Thursday bulletin

17 Jan 2013

A chopper has crashed in central London, killing two people. Meanwhile, in Australia, health organisations have launched a campaign to warn people of the dangers of sugary drinks. 

Chopper crash in London

A helicopter crash in London has left two people dead and nine injured. The chopper hit a crane in central London and plummeted to the ground engulfing several cars in flames. Officials have said there is no evidence that the incident was linked to terrorism. The ABC has more.

Meeting on racial feud

A meeting will be held tonight to discuss the racial feud dividing the Logan community. Hundreds of people are expected to attend. A peace deal was brokered, however elders are concerned the trouble will not end. Read more. 

Police search for body of Cookson

The head that washed up on a Rottnest Island beach on 8 January has been confirmed as that of Stephan Cookson, a well-known drug figure. Police have allegedly questioned people who may have dumped his remains and are searching a property in Golden Bay for his body. Perthnow has more.

Proposals for gun control

President Obama has announced proposals for gun control, encouraging Congress to pass bans on military-style assault weapons and high-capacity ammunition magazines as well as background checks. News.com.au has the full story.

Foreign hostages being held in Algeria

Gunmen are holding 41 foreign hostages in Algeria, demanding an end to France’s intervention in Mali. French, British and Japanese citizens are among the hostages, as well as seven US nationals. Read more. For an analysis of the situation in Mali, see The Conversation.

Rethink sugary drinks

A television campaign has been launched to encourage Australians not to drink soft drinks. Health organisations have also proposed a tax on sugary drinks. Rethink Sugary Drink urges Australians to swap soft drinks for water and reduced-fat milk. Read the story on ninemsn.com.au and visit the Rethink Sugary Drink website.

Sydney wakes to horn virtuoso

Arkady Shilkloper has played his alphorn at Bondi Beach, on the Manly Ferry and in Hyde Park. Yesterday, he climbed to the top of the largest sail of the Opera House, and blasted the three-metre long horn as dawn broke. Shilkloper is playing his horn around the city as part of the Sydney Festival. Read more and watch the video on The Sydney Morning Herald.