ESKOM LOAD SHEDDING UPDATE:
Issued on 02 February 2024 @07:48
George will be affected as follows:
Friday 02/02/2024
14:00 – 16:30
22:00 – 00:30
Saturday 03/02/2024
06:00 – 08:30
22:00 – 00:30
Sunday 04/02/2024
06:00 – 08:30
14:00 – 16:30
Uniondale will be affected as follows:
Friday 02/02/2024
17:00 – 19:30
Saturday 03/02/2024
01:00 – 03:30
09:00 – 11:30
Sunday 04/01/2024
01:00 – 03:30
09:00 – 11:30
17:00 – 19:30
ISSUED ON BEHALF OF GARDEN ROUTE DISTRICT MUNICIPALITY, 01 FEBRUARY 2024
There were unprecedented levels of flood damage across much of the provincial road network during the 2023 winter. The most severe storm took place over the Heritage Day long weekend, but this was by no means the only damaging winter storm last year. The Montagu Pass and Seven Passes Road are two of the Western Cape roads that had to be closed after sustaining severe flood damage during flooding.
The Department of Infrastructure’s (DOI) first responsibility concerning damaged roads is to re-establish access so that all communities that rely on a particular road are reconnected to the wider road network. Once access has been established, the order of repairs is prioritised. First, by the amount of traffic a particular road carries, and then by the road’s critical economic importance. Once access has been established, road users may have to use long detours or alternative routes until other repairs are possible.
Given the current resource constraints and following the need to prioritise the order in which road repairs can be made, DOI has had to prioritise routes that carry higher traffic volumes and that are associated with greater economic activity than the Montagu Pass and the Seven Passes Road. Despite our efforts, it is not currently possible to provide a timeline for the reopening of the Montagu Pass or the Seven Passes Road.
Read the full media release here:
http://tinyurl.com/48pbj9m4
OVERGROWN PROPERTIES
Property owners are responsible for keeping their properties from becoming overgrown. The municipal bylaw stipulates those overgrown erven, including edges, must be cut and planted trees and shrubs pruned.
Reporting overgrown PRIVATE properties:
Please report overgrown private properties to the municipality’s Department Environmental Services on 044 802 2900 or emailing anontshikiza@george.gov.za or tabotha@george.gov.za Please provide details of why you consider it overgrown, the address of the overgrown site as well as your contact details. An inspection will take place within seven working days from when the report was officially logged with the department.
Determining whether a property is overgrown is at the discretion of the Environmental Health Practitioner, but generally it would be considered overgrown when grass is above knee height. Shrubbery size requirements are based on the growth form of particular plants and are considered on merit.
If the property is found to be overgrown, the property owner will be informed accordingly by registered post and instructed to clear the property within 14 to 21 work days from the date on the registered letter.
Once the notice period has expired, the property will be inspected again. If found to still be overgrown, a municipal contractor will be appointed and instructed to clear the property within five working days. The cost of clearing will be added to the property owner’s municipal account.
Please note properties belonging to provincial or national government departments are handled in the same way as private properties and should be reported as above.
Reporting overgrown MUNICIPAL properties:
Please report overgrown municipal properties to Parks and Recreation on 044 802 2900 or email hspies@george.gov.za (grassed properties) or edbooysen@george.gov.za
The municipality cuts grass on municipal properties according to a schedule and addresses areas of concern as necessary and according to the available resources.
George 35 000 l tanker in Overstrand
George Municipality Fire Services arrived in Overstrand late last night with a major pumper engine, tanker, our 35 000l water tanker and a skid unit BP1 land cruiser to assist in ongoing firefighting efforts that have led to residents evacuations in Pringle Bay. The unpredictable wind has meant that the area could have another two days of possible fires. There are currently four active fire lines in the area.
Early Morning Overstrand
The George team led by Station Commander Santa Sternsdorff include Firefighters, Johan Troskie, Brad Bussack, Louis Julies, Wilton Oktober, Jaendre Bernardo and Junior Firefighter Kenny Johnson. They are in attendance today at Skilpad klip with the weather in their favour and have managed to extinguish the line allocated to them. The team will move to Pringle Bay as soon as they have completed mopping operations. Chief Fire Officer Neels Barnard praised his crew for their willingness to assist.
Skilpad Klip Overstrand
Ald Leon Van Wyk noted that the spirit of co-operation with our fellow municipalities is something that George Municipality prides itself on. He wished all of the George Firefighters well and to take care of themselves.
