News Bulletin of 30 August 2026, 7am

Celebrating SA’s Finest Spirits
South Africa’s top spirits producers gathered at Fergusons Illovo last week, for the 2026 Investec Trophy Spirits Show Awards. Now in its eighth year, the competition attracted everything from major international brands to spirits crafted locally by passionate producers. Michael Fridjhon, chairman of the judging panel and an experienced wine and spirits judge, said the anonymous judging process made for a fascinating competition.Trophy winners, along with gold and silver medallists, were recognised following the rigorous judging process.

Sandton and Gauteng
Young Voices Against Racism
The Ahmed Kathrada Foundation has launched its 10th National Essay Writing Competition Against Racism, giving young South Africans a platform to speak out against racism, challenge injustice and imagine a more equal country. The 2026 theme, “365 Days of Justice: 10 Years of Youth Voices,” celebrates a decade of young people using writing to explore equality, inclusion and social justice.Young people aged 14 to 19 can choose a date from the foundation’s 2026 Racial Justice Calendar and explore its historical significance and relevance today, or write about one of its monthly themes. Entries can be submitted by email to essays@kathradafoundation.org.


Sandton and Gauteng
From Amanzimtoti to the World Stage
At just 19, Amanzimtoti swimmer Reuban Haylock has earned the opportunity to compete at the Aquatics World Cup in Central Asia in October. Since matriculating from Durban High School last year, Haylock has dedicated countless hours to training and improving his skills. Reuban swims for Seagulls Swim Club a club with a proud history of producing Olympians. Haylock hopes to follow in their footsteps and one day represent South Africa at the Olympics.
Reuban’s story shows how dedication and determination can turn a young athlete’s dreams into an opportunity to compete on the world stage.

South Africa
Financial Indicators
Your financial indicators for this hour:

The Rand is trading at 16.18 to the US Dollar, 0.00 to the British Pound, and 0.00 to the Euro.

Gold is trading at 4,457.22 dollars a fine ounce, Brent Crude Oil is at Error per barrel, and a Bitcoin will set you back 78,153.00.
Hydrogen Speed Record
British driver Andy Green has made history again, setting a new land-speed record in a hydrogen-powered car. The 64-year-old retired Royal Air Force pilot reached 406 mph Utah’s Bonneville Salt Flats — the fastest speed ever recorded by a hydrogen-powered vehicle. His car used two hydrogen-fuelled internal combustion engines producing a combined 1,600 bhp. Green already holds a legendary place in motoring history. In 1997, he became the first — and remains the only — person to break the sound barrier on land, reaching 763 mph in the jet-powered ThrustSSC.
Green’s achievement shows how innovation and determination can push the boundaries of speed while helping demonstrate the potential of hydrogen-powered technology.

SOUND
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