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Author: Ntobeko Mangqwengqwe

Successful Completion of Token Identifier (TID) Rollover in George

George Municipality is pleased to announce the successful completion of the Token Identifier (TID) Rollover across all areas within the George Municipal precinct, including Uniondale, Haarlem, Wilderness, and surrounding areas.

Reports indicate that even areas serviced by Eskom have largely completed the TID rollover process. However, a few meters with irregularities, such as outdated meters or instances of tampering, have been identified. These will be addressed on a case-by-case basis.

With the 24 November 2024 deadline for all prepaid users in South Africa to switch to Key Revision Number (KRN 2) approaching, the Municipality assures residents that nearly all users in the George, Municipal area have been successfully updated. The remaining exceptions are limited to the identified irregularities, which are being managed.

The Municipality commends the officials and stakeholders involved such as Ontec and Eskom in this rollout for their dedication to the campaign, which included a robust communication strategy launched in 2022. Their meticulous planning and execution ensured the prompt completion of this important initiative. A special thanks is extended to the residents of George for their cooperation throughout the process.

Should residents encounter issues with purchasing electricity after 24 November 2024, they are encouraged to contact the Municipality or Ontec for prompt assistance.

Enquiries:
George Municipality: 044 801 9222
Ontec: 044 873 5474

Cancellation of Meeting on Rosemoor Synthetic Athletic Track

The public meeting regarding the progress of the construction of the Rosemoor Synthetic Athletic Track and associated works has been cancelled until further notice.

The meeting was originally scheduled for Wednesday, 20 November 2024, at the Rosemoor Civic Centre and was intended for residents of Wards 5, 6, and 17.

We apologise for any inconvenience caused and will provide an update as soon as a new date is confirmed.

Urgent Public Notice: Garden Route Dam Pumpstations Suction Pipe Construction work

DESCRIPTION:

The Contractor will cut into the pipes feeding the Garden Route dam raw water pump stations to install cross-connection pipework supply lines inside the tunnel.

CONSTRUCTION PERIOD:

19 – 20 November 2024

SERVICE DISRUPTION:

The potable water supply to George Municipality’s residents should not be disrupted while the construction work is carried out during the period above. Further communication will follow should circumstances change.

TRAFFIC IMPACT:

No impact on traffic.

ACCESS TO SITE:

Access to the construction site will be strictly controlled. In accordance with the Occupational Health and Safety Act, no members of the public will be allowed in the construction area.

PROJECT ENQUIRIES: Mr Andre Scheepers – 044 801 9492 (Technical)

The George Municipality apologises for any inconvenience and appeals to the public to be patient and exercise caution throughout the construction period. Thank you for your understanding and cooperation.

Preventing Drowning Tragedies

Stay safe around water this festive season by following these practical drowning prevention strategies:
• Learn life-saving skills, including the basics of swimming and cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR).
• Know who to call in an emergency.
• Fence ponds, pools and water storage: Install a four-sided isolation fence at least 1.2m high with a self-closing and self-latching gate to control access to bodies of water.
• Be on the lookout. Drownings happen quickly and quietly. Never leave children to supervise each other. A responsible adult must always watch out for children near a pool, Jacuzzi, or natural body of water.
• Stay within arm’s length of children under four around water.
• Don’t drink or be distracted by work, phone calls, technology, or anything else that may absorb your attention when watching children.
• Fit a pool net immediately after swimming and replace it every time.
• Don’t rely on armbands, floating toys, inner tubes, or devices to keep children safe.
• Teach children to swim, but never leave them unsupervised around water.
• Consider installing alarms. Various water alarms, such as a floating pool alarm or external security beams, can be installed to add to the precautions of fencing and supervision.
• Beware of drains. Children must be kept away from pool or Jacuzzi drains as hair or limbs could become trapped in the suction.
• Toilets, bathtubs, water features, fish tanks, pet water bowls and buckets. Children can drown wherever there is access to water, and a baby can drown in just 2.5cm of water.