Photo 1 – 1MW Solar Plant – From left Daniel Greeff (Acting Director of Electrotechnical Services), Cllr Nosicelo Mbete (Portfolio Councillor for Electrotechnical Services and Fleet Management), Alderman Leon van Wyk (Executive Mayor of George) and Dr Michele Gratz (Municipal Manager)
VIDEO LINK: https://youtu.be/6Lvy25Yj3TA
Photo 2 – Gwaiing WWTW 500kWp – From left: Alderman Leon van Wyk (Executive Mayor of George), Dr Michele Gratz (Municipal Manager), Daniel Greeff (Acting Director of Electrotechnical Services), Cllr Nosicelo Mbete (Portfolio Councillor for Electrotechnical Services and Fleet Management), Thabo Yiga (Project Manager: Electrotechnical Services and Edward Pienaar (Electrical Engineer at RWK Engineering).
In response to South Africa’s energy crisis, George Municipality is taking proactive steps by implementing photovoltaic (PV) plants, endorsed by the Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR), as the most feasible solution. The Municipality aims to further enhance energy resilience and reduce demand through ongoing initiatives.
Alderman Leon van Wyk, the Executive Mayor of George, late last year addressed the Western Cape Premier Alan Windi’s Digicon which focuses on energy, and provided insights into the progressive approach George Municipality is taking in its renewable energy initiatives. “In the initial phase of our renewable energy efforts,” Mayor Van Wyk said, “we are completing our 1-megawatt (MW) Solar PV Plant and a 500 kW Solar PV Plant for the Gwaiing Wastewater Treatment Works.”
He outlined the upcoming phases, saying, “Our next endeavour is a 12-megawatt Solar PV Installation, requiring the addition of a 20MVA substation. Technical aspects are being addressed to align with our commitment to sustainable energy solutions.”
The George Municipality has so far installed or is in the process of installing the following PV plants in George:
• 400-kilowatt peak (kWp) PV at the Outeniqua wastewater treatment facility was energized on 30 August 2023. Converting the electricity generated to a Rand value shows that George Municipality will be saving just over R1m per year with this plant. It consists of more than 700 PV panels. 8 x 50kW inverters are installed at various locations on the site. The plant can generate in the order of 680 MWh annually. The cost for this plant was R7.8m (VAT Inclusive), including a 24-month Operation and Maintenance period.
• 500 kWp at the PV Gwaiing Wastewater treatment facility is estimated to be completed in April 2024 and will provide a saving of over R1.4m per year. The plant will consist of approximately 910 PV Panels & 5 x 100kW inverters at a total cost of around R8.7m (Inclusive of VAT), including a 24-month Operation and Maintenance period. The plant is expected to generate in the order of 870 MWh per year.
• A solar system of 20 kilo watts peak (kWp) with a 30 kVA hybrid inverter and a 60-kilo watt hour (kWh) battery energy storage has been installed and commissioned at the Electrotechnical Services building. The system comprises of 38 solar panels. The building houses the critical control centre which handles the load management for the town, as well as the remote switching of the network, this system is further integrated to a diesel generator, which is required as further back-up, to ensure that the Control Centre remains fully powered 24/7. The battery technology for both sites is lithium iron phosphate (LiFePO4) with an average lifespan of 15 years. The projects are co-funded by the Department of Mineral Resources & Energy and the George Municipality.
• A solar system of 3 kilowatts peak with a 5 kVA hybrid inverter and a 10-kilowatt hour (kWh) battery storage has been installed and commissioned at the Blanco Drive-through Motor Vehicle Licence Renewal offices. This system comprises of 6 panels, each with a rating of 500 watts. The solar panels are set to prioritise charging the battery first, and when its full, the panels supply electricity to the building.
• 4 kWp PV + 10 kWh battery storage for the Tourism building operational since August 2023. A solar system comprising of 4 kilowatts peak panels, an 8 kVA hybrid inverter and a 10-kilowatt hour (kWh) was commissioned at the Tourism building. This included a four-vehicle carport structure (which provided shaded parking) on which the panels are mounted.
