Former Labor Prime Minister, \JGough Whitlam\j, is admitted to St Vincent's Private Hospital with an undisclosed medical condition.
The Richmond birdwing butterfly becomes the first invertebrate in NSW to be covered under the new threatened species act. Maximum fines for hurting endangered species increases from $100,000 to $200,000.
Cabinet papers are released which reveal the Menzies Government's involvement in the 1965 Vietnam War. Although there were differences of opinion in the Cabinet over whether to send a battalion to Vietnam, \JRobert Menzies\j felt he had to stand by the US and send the troops either way.
A three-wheeled solar bike takes off from \JDarwin\j on a 3,000 km trip to \JAdelaide\j - a world first for solar technology.
Jack Davenport, an RAAF pilot during World War II, dies in \JSydney\j.
The Australian Stock Exchange announces a record turnover of $133 billion for the year of 1995.
#
"January 2, 1996",2,0,g,0
\JCSIRO\j scientists believe they may have found a way to control the cane toad's spread into \JKakadu National Park\j. They have isolated a Venezuelan virus, on which they are conducting experiments.
A severe thunderstorm hits Sydney's west and south west causing flash floods. Approximately 900 lightning strikes are recorded in under two hours.
The Opposition wants the Federal Government to urgently address black deaths in custody, after the figures of last year - 19 deaths - were released today.
Police seize 500 ecstasy tablets in Western Australian that were apparently heading for a rave party.
NSW Labor member, Mr Paul O'Grady, resigns from parliament for health reasons.
George Patterson House (built in 1890) in George Street, Sydney, is severely destroyed by fire.
#
"January 3, 1996",3,0,g,0
\JGough Whitlam\j is said to be in a satisfactory condition while still in hospital with a mystery illness.
Farmers celebrate as the rabbit calicivirus has killed off a vast proportion of the rabbit population. There haven't been so few rabbits since \Jmyxomatosis\j was at its peak in the 1950s. The estimated number of rabbits deaths is between 10 and 20 million since October 1995. However, the kangaroo population is expected to increase because of this, giving farmers new problems.
Officials reveal that the George Patterson House fire was lit deliberately.
Aborigines threaten to block CRA's new zinc mine in north west Queensland, but Mr Tickner is confident that the dispute will be resolved between CRA and the Carpentaria Land Council with the traditional owners.
The sharemarket reaches its highest level for two years with the All Ordinaries at 2258.1.
Sir Douglas Miller, one the country's best known surgeons, dies from cancer. He was one of the first Australian surgeons to specialise in neurosurgery.
Hugh Birch, one of the first World War II pilots to operate against the Germans in the Atlantic Ocean, dies in Sydney.
#
"January 4, 1996",4,0,g,0
The AIDS Trust of Australia, which started in 1987, faces financial difficulties, as donations drastically slow down.
The Australian film, \IBabe,\i which has taken almost $US100 million, becomes the fastest grossing local film at the domestic box office.
The ownership of the smouldering remains of George Patterson House is being fought out by Westpac Property Investments and City West Apartments.
Mrs Janet Holmes α Court puts the family home in Perth up for sale, for $5.5 million.
The Federal Government announces it will not be blocking the sale of Dreamworld to a Singaporean businessman for reportedly $76 million.
#
"January 5, 1996",5,0,g,0
Figures released today have Australia's trade deficit at a high $1.9 billion.
Four police officers resign after corruption allegations against them are revealed in the NSW Police Royal Commission.
World wheat shortages drive wheat prices up and Australia is expected to have its richest wheat export ever.
#
"January 6, 1996",6,0,g,0
Qantas announces a new project for international travel: supplying keno-type gambling, Nintendo and Sega games, shopping with credit cards, and allowing passengers to make phone calls. Still in the planning stages, they could be implemented early next year.
\JCSIRO\j scientists predict higher temperatures and a decrease in rainfall, but not for at least 100 years.
According to researchers at the Australian Museum, the grey nurse and the great white sharks are under threat of extinction.
#
"January 7, 1996",7,0,g,0
The expected decision by ACCC on the merging of Foxtel and Australis Media is delayed.
#
"January 8, 1996",8,0,g,0
Toyota, after four years at the top, is now third, behind Ford and Holden, according to 1995 figures released today.
AFI award-winning actor, John Hargreaves, dies after a long illness.
A six year old boy has his fingertips bitten off by a Bengal tiger at Western Plains Zoo at Dubbo.
#
"January 10, 1996",9,0,g,0
Six melon-headed whales are found beached on the NSW North Coast.
Archaeologists find a 7,800 year old Aboriginal relic while digging in the grounds of the Prince of Wales Hospital, Randwick.
Another study into sudden infant death syndrome has found that babies sleeping in their parents room for the first six months is very beneficial and may even cut the death toll.
\JRupert Murdoch\j bids a record $2.7 million for the European broadcasting rights for the summer and winter Olympics between 2000 and 2008.
#
"January 11, 1996",10,0,g,0
Millin rice, produced in Australia specifically for the Japanese, is expected to boost the rice industry tremendously.
New figures indicate that the drop in the unemployment rate is at its lowest in five years.
The cost to the taxpayers to build the Olympic Stadium is estimated at $100 million less than the original figure, thanks to private business.
After a week of torrential rain, there are flood warnings on many Queensland rivers, and northern NSW is expecting major floods as the Queensland rivers burst.
#
"January 12, 1996",11,0,g,0
A light plane, taking off from North Stradbroke Island, crashes and kills four people.
Drought-stricken rivers in northern NSW recover after flood waters move down from Queensland.
The population of rock hopper penguins on Macquarie Island is declining at an alarming rate. Elephant seal numbers are falling 2% a year and Macquarie Island recorded the driest December on record.
The number of Australian Internet users increases by 8.5 per cent every month.
#
"January 14, 1996",12,0,g,0
Because of Australia's over-use of antibiotics, many bacteria strains may shortly become penicillin-resistant.
Heatwave and bushfires hit South Australia.
Archaeologists uncover a Roman coin, dated 150 B.C., at Sydney's Dawes Point.
#
"January 15, 1996",13,0,g,0
Victoria's largest native title claim, over 10,000 square kilometres in Wimmera, is lodged.
An extremely rare marsupial, the yellow-bellied glider, is spotted in Sydney for the first time in over 100 years.
Mr Tony Lauer, NSW Police Commissioner, announces his resignation, amid the NSW Police Royal Commission.
The Australian Defence Force announces that the defence forces will join together under the one command. The yet-to-be-appointed head will be known as the Commander of the Australian Theatre.
#
"January 16, 1996",14,0,g,0
The NSW government announces the appointment of the new Governor, Mr Gordon Samuels, to commence on March 1. The role of the Governor is now expected to be a part-time one, with Samuels residing in his own home, not at Government House.
#
"January 17, 1996",15,0,g,0
The Seven Network announces it will pay $190 million to secure the rights to all summer and winter Olympics between 2002 and 2008.
#
"January 18, 1996",16,0,g,0
Louis Robert James, self-taught painter, dies at the age of 75.
#
"January 19, 1996",17,0,g,0
The Australian golf tournament, the Heineken Classic, announces an increase in prize money to $1 million, up from last year's $400,000.
A US scientist solves one of Australia's best known criminal cases; the death of Bogle and Chandler in 1963. He found traces of LSD in tissue samples of the two and he claims they died of an LSD overdose.
#
"January 21, 1996",18,0,g,0
Australian cricketers may pull out of next month's World Cup after several players receive death threats.
#
"January 22, 1996",19,0,g,0
An Australian scientist based in the US has helped develop a procedure that enhances the immune system of animals, and therefore may be beneficial in the treatment of AIDS and other diseases.
At the Golden Globe Awards, \IBabe\i wins best comedy, \JNicole Kidman\j wins best actress for her role in \ITo Die For\i and \JMel Gibson\j wins best director for \IBraveheart\i.
Europe blacklists several Australian meat exporters because of breaches and faults in some of our abattoirs.
Pakistani and Sri Lankan cricketing officials guarantee the Australian cricket team's safety if they decide to travel to the World Cup competition.
Victoria announces its bid for the 2006 Commonwealth Games in Melbourne.
#
"January 23, 1996",20,0,g,0
Australians Don and Margie McIntyre return from Antarctica, after spending a year in freezing conditions.
Australian Stadium 2000, builders of the Olympic Stadium, will raise $300 million towards the cost through a property trust to be listed on the Australian Stock Exchange. Each trust unit will be $10,000 and the holders will be entitled to gold membership at the stadium.
#
"January 24, 1996",21,0,g,0
New figures reveal that only one in three children under the age of six is fully immunised.
David Boon plays his last Test match at Adelaide Oval today.
#
"January 25, 1996",22,0,g,0
Seven people are found dead in \JBrisbane\j after one of Australia's worst domestic murder-suicides. They died from gunshot wounds.
Towns between \JTamworth\j and \JMuswellbrook\j are issued with flood warnings.
Ms Sharon Bordow, a young PhD student from Sydney, plays a major role in a discovery that may help children with neuroblastoma, a common childhood cancer.
Michelle Martin, the World No. 1 squash player, is named the NSW Sports Federation's sportsperson of the year.
#
"January 26, 1996",23,0,g,0
Dr John Yu, a leading paediatrician at the New Children's Hospital, is announced as Australian of the Year. Rebecca Chambers, a 20-year-old pianist, is announced as Young Australian of the Year.
Helen Daniel, editor of the \IAustralian Book Review,\i claims that the judges of the \JMiles Franklin\j Award should resign over the controversial decision for the 1995 award for \IThe Hand That Signed The Paper,\i by Helen Demidenko/Darville.
Northern New South Wales is still on a flood alert after a flash flood at Murrurundi claimed the life of a 28 year old woman. A 13 year old boy also drowned at \JMoree\j.
#
"January 27, 1996",24,0,g,0
It's official. Australians will go to the polls on March 2 for the Federal election.
The Prime Minister of Pakistan, Benazir Bhutto, personally guarantees Australia's safety in Pakistan for the World Cup.
The French detonate the sixth and largest nuclear blast at Fangataufa atoll.
#
"January 29, 1996",25,0,g,0
\JSteve Waugh\j is named International Cricketer of the Year.
\JJeff Fenech\j is offered $1 million to fight Azumah Nelson.
The Police Royal Commission hear evidence that a significant number of police use illegal drugs regularly.
The Federal Court announces that pastoral leases override native title.
Aborigines win a contract worth between $40 million and $60 million over 20 years, against a mining company in north-east Arnhem Land.
The $66.5 million fraud trial of Mr \JJohn Elliott\j begins; the biggest in Australian history.
Major-General John Macdonald, a former commander of the 2nd Division CMF, and who was awarded an AO and MBE, dies today.
#
"January 30, 1996",26,0,g,0
Jacques Chirac announces the long-awaited end to French nuclear testing in the South Pacific, four months before the original end date.
Staff say farewell to Rear Admiral Peter Sinclair and to Government House.
The IOC accepts a $US350 million bid from EBU for the television rights to the 2000 Olympic Games, over a $US500 million bid by Murdoch.
The NSW government increases the limit of 1.6 kilometres to 2 kilometres (as the crow flies) for free school bus travel.
Fear escalates for the safety of the Australian cricketers, after a car bomb explodes in Sri Lankan's capital, Colombo.
#
"February 1, 1996",27,0,g,0
Figures released today show NSW's January road toll to be 23, the lowest in 51 years.
The Governor of NSW and his family vacate Government House; it had been a home to governors since 1845.
Following a terrorist bomb attack in Colombo, the Australian cricket team urge appropriate authorities to relocate the venue for their first match, due to be played on February 17 in Colombo, Sri Lanka.
The EPA begin cleaning up Toongabbie Creek, Sydney, after a 25,000 litre glue spill.
Jack Diamond, who was awarded an OAM in 1991 for his work towards charity, is charged with defrauding $4.8 million in false loans.
28 per cent of NSW is drought-declared.
#
"February 2, 1996",28,0,g,0
Three scientists involved in a study for a cure for influenza are awarded the $300,000 Australia Prize, one of the world's richest science prizes.
The IOC, fearing that construction will fall behind, puts pressure on the NSW Government to announce the winning tenderer for the Olympic Village.
NSW is set to become the first State to order the muzzling of American pit bull terriers in public.
#
"February 3, 1996",29,0,g,0
The Australian cricket team announce they will boycott their matches in Sri Lanka, and push the West Indies to do the same.
Queensland's Goss Labor Government is defeated in the Mundingburra by-election, a seat they hadn't lost for 83 years.
Judge Paul Urquhart is appointed to help commissioner James Wood with the NSW police royal commission.
\JKerry Packer\j, on a visit to China, signs an agreement with China Central Television to screen Chinese-language programs through pay-TV in Australia.
#
"February 4, 1996",30,0,g,0
Queensland Premier, \JWayne Goss\j, is set to quit politics, after Labor's shock loss at the Mundingburra by-election.
Bondi Beach has its busiest day this summer, with over 200 people being rescued.
The British discover the first virus to affect programs running under Windows 95. Called 'Boza', it is from Australia.
Kirstie Marshall, Australia's No. 1 skier, wins bronze at the World Cup in the aerial event at Kirchberg, Austria.
#
"February 5, 1996",31,0,g,0
Cape York Land Council makes a pact to lodge no more native title claims over \JCape York Peninsula\j, providing the Cattlemen's Union of Australia give Aborigines access to their traditional lands.
The south-west of Western Australia faces power rationing, after Cyclone Jacob disrupts gas supplies.
An 8-year-old Australian boy proves that blood from the umbilical cords of newborn babies can successfully treat leukaemia. Whereas 50 per cent of sufferers are matched with compatible bone marrow from donors, it appears that about 95 per cent could be treated from umbilical cord blood successfully.
New studies find that eating fresh, oily fish regularly may prevent asthma in children.
The NSW State Government will establish a Police Corruption Commission, after the first evidence of the royal commission finds widespread corruption within the police force.
After 12 months of planning, Tammy van Wisse arrives in \JApollo Bay\j, after swimming 17 hours, 46 minutes and 30 seconds over 97 km across Bass Strait.
#
"February 6, 1996",32,0,g,0
According to \IVariety\i, \IMuriel's Wedding\i was the third most profitable film in the world in 1995.
For the first time in six years, Australian farmers expect to return a profit for this season.
NSW teachers announce they will hold a statewide strike over a 12 per cent pay increase.
The Sri Lankan Foreign Minister accuses \JShane Warne\j of being a 'sissy', for his and the Australian cricket team's refusal to attend the matches in Colombo.
Judge Alastair Muir, previously appointed by the NSW Government to head inquiries into the NSW prison system, dies in Royal North Shore Hospital.
#
"February 7, 1996",33,0,g,0
Greenpeace threatens to block the removal, to the USA and Britain, of more than 800 spent nuclear fuel rods in Lucas Heights.
The proposed merger between Foxtel and Australis Media (Galaxy) suffers a setback when the ACCC rules that it may breach the Trade Practices Act.
The Australian Wheat Board announces a welcome price forecast of $200 a tonne for the start of this year's wheat season.
\JMelinda Gainsford\j suffers a serious groin injury, jeopardising her participation in the Atlanta Olympics.
Leader of the Opposition, \JJohn Howard\j, accuses \JCarmen Lawrence\j of deliberately misquoting him regarding the future of Medicare.
John Sutton, one of the world's greatest sports scientists, dies from a heart attack.
#
"February 8, 1996",34,0,g,0
The AFL celebrates its centenary in Melbourne.
Queensland Premier, \JWayne Goss\j, is re-elected Labor leader; he now has to persuade Independent Liz Cunningham to keep his Government in power. Mrs Cunningham is expected to announce her decision soon.
Dean Waters is charged - for the second time - with the murder eight years ago of Allan Henry Hall, his stepmother's de facto husband.
The State Opposition calls on the Government to order an environmental assessment of the dangers of removing spent nuclear fuel rods from Lucas Heights.
The Greens and the Democrats announce they will direct preferences to each other, ahead of Labor and Liberal.
#
"February 9, 1996",35,0,g,0
\JPaul Keating\j finally agrees to debate \JJohn Howard\j live on Channel 9.
A report finds that there has been an increase in the number of people regularly using heroin since the 1980s.
In the first change since the NSW royal commission into police corruption, the State Government appoints two outsiders to Acting Deputy Commissioner and Assistant Commissioner.
The Federal Government announces it will nominate the Australian Opera House for World Heritage listing.
#
"February 10, 1996",36,0,g,0
Welcome rain has boosted Sydney's water supplies; however water restrictions are still in force and will remain until Warragamba Dam is 75 per cent full (currently 70.4 per cent).
#
"February 11, 1996",37,0,g,0
More than 10,000 police and officials guard cricket players at the World Cup opening ceremony in India.
Sydney Councils and Optus Vision battle it out over the rollout of overhead cables.
Customs House, one of Sydney's oldest buildings, will get a $24 million upgrade.
The Federal Government announces a crackdown on multi-millionaire tax cheats.
Foxtel and Australis Media will submit an amended proposal with the ACCC for their $700 million merger.
#
"February 12, 1996",38,0,g,0
\JJohn Howard\j promises a $450-a-year subsidy per family towards the cost of private health insurance, hoping to encourage more Australians into private health insurance.
Samantha Riley, a strong medal contender for the Atlanta Games, is tested positive for drugs and may be banned from competing there. The drug, dextropropoxyphene, was contained in a headache tablet Samantha's coach, John Volkers, gave her.
The Goss Government in Queensland suffers a major setback with the announcement that Liz Cunningham will support the Liberals, which means the Labor Government must relinquish power. The National Party Leader, Rob Borbidge, will now become the new Premier.
Betty Roland, playwright, novelist and journalist, dies at the age of 92.
#
"February 13, 1996",39,0,g,0
Lobbying from the IOC may save Samantha Riley from a two-year ban for taking a banned substance contained in a headache tablet.
The National Trust-listed 1841 sugar mill building in Canterbury is destroyed by fire.
With his Government losing the numbers to control Parliament earlier this week, \JWayne Goss\j agrees to recall Parliament as soon as possible.
#
"February 14, 1996",40,0,g,0
Samantha Riley is named Sportswoman of the Year, amid the positive drug test controversy.
Australian movie \IBabe\i receives seven Oscar nominations, while \JMel Gibson\j's \IBraveheart\i receives ten.
#
"February 15, 1996",41,0,g,0
Luna Park in Sydney closes down.
A six month CRA coal strike threatens to halt coal exports and put contracts at risk.
FINA is expected to announce a three-month ban for Samantha Riley, but her coach's punishment will be more severe.
#
"February 16, 1996",42,0,g,0
Arthur Stanley 'Neddy' Smith, already serving a life sentence for murder, is charged with his 7th murder.
\JBill Hayden\j flies out of Canberra to a 21-gun salute, while Sir William Deane is sworn in as the 22nd Governor-General.
Goss' departure paves the way for Peter Beattie to become the new Opposition Leader.
#
"February 18, 1996",43,0,g,0
The Australian Olympic Committee announces it will offer cash incentives to all medal winners at the Atlanta Olympic Games to encourage them to keep training for the 2000 Games in Sydney.
#
"February 19, 1996",44,0,g,0
Three directors from the meat company, Garibaldi, will be charged with the manslaughter of a four-year-old girl who died after eating their contaminated meat.
The historic St Patrick's Roman Catholic Cathedral at Parramatta is gutted by fire - the third major heritage building destroyed by fire this year.
Western Australia experiences its longest heatwave on record, with an average of 36.5 degrees Celsius over 16 days.
Federal Police find more than $250,000 worth of fake $100 notes and believe there is more in circulation.
The Australian Rugby Football Union announces that the Super 12 tournament matches will not be shown live on free-to-air television, instead they will be televised on the Foxtel Sports channel.
A 20-year-old Australian woman faces a jail term of up to 25 years after being arrested at Bangkok's international airport for drug smuggling.
#
"February 20, 1996",45,0,g,0
The ACTU is accused of being racist after refusing to recognise a union that represents Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders.
About 600 parishioners gather together to mourn the loss of Sydney's historic St Patrick's Cathedral at Parramatta.
#
"February 21, 1996",46,0,g,0
A Queensland poll shows that the Federal Labor Government could lose up to nine seats in Queensland in the Federal election, which would be sufficient to wipe out a Keating Government majority.
After highly successful commercials starring \JPaul Hogan\j, Subaru in America has trouble keeping up with the demand for their cars.
Thanks to intense lobbying from the IOC, Samantha Riley receives an official warning from FINA for a positive drug test, which means she can now compete at the Atlanta Games. However, her not-so-lucky coach, Scott Volkers, receives a two year ban, forbidding him to continue coaching Riley.
#
"February 22, 1996",47,0,g,0
Fossil remains of an ancient creature, resembling a huge wombat, believed to have lived 14,000 years ago, are found on Kangaroo Island.
#
"February 23, 1996",48,0,g,0
Murdoch's Super League is knocked out of Australia for four years, following the decision of Justice James Burchett in the Federal Court.
Scientists working on a vaccine for melanoma achieve remarkable results on test patients.
Federal Court judge, Justice Margaret Beazley, becomes the first woman appointed to the NSW Court of Appeal.
#
"February 24, 1996",49,0,g,0
\JRupert Murdoch\j stands by his Super League players and says he won't back down.
The voters in the Tasmanian State election dump the Groom Government and refuse to give Labor a majority.
Scott Volkers is given the go-ahead to keep coaching Samantha Riley, but only in Australia.
#
"February 25, 1996",50,0,g,0
Recent research, to be presented later this week in Melbourne, shows that paraplegics may one day be able to walk again, after experiments have shown that a broken spine can be repaired.
The 12 per cent swing to Labor in the Tasmanian State election is seen as a good sign for the up-and-coming Federal election. Liberal's leader, Groom, confirms he would try to continue governing in minority.
Australian Rugby League officials prepare to win back the support of the Super League players.
#
"February 26, 1996",51,0,g,0
The 1996 Prime Ministerial Women and Sport Award for a female athlete is awarded to Samantha Riley, two weeks after the announcement of her positive drug test.
A 24 year old man is attacked by a shark in Parramatta River, the first attack so far inland in 30 years.
#
"February 27, 1996",52,0,g,0
It is estimated that Murdoch's New Ltd will lose more than $300 million following the Super League/ARL court decision banning Super League for four years. The ruling also prevents Australian players from training, coaching, or advertising in a Super League competition anywhere in the world.
Con-man Laurie Connell, released from prison last year for race-fixing, dies at his home in Perth.
#
"February 28, 1996",53,0,g,0
After being paid $4 million already, \JKerry Packer\j misses out on an additional insurance payout of $750,000 for his stolen gold bullion.
118 Vietnamese boat people from China, who arrived in late 1994, lose a Federal Court decision to enable them to stay in Australia.
The ARL announces that this year's competition will be postponed for at least two weeks because the breakaway clubs are not yet co-operating with the ARL.
The Federal Treasure, Ralph Willis, apologises to the Opposition Leader, \JJohn Howard\j, after he admits letters suggesting a secret plan to cut spending were forgeries.
#
"February 29, 1996",54,0,g,0
New bank fees mean customers should shop around for the best deals.
Electricity in NSW is now supplied by one of six new energy service companies, instead of one of 25 electricity distributors, promising cheaper electricity.
Rear-Admiral Peter Sinclair, the last live-in State Governor of NSW, ends his term of office.
After a hot and dry February, the NSW drought-declared area increases to 38 per cent, up 10 per cent from last month.
Australis Media abandons its proposed merger with Foxtel and seeks $100 million in new capital from major shareholders.
Hoyts Australia announces it will increase the number of screens across Australia.
Cyclist Kathy Watt qualifies fastest in the women's 3,000 m individual pursuit, held in Perth, for the Atlanta Games. Meanwhile, \JCathy Freeman\j becomes the third fastest female in the world in the 400 m sprint, with an Australian record time of 49.85 seconds.
#
"March 1, 1996",55,0,g,0
Bureau of Statistics figures show Australia's foreign debt grew $5 billion in December to $185 billion.
News Ltd warns players not to take part in charity matches over the next few days or face risking legal proceedings. Meanwhile, it is estimated that \JRupert Murdoch\j's News Ltd could face a bill of over $500 million if it loses the Super League court case.
Brad Izzard, former Penrith and State of Origin rugby league player, is sentenced to nine months jail for the death of a passenger in a car he was driving while drunk.
The Bureau of Meteorology announces that \JSydney\j just had its coldest summer in 31 years and \JPerth\j just had one of its hottest months on record.
NSW's new governor, Gordon Samuels, declares he will maintain the full role the previous governor-general had, the only exception being not living at Government House.
#
"March 2, 1996",56,0,g,0
\JJohn Howard\j becomes Australia's newest Prime Minister after today's Federal election results. Peter Costello will be Treasurer and Tim Fischer Deputy Prime Minister.
Two Ministers in NSW, Robert Tickner and Frank Walker, battle to keep their seats, as more and more votes are counted against the Keating government.
Former NSW premier, John Fahey, wins the former Labor seat of Macarthur for the Liberal government.
#
"March 3, 1996",57,0,g,0
Police seize $500,000 worth of ecstasy and LSD tablets at Bondi.
Tim Flannery, author and research scientist at the Australian Museum, wins the South Australian Premier's Literary Award for his book \IThe Future Eaters.\i
Perth scientists finish developing the world's most accurate clock, measuring up to one millionth of a billionth of a second.
Queensland and northern New South Wales experience an outbreak of Ross River Virus, spread by mosquitoes.
An estimated 500,000 Australians participate in the seventh Clean Up Australia day, collecting approximately 10,000 tonnes of rubbish.
#
"March 4, 1996",58,0,g,0
ACTU secretary, Bill Kelty, resigns from the Reserve Bank board, and threatens an ACTU-Coalition fight over Howard's industrial relations policy.
Sydney's Lord Mayor, Frank Sartor, proposes strict new provisions to protect the city's heritage buildings.
South African swimmer, Penny Heyns, breaks \JSamantha Riley\j's 100 m breastroke world record.
Pay-TV channel, Fox Sports, after heavily promoting the Super League games, announce they will be showing the Rugby Super 12 matches instead.
#
"March 5, 1996",59,0,g,0
Victoria's premier, \JJeff Kennett\j, announces a State election for March 30.
With the new Federal government's scrapping of the "three mines policy", uranium mining companies are set to open new mines and expand others.
John Lerew, a distinguished World War II Australian pilot, dies today.
Gary Pemberton resigns as president of the Sydney Organising Committee for the Olympic Games (SOCOG); John Illiffe, replaces him.
#
"March 6, 1996",60,0,g,0
Australia's sheep and wool industry is under threat with the outbreak of Ovine Johne's Disease, a contagious and fatal disease that has no known cure.
Daintree River in far north Queensland experiences major flooding.
\JKerry Packer\j's son, James, becomes the new managing director of PBL.
Unions push for more wage claims as a result of the Federal Government abandoning Labor's Accord.
The ARL moves to force all Super League players to return to their old clubs or not get paid.
#
"March 7, 1996",61,0,g,0
A leaked Australian government document reveals that the US would protect Taiwan from China, as Beijing prepares to launch missile tests extremely close to the island of Taiwan.
Bill Kelty intervenes in the six-month-old strike at the CRA Vickery mine, after he sends a letter to Chuba Electric Power Company in Japan saying that they will not be able to buy coal from CRA with its anti-union policies.
NSW teachers strike over a 12 per cent pay rise.
After two years of negotiations, all bars and take-away alcohol stores in \JTennant Creek\j will close every Thursday and alcohol sales will be limited on other days.
#
"March 8, 1996",62,0,g,0
Mr Howard announces his new Cabinet and Outer Ministry. Many government departments will be restructured and reshuffled.
Paul Radley, the winner of the 1980 Australian/Vogel Literary award, confesses he was not the real author of the best-selling books.
The NSW Carr government announces a plan to fund the teacher's pay rise: by slashing up to 2,000 teaching positions.
#
"March 9, 1996",63,0,g,0
\JNicole Kidman\j wins the Actress of the Year trophy at the London Film Critics' Circle Awards for her performance in \ITo Die For.\i
An English tourist is attacked by a shark while swimming off Heron Island in the \JGreat Barrier Reef\j.
After an eight-hour operation, Robert Tway becomes the first in Australia to receive a new electric pump to keep his heart pumping.
#
"March 10, 1996",64,0,g,0
With the loss of the Accord between Labor and the ACTU, the trade union movement steps up its battle over wages.
#
"March 11, 1996",65,0,g,0
Samantha Riley's coach, Scott Volkers, appeals to FINA for his two-year ban on international swimming activities.
Justice Burchett grants 34 orders against News Ltd over Super League. The main points are that Super League cannot be played, promoted, or organised until the year 2000; News Ltd must continue to pay players and coaches while they play in the ARL competition; Super League players are ordered to return to their old ARL club; and all Super League merchandise is to be handed over to the ARL.
Striking workers at the CRA-owned Vickery coal mine will get a $300-a-week boost in strike pay to $800.
#
"March 12, 1996",66,0,g,0
\JKim Beazley\j claims victory in the Western Australian seat of Brand, paving the way to become the new Opposition Leader.
The Howard Government commits to an $8 billion reduction in the deficit over the next two years, ruling out new taxes and cuts in welfare payments.
#
"March 13, 1996",67,0,g,0
Police release details of a $6.5 million jewellery theft from a private house in Bendigo last month. Police believe it is Australia's biggest diamond robbery.
In the absence of Labor's accord, ACTU president, Jennie George, announces a claim will be lodged to lift the minimum wages.
Optus announces a five-year, $40 million sponsorship for the ARL premiership.
#
"March 14, 1996",68,0,g,0
The former Labor Communications Minister, Michael Lee, finally claims victory in his Central Coast seat of Dobell.
#
"March 15, 1996",69,0,g,0
After losing a majority in the recent State election, Tasmania's Premier, Mr Groom, resigns.
Mr Reith, the Industrial Relations Minister, intervenes to block an airline industry agreement in which unions try to convert former enterprise bargaining into awards.
To meet its target of $8 billion in spending cuts, the Federal Government announces increases in health and higher education charges and the cutting of social security payments.
NSW Premier, Mr \JCarr\j, backs down from the proposed restructuring of NSW Agriculture after a bitter campaign led by the rural community.
Australis Media reports a loss of $97.5 million for the last six months of 1995. The company is receiving short-term financial help from Tele-Communications Inc and Lenfest Communications, its major shareholders.
Minister for Industrial Relations, Peter Reith, announces he will make the federal laws on dismissal the same as the NSW unfair dismissal laws.
\JJohn Howard\j announces staff cuts for his ministry. After cutting down the ministers from 30 to 28, he has said that no ministers could engage consultants, while he will have only one.
After a miraculous win by Australia against the West Indies in the World Cup cricket, Australia now faces Sri Lanka in the final.
#
"March 16, 1996",70,0,g,0
Summonses are sent to police, solicitors, judges, doctors, businessmen and priests, in regard to the royal commission's paedophile inquiry, due to start in two days. Meanwhile, NSW Premier \JCarr\j invites Opposition Leader Peter Collins to a private meeting to discuss the inquiry.
The NSW government announces sugar bowls in cafes and restaurants will be banned in order to stop the spread of hepatitis.
Ralph Quinlan, one of Australia's most wanted men who escaped from prison last month, surrenders to police.
Outgoing Labor staff at Parliament House are busy shredding and incinerating all their documents and files before the Coalition settles in.
Labor wins the \JKalgoorlie\j by-election.
#
"March 17, 1996",71,0,g,0
\JRupert Murdoch\j flies into Sydney to attend a meeting with Optus Vision to discuss Super League.
A comet discovered by Yuji Hyakutake six weeks ago is visible in the night sky for the next week. Astronomers estimate Hyakutake comet will visit every 10,000 to 20,000 years.
The Federal Government announces it will allow the release of the fatal rabbit calicivirus disease to help keep the wild rabbit population down.
#
"March 18, 1996",72,0,g,0
Prime Minister \JJohn Howard\j chooses not to reside permanently at the Lodge in Canberra, instead he will live mostly at Kirribilli House with his family.
The ARL considers a plan put forward to them by Super League players as conditions for them returning to the ARL this season.
Australia lose to Sri Lanka in the World Cup cricket final.
Tony Rundle is voted the new Tasmanian Premier, after \JRay Groom\j announced he was not prepared to continue leading a minority government.
#
"March 19, 1996",73,0,g,0
Gareth Evans wins by five votes to become the new Deputy Opposition Leader.
\JChristopher Skase\j's bankruptcy trustee announces he will attempt to claim back $3 million worth of assets he believes people are holding in trust for him.
The Federal Government clears the way to reopen Sydney Airport's east-west runway.
#
"March 20, 1996",74,0,g,0
NSW school teachers strike for three hours, and talks with the Government prove futile.
Opposition Leader \JKim Beazley\j announces his line-up for the Shadow Ministry.
#
"March 21, 1996",75,0,g,0
The Federal Government begins negotiations with a mine company to open a new uranium mine within \JKakadu National Park\j.
Many rebel Super League players announce their refusal to play in the ARL matches, forcing the cancellation of the first-round games. The ARL prepares to take legal action to stop Super League players being paid if they don't take part in their competition.
CRA joins other mining companies and announces they will open a new uranium mine at Kintyre, in north-west Western Australia.
\JHarry Seidler\j is awarded the Royal Gold Medal for Architecture, by the Royal Institute of British Architects.
#
"March 22, 1996",76,0,g,0
The NSW and South Australian governments announce that 2000 koalas on \JKangaroo Island\j will move to NSW; previously they were to be killed.
BHP shares drop 61 cents to $18.08, after a shock third-quarter result wiped $1.2 billion off its market capitalisation.
The Minister for Communications, Senator Alston, announces he will talk to Foxtel and Optus Vision about the possibility of them sharing cables. Senator Alston is also in favour of Australis Media and Foxtel merging, although he can't convince the ACCC.
The Federal Government's plan to cut the Budget deficit by $8 billion in two years is welcomed by business, although others are dubious.
NSW Minister for the Olympics and Roads, Michael Knight, is involved in an argument with the Australian Olympic Committee over who will pay for, and who will receive the profits from, the Sydney Olympic Games.
A draft copy on the \IState of the Environment Report\i, due to be released in May, finds that Australians are causing too much pollution and destruction, and our heritage sites and wildlife are at risk.
Australian universities report a massive increase in students paying up to $40,000 to enrol in postgraduate business courses.
A study finds that domestic violence against migrant women is a major problem in Australia.
After an upgrade to \JCSIRO\j's radio telescope at \JParkes\j, it is now ready to receive valuable information from the spacecraft \IGalileo,\i when it passes Jupiter's moons in December.
The ARL and Super League still battle it out in court, while \JRupert Murdoch\j denies involvement with the new Global League.
The Federal Government investigates beef products imported from Britain, after links between mad cow disease and the deaths of ten humans are reported.
The AWU supports the opening of new uranium mines and the expansion of others, however they are slightly hesitant about mining in \JKakadu National Park\j.
#
"March 23, 1996",77,0,g,0
Three Australians are arrested in Thailand for heroin smuggling.
\JJohn Howard\j announces new restrictions on overhead pay TV cables and mobile phone towers in suburban areas.
Following the mad cow disease scare, and the banning of British beef to many nations, Australians hope to boost the beef export market by exporting to these countries.
The NSW government announces the creation of 15 national parks, the largest being Gundabooka National Park, 70 km south-west of Bourke, covering 43,590 ha.
Latest figures show that Australis/Galaxy has 141,000 subscribers, Foxtel 30,000 and Optus Vision 15,000.
#
"March 24, 1996",78,0,g,0
The Australian Federal Police Association wants a royal commission held after serious allegations by a former police officer are shown on the Channel Nine program \I60 Minutes.\i
Rugby's Super 12 tournament attracts massive crowds at the Sydney Football Stadium, while the rugby league crowds are way down.
#
"March 25, 1996",79,0,g,0
The jury for the trial of Ivan Milat is chosen. Ivan Milat was charged two years ago with the murders of seven backpackers.
Beef exporters in Australia expect an influx of orders from Europe.
Minister for the Olympics, Mr Knight, and president of the AOC, Mr Coates, announce that the AOC will be paid $100 million after the Games, instead of the original $26 million, and that all profits from the Sydney Games will benefit NSW taxpayers.
All but a few of the Super League players decide to return to the ARL.
Two men in Australia who were allegedly involved with three Australians arrested for heroin smuggling in Thailand appear in court. Meanwhile, the three Australians arrested in Thailand, who are all heroin addicts, are denied hospital treatment.
International Media Management relinquishes control of The Value Network to Prudential Asset Management Asia Ltd, based in Hong Kong.
Ampolex Ltd steps up its fight against Mobile Oil for its $1.5 billion takeover bid.
#
"March 26, 1996",80,0,g,0
The trial of Ivan Milat, the man accused of murdering seven backpackers, starts, with a jury of four women and eight men.
After a public servant is named in the royal commission for tracking down a ward of the State for pornographic activities, the NSW government announces tough new laws for public servants who misuse confidential information.
Australia is set to enter the space race, with the announcement of the world's first privately-owned launch pad in the Northern Territory. If the proposed Asia-Pacific Space Centre is approved, it could provide thousands of jobs and bring billions of dollars into Australia.
\JJohn Howard\j announces he will shed up to five staff to help pay for the upgrading of his new Sydney office and his new home, Kirribilli House.
NSW Premier \JCarr\j backs down on his former announcement of cutting the 2 km limit to 1.6 km for free school bus travel.
\IBraveheart,\i directed by \JMel Gibson\j, wins five Oscars at the Academy Awards, including best director and best film. \IBabe\i wins an Oscar for best visual effects.
#
"March 27, 1996",81,0,g,0
If the European Union bans beef exports from Britain following the mad cow disease scare, Australian health officials will remove all products containing British beef from supermarket shelves.
The police royal commission publicly names Philip Bell, a prominent businessman, as a paedophile. Bell is believed to be living in Switzerland.
Several Sydney councils complain of visual pollution after Optus rolls out their overhead cables.
Following talks between the Federal and Queensland governments, the Tully-Millstream hydro-electric power project in far north Queensland, which would flood 1,400 ha of World Heritage rainforest, will be scrapped.
After Village Roadshow's announcement of cutting film tickets from $11 to $6.50 in Victoria, Hoyts announces similar price cuts.
#
"March 28, 1996",82,0,g,0
Sydney researchers from the University of Sydney's Kolling Institute of Medical Research at Royal North Shore Hospital make a major advance in discovering how inherited cancers develop.
A national survey finds that 75,000 children between the ages of one and four suffer from high lead levels.
Australia may not snare the European beef export market after all, as the world demand for beef dramatically slows down.
Sydney's 173rd Royal Easter show opens, with record crowds expected to attend.
Pay-TV group Australis Media, who made a loss of $97.5 million in December, is close to signing a $200-$300 million rescue deal.
#
"March 29, 1996",83,0,g,0
Timothy Marcus Clark is ordered to pay $81.2 million over his role in the purchase of Oceanic Capital Corporation Ltd by the State Bank in 1988. Several directors of the bank and FAI, their insurer, have already reached a $3 million out-of-court settlement with the Government.
A rare pygmy possum, possibly a western pygmy or a little pygmy possum, never before found in NSW, is found in Mallee Cliffs National Park, near \JMildura\j.
The Minister for Health, Dr Wooldridge, announces a ban of British beef and beef products after concerns that mad cow disease could be passed onto humans.
An announcement on the rescue package of Australis Media by News Corp, Tele-Communications and Lenfest Communications is delayed.
Dr Maurice Joseph, one of Australia's best chest physicians, dies after suffering a heart attack. He was 83 years old.
#
"March 30, 1996",84,0,g,0
Australian sprinter \JMelinda Gainsford\j is married at Narromine.
Kevin Costner purchases a Bellevue Hill mansion for nearly $4 million.
Banks announce new charges for EFTPOS.
Former Prime Minister \JPaul Keating\j is inundated with job offers, some of which would earn him ten times his previous salary.
Jockey Greg Hall, just after winning the Golden Slipper, is fined a record $50,000 and receives two month's suspension for errant riding.
\JJeff Kennett\j retains government after easily winning Victoria's State election.
#
"March 31, 1996",85,0,g,0
A 16-year-old boy dies at the Australian Surf Life Saving Championships at Kurrawa on the \JGold Coast\j. The event was almost called off due to rough and dangerous conditions.
\JJohn Howard\j urges unions to take notice of Reserve Bank warnings and refrain from making high wage claims.
Victorian Premier, \JJeff Kennett\j, determines to push ahead with his public service staff cuts and privatisations.
\JJohn Howard\j appoints John Valder and Donald McDonald to the Sydney Organising Committee for the Olympic Games, replacing John Brown and Samantha Mostyn, who both resigned after the Federal election.
The Australian Medical Association warns that the public health system may face an extra $1.65 billion by 2001 if private health insurance falls to 20 per cent. Currently 34 per cent of Australians are privately insured.
#
"April 1, 1996",86,0,g,0
Patrick Dodson, chairman of the Council for Aboriginal Reconciliation, warns that the Howard Government's plans to change the Native Title Act and the services to the Aboriginal people may not work.
The ACTU intervenes in the miner's strike at CRA's bauxite mine at Weipa, persuading workers to return to work.
Optus Vision begins legal action against News Corporation, the ARU, Channel Seven, Foxtel and Telstra, to gain the rights to screen rugby union, stating the ARU breached a contract by giving the pay-TV rights to News Corporation.
Queensland faces an extra $66 for compulsory third party insurance from July.
A world-first discovery of a mutant gene by Sydney heart specialists enables doctors to predict which patients are at a high risk of heart disease and adult-onset diabetes.
Over fifty surf life saving competitors on the \JGold Coast\j are counselled after 16-year-old Robert Gatenby was drowned when treacherous seas overturned the boat in which he was competing yesterday.
#
"April 2, 1996",87,0,g,0
15,000 public servant jobs are expected to be lost after the Community and Public Sector Union meets with the Minister for Industrial Relations, Peter Reith.
\JJohn Howard\j announces that changes to the Native Title Act will be swift and that certainty of title for pastoralists was on the top of his list.
NSW Premier, \JBob Carr\j, announces nine new wilderness areas, increasing NSW wilderness areas by 50%.
A crowd of 30,147 (the largest since 1952) attends the Sydney Football Stadium to watch the NSW-Natal Rugby Union game.
#
"April 3, 1996",88,0,g,0
State and Federal authorities announce that no attempt is being made to extradite Sydney paedophile, Phillip Bell, from Switzerland.
The east-west runway at Sydney's International Airport reopens for the first time in 18 months.
Mitsubishi announces Australia's automotive industry's largest export deal for their new Magna, worth $830 million a year by 1998.
Jon Harker, newly elected Liberal candidate for the seat of Pittwater, resigns over his remarks regarding the NSW police royal commission.
#
"April 4, 1996",89,0,g,0
Talks between councils and the Minister for Telecommunications, Senator Richard Alston, leaves councils disappointed over his decision to allow Optus to continue to roll out overhead cables.
The Howard Government is under pressure to spend $900 million on two submarines for the Royal Australian Navy which will boost military effectiveness.
\JBob Carr\j announces the resignation of Ken Baxter, NSW State's highest paid public servant as director-general of the Premier's Department.
Energy Resources Australia (ERA) begins an environmental impact study on a proposed new uranium mine in Jabiluka, before waiting for a Federal Government request.
NSW Premier \JBob Carr\j criticises James Wood and the Police Royal Commission over Sydney paedophile Phillip Bell's refusal to return to Australia for the inquiry. Carr says the royal commission should have alerted police earlier than they did.
Well-known wilderness photographer, Peter Dombrovskis, is found dead in the south-west of Tasmania, after beginning a photography trip on March 27. He is believed to have fallen from the track.
After signing a deal with \JKerry Packer\j in February, Mr Yang Weiguang, president of China Central Television in China, rejects \JRupert Murdoch\j's interest in establishing television interests there.
#
"April 5, 1996",90,0,g,0
Justice James Wood rejects \JBob Carr\j's criticism of his inquiry into Phillip Bell, saying that the police knew about Bell for at least four years before he did. Meanwhile Phillip Bell is avoiding the police and Interpol, and continues to conduct his business in Australia via the Internet.
The Federal Government announces a crackdown on illegal immigrants working or receiving subsidies in Australia. They will cross-match the Department of Employment and the Department of Immigration records.
The International Olympic Committee threatens Australia with a loss of accreditation as an Olympic drug-testing centre unless they install a new high-resolution mass spectrometer device.
#
"April 6, 1996",91,0,g,0
Health authorities warn visitors to the NSW north coast and Queensland about an outbreak of Ross River Fever, which is passed on by mosquitoes.
Reports show that politicians, officials and the media will outnumber athletes being sent to the Olympic Games in Atlanta.
Interpol announces that they have not yet received a request to detain paedophile Phillip Bell.
Health officials reveal that many of the 20,000 Australians tested for HIV/AIDS were tested with faulty kits and may have to be re-tested.
#
"April 7, 1996",92,0,g,0
Fourteen people are injured in an accident at the Zig Zag Railway near \JLithgow\j.
The NSW State Government announces it will provide $4.7 million for a new fund to help addicted gamblers. They Sydney Harbour Casino will pay 2 per cent of its gaming revenue to the fund as well.
The Federal Government threatens to stop the funding for the NSW Aboriginal Legal Service, following allegations of fraudulent activities.
John Holloway, a senior Australian diplomat, is charged with sex offences against minors which allegedly took place overseas.
The NSW State Government refuses an application for a gold mine potentially worth $1.2 billion at Lake Cowal, in the state's central west. Conservationists welcome the mine's abandonment while the town of West Wyalong, which would have seen 180 people employed, don't.
Colleen Clifford, an actress whose career lasted over 80 years, dies aged 97, after complications from a pacemaker operation.
A ten-seater plane, carrying Japanese tourists on the \JGold Coast\j, crash lands on Currumbim Beach after it fails to reach \JCoolangatta\j Airport because of engine failure.
#
"April 8, 1996",93,0,g,0
Negotiations between Olympic officials, the State Government and the tenderer for the Olympic stadium argue over ticket prices.
\JBob Carr\j is criticised over his decision to stop the Lake Cowal gold mine, which has jeopardised billions of dollars of investment in NSW.
Mick Young, former ALP national secretary, government minister and party president, dies from leukaemia, aged 59. His family accepts \JJohn Howard\j's offer of a State funeral.
\JJohn Howard\j plans to meet with ACTU secretary, Bill Kelty, to discuss the union's involvement with the wages' debate.
The brush-tailed bettong becomes the first native animal to be taken off the endangered list.
#
"April 9, 1996",94,0,g,0
The Northern Territory Labor leader, Mr Brian Ede, announces his resignation.
The Federal Government appoints Mr Max Moore-Wilton as chief of the Department of Prime Minister and Cabinet. He will oversee the slashing of between 10,000 and 20,000 public service jobs.
Nine men are burnt to death at Kew Cottages, Victoria's largest residential centre for the intellectually disabled.
\JRay Martin\j interviews \JDon Bradman\j, in what is believed to be his last ever interview. Bradman agreed to do the interview after the Bradman Museum at Bowral announced it needed $1 million for refurbishments.
The Minister for Minerals, Mr Bob Martin, approves a gold mine at Timbarra (near \JTenterfield\j), expected to produce $100 million in four to six years.
#
"April 10, 1996",95,0,g,0
Australia joins the US in negotiating with Indonesia over restrictions on the passage of naval and commercial shipping through the Indonesian archipelago.
The Federal Government announces the stripping of financial independence for the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Commission.
State Emergency Services fear for the safety of fishermen, as Cyclone Olivia hits the Western Australian coast near Onslow.
Six people are confirmed to be on the waiting list for the voluntary euthanasia program in the Northern Territory.
State Cabinet approves a deal with the Australian Olympic Committee ensuring the State Government will receive 90 per cent of final profits from the SOCOG budget.
QLD Premier, Mr Borbidge, declares that he will not support an agreement between graziers and Aborigines over land use on \JCape York Peninsula\j. The agreement, reached in February, recognises legitimate pastoral leases on Aboriginal land in return for giving Aborigines access to leases.
\JKerry Packer\j's Nine Network and \JRupert Murdoch\j's News Corp battle over exclusivity to Twentieth Century Fox programs.
#
"April 11, 1996",96,0,g,0
The NSW Supreme Court orders Optus Vision to enter street-by-street negotiations with councils over their overhead cables.
The Perth Supreme Court announces the date of February 4 for a trial on charges against \JAlan Bond\j and Peter Mitchell relating to Bell Resources.
#
"April 12, 1996",97,0,g,0
Sydney paedophile Phillip Bell is reported to be living in Albania, where he tries to acquire a false passport.
A study by the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare announces that there are more patients waiting for urgent operations in NSW than in any other states.
Native title claims for huge portions of land between Sydney and \JWollongong\j anger the La Perouse Lands Council, who say the group is a rebel organisation.
Dr Lesley Russell, a top official with the Sydney Organising Committee for the Olympic Games, announces her resignation as director of communications.
#
"April 13, 1996",98,0,g,0
With radioactive nuclear rods from Lucas Heights expected to be transported for shipment to Scotland this week, Mr Carr announces that all surrounding streets would be cleared and police would be on heavy guard throughout the operation.
\JChristopher Skase\j announces that the search for millions of dollars by his bankruptcy trustee would turn up nothing. In December 1994, the Federal Government failed to extradite Skase because of his alleged ill health.
Environmentalist \JMilo Dunphy\j dies in Sydney. He was aged 67. NSW Premier \JBob Carr\j announces that a wilderness fund will be named to honour him.
Over 2000 people from West Wyalong protest over \JBob Carr\j's decision to stop the gold mine at Lake Cowal, claiming that the mine is vital for the town's employment problem.
#
"April 14, 1996",99,0,g,0
Sydney radio station 2GB is in financial difficulties, after the owner, Wesley Mission, admits it may not be able to continue paying the bills.
Paedophile Phillip Bell abandons students and teachers at an Albanian school, where he has taught for three years. He is believed to have gone to Italy.
Ian Bashford, former world champion sailor and Sydney-to-Hobart winner, dies from a heart attack. He was aged 37.
#
"April 15, 1996",100,0,g,0
Perth railway workers strike for 24 hours.
2GB investigate massive contra deals made by their owners, Wesley Mission, during the past 12 months.
Staff at the Australian Taxation Office protest over the Federal Government's decision to close 15 out of its 17 regional offices in Australia.
The Australis Media board considers \JRupert Murdoch\j's offer to buy Australis' profit made on selling Hollywood programming to Foxtel.
Leader of the Opposition in Victoria, Mr Brumby, supports the government's decision to decriminalise marijuana.
\JJohn Howard\j announces that his outer ministry will have their salaries cut by $10,000.
\JGreg Norman\j misses out once again on winning the US Masters. He went to the fourth round with a lead of six and after a few bad holes his lead slowly slipped away. Nick Faldo was the eventual winner.
The Minister for Foreign Affairs, Mr Downer, and the Minister for Defence, Mr McLachlan, announce the suspension of the use of landmines and the support of a global ban on their production.
Indonesia agrees to consider US and Australian military and commercial ships to enter the Indonesian archipelago.
#
"April 16, 1996",101,0,g,0
The Northern Territory elects Mrs Maggie Hickey as their new Labor Party leader.
The NSW Teachers Federation votes to continue strike action over a 12 per cent pay claim.
St Vincent's Hospital in Sydney closes its program on performing unrelated bone marrow transplants due to lack of funds.
Australian author, \JDavid Malouf\j, is nominated for the $196,000 Dublin Literary Award.
NSW Premier, \JBob Carr\j, announces a $13 million program to help sexually abused children.
#
"April 17, 1996",102,0,g,0
Leaked confidential documents from Telstra reveal that 30,000 staff may be removed, including the Managing Director, Frank Blount.
After a meeting by the Fairfax Holdings' board members, Bob Mansfield is asked to stand down as chief executive.
The Minister for Foreign Affairs, Alexander Downer, announces investigations are taking place into Australian diplomats and pedophilia.
The NSW Government announces an inquiry into the exploitation of workers in the clothing industry.
Greenpeace plan demonstrations to stop radioactive spent nuclear fuel rods being moved from Lucas Heights.
#
"April 18, 1996",103,0,g,0
Federal Ministers receive letters from the Government informing them to cut their costs to help the $8 billion needed for the Budget. The Environment Protection Agency is likely to be abandoned altogether, saving $20 million per year.
Police and fire brigade units accompany trucks carrying radioactive spent nuclear fuel rods from Lucas Heights to Port Botany to await shipment to Scotland.
Father Brian Lucas and Brother Julian McDonald, both from the Catholic church, deny at the NSW police royal commission any involvement in cover-ups of sexual abuse by clergymen.
Developer Keith Williams confirms he has lodged another application for the $100 million Hinchinbrook resort and marina that was originally started eight years ago.
Senior defence officials from Australia and New Zealand both agree that a combined defence force between the two countries would be beneficial.
NSW's elective surgery waiting lists continue to grow, despite \JBob Carr\j's promise to resign if lists weren't halved by his first year in office.
The Humane Society International nominates the great white shark and the grey nurse shark for listing under the Federal Endangered Species Protection Act.
Telstra sells its 10.6 per cent share in the Seven Network for $112 million. Meanwhile Telstra's chief executive, Frank Blount, denies knowledge of any secret documents revealing the axing of 30,000 jobs, including his own.
Ampolex rejects the $1.5 billion take-over bid from Mobil Corporation.
World champion cyclist, Sir \JHubert Opperman\j, who would have turned 92 in May, dies after suffering a heart attack while on his exercise bike. "Oppy" broke 58 world records in the 1920s and 30s; he was also a minister in the Menzies Government.
#
"April 19, 1996",104,0,g,0
The ACTU announces they will bypass the Federal Government and take their action against wage claims directly to employers, asking them to guarantee that they will maintain workers' wages and conditions.
Wesley Mission sells Sydney radio station 2GB to John Singleton's company, Radio Superhighway.
A Catholic teacher, Ernest Anthony Jones, who was still allowed to teach even though the Church new about his activities, is found guilty in Armidale Court of sexually abusing a former student in 1972.
Greenpeace successfully stops a shipment of radioactive nuclear rods going to Scotland.
Australia is set to send its biggest team of athletes ever to an Olympics - over 400 will go to Atlanta, at a cost of $8.5 million; 290 athletes went to Barcelona. Every gold medallists will receive $80,000, thanks to the AOC's $40 million gold medal plan.
\JKerry Packer\j announces he will rescue Australis Media with a $200 million deal. Previously, \JRupert Murdoch\j had been negotiating to rescue Australis. Packer already has a 5% share in Optus Vision.
Westpac makes a $1.1 billion take-over bid for the Trust Bank of New Zealand.
#
"April 20, 1996",105,0,g,0
\JJohn Howard\j announces a package to save $250 million per year in public service administration costs.
10,000 people from the Lebanese community protest outside the Israeli consulate against the recent bloodshed in their former country. Meanwhile, Australian tourists are warned not to travel to Egypt after 18 tourists were shot dead outside a Cairo hotel.
NSW Premier, \JBob Carr\j, announces the slashing of water and electricity charges for small businesses by 20 per cent.
Environmentalists in Scotland appeal to \JJohn Howard\j to halt the shipment of spent nuclear fuel rods to their country.
NSW Catholic and State school teachers unite to push for a 12 per cent pay claim.
Optus Vision rejects Telstra's offer to share underground cables.
#
"April 21, 1996",106,0,g,0
\JRay Martin\j wins the Gold Logie for the fourth year in a row.
Minister for Foreign Affairs, Alexander Downer, announces cuts will be made to the $1.5 billion foreign aid budget.
Employer groups instruct companies to reject the new ACTU demand of signing guarantees for wages and conditions.
\JKieren Perkins\j fails to make the final for the 200 m freestyle event at the Australian championships, which double for the Olympic selections.
Australis' Bob Price announces that at 25 per cent, \JKerry Packer\j's PBL will have the largest share of its voting rights.
A light plane carrying Father Jeremy Flynn, heir to the Tattersalls millions, disappears near Flinders Island.
#
"April 22, 1996",107,0,g,0
Australia looks to decrease its fishing fleets.
The Managing Director of the ABC announces he may have to cut jobs in the wake of budget overspending.
ICAC announces inquiries into the NSW State Government's involvement in the sacking of a top-ranking public servant.
The Federal Police and the Australian Securities Commission investigate a woman board member of the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Commission over an unaccounted $220,000.
New laws in Tasmania allow a child born from a frozen embryo, that is implanted after the father has died, eligible to his inheritance.
Leaders of the seven industrialised nations support Australia in their zero-yield nuclear test ban treaty.
The chief executive of the Sydney Organising Committee of the Olympic Games announces they have raised half their total budget of $2.4 billion.
#
"April 23, 1996",108,0,g,0
NSW State and Catholic school teachers hold another one-day strike.
\JPaul Keating\j hands in his resignation as the Member for Blaxland.
The National Indigenous Working Group on Native Title promises to stop any changes to the Native Title Act by the Federal Government.
Arthur 'Neddy' Smith's informer, Mr Brown, tells the Court that 'Neddy' told him he received $1 million in four weeks for murdering people.
The Minister for Science and Technology, Peter McGauran, announces that the Government is preparing a nuclear cooperation arrangement with Indonesia.
Two Australian feature films \I(The Quiet Room\i and \ILove Serenade),\i and three short films, are included for contention at the Cannes Film Festival.
#
"April 24, 1996",109,0,g,0
\JKieren Perkins\j fails to qualify in the 400 m freestyle event at the Olympic trials.
\JJohn Howard\j ensures citizens that the Australian flag will not be changed without a referendum.
An Aborigine is found hanged in a Western Australian cell.
#
"April 25, 1996",110,0,g,0
Thousands of people attend dawn services throughout Australia to commemorate Anzac Day.
The Federal Government announces it will force a deadline for fixing Federal awards.
The Royal Flying Doctor Service in NSW holds back the results of an inquiry into its management.
The Industrial Relations Commission fails to resolve an eight-month strike at the Vickery coal mine near Gunnedah.
The swimmer who beat \JKieren Perkins\j in the 400 m freestyle Olympic trial event, Malcolm Allen, says he will race the 400 m in Atlanta and not withdraw to allow Perkins to compete.
#
"April 26, 1996",111,0,g,0
The NSW Government orders an inquiry into the Darling River's collapsed banks.
Catholic bishops publicly apologise to past victims of sexual abuse by priests.
The Minister for Social Security, Jocelyn Newman, confirms the government will have to cut back on welfare payments to help pay for the $8 billion deficit.
The Democrats announce they will oppose increases in university fees by the Federal Government.
Scott Volker's suspension by FINA over the \JSamantha Riley\j drug scandal is reduced from two years to one.
#
"April 27, 1996",112,0,g,0
\JGreg Norman\j receives thousands of letters of support following his recent shock loss in the US Masters.
\JKieren Perkins\j comes second in the 1500 m freestyle event at the Olympic trials; he will now compete in Atlanta.
Figures reveal that Labor spent over $10 million on airfares and car hire for ministers in its last 12 months.
Foreign Affairs Minister, Alexander Downer, assures that all paedophiles that have been covered-up will be exposed in a new inquiry.
#
"April 28, 1996",113,0,g,0
\JPort Arthur\j, Tasmania, is the scene of the world's worst-ever massacre by a lone gunman. Martin Bryant single-handedly shoots dead 35 people with a semi-automatic rifle and injures others. The tiny tourist spot in Tasmania, as well as the rest of Australia and the world, is in shock, as the story of how one man shoots innocent people in cold blood is graphically shown all over the globe. After the bloody rampage, Bryant takes three people hostage in the Seascape guesthouse.
The United States plans to ban Australian prawn imports, costing Australia $1 million a year.
The NSW Department of Urban Affairs and Planning announces a huge increase in the budget for heritage conservation and may also change the Heritage Act.
After being pressured, Malcolm Allen may pull out of the 400 m freestyle event in Atlanta to enable \JKieren Perkins\j to swim the race.
#
"April 29, 1996",114,0,g,0
Martin Bryant sets fire to the Seascape guesthouse where he is holding three hostages. He finally emerges and is taken to hospital to be treated for burns. The three hostages are dead. Meanwhile police are not sure if they have found all the victims.
Messages of condolences are received in \JPort Arthur\j from all over the world, including the Queen, John Major, and the town of Dunblane, where 17 people, mostly school children, were shot dead last month by a lone gunman.
Australia's most experienced trauma counsellors fly down to Tasmania to help witnesses, survivors and families of the dead.
\JJohn Howard\j prepares for an urgent meeting with state police ministers to discuss uniform gun control measures.
The coalition passes the bill for the part-sale of Telstra, while Telstra's chief executive, Frank Blount, confirms that staff will be cut by 5,000.
Dr William \JMcBride\j fails to get reregistered by the NSW Medical Tribunal.
An inquiry by the Senate on radioactive waste concludes that the waste should be stored above-ground and not underground.
The Department of Health and Family Services announces it will cut 10 per cent of its staff.
Bob Halvorsen becomes the new Speaker of the House of Representatives.
An Australian painting, \IView of Geelong,\i by Eugene von Guerard, is auctioned for a record (for an Australian artist) $1,982,500.
#
"April 30, 1996",115,0,g,0
Malcolm Allen confirms he will swim in the 400 m freestyle event at Atlanta and not give it up for \JKieren Perkins\j.
Sir William Deane officially delivers his speech for the first day of the 38th Parliament.
Australian boxer, Lance Hobson, dies after suffering head injuries while fighting Chinese boxer Liu Gang.
The Minister for Communications, Richard Alston, says individuals should pay if they want Optus cables underground.
The Royal Flying Doctor Service in NSW agrees to hand over information of an inquiry into its management.
The Royal Hobart Hospital receives bomb threats because they are treating mass-murderer Martin Bryant.
#
"May 1, 1996",116,0,g,0
Australians throughout the nation observe a minute's silence in memory of the 35 people killed in the Port Arthur massacre.
Prime Minister \JJohn Howard\j announces he will push for a total ban of automatic and semi-automatic weapons.
The ACTU announces it will fight the government's changes to industrial relations laws.
The Federal Government announces it will sell its $4.5 billion share of the Commonwealth Bank to investors with the option of paying in instalments.
Royal Hobart Hospital staff receive threats because they are treating Port Arthur gunman Martin Bryant.
#
"May 2, 1996",117,0,g,0
Some State leaders across Australia do not support \JJohn Howard\j's plans to ban automatic and semi-automatic weapons.
An Aboriginal man in custody on \JBathurst Island\j is found hanged in his cell.
South Australia names Sir Eric Neal as their new Governor.
NSW Premier \JBob Carr\j announces he will hand over the State's gun laws to the Commonwealth.
Martin Bryant is being investigated for two unsolved murders in Tasmania. Meanwhile security is stepped up outside Royal Hobart Hospital following more threats to staff treating Port Arthur gunman Martin Bryant.
The NSW Government announces that huge electricity towers and power lines are to be removed from the Homebush Olympic site at a cost of $20 million.
The Australian dollar climbs to US79.58 cents, the highest since November 1991.
Australian Janet \JHolmes a Court\j is named British Business Woman of the Year.
#
"May 3, 1996",118,0,g,0
The Federal Government announces that the Australian Defence Force will have a bigger role in regional security.
A portion of Royal Hobart Hospital is evacuated after receiving a bomb threat.
The Democrats announce they will block the Federal Government's proposed changes to industrial relations laws.
Federal Minister for Communications, Senator Alston, announces he will consider restricting violent television programs and videos.
The drought in northern NSW begins to break as rain falls in many drought-declared areas.
The 35 victims of the Port Arthur massacre are named: 12 are from Tasmania, 12 from Victoria, six from New South Wales, one from Western Australia, two from South Australia, and two from Malaysia.
The NSW Cricketers' Club in Sydney decides to hand over \JDon Bradman\j's first bat to the Bradman Museum in \JBowral\j.
Alleged murderer Michael Walker escapes from maximum security at Long Bay Prison.
#
"May 4, 1996",119,0,g,0
Gun lobby groups throughout Australia say that the Federal Government's new gun laws won't work.
Federal Health Minister Michael Wooldridge calls on States to decriminalise marijuana.
The \JRoyal Flying Doctor Service\j reveals it relies on doctors from overseas for its services.
Public and Catholic school teachers in New South Wales vote in favour of another strike.
Martin Bryant is being investigated for the murder of his father three years ago, who was thought to have committed suicide by drowning.
Southern Queensland and northern New South Wales suffer their worst floods in eight years.
#
"May 5, 1996",120,0,g,0
Rising floodwaters in Queensland and New South Wales leave two people dead.
The Federal Government increases pressure on State leaders to agree to proposed new gun laws.
Martin Bryant is released from Royal Hobart Hospital and taken to Risden Prison.
Robert Bellear is named as Australia's first Aboriginal judge.
The NSW Government announces it will soon open the Harbour Bridge's arches to the public for guided walks.
The Federal Opposition announces it will block the privatisation of Telstra.
The Federal Government pushes the Federal Police to investigate the $220,000 unaccounted for in the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Commission.
Australian golfer Karrie Webb wins the $US1.3 million Titleholders Championship at Florida.
#
"May 6, 1996",121,0,g,0
Newly-discovered comet Hyakutake makes an appearance in Australian skies; astronomers claim it is the brightest comet to appear for over 500 years.
\JPaul Hogan\j's new film \IFlipper\i premieres in the US.
\JKerry Packer\j's Channel Nine begins legal action against \JRupert Murdoch\j's News Corp over Twentieth Century Fox programming rights.
\JJohn Howard\j considers a plan to buy back banned guns from owners, to be funded by taxpayers.
Former art dealer Max Joffe is charged with stealing $5 million worth of art from collector and artist, \JAlbert Tucker\j, 18 months ago.
The NSW State Government gives the go ahead for Fox Studios to build a multi-million dollar studio and entertainment complex at Sydney Showground.
South-east Queensland suffers from the worst floods in over 20 years; hundreds of people are evacuated in southern Queensland and northern New South Wales.
US Campbell Soups buys another 3 per cent of Arnotts, raising its share to 70 per cent.
#
"May 7, 1996",122,0,g,0
Following the outbreak of mad cow disease in Britain, Australia plans to ban feeding cattle with supplements made from processed scraps of their own species.
A 66-year-old Australian man in the Philippines is charged with child sexual abuse and sentenced to 17 years imprisonment.
The building industry along with the CFMEU votes to hold a strike in protest of a travel allowance dispute.
Flooding continues in Queensland and New South Wales, roads are closed and houses are evacuated.
National Party leaders split over the Federal Government's proposed gun laws.
The ARL is forced to ask \JKerry Packer\j's Channel Nine for interim funding following huge legal bills.
#
"May 8, 1996",123,0,g,0
NSW Premier \JBob Carr\j offers $16 million disaster money for northern NSW towns affected by flooding.
Despite all the recent rain, water restrictions are still in force in NSW until Warragamba Dam levels reach 75 per cent capacity, another three per cent.
The Victorian Government announces it will not support the new gun laws proposed by \JJohn Howard\j.
The Tasmanian Government announces that Port Arthur gunman Martin Bryant will appear in court via video link.
The Australian dollar breaks US80 cents, closing at US80.13 cents.
#
"May 9, 1996",124,0,g,0
The Prime Minister once again urges State leaders to support his proposed new gun laws.
Telstra announces it will update security for its computer system following widespread misuse of private information.
Semi-automatic guns are still selling in Tasmania despite an immediate ban two days ago.
Nearly 180 boat people in three separate vessels dock at \JChristmas Island\j.
The NSW Education Department announces an extra week's holiday will be provided in 2000 during the Olympics.
Former Lord Mayor of Wollongong, Tony Bevan, is named as a paedophile in the Wood Royal Commission.
#
"May 10, 1996",125,0,g,0
Optus Vision and Australis Media pay-TV operators announce a deal that may enable Australis to show selected Optus Vision channels through its satellite service.
Scientists discover a massive lake under the Antarctic ice, believed to be 500,000 years old.
\JJohn Howard\j reaches an agreement with State and Territory leaders on outlawing pump-action shotguns and automatic and semi-automatic weapons. Under the new laws, farmers will have to apply to police to keep their semi-automatic guns and only then under very strict conditions. The ban is effective immediately.
Kerry Stokes of the Seven Network announces he will not be selling pay-TV rights for the Atlanta Olympics.
NSW Ministers urge Premier \JBob Carr\j to keep his election promise and scrap M4 and M5 tolls.