EMERGENCY NUMBERS:
• George Fire and Rescue: 044 801 6311
• Toll-Free Disaster Number: 087 152 9999
• NSRI (National Sea Rescue Institute): 082 990 5955 | 087 094 9774

Stay alert and make water safety a priority to prevent drowning tragedies.

Update: Pipe Burst on Kaaimans Blvd, Kraaibosch Manor

UPDATE: PUBLIC NOTICE – Pipe Burst on Kaaimans Blvd, Kraaibosch Manor
Issued by George Municipality, 15 November 2024 @20:20

A pipe burst has occurred at 24 Kaaimans Blvd in Kraaibosch Manor. To assist affected residents, a water tanker will now roam the affected area. Please note that a standpipe, as previously communicated, will no longer be provided.

The estimated time for repair remains 6 hours.

We apologize for the inconvenience and appreciate your patience as our team works to resolve the issue.

***

Issued by George Municipality, 15 November 2024 @20:05

A pipe burst has occurred at 24 Kaaimans Blvd in Kraaibosch Manor. To assist affected residents, a standpipe will be installed on one of the fire hydrants within the estate. The exact location of the standpipe will be communicated shortly.

The estimated time for repair is 6 hours.

We apologise for the inconvenience and appreciate your patience while the repairs are being carried out.

Temporary Closure of Garden Route Dam for Television Production

The George Municipality has temporarily closed the Garden Route Dam, including access for hikers and bikers, to accommodate filming for a television production.

The closure is in effect on Friday, 15 November 2024, and Saturday, 16 November 2024. The dam will reopen to the public on Sunday, 17 November 2024.

We apologise for any inconvenience caused and appreciate your understanding.

UPDATE: Uncedo Taxi Association March Concludes Smoothly

Issued by George Municipality, 13 November 2024 @13:30

The Uncedo Taxi Association’s march has concluded without any incidents. The association presented their petition to the Municipality and Provincial Traffic authorities before dispersing peacefully. Traffic flow has now returned to normal.

Thank you to the law enforcement agencies for their role in monitoring the march, and to the public for their patience and cooperation.

 

George Municipality Prepared for Today’s Planned Uncedo Taxi Association March

Issued by George Municipality, 13 November 2024 @08:00

The George Municipality, in coordination with the South African Police Service (SAPS) and other law enforcement agencies, is fully prepared for today’s march organized by the Uncedo Taxi Association.

A coordinated law enforcement presence is in place throughout the march to ensure public safety and minimize disruptions to traffic and business operations.

The Uncedo Taxi Association has formally applied for permission to conduct the march, during which they intend to deliver a petition to both the Municipality and the Provincial Traffic Department.

EXPECT TRAFFIC FLOW INTERRUPTIONS AND DELAYS

As of 07:50 this morning, dozens of taxis have departed from Thembalethu and are proceeding toward the Municipality. Motorists should expect traffic flow interruptions and delays due to a convoy of approximately 150 taxis along Nelson Mandela Boulevard, York Street, and intersecting roads.

GO GEORGE: DELAYS EXPERIENCED DUE TO TAXI MARCH

Although GO GEORGE services were disrupted earlier this morning, all routes are currently active with delays currently experienced in Nelson Mandela Boulevard. Delays are expected to expand to more routes once the march reaches York Street.

The Municipality anticipates the marchers will reach Municipal offices by approximately 09:00.

GO GEORGE Service Alert – Only Main Routes Covered

13 Nov @ 05:00

Due to minibus taxis not operating today, no GO GEORGE drivers using staff transport are able to get to the depot.

The following main routes will be covered until further notice, while community routes will be phased in as more drivers become available:
Routes 1A; 1B; 1C; 1E, 2, 7, 9, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 18, 24, 53, 53B, 56, 60.

Tembalethu routes 10 and 18A will be delayed.