• 1 MWp solar farm (ERF464 – Municipal land). Converting the electricity generated to a Rand value shows that George Municipality will be saving just over R2.72m per year with this project. The 1 MWp PV Plant is estimated to be completed in March / April 2024 depending on the delivery of the special transformers that were ordered for this project. The plant will consist of approximately 1700 PV Panels & 10 x 110kW inverters at a total cost of around R25m and is expected to generate in the order of 1700 MWh per year. George uses at peak times up to 85MVA. This 1MWp PV Plant is the first phase of Solar PV plants for George that will feed directly into the Municipal grid. The Solar plants being installed in George will provide own generation and reduce Eskom energy consumption. This will also serve as large-scale generation to keep future dispatchable Battery Energy Storage Systems charged and will assist us in achieving our goal of reducing internal electricity costs and increasing sustainability.
• A 300-kilowatt peak (kWp) PV has been installed at the Main Municipal buildings in York Street and commissioned in September 2021. It comprises of 692 panels with five 50 kVA grid tied inverters. It’s purpose s to supply power to the Civic centre building, and export excess to the grid to supply nearby houses. The panels were mounted on carport structures and provides shaded parking to at least 50 vehicles. The cost of the project was R7,4 million (inclusive of VAT), and a 24-month Operation and Maintenance period.
What is next for George Municipality’s energy space?
The environmental authorisation process for the 12MWp PV planned in the industrial area near the N2 is nearing completion. The designs are in the final stages and the procurement process will be completed early in 2024. This plant would cover an area of approximately 10ha and may take up to 18 months to complete due to the complex grid connection which includes a 20MVA 11/66kV Substation. The estimated budget is in the order of R230 million. The municipality is also busy with the final stages of the procurement process for 3 x 1MW BESS installations at the 2 WWTW sites and at the Municipal main building. This would assist with reduction in the diesel costs for generators at the various installations.
Due to funding and process constraints, the Municipality has decided to proceed with the inception, concept and viability stages of various specific projects. This would then pave the road for project implementation.
These include a large scale Solar Farm, utility-scale Batteries, possible Wind Turbines, Hydro Generation and Hydrogen Gas Turbines. George Municipality has appointed specialists for the study and it is expected to be concluded before the end of this financial year and will provide an implementation plan based on the various technologies.
Future projects and funding
There are plans for an additional 30 MW Solar PV and a 100MWh Battery Energy Storage System (BES) to address load-shedding challenges and enhance energy resilience. However, funding remains a challenge and applications have been made to National Treasury for support through the Budget Facility for Infrastructure, unfortunately not approved due to current financial constraints. Alternatives being explored include sector funding, potentially through an Independent Power Producer (IPP) model.
The current Municipal Finance Management Act (MFMA) restrictions pose challenges in implementing long-term contracts of more than three years needed for such projects. Ongoing collaboration with Provincial Treasury and Western Cape Provincial Government aims to explore amendments to the MFMA, facilitating the realization of large-scale electricity provision projects. George Municipality remains committed to finding sustainable solutions to the current electricity crisis, contributing to both local and national energy resilience.
What has George Municipality implemented to assist residents during loadshedding?
Uninterrupted Power Supply (UPS) units at a cost of approximately R3.6 million have been installed at 57 of the main traffic intersections. These units, which are eco-friendly and energy-saving, automatically kick in and operate the traffic lights should the electricity supply be interrupted for any reason for at least 2- 4 hours, before the battery needs recharging.
The municipality has also expanded its solar power initiative for traffic lights, marking the successful installation of solar panels at eight (8) intersections in Pacaltsdorp. This comes on the heels of the initial pilot project in Knysna Road and the Witfontein Road intersection in Blanco. The solar panels are designed to charge batteries and supply excess energy to power traffic lights, contributing to sustainability and reducing the municipality’s carbon footprint. This initiative aligns with George Municipality’s commitment to green processes and resource efficiency.
George Municipality has also out of necessity, installed large generators at a number of our pump stations, sewer pump stations, various Water Treatment Works and Garden Route Dam, to keep water flowing and sewerage pump stations operational during loadshedding. All of the George municipal buildings have had energy-efficient lights installed, as well as over 111 energy-efficient air conditioners.
Over the past few years, a total of 5583 streetlights (Compact Fluorescent Lamps, High-Pressure Sodium and Mercury Vapour) have been replaced by light-emitting diodes (LED) at a cost of R14 501 513 (Municipal and EEDSM Funding). This phased-in approach will continue until we have replaced or retrofitted all streetlights to LED in the upcoming financial years. Not only do the LEDs reduce the amount of energy used, but they also have a longer lifespan and require less maintenance. The funding for this project is mostly sourced from the Energy Efficiency Demand Side Management program (EEDSM) managed by the Department of Mineral & Energy (DMRE).
