News Bulletin of 13 April 2026, 5pm

Headline 1
Free counselling support available at Pretoria North Crisis Centre
Story 1
Residents in Pretoria North are being encouraged to make use of free walk in counselling services offered by the Pretoria North Crisis Centre for anyone facing trauma, grief, stress or emotional distress.
The centre provides a safe and confidential space with trained counsellors available on weekdays from 10:00 to 12:00, along with after hours support via phone and WhatsApp. Officials say the aim is to make emotional support more accessible and ensure people do not have to face challenges alone.
Community members are also encouraged to share the service with those who may need help.
Story 1 category
Headline 2
Bloem learners build bright engineering futures
Story 2
Around 100 Bloemfontein high school learners have put their maths and science skills to the test in the South African Institution of Civil Engineering’s annual Bridge Building and Aqualibrium Water competitions.
Working in teams of three, they designed model bridges and water systems under real-world conditions, strengthening problem-solving skills and practical engineering knowledge.
The winners now move on to the national round, with SAICE saying the long-running contests continue to inspire interest in civil engineering careers and hands-on STEM learning.
Saica Bloemfontening chairperson Lesego Sehume
Story 2 category
Headline 3
67 Blankets event brings colour and creativity to Steyn City
Story 3
The 67 Blankets for Mandela Day movement is set to host a vibrant gathering at City Centre in Steyn City on 18 April, also marking World Creativity and Innovation Day.
Founded by Carolyn Steyn, the initiative brings together knitting groups from across Johannesburg to showcase handcrafted blankets made for people in need.
The event will feature colourful displays, entertainment and food stalls, with organisers saying it celebrates creativity, community and shared purpose. Entry is free but registration is required.
Story 3 category
Financial Indicators headline
Financial Indicators
Financial indicators
Your financial indicators for this hour:

The Rand is trading at 16.55 to the US Dollar, 22.24 to the British Pound, and 19.36 to the Euro.

Gold is trading at 4,730.54 dollars a fine ounce, Brent Crude Oil is at 95.20 per barrel, and a Bitcoin will set you back 71,602.00.
Teaser / Tailpiece headline
Norway to launch electric ferries that lift above the water
Teaser / Tailpiece story
Norway is set to introduce a fleet of electric hydrofoil ferries that lift above the water as part of a major shift towards zero emission transport along its coastline.
The vessels, developed by Swedish company Candela Technology and ordered by operator Boreal AS, use wing like foils to reduce drag and cut energy use significantly.
The ferries can reach speeds of up to 25 knots while offering quieter and smoother journeys with lower emissions.
The rollout is expected to improve commuter travel and boost sustainable tourism across Norway’s fjord regions.
Split analysis
Local: 170 words (67%), National: 85 words (33%), International: 0 words (0%)