just not in traditional ways. Web based activities, grassroots campaigns and cause-based projects are increasingly a more common means of engagement. The review found that young people feel marginalised by formal, institutional politics but are concerned with issues surrounding environment, poverty and health. 2ser’s Jordan Bryon spoke with the director of the Whitlam Institute, Eric Sidoti. Some people think that just praying to Jesus can give them anything they want. But that’s not true according to America’s new Christian pin-up, Mark Driscoll. 10,000 people converged on the entertainment centre this week, to hear him declare war against this, and other false perceptions of Jesus which he refers to as “plastic Jesus”. The event attracted Christians, atheists and even agnostics. But, why the hype? What is it about Mark Driscoll that makes him so popular in his quest to save Sydney from fake Jesuses? Bishop Al Stewart, from the Katoomba Christian Convention was one of the organisers of the event. He spoke with 2SER’s Esther Han. http://2ser.podOmatic.com/entry/2008-08-30T05_44_15-07_00 http://2ser.podOmatic.com/entry/2008-08-30T05_44_15-07_00 Sat, 30 Aug 2008 12:38:33 GMT 2008-08-30 2008-08-30 http://2ser.podOmatic.com 2ser 320 no Some people think that just praying to Jesus can give them anything they want. But that’s not true according to America’s new Christian pin-up, Mark Driscoll. 10,000 people converged on the entertainment centre this week, to hear him declare war against this, and other false perceptions of Jesus which he refers to as “plastic Jesus”. The event attracted Christians, atheists and even agnostics. But, why the hype? What is it about Mark Driscoll that makes him so popular in his quest to save Sydney from fake Jesuses? Bishop Al Stewart, from the Katoomba Christian Convention was one of the organisers of the event. He spoke with 2SER’s Esther Han. At one of Melbourne's swankiest restaurants, Greenpeace launched their "Right To Know" petition this week, lobbying the federal government to label genetically modified or engineered foods.. The petition follows another Greenpeace campaign, the GM-Free Chefs Charter, which commits 150 chefs from the nation's top restaurants to avoid using genetically modified foods in their cooking. Currently, GM foods are limited to being grown only in Victoria, New South Wales and Queensland with the first harvest of canola due in the next couple of months. The West Australian government this week extended its ban on GM food crops for another four years. Lisa Sales from Greenpeace Australia spoke with 2ser's Cale Bain. http://2ser.podOmatic.com/entry/2008-08-27T22_33_41-07_00 http://2ser.podOmatic.com/entry/2008-08-27T22_33_41-07_00 Thu, 28 Aug 2008 05:30:51 GMT 2008-08-30 2008-08-28 http://2ser.podOmatic.com 2ser 289 no At one of Melbourne's swankiest restaurants, Greenpeace launched their "Right To Know" petition this week, lobbying the federal government to label genetically modified or engineered foods.. The petition follows another Greenpeace campaign, the GM-Free Chefs Charter, which commits 150 chefs from the nation's top restaurants to avoid using genetically modified foods in their cooking. Currently, GM foods are limited to being grown only in Victoria, New South Wales and Queensland with the first harvest of canola due in the next couple of months. The West Australian government this week extended its ban on GM food crops for another four years. Lisa Sales from Greenpeace Australia spoke with 2ser's Cale Bain. High-profile refugee Harinder Kharbanda has been deported to India this week, despite fears of persecution in his home country. This comes just weeks after the federal government's announcement of new immigration laws, designed to ensure fewer asylum seekers are detained. Refugee advocate groups are concerned that the current government is not taking refugee issues seriously enough. They are calling for the current Refugee Review Tribunal to be replaced with a more independent system that aims to assess refugee's claims, rather than disprove them. Kharbanda received media attention at the end of 2005 when he spoke out against the