Caption: Marius Wannenburg, Garden Route Media, Executive Mayor Leon van Wyk and “Ouma Sarie” aka Moses Williams.
Executive Mayor of George, Leon Van Wyk was honoured to receive a visit from creator of, and actor “Ouma Sarie” aka Moses Williams and Marius Wannenburg, owner of Garden Route Media recently. Ouma Sarie started out as a character in comedian Moses William’s repertoire during lockdown and is based on his grandmother, who was known for “calling a spade a spade” and being hilarious because she was just so downright honest. The idea for the television show started in 2022 and was commissioned by ETV in early 2023. The show which is now the No 1 Afrikaans show on TV with almost 2 million viewers over a weekend is filmed and produced at the Garden Route Media studio in George with local actors and local production staff.
Ald Van Wyk who has officially been invited to visit Ouma Sarie at the production studios soon, noted how the production of this show which continues to grow is expanding economic activity within the creative film sector. “With the Ouma Sarie television series being produced locally, with local actors and production company, this augurs well for the future. The municipality continues to explore how light industry can be attracted to George to provide much needed employment opportunities.”
Marius Wannenburg who has years of experience as a producer, editor and cameraman has a passion for developing people through not only training them but by also creating job opportunities through his company Garden Route Media which he started in 2020. He continues to work hard to attract quality television and film production products to George. “Ouma Sarie was one of those homegrown products that just took off with a three-year signing by ETV in 2023 and the youngsters I trained a few years ago and who had no formal qualifications are now working as fully fledged production crew on this project. We have had 27 30-minute episodes broadcast already and the current viewer figures are at approximately 2 million over a weekend, which is phenomenal for this homegrown production that has clearly struck a chord with the viewers of South Africa.” Marius added that the success of Ouma Sarie is absolutely repeatable, and he thanked George Municipality for the role played in expediting the administration that takes place in the background to approve filming permits.
“Just as George is becoming a highly sought-after destination for events, similarly the filming industry is increasingly choosing George as a destination of choice. In 2021 Council approved a Filming Policy to establish a framework for filming within municipal boundaries. The policy sets out the processes and responsibilities of the municipality to expedite filming authorisations and permitting. Our beautiful City offers a wide variety of location offerings. The natural surrounding from ocean to mountain, forests, rivers, lakes as well as the built environment, are ideal for many different film shoots, from basic social media videos to advertisements, films and drone shots,” said Lauren Waring, George Municipal Director for Planning and Development
Besides the destination offering, George also offers producers with the facilities and service providers required by production companies. George has a strong support base of businesses to the industry, and provides easy access by road or air, to easily bring in any service or equipment that is not currently in George. Film also offers an opportunity for job seekers and SMME’s in the industry to learn and grow the industry in the area and various filmmakers and producers present training and funding opportunities within the municipal area for creative residents of George and surrounds.
George Municipality is amending the current By-Law Liquor Trading Days and Hours and has advertised a notice requesting feedback from the public on 11 January 2024 in the George Herald. The amended By-law deals with the trading days and hours during which the holder of a liquor license may sell liquor and for related matters.
The draft By-Law Notice has been published in the George Herald, on the Municipal Website and municipal social media sites. The amended By-law document is available on our website, follow this link https://www.george.gov.za/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/AnnexureA-GeorgeMunicipalityBy-lawonLiquorTradingDaysandHours.pdf copies have been placed at all public libraries in George and at the Law Enforcement Offices, Cathedral Street.
Feedback is required to reach Ms Lee-Anne Meiring, Community Safety, P.O. Box 19, George, 6530 or via e-mail with subject line “Comment to Liquor Trading By-law” to lameiring@george.gov.za and copied to post@george.gov.za before 12 February 2024. Any person who is unable to write, can submit their input, verbally to the Council’s offices where they will be assisted by a staff member to put their comments in writing. Enquiries can be directed to Ms Lee-Anne Meiring (044- 801 6350).
Once the input has been received from the public and addressed, the final by-law then goes back to Council for approval.
George Municipality has systematically over the past two years been working with over 50 000 consumers to achieve a 100% update of all Prepaid Meters (TID PROCESS). The municipality has less than 6400 Meters to update and is currently at an 87% achievement rate. The STS system uses a very high security algorithm which needs to be updated before November 2024 in order for the meters to correctly function. If your meter is not updated before the deadline, you will not be able to recharge your prepaid meter with the new tokens and will not have power (once your units run out). The municipality is now busy in areas Thembalethu, Conville, Wilderness and Touwsranten with field staff and contractor teams going out weekly to do inspections and assist with the updates.