Passengers who can arrange alternative transport are strongly advised to do so.
GO GEORGE apologises for the inconvenience and calls on employers to be understanding when staff arrive late for work.

***

GO GEORGE-DIENSKENNISGEWING – SLEGS HOOFROETES GEDEK
13 Nov @ 05:00

Weens minibustaxi’s wat nie vandag werk nie, kan geen GO GEORGE-bestuurders wat personeelvervoer gebruik, by die depot uitkom nie.

Die volgende hoofroetes sal tot verdere kennisgewing gedek word, terwyl gemeenskapsroetes ingefaseer sal word namate meer bestuurders beskikbaar word:
Roetes 1A; 1B; 1C; 1E, 2, 7, 9, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 18, 24, 53, 53B, 56, 60.

Tembalethu-roetes 10 en 18A sal vertraag word.

Passasiers wat alternatiewe vervoer kan reël, word sterk aangeraai om dit te doen.
GO GEORGE vra om verskoning vir die ongerief en doen ‘n beroep op werkgewers om begrip te hê wanneer personeel laat opdaag vir werk.

SERVICE ALERT: Taxi March Impact on GO GEORGE

GO GEORGE SERVICE ALERT:
TAXI MARCH ON WEDNESDAY MORNING – DELAYS AND HIGHER DEMAND FOR BUS SERVICES EXPECTED

Please take note of expected delays and a higher demand for bus services on Wednesday morning, 13 November 2024 due to a march of the local taxi association.

Passengers are encouraged to take an earlier bus or arrange for alternative transport if possible, and to please be patient as more passengers than usual may need to use the bus service.

Please phone the GO GEORGE CALL CENTRE on 0800 044 044 for support and information regarding the situation, follow the GO GEORGE Facebook page or join our WhatsApp Channel for up-to-date service alerts by clicking on this link:
https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VanooYO002T09OyaKM3x for the latest updates.

Start of the Traditional Summer Initiation Season in George

The initiates’ tents structures will be visible from the N2

The summer season for Ulwaluko, a traditional initiation rite practised mostly by the amaXhosa, amaHlubi, and Basotho communities in George, officially began on 1 November 2024 and will conclude on 31 January 2025. This rite of passage marks the transition from boyhood to manhood within these communities.

The confirmation of sites and dates for this season was discussed and finalised on 6 November 2024 during the Section 80 Committee meeting for the Planning and Development Portfolio Committee which includes, Planning, Building Control, Investment Property, IDP, Performance Management, Economic Development, Agriculture and Tourism.

Councillor Marlene Barnardt, MMC for S80: Planning and Development expressed the Municipality’s support for Ulwaluko. “This significant cultural practice symbolises a formal entry into adulthood and is deeply respected in the community,” said Councillor Barnardt. “The George Municipality supports and recognises the importance of preserving this cultural heritage.”

Mr. Mzwandile Gingcana, Chairperson of the George Initiation Forum from Thembalethu, confirmed that initiation will take place at the following sites:

1. LTA (Erf 1821)
2. Phelandaba (Erf 197/56)
3. Ramaphosa (Erf 107/58)
4. Zone 9 (Erf 5006)
5. Rosemore (Erf 7342)
6. Pacaltsdorp (Erf 197)
7. Lawaaikamp (Erf 462)
8. Plazini (Erf 197/577)

Furthermore, Mr. Mncedi Bongoza, Chairperson of the Hoekwil Initiation Forum, noted that the Touwsranten commonage (Farm 125/1) will also serve as an initiation site this season.

The public is herewith informed that the initiates’ tents/structures will be visible from the N2.

The initiation process traditionally concludes with homecoming ceremonies and celebrations marking the graduates’ entry into adulthood. Councillor Barnardt concluded, “We encourage families and attendees of these celebrations, called Umgidi, to celebrate responsibly throughout the season.”