corruption of Villawood staff. He also protested against issues such as exploitative labour and lack of legal access. He has been asked to pay over $150, 000 for his stay at Villawood. Refugee Action Coalition spokesperson Mark Goudkamp spoke to 2ser's Libby King. http://2ser.podOmatic.com/entry/2008-08-27T04_20_30-07_00 http://2ser.podOmatic.com/entry/2008-08-27T04_20_30-07_00 Wed, 27 Aug 2008 11:17:47 GMT 2008-08-27 2008-08-27 http://2ser.podOmatic.com 2ser 305 no High-profile refugee Harinder Kharbanda has been deported to India this week, despite fears of persecution in his home country. This comes just weeks after the federal government's announcement of new immigration laws, designed to ensure fewer asylum seekers are detained. Refugee advocate groups are concerned that the current government is not taking refugee issues seriously enough. They are calling for the current Refugee Review Tribunal to be replaced with a more independent system that aims to assess refugee's claims, rather than disprove them. Kharbanda received media attention at the end of 2005 when he spoke out against the corruption of Villawood staff. He also protested against issues such as exploitative labour and lack of legal access. He has been asked to pay over $150, 000 for his stay at Villawood. Refugee Action Coalition spokesperson Mark Goudkamp spoke to 2ser's Libby King. The editors of Speculum, a student publication based at Macquarie University, have quit in protest against what they consider to be editorial interference by “U at MQ”, the student services organization that financed the paper. Their decision to quit has gained considerable media attention, as any form of censorship will turn heads. The former editors are claiming that U@MQ were making constant demands, screening every article and removing what they considered to be in bad taste. This report from 2ser’s Nick Hollins begins with with Deirdre Anderson, the Chief Executive of U@MQ. http://2ser.podOmatic.com/entry/2008-08-27T03_35_43-07_00 http://2ser.podOmatic.com/entry/2008-08-27T03_35_43-07_00 Wed, 27 Aug 2008 10:33:09 GMT 2008-08-27 2008-08-27 http://2ser.podOmatic.com 2ser 286 no The editors of Speculum, a student publication based at Macquarie University, have quit in protest against what they consider to be editorial interference by “U at MQ”, the student services organization that financed the paper. Their decision to quit has gained considerable media attention, as any form of censorship will turn heads. The former editors are claiming that U@MQ were making constant demands, screening every article and removing what they considered to be in bad taste. This report from 2ser’s Nick Hollins begins with with Deirdre Anderson, the Chief Executive of U@MQ. Startling figures on Australia's shark exports were released this week with conservation groups saying that some species are massively over fished. The environment group WWF used Australian quarantine data to show that 500 tonnes of shark fin was exported in the past 13 months. That's nearly 10,000 sharks sent mostly to Asian markets where demand is high. The WWF is calling on the Queensland government to cutback on fishing licences in the Coral Sea and Barrier Reef regions. Dr Gilly Llewellen from the groups Ocean program says the current harvest is unsustainable. She spoke with 2ser's Esther Han. http://2ser.podOmatic.com/entry/2008-08-23T04_09_46-07_00 http://2ser.podOmatic.com/entry/2008-08-23T04_09_46-07_00 Sat, 23 Aug 2008 11:05:33 GMT 2008-08-23 2008-08-23 http://2ser.podOmatic.com 2ser 326 no Startling figures on Australia's shark exports were released this week with conservation groups saying that some species are massively over fished. The environment group WWF used Australian quarantine data to show that 500 tonnes of shark fin was exported in the past 13 months. That's nearly 10,000 sharks sent mostly to Asian markets where demand is high. The WWF is calling on the Queensland government to cutback on fishing licences in the Coral Sea and Barrier Reef regions. Dr Gilly Llewellen from the groups Ocean program says the current harvest is unsustainable. She spoke with 2ser's Esther Han. Bacon, ham, pastrami and other processed meats, are increasingly getting the thumbs down from medical authorities, with new evidence showing a direct link with bowel cancer. A report from the World Cancer Research Fund has found that by eating just 50 grams of processed meat a day - the risk of bowel cancer increases by 20 per cent. The Cancer Council of Australia are now recommending that people limit or avoid eating processed meat altogether. And while the case against these foods is strong, scientists are yet to isolate the cancer causing ingredient. 