HOW DO YOU KNOW IF YOUR METER HAS BEEN UPDATED
1. If you have been visited by one of our teams, a pink sticker will be displayed on your meter.
2. If you followed the KEYCHANGE Token process you are aware your meter has been updated.
3. If you remain unsure, please contact Ontec for verification that your meter has been updated on 044 873 5474.
IF YOUR METER IS NOT UPDATED YOU WILL RECEIVE WITH YOUR NEXT PURCHASE – A CREDIT TOKEN, AND TWO KEYCHANGE TOKENS which must be inserted in below sequence:
1. FIRST INSERT ALL old or unused tokens. The meter will NOT accept your old or unused tokens, once you enter the key change token and no reimbursement can be made on these tokens.
2. Enter the KEY CHANGE TOKEN 1 , wait for meter to accept it and then enter KEY CHANGE TOKEN 2, wait for the meter to accept it.
3. INSERT your INDIGENT TOKEN if you have one.
4. INSERT your NEW CREDIT TOKEN.
5. Should your meter not accept the Key Change Tokens, it will become unresponsive. Please call 044 801 9222 for assistance during working hours only.
Verification or Queries – If you receive an extra token and you are unsure what to do?
Customers may phone the George Municipality on 044 801 9222 or Ontec on 044 873 5474 for verification, for response to queries OR to request that their software be addressed. Please note that all municipal and/or Ontec officials carry identification cards with a photograph and their ID number as well as a copy of a verification letter explaining the purpose of their visit.
From 1 February to 2 April 2024 lifeguards will be on duty at ALL beaches that fall under George Municipal jurisdiction ONLY on Saturdays, Sundays, and Public Holidays, between 9am – 5pm.
Conville Public Swimming Pool
Lifeguards are available at the Conville Public Swimming Pool from 1 February 2024 to 2 April 2024, Monday to Friday 1pm – 4 pm and Saturdays, Sundays and Public Holidays from 9am – 12pm and 1pm – 4pm with 2 Lifeguards on Duty and one Lifeguard on standby.
Uniondale Public Swimming Pool
Lifeguards are available at the Uniondale Public Swimming Pool from 1 February 2024 to 2 April 2024, Monday to Sunday and Public Holidays from 10am – 6pm with 2 Lifeguards on Duty.
As of 3 April 2024 until 1 December 2024, there will be no lifeguards deployed at the beaches and swimming pools.
1. Beach Safety
Beaches and swimming pool that fall under the George Municipality’s jurisdiction
Wilderness Main Beach
Wilderness Lagoon
Wilderness Steps
Wilderness Lientjiesklip
Victoria Bay Beach
Gwaing River Mouth Beach and Day Camp
Herold’s Bay Beach and Tidal pool
Conville Municipal swimming pool
Uniondale Municipal swimming pool
Essential phone numbers to keep close this summer
The National Sea Rescue Institute (NSRI) Station 23 at Wilderness Beach supports the municipality. The NSRI can be reached on 082 990 5955.
George Fire Department FIRE 044 803 6311
TOLL FREE DISASTER NUMBER: 087 152 9999
George Municipality AFTER HOURS 044 803 6300
How can people keep themselves safe and protected on the beach and in the water?
Learn to swim: Learning to swim is the best defence against drowning. Teach children to swim at an early age. Children who are not taught when they are very young tend to avoid swim instruction as they age, probably due to embarrassment. Swimming instruction is a crucial step in protecting children from injury or death.
Swim near a lifeguard: statistics show that the chance of drowning at a beach without lifeguard protection is almost five times greater than drowning at a beach with lifeguards.
Swim with a buddy: Many drownings involve single swimmers. When you swim with a buddy if one of you has a problem the other may be able to help, including signalling for assistance from others. At least have someone onshore watching you.
Check with the lifeguards: Lifeguards work continually to identify hazards that might affect you. They can advise you on the safest place to swim, as well as places to avoid. They want you to have a safe day. Talk to them when you first arrive at the beach and ask them for their advice.