 

No Fireworks Allowed in George and surrounds


George Municipality reminds the public that due to the high fire risk, the setting off, and possession of fireworks, firecrackers, flares, paper lanterns and other such paraphernalia in the George municipal area is not allowed.

Strict Fireworks Legislation
George has strict firework legislation and according to the Bylaw on Community Safety, Section 58 (13) No person may discharge fireworks outside of a designated Fire Works Area. No fireworks area has been made available in George and should someone be caught discharging a firework, a flare or lighting a Chinese lantern an immediate fine of R1000 is applicable as well as a potential charge of arson.

Confiscation Notices
Law Enforcement Services together with other Role players would start with the compliance campaign by doing continuous inspections at shops in all areas. Confiscation notices and Fines will be issued to non-compliant shops and confiscated fireworks will be handed over to the SAPS Explosives unit for disposal.

Marine Flares
Setting off marine rocket flares for fun is hugely dangerous and irresponsible. NSRI is compelled to log and investigate each and every incident in case it is a real emergency which of course takes up their time and valuable resources and, more seriously, could detract from genuine flare sightings. It is also hugely dangerous for those setting off the flares, which, as they are quite costly, we suspect are also probably out of date. Marine guidance notes explain that all old flares need to be disposed of correctly.

Rocket flares degrade with time and there have been cases where the rocket propellant separates from the parachute and you are left with an uncontrolled flare which then comes back down and hits the person who has fired it off.

Enforcement
George Municipality will firmly enforce the applicable by-laws and Law Enforcement officials will be deployed at various areas and beaches throughout the season to attend to fireworks complaints.

Pets and fireworks
This will hopefully assist in reducing the noise levels and allow people (and their pets) to plan for “noisy” periods thus allowing for a quieter, safer environment for all concerned. For some pets, especially dogs and cats with particularly noise-sensitive ears, the sound of fireworks can cause intense fear responses. Some pets will go to extremes to hide, others get startled and run away, and general anxiety caused by unexpected loud sounds can have long-lasting effects on animals.

Other impacts of fireworks- did you know?
Bees become so disorientated they don’t go back to their hives.
Birds have panic attacks at night causing mass deaths.
Fish and other animals perish after ingesting fireworks debris.
Companion animals have anxiety and panic attacks.
Fireworks can also trigger Post Traumatic Stress Disorder in people.

Please report the illegal setting off of fireworks to 044 801 6350 or after hours at 044 801 6300.
Please report the illegal trade in fireworks to 044 801 6350 or after hours at 044 801 6300.

FIRE EMERGENCIES: 044 801 6311
TOLL FREE DISASTER NUMBER: 087 152 9999

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Geen vuurwerke word in George en omgewing toegelaat nie

George Munisipaliteit herinner die publiek daaraan dat weens die hoë brandrisiko, die afvuur, en besit van vuurwerke, klappers, fakkels, papierlanterns en ander sulke toebehore in die George munisipale gebied nie toegelaat word nie.

Streng vuurwerkwetgewing
George het streng vuurwerkwetgewing en volgens die Verordening op Gemeenskapsveiligheid, Artikel 58 (13) mag geen persoon vuurwerke buite ‘n aangewese Vuurwerkgebied afvuur nie. Daar is geen vuurwerkgebied in George beskikbaar gestel nie en sou iemand gevang word wat ‘n vuurwerk, ‘n fakkel of ‘n Chinese lantern aansteek, is ‘n onmiddellike boete van R1000 van toepassing asook ‘n moontlike klag van brandstigting.

Beslagleggingskennisgewings
Wetstoepassingsdienste sal saam met ander rolspelers met die nakomingsveldtog begin deur deurlopende inspeksies by winkels in alle gebiede te doen. Beslagleggingskennisgewings en boetes sal uitgereik word aan winkels wat nie aan die vereistes voldoen nie en gekonfiskeerde vuurwerke sal aan die SAPD se plofstofeenheid oorhandig word vir vernietiging.

