Author: Debra Sauer

In the photo above, Estelle Fredericks in brown, along with some of the homeless individuals who took part in the clean-up action.

Some members of the George Homeless Community, under the supervision of the George Municipality Community Development and Environmental Services, took part in their second clean-up initiative in the CBD last week to challenge perceptions about the homeless community. The event was conducted in conjunction with local environmental services, emphasising a collaborative effort to promote community well-being and environmental stewardship.

According to Estelle Fredericks, Auxiliary Social Worker and Coordinator of Project Hope, the participants, including herself, picked up refuse in Market Street, moved down to Merriman Street, and then up Hibernia Street leading into York Street. Organised by Project Hope, the clean-up was designed to address and challenge prevailing misconceptions about the homeless population, particularly the stereotype that they are unwilling to work, Fredericks said. The project aims to reshape public perceptions by demonstrating the active role that individuals experiencing homelessness can play in their communities. Fredericks stated that this programme will be a monthly event going forward.

Many homeless individuals lack identification documents, which complicates their access to formal employment opportunities. As a result, they often engage in informal labour as a survival mechanism. The clean-up action not only sought to improve the environmental conditions of the CBD but also highlighted the dedication and work ethic of those living on the streets.

We kindly request that you refrain from giving money or handouts to individuals, including children and adults, who are begging on the streets. The George Municipality urges the residents of George to be part of the solution for those living on the streets by directing their donations to reputable organisations like the George Night Shelter or Kidstop. This approach is far more effective than providing direct assistance to people begging at street intersections, which has become a growing concern. Regrettably, providing money or handouts to individuals on the streets can perpetuate their homelessness and lead to negative long-term consequences.

If you wish to make a positive impact, you can get in touch with the following organisations:
• Freddy Trout, PASA (People Against Substance Abuse) at 068 487 4848.
• Jonathan Gelderbloem, YFC Kidstop at 044 874 2624 / 044 875 1794.
• Department of Social Services at 044 814 1920.
• Andre Olivier from Cremhog via email at andre.olivier1962@gmail.com.

Please note that living on the streets is not a criminal offence, and individuals cannot be arrested or relocated without their consent. The responsibility to assist people living on the streets mainly falls under the South African Police Service (SAPS) and the National Department of Social Development. George residents, business owners, and organisations interested in helping the homeless or sharing innovative ideas for their support are encouraged to participate in the monthly PLOTS meeting.

For more information, please contact Estelle Fredericks at 044 802 2000, extension 2015, during office hours.

Photo:

A group from the homeless community and Estelle Fredericks from the George Municipality Community Development section, taking a well-deserved break after picking up refuse in the CBD.

In the photo above all the learners who participated in the George Scholar Patrol Championship, teachers and judges after a successful day.

Follow the link to video: https://youtu.be/tMaZnSiWn_M

 The George Traffic Department proudly hosted this year’s scholar patrol competition at the George Junior Traffic Training and Road Safety Centre, highlighting the vital importance of child pedestrian safety during Transport Month. The event was marked by spirited competition, with Pacaltsdorp Primary School and Parkdene Primary School both clinching the coveted first prize.

The competition drew participants from six primary schools within the George Municipal area, including the winners, Parkdene and Pacaltsdorp Primary Schools. Heidedal Primary School, New Dawn Park Primary School, Mzoxolo Primary School in Lawaaikamp and Hoekwil Primary School.

The day began with a thorough squad inspection, where judges assessed teams on their uniforms and whistles before teams showcased their skills in a practical test. The fierce competition culminated in a tie, with Pacaltsdorp Primary and Parkdene Primary sharing the title of joint winners. Heidedal Primary School earned the silver medal for second place, while New Dawn Park Primary School secured the bronze.

George Traffic Chief, Janine Wells, Senior Traffic Officer Edwin Felix, Lulamile Lakata and Nina September from the Western Cape Department of Mobility and other officials from George Traffic, formed part of the championship and attended the prize-giving ceremony, celebrating the commitment of students and educators alike.

Medals were awarded by George Traffic Chief Janine Wells and Nina September from the Mobility Department of the Western Cape.

Wells said George Traffic Services in conjunction with the Mobility Department (road safety) wishes to thank all the schools that participated in the annual Scholar Patrol Championship and those who could not attend by contributing to road safety in their respective communities. “We are proud as a Municipality to witness how our young ambassadors showcased their skills and knowledge and added a bit of zest while competing but maintained their professionalism. Well done to all schools,” Wells said.

September, who also formed part of the panel of judges, said the scholar patrol programme, one of the oldest Road Safety Projects, clear aim is road safety for children. She said scholar patrols play a very important role in controlling traffic and safeguarding pedestrians, including learners who travel to and from school almost 200 times per year. “The knowledge of road safety will stay in these children’s minds for the rest of their lives”, September said.