\JJohn Howard\j announces that changes to the Native Title Act will help miners and developers.
New South Wales teachers from TAFEs, and Government and Catholic schools strike for the fifth time this year.
#
"May 11, 1996",126,0,g,0
The New South Wales Government announces plans for a $100 million indoor snow ski dome to be built at Eastern Creek.
New South Wales, Queensland, Tasmania, Western Australia and South Australia all support John Howard's plan to hit taxpayers with a one-off levy to help fund the buy-back of banned guns.
\JMelinda Gainsford\j qualifies for the 200 m sprint at the Atlanta Olympics.
Dustin Hoffman signs a $60 million deal with Australia's Village Roadshow.
#
"May 12, 1996",127,0,g,0
Sixty-six boat people from China arrive at \JChristmas Island\j.
John Coats, the president of the Australian Olympic Committee, wants the Queen, if she is available, to open the 2000 Olympic Games in Sydney.
The Sporting Shooters' Association warns the Federal Government that it will protest heavily over the banning of automatic and semi-automatic weapons.
Foxtel announces it will sue Australis Media for double-selling pay-TV programming rights.
#
"May 13, 1996",128,0,g,0
The Federal Government considers raising the Medicare levy 0.2 per cent to fund the buy-back of banned guns.
The NSW Government announces changes to compensation for victims of crime.
Scientists announce that fruit bats may hold the key to a mystery horse virus in Queensland.
Researchers in Queensland announce that a vaccine against cervical cancer will be available within five years.
The mining industry announces it supports the Federal Government's plans to keep native title over pastoral leases.
An Australian film, \ILove and Other Catastrophes,\i the first film made by Australian Emma-Kate Croghan, is bought by \JRupert Murdoch\j even before reaching the Cannes Film Festival.
#
"May 14, 1996",129,0,g,0
The University of NSW announces the appointment of \JPaul Keating\j as a visiting professor.
The Federal Government announces it may allow a boost in woodchip exports.
The mining industry is outraged by a Federal Government proposal to amend the Native Title Act to allow Aborigines to collect royalties or profits on claimed land.
#
"May 15, 1996",130,0,g,0
The $100 polymer note is released featuring Dame \JNellie Melba\j and \JSir John Monash\j.
New South Wales teachers announce they will push for a 24 per cent pay rise, doubling their original 12 per cent claim.
The Australian Secret Intelligence Service (ASIS) is in financial crisis after a 1995-96 budget blow-out.
Tasmanian Premier Tony Rundle urges Australians on the mainland to start visiting Port Arthur again.
During a meeting with NSW Premier \JBob Carr\j, the Prime Minister allocates $60 million for the State's timber industry and $25 million to help fund the 2000 \JParalympic Games\j in Sydney.
Victoria announces a $5 billion mini-budget surplus.
Astronomers warn that Siding Spring Observatory near \JWarrumbungle\j National Park will be under threat if camping facilities are built in the Park.
The National Australia Bank announces it will cut staff and close down branches.
Geoff Marsh replaces Bob Simpson as coach for the Australian cricket team.
#
"May 17, 1996",131,0,g,0
The NSW Government announces it will have to find another $250 million for the Budget to enable it to meet superannuation payments.
Following a month-long meeting, conservationists, the timber industry and unions come to an agreement on the future of New South Wales' forests.
New South Wales police report that over 100 guns are being handed in each day.
The Minister for Immigration announces that the Asylum Seekers' Assistance Scheme's budget will be cut.
The Australian Reptile Park ensures the Commonwealth Serum Laboratories continued supplies of sea snake antivenom; previously it was imported from Holland.
Long Bay Prison steps up security after six prisoners escaped in the last two weeks.
#
"May 18, 1996",132,0,g,0
Security is stepped up for the Prime Minister, some premiers and police ministers following threats from the gun lobby.
Federal Minister for Health, Dr Michael Wooldridge, announces he will attempt to stop private health membership numbers from falling.
A directory listing convicted paedophiles and sex offenders is being compiled and will be available to the public shortly.
#
"May 19, 1996",133,0,g,0
Space shuttle \IEndeavor\i launches at Cape Canaveral with Australian astronaut Andrew Thomas on board.
The Federal Government announces it will lift restrictions on setting up new private schools.
#
"May 20, 1996",134,0,g,0
University fees are set to soar following the announcement of cuts in Federal funding.
The Federal Government considers Holsworthy military site for Sydney's second airport.
The Department of Immigration announces that several of their offices will have to close due to budget cuts.
Qantas-owned islands Lizard, Bedarra, Dunk, Brampton and Great Keppel are listed for sale.
#
"May 21, 1996",135,0,g,0
The NSW Budget announces more money for police, teachers, health and forests.
The Federal Government's proposed plans to partially privatise Telstra are temporarily stopped in Parliament.
Australian Shirley Barrett wins the Camera d'Or prize at the Cannes Film Festival for her film \ILove Serenade.\i
Outdated abattoirs in New South Wales are under threat of being closed down.
The Federal Government announces it may not be able to continue funding new AIDS drug 3TC.
#
"May 22, 1996",136,0,g,0
South Sydney football club loses its sponsorship with Canon.
Ministers in the Federal Government suggest that the Prime Minister should make cuts in the defence budget.
The Department of Defence and the NSW Government both reject the idea of an airport at Holsworthy.
Port Arthur gunman, Martin Bryant, appears in court via video link.
Australian author \JDavid Malouf\j wins the $200,000 IMPAC Dublin Literary Award for his novel \IRemembering Babylon.\i
Over 200 Telstra executives are notified of their impending termination.
A top University of Sydney chief calls for the closure of the Australian Defence Force Academy saying it would save millions of dollars a year.
The Land and Water Conservation Department announces that irrigators may be the cause for the Darling River's bank collapses.
#
"May 23, 1996",137,0,g,0
Australia appoints Burma's opposition leader, Aung San Suu Kyi, as a Companion in the Order of Australia.
New laws for migrants will see them having to wait two years for social security benefits.
The new lottery game Powerball makes its debut in Australia.
Over-budgeted construction costs and lack of private funding cause a $375 million blow-out in the 2000 Olympic Games budget.
Minister for Industrial Relations, Peter Reith, puts the GST debate back on the agenda.
A new report by the Schools Council shows that non-Government schools receive more funding compared to Government schools.
Unions face fines under the Workplace Relations Bill if they continue industrial action against the Industrial Relations Commission.
#
"May 24, 1996",138,0,g,0
Security is stepped up for former Foreign Affairs Minister, Gareth Evans, following the announcement of a contract on his life by the Thai military.
The Federal Environment Minister requests that Macquarie, Heard and McDonald islands be nominated for World Heritage listing.
#
"May 25, 1996",139,0,g,0
\JOlivia Newton John\j signs a deal with Panasonic for a series of television advertisements.
Former Prime Minister \JPaul Keating\j announces he will visit Indonesian President Suharto on a private basis.
A black rhinoceros is born at Western Plains Zoo, \JDubbo\j.
#
"May 26, 1996",140,0,g,0
The Federal Government announces it may bypass Parliament to sell part of Telstra.
Labor has a surprise win in the Clarence by-election.
Over 7,000 gun owners protest over new gun laws at \JCessnock\j Showground.
A new environment report claims that the Barwon-Darling River needs urgent repairs.
Federal Opposition Leader, \JKim Beazley\j, strongly opposes building an airport at Holsworthy.
The Bureau of Immigration announces that Buddhism is the fastest growing religion in Australia.
Planet Hollywood officially opens in George Street, Sydney, with Hollywood stars Sylvester Stallone, Jean-Claude Van Damme, Bruce Willis, Charlie Sheen, Danny Glover and Cindy Crawford attending.
#
"May 27, 1996",141,0,g,0
The Thai Prime Minister, Banharn Silpa-archa, investigates allegations of a contract on Gareth Evan's life.
The Federal Government considers a proposal for a $75 million National Space Technology Applications Development Program.
Prime Minister \JJohn Howard\j indicates he may reduce budget cuts to Aboriginal programs.
#
"May 28, 1996",142,0,g,0
Former Liberal member for the \JBlue Mountains\j, Barry Morris, is found guilty of making threatening phone calls between 1990 and 1993.
Jack Radley admits to being the real author of the novel that won the Vogel Literary Award prize his great-nephew collected in 1980.
Australian astronaut Andrew Thomas makes contact with South Australian Premier Dean Brown as the space shuttle Endeavour flies over Adelaide.
#
"May 29, 1996",143,0,g,0
Channel Nine expects high ratings following tonight's interview between \JRay Martin\j and \JDon Bradman\j.
Leaders in Indonesia, China and the Philippines express concern over the Australian Government's aid cuts.
Prime Minister \JJohn Howard\j announces he is against the decriminalisation of marijuana.
Life-saving helicopter rescues are in doubt as funds dry up.
Asian consumers drastically decrease their importation of Australian beef in the wake of the mad cow disease scare.
\JJohn Howard\j refuses to back down on strict new gun laws and announces gun owners have 13 months to hand in banned weapons or face stiff penalties.
The Thai Government vehemently denies any involvement in death threats to former Foreign Minister Gareth Evans.
#
"May 30, 1996",144,0,g,0
Optus Communications offers Sydney councils $40 per power pole for their overhead cabling.
Universities throughout Australia go on strike in protest of the Federal Government's announcement of drastic cuts in funding.
Vandals cause over $100,000 worth of damage in Victoria's oldest Catholic church.
#
"May 31, 1996",145,0,g,0
The Federal Government is pressured to ease ABC budget cuts.
The NSW Government announces it will hand over ownership of five NSW National Parks to Aborigines.
The Port Arthur massacre is blamed for Tasmania's 40 per cent drop in tourism.
#
"June 1, 1996",146,0,g,0
The Federal Government considers plans for a floating airport off Botany Bay, Sydney.
Tens of thousands of supporters of the gun lobby protest outside Parliament in Melbourne.
A lone gunman goes on a shooting rampage in the Northern Territory, injuring five people.
\JChristopher Skase\j is to believed to have left his home in Majorca and headed for Switzerland.
#
"June 2, 1996",147,0,g,0
A summit involving Aborigines and mining leaders agree to submit joint proposals to the Federal Government regarding changes to the Native Title Act.
Results from the NSW Health Department's Health and Air Quality Research Program reveals that deaths from air pollution are double those from road accidents.
The Minister for Transport announces that smoking will be banned on all Qantas and Ansett international flights from July.
#
"June 3, 1996",148,0,g,0
The Victorian Government announces that the decriminalisation of marijuana probably will not go ahead.
Victorian vice-chancellors propose fee increases for the Higher Education Contribution Scheme and the reintroduction of university tuition fees.
#
"June 4, 1996",149,0,g,0
Fifty eight per cent of New South Wales is drought-declared.
\JKerry Packer\j's Channel Nine temporarily fails to stop Channel Seven screening \JRupert Murdoch\j's 20th Century Fox movies.
A portion of the Queensland National Party announce they will back the Independents over the new gun laws.
The Federal Government announces it will hold an Australia-wide campaign to stop gun lobby rebels protesting against proposed new gun laws.
#
"June 5, 1996",150,0,g,0
NSW Premier \JBob Carr\j announces that the new NSW Police Commissioner should not come from outside Australia.
The Federal Government shows concern over Papua New Guinean troops entering the Solomon Islands waters to attack the Bougainville Revolutionary Army.
Federal Minister for Finance John Fahey announces that the $4 billion Commonwealth Bank float will be offered to investors with the option to pay in instalments.
#
"June 6, 1996",151,0,g,0
ICI in Sydney has its third gas leak in three weeks.
The Department of Health investigates a potential link between Johne's disease in cattle and Crohn's disease in humans.
NSW National Party Leader Ian Armstrong declines to support a national register of firearms and their owners.
#
"June 7, 1996",152,0,g,0
The NSW State Government threatens to close down ICI in Botany if it can't control its pollution accidents.
University students who enrol next year will face higher costs to fund their education.
Prime Minister \JJohn Howard\j stands firm on his guarantee that no worker will be worse off under new industrial relations laws.
#
"June 8, 1996",153,0,g,0
The Victorian Police Department announces that the rifle used in the Port Arthur massacre was handed in to police in the 1987 gun amnesty.
Prime Minister \JJohn Howard\j says families with children and small businesses will be better off in the August Budget.
The Australian Medical Association decides to take legal action to block the Rights of the Terminally Ill Act that is due to take effect on July 1 in the Northern Territory.
\JJohn Howard\j condemns today's nuclear test at Lop Nor, China.
The South Australian National Parks and Wildlife Service reports that the removal of 2,000 koalas from \JKangaroo Island\j to the mainland could expose them to fatal diseases.
#
"June 9, 1996",154,0,g,0
The Northern Territory Government insists on the right to control Uluru and Kakadu, currently being managed by Anangu traditional owners and the Australian Nature Conservation Agency.
Lawyer Jocelynne Scutt is appointed an Officer in the Order of Australia; however she wants it to be held in trust until there is an Australian head of state.
Prime Minister \JJohn Howard\j announces that he wants a high level of Australian ownership in the media.
The Minister for Defence reports that the US may help pay for a new naval base in \JDarwin\j if they decide to continue military exercises there.
#
"June 10, 1996",155,0,g,0
Swimmer Susie Maroney is pulled out of the water severely dehydrated, 39 hours after attempting to be the first person to swim from Cuba to the US.
Government House disallows Jocelynne Scutt's request to hold her Officer in the Order of Australia award in trust until Australia becomes a republic.
Australian deer farmers experience a boost in exports to Europe.
Victorian Premier \JJeff Kennett\j urges the Prime Minister to examine the current taxation system.
The Tasmanian Government confirms that for 40 years until the early 1970s, babies were taken for adoption after their mothers were told they were stillborn.
A scientist from Melbourne University discovers a breakthrough in identifying and treating the malaria parasite.
#
"June 11, 1996",156,0,g,0
The NSW State Government appoints Englishman Peter Ryan as the new NSW Police Commissioner at $315,000 a year.
BHP finally reaches a settlement, which could be as high as $500 million, with Papua New Guinea over the Ok Tedi copper mine that villagers said was causing environmental damage to surrounding rivers.
The Minister for Defence announces he wants to get rid of outdated military culture and excess management.
A meeting involving Victorian ministers rejects \JJeff Kennett\j's proposal to decriminalise marijuana in Victoria.
The Navy fires on an Indonesian fishing boat in the Timor Sea.
#
"June 12, 1996",157,0,g,0
Eighteen Australian soldiers are killed during a military training exercise in northern Queensland following an air collision between two Blackhawk helicopters.
Christopher Koch wins the \JMiles Franklin\j Literary Award for his novel \IHighways to a War.\i
The Queensland Government declares to the High Court that native title is extinguished when pastoral lease is granted.
\JPaul Keating\j delivers his first public speech since \JJohn Howard\j took over, when he talks as a visiting professor at the University of NSW.
The NSW Government announces that the new police chief will be given more powers to handle corruption within the police force.
Local councils in NSW suggest charging Optus and Telstra $300 a house over 10 years for using their power poles.
\JRupert Murdoch\j's News Corp announces plans to create a $400 million 100-channel television network in Japan.
#
"June 13, 1996",158,0,g,0
An inquiry into the Blackhawk helicopter crash is launched.
State Premiers reject \JJohn Howard\j's proposal to impose a $1.3 billion sales tax on the States.
Melbourne's central business district is awarded the 1995 Federal Government's Australia Award for Urban Design.
BHP is named as a major sponsor for the Sydney 2000 Olympic Games.
#
"June 14, 1996",159,0,g,0
State leaders agree to cuts in grants and a heavily reduced sales tax impost by the Federal Government.
Researchers in Brisbane discover a genetic cause of a common form of skin cancer.
The NSW Teachers' Federation announces they will continue strike action until they get a 12 per cent pay increase.
The National Crime Authority announces it will cut 20 per cent of its staff due to budget cuts.
#
"June 15, 1996",160,0,g,0
Labor politician Michael Hatton wins \JPaul Keating\j's former seat in Blaxland in a by-election.
NSW Premier \JBob Carr\j suggests that a $135 levy should be imposed on every household to help pay for the $900 million in funding cuts from the Federal Government.
Thirty five thousand supporters of the gun lobby march on Parliament House, Sydney, in protest of the proposed new gun laws.
The $33 million compensation awarded to actor Jon Blake after suffering brain damage in a car accident is challenged by the NSW Government Insurance Office who say Jon Blake was affected by alcohol during the 1986 accident.
#
"June 16, 1996",161,0,g,0
Prime Minister \JJohn Howard\j wears a bullet-proof jacket while addressing a crowd of gun protesters in Sale, Victoria.
The Federal Government increases pressure on the Democrats to support the partial sale of Telstra.
#
"June 17, 1996",162,0,g,0
Scientists discover an anti-cancer drug and four possible new antibiotics in \JWollemi National Park\j.
The Prime Minister and State leaders attend Christopher's Catholic Cathedral in Canberra to honour the 18 soldiers killed during training exercises in northern Queensland.
A world record for an Aboriginal painting is set when Sotheby's auction \IA Cave Dreaming\i by Anatjari Tjakammarra, for $74,570.
#
"June 18, 1996",163,0,g,0
Divers in Queensland find a live specimen of the gulf snapping turtle previously thought to be extinct for over 50,000 years.
#
"June 19, 1996",164,0,g,0
A woman gives birth to twin girls after she chose the sex of her twins in an Australian-first medical procedure.
Communications Minister Richard Alston announces that cuts to the ABC appear imminent.
#
"June 20, 1996",165,0,g,0
School teachers in government schools in Sydney strike for the seventh time this year.
Australian company, Space Transportation Systems, announces plans to build a satellite launch facility near \JDarwin\j starting in 1998.
Federal Minister for Aboriginal Affairs Senator Herron suspends a commissioner of the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Commission who was convicted of fraud.
The NSW Police Royal Commission recommends all plain-clothes policemen should return to uniforms.
A coal strike in Queensland threatens to spread to New South Wales.
#
"June 21, 1996",166,0,g,0
The NSW Government announces plans to cut 1,800 jobs in the health system and close down St Vincent's Hospital at Darlinghurst.
Australia is the first in the world to trial a new nasal spray for preventing high risk patients from acquiring juvenile-onset diabetes.
School teachers from country government schools in NSW and Catholic teachers strike.
Anti-euthanasia supporters are confident that Northern Territory's euthanasia law will be overturned.
Australia's attempt to appoint Miles Kupa as Ambassador to Indonesia fails when Jakarta says it will not accept him.
#
"June 22, 1996",167,0,g,0
Today's sitting of Parliament to discuss the gun debate is the first Saturday sitting in 110 years, costing taxpayers $45,000.
Australian cricketer \JRay Lindwall\j dies aged 74.
#
"June 23, 1996",168,0,g,0
Prime Minister \JJohn Howard\j orders the Foreign Affairs and Defence ministers to block all leaks of government secrets with a censorship agreement with the media.
Tasmania is the only place in Australia showing no signs of the fatal rabbit disease calicivirus.
#
"June 24, 1996",169,0,g,0
John Garvey, head of security for the Sydney Olympics, is named adversely in the NSW Police Royal Commission.
Doctors oppose the NSW Government's decision to amalgamate St Vincent's and St George hospitals.
The NSW Government opposes the Federal Government's announcement to lease lighthouse sites if New South Wales cannot take control of them under strict conditions.
The building industry Australia-wide strikes over the removal of tax exemptions on their travel allowance.
#
"June 25, 1996",170,0,g,0
A massive protest by health workers forces NSW Premier \JBob Carr\j to put on hold plans to cut 1,800 jobs and reshuffle hospitals.
A leaked report from the Department of Social Security outlines the Federal Government's proposed $6.5 billion welfare cuts.
The NSW Government offers TAFE teachers a 14% pay increase over three years if they agree to trade-offs.
Former Liberal MP Barry Morris is jailed for two and a half years for making death threats in 1993.
The Federal Government announces it may override the proposed euthanasia law in the Northern Territory.
Fisheries under Commonwealth control may be at risk due to ecological mismanagement.
#
"June 26, 1996",171,0,g,0
The Royal Australian Institute of Architects fails to find a winner for the Sulman and Wilkinson prizes, claiming that no buildings in NSW were good enough.
Seventy per cent of peanut butter and related products are recalled and removed from all supermarket shelves due to recent salmonella poisoning.
Palaeontologists in Queensland announce that, until now, a 333 million-year-old amphibian fossil found in central Queensland was thought to be restricted only to the Northern Hemisphere.
Plans for the $600 million Olympic Stadium are put on hold following a dispute between Australia Stadium 2000 and the International Management Group.
The Australian Institute of Criminology reports that Aboriginal deaths in custody are rising alarmingly.
Major banks announce plans to reduce branch numbers over the next year or so.
Nurses in New South Wales vote to strike if the State Government doesn't alter its decision to cut 1,800 jobs in the health industry.
Foreign Affairs Minister Alexander Downer is forced to apologise for misleading Parliament over an axed aid scheme.
Canberra's leading AIDs doctor, Peter Rowland, is found dead in his home from a shotgun wound.
#
"June 27, 1996",172,0,g,0
The Senate successfully stops the Federal Government from imposing a three per cent tariff on many consumer goods.
Kraft Foods announces that the peanut butter recall will cost them millions of dollars.
\JKerry Packer\j sells his eight per cent share of Village Roadshow for $110 million.
#
"June 28, 1996",173,0,g,0
Rural ministers pressure the Federal Government to allow gun owners to modify their weapons.
Training programs and CES offices face massive funding cuts.
BHP announces a 20 per cent decrease in annual earnings and a loss for its Newcastle steelworks.
#
"June 29, 1996",174,0,g,0
Samantha Riley's coach Scott Volkers will now attend the Atlanta Olympics following a successful appeal on his one-year suspension.
\JJohn Howard\j announces plans to screen violent TV shows only after 9.30pm.
The Federal Opposition calls for Foreign Affairs Minister Alexander Downer to be dismissed regarding his handling of the axed aid scheme.
NSW Health Minister Dr Refshauge backs down over a proposed health industry shakeup that would have seen the reshuffling of hospitals and the cutting of 1,800 health staff.
#
"June 30, 1996",175,0,g,0
\JFred Hollows\j' widow, Gabi, remarries in Sydney.
The Federal Government announces funding cuts of $100 million in legal aid to the States.
#
"July 1, 1996",176,0,g,0
Smoking is banned on all Qantas and Ansett international flights.
CRA-RTZ announces they will go ahead, with the Prime Minister's approval, with the Century Zinc mine in north-west Queensland despite Aboriginal protests.
The NSW Government deserts plans to move St Vincent's Hospital to Kogarah.
The Rights of the Terminally Ill Act is challenged in Northern Territory's Supreme Court.
The NSW Teachers' Federation warns the Government they may consider bans on school activities if they don't get a 12 per cent pay claim.
The NSW Government extends subsidies to cash-strapped helicopter rescue services for another three months.
#
"July 2, 1996",177,0,g,0
Papua New Guinean Prime Minister Sir Julius Chan argues that his army has the right to use Australian-supplied military equipment in their fight against the Bougainville Revolutionary Army.
The Federal Government arranges to secure the commencement of the $1.1 billion Century Zinc mine in north-west Queensland.
Prime Minister \JJohn Howard\j refuses to let gun owners modify their weapons despite pressure from some members of the National Party.
The Northern Territory Supreme Court announces that euthanasia remains legal for now.
Teachers in NSW urge the State Government to agree to a summit to try to end the current pay claim dispute.
#
"July 3, 1996",178,0,g,0
The Federal Government announces a cut of 10,000 immigrants and tougher laws for family reunions.
Prime Minister \JJohn Howard\j announces he may call a double dissolution election if the Senate knocks back the partial sale of Telstra.
#
"July 4, 1996",179,0,g,0
ABC managers look at ways to cut costs as they face severe budget cuts.
The Federal Immigration Minister announces plans for migrants to live outside of highly-populated cities.
Health experts warn that a dangerous outbreak of the flu is headed for Australia.
A recent Australian survey suggests that Australians support the current Australian flag as opposed to a new one.
Police ministers across Australia disagree on proposed new gun laws.
ACTU President Jennie George wants the Federal Government's new industrial relations laws blocked.
#
"July 5, 1996",180,0,g,0
All of the 23 Aboriginal leaders in the Gulf of Carpentaria vote to stop the Century Zinc mine from going ahead.
The NSW Police Department announces it will obtain 20 senior police officers from overseas to help fight Asian crime.
Most States and Territories reject a trial of legal heroin for users.
Port Arthur gunman Martin Bryant is officially charged with 35 murders and 19 attempted murders.
Australian Manufacturing Workers Union president Brian Fraser dies from asbestos-related cancer, aged 52.
#
"July 6, 1996",181,0,g,0
Infamous drug dealer George Savvas escapes from \JGoulburn\j prison.
Several people are severely injured when a Qantas flight from Cairns to Tokyo hits clear air turbulence over the Pacific Ocean south of Tokyo.
#
"July 7, 1996",182,0,g,0
The Federal Government looks set to approve V-chips for all new televisions, allowing parents to block out violent programs.
The Sydney Swans attract a record crowd for AFL at the Sydney Cricket Ground as they claim another victory.
The Aboriginal Affairs Department acts on claims by Amnesty International of Australia's lack of concern over Aboriginal deaths in custody.
The Shooters Party announces it will submit a candidate in the \JPort Macquarie\j by-election.
#
"July 8, 1996",183,0,g,0
Hundreds of Australian Olympic athletes in Atlanta announce that they will not take part in the opening ceremony of the Games.
Jason Stoltenberg becomes the highest-ranked Australian tennis singles player, at number 21, after reaching the semi-finals at Wimbledon.
\JAlan Bond\j faces fraud charges in a Western Australian court over the million dollar sale of a painting.
#
"July 9, 1996",184,0,g,0
The Federal Government tentatively approves Keith Williams' development plans for a resort at Port Hinchinbrook, Queensland.
The $200,000 nomination for the Opera House for world-heritage listing misses the World Heritage Committee July 1 deadline.
Gun dealers are likely to be compensated by the Federal Government for loss of business due to new gun laws.
Donald McDonald is named as the new chairman of the ABC.
#
"July 10, 1996",185,0,g,0
Despite pressure from some ministers, Cabinet refuses to allow gun owners to modify their weapons.
Cyclist Kathy Watt insists that she should race in the 3,000 m individual pursuit track race in Atlanta instead of the selected Lucy Tyler-Sharman.
Prime Minister \JJohn Howard\j insists that there has to be enough Aboriginal support for the Century Zinc mine to go ahead.
The Council for Civil Liberties and parents' groups disagree on plans to introduce a V-chip to enable parents to block out violent television programs.
The Federal Government is pressured to ease cuts to foreign aid.
Australian of the Year John Yu joins police in a phone-in to help fight Asian crime.
The Seven Network is granted permission to screen 20th Century Fox movies following an appeal by \JKerry Packer\j who said the movies were promised to Channel Nine.
Hoyts Cinemas announces it will offer fifty million shares at $2 each.
#
"July 11, 1996",186,0,g,0
The Federal Government approves an increase in woodchip exports.
The June unemployment rate of 8.3 per cent is the lowest rate for six months.
Western Australian, Northern Territory and Queensland leaders support the crimping of weapons and the Federal Government may be powerless to stop them.
The NSW State Government announces that Justice James Wood and Judge Paul Urquhart, who are heading the current Police Royal Commission, will continue fighting corruption next year with the new Police Integrity Commission.
Mayne Nickless announces it will sell its 25 per cent share of Optus.
Speaking in the British Parliament House, Nelson Mandela condemns racism globally, including that of Australian Aborigines.
#
"July 12, 1996",187,0,g,0
Telstra announces it will shed 9,000 jobs in the coming twelve months.
Port Arthur gunman Martin Bryant allegedly attempts suicide in prison.
Scientists say that over 60 per cent of Sydney Harbour is lead-contaminated.
Channels Nine and Ten may take legal action over Channel Seven's decision of rival stations not being able to show footage from the Atlanta Olympic Games until 18 hours after the event.
\JJohn Howard\j admits his Government may not succeed in its attempt to gain nationwide uniformity on gun control.
#
"July 13, 1996",188,0,g,0
The Prime Minister announces he will reopen the Lodge to the public after a three year closure; all proceeds will benefit the Australiana Fund.
Federal Finance Minister John Fahey announces that Commonwealth Bank shares will sell at $10.45 each.
#
"July 14, 1996",189,0,g,0
The Australian Olympic Committee bans Australian athletes from talking to any television network other than Channel Seven.
Kathy Watt will legally challenge the Australian Cycling Federation's decision of naming Lucy Tyler-Sharman ahead of her for the 3,000 m individual pursuit race at the Atlanta Olympics.
The NSW Government wants the great white shark listed as an endangered species.
Channel Seven makes a $US1.3 billion bid for Metro-Goldwyn Mayer.
The Federal Education Department announces that students who take up a second undergraduate degree may face upfront charges of $6,000 per year.
Australian and British officials in England discover art worth millions of dollars believed to belong to \JAlan Bond\j; a rare portrait of Captain James Cook is included.
#
"July 15, 1996",190,0,g,0
The long-awaited Federal Government's 50.4 per cent share in the Commonwealth Bank is floated.
Over 250 non-athletes from NSW are heading for the Atlanta Olympics, at a cost of over $2 million.
Century Zinc withdraws a request for legislation to protect their proposed mine site from Aboriginal land claims.
Western Mining Corp announces a $1.25 billion expansion for its Olympic Dam copper-uranium mine while environmentalists claim that this would threaten wildlife when it increases its intake of water from the Great Artesian Basin.
The Federal Government announces it will rewrite the ABC's charter to change its service to complementary instead of comprehensive.
Eight bridled nailtail wallabies, listed as endangered, are found dead after they were transported from Queensland to the Western Plains Zoo in \JDubbo\j.
#
"July 16, 1996",191,0,g,0
The Federal Government announces a $65 million funding cut for the ABC over the next two years.
Australian Olympic sprinter Dean Capobianco tests positive to steroids; he is consequently suspended and ordered not to travel with the Australian athletes into Atlanta.
\JJohn Howard\j expresses annoyance over Century Zinc's decision to withdraw its request for legislation to protect its proposed mine site from Aboriginal claims.
The Australian sharemarket suffers following a drop on the Wall Street market.
The Senate may reject the Federal Government's new regulations on woodchip exports.
The Australian Nature Conservation Agency supports a proposed uranium mine in Kakadu.
#
"July 17, 1996",192,0,g,0
Employers in certain industries within NSW face massive increases in workers' compensation payments.
Channel Seven, along with US Kirk Kerkorian, win their $US1.3 billion bid to purchase Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer.
Dean Capobianco appeals against his positive drug test, insisting that it was faulty or tampered with.
The 5,500 ABC staff across Australia strike over proposed cuts of $65 million.
Alan McGilvray, best known for his cricket commentating, dies aged 86.
The Federal Government is worried over Papua New Guinean's use of Australian-supplied helicopters in their attack against the Bougainville Revolutionary Army.
The Federal Government is under pressure to acquire the latest available drug testing equipment for the Australian Sports Drug Agency.
The NSW State Government announces it may only have to contribute $150 million of the $600 million Olympic stadium at Homebush, thanks largely to sponsors.
#
"July 18, 1996",193,0,g,0
Dean Capobianco is cleared to run at the Olympic Games. Meanwhile the Chinese Olympic team is angry over how easy Australian athletes are let off after drug charges.
The ACTU announces plans to push for a shorter working week.
A 6,000 tonne ship carrying 600 tonnes of bunker oil is reported grounded on the Great Barrier Reef.
\JRupert Murdoch\j is set to become the largest owner of TV stations in the US when News Corp signs a deal to buy New World Communications for almost US$2.5 billion.
#
"July 19, 1996",194,0,g,0
Prime Minister \JJohn Howard\j threatens to hold a referendum on gun laws if Queensland and Western Australia don't back down on their decision of allowing guns to be modified.
The International Amateur Athletic Federation appeals against Dean Capobianco being cleared of drug charges; Capobianco can run in his race but if the appeal is successful he will consequently be disqualified.
\JCathy Freeman\j is warned, that due to Olympic rules, if she wins a medal at the Olympics and then carries the Aboriginal flag, she will be stripped of her medal.
Swimming champion \JDawn Fraser\j proudly carries the Olympic torch 1 km through Atlanta towards the Olympic stadium.
Equestrian \JAndrew Hoy\j leads the Australian team as they march at the opening ceremony of the 1996 Olympic Games.
#
"July 20, 1996",195,0,g,0
Barnados Australia urges Princess Diana not to withdraw her services as patron of their charity.
Prime Minister \JJohn Howard\j indicates to the National Party that he will not alter his decision on disallowing weapons to be modified.
The Federal Government considers setting up a law insurance scheme that will be similar to health insurance.
Due to a shortage of doctors in country areas, the Federal Health Minister Michael Wooldridge announces that city doctors may be forced to work there.
Olympic cyclist Kathy Watt wins her appeal against not being selected for the 3,000 m individual pursuit in Atlanta and Lucy Tyler-Sharman is consequently dropped from the race. Lucy Tyler-Sharman announces she will appeal this decision.
Swimmer Daniel Kowalski wins a bronze medal in the 200 m freestyle final.
#
"July 21, 1996",196,0,g,0
Australian poet \JLes Murray\j is in intensive care in Newcastle Hospital following an operation.
Prime Minister \JJohn Howard\j remains confident that Western Australia and Queensland will support his proposed gun laws.
US and Australian defence officials announce an agreement for US troops to train in northern Australia.
Shooter Michael Diamond wins a gold medal in the trap event and sets a new Olympic record.
\JSamantha Riley\j wins a bronze medal in the 100 m breaststroke final at Atlanta.
Barcelona double gold medallist Matt Ryan withdraws from the equestrian event at the Atlanta Olympics due to injuries to his horse.
Robert Leslie Ponsford, an Australian soldier from the 24th Battalion who fought at Gallipoli, dies at the age of 102.
#
"July 22, 1996",197,0,g,0
The Federal Government announces that Australia will now fund selected foreign aid projects which previously had been axed.
Queensland and Western Australia finally agree to the Federal Government's proposed gun laws.
\JDawn Fraser\j is taken to hospital in Atlanta after suffering an attack of angina.
Former Olympic gold medallist \JMurray Rose\j blames swimming coaches for Australia's lack of medals in swimming events at Atlanta.
Scott Goodman wins a bronze medal in the 200 m butterfly final at Atlanta.
#
"July 23, 1996",198,0,g,0
Federal Minister for Foreign Affairs Alexander Downer denies that the Government is reversing a decision to abandon selected foreign aid projects.
The Federal Government announces cuts of $1 billion in tax breaks for companies involved in research and development.
Over 55,000 public servants across Australia vote to strike over cuts to many of their departments.
Prime Minister \JJohn Howard\j decides not to go ahead with heavy cuts to the Austudy program.
Channels Nine and Ten dispute Channel Seven's rule of disallowing them media access to Australian athletes in Atlanta.
NSW Shooters' Party leader John Tingle claims that a high percentage of gun owners will not register their guns or hand in banned weapons.
Former Olympic gold medallists Duncan Armstrong and Neil Brooks accuse head swimming coach Don Talbot of not motivating the swimmers in Atlanta.
Daniel Kowalski wins his second bronze medal at the Atlanta Olympics, this time for the 400 m freestyle final.
Shooter Deserie Huddleston wins a bronze medal for the women's double trap event at the Atlanta Olympics.
#
"July 24, 1996",199,0,g,0
The Federal Government announces it may abandon the People's Convention on the republic vote.
Coalminers threaten a continuing nationwide strike unless CRA resolves the 11 month strike at Vickery Mine, \JGunnedah\j.
A retired businessman donates just over $11.5 million to Sydney's Wesley Mission.
Following a new attachment to the \JAnglo-Australian Telescope\j at Siding Spring, astrophysicists discover a massive cloud of hydrogen gas, 5,000 light years away.
The Federal Opposition opposes \JJohn Howard\j's plans of cutting out $1 billion in tax concessions for companies involved in research and development.
The Northern Territory's High Court declares the voluntary euthanasia law to be valid.
National Party member for \JPort Macquarie\j Wendy Machin announces she may delay her resignation following the Liberal Party's decision to contest her seat.
Shooter Russell Mark wins a gold medal in the double trap event at the Atlanta Olympics.
Cyclist Shane Kelly, favourite for the gold medal in the 1,000 m time trial, accidentally loses his footing and also his chance of a medal at the Atlanta Olympics.
\JPhillip Dutton\j, \JWendy Schaeffer\j, \JAndrew Hoy\j and \JGillian Rolton\j (who broke her collarbone and cracked two ribs during the event) win a gold medal in the three-day equestrian team event at the Atlanta Olympics.
Swimmer Scott Miller wins a silver medal in the 100 m butterfly final at Atlanta.
Swimmers Nicole Stevenson, \JSamantha Riley\j, Susie O'Neill and Sarah Ryan win a silver medal in the 4 x 100 m medley relay at Atlanta.
#
"July 25, 1996",200,0,g,0
Talks between CRA and CFMEU fail to resolve the coalminers' strike.
Australia comes closer to nominating the Opera House for World Heritage listing when UNESCO extends the previous July 1 deadline.
Cyclist Kathy Watt only just qualifies for the 3,000 m individual pursuit in Atlanta, the race Lucy Tyler-Sharman was denied when the courts awarded it to Watt.
Cyclist Bradley McGee wins a bronze medal in the 4,000 m individual pursuit at Atlanta.
Swimmers Julia Greville, Nicole Stevenson, Emma Johnson and Susie O'Neill win a bronze medal for the 4 x 200 m freestyle final at Atlanta.
#
"July 26, 1996",201,0,g,0
The ABC faces up to 1,300 job losses due to huge funding cuts.
The NSW State Government considers plans to close down four Sydney hospitals.
Australia and the US announce they will hold joint military operations in Queensland in 1997.
The Australian Sports Commission considers giving shooting and equestrian sports extra funding following their success at the Atlanta Olympics.
The International Amateur Athletic Federation refers Dean Capobianco's drug allegations to an arbitration panel to be heard after the Atlanta Games.
After qualifying slowest in the heats, \JKieren Perkins\j shuts up his critics when he wins gold in the 1,500 m freestyle final at the Atlanta Olympics, beating fellow Australian team mate Daniel Kowalski, the fastest qualifier, who won the silver medal.
Susie O'Neill wins gold in the 200 m butterfly final while Petria Thomas takes the silver medal.
Steven Dewick, Phil Rogers, Scott Miller and Michael Klim win a bronze medal for the 4 x 100 m relay in Atlanta.
Olympic cyclist Kathy Watt is disappointed when Italian Antonella Bellutti laps her in the 3,000 m individual pursuit; while Australian coach Charlie Walsh is furious that Lucy Tyler-Sharman was not racing instead of Watt.
#
"July 27, 1996",202,0,g,0
Following a 70-day trial, accused backpacker murderer Ivan Milat is found guilty on seven counts of murder and sentenced to life imprisonment.
Australian and US governments announce united attacks against organised crime coming out of South-East Asia.
\JLouise McPaul\j wins a silver medal for the javelin event at Atlanta.
Kerri Pottharst and Natalie Cook win a bronze medal for beach volleyball, beating the US team.
Cyclist Michelle Ferris wins a silver medal for the women's sprint final and cyclists Brett Aitken, Bradley McGee, Stuart O'Grady and Dean Woods win a bronze medal for the men's team pursuit.
Rowers Megan Still and Kate Slatter win a gold medal for the women's coxless pair final, while Oarsome Foursome Drew Ginn, James Tomkins, Nicholas Green and Michael McKay win a gold medal for the men's coxless fours final and David Weightman and Robert Scott win a silver medal for the men's coxless pair final.
#
"July 28, 1996",203,0,g,0
Striking coalminers at CRA's Vickery Mine agree to return to work following an 11-month-old strike.
Cyclist Stuart O'Grady wins a bronze medal in the men's points race at Atlanta while Lucy Tyler-Sharman wins a bronze medal in the women's points race.
Rowers Anthony Edwards and Bruce Hick win a bronze medal in the lightweight double sculls final; Janusz Hooker, Duncan Free, Ronald Snook and Boden Hanson win a bronze medal in the quadruple sculls final; and Rebecca Joyce and Virginia Lee win a bronze medal in the lightweight double sculls final.
#
"July 29, 1996",204,0,g,0
All Sydney phone and fax numbers beginning with a two through to eight now have a nine added to the front.
The Director of Public Prosecutions in Victoria announces that he will go ahead with the previously abandoned trial of fraud charges against \JJohn Elliott\j and two other former executives from Elders IXL.
Gun owners may receive up to $10,000 compensation for their banned weapons.
The Sydney Olympic Committee considers plans for high-security fencing protecting Homebush Bay and Darling Harbour during the Sydney 2000 Games.
Former actor Jon Blake, who received almost $32 million compensation for a car accident, may lose some of his payout following an appeal.
Foreign Affairs Minister Alexander Downer condemns China's latest nuclear test.
Sprinter \JCathy Freeman\j wins a silver medal in the 400 m final at the Atlanta Olympics.
Yachtsmen Colin Beashel and David Giles win a bronze medal in the Star final at Atlanta.
#
"July 30, 1996",205,0,g,0
Papua New Guinean Prime Minister Sir Julius Chan considers rejecting $20 million in defence aid per year from Australia and accuses Foreign Affairs Minister Alexander Downer of treasonous actions against Papua New Guinea.
The Sydney Organising Committee for the Olympic Games announces that there will be more tickets for the 2000 Games than previously thought.
Two US military planes flying in the Northern Territory narrowly miss a Cathay Pacific plane carrying 150 passengers.
The Australian softball team win a bronze medal at Atlanta.
Stefan Botev wins a bronze medal for weightlifting in the super heavyweight class.
Yachters Mitch Booth and Andrew Landenberger win a silver medal in the Tornado final.
#
"July 31, 1996",206,0,g,0
Home loan interest rates are lowered for the third time in eight weeks, the standard variable rate for the major banks is now 9.25 per cent.
Aboriginal speaker \JCharles Perkins\j says \JCathy Freeman\j let the Aboriginal community down when she decided not to carry the Aboriginal flag in Atlanta after winning a silver medal.
The Christian Brothers announce they will pay out nearly $3.5 million to over 200 men who were sexually abused as children by the Brothers.
#
"August 1, 1996",207,0,g,0
A former crewman on board the HMAS \IMelbourne\i during its collision with HMAS \IVoyager\i in 1964, is awarded nearly $1 million compensation.
Lord Mayor of Sydney Frank Sartor says security will be a top priority at the Sydney 2000 Games.
Louise Savage wins a gold medal in the demonstration event of the women's 800 m wheelchair final at Atlanta.
The Australian women's hockey team wins a gold medal at Atlanta, with team member Nova Peris becoming the first ever Aborigine to win gold at Olympic level.
#
"August 2, 1996",208,0,g,0
NSW Premier \JBob Carr\j returns from Atlanta with the conclusion that the Federal Government has to put more money into the Sydney 2000 Games for adequate security and transport.
An Australian man reveals his secret of finding a 16 kilogram gold nugget in Western Australia four years ago, one of the biggest nuggets ever found.
Olympic gold medallist shooter Michael Diamond receives a hero's welcoming in his home town of \JGoulburn\j.
\JMark Woodforde\j and \JTodd Woodbridge\j win a gold medal in the men's doubles tennis final at Atlanta.
The men's hockey team wins a bronze medal at Atlanta.
#
"August 3, 1996",209,0,g,0
Barcelona gold medallist and kayaker \JClint Robinson\j wins a bronze medal for the 1,000 m sprint finals at Atlanta.
The Coffs Harbour Department of Community Services is rocked by a bomb explosion.
#
"August 4, 1996",210,0,g,0
The women's basketball team wins a bronze medal at Atlanta.
Kayakers Andrew Trim and Danny Collins win a bronze medal in the K2 500 m final at Atlanta, while Katrina Borchert and Anna Wood also win a bronze medal for the women's K2 500 m final.
Australia has its most successful medal tally at any Olympics to date; overall we got 9 gold, 9 silver and 23 bronze medals.
NSW Premier \JBob Carr\j announces that he will hold a trial Olympics at Homebush before 2000.
Thousands of people gather at the Domain, Sydney, to protest against funding cuts to the ABC.
The Federal Government may retreat from its decision to cut tariffs on cars from 15 to zero per cent by 2010.
Lord Mayor of Sydney Frank Sartor accepts the Olympic Flag from the IOC President Juan Antonio Samaranch at the closing ceremony of the 1996 Games.
Arthur Tunstall infuriates many people when he allegedly makes racist jokes regarding Aborigines.
#
"August 5, 1996",211,0,g,0
\JJohn Elliott\j is acquitted on one of three fraud charges.
The Federal Government proposes new plans for learner drivers to keep logbooks and stay on L-plates for a minimum of one year.
Malaysia urges Australia to keep its promise to abolish tariffs on cars by 2010.
#
"August 6, 1996",212,0,g,0
The Federal Government is expected to reap over $4 billion when the country's airports are privatised.
NSW police step up a search in Jenolan State Forest for bodies suspected of being murdered by backpacker murderer, Ivan Milat.
The NSW National Parks announces that it will hand over to Aborigines approximately one million Aboriginal artefacts held in storage.
Thieves elude security at the Australian Museum in Sydney to steal $22,000 worth of diamonds.
#
"August 7, 1996",213,0,g,0
The NSW Government announces that it will reduce cutbacks to health.
Australian Olympic athletes return home to a huge crowd at Sydney Airport. \JJohn Howard\j announces that athletes preparing for Sydney 2000 will not lose their funding.
The Australian Federal Police Department blames information obtained via the Internet for an increasing number of bomb attacks throughout Australia.
The NSW Government and NSW teachers move closer to ending the pay claim dispute.
#
"August 8, 1996",214,0,g,0
The Federal Government decides not to go ahead this year with the nomination of the Opera House for world heritage listing.
Malaysia refuses to back down on its decision of not allowing Australia access to summit meetings between Asian and European leaders.
Skifields in NSW finally receive their first snowfall for the season.
Over 100 police officers may be dismissed or forced to leave the police force following the recent NSW Police Royal Commission.
#
"August 9, 1996",215,0,g,0
Lord Mayor of Sydney Frank Sartor and Olympic athletes past and present carry the Olympic Flag into Sydney.
A Powerball player wins Australia's largest ever single lottery prize of $11 million.
1996 Olympic medallists may not receive as much as they thought from the government as there were 130 individual medals won.
Common in the United States, carjacking is now occurring in Australia.
The Federal Government announces rises in fees for new university students and also the threshold for Higher Education Contribution Scheme payments will be lowered.
The Toyota Corporation claims that zero tariffs would threaten Australia's car industry manufacturers.
#
"August 10, 1996",216,0,g,0
Up to 20,000 people may lose their jobs in the next couple of years due to an overhaul in the banking industry.
NSW TAFE teachers agree to a 15 per cent pay rise in return for productivity trade-offs during the coming two years.
#
"August 11, 1996",217,0,g,0
Deputy Prime Minister Tim Fischer announces that the government should keep its election promise for a people's convention on the republic.
The Federal Government announces that it won't be able to contribute 3 per cent to workers' superannuation funds if the coming Budget is rejected by the Senate.
Pay TV operator Australis Media is in financial crisis and hopes to raise more money to pay debts.
#
"August 12, 1996",218,0,g,0
The Federal Government considers applying sales tax to CD-ROMs.
Following a bomb explosion in Colombo, the Australian cricket team reconsiders touring Sri Lanka next week.
Australis Media's executives ask for an extension on their deadline to find much-needed finances.
#
"August 13, 1996",219,0,g,0
Australis Media is given two more days to organise extra funding.
The NSW State Government approves a new tollway linking Artarmon with Sydney Airport.
The Federal Government announces up to $400 million in cuts to Aboriginal services.
Mining leaders welcome the Federal Government's decision to keep the $1.3 billion diesel fuel rebate scheme for farmers and miners.
#
"August 14, 1996",220,0,g,0
Olympic athletes are welcomed by 100,000 fans during a ticker tape parade in Sydney.
The AOC announces that Atlanta gold medallists will receive $25,000, silver medallists $15,000 and bronze medallists $7,500.
Ian Macfarlane is named the new Governor of the Reserve Bank.
#
"August 15, 1996",221,0,g,0
NSW Premier \JBob Carr\j announces he wants to set up a committee to promote \IWaltzing Matilda\i as the new national anthem.
As outlined in a recent National Heart Foundation report, up to 50 per cent of Australians have high cholesterol.
The Federal Government predicts lower petrol prices in the near future.
Law academics disagree with the government's decision to raise fees for undergraduate students.
The director of the Powerhouse Museum in Sydney removes guns and firearms from display, claiming they are no longer appropriate for viewing.
#
"August 16, 1996",222,0,g,0
The Federal Government announces that the Medicare levy will rise for high income earners.
The Commonwealth Employment Service (CES) is set to be taken over by the new Public Employment Placement Enterprise (PEPE).
\JAlan Bond\j is found guilty of fraud in a Western Australian court.
The Australian Cricket Board, following previous doubts, announces it will now send the Australian cricket team to Sri Lanka.
Former singer Ray Brown, aged 51, dies from a heart attack.
#
"August 18, 1996",223,0,g,0
The ACTU organises to hold nationwide strikes and protests against the Federal Government's new industrial relations laws.
#
"August 19, 1996",224,0,g,0
A nationwide survey shows Australians are in favour of keeping \IAdvance Australia Fair\i as the national anthem.
Pay-TV operator Australis Media is on the brink of going into receivership.
The Liberal Party's decision to enter a candidate in the Port Macquarie by-election may force the Liberal-National Party Coalition to split.
A peaceful ACTU rally in Canberra turns violent when hundreds of protesters break away and storm into Parliament House, damaging property and injuring police officers.
#
"August 20, 1996",225,0,g,0
Treasurer Peter Costello hands down the 1996/97 budget with major changes to HECS fees, superannuation, government spending, and a Medicare levy increase for high income earners.
Teachers throughout NSW place a ban on all new school policies introduced in the third term.
Australis Media's threat of receivership is temporarily over following the announcement of a probable $US105 million rescue package.
\JAlan Bond\j, found guilty of fraud, is sentenced to three years in prison.
1972 Olympic gold medallist Beverley Whitfield dies at the age of 42.
#
"August 21, 1996",226,0,g,0
Prime Minister \JJohn Howard\j offers to help solve the Liberal-National Party crisis.
Health officials claim that the NSW hospital waiting lists have almost doubled since \JBob Carr\j became premier in March 1995.
The insurance industry warns that a 15 per cent surcharge on high income earner's superannuation funds will be extremely hard to keep track of and manage.
#
"August 22, 1996",227,0,g,0
David Peter McMillan, an Australian imprisoned on drug smuggling charges in the "Bangkok Hilton", a prison in Thailand, escapes -- the first foreigner ever to escape from this prison.
\JJohn Elliott\j is acquitted on the last of a number of fraud charges.
Conservationists oppose to the Federal Government's decision to allow Keith William's $100 million development opposite Hinchinbrook Island to go ahead.
Opposition Leader Kim Beazley announces that he will block some of the Budget, including increases both in HECS and prescription fees.
#
"August 23, 1996",228,0,g,0
The Liberal Party threatens to cut hundreds of thousands of dollars of the National Party's funding if they leave the Coalition.
Lisa Marie Smith, an Australian arrested on drug charges in Thailand, jumps bail.
#
"August 24, 1996",229,0,g,0
NSW Premier \JBob Carr\j allegedly offers the National Party hundreds of thousands of dollars in funding if it splits from the Liberal Party.
#
"August 25, 1996",230,0,g,0
The ACTU pressures the Democrats to block part of the Federal Government's workplace legislation.
The National Party decides to allow the Liberal Party to submit a candidate for the \JPort Macquarie\j by-election.
The Australian Paralympic team finishes second (America comes first) in the Atlanta medal tally, bringing home a total of 42 gold, 37 silver and 27 bronze medals.
#
"August 26, 1996",231,0,g,0
The Federal Government announces it may purchase long-range missiles for the six $5 billion submarines they have on order.
#
"August 27, 1996",232,0,g,0
The Federal Government promises to review huge superannuation payouts for MPs following public outcry.
Prime Minister \JJohn Howard\j officially opens Stage Two of the Bradman Museum in \JBowral\j.
Three leading environmental departments -- Australian Nature Conservation Agency, Commonwealth Environment Protection Agency and Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority -- are set to merge into one body.
#
"August 28, 1996",233,0,g,0
The NSW State Government and teachers finally settle their year-long pay claim dispute which will see teachers receive a 16 per cent increase in wages over three years.
The Bureau of Resource Science clears the way for the rabbit calicivirus disease to be released in order to control feral rabbit populations.
The Federal Government's health insurance rebate is set to be wiped out by proposed increases in health insurance policies.
Member for \JPort Macquarie\j Wendy Machin officially resigns.
An outbreak of meningococcal disease, which can lead to meningitis, occurs in western Sydney.
#
"August 29, 1996",234,0,g,0
Prime Minister \JJohn Howard\j announces that any further increases to health insurance premiums will have to be approved by the government.
Cyclist Shane Kelly retains his world championship title for the one kilometre time trial held in London; Kelly missed out on a gold medal at the Atlanta Olympics when his foot slipped from the pedal.
#
"August 30, 1996",235,0,g,0
Peter Ryan, the new police commissioner for NSW, is officially sworn in.
Prime Minister \JJohn Howard\j advises health funds to freeze premiums for six months.
Cyclist Edgar "Dunc" Gray, a 1932 Olympic gold medallist, dies aged 90.
A meeting between ministers fails to settle the National Party/Liberal Party disagreements.
Australian Lisa Marie Smith, who recently skipped bail in Thailand on drug charges, has allegedly left Thailand and is unlikely ever to return to face charges.
Kim Woo Choong, chairman of the Daewoo Group, one of the bidders for the $750 million Olympic village, is sentenced to two years imprisonment for bribing former South Korean President Roh Tae Woo.
#
"August 31, 1996",236,0,g,0
Sydney and surrounding areas are hit with a severe rain and wind storm, causing an estimated $50 million worth of damage.
NSW police commissioner Peter Ryan is set to sack five high ranking officers from the police force; since the beginning of the Wood Royal Commission over 25 officers have been sacked, and 500 have resigned.
The Chinese Government announces it wants to improve trade and economic relations with Australia.
#
"September 1, 1996",237,0,g,0
The Federal Minister for Communications, Senator Alston, announces that the government may eventually sell 100 per cent of Telstra.
Australian film company, Southern Star, announces that it will publicly float its 43 million shares at $1.40 each.
Pay-TV operator Optus Vision looks at running both its, and Australis Media's, programs through the Optus cables.
Sydney, Gosford, Nowra and the Blue Mountains start cleaning up after violent rain and wind storms caused tens of millions of dollars worth of damage.
Former ABC managing director, David Hill, addressing Friends of the ABC members, announces that, due to recent government funding cuts to the ABC, a large amount of staff will have to be dismissed, and there will be reduced services.
#
"September 2, 1996",238,0,g,0
US and Australian scientists researching at the University of Tasmania announce that they have found the biological process that leads to Alzheimer's disease.
\JCSIRO\j scientists announce a unique invention called ZERO(two), a plastic packaging for beer, wine and food that will reduce the need for preservatives, potentially having a $1.2 billion global market by 2000.
The Federal Government claims that the ACTU is not assisting police with their inquiries in the recent union protest at Parliament House that ended violently.
The NSW P & C Association suggests that NSW will lose up to 350 teachers following the agreed 16 per cent pay increase over three years.
Prime Minister \JJohn Howard\j denies rumours that the government wants to ultimately sell 100 per cent of Telstra.
#
"September 3, 1996",239,0,g,0
The Federal Government expects thousands of members to drop out of private health insurance due to a hike in fees.
Gerry Moriarty, due to start a position as second-in-charge of the Sydney Organising Committee for the Olympic Games, announces that he will now stay at his Telstra job.
Prime Minister \JJohn Howard\j, in the Marshall Islands attending a 16-country summit on reducing greenhouse gases, faces isolation for not endorsing global targets to reduce greenhouse gas levels.
Due to recent rain, Warragamba Dam in Sydney jumps from 68.2 per cent capacity to just over 71 per cent; water restrictions, however, still remain in force.
Aboriginal artist Emily Kame Kngwarreye dies from heart disease.
Scientists across the country join others in protesting against massive cuts to the ABC budget.
Federal police start making arrests from videotape evidence gathered at the recent union riots at Parliament House.
#
"September 4, 1996",240,0,g,0
For the first time ever in Australasia, a female is appointed as cantor of a Jewish synagogue.
ABC radio announces it will drop rugby league and some overseas cricket games coverages.
Award winning journalist Robert Haupt dies at the age of 48.
\JKerry Packer\j renegotiates his deal with pay-TV operator Optus Vision which will allow him to buy up to 20 per cent of Optus Vision and possibly Channel 7's optional 13 per cent if they don't purchase by July 1997.
Kerry Packer's PBL posts a 50 per cent increase in profits for the year to June 30.
For the first time in history, AFL team Sydney Swans will be playing a final on their home ground and all seats are sold in under two hours.
#
"September 5, 1996",241,0,g,0
The NSW Health Minister, Dr Refshauge, announces that he has reversed proposed health cuts that would have seen the loss of 1,800 jobs, the shuffling of 900 hospital beds and the closure of St Vincent's Hospital.
The Minister for Urban Affairs and Planning announces that the \ILady Darling,\i a shipwreck recently found off the NSW south coast, will have a protected zone around it to keep it preserved.
The Australian Sports Commission announces that many sports, including the football codes, tennis, cricket and other minor sports, will lose some of their funding, but Olympic sports will not suffer.
ABC radio announces that it will have to shed 30 jobs because of budget cuts.
#
"September 6, 1996",242,0,g,0
Global pressure may force Australia to bind to reductions in greenhouse gases which will ultimately see a big difference in the country's environmental laws.
Scientists in NSW discover a breakthrough that enables early diagnoses of Parkinson's disease.
Author Chris Cunningham reveals in his new book \IThe Blue Mountains Rediscovered,\i that a convict, John Wilson, was the first to cross the Blue Mountains, and not Blaxland, Lawson and Wentworth.
Michael Knight is named John Iliffe's replacement as chairman of the Sydney Organising Committee for the Olympic Games (SOCOG).
Sydney holds a ticker tape parade for the Australian Paralympic Team to celebrate their most successful paralympics to date.
#
"September 7, 1996",243,0,g,0
Unions secure a $100 a week rise for building workers involved in Olympic Games projects.
Scientists at the University of Technology in Sydney carry out research on the blood from tiger snakes which may see the development of a new drug to help fight asthma and arthritis.
Ministers within the NSW Carr Government want the health and education portfolios reshuffled in the wake of recent health and education crises.
Tennis doubles, \JMark Woodforde\j and \JTodd Woodbridge\j, win the US Open, making it their tenth tournament win this year, including an Olympic gold medal.
#
"September 8, 1996",244,0,g,0
A minister within the Federal Government announces that he will introduce a private member's bill to attempt to override the Northern Territory Rights of the Terminally Ill Act.
The Federal Ministers for both Primary Industries and the Environment are set to give the go ahead for the October release of the fatal rabbit calicivirus.
The Federal Government and the Opposition both agree to allow private operators to compete with Australia Post.
John Howard faces continued pressure to hold a full inquiry into the country's health system, including Medicare and private health insurance.
#
"September 9, 1996",245,0,g,0
The Federal Government's election promise of a media ownership inquiry may be in jeopardy.
Two Independents in the Senate are still to decide whether or not the government should sell off part of Telstra.
Former Olympic gold medallist Duncan Armstrong announces that his gold medal has gone missing, possibly stolen, after he lent it to a newspaper for photographs.
Great white shark experts in Australia fail to have the shark listed as an endangered species.
The NSW State Government announces that 34,000 seats for the new Olympic stadium will be sold as $10,000 gold passes, which will enable pass holders free reserved seating for all events at Sydney 2000 and free entry to other sports events at the stadium for 30 years.
The Australian dollar reaches a three-month high at US80.23c.
Oz-Email wins the tender to connect government schools in NSW to the Internet; over 2,000 schools should be connected by December.
#
"September 10, 1996",246,0,g,0
Independent Brian Harradine, one of the two Independents who hold the vote on whether Telstra should be sold, announces that he will vote against the part-sale of Telstra.
NSW Catholic school fees are set to rise to help pay for teachers' salary increases.
Many building and construction workers belonging to the CFMEU start a two-day strike hoping to gain an increase in travel allowance.
The NSW MS Society announces that a new drug to treat MS will be available in Australia within weeks.
Researchers at the Sydney Children's Hospital cancer unit are dismayed at a lack of funding for their valuable research into treatments for cancer and AIDS.
A handful of squirrel gliders living in Sydney's north are officially declared an endangered population under the Threatened Species Conservation Act.
#
"September 11, 1996",247,0,g,0
Member for the Sydney seat of Lindsay, Jackie Kelly, is ordered to relinquish her seat after she was found ineligible because she was elected while still employed by the RAAF.
Victoria's Treasurer, Alan Stockdale, hands down the Budget that promises to deliver a surplus of over $5 billion.
The Federal Government announces plans to export some of the country's native species, including tortoises, geckos, frogs, goannas and birds.
The Confederation of Australian Sport claims that many sports in Australia will no longer exist if budget cuts go ahead.
The Australian Taxation Office warns employers that there is no way of getting out of paying the new 15 per cent superannuation surcharge, which kicks in at salaries above $70,000.
#
"September 12, 1996",248,0,g,0
The new Sydney 2000 Olympic Games logo, due to be unveiled in two days, is unintentionally revealed when a gust of wind blows its covers off.
The NSW State Opposition agrees to accept a seat on the SOCOG board only if the State Government assures that Nick Greiner, Rod McGeoch and Graham Lovett remain on the board even when their positions come up for review.
Federal Minister for Health, Dr Wooldridge, approves of private health insurers' plans to introduce loyalty bonuses for members.
NSW Catholic school teachers threaten to strike again if their pay claims are not met.
Scientists warn that an irrigation project to be built on Cooper Creek by cotton farmers may prove to be an environmental disaster.
The NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service reports that the endangered yellow-footed rock wallaby's population is increasing.
The organiser of the World Solar Challenge car race announces that this year's race will be the last in Australia because the Federal Government won't reinstate funding for the event.
#
"September 13, 1996",249,0,g,0
Telstra announces that it has had its largest ever annual profit at $2.3 billion; despite this, over 20,000 jobs will be shed over the next few years.
Following pressure from the insurance industry, the Federal Government refuses to back down on its Budget plans to tax up to 15 per cent on superannuation for those earning over $70,000.
Members of the NSW Cabinet disagree over whether or not to ban logging in the State's forests.
The long-running NSW Policy Royal Commission is set to be extended so it can continue with its pedophile inquiries.
Pay-TV operator Australis Media announces an annual loss of over $251 million.
Former Federal Health Minister, Carmen Lawrence, is under investigation by Western Australian police over whether or not she committed perjury at the 1995 Easton Royal Commission.
#
"September 14, 1996",250,0,g,0
The Sydney 2000 Olympic Games logo is officially unveiled, exactly four years before the Sydney Games are due to commence; the logo shows an athlete made of boomerangs and an Opera House-shaped flame.
New data from the Australian Bureau of Statistics reveals that approximately two million Australian households have a computer, a quarter of homes own a mobile phone, and approximately three per cent of households have pay-TV.
An out-of-court merchandising settlement forces News Ltd to pay the ARL an undisclosed sum.
Boxer Kostya Tszyu retains his world IBF junior welterweight title following a successful fight against South African Jan Bergman.
#
"September 15, 1996",251,0,g,0
The Reserve Bank reports that due to an increase in new mortgage lenders, bank fees will soar.
Due to an immigration blow-out, the Federal Government looks at limiting the number of spouse migrants.
The Dalai Lama arrives in Australia for a peace visit.
Scientists researching toxic blue-green algae in the Darling River warn that new outbreaks are likely to occur more frequently than before.
#
"September 16, 1996",252,0,g,0
Prime Minister \JJohn Howard\j meets with Indonesian President Soeharto in Indonesia.
Television in Australia celebrates its 40th anniversary.
Many top private schools in NSW want changes made to the HSC and Tertiary Entrance Rank results.
NSW Premier \JBob Carr\j announces that he will compromise on the forest policy that will satisfy both the timber industry and environmentalists.
Vice-chancellors across Australia meet in Brisbane to discuss the Federal Government's funding cuts.
\JMichael Doohan\j wins his third 500cc motorcycle world championship.
Golfer Karrie Webb wins her third international golfing title for the year and subsequently becomes the first Australian sportswoman to win over $1 million in prize money in under a year.
#
"September 17, 1996",253,0,g,0
Prime Minister \JJohn Howard\j says that he wants to meet with the Dalai Lama, despite China threatening trade retaliation.
The NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service announces that the State Government has overestimated the forest's wood supply and may face compensation claims from timber workers if it sets wrong wood quotas.
Greenpeace Australia announces that it will cut 30 per cent of its staff and close all its offices except Sydney.
The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission orders Telstra to repay up to $45 million to customers because it didn't inform them of a two-phone-line service charge.
The NSW Board of Studies considers issuing student's HSC results and their Tertiary Entrance Ranks separately in order to ease confusion.
#
"September 18, 1996",254,0,g,0
The Federal Minister for Transport announces that the planned 1997-98 sale of Sydney Airport may be put off until 2003.
The Aboriginal Affairs Minister, Senator Herron, is ordered by the Federal Court to stop controlling the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Commission's funds.
Former deputy premier of Western Australia, David Parker, is found guilty of perjury while he was under oath at the 1991 WA Inc. Royal Commission.
A military inquiry into the Black Hawk disaster that caused the death of 18 soldiers during an exercise near Townsville finds that planning wasn't up to scratch and safety procedures were lacking.
Moreland Council in Melbourne temporarily halts the Optus cable roll-out.
NSW Premier \JBob Carr\j is under fire from the timber industry and environmentalists when he postpones a crucial meeting regarding logging in the State's forests.
The NSW Opposition says that they will accept a seat on the SOCOG board, despite the Government failing to assure that certain board members will still be there in 2000.
The Commonwealth Ombudsman, Philippa Smith, claims that complaints of abuse of power by public servants are on the increase and budget cuts could make it worse.
#
"September 19, 1996",255,0,g,0
Prime Minister \JJohn Howard\j meets with Japanese Prime Minster, Ryutaro Hashimoto.
The Federal Government announces the approval of a new HIV/AIDS drug, ritonavir.
The Federal Government considers changing media ownership rules that would see cross-media rules replaced with a new rule limiting the amount of ownership.
Queensland Premier Robert Borbidge wants to hold an inquiry into police corruption in the State.
A Sydney couple is ordered to pay $50,000 to a homosexual they vilified.
Ministers throughout Australia meet in Darwin to talk about changing public housing funds into cash payments for low income earners living in public housing.
Minister for Olympics, Michael Knight, refuses to support a position for Nick Greiner on the board of SOCOG.
Sprinter Dean Capobianco, who tested positive for drugs at the Atlanta Olympics, announces that he wants to sue Athletics Australia to recover legal costs incurred for defending the charges.
The chief executive of pay-TV operator Optus Vision, Geoff Cousins, announces his retirement; meanwhile Optus announces that it now has over 100,000 subscribers, far more than many experts predicted.
#
"September 20, 1996",256,0,g,0
Australian scientists announce that they have found rock art in the Kimberley region in Western Australia believed to be the oldest known in the world, possibly up to 75,000 years old; artefacts were also found that scientists predict could be 176,000 years old, meaning Australia was probably occupied 110,000 years longer than previously believed.
SOCOG's Graham Richardson announces that Golden Girl \JBetty Cuthbert\j, winner of 4 Olympic gold medals, is the favourite to carry the Olympic flame around the stadium at the opening of the 2000 Games in Sydney.
Former Western Australian deputy premier, David Parker, is sentenced to 18 months imprisonment after being found guilty of lying at the 1991 WA Inc. Royal Commission.
Student groups are dismayed when the Australian Vice-Chancellors Committee supports the Federal Government's decision to increase university fees.
Despite Sydney dam levels reaching a peak since January 1994, the State Government announces that a review on lifting water restrictions will be conducted only when levels stabilise.
#
"September 21, 1996",257,0,g,0
Following a recent archaeological discovery revealing that Australia may have been occupied up to 176,000 ago, scientists claim that modern man possibly evolved first in South East Asia and not Africa.