Mariene vuurpylfakkels
Dit is uiters gevaarlik en onverantwoordelik om mariene vuurpylfakkels vir die pret te laat afgaan. NSRI is verplig om elke voorval aan te teken en te ondersoek ingeval dit ‘n werklike noodgeval is, wat natuurlik hul tyd en waardevolle hulpbronne in beslag neem en nog ernstiger, afbreuk kan doen aan werklike fakkelwaarnemings. Dit is ook uiters gevaarlik vir diegene wat die fakkels afvuur aangesien dit redelik duur is en waarskynlik verouderd. Luidens Mariene handleidingnotas moet alle ou fakkels korrek vernietig word. Vuurpylfakkels versleg mettertyd en daar was al gevalle waar die vuurpyldryfmiddel van die valskerm skei en jy sit met ‘n onbeheerde fakkel wat dan terugkom en die persoon wat dit afgevuur het, tref.

Handhawing
George Munisipaliteit sal die toepaslike verordeninge streng toepas en Wetstoepassingsbeamptes sal deur die seisoen by verskeie gebiede en strande ontplooi word om aandag te gee aan vuurwerkklagtes.

Troeteldiere en vuurwerke
Hierdie sal hopelik help om die geraasvlakke te verminder en mense (en hul troeteldiere) in staat stel om te beplan vir “geraas” periodes en sodoende ‘n stiller, veiliger omgewing vir alle betrokkenes, moontlik te maak. Vir sommige troeteldiere, veral honde en katte met besonder geraas-sensitiewe ore, kan die geluid van vuurwerke intense vreesreaksies veroorsaak. Sommige troeteldiere gaan tot uiterstes om weg te kruip, ander skrik en hardloop weg, en algemene angs wat deur onverwagte harde geluide veroorsaak word, kan langdurige uitwerking op diere hê.

Ander impakte van vuurwerke – het jy geweet?
Bye raak so gedisoriënteerd dat hulle nie teruggaan na hul korwe nie.
Voëls ondergaan paniekaanvalle in die nag wat massa-vrektes veroorsaak.
Visse en ander diere vergaan nadat hulle vuurwerkrommel ingeneem het.
Geselskapsdiere het angs- en paniekaanvalle.
Vuurwerke kan ook posttraumatiese stresversteuring by mense veroorsaak.

Rapporteer asseblief die onwettige afvuur van vuurwerke by 044 801 6350 of na-ure by 044 801 6300.
Meld asseblief die onwettige handel in vuurwerke by 044 801 6350 of na-ure by 044 801 6300 aan.

BRANDNOODGEVALLE: 044 801 6311
TOLVRYE RAMPNOMMER: 087 152 9999

Disability Rights Awareness Month: What is universal access?

In the photo: Minibus hoist: The minibus has been equipped with a hydraulic hoist giving access to passengers with mobility impairment.

“Universal access” (UA) is a familiar term in the sphere of disability and certainly a buzzword in the public transport industry, including the GO GEORGE bus service. If you don’t move in these circles, you might think that it refers to access to anywhere in the universe. It is, however, important that every citizen should understand the term and how it fits into the picture and expectations for society to create and provide “universal access”.

Equal opportunity
Universal access refers to the ability of all people to have equal opportunity and access to a service or product from which they can benefit, regardless of their social class, ethnicity, ancestry as well as their age, gender and whether or not they have a disability. In this framework, the universal accessibility of public transport can be critical for different purposes such as commuting to work, joining in entertainment activities, or buying products and services.

Under South African law and in terms of international commitments that have been made, passengers with different ways of moving (children, young people, the elderly, people with disabilities, people carrying babies or shopping, pregnant women, etc.) must be able to use public transport services in comfort, safety, speed and capacity; in other words, with dignity.