Lakata, said they are part of this championship to support all schools. “The aim of the championship is safety and that is why  everyone in the competition are winners,” he said.

Photos:

This year the George Traffic Scholar Patrol Championship at the George Municipality Junior Traffic Training Centre had stiff competition, with two schools, Pacaltsdorp Primary School and Parkdene Primary School winning first prize.

Heidedal Primary School won silver in second place.

New Dawn Park Primary School came in third with bronze.

George Traffic Chief, Janine Wells and Nina September from the Mobility Department, Western Cape, handed medals to the New Dawn Park Primary School scholar patrol team.

Hoekwil Primary School doing their parade and inspection during the competition.

A practical test in progress at the George Scholar Patrol Championship.

George Tourism Impresses at IGTM 2024 in Lisbon: Showcasing Garden Route’s Golf and Leisure Experiences

George, Wilderness and Uniondale Tourism made a notable impact at the International Golf Travel Market (IGTM) in Lisbon which took place from 14 to 17 October 2024, presenting the best of George and the Garden Route’s golf and leisure offerings. Sharing space on the South African Tourism stand alongside prominent exhibitors, including Fancourt, the George representative promoted the destination’s world-class golf courses and diverse leisure activities to an international audience.

George, located in the heart of the Garden Route, is home to several of South Africa’s most acclaimed golf courses, including the iconic Fancourt, Oubaai, George and Kingswood, and the promotion at IGTM highlighted its position as the premier golfing destination of the country. The event provided an ideal platform to meet with international tour operators and travel professionals, fostering new relationships and strengthening existing partnerships.

Sharon House, Senior Tourism Officer of George Municipality, commented on the success of the event, saying, “The response to George and the Garden Route was overwhelmingly positive. Many in the trade were not previously aware of the breadth of offerings in the region, and those already selling it appreciated the refresher and updates on our fantastic golf courses. Additionally, they were introduced to the incredible range of leisure experiences, from culture and gastronomy to adventure activities. We noticed a growing trend where fewer tour operators focus solely on daily golf. Instead, they are combining golf with leisure, recognizing that South Africa is a diverse destination with so many extraordinary experiences that can’t be missed.”

George, Wilderness and Uniondale Tourism was thrilled to engage with travel professionals from across the globe, particularly in Europe, the US, and Asia. The feedback from international tour operators suggests a growing interest in combining golf with other leisure activities, creating dynamic packages that attract high-end travellers.

The event also fostered stronger collaboration between George, Wilderness and Uniondale Tourism and other key exhibitors, reinforcing the Garden Route’s position as a premier destination for world-class golf and diverse leisure experiences.

About Tourism in George Municipality: George, Wilderness and Uniondale Tourism is dedicated to showcasing the unique charm of the George region and the wider Garden Route as a leading destination for global travellers. With its award-winning golf courses, stunning natural landscapes, and diverse leisure offerings, George provides an unforgettable experience for visitors. By engaging with international markets through key events like IGTM, George, Wilderness and Uniondale Tourism aims to grow its presence and attract tourists seeking a balanced mix of relaxation, adventure, and world-class golf.

In the photo above Chris Jacobs from RWC Construction is on site in Hope Street with the upgrading of George South Stormwater Infrastructure,  Phase 1 post the 2021 floods. With him is Mayor Jackie von Brandis and Cllr Browen Johnson, MMC for Civil Engineering Services.

George Municipality started with upgrades following the November/ December 2021 disaster flood and received R63,3 million to implement the first phase of the upgrading of the George South stormwater infrastructure. Hope Street has been completed and re-opened, although work continues adjacent to Hope Street, and there will be various road reinstatement work in Merriman, Palgrave and Newton Streets.  The project includes the replacement of stormwater pipelines, junction boxes, catchpits, inlet structures, outlet structures, portal culverts and the construction of detention ponds. Two properties had to be expropriated to ensure that the works could proceed.

Construction commenced on 20 March 2024 and the anticipated completion date is 20 November 2024 despite the complexity of the project, as well as rainfall that have caused delays. Because of the significant impact of the project on residents and all road users, regular updates have been provided on the municipal social media platforms and by the Public Liaison Officer who liaises directly with the affected residents.

Detention Pond

The function of the new detention ponds is to attenuate the stormwater thereby reducing the outflow rate into the downstream municipal stormwater infrastructure.  Between rainfall events the detention ponds will be empty. Security fencing will be constructed around the detention ponds to improve public safety. The construction of the main detention pond between Hope and Newton Streets is approximately 71% complete, and the smaller detention pond adjacent to Hope Street is 90% complete.

Portal Culverts

A new 460 m long portal culvert that is 2.4m wide x 1.5m high is being constructed in the road reserve along Merriman, Palgrave and Newton Streets to replace the old culvert.

The culvert construction is approximately 82% complete and only 14 pre-cast culvert units remains to be placed in their final position in Palgrave Street.