The Dalai Lama takes part in the first ever performance in Australia of the Kalachakra, a Tibetan Buddhism spiritual ceremony.
AFL's Sydney Swans win a home-ground semi-final against Essendon; the Swans, in their first grand final since 1945, now face North Melbourne.
Former Olympians \JDawn Fraser\j, \JShirley Strickland\j, \JShane Gould\j, and \JMurray Rose\j are likely to join \JBetty Cuthbert\j in carrying the Olympic flame at the opening of Sydney 2000.
#
"September 22, 1996",258,0,g,0
The Australian Medical Association condemns the Federal Government's decision to limit the number of new doctors in Australia.
The National Tertiary Education Union asks the Senate to block the introduction of fee increases for new students.
New figures reveal that Chinese immigrants rose by 200% in the last financial year.
#
"September 23, 1996",259,0,g,0
More archaeological excavations are planned for northern Australia, following the recent discovery of artefacts some scientists claim, and others dispute, are between 116,000 and 176,000 years old.
The NSW State Government's forests and wilderness package sees the formation of 10 new national parks, 12 protected wilderness areas and renewable five-year resource contracts for the timber industry.
Minister for Education, Amanda Vanstone, claims that vice-chancellors are feeding students the wrong (and harmful) information regarding budget cuts and fee increases for university students.
\JRupert Murdoch\j's son, Lachlan, is appointed managing director of News Corporation.
The State Bank of NSW officially changes its name to the Colonial State Bank.
Sydney Swan's members complain of a lack of available seats for them at next week's AFL grand final.
Essendon's James Hird and Brisbane's Michael Voss are named joint winners of the 1996 Brownlow Medal.
Olympics Minister Michael Knight announces that the cycling velodrome for Sydney 2000 won't be constructed at the Homebush site.
#
"September 24, 1996",260,0,g,0
The Chinese Government announces that it will punish a number of Australian companies with interests in Beijing if John Howard meets with the Dalai Lama.
Head of the Public Employment Office, Ken Cripps, is stood down by NSW Premier Bob Carr after allegations were raised against him regarding the showing of pornographic videos to minors.
The Independent Commission Against Corruption (ICAC) wants new laws introduced to protect whistleblowers.
The Federal Government will fund extra research into a link between Vietnam veterans' exposure to Agent Orange and spina bifida in their children.
A military inquiry into the Black Hawk disaster in Townsville that killed 18 men has found that the pilots' night vision goggles were not up to standard.
Telstra announces that it will not cut its local calls to the 20 cents that Optus is charging.
The new federal firearms legislation has seen Victorian police collect over 35,000 weapons and South Australian police over 10,000, but not one from New South Wales or Queensland yet; these states are asking for a boost in federal funding to help pay for the surrendered weapons before they collect any.
The Liberal Party announces that it will probably now withdraw its candidate for the Port Macquarie by-election; National Party leader Ian Armstrong had previously threatened to walk out of the Coalition if the Liberal Party submitted a candidate.
#
"September 25, 1996",261,0,g,0
\JJohn Howard\j claims that China is overreacting (about banning business with Australian companies) regarding him meeting the Dalai Lama.
The Liberal Party officially withdraws its candidate for the \JPort Macquarie\j by-election.
The Legal Aid Commission in NSW caps legal aid for criminal cases at $80,000.
Commissioners of the National Inquiry into the Separation of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Children from their Families claim that the Federal Government is not cooperating with them.
Telstra announces that it will complete its digital networking for all Australians by the end of 1998.
Newly-appointed governor of the Reserve Bank, Ian Macfarlane, embarrasses the Federal Government when he claims that their new industrial relations reforms would not boost employment.
The Northern Territory Government announces that a local man has become the first person in the world to die using euthanasia laws.
NSW Premier \JBob Carr\j agrees to talk to BHP executives in Newcastle after it was reported that they might close down the city's steel-making operations.
#
"September 26, 1996",262,0,g,0
\JJohn Howard\j spends thirty minutes in a meeting with the Dalai Lama, despite China's disapproval.
Federal ministers split over the euthanasia debate following the death of a Northern Territory man under the Northern Territory Rights of the Terminally Ill Act.
A new HIV/AIDS drug, Viramune, which has proved to greatly reduce the virus when used in conjunction with other drugs, is set to be released in Australia before approval from the Therapeutic Goods Administration.
Athletics Australia announces that it will not financially help Dean Capobianco, who tested positive for steroids prior to the Atlanta Olympics, when he faces trial.
Lang Hancock's daughter, and his former wife, both battle over the late Lang Hancock's fortunes.
#
"September 27, 1996",263,0,g,0
Nine people are left dead after a cliff collapses on them at Cowaramup Beach, Western Australia, while attending a school surf carnival.
Former politician Andrew Peacock is officially appointed Australia's Ambassador to the United States.
The Federal Minister for Communications, Senator Alston, forces the resignation of five members, and dismisses a sixth, belonging to the board of Telstra.
The devil's marble stone on top of Reverend John Flynn's grave at the foot of Mt Gillen, Northern Territory, is to be handed back to the Aborigines.
State and Territory leaders declare that they want the Federal Government to finance the gun buy-back schemes.
All State and Territory leaders warn the Federal Government to stop interfering with the Northern Territory's euthanasia legislation.
Sydney is in the middle of a yo-yo craze, with some yoyos costing up to $200.
#
"September 28, 1996",264,0,g,0
North Melbourne beats the Sydney Swans in the ARL grand final.
Foreign Affairs Minister Alexander Downer urges the Israeli Government and the PLO to restore peace, following three days of bloodshed.
Western Australian Premier, Richard Court, orders an inquiry into yesterday's rock ledge tragedy that left nine people dead.
Sydney police reopen the 10-year-old case on missing Bondi girl, Samantha Knight, after receiving fresh evidence.
Dancer Pauline Perry, famous in the 1950s for her ostrich-feather fan dances, dies at the age of 84.
#
"September 29, 1996",265,0,g,0
Manly beats St. George in the AFL grand final.
The Federal Government announces that it will meet with disgruntled State and Territory leaders regarding its funding of the gun buy-back schemes.
The Federal Government announces that the pedophile inquiry into the Department of Foreign Affairs staff may be in jeopardy if a disqualification application passes through the courts.
#
"September 30, 1996",266,0,g,0
Port Arthur massacre gunman, Martin Bryant, pleads not guilty in the Hobart Supreme Court for all 72 charges of murder and attempted murder.
The drought-declared area of NSW is expected to fall to 29 per cent for October compared with 39 per cent in September.
The Australian Jockey Club committee suspends trainer Gai Waterhouse for three months for not running a horse to its potential.
The Federal Minister for Trade announces that trade relations with Asia may have been damaged following Independent MP Pauline Hanson's recent anti-Asian speech.
The Federal Government announces that Newcastle and Canberra airports may need to be upgraded in time for the Sydney 2000 Olympic Games.
The doctor who assisted in the death of the first man to die under the Northern Territory euthanasia legislation, now faces an inquest into two earlier deaths of heroin addicts.
The Federal Department of Transport announces that an air safety overhaul is in the pipeline following a release of a report on the Seaview air disaster of 1994 where nine people died en route to Lord Howe Island.
A severe rain and wind storm strikes Sydney and surrounding areas, causing millions of dollars worth of damage, while Armidale, in the State's north, reports winds of up to nearly 160 km/h and hail stones as big as golf balls.
#
"October 1, 1996",267,0,g,0
The Federal Government announces that the proposed media ownership inquiry will now be dumped.
The NSW State Government drops the neo-natal ChildFlight helicopter service in favour of a Canberra-based service.
Port Arthur gunman Martin Bryant's lawyer, David Gunson, resigns.
Babies under a year old in NSW are no longer permitted to ride in taxis without an approved baby capsule.
The chairman of Stadium Australia announces that over 50 per cent of the 34,000 $10,000 gold member passes for the Sydney 2000 Games and other events have already been requested.
\JJohn Howard\j announces that a referendum on whether Australia should become a republic or not will only take place if it is found that a high proportion of citizens are in favour of a republic.
The State of NSW begins to buy back illegal weapons from dealers.
Coles/Myer announces a 34 per cent slump in earnings over the last year.
The Attorney-General announces that the Government may try to overturn the High Court's decision to enshrine the right to free political speech in the Constitution.
#
"October 2, 1996",268,0,g,0
The Federal Treasurer, Peter Costello, publicly reveals a discussion he had with the US Federal Reserve chairman regarding America's interest rate secrets.
A Dutch company makes a $2 billion bid for the Australian transport group TNT.
Free speech advocates condemn the Federal Government for deciding to overturn the constitutional right to free speech.
A recent wind and rain storm in Armidale is expected to have a damage bill of up to $100 million.
#
"October 3, 1996",269,0,g,0
Environmentalists win a temporary injunction against removing or damaging any mangroves to develop a multi-million dollar marina opposite Hinchinbrook Island.
The Australian Securities Commission announces that they will investigate unusual trading in TNT following the announcement of a $2 billion foreign take-over bid. Meanwhile founder of TNT, Ken Thomas, wants the Federal Government to intervene in the sale of TNT, saying it should be kept in Australian hands.
Community groups urge the balance of power in the Senate to block certain aspects of the Federal Government's workplace relations legislation.
The Federal Government's handing over of health services to the States may be in jeopardy if the Government doesn't promise funding.
\JJohn Howard\j is being pressured to publicly reject Independent MP Pauline Hanson's anti-Asian comments.
#
"October 4, 1996",270,0,g,0
The Australian Securities Commission freezes $9 million worth of proceeds from unusual trading in TNT.
News Ltd wins a Federal Court ruling to allow Super League to begin operating in 1997, with the big winners Foxtel, Galaxy and \JRupert Murdoch\j, and the main losers Optus Vision and \JKerry Packer\j.
The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) announces it will allow a joint satellite venture between pay-TV operators Australis Media and Optus Vision.
An Australian pilot imprisoned for over 4 months in Somalia for landing a plane there is freed following intervention from the Kenyan Government.
The Royal Australian Navy replaces their official uniform of bell-bottom trousers with straight-legged pants.
Due to falling enrolments, the University of NSW announces that it may financially help students through science degrees.
Research at the fossil site at Riversleigh, Queensland, is in jeopardy due to funding cuts.
#
"October 5, 1996",271,0,g,0
The Cancer Council predicts an increase in skin cancers as the hole in the ozone layer over Australia will be bigger this summer.
ARL chairman Ken Arthurson admits to being in a state of shock over the Federal Court's decision to give Super League the go ahead.
Pay-TV operator Optus Vision looks at securing finance for the ARL Optus Cup it is sponsoring.
#
"October 6, 1996",272,0,g,0
Recently released research suggests that patients who receive blood transfusions are at risk of contracting hepatitis G.
The ministerial debate over whether or not the Federal Government should intervene in the Northern Territory's euthanasia legislation continues.
The International Monetary Fund wants Australia to cut holiday loading, superannuation and sick leave in order to increase employment.
Ten people are seriously ill after overdosing on drugs at a Gold Coast nightclub.
NSW Premier \JBob Carr\j announces a new reimbursement system for Sydney motorists using the M4 and M5 tollways.
#
"October 7, 1996",273,0,g,0
Peter Doherty, an Australian Professor, jointly wins the Nobel Prize for Medicine for his role with Swiss Professor Rolf Zinkernagel in demonstrating how the immune system recognises virus-infected cells.
The Federal Government announces that it will continue with its pedophile inquiry into the Department of Foreign Affairs staff even if the inquiry head is disqualified.
Taronga Zoo in Sydney celebrates its 80th birthday.
Experts reveal that recipes of a designer drug which saw ten people hospitalised on the Gold Coast are freely available on the Internet.
The Australian Opera and the Victorian State Opera announce that they will merge in 1998.
Emergency repair work commences on the Hume Dam on the Murray River following a sudden shift downstream.
Pressure is on \JJohn Howard\j to formally respond to Independent MP Pauline Hanson's anti-Asian speech.
#
"October 8, 1996",274,0,g,0
Labor politician Geoff Gallop is announced as Western Australia's new opposition leader.
Surviving victims of the Port Arthur massacre are expected to receive compensation pay-outs on a pro rata basis.
Compensation claims are expected to be lodged following the release of 900,000 megalitres from Hume Dam which is causing flooding on some properties.
Former actor Jon Blake's $34.9 million compensation pay-out for injuries received in a car accident in 1986 is to be reduced because it was found that he was under the influence of alcohol at the time.
Pay-TV operator Optus Vision announces that they will fund the embattled ARL competition to the tune of $120 million.
A recent poll reveals that up to 75 per cent of Australians are in favour of the Northern Territory's euthanasia legislation.
#
"October 9, 1996",275,0,g,0
The Dunghutti people of Kempsey are granted their native title claim, the first such granting on the mainland under the Native Title Act.
The Federal Minister for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Affairs, Senator Herron, narrowly survives a censure motion.
The Federal Government announces that it will not approve any more funds for the trustee gathering evidence that could see \JChristopher Skase\j brought to justice.
Just over half of the 300 nurses working at Dandenong Hospital in Victoria test positive to tuberculosis.
It is reported that Foxtel is under no obligation to show Super League on free-to-air stations because the game is not covered under government regulations.
The fatal rabbit calicivirus disease is officially released in southern NSW, hoping to eradicate millions of feral rabbits.
A submission to harvest krill off the Antarctic coast is to be put to the Antarctic fisheries managers.
#
"October 10, 1996",276,0,g,0
Christine Wheeler is named Western Australia's first female Supreme Court Judge.
The Federal Minister for Resources claims that Australia has to seriously consider a program of continental and deep water exploration as the country has only approximately 14 years worth of oil left.
The Federal Government decides not to increase fees for Family and Federal courts.
Plutonic Resources discovers a promising gold province in the Yandal belt of Western Australia.
The Pay-TV industry saga continues as Foxtel prepares to launch legal action against Australis Media's satellite deal with Optus Vision.
Following the announcement that the hunt for \JChristopher Skase\j is to be abandoned due to lack of funding, Prime Minister \JJohn Howard\j announces that he will try to overturn this decision in order to bring Skase to justice.
#
"October 11, 1996",277,0,g,0
A court decision not to disqualify the head of the inquiry into pedophile activities within the Department of Foreign Affairs causes disagreements between the Federal Government and the Opposition.
NSW Premier \JBob Carr\j announces that BHP is conducting a search for gold and other metals around the Broken Hill area.
As a result of funding cuts to public housing, thousands of jobs are expected to be lost in NSW's building and related industries.
The Attorney-General is expected to announce within days whether funding will be supplied for the search for \JChristopher Skase\j's missing millions.
The Sydney Organising Committee for the Olympic Games (SOCOG) considers fencing the entire Homebush site for security reasons.
The International Monetary Fund (IMF) expresses concern over Australia's rising current account deficit and poor levels of saving.
#
"October 12, 1996",278,0,g,0
The Federal Government reveals that over 75,000 guns nationally have so far been handed in under the guns buy-back scheme.
\JChristopher Skase\j's trustee announces that he would need another six months to gather all the incriminating evidence on Skase.
The NSW Government announces that it will ban the designer drug, Fantasy, which was responsible for the recent hospitalisation of ten people on the Gold Coast.
A report on the operator of the Seaview disaster plane which killed nine people en route to Lord Howe Island in 1994, finds that safety standards were breached.
#
"October 13, 1996",279,0,g,0
The Federal Opposition calls for the Treasurer, Peter Costello, to resign, as his wife holds shares in the Commonwealth Bank, therefore breaching the Prime Minister's code which advises ministers. Meanwhile, the Assistant Treasurer, Jim Short, announces his resignation as information is released that he approved an operating licence for an ANZ Bank subsidiary while holding shares there.
It is reported that approximately $1 million has been paid to Tasmanian gun owners who have handed in banned weapons.
Brad Robinson, best remembered as the guitarist in the band Australian Crawl, dies from cancer.
The NSW Government prepares to introduce new laws for private landholders in order to protect native wildlife.
The International Olympic Committee warns the Sydney Organising Committee for the Olympic Games that they should prepare for up to 1,000 more athletes than originally expected.
Rob Kyle, one of the last remaining Anzacs from Gallipoli, dies aged 98.
#
"October 14, 1996",280,0,g,0
The only known stegasaur footprints in the world, believed to be 130 million years old, are stolen from hard rock at an Aboriginal site near Broome, Western Australia.
St George Bank announces that it will buy Advance Bank -- a move that is sure to cost hundreds of jobs.
The Paralympics Federation of Australia launches their new logo for the Sydney 2000 Games, exactly four years before they are due to commence.
Just days after the announcement that some Federal Ministers are breaching ministerial standards because they hold certain shares, the Minister for Industry, Science and Tourism, Mr Moore, announces that he too holds shares, this time in a Brisbane-based company.
Golfer \JGreg Norman\j announces that he will not accept appearance money for the next three Australian Opens.
Responding to the International Olympic Committee that Sydney should make arrangements for more athletes than originally expected in 2000, the Sydney Organising Committee for the Olympic Games announces that they cannot possibly accept any more than 10,000 athletes.
The NSW Government admits that it may not be able to stop BHP from closing its steel-making operations in Newcastle.
Ecologists from the Department of Land and Water Conservation in NSW announce that they have discovered a way in which zooplankton can be used to control outbreaks of blue-green algae in the State's waters.
It is reported that taxpayers forked out over one million dollars in 1995 on travel and staff costs for the five former prime ministers in 1995.
The Opposition Leader, \JKim Beazley\j, wants the Prime Minister, \JJohn Howard\j, to support a motion reaffirming multiculturalism, a non-discriminatory immigration policy and Aboriginal reconciliation.
The share market closes with the all ordinaries at 2363.3 -- its highest level since the beginning of 1994.
Pay-TV operator Australis Media is given the go ahead to receive its much-needed million dollar bond issue.
#
"October 15, 1996",281,0,g,0
Prime Minister \JJohn Howard\j contemplates changing his ministerial code in the wake of yet another minister, Brian Gibson, resigning because he held shares in a company that he made administrative decisions for.
The Federal Government announces that it will trial high-tech military units using advanced equipment in order to keep up to date with changes in warfare.
The Federal Government plans to overhaul current divorce laws.
The Sydney Organising Committee for the Olympic Games (SOCOG) announces that it will not fund airfare and accommodation for extra athletes if the International Olympic Committee (IOC) increases the numbers.
The International Paralympic Committee (IPC) announces that it wants to merge with SOCOG.
Prime Minister \JJohn Howard\j succumbs to pressure and announces that he will negotiate a bipartisan statement rejecting racial discrimination.
Scientists want the Federal Government to provide more protection for Australia's heritage and fossil sites in the wake of the recent theft of dinosaur footprints in Western Australia.
#
"October 16, 1996",282,0,g,0
The Federal Government announces that it will fund 100% of the gun buy-back schemes.
Olympic gold medallist and cyclist Kathy Watt sues the national cycling coach, Charlie Walsh, claiming defamation.
The Federal Government rules out any form of financial compensation to indigenous people or their families who were separated by force up until the late 1970s.
The Federal Minister for Employment, Senator Vanstone, is forced to apologise over creating a story in order to justify cutting Austudy's budget.
The Federal Ministers' share saga continues as it is announced that another minister, this time the Deputy Prime Minister, Tim Fischer, owns BHP shares.
The Reserve Bank is reluctant to cut interest rates because of excessive wages growth.
#
"October 17, 1996",283,0,g,0
Prime Minister \JJohn Howard\j apologises to the nation for the carelessness of some Federal Ministers who hold shares and are therefore breaching ministerial code.
The Federal Opposition claims that the Federal Finance Minister, John Fahey, is not fit to hold office as it is announced that he failed to declare his half share and directorship in a company in the Federal register of interests.
The NSW Government lifts the two-year water restriction ban as dam levels have reached 76.8 per cent capacity and a wet summer is predicted.
Pay-TV Optus Vision shareholders, Channel Seven, claims that Optus Vision does not have the necessary funds to rescue the Australian Rugby League.
A United States report claims that Australia has the second highest rate of child poverty in the developed world.
#
"October 18, 1996",284,0,g,0
Universities record low sign-up numbers, blaming the Federal Government for increasing the Higher Education Contribution Scheme (HECS).
The Australian Commonwealth Games Association chooses Melbourne over Brisbane and Darwin as Australia's chosen city to bid for the 2006 Commonwealth Games.
Aboriginal leaders condemn the Federal Government's decision to change the Native Title Act.
The Bureau of Meteorology claims that the hole in the ozone layer over the Antarctic is bigger than ever before.
#
"October 19, 1996",285,0,g,0
Liberal candidate Jacki Kelly wins the NSW Lindsay by-election; Ms Kelly was forced to give up this seat when it was announced that she was previously elected while still being employed by the Federal Government.
The Federal Government announces that it will consider funding up to $80 for pre-marital counselling in order to cut the high divorce rate.
#
"October 20, 1996",286,0,g,0
The majority of the Liberal Party's Federal Council members say that the Northern Territory should be able to pass laws on euthanasia without interference from the Federal Government.
Officials of the Sydney Organising Committee for the Olympic Games (SOCOG) reject any ideas that the organisation is unstable following the departure of a senior manager.
Trainee doctors consider strike action over the Federal Government's decision to cut Medicare provider numbers for new doctors.
Both the Liberal and Labor parties announce that they will swap preferences in the next election for Independent Pauline Hanson's seat of Oxley following her recent controversial anti-Asian speech.
\b21st\b
Outspoken Independent Pauline Hanson considers starting her own political party as Liberal and Labor both announce that they will swap preferences for her seat in the next election.
The managing director of the ABC claims that it will be a struggle for the ABC to keep up its comprehensive broadcasting service following budget cuts.
The Federal Government lifts a ban on new uranium contracts with France.
The Federal Government signs a defence agreement with Singapore which allows the Singapore airforce to base 12 Super Puma helicopters in Oakey, Queensland in order for them to develop flying skills.
A Sydney Water report indicates that a parasite which causes gastro symptoms is at times present at high levels in Sydney's drinking water.
Australia's ambassador to the United Nations reports that he is confident that Australia will be elected for a two-year seat on the United Nations Security Council.
\b22nd\b
Australia fails in its bid for a two-year seat on the United Nations Security Council; Sweden and Portugal beat Australia with more votes.
The Catholic Archdiocese of Melbourne is working with a sex crime consultant to help deal with pedophiles among the clergy.
More charges are laid against pedophiles Robert Dunn and Phillip Bell, however they are believed to be residing in countries that have no extradition treaties with Australia.
The Australian Jockey Club announces that they won't be revoking the licence of Gai Waterhouse following a recent three month ban she received for allegedly not running a horse to its potential.
Pay-TV operator Australis Media's $US150 million bond issue may be in jeopardy as they try to negotiate with investors.
NSW Premier \JBob Carr\j fails in his attempt to broaden the NSW Police Royal Commission's terms of reference for investigating pedophilia, and over twenty MPs demand to discuss these new terms of reference.
Independent Pauline Hanson, whose controversial anti-Asian anti-Aboriginal maiden speech caused the Liberal and Labor parties to announce that they will swap preferences for her seat in the next election, secures backing from the right-wing group the League of Rights. Meanwhile Olympic silver medallist \JCathy Freeman\j labels her a troublemaker.
#
"October 23, 1996",287,0,g,0
The Human Rights and Equal Opportunity Commission considers calling controversial Independent Pauline Hanson to answer questions about comments she recently made regarding Asians and Aborigines.
Under proposed new legislation in NSW, heritage-listed property owners may have to pay for their own repairs to their properties.
The NSW Aboriginal Legal Service, on behalf of the Widjabal clan, makes a native title claim for 100 pockets of land around north-eastern NSW.
The Tasmanian Government withdraws from a plan to seize assets belonging to the alleged Port Arthur massacre gunman.
Some NSW police officers who were dismissed after evidence was given at the Royal Commission, decide to proceed with legal action in order to retrieve their jobs.
NSW Premier \JBob Carr\j is forced to calm rebel Labor backbenchers after they demand that the Police Royal Commission investigates all cases of pedophilia.
#
"October 24, 1996",288,0,g,0
The NSW State Government allocates $5.5 million to help prevent the high youth suicide rate.
Two private member's bills are introduced into the NSW State Government to ban smoking in all restaurants, pubs and clubs.
The Geographical Names Board reopens an investigation into the correct spelling of Australia's highest mountain, Mt Kosciusko; Polish explorer Paul Strzelecki, who was the first man to climb it, named it Kosciuszko with a 'z'.
Aboriginal artist Lin Onus dies at the age of 47.
US investors refuse a 16 per cent interest rate offer from pay-TV operator Australis Media; if Australis doesn't raise $US150 million in the near future, it faces falling into receivership.
#
"October 25, 1996",289,0,g,0
British and Australian researchers claim that Arnhem Land rock art has provided evidence that Australian Aborigines have the world's oldest religion, dating back 6,000 years.
The Independent Commission Against Corruption (ICAC) is warned that it may not survive for much longer if it doesn't regain support from the public.
For the first time in over 20 years, some lenders have slashed home loan variable rates to below 8 per cent.
State governments across Australia accuse the Federal Government of breaking election promises to maintain funding for legal aid.
Northern Territory's Chief Minister, Shane Stone, announces that he will amend the euthanasia law to ban residents outside of the Northern Territory from using it.
Attorney-General Department figures reveal that the number of bankruptcies for the last 15 months has been more than for the recession period in 1990-91.
#
"October 26, 1996",290,0,g,0
Under proposed new NSW state laws, politicians who sexually harass their employees could face fines of up to $40,000 and/or prison sentences.
Police in NSW and QLD investigate death threats against controversial Independent Pauline Hanson.
#
"October 27, 1996",291,0,g,0
Following a deal with the Democrats, the Federal Government makes changes to its Workplace Relations Bill that will see the government gain more powers to regulate wages and conditions; this bill is set to become the first major legislation to be passed by the Senate.
The MP who introduced a private member's bill to try to overturn the Northern Territory's euthanasia legislation rejects the Territory's proposed compromise to ban people outside the Northern Territory from using it.
Gladys Berejiklian is elected the new Young Liberals president; the first female to be elected president since 1988.
\JKerry Packer\j's PBL may help save embattled pay-TV operator Australis Media before they run out of time and money and are placed into receivership.
ANZ Bank announces that it will shed thousands of jobs over the next few years.
#
"October 28, 1996",292,0,g,0
Voters in Federal Parliament overwhelmingly support the conscience vote to overturn the Northern Territory euthanasia bill.
Platinum passes to Sydney's Olympic Stadium, worth $34,000 each, become available to the public.
An Australian art collector pays a world record price for Aboriginal art -- $20,000 for a Tiwi figure sculpture by Aurangnamirri.
Prime Minister \JJohn Howard\j faces criticism from South-East Asian newspapers for not responding harshly to Pauline Hanson's anti-immigration anti-Asian speech.
NSW's CityRail announces that, due to budget cuts, a 15% fare increase is imminent in the near future.
The ACTU president, Jennie George, urges Senator \JCheryl Kernot\j of the Democrats to change the Workplace Relations Bill after the Democrats made a deal with the Federal Government to pass it through the Senate.
South Australia's State Cabinet approves the first stage of the budget for the state's hi-tech 'smart city' -- an $850 million plan that will see over 3,500 hi-tech houses built eventually accommodating 10,000 people.
#
"October 29, 1996",293,0,g,0
Prime Minister \JJohn Howard\j accuses Asian newspapers of misrepresenting his views on race.
QLD Premier Mr Borbidge faces a no-confidence vote in parliament following the resignation of the commissioner holding the inquiry into the Queensland Police Union and the Coalition.
Lawyers acting for hundreds of Aborigines and their families who were 'stolen' and taken away as children by the Federal Government announce that they will proceed with legal action following the government's decision not to financially compensate them.
The Australian Democrats and the North Queensland Conservation Council condemn the Federal Government's decision to open up protected areas in the Great Barrier Reef for commercial and recreational fishing.
The Federal Government announces harsh measures to halt foreign doctors from practising in Australia, including a 10-year moratorium on them being issued with Medicare provider numbers.
Pay-TV operator Australis Media settles a much-needed financial deal with investors PBL and Lenfest, rescuing it from going into receivership.
#
"October 30, 1996",294,0,g,0
The Federal Government and the Opposition both endorse a bipartisan motion denouncing racial intolerance; reaffirming the right of all Australians to enjoy equal rights regardless of race, colour, creed or origin; reaffirming the maintenance of a non-discriminatory immigration policy; and reaffirming the reconciliation with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.
The Federal Government pledges urgent humanitarian relief for tens of thousands of refugees caught up in the fighting between Rwanda and Zaire.
The Australian Geological Survey Organisation announces that they have discovered fragments in rock in western Queensland believed to be the oldest discovered ancient fish, possibly 500 million years old.
Victorian Premier \JJeff Kennett\j announces that a $200 million stadium will be built in Melbourne that will probably to be used for soccer at the Sydney 2000 Games, the only event to be held outside of New South Wales.
The Marine Science Association of Australia backs the proposal to allow protected areas in the Great Barrier Reef to be opened for fishing.
QLD Premier Mr Borbidge is certain to survive a parliamentary no-confidence vote regarding the resignation of the head of inquiry into the Queensland Police Union and the Coalition.
\IThe Courier Mail\i newspaper in Brisbane refuses to retract comments it made that famous historian Manning Clark was an agent of the Soviet Union.
#
"October 31, 1996",295,0,g,0
The Tourism Council of Australia alleges that the reason Asian tour groups have recently cancelled Australian trips is due to the Pauline Hanson/Federal Government race debate.
The South Australian Government secures the rights to the World Solar Challenge car race, in future to be held every two years instead of three.
The Federal Government intervenes when an American company who owns priceless footage of the 1956 Melbourne Olympics decides to export it back to their country.
A small bomb explodes in a Sydney city railway station -- the third bomb blast in a Sydney railway station in a week.
The Princess of Wales, Diana, arrives in Sydney to attend a dinner in aid of the Victor Chang Cardiac Research Institute, among other engagements.
Medicare budget cuts come into effect, including cuts to IVF, lens replacement, arthroscopic knee surgery and electrocardiography.
#
"November 1, 1996",296,0,g,0
The Federal Government's small business deregulation task force claims that the taxation system is in need of an overhaul in order to cut paperwork for small businesses.
The Queensland Coalition Government and the Queensland Police Union inquiry is set to resume, following talks between the inquiry commissioner and the Opposition.
The fatal rabbit calicivirus that was recently introduced into NSW to help eradicate feral rabbits has so far been highly successful.
A slump in the retail sector confirms that the economy is slowing down and there is a collapse in consumer confidence.
The Federal Minister for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Affairs, Senator Herron, announces that he wants to change the direction of Aboriginal policy from self-determination to economic independence.
#
"November 2, 1996",297,0,g,0
Former Australian Test cricketer Norm O'Neill announces that he is suffering from throat cancer.
Thousands of people, including Aboriginal, Asian and ethnic groups, gather in Brisbane's King George Square to protest against racism and Pauline Hanson's racist speech.
Economists predict an interest cut of half a per cent in the immediate future.
Qantas and Ansett announce that they will undertake safety checks on their Boeing 737 planes after US authorities claim that the rudders can jam.
#
"November 3, 1996",298,0,g,0
The Deputy Prime Minister, Tim Fischer, announces that Australia won't support Western economic sanctions against Burma but said it would encourage an improved human rights situation.
A development application is lodged for Sydney Tower to display a coloured neon sign of the new 2000 Olympic logo.
The Federal Opposition announces that it will oppose the Government's proposal to limit Medicare provider numbers handed out to junior doctors.
Princess Diana leaves Australia after a brief visit in Sydney.
The Queensland Minister for Police claims that he was persecuted by the Criminal Justice Commission following an investigation into an alleged deal between him and prison officers prior to the Mundingburra by-election.
The Federal Government approves a fishing venture for the Antarctic, however this will be subject to strict guidelines.
The Tourism Task Force urges the Federal Government to inject $25 million to rescue the Asian tourist market, claiming that Asian tourists are staying away following Independent Pauline Hanson's anti-Asian comments.
#
"November 4, 1996",299,0,g,0
Farmers recovering from drought receive $80 million from the Federal Government.
A poll in Victoria sees the state's Labor Party at its lowest level since 1992.
World Heritage sites in Australia reportedly need an urgent financial boost from the Federal Government to upkeep the areas in order to comply with international conservation obligations.
The Black Hawk helicopters involved in the Queensland Air Force disaster in June are cleared of any defects.
Firearms dealers claim that shooters handing in their banned weapons will use the money received to buy brand new legal guns.
The world's largest water filtration plant opens in Prospect, Sydney, with a capacity to filter up to 3 billion litres of water a day.
NSW's lupin crop is becoming infected with the a fatal exotic disease -- Anthracnose.
Former Supreme Court Judge, David Yeldham, QC, commits suicide after being linked with pedophilia in the NSW Wood Royal Commission.
The Queensland Premier, Mr Borbidge, is under pressure to dismiss his police minister, Russell Cooper, who was allegedly involved in secret deals leading up to the Mundingburra by-election.
A national poll shows that Australians are divided over the views put forward by controversial Independent Pauline Hanson regarding immigration and Aborigines.
#
"November 5, 1996",300,0,g,0
A Dutch company buys 13 million TNT shares, securing almost 20 per cent of TNT.
Bart Cummings' horse Saintly wins the 1996 Melbourne Cup.
The NSW TAB sets a new Melbourne Cup Day record with a turnover of approximately $55 million.
The Democrats, who are against plans for some areas of the \JGreat Barrier Reef\j opening for commercial and recreational fishing, claim that the Australian Heritage Commission had not been consulted before this decision was made.
#
"November 6, 1996",301,0,g,0
The building union CFMEU wants the construction industry to absorb the cost of a $60 pay rise for construction workers.
Young doctors across NSW hold a stopwork meeting in protest of the government restricting Medicare provider numbers.
The Chief Justice of the NSW Family Court wants the Federal Government to conduct a royal commission into Australia's child protection system.
The Federal Minister for Transport, Mr Sharp, wants an explanation from the Civil Aviation Safety Authority following a crash-landing of a Falcon Airlines plane in Cairns three days ago.
A major percentage of MPs in the Federal Parliament support a bill outlawing the Northern Territory's euthanasia legislation.
A study by CSIRO finds that Australia's temperatures may not rise so rapidly in the future as previously believed.
Canadian Conrad Black threatens to sell his stake in John Fairfax Holdings if the Federal Government doesn't allow him to raise his shares above 25 per cent.
As most banks announce cuts to home loan rates, it is reported that customers may not benefit for up to two months.
#
"November 7, 1996",302,0,g,0
Port Arthur gunman Martin Bryant changes his earlier plea of not guilty -- he now pleads guilty on all 35 counts of murder.
The Senate rejects the Federal Government's proposed immigration policies.
The number of unemployed people across the nation passes 800,000 -- the highest figure for two years.
Brisbane newspaper \IThe Courier Mail\i admits that it made false allegations that historian Manning Clark was an agent of the Soviet Union.
A deferred salary plan to be introduced in 1997 will enable teachers in NSW to take a year off with full pay.
The Federal Minister for Transport, Mr Sharp, orders a full inquiry into the Civil Aviation Safety Authority and Falcon Airlines following a plane crash in Cairns.
#
"November 8, 1996",303,0,g,0
It is claimed that the mother and the lawyer of Port Arthur gunman Martin Bryant both persuaded him to change his plea from not guilty to guilty.
The Queensland Government gives the town of Port Douglas $20,000 to help clean it up in time for the visit of US President Bill Clinton later this month.
A new book on \JChristopher Skase\j tells how his finances were linked to a businessman connected to the Spanish throne and that he continued to live an extravagant lifestyle while still owing millions of dollars in Australia.
A study reveals that Aboriginal deaths in custody in NSW are nearly twice as much as they were in 1989 when a royal commission was held into Aborginal deaths in custody.
A former Marist brother is sentenced to 18 years imprisonment for sexually abusing his pupils between 1976 and 1987.
The Parliamentary Secretary on Employment wants the job service provider, SkillShare, to have its funds increased instead of a 20 per cent decrease.
Scientists and doctors disapprove of the NSW Cancer Council's decision to cease funding for research grants.
#
"November 9, 1996",304,0,g,0
New Tasmanian laws may see Port Arthur gunman Martin Bryant's assets sold, with the proceeds to go to the Port Arthur massacre victims and/or their families.
Pressure is on \JJohn Howard\j to look at reviewing the nation's taxation system.
#
"November 10, 1996",305,0,g,0
Australian teenager David Dicks is set to become the youngest person in the world to sail solo non-stop around the world when he arrives in Western Australia later this week.
Media companies within Australia announce that they want the cross-media rules abandoned.
Prime Minister \JJohn Howard\j unveils a statue of war hero Sir Edward 'Weary' Dunlop in Benalla, Victoria.
The World Conservation Unit reports that over 900 animal species are critically endangered or vulnerable, including 58 mammals, 45 birds, 37 reptiles, 25 amphibians, 37 fish and 281 invertebrates from Australia.
The Australian Wheat Board reports that the nation's wheat crop has suffered in the past six months due to decreasing world prices for the crop.
In a response to a report that Aboriginal deaths in custody in NSW have almost doubled since 1989, the State Government claims that under one-third were suicides and more than half were from natural causes.
A handful of Australians in Malaysia are due to be deported following their detainment after partaking in a banned conference on East Timor.
Despite pressure from the National Party, Prime Minister \JJohn Howard\j dismisses any consideration of a GST in this term of government.
A leading mine company claims that Australia is on course to achieve record gold production this year.
#
"November 11, 1996",306,0,g,0
The Victorian Government agrees to hand over state industrial relations powers to the Federal Government, effectively pressuring other states to do likewise.
The ACCC supports scrapping foreign media ownership limits.
\JKerry Packer\j announces that he will donate $1 million towards restoring the Australian War Memorial.
Over 100 passengers on a Qantas Airlines' plane bound for Japan and Taiwan suffer from food poisoning.
It is reported that Australia is not prepared for the year 2000 computer bomb -- many computer operations won't be able to cope with information that is dated for the year 2000.
Ted Matthews, the only remaining ANZAC from the first landing at Gallipoli in 1915, turns 100 years old.
Western Australia's Premier, \JRichard Court\j, pledges millions of dollars to an environmental program to capture the green vote for the State.
NSW MPs announce that they will challenge \JBob Carr\j's authority to allow poker machines into hotels.
A Queensland woman is in a coma after contracting a rabies-like disease from a bat -- the disease, lyssavirus 7, is the first known case in Australia.
#
"November 12, 1996",307,0,g,0
The Australian Broadcasting Authority announces that they will conduct an inquiry into Australian content on pay-TV.
Pop star Michael Jackson arrives in Sydney for a tour of Australia.
The Hunter Water Corporation reveals that a recent water sample taken in the area that services \JNelson Bay\j's population had high levels of a parasite that can cause gastro-intestinal disease.
The NSW state parliament votes to allow pubs to install more poker machines, despite heavy protesting from the state's clubs.
The chief executive of the Australian Rugby League, John Quayle, announces his retirement.
#
"November 13, 1996",308,0,g,0
Prime Minister \JJohn Howard\j approves continued funding for the 'chase for Skase'.
Concerns are raised at a NSW Police Association meeting regarding new legislation that will allow the NSW Police Commissioner, Peter Ryan, to dismiss police members if he loses confidence in them.
The former ambassador to Cambodia, John Holloway, is dismissed of a recent child sexual abuse charge.
The Science Advisory Committee of the Australian-New Zealand Breast Cancer Trials Group announces promising results of a new drug to treat breast cancer.
The Australian Army is to provide water supplies to remote Aboriginal communities with no running water, even though funding has already been allocated to carry out such projects.
Health officials in Japan report that almost 350 people were affected by the recent Qantas food poisoning incident, over three times the amount that Qantas previously claimed.
#
"November 14, 1996",309,0,g,0
The Western Australian Premier, Richard Court, announces the date of December 14 for a state election.
Public interest for the $10,000 Olympic stadium gold memberships starts to wane.
Four men are killed when a mine collapses at Gretley Colliery, Wallsend.
Two passenger trains collide in Melbourne; no serious injuries are recorded.
The United Nations is ordered to pay a Queensland catering company up to $26 million, following a long-running dispute over the UN operation in Somalia in 1993.
The Anglican Church in Sydney votes against the ordination of female priests.
#
"November 15, 1996",310,0,g,0
Three people are killed when a Cessna single-engine plane crashes near Canberra.
The Western Australian Government is to hand over 25 million hectares of land to the Ngaanyatjarra Aborigines.
Pop star Michael Jackson marries his pregnant girlfriend Debbie Rowe in a secret Sydney ceremony.
A High Court decision refuses the ARL special leave to appeal over Super League.
Australian scientists studying samples taken from the \JGreat Barrier Reef\j seabed claim that Australia's first settlers arrived over 130,000 years ago.
#
"November 16, 1996",311,0,g,0
International Olympic Committee executives announce that athletes for the Sydney 2000 Games will not exceed 10,200. Sydney 2000 will feature the same 26 sports as held in Atlanta plus two extra, triathlon and tae kwon do.
#
"November 17, 1996",312,0,g,0
Australian David Dicks becomes the youngest person to sail solo non-stop around the world when he docks at Fremantle, Western Australia.
The Queensland Minister for Health, Mike Horan, announces that a task force will be set up to investigate lyssavirus disease, following the death of a woman who contracted it from a bat.
The NSW Government announces that it may close down almost 100 of the state's police stations.
The ACTU rejects the Federal Government's offer of a $24 pay rise for people with low incomes, to be phased in over three years.
#
"November 18, 1996",313,0,g,0
A Russian spacecraft carrying plutonium crashes into the Pacific Ocean near Easter Island. Earlier in the day the Australian Government was contacted by US President Bill Clinton with the news that the spacecraft may land somewhere in northern New South Wales.
The NSW Government considers sending convicted Aborigines to work on farms instead of sending them to prison.
Prime Minister \JJohn Howard\j reports that he will try to ease bilaterial tensions between China and Australia when he meets with the Chinese President, Jiang Zemin, at the APEC summit in a few days time.
Queensland's Premier, Mr Borbidge, announces he will review State Cabinet over the Christmas break.
The Victorian Opposition claims that the State's hospital waiting lists are at their highest level.
Qantas announces that it will increase domestic airfares by 2.5%.
#
"November 19, 1996",314,0,g,0
US President Bill Clinton arrives in Sydney for a short visit.
The Port Arthur massacre gunman, Martin Bryant, appears in court for sentencing, with the prosecution asking that he be sentenced to life imprisonment without parole.
The NSW newly-appointed police commissioner, Peter Ryan, announces tough new reforms for the NSW Police Service, designed to rid the force of corrupt and incompetent officers.
The Senate agrees to pass the experimental fishing project for the \JGreat Barrier Reef\j -- the Democrats, the Opposition and the Greens all disapprove.
The NSW Government announces that workers' compensation payouts will be cut by 25%.
The Federal Government announces that pay-TV companies installing overhead cables will have to use grey cables instead of the current black ones.
The Federal Treasurer condemns the banks for not immediately passing on interest rate cuts to customers.
The NSW Government is to hand back five national parks to their Aboriginal owners.
#
"November 20, 1996",315,0,g,0
US President Bill Clinton arrives in Canberra to address Parliament.
The State Labor Caucus blocks the NSW Police Commissioner Peter Ryan's plans to deny dismissed police officers the right of appeal. Meanwhile thousands of the state's police officers march on Parliament House in Sydney in protest of the Police Commissioner's proposed new laws.
Australian scientists claim that they have found a way to predict rainfall patterns three to six months in advance.
The NSW Premier, \JBob Carr\j, urges other state leaders to pressure Prime Minister \JJohn Howard\j regarding cuts to the state's health budgets.
#
"November 21, 1996",316,0,g,0
The Victorian Government announces the creation of three new national parks and three new coastal parks.
Thousands of people in Western Australia officially welcome home David Dicks, the youngest person ever to sail solo non-stop around the world.
The Australian dollar reaches a six-year high of US80.84 cents.
The Malaysian Foreign Minister claims that the Asian immigration debate in Australia has caused serious damage between Malaysia and Australia.
US President Bill Clinton arrives in Port Douglas, Queensland, for a brief stay.
#
"November 22, 1996",317,0,g,0
An Aboriginal bark painting is sold for $A85,000 in New York, a record price for Aboriginal art.
Port Arthur gunman Martin Bryant is sentenced to life imprisonment without any chance of parole.
Sydney experiences its coldest recorded day in November, while snow falls in Goulburn, Gundaroo, Cooma and Canberra.
Aboriginal ministers in the states and territories reach an agreement to improve the standard of living for indigenous people.
The Australian dollar continues to climb.
#
"November 23, 1996",318,0,g,0
US President Bill Clinton departs Australia following a brief visit.
The AFI award-winning Australian film, \IShine\i opens in the US with extremely favourable reviews.
Up to 5,000 protesters gather at Sydney Town Hall to rally against racism -- the current race debate in Australia started following controversial MP Pauline Hanson's recent anti-immigration speech.
#
"November 24, 1996",319,0,g,0
In the lead up to the APEC summit meeting in Manila, Prime Minister \JJohn Howard\j accepts an offer from the Chinese President, Jiang Zemin, to visit China next year.
NSW Premier \JBob Carr\j states that he will do everything in his power to stop Sydney's second international airport being built at Holsworthy Military Reserve.
The Federal Government considers new reforms for employees in the public service.
Australian pop band Crowded House hold their final performance at the Sydney Opera House in front of a crowd of over 100,000.
#
"November 25, 1996",320,0,g,0
World leaders at the APEC summit endorse steps to establish a single Pacific rim economy by 2020 and also agree to forge the world's biggest free trade zone in the region.
Australian champion golfer Karrie Webb becomes the first woman golfer to earn $US1 million in one season when she wins the US LPGA Tour.
The copper smelter at Port Kembla, New South Wales, is set to reopen, providing over 600 jobs.
Following a Kraft peanut butter food poisoning scare in June, Kraft announces that it will launch a $2 million advertising campaign to reassure Australians that it is safe to eat peanut butter again.
A company in Victoria launches the first mauve carnation, developed by genetic manipulation.
Optus Communications claims that it cannot possibly complete its cable roll-out underground as the cost will be too high.
#
"November 26, 1996",321,0,g,0
Controversial Independent MP Pauline Hanson storms out of a meeting with the Queensland Aboriginal Coordinating Council at Brisbane Parliament House.
The Senate blocks the Federal Government's proposed legislation which would have seen new migrants ineligible for welfare payments for two years.
An inquiry into the Black Hawk helicopter crash that killed 18 people in June reveals that poor planning, lack of communication and stress, all contributed to the collision.
Former opera singer Dame Joan Hammond dies aged 84.
The wealthiest man in the world, Sultan Hassanal Bolkiah of Brunei, invests over $150 million in Macquarie Bank and subsequently becomes the largest shareholder.
The Minister for Olympics announces that up to ten senior executives are urgently needed to join the staff of the Sydney Organising Committee for the Olympic Games (SOCOG) to enable preparations to remain on schedule.
Recent storms in the Coffs Harbour area are expected to cost $100 million in repairs.
#
"November 27, 1996",322,0,g,0
Public hospital doctors plan a 24-hour strike over the Federal Government's plans to restrict Medicare provider numbers.
A NSW state inquiry is to be launched into the recent Gretley Mine disaster, where four miners were killed.
John Olsen becomes the new Premier of South Australia after toppling Dean Brown in a party-poll.
The Federal Government may reconsider its plans to change the Higher Education Contribution Scheme (HECS) repayments.
Locals living near BHP's mine near the Cataract River south of Sydney, protest against BHP expanding the mine.
Louise Sauvage is named Australian Paralympian of the Year, after winning four gold medals at Atlanta.
CSIRO announces a new development in x-rays which could see a decrease in radiation.
The Federal Government warns that taxes may have to rise if the Senate continues to change the Budget legislation.
#
"November 28, 1996",323,0,g,0
The Federal Government says it won't accept the Senate's rejection of proposed changes to welfare payments for new migrants.
Holden announces that it has recalled up to 300,000 new Commodores due to a number of faults.
Coalminers in NSW walk off the job in protest of cuts to workers' compensation payouts.
The Federal Government announces that private health insurance cancellations have dramatically slowed down.
The Democrats, Labor and the Greens are set to oppose changes to the Higher Education Contribution Scheme (HECS).
#
"November 29, 1996",324,0,g,0
The current race debate in Australia (inspired by Pauline Hanson) is apparently deterring Hong Kong business people from migrating to Australia when Hong Kong is handed to China next year.
The Federal Government says it will axe thousands of undergraduate places at universities if the Senate blocks proposed legislation to increase fees.
October's current account deficit blows out to $1.8 billion, the worst figure for eight months.
Stadium Australia is expected to extend its public float for the Olympic Stadium, as the public has been slow to buy the $10,000 gold passes.
The Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) officially opens its new $160 million headquarters in Canberra.
The billion dollar sharemarket listing of Optus Communications is postponed.
#
"November 30, 1996",325,0,g,0
Robert Oakeshott of the National Party wins the \JPort Macquarie\j by-election in NSW.
#
"December 1, 1996",326,0,g,0
The Aboriginal Larrakia people announce that they will lodge a native title claim for Darwin and surrounding areas. The Northern Territory Chief Minister, Shane Stone, labels the claim a greedy money grab.
Prime Minister \JJohn Howard\j is pressured to call a vote on whether Australia should become a republic or not.
The Federal Government is expected to support proposed restrictions on the amount of media that companies can control, and the regulation of ownership by general competition laws.
#
"December 2, 1996",327,0,g,0
The Australian dollar reaches US82 cents for the first time in six years.
Thousands of koalas on Kangaroo Island, South Australia, may have to be killed if a relocation spot is not found for them.
The Western Australian Labor Party may have to slash half a billion dollars in government spending in order to pay for its election promises.
High temperatures cause a bushfire to burn 100,000 ha of bush in south-east Queensland.
The Sydney Olympic Games gains Westfield as a major sponsor.
Striking coalminers in NSW are expected to return to work following the State Government restoring full workers' compensation benefits.
\JJohn Howard\j is pressured to reverse a decision to cut NSW's hospital budget.
#
"December 3, 1996",328,0,g,0
The NSW Government announces that it will provide legislative protection for the great white shark.
Swimming champion \JDawn Fraser\j is admitted to hospital again (she was admitted earlier this year at the Atlanta Games) for a suspected angina attack.
The Broad Arrow Cafe in Port Arthur, where Martin Bryant fatally shot 20 people in April, is demolished, to make way for a memorial garden.
Hundreds of junior medical students gather outside \JJohn Howard\j's Sydney office to protest against proposed cuts to Medicare provider numbers.
Plans to increase student fees for universities are set to pass through the Senate after the two Independent senators approve the increase.
#
"December 4, 1996",329,0,g,0
\JAlan Bond\j pleads guilty on two charges of corporate fraud which may see him spend up to ten years in prison.
The NSW Crime Commission recommends that two men be charged with the murder of NSW Labor politician John Newman two years ago.
A military inquiry into the June Black Hawk helicopter disaster in Queensland finds that the head pilot was quite possibly a major cause of the accident.
The Senate passes the Federal Government's Higher Education Contribution Scheme bill that will see an increase in payments for students.
The Federal Government postpones signing a European trade agreement because it contains a commitment to human rights.
The NSW Government reveals that it will publicly float the NSW TAB next year.
#
"December 5, 1996",330,0,g,0
The Federal Police find $50 million worth of cannabis in a container at Port Botany, Sydney.
The Australian Sports Commission announces that sports such as athletics, cycling, gymnastics and handball will lose some funding, while swimming, rowing, hockey and shooting will all have increases in funding.
Pay-TV group Australis Media reports a loss of $443 million since it began trading almost three years ago.
The part sale of Telstra is set to go ahead following the support of the two Independents in Parliament.
#
"December 6, 1996",331,0,g,0
Stadium Australia announces that it will extend its deadline on the sale of the $10,000 gold passes for the Olympic Games, as sales are going a lot slower than expected.
Mr Gatjil Djerrkura is appointed chairman of the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Commission (ATSIC).
Former NSW MP Tony Aquilina is released on bail after being found guilty of fraud.
The Federal Government announces that it may open up wilderness and forest areas around the country for mining.
#
"December 7, 1996",332,0,g,0
\JDawn Fraser\j is released from hospital following a suspected angina attack.
#
"December 8, 1996",333,0,g,0
The new chairman of ATSIC says he wants a new emphasis on the needs of Aborigines and closer ties with the Federal Government.
Independent Brian Harradine claims that he will not let the Federal Government sell more than one third of Telstra.
The Australian Payments Clearing Association announces that as from next year, cheques will take three days to clear instead of the current five.
#
"December 9, 1996",334,0,g,0
Four Australians are killed in a plane crash in the highlands of Papua New Guinea.
Former NSW premier Nick Greiner is re-elected to the board of SOCOG.
Sixty top executives of the ABC are set to lose their jobs following massive cuts to the ABC budget.
A last minute effort to withdraw the anti-euthanasia bill in Federal Parliament is defeated.
Thousands of workers in the steel industry vote to strike for 24 hours when they are offered an 8.5% pay rise instead of 15%.
The Federal Police continue to investigate bankruptcy offences by \JAlan Bond.\j
A recent poll suggests that Asian investors have said that due to the current race debate in Australia, our country is a less attractive place to invest in.
#
"December 10, 1996",335,0,g,0
St Vincents Hospital in Darlinghurst, Sydney is to get an $80 million upgrade.
The Democrats aim to gain support in the Senate for mobile phone towers to be distanced at least 300 metres from schools.
The Federal Government may alter proposed cuts to new Medicare provider numbers.
The Australian Security Intelligence Organisation (ASIO) claims that ethnic tensions are increasing in Australia.
The NSW ombudsman claims that juvenile detention centres in the state do not meet international standards.
#
"December 11, 1996",336,0,g,0
The Reserve Bank cuts interest rates to the lowest level in over 20 years prompting major banks to cut their variable rates to 8.25%.
The Senate passes the partial privatisation of Telstra, with a late amendment that will see the Minister for Communications keep the power to direct Telstra to act in the national interest.
The Hunter Valley in NSW is struck by a severe hailstorm, injuring six people and damaging cars and property.
Neil Whittaker is appointed the new chief executive of the ARL.
The NSW Health Department records a massive $337 million deficit for the last financial year instead of the predicted $116 surplus.
#
"December 12, 1996",337,0,g,0
The November national unemployment rate drops 0.3 of a per cent to 8.5 per cent.
The Social Justice Commissioner of ATSIC condemns the Federal Government for its mishandling of the current race debate.
Australia is set to scrap worldwide tariffs in the information technology industry.
#
"December 13, 1996",338,0,g,0
The Federal Defence Department investigates the purchase of land in northern France to erect a national memorial at the site of the 1918 Battle of Hamel.
The Senate blocks the Federal Government's proposed harsh laws for recipients of welfare payments.
The NSW State Government announces details of plans to build the Sydney 2000 athletes' village at Homebush; the plans include building permanent and temporary houses that will use solar power - this will become the world's largest solar-powered suburb.
Fox Studios announces detailed plans for the $150 million Universal Studios-style park to be built at Sydney Showground.
The Federal Immigration Department announces new measures that will see migrants disallowed permanent entry into Australia unless they have a good knowledge of English.
Qantas pilots threaten to strike if management does not guarantee their industrial awards.
#
"December 14, 1996",339,0,g,0
Prime Minister \JJohn Howard\j indicates that he does not want the Queen to open the Sydney Olympic Games in 2000.
The Senate gives the green light for the Federal Government to limit Medicare provider numbers for junior doctors.
The Senate passes, with minor changes, the Federal Government's new social security cuts.
Western Australians vote in the State election.
#
"December 15, 1996",340,0,g,0
The United States Board of Review names Australian film \IShine\i Film of the Year with actor Geoffrey Rush taking out the best actor awards for both the New York Critics Circle and the Los Angeles Film Critics Association.
Liberal politician Richard Court reclaims his position as Premier in the WA state elections.
A new light rail system in Sydney could be started and finished in time for the 2000 Olympics.
The Federal Government condemns Norway and Japan for continuing whaling and increasing the number of whaling vessels.
A national strategy on HIV/AIDS will see spending increased for Aborigines and Torres Strait Islanders.
St George Bank sets out to win the support of Advance Bank shareholders for its $2.65 billion takeover bid.
#
"December 16, 1996",341,0,g,0
Malaysian Prime Minister Dr Mahathir threatens to bring home Malaysian students studying in Australia if racial abuse continues.
Canadian Conrad Black sells his 25 per cent share of John Fairfax Holdings to a New Zealand company because the Federal Government won't allow foreign owners a bigger stake in the Australian media.
Prime Minister \JJohn Howard\j launches the $1.4 billion Family Tax Initiative package.
The Federal Government reverses its decision to axe bounties for shipbuilding and book printing.
A 76-ounce $40,000 gold nugget is found near \JBallarat\j, Victoria.
Western Australian bank BankWest may be forced to compensate customers who were given incorrect information regarding home loans.
#
"December 17, 1996",342,0,g,0
Three executives are appointed for senior positions within the Sydney Organising Committee for the Olympic Games (SOCOG).
\JRupert Murdoch\j accuses the Federal Government of having 'outdated' views on foreign media ownership.
Private health insurance companies may look at limiting a patient's choice of hospital.
Atlanta Olympic gold medallist Susie O'Neill is named Australian Swimmer of the Year.
#
"December 18, 1996",343,0,g,0
\JRupert Murdoch\j continues to attack the Federal Government, this time claiming that Australia is in danger of becoming a 'backwater' it if does not aggressively pursue economic reforms.
It is announced that taxpayers will have to fund a portion of the solar-powered electricity system for the proposed Olympic Village at Homebush.
The Federal Government recommends that health insurance companies should reward young and healthy customers and make the elderly and sick wait longer to claim.
#
"December 19, 1996",344,0,g,0
The Australian car industry calls on the Federal Government to scrap special car tariffs.
Prime Minister \JJohn Howard\j rejects \JRupert Murdoch\j's claims that Australia is becoming an economic backwater.
The Federal Government claims that the ACTU's living wage claim may cost thousands of jobs.
The NSW Government agrees to allow the selling of the $10,000 Olympic Stadium gold passes to companies and not just individuals.
#
"December 20, 1996",345,0,g,0
The Australian film \IShine\i receives five nominations at the American Golden Globe Awards.
The NSW State Industrial Relations Commission grants a 15 per cent pay rise for workers covered by the NSW Transport Industry Award.
Ricky Stuart is named captain of Canberra in the Super League competition.
The date for the 2000 Paralympic Games in Sydney is changed; it will now be held between October 18-29, four days later than at first scheduled.
European Union countries threaten to impose visas for travelling Australians because Australia's rules on visa requirements are too strict.
#
"December 21, 1996",346,0,g,0
Deacon Gloria Shipp is ordained as the first female Aboriginal priest in Australia.
#
"December 22, 1996",347,0,g,0
Victorian Premier \JJeff Kennett\j wants Prime Minister \JJohn Howard\j and Opposition Leader \JKim Beazley\j to commit to major tax reforms after the next Federal election.
The NSW Government announces that it will sell the Mount Arthur North coal seam which will provide millions of dollars for the Budget and create hundreds of jobs.
The Federal Government is involved in a dispute with the Queensland Premier over the future of Cape York Peninsula involving the Wik people who have submitted a land claim for western Cape York.
The newly-appointed President of the NSW Court of Appeal criticises the Federal Government's decision to cut legal aid.
#
"December 23, 1996",348,0,g,0
The High Court's long-awaited decision to allow native title and pastoral leases to co-exist angers the farming and mining industry.
Aboriginal leaders announce that they will put pressure on the Federal Government to overhaul proposed changes to the Native Title Act following the High Court's decision to allow native title and pastoral leases to co-exist.
AFL Sydney Swans player Tony Lockett is charged and released on bail over alleged false documents regarding his champion greyhound.
The Federal Government grants an income tax exemption on the seized assets of Port Arthur gunman Martin Bryant, giving an extra $250,000 compensation to victims.
The Victorian Government Opposition Leader's deputy is dumped and John Thwaites is appointed as the new deputy.
#
"December 24, 1996",349,0,g,0
Prime Minister \JJohn Howard\j announces that he will hold urgent talks in response to the High Court's decision to allow native title and pastoral leases to co-exist.
#
"December 25, 1996",350,0,g,0
The Federal Treasury Department is set to announce more budget cuts.
Reports indicate that immigration in Australia will be cut by up to 8,000 in the next year.
#
"December 26, 1996",351,0,g,0
The Federal Minister for Health announces a launch date of January 1997 for a campaign to increase the nation's low immunisation rate.
Pastoralists in Queensland want the Prime Minister and the Premier to keep out of their dispute with the Wik people who have claimed a portion of Cape York Peninsula.
A French yachtsman competing in a solo round-the-world race calls for help when his boat starts to capsize 2,000 km south-west of Perth.
The Federal Government denies claims that it will drastically cut immigration numbers next year.
#
"December 27, 1996",352,0,g,0
The Australian Medical Association urges the Federal Government to punish speeding drivers more and place tougher restrictions on younger drivers.
An Australian scientist in Queensland announces his invention of new computer equipment which will revolutionise the study of bats throughout the globe.
Legal experts claim that there will be huge compensation payouts if the Federal Government ensures that pastoral leases extinguish native title.
A French yachtsman competing in a solo round-the-world race is rescued by the RAAF south of Western Australia after they received an emergency signal from his boat.
#
"December 29, 1996",353,0,g,0
A senior member of the Federal Treasurer's staff, Peter Boxall, is assigned to oversee massive spending cuts in the May budget.
German-owned yacht \IMorning Glory\i wins the 1996 Sydney-Hobart yacht race in 2 days 14 hrs, 7 mins and 10 secs, breaking a 21-year-old record.
Optus Communications wants to drastically change the ownership structure of pay-TV group Optus Vision so that it can gain greater control.
#
"December 30, 1996",354,0,g,0
The Deputy Prime Minister reports that the Federal Government will make sure that pastoral leases extinguish native title.
The All Ordinaries index at the Australian sharemarket sets a new record, closing at just over 2400.
The Chief Minister of the Northern Territory, Shane Stone, wants to amend the euthanasia law to make it easier for terminally ill people to use it.
Marine scientists around Australia want an urgent overhaul of the nation's fisheries, including addressing problems such as overfishing and inefficiency in the industry.
#
"December 31, 1996",355,0,g,0
Millions of wild rabbits in the Simpson Desert in South Australia have almost been eradicated thanks to the controlled release of the fatal calicivirus disease.
SOCOG announces that major companies to sign up as sponsors for the Sydney 2000 Games guarantee the committee up to $500 million in revenue from marketing.
A native title claim for a 2,300 square kilometre area of sea off the Arnhem Land coastline is opposed by the Federal and Northern Territory governments and the fishing industry.
#
!,!,!,!,!
2#
365,0
"January 1, 1997",1,0,g,0
The national road toll for 1996 officially stands at 1969, slightly lower than the previous year.
Australian scientist Dr Bridget Ogilvie is made a Dame Commander of the Order of the British Empire in the Queen's honours list.
The Malaysian Prime Minister, Dr Mahathir Mohamad, who recently threatened to pull out Malaysian students studying in Australia because of a report of racial abuse, says that Australian and Malaysian relations have not been damaged due to the incident.
The National Party in Western Australia loses one of its four Cabinet seats following the recent state election.
Passengers aboard the \ISpirit of Tasmania\i celebrating New Year's Eve receive a hoax call that a bomb is to explode at midnight.
#
"January 2, 1997",2,0,g,0
The ACT Government declares the two-spined blackfish as vulnerable and the Murray River crayfish, the Macquarie perch, the trout cod and the brush-tailed rock wallaby as endangered.
The Federal Government orders the Pakistani cricket team to remove cigarette advertising from their bats.
A 500-year-old Portuguese coin found on the \JMornington Peninsula\j in Victoria may mean that the Portuguese arrived in Australia 200 years earlier than the British.
The NSW Minister for Industrial Relations wants an inquiry held into the state's WorkCover.
The NSW Department of Health warns that cases of Ross River fever, passed on by infected mosquitoes, are increasing rapidly in the state.
The results of an American Express magazine poll sees travellers picking Sydney as the world's best value-for-money city and the \JGreat Barrier Reef\j as the world's best island/resort area for value.
Opposition Leader \JKim Beazley\j supports the Acting Prime Minister Tim Fischer's proposal for a republican vote.
Pay-TV operators Foxtel, \JOptus\j Vision and Australis Media (Galaxy), all report much lower than expected subscriber numbers, forcing them to pay millions of excess dollars for their programs.
#
"January 3, 1997",3,0,g,0
Private school fees in Sydney are expected to rise dramatically this year.
NSW police admit that they kept quiet about a recent bomb scare that was expected to explode on a Sydney train line on New Year's Eve.
Cyclone Rachel damages cars and properties and causes flooding in \JDarwin\j and heads for \Jthe Kimberley\j region in Western Australia.
Homes and bushland are destroyed during bushfires near \JPerth\j following three days of over 40 degree temperatures.
#
"January 4, 1997",4,0,g,0
Prime Minister \JJohn Howard\j appoints senior Liberal Party official Tony Nutt to oversee changes to the native title legislation.
The strike by Australian jockeys over a pay claim looks set to worsen.
NSW police warn people to be on the lookout for suspicious occurrences on Sydney's rail network following more bomb alerts and threats.
#
"January 5, 1997",5,0,g,0
Eighteen-year-old Australian \JDavid Dicks\j, who recently became the youngest person to sail around the world non-stop, is awarded the Global Achievement Award in London.
The NSW Liberal Party is angry at \JJohn Howard\j for taking away their director, Tony Nutt, for the Federal Government's overseeing of changes to the native title.
The Department of Land and Water Resources considers constructing a 1,500 km walking track from Tweed Heeds to the Victoria Border in time for Sydney 2000.
The president of the International Olympic Committee wants Sydney to host a World Youth Games in 1999.
The Federal Opposition suggests that the Government's handling of reforms to the petrol industry has been a failure.
#
"January 6, 1997",6,0,g,0
The RAAF attempts to rescue two separate yachtsmen in trouble 2600 km south of Western Australia. HMAS \IAdelaide\i sets off from Perth on a two-and-and-half-day trip to rescue them - so far only one sailor has been sighted.
\JGreg Norman\j wins the World Championship of Golf Tournament in Arizona, USA, taking $US1 million prize money.
The Australian Jockey Club fines jockeys up to $3,000 each for taking part in last Saturday's national strike.
Senior executives of the Australian Olympic Committee may not support the idea of holding a World Youth Games in Sydney in 1999, as proposed by IOC president Mr Samaranch.
The Northern Territory Government reveals that a South Australian woman has become the second person to die under euthanasia laws and pressure mounts for the Northern Territory to change the laws to make them more workable.
The Environment Protection Authority reports that Sydney will have to clean up its harbour filth in time for the Sydney 2000 Games.
The current account deficit reaches a one-year record of $1.9 billion for November.
#
"January 7, 1997",7,0,g,0
AWA announces that it may buy up to 75 per cent of the NSW TAB.
Acting Prime Minister Tim Fischer is forced to withdraw his support for a republic, following his recent pro-republic remarks that were not party policy.
A bus crash in \JTenterfield\j leaves two people dead and up to 40 people injured; seat belts are reported to have saved the lives of the dozens of passengers injured.
The NSW Department of Corrective Services approves a move to supply condoms to the state's prisons.
One of the two yachtsmen whose boats overturned 2600 km off the Western Australian coastline has still not been sighted, the other one remains drifting in a liferaft, waiting for an RAAF rescue.
#
"January 8, 1997",8,0,g,0
The Deputy Chief Minister of the Australian Capital Territory, Tony De Domenico, announces that he will resign towards the end of January.
The Dariwal people lodge a native title claim for a large amount of land on NSW's south coast.
Ford Motor Company in Australia claims that a cut to five per cent for car import tariffs would make it very difficult for them to continue operating their large assembly plant in Australia.
Two yachtsmen competing in the solo round-the-world race are still stranded 2600 km off Western Australia; the Frenchman is safe in a liferaft, while the Englishman has still not been sighted anywhere near his upturned yacht.