Use sunscreen and drink water: Everyone loves a sunny day, but exposure to the sun affects your body. Without sunscreen, you can be seriously burned. The sun’s rays can also cause life-long skin damage and skin cancer. To protect yourself always choose “broad spectrum” sunscreen rated from 15 to 50 SPF, or clothing that covers your skin, and reapply sunscreen regularly throughout the day. The sun can also dehydrate you quickly. Drink lots of water and avoid alcohol, which contributes to dehydration. Lifeguards treat people for heat exhaustion and heat stroke from time to time. If you feel ill, be sure to contact a lifeguard.
Obey Posted Signs and Flags: It sometimes seems as though there are too many signs, but the ones at the beach are intended to help keep you safe and inform you about local regulations. Read the signs when you first arrive and please follow their direction. Flags may be flown by lifeguards to advise of hazards and regulations that change from time to time. You can usually find informational signs explaining the flags’ meaning or just ask the lifeguard. ONLY Swim Between the flags. They indicate the swimming Area. Do not swim if there are no Lifeguards on duty.
Keep the Beach and Water Clean: Nobody likes to see the beach or water littered with trash. Even in places where beach cleaning services pick up trash daily, it may linger on the beach for hours, causing an unsightly mess and threatening the health of birds and animals. Broken glass also holds a great risk of injury to beach users. Do your part. Pick up after yourself and even others. Everyone will appreciate you for it.
Learn Rip Current Safety: 80% of rescues by lifeguards at ocean beaches are caused by rip currents. These currents are formed by surf and gravity because once surf pushes water up the slope of the beach, gravity pulls it back. This can create concentrated rivers of water moving offshore. Some people mistakenly call this an undertow, but there is no undercurrent, just an offshore current. If you are caught in a rip current, don’t fight it by trying to swim directly to shore. Instead, swim parallel to shore until you feel the current relax, then swim to shore. Most rip currents are narrow and a short swim parallel to shore will bring you to safety.
Enter Water Feet First: Serious, lifelong injuries, including paraplegia, occur every year due to diving headfirst into unknown water and striking the bottom. Bodysurfing can result in a serious neck injury when the swimmer’s neck strikes the bottom. Check for depth and obstructions before diving, then go in feet first the first time; and use caution while bodysurfing, always extending a hand ahead of you. Be careful even at the swimming pool.
Wear a Life Jacket when on Watercrafts: Some 80% of fatalities associated with boating accidents are from drowning. Most involve people who never expected to end up in the water but fell overboard or ended up in the water when the boat sank. Children are particularly at risk and should wear life jackets whenever they are aboard boats.
2. Public Swimming pools
Conville Public Swimming Pool
Lifeguards are available at the Conville Public Swimming Pool from 1 February 2024 to 2 April 2024, Monday to Friday 1pm – 4 pm (with 2 Lifeguards on Duty) and Saturdays, Sundays and Public Holidays from 9am – 12pm and 1pm – 4pm with 2 Lifeguards on Duty and one Lifeguard on standby.
Uniondale Public Swimming Pool
Lifeguards are available at the Uniondale Public Swimming Pool from 1 February 2024 to 2 April 2024, Monday to Sunday and Public Holidays from 10am – 6pm with 2 Lifeguards on Duty.
The following safety precautions are to be adhered to:
• Do not dive into a pool you have never been in before
• Listen to the lifeguards
• Do not swim alone
• Do not let small children swim in the big pool.
• No diving. No pushing
• Children under the age of 12 must be escorted by an adult (Please note that the small pool at Conville is closed for repairs)
• No weapons
• No alcohol is allowed at the swimming pools
• Right of admission reserved.
The tariffs for entry into both Conville and Uniondale swimming pools are as follows:
Non-Sporting events:
• Entrance fee: Adult (Including children 16years and above): R 15, 00 per person
• Children (15 years & under): R 5, 00 per child
• Swimming tuition: per person: R 11, 00 (Both adult and children)
Sporting events:
Hire of Conville Swimming Pool:
o Galas for Adults: R1 500,00 / full day
o R 800, 00 / half day
o Deposit R1 500, 00 (Refundable)
o Floodlights: R 300, 00 / hour
o Touchpads: R 4 000, 00 / day
o PLEASE NOTE: Entry fee to the Swimming Pools is VAT INCLUSIVE
For enquiries/bookings: Conville Swimming Pool
Tel: 044 801 9488
Contact persons:
Mr G de Villiers Email: gbdevilliers@george.gov.za – Sport Development Assistant
Ms LY Botha Email lybotha@george.gov.za – Sport Development Officer
Ms S Velembo Email svelembo@george.gov.za
For enquiries/Bookings: Uniondale Swimming Pool
Tel: 044-8019020 / 044 7521024 (Uniondale Office)
A portion of the Central Business District (CBD) area is experiencing a power outage.