Stormwater and pipelines

The existing stormwater pipelines will be cleaned and approximately 500m of new underground pipelines will be constructed. Approximately 79% has been completed and the manholes and catchpits are approximately 44% complete.

Roadworks and access

All road layer works and residential access driveways, will be reinstated along the alignment of the new stormwater culvert and pipelines.

Photos:

On site in Hope Street are Mayor Jackie von Brandis, Cllr Browen Johnson, MMC for Civil Engineering Services and Everton Manewil from RWC Construction. On the far left is Gerald Bewee from George Municipality Law Enforcement.

The main detention pond in Hope Street. The function of the new detention ponds is to slow down the stormwater outflow into the downstream municipal stormwater infrastructure.

In the photo above Dr Ivan Meyer, Minister of Agriculture, Apostle Abe De Celly (a beneficiary on the day), Cllr Melvin Roelfse, MMC of Community Development, Executive Mayor of George, Ald Jackie von Brandis, Cllr Marchell Kleynhans, MMC of Environmental Services, Mayor Andrew Stroebel from Garden Route District Municipality, Dr Mogale Sebopetsa, Head of the Department of Agriculture and Julian Williams from South African Breweries stand with the food that were being handed to beneficiaries on the day.

Uniondale buzzed with activity on Friday as the Department of Agriculture hosted an early celebration of World Food Day, on the rugby field, officially recognised on October 16. The event highlighted George Municipality’s efforts to combat hunger and improve access to nutrition for vulnerable residents.

During her address, Mayor of George, Jackie von Brandis emphasised the operation of 117 nutritional centres, including six in Uniondale, as well as community food gardens aimed at sustainable food sources. Minister Ivan Meyer was thanked for his contributions to agriculture, tourism, and economic development.

Plans for a pilot project to establish community food gardens in areas affected by illegal dumping were also announced, showcasing proactive efforts to address local challenges. They handed over food parcels to Early Childhood Develolpment centres, nutritional centres and churches. The event highlighted George Municipality’s efforts to combat hunger and improve access to nutrition for vulnerable residents.

During her address, Mayor of George, Jackie von Brandis emphasised the operation of 117 nutritional centres, including six in Uniondale, as well as community food gardens aimed at sustainable food sources. Minister Ivan Meyer was thanked for his contributions to agriculture, tourism, and economic development.

Plans for a pilot project to establish community food gardens in areas affected by illegal dumping were also announced, showcasing proactive efforts to address local challenges. They handed over food parcels to Early Childhood Develolpment centres, nutritional centres and churches.

Photos:

Cllr Jarques Esau, Ward Councillor of Uniondale  plants a tree at Mina Moo creche in Uniondale who was a beneficiary where they also have their vegetable garden.

Children from Mina Moo creche waters the tree that was planted at the creche. From left are Calem-Grace Blaauw and next to her is Riley van Rooyen. At the back looking on is Shakee nah Malambo (in pink). In the background you can see part of the vegetable garden.

In the photo above, Traffic Officers demonstrated to children how to read road signage and how to operate in traffic scenarios.

The George Municipality HIV & AIDS Sub-section and nutritional centres successfully conducted a holiday programme aimed at educating local children. The initiative, which reached 440 children from various communities, featured interactive sessions covering vital safety and health topics.

The programme included presentations from the George Fire Department, where participants learned essential fire safety practices. Topics discussed included fire prevention tips, the proper use of fire extinguishers, and emergency procedures in the event of a fire.

Additionally, the George Traffic Department provided insights on road safety. Children were educated on safe practices when approaching traffic signals and pedestrian crossings, as well as general road safety guidelines.

The George South African Police Service Community Policing Forum (SAPD CPF) addressed critical issues surrounding drug abuse. Discussions included the dangers associated with substance use, signs of addiction, available support resources, and strategies for making healthy life choices. The session also touched on the serious issue of human trafficking, emphasising the importance of awareness and prevention.

Aftercare holiday programme

The Community Development section also held an aftercare holiday programme held from September 23 to 27, offered a week of fun and learning for local children.

The festivities kicked off with an outing to the Marshmallow Garden Café where the children enjoyed a day of play on jungle gyms, swings, and a jumping castle, all while taking in the stunning views of the Outeniqua Mountains and observing fish in the dam.

On September 25, the programme featured an art session led by Anthony Noble, who encouraged children to express themselves creatively. His inspiring message reminded them, “You are the paintbrush in God’s hand; you can change your life to what you want it to be.” Additionally, an informative session was conducted on bullying and disability.

The following day, the children visited the Pacaltsdorp swimming pool all under the supervision of their aftercare teachers.

The programme concluded on September 27 at the Pacaltsdorp sports field, where children participated in team activities, including rugby, soccer, and netball, fostering teamwork.

Photos:

Officials from Community Development speaks to children during the holiday programme.

A fireman speaks to the children about fire safety.

 Fire personnel speak to children on fire safety