#
"January 9, 1997",9,0,g,0
A French and an English yachtsmen are both rescued by the RAAF after their yachts overturned during a solo round-the-world race; the Englishman, Tony Bullimore, was miraculously found alive - he had spent the last five or so days in an air pocket under his upturned yacht.
The Australian Defence Force is praised worldwide for the rescue of the two yachtsmen; the cost of the rescue is estimated at around $6 million.
Following the rescue of three yachtsmen by Australia, another yachtsmen, a Canadian, is reported to be missing south-west of Cape Horn.
The NSW Government begins a search for a new head of Treasury, following the departure of Michael Lambert last month.
Whooping cough kills two babies in NSW, while the government strongly urges all parents to immunise their children.
The Opposition Labor Party pushes for more immigration numbers.
#
"January 10, 1997",10,0,g,0
Striking NSW jockeys meet with the Australian Jockey Club to discuss a pay claim.
Englishman Tony Bullimore, the yachtsmen rescued by the RAAF, is set to earn millions of dollars for his miraculous story.
British Prime Minister John Major, along with the Queen, send letters of congratulations to the Australian Defence Force for their efforts to save yachtsman Tony Bullimore.
A NSW Public Service report estimates the cost of running the public service to be almost $2 billion, up from a previous estimate of $700 million.
Scientists investigate ways to stop some wild rabbits developing a resistance to the fatal calicivirus disease - a disease which is currently being used in Australia to eradicate millions of feral rabbits.
#
"January 11, 1997",11,0,g,0
Sydney's Taronga Zoo reports crowds of almost double that at the same time last year since the arrival of western lowland gorillas.
The Retail Traders' Association predicts a tight year for 1997 in the wake of poor Christmas trading.
#
"January 12, 1997",12,0,g,0
Thousands of civilians and government officials are expected to welcome rescued yachtsmen Thierry Dubois and Tony Bullimore when they dock in Fremantle tomorrow.
The Australian Civil Aviation Safety Authority confirms that it will look into the nation's Boeing 747s following the news that a major plane crash off New York was probably caused by the fuel tank exploding.
The Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Commission (ATSIC) warns the Federal Government not to extinguish native title.
Federal Police apply to extradite eight men in New Caledonia over Australia's largest-ever cannabis haul in Port Stephens last week.
It is rumoured that Kerry Packer may buy out Showboat's management control of the Sydney Harbour Casino.
#
"January 13, 1997",13,0,g,0
\JKerry Packer\j buys out US-based Showboat's management control in the Sydney Harbour Casino for $340 million.
More than 200 victims and/or families of the April Port Arthur massacre receive over $3 million from the Port Arthur Victims Appeal Fund.
Over 50 koalas in the Port Stephens area, suffering from the disease chlamydia, may be destroyed when they are moved from a sandmining area so that they don't infect healthy koalas.
Jockeys throughout Australia vote to join the Australian Workers Union and a mediator is to be found to help settle the pay dispute.
Advance Bank approves the final stage of St George Bank's takeover bid.
Rescued yachtsmen Tony Bullimore and Thierry Dubois, along with the crew of the HMAS \IAdelaide,\i arrive in Fremantle to a huge crowd, including politicians and journalists.
#
"January 14, 1997",14,0,g,0
The RTA advises motorists travelling in peak hour in Sydney to keep their windows and vents closed following \JCSIRO\j's findings that carcinogen levels are over 25 times the normal level.
The market value of Kerry Packer's PBL jumps more than $260 million in three days following his Sydney Harbour Casino purchase.
\JLes Murray\j wins the $10,000 T.S. Eliot Prize for Poetry for his \ISubhuman Redneck Poems\i collection.
The Australian Olympic Committee's $7 million investment in Cairns Reef Casino may be in jeopardy following the suspension of Reef Casino Trust's stock.
The Federal Government announces that it will change the law so that thousands of owners of semi-automatic weapons who belong to military-style gun clubs will have to hand in their banned guns.
Rescued British yachtsman Tony Bullimore undergoes medical treatment in Western Australia for frostbite and trenchfoot.
#
"January 15, 1997",15,0,g,0
The Australian Antarctic Division reports that they have some evidence that the Big Ben Volcano on Heard Island, Australia's only active volcano, may have erupted in late December.
Prime Minister \JJohn Howard\j is expected to travel to Asia in April to patch up relations with China and to secure a $3 billion defence deal with Malaysia.
Channel Nine is believed to have secured the rights to screen Super League.
Australian scientist, Professor Colin Masters, shares the $257,000 King Faisal International Prize for Medicine with two scientists overseas for his work on Alzheimer's disease.
The Australian sharemarket reaches an all time high with the All Ordinaries closing at 2438.2.
#
"January 16, 1997",16,0,g,0
Australian Internet service provider, OzEmail, introduces Net phone, a service which will enable customers to place overseas telephone calls for a fraction of the price of Optus or Telstra.
Australian unemployment reaches a two-year high at 8.6 per cent.
The Australian dollar falls to a five-month low of US77.6 cents.
Australian cricketer Anthony Stuart becomes only the second Australian to take a hat-trick in an international limited-overs games (vs. Pakistan at the MCG).
#
"January 17, 1997",17,0,g,0
The national jockey dispute is solved in Victoria, with riders accepting the proposed pay rise; however other states are yet to settle the pay disputes.
The Federal Opposition claims that it now supports job sharing, having previously rejected the idea while in office.
Alleged Australian pedophile Philip Bell, who was named in the NSW Police Royal Commission, is arrested in South Africa after Interpol tracked him down.
The success of the Australian film \IShine\i sees David Helfgott's CD of Rachmaninov's Piano Concerto No. 3 hit the best-selling list for a classical record, both here and overseas.
#
"January 18, 1997",18,0,g,0
Thousands of people turn out for the 20th anniversary of Sydney's Granville train disaster, where 83 people were killed in the country's worst-ever train disaster.
Officials in South Africa report that it may take a while before alleged pedophile Phillip Bell can be extradited to Australia to face charges.
In the wake of rising unemployment, \JCheryl Kernot\j, leader of the Democrats, pleads with Prime Minister \JJohn Howard\j to ease cuts in government spending.
#
"January 19, 1997",19,0,g,0
The National Parks and Wildlife Service reports that fifty koalas in the Port Stephens area that were to be culled are now to be saved.
Health experts warn that people infected with malaria on their return to Australia is on the increase.
Accused pedophile, Australian Philip Bell, who was arrested a couple of days ago in South Africa, says he is happy to return to Australia to clear his name.
The third child in three months in NSW, this time a six year old boy, dies from whooping cough, a disease preventable by immunisation.
The developer of the $100 million Port Hinchinbrook resort in North Queensland, Keith Williams, denies that he has breached environmental safety measures.
Scientists claim that preserved flying foxes at a museum in Victoria may provide vital information on the newly-discovered lyssavirus, a disease caused by bats that was linked to the death of a woman in Queensland in November.
Recommendations put forward to the ABC include contracting some of its television shows to the private sector.
#
"January 20, 1997",20,0,g,0
An executive of the Macquarie Bank is charged over the unusual trading in TNT stock that occurred just before a Dutch company made a $2 billion takeover bid for TNT.
A thief robs approximately $1 million from Sydney International Airport; police say he is still at large and have ruled out that he jumped on an overseas plane.
Geoffrey Rush, the star of the Australian film \IShine,\i wins the Golden Globe Award for best actor.
Captured alleged pedophile Philip Bell is denied bail in a South African court.
Prime Minister \JJohn Howard\j calls for an urgent meeting with State and Territory leaders to try to solve the native title/pastoral lease dispute.
Victorian Premier \JJeff Kennett\j suggests that the introduction of a GST is highly likely after the next Federal election.
Officials at the Australian Open tennis centre in Melbourne consider closing the roof to the court following three days of extremely hot weather.
#
"January 21, 1997",21,0,g,0
The Federal Government backs a case on wage reform.
Bushfires rage out of control in and around Melbourne, where 40 homes have so far been lost and two people have died.
The Federal Attorney-General claims that there is a lot of confusion over the extradition proceedings for accused pedophile Philip Bell who is being detained in South Africa.
Aboriginal leaders demand that the Federal Government doesn't extinguish native title on pastoral leases during his meeting with State and Territory leaders today.
Jockeys in NSW reject the Australian Jockey Club's offer of $85 for each losing ride.
The tennis players, coaches and officials have mixed feelings as the roof is closed for the first time during the Australian Open's history due to extreme temperatures in Melbourne.
#
"January 22, 1997",22,0,g,0
As State and Territory leaders meet with the Prime Minister to discuss the High Court's Wik decision, which extinguishes pastoral leases over native title, John Howard says that everyone in the community, including Aborigines, miners, farmers and state governments, will all have to compromise in order to come to a decision. The Federal Government carefully considers changing the native title legislation and may also change the Racial Discrimination Act to circumvent the Wik decision.
The Northern Territory Government announces that a third person has died under the territory's euthanasia legislation.
The Federal Minister for the Department of Community Services, Mr Dyer, announces that he will appoint new senior executives for the department as five positions are currently vacant.
Following \JKerry Packer\j's announcement that he signed a deal with Rupert Murdoch to air Super League games on Monday nights as opposed to ARL games, emotional ARL chairman Ken Arthurson announces his resignation; two other ARL executives also resign.
Police in Victoria claim that the recent bushfires in the Dandenong Ranges, that claimed the lives of three people, were deliberately lit.
#
"January 23, 1997",23,0,g,0
Following weeks of violence in the Sydney suburb of Redfern, police meet with Aboriginal leaders in an attempt to cut the soaring crime rate.
Australia Post releases Sir Donald Bradman stamps; Bradman is the only living Australian to appear on an Australian stamp.
Nova Peris-Kneebone, the first Aborigine to win a gold medal at an Olympic Games, is announced Young Australian of the Year.
Jockeys in NSW come to an agreement with the Australian Jockey Club over their pay dispute.
#
"January 24, 1997",24,0,g,0
Former Prime Minister Paul Keating turns down a Companion of the Order of Australia for the Australia Day honours list.
Following a report that recommends the ABC continues to provide a comprehensive service, the Federal Government says that there will be no further budget cuts.
NSW Police Commissioner Peter Ryan recommends immediate action, starting with the demolition of derelict houses, for the growing crime rate in Sydney's Redfern area where there is a high percentage of Aborigines.
#
"January 25, 1997",25,0,g,0
A man is attacked by a shark off Whitehaven Beach on Whitsunday Island at the \JGreat Barrier Reef\j.
Tania and Lee Kernaghan, brother and sister, both receive awards at the annual Country Music Awards in Tamworth. Tania wins three while her brother Lee wins two. Garth Porter wins the Producer of the Year award for the fifth year in a row.
#
"January 26, 1997",26,0,g,0
The recipient of the 1996 Nobel Peace Prize for Medicine, Australian Peter Doherty, is named 1997 Australian of the Year.
Governor-General Sir William Deane, in his Australia Day address to the nation, says that Australia must achieve reconciliation with its indigenous people by 2001.
A nationwide survey concludes that most Australians support the idea of the Aboriginal flag being incorporated into any new national flag.
#
"January 27, 1997",27,0,g,0
1997 Australian of the Year, Peter Doherty, calls for the government to campaign for a higher immunisation rate for the nation.
Changes to the electoral law will see fines issued for political candidates who publish false or misleading information during election campaigns.
Prime Minister John Howard is determined not to cave in to pressure from the European Union to accept a human rights clause in the European Union and Australian relations agreement.
Accused pedophile Philip Bell, in prison in South Africa, stops a bail application because Australia cancelled his passport.
The NSW Opposition calls for the Federal Government to start organising a People's Convention on a republic.
A bolt of lightning kills two people and injures others in Geelong, Victoria.
The NSW Government considers housing 6,000 media personnel for the Sydney Olympic Games in demountable buildings at the site of the obsolete Lidcombe Hospital.
#
"January 28, 1997",28,0,g,0
The NSW Police Commissioner begins the restructure of the state's police force, starting with the removal of a senior assistant commissioner.
With hundreds of people quitting private health insurance every day, the Federal Government is under increasing pressure to review the nation's health care system.
The Federal Government announces that there will be new budget cuts in May due to the $3 billion blowout in the Budget deficit.
#
"January 29, 1997",29,0,g,0
NSW Premier Bob Carr officially opens South East Forests National Park, the 100th national park in NSW.
NSW Police Commissioner, Peter Ryan, removes 11 more senior police, including the man who was to be head of security during the Sydney 2000 Games.
Economists predict another cut in interest rates due to the current low inflation rate.
The Federal Government considers making immunisation a condition of school entry.
For the first time in 20 years, as of July 1, \JNorfolk Island\j will no longer have an airline service, as Ansett Airlines announces it will stop flying there.
#
"January 30, 1997",30,0,g,0
The Australian Taxation Office announces plans to crack down on tax evasion mainly from small businesses.
The Federal Government wants to change legislation to allow warships to discharge waste into the Great Barrier Reef.
The Federal Government announces that it will amend legislation so that major sports events will be shown free-to-air and not just on pay-TV.
Controversial MP Pauline Hanson's former advisor, John Pasquarelli, starts legal proceedings against Ms Hanson claiming unfair dismissal.
The Australian Heritage Commission and the World Heritage Unit, both departments of the Federal Department of the Environment, claim that the proposed uranium mine at Jabiluka would cause considerable damage to the surrounding \JKakadu National Park\j.
#
"January 31, 1997",31,0,g,0
The Federal Opposition opposes the proposed plans to allow warships to discharge waste into the Great Barrier Reef.
Victoria Premier Jeff Kennett urges the Federal Government not to axe ABC's Radio Australia.
The NSW Government will give Sydney Harbour Casino, controlled by \JKerry Packer\j, a $100 million tax break to attract overseas gamblers.
Universities nationwide may allow students entry in the middle of the year, starting in 1998, in order to raise much-needed cash as government funding has been slashed.
Pastoralists call on Prime Minister \JJohn Howard\j to guarantee that their land remains in their exclusive possession when native title is claimed.
#
"February 1, 1997",32,0,g,0
The Federal Government announces that it will bring in tough new laws for unemployed people, including introducing heavy fines for refusing reasonable job offers and failing to turn up for interviews.
Australia's interest rates for mortgages are set to become the lowest since the 1960s, with a home lender offering a variable rate of 6.99 per cent.
Following a week of heavy rain throughout much of NSW, the north western town of Wee Waa is cut off due to flooding.
#
"February 2, 1997",33,0,g,0
The NSW Minister for Health announces that the state government is to inject a $200,000 grant to the Homicide Victims' Support Group.
Police in NSW claim that the state's courts are "making a mockery of the justice system" by allowing people on bail to fax reports to police stations instead of turning up in person.
The Federal Government admits that the unemployment figure may not fall during its first term in office.
Steve Dargavel wins the by-election for the Canberra seat of Fraser.
A People's Convention on a republic for Australia is set to be held towards the end of 1997.
#
"February 3, 1997",34,0,g,0
Victoria outbids NSW to hold the prestigious President's Cup golf tournament in December 1998.
The Australian Electoral Commission claims that the Liberal Party received over $5.5 million worth of secret donations during 1995/96.
The British yachtsman, Tony Bullimore, who was rescued last month stranded in the Southern Ocean, returns home, following treatment for hypothermia and frostbite.
The Kennett Government in Victoria loses what it thought was a safe seat to Independent Susan Davies in the Gippsland West by-election.
Union membership within Australia drops to a low of 31 per cent of the workforce.
The Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Commission announces that they will inject $6 million into cleaning up the Redfern area in Sydney, with $2 million to be spent straight away on demolishing dilapidated buildings.
Shark experts warn people against swimming in Parramatta River, Sydney following a woman's encounter with a shark while she was rowing.
#
"February 4, 1997",35,0,g,0
The Governor-General announces that convicted criminal \JAlan Bond\j may be stripped of his Order of Australia award.
Accused pedophile Philip Bell, being held in custody in South Africa, is given a reprieve following his lawyers decision to fight an extradition application.
Women police are to occupy half of the senior positions within the NSW Police Service.
The Olympic Games' security head announces that threats have already been made to disrupt the Games in 2000.
Prime Minister John Howard announces that a postal vote to select members for a People's Convention on the republic will be held.
South-west Queensland experiences widespread flooding, with hundreds of people forced to evacuate their homes in and around \JCharleville.\j
#
"February 5, 1997",36,0,g,0
Residents of Charleville, Queensland start cleaning up damage left from floodwaters.
The Opposition and the Democrats announce that they may block the Federal Government from using a postal vote to select delegates for its People's Convention on the republic.
The Federal Minister for Transport, Mr Sharp, announces changes to Sydney Airport's flight paths that will ultimately see suburbs share the aircraft noise.
\JAlan Bond\j is sentenced to a further four years imprisonment for his fraudulent involvement in Bell Resources; however, Bond says that he is looking forward to getting back into business when he is released from prison.
Papua New Guinea Prime Minister, Sir Julius Chan, offers over $1 million to help 'bail out' ABC's Radio Australia, which is in danger of closing down due to budget cuts.
#
"February 6, 1997",37,0,g,0
Attorney-General Mr Williams considers altering the massive cuts to the State's legal aid budget, following the State's revelations that some criminals may go free if their budgets are cut too drastically.
Former Western Australian Premier, Brian Burke, is accused in a Perth court of stealing $120,000 from ALP donations in the 1980s.
In the Federal Court, a Sydney-based graphics design company claims that the new logo for the Sydney Organising Committee for the Olympic Games (SOCOG) is based on an idea submitted by them in 1991.
Universities in the ACT and New South Wales are set to receive further funding cuts from the Federal Government due to poor enrolments.
The State Emergency Service claims that flood waters in the Pilbara region, Western Australia, are the worst in over 20 years.
A report into the film industry recommends that federal funding should not be cut for at least five years if Australia is to continue producing high-quality and successful films.
Over 30 employees of the Aboriginal Legal Service (ALS) claim in court that they are owed almost $1 million.
The World Health Organisation warns that tuberculosis is on the rise and Australia cannot stay complacent.
Aborigines tell the Federal Government that they will choose their own representatives for the Wik summit coming up. (The Wik judgement is the High Court's ruling that native title and pastoral leases can co-exist.)
#
"February 7, 1997",38,0,g,0
Journalist and author Peter Blazey, dies in Sydney aged 57, after a battle with AIDS.
Motorcycle champion \JMichael Doohan\j is named male athlete of the year at the Telstra Australian Sports Awards in Melbourne; Olympic champion swimmer Susie O'Neill and triathlete Jackie Gallagher are named joint winners for female athlete of the year; the women's hockey team who won gold in Atlanta are named team of the year, and their coach \JRic Charlesworth\j is named coach of the year.
Flooding occurs in northern South Australia, near the Northern Territory border and the New South Wales border.
At the Film Critics' Circle of Australia awards in Sydney, \IShine\i wins best film; \JJudy Davis\j wins best actress for \IChildren of the Revolution;\i Geoffrey Rush wins best actor for \IShine;\i and Chris Noonan wins best director for \IBabe.\i
New cross-media ownership legislation, soon to be passed by the Senate, may see \JKerry Packer\j take control of Fairfax and \JRupert Murdoch\j take control of the Seven Network.
The Foreign Investment Review Board reports that foreign investment in real estate climbed to $12.4 billion in the 12 months to June 1996, up 26 per cent from the previous year.
A lethal batch of heroin on Sydney streets claims the lives of three people and another 20 are treated for overdoses.
#
"February 8, 1997",39,0,g,0
North-western NSW braces itself for floods that are on their way down from the Paroo and Warrego rivers.
Two live World War I explosives found in Sydney's north are successfully removed by experts.
\JTodd Woodbridge\j and \JMark Woodforde\j beat France in the tennis doubles at a round of the Davis Cup held in White City, Sydney; while Patrick Rafter beats Cedric Pioline of France in the singles; and Mark Woodforde beats Arnaud Boetsch also of France in another singles match.
#
"February 9, 1997",40,0,g,0
Snow skiing champion Kirstie Marshall becomes the first Australian to win a world skiing championship when she wins the aerial gold medal at the world freestyle championships in Nagano, Japan.
The Transport Workers' Union claims that membership is up 1,700 in the past year, while the Australian Bureau of Statistics claims that union membership continues to decline, with only 31 per cent of the workforce financial members.
Prime Minister \JJohn Howard\j wants representatives from the Aboriginal, pastoral and mining communities to meet with the Federal Government at the end of the week to attempt to resolve the Wik judgement. (The Wik judgement is the High Court's decision that native title and pastoral leases can co-exist.)
PGT Australia announces that it will commence work on one of the world's largest gas pipelines (1,600 km) to be built in Western Australia in mid 1998, taking three years and creating hundreds of jobs.
The Federal Government announces that new legislation by mid 1998 will see many young unemployed people working for their benefits or risk losing them altogether.
The Federal Government announces that it may have to introduce caps on its immigration program or face a blowout in immigration numbers.
#
"February 10, 1997",41,0,g,0
Leaders of the church, and Anglicans at the Anglican National Conference in Canberra support the ordination of homosexual priests.
The Minister for Resources and Energy, Senator Parer, announces that approval has been granted to operate the world's largest floating offshore oil rig, situated 550 km north-west of Darwin. Operations, which will begin in 1999, should see the nation's current account deficit cut by $1.8 billion every year for 14 years.
New federal laws will see nursing homes charge an average of $26,000 a bed; however, patients will not have to pay a bond if it leaves them with assets of less than $22,500.
The Federal Government calls on local councils, voluntary agencies and regional bodies to get involved in the work-for-the-dole scheme.
Edna Ryan, a key campaigner in equal pay and rights for women, dies from complications relating to bowel cancer; she was 92 years old.
Pay-TV operator Australis Media considers cutting its installation and monthly subscriber rates in order to boost its membership numbers.
The Seven Network is expected to make a bid to buy Optus Vision for just over $530 million.
Heavy rains continue in the north of South Australia, causing more flooding and an estimated damage bill of $4 million.
The Australian Taxation Office may clamp down on people buying cheap CDs tax-free through the Internet.
#
"February 11, 1997",42,0,g,0
The highly successful Australian film \IShine\i receives five Oscar nominations, including best actor, best film, best supporting actor, best director and best screenplay.
Hundreds of junior doctors in NSW vote to strike for one week in March, protesting against the Federal Government's decision to reduce Medicare provider numbers.
A voting system based on the Senate-style is to be used to select 76 of the 152 delegates for the People's Convention on the republic later this year.
The NSW Police Minister, Mr Whelan, announces that dismissed police officers will have their appeal rights restored, but will only be reinstated if their once-only appeal is successful.
Former actor Jon Blake, who was awarded a record $33 million following a car accident that left him brain-damaged and a quadriplegic, has his compensation cut to $7.6 million.
Overseas phone calls are costing Australians around 75 per cent less than they were 15 years ago, largely due to more sophisticated technology and more competition.
Telstra considers charging customers 50 cents for their directory assistance call 013.
The Australian dollar drops to just below US76 cents, the lowest level in 12 months.
#
"February 12, 1997",43,0,g,0
Over 25 people in a meatworks factory in Young, NSW, contract Q fever, a potentially fatal disease.
The Commonwealth Bank slashes its standard mortgage interest rate to 7.55 per cent, the lowest level in over 25 years; other major banks are expected to match these figures.
The NSW Health Department announces that an unusually high number of hepatitis A cases have been reported in the past week.
Sydney experiences its wettest day for five years and Warragamba Dam receives up to 20 days' water supply for the city in under two days; meanwhile flood warnings are issued in many areas of northern New South Wales.
The Attorney-General reports that the Federal Government will not pay anymore of former Western Australian Premier \JCarmen Lawrence\j's overdue legal bills from the Marks Royal Commission in 1995.
The Federal Government rules out a Telstra charge of 50 cents for the directory assistance call of 013.
#
"February 13, 1997",44,0,g,0
Supermarkets in Queensland and New South Wales await police instructions to remove Arnott's Monte Carlo biscuits from shelves, following poisoned packets being sent to the NSW Police Commissioner, Arnott's Biscuits in NSW and to the Attorney-General's Department in Queensland.
Prime Minister John Howard is forced to defend his government after the Opposition alleges that he failed to lift standards of office.
A report prepared by the NRMA claims that airbags on certain imported cars can trigger unnecessarily, leaving large repair bills and possible injuries to occupants.
Prime Minister \JJohn Howard\j says he is 'pleased', following the fourth consecutive month of rising employment figures.
The Federal Government's guns buyback scheme has resulted in 300,000 semi-automatic and pump action shotguns being handed in with a cost so far of $150 million.
Century Zinc and Aboriginal owners reach an agreement that will allow the world's largest zinc mine to go ahead in Queensland.
The Australian Meat and Livestock Corporation calls on the Federal Government to protect and preserve "an effective quarantine service and animal health surveillance program" following the outbreak of anthrax in Victoria and Q Fever in New South Wales.
#
"February 14, 1997",45,0,g,0
It is estimated that Arnott's Biscuits is losing up to $1 million per day as supermarkets in Queensland, New South Wales, and some in Victoria and South Australia remove all Arnott's biscuits from their shelves following an extortionist threat.
Major banks are pressured by the Federal Government to further reduce interest rates for housing and business loans.
The NSW Department of Health claims that oysters from Wallis Lake on NSW's mid north coast could be the cause for a hepatitis A outbreak, with 150 cases reported in three weeks.
An expert on mosquito-borne diseases calls on the Department of Health to control Australia's mosquito population, claiming that mosquitoes carrying deadly diseases could become established on the mainland.
Talks between Century Zinc and Aboriginal leaders regarding whether the $1 billion zinc mine in North Queensland will proceed or not break down again; negotiations have been going on for nearly three years without an agreement being reached.
#
"February 15, 1997",46,0,g,0
NSW Premier \JBob Carr\j calls for peace within the board of the Sydney Olympics, as senior officials disagree over developments.
Denis Barritt, the coroner who in 1981 ruled that a dingo took Azaria Chamberlain from a tent near Uluru in 1980, dies from cancer, aged 70.
Prime Minister \JJohn Howard\j arrives in New Zealand on an official visit.
Arnott's Biscuits announces that it will reintroduce its biscuits with tamper-proof packaging within one to two weeks, following an extortion threat that saw the removal of all Arnott's biscuits from Queensland and New South Wales supermarkets.
Peter Lonard of New South Wales wins the Australian Masters at the Huntingdale Golf Club in Melbourne.
#
"February 16, 1997",47,0,g,0
The Arnott's extortionists demand the release of a murderer serving a life sentence in Queensland or they will start poisoning Arnott's biscuits. Meanwhile Arnott's may have to lay off up to 1,000 of their staff.
The anthrax outbreak in Victoria spreads, with now over 100 reported cattle deaths and over 50 quarantined properties in the Tatura-Stanhope area of Victoria.
Floodwaters reach north-western New South Wales, forcing road closures and evacuations.
The Federal Minister for Family Services claims that some nursing homes in Australia are not fit for animals to live in.
The National Party reports that it will still remain anti-republic, regardless of the result of the people's convention.
A former school principal is found hanged, one day prior to giving evidence at the NSW Police Royal Commission on sexual abuse by a teacher at his school; this brings the total to seven who have committed suicide after being investigated or named during the Police Royal Commission.
#
"February 17, 1997",48,0,g,0
Arnott's lays off hundreds of workers in Brisbane and Adelaide and the New South Wales and Queensland governments announce that they are prepared to post $50,000 rewards for the extortionists capture.
A new book by author Deborah Coddington, titled \IThe Australian Pedophile and Sex Offender Index,\i is to be available to the public from this week.
The Supreme Court regretfully appoints a liquidator to the Aboriginal Legal Service (ALS); former employees claim that they are owed almost $1 million.
The NSW State Government announces that it will provide relief for the flood-stricken towns in the state's north; the estimated cost of damages is over $1.5 million.
It is revealed in the Supreme Court that the former Coles Myer chief executive, Brian Edward Quinn, conspired to defraud Coles Myer of nearly $4.5 million.
During an official visit to New Zealand, Prime Minister John Howard applies pressure for them to increase spending on defence.
Under a new code, public servants in NSW will have to report all suspicions of child abuse to the Department of Community Services (DOCS).
#
"February 18, 1997",49,0,g,0
The Reserve Bank reports that the Australian economy has now turned the corner and is in line for a full recovery that should last for some years.
The Federal Minister for Health, Dr Wooldridge, announces new measures to encourage a higher immunisation rate, including free immunisation days and payments in return for immunisation.
The Australian Electoral Commission supports the Federal Government's decision to impose stiffer penalties for ballot rigging.
The ACTU announces that it wants new standards for casual and part-time workers, including a $10-an-hour minimum wage for low-skilled workers.
Health authorities confirm that oysters eaten from the Wallis Lake area in NSW's mid-north coast are the source of the 300 cases of hepatitis A reported in the past month.
While giving evidence at the Police Royal Commission, the Director-General of School Education in NSW claims that some schools in the state failed to act on some allegations of abuse.
The murderer serving a life sentence in Queensland, who the Arnott's extortionists have demanded the release of or they will start poisoning Arnott's biscuits, claims that he does not know who the extortionists are and pleas with them to withdraw their threats immediately.
#
"February 19, 1997",50,0,g,0
Country towns within NSW claim that their government funding has been substantially cut to help pay for the Olympics in Sydney.
Police say that if they do not hear from the Arnott's extortionists within four days they will consider the threat withdrawn; meanwhile Arnott's launches a $3 million advertising campaign to assure customers that their biscuits are safe.
A South African court rules that accused Australian pedophile Philip Bell will be extradited to Australia to face an Australian court.
The NSW Police Royal Commission hears that the NSW Police Service overpaid its employees by $613,237.
AFL Sydney Swans player Tony Lockett is charged with 19 offences of fraud, theft and false accounting at his greyhound stud in Melbourne.
The ACTU threatens strike action if the Federal Government increases the age at which workers can access their superannuation.
The anthrax outbreak in Victoria continues to spread while authorities step up a vaccination program.
The Foreign Affairs Minister, Alexander Downer, announces that Australia has pledged $4 million to the Red Cross to provide relief to the needy people in Bougainville.
Seven Network chairman Kerry Stokes says that the Federal Government should force Telstra and Optus to merge their cable networks as the pay-TV industry is losing billions of dollars.
NSW's oyster industry is in crisis due to an outbreak of hepatitis A that allegedly spread by contaminated oysters from Wallis Lake.
#
"February 20, 1997",51,0,g,0
Pay-TV operator Foxtel and the Federal Government come to an agreement for the Seven Network to televise the Australian-South African cricket tests after prime time.
Accused pedophile Philip Bell lodges an appeal against a South African court ruling that he be extradited to Australia to face charges.
A $2.5 million museum dedicated to the song \IWaltzing Matilda\i is to be opened in Winton, Queensland in 1998.
New technology developed by the \JCSIRO\j will allow contact lense wearers to keep them in 24 hours a day for up to 30 days instead of removing them each night.
The NSW State Government admits that it will have to sell the Olympic spirit to country towns harder, following remarks that the Olympics is draining resources and funding from country areas.
Scientists from overseas claim that the fatal rabbit calicivirus disease has the potential to cross species.
The Federal Minister for Education, Ms Senator Vanstone, backs down on the tough new Austudy means test and apologises to students who were denied payments because of administrative errors.
A shark tank at Sydney Aquarium, Darling Harbour bursts open, injuring six people.
#
"February 21, 1997",52,0,g,0
Arnott's Biscuits destroys $5 million worth of biscuits following an extortionist threat to poison them.
The Seven Network accepts two offers to purchase 98 per cent of pay-TV operator Optus Vision.
There is a great demand for the newly-released book \IThe Australian Pedophile and Sex Offender Index\i which lists names and addresses of Australian pedophiles.
While much of NSW has received heavy rains recently, Bombala, in the south, is to face water restrictions if rains do not fall within a week.
A crocodile attacks a park attendant in a Whitsunday wildlife park in front of stunned onlookers.
An insurance company (who have already paid out $4 million) is ordered to pay \JKerry Packer\j an extra $742,049 for the gold bullion worth $5.4 million that was stolen from his Sydney office two years ago.
The Federal Opposition announces that it will block any moves by the government to scrap cross-media laws.
#
"February 22, 1997",53,0,g,0
Olympics Minister Michael Knight announces that the Sydney 2000 Olympic velodrome is to be built at Bankstown, while a $15 million stadium at Blacktown will hold the softball matches.
NSW Premier \JBob Carr\j rules out any changes to the drug laws suggested by NSW Police Commissioner Peter Ryan.
Parents oppose NSW Premier Bob Carr's decision of not allowing an independent watchdog to be set up to monitor sexual abuse by school teachers.
Five children are injured, two seriously, when an amusement park ride near Mudgee, NSW snaps in two.
#
"February 23, 1997",54,0,g,0
The Federal Government reports that it may halt its million dollar aid program to Papua New Guinea if "Rambo-like assassins" are used on rebels in Bougainville.
An 11-year-old girl, who was thrown off an amusement park ride when it snapped in two at Mudgee yesterday, dies from severe head injuries.
The Federal Government looks at reprocessing nuclear waste domestically, instead of shipping it overseas.
The Democrats announce that they want a full Senate inquiry into proposed changes to cross-media laws.
The Aboriginal community is split over the controversial native title claims on NSW's south coast, including a claim for the Royal National Park.
#
"February 24, 1997",55,0,g,0
A 77-year-old man dies after contracting hepatitis A from eating contaminated oysters.
The Federal Opposition disapproves of plans that just two ministers will decide how the $1 billion Natural Heritage Fund is to be spent.
The Federal Government announces that it may sell of Medibank Private, Australia's biggest health insurer.
The \JCSIRO\j announces that it will investigate in its own laboratories a United Kingdom technique that claims to have cloned a sheep.
Arnott's Biscuits claims that it has lost $20 million in the week-long extortion attempt.
Australia now has the third highest per capita mobile phone usage in the world, with approximately 4.5 million users throughout the country.
#
"February 25, 1997",56,0,g,0
Arnott's biscuits are restocked on supermarket shelves in Queensland and New South Wales, following the police declaring the extortion threat over.
Environment officials place a swimming ban on Wallis Lake, following an outbreak of hepatitis A believed to have started from contaminated oysters in this area.
The Federal Government introduces new legislation that they are hopeful will force all parents to immunise their children.
After five months, only a third of the $10,000 35,000 Olympic stadium gold passes have been sold, leaving stadium backers an option of selling them overseas at lower prices.
NSW Treasurer, Mr Egan, claims that the $25 million increase the Federal Government is offering to the state's budget is not nearly enough.
#
"February 26, 1997",57,0,g,0
The High Court in Tasmania rules that homosexuals can take legal action against the state's gay sex laws that bans homosexual acts.
Thousands of Telstra and Optus customers desert these phone companies for others offering cheaper long-distance and international calls.
Thousands of students have their Austudy payments restored following the Federal Government's decision to scrap tough new means tests.
Figures released by the Australian Bureau of Statistics show that Northern Territory Aboriginal males have a life expectancy of only 47, compared with the national male average of 73.5.
The Environment Protection Authority (EPA) claims that the Wallis Lake Council should have acted on an EPA report and closed sanitary depots in November of last year because they were suspected of polluting the water; Wallis Lake contaminated oysters are blamed for the recent outbreak of hepatitis A.
The Federal Treasury admits that many calculation errors were made in the 1995-96 Budget, with deficit estimates out by approximately $5 billion.
The Federal Opposition accuses the Deputy President of the Senate, Mal Colston, of fraudulent use of benefits, including false travel allowances claimed in one city while he was in another.
#
"February 27, 1997",58,0,g,0
Six businessmen from Korean, who entered Australia illegally in 1986, are awarded $50,000 each for being held illegally at Villawood Detention Centre.
Officials at the Australian Medical Association claim that patients would be better off dropping their private health insurance and paying for expenses out of their own pockets.
The International Olympic Committee considers a proposal for Sydney to sell some of the $10,000 gold membership tickets overseas.
The Federal Government does not assure a mercenaries company, hired by the Papua New Guinean Government, that injured mercenaries will be allowed into Australia for emergency medical treatment.
The Health Department says it should have been told of the public health risk at Wallis Lake when it was confirmed last November that their were problems with sanitary depots there; Wallis Lake contaminated oysters are blamed for the recent outbreak of hepatitis A.
The Chief Justice of the High Court accuses the Deputy Prime Minister of damaging the High Court's reputation with his attacking remarks regarding the High Court's decision that pastoral leases and native title can co-exist.
#
"February 28, 1997",59,0,g,0
The Federal Minister for Health, Dr Wooldrige, condemns the Australian Medical Association's comments for people to drop out of private health insurance and fund expenses out of their own pockets.
A chemical bomb is let off in a busy Sydney shopping centre, injuring 19 people.
The Federal Government announces cash incentives for GPs who immunise 90 per cent or more of their child patients.
Statistics from the Bureau of Meteorology report that Sydney has just had its coldest January since 1965 with only three days reaching over 30 degrees and Melbourne has just had its hottest February since 1898 with 25 days reaching over 30 degrees.
Australia condemns Papua New Guinea's plans to use mercenaries against rebels in Bougainville.
Former Western Australian Premier Brian Burke is sentenced to three years imprisonment for stealing over $120,000 in ALP donations.
#
"March 1, 1997",60,0,g,0
An inquiry into the Deputy President of the Senate, Mal Colston, may be conducted following allegations of misuse of parliamentary travel allowances.
An Olympic Transport Authority body is to be set up in the near future to oversee the running of transport leading up to and during the Sydney Olympics.
The long-awaited Super League competition kicks off in front of a crowd of over 40,000 people in \JBrisbane,\j Queensland.
Prime Minister \JJohn Howard\j challenges banks and home lenders to offer low-interest business loans to help small businesses.
A record crowd of well over 500,000 people attend the Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras Carnival.
#
"March 2, 1997",61,0,g,0
Thousands of volunteers collect approximately 13,000 tonnes of rubbish during the annual Clean Up Australia Day.
The Democrats and the Opposition strongly oppose Queensland Premier Mr Borbidge's decision to appoint a non-Labor member to fill Independent Senator Mal Colston's seat if he is forced out due to alleged fraudulent activities.
Holden signs a lucrative deal with Korean carmaker Daewoo, said to be worth approximately $1.5 billion over five years.
A new technique for treating prostate cancer, an alternative to radiotherapy and surgery, is tested for the first time in Sydney.
#
"March 3, 1997",62,0,g,0
A cover-up of teachers being given references to work in other schools while facing sexual abuse charges is revealed in the NSW Police Royal Commission.
An inquiry into the Gretley mine disaster, where four people died last November, reveals that faulty maps were a major factor in the accident.
The Opposition in Papua New Guinea demands an inquiry into share dealings in Australia that link to foreign mercenaries being using on Bougainville rebels.
Prime Minister \JJohn Howard\j announces that his government will step up inquiries into illegal fishing in Australian waters.
Australian cricketers \JSteve Waugh\j and Greg Blewett make a massive 385-run fifth-wicket partnership in a Test against South Africa in Johannesburg; this score is the fourth best Australian partnership.
#
"March 4, 1997",63,0,g,0
The International Olympic Committee gives its approval for the underwriters of the Sydney Olympic Stadium to sell some of the 35,000 gold passes overseas.
The Federal Attorney-General announces that he will restore legal aid funding to the ACT.
An inquiry is to be conducted into Western Australia's decision to allow oil exploration in the World Heritage-listed \JShark Bay\j area.
Health officials in South Korea freeze all imports of beef and dairy from Australia following the recent anthrax outbreak in Victoria.
It is revealed that a 72-year-old woman suffering from terminal cancer becomes the fourth person to die under Northern Territory's euthanasia laws.
Officials at the Australia Nuclear Science and Technology Organisation (ANSTO) announce that the government is considering building a nuclear waste reprocessing plant in the Sydney suburb of Lucas Heights.
#
"March 5, 1997",64,0,g,0
The NSW Police Royal Commission learns that over 100 teachers who have received formal warnings for sexual misconduct are still working in the state's schools.
State and Territory leaders consider a plan to scrap their Financial Institutions Duty tax in a move to get the Federal Government to overhaul the nation's taxation system.
NSW Opposition leader Mr Collins urges Prime Minister \JJohn Howard\j not to go ahead with plans to build a nuclear waste reprocessing plant at Lucas Heights in Sydney's south.
#
"March 6, 1997",65,0,g,0
The Federal Government is set to investigate unusual trading in Bougainville copper mine shares on the Australian Stock Exchange in which members of the Papua New Guinean Government may be involved.
The NSW Geographical Names Board is about to announce a decision on whether Mount Kosciusko is to have its spelling changed to Kosciuszko; the mountain's discovery by Paul Strzelecki was named after Tadeusz Kosciuszko.
A 27-year-old man is sentenced to life imprisonment for pouring petrol over six-year-old Tjandamurra O'Shane and setting him alight in a school playground in October 1996.
Striking public transport workers in Victoria are set to cause mayhem during this weekend's Grand Prix at Albert Park.
An inquiry into the Black Hawk helicopter disaster which killed 18 Australian servicemen in June 1996 finds that not enough planning and lack of experience were the major reasons for the "inevitable" tragic event; five soldiers may now face disciplinary action.
Thirty-six NSW school teachers are immediately suspended following revelations that over 100 teachers accused of child sexual abuse are still teaching in the state's schools.
#
"March 7, 1997",66,0,g,0
A review team of the Australian Defence Force recommends that up to 4,000 of ADF's civilian employees should go.
Victoria Premier \JJeff Kennett\j is unsuccessful in his attempt to stop a 48-hour public transport strike during this weekend's Grand Prix event at Albert Park.
Elective surgery waiting lists in NSW are more than they were when \JBob Carr\j became Premier two years ago; the Federal Government's lack of funding is blamed.
After spending $200,000 of taxpayers money, Federal Cabinet announces that it will not be approving a nomination for the Opera House to be World Heritage-listed.
Telstra and Optus are involved in discussions to try to put a stop to their losses which were mainly caused by the setting up of dual cable networks; pay-TV operators \JFoxtel,\j Australis Media \J(Galaxy)\j and \JOptus\j all report losses for the six months to December.
Thirty more teachers from NSW schools are placed under investigation as the inquiry into teachers and sexual misconduct continues.
#
"March 8, 1997",67,0,g,0
The NSW Government considers a proposal to raise fines for the Easter break for speeding motorists with a blood/alcohol reading of 0.1 or more; offenders could face up to $1,800 in fines.
The International Olympic Committee warns the Sydney Olympic stadium owners that they may have trouble selling the $10,000 gold passes overseas.
The Northern Territory reports that there has been a last minute rush of people wishing to use the existing euthanasia legislation before it may be overturned by Federal Parliament next week.
The Federal Government may block local councils from charging pay-TV companies for overhead cabling.
#
"March 9, 1997",68,0,g,0
Victorian Premier \JJeff Kennett\j claims that the state's transport strike on the weekend put the Australian Grand Prix event $10 million in the red instead of an expected surplus; crowds were way down mainly due to the strike.
The Federal Government considers plans for young unemployed people to undertake military training to help improve their motivational skills.
Australian tennis player \JMark Philippoussis\j hits the fastest serve in tennis history at the Arizona Classic - the radar recorded the serve at 228.5 km/h.
An Egyptian figurine from the 26th dynasty - 664 to 525 BC - is found at the bottom of a box at the University of Sydney's Nicholson Museum.
Queensland Independent Senator Mal Colston refuses to resign, despite accusations of fraudulent misuse of travel expenses.
Conservationists oppose plans to build a 1,900 km gas pipeline from the south of Papua New Guinea to Townsville.
The Queensland Environment Minister welcomes a decision by Aborigines to stop hunting dugongs in Queensland.
#
"March 10, 1997",69,0,g,0
The Geographical Names Board announces that Mount Kosciusko will now be spelt as Mount Kosciuszko (with a "z") and pronounced as Ko-shoos-ko. The mountain was named by Paul Strzelecki after Polish freedom fighter Tadeusz Kosciuszko.
The Federal Government announces that farmers will receive more legal aid to help fight native title claims.
Over 2,000 junior doctors in New South Wales start a week-long strike in protest over the Federal Government's decision to not allocate Medicare provider numbers until doctors have finished postgraduate courses.
Queensland's coast, particularly between Mackay and Gladstone, and including the Whitsunday Islands, is on alert for a Category 2 cyclone heading its way. Cyclone Justin is the largest cyclone to threaten Queensland in over twenty years.
Victorian Premier \JJeff Kennett\j threatens to sue transport unions for staging the Australian Grand Prix weekend public transport strike that was estimated to have cost up to $10 million in lost ticket sales.
Welfare groups disapprove of the Federal Government's proposals for young unemployed people to undertake military training courses.
Racehorse Octagonal wins the Australian Cup at Flemington; Shane Dye is the jockey.
#
"March 11, 1997",70,0,g,0
Victorian Premier Jeff Kennett announces that he will speed up the sale of trains and trams in the State.
A Queensland university offers free holidays, computers, and textbooks to overseas students if they can get other family members to enrol.
The NSW Health Department announces that hospital waiting lists in Sydney's south and west are growing rapidly.
It is feared that the Great Barrier Reef may suffer damage during the current cyclone off the coast of Queensland.
The Federal Government announces that long-term young unemployed people will be targeted first for the new work-for-the-dole scheme.
The NSW State Government calls on the Federal Government for help in the current junior doctor's strike in the State.
#
"March 12, 1997",71,0,g,0
The NSW Police Commissioner, Mr Ryan, axes the NSW Police Special Branch and locks away all the files; the Opposition wants the files sent to the Independent Commission Against Corruption.
The NSW Minister for Education, Mr Aquilina, unveils new proposals for the State's Higher School Certificate, including cutting back on subjects, replacing the TER with a University Entrance Score and the axing of the School Certificate. The President of the NSW Teachers Federation welcomes the new changes.
Results of a recent survey indicate that most high income earners would opt out of superannuation to avoid the 15 per cent surcharge and look for other forms of investment.
The Minister for Communications, Senator Alston, says that he sees nothing wrong with a person owning both media and gambling interests.
It is revealed that Australian author Bryce Courtenay has sold 3 million books in Australia, a figure no other Australian has come close to.
The ARL suffers a blow when it is announced that Channel 9 is to air two Super League games on Friday nights during April.
#
"March 13, 1997",72,0,g,0
The NSW Police Royal Commission officially ends - there were 370 hearing days. Justice Wood reports that overall he is happy with the achievements.
New unemployment figures have the 15-19 age group at a high of 28 per cent.
Australian scientists in Melbourne announce that they have created 470 cloned embryos from one embryo; earlier in the year a team of scientists in Britain announced that they successfully created a lamb cloned from an adult sheep cell.
The NSW Police Commissioner, Peter Ryan, agrees to hand over the remaining files of the axed NSW Police Special Branch to the Police Integrity Commission.
The junior doctor's strike in NSW is set to extend for up to five weeks, blowing out already huge waiting lists for elective surgery.
Former Australian rugby player, Gary Ella, is appointed senior manager of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Relations, a job that will see him maximise Aboriginal participation in the Sydney Games.
Former Bodyline series cricket player, Leo O'Brien, dies at the age of 89; Don Bradman is now the sole surviving Bodyline series cricketer.
An "Aboriginal female author" who wrote the award winning novel \IMy Own Sweet Time\i is exposed as being a white male - Leon Carmen.
Over 200 people who contracted hepatitis A after eating contaminated oysters from NSW's Wallis Lake area begin legal proceedings against the Great Lakes Council, oyster farmers and processors.
#
"March 14, 1997",73,0,g,0
The publishers of a book written by a white male author who claimed he was an Aboriginal woman halt distribution of his novel \IMy Own Sweet Time\i and may take legal action.
Hospitals around Australia, except Hobart and Adelaide, confirm that an alarming number of cases of vancomycin-resistant Enterococcus (VRE) have been reported recently; VRE can make some patients very ill.
Conservationists condemn the Federal Government's decision to leave open a four-wheel-drive track in Tasmania's World Heritage wilderness area, despite the government agreeing in 1992 to close it.
Scientists take drastic action to save the endangered and almost extinct corroboree frog in the Kosciusko area - they are expected to collect hundreds of the frogs' eggs to start their own breeding program.
While visiting Israel, Deputy Prime Minister Tim Fischer expresses grief and horror at the recent massacre of seven Israeli schoolgirls by a Jordanian soldier.
The NSW Industrial Relations Commission orders striking junior doctors and the Federal Government to attend a special hearing after the weekend in order to resolve the strike.
A leading expert claims that hepatitis C has increased rapidly over the last four years because Australia has been slow to fund research into the disease.
#
"March 15, 1997",74,0,g,0
The Federal Government considers building Sydney's second airport at Holsworthy and moving the nearby Lucas Heights nuclear reactor plant to Jervis Bay on the south coast of New South Wales.
A proposal to lower speed limits in residential areas to 30 km/h is being considered by road authorities across Australia.
Country doctors and the NSW Opposition both back the NSW Government in the current junior doctors strike.
It is revealed that a secret summit was held in Canberra last week to discuss security at the Sydney 2000 Olympic Games - those present included ASIO, the Australian Federal Police and the FBI.
Labor Minister Franca Arena, who previously named Justice Yeldham as a pedophile (Yeldham since committed suicide), warns that she will name other prominent people as pedophiles if they are not revealed in a report of the now closed NSW Police Royal Commission.
#
"March 16, 1997",75,0,g,0
ABC's Radio Australia will not be axed as previously announced, but its funding will be cut.
The Federal Minister for Health, Dr Wooldridge, agrees to meet striking junior doctors in NSW if they call off their strike.
The Federal Minister for Transport, Mr Sharp, announces that Sydney Airport will get an $800 million refurbishment in time for the Sydney Olympics in 2000.
#
"March 17, 1997",76,0,g,0
A particularly strong batch of heroin causes over 30 overdoses in Sydney's south-west.
The International Amateur Athletic Federation in Monte Carlo bans Australian sprinter Dean Capobianco for four years for taking the banned drug Stanozolol.
Following trials involving Australians, it is reported that a new cream based on a vitamin A derivative may successfully treat Kaposi's sarcoma - a common cancer in AIDS patients.
A medical expert claims that half of all Australian prisoners tested for hepatitis C came up positive.
Striking junior doctors in NSW vote to return to work immediately, following a meeting with the Industrial Relations Commission and the Federal Government; however, the junior doctors want the government to rework new legislation that restricts Medicare provider numbers.
#
"March 18, 1997",77,0,g,0
Unemployment in NSW country areas is steadily increasing.
New research indicates that computer viruses are on the increase, mainly caused from Internet use.
The NSW Minister for the Environment, Ms Allan, admits that her department wrongly accused the Great Lakes Shire Council of causing the recent hepatitis A outbreak; the source of the outbreak is still being investigated.
An $80 million Sega World theme park officially opens at Sydney's Darling Harbour.
A strong batch of heroin circulating around Sydney's south-west causes over 50 overdoses and the death of a young woman.
The Deputy President of the Senate, Mal Colston, has further allegations of travel abuse made public.
As the Australian cricket team wins their second Test against South Africa in South Africa, the out-of-form captain \JMark Taylor\j confirms that he will be playing in the third Test.
Nova Peris-Kneebone, Atlanta Olympic gold medal winner for hockey, secures a place in the Australian team for the Athens world track and field championships in August; Nova's goal is to win an Olympic medal for athletics in Sydney 2000.
#
"March 19, 1997",78,0,g,0
National Party backbencher, Senator Bill O'Chee, threatens to resign from the Coalition if Prime Minister \JJohn Howard\j doesn't respond to the High Court's Wik judgement that allows native title and pastoral leases to co-exist.
The recent hepatitis A outbreak believed to have been caused by contaminated oysters has seen an 85 per cent drop in oyster sales in New South Wales in the last three weeks.
During a Senate debate over the Northern Territory's euthanasia legislation, 30 senators are anti-euthanasia and 29 pro-euthanasia, with 14 still undecided; the debate will decide the fate of the Northern Territory's controversial euthanasia legislation.
The Federal Government releases preliminary plans for Sydney's second airport at both the proposed sites - Badgery's Creek and Holsworthy; the airport will reportedly be up to five times as big as Kingsford Smith in Sydney.
Australia is placed sixth worldwide in the World Bank's survey of the richest countries.
Following Labor minister Franca Arena's announcement that she will name prominent people as pedophiles, the Assistant Police Commissioner agrees to investigate her accusations.
Qantas Airways accepts an offer from ANZ Securities to buy its shares in Air New Zealand.
Leo Schofield is appointed as the artistic director for the Sydney Olympic Committee for the Olympic Games.
Following the death of a young New Zealand athlete from a deadly meningitis virus, there are concerns for Australian athletes who were in contact with his flatmate while competing in a recent athletics event in Brisbane.
One week before Australian Prime Minister \JJohn Howard\j visits China, China expresses concern over Australia's military ties with the United States and warns Australia to stay out of its human rights issues.
#
"March 20, 1997",79,0,g,0
Nearly 300 Australian passengers onboard a cruise ship in Noumea are flown home when the ship is seized by authorities to recover a million dollar debt.
Families of two people who used the Northern Territory's euthanasia law plea with the Senate to vote pro-euthanasia.
The National Farmer's Federation says that they may allow Aborigines access to pastoral land only if native title is extinguished.
Westpac, ANZ and National Australia Bank sign an agreement to create Australia's biggest ATM network.
The Federal Government considers privatising some public hospitals throughout Australia.
A recent poll indicates that voters in New South Wales would vote in the Coalition instead of \JBob Carr\j.
NSW Premier Bob Carr announces that a strict set of rules will be enforced for the oyster industry to prevent anymore hepatitis A outbreaks.
Optus Communications indicates that it may buy out its pay-TV partner Optus Vision.
The Federal Government announces it will overhaul the nation's immigration policies, including imposing a $1000 fee for people seeking asylum.
#
"March 21, 1997",80,0,g,0
The Royal Easter Show in Sydney opens for the last time at the Sydney Showground; from next year the show will be held at Homebush.
The ABC claims that it will have to drop a lot of its current affairs, sports coverages and TV drama in order for it to successfully run Radio Australia.
Australia's most wanted escaped prisoner, convicted drug smuggler George Savvas, is captured by police in Sydney.
For the first time since Federation, financial talks between the Federal Government and State and Territory leaders end without an agreement - the State leaders condemn the latest cuts to their budgets.
The Federal Government organises to evacuate 12,000 Australian citizens from Papua New Guinea due to the recent fighting involving foreign mercenaries.
Nigel Thomson wins this year's $35,000 Archibald Prize with his portrait of \IBarbara Blackman.\i
The outcome of the Northern Territory's euthanasia law is in the hands of just nine senators who have not yet handed in their votes for either pro-euthanasia or anti-euthanasia.
The Federal Government reportedly wants to create a United Nations-endorsed global whale sanctuary by the year 2000.
\JMark Woodforde\j and \JTodd Woodbridge\j win the doubles team of the year award at the ATP Tour and Corel WTA Tour awards in America.
Telstra and Optus Vision look set to sign an agreement that will see Telstra use Optus Vision's overhead cables in return for Optus gaining smooth access into the local telephone market.
#
"March 22, 1997",81,0,g,0
It is reported that the Prime Minister of Papua New Guinea, Sir Julius Chan, has requested Australia sends over troops to help quell an army uprising in the country.
The horse Guineas, ridden by Darren Beadman, wins the annual Golden Slipper horseracing event at Rosehill, Sydney.
Cyclone Justin hits the city of \JCairns\j in Queensland, forcing the closure of Cairns airport; a state of emergency is declared.
Australian cricket player Ian Healy, during a Test match against South Africa, becomes the second wicket-keeper in Test history to take 300 dismissals.
New research indicates that Sydney house prices, relative to income, are among the dearest in the world.
There are unconfirmed reports that \JChristopher Skase\j, who is wanted in Australia for massive corporate fraud charges, intends to buy a multi-million dollar resort and casino in the Caribbean; Skase is currently residing in Spain.
#
"March 23, 1997",82,0,g,0
The Australian Geological Survey Organisation announces that it has found three new massive oilfields - near \JNorfolk Island\j, \JLord Howe Island\j and Tasmania - however, they are reported to be remote, which makes them expensive to mine.
The Federal Government announces tax relief for small businesses, including the abolishment of fringe benefits tax on taxis for employees and car parking.
The Federal Government says that it would do everything possible to arrest \JChristopher Skase\j if he leaves Spain to purchase a resort and casino in the Caribbean.
Marise Payne replaces Bob Woods in the senate; Woods recently resigned over a scandal involving a female staff member and investigations into his use of parliamentary entitlements.
It is reported that up to two thirds of the Olympic Stadium's gold passes have not been sold - this means that the underwriters will have to find $240 million when the sharemarket closes at the end of the week.
Over 100 boat people from China are sent back to Beijing following their arrival in Western Australia.
Over 100 people contract food poisoning in Victoria; the source is traced to a bakery in Melbourne.
Police in Perth hope that a re-enactment video will help catch a serial killer thought to be on the loose in the city.
The Queensland Government tries desperately to avert a statewide teacher's strike tomorrow; teachers are demanding an 18 per cent pay rise but are offered only 12.5 per cent.
#
"March 24, 1997",83,0,g,0
The Deputy President of the Senate, Mal Colston, repays money on overpaid travel allowances following investigations of fraudulent claims; the President of the Senate is to review the situation to determine whether the matter should be passed on to the Federal Police.
The Senate looks set to vote out the Northern Territory's euthanasia legislation in the third and final vote yet to be passed. Two terminally ill patients who have already filled out necessary paperwork to legally use the euthanasia legislation appeal to the Governor-General to allow them to be exempt from the law if it is overturned in the Senate.
The Victorian Opposition claims that changes to food handling regulations by the Kennett Government is the cause of the recent food poisoning scare in Melbourne.
Prime Minister \JJohn Howard\j appoints Pru Goward as head of the Office of the Status of Women.
Cyclone Justin so far leaves seven people dead in Queensland and over 30 people dead in Papua New Guinea; millions of dollars worth of crops are destroyed.
Three sun bears are taken out of quarantine to their new home at Sydney's Taronga Zoo; they were previously rescued from a restaurant in Cambodia by an Australian businessman.
#
"March 25, 1997",84,0,g,0
Following the Senate overturning the Northern Territory's euthanasia legislation, the pro-euthanasia doctor, Dr Philip Nitschke, claims that almost 60 patients have asked him to help them end their lives. Doctors consequently claim that more funding is needed for palliative care.
The States vote to boycott the implementation of the Federal Government's superannuation surcharge.
Newspaper groups John Fairfax Holdings and News Ltd both sign up as major sponsors of the Sydney 2000 Olympic Games.
Australian actor Geoffrey Rush wins the coveted best actor Oscar at the Academy Awards for his role in \IShine.\i Australian cinematographer, John Seale, wins an Oscar for best cinematography for \IThe English Patient.\i
Some scientists are concerned that the cane toad is spreading a deadly virus to many of our native animals.
Approximately 130 more people contract food poisoning in Melbourne, bringing the total number to well over 350; this food poisoning is linked to a bakery in Melbourne.
Aboriginal leaders refuse to deal with the National Farmers Federation anymore in the Wik High Court judgement, following the federation's recent controversial advertising campaign.
The Federal Government passes a new Telecommunications Bill, with over 200 amendments, including administering timed local calls for all data sent (internet access and maybe faxes) by business customers.
A team of scientists in Australia and a team in Sweden both discover (within a day of each other) a gene that enhances the growth of blood vessels in the heart, possibly leading to a successful therapy which will replace drugs and surgery.
#
"March 26, 1997",85,0,g,0
In a surprise announcement, the chief executive of the Sydney Organising Committee of the Olympic Games, Dr Mal Hemmerling, tenders his resignation; it is rumoured that the Minister for the Olympics, Mr Knight, forced him out. Sandy Hollway is appointed the new chief executive.
Controversial Independent MP Pauline Hanson announces that she will form her own party, called the Pauline Hanson One Nation Party.
The mining company Hamersley Iron strikes a deal with Aborigines to finish a million dollar mining project in Aboriginal land in the Pilbara.
According to new research, Australia has the most expensive local phone call prices in the world.
Prime Minister \JJohn Howard\j accuses the Opposition and the Democrats of sabotaging his work-for-the-dole scheme.
Governor-General Sir William Deane refuses to delay the signing of the Federal anti-euthanasia bill into law - two terminally ill patients previously asked him to delay signing so that they could use the euthanasia legislation legally.
The gay and lesbian community in Sydney makes a formal bid to hold the 2002 Gay Games.
The NSW President of the Labor Party, Mr Terry Sheahan, resigns to become a judge of the NSW Land and Environment Court.
#
"March 27, 1997",86,0,g,0
A Malaysian company buys the amusement park Australia's Wonderland in Sydney for $50 million.
ABC's Radio Australia is set to be scaled back to an English-language service due to severe budget cuts.
A record Australian safety fine of $480,000 is imposed on a Sydney company for breaching safety regulations.
The pro-euthanasia doctor, Dr Philip Nitschke, vows to help two terminally ill people who missed out on using the euthanasia law before it was overturned in the Senate.
The Minister for the Olympics, Mr Knight, is to downgrade his role in the day-to-day preparations of the Sydney Olympic Games following instability among staff and board members.
The Century Zinc Mine Company is optimistic of securing a deal with native titleholders to set up a $1 billion mine in the Gulf of Carpentaria.
#
"March 28, 1997",87,0,g,0
The Federal Attorney-General announces that he will push to tighten the classification system for videos, instead of issuing a ban on X-rated videos.
Certain church leaders condemn the Federal Government's work-for-the-dole scheme, claiming that it would turn the unemployed into cheap labour.
Chemicals used in agriculture are linked with a number of cases of the rare disease, aplastic anaemia, in the areas of Yass and Young in New South Wales.
The third food poisoning outbreak within the past few weeks in Melbourne reportedly causes the death of a 27-year-old man.
Following a legal settlement between the Seven Network and Optus Communications, it is reported that Optus Communications will now partially float its shares for approximately $2 billion.
Historians protests over the proposed luxury units to be built in Manly over what is believed to be Captain Arthur Phillip's first landing site in Sydney Harbour.
An airline company, Norfolk Jet Express, announces that it will begin flights to and from \JNorfolk Island\j. Earlier in the year, Ansett, the only airline to previously service Norfolk Island, announced that it would cease flights to and from the island.
A plane loaded with weapons arrives in the Northern Territory from Bangkok after authorities in Papua New Guinea refused to let it land there. The weapons, worth millions of dollars, were reportedly supplied by Sandline, the company who also supplied foreign mercenaries for the Papua New Guinean Government.
Australian golfer Stuart Appleby becomes one of the hot favourites to win the Players Championship in Florida, following his most successful year to date.
#
"March 29, 1997",88,0,g,0
Australian scientists claim to have found three galaxies behind the Milky Way - they are approximately 100,000 million light years away.
A police officer fatally shoots an armed man who sped away from an RBT unit in Sydney's west.
A review of the Australian Defence Forces recommends widespread restructuring that could see thousands of jobs lost.
Indonesia temporarily stops importing Australian meat following Australia's recent outbreak of anthrax.
Jockey Darren Beadman is fined $10,000 and suspended for eight meetings for causing interference in the $1.1 million AJC Australian Derby at Randwick.
Prime Minister \JJohn Howard\j, while on a visit to China, encourages Australians to invest in China.
#
"March 30, 1997",89,0,g,0
The Federal Opposition wants the Government to publicly release details of the investigations into Deputy President of the Senate Mal Colston's alleged fraudulent parliamentary travel expenses.
The Australian Cricket Board still supports \JMark Taylor\j as captain of the Australian cricket team, despite his continuing poor form this season.
It is reported that Asian markets are boycotting Australian meat because they weren't told of all the recent outbreaks of anthrax in Australia.
The outgoing national State of the Environment Advisory Committee chairman claims that the Federal Government performed poorly when it came to controlling greenhouse gas emissions.
In an unscheduled meeting, Prime Minister \JJohn Howard\j meets up with the US Speaker of the House of Representatives, Newt Gingrich, while visiting a church in Shanghai, China.
Human rights groups around the world attack Prime Minister John Howard's soft approach to human rights issues while on his visit to China; this comes after the US Vice-President Al Gore took a similar approach with Chinese leaders earlier this month.
Australian scientists discover Australia's second active volcano - on one of the McDonald Islands, 43 km west of Heard Island where the other active volcano is located.
#
"March 31, 1997",90,0,g,0
Some medical specialists claim that not all Australians have proper access to palliative care, forcing them to consider euthanasia.
The rest of Australia is to follow in the Victorian Education Department's steps of ridding public schools of pedophile teachers.
Australian golfer \JDavid Graham\j wins the $US800,000 Southwestern Bell Dominion Seniors in San Antonio, America.
The Indonesian Department of Agriculture says that if no more cases of anthrax are reported in Australia within a week then they will lift their bans on importing Australian meat.
The military helicopters loaded with arms that arrived in the Northern Territory earlier this week, following Papua New Guinea's refusal to accept them, are said to be in poor condition and that they would only last another six months at the most. The weapons were supplied by the mercenary company that the Papua New Guinean Government hired for use against Bougainville rebels.
During a visit to China, Prime Minister John Howard presses Chinese Premier Li Peng to discuss human rights issues and "suggests" that China release an Australian prisoner serving 18 years for embezzlement.
Three Australians in Bangkok are all sentenced to 50 years imprisonment for trafficking heroin.
Australian golfer \JSteve Elkington\j wins the Players Championship tournament in Florida by a massive seven strokes. Elkington becomes the top money earner on the US PGA tour so far for 1997.
#
"April 1, 1997",91,0,g,0
The out-of-form cricket player and captain of the Australian cricket team, \JMark Taylor\j, drops himself in a one-day match between South Africa in South Africa; wicket-keeper Ian Healy becomes acting captain.
Rioting prisoners in Woodford Correctional Centre, Queensland start a fire in one of the cells; the prisoners are eventually brought under control.
The All Ordinaries Index on the Australian Stock Exchange drops over 70 points - the biggest fall in a year; over $10 billion is wiped off the value of Australian shares following a fall on Wall Street.
Australian police believe that the severe sentences three Australians received in Bangkok - 50 years each for heroin trafficking - are probably due to Lisa Marie Smith, an Australian who skipped bail for drug offences in Thailand last year. Smith has still not been found by authorities.
A 69-year-old man faces 797 sex charges, some of them dating back 40 years.
On the final day of his visit to China, Prime Minister \JJohn Howard\j and Chinese President Mr Jiang agree to step up military contacts between the two countries.
#
"April 2, 1997",92,0,g,0
During a Papua New Guinea inquiry into the controversial foreign mercenaries affair, it is revealed that the plan to use the mercenaries with Sandline International was plotted by defence officials from Papua New Guinea over one year ago in a \JCairns\j hotel.
Independent MP and Deputy President of the Senate, Mal Colston, who has recently paid back travel expenses that he was not entitled to, asks for an increase in his salary.
The NSW and Federal Governments announce that the Pacific Highway is to be upgraded at an approximate cost of $2.2 billion over ten years, starting with a four-lane freeway at Bulahdelah on Sydney's north coast.
The 1960s band The Seekers announce that they are making a comeback, with all original members agreeing to the decision.
A professor from the Australian National University claims that the first settlers to arrive at Norfolk Island were from New Zealand between 400 and 800 years ago.
At the human rights forum in Geneva, Aboriginal organisations claim that Australia showed a disregard for indigenous peoples when the government took away Aboriginal children from their families up until the 1960s.
Australia is forced to hold military helicopters and arms that landed in the Northern Territory late last month until the Papua New Guinean Government and the Sandline mercenaries company come to an agreement over who they belong to.
A newly released report by the Australian Bureau of Statistics claims that the life expectancy of indigenous people is up to 20 years younger than for other Australians.
#
"April 3, 1997",93,0,g,0
During the Papua New Guinean inquiry into the hiring of foreign mercenaries by the PNG Government, it is revealed that the mercenary company, Sandline International, wanted to operate the closed copper mine on Bougainville once the rebels had been taken care of; RTZ-CRA owns the bulk of the Australian-listed mine.
The former chief executive of Coles-Myer, Brian Quinn, denies in court the allegations that he defrauded Coles-Myer of $4.4 million.
Two smallgoods products manufactured in Victoria are recalled in New South Wales, Victoria and Western Australia, following yet another salmonella scare.
Police discover the body of a missing woman in Western Australia; a serial killer is believed to be responsible for this woman's death along with another victim last year.
A mining company strikes a direct deal with indigenous land owners to proceed with mining $900 million worth of nickel in Western Australia.