How is GO GEORGE implementing UA?
According to Morné Lakay, GO GEORGE Manager, being universally accessible is about much more than being able to get on the bus. He explains: “Most people know that we provide accessible boarding through the ramps and hoists on our buses and that priority seats are reserved for passengers with special needs. However, we also need to consider the condition of the sidewalks that people have to use to get to the bus, the placing of shelters on narrow sidewalks and the space left for people using mobility devices.

“We have to consider the legibility of the bus stop sign and as a matter of fact, all our communication products, such as the font types, colour contrasts and descriptors of visual material on our website. Tactile paving with specific patterns at the bus stop communicates to passengers who are blind where to wait, at the same time not causing obstruction.

“We have to consider the proximity of bus stops to pedestrian crossings, and in the future, we must look at the planning of our city to make sure people can easily access their destinations. We have to consider making public space safe, easy and pleasant to use, including contrasting colours on what we call ‘street furniture’ and wayfinding signage, to maximise visibility.

“Finally, we have to sensitise our service providers to be responsive and considerate. We have a very committed driver and customer care team due to an innovative training approach. Passengers must be able to experience improvements in the service and know that we will respond where we got it wrong. Behind the scenes, we are continually striving to adapt the way professional teams deliver services so that they implement improvements in a coordinated fashion, using universal design.

“Universal access is more complex than many people think, but it is a challenge that GO GEORGE gladly accepts and tackles with enthusiasm,” Lakay says.

Anyone interested to know more about universal access and how it is applied within the public transport industry, is welcome to contact GO GEORGE by phoning the Call Centre on 0800 044 044 or sending an email to info@gogeorge.org.za.

Dropped kerb:


George sidewalks are progressively being upgraded to be more accessible. Pedestrian crossings have kerb drops which are accessible to people with mobility impairments.

Boarding on kneeling bus:


The larger buses can “kneel” to meet the elevated bus stop to accommodate passengers using mobility devices or who cannot comfortably step up to the bus entrance.

Minibus hoist:


The minibus has been equipped with a hydraulic hoist giving access to passengers with mobility impairment.

Tactile paving:


Robin Mouton is a blind passenger who uses the bus service with ease. Here, he navigates the tactile paving to board the bus.

*

BEWUSMAKINGSMAAND VIR DIE REGTE VAN PERSONE MET GESTREMDHEDE: Wat is universele toegang?
“Universele toegang” (Universal Access of UA) is ‘n bekende term in die sfeer van gestremdheid en beslis ‘n gonswoord in die openbare vervoerbedryf, insluitend die GO GEORGE-busdiens. As jy nie in hierdie sirkels beweeg nie, kan jy dink dat dit bloot verwys na toegang tot enige plek in die heelal. Dit is egter belangrik dat elke burger die term moet verstaan en hoe hulle inpas by die prentjie en verwagtinge vir die samelewing om “universele toegang” te skep en te verskaf.

Universele toegang verwys na die vermoë van alle mense om gelyke geleenthede en toegang tot ‘n diens of produk te hê waarby hulle kan baat vind, ongeag hul sosiale klas, etnisiteit, afkoms sowel as hul ouderdom, geslag en of hulle ‘n gestremdheid het of nie. In hierdie raamwerk kan die universele toeganklikheid van openbare vervoer van kritieke belang wees vir verskillende doeleindes soos pendel om by die te werk te kom, by vermaaklikheidsaktiwiteite in te skakel of produkte en dienste te koop.

Ingevolge die Suid-Afrikaanse reg en in terme van internasionale verbintenisse wat aangegaan is, moet passasiers met verskillende maniere van beweging (kinders, jongmense, bejaardes, mense met gestremdhede, mense wat babas by hulle het of inkopiesakke dra, swanger vroue, ens.) openbare vervoerdienste met gemak, veiligheid, spoed en kapasiteit kan gebruik; met ander woorde, met waardigheid.

