Column 8

"Does anyone know what the red horizontal lights at the top of the Westpac tower in the middle of Sydney signify?" asks Richard Evans, of Belrose. "There are eight lines, facing south, that illuminate in an apparently random fashion, but maybe it's more sinister than that." Sorry, Richard, they are not very sinister. The Herald has reported that "Sydney's skyline boasts a giant barometer", and that's what it is. Each bar represents a change in air pressure of five hectopascals, apparently, starting at 990 hectopascals.

Modern comfort; historic charm - ADVERTISING FEATURE

Modern makeovers enhance charm and preserve heritage in these historic hotels. RICHARD BREWSTER reports.

Sunday Night Dinner

Melba Restaurant The Langham, 1 Southgate Ave, Southbank 1800 641 107

ESPRESSO

Second shot at elBulli

Mumbai terrorist admits to court: I did it

THE lone surviving assailant from last year's Mumbai terrorist attacks, Mohammad Ajmal Amir Kasab, has shocked India by pleading guilty in a dramatic courtroom confession.

Just another boring Wimbledon final

THE Wimbledon final on Sunday night-Monday morning was certainly full of surprises - particularly for those of us who thought it would be over in an hour or so and we would be snug in bed by midnight, contemplating the mental fragility of Andy Roddick and the genius of Roger Federer.

Yes, The Aha Is Behind Net Brewhaha

THE Australian Hotels Association masterminded the "Dontpunishus.com" campaign billed as a grassroots campaign by people angry at the Government's tough new liquor laws, Foster's Brewing and other alcohol industry sources have confirmed.

New Noise Policy For Port

A NEW policy aims to give Port Stephens Council greater control over noise from licensed premises such as clubs and hotels. The council has developed an environmental noise policy that will soon go on exhibition for a month. If the plan is adopted, the council will be required to consider noise impacts from licensed premises in any application to extend trading hours.

Balmain Hotels Fill As Young Mourn Pub Mates

THE grief, shock and anger in the pubs of Balmain last night told the story of a community devastated by loss.