If you have WiiConnect24 activated you should find your Wii glowing blue today. Although it won't say you have any new messages (mine didn't) go to your mail and there should be a letter from Nintendo allowing you to update your system.

The news channel sort of works like the weather system, but it doesn't seem as thorough yet. No headlines from Brisbane, and only 5 from Australia. Hopefully there will be more and more stoties available from smaller areas.

also here