Deputy President of the Senate, Mal Colston, says he will not step down even if documentation on his alleged fraudulent travel allowances are handed into the Federal Police for investigation.
Sydney radio station 2GB dismisses broadcaster Ron Casey over his public anti-Japanese comments earlier this week.
Australia's Coca-Cola Amatil signs a $3.4 billion deal to merge with the Philippines-based San Miguel Corp; this will make it the largest Coca Cola bottler outside of the USA.
#
"April 4, 1997",94,0,g,0
The Australian Broadcasting Authority claims that the Ten Network is being controlled by foreigner Izzy Asper from Canada; Asper is ordered to reduce his holding share.
The Australian Democrats announce that they will attempt to remove the Deputy President of the Senate, Mal Colston, from his seat, following his alleged fraudulent travel claims and his refusal to resign.
The Indonesian Government extends its ban on importing Australian meat, following recent outbreaks of anthrax in New South Wales and Victoria.
The Federal Government claims that three Australians recently sentenced to 50 years imprisonment in Bangkok for heroin trafficking may be able to apply for international prisoner transfers and consequently serve the bulk of their time in Australian prisons.
Police in Western Australia confirm that they are closing in on a number of suspects in connection with their serial killer investigations.
#
"April 5, 1997",95,0,g,0
The Australian Democrats confirm that they will launch a no-confidence motion against Deputy President of the Senate, Mal Colston, in order to remove him from his seat.
Australian boxing trainer, Cec Waters, dies of a heart attack, aged 69. Waters was awaiting a murder trial.
The Sydney Royal Easter Show closes for the last time at the Moore Park Showground; the Royal Easter Show will move to the new Homebush site from next year.
\JKieren Perkins\j and his pregnant girlfriend, Symantha Liu, are married in a secret location on a north Queensland island.
\JTodd Woodbridge\j and \JMark Woodforde\j beat the Czech Republic in the Davis Cup doubles event in Adelaide; they will now go into the semi-finals in September.
#
"April 6, 1997",96,0,g,0
Prime Minister \JJohn Howard\j says that the Deputy President of the Senate, Mal Colston, should be investigated by the Federal Police if it is found that he broke the law when he claimed travel allowances where he shouldn't have.
The Australian Medical Association wants doctors to purchase and run up to three quarters of the country's private hospitals.
Most of the four- and five-star hotels in Sydney are already booked out for the Sydney 2000 Olympic Games; 80 per cent of these rooms are for the use of the Sydney Organising Committee for the Olympic Games to distribute to officials and media.
Researchers at the University of Melbourne claim that they have discovered a gene that causes bowel cancer.
American Scott Pruett in his Reynard Ford wins this year's Indy Carnival at Surfer's Paradise; Brazilian driver Christian Fittipaldi is hospitalised after fracturing his leg in a crash which delayed the race for almost one hour.
\JMark Philippoussis\j and Pat Rafter win their respective Davis Cup singles events in Adelaide; Australia now goes into the semi-finals in September.
#
"April 7, 1997",97,0,g,0
The Federal Government reports that boat people have cost Australian taxpayers more than $60 million over the past five years.
Justice Deirdre O'Connor, the President of the Industrial Relations Commission, says that new industrial relations laws, particularly enterprise bargaining, would mean that women's pay would never be equal to men's.
Aborigines are to lodge complaints with the Queensland Criminal Justice Commission alleging excessive force was used on them by police officers; videotaped evidence of the incident is handed over to authorities.
The Australian Olympic Committee wants television stations to contribute $3 million if the stations want to interview medallists of the 2000 Games.
The Australian Medical Association calls on the Federal Government to plan a long-term solution to the health situation for indigenous peoples.
Dozens of students demonstrate against the University of Sydney's introduction of $100,000 fees for some degrees.
The NSW Government is expected to drastically cut funding for State Rail in the forthcoming May Budget.
The Federal Court in Sydney hands Crown land in Crescent Head back to its indigenous owners.
As Victoria experiences its sixth food poisoning scare this year, health authorities unite and agree to formulate new national food hygiene standards.
Australian squash player Michelle Martin wins her fifth British Open championship.
Canadian Izzy Asper is to appeal against the Australian Broadcasting Authority's decision that he must reduce his share in the Ten Network.
#
"April 8, 1997",98,0,g,0
Former Australian cricket player Dennis Lillee says that Australian captain Mark Taylor should not be picked for the forthcoming Ashes tour due to his poor form this season.
The NSW Government assures the public that it will do everything possible to make sure teachers who sexually abuse children are forced out of the profession.
Prime Minister \JJohn Howard\j announces that he no longer supports Independent Senator Mal Colston, who may face Federal Police charges over fraudulent travel claims.
Former Liberal senator Bob Woods, and a National Party backbencher Michael Cobb, are both charged with fraud after it was found that they misused their travel entitlements.
Scientists claim that ocean temperatures around the south of Australia are rising.
It is proposed by the University of Sydney that students who are willing to pay up to $100,000 for a degree can "reserve" university places long before receiving HSC results, provided they meet academic requirements.
#
"April 9, 1997",99,0,g,0
The state of New South Wales is 27 per cent drought-affected, up 9 per cent from last month.
The Federal Minister for Education, Senator Vanstone, disagrees with some senior academics that universities are being forced to bring in full fees for students because of government funding cuts.
There is more pressure on Senator Mal Colston to stand down, following revelations that his travel expense rorting goes back to the early 1980s.
The Federal Court declares that Harold Thomas is the copyright owner of the Aboriginal flag that he designed in the 1970s.
The release of the financial Wallis Inquiry report clears the way for new competitors to compete against the major banks, and for banks to increase fees on their accounts.
#
"April 10, 1997",100,0,g,0
The Federal Government says that it won't back a proposed United Nations resolution that will condemn human rights abuses in China.
An Australian geologist claims that a site in Turkey which is believed to hold remnants of Noah's Ark is a hoax, and that the man in charge of the site falsified information.
It is announced that palliative care will no longer be covered by health funds - an extra policy will have to be taken out.
Senator Mal Colston is admitted to hospital as an investigation into his alleged fraudulent travel expenses by the Federal Police begins.
It is thought that the Kiama Blowhole is responsible for the deaths of two people who are found in the ocean just near the blowhole; almost five years ago seven people drowned when they were swept off the rocks also near the blowhole.
It is reported that the Super League tri-series organisers gave away approximately 10,000 tickets for tonight's game - they are yet to find a sponsor.
#
"April 11, 1997",101,0,g,0
Two women who were found dead just near the Kiama Blowhole yesterday are believed to have committed suicide; they were both related to some of the seven people who were swept off rocks and drowned near the blowhole almost five years ago.
The disbanded NSW Police Special Branch is to be revamped with a new name - the Protective Security Response Group.
There are plans currently underway for a $10 billion private railway linking Melbourne and Darwin.
Lady Susan Renouf's housekeeper is sentenced to 18 months jail for stealing $900,000 worth of Lady Renouf's jewellery.
Controversial Independent MP Pauline Hanson officially launches her new party - Pauline Hanson's One Nation - policies include stopping immigration and abolishing native title.
The Race Discrimination Commissioner claims that racism complaints have doubled from two years ago.
The Federal Minister for Health, Dr Wooldridge, denies that palliative care won't be covered by private health funds.
The Federal Police investigating Independent MP Mal Colston's fraudulent travel claims say that they will look into his travel expenses from up to 15 years ago.
The $1.4 billion Century Zinc mine in north Queensland may now be in doubt following some of traditional land owners withdrawing their support.
The Australian Defence Force announces that it may shed over 20,000 jobs and either close or sell major bases in New South Wales, Victoria and Canberra.
The Minister for Communications, Senator Alston, says that he will ask Prime Minister \JJohn Howard\j not to cut any funding from Australia's film industry in the next Budget.
#
"April 12, 1997",102,0,g,0
The families of the two women who are widely believed to have committed suicide at the Kiama Blowhole earlier this week deny rumours that they had taken their own lives.
A former police officer and alleged drug dealer jailed for contempt of the NSW Police Royal Commission is found hanged in his cell.
Alleged reports on Christopher Skase indicate that he is going ahead with his bid to purchase a casino resort in the Caribbean; other reports claim that Skase urgently needs a transplant operation and is seriously ill with emphysema - he may have to travel to Europe for an operation where he could be arrested and extradited back to Australia.
Sir Eric Pearce, knighted for his services to television and radio, dies aged 92.
#
"April 13, 1997",103,0,g,0
Deputy President of the Senate, Mal Colston, still refuses to step down, despite pressure from the Prime Minister John Howard. Colston is currently being investigated by the Federal Police over his alleged fraudulent travel expense claims.
The family of the jailed former police officer who was found hanged in his cell yesterday says that he did not commit suicide.
Doors on XPT trains are to be investigated and possibly made safer following the death of a young boy whom investigators believe opened one of the doors and fell out while the train was in motion.
The Australian Health Insurance Association suggests putting recuperating patients in hotels instead of keeping them in hospitals where it is more expensive.
A member of the Northern Territory's Opposition Labor Party wants to introduce a private member's bill to allow doctors to practise euthanasia without facing a fine or conviction.
A Malaysian Grand Prix win gives motorcycling world champion \JMick Doohan\j his 35th 500cc Grand Prix victory.
It is revealed that the Federal Government was forced into contributing $55 million towards the cost of a bridge in Vietnam instead of using the money to expand on health and education projects in Vietnam.
Aborigines who withdrew their support for the $1.4 billion Century zinc mine in north Queensland have now agreed to let the mine proceed.
#
"April 14, 1997",104,0,g,0
Homosexual sex in Tasmania is set to be legalised following the Tasmanian Government's consent to a declaration in the High Court that the Federal sexual privacy act overrides the Tasmanian legislation.
Families of the victims of the \JPort Arthur\j massacre and the Dunblane massacre in Scotland get together to urge the Australian government to toughen gun laws.
Banned Australian sprinter Dean Capobianco announces that he will fight his four-year ban and hopefully get it overturned.
Unions on behalf of the metal industry push for a 15 per cent pay increase and threaten to strike if they don't get it.
The drought-affected areas in the state of New South Wales are slowly becoming larger.
Author Kit Denton dies aged 68.
Colonial State Bank announces that its fees for EFTPOS and everyday accounts are set to increase - it now offers no free transactions on its main accounts.
Jim Bacon replaces Michael Field as the Tasmanian Opposition Leader.
Prime Minister John Howard says that he will extinguish native title on pastoral leases if Aboriginal negotiators cannot give more ground in talks on the Wik decision (the High Court's ruling that pastoral leases and native title can co-exist).
#
"April 15, 1997",105,0,g,0
The Australian Institute of Health and Welfare releases a report which shows that there were over 90,000 cases of reported child abuse last year.
Lachlan Murdoch, son of Rupert, is named as managing director of News Ltd and it is tipped that he will run News Corp when his father retires.
The South African High Court delays extradition proceedings that would see alleged pedophile Philip Bell face sex charges in Australia.
The Australian Bureau of Criminal Intelligence wants to give organisations who employ child carers access to a national database of convicted and suspected sex offenders.
Australia backs China over the USA in the issue of human rights.
Following inaccurate reports in an Indonesian newspaper about Australian beef causing a virus similar to the Ebola virus in Africa, the Australian Embassy in Jakarta reassures Indonesians that our meat is safe to eat.
\JRupert Murdoch\j launches an Internet service in China that will provide Chinese people with translated information from the West.
The mining company Plutonic Resources announces a huge gold find, estimated at two million ounces, in the Eastern Goldfields in Western Australia.
#
"April 16, 1997",106,0,g,0
Teachers in independent schools in New South Wales are granted a 20 per cent pay rise over three years.
The Federal Government secures the listing of 11 species of albatross on the Convention on the Conservation of Migratory Species of Wild Animals.
A recent police crackdown in the Sydney suburb of Redfern (an area high in crime) has seen robberies drop by over 50 per cent and assaults drop by over 20 per cent.
The State Government blocks the NSW Police Commissioner Peter Ryan's proposals to replace the disbanded Special Branch.
The out-of-form captain of the Australian cricket team, \JMark Taylor,\j waits anxiously to hear if he will be named tomorrow for the coming Ashes tour.
A twelve-year-old boy is mauled to death by the family's pet dog - a Great Dane-Bull Mastiff cross - in his home in Melbourne.
China publicly praises Australia for not supporting the United States' resolution at the United Nations Rights Commission in Geneva condemning China's human rights practices.
The family of the jailed former police officer who was found hanged in his cell earlier this week wants a full inquiry into his death.
Aboriginal leaders anxious to solve the current Wik crisis (where the High Court ruled that pastoral leases and native title can coexist) say that they will never accept full extinguishment of native title.
It is revealed that almost 80 school teachers who are suspected of sexual misconduct against students will remain teaching but will be closely monitored.
#
"April 17, 1997",107,0,g,0
Oscar-winning Australian actor Geoffrey Rush joins other people in the film industry to protest against the Federal Government's proposed budget cuts to the Film Finance Corporation and the Australian Film Commission.
The Western Australian Government says that it will not change its industrial relations legislation and warns the State's unions not to hold a State-wide strike at the end of the month.
The Victorian Government announces that it will sell the State's entire public transport system.
Scientists in Sydney say that funnel-web spider venom can be used as an effective insecticide, killing pests such as cockroaches and cotton bollworm.
The Native Farmers Federation says it won't agree to Aboriginal demands to protect native title rights on pastoral leases.
The out-of-form Australian cricket team captain, Mark Taylor, is named in the team for the coming Ashes tour; \JSteve Waugh\j replaces wicket-keeper Ian Healy as vice-captain.
#
"April 18, 1997",108,0,g,0
St George Bank announces that it will close down 50 branches, most of them in Sydney.
There is another major gold find in Western Australia - the second big find in the State in a week.
Australian swimmers Michael Klim, Geoff Huegill, Adrian Radley and Phil Rogers break their own world record by 0.3 seconds in the 4 x 100 m medley relay at the shortcourse championships in Sweden.
The NSW Parole Board grants triple murderer Archie McCafferty parole after spending 23 years in prison; because he is a British citizen, he may be deported.
The Australian Quarantine Inspection Service claims that illegally imported birds have brought in a fatal bird disease, cloacal papillomatosis.
NSW MP Franca Arena threatens to name three sitting MPs, a former MP, and two serving judges as pedophiles if the police do not investigate her claims.
The AIDS Council of NSW claims that one person per day in New South Wales becomes infected with HIV.
The Health Department is demanding an explanation from the Hills Private Hospital in Sydney over why the hospital delayed telling the Health Department that over 120 of its patients may have been exposed to HIV, hepatitis B and hepatitis C earlier this year.
Aboriginal leaders say that they will demand huge compensation payouts if the Federal Government extinguishes native title on pastoral leases.
#
"April 19, 1997",109,0,g,0
Former Coles-Myer chief executive Brian Quinn is found guilty of defrauding Coles-Myer of $4.46 million; his sentence is yet to be handed down but he is expected to appeal.
Controversial Independent MP Pauline Hanson claims to have already attracted over 40,000 to her new political party One Nation.
Grazier Sinclair Hill urges \JRupert Murdoch\j of News Limited to build the proposed Fox Studios at Homebush instead of the Moore Park Showground in Sydney.
#
"April 20, 1997",110,0,g,0
NSW Premier \JBob Carr\j sacks the chief executive of State Rail and appoints former ABC boss David Hill as the new chief executive.
The Federal Government wants to rush through proposed media ownership laws while it still has a chance of the new laws being passed in the Senate.
World champion motorcycle racer \JMick Doohan\j wins the 500cc Japanese Grand Prix.
The International Olympic Committee (IOC) shows its approval of the Sydney Organising Committee for the Olympic Games (SOCOG)'s budget so far.
Olympic athlete and gold medallist \JHerb Elliott\j is appointed to a senior position with the Australian Olympic Committee (AOC); he will manage athlete and corporate relations.
#
"April 21, 1997",111,0,g,0
Former Western Australian Premier \JCarmen Lawrence\j stands down from the Labor front bench after she is charged with three counts of perjury relating to evidence given at the Marks Royal Commission two years ago.
The NSW State Government announces that it will publicly float the state's TAB.
It is revealed that some of the major Sydney Olympic sponsors have not yet signed their contracts.
American golfer Tom Lehman knocks \JGreg Norman\j off the world's No. 1 ranked position - a place Norman held for a record 96 weeks.
Young Australian swimmers do extremely well at the shortcourse championships in Sweden, coming first in the medal count - overall Australia won 19 medals, 9 of them were gold.
#
"April 22, 1997",112,0,g,0
The Industrial Relations Commission grants a $10 a week rise for workers without enterprise wage deals and sets the Federal minimum wage at $359.40 per week. Welfare groups and the ACTU were pushing for a larger increase.
\JKerry Packer\j meets with Prime Minister \JJohn Howard\j to urge him to change media ownership rules in order for Packer to take over Fairfax newspapers.
Former Western Australian Premier \JCarmen Lawrence\j says she will fight the perjury charges that were laid against her yesterday.
Sydney University reveals that it may shed up to 600 staff over the next couple of years.
Aboriginal leaders want to ban a new book that Independent MP Pauline Hanson's newly-launched political party is promoting - the book claims that Aborigines were cannibals.
A Federal Court hearing on a native title claim over the sea off the northern coast of Australia commences.
Queensland Premier Mr Borbidge urges Prime Minister \JJohn Howard\j to extinguish native title on pastoral leases.
Indonesian authorities lift the ban on importing Australian meat following a recent outbreak of anthrax in New South Wales and Victoria.
\JCSIRO\j scientists announce that they will release 12 rare long-snouted western barred bandicoots into the wild in an effort to re-establish the species - they have not been sighted on the mainland for almost 70 years.
Murderer Archibald McCafferty - who is to be released on parole next week after spending 23 years in prison - says he will appeal against an order for him to be deported to the United Kingdom when he is released.
The NSW Government says it will ban any person or company with gambling interests from buying shares in the float of the NSW TAB.
#
"April 23, 1997",113,0,g,0
It is reported that the search warrants used during the Wood Royal Commission in NSW may have all been illegal and therefore all evidence collected from their use could also be illegal.
The Federal Independent MP for \JKalgoorlie\j in Western Australian, Graeme Campbell, is facing charges of dangerous driving causing grievous bodily harm. If he is found guilty he will be forced out of Parliament.
The Reserve Bank is pressured to lower interest rates following the release of figures that inflation in Australia is at a four-year low; the annual inflation rate is at 1.3 per cent.
New legislation in the Northern Territory may see doctors who assist in euthanasia receive a $50 fine instead of facing a murder charge.
The Federal Government pushes for peace negotiations in war-torn Bougainville.
The Federal Government confirms that funding for the film industry will not be cut in the May Budget.
Opposition Leader \JKim Beazley\j says that \JKerry Packer\j should not be allowed to buy Fairfax newspapers while he still owns the Nine Network. This follows Kerry Packer's meeting with Prime Minister \JJohn Howard\j yesterday, urging him to change cross-media legislation.
Tom Raudonikis is named as the new coach of the NSW State of Origin rugby league team, following Phil Gould's resignation.
#
"April 24, 1997",114,0,g,0
NSW Premier \JBob Carr\j says he will order retrospective legislation to validate search warrants used during the Wood Royal Commission; earlier in the week it was revealed that these warrants may all have been illegal.
Prime Minister \JJohn Howard\j sends out a signal that indicates \JKerry Packer\j would be allowed to take over Fairfax newspapers while still owning the Nine Network.
QLD Premier Mr Borbidge says that he will not accept Prime Minister John Howard's ten-point plan to resolve the Wik crisis. The crisis started when the High Court ruled that pastoral leases and native title can co-exist.
A team from the International Olympic Committee in Sydney for the past week says it is pleased with the way the Sydney Games are progressing.
The Perth Magistrate's Court sets bail at $5,000 for former Western Australian Premier \JCarmen Lawrence\j who was recently charged with three counts of perjury relating to the Marks Royal Commission two years ago.
The mother of mass-murderer Martin Bryant publicly releases a poem she wrote, encouraging families and friends of the victims to look to the future with compassion and hope and live above their losses. It is almost a year since that fateful day in \JPort Arthur\j in which Martin Bryant killed 35 innocent people and injured others.
#
"April 25, 1997",115,0,g,0
The Health Insurance Commission wants up to 40 doctors who claimed over $400,000 from Medicare in one year to be investigated.
An Australian leading specialist on HIV claims that the virus is rapidly becoming stronger and more resistant to medication.
Environmentalists claim that koala colonies near the proposed Holsworthy airport site will be killed off if the airport goes ahead.
The Deputy President of the Senate, Mal Colston, who is accused of fraud relating to parliamentary travel allowances, has his home and office searched by the Federal Police.
Tens of thousands of people around the nation take part in Anzac Day parades and services.
Art experts question the authenticity of some of the paintings by Australian artists that are to go up for auction next week in Melbourne.
#
"April 26, 1997",116,0,g,0
Australian television advertisements featuring Aborigines are to be shown in America in order to attract thousands more American tourists to Australia for the Sydney Games.
The Bureau of Meteorology figures indicate that Sydney is heading for its driest April in over 100 years. So far 5.2 mm of rain has fallen during April; the average for this month is 127 mm.
A newspaper in Thailand labels Australia as a small backward-looking land; this follows the release of a controversial book promoted by MP Pauline Hanson. Chinese Australians claim that Pauline Hanson's newly-launched political party, One Nation, is in breach of the Racial Discrimination and Racial Hatred Acts.
Australian astronomers say that the Hale-Bopp comet that is in the Southern Hemisphere at the moment is best viewed outside of city lights and is thought to be 1000 times brighter than Halley's Comet.
Deputy President of the Senate, Mal Colston, who is being investigated for fraudulent activities regarding parliamentary travel allowances, is accused of keeping Anzac commemoration medallions from 1990 instead of distributing them.
#
"April 27, 1997",117,0,g,0
The Federal Opposition claims that the privacy of citizens is at risk following the Federal Government's decision to transfer personal records to the private sector.
The Federal Defence Minister, Mr McLachlan, indicates that he may send Australian troops to help defend South Korea if North Korea launches an attack.
The Australian Medical Association is to present Prime Minister \JJohn Howard\j with the President's Medal for his crackdown on gun ownership. To date more than 380,000 guns have been handed in at a total cost of just over $190 million.
As BHP is expected to announce the closure of its \JNewcastle\j operations, up to 3,000 people prepare to lose their jobs.
#
"April 28, 1997",118,0,g,0
Australia mourns the victims of the Port Arthur massacre on the first anniversary of the tragedy where 35 people were shot dead by a single gunman.
Golfer \JGreg Norman\j loses a play-off to English golfer Mark James in the Spanish Open. However, Norman regains the world number one ranking position that he lost last week to an American player.
An inquiry into the Western Australian beach cave-in tragedy commences; nine people died last September during a school surf carnival when a cliff face over a cave collapsed near Gracetown.
A Telstra-funded study finds that there is a link between digital mobile phones and the cancer lymphoma.
The Federal Government says that the private sector will have to comply with privacy laws when handling personal records handed over by the government.
Sotheby's in Melbourne auctions a \JFrederick McCubbin\j painting, \ITwo Sisters on a Rocky Hillside,\i for over $330,000; the same painting had previously sold for $110,000 almost ten years ago.
Thousands of BHP workers in Newcastle threaten to strike over BHP's decision to close the steelworks operations in the city.
The Prime Minister of Japan, Ryutaro Hashimoto, arrives in Australia for a visit; Prime Minister \JJohn Howard\j is expected to talk about the mandatory cut in greenhouse emissions and how it would ultimately cost, according to an Australian Bureau of Agricultural and Resource Economics (ABARE) report, every Australian $9,000.
Unions in Western Australian prepare for the transport, power, telecommunications and freight strikes that will occur tomorrow; the unions are demanding the abolition of strict new industrial relations laws.
Queensland Premier, Mr Borbidge, still does not accept Prime Minister John Howard's 10-point plan designed to resolve the native title/Wik crisis. The plan will see pastoralists have their leases upgraded to full primary production level; Aborigines will receive compensation, the amount of which is yet to be decided.
#
"April 29, 1997",119,0,g,0
In response to Prime Minister \JJohn Howard\j's 10-point Wik plan which effectively extinguishes native title on pastoral leases, Aborigines threaten to boycott the Sydney 2000 Games.
BHP confirms that it will sack approximately 3,000 employees, most of them from the \JNewcastle\j steelworks which will close down by 1999.
According to a newspaper survey, controversial MP Pauline Hanson's new political party, One Nation, is gaining more and more supporters.
The Budget handed down by the Victorian Government sees over $200 million in tax cuts for households and businesses, including a decrease in payroll tax and petrol tax.
Up to 20,000 workers from the Western Australian transport, government and communications industries hold a strike in protest of tough new industrial relations legislation.
An opal mine collapses in \JLightning Ridge,\j killing one person and seriously injuring two others.
The Federal Government says it may pull out from the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change if it imposes compulsory greenhouse reduction targets.
Aboriginal magistrate, Pat O'Shane, announces that she will retire from the Bench in July.
Environmentalists claim that Prime Minister \JJohn Howard\j's proposal to upgrade pastoral leases to full primary production will result in destruction and possible extinction of critically endangered wildlife.
#
"April 30, 1997",120,0,g,0
The Federal Government orders private health funds to freeze premiums until the end of the year in order to attract more people to take out private health cover.
Alleged Australian pedophile Philip Bell loses his appeal in a court in South Africa against an extradition order to face sex charges in Australia.
Over 100 prominent Australian actors, authors, sports people and politicians sign a petition urging the Federal Government not to extinguish native title.
Sydney has just had its driest April in 101 years with 8.2 hours of sunshine per day compared to the average for April of just 6.8 hours.
Unions in Western Australia vow to continue their fight against the State Government's strict new industrial relations legislation.
The ABC board enables Radio Australia to continue its Asian service, following a decision by members to top up the Federal Government's $7.2 million funding by $1 million.
Prime Minister \JJohn Howard\j says that the recent support for controversial Independent MP Pauline Hanson's One Nation party is due to insecurity felt by people facing economic and social changes. According to the newly-launched party, it has been inundated with membership requests.
#
"May 1, 1997",121,0,g,0
Shares in Fairfax Holdings rise to a three-year high following increased speculation that Kerry Packer's PBL is about to bid for the newspaper group.
The Tasmanian Government decriminalises gay sex - the last State in Australia to do so.
Former MP and lord mayor of Wollongong, Frank Arkell, is arrested on child sex charges, dating back a number of years.
Federal Government backbenchers, who previously strongly opposed Prime Minister John Howard's 10-point Wik plan on native title, now say that they want more information on the 10-point plan before they make a decision. The backbenchers want outright native title extinguishment on pastoral leases while Howard claims that his 10-point plan effectively extinguishes native title on pastoral leases in all but name.
Australian scientists in Melbourne claim that they have made a breakthrough in IVF treatment which will increase the IVF success rate to more than 40 per cent.
The Federal Foreign Affairs Minister, \JAlexander Downer\j, publicly condemns controversial MP Pauline Hanson's One Nation Party and its anti-immigration and discriminatory opinions.
The NSW Government announces a $3 billion package to clean up Sydney Harbour in time for the Sydney 2000 Olympics.
Prime Minister \JJohn Howard\j says that Australia's cross-media laws are outdated.
Triple murderer Archie McCafferty is released from a Sydney prison after a 24-year sentence; he is deported to Britain where he holds citizenship.
#
"May 2, 1997",122,0,g,0
It is alleged by officials in Malaysia that Australia's Commonwealth Games official, Arthur Tunstall, accused Malaysia of offering money and gifts to secure the 1988 Commonwealth Games for Kuala Lumpur.
The NSW Department of Agriculture reports that if rains do not fall soon, up to 45 per cent of the State will be declared drought-affected.
BHP steelworkers in Newcastle hold a 24-hour strike in protest of BHP's decision to close the plant by 1999.
A Western Australian coroner finds that the lives of the nine people, who died when a cliff overhang collapsed on them during a school surfing carnival near Gracetown last September, may have been spared if warning signs had been erected.
It is reported that \JKerry Packer\j's PBL will not bid for control of the Sydney Harbour Casino; instead it will attempt to take control of Fairfax newspapers. Meanwhile the Seven Network chairman, \JKerry Stokes\j, accuses Prime Minister \JJohn Howard\j of offering \JRupert Murdoch\j a bigger stake in the Seven Network if he sold some of his Australian newspapers.
The Australian Fisheries Management Authority claims that it has found ships fishing inside the economic zone in the Australian Antarctic waters.
\JSir John Eccles\j, scientist and winner of the 1963 Nobel Prize for medicine, dies aged 94.
#
"May 3, 1997",123,0,g,0
There is growing speculation that the Deputy President of the Senate, Mal Colston, who is being investigated by the Federal Police for alleged fraudulent travel expenses, is to resign this position.
The Federal Government reports that it has cancelled \JChristopher Skase\j's Australian passport, meaning that if he leaves Spain he could be arrested.
A prominent Sydney judge may be investigated following sexual allegations that were made against him during the recent Wood Royal Commission.
\JPauline Hanson\j and her One Nation Party are bombarded with fruit by angry protesters in Perth. It is reported that Prime Minister \JJohn Howard\j will soon publicly protest against the controversial Independent MP.
NSW Police Commissioner Peter Ryan is to sack up to 200 police officers that he has lost confidence in.
#
"May 4, 1997",124,0,g,0
The Federal Government looks set to abandon existing cross-media legislation, paving the way for \JKerry Packer\j to bid for Fairfax newspapers.
Tennis player \JMark Philippoussis\j wins the BMW Open in Germany, beating Alex Corretja from Spain.
#
"May 5, 1997",125,0,g,0
Police seize a $100 million heroin haul in Port Botany; it is said to be the largest heroin bust in New South Wales.
Unions announce that there will be a national strike next week by 24,000 BHP steelworkers.
The Queensland Government considers upgrading all State leases to freehold title, which means they will not be subject to native title claims.
Approximately 100 veterans gather in Martin Place, Sydney to commemorate the 55th anniversary of the Battle of the Coral Sea.
The success of winter crops in New South Wales, including wheat, barley, oats, canola and chick peas, is in danger because of a severe lack of rain in the State during March and April.
Prime Minister John Howard, and the Minister for Communications, Senator Alston, are both reported to be eager to swap cross-media ownership rules with competition laws supplemented with a special diversity test.
#
"May 6, 1997",126,0,g,0
NSW Premier \JBob Carr\j delivers the State's budget. Health, education, families and the Olympics are the main winners; while there will be cuts to public transport and the public service and a ten per cent tax on hotel beds in the Sydney CBD.
The Deputy President of the Senate, Mal Colston, who is being investigated for alleged fraudulent parliamentary travel claims, resigns as the deputy president with Senator Sue West taking over this position. Bitter Colston says he will now vote against the Government every time it needed his vote in a critical decision. Already he has said he will vote against the Federal Government's new cross-media laws.
Millionaire Dick Smith is appointed as deputy chairman of the Civil Aviation Safety Authority (CASA) board.
Under proposed State laws, all clubs, pubs and restaurants in New South Wales will have to ban smoking unless they install powerful ventilation systems to clean the air.
The Queensland Government votes against Premier Mr Borbidge's decision to offer financial payments to pastoral leaseholders to convert their land to freehold.
A $30 million compensation payout is to be reinstated to Aboriginal claimants so that the $1.1 billion Century Zinc mine in the Gulf of Carpentaria can proceed.
The National Party demands that Prime Minister John Howard overhauls the 10-point Wik plan on native title/pastoral lease rules if it is to win the support of party members. The National Party wants full native title extinguishment on pastoral leases.
The University of NSW says that unless it introduces full fees of up to $100,000 it will have to cut staff and close courses.
As the Federal Government considers cutting immigration further, Pauline Hanson's One Nation Party continues to gain support.
Unions in Western Australia vote to shut down all main construction sites in the State next week as they continue their push for the State Government to change strict industrial relations laws.
#
"May 7, 1997",127,0,g,0
Commonwealth Games official, \JArthur Tunstall\j, denies earlier reports that alleged he said Malaysia was only awarded the 1998 Commonwealth Games because it used money to persuade officials.
The Sydney Organising Committee for the Olympic Games (SOCOG) says that the revised budget to run the 2000 Games is over $2.2 billion, up from the 1993 estimate of $690 million.
The Australian Democrats indicate that they may support the Federal Government's new 15 per cent superannuation surcharge for high income earners.
Former Coles-Myer chief executive Brian Quinn is sentenced to four years jail for defrauding Coles-Myer of $4.4 million.
Two teenage stowaways from New Zealand are found alive in far north Queensland after jumping ship two weeks ago in shark and crocodile-infested waters.
Australia's largest casino opens in Melbourne - the Crown Casino is expected to dramatically increase tourism to the city.
The NSW tourism industry condemns Premier Bob Carr's decision to place a 10 per cent tax on Sydney CBD hotel beds.
Some National Party members, including leader Tim Fischer, now say they support Prime Minister John Howard's 10-point Wik plan on native title; just yesterday the National Party was adamant that it wanted full extinguishment of native title and that it wouldn't be supporting Howard's plan.
#
"May 8, 1997",128,0,g,0
The Federal Minister for Schools announces that from 1999 all school students from years 4 to 10 will have to study civics and citizenship, including subjects such as the history of the Constitution, the role of the Governor-General and the responsibility of the different levels of Government.
United States' scientists confirm the belief of many Australian scientists that cockroaches are a major cause of asthma.
BHP claims that up to 20,000 steelworkers' jobs nationwide would be at risk if it didn't close down its Newcastle steelworks.
Prime Minister John Howard publicly condemns controversial Independent MP Pauline Hanson's anti-Asian opinions, claiming that they are doing nothing to resolve the country's problems and that her cure is worse than the disease.
Over 3,000 university students in New South Wales hold a protest outside the Prime Minister's Sydney office, demanding that the introduction of full fees be abandoned.
An investigation by police and national park authorities into the fatal shooting of fur seals at Jervis Bay begins.
#
"May 9, 1997",129,0,g,0
The National Party and the Prime Minister continue discussions to try to resolve the native title/pastoral lease debate.
It is reported that while pay-TV operators continue to lose money, up to 10 per cent of Australian households are connected to pay-TV, which is said to be a huge amount considering it has only been available for 18 months.
A meningitis outbreak occurs in Sydney's west; health officials fear that it may be a new strain.
Independent MP Pauline Hanson, along with her One Nation Party, is forced to cancel an address in Hobart as protesters outnumber supporters.
Executives from Sydney Harbour Casino may consider buying back the 85 per cent United States stake in the casino in the wake of Kerry Packer's PBL withdrawal of its takeover bid.
Andra Knight, a mother who has raised over 100 children, including 96 foster children, is named Australia's 1997 Mother of the Year.
The hotel industry in New South Wales threatens to tear up contracts for thousands of booked Olympic beds if the Carr Government doesn't abandon the 10 per cent bed tax.
#
"May 10, 1997",130,0,g,0
Seventeen members of the Australian cricket team leave for the England Ashes tour; captain \JMark Taylor\j says he will stand down if his poor form continues during the tour.
Independent MP \JPauline Hanson\j blames Prime Minister \JJohn Howard\j's criticism of her for the cause of disruptive demonstrations during her Tasmanian visit.
The parliamentary secretary to the Federal Education Minister resigns to join Pauline Hanson's One Nation Party.
#
"May 11, 1997",131,0,g,0
While Sydney is hit with severe wind and rain storms, 40 per cent of New South Wales still remains in drought.
Managing director of PBL, \JJames Packer\j, says that he opposes any proposed cross-media laws that would require the break-up of Fairfax newspapers.
An Australian scientist is forced to travel to Europe to develop his computerised alarm for sleeping motorists, as he cannot find a company in Australia interested in manufacturing it.
The NSW Opposition government claims that over $65 million of much-needed health funds was left unspent during last financial year; the Government says it was only $16 million.
Despite increases in university fees, new figures indicate that enrolments have risen by over 25,000 for 1997.
Independent MP Pauline Hanson says she would like to see the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Commission (ATSIC) abolished because she says Aborigines receive special treatment.
A gunman kills three people near the town of Swan Hill, Victoria; he eludes police and is thought to have crossed the border into New South Wales.
#
"May 12, 1997",132,0,g,0
Public opinion polls indicate that Prime Minister John Howard is losing popularity over his handling of the Pauline Hanson race debate affair and the Mal Colston fraudulent travel allowance affair.
Marathon swimmer \JSusie Maroney\j is said to be ahead of schedule in her dream to become the first person to swim from Cuba to the United States.
The Opposition says it will block the Federal Government's proposal to exempt small businesses from unfair dismissal laws.
Telstra announces a $100 million nationwide scheme to replace all public payphones with new high-tech phones, enabling users to pay bills and send e-mails.
The NSW Government is being pressured into introducing suicide prevention counselling programs in schools in the wake of the alarming number of recent suicides in the State.
#
"May 13, 1997",133,0,g,0
The Federal Treasurer, \JPeter Costello\j, hands down the annual Budget with criticism from the shadow Treasurer and the Democrats.
In the Federal Budget, the Government allocates $1 billion for a Federation Fund to help pay for national projects. There are cuts in childcare and pharmaceutical benefits, and also thousands of public service jobs are expected to be axed. New rebates for savings and new laws for superannuation are also announced.
Prime Minister John Howard gains the support of backbenchers for his 10-point Wik plan but is warned that he may have trouble convincing pastoralists in Queensland. Pastoralists are demanding full extinguishment of native title on pastoral leases.
St George Bank announces that it will start cutting staff and closing two branches each week for 18 months.
New figures indicate that Telstra has only 57 per cent of the international phone call market, down from 70 per cent two years ago.
Champion marathon swimmer \JSusie Maroney\j completes her swim from Cuba to America. She is the first person ever to make the almost 180 kilometre swim; her first attempt just under a year ago failed after 38 hours. The swim took Susie just over 241/2 hours to complete.
Colin Fisk, an informant at the recent Wood Royal Commission on police corruption, is arrested on child sex offences.
#
"May 14, 1997",134,0,g,0
Champion marathon swimmer \JSusie Maroney\j, who became the first person to swim non-stop from Cuba to America yesterday, is criticised and accused of cheating by holding onto and being pulled along by her shark cage.
The alleged murderer of three people in Victoria three days ago is found dead following a large-scale police search for him.
Police officers in New South Wales are to receive new handguns from July 1 this year; Glock .40 calibre semi-automatic pistols will replace the old Smith & Wesson six-shooters.
A newspaper in Singapore claims that holiday bookings to Australia are down by 10 to 15 per cent, largely, it says, because of controversial Independent MP \JPauline Hanson\j and her anti-Asian views.
Scientists confirm that a chicken virus has infected Antarctic penguins; they fear that the virus may threaten the penguin's population.
Alleged pedophile and informant at the recent Wood Royal Commission, Colin Fisk, who was arrested on child sex charges yesterday, says that his life may be in danger if he is sent to prison.
#
"May 15, 1997",135,0,g,0
Up to 24,000 BHP steelworkers hold a nationwide strike in protest of BHP's decision to close down the Newcastle steelworks by the end of the decade.
The long-awaited report from the Wood Royal Commission into police corruption in New South Wales is released. Justice Wood's main recommendations are: to provide 'shooting galleries' for drug users; lift the age to 21 for entry into the Police Academy; ensure arrest is last resort; transfer prosecutions to the Director of Public Prosecutions; support the ACT's heroin trial; use civilians in large drug or cash raids; and use hand-held recorders for official conversations with the public. The NSW Police Commissioner, Peter Ryan, admits that ridding the police force of corruption is still a long way off.
The Federal Opposition claims that the Budget will do little to reduce unemployment and that it mainly benefits the well-off.
Pastoralists consider the proposal by Ray Robinson, the deputy chairman of the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Commission, for pastoral leases occupied by holders to be changed to freehold title (which would extinguish native title), on the provision that Aborigines could access the land for traditional purposes. However, Prime Minister John Howard is adamant not to change his 10-point Wik plan on native title/pastoral leases.
At the completion of an Aboriginal landowners summit in the Northern Territory, Aborigines declare war on Prime Minister John Howard and his 10-point Wik native title plan.
The United Nations claims that Australia was in breach of human rights when it detained Cambodian boat people for four years from 1989.
Scientists claim that parts of the Great Barrier Reef that were inflicted by Cyclone Justin in March may take up to 50 years to recover.
#
"May 16, 1997",136,0,g,0
NSW Premier \JBob Carr\j says that he will support the ACT heroin trial but opposes Sydney's participation in it. Carr also opposes Justice Wood's recommendation from the NSW Police Royal Commission report to set up heroin 'shooting galleries' in the State.
The States of Western Australia, New South Wales, Tasmania, Queensland and South Australia ban imports of apples and pears from Victoria as it was recently discovered that apples and pears in some parts of Victoria were carrying the fire blight disease.
Ex-governor-general and Labor politician Bill Hayden says he will try to remove controversial Independent MP Pauline Hanson from his former seat of Oxley.
Wealthy grazier Sinclair Hill vows to fight \JRupert Murdoch\j's plans for a huge film and entertainment complex to be built at the Sydney Showground.
#
"May 17, 1997",137,0,g,0
As Prime Minister John Howard faces angry pastoralists in Queensland, he claims that he will call a double-dissolution election if the Senate attempts to change his 10-point native title plan. Pastoralists demand native title extinguishment on their lands.
Police successfully stop an attempted prison escape by backpacker murderer Ivan Milat and drugs baron George Savvas from Maitland Jail. Savvas was only recently re-captured after eight months on the run following an escape from Goulburn Jail.
Critics continue to accuse champion marathon swimmer Susie Maroney of cheating in her recent world-record Cuba to America swim.
#
"May 18, 1997",138,0,g,0
Drugs baron George Savvas commits suicide inside his cell at Maitland Jail. This follows an attempted escape yesterday with backpacker murderer Ivan Milat.
Police claim that the attempted escape of George Savvas and Ivan Milat from Maitland Jail yesterday was carefully planned and possibly with the help of their families and friends.
International Olympic Committee officials will ask Australian officials to lift the curfew at Sydney Airport for the duration of the 2000 Games.
A National Health and Medical Research Council report recommending the over-the-counter sale of a controversial morning-after contraceptive pill, RU 486, is condemned by the Right to Life organisation.
Prime Minister John Howard confirms that he will consider a possible goods and services tax (GST) leading up to the next Federal election.
The Seven Network's \IBlue Heeler's\i star Lisa McCune wins the Gold Logie at the annual \ITV Week\i Logie Awards night.
#
"May 19, 1997",139,0,g,0
Motorcycle champion \JMichael Doohan\j claims his 37th 500cc win at the Italian Grand Prix.
The National Crime Authority says it wants greater powers in its investigations into organised crime.
Prime Minister \JJohn Howard\j threatens a double-dissolution election if the Democrats and the Opposition don't pass his legislation on unfair dismissal laws.
The Independent Commission Against Corruption (ICAC) is to investigate whether any Corrective Services employees acted corruptly leading up to the attempted escape of Ivan Milat and George Savvas from Maitland Jail on the weekend.
Scientists say that Adelaide may be another source of the apple and pear fire blight disease that was only recently discovered in Victorian apples and pears.
ABC Television in Melbourne and Sydney are to lose 40 per cent of staff following heavy cuts to their budgets.
Former host of the Seven Network's \IWitness\i program, \JJana Wendt\j, attends a court hearing to sue the Seven Network over her contract that she says was unfair and never delivered its promises.
#
"May 20, 1997",140,0,g,0
Aboriginal leaders, together with a selection of prominent Australians, gather at a press conference to demand that Prime Minister John Howard changes his 10-point Wik plan to ensure that native title rights are protected.
Treasurer \JPeter Costello\j indicates that the Government will back a goods and services tax (GST) for its next term in office.
The Apple and Pear Growers' Association claims that apple and pear sales in Victoria have plummeted following an outbreak of fire blight disease in Melbourne's Royal Botanic Gardens.
The Federal Government announces new cuts to immigration numbers for 1997-98.
Independent MP Pauline Hanson's recent parliamentary travel allowance claims are to be investigated.
The NSW Government announces tough new laws for road rage perpetrators. These include prison sentences of up to five years and $10,000 fines.
It is reported that former Channel 7 presenter \JJana Wendt\j is claiming $6 million in her lawsuit against the network for alleged damage to her reputation and to cover legal costs. However, Channel 7 says that the money it has paid her since January should be enough compensation.
Following the final report of the inquiry into the separation of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children from their families, Aboriginal leaders along with the Federal Opposition demand compensation for the victims who were forcibly separated from their families by the Government up until the 1970s. Indigenous leader Lois O'Donoghue calls on the Federal Government to publicly release this 'stolen generations' report.
It is reported that Australian Rugby League officials are talking with Super League officials about a united competition to start in 1998.
#
"May 21, 1997",141,0,g,0
Recent figures indicate that only 32.5 per cent of the Australian population is covered by private health insurance.
The Federal Government says that the recently announced cut in immigration numbers for 1997/98 will mainly be for aged parents wanting to join their children in Australia.
The Federal Attorney-General is adamant that there won't be any financial compensation for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children who were 'stolen' from their parents by the Government up until the 1970s.
A senior academic claims that foreign students studying in Australian universities are being offered cash bribes to switch universities.
A study by the Australian Institute of Criminology claims that the Aboriginal prison population will double within 14 years if the current rate continues.
Prime Minister John Howard is set to announce a $1.15 billion Natural Heritage Trust policy which will provide much needed funds for the recovery of a number of endangered species including the Western Swamp Tortoise, the Kangaroo Island Glossy Black Cockatoo, the Swift Parrot, the Gouldian Finch, and the Black-Eared Miner.
Former Speaker of the House of Representatives, Sir William Aston, dies aged 80.
#
"May 22, 1997",142,0,g,0
\IBusiness Review Weekly's\i Rich 200 list still has \JKerry Packer\j as the richest person in Australia with an estimated fortune of $3.9 billion; his wealth is said to grow approximately $1.6 million every day.
Governor-General \JSir William Deane\j presents 14 defence force members with bravery decorations and commendations for their heroic part in the tragic Black Hawk helicopter crash in north Queensland on June 12, 1996.
In her court battle against the Seven Network, \JJana Wendt\j agrees on a $1.2 million settlement in compensation for damage to her reputation that she claims occurred when Channel 7 continually broke its promises regarding her contract.
Independent MP Pauline Hanson takes the credit for Prime Minister John Howard recently announcing cuts in immigration numbers for 1997-98. \JJohn Howard\j denies that she had anything to do with the decision.
International Olympic Committee President Juan Antonio Samaranch says that he is unhappy with the recent announcement of a proposed 10 per cent hotel bed tax for the Sydney CBD.
Wealthy businessman Bernard Whelan publicly pleads for any information regarding the abduction of his wife 17 days ago in Sydney. It is reported that he received a $1 million ransom note but has since lost contact with the kidnappers.
Prime Minister John Howard launches a $1.25 billion Natural Heritage Trust, with $320 million allocated to restore the Murray-Darling Basin.
Athletics Australia lodges an application with the International Amateur Athletics Federation (IAAF) to halve the four-year drugs ban on sprinter Dean Capobianco.
Champion swimmer \JSusie Maroney\j arrives back in Australia following her world-record Cuba to America swim.
New South Wales Premier \JBob Carr\j announces that he will sell of the State's electricity industry for an estimated $22 billion.
The new entertainment park, Sega World, at Darling Harbour, Sydney, reports lower than expected attendance numbers.
The Bureau of Meteorology confirms that much-needed rain throughout New South Wales has recently fallen, breaking the drought in many areas.
Following a University of Queensland study on Fraser Island dingoes, it is revealed that they may become extinct throughout most of Australia within 50 years because of interbreeding.
Qantas Airways announces a $550 million upgrade, mainly to be spent on international flights and first-class services.
#
"May 23, 1997",143,0,g,0
NSW Premier Bob Carr's announcement to sell off the State's electricity industry starts a heated debate within the NSW Labor Party. Unions threaten industrial action.
The Reserve Bank cuts interest rates by half a per cent, prompting the major banks to cut their variable mortgage rates. The mortgage lender, Super Member Home Loans, announces a variable rate of 6.6 per cent - the lowest in the country since 1970.
As it appears that the Wood Royal Commission failed to reveal all the corruption in the NSW police force, NSW Police Commissioner Peter Ryan announces a second amnesty for corrupt officers.
The Australian cricket team, in England for the Ashes tour, loses the first one-day international match against England.
#
"May 24, 1997",144,0,g,0
Labor's Linda Lavarch is elected in the Queensland Kurwongbah by-election.
The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission says it will investigate why the big four banks won't pass on the full half a per cent interest rate cut that was announced by the Reserve Bank yesterday.
An outbreak of the contagious Ross River virus hits Sydney's western suburbs, prompting health authorities to issue warnings to people to try to avoid mosquito bites.
Sydney police are no closer to solving the mysterious abduction earlier this month of Kerry Whelan, wife of a wealthy businessman, who was abducted in Parramatta earlier this month.
#
"May 25, 1997",145,0,g,0
The Federal Government says it's time to discuss overhauling the nation's taxation system, including a possible goods and services tax (GST) for the next election.
Telstra considers charging 50c for its currently free 013 service.
Prime Minister \JJohn Howard\j announces that he will seek to move a bipartisan reconciliation motion in Parliament that will address Aboriginal health, education and housing issues.
An alleged pedophile named in the recent NSW Wood Royal Commission, Robert Dunn, is reportedly hiding in Malaysia.
The Australian cricket team, in England for the Ashes tour, loses the second one-day international match against England. Out-of-form Australian captain \JMark Taylor\j says he will stand down in the third and final one-day match tomorrow.
#
"May 26, 1997",146,0,g,0
At the opening of a three day convention in Melbourne, organised by the Council for Aboriginal Reconciliation, Prime Minister \JJohn Howard\j publicly apologises for the forced removal, up until the 1970s, of Aboriginal children from their families; approximately 100 delegates stand up and turn their backs on the Prime Minister as he delivers his speech. The 'stolen children' say they want an official Commonwealth apology as well as compensation.
Federal Treasurer \JPeter Costello\j condemns the major banks for not passing on the full half a per cent interest rate cut to their customers.
The Australian cricket team, in England for the Ashes tour, loses the third and final one-day international match against England (England won all three matches).
Due to an earlier successful trial, the NSW Minister for Roads, Mr Scully, announces that demerit points for speeding will be doubled every long weekend in New South Wales for an initial period of 12 months.
The NSW State Treasurer, Mr Egan, says he welcomes any foreign investment in the sale of the State's electricity industry; however, the majority of ownership would be required by Australian company Pacific Power.
#
"May 27, 1997",147,0,g,0
Following the Federal Government's disappointment in the major banks for not passing on the Reserve Bank's 0.5 per cent interest rate cut to customers, the ANZ Bank announces that it will reduce its mortgage rate to 6.99 per cent (down from 7.55 per cent).
Results of a newspaper poll indicate that there is growing support for a goods and services tax (GST) for the nation.
The Governor-General, \JSir William Deane\j, offers his personal profound apology to the Aborigines and their families who were forcibly separated by the government up until the 1970s.
Former Liberal MP, Barry Morris, is released from Berrima Jail following a one year sentence for making death threats; he still maintains his innocence and says he will fight to clear his name.
The Queensland Government hands down the Budget that caters for a deficit in order to create jobs and increase investment.
President of the Human Rights Commission, Sir Ronald Wilson, urges people to lobby politicians in order to stop Prime Minister John Howard's 10-point Wik native title plan becoming law.
Australian cricket team captain, \JMark Taylor\j, continues with his poor form; he is out for a duck in a pre-Ashes match in England. The question is raised again on whether Taylor should step down or not.
#
"May 28, 1997",148,0,g,0
The Federal Government outlines new plans to change cross-media rules, however some backbenchers remain skeptical.
BHP announces that one of its steel production divisions, BHP Refactories, is up for sale; rumours circulate that it has already been sold to British and Japanese companies.
New South Wales wins the first of the three State of Origin rugby league matches at Suncorp Stadium, Queensland.
Former Australian cricket captain, \JIan Chappell\j, calls on current Australian captain \JMark Taylor\j to stand down due to his continuing poor form.
Following the Australian cricket team's 3-0 loss in the limited-overs matches against England, England's odds for winning the coming Ashes series tighten from 6-1 to 3-1.
The Department of Defence is to implement a new pay system from July 1 that will see staff paid for their performance and not their rank.
Brigitte Muir becomes the first Australian woman to successfully climb Mount Everest.
The major banks are accused of being greedy for not passing on full interest rate cuts to their customers.
Greenpeace accuses the Olympic Coordination Authority of not sticking to environmental guidelines in the planning of the Sydney Games so far.
The Australian Reconciliation Convention in Melbourne recommends that a national 'place of memory' be made to recognise injustices to indigenous peoples, particularly the past government's 'stealing' of Aboriginal children from their families.
#
"May 29, 1997",149,0,g,0
Prime Minister John Howard says that substantial land claims that have just been lodged in the Northern Territory are divisive and a threat to the reconciliation process.
Prime Minister \JJohn Howard\j says that an official apology to Aborigines who were forcibly separated from their families up until the 1970s could have legal implications.
Alleged pedophile Philip Bell is on his way to Australia from South Africa to face over 150 sexual offences against boys.
Champion racing car driver \JPeter Brock\j announces that he will retire at the end of this season.
Ray White Real Estate, which has been appointed to manage the renting of homes during the Sydney Olympics, says that some rents may quadruple under the Homehost and Homestay programs.
The Sydney Organising Committee for the Olympic Games (SOCOG) says that large cruise ships may have to accommodate up to 5,000 guests of the Olympic Games in 2000 as there will only be approximately 35,000 hotel beds in Sydney and an estimated 160,000 beds will be needed per night during the Games.
#
"May 30, 1997",150,0,g,0
The Federal Court rules that the proposed joint venture between pay-TV operators Optus Communications and Australis, where they would share a satellite system, is illegal.
A new gene therapy trial, where patients are injected with genetically-engineered leukaemia cells to help the fight against cancer, is to be conducted on Sydney patients.
A study by the Australian Institute of Criminology finds that gun-related deaths have dramatically fallen since the new gun laws were introduced. However, other forms of violence are on the increase.
Hundreds of police are called when 1,200 supporters of Pauline Hanson's One Nation Party and hundreds more protesters clash during her speech at Newcastle's Civic Theatre.
Alleged pedophile Philip Bell arrives in Sydney from South Africa to face over 150 sex charges following a 10-month worldwide hunt for him by Australian police and Interpol.
A team of scientific explorers discover new caves beneath the Blue Mountains at Jenolan Caves. Called the End Zone, the scientists involved think one of the newly-discovered caves links up with other cave systems at Jenolan, forming a 31 kilometre tunnel.
#
"May 31, 1997",151,0,g,0
Sprinter \JDean Capobianco\j has his four-year drug suspension appeal rejected by the International Amateur Athletics Federation.
It is reported that wealthy businessman Bernard Whelan, whose wife was abducted earlier this month in Sydney, had a $US1 million corporate terrorism insurance policy on her.
An Australian mortgage lender offers a variable rate of 6.39 per cent - the lowest rate on record.
Sydney's first tram in over 30 years is unveiled in the city; this light rail system will service Sydney's Chinatown, Darling Harbour, Sydney Casino, the University of Technology and the Sydney fish markets.
Alleged pedophile Philip Bell, who arrived in Sydney from South Africa yesterday, faces sex charges in his first appearance before a Sydney court.
#
"June 1, 1997",152,0,g,0
Prime Minister \JJohn Howard\j says that he will meet with Opposition Leader \JKim Beazley\j to discuss the heavily-debated Federal Government's 10-point Wik plan on native title.
The Federal Government urges all gun owners to hand in illegal weapons before the amnesty ends on September 30.
In response to the Opposition's demand that the Federal Government officially apologises and compensates Aboriginal children 'stolen' from their families in past decades, Prime Minister John Howard accuses the Opposition of refusing to compensate Aborigines when it was in office.
The Australian Medical Association formally apologises on behalf of all doctors who took part in the forced removal of Aboriginal children from their families.
The Federal Government authorises a set limit of eastern gemfish to be caught this season following their severe depletion from overfishing four years ago.
Thousands of people turn out to watch the Olympic Journey parade, organised by the Sydney Organising Committee for the Olympic Games (SOCOG), in Sydney's western suburbs. The parade is set to travel the country.
Champion motorcycle racer \JMichael Doohan\j wins the Austrian 500cc Grand Prix.
Australian boxer Kostya Tszyu loses his IBF world junior-welterweight title to American Vince Phillips.
#
"June 2, 1997",153,0,g,0
\JArthur Tunstall\j resigns his position as chef de mission for the 1998 Commonwealth Games; Don Stockins is named as his replacement.
The NSW TAB launches its Internet site; account holders can now place bets via the Internet from anywhere in the world.
The NSW State Governor, Gordon Samuels, and the Federal Government's representative on the National Reconciliation Council, Peter Nugent, both agree that the Federal Government should make an official apology to Aborigines who were 'stolen' from their families.
The Federal Opposition and the Greens say they will oppose the Government's plans to increase High Court fees by up to 500 per cent.
The four major banks are cleared of any wrongdoings following an Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) investigation into why they all dropped their variable mortgage rates by 0.35 per cent instead of the 0.5 per cent Reserve Bank official cut.
It is reported that Telstra and News Corp have begun talks on their cable roll-out deal which could see Telstra lose millions of dollars.
#
"June 3, 1997",154,0,g,0
David Foster wins the literary \JMiles Franklin\j Award for his novel \IThe Glade Within the Grove.\i
Greenpeace workers reveal that they have discovered illegal contaminated waste along the waterway near the Olympic site at Homebush.
It is revealed that some universities will introduce $100,000 fees next year while other universities will defer their decisions on up-front fees for another year.
The Bureau of Meteorology confirms that some parts of eastern Australia will suffer a severe drought this winter and spring.
The Chief Justice of the Family Court condemns Prime Minister John Howard for not making an official apology to the 'stolen' Aboriginal children.
It is revealed that hundreds of 'stolen' Aborigines are to sue State governments; the Public Interest Advocacy Centre says that there are 1,500 cases so far.
The Federal Treasurer, Mr Costello, says that the introduction of a GST would be the best way to fight tax evasion.
#
"June 4, 1997",155,0,g,0
Seven Network chairman, Kerry Stokes, says he will sell his share in the network if the Federal Government allows foreign ownership of television stations to increase.
NSW Premier \JBob Carr\j says he wants to give drought-affected farmers more access to social security payments.
Prime Minister John Howard and Opposition Leader Kim Beazley fail to come to an agreement on the Federal Government's proposed 10-point Wik plan on native title.
The Federal Treasurer, Peter Costello, declares that the manufacturing sector is officially in a recession.
The Federal Government says that it will tighten up laws to force free-to-air broadcasters covering sports events to show the entire sports event or forfeit their rights to the ABC, SBS or other networks.
World number 1 ranked golf player \JGreg Norman\j rejects an offer to play a best-of-three series with the hottest player in golf at the moment, American Tiger Woods.
#
"June 5, 1997",156,0,g,0
Some of New South Wales' biggest licensed clubs want to introduce new gambling ideas to raise tax revenue instead of the State Government's poker machine tax increase.
During the first innings of the first Ashes Test match against England, Australia only manages to make 118 runs before they are all out.
BHP sells out its stake in Foster's Brewing, leaving the majority of Foster's shares Australian-controlled.
The Federal Government announces that it will freeze tariffs for the car industry at 15 per cent from 2000 to 2005.
It is reported that \JKerry Packer\j's PBL will merge with Microsoft's Internet division.
Tennis players \JTodd Woodbridge\j and \JMark Woodforde\j reach the finals at the French Open in Paris.
The Federal Government announces that university enrolments for agriculture; nursing; the humanities; and science and technology all dropped substantially this year.
#
"June 6, 1997",157,0,g,0
Following the Federal Government's decision to freeze car industry tariffs until 2004, the textile, clothing and footwear industries ask the Federal Government to freeze their tariffs until 2005 as well.
It is claimed in the 'stolen' Aboriginal children report, \IBringing Them Home,\i that there were rapes, beatings and even deaths against the children; the NSW Attorney-General says that these allegations will be investigated.
An Australian fishing boat captain claims that the Federal Government is not doing anything to stop the illegal fishing near Antarctica.
It is reported that Telstra and Optus Communications have recommenced talks on sharing pay-TV cable.
#
"June 7, 1997",158,0,g,0
The out-of-form Australian cricket captain, \JMark Taylor\j, silences his critics after he scores 129 runs in the second innings of the first Ashes Test match against England.
Casino-style gambling from home via the Internet is set to become available in Australia at the end of the year.
It is reported that some international airlines will boycott or reduce flights into Sydney because of the proposed 10 per cent bed tax.
#
"June 8, 1997",159,0,g,0
Proposed new Federal Government guidelines on legal aid are set to disadvantage children's access to the Family Court.
The Minister for Training, Dr Kemp, says that the work-for-the-dole scheme will be more for boosting morale than for creating jobs.
Former Federal Opposition Leader and current Ambassador to Washington, Andrew Peacock, is named a Companion in the Order of Australia (AC) in the Queen's Birthday Honours list for his services to the Australian Parliament.
Champion motorcycle racer \JMichael Doohan\j wins the French 500cc Grand Prix.
The Federal Government says it will slow tariff reductions for the textile, clothing and footwear industries following its announcement that car tariffs will be frozen until 2005.
#
"June 9, 1997",160,0,g,0
Incoming Hong Kong's Secretary of Justice, Elsie Leung, confirms that Hong Kong expatriates living in Australia will be free to travel between the two countries after the June 30 handover.
New research indicates that the dugong is in danger in the \JGreat Barrier Reef\j because of methods used by commercial fishers.
A 79.2-metre white gum in the Cunnawarra Flora Reserve is now officially the tallest tree in New South Wales; previously a 76-metre Grandis at Bulahdelah held the title.
As government schools in New South Wales face falling enrolments, the demand for private schools continues to grow.
Australia loses the first Test match in the Ashes series against England.
#
"June 10, 1997",161,0,g,0
It is alleged that hundreds of small children and babies in some Melbourne orphanages were used as guinea pigs in scientific experiments spanning 25 years up until 1970; the Victorian Government is said to be investigating the claims.
A report by health authorities in New South Wales indicates that the NSW North Coast is home to one of the world's highest rates of melanoma.
As the United States joins Britain in boycotting the swearing-in of the Chinese-appointed Provisional Legislature in Hong Kong on July 1, Australia must now face the decision whether to attend the ceremony or not, as it doesn't want to damage its relations with China.
The Minister for the Olympics rules out funding any shortfall for the Sydney 2000 Paralympic Games; it is reported that the Sydney Paralymics Organising Committee (SPOC) needs another $40 million in funding.
A new environmental committee is set up to help make the Sydney 2000 Olympics the 'greenest games in history'.
It is reported that world number 1 ranked golfer, \JGreg Norman\j, has purchased a $40 million Boeing 737 jet for his personal use.
#
"June 11, 1997",162,0,g,0
Monarchists demand that National Party backbencher Ian Sinclair resigns from the board of the Constitutional Convention because of his pro-republican views.
Independent MP \JPauline Hanson\j is faced with hundreds of protesters while launching her One Nation Party in Adelaide.
Scientists claim that they have found evidence to show that artists were painting on rocks in Australia during the Ice Age, over 17,000 years ago.
Olympic officials recommend that Sydney brings daylight saving forward two months during the year 2000.
Legal academics claim that up-front university fees will deter poorer students from enrolling in degrees such as law.
Figures from the Australian Bureau of Statistics reveal that non-residential construction is well up on the last quarter, mainly because of the 'Olympic boom'.
Pay-TV operator Foxtel is said to be against any proposed merger of two other pay-TV operators, Australis Media and Optus Vision.
New South Wales beats Queensland in the second of the three State of Origin rugby league matches. New South Wales leads 2-0.
#
"June 12, 1997",163,0,g,0
The Federal Government says it will not make immunisation compulsory for school entry; instead parents would be required to reveal to schools whether their children are immunised or not.
The Federal Government outlines plans to help stop companies polluting the environment.
Businessman \JJohn Elliott\j is said to be seeking $200 million in compensation from the National Crime Authority.
Prime Minister John Howard confirms that Australia will be represented at the swearing-in ceremony of the Chinese-appointed Provisional Legislature in Hong Kong on July 1; both the US and Britain have said they will boycott this event.
New research indicates that the proposed 10 per cent bed tax on Sydney CBD hotels would directly and indirectly cause the loss of over 1,200 jobs and ultimately create a hole in the State's economy.
The Federal Minister for Health, Dr Wooldridge, announces a $7.5 million advertising package to encourage smokers to give up.
It is claimed that some universities in Australia are offering expensive gifts to overseas students, such as cars, to encourage their enrolments.
Helen Dickie becomes the first woman to be elected chairman of the New South Wales National Party.
Australian author Jill Neville dies, aged 65.
Memorial services are held in Canberra, Perth and Townsville for the Black Hawk helicopter disaster that claimed the lives of 18 soldiers exactly one year ago.
#
"June 13, 1997",164,0,g,0
Rugby Union player \JDavid Campese\j says his match tonight for the NSW Waratahs will be his last representative game.
Sydney businessman Bernard Whelan, whose wife Kerry was abducted in Sydney last month, issues a $500,000 reward for her safe return.
The Federal Minister for Immigration announces new laws that will see immigrants who commit crimes deported.
Pay-TV operator Australis Media threatens to sue Telstra if it doesn't finish its pay-TV cable roll-out to four million homes.
The Federal Opposition Labor Party says it will put candidates for \JPauline Hanson\j's One Nation Party last on all voting tickets for every seat at the next election.
At the coming New York Earth Summit at the end of June, Australia will face pressure from world leaders to reduce greenhouse emission targets.
#
"June 14, 1997",165,0,g,0
New figures indicate that nearly 100 young Australians are attempting suicide each week.
The Construction, Forestry, Mining and Energy Union (CFMEU) threatens strike action at Olympic construction sites if safety matters are not immediately addressed.
It is reported that the new Medicare levy, effective from July 1, was not an incentive for families to join private health funds.
#
"June 15, 1997",166,0,g,0
Golfer Lucas Parsons from New South Wales wins the Queensland PGA title.
The Australian Ngarinyin people attend a UNESCO forum in Paris to tell of their native title claim over most of the Kimberley in Western Australia where rock art has been confirmed to be 17,000 years old. Some say these 'Bradshaw' paintings are the work of Australian Aborigines, others say they are the work of a mystery race.
As more Federal MP travel claims are investigated by the Federal Police, the Government announces a crackdown on expense rorts.
It is reported that a GST will be on the top of the agenda in tonight's talks between the Prime Minister, the Treasurer and backbenchers.
The NSW Government threatens to ban interstate teachers from working in NSW unless the States agree to identify teachers suspected of, or charged with, sexual abuse with students.
#
"June 16, 1997",167,0,g,0
The head of the Australian Olympic Committee claims that the proposed 10 per cent bed tax on Sydney CDB hotels is jeopardising potential sponsorship for the Sydney Games; meanwhile NSW Premier Bob Carr says he will confiscate rooms if the hotels don't sign accommodation contracts with SOCOG.
The Senate rejects the Federal Government's proposal to privatise the Commonwealth Employment Service (CES).
The Federal Minister for Immigration, Mr Ruddock, suggests that there may be an organised migration racket in the wake of 139 Chinese boat people arriving in Australia who looked like they 'had a high standard of living and obviously some sort of funds'.
The Federal Treasurer, Mr Costello, with the support of the Prime Minister, \JJohn Howard,\j urges backbenchers to support a shift to a goods and services tax (GST) for the nation.
Golfer \JGreg Norman\j is knocked off the world number 1 ranked spot by American Tiger Woods.
#
"June 17, 1997",168,0,g,0
The Federal Government announces measures to abolish the dole for 16 and 17 year olds and also for 18 to 20 year olds whose parents earn over a certain amount.
The new 10 per cent bed tax for Sydney CBD hotels is passed through State Parliament. The hotel industry vows to continue its fight against the tax.
Prime Minister John Howard departs for an overseas visit to England and the United States.
Prime Minister John Howard and backbenchers agree to launch an inquiry into the nation's tax system before opting for a GST.
It is reported that leaders of Sydney's Korean community are in favour of checking Korean tourist's records in the wake of some Koreans entering Australia and committing crimes.