2ser’s Paige Nguyen spoke with Professor Dallas English - the senior epidemiologist for the Cancer Council of Victoria and the University of Melbourne. http://2ser.podOmatic.com/entry/2008-08-23T00_20_22-07_00 http://2ser.podOmatic.com/entry/2008-08-23T00_20_22-07_00 Sat, 23 Aug 2008 07:12:44 GMT 2008-08-23 2008-08-23 http://2ser.podOmatic.com 2ser 258 no Bacon, ham, pastrami and other processed meats, are increasingly getting the thumbs down from medical authorities, with new evidence showing a direct link with bowel cancer. A report from the World Cancer Research Fund has found that by eating just 50 grams of processed meat a day - the risk of bowel cancer increases by 20 per cent. The Cancer Council of Australia are now recommending that people limit or avoid eating processed meat altogether. And while the case against these foods is strong, scientists are yet to isolate the cancer causing ingredient. 2ser’s Paige Nguyen spoke with Professor Dallas English - the senior epidemiologist for the Cancer Council of Victoria and the University of Melbourne. Censorship in China has been brought to the world’s attention with the Beijing Olympics. With the Games coming to an end, the Chinese Government continues its fight against dissenting voices. Chinese TV station NTD-TV, New Tang Dynasty, held a forum this week in Sydney, which discussed media censorship in China. NTDTV, is based in New York, and is one of the very few uncensored voices which is allowed to broadcast into mainland China. That was until the Olympics. Their satellite signal was cut 7 weeks ago, after satellite operator Eutelsat gave in to ongoing pressure from Chinese authorities. Eutelsat is currently violating its contract terms with NTDTV and has given no explanation to the station when or if the signal will be reconnected. The forum featured several guest speakers advocating the need for independent voices in China’s media. NTD representative Sheridan Harvey spoke with 2SER's Anne von Fehrn. http://2ser.podOmatic.com/entry/2008-08-23T00_09_53-07_00 http://2ser.podOmatic.com/entry/2008-08-23T00_09_53-07_00 Sat, 23 Aug 2008 07:06:54 GMT 2008-08-23 2008-08-23 http://2ser.podOmatic.com 2ser 387 no Censorship in China has been brought to the world’s attention with the Beijing Olympics. With the Games coming to an end, the Chinese Government continues its fight against dissenting voices. Chinese TV station NTD-TV, New Tang Dynasty, held a forum this week in Sydney, which discussed media censorship in China. NTDTV, is based in New York, and is one of the very few uncensored voices which is allowed to broadcast into mainland China. That was until the Olympics. Their satellite signal was cut 7 weeks ago, after satellite operator Eutelsat gave in to ongoing pressure from Chinese authorities. Eutelsat is currently violating its contract terms with NTDTV and has given no explanation to the station when or if the signal will be reconnected. The forum featured several guest speakers advocating the need for independent voices in China’s media. NTD representative Sheridan Harvey spoke with 2SER's Anne von Fehrn. Just recently the Great Escape Music Festival, set to hit Sydney stages in October, was cancelled due to poor ticket sales. Only a few weeks before, Sydney’s premier spot for stand-up comedy, the Comedy Store, closed its doors. This has prompted some in the entertainment industry to predict an economic downturn, based partly on the credit squeeze and rising prices. Greg Khoury is the Development Manager for Century Venues, which owns and operates several of Sydney’s mid-scale theatres like The Enmore, The Metro