Coral revival: Marine researchers in the Maldives have tested a new portable lab designed to restore coral reefs faster than ever before. The system, known as ReefSeed, fits inside a shipping container and can be used along any coastline without needing large power supplies or deep-sea diving teams. Created by collaborating scientists in Australia and the Maldives, the lab lets coral be spawned and grown within weeks instead of months. In its first full trial, it produced thousands of juvenile corals later placed across multiple reef sites. The project has shown that small island nations can potentially manage coral recovery on their own, offering renewed optimism for ecosystems threatened by warming seas.

Trail hero: A once-homeless dog rescued from a shelter has become an expert in tracking down lost pets in Whitchurch, England. His trainer, who runs a scent-trailing school, adopted him after seeing potential in his remarkably sharp sense of smell. What started as a playful habit of sniffing and searching soon turned into a career helping owners recover missing animals. Now he follows scents from items like toys or fur to locate everything from runaway pets to escaped zoo animals. His precision and patience have made him a trusted partner in countless rescues. Once facing a questionable future, this dog now spends his days proudly putting his powerful nose to good use helping others.

Flood shield: A new park in the Vine City neighbourhood of Atlanta, Georgia USA, helps keep the area dry during heavy rain and prevents flood damage to nearby homes. Built to function like a giant sponge, it absorbs stormwater in ponds and gardens that hold the water before slowly releasing it underground. When a major storm hits, the park fills with water but nearby homes stay dry. The design uses plants and soil instead of concrete to naturally manage flooding. Along with protecting the neighbourhood, it has open lawns, sports areas, and walking paths for residents to enjoy year-round. The project demonstrates that a city park can prevent flooding while still being a welcoming community space for everyone.

Laptop lifeline: A retired computer expert has made it his mission to give technology a second life. What started as a hobby repairing unwanted laptops now helps hundreds of people in Sarasota, Florida USA, who can't afford their own. He gathers discarded computers from local donors, installs new hardware, and restores each one with care. Many go to students, single parents, and workers hoping to learn new skills or to stay connected. Neighbours began calling him the Tech Fairy, a name that stuck as word of his generosity spread online. Each computer represents another step forward for someone in need, and for him, that simple impact is worth every hour spent on the project.

The future depends on what you do today. ~ Mahatma Gandhi

Nothing ever goes away until it has taught us what we need to know. ~ Pema Chdrn

Franklin Bridge Club at 20 Edinburgh Street, Pukekohe, is the place to learn and play the most popular mind sport (card game) in the World. Enjoy a warm welcome at our very friendly club where all ages are welcome. Enquiries to Maureen on 022 156 4511.

Volunteer Community Patrollers wanted – Can you spare a minimum of 4 hours per month? Full training provided. Clean driver licence required. Waiuku 021 030 4062, Pukekohe 021 138 0135

Volunteers needed for Drury Riding for the Disabled. No previous experience necessary, full training provided. Mon, Tue or Thu flexible hours. Work with horses, riders or in a support role. Call 021 727 390 or email admin@southaucklandrda.org

Free notices for not for profits helen@coffeenews.co.nz

1. Does the Hope Diamond have approximately 25, 35, or 45 carats?

2. Is a baby hedgehog called a hoglet, hedgie, or pup?

3. Dmitri Mendeleev invented this organized chart of the elements.

4. The musical Grease takes place in this decade.

5. What is the name of Elvis Presley's mansion in Memphis, Tennessee USA?

Speed surprise: Despite their bulky build, hippos can sprint faster than most people. On land, their short bursts of power let them outpace the average human, proving that appearances can be deceiving when it comes to nature's speedsters.

Bouquet beginnings: In early weddings, guests believed touching the bride's dress brought good luck, often leaving her surrounded by eager hands. To get away, she threw her flowers into the crowd, a fix that later became the familiar bouquet toss.

Fuzzy fruit: Before earning the name kiwifruit, New Zealanders called it the Chinese gooseberry, comparing its flavour to the gooseberries they already knew. The new name came later, to link the fruit with New Zealand's national bird, the kiwi.

Solar trick: In Hawaii USA, there's a brief moment when the sun stands directly overhead and every shadow disappears. Known as Lahaina Noon, it happens twice a year, turning statues, trees, and people into perfectly shadowless shapes.

Pharaoh pimples: Acne isn't just a modern nuisance. Tutankhamun reportedly struggled with it, and remedies were placed in his tomb to accompany him beyond death. Even pharaohs, it seems, faced the same skin worries as ordinary people today.

A pianist found a note from his wife: Gone Chopin, have Liszt, Bach in a minuet.

Never go fishing with a DJ. They always drop the bass.

Doctor: Have you had this problem before? Patient: Yes. Doctor: Well, you have it again.

What fairground ride is always made of iron? A ferrous wheel.

1. 45 2. Hoglet 3. Periodic Table 4. 1950s 5. Graceland