Award-winning author, Dal Stivens, dies aged 85.
#
"June 18, 1997",169,0,g,0
As Prime Minister John Howard arrives in England, the local newspapers there run stories on current controversial events surrounding the Prime Minister, including topics such as the 'stolen' Aboriginal children and Pauline Hanson.
Information relating former chief executive of Elders IXL, \JJohn Elliott,\j to a large foreign transaction is revealed in the Senate; Elliott was acquitted in 1996 of corporate fraud.
Former Queensland premier, \JWayne Goss\j, is to seek a seat in Federal Parliament.
The Senate votes to hold a compulsory ballot to elect half the delegates for the constitutional convention on the republic; however, Prime Minister \JJohn Howard\j says he wants a voluntary postal vote.
A Sydney restaurant is said to be the source of a hepatitis A outbreak which so far nine people have been diagnosed with.
#
"June 19, 1997",170,0,g,0
An inquiry into former chief executive of Elders IXL, \JJohn Elliott\j, regarding a multi-million-dollar foreign transaction, is to be conducted by a parliamentary committee; John Elliott was acquitted last year of a $66 million corporate fraud charge.
Up to 25 Labor backbenchers in NSW Parliament say they will vote against Premier \JBob Carr\j's proposal to sell off the State's electricity industry.
Dioxin contamination near the Sydney 2000 Olympic site is to be cleaned up by the State Government in time for the Olympics.
The first day of the second Test match in the Ashes series in England is rained out.
A 260-hectare strip of land on the northern NSW coastline is to be handed to the Tweed-Byron Local Aboriginal Land Council, with strong opposition from Tweed Shire Council.
The Darug people lodge a native title claim over Sydney's eastern, inner-west, south-west and north-west suburbs, and out to the Blue Mountains.
#
"June 20, 1997",171,0,g,0
\JKerry Packer\j's PBL and \JRupert Murdoch\j's News Corporation join forces in the pay-TV industry, effectively leaving pay-TV operator Optus Vision out in the cold; it is reported that PBL is trying to lure ARL teams (sponsored by Optus Vision) to join Super League.
A recent outbreak of hepatitis A in Sydney is linked to frozen prawns from Burma. Seventeen people have contracted the virus in this latest outbreak.
Prime Minister John Howard meets with the Queen on his England visit and tells her that Australia becoming a republic is not a priority issue. Howard also meets with British Prime Minister Tony Blair.
Wool prices in Australia are on the increase largely because of a demand from China for higher quality wool.
After three days of reading evidence, a judge rules that alleged pedophile, Philip Bell, recently captured in South Africa and extradited back to Australia, will have to face 170 child sexual abuse charges.
There is growing evidence that the 'Bradshaw' rock art paintings in the Kimberley region in Western Australia that some scientists say are 17,000 years old and some say are only 5,000 years old, were painted by Aborigines and not a mystery race.
The United Nations General Assembly President says that all nations, including Australia, should accept binding greenhouse emission reduction targets.
Australian comedian \JRoy Rene\j's widow, Sadie Gale, dies aged 95.
#
"June 21, 1997",172,0,g,0
On the third day of the so far washed-out third cricket Test in the Ashes series, Australia bowls England out for a total of just 77; Glen McGrath takes 8 wickets for 38 runs.
In response to a record $492 billion settlement in which United States' tobacco companies admitted that nicotine kills, the Federal Health Minister urges Australian tobacco companies to admit that nicotine is addictive.
#
"June 22, 1997",173,0,g,0
Prime Minister John Howard indicates that the proposed republic convention may be abandoned if the Senate does not agree to allow delegates to be selected through a voluntary postal ballot.
Premier of NSW, Bob Carr, agrees to meet with Olympic officials and hotel industry representatives to discuss the 10 per cent bed tax for Sydney CBD hotels.
Pay-TV operator Foxtel is to push for a merger with pay-TV operator Australis Media; if such a merge is successful, Telstra, Rupert Murdoch's News Corporation, and Kerry Packer's PBL will be the biggest shareholders.
Top tax experts say that a proposed goods and services tax (GST) should be limited to 10 per cent.
Fourteen Australian tennis players prepare for the coming Wimbledon tournament; 1987 Wimbledon champion \JPat Cash\j will play as will \JMark Philippoussis\j (seeded 7th) and \JPat Rafter\j (seeded 12th).
At a three-day AIDS conference in Melbourne, an AIDS expert warns Australia that it should not be complacent in the fight against AIDS.
It is reported that English county cricket has offered Australian spin-bowler \JShane Warne\j ú1 million to play for county cricket next year.
#
"June 23, 1997",174,0,g,0
Authors of a report into passive smoking threaten to release it on the Internet if the tobacco industry successfully stops them from releasing it publicly.
The Opposition Labor Party, as well as the Democrats, both now back the Federal Government's work-for-the-dole scheme.
In one of Prime Minister John Howard's speeches in Britain, he defends his government's handling of the economy and race matters.
The Nine Network faces a dilemma tonight over whether to screen the cricket Ashes series, the Super League, or the opening of Wimbledon; the network has recently received many complaints about not showing the entire Ashes cricket matches.
The Australian Republican Movement wants the Federal Government to hold a plebiscite on a republic.
A proposed $10 billion railway link from Melbourne to Darwin is set to benefit struggling rural towns.
The Federal Opposition calls on the Minister for Small Business, Mr Prosser, to step down over a conflict of interest with his position while he still owns a retail complex.
It is reported that Reg Grundy's RG Capital has offered the Federal Government $250 million for the licence for a fourth commercial network.
#
"June 24, 1997",175,0,g,0
It is reported that the Sydney Olympics may start in Victoria before the official opening day in Sydney; some of the Olympic soccer matches may be held in Victoria and as the timetable is fairly tight it may have to start before the official launch on September 15.
British Prime Minister Tony Blair urges Australian Prime Minister \JJohn Howard\j to conform to greenhouse gas emission reduction targets; Howard claims that the 15 per cent cut by 2010 is unfair and unworkable. Meanwhile the Federal Minister for the Environment, Senator Hill, pleads Australia's case during the Earth Summit in New York, asking that Australia should be treated as a special case.
Chemical company ICI faces a multi-million-dollar claim by cattle producers over cattle feed spray that was said to be contaminated.
Federal Opposition Leader \JKim Beazley\j criticises the Federal Government for not dismissing the Minister for Small Business, Mr Prosser, for allegedly misleading Parliament regarding his property investments.
The Federal Government says that there will be no constitutional convention on the republic this year because an agreement cannot be made whether to hold a voluntary or compulsory ballot to elect delegates.
Following the Senate blocking of the Federal Government's Aged Care Reform Bill, the Federal Government bows to pressure and promises another $40 million for aged care.
#
"June 25, 1997",176,0,g,0
A major study by the Centre for Population and Urban Research at Monash University finds that almost one-third of adults are dependent on welfare.
The National Health and Medical Research Council approves a new vaccine for whooping cough for use in babies; it will also immunise against diphtheria and tetanus.
A report on passive smoking is set to be released to the public by the National Health and Medical Research Council; earlier in the year the tobacco industry temporarily stopped the report from being released.
It is reported that ARL and Super League officials have been discussing a proposed united competition.
#
"June 26, 1997",177,0,g,0
The Federal Opposition is set to oppose the Government's amendments to the Native Title Act.
Prime Minister John Howard orders the Minister for Small Business, Mr Prosser, to give Parliament a full account of his business affairs in the wake of the Opposition accusing him of misleading Parliament regarding his property investments.
The Government Committee on Treasury and Energy rejects the NSW Government's proposal to privatise the State's electricity industry.
The Federal Government says that it will introduce a bill to exclude apprentices from legislation that will exempt small businesses from unfair dismissal laws.
Medical authorities issue a warning that a measles epidemic from New Zealand is on the verge of an outbreak in Sydney.
It is revealed that the University of Sydney and the University of New South Wales are the only universities in NSW to introduce up-front fees from next year.
Australia's Ambassador to Washington, Andrew Peacock, formerly welcomes Prime Minister John Howard on his United States visit.
Financial control seems to be the major hurdle in the ARL's and Super League's discussions to form a united competition next year.
#
"June 27, 1997",178,0,g,0
BHP's profits to the value of its operations fall $1 billion for the year ending May 31.
It is reported that Holsworthy Military Range will be heritage-listed in the near future, jeopardising the Federal Government's proposal to build Sydney's second airport there.
At the Earth Summit in New York, Prime Minister John Howard says that different countries should have different goals for reducing greenhouse gas emissions that are based on their economic needs; however, US President Bill Clinton says that all nations should agree to a set target for greenhouse gas emissions.
The Federal Government reveals that under its draft Wik legislation, the States could extinguish native title if they convert leasehold land to freehold.
#
"June 28, 1997",179,0,g,0
The International Olympic Committee is set to allow the Australian Prime Minister to officially open the Sydney 2000 Games.
An outbreak of influenza closes some schools in New South Wales and Victoria.
It is reported that drivers' licences are being illegally sold over the Internet and can be used within Australia.
A French man wielding a knife is fatally shot by police at Bondi Beach, Sydney.
#
"June 29, 1997",180,0,g,0
The Federal Foreign Affairs Minister, \JAlexander Downer\j, says that Australia will closely monitor events in Hong Kong after the historical handover tomorrow.
The Federal Government embarks on a million-dollar advertising campaign to encourage people to take our private health insurance.
A Tasmanian man fatally shoots himself after stabbing his four daughters to death in Tasmania.
Proposed tariff cuts to the textiles, clothing and footwear industries are said to lead to massive jobs cuts.
#
"June 30, 1997",181,0,g,0
Golfer Graham Marsh wins the US Senior Open at Olympia Fields, Illinois. Meanwhile Greg Norman wins the St Jude Classic in Memphis, Tennessee to regain his world number 1 ranked position.
A world record price for Aboriginal art is paid at an Aboriginal art auction in Melbourne. Johnny Warangkula Tjupurrula's \IWater Dreaming at Kalinpinypa\i was sold for $206,000, while two other paintings were sold for $123,000 and $103,700; the previous record paid for Aboriginal art was $86,000.
As Hong Kong is handed back to China, the Minister for Foreign Affairs, Alexander Downer, along with Britain and the United States, call on China to adhere to the promises made in the 1984 Sino-British joint declaration which guarantees the city's freedoms.
It is reported that \JJames Packer\j and \JKate Fischer\j are officially engaged to be married.
An extra second is added to the world's time system to keep in step with the Earth's rotation.
The Federal Government sets up a Tax Reform Task Force to look at issues and options for tax reform.
#
"July 1, 1997",182,0,g,0
Deregulation of the telecommunications market as of today is set to offer residential phone users up to 60 per cent off Telstra's standard peak rate tariffs for STD calls.
The Deputy Prime Minister, Mr Fischer, blames the Mal Colston and Wik affairs of April for the Government's slump in a recent opinion poll.
After nearly a year and a half of commercial-free pay-TV, advertisements are now allowed to appear on pay television stations.
Controversial Independent MP \JPauline Hanson\j blames immigrants for causing the spread of hepatitis and tuberculosis in the country. Meanwhile, Hanson's newly-established political party, One Nation, is officially registered.
A new report by the Australian Institute of Criminology indicates that the number of people dying during police arrests and deaths in custody is rising dramatically; Aborigines are 19 times more likely than non-Aborigines to die in custody.
The Bureau of Meteorology claims that updated forecasting methods, in time for the Sydney 2000 Olympics, will allow forecasts 36 hours in advance.
It is claimed that development at North Head, Manly could wipe out Sydney's last bandicoot colony.
The private health insurance company, MBF, reports a high number of people taking up private health insurance during the past week in order to avoid a new 1 per cent Medicare levy if they are uninsured.
#
"July 2, 1997",183,0,g,0
A black man is awarded $55,000 in damages after he suffered severe depression caused by racial abuse at his Melbourne workplace.
Information is publicly released from a study on asthmatics indicating that people who take inhaled steroids are more likely to develop cataracts.
The ABC takes over coverage of the cricket Ashes series because the Nine Network said it wanted to concentrate on Wimbledon.
The Federal Treasurer, Mr Costello, says that Australia's international credit rating might be upgraded in the near future.
The family of a French man who was shot dead by Sydney police on Bondi Beach last week wants an inquiry into the matter and call for the suspension of all the officers involved.
Green Games Watch 2000 claims that the NSW Government has known for at least 20 years that an area near the Homebush Olympic site had and still has dioxin-contaminated waste buried there.
Australia's first Aboriginal magistrate, Pat O'Shane, withdraws her resignation from the Bench.
The New South Wales Staysafe Committee releases recommendations that could see a learner drivers licence period extended to one year and a provisional drivers licence period extended to between three and five years.
Award-winning author and playwright, David Martin, dies aged 81.
#
"July 3, 1997",184,0,g,0
The Reserve Bank announces that it has sold 167 tonnes of its almost 250 tonnes of gold in the past six months.
The Federal Government announces that it will take a closer look at family trusts and negative gearing on property when it launches an inquiry into the nation's taxation system.
Optus Communications says it will refuse to enter any deals on a united rugby league competition next year until News Corp writes off its Super League investment, said to be approximately $400 million.
Recent findings of a major US study indicate that powerlines are not linked to childhood leukaemia, however the Electromagnetic Radiation Alliance of Australia claims that there is a lot of conflicting evidence.
Aboriginal lawyer, Paul Coe, is struck off the roll of legal practitioners after being found guilty of professional misconduct.
#
"July 4, 1997",185,0,g,0
New Bureau of Statistics figures indicate that there has been a continued fall in the number of Japanese tourists visiting Australia in the last year.
A man who contracted Q Fever while working as a meat inspector for the government in 1978 is awarded over $1 million compensation.
State leaders are involved in a dispute over the route for a proposed billion dollar railway line from either Melbourne-Darwin or Adelaide-Darwin.
The NSW head office of the ALP warns Premier \JBob Carr\j not to sell the State's electricity industry before it is debated at the October State conference.
The Australian AE2 submarine used at Gallipoli in 1915 is found and photographed on the ocean bed in the Sea of Marmora, near Gallipoli.
Yesterday's announcement that the Reserve Bank had sold 167 tonnes of its gold sends international gold prices down to an 11-year low of $US324 an ounce.
The mining company Rio Tinto unsuccessfully attempts to break a three-week strike at its Hunter Valley coalmine.
#
"July 5, 1997",186,0,g,0
As new phone companies enter the market and compete to attract new customers, Telstra and Optus say they will review all of their rates.
Private health insurance companies claim to have been inundated with new members joining to take advantage of the Federal Government's new incentive scheme which offers a rebate of up to $450 a year for families.
Gold prices are at a 12-year low following the Reserve Bank's announcement earlier this week that it had sold off 167 tonnes of its gold bullion.
#
"July 6, 1997",187,0,g,0
Following violent clashes between factions of the Cambodian Government in Phnom Penh, the Federal Government says it will send military aircraft to evacuate Australians trapped in the country.
Unions say that they will not back down on their demands for striking workers at the Rio Tinto coalmine in the Hunter Valley.
A 17-year-old man is in custody after allegedly demanding $500,000 from Qantas and threatening to blow up a Qantas plane.
The hotel industry is hopeful of having the 10 per cent bed tax on Sydney CBD hotels scrapped if a GST is introduced by the Federal Government.
The housing industry pushes for families to be able to use some of their superannuation funds to help buy homes.
Champion motorcycle racer, \JMichael Doohan,\j wins the 500cc Imola Grand Prix in Italy, which makes him the favourite to win the 1997 500cc world motorcycle championship.
#
"July 7, 1997",188,0,g,0
The Deep Space Communication Complex near Canberra reports that thousands of people turned up over the weekend to witness live pictures from the US Sojourner robot on Mars.
\JTodd Woodbridge\j and \JMark Woodforde\j win the Wimbledon doubles event, making it their fifth Wimbledon doubles title in a row.
Australia beats England in the third Test of the cricket Ashes series. Australian batsman \JSteve Waugh\j scored a century in both innings.
Coalmine workers, backed by the Union, decide not to accept non-union contracts and continue their almost month-long strike at the Hunter Valley.
The Federal Government is to investigate the entry into the country of a black activist once jailed for hijacking a plane.
Scientists reveal that they have discovered thousands of fossilised dinosaur footprints in the Kimberley Region, Western Australia.
Worldwide gold prices continue to fall in the wake of the Reserve Bank's announcement that it had sold 167 tonnes of its gold bullion in the last six months.
A designer drug, Fantasy, is said to be the cause of four people collapsing at a house near the Gold Coast; three of the four are put on life support machines.
The Federal Government says it will consider taking part in peacekeeping operations in war-torn Cambodia.
#
"July 8, 1997",189,0,g,0
The mining company, Rio Tinto, whose workers are still staging a month-long strike, desperately try to find a train driver to cross the picket line at the Hunter Valley coal mine; unions vow to continue fighting for their working conditions not to be changed.
The Federal Government cancels the visa of an American black activist, who was once jailed for hijacking a plane, and who was recently allowed to enter the country because he didn't fill out his visa properly.
New evidence prompts scientists to believe that all bats in the world originated in ancient Australia over 55 million years ago.
Prime Minister, \JJohn Howard,\j says that both dole payments and the minimum wage may have to be lowered in order to reduce unemployment figures.
Some stock brokers predict that gold prices could drop to as low as $US300 per ounce in the wake of the recent gold sell-off by the Reserve Bank.
The Australian dollar falls to its lowest level in 18 months, at US74.25c.
#
"July 9, 1997",190,0,g,0
Prime Minister, John Howard, defends the Reserve Bank's decision to sell off two-thirds of its gold bullion in the past six months, despite gold prices falling since the announcement of the sell-off earlier this week.
The Industrial Relations Commission orders the mining company Rio Tinto and the coal mining union to enter urgent talks to end the month-long strike at the Hunter Valley mine.
Black activist, Lorenzo Ervin, who was detained by the Immigration Department this week when his visa was cancelled because it was found out that he had a previous criminal conviction for hijacking a plane, is to challenge his detention at an Immigration Review Tribunal.
A native holly growing in Tasmania that was identified earlier this week as the world's oldest known living plant, is to be cultivated at the Royal Tasmanian Botanic Gardens to prevent the extinction of the rare plant.
#
"July 10, 1997",191,0,g,0
Three RAAF C-130 aircraft head for Cambodia to evacuate hundreds of Australians caught in the political violence there; the Federal Government says it may cut aid to Cambodia if the situation worsens.
The coal miners' union says that million-dollar contracts are at risk because of the month-long strike at the Rio Tinto Hunter Valley coal mine.
The Sydney Organising Committee for the Olympic Games (SOCOG) and IBM plan to set up an Internet site for the Sydney Games that will cater for 10 million visits per day.
Members of the Uniting Church debate over whether to allow the ordination of homosexual clergy into their church.
New figures indicate that as a proportion of total employment, full-time jobs are at their lowest figure (74.3 per cent) for over 30 years.
Olympics and America's Cup yachting skipper, \JJock Sturrock\j, dies aged 82.
#
"July 11, 1997",192,0,g,0
The results of a NSW Health Department investigation find that there is a "cancer cluster" in some areas of Wollongong; 13 people in the Warrawong area have been diagnosed with leukaemia since 1989; the inquiry failed to determine the reasons behind this unusually high number of cases.
With a bit of a push from Prime Minister, John Howard, the Minister for Small Business, Geoff Prosser, resigns from his position over recent conflicts of interest with his retail investments.
It is reported that Warner Bros have offered actor \JMel Gibson\j more than $50 million (including his share of the profits) to star in \ILethal Weapon 4.\i
Black activist, Lorenzo Ervin, wins his appeal to have his visa reinstated following the Federal Government cancelling it earlier this week because it was found out that he had a prior criminal conviction for hijacking a plane.
The NSW Government proposes to strip prison terms for minor marijuana offences.
The Sydney Organising Committee for the Olympic Games (SOCOG) announces that plans are underway to move Olympic basketball games from the Sydney Entertainment Centre to the Homebush Olympic site arena.
Three RAAF Hercules aircraft start evacuations of hundreds of Australians, New Zealanders, Canadians and Swedes from war-torn Phnom Penh in Cambodia.
#
"July 12, 1997",193,0,g,0
It is announced by Whitfield Investments that Sydneysiders will soon be able to make free local and STD phone calls but in return will have to listen to short advertisements through the phone line.
An airline pricing war forces companies to offer fares to Europe at the lowest price in about 20 years.
In the first time in recorded history it is reported that snow has fallen on \JAyers Rock.\j
The Colonial State Bank announces that it will offer a mortgage interest rate of just 4.99 per cent for one year - the lowest rate in 35 years.
#
"July 13, 1997",194,0,g,0
Australian tax payers can now lodge their returns via the Internet as the Australian Taxation Office launches its Internet site.
The Australian Nuclear Science and Technology Organisation (ANSTO) reveals that a new reactor and reprocessing plant will most probably be built at the Lucas Heights ANSTO site.
The demolition - by implosion - of the Royal Canberra Hospital causes the death of a 12-year-old and injures others when the explosion goes horribly wrong and scatters debris hundreds of metres through the air.
As workers from the Rio Tinto Hunter Valley coalmine enter their fifth-week of strike action, the union warns that it could spread to the wharves and other industries.
Former Attorney-General and Chief Justice of the High Court, Sir \JGarfield Barwick,\j dies aged 94.
#
"July 14, 1997",195,0,g,0
The implosion team are at a loss as to why the demolition of the Royal Canberra Hospital went horribly wrong yesterday and caused the death of a 12-year-old girl.
One of the founders of the Uniting Church demands the resignation of the church's national director of the Commission of Mission because she has revealed that she is in a lesbian relationship.
Lead levels measured in Antarctica are said to be much lower than ten years ago, mainly because of the higher use of unleaded petrol in Australia.
Environmentalists warn the NSW Government that they will protest against the State's $22 billion electricity sell-off.
NSW Premier, Bob Carr, agrees to gradually phase in the 10 per cent bed tax for Sydney CBD hotels, but only if the hotels hand over their rooms to the Sydney Olympic Committee.
Sprinter \JMelinda Gainsford-Taylor\j runs her fastest 200 m while competing in Germany; at 22.23s she beats Cathy Freeman's Australian record of 1994.
Officials from the organising committee for the Sydney Olympics threaten to pull the plug on Melbourne's involvement if the city cannot confirm the venue for the Olympic soccer matches.
#
"July 15, 1997",196,0,g,0
Former Deputy President of the Senate, Senator Mal Colston, is to face fraud charges in relation to allegedly defrauding his parliamentary travel allowances.
The release of the statistics from the 1996 Census show that the population of Australia is almost 17.9 million; the number of people claiming indigenous descent rose by nearly 45 per cent since 1991; and only 5.3 per cent of Australians earn over $52,000 per year.
Two Australian athletes taking part in the opening ceremony of the Maccabiah Games or 'Jewish Olympics' in Israel die and many more are injured when a bridge collapses beneath them. The Australian Jewish Community holds a minute's silence for the victims.
The Minister for Communications, Senator Alston, says he wants Internet providers to develop codes of practice to protect people from offensive material on the Internet.
Up to 5,000 workers belonging to the Construction, Forestry, Mining and Energy Union plan to strike tomorrow in support of striking miners at the Rio Tinto Hunter Valley coalmine.
#
"July 16, 1997",197,0,g,0
Cambodia's Foreign Minister, an Australian citizen, is nominated to replace ousted Prince Norodom Ranariddh as leader of the royalist Funcinpec party and First Prime Minister.
Statistics just released by the NSW Cancer Council reveal that breast cancer, non-Hodgkin's lymphoma, and cancers of the testes, kidney and thyroid have dramatically increased in the past 25 years or so.
While he is visiting BHP workers who face the sack in Newcastle, Prime Minister \JJohn Howard\j encourages a pooling of funds to concentrate on a big job-generating project.
A Queensland proposal to allow a handful of sporting shooters access to banned weapons is rejected by police ministers.
The bridge that collapsed in Tel Aviv, Israel, during the opening of the Maccabiah Games yesterday, killing two Australians, was said to be poorly built and apparently could not hold more than 100 people at a time.
#
"July 17, 1997",198,0,g,0
New figures indicate that female enrolments in university business courses throughout Australia grew by almost 12 per cent last year.
Following the announcement that it had sold two thirds of its gold bullion, the Reserve Bank is to be questioned over an alleged conflict of interest of one of its board members who is also managing director of the big gold mining company WMC.
Mining company, Rio Tinto, whose Hunter Valley coalmine workers have been on strike for 5 weeks, offer pay rises of up to $170; however, the Construction, Forestry, Mining and Energy Union (CMFEU) says that the changes and reforms that come with the pay rises are "hard-line".
Environmentalists demand a review of the decontamination procedures at the Homebush Olympic site where dioxins are said to be buried.
Two bridge building contractors whose company built the now-collapsed bridge at the Maccabiah Games in Tel Aviv, Israel, are placed under house arrest and may be charged with criminal negligence following the deaths of two Australians during the opening ceremony of the "Jewish Games" earlier this week.
Pay-TV operator Australis Media's shares jump 39 per cent as it is widely believed that Australis Media and Foxtel will merge.
Super League and ARL officials are confident of holding a Super Bowl, possibly in late October, against the Super League and the ARL premiers.
#
"July 18, 1997",199,0,g,0
Sydney Water confirms that it has shut down one of its water reservoirs which supplies water to approximately 1 million people following the discovery of a potentially fatal parasite.
Union leaders reject mining company Rio Tinto's offer of a $170 pay rise for coalminers at Hunter Valley and vote to extend the five week strike for another two weeks.
Alleged pedophile Philip Bell, who was extradited following his capture in South Africa, pleads not guilty to 93 child sex charges in a Sydney court.
The Tasmanian Government urges victims of the Port Arthur massacre to apply for compensation from the $1.3 million seized assets taken from murderer \JMartin Bryant\j.
#
"July 19, 1997",200,0,g,0
It is widely believed that Australia's ski fields will be all wiped out by the greenhouse effect by the year 2030.
As banks and home mortgage lenders fight for customers, it is announced that interest-free loans for six months may be offered in the near future for first-time home buyers.
#
"July 20, 1997",201,0,g,0
Prime Minister John Howard acts to repair damaged relations in the Pacific following leaked confidential Australian documents which labelled some regional politicians as corrupt.
Results of a survey taken by business leaders in Asia indicate that Independent MP Pauline Hanson has damaged Australia's reputation overseas and some Asian companies would be less inclined to do business in Australia.
A mini-survey in New South Wales finds that more than 80 per cent of people are in favour of decriminalising marijuana in the State.
The Tasmanian Public Land Use Commission recommends to protect the State's Tarkine wilderness area by turning it into a national park and strongly rejects any mining proposals.
The NSW Government reveals that many of the State's rivers are unfit to swim in because of heavy pollution.
Pentridge Prison in Melbourne experiences larger crowds than expected since it recently opened its doors to the public and its prisoners were transferred to other prisons.
Champion motorcycle rider \JMichael Doohan\j wins the 500cc German Grand Prix - his eighth win (out of nine) this season.
#
"July 21, 1997",202,0,g,0
Following the collapse of the Estate Mortgage trust group in 1990, over 45,000 investors win a $116 million settlement.
Federal Treasurer, \JPeter Costello,\j confirms that a departmental security breach led to the public release of confidential papers labelling some Pacific leaders as corrupt and some islands on the verge on economic collapse. Investigations are to be carried out to find those responsible for the breach.
NSW State Rail is to cut staff by 1,600 to overcome a million dollar budget shortfall.
NSW Agriculture Minister, Mr Amery, claims that 50 per cent of the State is drought-declared and that if rains do not fall within two weeks, there will be a total crop failure of the State's wheat.
Union delegates and striking workers agree to end a six-week strike at Rio Tinto's Hunter Valley coalmine but they still want new workplace agreements re-negotiated.
Leader of the National Party, \JTim Fischer,\j says that the $11 billion fuel excise must be abolished in the nation's tax reform package which would see a GST of about 15 per cent.
Scientists claim that smoke and steam coming from the newly-discovered active volcano on McDonald Island are the tail-end of an under-sea eruption that possibly occurred about six months ago.
Former Western Australian Premier, Dr \JCarmen Lawrence,\j faces court on three charges of giving false evidence at the Marks Royal Commission in 1995; a trial is expected to be set sometime in 1999.
#
"July 22, 1997",203,0,g,0
The Minister for the Olympics, Mr Knight, confirms that 2UE will be the official Sydney Olympic broadcaster, while the ABC will be an 'events broadcaster'.
A new system agreed to by almost all university chiefs will see TAFE students that receive a diploma in selected vocational courses have the length of their university courses cut by at least a year.
A new report on the economy prompts the Federal Government to discuss ways to assist industries in job-creating.
A 25-year-old man from Sydney is fatally attacked by a shark while surfing at Breezy Point Beach, South Africa.
Hundreds of miners from the Rio Tinto Hunter Valley coalmine return to work after a 43-day strike and give the company three weeks to negotiate new workplace agreements.
The Australian Hearing Services company announces that they have invented a system, believed to be a world first, to detect early hearing difficulties years in advance.
The NSW Health Department claims that imported prawns were the source of a hepatitis A outbreak in Sydney in May.
#
"July 23, 1997",204,0,g,0
The Reserve Bank is expected to announce another official cut in interest rates following a fall in underlying inflation that is said to be at a 35-year low.
NSW Premier, \JBob Carr,\j strongly opposes the extension to Sydney of the ACT free heroin trial.
Former Western Australian Premier, Brian Burke, is released from prison following the WA Court of Criminal Appeal quashing his theft conviction; Burke was sent to prison earlier this year on charges of stealing from Labor Party donations.
A new cancer-treating machine on trial in Launceston provides positive results on cancer patients.
The Olympic Co-ordination Authority releases a "dioxin report" claiming that the Olympic site at Homebush is "fit and safe" from dioxin contamination.
A huge ice shelf around the Antarctic Peninsula is in danger of melting as temperatures rise because of global warming.
The head of an inquiry into the disastrous Royal Canberra Hospital implosion, which killed one person, resigns over a conflict of interest.
Telstra announces a new system that will enable receivers to display their caller's number on their phone; this service is expected to be available from December.
#
"July 24, 1997",205,0,g,0
Former Black Panther and convicted hijacker, Lorenzo Ervin, said he will leave Australia before he gets deported. Ervin's visa was previously cancelled by Immigration officials when they found out that he had a prior conviction for hijacking a plane.
At a Jeans for Genes charity auction in Sydney, a pair of jeans belonging to the recently murdered fashion designer, Gianni Versace, sells for $25,000.
A new report indicates that crime in New South Wales is increasing at a much higher rate than the national average. A leading crime expert claims that the State has a higher rate of crime because it has a bigger heroin problem than the other States.
A 49-year-old man who was the mastermind behind the 1996 bungled heroin importation attempt from Thailand that saw three Australians receive 50-year prison sentences in Bangkok, is sentenced in Australia to a minimum of 9 years.
The Department of Foreign Affairs is to sack over 200 employees in order to save $28 million in two years.
#
"July 25, 1997",206,0,g,0
Prime Minister John Howard is admitted to a Sydney private hospital to be treated for pneumonia.
A record number of passengers fly into Melbourne from Sydney for tonight's Rugby Union Bledisloe Cup match between Australia and New Zealand at the MCG.
Research indicates that sleep deprivation while driving is comparable to a blood alcohol level of 0.10.
The Australian Heritage Commission finds that Holsworthy military range, the proposed site for a second Sydney airport, is a "gift of history" with its indigenous sites, native flora and fauna, and undisturbed bushland, and should not be considered for an airport site.
The Minister for the Olympics, Mr Knight, confirms that the NSW Government will use its contingency fund to build a much larger indoor sporting complex at Homebush in order to hold gymnastics and basketball events.
A mining company and native title holders come to an agreement to start mining in an open-cut gold mine on the Timbarra plateau, near Tenterfield.
The Commonwealth Director of Public Prosecutions says that \JAlan Bond\j's four-year prison sentence for $1 billion corporate fraud is too lenient.
A Malaysian newspaper strongly rebukes the Australian Government over a leaked confidential report labelling some South Pacific leaders as corrupt and unfit to be in government.
In the fourth Test of the Ashes series at Headingley, Australian bowler, Jason Gillespie, takes 7 wickets for 37 runs - the best bowling by an Australian at these grounds.
Telstra is set to underwrite a merger between pay-TV operators Australis Media and Foxtel.
Actor Mel Gibson is awarded an Order of Australia for services to the country.
#
"July 26, 1997",207,0,g,0
In the fourth Test of the Ashes series, Australian batsmen, Ricky Ponting and \JMatthew Elliott\j, score a 268 partnership to rescue the team from 4 for 50; Ponting is eventually out for 127 and Elliott is out for 199.
A third Australian dies as a result of the Maccabiah Games bridge collapse in Israel earlier this month.
Ninety thousand spectators turn out for the Rugby Union Bledisloe Cup match between Australia and New Zealand at the MCG; New Zealand beat Australia 33 to 18.
#
"July 27, 1997",208,0,g,0
Over 15,000 people turn up at Holsworthy military range to protest over the proposed airport to be built there.
Figures from police across the nation indicate that $243 million in compensation has been paid for the approximately 470,000 banned weapons that have been handed in.
The Federal Government says it will toughen visa screening procedures following the entry to Australia earlier this month of the former Black Panther and convicted hijacker, Lorenzo Ervin; Ervin has since left the country and will not be allowed to re-enter.
Pay-TV operator, Optus Communications, says it will fight the proposed merger between Australis Media and Foxtel.
#
"July 28, 1997",209,0,g,0
An inquiry into the bungled demolition attempt of the Royal Canberra Hospital earlier this month will investigate whether the decision to implode the hospital was politically motivated and whether safety precautions were adequate.
Australia beat England by an innings and 61 runs in the fourth Test of the Ashes series at Headingley; Australia lead 2-1.
It is expected that Independent MP \JPauline Hanson\j will quit her seat of Oxley at the next election to contest another Federal seat nearby.
Two Australian brothers who had been facing 26 years in a Thai prison on drugs charges are given a royal pardon and await deportation to Australia.
At an international conference, the Governor-General, \JSir William Deane\j, says that Australians have a responsibility to protect and maintain multiculturalism.
A report released by the United Nations Committee finds the Federal Government's policies on women inadequate, in particular a budget cut in the Office of the Status of Women; changes in child care; a delay in the appointment of a Sex Discrimination Commissioner; and the situation of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander women.
Sydney's new light rail system in the heart of the city is taken on a test run; the trams will be operable from the end of August.
The Chairman of the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Commission, Gatjil Djerrkura, says that reconciliation with indigenous people can only truly be achieved if the Union Jack is removed from the Australian flag.
Champion golfer, \JGreg Norman,\j slips back to No. 2 in the world ranking as American Tiger Woods takes the No. 1 position.
#
"July 29, 1997",210,0,g,0
It is revealed that the two Australian brothers who were facing 26 years in a Thai prison on drugs charges were given a royal pardon yesterday because they both have AIDS and one of them almost died.
In order to stop Australia's damaging reputation in Asia over the Pauline Hanson debate, the Federal Opposition Leader, \JKim Beazley,\j addresses the Foreign Correspondents' Association in Singapore, calling for a "united" political effort to stop extremism.
Approximately 320,000 sheep in New South Wales are to be destroyed in order to eradicate Ovine Johnes Disease; this figure may go as high as 1 million.
Record trade surplus figures for June show Australia moving almost $2 billion into the black; Acting Prime Minister, Mr Fischer, says the figures are "fantastic" - it is expected that the Reserve Bank will further reduce interest rates in the very near future.
#
"July 30, 1997",211,0,g,0
As the Reserve Bank announces a 0.5 per cent interest rate cut, many of the major banks cut their rates but some of them won't pass on the cuts until September.
Former prime minister, \JMalcolm Fraser,\j says that he regrets allowing the new $1.1 billion Parliament House to go ahead, claiming that it is too luxurious and big.
Prime Minister, \JJohn Howard,\j remains in hospital to be treated for pneumonia; he is expected to stay there for another few days.
Pauline Hanson's One Nation Party is to hold a speech in Sydney next week but the location and exact date won't be publicised for fear of a major protest.
NSW Premier, \JBob Carr,\j and Victorian Premier, \JJeff Kennett,\j say they will fight the proposed tariff cuts to the textiles, clothing and footwear industries.
It is now expected that New South Wales, along with South Australia and Victoria, will support a free heroin trial for addicts; the first phase of the trial is to start in the ACT.
At the United Nations Working Group on Indigenous Peoples forum in Geneva, the Minister for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Affairs, Senator Herron, apologises and expresses his sorrow for the Aboriginal children who were "stolen" from their families up until the early 1970s.
A Northern Territory Government report indicates that petrol sniffing in Central Australia is a serious concern and has reached levels never seen before.
#
"July 31, 1997",212,0,g,0
Just before midnight this morning, a landslide in the Snowy Mountains town of Thredbo causes the Carinya Ski Lodge to be swept down the hill, across a small road, and onto the Bimbadeen Staff Lodge; both lodges are completed crushed and frustrated rescuers are not allowed to begin searching for survivors because the land is still fragile and emergency workers fear another landslide could occur. Up to 20 people are believed to be trapped underneath the debris and it is not until hours later that precarious rescue operations begin. The first body is found at 9pm and emergency crews said it could take days before they locate all the trapped people. Experts say that underground water may have been the major cause of the landslide.
A free heroin trial for addicts is set to begin in the ACT and then extended to other States; the trial will use pharmaceutical heroin to initially treat 40 addicts.
The University of Sydney confirms that some university degrees will cost students almost $100,000; the most expensive degree is said to be veterinary science.
A study finds that diabetes among children is dramatically increasing nationwide and experts say that processed foods may be a contributing factor.
Non-profit employment agencies may be forced to close down if the Federal Government goes ahead and restructures the Commonwealth Employment Service (CES).
Former boxing champion, Dean Waters, is acquitted of a 1988 murder. Waters admitted that he committed the murder, but he is found not guilty because of diminished responsibility.
The High Court dismisses claims by nine Aboriginal people who said their constitutional rights were breached when they were "stolen" from their families.
Sir Ronald Wilson, author of the \IStolen Generation\i report on Aborigines, and president of the Human Rights and Equal Opportunity Commission, ends his term as president and is not re-appointed.
#
"August 1, 1997",213,0,g,0
Emergency rescue workers at the Thredbo landslide site find two more bodies and little hope is held for any survivors; 16 people still remain missing. Rescue work continues slowly as the threat of another landslide is very real.
A new treatment for cancer has been successfully used for the first time in Australia to treat rheumatoid arthritis.
Prime Minister, John Howard, is released from hospital following a bout of pneumonia.
A former police officer, Said Morgan, is acquitted of the murder of an alleged child molester; Morgan said he killed the man to protect his relatives who had allegedly been sexually assaulted by the deceased.
The Rev Fred Nile announces that he will change the name of his Call to Australia Party to the Christian Democratic Party.
At a meeting between Federal and State and Territory Health Ministers, all States and Territories except New South Wales agree to the Federal Government's plan to reform hospital and health care.
In a move initiated by Japanese Prime Minister, Ryutaro Hashimoto, Australia and Japan are set to broaden their defence co-operations and swap intelligence.
#
"August 2, 1997",214,0,g,0
As Prime Minister John Howard still recovers from pneumonia, his Home Page on the Internet is launched; the address is www.pm.gov.au.
The Federal Treasury urges Australians to check whether they have any unclaimed money in bank accounts as it holds over $75 million in dormant funds.
As rescuers continue to search for bodies in the Thredbo landslide, they miraculously find a survivor buried in a small area under slabs of concrete. It takes emergency workers 12 hours to free Stuart Diver who was trapped in a tiny, dark wet hole for 65 hours; his wife was killed in the landslide.
#
"August 3, 1997",215,0,g,0
The Federal Government considers ways to help State schools cope with extra teenagers going back to school because unemployment benefits are no longer payable to 16 and 17 year olds.
Stuart Diver, the only survivor so far from the Thredbo landslide disaster, continues to make a good recovery in a Canberra hospital. Nine people are confirmed dead and nine are still missing. Up to 600 emergency workers on rotating shifts work around the clock and heavy machinery is used for the first time to speed up rescue work as predicted rain and snow is expected to hamper rescue operations.
A recent study published in the \IMedical Journal of Australia\i finds that Australians overuse antibiotics.
Hospitals in Victoria and New South Wales report higher than usual numbers of people admitted with pneumonia and flu viruses.
A new gene therapy based on the CSIRO's "gene shears" discovery begins on an HIV positive man in Sydney; he is given genetically modified cells from his healthy twin brother.
Motorcycle champion \JMichael Doohan\j wins the 500cc Brazilian Grand Prix.
Atlanta gold medallist, equestrian \JAndrew Hoy,\j wins the British Open equestrian title - the first Australian winner of this title.
#
"August 4, 1997",216,0,g,0
The Australian Consumers' Association reports that single parents and pensioners would be worse off if there was a switch between income and consumption taxes.
It is reported that Civil and Civic is to enlarge Sydney Airport in time for the 2000 Olympics - at a cost of $350 million.
An 11-member team is set to head to the Antarctic in December to restore and conserve Mawson's huts that are in urgent need of repair work.
The Catholic Church wants the Lord Mayor of Brisbane, Jim Soorley, to officially quit the priesthood because he is living in a de facto relationship.
Scientists warn that if the current El Ni±o continues, temperatures in the Pacific Ocean may rise to the highest level this century.
Striking electrical maintenance workers in Melbourne enter their 13th week of strike action.
Jockey \JDarren Beadman\j announces that he will quit racing at the end of the year to devote his life to serving God.
It is reported that agent \JHarry M. Miller\j is handling all interviews with Thredbo landslide survivor, Stuart Diver. Media organisations worldwide have requested to talk to Mr Diver.
The Governor-General and politicians join the friends and families of the Thredbo landslide victims for an ecumenical service in Thredbo's chapel.
#
"August 5, 1997",217,0,g,0
The High Court rules that the $5 billion levied by the States on petrol, alcohol and tobacco is unconstitutional, and the Federal Government is set to impose a uniform tax on the goods and return the funds to the States.
\JCathy Freeman\j wins a gold medal in the 400 metres event at the World Athletics Championships in Athens.
Australia is to boost its aid to North Korea in the wake of the country's severe drought.
The Federal Minister for Education, Senator Vanstone, announces that the Federal Government will set aside $1 million to urge universities to drop the tertiary entrance ranking (TER) system.
Rescue workers at the Thredbo landslide site find one more body, bringing the total so far to 11. Seven people are still missing and emergency crews work as fast as they possibly can before predicted rain and snow sets in.
The Federation of Parents and Citizens' Associations of NSW says that it will issue an official apology to the "stolen" Aborigines and their families.
The Queensland Supreme Court shuts down a controversial inquiry into the State's Criminal Justice Commission (CJC).
Research conducted in Melbourne indicates that chopsticks are a major cause of spreading bacteria that can lead to stomach ulcers.
The Australian Institute of Criminology reports that unauthorised electronic funds transfer (EFT) transactions are skyrocketing in Australia and warns that the Sydney Olympics will be a target for potential con artists.
#
"August 6, 1997",218,0,g,0
Despite a full confession, a 23-year-old woman is found not guilty of murder; she becomes the third self-confessed killer in New South Wales this week to be acquitted.
It is revealed that building plans for the demolished lodges in the Thredbo landslide were built without conditions of approval. Meanwhile rescue workers at the site recover the second and third last bodies - one person is still missing.
The Sydney Organising Committee for the Olympic Games (SOCOG) announces that Bondi Beach has won the right to host volleyball for the Sydney Olympics.
A Sydney software importer is found guilty of pirating software and is ordered to pay Microsoft just over $2 million damages.
Super League and Australian Rugby League officials once again meet to talk about a united competition for 1998; it is reported that the outcome of the meeting was positive.
Former Labor politician and deputy prime minister, \JLance Barnard\j, dies aged 78.
#
"August 7, 1997",219,0,g,0
The Federal Government may force a massive blowout of the Olympic budget when it was announced that it would charge for security, drug testing, quarantine and translation services.
Medical specialists urge all parents to immunise their children in the wake of the fifth baby in New South Wales this year to die from whooping cough.
The July unemployment rate for the nation rises to 8.7 per cent, with the youth unemployment rate at 28 per cent.
The NSW police service threatens to take action if its demand for a higher than 18 per cent pay rise is not met.
Recent research conducted in Australia and Britain indicates that chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS) may be genetic.
The last body of the Thredbo landslide disaster is recovered from the site. A total of 18 people died in the tragedy and it is announced that the site will be turned into a memorial park.
It is reported that there will be a united ARL and Super League competition next year - most likely to be called Super League, but only if the ARL, Super League and the NSWRL all agree on the combining of clubs.
High jumper Tim Forsyth wins a bronze medal at the World Athletics Championships in Athens.
#
"August 8, 1997",220,0,g,0
The Australian Defence Force gives permission to the United States to test-fire four ground-to-air missiles next month on the coast between Broome and Port Hedland in Western Australia, in what is said to be a joint Australian-US experiment.
Sixty-three per cent of the State of New South Wales is declared drought-affected, up 13 per cent from last month.
It is reported that while the incidence of AIDS is declining in Australia, cases of hepatitis C are soaring.
Ms Penny Wensley is appointed Australia's Ambassador to the United Nations in New York.
Former sprinter and Olympian, \JRaelene Boyle\j, announces that she will auction her 1972 Olympic silver medal to help pay for her cancer treatment and living expenses.
The Construction, Forestry, Mining and Energy Union warns the Rio Tinto mining company that coalminers, who returned to work last month following a six-week strike, will restart strike action if management and miners can't unite on new workplace agreements.
A handful of emergency workers continue to search for the victims' personal belongs in the rubble of the collapsed ski lodges at Thredbo.
#
"August 9, 1997",221,0,g,0
The Australian men's basketball team beats the United States in the 1997 Intercontinental Cup round robin in Barcelona; they now face Japan in a semi-final.
Prime Minister \JJohn Howard\j's wife, Janet, reports that her husband is still suffering from pneumonia; the Prime Minister is due to return to work after this weekend.
Teachers as well as parents call for the resignation of Federal Education Minister, Senator Vanstone, for publicly saying that private schools prepared students for jobs better than public schools did.
#
"August 10, 1997",222,0,g,0
An urgent meeting is to take place with State and Territory officials in the wake of the High Court's recent decision knocking down State taxes on alcohol, fuel and tobacco. If this tax issue is not resolved between Federal and State and Territory governments, alcohol, tobacco and fuel prices are expected to increase by the end of the week.
A Metal Trades Industry Association report indicates that thousands of Australian jobs are at risk if the Federal Government doesn't encourage more foreign investment.
Marathon runner, \JSteve Moneghetti\j, wins a bronze medal in the men's marathon at the World Athletic Championships in Athens and Joanna Stone wins a silver medal in the javelin. At the conclusion of the championships, Australia won a total of 1 gold, 1 silver and 2 bronze medals.
The Mundaring Geophysical Observatory near Perth reports that an earthquake measuring 6.3 on the Richter scale hits the Kimberley region of Western Australia.
Coalminers at the Rio Tinto Hunter Valley coalmine threaten to start strike action in two days time if management won't agree to their terms. The coalminers have only just recently returned to work following a six-week strike.
A fourth Australian athlete who was on the bridge when it collapsed at the opening of the Maccabiah Games in Israel last month dies in an Israeli hospital.
The sole survivor of the Thredbo landslide disaster, Stuart Diver, makes a public appeal for donations to be sent to the Thredbo Family Relief Fund.
Prime Minister, John Howard, returns to work following his three-week battle with the flu and pneumonia.
The Australian under-23 men's basketball team beats Puerto Rico in the under-23 world championships in Melbourne.
At the Pan Pacific Swimming Championships in Japan, both Shelley-Taylor Smith and Grant Robinson win gold in the 25km open water events.
#
"August 11, 1997",223,0,g,0
Talks held between the unions and the Rio Tinto mining company fail and strike action at the Hunter Valley coalmine is set to begin tonight.
Organisers of the Telstra float report that they have received tens of thousands of calls from people eager to reserve a prospectus.
Australia beats England in the fifth Ashes Test at Nottingham; Australia now retains the Ashes.
Federal Cabinet is divisive over a billion-dollar "Invest Australia" proposal to attract foreign investment.
The Federal Government announces that it will contribute approximately $1.35 billion to an International Monetary Fund (IMF) to rescue Thailand's economy.
Thredbo landslide survivor, Stuart Diver, reportedly signs a deal with the Seven Network and is said that he will become a full-time "special commentator" for the network.
Researchers claim that bushfires and drought are the main reasons for the rapid decline of the very rare eastern bristlebird.
Laboratories in Australia are to organise testing of the polluted water that lies under the collapsed bridge at the Maccabiah Games in Israel in order to identify the cause of the deaths of two of the four Australians that were killed when the bridge collapsed.
Experts report that the earthquake that hit the Kimberley region of Western Australia yesterday may be part of an earthquake cluster.
At the Pan Pacific Swimming Championships in Japan, Michael Klim wins a gold medal in the 100m freestyle event; Samantha Riley wins gold in the 100m breaststroke event; Matthew Dunn wins gold in the 400m individual medley; and Susie O'Neill wins gold in the 200m butterfly event.
The Eco-Challenge adventure race sets off from Undarra, Queensland; competitors from 15 countries are expected to walk, canoe, climb, ride bikes, white-water raft, ride horses and kayak across approximately 500km in Queensland to finish at Cairns.
The Australian men's basketball team beat the USA to win bronze in the Intercontinental Cup in Barcelona, Spain.
#
"August 12, 1997",224,0,g,0
Research on the long-term use of cannabis finds that 90 per cent of users are dependent on the drug and 40 per cent of them are 'severely dependent'.
The Transport Workers Union begins strike action over a failed agreement on a pay increase against freight companies.
The Federal Government appoints Justice Kenneth Hayne of the Victorian Court of Appeal to the High Court.
The Federal Treasurer, Peter Costello, says that following the High Court's decision to invalidate the States from collecting tax on liquor, NSW should fall into line with other States and refund to the Federal Government the $130 million that the State collected in liquor tax for the first half of this year.
Federal Cabinet tentatively clears the way for media ownership laws to be reviewed.
The Chief Minister of the Northern Territory, Shane Stone, announces that the Territory will hold elections at the end of this month.
An Australian Institute of Criminology report indicates that crimes such as fraud, forgery and false pretences cause losses of approximately $3 billion nationwide each year.
The Federal Opposition demands that the Federal Minister for Education, Senator Vanstone, apologises over her recent remarks denigrating public schools.
Working coalminers at the Rio Tinto mining company at Hunter Valley decide not to resume strike action but instead extend the negotiation period.
At the Pan Pacific Swimming Championships in Japan, Grant Hackett wins gold in the 400m freestyle event.
#
"August 13, 1997",225,0,g,0
In the Tasmanian House of Assembly, Aboriginal leader, Annette Peardon, accepts an apology led by Tasmanian Premier, Mr Rundle, to the stolen indigenous children.
It is revealed that at least one of the four athletes who were killed following the collapse of the bridge at the opening of the Maccabiah Games in Israel last month died because of the river's polluted water.
Cambodia's Opposition Leader, Sam Rainsy, who is currently visiting Australia, says he will help dozens of Cambodians to seek political asylum in Australia in the wake of the recent coup in Cambodia.
Some Australian Rugby League clubs are unimpressed with News Ltd's 'inadequate' financial offer for them to merge.
At the Pan Pacific Championships in Japan, Scott Dunn wins gold in the 200m individual medley; \JSamantha Riley\j wins gold in the 200m breaststroke event; and Grant Hackett claims his third gold medal - this time in the 1,500m freestyle event (he also won gold in the 400m and 800m freestyle events).
The Gandangara Local Aboriginal Council claims that there are Aboriginal heritage sites at Badgerys Creek - the proposed site for Sydney's second airport.
Prime Minister John Howard announces that he will set up a task force to table a report on major tax reform for the nation, including lowering personal income tax and introducing a broad-based indirect tax.
#
"August 14, 1997",226,0,g,0
A Victorian court drops all charges relating to an alleged greyhound scam against AFL player, \JTony Lockett\j.
The Federal Minister for Immigration, Mr Ruddock, says that some of the Cambodian people who recently fled their war-torn country may be allowed to come to Australia.
Tasmanian Premier, Mr Rundle, proposes a plan to scrap the State's Upper House of Parliament and cut down on the number of politicians.
Five people onboard a single-engine plane are all killed when it crashes near Katherine in the Northern Territory.
Hundreds of people attend the funerals of five of the victims of the Thredbo landslide disaster two weeks ago.
Three Army officers are to be charged under the Defence Force Discipline Act in relation to the Black Hawk helicopter crash that claimed the lives of 18 people in June 1996.
Some domestic and international pilots announce that until safety issues are addressed, they will refuse to fly into Port Hedland, Launceston, Hobart and Alice Springs airports.
Tariff cuts force the Berlei bra factory at Lithgow to announce that it will close down and move production overseas to Jakarta; almost 200 jobs will be lost.
Prime Minister, \JJohn Howard\j, announces that a tax overhaul for the nation will not simply be a benefit for the rich.
At the conclusion of the Pan Pacific Swimming Championships in Japan, Australia comes second to the USA in the medal count, with a total of 23 medals comprising 12 gold, seven silver and four bronze.
#
"August 15, 1997",227,0,g,0
The Federal Government announces that it will sign the Brussels Declaration of principle as a step towards globally banning anti-personnel landmines.
Prime Minister John Howard says that his proposed tax policy is better described as a "lower personal tax" and not a "goods and services tax".
A debate over an airspace management plan spreads to air traffic controllers; they claim, along with some aviation groups, that the plan would considerably reduce air safety.
Officials at the Curragh coalmine in north Queensland try to break a 14-week strike at the mine by using non-union staff to load coal into a train but are unsuccessful in their attempt.
#
"August 16, 1997",228,0,g,0
Labor member Franca Arena again threatens to name certain prominent people as pedophiles if the royal commission's pedophile report, due out in 10 days, does not.
The Federal Government's proposal to privatise the Commonwealth Employment Service will see private job brokers pocket millions of dollars for finding work for the unemployed.
Major banks announces cuts in credit card interest rates.
It is reported that a proposed rugby league Super Bowl, between Super League and the ARL at the end of the season, has been formally abandoned.
#
"August 17, 1997",229,0,g,0
A cricket memorabilia auction in Melbourne, including some of \JVictor Trumper\j's personal items, fetches $400,000.
The Federal Department of Employment wants the Federal Government's new Green Corps program to be widened to employ 30,000 people nationwide through councils and Landcare groups.
The Federal Minister for Health, Dr Wooldrige, is set to advise the Federal Government not to change the Commonwealth law to allow heroin to be imported for the controversial free heroin trial.
A new report on the nation's justice system finds that many judges are not properly trained in the areas in which they operate.
Champion motorcycle racer, \JMichael Doohan\j, wins the 500cc British Grand Prix and with it claims the title of the 1997 world 500cc motorcycle champion for the fourth year running.
#
"August 18, 1997",230,0,g,0
Aboriginal campaigner and activist, \JBurnum Burnum\j, dies aged 61.
Mining companies and Aboriginal groups come to an agreement in South Australia which will see mining companies liaise with one Aboriginal body representing all Aboriginal interests.
For the second time this week, management at the Curragh coalmine in north Queensland try to break a 14-week strike at the mine by using non-union staff to load coal into a train but are again unsuccessful in their attempt.
Stock prices on Australian markets fall dramatically following Wall Street's major fall last Friday. However, many stocks recover later in the day.
News Ltd announces that the eight-week peace talks for a united competition next year between the Australian Rugby League and Super League have stopped.
The Federal Coalition splits over the ACT free heroin trial and, according to a survey, the community is not as supportive as it was just one week ago.
Australian scientists claim that they have created the world's smallest gas cylinders which could be used in medical imaging and industry and pollution monitoring; 25,000 of the cylinders can apparently fit on one pinhead.
The Federal Government announces that it will boost Australia's quarantine service by $50 million in order to make improvements.
Four Federal Treasury officials are disciplined following an inquiry into last month's leaked confidential documents labelling some Pacific leaders as corrupt.
As of today, phone numbers in Canberra will have an 02 prefix and the 6 from the old area code is to move to the start of the local number.
Toyota Motor Corporation announces that it will expand its presence in Australia, including manufacturing the new Avalon passenger cars here and building a multi-million dollar research and development centre in Melbourne. Prime Minister John Howard welcomes this news as it will create hundreds of new jobs.
Golfer Karrie Webb wins the women's British Open at Sunningdale, England.
#
"August 19, 1997",231,0,g,0
Alleged war criminal, Konrad Kalejs, is deported from Canada to Australia where he holds citizenship, because Canadian Immigration said he was implicated in the actions of others running a slave camp in Nazi-controlled Latvia where more than 20,000 Jews are thought to have died.
Prime Minister, John Howard, announces that the controversial free ACT heroin trial has been cancelled as he doesn't want to send the 'wrong signal' to the community; the ACT's Chief Minister, Kate Carnell, condemns the decision.
David Oldfield, the adviser of One Nation party leader, \JPauline Hanson\j, announces that Pauline's party will contest one or two Lower House seats in the next election and not run for the Senate.
A US court rules that the silicone breast implant manufacturer, Dow Chemical Co, was negligent and guilty of conspiracy by withholding information regarding safety issues; approximately 5,000 women in Australia are taking legal action against silicone breast implant manufacturers.
The Federal Government announces that it will add 31 species of animals to its endangered list.
For the second year running, Sydney is named the number one holiday destination by the US magazine \ITravel and Leisure.\i
Researchers at the Australian National University claim that they have developed new solar cell technology which will ultimately see the cost of solar power reduce substantially.
Most of the medical profession says that it will not cooperate in the Federal Government's decision to change private health insurance that would eliminate the patient's payment of the gap fee.
It is alleged in a report that up to 300 pedophiles in Queensland are sexually abusing thousands of children and are even flying boys over from the Philippines.
#
"August 20, 1997",232,0,g,0
Following three years of negotiations, the mining company, Striker Resources, strikes a deal with the Balanggarra people to explore and develop open-cut mines in the north-east Kimberley region in Western Australia.
The liquor industry in New South Wales rejects a compromise offer of $52 million by the State Government following the High Court's recent decision that invalidates the States collecting tax on liquor; liquor retailers demand the full $130 million refund of their licence fees.
Ministers within the Federal Government divide over the greenhouse gas emission policy that requires emissions to be cut 15 per cent on 1990 levels.
With the gun buy-back scheme deadline approaching, the New South Wales Government is to launch a massive advertising campaign urging gun owners to hand in illegal weapons as the State's hand-in rate is said to be lower than other States.
The pedophilia debate in Queensland heats up as allegations of pedophile rackets involving prominent people are heard.
Peace negotiations between the union and the Rio Tinto coalmining company at the Hunter Valley are put on hold as Rio Tinto announces that 200 workers will be sacked.
The Federal Government admits that it will be difficult to prosecute alleged war criminal, Konrad Kalejs, who was deported from Canada this week; however, the Government says it will conduct a thorough investigation.
It is reported that the Australian Tax Office may tax grants that are issued from the Australian Sports Commission to sports people.
#
"August 21, 1997",233,0,g,0
A firearm importer from New South Wales claims that the State's illegal weapons buy-back scheme would only recover 6 per cent of banned weapons when it ends on September 30.
According to a newspaper survey, the Federal Opposition edges in front of the Government for the first time since the election.
New South Wales Premier, \JBob Carr\j, finally agrees to refund the State's liquor retailers their $130 million in licensing fees that they had already paid before the High Court invalidated them earlier this month.
The Construction, Forestry, Mining and Energy Union in Queensland is expected to recommend that striking coalminers end their 15-week strike at the Curragh coalmine in north Queensland.
Despite a massive advertising campaign designed to lure people to take out private health insurance, the Private Health Insurance Administration Council announces that only 31.9 per cent of the population is privately covered and up to 1,000 people per day quit private health cover in the 12 weeks leading up to the end of the financial year.
Australian indigenous art receives an extra $1.2 million in grants.
Queensland's Police Commissioner, Jim O'Sullivan, rejects recent allegations there is a protected pedophile ring in the State and that pedophiles are importing boys from the Philippines into Queensland.
The Federal Government confirms that alleged war criminal, Konrad Kalejs, who was deported from Canada earlier this week, cannot be deported from Australia even if he is found guilty of war crimes because he holds Australian citizenship.
#
"August 22, 1997",234,0,g,0
According to US officials, Australia's proposal for different countries to have different greenhouse gas reduction targets is set to be blown away when world powers sign an agreement at the Kyoto climate summit later in the year.
The final report of the NSW Wood Royal Commission to be released next week will recommend lowering the male age of consent for homosexual sex from 18 to 16.
The inquest into the Thredbo landslide disaster officially begins.
Both the Minister for the Environment and the Minister for Resources and Energy keep quiet on the recommendation of the Environment Minister of whether the proposed Jabiluka uranium mine in the Northern Territory should proceed.
\JAlan Bond\j's prison sentence for massive corporate fraud is increased from four years to seven. Bond's parole date is now April 2001.
#
"August 23, 1997",235,0,g,0
It is reported that the Defence Department is considering buying cruise missiles as part of its weaponry for the next century.
As Australia has just won the fifth successive Ashes series, the Australian Cricket Board may officially ask England to hand over the urn which holds the Ashes.
Prime Minister, John Howard, pledges $100 million from the Federation Fund towards the Alice Springs-Darwin railway project.
#
"August 24, 1997",236,0,g,0
It is reported that mental hospital patients were used as guinea pigs for a tuberculosis vaccine in the early 1950s.
Collectors of firearms want rare and historic guns collected in the illegal weapons buy-back scheme, and dating back to the First Fleet, to be saved from destruction and given to a museum.
A 10 per cent drop in mature-age student university enrolments this year are said to be because of the Federal Government's increase in Higher Education Contribution Scheme (HECS) payments.
It is reported that the Australian Rugby Union Wallabies' coach, Greg Smith, will be sacked following Australia's latest loss which put the team last in the tri-nations series.
An inquiry into the New South Wales' proposed electricity sell-off finds that the original price estimate of $22 billion is below the latest expected figure.
Approximately 300 emergency service workers and their families attend a memorial service for the 18 victims of the Thredbo landslide disaster.
The Federal Government is under pressure to financially assist industries in the wake of budget cuts to research and development.
No. 1 world and Australian squash player, Sarah Fitz-Gerald, beats fellow Australian Michelle Martin at the Singapore Open.
#
"August 25, 1997",237,0,g,0
Queensland is to establish a crime commission to investigate pedophilia and other crime in the State.
Prime Minister \JJohn Howard\j announces tough new measures to combat illegal drug abuse and imports into the country.
The Federal Opposition is expected to try to block the Federal Government's proposal to choose convention delegates by a voluntary ballot for the Convention on Constitutional Change.
It is estimated that 4,000 jobs in the NSW electricity industry will be lost if the State's proposed power sell-off goes ahead.
Private health insurance companies claim that long waiting lists in public hospitals are the main cause for increases in private health insurance costs because some patients switch over to private hospitals rather than wait in the public system.
It is reported that opposition by pilots to new airspace management plans that they claim are unsafe are unfounded, however, Airservices Australia says it may install updated radar equipment at Alice Springs because of an increase in tourism.
Paintings by \JArthur Streeton\j, \JWilliam Dobell\j and \JDonald Friend\j, among others, fetch $4 million at a Sothebys' auction in Melbourne.
The NSW State Government reveals that Homebush Bay, near the 2000 Olympics site, will have to be dredged to remove the dioxin contamination from the soil.
Australian band Savage Garden receives a record 13 Australian Record Industry Awards (ARIAs) nominations.
Champion golfer, Greg Norman, wins the PGA World Series of Golf in Akron, Ohio by four shots.
#
"August 26, 1997",238,0,g,0
The Federal Minister for Health, Dr Wooldrige, threatens to reject leading health insurer MBF's proposal to increase premiums by up to 15 per cent.
Officials from the illegal weapons buy-back scheme are concerned at the low rate of hand-ins on the NSW north coast.
Justice James Wood hands down the final report on pedophilia which is the outcome of evidence and information collected from the NSW Police Royal Commission. Major recommendations include lowering the male age of consent for homosexual sex from 18 to 16; establishing a children's commission; setting up a national index of known pedophiles; cracking down on child pornography on the Internet; and warning agencies about people convicted or suspected of child sexual assault, where children are at risk. Some politicians and government bodies say they are disappointed that no one was 'named' in the report and Labor member, Franca Arena, again threatens to name an MP and a judge whom she believes are involved in pedophile activities.
The Federal Minister for Defence, Mr McLachlan, announces that the government may hold an inquiry into the disappearance in November 1941 of HMAS \ISydney.\i
The Federal Government rejects Telstra's plan to charge 50c for its currently free 013 service.
Prime Minister, \JJohn Howard\j, attacks the premiers of Western Australia, Queensland and Victoria, accusing them of criticising him and pushing aside national interests.
Construction industry employees are dismayed at the Construction, Forestry, Mining and Energy Union's proposal to seek a 20 per cent pay rise, claiming that high labour costs will turn investors away.
Hundreds of women in Australia who are suffering from complications arising from Dow Corning breast implants are to take part in a postal vote to accept or reject an out-of-court settlement payment.
The medical profession wants the Federal Government to urgently overhaul the current treatment of hepatitis C as it has reached epidemic proportions among intravenous drug users.
Melbourne's Crown Casino reports an operating loss of $72.5 million for the year following larger than expected operating costs.
#
"August 27, 1997",239,0,g,0
Australian Rugby Union Wallabies' coach, Greg Smith, tenders his resignation as it was widely believed that he faced the sack following Australia's recent losses.
The Bureau of Meteorology claims that the current El Ni±o effects are developing extremely rapidly and raising sea temperatures too quickly.
A native title agreement is signed between Eastern Gas Pipeline and seven Aboriginal groups, allowing BHP Petroleum to pipe gas from Bass Strait into the Gippsland region in return for $2.7 million in jobs, training and respect for archaeological sites for the Aboriginal groups.
The Wesley Mission refuses to divulge the source of the mission's $12 million donation almost one year ago.
It is reported that the Queensland and Western Australian premiers have said they will still put their State's interests first following Prime Minister \JJohn Howard\j's accusations of them not putting national interests first.
A police investigation begins following the discovery of three human skulls in the Hunter Valley State Forest in New South Wales.
NSW Premier, \JBob Carr\j, pledges to financially help the Thredbo community following the landslide disaster at the end of July.
Cyclist \JShane Kelly\j wins a gold medal in the 1 km time trial at the World Track Cycling Championships held in Perth.
#
"August 28, 1997",240,0,g,0
A turnaround by two Senators enables the Federal Government to push through legislation allowing a voluntary postal vote to select half the delegates for the Constitutional Convention.
The Federal Environment Minister gives the nod for a uranium mine to operate inside the Kakadu World Heritage Area and is expected to begin operations in 2000.
Police are certain that the three human skulls found in forest in the Hunter Valley are those of a Korean-born woman and her two children; a triple murder investigation is underway.
Natural historian, Dr Tim Flannery, announces that he is very close to confirming a third species of echidna that was found in Irian Jaya.
The Federal Minister for Immigration, Mr Ruddock, is to hand out Federal Government kits to Asian governments explaining our immigration policies and dismissing rumours that Australia is a racist country.
Optus Communications announces a huge loss which effectively brings the total losses to the Australian pay television industry to almost $3 billion in four years.
The Australia cycling team, consisting of \JShane Kelly\j, Danny Day and Sean Eadie, wins a bronze medal in the Olympic sprint event at the World Track Cycling Championships in Perth.
It is announced that Justin Charles, an AFL player from the Richmond team, tests positive for anabolic steroids - the first AFL footballer to do so.
The Australian Taxation Office announces that it will crack down on tax-free transactions over the Internet.
#
"August 29, 1997",241,0,g,0
It is reported that proper checks on Aboriginal cultural heritage and air quality were not carried out at Jabiluka, where a uranium mine is expected to begin operations in 2000.
Australian doctors are warned not to use a combination of anti-obesity drugs following reports from the United States that the drugs are linked with diseased heart valves.
Telstra announces an annual net tax profit of $1.6 billion, down from last year's $2.3 billion. The company also announces that it will shed over 25,000 jobs by the year 2000.
The Minister for Foreign Affairs, \JAlexander Downer\j, berates foreign journalists for their inaccurate portrayal in overseas publications of \JPauline Hanson\j and Australia's stance on immigration.