Hoe pas GO GEORGE universele toegang toe?
Volgens Morné Lakay, GO GEORGE-bestuurder, gaan universele toegang oor baie meer as om op die bus te kan klim. Hy verduidelik:
“Die meeste mense weet dat ons toegang tot die bus deur skuins loopvlakke en hystoestelle op ons busse verskaf en dat prioriteitsitplekke gereserveer word vir passasiers met spesiale behoeftes. Ons moet egter ook kyk na die toestand van die sypaadjies wat mense moet gebruik om by die bus uit te kom, die plasing van skuilings op smal sypaadjies en die ruimte wat oorbly vir mense wat mobiliteitstoestelle gebruik.

“Ons moet die leesbaarheid van die bushalteteken in gedagte hou, asook die toeganklikheid van al ons kommunikasieprodukte, met byvoorbeeld die lettertipes en kleurkontraste wat gebruik word en beskrywings van visuele materiaal op ons webwerf. Tasbare plaveisel met bepaalde patrone by die bushalte kommunikeer aan passasiers wat blind is waar om te wag en terselfdertyd nie obstruksie te veroorsaak nie.

“Ons moet die nabyheid van bushaltes aan voetgangeroorgange in ag neem, en vorentoe sal ons moet kyk na die beplanning van ons stad om seker te maak mense kan maklik toegang tot hul bestemmings kry. Ons moet daaraan werk om openbare ruimte veilig, maklik en aangenaam te maak om te gebruik. Dit sal kontrasterende kleure beteken op wat ons ‘straatmeubels’ en rigtingaanwysingsborde noem, om sigbaarheid te maksimaliseer.

“Ten slotte moet ons ons diensverskaffers sensitiseer om bedagsaam te wees en te reageer wanneer nodig. Ons het ‘n baie toegewyde busdrywer- en kliëntediensspan te danke aan ‘n innoverende opleidingsbenadering. Passasiers moet verbeterings in die diens kan ervaar en weet dat ons sal reageer waar ons verkeerd was. Agter die skerms streef ons voortdurend daarna om die manier waarop professionele spanne dienste lewer aan te pas sodat hulle verbeterings op ‘n gekoördineerde wyse implementeer deur universele ontwerp te gebruik.

“Universele toegang is meer ingewikkeld as wat baie mense dink, maar dit is ‘n uitdaging wat GO GEORGE met graagte aanvaar en met entoesiasme aanpak,” sê Lakay.

Enigiemand wat belangstel om meer te weet oor universele toegang en hoe dit in die openbare vervoerbedryf toegepas word, is welkom om GO GEORGE te kontak deur die Inbelsentrum by 0800 044 044 te skakel of ‘n e-pos na info@gogeorge.org.za te stuur.

BYSKRIFTE:
Dropped kerb:


George se sypaadjies word stelselmatig opgegradeer om meer toeganklik te wees. Voetgangeroorgange het ‘n verlaging van die randsteen wat toeganklikheid verseker vir mense met mobiliteitsgestremdhede.

Boarding on kneeling bus:


Die groter busse kan “kniel” om die verhoogde randsteen van die bushalte te ontmoet om passasiers wat nie met gemak op die bus kan klim nie, te akkommodeer.

Minibus hoist:


Die minibus is toegerus met ‘n hidrouliese hyser wat toegang verleen aan passasiers met beweeglikheidsgestremdhede.

Tactile paving:


Robin Mouton is ‘n blinde passasier wat die busdiens met gemak gebruik. Hier voel hy sy pad na die bus met behulp van die tasbare plaveisel.

Water Safety Tips for the Festive Season

As we enjoy the festive season, please keep these essential water safety tips in mind to protect yourself and your loved ones:
• Never swim alone and avoid swimming in the sea, dams, or rivers at night.
• Do not swim under the influence of alcohol or other intoxicants.
• Always supervise children near water. Ensure they cannot access pools, ponds, water features, baths, buckets of water, or open toilets—young children can drown in as little as 4 cm of water.
• Secure your swimming pool with a pool net or an SABS-approved fence to prevent accidental falls.
• Swim only in designated areas at the beach where lifeguards are present and avoid swimming too far out.
• Remember, swimming in the sea is very different from swimming in a pool or dam, even for experienced swimmers.
• Only dive into water if you can see what’s below the surface, and always test the depth, first.