and the Factory Theatres. Century also manages Sydney’s Cracker Comedy Festival. He’s disputes the theory that music and theatre fans are cutting back on their spending. Greg Khoury spoke with 2ser’s Cale Bain. http://2ser.podOmatic.com/entry/2008-08-22T00_50_53-07_00 http://2ser.podOmatic.com/entry/2008-08-22T00_50_53-07_00 Fri, 22 Aug 2008 07:48:51 GMT 2008-08-22 2008-08-22 http://2ser.podOmatic.com 2ser 299 no Just recently the Great Escape Music Festival, set to hit Sydney stages in October, was cancelled due to poor ticket sales. Only a few weeks before, Sydney’s premier spot for stand-up comedy, the Comedy Store, closed its doors. This has prompted some in the entertainment industry to predict an economic downturn, based partly on the credit squeeze and rising prices. Greg Khoury is the Development Manager for Century Venues, which owns and operates several of Sydney’s mid-scale theatres like The Enmore, The Metro and the Factory Theatres. Century also manages Sydney’s Cracker Comedy Festival. He’s disputes the theory that music and theatre fans are cutting back on their spending. Greg Khoury spoke with 2ser’s Cale Bain. Pollution has severely reduced aquatic biodiversity in rivers in the Blue Mountains World Heritage area. New tests have shown the water contains toxic levels of zinc, and the population of some water fauna have been reduced by as much as half. The pollution is believed to be caused by run-off from an abandoned mine. 2ser's Libby King spoke to Dr. Ian Wright, a researcher at the University of Western Sydney. http://2ser.podOmatic.com/entry/2008-08-21T01_11_07-07_00 http://2ser.podOmatic.com/entry/2008-08-21T01_11_07-07_00 Thu, 21 Aug 2008 08:08:10 GMT 2008-08-21 2008-08-21 http://2ser.podOmatic.com 2ser 265 no Pollution has severely reduced aquatic biodiversity in rivers in the Blue Mountains World Heritage area. New tests have shown the water contains toxic levels of zinc, and the population of some water fauna have been reduced by as much as half. The pollution is believed to be caused by run-off from an abandoned mine. 2ser's Libby King spoke to Dr. Ian Wright, a researcher at the University of Western Sydney. Callan Park is a large green space in the Inner West of Sydney. For many years, it was the site of the State's largest mental hospital. After years of wrangling the New South Wales Cabinet is about to hand down a decision on the future use of the site. One of the submissions put forward is for an organic farm based on other successful city farms in Melbourne and London. But as environment reporter Phil Stubbs found out when he went to a pubic forum in support of the farm, the chances of it being included in the Callan Park plan aren't looking good. Phil spoke with the farm's designer Rod Simpson More info: http://www.sydneycityfarm.org/ http://2ser.podOmatic.com/entry/2008-08-21T01_01_32-07_00 http://2ser.podOmatic.com/entry/2008-08-21T01_01_32-07_00 Thu, 21 Aug 2008 07:57:39 GMT 2008-08-21 2008-08-21 http://2ser.podOmatic.com 2ser 326 no Callan Park is a large green space in the Inner West of Sydney. For many years, it was the site of the State's largest mental hospital. After years of wrangling the New South Wales Cabinet is about to hand down a decision on the future use of the site. One of the submissions put forward is for an organic farm based on other successful city farms in Melbourne and London. But as environment reporter Phil Stubbs found out when he went to a pubic forum in support of the farm, the chances of it being included in the Callan Park plan aren't looking good. Phil spoke with the farm's designer Rod Simpson More info: http://www.sydneycityfarm.org/ The Federal Government's pension review has found that almost 80% of Australians aged over 65 are on a pension. The paper also found that Australian pensioners were worse off than other western countries, with a pension rate well below the OECD average. The single pension rate is presently just $273 a week, while the combined couple rate is $456 a week. This report from 2ser's Anne Von Fehrn and Nick Hollins begins with John Bisste, the Executive Director of the Council of the