#
"August 30, 1997",242,0,g,0
Cyclist Michelle Ferris wins her second silver medal (the first was in the sprint) for the 500m time trial at the World Track Cycling Championships in Perth.
Northern Territory Chief Minister, Shane Stone, claims victory in the Territory's election.
The Federal Government may investigate claims that union rorts are common among wharf workers throughout Australia.
In Liverpool, England, the head of 19th-century Aboriginal warrior, Yagan, is handed over to Australian High Commission representatives and a delegation of Aboriginal elders. In accordance with Aboriginal belief, Yagan's head will return to Western Australia to be reunited with his body in order to allow Yagan's spirit to pass into the Dreamtime.
#
"August 31, 1997",243,0,g,0
The country's leaders express sincere sorrow and distress at the announcement of the tragic death of Diana, Princess of Wales following a car accident in Paris; her companion, billionaire Dodi Al-Fayed, and the driver of the car were also killed in the accident.
Prime Minister John Howard announces his 36-member team of delegates for the convention on a republic; the delegate includes Aboriginal, migrant and youth representatives, both men and women.
#
"September 1, 1997",244,0,g,0
The Federal Opposition accuses the Government of appointing pro-monarchists to the Constitutional Convention on the Republic.
The Federal Government announces that it has canned proposals for this term of office to shake up media ownership laws; \JKerry Packer\j's plans to take over Fairfax newspapers are now expected to be aborted.
Rev Dr Dorothy McRae-McMahon resigns her position as national director for mission of the Uniting Church following pressure to step down when she revealed in July that she was a lesbian.
Financial figures show that Australia's foreign liabilities blew out by $21 billion last financial year to an all-time high of $307 billion.
The Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Commission strongly opposes the Federal Government's decision to allow uranium mining at Jabiluka, near the World Heritage-listed Kakadu.
The National Biodiversity Council warns that many Australian flora and fauna species will be wiped out in the near future unless the country takes better care of the environment.
#
"September 2, 1997",245,0,g,0
As part of a plan to clean up Sydney's waterways by the 2000 Olympic Games, the NSW State Government announces that it will spend $60 million on cleaning up stormwater pollution. The Government also supports a sewerage tunnel that will help stop harbour pollution after wet weather.
The Federal Government says it will not necessarily phase out tobacco sponsorship at major sporting events because it may mean the end of these events in Australia if they lose tobacco company sponsorship.
As the Federal Government endorses many of the recommendations of the financial Wallis report, the nation's major banks threaten to raise fees and charges. The Federal Treasurer, Mr Costello, says that the new reforms would benefit consumers and small businesses alike.
It is reported that the National Party will direct preferences to Pauline Hanson's One Nation Party ahead of the ALP in the Federal seat of Blair at the next election; \JPauline Hanson\j is expected to contest this seat at the next election.
The Australian women's water polo team is told that they will have to wait until the beginning of next year to find out if women's water polo will be included as a sport at Sydney 2000.
#
"September 3, 1997",246,0,g,0
Prime Minister \JJohn Howard\j says he will send Foreign Affairs Minister, \JAlexander Downer\j, as Australia's representative to Diana, Princess of Wales' funeral on Saturday.
The Federal Government abandons plans for a second Sydney airport at the Holsworthy army base site; the focus is now on Badgerys Creek, in Sydney's west.
Newly released figures indicate that Australia's economy is improving at a higher than expected rate.
\JKerry Packer\j's PBL says that it will 'exit' plans to take over Fairfax newspapers following the Federal Government's announcement that it will not be changing media ownership rules at the present time.
The Federal Government says it will not ban tobacco advertising at international sporting events held in Australia on the condition that the tobacco company's sponsorship is vital to holding the event.
The Federal Government's decision to build a new nuclear reactor in Sydney's Lucas Heights draws strong criticism from politicians and environmentalists.
#
"September 4, 1997",247,0,g,0
Prime Minister, \JJohn Howard\j, indicates he may freeze tariffs for the textile, clothing and footwear industry, but many argue that tariff cuts would cause the loss of many jobs.
Figures released from the Bureau of Statistics reveal that there was a huge increase in consumer spending in July.
The new 10-point Wik native title amendments are tabled in Parliament amid strong opposition from both Aborigines and pastoralists.
The Federal Government is said to be furious at the NSW Government for dropping its support for the site of Sydney's second airport at Badgerys Creek.
The NSW Government receives strong opposition from a lot of Federal MPs on the controversial sell-off of the State's electricity industry.
#
"September 5, 1997",248,0,g,0
Australians pay their respects to Diana, Princess of Wales on the eve of her funeral; many place flowers on the steps of the Opera House in Diana's memory. The Victor Chang Cardiac Research Institute announces that it will set up a heart research laboratory in memory of the Princess.
The Minister for the Olympics, Mr Knight, announces that thousands of extra tickets for the Olympics will be made available because of the introduction of two new events (trampolining and canoe slalom), and possibly a third event (women's water polo).
Prime Minister John Howard says that if opposition members try to block the new Wik native title legislation they are deserting the national interest.
#
"September 6, 1997",249,0,g,0
Almost six million Australians join millions of people worldwide in watching the funeral of Diana, Princess of Wales live on television.
The Government claims that far less people will be affected by noise at the proposed airport at Badgerys Creek than they are now at Sydney's Kingsford Smith Airport.
Australia wins the men's lightweight eight at the World Rowing Championships in France, beating Britain by 0.03 of a second.
#
"September 7, 1997",250,0,g,0
Excavators uncover what is believed to be the remains of Australia's first dockyard, established in 1797, at the site next to the Museum of Contemporary Art in Sydney.
The coalmining union declares that strike action will resume in a few days time at the Rio Tinto coalmine at the Hunter Valley following the unsuccessful seven-week peace negotiation trial.
The Leader of the National Party, \JTim Fischer\j, says that he is confident of party support for the Federal Government's new Wik legislation.
#
"September 8, 1997",251,0,g,0
\JPat Rafter\j claims victory over Greg Rusedski from Britain to win the tennis US Open championship; the last time an Australian won the US Open was in 1973. Pat Rafter climbs to No. 3 in the world rankings.
Federal Cabinet is divisive over the issue of tariff cuts in the textiles, clothing and footwear industries.
Coalminers at the Rio Tinto coalmine at the Hunter Valley resume strike action following a seven-week truce period; the miners held a six week strike in June and July.
An Australian Bureau of Statistics survey reveals that up to a half of Australians aged between 15 and 74 have poor or very poor literacy skills.
The banking industry claims that most major banks will be ready for an increase in competition following recommendations from the recent Wallis report that will see non-banks, such as insurance companies, credit unions and retailers, being allowed to offer financial business to customers.
The Australian Democrats and the Federal Opposition want a review into the Army's inquiry into the June 1996 Black Hawk helicopter disaster that killed 18 people, citing a "conflict of interest" regarding the inquiry.
#
"September 9, 1997",252,0,g,0
Rugby league player, Brad Fittler, wins the Australian Rugby League Player of the Year award.
Despite the lowest mortgage rates in the country for decades, a Bureau of Statistics survey reveals that the housing slump has still not picked up.
The American Campbell Soup Company is expected to bid for the remaining 30 per cent of Arnott's shares; these shares are still Australian-owned and, if successful in its bid, Campbell Soup will own 100 per cent of Arnott's.
The Federal Government caves in to pressure and imposes a five-year freeze on tariffs to the textile, clothing and footwear industries.
The Deputy Prime Minister, \JTim Fischer\j, says that trade between Australia and China should grow by 50 per cent by 2000.
Because of budget cuts to the Human Rights and Equal Opportunity Commission, the commission is forced to cut staff and cease or downgrade some of its projects.
The Federal Government is told by Scottish authorities that radioactive waste sent to Scotland from Australia for reprocessing will have to be returned much sooner that Australia had expected.
Liverpool Council, whose area contains the site for Sydney's proposed second airport, says it supports construction of an airport at Badgerys Creek as it will create tens of thousands of new jobs.
New figures indicate that 73 per cent of New South Wales is drought-affected, up 10 per cent from last month. The Bureau of Meteorology claims that the drought is the result of the El Ni±o weather pattern.
As Optus Communications struggles to sign up local call customers, it threatens to take legal action against Telstra, claiming anti-competitive activity.
#
"September 10, 1997",253,0,g,0
The Australian Taxation Office confirms that Australian multi-millionaires use family trust accounts to avoid paying tax.
Optus Communications formally begins legal action against Telstra, claiming anti-competitive activity in the local call market.
St Mary's Cathedral in Sydney holds a requiem Mass for the late Mother Teresa, who died five days ago.
The Construction, Forestry, Mining and Energy Union threatens to start industrial action if a 15 per cent pay rise for construction workers is not met.
#
"September 11, 1997",254,0,g,0
Wallaby fullback, Matthew Burke, wins \ISydney Morning Herald's\i Rugby Union Player of the Year award.
Property analysts estimate that over $10 million per day will be spent on construction over the next three years leading up to the Sydney Olympics.
The Federal Minister for Employment, Senator Vanstone, admits that the nation's unemployment rate is not coming down partly because of the Federal Government's spending cuts; however, Prime Minister \JJohn Howard\j denies this.
As the NSW Police Minister said yesterday that certain 'underworld' figures have been banned from the Sydney Harbour Casino, the NSW Opposition calls on police to arrest these so-called crime figures.
BHP announces that it will shed 860 jobs from its coalfields in New South Wales.
The Federation Centenary Convention votes to have the Constitution changed by dropping the oath of allegiance to the monarch; stating that it draws its legal and moral authority from the people of Australia rather than the United Kingdom; and, including recognition of prior occupation of indigenous peoples and their status.
Former boxing champion, \JFred Henneberry\j, dies aged 86.
#
"September 12, 1997",255,0,g,0
The vice-president of the Australian Society of Certified Practising Accountants warns the NSW Government that selling the State's electricity industry could be a potential disaster and leave taxpayers short-changed.
It is reported that $160 million of funding for the $600 million Olympic stadium may be in jeopardy.
The Rio Tinto mining company begins legal action against union officials who, Rio Tinto claims, are standing in the way of Rio Tinto's production process. Coalminers are about to enter their second week of strike action at the Hunter Valley No. 1 coalmine in protest over workplace agreements.
Prime Minister John Howard is forced to defend himself following Employment Minister Senator Vanstone's comments on why the unemployment rate is not budging. Earlier in the week Senator Vanstone claimed that a lessened job security would reduce unemployment and that cuts in government spending was a major reason for the unemployment rate.
Telstra receives thousands of telephone calls from the public keen to reserve a prospectus for the coming sharemarket float before tonight's deadline.
According to newspaper reports, the CSIRO claims that the Murray-Darling basin needs to be planted with billions of trees in order to reverse the rise of salty groundwater that is threatening the basin.
#
"September 13, 1997",256,0,g,0
It is reported that social security cheats have costed the country $20 million a week in the last year.
South Australian Premier, John Olsen, announces the date of October 11 for a State election.
A National Crime Authority report indicates that there are approximately 5,000 practising pedophiles belonging to networks across the nation with many of them using the Internet to exchange or download information.
#
"September 14, 1997",257,0,g,0
Champion motorcycle racer, \JMichael Doohan\j, breaks the record for the number of grand prix won in a year when he wins the Catalunya 500cc Grand Prix at Montmelo in Spain. This win is Doohan's 12th for the season; the previous record was held by Italian Giacomo Agostini who clocked up 11 wins in 1968.
Sprinter \JMelinda Gainsford-Taylor\j wins bronze in the 200m final at the IAAF Grand Prix in Japan.
It is announced that a privately-funded railway line linking Melbourne to Darwin and passing through New South Wales and Queensland would be financially viable for shareholders.
Some Pacific nations want the leaked confidential Australian report labelling some Pacific leaders as corrupt and incompetent to be discussed ahead of the 16-nation summit to be held later this week.
Clean Up Australia founder, \JIan Kiernan\j, launches the Clean Up the World campaign and claims that next weekend's world clean-up will involve over 40 million people in 125 different countries.
Cricketing legend Sir \JDon Bradman\j's wife, Lady Jessie Bradman, dies aged 88. The pair were married in 1932.
Sir \JGarfield Barwick\j's widow, Lady Norma Barwick, dies aged 94. Sir Garfield Barwick died two months ago.
#
"September 15, 1997",258,0,g,0
Golfer \JKarrie Webb\j wins the LPGA Safeco Classic in Seattle, her third win for the year.
The Federal Foreign Affairs Minister, \JAlexander Downer\j, announces that the Federal Government will contribute $500,000 towards drought-stricken areas in Papua New Guinea.
Following a report indicating that one-third of Year 3 and Year 5 students cannot read or write adequately, the Federal Government threatens to considerably drop school funding if schools don't improve on their literacy results.
The Cook Islands Prime Minister, Sir Geoffrey Henry, warns Prime Minister \JJohn Howard\j that Australia may become isolated from Pacific nations if the Federal Government doesn't agree to greenhouse gas emission cuts.
The Industry Commission claims that Australia's environmental laws are flawed and should be overhauled because the nation's environment is suffering.
#
"September 16, 1997",259,0,g,0
The Industrial Relations Commission gives permission to the Rio Tinto coalmining company to launch legal action against union officials and strikers at its Hunter Valley No. 1 coalmine; the union warns legal action would cause widespread industrial action in the nation's coal industry.
Lady Anne Kerr, the widow of the former governor-general, Sir John Kerr, dies aged 83.
As rumours spread throughout the financial sector that Prime Minister, John Howard, was about to announce his resignation during an unexpected press conference, the Australian dollar drops to a two-year low of US71.6c.
Prime Minister, John Howard, says that he will not bow to pressure from Pacific nations and agree to uniform global greenhouse gas emission targets.
The current El Ni±o weather pattern is expected to cost Australia's wheat industry $600 million in lost exports.
The Minister for Communications, Senator Alston, is also appointed the new Minister for Information Economy, to oversee the Internet and information industries.
The NSW Premier, Bob Carr, admits that the State's budget for the next two years is in serious trouble, mainly because, he says, of the High Court's ruling preventing the States levying taxes on fuel, alcohol and tobacco.
#
"September 17, 1997",260,0,g,0
Prime Minister, \JJohn Howard,\j arrives in the Cook Islands to attend the South Pacific Forum.
NSW backbencher, Franca Arena, accuses the NSW Premier, Bob Carr, of conspiring with Justice Wood to cover up the names of well-known people suspected of pedophilia activity.
The Federal Government accuses the coal and stevedoring unions of trying to secure inefficient work practices as strikes continue in the coal industry and on the waterfront.
The Federal Government says that it is powerless to stop private health insurance companies from increasing their premiums by up to 20 per cent from October.
A Sydney magistrate finds advertising executive and millionaire, \JJohn Singleton\j, not guilty on a charge of speeding. Singleton was caught driving his Bentley at 160km/hr in a 110km/hr zone.
Reserve Bank figures indicate that Australians owe $13 billion on their credit cards, an increase of 25 per cent in a year.
An agreement between Australia and Scotland to ship our radioactive spent fuel rods over there to be reprocessed is said to be in jeopardy following the announcement of Scotland's move to self-rule.
#
"September 18, 1997",261,0,g,0
Canberra rugby league player, \JLaurie Daley\j, is named Super League Player of the Year, while Brisbane's Wayne Bennett is named Super League Coach of the Year.
Advertising businessman, John Singleton, is appointed a director of the Olympic team and will be responsible for media and public relations.
NSW Premier, \JBob Carr\j, denies allegations made by backbencher, Franca Arena, that he and other politicians, along with Justice Wood, who headed the NSW Police Royal Commission, conspired to protect the identities of prominent suspected pedophiles.
A woman suffering from the fatal Creutzfeldt-Jakob Disease (CJD) following fertility treatment over 25 years ago, is offered compensation by the Federal Government.
The NSW National Party accuses Premier, Bob Carr, of failing to keep a promise he made to farmers to protect 40 per cent of the State from native title claims.
Australia offers weather forecasting and technical help to Indonesia in the wake of the massive forest fires that have engulfed Indonesia and caused dangerous levels of smog and pollution for millions of people.
#
"September 19, 1997",262,0,g,0
A Melbourne businessman buys Raelene Boyle's 1972 Munich Olympics silver medal at a charity auction for $70,000; over $350,000 is raised for Raelene and the Sporting Chance Cancer Foundation. The silver medal is to be held at the Gallery of Sport at the Melbourne Cricket Ground.
The Industrial Relations Commission says it will not interfere in industrial strike action between the coalmining union and the Rio Tinto mining company in the Hunter Valley.
The Chief Justice, Sir Gerard Brennan, accuses politicians of 'attacking' the High Court, particularly in the Wik native title ruling, and says that Australian society is at risk if these attacks continue.
The NSW Deputy Premier, Dr Refshauge, and other ministers, demand the expulsion of Labor MP Franca Arena, following her statements earlier this week accusing the NSW Premier and other politicians of conspiring to cover up the names of prominent pedophiles.
The NSW Police Commissioner, Mr Ryan, says he may propose that police use defensive sprays instead of guns to defend themselves in certain situations.
The Sydney Organising Committee for the Olympic Games (SOCOG) says that up to 50,000 people will be needed as Olympic Games volunteers; up to 150,000 people are expected to apply for these positions.
The State of Victoria proposes to change its Wildlife Act to enable rangers to destroy dogs or cats that attack vulnerable wildlife on public land.
The Federal Government succumbs to pressure and agrees to appoint a new Sex Discrimination Commissioner following the retirement of the previous commissioner earlier in the year. Due to budget cuts to the Human Rights and Equal Opportunity Commission, the government had previously said it would not reappoint a new Sex Discrimination Commissioner.
#
"September 20, 1997",263,0,g,0
During Prime Minister \JJohn Howard\j's attendance at the Pacific Forum in the Cook Islands, he forces reluctant Pacific leaders to agree to his view on greenhouse gas emissions; Howard says Australia's emissions need to be increased and not decreased.
Brisbane beats Cronulla 26-8 in the grand final of the first premiership in the Super League series.
#
"September 21, 1997",264,0,g,0
According to a NSW Environmental Protection Agency report, Sydney's second airport at the proposed site of Badgerys Creek would produce noise levels well above the accepted standard.
A United Nations report indicates that Australia's investment in Asia has substantially dropped over the last 15 years.
Ironman, Dean Mercer, wins in the final of the Oceanman series, while ironwoman, Karla Gilbert, wins the women's series.
In the wake of the Federal Government's threat to cut funding to State schools if literacy levels aren't lifted, State education ministers get together to formulate a plan to improve literacy standards, including asking the Federal Government for extra funding.
The NSW Governor, Gordon Samuels, and the NSW Premier, Bob Carr, present 30 awards to some of the people who helped in the Thredbo landslide rescue operation.
Convicted rapist, Fred Many, who was released early from a 20-year prison sentence in 1995, is found dead; he was aged 43.
#
"September 22, 1997",265,0,g,0
St. Kilda's Robert Harvey wins the Australian Football League's Brownlow Medal.
Former Queensland premier, \JWayne Goss\j, prepares for an operation for a suspected brain tumour.
The ACTU launches a $20-a-week wage claim for 1.5 million workers; the claim is rejected by the Minister for Workplace Relations, Mr Reith.
NSW Premier, Bob Carr, proposes to reduce the number of NSW Lower House seats, claiming that the community thinks the State is over-governed.
Independent Senator, Mal Colston, who is facing police charges of misusing parliamentary travel allowances, is said to be very ill and is not expected to return to the Senate for the rest of the year.
Australian band Savage Garden wins 11 out of 13 nominated awards at the 11th Australian Record Industry Awards (ARIAs) in Sydney.
The Chief Justice of the Family Court of Australia, Justice Alastair Nicholson, urges the Federal Government to appoint a children's commissioner to the Human Rights and Equal Opportunity Commission.
Elton John's tribute song to the late Princess of Wales, \ICandle in the Wind '97\i sells out in most shops in record time on the first day of its Australian release.
The World Health Organisation (WHO) claims that the incidence of HIV and AIDS is rapidly increasing in Asian countries while in Australia it is slowing declining.
#
"September 23, 1997",266,0,g,0
Allegations arise that the Federal Minister for Administrative Services, Mr Jull, and the Federal Minister for Transport, Mr Sharp, were involved in covering up the repayments of thousands of dollars worth of falsely claimed travel allowances.
The NSW Minister for Health, Dr Refshauge, says that a new heroin detoxification program from Israel will be assessed for trial in NSW. The program uses naltrexone on addicts and the head of the program in Israel claims a 100 per cent success rate.
The Federal Minister for Health, Dr Wooldridge, says that lung cancer is fast taking over breast cancer as the number one killer of Australian women.
The Federal Government publicly releases a list of leases across Australia which cannot be claimed by native title.
Gallipoli veteran, Albert White of Queensland, dies aged 102.
Former Queensland premier, \JWayne Goss\j, is reported to be in a satisfactory condition following an operation to remove a suspected brain tumour.
ARL chief executive, Neil Whittaker, launches a new competition, the National Rugby League Championship, and invites Super League's clubs to join.
Victorian Premier, \JJeff Kennett\j, faces pressure to stand down if allegations that he helped his wife obtain sought-after shares in 1993 are found to be true.
#
"September 24, 1997",267,0,g,0
Sydney experiences its coldest September day in over 90 years; the temperature didn't even get to 12 degrees.
Victorian Premier, \JJeff Kennett\j, denies allegations that he intervened to help his wife purchase shares in 1993.
The chairman of the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Commission, Gatjil Djerrkura, says that the Federal Government's new Wik native title amendments are a "serious detriment to indigenous people".
The Commonwealth Ombudsman, Philippa Smith, claims that complaints against government agencies have doubled since the Howard Government came to power.
The Federal Minister for Transport, John Sharp, and the Federal Minister for Administrative Services, David Jull, both announce their resignation in the wake of allegations that they covered up the repayments of falsely-claimed travel allowances.
\JKieren Perkins\j' wife, Symantha Liu, gives birth to their first child, a daughter, in a Brisbane hospital.
#
"September 25, 1997",268,0,g,0
The Department of Foreign Affairs urges Australians not to travel to Indonesia, Malaysia, Singapore and Brunei as the smog from forest fires in Indonesia has reached potentially fatal levels.
Travel-rorting scandals continue to rock the Howard Government, as now a third minister, the Minister for Science and Technology, Mr McGauran, may step down over alleged travel rorts; two Federal Ministers, Mr Sharp and Mr Jull, resigned yesterday.
Controversial Independent MP, \JPauline Hanson\j, says she will go to jail if necessary rather than obey directions from the Human Rights and Equal Opportunity Commission.
Many firearms dealers throughout the nation will be forced to close down soon because gun sales are almost non-existent since the introduction of new laws banning many weapons.
AFL great, \JGary Ablett\j, announces his retirement from the game.
Over 11,000 people turn up to watch the AFL St. Kilda team train in the lead-up to Saturday's grand final against Adelaide; 15,000 turned up last night to watch the Adelaide Crows train.
1997 US Tennis Open champion, \JPat Rafter\j, beats Austrian Thomas Muster to gain a place in the semi-finals of the Grand Slam Cup in Munich, Germany; Rafter collects $697,000 for this first-round victory.
The Reserve Bank tells banks that they will have to accept lower returns as their current profit levels are too high.
#
"September 26, 1997",269,0,g,0
Millionaire \JDick Smith\j takes control of the Civil Aviation Safety Authority (CASA) following the resignation of Justice William Fisher, who launched an attack on Smith before he resigned.
Noel Pearson, legal advisor to the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Commission (ATSIC), says that Australia cannot be a true republic unless reconciliation with indigenous peoples is achieved.
In a major blow to the Australian Workers Union (AWU), a group of members belonging to the AWU votes to break away and form the ICI Botany Employees Union.
In what is described as the worst week for \JJohn Howard\j since he came to power in March 1996, a third minister, Mr McGauran, Minister for Science and Technology, announces his resignation in the wake of the travel rorting affair that saw two other Federal ministers resign earlier this week. Prime Minister, John Howard, sacks two of his senior staff, Grahame Morris and Fiona McKenna, for their alleged cover-up of travel expense pay-backs.
The Australian Defence Force drops disciplinary charges against two officers over the Black Hawk helicopter disaster that claimed 18 lives in July 1996.
#
"September 27, 1997",270,0,g,0
Olympian champion, \JHayley Lewis\j, marries boyfriend Greg Taylor at Noosa, Queensland.
Actress \JKimberley Davies\j marries long-time boyfriend, Jason Harvey, in Melbourne.
A further 140 Federal ministers' travel expenses may be investigated as the 'travel rorts' affair continues to rock the Howard Government.
The Adelaide Crows beat St. Kilda in the AFL Grand Final in front of a crowd of almost 100,000 people at the Melbourne Cricket Ground.
Former Queensland premier, \JWayne Goss\j, is released from hospital following surgery to remove a malignant brain tumour earlier in the week.
#
"September 28, 1997",271,0,g,0
The Australian High Commission is to begin evacuating personnel in Malaysia in the wake of the dangerous smog levels caused by Indonesia's forest fires; other Australian companies who have operations in the smog-affected areas, including BHP, will also organise evacuations for their Australian staff.
A submission from the Australian Law Reform Commission on the Federal Goverment's Wik native title legislation says that the new legislation will ultimately cost taxpayers millions of dollars more as it will amount to more litigation cases. The commission also claims that Australia could be taken to the United Nations for breaches of our international human rights obligations.
With the score still 16-16 in the last 10 seconds of the game, the Newcastle Knights score a try in the final seconds to beat the favourites, Manly Sea Eagles, in the ARL Grand Final in Sydney.
National Party member, Ian Sinclair, who has held the Federal seat of New England for 34 years, announces that he won't be contesting the seat for another term.
#
"September 29, 1997",272,0,g,0
The "Travelgate" rorts affair continues to rock the Howard Government as it is revealed that an employee of the Prime Minister and Cabinet resigned because she had "forgotten" to reveal that she knew about ministers covering up falsely-claimed travel expenses.
The nation's coalmining industry is in chaos with strike action over work practices against Rio Tinto in the Hunter Valley, BHP in the Illawarra and ARCO in Queensland disrupting the mines.
Leaders of the Uniting Church vote to reject a proposal to ban gay ministers.
Leader of the Democrats, Senator \JCheryl Kernot,\j says she will push for an investigation into allegations that the Attorney-General threatened to gag the Australian Law Reform Commission if it submitted evidence regarding native title to the Wik committee.
Telstra's sharemarket float is launched. Due to high demand from the public, the Federal Government may stand to reap $14 billion for selling one-third of the company; shares are expected to sell for between $2.80 and $3.30 each.
#
"September 30, 1997",273,0,g,0
Australian scientists at the Landmine Countermeasures unit of the Defence Science and Technology Organisation claim that they are developing a hand-held device to detect landmines safely; this new device could be available within five years.
Dr Anthony Simmons, head of the Herpes Virus Research Laboratory in Adelaide, claims that he may have identified the virus, Human Herpes Virus type 6, that causes multiple sclerosis.
In the wake of Cambodia's recent political coup, Australia is set to offer help in the form of security to candidates in the Cambodian national elections next May.
Up to 300 nursing homes across the nation will be forced to close down because they recently failed a Department of Health and Family Services inspection and therefore will not be allowed to charge an accommodation bond for new residents.
In the wake of on-and-off industrial action at the Gordonstone colliery in Queensland, the Federal Court paves the way for the Atlantic Ritchfield Company (ARCO) to sack its entire workforce of 312; the Construction, Forestry, Mining and Energy Union (CFMEU) says it will launch unfair dismissal claims on behalf of all retrenched employees.
It is estimated that anything between one and several million firearms were not handed in during the country's firearms buyback scheme; the amnesty, which ends at midnight, saw approximately 620,000 banned weapons handed in nationwide. People still holding illegal weapons from tomorrow could face fines of up to $5,500 and prison sentences of up to 10 years.
In the Federal Government's continuing 'travel rorts' affair, which saw a number of ministers step down in the last week, the Opposition Leader, \JKim Beazley\j, comes under fire when it is revealed that one of his staffers in the South Australian State election had been ordered to pay back $1,000 in unentitled travel expenses.
Up to 100,000 people join the Newcastle Knights in the main street of Newcastle to celebrate the team's win in the ARL Grand Final last weekend.
#
"October 1, 1997",274,0,g,0
Deputy Chairman of the Civil Aviation Safety Authority (CASA), \JDick Smith\j, says that safety surveillance at Sydney Airport has to be urgently increased and CASA's performance will have to improve.
National Australia Bank buys County Natwest Australia Investment Management for a reported figure of $90 million, taking NAB's managed funds business to $14.5 billion.
The Federal Attorney General, Mr Williams, is to face two Senate inquiries for his alleged threat to gag the Australian Law Reform Commission if it gave evidence to the native title Wik committee.
The travel rorts affair rocking Federal parliament continues with allegations that a Labor Senator had claimed travel expenses while staying at his mother's house.
Tens of thousands of aged residents in care throughout Australia face new means-tested fees of up to $63 per day.
The proposal to sell New South Wales's power industry is in doubt as most voting delegates have decided to reject it.
The nation's coalmining industry is in turmoil as the mining company, Atlantic Richfield Company (ARCO), sacks all 312 of its coal miners at its North Queensland Gordonstone mine, and 8,000 workers at over 40 collieries begin a three-day strike in protest against Rio Tinto's decision to take legal action against union officials.
#
"October 2, 1997",275,0,g,0
Changes unveiled today for Austudy will see over 30,000 more students benefit from the scheme - at a cost of $11 million to the Federal Government next year.
NSW Premier, \JBob Carr\j, says he will still push for the State's privatisation of the electricity industry, despite admitting that his proposal will be defeated at the ALP State conference in two days time.
Five Australian tourists are injured following three bomb explosions on a train travelling through India.
The travel rorts affair rocking politicians refuses to die down as the Federal Government accuses the Opposition Leader, \JKim Beazley\j, of "doctoring" a news release that was supposed to defend Labor Senator Nick Sherry's travel allowance claims. The Opposition then names senior Liberal ministers who have allegedly claimed extraordinarily high travel expenses.
The Attorney-General, Mr Williams, is investigated over claims that he threatened to gag the Australian Law Reform Commission if it gave evidence to the Wik committee.
Forty-eight medals of bravery are gazetted, most of them to the "heroes" at the scene of the \JPort Arthur\j massacre in April 1996.
The coalmining union calls off a three-day strike by 8,000 workers across the Hunter Valley.
#
"October 3, 1997",276,0,g,0
Aboriginal campaigner, Patrick Dodson, is named as the 1997 recipient of the United Nations Association Peace Medal for his work towards reconciliation in Australia.
Findings of a recent Tasmanian study reveal that only one in five babies is fully immunised by the time they are 12 months old.
Victorian Premier, \JJeff Kennett\j, announces that he has withdrawn plans to hold Olympic 2000 soccer matches in his State; Kennett claims that it would have costed Victorians millions of dollars if the venue wasn't completed in time.
In the continuing travel rorts affair, the Opposition's deputy Senate leader, Nick Sherry, unsuccessfully attempts suicide, following accusations earlier this week from the Federal Government that he abused his parliamentary travel allowance. Police find Sherry in his Canberra residence following the appearance of a suicide note at the Australian Associated Press news agency. He is reported to be in a satisfactory condition in a Canberra hospital.
#
"October 4, 1997",277,0,g,0
At the Labor conference in Sydney, NSW Premier, \JBob Carr\j, and NSW Treasurer, Michael Egan, do not find much support from Party members to sell-off the State's electricity industry and are virtually ordered to drop all privatisation plans.
Federal Minister for Education, Senator Vanstone, is expected to be moved to the outer ministry tomorrow when Prime Minister \JJohn Howard\j announces his new team of Federal ministers following the forced resignation of three ministers over the "travel rorts" affair.
#
"October 5, 1997",278,0,g,0
Australian golfer, Craig Parry, wins the Japan Open championship with a two-over score of 286.
The Federal Government is determined to offer individual workplace contracts for 10 per cent of public servants.
NSW Premier, \JBob Carr\j, vows to continue to press for privatisation of the State's electricity industry, despite a rejection of the proposal at the weekend's ALP State conference.
Prime Minister, \JJohn Howard\j, announces his new reshuffled ministry in the wake of the loss of three ministers who were forced to resign over the recent travel rorts affair. David Kemp takes over Senator Vanstone's role as Minister for Employment, Education, Training and Youth Affairs; Attorney-General, Daryl Williams, is promoted into Cabinet; National Party backbencher, Mark Vaile, is named as Minister for Transport and Regional Development; Andrew Thomson is named as Minister for Sports and Tourism; Senator Nick Minchin is named as Special Minister of State; Alex Somlyay is named as Minister for Regional Development, Territories and Local Government; and Warren Truss is named as Minister for Customs and Consumer Affairs. John Howard disbands the Department of Administrative Services and expands the frontbench numbers from 28 to 30, with Cabinet expanding from 15 to 16.
The indigenous people of the Kimberley area in Western Australia go straight to the Governor-General, \JSir William Deane\j, to seek recognition for their rights with the nation's Constitution, claiming that they have no faith in the Federal Government.
Geoff and David Braham win the Bathurst 1000 international super touring car race, following the disqualification of Paul Morris and Craig Baird because Baird exceeded the 31/2 hour driving time limit without stopping.
#
"October 6, 1997",279,0,g,0
The Federal Government reveals a proposal to reform tax on those earning little more than social security entitlements, as there is a growing concern that families on social security benefits have no incentive to work.
Former premier of NSW, \JNeville Wran\j, announces his candidacy for the Constitutional Convention.
It is widely believed that two elderly people committed suicide because of the Federal Government's announcement of new hefty fees upon entry into nursing homes.
Prime Minister, \JJohn Howard\j, says he will not sign an international agreement proposing global greenhouse gas emission reductions at December's United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change if it was not viable for Australia.
Many Australian sports people and Olympic officials condemn Athletics Australia's decision to hire former East German coach, Ekkart Arbeit, as Australia's head athletics coach because of his 1980s role of administering performance-enhancing drugs in East Germany.
#
"October 7, 1997",280,0,g,0
The Federal Opposition's deputy Senate leader, Nick Sherry, announces his resignation from the frontbench. Sherry tried to commit suicide last week following pressure over his involvement in the recent parliamentary travel rorts affair.
The NSW Minister for Agriculture says that yesterday's heavy rainfall in the State has boosted the winter cereal crops that were suffering from drought.
AMP Society's 1.8 million members are all set to receive shares in the company if they approve the $10 billion AMP stock exchange listing next year and agree to change its mutual status for a corporate structure. It is reported that each member will receive shares to the value of at least $880, with some long-term members receiving shares worth over $100,000.
The Federal Government says it will review the decision to appoint former East German athletics coach, Ekkart Arbeit, to head athletics coach in Australia, following growing concern that Arbeit's past role in the systematic administering of performance-enhancing drugs to East German athletes in the 1980s will reflect on our nation's athletes.
The Rio Tinto mining company wins a legal battle which sees train drivers at the Hunter Valley No. 1 coalmine ordered over a picket line to collect coal for transportation to Newcastle. NSW Premier, \JBob Carr\j, urges Rio Tinto to accept an offer by the union to arbitrate or face widespread industrial action.
#
"October 8, 1997",281,0,g,0
The head of the National Crime Authority (NCA) investigation into former Elders IXL chief, \JJohn Elliott\j, reveals that he knew of evidence that was not brought before a jury that could have put Elliott in prison over two separate matters involving millions of dollars worth of secret payments and illegal profiting from bonds. Elliott and two other Elders IXL directors were all acquitted in August 1996 of charges of stealing $66.5 million from Elders IXL shareholders.
Aboriginal magistrate Pat O'Shane is to head a seven-candidate team for delegates to the Constitutional Convention. Called the Committee for a Just Republic, the team is in favour of a bill of rights and an elected president.
The appointment of former East German athletics coach, Ekkart Arbeit, to head athletics coach in Australia is now in jeopardy following widespread criticism of his appointment because of his previous involvement in his country in the 1980s of using drugs to enhance athletes' performances.
The Federal Minister for Resources, Senator Parer, gives approval for the new uranium mine near the World Heritage-listed \JKakadu\j to go ahead, despite protests from traditional landowners and conservationists, who say that will plan a blockade if the mine goes ahead.
Unions representing up to 65,000 Telstra employees threaten industrial action over pay and conditions.
#
"October 9, 1997",282,0,g,0
A report from information gathered from 20 developed countries by the World Health Organisation, the United Nations and the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development finds that Australia has the highest rate of melanoma, one of the highest rates of bowel cancer, the fifth highest rate of male suicide and one of the highest rates for female homicide.
The Federal Government freezes all issues and decisions regarding communications policies because it could jeopardise the Telstra sharemarket float.
At the National Swimming Titles in Brisbane, Australia's Michael Klim breaks a world record by 0.12 seconds in the 100m butterfly final.
Because of more rainfall in New South Wales, the State is now only 43 per cent drought-stricken (down from 63 per cent in August) and the winter cereal crops have been boosted by $1 billion, much to the delight of farmers who were facing a severe drought only two months ago.
The US Government supports Australia in its argument that non-binding greenhouse gas emission targets should be set at different levels for each country, depending on their needs. Australia and the US are to work together closely on this issue in the lead-up to the climate change summit in Japan later in the year.
Candidates to be nominated for the Constitutional Convention are announced. Some of the 609 candidates include \JHazel Hawke,\j Pat O'Shane, \JPoppy King,\j Janet Holmes α Court, \JLady Flo Bjelke-Petersen,\j \JSteve Vizard,\j \JNeville Bonner,\j Ted Mack and Michael Lavarch.
#
"October 10, 1997",283,0,g,0
NSW Premier, \JBob Carr\j, offers to financially assist the families of the Thredbo landslide victims at an inquest.
An Australian study into Alzheimer's disease suggests that aspirin can slow down the disease by five or six years.
The Sydney Organising Committee for the Olympic Games (SOCOG) announces that tickets for the opening and closing ceremonies and other events at the stadium will be offered early to help recover costs of unsold gold memberships.
The South Australian State election is held.
#
"October 11, 1997",284,0,g,0
As counting continues, results of the South Australian State election are still too close to declare a winner.
It is reported that many doctors nationwide say they may have to drop bulk billing and charge patients up front if they want to stay in business.
The controversy surrounding the appointment of former East German athletics coach, Ekkart Arbeit, to head coach of athletics in Australia, hasn't discouraged Arbeit from still wanting to take the position. Because of his drug-stained past, there hasn't been a lot of community support for Arbeit to take the job.
#
"October 12, 1997",285,0,g,0
Over 60,000 coloured hands made of biodegradable plastic representing the number of people who have signed the Australians for Native Title and Reconciliation (ANTaR) petition are planted in the front lawn of Parliament House.
While counting continues in the South Australian State election held on the weekend, it is confirmed that the governing Liberal Party has lost most of its majority with a 13 per cent swing to Labor, Labor so far has claimed 20 seats, up from 11.
The Australian Mathematical Sciences Council claims that mathematical sciences are in serious trouble and that schools should have minimum hours set for studying maths.
Politicians and officials from the Mutawintji Land Council start talks that will see the 40,000 hectare \JMootwingee National Park\j, 150 km north-east of \JBroken Hill\j, handed back to its traditional owners.
#
"October 13, 1997",286,0,g,0
A recent newspaper poll shows that the people of Australia are leaning towards independents or minor parties as opposed to Liberal or Labor.
NSW Labor MP, Franca Arena, escapes another round in her legal challenge to stop an inquiry into her allegations that there was a conspiracy to cover up the names of prominent people allegedly involved in pedophilia; Franca Arena says she will name the suspected people in State Parliament later in the week.
In response to doctors' claims that they would go out of business if they don't drop bulk billing, the Federal Minister for Health, Dr Wooldridge, says that the doctors' demands were just a "wage claim" and they would have to work harder if they wanted more money.
The Anglican Archbishop of Sydney, the Most Rev Harry Goodhew, publicly urges the Federal Government to adequately respond to the Human Rights and Equal Opportunity Commission's report on the indigenous 'stolen' generation.
The United Nations committee signals that Australia's policies on children need to be improved and a commission for children should be established to oversee policies in line with the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child.
Scientists from the United States claim to have found a substance in coral off the Western Australian coast that could cure a number of cancers, however they are yet to reach an agreement with the Western Australian Government to collect more coral samples.
Mining company, MIM, threatens to sack over 300 workers at its Newlands coalmine in Queensland if the workers don't sign new workplace agreements immediately.
The Australian Nuclear Science and Technology Organisation (ANSTO) is given approval to produce a new radioactive drug at the nuclear reactor in Sydney's Lucas Heights. The drug, Quadramet, is used to treat many cancers.
Three people are appointed to a panel to review Ekkart Arbeit's appointment as head athletics coach in Australia. Arbeit is a former East German athletics coach who was involved in the East German doping system during the 1980s. The panel members include Mike Fitzpatrick, \JHerb Elliott\j and Vince Bruce, however the final decision on whether Arbeit will be appointed remains with Athletics Australia.
#
"October 14, 1997",287,0,g,0
As the industrial dispute by the New South Wales police force enters its third week, it has reportedly cost the NSW State Government over $1 million in lost revenue.
Dr John Long from Perth's Western Australian Museum reveals that a bone discovered near Geraldton, Western Australia 20 years ago was wrongly identified as belonging to a turtle; Long claims that it actually belongs to a new species of dinosaur.
The NSW Government announces that certain taxes will be cut, including stamp duties and financial institutions duties, if the sale of the State's electricity industry were to go ahead.
New Bureau of Statistics figures reveal that the rate of long-term unemployed people has increased to 33.5 per cent of all unemployed people, up from 28 per cent at the end of 1996.
#
"October 15, 1997",288,0,g,0
In a major blow to both the Democrats and the Howard Government, Democrat leader, Senator \JCheryl Kernot\j, announces that she is to resign from the Democrats to join the Australian Labor Party. Kernot says " I have found it increasingly difficult to stand in the middle, trying to be endlessly fair to both sides when I have grown so alarmed by the kind of politics being played out by the Coalition". She is to stand as an ALP candidate in an as yet undecided seat at the next Federal election.
Health officials claim that Ross River virus, passed on by mosquitoes, reached record levels in 1996, with over 7,800 cases reported.
Following the outbreak of meningococcal disease at a college in Bowral, the Army works in conjunction with the NSW Health Department to help vaccinate 1,100 students against the disease. An 18-year-old university student from Western Australia died earlier in the week from the disease, while another university student from Sydney has also been diagnosed with meningococcal disease.
The NSW Carr Government wins its bid to cut six seats from the Lower House for the next State election.
#
"October 16, 1997",289,0,g,0
Australian-born NASA astronaut, Andrew Thomas, is set to join the team aboard the much-troubled Russian Mir space station in January.
Staff work round the clock to process the thousands of applications already received for the Telstra float. Over one million applications are expected to be sent in before the November 3 deadline.
The Court of Appeal finds radio star, \JJohn Laws\j, guilty of contempt following remarks he made in February 1996 which resulted in a murder trial being dropped.
Staffers of former Democrat's leader, \JCheryl Kernot\j, say they feel betrayed that she left them to join the Labor Party, mainly because she didn't give them notice of her impending defection.
Upper House NSW Labor MP, Franca Arena, is admitted to hospital following chest pains. Franca had been under a lot of pressure in the past few weeks from the NSW Government because she threatened to name prominent pedophiles under parliamentary privilege. However, later on she announced that she would not name them but instead offer documented evidence of her claims.
Actor, \JNoel Ferrier\j, dies aged 66.
#
"October 17, 1997",290,0,g,0
The Democrats are not expected to announce a new leader until next month following the defection earlier in the week of \JCheryl Kernot\j.
The Federal Government launches the new work-for-the-dole scheme; the Minister for Employment, Dr Kemp, says that anyone who refuses an offer of a position will have a proportion of their dole payment cut.
Leading world climate change scientists report that every region in the world faces economic and environmental upheaval if nations don't agree to accept a 15 per cent cut in greenhouse gas emissions at the Kyoto Climate Change Convention to be held in Japan in December. The Federal Government is still adamant that Australia will not agree to a 15 per cent cut, claiming that the economy would not cope financially.
It is reported that due to budget cuts, the National Health and Medical Research Council (NHMRC) is in danger of closing down.
The State Coroner in Victoria finds that the Victorian Government was responsible for the deaths of nine men following a fire in a Melbourne home for the intellectually disabled in 1996 because it failed to respond to warnings regarding fire safety at the home.
#
"October 18, 1997",291,0,g,0
The Royal Australian College of General Practitioners and the Australian Medical Association propose to introduce a system for doctors to charge patients $2 per minute instead of a standard fee.
Michael Klim is named Telstra Australian Swimmer of the Year.
As the nation experiences localised outbreaks of the potentially fatal meningococcal disease, it is revealed that a baby who contracted the disease has had her arms and legs amputated. Other victims include an 18-year-old girl who died at the beginning of the week and a 16-year-old girl who had her feet amputated.
#
"October 19, 1997",292,0,g,0
According to newspaper polls, \JCheryl Kernot\j's defection from the Democrats to Labor has greatly increased Labor's chance of winning the next election. Meanwhile, Cheryl Kernot is officially admitted as an ALP branch member in the Queensland seat of Dickson that she will contest at the next Federal election.
Racing car legend, \JPeter Brock\j, officially retires at the age of 52. He drives his farewell race at Bathurst where he has won a record nine times.
Federal Cabinet proposes to spend $1 billion to help businesses and to lower the unemployment rate.
NSW Environment Minister, Ms Allan, opens the 940-hectare Scheyville National Park in north-western Sydney.
Sarah Fitz-Gerald, winner of last year's squash world championship, beats fellow Australian \JMichelle Martin\j in Sydney to reclaim her world title.
#
"October 20, 1997",293,0,g,0
Public pressure forces some government backbenchers to push for changes to controversial new nursing home fees.
Seventeen Greenpeace demonstrators manage to evade security when they scale the gate into Prime Minister \JJohn Howard\j's Sydney residence and erect solar panels on his roof, claiming that solar power is the way of Australia's future. The Federal Attorney-General, Mr Williams, said that security at the residence will be reviewed.
Figures from the Australian Bureau of Statistics and gun dealers warn that because of the guns buyback scheme, imports of weapons are on the increase.
As more cases of meningococcal disease are reported in the nation, supplies of the vaccination are sped up to cope with demands.
Victorian Premier, \JJeff Kennett\j, calls on Prime Minister John Howard to develop a policy which will encourage more foreign investment in the country.
An unclassified parasite, recently found in the skin of Australian frogs, shows evidence that it could be responsible for the decline of the world's frog population.
John Nader starts his inquiry into NSW Labor MP Franca Arena's allegations that certain politicians conspired to cover up the names of prominent pedophiles.
#
"October 21, 1997",294,0,g,0
The Australian Navy arrives in the Southern Ocean near McDonald and Heard Islands after travelling 4,000 km to catch two South American ships poaching Patagonian toothfish.
Liberal backbencher, Peter Nugent, condemns the Government's Wik legislation on native title.
Because of continuing public and political pressure to change proposed nursing home fees, the Prime Minister, \JJohn Howard\j, agrees that he will have to "fine tune" the new amendments.
Financial experts warn that the continuing economic crisis in South East Asia will eventually effect Australia's economy.
The Senate rejects the Federal Government's proposal to exempt small businesses from unfair dismissal laws.
The NSW Police Commissioner is to conduct an inquiry into NSW Labor MP Franca Arena's allegations that there has been a political cover-up of prominent pedophiles. Franca hands over a box full of documents providing evidence of her claims.
The two pharmaceutical companies in Australia that supply the meningococcal disease vaccine say that they have run out and do not expect deliveries until the end of the week. There has been a recent rush on the vaccination because of an above-average number of cases reported nationwide lately, resulting in two deaths.
#
"October 22, 1997",295,0,g,0
The nation's consumer price index (CPI) result is at its lowest for 35 years; however the dollar drops by US1.7c as it is feared that Asia's economic troubles will harm Australia's exports.
Former Prime Minister, \JMalcolm Fraser\j, says he disapproves of the Howard Government's decision not to publicly condemn Independent MP Pauline Hanson's views on Aborigines and Asians.
Prime Minister, \JJohn Howard\j, arrives in London for a Commonwealth Heads of Government (CHOGM) meeting.
Two workers are seriously injured when the New South Railway airport link tunnel that is under construction at Arncliffe, Sydney, collapses.
The Federal Government says it will change the new controversial assets test for nursing home fees following strong political and public pressure.
#
"October 23, 1997",296,0,g,0
A youth centre is shut down in Thornleigh, Sydney pending investigations over allegations that boys living at the home were sold to pedophiles for $80.
Sharemarkets worldwide suffer a sharp fall following the collapse of the Hong Kong stockmarket; $10.5 million worth of Australian shares are sold and the Australian dollar falls to its lowest value in three years.
Former Opposition Leader, Dr John Hewson, along with Victorian Premier, \JJeff Kennett\j, both join former Prime Minister, \JMalcolm Fraser\j, in accusing Prime Minister \JJohn Howard\j of not putting a stop to racism and of not being serious enough about tax reform.
National Parks and Wildlife Service scientists announce that they have unexpectedly discovered tens of thousands of wetlands birds at the edge of the Simpson Desert in Lakes Mumbleberry and Torquinie, lakes which have been dry for the past two years.
In a continuing row between the Australian Cricketers' Association (ACA) and the Australian Cricket Board (ACB), members of the ACA threaten to strike for part of the summer over pay and power sharing.
The NSW Government agrees to award a 22 per cent pay increase over the next three years to the State's police officers following threats of more industrial action.
At the Commonwealth Business Forum in London, Prime Minister John Howard proposes that new round of world trade talks should be heard by the year 2000.
The Federal Minister for the Status of Women, Mrs Moylan, condemns the decision of an ACT magistrate to acquit Canberra Raiders Super League player, Noa Nadruku, of assault charges against three women because he was too intoxicated to know or remember what he was doing.
#
"October 24, 1997",297,0,g,0
Legal experts warn the Federal Government that the High Court is likely to find the Government's Wik legislation detrimental to Aborigines and in breach of the constitutional power to make laws for different races.
Three members of the Democrats, Meg Lees, Lyn Allison and Andrew Murray, are all in the running to lead their party following \JCheryl Kernot\j's defection to Labor two weeks ago; a postal vote for the chosen leader will not be known until a couple of weeks.
Following the collapse of the Hong Kong stockmarket yesterday, a further $8.3 billion is wiped off the value of Australian shares in the Australian market, bringing the total to just below $19 billion in two days.
Dr \JJohn Yu\j, 1996 Australian of the Year, is on his last week of his twenty-year reign as chief executive of the New Children's Hospital, Sydney.
#
"October 25, 1997",298,0,g,0
The demand for the meningococcal disease vaccine has tripled in the last few weeks following localised outbreaks of the disease across the nation.
At the opening of the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM) in Edinburgh, Scotland, Prime Minister \JJohn Howard\j says he will push for the right for countries to cut greenhouse gas emissions at their own speeds.
\JBart Cummings\j' Dane Ripper, ridden by jockey \JDamien Oliver\j, wins the BMW Cox Plate at Moonee Valley.
#
"October 26, 1997",299,0,g,0
It is reported that new tests have revealed record levels of dioxin contamination at the Olympic site at Homebush.
World No. 1 women's squash player, Sarah Fitz-Gerald, beats fellow-Australian \JMichelle Martin\j at the Australian Open title in Melbourne.
Australian golfer, Adrian Percey, wins the Dubai Creek open in Dubai by one stroke.
Former world champion boxer, \JJohnny Famechon\j, arrives in America to accept the honour of being inducted into the World Boxing Hall of Fame in Los Angeles.
Following the collapse of the Hong Kong stockmarket late last week, the Australian dollar falls to a three-and-a-half-year low and the world gold price falls to a 12-year low. Meanwhile the Federal Government says it will keep a close eye on the Asian markets and the way it effects the Australian market.
Health authorities in the Northern Territory confirm that a four-year-old boy has died from meningococcal disease - the third Australian to die from this disease in the past eight weeks.
At the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM) in Scotland, Prime Minister \JJohn Howard\j is ecstatic when he convinces leaders to dismiss the proposal to bind countries to a set target for reducing greenhouse gas emissions.
#
"October 27, 1997",300,0,g,0
The Construction Forestry Mining and Energy Union (CFMEU) threatens to start strike action at the Rio Tinto Mount Thorley colliery in New South Wales if workplace agreements are changed.
The Federal Opposition says that it strongly rejects the Government's new Wik legislation on native title.
The Federal Government says it will "fine-tune" some of the proposed controversial changes to nursing home fees following pressure from backbenchers and the public.
The Federal Government injects $1.8 million into South Africa to help their country's sports people.
#
"October 28, 1997",301,0,g,0
The Coalition looks set to split over the controversial Wik legislation on native title rights with some National Party members claiming that they don't support the Federal Government's legislation.
Some backbenchers claim that the Federal Government's "fine-tuning" of the new nursing home entry rules is not good enough.
Following the collapse of the Hong Kong sharemarket earlier this week, the New York Stock Exchange suffers its worst ever one-day fall, with the Dow Jones index dropping 550 points. The Australian sharemarket suffers its biggest drop since the 1987 crash and markets throughout the world also suffer major losses.
At the Nader inquiry into NSW Labor MP Franca Arena's allegations that politicians were involved in a pedophile cover-up, NSW Premier, \JBob Carr\j, claims Arena's allegations that he was involved in conspiring to cover up the names of prominent pedophiles are completely untrue and that she had only said this because he didn't give her a ministerial portfolio.
#
"October 29, 1997",302,0,g,0
It is estimated that New South Wales taxpayers will have to fund $1 million in legal fees for the Nader inquiry into Labor MP Franca Arena's allegations that the NSW Premier, \JBob Carr\j, and other politicians conspired to cover up the names of prominent pedophiles.
Three National Party members of the Coalition cross the floor to support full extinguishment of native title on pastoral leases.
The International Olympic Committee announces that women's water polo will be included for the first time in Olympic history at the Sydney 2000 Olympics.
It is estimated that up to 60,000 workers in Victoria march in protest of the Victorian Government's changes to the WorkCover scheme.
The NSW Ombudsman, Ms Irene Moss, claims that there has been an increase in the number of complaints against police and local councils.
Long-serving public servant and major contributor to the community, Dr Herbert Cole "Nugget" \JCoombs\j, dies aged 91.
Following Wall Street's greatest ever one-day fall yesterday, sharemarkets worldwide stage a remarkable recovery and the Australian sharemarket records its biggest ever one-day points gain (143.8 points).
While visiting Indonesia, Prime Minister \JJohn Howard\j offers major financial assistance to the ailing Indonesian economy by way of the International Monetary Fund (IMF).
The World Health Organisation (WHO) claims that overuse of antibiotics in food-producing animals is a major health hazard to humans and helps spread drug-resistant germs.
#
"October 30, 1997",303,0,g,0
Jon Johanson, a 41-year-old pilot from Adelaide, sets a record for a round-Australia solo flight in his home-built plane; his trip took 50 hr 42 min.
Despite strong opposition from the Federal Minister for Defence, Mr McLachlan, Federal Cabinet says it has agreed to sign the Ottawa Treaty banning landmines. This will ultimately see the destruction of Australia's stockpile of 60,000 anti-personnel landmines.
A report released by the National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS) confirms that land slip dangers near the site of the fatal Thredbo landslide in July were discovered up to six years ago.
Medibank Private reports a loss of over $50 million for 1996/97.
The Australian Defence Force (ADF) signs a deal with America to import new night vision equipment worth $100 million.
The dumping of toxic waste by Pasminco EZ into the ocean south of Tasmania officially ends. Over the past few years, Pasminco has dumped 4 million tonnes of waste into this same area of ocean.
Despite the record falls on worldwide and Australian sharemarkets earlier this week, over one million Australians are still willing to buy Telstra shares and a last minute rush is expected before the close of offer next week.
Racing car driver and former world 500cc motorcycling champion, \JWayne Gardner\j, says he will quit the national championships next year because of a lack of sponsorship money.
#
"October 31, 1997",304,0,g,0
As the Rio Tinto Hunter Valley No. 1 coalmine enters its eighth week of strike action, the 400 miners at the Rio Tinto Thorley colliery in the Hunter Valley also vote to start strike action.
The State and Territory leaders are set to demand a major reform to the health system and changes to the controversial new nursing home fees at the Council of Australian Governments (COAG) next week.
A Bureau of Statistics report indicates that cancer is still the main cause of death in Australia, with 27 per cent of Australian deaths in 1996 directly relating to cancer.
Up to five high-ranking counsels claim that NSW Labor MP Franca Arena's allegations that NSW Premier \JBob Carr\j, along with other politicians, conspired to cover up the names of prominent pedophiles are completely unfounded and extremely defamatory.
#
"November 1, 1997",305,0,g,0
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#
"November 2, 1997",306,0,g,0
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#
"November 3, 1997",307,0,g,0
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#
"November 4, 1997",308,0,g,0
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#
"November 5, 1997",309,0,g,0
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#
"November 6, 1997",310,0,g,0
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#
"November 7, 1997",311,0,g,0
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#
"November 8, 1997",312,0,g,0
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#
"November 9, 1997",313,0,g,0
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#
"November 10, 1997",314,0,g,0
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#
"November 11, 1997",315,0,g,0
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#
"November 12, 1997",316,0,g,0
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#
"November 13, 1997",317,0,g,0
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"November 14, 1997",318,0,g,0
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"November 15, 1997",319,0,g,0
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"November 16, 1997",320,0,g,0
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"November 17, 1997",321,0,g,0
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"November 18, 1997",322,0,g,0
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"November 19, 1997",323,0,g,0
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"November 20, 1997",324,0,g,0
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"November 21, 1997",325,0,g,0
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"November 22, 1997",326,0,g,0
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"November 23, 1997",327,0,g,0
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"November 24, 1997",328,0,g,0
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"November 25, 1997",329,0,g,0
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"November 26, 1997",330,0,g,0
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"November 27, 1997",331,0,g,0
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"November 28, 1997",332,0,g,0
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"November 29, 1997",333,0,g,0
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"November 30, 1997",334,0,g,0
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"December 1, 1997",335,0,g,0
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"December 2, 1997",336,0,g,0
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"December 3, 1997",337,0,g,0
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"December 4, 1997",338,0,g,0
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"December 5, 1997",339,0,g,0
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"December 6, 1997",340,0,g,0
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"December 7, 1997",341,0,g,0
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"December 8, 1997",342,0,g,0
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"December 9, 1997",343,0,g,0
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"December 10, 1997",344,0,g,0
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"December 11, 1997",345,0,g,0
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"December 12, 1997",346,0,g,0
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"December 13, 1997",347,0,g,0
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"December 14, 1997",348,0,g,0
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"December 15, 1997",349,0,g,0
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"December 16, 1997",350,0,g,0
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"December 17, 1997",351,0,g,0
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"December 18, 1997",352,0,g,0
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"December 19, 1997",353,0,g,0
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"December 20, 1997",354,0,g,0
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"December 21, 1997",355,0,g,0
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"December 22, 1997",356,0,g,0
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"December 23, 1997",357,0,g,0
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#
"December 24, 1997",358,0,g,0
This information became available after this title was published. To view this information, you can download an update from the Internet. To do this, run the \JDownload Internet Updates\j command, from the \BInteraction\b menu in the toolbar.
#
"December 25, 1997",359,0,g,0
This information became available after this title was published. To view this information, you can download an update from the Internet. To do this, run the \JDownload Internet Updates\j command, from the \BInteraction\b menu in the toolbar.
#
"December 26, 1997",360,0,g,0
This information became available after this title was published. To view this information, you can download an update from the Internet. To do this, run the \JDownload Internet Updates\j command, from the \BInteraction\b menu in the toolbar.
#
"December 27, 1997",361,0,g,0
This information became available after this title was published. To view this information, you can download an update from the Internet. To do this, run the \JDownload Internet Updates\j command, from the \BInteraction\b menu in the toolbar.
#
"December 28, 1997",362,0,g,0
This information became available after this title was published. To view this information, you can download an update from the Internet. To do this, run the \JDownload Internet Updates\j command, from the \BInteraction\b menu in the toolbar.
#
"December 29, 1997",363,0,g,0
This information became available after this title was published. To view this information, you can download an update from the Internet. To do this, run the \JDownload Internet Updates\j command, from the \BInteraction\b menu in the toolbar.
#
"December 30, 1997",364,0,g,0
This information became available after this title was published. To view this information, you can download an update from the Internet. To do this, run the \JDownload Internet Updates\j command, from the \BInteraction\b menu in the toolbar.
#
"December 31, 1997",365,0,g,0
This information became available after this title was published. To view this information, you can download an update from the Internet. To do this, run the \JDownload Internet Updates\j command, from the \BInteraction\b menu in the toolbar.
#
!,!,!,!,!
3#
365,0
"January 1, 1998",1,0,g,0
This information became available after this title was published. To view this information, you can download an update from the Internet. To do this, run the \JDownload Internet Updates\j command, from the \BInteraction\b menu in the toolbar.
#
"January 2, 1998",2,0,g,0
This information became available after this title was published. To view this information, you can download an update from the Internet. To do this, run the \JDownload Internet Updates\j command, from the \BInteraction\b menu in the toolbar.
#
"January 3, 1998",3,0,g,0
This information became available after this title was published. To view this information, you can download an update from the Internet. To do this, run the \JDownload Internet Updates\j command, from the \BInteraction\b menu in the toolbar.
#
"January 4, 1998",4,0,g,0
This information became available after this title was published. To view this information, you can download an update from the Internet. To do this, run the \JDownload Internet Updates\j command, from the \BInteraction\b menu in the toolbar.
#
"January 5, 1998",5,0,g,0
This information became available after this title was published. To view this information, you can download an update from the Internet. To do this, run the \JDownload Internet Updates\j command, from the \BInteraction\b menu in the toolbar.
#
"January 6, 1998",6,0,g,0
This information became available after this title was published. To view this information, you can download an update from the Internet. To do this, run the \JDownload Internet Updates\j command, from the \BInteraction\b menu in the toolbar.
#
"January 7, 1998",7,0,g,0
This information became available after this title was published. To view this information, you can download an update from the Internet. To do this, run the \JDownload Internet Updates\j command, from the \BInteraction\b menu in the toolbar.
#
"January 8, 1998",8,0,g,0
This information became available after this title was published. To view this information, you can download an update from the Internet. To do this, run the \JDownload Internet Updates\j command, from the \BInteraction\b menu in the toolbar.
#
"January 9, 1998",9,0,g,0
This information became available after this title was published. To view this information, you can download an update from the Internet. To do this, run the \JDownload Internet Updates\j command, from the \BInteraction\b menu in the toolbar.
#
"January 10, 1998",10,0,g,0
This information became available after this title was published. To view this information, you can download an update from the Internet. To do this, run the \JDownload Internet Updates\j command, from the \BInteraction\b menu in the toolbar.
#
"January 11, 1998",11,0,g,0
This information became available after this title was published. To view this information, you can download an update from the Internet. To do this, run the \JDownload Internet Updates\j command, from the \BInteraction\b menu in the toolbar.
#
"January 12, 1998",12,0,g,0
This information became available after this title was published. To view this information, you can download an update from the Internet. To do this, run the \JDownload Internet Updates\j command, from the \BInteraction\b menu in the toolbar.
#
"January 13, 1998",13,0,g,0
This information became available after this title was published. To view this information, you can download an update from the Internet. To do this, run the \JDownload Internet Updates\j command, from the \BInteraction\b menu in the toolbar.
#
"January 14, 1998",14,0,g,0
This information became available after this title was published. To view this information, you can download an update from the Internet. To do this, run the \JDownload Internet Updates\j command, from the \BInteraction\b menu in the toolbar.
#
"January 15, 1998",15,0,g,0
This information became available after this title was published. To view this information, you can download an update from the Internet. To do this, run the \JDownload Internet Updates\j command, from the \BInteraction\b menu in the toolbar.
#
"January 16, 1998",16,0,g,0
This information became available after this title was published. To view this information, you can download an update from the Internet. To do this, run the \JDownload Internet Updates\j command, from the \BInteraction\b menu in the toolbar.
#
"January 17, 1998",17,0,g,0
This information became available after this title was published. To view this information, you can download an update from the Internet. To do this, run the \JDownload Internet Updates\j command, from the \BInteraction\b menu in the toolbar.
#
"January 18, 1998",18,0,g,0
This information became available after this title was published. To view this information, you can download an update from the Internet. To do this, run the \JDownload Internet Updates\j command, from the \BInteraction\b menu in the toolbar.
#
"January 19, 1998",19,0,g,0
This information became available after this title was published. To view this information, you can download an update from the Internet. To do this, run the \JDownload Internet Updates\j command, from the \BInteraction\b menu in the toolbar.
#
"January 20, 1998",20,0,g,0
This information became available after this title was published. To view this information, you can download an update from the Internet. To do this, run the \JDownload Internet Updates\j command, from the \BInteraction\b menu in the toolbar.
#
"January 21, 1998",21,0,g,0
This information became available after this title was published. To view this information, you can download an update from the Internet. To do this, run the \JDownload Internet Updates\j command, from the \BInteraction\b menu in the toolbar.
#
"January 22, 1998",22,0,g,0
This information became available after this title was published. To view this information, you can download an update from the Internet. To do this, run the \JDownload Internet Updates\j command, from the \BInteraction\b menu in the toolbar.
#
"January 23, 1998",23,0,g,0
This information became available after this title was published. To view this information, you can download an update from the Internet. To do this, run the \JDownload Internet Updates\j command, from the \BInteraction\b menu in the toolbar.
#
"January 24, 1998",24,0,g,0
This information became available after this title was published. To view this information, you can download an update from the Internet. To do this, run the \JDownload Internet Updates\j command, from the \BInteraction\b menu in the toolbar.
#
"January 25, 1998",25,0,g,0
This information became available after this title was published. To view this information, you can download an update from the Internet. To do this, run the \JDownload Internet Updates\j command, from the \BInteraction\b menu in the toolbar.
#
"January 26, 1998",26,0,g,0
This information became available after this title was published. To view this information, you can download an update from the Internet. To do this, run the \JDownload Internet Updates\j command, from the \BInteraction\b menu in the toolbar.
#
"January 27, 1998",27,0,g,0
This information became available after this title was published. To view this information, you can download an update from the Internet. To do this, run the \JDownload Internet Updates\j command, from the \BInteraction\b menu in the toolbar.
#
"January 28, 1998",28,0,g,0
This information became available after this title was published. To view this information, you can download an update from the Internet. To do this, run the \JDownload Internet Updates\j command, from the \BInteraction\b menu in the toolbar.
#
"January 29, 1998",29,0,g,0
This information became available after this title was published. To view this information, you can download an update from the Internet. To do this, run the \JDownload Internet Updates\j command, from the \BInteraction\b menu in the toolbar.
#
"January 30, 1998",30,0,g,0
This information became available after this title was published. To view this information, you can download an update from the Internet. To do this, run the \JDownload Internet Updates\j command, from the \BInteraction\b menu in the toolbar.
#
"January 31, 1998",31,0,g,0
This information became available after this title was published. To view this information, you can download an update from the Internet. To do this, run the \JDownload Internet Updates\j command, from the \BInteraction\b menu in the toolbar.
#
"February 1, 1998",32,0,g,0
This information became available after this title was published. To view this information, you can download an update from the Internet. To do this, run the \JDownload Internet Updates\j command, from the \BInteraction\b menu in the toolbar.
#
"February 2, 1998",33,0,g,0
This information became available after this title was published. To view this information, you can download an update from the Internet. To do this, run the \JDownload Internet Updates\j command, from the \BInteraction\b menu in the toolbar.
#
"February 3, 1998",34,0,g,0
This information became available after this title was published. To view this information, you can download an update from the Internet. To do this, run the \JDownload Internet Updates\j command, from the \BInteraction\b menu in the toolbar.
#
"February 4, 1998",35,0,g,0
This information became available after this title was published. To view this information, you can download an update from the Internet. To do this, run the \JDownload Internet Updates\j command, from the \BInteraction\b menu in the toolbar.
#
"February 5, 1998",36,0,g,0
This information became available after this title was published. To view this information, you can download an update from the Internet. To do this, run the \JDownload Internet Updates\j command, from the \BInteraction\b menu in the toolbar.