EMERGENCY NUMBERS:
• George Fire and Rescue: 044 801 6311
• Toll-Free Disaster Number: 087 152 9999
• NSRI (National Sea Rescue Institute): 082 990 5955 | 087 094 9774

Stay safe and enjoy the water responsibly!

 

George Municipality Addresses Low Water Pressure Issues in Kingswood Golf Estate

Kingswood Gold Estate

George Municipality is aware of the ongoing low water pressure affecting Kingswood Golf Estate. Recently, the Municipal water team held a meeting with the management and maintenance team representatives of Kingswood Golf Estate to address these issues and provide updates on the situation.

The low pressure, typically experienced between 08:30 and 11:00, is believed to be caused by faulty valves in the network and increased water use during this timeframe. Efforts are ongoing to restore water pressure to acceptable levels. Residents can expect to see George Municipality teams around Longbridge Road working on the problem. As the low pressure is cyclical, the results of repairs will only be visible in the following days or a week after the repair and is affected by the daily use of water.

As the valves are checked and repaired, residents may experience temporary water loss or low pressure. Should the water outage be longer than 2 hours, or low pressure experienced, residents are urged to report the fault to the Complaints Desk on 044 801 6266/6262. This will assist the Municipality to pinpoint areas which require work, and where areas have improved after remedial measures.

The Municipality remains committed to resolving this issue and will continue to keep residents informed of any progress.

Public Notice: Lifeguards on the Beaches


From 1 December 2024 to 31 January 2025, lifeguards will be deployed daily at the municipal blue flag beaches at Victoria Bay, Herold’s Bay, Wilderness Main Beach and Leentjiesklip. (1 – 13 December from 9 am – 5 pm; 14 December – 31 January from 7 am-7 pm)

From 1 February to 30 April 2025, lifeguards will be on duty only on Saturdays, Sundays, and public holidays, between 9 am and 5 pm, with an option to extend the hours on good weather days at the Blue Flag beaches (Victoria Bay, Herolds Bay, Wilderness Main and Leentjiesklip Beach).

Gwaing River Mouth, Wilderness Lagoon and Steps Beaches will also have Lifeguards according to the above hours.

As of 1 May 2025, until 30 November 2025, 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.

Do not swim while under the influence of Alcohol or heavy sedation medication.

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 poses 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
The lifeguards are available at the Conville and Uniondale pools from 1 December 2024 until 21 April 2025, as per the following swimming pool operating hours.
• Monday to Friday: 13:00 – 16:00 (with 2 Lifeguards on Duty)
• Saturdays and Sundays (Public Holidays): 09:00 – 12:00 and 13:00 – 16:00 with 2 Lifeguards on Duty and one Lifeguard on standby.

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 16, 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:
• Galas for Adults: R1 590,00 / full day
• R 848, 00 / half day
• Deposit R1 590, 00 (Refundable)
• Floodlights: R 318, 00 / hour
• Touchpads: R 4 240, 00 / day – R 530,00 per set per day
• PLEASE NOTE: Entry fee to the Swimming Pools is VAT INCLUSIVE

For enquiries/bookings: Conville Swimming Pool
Tel: 044 801 9488

Contact persons:
Mr J Bruinders Email: jbruinders@george.gov.za – Senior Clerk Sport Development
Mr O Twala Email: otwale@george.gov.za – Senior Clerk Sport Development
Ms LY Botha Email lybotha@george.gov.za – Sport Development Officer

For enquiries/Bookings: Uniondale Swimming Pool
Tel: 044-8019020 / 044 7521024 (Uniondale Office)