Ageing. http://2ser.podOmatic.com/entry/2008-08-18T06_01_41-07_00 http://2ser.podOmatic.com/entry/2008-08-18T06_01_41-07_00 Mon, 18 Aug 2008 12:53:11 GMT 2008-08-21 2008-08-18 http://2ser.podOmatic.com 2ser 254 no The Federal Government's pension review has found that almost 80% of Australians aged over 65 are on a pension. The paper also found that Australian pensioners were worse off than other western countries, with a pension rate well below the OECD average. The single pension rate is presently just $273 a week, while the combined couple rate is $456 a week. This report from 2ser's Anne Von Fehrn and Nick Hollins begins with John Bisste, the Executive Director of the Council of the Ageing. Australian scientists are about to undertake a three year clinical trial of new treatments for schizophrenia. Following promising early results, researchers are using a cancer and osteoperosis drug, in an effort to find an early detection treatment, that can stave off this serious neurological condition. Professor Cindy Shannon Weickert (pronounced why-kart) is heading a joint initiative of the Schizophrenia Research Institute, the University of New South Wales and the Prince of Wales Medical Research Foundation. She discussed the latest research with 2ser’s Cale Bain. http://2ser.podOmatic.com/entry/2008-08-18T05_50_00-07_00 http://2ser.podOmatic.com/entry/2008-08-18T05_50_00-07_00 Mon, 18 Aug 2008 12:47:31 GMT 2008-08-18 2008-08-18 http://2ser.podOmatic.com 2ser 292 no Australian scientists are about to undertake a three year clinical trial of new treatments for schizophrenia. Following promising early results, researchers are using a cancer and osteoperosis drug, in an effort to find an early detection treatment, that can stave off this serious neurological condition. Professor Cindy Shannon Weickert (pronounced why-kart) is heading a joint initiative of the Schizophrenia Research Institute, the University of New South Wales and the Prince of Wales Medical Research Foundation. She discussed the latest research with 2ser’s Cale Bain. A few weeks ago, Razors Edge brought you the story of farming families blockading properties to stop BHP coal exploration at Caroona, near Tamworth. Now, in recent events Sydney Gas and AGL have been given exploration licenses to test drill for Coal Seam Methane Gas in 12 locations across the Hunter Valley. Since these licenses were issued, Drilling has begun in the Hunter Valley town of Wollombi. In a meeting of residents effected by the drilling, Greens MP Lee Rhiannon expressed her support for farmers to take action against the drilling. Sean Gough, from the local campaign group: Wollombi Valley against gas extraction, has encouraged people not to let Sydney Gas onto their properties, and is starting to meet with surrounding communities. He spoke with 2ser's Jessica Minshall. http://2ser.podOmatic.com/entry/2008-08-18T00_41_02-07_00 http://2ser.podOmatic.com/entry/2008-08-18T00_41_02-07_00 Mon, 18 Aug 2008 07:36:08 GMT 2008-08-18 2008-08-18 http://2ser.podOmatic.com 2ser 347 no A few weeks ago, Razors Edge brought you the story of farming families blockading properties to stop BHP coal exploration at Caroona, near Tamworth. Now, in recent events Sydney Gas and AGL have been given exploration licenses to test drill for Coal Seam Methane Gas in 12 locations across the Hunter Valley. Since these licenses were issued, Drilling has begun in the Hunter Valley town of Wollombi. In a meeting of residents effected by the drilling, Greens MP Lee Rhiannon expressed her support for farmers to take action against the drilling. Sean Gough, from the local campaign group: Wollombi Valley against gas extraction, has encouraged people not to let Sydney Gas onto their properties, and is starting to meet with surrounding communities. He spoke with 2ser's Jessica Minshall. The Human Rights and Equal Opportunity Commission has launched an inquiry into gender diversity issues. They've set up a "sex files" forum, which looks at how records of sex and gender impact on human rights. It's in collaboration with International Transgender Awareness Day, which was August 15th. Transgender activists are calling for greater federal