The following streets are affected by the power outage, York, Cathedral, Hibernia and Mead Street in the CBD.
An electrician has been dispatched for further investigation. We will send out an update as soon as we have more information available.
George municipality apologises for the inconvenience.
After the suspension of loadshedding from midnight on Friday until 08:00 today, the consistent improvement in generation performance and lower than anticipated electricity demand has enabled Eskom to reduce loadshedding from Stage 2 to Stage 1 from 12:20 today until 16:00 on Sunday. Eskom will communicate should any significant changes occur and will provide an update for the week ahead outlook tomorrow afternoon.(Eskom)
George will be affected as follows:
Sunday 21/01/2024
12:00 – 14:30
Uniondale will be affected as follows:
Sunday 21/01/2024
15:00 – 17:30
ROTATIONAL SWITCH ON AFTER LOADSHEDDING -reduce power to avoid network tripping
Consumers are reminded to PLEASE use electricity sparingly after power returns. Please do not switch high-usage equipment on immediately after Load shedding.
Consumers are urged to turn off high-usage equipment and where possible to not switch on appliances such as stoves and kettles for at least 30 minutes after load shedding is scheduled to return. This will reduce the risk of overload tripping on the network.
Reporting power outages
Please do not phone the after-hours number or the Electrotechnical Department to report that you have no power immediately after load shedding is scheduled to be lifted. Please be aware of the rotational switching on i.e. areas are switched on one by one and not all at the same time to avoid overloading the system. Please wait at least 30 minutes before reporting no power. The Electrotechnical Directorate will be aware of a possible substation trip that needs to be sorted out.
Receive Eskom loadshedding notifications by downloading the free EskomSePush app from Google Play Store at https://sepush.co.za/
Due to the return to service of a generation unit and the reduction of partial load losses, which resulted in an improvement in generation capacity, Stage 2 loadshedding (instead of Stage 3 loadshedding as previously communicated) will continue to be implemented until 05:00 on Sunday, 21 January 2024. Thereafter, Stage 1 loadshedding will be implemented from 05:00 until 16:00 on Sunday. A further update will be provided on Sunday afternoon.
George will be affected as follows:
Friday 19/01/2024
22:00 – 00:30
Saturday 20/01/2024
06:00 – 08:30
Sunday 21/01/2024
04:00 – 05:00
12:00 – 14:30
Uniondale will be affected as follows:
Saturday 20/01/2024
01:00 – 03:30
09:00 – 11:30
Sunday 21/01/2024
15:00 – 17:30
ROTATIONAL SWITCH ON AFTER LOADSHEDDING -reduce power to avoid network tripping
Consumers are reminded to PLEASE use electricity sparingly after power returns. Please do not switch high-usage equipment on immediately after Load shedding.
Consumers are urged to turn off high-usage equipment and where possible to not switch on appliances such as stoves and kettles for at least 30 minutes after load shedding is scheduled to return. This will reduce the risk of overload tripping on the network.
Reporting power outages
Please do not phone the after-hours number or the Electrotechnical Department to report that you have no power immediately after load shedding is scheduled to be lifted. Please be aware of the rotational switching on i.e. areas are switched on one by one and not all at the same time to avoid overloading the system. Please wait at least 30 minutes before reporting no power. The Electrotechnical Directorate will be aware of a possible substation trip that needs to be sorted out.
Receive Eskom loadshedding notifications by downloading the free EskomSePush app from Google Play Store at https://sepush.co.za/
You can open a new municipal account online or in person.
Please note:
• A copy of the property deed search is the only type of proof of ownership that will be accepted – please ask the attorney who handled your property transfer to provide you with this document.
• If you are opening a service account on behalf of someone else, a permission letter from the owner must accompany the application as well as a certified copy of the owner’s ID and your ID.
• A tenant cannot open a service account, only the registered owner who is responsible for the full payment of the statement each month. The owner must invoice his/her tenant.
• A deposit is payable before your application can be processed.
• You incur costs on your property from the date it is registered in your name at the deeds office.
• You will receive your first account about a month after the account was opened, which is payable on the 15th of every month.
• If you sell your property, you are liable for the account up until the last day the property is registered in your name. A final account will be sent to you once all administration has been finalised.