#
"February 6, 1998",37,0,g,0
This information became available after this title was published. To view this information, you can download an update from the Internet. To do this, run the \JDownload Internet Updates\j command, from the \BInteraction\b menu in the toolbar.
#
"February 7, 1998",38,0,g,0
This information became available after this title was published. To view this information, you can download an update from the Internet. To do this, run the \JDownload Internet Updates\j command, from the \BInteraction\b menu in the toolbar.
#
"February 8, 1998",39,0,g,0
This information became available after this title was published. To view this information, you can download an update from the Internet. To do this, run the \JDownload Internet Updates\j command, from the \BInteraction\b menu in the toolbar.
#
"February 9, 1998",40,0,g,0
This information became available after this title was published. To view this information, you can download an update from the Internet. To do this, run the \JDownload Internet Updates\j command, from the \BInteraction\b menu in the toolbar.
#
"February 10, 1998",41,0,g,0
This information became available after this title was published. To view this information, you can download an update from the Internet. To do this, run the \JDownload Internet Updates\j command, from the \BInteraction\b menu in the toolbar.
#
"February 11, 1998",42,0,g,0
This information became available after this title was published. To view this information, you can download an update from the Internet. To do this, run the \JDownload Internet Updates\j command, from the \BInteraction\b menu in the toolbar.
#
"February 12, 1998",43,0,g,0
This information became available after this title was published. To view this information, you can download an update from the Internet. To do this, run the \JDownload Internet Updates\j command, from the \BInteraction\b menu in the toolbar.
#
"February 13, 1998",44,0,g,0
This information became available after this title was published. To view this information, you can download an update from the Internet. To do this, run the \JDownload Internet Updates\j command, from the \BInteraction\b menu in the toolbar.
#
"February 14, 1998",45,0,g,0
This information became available after this title was published. To view this information, you can download an update from the Internet. To do this, run the \JDownload Internet Updates\j command, from the \BInteraction\b menu in the toolbar.
#
"February 15, 1998",46,0,g,0
This information became available after this title was published. To view this information, you can download an update from the Internet. To do this, run the \JDownload Internet Updates\j command, from the \BInteraction\b menu in the toolbar.
#
"February 16, 1998",47,0,g,0
This information became available after this title was published. To view this information, you can download an update from the Internet. To do this, run the \JDownload Internet Updates\j command, from the \BInteraction\b menu in the toolbar.
#
"February 17, 1998",48,0,g,0
This information became available after this title was published. To view this information, you can download an update from the Internet. To do this, run the \JDownload Internet Updates\j command, from the \BInteraction\b menu in the toolbar.
#
"February 18, 1998",49,0,g,0
This information became available after this title was published. To view this information, you can download an update from the Internet. To do this, run the \JDownload Internet Updates\j command, from the \BInteraction\b menu in the toolbar.
#
"February 19, 1998",50,0,g,0
This information became available after this title was published. To view this information, you can download an update from the Internet. To do this, run the \JDownload Internet Updates\j command, from the \BInteraction\b menu in the toolbar.
#
"February 20, 1998",51,0,g,0
This information became available after this title was published. To view this information, you can download an update from the Internet. To do this, run the \JDownload Internet Updates\j command, from the \BInteraction\b menu in the toolbar.
#
"February 21, 1998",52,0,g,0
This information became available after this title was published. To view this information, you can download an update from the Internet. To do this, run the \JDownload Internet Updates\j command, from the \BInteraction\b menu in the toolbar.
#
"February 22, 1998",53,0,g,0
This information became available after this title was published. To view this information, you can download an update from the Internet. To do this, run the \JDownload Internet Updates\j command, from the \BInteraction\b menu in the toolbar.
#
"February 23, 1998",54,0,g,0
This information became available after this title was published. To view this information, you can download an update from the Internet. To do this, run the \JDownload Internet Updates\j command, from the \BInteraction\b menu in the toolbar.
#
"February 24, 1998",55,0,g,0
This information became available after this title was published. To view this information, you can download an update from the Internet. To do this, run the \JDownload Internet Updates\j command, from the \BInteraction\b menu in the toolbar.
#
"February 25, 1998",56,0,g,0
This information became available after this title was published. To view this information, you can download an update from the Internet. To do this, run the \JDownload Internet Updates\j command, from the \BInteraction\b menu in the toolbar.
#
"February 26, 1998",57,0,g,0
This information became available after this title was published. To view this information, you can download an update from the Internet. To do this, run the \JDownload Internet Updates\j command, from the \BInteraction\b menu in the toolbar.
#
"February 27, 1998",58,0,g,0
This information became available after this title was published. To view this information, you can download an update from the Internet. To do this, run the \JDownload Internet Updates\j command, from the \BInteraction\b menu in the toolbar.
#
"February 28, 1998",59,0,g,0
This information became available after this title was published. To view this information, you can download an update from the Internet. To do this, run the \JDownload Internet Updates\j command, from the \BInteraction\b menu in the toolbar.
#
"March 1, 1998",60,0,g,0
This information became available after this title was published. To view this information, you can download an update from the Internet. To do this, run the \JDownload Internet Updates\j command, from the \BInteraction\b menu in the toolbar.
#
"March 2, 1998",61,0,g,0
This information became available after this title was published. To view this information, you can download an update from the Internet. To do this, run the \JDownload Internet Updates\j command, from the \BInteraction\b menu in the toolbar.
#
"March 3, 1998",62,0,g,0
This information became available after this title was published. To view this information, you can download an update from the Internet. To do this, run the \JDownload Internet Updates\j command, from the \BInteraction\b menu in the toolbar.
#
"March 4, 1998",63,0,g,0
This information became available after this title was published. To view this information, you can download an update from the Internet. To do this, run the \JDownload Internet Updates\j command, from the \BInteraction\b menu in the toolbar.
#
"March 5, 1998",64,0,g,0
This information became available after this title was published. To view this information, you can download an update from the Internet. To do this, run the \JDownload Internet Updates\j command, from the \BInteraction\b menu in the toolbar.
#
"March 6, 1998",65,0,g,0
This information became available after this title was published. To view this information, you can download an update from the Internet. To do this, run the \JDownload Internet Updates\j command, from the \BInteraction\b menu in the toolbar.
#
"March 7, 1998",66,0,g,0
This information became available after this title was published. To view this information, you can download an update from the Internet. To do this, run the \JDownload Internet Updates\j command, from the \BInteraction\b menu in the toolbar.
#
"March 8, 1998",67,0,g,0
This information became available after this title was published. To view this information, you can download an update from the Internet. To do this, run the \JDownload Internet Updates\j command, from the \BInteraction\b menu in the toolbar.
#
"March 9, 1998",68,0,g,0
This information became available after this title was published. To view this information, you can download an update from the Internet. To do this, run the \JDownload Internet Updates\j command, from the \BInteraction\b menu in the toolbar.
#
"March 10, 1998",69,0,g,0
This information became available after this title was published. To view this information, you can download an update from the Internet. To do this, run the \JDownload Internet Updates\j command, from the \BInteraction\b menu in the toolbar.
#
"March 11, 1998",70,0,g,0
This information became available after this title was published. To view this information, you can download an update from the Internet. To do this, run the \JDownload Internet Updates\j command, from the \BInteraction\b menu in the toolbar.
#
"March 12, 1998",71,0,g,0
This information became available after this title was published. To view this information, you can download an update from the Internet. To do this, run the \JDownload Internet Updates\j command, from the \BInteraction\b menu in the toolbar.
#
"March 13, 1998",72,0,g,0
This information became available after this title was published. To view this information, you can download an update from the Internet. To do this, run the \JDownload Internet Updates\j command, from the \BInteraction\b menu in the toolbar.
#
"March 14, 1998",73,0,g,0
This information became available after this title was published. To view this information, you can download an update from the Internet. To do this, run the \JDownload Internet Updates\j command, from the \BInteraction\b menu in the toolbar.
#
"March 15, 1998",74,0,g,0
This information became available after this title was published. To view this information, you can download an update from the Internet. To do this, run the \JDownload Internet Updates\j command, from the \BInteraction\b menu in the toolbar.
#
"March 16, 1998",75,0,g,0
This information became available after this title was published. To view this information, you can download an update from the Internet. To do this, run the \JDownload Internet Updates\j command, from the \BInteraction\b menu in the toolbar.
#
"March 17, 1998",76,0,g,0
This information became available after this title was published. To view this information, you can download an update from the Internet. To do this, run the \JDownload Internet Updates\j command, from the \BInteraction\b menu in the toolbar.
#
"March 18, 1998",77,0,g,0
This information became available after this title was published. To view this information, you can download an update from the Internet. To do this, run the \JDownload Internet Updates\j command, from the \BInteraction\b menu in the toolbar.
#
"March 19, 1998",78,0,g,0
This information became available after this title was published. To view this information, you can download an update from the Internet. To do this, run the \JDownload Internet Updates\j command, from the \BInteraction\b menu in the toolbar.
#
"March 20, 1998",79,0,g,0
This information became available after this title was published. To view this information, you can download an update from the Internet. To do this, run the \JDownload Internet Updates\j command, from the \BInteraction\b menu in the toolbar.
#
"March 21, 1998",80,0,g,0
This information became available after this title was published. To view this information, you can download an update from the Internet. To do this, run the \JDownload Internet Updates\j command, from the \BInteraction\b menu in the toolbar.
#
"March 22, 1998",81,0,g,0
This information became available after this title was published. To view this information, you can download an update from the Internet. To do this, run the \JDownload Internet Updates\j command, from the \BInteraction\b menu in the toolbar.
#
"March 23, 1998",82,0,g,0
This information became available after this title was published. To view this information, you can download an update from the Internet. To do this, run the \JDownload Internet Updates\j command, from the \BInteraction\b menu in the toolbar.
#
"March 24, 1998",83,0,g,0
This information became available after this title was published. To view this information, you can download an update from the Internet. To do this, run the \JDownload Internet Updates\j command, from the \BInteraction\b menu in the toolbar.
#
"March 25, 1998",84,0,g,0
This information became available after this title was published. To view this information, you can download an update from the Internet. To do this, run the \JDownload Internet Updates\j command, from the \BInteraction\b menu in the toolbar.
#
"March 26, 1998",85,0,g,0
This information became available after this title was published. To view this information, you can download an update from the Internet. To do this, run the \JDownload Internet Updates\j command, from the \BInteraction\b menu in the toolbar.
#
"March 27, 1998",86,0,g,0
This information became available after this title was published. To view this information, you can download an update from the Internet. To do this, run the \JDownload Internet Updates\j command, from the \BInteraction\b menu in the toolbar.
#
"March 28, 1998",87,0,g,0
This information became available after this title was published. To view this information, you can download an update from the Internet. To do this, run the \JDownload Internet Updates\j command, from the \BInteraction\b menu in the toolbar.
#
"March 29, 1998",88,0,g,0
This information became available after this title was published. To view this information, you can download an update from the Internet. To do this, run the \JDownload Internet Updates\j command, from the \BInteraction\b menu in the toolbar.
#
"March 30, 1998",89,0,g,0
This information became available after this title was published. To view this information, you can download an update from the Internet. To do this, run the \JDownload Internet Updates\j command, from the \BInteraction\b menu in the toolbar.
#
"March 31, 1998",90,0,g,0
This information became available after this title was published. To view this information, you can download an update from the Internet. To do this, run the \JDownload Internet Updates\j command, from the \BInteraction\b menu in the toolbar.
#
"April 1, 1998",91,0,g,0
This information became available after this title was published. To view this information, you can download an update from the Internet. To do this, run the \JDownload Internet Updates\j command, from the \BInteraction\b menu in the toolbar.
#
"April 2, 1998",92,0,g,0
This information became available after this title was published. To view this information, you can download an update from the Internet. To do this, run the \JDownload Internet Updates\j command, from the \BInteraction\b menu in the toolbar.
#
"April 3, 1998",93,0,g,0
This information became available after this title was published. To view this information, you can download an update from the Internet. To do this, run the \JDownload Internet Updates\j command, from the \BInteraction\b menu in the toolbar.
#
"April 4, 1998",94,0,g,0
This information became available after this title was published. To view this information, you can download an update from the Internet. To do this, run the \JDownload Internet Updates\j command, from the \BInteraction\b menu in the toolbar.
#
"April 5, 1998",95,0,g,0
This information became available after this title was published. To view this information, you can download an update from the Internet. To do this, run the \JDownload Internet Updates\j command, from the \BInteraction\b menu in the toolbar.
#
"April 6, 1998",96,0,g,0
This information became available after this title was published. To view this information, you can download an update from the Internet. To do this, run the \JDownload Internet Updates\j command, from the \BInteraction\b menu in the toolbar.
#
"April 7, 1998",97,0,g,0
This information became available after this title was published. To view this information, you can download an update from the Internet. To do this, run the \JDownload Internet Updates\j command, from the \BInteraction\b menu in the toolbar.
#
"April 8, 1998",98,0,g,0
This information became available after this title was published. To view this information, you can download an update from the Internet. To do this, run the \JDownload Internet Updates\j command, from the \BInteraction\b menu in the toolbar.
#
"April 9, 1998",99,0,g,0
This information became available after this title was published. To view this information, you can download an update from the Internet. To do this, run the \JDownload Internet Updates\j command, from the \BInteraction\b menu in the toolbar.
#
"April 10, 1998",100,0,g,0
This information became available after this title was published. To view this information, you can download an update from the Internet. To do this, run the \JDownload Internet Updates\j command, from the \BInteraction\b menu in the toolbar.
#
"April 11, 1998",101,0,g,0
This information became available after this title was published. To view this information, you can download an update from the Internet. To do this, run the \JDownload Internet Updates\j command, from the \BInteraction\b menu in the toolbar.
#
"April 12, 1998",102,0,g,0
This information became available after this title was published. To view this information, you can download an update from the Internet. To do this, run the \JDownload Internet Updates\j command, from the \BInteraction\b menu in the toolbar.
#
"April 13, 1998",103,0,g,0
This information became available after this title was published. To view this information, you can download an update from the Internet. To do this, run the \JDownload Internet Updates\j command, from the \BInteraction\b menu in the toolbar.
#
"April 14, 1998",104,0,g,0
This information became available after this title was published. To view this information, you can download an update from the Internet. To do this, run the \JDownload Internet Updates\j command, from the \BInteraction\b menu in the toolbar.
#
"April 15, 1998",105,0,g,0
This information became available after this title was published. To view this information, you can download an update from the Internet. To do this, run the \JDownload Internet Updates\j command, from the \BInteraction\b menu in the toolbar.
#
"April 16, 1998",106,0,g,0
This information became available after this title was published. To view this information, you can download an update from the Internet. To do this, run the \JDownload Internet Updates\j command, from the \BInteraction\b menu in the toolbar.
#
"April 17, 1998",107,0,g,0
This information became available after this title was published. To view this information, you can download an update from the Internet. To do this, run the \JDownload Internet Updates\j command, from the \BInteraction\b menu in the toolbar.
#
"April 18, 1998",108,0,g,0
This information became available after this title was published. To view this information, you can download an update from the Internet. To do this, run the \JDownload Internet Updates\j command, from the \BInteraction\b menu in the toolbar.
#
"April 19, 1998",109,0,g,0
This information became available after this title was published. To view this information, you can download an update from the Internet. To do this, run the \JDownload Internet Updates\j command, from the \BInteraction\b menu in the toolbar.
#
"April 20, 1998",110,0,g,0
This information became available after this title was published. To view this information, you can download an update from the Internet. To do this, run the \JDownload Internet Updates\j command, from the \BInteraction\b menu in the toolbar.
#
"April 21, 1998",111,0,g,0
This information became available after this title was published. To view this information, you can download an update from the Internet. To do this, run the \JDownload Internet Updates\j command, from the \BInteraction\b menu in the toolbar.
#
"April 22, 1998",112,0,g,0
This information became available after this title was published. To view this information, you can download an update from the Internet. To do this, run the \JDownload Internet Updates\j command, from the \BInteraction\b menu in the toolbar.
#
"April 23, 1998",113,0,g,0
This information became available after this title was published. To view this information, you can download an update from the Internet. To do this, run the \JDownload Internet Updates\j command, from the \BInteraction\b menu in the toolbar.
#
"April 24, 1998",114,0,g,0
This information became available after this title was published. To view this information, you can download an update from the Internet. To do this, run the \JDownload Internet Updates\j command, from the \BInteraction\b menu in the toolbar.
#
"April 25, 1998",115,0,g,0
This information became available after this title was published. To view this information, you can download an update from the Internet. To do this, run the \JDownload Internet Updates\j command, from the \BInteraction\b menu in the toolbar.
#
"April 26, 1998",116,0,g,0
This information became available after this title was published. To view this information, you can download an update from the Internet. To do this, run the \JDownload Internet Updates\j command, from the \BInteraction\b menu in the toolbar.
#
"April 27, 1998",117,0,g,0
This information became available after this title was published. To view this information, you can download an update from the Internet. To do this, run the \JDownload Internet Updates\j command, from the \BInteraction\b menu in the toolbar.
#
"April 28, 1998",118,0,g,0
This information became available after this title was published. To view this information, you can download an update from the Internet. To do this, run the \JDownload Internet Updates\j command, from the \BInteraction\b menu in the toolbar.
#
"April 29, 1998",119,0,g,0
This information became available after this title was published. To view this information, you can download an update from the Internet. To do this, run the \JDownload Internet Updates\j command, from the \BInteraction\b menu in the toolbar.
#
"April 30, 1998",120,0,g,0
This information became available after this title was published. To view this information, you can download an update from the Internet. To do this, run the \JDownload Internet Updates\j command, from the \BInteraction\b menu in the toolbar.
#
"May 1, 1998",121,0,g,0
This information became available after this title was published. To view this information, you can download an update from the Internet. To do this, run the \JDownload Internet Updates\j command, from the \BInteraction\b menu in the toolbar.
#
"May 2, 1998",122,0,g,0
This information became available after this title was published. To view this information, you can download an update from the Internet. To do this, run the \JDownload Internet Updates\j command, from the \BInteraction\b menu in the toolbar.
#
"May 3, 1998",123,0,g,0
This information became available after this title was published. To view this information, you can download an update from the Internet. To do this, run the \JDownload Internet Updates\j command, from the \BInteraction\b menu in the toolbar.
#
"May 4, 1998",124,0,g,0
This information became available after this title was published. To view this information, you can download an update from the Internet. To do this, run the \JDownload Internet Updates\j command, from the \BInteraction\b menu in the toolbar.
#
"May 5, 1998",125,0,g,0
This information became available after this title was published. To view this information, you can download an update from the Internet. To do this, run the \JDownload Internet Updates\j command, from the \BInteraction\b menu in the toolbar.
#
"May 6, 1998",126,0,g,0
This information became available after this title was published. To view this information, you can download an update from the Internet. To do this, run the \JDownload Internet Updates\j command, from the \BInteraction\b menu in the toolbar.
#
"May 7, 1998",127,0,g,0
This information became available after this title was published. To view this information, you can download an update from the Internet. To do this, run the \JDownload Internet Updates\j command, from the \BInteraction\b menu in the toolbar.
#
"May 8, 1998",128,0,g,0
This information became available after this title was published. To view this information, you can download an update from the Internet. To do this, run the \JDownload Internet Updates\j command, from the \BInteraction\b menu in the toolbar.
#
"May 9, 1998",129,0,g,0
This information became available after this title was published. To view this information, you can download an update from the Internet. To do this, run the \JDownload Internet Updates\j command, from the \BInteraction\b menu in the toolbar.
#
"May 10, 1998",130,0,g,0
This information became available after this title was published. To view this information, you can download an update from the Internet. To do this, run the \JDownload Internet Updates\j command, from the \BInteraction\b menu in the toolbar.
#
"May 11, 1998",131,0,g,0
This information became available after this title was published. To view this information, you can download an update from the Internet. To do this, run the \JDownload Internet Updates\j command, from the \BInteraction\b menu in the toolbar.
#
"May 12, 1998",132,0,g,0
This information became available after this title was published. To view this information, you can download an update from the Internet. To do this, run the \JDownload Internet Updates\j command, from the \BInteraction\b menu in the toolbar.
#
"May 13, 1998",133,0,g,0
This information became available after this title was published. To view this information, you can download an update from the Internet. To do this, run the \JDownload Internet Updates\j command, from the \BInteraction\b menu in the toolbar.
#
"May 14, 1998",134,0,g,0
This information became available after this title was published. To view this information, you can download an update from the Internet. To do this, run the \JDownload Internet Updates\j command, from the \BInteraction\b menu in the toolbar.
#
"May 15, 1998",135,0,g,0
This information became available after this title was published. To view this information, you can download an update from the Internet. To do this, run the \JDownload Internet Updates\j command, from the \BInteraction\b menu in the toolbar.
#
"May 16, 1998",136,0,g,0
This information became available after this title was published. To view this information, you can download an update from the Internet. To do this, run the \JDownload Internet Updates\j command, from the \BInteraction\b menu in the toolbar.
#
"May 17, 1998",137,0,g,0
This information became available after this title was published. To view this information, you can download an update from the Internet. To do this, run the \JDownload Internet Updates\j command, from the \BInteraction\b menu in the toolbar.
#
"May 18, 1998",138,0,g,0
This information became available after this title was published. To view this information, you can download an update from the Internet. To do this, run the \JDownload Internet Updates\j command, from the \BInteraction\b menu in the toolbar.
#
"May 19, 1998",139,0,g,0
This information became available after this title was published. To view this information, you can download an update from the Internet. To do this, run the \JDownload Internet Updates\j command, from the \BInteraction\b menu in the toolbar.
#
"May 20, 1998",140,0,g,0
This information became available after this title was published. To view this information, you can download an update from the Internet. To do this, run the \JDownload Internet Updates\j command, from the \BInteraction\b menu in the toolbar.
#
"May 21, 1998",141,0,g,0
This information became available after this title was published. To view this information, you can download an update from the Internet. To do this, run the \JDownload Internet Updates\j command, from the \BInteraction\b menu in the toolbar.
#
"May 22, 1998",142,0,g,0
This information became available after this title was published. To view this information, you can download an update from the Internet. To do this, run the \JDownload Internet Updates\j command, from the \BInteraction\b menu in the toolbar.
#
"May 23, 1998",143,0,g,0
This information became available after this title was published. To view this information, you can download an update from the Internet. To do this, run the \JDownload Internet Updates\j command, from the \BInteraction\b menu in the toolbar.
#
"May 24, 1998",144,0,g,0
This information became available after this title was published. To view this information, you can download an update from the Internet. To do this, run the \JDownload Internet Updates\j command, from the \BInteraction\b menu in the toolbar.
#
"May 25, 1998",145,0,g,0
This information became available after this title was published. To view this information, you can download an update from the Internet. To do this, run the \JDownload Internet Updates\j command, from the \BInteraction\b menu in the toolbar.
#
"May 26, 1998",146,0,g,0
This information became available after this title was published. To view this information, you can download an update from the Internet. To do this, run the \JDownload Internet Updates\j command, from the \BInteraction\b menu in the toolbar.
#
"May 27, 1998",147,0,g,0
This information became available after this title was published. To view this information, you can download an update from the Internet. To do this, run the \JDownload Internet Updates\j command, from the \BInteraction\b menu in the toolbar.
#
"May 28, 1998",148,0,g,0
This information became available after this title was published. To view this information, you can download an update from the Internet. To do this, run the \JDownload Internet Updates\j command, from the \BInteraction\b menu in the toolbar.
#
"May 29, 1998",149,0,g,0
This information became available after this title was published. To view this information, you can download an update from the Internet. To do this, run the \JDownload Internet Updates\j command, from the \BInteraction\b menu in the toolbar.
#
"May 30, 1998",150,0,g,0
This information became available after this title was published. To view this information, you can download an update from the Internet. To do this, run the \JDownload Internet Updates\j command, from the \BInteraction\b menu in the toolbar.
#
"May 31, 1998",151,0,g,0
This information became available after this title was published. To view this information, you can download an update from the Internet. To do this, run the \JDownload Internet Updates\j command, from the \BInteraction\b menu in the toolbar.
#
"June 1, 1998",152,0,g,0
This information became available after this title was published. To view this information, you can download an update from the Internet. To do this, run the \JDownload Internet Updates\j command, from the \BInteraction\b menu in the toolbar.
#
"June 2, 1998",153,0,g,0
This information became available after this title was published. To view this information, you can download an update from the Internet. To do this, run the \JDownload Internet Updates\j command, from the \BInteraction\b menu in the toolbar.
#
"June 3, 1998",154,0,g,0
This information became available after this title was published. To view this information, you can download an update from the Internet. To do this, run the \JDownload Internet Updates\j command, from the \BInteraction\b menu in the toolbar.
#
"June 4, 1998",155,0,g,0
This information became available after this title was published. To view this information, you can download an update from the Internet. To do this, run the \JDownload Internet Updates\j command, from the \BInteraction\b menu in the toolbar.
#
"June 5, 1998",156,0,g,0
This information became available after this title was published. To view this information, you can download an update from the Internet. To do this, run the \JDownload Internet Updates\j command, from the \BInteraction\b menu in the toolbar.
#
"June 6, 1998",157,0,g,0
This information became available after this title was published. To view this information, you can download an update from the Internet. To do this, run the \JDownload Internet Updates\j command, from the \BInteraction\b menu in the toolbar.
#
"June 7, 1998",158,0,g,0
This information became available after this title was published. To view this information, you can download an update from the Internet. To do this, run the \JDownload Internet Updates\j command, from the \BInteraction\b menu in the toolbar.
#
"June 8, 1998",159,0,g,0
This information became available after this title was published. To view this information, you can download an update from the Internet. To do this, run the \JDownload Internet Updates\j command, from the \BInteraction\b menu in the toolbar.
#
"June 9, 1998",160,0,g,0
This information became available after this title was published. To view this information, you can download an update from the Internet. To do this, run the \JDownload Internet Updates\j command, from the \BInteraction\b menu in the toolbar.
#
"June 10, 1998",161,0,g,0
This information became available after this title was published. To view this information, you can download an update from the Internet. To do this, run the \JDownload Internet Updates\j command, from the \BInteraction\b menu in the toolbar.
#
"June 11, 1998",162,0,g,0
This information became available after this title was published. To view this information, you can download an update from the Internet. To do this, run the \JDownload Internet Updates\j command, from the \BInteraction\b menu in the toolbar.
#
"June 12, 1998",163,0,g,0
This information became available after this title was published. To view this information, you can download an update from the Internet. To do this, run the \JDownload Internet Updates\j command, from the \BInteraction\b menu in the toolbar.
#
"June 13, 1998",164,0,g,0
This information became available after this title was published. To view this information, you can download an update from the Internet. To do this, run the \JDownload Internet Updates\j command, from the \BInteraction\b menu in the toolbar.
#
"June 14, 1998",165,0,g,0
This information became available after this title was published. To view this information, you can download an update from the Internet. To do this, run the \JDownload Internet Updates\j command, from the \BInteraction\b menu in the toolbar.
#
"June 15, 1998",166,0,g,0
This information became available after this title was published. To view this information, you can download an update from the Internet. To do this, run the \JDownload Internet Updates\j command, from the \BInteraction\b menu in the toolbar.
#
"June 16, 1998",167,0,g,0
This information became available after this title was published. To view this information, you can download an update from the Internet. To do this, run the \JDownload Internet Updates\j command, from the \BInteraction\b menu in the toolbar.
#
"June 17, 1998",168,0,g,0
This information became available after this title was published. To view this information, you can download an update from the Internet. To do this, run the \JDownload Internet Updates\j command, from the \BInteraction\b menu in the toolbar.
#
"June 18, 1998",169,0,g,0
This information became available after this title was published. To view this information, you can download an update from the Internet. To do this, run the \JDownload Internet Updates\j command, from the \BInteraction\b menu in the toolbar.
#
"June 19, 1998",170,0,g,0
This information became available after this title was published. To view this information, you can download an update from the Internet. To do this, run the \JDownload Internet Updates\j command, from the \BInteraction\b menu in the toolbar.
#
"June 20, 1998",171,0,g,0
This information became available after this title was published. To view this information, you can download an update from the Internet. To do this, run the \JDownload Internet Updates\j command, from the \BInteraction\b menu in the toolbar.
#
"June 21, 1998",172,0,g,0
This information became available after this title was published. To view this information, you can download an update from the Internet. To do this, run the \JDownload Internet Updates\j command, from the \BInteraction\b menu in the toolbar.
#
"June 22, 1998",173,0,g,0
This information became available after this title was published. To view this information, you can download an update from the Internet. To do this, run the \JDownload Internet Updates\j command, from the \BInteraction\b menu in the toolbar.
#
"June 23, 1998",174,0,g,0
This information became available after this title was published. To view this information, you can download an update from the Internet. To do this, run the \JDownload Internet Updates\j command, from the \BInteraction\b menu in the toolbar.
#
"June 24, 1998",175,0,g,0
This information became available after this title was published. To view this information, you can download an update from the Internet. To do this, run the \JDownload Internet Updates\j command, from the \BInteraction\b menu in the toolbar.
#
"June 25, 1998",176,0,g,0
This information became available after this title was published. To view this information, you can download an update from the Internet. To do this, run the \JDownload Internet Updates\j command, from the \BInteraction\b menu in the toolbar.
#
"June 26, 1998",177,0,g,0
This information became available after this title was published. To view this information, you can download an update from the Internet. To do this, run the \JDownload Internet Updates\j command, from the \BInteraction\b menu in the toolbar.
#
"June 27, 1998",178,0,g,0
This information became available after this title was published. To view this information, you can download an update from the Internet. To do this, run the \JDownload Internet Updates\j command, from the \BInteraction\b menu in the toolbar.
#
"June 28, 1998",179,0,g,0
This information became available after this title was published. To view this information, you can download an update from the Internet. To do this, run the \JDownload Internet Updates\j command, from the \BInteraction\b menu in the toolbar.
#
"June 29, 1998",180,0,g,0
This information became available after this title was published. To view this information, you can download an update from the Internet. To do this, run the \JDownload Internet Updates\j command, from the \BInteraction\b menu in the toolbar.
#
"June 30, 1998",181,0,g,0
This information became available after this title was published. To view this information, you can download an update from the Internet. To do this, run the \JDownload Internet Updates\j command, from the \BInteraction\b menu in the toolbar.
#
"July 1, 1998",182,0,g,0
This information became available after this title was published. To view this information, you can download an update from the Internet. To do this, run the \JDownload Internet Updates\j command, from the \BInteraction\b menu in the toolbar.
#
"July 2, 1998",183,0,g,0
This information became available after this title was published. To view this information, you can download an update from the Internet. To do this, run the \JDownload Internet Updates\j command, from the \BInteraction\b menu in the toolbar.
#
"July 3, 1998",184,0,g,0
This information became available after this title was published. To view this information, you can download an update from the Internet. To do this, run the \JDownload Internet Updates\j command, from the \BInteraction\b menu in the toolbar.
#
"July 4, 1998",185,0,g,0
This information became available after this title was published. To view this information, you can download an update from the Internet. To do this, run the \JDownload Internet Updates\j command, from the \BInteraction\b menu in the toolbar.
#
"July 5, 1998",186,0,g,0
This information became available after this title was published. To view this information, you can download an update from the Internet. To do this, run the \JDownload Internet Updates\j command, from the \BInteraction\b menu in the toolbar.
#
"July 6, 1998",187,0,g,0
This information became available after this title was published. To view this information, you can download an update from the Internet. To do this, run the \JDownload Internet Updates\j command, from the \BInteraction\b menu in the toolbar.
#
"July 7, 1998",188,0,g,0
This information became available after this title was published. To view this information, you can download an update from the Internet. To do this, run the \JDownload Internet Updates\j command, from the \BInteraction\b menu in the toolbar.
#
"July 8, 1998",189,0,g,0
This information became available after this title was published. To view this information, you can download an update from the Internet. To do this, run the \JDownload Internet Updates\j command, from the \BInteraction\b menu in the toolbar.
#
"July 9, 1998",190,0,g,0
This information became available after this title was published. To view this information, you can download an update from the Internet. To do this, run the \JDownload Internet Updates\j command, from the \BInteraction\b menu in the toolbar.
#
"July 10, 1998",191,0,g,0
This information became available after this title was published. To view this information, you can download an update from the Internet. To do this, run the \JDownload Internet Updates\j command, from the \BInteraction\b menu in the toolbar.
#
"July 11, 1998",192,0,g,0
This information became available after this title was published. To view this information, you can download an update from the Internet. To do this, run the \JDownload Internet Updates\j command, from the \BInteraction\b menu in the toolbar.
#
"July 12, 1998",193,0,g,0
This information became available after this title was published. To view this information, you can download an update from the Internet. To do this, run the \JDownload Internet Updates\j command, from the \BInteraction\b menu in the toolbar.
#
"July 13, 1998",194,0,g,0
This information became available after this title was published. To view this information, you can download an update from the Internet. To do this, run the \JDownload Internet Updates\j command, from the \BInteraction\b menu in the toolbar.
#
"July 14, 1998",195,0,g,0
This information became available after this title was published. To view this information, you can download an update from the Internet. To do this, run the \JDownload Internet Updates\j command, from the \BInteraction\b menu in the toolbar.
#
"July 15, 1998",196,0,g,0
This information became available after this title was published. To view this information, you can download an update from the Internet. To do this, run the \JDownload Internet Updates\j command, from the \BInteraction\b menu in the toolbar.
#
"July 16, 1998",197,0,g,0
This information became available after this title was published. To view this information, you can download an update from the Internet. To do this, run the \JDownload Internet Updates\j command, from the \BInteraction\b menu in the toolbar.
#
"July 17, 1998",198,0,g,0
This information became available after this title was published. To view this information, you can download an update from the Internet. To do this, run the \JDownload Internet Updates\j command, from the \BInteraction\b menu in the toolbar.
#
"July 18, 1998",199,0,g,0
This information became available after this title was published. To view this information, you can download an update from the Internet. To do this, run the \JDownload Internet Updates\j command, from the \BInteraction\b menu in the toolbar.
#
"July 19, 1998",200,0,g,0
This information became available after this title was published. To view this information, you can download an update from the Internet. To do this, run the \JDownload Internet Updates\j command, from the \BInteraction\b menu in the toolbar.
#
"July 20, 1998",201,0,g,0
This information became available after this title was published. To view this information, you can download an update from the Internet. To do this, run the \JDownload Internet Updates\j command, from the \BInteraction\b menu in the toolbar.
#
"July 21, 1998",202,0,g,0
This information became available after this title was published. To view this information, you can download an update from the Internet. To do this, run the \JDownload Internet Updates\j command, from the \BInteraction\b menu in the toolbar.
#
"July 22, 1998",203,0,g,0
This information became available after this title was published. To view this information, you can download an update from the Internet. To do this, run the \JDownload Internet Updates\j command, from the \BInteraction\b menu in the toolbar.
#
"July 23, 1998",204,0,g,0
This information became available after this title was published. To view this information, you can download an update from the Internet. To do this, run the \JDownload Internet Updates\j command, from the \BInteraction\b menu in the toolbar.
#
"July 24, 1998",205,0,g,0
This information became available after this title was published. To view this information, you can download an update from the Internet. To do this, run the \JDownload Internet Updates\j command, from the \BInteraction\b menu in the toolbar.
#
"July 25, 1998",206,0,g,0
This information became available after this title was published. To view this information, you can download an update from the Internet. To do this, run the \JDownload Internet Updates\j command, from the \BInteraction\b menu in the toolbar.
#
"July 26, 1998",207,0,g,0
This information became available after this title was published. To view this information, you can download an update from the Internet. To do this, run the \JDownload Internet Updates\j command, from the \BInteraction\b menu in the toolbar.
#
"July 27, 1998",208,0,g,0
This information became available after this title was published. To view this information, you can download an update from the Internet. To do this, run the \JDownload Internet Updates\j command, from the \BInteraction\b menu in the toolbar.
#
"July 28, 1998",209,0,g,0
This information became available after this title was published. To view this information, you can download an update from the Internet. To do this, run the \JDownload Internet Updates\j command, from the \BInteraction\b menu in the toolbar.
#
"July 29, 1998",210,0,g,0
This information became available after this title was published. To view this information, you can download an update from the Internet. To do this, run the \JDownload Internet Updates\j command, from the \BInteraction\b menu in the toolbar.
#
"July 30, 1998",211,0,g,0
This information became available after this title was published. To view this information, you can download an update from the Internet. To do this, run the \JDownload Internet Updates\j command, from the \BInteraction\b menu in the toolbar.
#
"July 31, 1998",212,0,g,0
This information became available after this title was published. To view this information, you can download an update from the Internet. To do this, run the \JDownload Internet Updates\j command, from the \BInteraction\b menu in the toolbar.
#
"August 1, 1998",213,0,g,0
This information became available after this title was published. To view this information, you can download an update from the Internet. To do this, run the \JDownload Internet Updates\j command, from the \BInteraction\b menu in the toolbar.
#
"August 2, 1998",214,0,g,0
This information became available after this title was published. To view this information, you can download an update from the Internet. To do this, run the \JDownload Internet Updates\j command, from the \BInteraction\b menu in the toolbar.
#
"August 3, 1998",215,0,g,0
This information became available after this title was published. To view this information, you can download an update from the Internet. To do this, run the \JDownload Internet Updates\j command, from the \BInteraction\b menu in the toolbar.
#
"August 4, 1998",216,0,g,0
This information became available after this title was published. To view this information, you can download an update from the Internet. To do this, run the \JDownload Internet Updates\j command, from the \BInteraction\b menu in the toolbar.
#
"August 5, 1998",217,0,g,0
This information became available after this title was published. To view this information, you can download an update from the Internet. To do this, run the \JDownload Internet Updates\j command, from the \BInteraction\b menu in the toolbar.
#
"August 6, 1998",218,0,g,0
This information became available after this title was published. To view this information, you can download an update from the Internet. To do this, run the \JDownload Internet Updates\j command, from the \BInteraction\b menu in the toolbar.
#
"August 7, 1998",219,0,g,0
This information became available after this title was published. To view this information, you can download an update from the Internet. To do this, run the \JDownload Internet Updates\j command, from the \BInteraction\b menu in the toolbar.
#
"August 8, 1998",220,0,g,0
This information became available after this title was published. To view this information, you can download an update from the Internet. To do this, run the \JDownload Internet Updates\j command, from the \BInteraction\b menu in the toolbar.
#
"August 9, 1998",221,0,g,0
This information became available after this title was published. To view this information, you can download an update from the Internet. To do this, run the \JDownload Internet Updates\j command, from the \BInteraction\b menu in the toolbar.
#
"August 10, 1998",222,0,g,0
This information became available after this title was published. To view this information, you can download an update from the Internet. To do this, run the \JDownload Internet Updates\j command, from the \BInteraction\b menu in the toolbar.
#
"August 11, 1998",223,0,g,0
This information became available after this title was published. To view this information, you can download an update from the Internet. To do this, run the \JDownload Internet Updates\j command, from the \BInteraction\b menu in the toolbar.
#
"August 12, 1998",224,0,g,0
This information became available after this title was published. To view this information, you can download an update from the Internet. To do this, run the \JDownload Internet Updates\j command, from the \BInteraction\b menu in the toolbar.
#
"August 13, 1998",225,0,g,0
This information became available after this title was published. To view this information, you can download an update from the Internet. To do this, run the \JDownload Internet Updates\j command, from the \BInteraction\b menu in the toolbar.
#
"August 14, 1998",226,0,g,0
This information became available after this title was published. To view this information, you can download an update from the Internet. To do this, run the \JDownload Internet Updates\j command, from the \BInteraction\b menu in the toolbar.
#
"August 15, 1998",227,0,g,0
This information became available after this title was published. To view this information, you can download an update from the Internet. To do this, run the \JDownload Internet Updates\j command, from the \BInteraction\b menu in the toolbar.
#
"August 16, 1998",228,0,g,0
This information became available after this title was published. To view this information, you can download an update from the Internet. To do this, run the \JDownload Internet Updates\j command, from the \BInteraction\b menu in the toolbar.
#
"August 17, 1998",229,0,g,0
This information became available after this title was published. To view this information, you can download an update from the Internet. To do this, run the \JDownload Internet Updates\j command, from the \BInteraction\b menu in the toolbar.
#
"August 18, 1998",230,0,g,0
This information became available after this title was published. To view this information, you can download an update from the Internet. To do this, run the \JDownload Internet Updates\j command, from the \BInteraction\b menu in the toolbar.
#
"August 19, 1998",231,0,g,0
This information became available after this title was published. To view this information, you can download an update from the Internet. To do this, run the \JDownload Internet Updates\j command, from the \BInteraction\b menu in the toolbar.
#
"August 20, 1998",232,0,g,0
This information became available after this title was published. To view this information, you can download an update from the Internet. To do this, run the \JDownload Internet Updates\j command, from the \BInteraction\b menu in the toolbar.
#
"August 21, 1998",233,0,g,0
This information became available after this title was published. To view this information, you can download an update from the Internet. To do this, run the \JDownload Internet Updates\j command, from the \BInteraction\b menu in the toolbar.
#
"August 22, 1998",234,0,g,0
This information became available after this title was published. To view this information, you can download an update from the Internet. To do this, run the \JDownload Internet Updates\j command, from the \BInteraction\b menu in the toolbar.
#
"August 23, 1998",235,0,g,0
This information became available after this title was published. To view this information, you can download an update from the Internet. To do this, run the \JDownload Internet Updates\j command, from the \BInteraction\b menu in the toolbar.
#
"August 24, 1998",236,0,g,0
This information became available after this title was published. To view this information, you can download an update from the Internet. To do this, run the \JDownload Internet Updates\j command, from the \BInteraction\b menu in the toolbar.
#
"August 25, 1998",237,0,g,0
This information became available after this title was published. To view this information, you can download an update from the Internet. To do this, run the \JDownload Internet Updates\j command, from the \BInteraction\b menu in the toolbar.
#
"August 26, 1998",238,0,g,0
This information became available after this title was published. To view this information, you can download an update from the Internet. To do this, run the \JDownload Internet Updates\j command, from the \BInteraction\b menu in the toolbar.
#
"August 27, 1998",239,0,g,0
This information became available after this title was published. To view this information, you can download an update from the Internet. To do this, run the \JDownload Internet Updates\j command, from the \BInteraction\b menu in the toolbar.
#
"August 28, 1998",240,0,g,0
This information became available after this title was published. To view this information, you can download an update from the Internet. To do this, run the \JDownload Internet Updates\j command, from the \BInteraction\b menu in the toolbar.
#
"August 29, 1998",241,0,g,0
This information became available after this title was published. To view this information, you can download an update from the Internet. To do this, run the \JDownload Internet Updates\j command, from the \BInteraction\b menu in the toolbar.
#
"August 30, 1998",242,0,g,0
This information became available after this title was published. To view this information, you can download an update from the Internet. To do this, run the \JDownload Internet Updates\j command, from the \BInteraction\b menu in the toolbar.
#
"August 31, 1998",243,0,g,0
This information became available after this title was published. To view this information, you can download an update from the Internet. To do this, run the \JDownload Internet Updates\j command, from the \BInteraction\b menu in the toolbar.
#
"September 1, 1998",244,0,g,0
This information became available after this title was published. To view this information, you can download an update from the Internet. To do this, run the \JDownload Internet Updates\j command, from the \BInteraction\b menu in the toolbar.
#
"September 2, 1998",245,0,g,0
This information became available after this title was published. To view this information, you can download an update from the Internet. To do this, run the \JDownload Internet Updates\j command, from the \BInteraction\b menu in the toolbar.
#
"September 3, 1998",246,0,g,0
This information became available after this title was published. To view this information, you can download an update from the Internet. To do this, run the \JDownload Internet Updates\j command, from the \BInteraction\b menu in the toolbar.
#
"September 4, 1998",247,0,g,0
This information became available after this title was published. To view this information, you can download an update from the Internet. To do this, run the \JDownload Internet Updates\j command, from the \BInteraction\b menu in the toolbar.
#
"September 5, 1998",248,0,g,0
This information became available after this title was published. To view this information, you can download an update from the Internet. To do this, run the \JDownload Internet Updates\j command, from the \BInteraction\b menu in the toolbar.
#
"September 6, 1998",249,0,g,0
This information became available after this title was published. To view this information, you can download an update from the Internet. To do this, run the \JDownload Internet Updates\j command, from the \BInteraction\b menu in the toolbar.
#
"September 7, 1998",250,0,g,0
This information became available after this title was published. To view this information, you can download an update from the Internet. To do this, run the \JDownload Internet Updates\j command, from the \BInteraction\b menu in the toolbar.
#
"September 8, 1998",251,0,g,0
This information became available after this title was published. To view this information, you can download an update from the Internet. To do this, run the \JDownload Internet Updates\j command, from the \BInteraction\b menu in the toolbar.
#
"September 9, 1998",252,0,g,0
This information became available after this title was published. To view this information, you can download an update from the Internet. To do this, run the \JDownload Internet Updates\j command, from the \BInteraction\b menu in the toolbar.
#
"September 10, 1998",253,0,g,0
This information became available after this title was published. To view this information, you can download an update from the Internet. To do this, run the \JDownload Internet Updates\j command, from the \BInteraction\b menu in the toolbar.
#
"September 11, 1998",254,0,g,0
This information became available after this title was published. To view this information, you can download an update from the Internet. To do this, run the \JDownload Internet Updates\j command, from the \BInteraction\b menu in the toolbar.
#
"September 12, 1998",255,0,g,0
This information became available after this title was published. To view this information, you can download an update from the Internet. To do this, run the \JDownload Internet Updates\j command, from the \BInteraction\b menu in the toolbar.
#
"September 13, 1998",256,0,g,0
This information became available after this title was published. To view this information, you can download an update from the Internet. To do this, run the \JDownload Internet Updates\j command, from the \BInteraction\b menu in the toolbar.
#
"September 14, 1998",257,0,g,0
This information became available after this title was published. To view this information, you can download an update from the Internet. To do this, run the \JDownload Internet Updates\j command, from the \BInteraction\b menu in the toolbar.
#
"September 15, 1998",258,0,g,0
This information became available after this title was published. To view this information, you can download an update from the Internet. To do this, run the \JDownload Internet Updates\j command, from the \BInteraction\b menu in the toolbar.
#
"September 16, 1998",259,0,g,0
This information became available after this title was published. To view this information, you can download an update from the Internet. To do this, run the \JDownload Internet Updates\j command, from the \BInteraction\b menu in the toolbar.
#
"September 17, 1998",260,0,g,0
This information became available after this title was published. To view this information, you can download an update from the Internet. To do this, run the \JDownload Internet Updates\j command, from the \BInteraction\b menu in the toolbar.
#
"September 18, 1998",261,0,g,0
This information became available after this title was published. To view this information, you can download an update from the Internet. To do this, run the \JDownload Internet Updates\j command, from the \BInteraction\b menu in the toolbar.
#
"September 19, 1998",262,0,g,0
This information became available after this title was published. To view this information, you can download an update from the Internet. To do this, run the \JDownload Internet Updates\j command, from the \BInteraction\b menu in the toolbar.
#
"September 20, 1998",263,0,g,0
This information became available after this title was published. To view this information, you can download an update from the Internet. To do this, run the \JDownload Internet Updates\j command, from the \BInteraction\b menu in the toolbar.
#
"September 21, 1998",264,0,g,0
This information became available after this title was published. To view this information, you can download an update from the Internet. To do this, run the \JDownload Internet Updates\j command, from the \BInteraction\b menu in the toolbar.
#
"September 22, 1998",265,0,g,0
This information became available after this title was published. To view this information, you can download an update from the Internet. To do this, run the \JDownload Internet Updates\j command, from the \BInteraction\b menu in the toolbar.
#
"September 23, 1998",266,0,g,0
This information became available after this title was published. To view this information, you can download an update from the Internet. To do this, run the \JDownload Internet Updates\j command, from the \BInteraction\b menu in the toolbar.
#
"September 24, 1998",267,0,g,0
This information became available after this title was published. To view this information, you can download an update from the Internet. To do this, run the \JDownload Internet Updates\j command, from the \BInteraction\b menu in the toolbar.
#
"September 25, 1998",268,0,g,0
This information became available after this title was published. To view this information, you can download an update from the Internet. To do this, run the \JDownload Internet Updates\j command, from the \BInteraction\b menu in the toolbar.
#
"September 26, 1998",269,0,g,0
This information became available after this title was published. To view this information, you can download an update from the Internet. To do this, run the \JDownload Internet Updates\j command, from the \BInteraction\b menu in the toolbar.
#
"September 27, 1998",270,0,g,0
This information became available after this title was published. To view this information, you can download an update from the Internet. To do this, run the \JDownload Internet Updates\j command, from the \BInteraction\b menu in the toolbar.
#
"September 28, 1998",271,0,g,0
This information became available after this title was published. To view this information, you can download an update from the Internet. To do this, run the \JDownload Internet Updates\j command, from the \BInteraction\b menu in the toolbar.
#
"September 29, 1998",272,0,g,0
This information became available after this title was published. To view this information, you can download an update from the Internet. To do this, run the \JDownload Internet Updates\j command, from the \BInteraction\b menu in the toolbar.
#
"September 30, 1998",273,0,g,0
This information became available after this title was published. To view this information, you can download an update from the Internet. To do this, run the \JDownload Internet Updates\j command, from the \BInteraction\b menu in the toolbar.
#
"October 1, 1998",274,0,g,0
This information became available after this title was published. To view this information, you can download an update from the Internet. To do this, run the \JDownload Internet Updates\j command, from the \BInteraction\b menu in the toolbar.
#
"October 2, 1998",275,0,g,0
This information became available after this title was published. To view this information, you can download an update from the Internet. To do this, run the \JDownload Internet Updates\j command, from the \BInteraction\b menu in the toolbar.
#
"October 3, 1998",276,0,g,0
This information became available after this title was published. To view this information, you can download an update from the Internet. To do this, run the \JDownload Internet Updates\j command, from the \BInteraction\b menu in the toolbar.
#
"October 4, 1998",277,0,g,0
This information became available after this title was published. To view this information, you can download an update from the Internet. To do this, run the \JDownload Internet Updates\j command, from the \BInteraction\b menu in the toolbar.
#
"October 5, 1998",278,0,g,0
This information became available after this title was published. To view this information, you can download an update from the Internet. To do this, run the \JDownload Internet Updates\j command, from the \BInteraction\b menu in the toolbar.
#
"October 6, 1998",279,0,g,0
This information became available after this title was published. To view this information, you can download an update from the Internet. To do this, run the \JDownload Internet Updates\j command, from the \BInteraction\b menu in the toolbar.
#
"October 7, 1998",280,0,g,0
This information became available after this title was published. To view this information, you can download an update from the Internet. To do this, run the \JDownload Internet Updates\j command, from the \BInteraction\b menu in the toolbar.
#
"October 8, 1998",281,0,g,0
This information became available after this title was published. To view this information, you can download an update from the Internet. To do this, run the \JDownload Internet Updates\j command, from the \BInteraction\b menu in the toolbar.
#
"October 9, 1998",282,0,g,0
This information became available after this title was published. To view this information, you can download an update from the Internet. To do this, run the \JDownload Internet Updates\j command, from the \BInteraction\b menu in the toolbar.
#
"October 10, 1998",283,0,g,0
This information became available after this title was published. To view this information, you can download an update from the Internet. To do this, run the \JDownload Internet Updates\j command, from the \BInteraction\b menu in the toolbar.
#
"October 11, 1998",284,0,g,0
This information became available after this title was published. To view this information, you can download an update from the Internet. To do this, run the \JDownload Internet Updates\j command, from the \BInteraction\b menu in the toolbar.
#
"October 12, 1998",285,0,g,0
This information became available after this title was published. To view this information, you can download an update from the Internet. To do this, run the \JDownload Internet Updates\j command, from the \BInteraction\b menu in the toolbar.
#
"October 13, 1998",286,0,g,0
This information became available after this title was published. To view this information, you can download an update from the Internet. To do this, run the \JDownload Internet Updates\j command, from the \BInteraction\b menu in the toolbar.
#
"October 14, 1998",287,0,g,0
This information became available after this title was published. To view this information, you can download an update from the Internet. To do this, run the \JDownload Internet Updates\j command, from the \BInteraction\b menu in the toolbar.
#
"October 15, 1998",288,0,g,0
This information became available after this title was published. To view this information, you can download an update from the Internet. To do this, run the \JDownload Internet Updates\j command, from the \BInteraction\b menu in the toolbar.
#
"October 16, 1998",289,0,g,0
This information became available after this title was published. To view this information, you can download an update from the Internet. To do this, run the \JDownload Internet Updates\j command, from the \BInteraction\b menu in the toolbar.
#
"October 17, 1998",290,0,g,0
This information became available after this title was published. To view this information, you can download an update from the Internet. To do this, run the \JDownload Internet Updates\j command, from the \BInteraction\b menu in the toolbar.
#
"October 18, 1998",291,0,g,0
This information became available after this title was published. To view this information, you can download an update from the Internet. To do this, run the \JDownload Internet Updates\j command, from the \BInteraction\b menu in the toolbar.
#
"October 19, 1998",292,0,g,0
This information became available after this title was published. To view this information, you can download an update from the Internet. To do this, run the \JDownload Internet Updates\j command, from the \BInteraction\b menu in the toolbar.
#
"October 20, 1998",293,0,g,0
This information became available after this title was published. To view this information, you can download an update from the Internet. To do this, run the \JDownload Internet Updates\j command, from the \BInteraction\b menu in the toolbar.
#
"October 21, 1998",294,0,g,0
This information became available after this title was published. To view this information, you can download an update from the Internet. To do this, run the \JDownload Internet Updates\j command, from the \BInteraction\b menu in the toolbar.
#
"October 22, 1998",295,0,g,0
This information became available after this title was published. To view this information, you can download an update from the Internet. To do this, run the \JDownload Internet Updates\j command, from the \BInteraction\b menu in the toolbar.
#
"October 23, 1998",296,0,g,0
This information became available after this title was published. To view this information, you can download an update from the Internet. To do this, run the \JDownload Internet Updates\j command, from the \BInteraction\b menu in the toolbar.
#
"October 24, 1998",297,0,g,0
This information became available after this title was published. To view this information, you can download an update from the Internet. To do this, run the \JDownload Internet Updates\j command, from the \BInteraction\b menu in the toolbar.
#
"October 25, 1998",298,0,g,0
This information became available after this title was published. To view this information, you can download an update from the Internet. To do this, run the \JDownload Internet Updates\j command, from the \BInteraction\b menu in the toolbar.
#
"October 26, 1998",299,0,g,0
This information became available after this title was published. To view this information, you can download an update from the Internet. To do this, run the \JDownload Internet Updates\j command, from the \BInteraction\b menu in the toolbar.
#
"October 27, 1998",300,0,g,0
This information became available after this title was published. To view this information, you can download an update from the Internet. To do this, run the \JDownload Internet Updates\j command, from the \BInteraction\b menu in the toolbar.
#
"October 28, 1998",301,0,g,0
This information became available after this title was published. To view this information, you can download an update from the Internet. To do this, run the \JDownload Internet Updates\j command, from the \BInteraction\b menu in the toolbar.
#
"October 29, 1998",302,0,g,0
This information became available after this title was published. To view this information, you can download an update from the Internet. To do this, run the \JDownload Internet Updates\j command, from the \BInteraction\b menu in the toolbar.
#
"October 30, 1998",303,0,g,0
This information became available after this title was published. To view this information, you can download an update from the Internet. To do this, run the \JDownload Internet Updates\j command, from the \BInteraction\b menu in the toolbar.
#
"October 31, 1998",304,0,g,0
This information became available after this title was published. To view this information, you can download an update from the Internet. To do this, run the \JDownload Internet Updates\j command, from the \BInteraction\b menu in the toolbar.
#
"November 1, 1998",305,0,g,0
This information became available after this title was published. To view this information, you can download an update from the Internet. To do this, run the \JDownload Internet Updates\j command, from the \BInteraction\b menu in the toolbar.
#
"November 2, 1998",306,0,g,0
This information became available after this title was published. To view this information, you can download an update from the Internet. To do this, run the \JDownload Internet Updates\j command, from the \BInteraction\b menu in the toolbar.
#
"November 3, 1998",307,0,g,0
This information became available after this title was published. To view this information, you can download an update from the Internet. To do this, run the \JDownload Internet Updates\j command, from the \BInteraction\b menu in the toolbar.
#
"November 4, 1998",308,0,g,0
This information became available after this title was published. To view this information, you can download an update from the Internet. To do this, run the \JDownload Internet Updates\j command, from the \BInteraction\b menu in the toolbar.
#
"November 5, 1998",309,0,g,0
This information became available after this title was published. To view this information, you can download an update from the Internet. To do this, run the \JDownload Internet Updates\j command, from the \BInteraction\b menu in the toolbar.
#
"November 6, 1998",310,0,g,0
This information became available after this title was published. To view this information, you can download an update from the Internet. To do this, run the \JDownload Internet Updates\j command, from the \BInteraction\b menu in the toolbar.
#
"November 7, 1998",311,0,g,0
This information became available after this title was published. To view this information, you can download an update from the Internet. To do this, run the \JDownload Internet Updates\j command, from the \BInteraction\b menu in the toolbar.
#
"November 8, 1998",312,0,g,0
This information became available after this title was published. To view this information, you can download an update from the Internet. To do this, run the \JDownload Internet Updates\j command, from the \BInteraction\b menu in the toolbar.
#
"November 9, 1998",313,0,g,0
This information became available after this title was published. To view this information, you can download an update from the Internet. To do this, run the \JDownload Internet Updates\j command, from the \BInteraction\b menu in the toolbar.
#
"November 10, 1998",314,0,g,0
This information became available after this title was published. To view this information, you can download an update from the Internet. To do this, run the \JDownload Internet Updates\j command, from the \BInteraction\b menu in the toolbar.
#
"November 11, 1998",315,0,g,0
This information became available after this title was published. To view this information, you can download an update from the Internet. To do this, run the \JDownload Internet Updates\j command, from the \BInteraction\b menu in the toolbar.
#
"November 12, 1998",316,0,g,0
This information became available after this title was published. To view this information, you can download an update from the Internet. To do this, run the \JDownload Internet Updates\j command, from the \BInteraction\b menu in the toolbar.
#
"November 13, 1998",317,0,g,0
This information became available after this title was published. To view this information, you can download an update from the Internet. To do this, run the \JDownload Internet Updates\j command, from the \BInteraction\b menu in the toolbar.
#
"November 14, 1998",318,0,g,0
This information became available after this title was published. To view this information, you can download an update from the Internet. To do this, run the \JDownload Internet Updates\j command, from the \BInteraction\b menu in the toolbar.
#
"November 15, 1998",319,0,g,0
This information became available after this title was published. To view this information, you can download an update from the Internet. To do this, run the \JDownload Internet Updates\j command, from the \BInteraction\b menu in the toolbar.
#
"November 16, 1998",320,0,g,0
This information became available after this title was published. To view this information, you can download an update from the Internet. To do this, run the \JDownload Internet Updates\j command, from the \BInteraction\b menu in the toolbar.
#
"November 17, 1998",321,0,g,0
This information became available after this title was published. To view this information, you can download an update from the Internet. To do this, run the \JDownload Internet Updates\j command, from the \BInteraction\b menu in the toolbar.
#
"November 18, 1998",322,0,g,0
This information became available after this title was published. To view this information, you can download an update from the Internet. To do this, run the \JDownload Internet Updates\j command, from the \BInteraction\b menu in the toolbar.
#
"November 19, 1998",323,0,g,0
This information became available after this title was published. To view this information, you can download an update from the Internet. To do this, run the \JDownload Internet Updates\j command, from the \BInteraction\b menu in the toolbar.
#
"November 20, 1998",324,0,g,0
This information became available after this title was published. To view this information, you can download an update from the Internet. To do this, run the \JDownload Internet Updates\j command, from the \BInteraction\b menu in the toolbar.
#
"November 21, 1998",325,0,g,0
This information became available after this title was published. To view this information, you can download an update from the Internet. To do this, run the \JDownload Internet Updates\j command, from the \BInteraction\b menu in the toolbar.
#
"November 22, 1998",326,0,g,0
This information became available after this title was published. To view this information, you can download an update from the Internet. To do this, run the \JDownload Internet Updates\j command, from the \BInteraction\b menu in the toolbar.
#
"November 23, 1998",327,0,g,0
This information became available after this title was published. To view this information, you can download an update from the Internet. To do this, run the \JDownload Internet Updates\j command, from the \BInteraction\b menu in the toolbar.
#
"November 24, 1998",328,0,g,0
This information became available after this title was published. To view this information, you can download an update from the Internet. To do this, run the \JDownload Internet Updates\j command, from the \BInteraction\b menu in the toolbar.
#
"November 25, 1998",329,0,g,0
This information became available after this title was published. To view this information, you can download an update from the Internet. To do this, run the \JDownload Internet Updates\j command, from the \BInteraction\b menu in the toolbar.
#
"November 26, 1998",330,0,g,0
This information became available after this title was published. To view this information, you can download an update from the Internet. To do this, run the \JDownload Internet Updates\j command, from the \BInteraction\b menu in the toolbar.
#
"November 27, 1998",331,0,g,0
This information became available after this title was published. To view this information, you can download an update from the Internet. To do this, run the \JDownload Internet Updates\j command, from the \BInteraction\b menu in the toolbar.
#
"November 28, 1998",332,0,g,0
This information became available after this title was published. To view this information, you can download an update from the Internet. To do this, run the \JDownload Internet Updates\j command, from the \BInteraction\b menu in the toolbar.
#
"November 29, 1998",333,0,g,0
This information became available after this title was published. To view this information, you can download an update from the Internet. To do this, run the \JDownload Internet Updates\j command, from the \BInteraction\b menu in the toolbar.
#
"November 30, 1998",334,0,g,0
This information became available after this title was published. To view this information, you can download an update from the Internet. To do this, run the \JDownload Internet Updates\j command, from the \BInteraction\b menu in the toolbar.
#
"December 1, 1998",335,0,g,0
This information became available after this title was published. To view this information, you can download an update from the Internet. To do this, run the \JDownload Internet Updates\j command, from the \BInteraction\b menu in the toolbar.
#
"December 2, 1998",336,0,g,0
This information became available after this title was published. To view this information, you can download an update from the Internet. To do this, run the \JDownload Internet Updates\j command, from the \BInteraction\b menu in the toolbar.
#
"December 3, 1998",337,0,g,0
This information became available after this title was published. To view this information, you can download an update from the Internet. To do this, run the \JDownload Internet Updates\j command, from the \BInteraction\b menu in the toolbar.
#
"December 4, 1998",338,0,g,0
This information became available after this title was published. To view this information, you can download an update from the Internet. To do this, run the \JDownload Internet Updates\j command, from the \BInteraction\b menu in the toolbar.
#
"December 5, 1998",339,0,g,0
This information became available after this title was published. To view this information, you can download an update from the Internet. To do this, run the \JDownload Internet Updates\j command, from the \BInteraction\b menu in the toolbar.
#
"December 6, 1998",340,0,g,0
This information became available after this title was published. To view this information, you can download an update from the Internet. To do this, run the \JDownload Internet Updates\j command, from the \BInteraction\b menu in the toolbar.
#
"December 7, 1998",341,0,g,0
This information became available after this title was published. To view this information, you can download an update from the Internet. To do this, run the \JDownload Internet Updates\j command, from the \BInteraction\b menu in the toolbar.
#
"December 8, 1998",342,0,g,0
This information became available after this title was published. To view this information, you can download an update from the Internet. To do this, run the \JDownload Internet Updates\j command, from the \BInteraction\b menu in the toolbar.
#
"December 9, 1998",343,0,g,0
This information became available after this title was published. To view this information, you can download an update from the Internet. To do this, run the \JDownload Internet Updates\j command, from the \BInteraction\b menu in the toolbar.
#
"December 10, 1998",344,0,g,0
This information became available after this title was published. To view this information, you can download an update from the Internet. To do this, run the \JDownload Internet Updates\j command, from the \BInteraction\b menu in the toolbar.
#
"December 11, 1998",345,0,g,0
This information became available after this title was published. To view this information, you can download an update from the Internet. To do this, run the \JDownload Internet Updates\j command, from the \BInteraction\b menu in the toolbar.
#
"December 12, 1998",346,0,g,0
This information became available after this title was published. To view this information, you can download an update from the Internet. To do this, run the \JDownload Internet Updates\j command, from the \BInteraction\b menu in the toolbar.
#
"December 13, 1998",347,0,g,0
This information became available after this title was published. To view this information, you can download an update from the Internet. To do this, run the \JDownload Internet Updates\j command, from the \BInteraction\b menu in the toolbar.
#
"December 14, 1998",348,0,g,0
This information became available after this title was published. To view this information, you can download an update from the Internet. To do this, run the \JDownload Internet Updates\j command, from the \BInteraction\b menu in the toolbar.
#
"December 15, 1998",349,0,g,0
This information became available after this title was published. To view this information, you can download an update from the Internet. To do this, run the \JDownload Internet Updates\j command, from the \BInteraction\b menu in the toolbar.
#
"December 16, 1998",350,0,g,0
This information became available after this title was published. To view this information, you can download an update from the Internet. To do this, run the \JDownload Internet Updates\j command, from the \BInteraction\b menu in the toolbar.
#
"December 17, 1998",351,0,g,0
This information became available after this title was published. To view this information, you can download an update from the Internet. To do this, run the \JDownload Internet Updates\j command, from the \BInteraction\b menu in the toolbar.
#
"December 18, 1998",352,0,g,0
This information became available after this title was published. To view this information, you can download an update from the Internet. To do this, run the \JDownload Internet Updates\j command, from the \BInteraction\b menu in the toolbar.
#
"December 19, 1998",353,0,g,0
This information became available after this title was published. To view this information, you can download an update from the Internet. To do this, run the \JDownload Internet Updates\j command, from the \BInteraction\b menu in the toolbar.
#
"December 20, 1998",354,0,g,0
This information became available after this title was published. To view this information, you can download an update from the Internet. To do this, run the \JDownload Internet Updates\j command, from the \BInteraction\b menu in the toolbar.
#
"December 21, 1998",355,0,g,0
This information became available after this title was published. To view this information, you can download an update from the Internet. To do this, run the \JDownload Internet Updates\j command, from the \BInteraction\b menu in the toolbar.
#
"December 22, 1998",356,0,g,0
This information became available after this title was published. To view this information, you can download an update from the Internet. To do this, run the \JDownload Internet Updates\j command, from the \BInteraction\b menu in the toolbar.
#
"December 23, 1998",357,0,g,0
This information became available after this title was published. To view this information, you can download an update from the Internet. To do this, run the \JDownload Internet Updates\j command, from the \BInteraction\b menu in the toolbar.
#
"December 24, 1998",358,0,g,0
This information became available after this title was published. To view this information, you can download an update from the Internet. To do this, run the \JDownload Internet Updates\j command, from the \BInteraction\b menu in the toolbar.
#
"December 25, 1998",359,0,g,0
This information became available after this title was published. To view this information, you can download an update from the Internet. To do this, run the \JDownload Internet Updates\j command, from the \BInteraction\b menu in the toolbar.
#
"December 26, 1998",360,0,g,0
This information became available after this title was published. To view this information, you can download an update from the Internet. To do this, run the \JDownload Internet Updates\j command, from the \BInteraction\b menu in the toolbar.
#
"December 27, 1998",361,0,g,0
This information became available after this title was published. To view this information, you can download an update from the Internet. To do this, run the \JDownload Internet Updates\j command, from the \BInteraction\b menu in the toolbar.
#
"December 28, 1998",362,0,g,0
This information became available after this title was published. To view this information, you can download an update from the Internet. To do this, run the \JDownload Internet Updates\j command, from the \BInteraction\b menu in the toolbar.
#
"December 29, 1998",363,0,g,0
This information became available after this title was published. To view this information, you can download an update from the Internet. To do this, run the \JDownload Internet Updates\j command, from the \BInteraction\b menu in the toolbar.
#
"December 30, 1998",364,0,g,0
This information became available after this title was published. To view this information, you can download an update from the Internet. To do this, run the \JDownload Internet Updates\j command, from the \BInteraction\b menu in the toolbar.
#
"December 31, 1998",365,0,g,0
This information became available after this title was published. To view this information, you can download an update from the Internet. To do this, run the \JDownload Internet Updates\j command, from the \BInteraction\b menu in the toolbar.