government initiative into recognizing transgender rights in law. Christine Johnson, Secretary for the Australian Transgender Support Association Queensland is speaking here with 2ser's Paige Nguyen. http://2ser.podOmatic.com/entry/2008-08-18T00_03_16-07_00 http://2ser.podOmatic.com/entry/2008-08-18T00_03_16-07_00 Mon, 18 Aug 2008 06:58:39 GMT 2008-08-18 2008-08-18 http://2ser.podOmatic.com 2ser 378 no The Human Rights and Equal Opportunity Commission has launched an inquiry into gender diversity issues. They've set up a "sex files" forum, which looks at how records of sex and gender impact on human rights. It's in collaboration with International Transgender Awareness Day, which was August 15th. Transgender activists are calling for greater federal government initiative into recognizing transgender rights in law. Christine Johnson, Secretary for the Australian Transgender Support Association Queensland is speaking here with 2ser's Paige Nguyen. In 2006, 43 asylum seekers from West Papua were granted refugee status in Australia. This was a controversial decision, given that Indonesia is a powerful trade partner; but even the Howard government acknowledged that West Papua isn't a safe place to be. Yesterday the Indonesian foreign minister Hassan Wirayuda said that some of those refugees wanted to return. But is it really true? Featured in story: spokesperson for West Papuan refugees Herman Wainggai and Dr Jim Elmslie, Papua Desk Executive Officer of the University of Sydney’s West Papua project. Produced by Leeanne Torpey. http://2ser.podOmatic.com/entry/2008-08-12T06_34_02-07_00 http://2ser.podOmatic.com/entry/2008-08-12T06_34_02-07_00 Tue, 12 Aug 2008 13:31:27 GMT 2008-08-12 2008-08-12 http://2ser.podOmatic.com 2ser 239 no In 2006, 43 asylum seekers from West Papua were granted refugee status in Australia. This was a controversial decision, given that Indonesia is a powerful trade partner; but even the Howard government acknowledged that West Papua isn't a safe place to be. Yesterday the Indonesian foreign minister Hassan Wirayuda said that some of those refugees wanted to return. But is it really true? Featured in story: spokesperson for West Papuan refugees Herman Wainggai and Dr Jim Elmslie, Papua Desk Executive Officer of the University of Sydney’s West Papua project. Produced by Leeanne Torpey. Following similar processes run in Canada and the Netherlands, the so called "Citizens Parliament" has sent out nine thousand letters to randomly selected Australians this week, asking them to take part in a forum to improve Australia’s political system. Months of online discussion will build up to a sitting of The Citizens Parliament this spring, where representatives from each of the 150 electorates will be flown to Canberra to undergo the process of deliberative democracy. The findings will be presented to Prime Minister Kevin Rudd and the government soon after. Fred Chaney is a former Liberal Senator from Western Australia. A patron of the organization, he will also chair the Citizens Parliament when it meets in October. 2SER's Cale Bain asked Mr Chaney to explain the process of deliberative democracy. http://2ser.podOmatic.com/entry/2008-08-11T23_33_00-07_00 http://2ser.podOmatic.com/entry/2008-08-11T23_33_00-07_00 Tue, 12 Aug 2008 06:30:27 GMT 2008-08-12 2008-08-12 http://2ser.podOmatic.com 2ser 295 no Following similar processes run in Canada and the Netherlands, the so called "Citizens Parliament" has sent out nine thousand letters to randomly selected Australians this week, asking them to take part in a forum to improve Australia’s political system. Months of online discussion will build up to a sitting of The Citizens Parliament this spring, where representatives from each of the 150 electorates will be flown to Canberra to undergo the process of deliberative democracy. The findings will be presented to Prime Minister Kevin Rudd and the government soon after. Fred Chaney is a former Liberal Senator from Western Australia. A patron of the organization, he will also chair the Citizens Parliament when it meets in October. 2SER's Cale Bain asked Mr Chaney to explain the process of deliberative democracy.