• You can use a valid identification document (ID), passport or driving licence as identification.
Opening a service account online:
• Send an email to accounts@george.gov.za requesting the procedures of opening a service account online.
• You will receive a return email from a consultant, who will take you through the process step-by-step.
• Please take note of the documents that would be required as listed below, depending on the type of service account you are opening.
Opening an account in person:
• Visit the Finance Hall on the ground floor of the George Municipality Main Building (entry via parking lot behind the building, accessed from Victoria and Progress Streets) and apply in person to open the account.
• Bring with you all the documents specified below, depending on the type of service account you are opening.
• Report at the Information Desk from where you will be referred to a consultant who will open the account and provide you with the amount deposit payable.
• Pay your deposit at the cashier and return the cashier’s slip to the consultant who will complete your application.
• You will receive a copy of the contract document you signed as part of the account opening process, which will include your account number.
The following documents are required to open an account:
Single or multiple owners:
• Copy of property deed as proof of ownership
• ID document(s) of all owners
• If opening for someone else, a letter of permission to open an account on the owner’s behalf and own ID
• Proof of payment of applicable deposit
Trust:
• Copy of property deed as proof of ownership
• J246 (letter from the Master of the Supreme Court)
• ID documents of all trustees of the trust
• VAT number
• If opening for someone else, a letter of permission to open an account on the owner’s behalf and own ID
• Proof of payment of applicable deposit
Closed Corporation (CC)
• Copy of property deed as proof of ownership
• CK2 (Certificate of Founding Statement)
• VAR103 (VAT registration and number)
• Identity documents of the owner(s) of the CC
• If opening for someone else, a letter of permission to open an account on the owner’s behalf and own ID
• Proof of payment of applicable deposit
Public Company (Pty) Ltd
• Copy of property deed as proof of ownership
• CM29 (Register of Directors)
• CM1 (Certificate of Incorporation)
• CM46 (Certificate to Commence Business)
• VAR103 (VAT registration and number)
• Identity document of the director of the company
• If opening for someone else, a letter of permission to open an account on the owner’s behalf and own ID
• Proof of payment of applicable deposit
Banking Details
Account Name: George Municipality
Account Type: Public Sector Cheque Account
FNB Bank Account Number: 62869623150
Branch Code: 210554
Swift Code: FIRNZAJJ
Reference: Deposit Erf #### (insert erf number of the property for which the account is being opened)
VAT nr: 4630193664
Send proof of payment to: payments@george.gov.za
Please take note that the Electro-Technical Services telephones are currently out of service.
A technician has been dispatched to attend to the issue,
Residents are urged to please make use of the WhatsApp line @ 067 350 3295
We have switched off the power supply in De Beer, Versveld, and Bruce Str in the Borchards area to continue repair work today. An ETR will be communicated soon.
The George Municipality thanks its residents for their patience.
Mini substation Courtney
The Mini substation Courtney, remains off while the team is busy attending to the faulty substation. Part of Courtney and Iron road are affected. The substation will be replaced.
ETR is 12- 16 hours
Issued by George Municipality, 18 January 2024, 11:02
GO GEORGE was informed by the contractors working on the Thembalethu bridge that construction work will switch over to the opposite lane today.
As a result, Stop V Ncamazana 540 just before the bridge (direction into Thembalethu) will be moved back towards town, at least 100 metres, town side of the intersection with Main Street.
🔹Passengers using R16 and wanting to transfer to 18A or B to travel into Thembalethu, will now need to walk down Nelson Mandela Blvd from the Golf stop to the new, temporary location of Stop V Ncamazana 540.
🔹Passengers using R15 or R18, wanting to transfer to 18A or B, will have to do so at the new temporary location of Stop V Ncamazana 540.
GO GEORGE communication champions will be in the area to assist passengers.
GO GEORGE was informed by the contractors working on the Thembalethu bridge construction that work will switch over to the opposite lane today.
This will impact traffic in Nelson Mandela Blvd and passengers should expect delays on all routes travelling to and from the Parkdene area, especially going home from work and school.
GO GEORGE apologises for the inconvenience which is out of our control. Let’s all be patient while this essential process is being executed.
GO GEORGE was informed by the contractors working on the bridge construction that work will switch over to the opposite lane during off-peak traffic today.
GO GEORGE anticipates delays on the routes into Thembalethu during the switch-over. This is out of our control and we ask passengers to be patient while this essential process is being executed.
