News Bulletin of 11 October 2026, 10am

Variations on a Theme, filmed in the Northern Cape, has been selected as South Africa’s entry for the 2027 Academy Awards in the Best International Feature Film category.The film stars 80-year-old Hettie Farmer, who made her acting debut in the leading role. It has already earned recognition at the International Film Festival Rotterdam, the Joburg Film Festival and other international festivals.The film must still make the Academy’s shortlist before it can become an official Oscar nominee.

Johannesburg Zoo is celebrating Senior Citizen Month by offering free entry throughout October to visitors aged 60 and older.Seniors can enjoy a relaxing day exploring the zoo, discovering wildlife and making special memories with family and friends. Visitors simply need to bring their ID for age verification to claim free entry.
This thoughtful initiative gives older residents an opportunity to enjoy nature, spend quality time with loved ones and experience a fun day out without worrying about entrance fees. It’s a wonderful way to celebrate seniors, encourage social connection and make the city’s attractions more accessible to everyone.

Cape Town’s firefighters have done the city proud, winning 21 medals at the Toughest Firefighter Alive competition in George.The team of 23 firefighters earned 17 gold, three silver and one bronze medal in individual and relay events designed to test their physical fitness, mental strength and ability to handle realistic firefighting challenges in full protective gear.More than 300 firefighters and 51 relay teams from across South Africa, Botswana and Namibia took part in the demanding competition, which saw temperatures rise above 34°C on one day.