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DISABILITY RIGHTS AWARENESS MONTH: What is universal access?

DISABILITY RIGHTS AWARENESS MONTH:
What is universal access?
Issued 9 November 2021

“Universal access” (UA) is a familiar term in the sphere of disability and certainly a buzz word 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 they fit into the picture and expectations for society to create and provide “universal access”.

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 James Robb, GO GEORGE Manager, being universally accessible is about much more than being able to get on the bus. “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 at the bus stop communicates to passengers who are blind where to wait, at the same time not causing obstruction.

“We have to take into account 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 have 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.”

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.

CAPTIONS:
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.
Accessing standard bus:
On the larger buses, an electronic ramp is deployed to the elevated bus stop to provide access to passengers using wheelchairs or other mobility devices.
Minibus hoist:
The minibus has been equipped with a hydraulic hoist giving access to passengers with mobility impairment.

BEWUSMAKINGSMAAND VIR DIE REGTE VAN PERSONE MET GESTREMDHEDE
Wat is universele toegang?
Uitgereik 9 November 2021

“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 kringe 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 waaruit 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 James Robb, GO GEORGE-bestuurder, gaan universele toegang oor baie meer as om op die bus te kan klim. “Die meeste mense weet dat ons toeganklike opklim op die bus deur die skuins opritte en hystoestelle op ons busse verskaf, en dat prioriteitsitplekke gereserveer word vir passasiers met spesiale behoeftes. Ons moet egter ook die toestand van die sypaadjies oorweeg 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. Voelbare plaveisel 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 vir voetgangeroorgange in ag neem, en in die toekoms moet ons 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.”

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.
Accessing standard bus:
Op die groter busse word ‘n elektroniese, skuins loopvlak na die opgeboude bushalte ontplooi om toegang te bied aan passasiers wat rolstoele of ander beweeglikheidstoestelle gebruik.
Minibus hoist:
Die minibus is toegerus met ‘n hidrouliese hyser wat toegang verleen aan passasiers met beweeglikheidsgestremdhede.

Integrated approach to keep CBD clean and safe

George Municipality Protection and Community Services directorates have stepped up operations in the central business district to address impacts associated with vagrancy, homelessness, and illegal trading. Ongoing efforts include cooperation from other stakeholders including national and local government departments, SAPS, NGOs, welfare organisations, and local business.

George Acting Municipal Manager Dr Michele Gratz said the state of the CBD was important for the socio-economic well-being of the city. “There is significant interest from outside business to invest in George, many of whom will start their research in the CBD, which is why it is important that it is clean and safe. Business investment brings job opportunities, which in turn may address some of the social issues on our streets.”

“The municipality’s mandate for law enforcement and social services are limited as the bulk of these functions reside with SAPS and the national Department of Social Development. Municipal departments, however, have longstanding relationships with all relevant stakeholders and work with them continuously to collectively address these complex issues,” said Dr Gratz.

George Municipality Acting Director Protection Services Vernon Petersen said it had recently restructured its shift system to extend patrolling hours for Law Enforcement and Anti-Land Invasion officers beyond normal working hours to increase visibility during times when homeless people settle in for the night and vagrants move in. “The extended hours and increased visibility have had a good overall impact. Offences linked to municipal bylaws such as littering, causing a nuisance, and urinating in public have as a result also decreased and there is a notable difference in the overall appearance of the CBD,” said Mr Petersen.

Informal trading on sidewalks in the CBD is legislated, including an annual permit system, and Law Enforcement patrols there every weekday to ensure compliance to municipal bylaws.

Community Services Director Allen Paulse said several sections in his directorate were directly and indirectly involved in the CBD initiative, most notably Cleansing, Parks and Recreation and Community Development. “Several street cleaning teams are focussed on the CBD and main arterials into the city while refuse removal regularly empty litter bins and identify possible illegal dumping spots for clearing and preventative actions.”

“The municipality is grateful for support from especially neighbourhood watches to monitor problems associated with ‘sakkrappers’ (bag scratchers). As all people have rights to the freedom of movement and earning a living, this remains a complex matter for which we continue to explore holistic solutions.”

“The Community Development department established a People Living on the Streets Committee in 2018 to address the many factors associated with vagrancy and the homeless. The committee meets monthly and includes representatives from George Municipality Community Services departments, SAPS, Kids Stop (street children), Cremhog (homeless adults), and national Departments of Social Development, Health, Labour and Internal Affairs.

Community Development keeps a register of homeless people as a starting point to the possible reintroduction into society where possible. The municipal department also has a monthly outreach at night to identify new people or those who had returned to the streets after being reunited with family or society.

People and organisations interested in getting involved in long-term, sustainable, holistic solutions to issues surrounding the homeless, vagrancy and illegal trading are invited to contact Community Development on 044 802 2000 during office hours.

George among first in province for book-sharing programme

George Municipality Library Services is among the first in the Western Cape to be part of an international reading programme aimed at cognitive and emotional development in children.

Launched during a workshop in George in March 2020 but delayed because of Covid-19 lockdown, the ‘Dialogic’ book-sharing programme saw its first community implementation at a soup kitchen in Syferfontein informal settlement last week (4 November 2021). The programme is a collaborative effort between George Municipality Library Services, The Seven Passes Initiative and the Mikhulu Child Development Trust.

‘Dialogic’ book-sharing uses specially designed picture books to encourage interaction between an adult and a young child. Parents/caretakers are trained how to use the books in an active exchange, led by the child, and how to be attentive to the child’s interests and communication.

George Library Services Manager Rachel Williams said the Syferfontein project was a pilot testing site where parents/caregivers would each be loaned a specially designed book which they could take home for a week. Participants must spend at least five minutes every day with their child using the picture books and return the next week to be assessed and collect a new book. “This programme will run over the next seven weeks. If proven successful, the programme may be systematically rolled out at libraries across the municipal area.

“Dialogic book-sharing can play an important role in the development of cognitive skills, improved focus and attention of the child, while building vocabulary and confidence, and strenghening the bond between parent/caregiver and child,” said Ms Williams.

Caption
Pacaltsdorp librarian Eurogene Carolus (standing) hands out books to participating adults at the Syferfontein book-sharing programme last week.

GO GEORGE draws attention to disability rights

DISABILITY RIGHTS AWARENESS MONTH:
GO GEORGE draws attention to disability rights
Issued 9 Nov 2021

The month of November is dedicated to creating awareness of disability rights. The GO GEORGE bus service annually joins Government’s national campaign to increase awareness through a special programme of activities in the community and the media.

According to James Robb, GO GEORGE Manager, the bus service constantly focuses on acessibility and ways to improve the passenger journey and experience of all passengers, including those with disabilities and other special needs. “The month-long campaign once a year just serves as an extra opportunity to draw the entire community’s attention to the rights of those with disabilities, and to spark interest in ways everyone can contribute to an inclusive society,” he said.

Variety of awareness activities
In addition to educational information on media platforms such as newspapers, radio and social media, more personal engagements with stakeholders will take place this year than last year, but strictly in line with Covid-19 safety measures.

One of the highlights of the programme will be a special day of activities at the George Link bus depot, home of the GO GEORGE bus service, where persons with disabilities will get the opportunity to have a closer look at the features and facilities offered by the bus service to bring about accessibility for all passengers.

As part of a continuous sensitising and awareness programme, a workshop will be presented for communication champions and frontline staff who have direct contact with people with disabilities or other special needs. This will include the topic of universal access and the appropriate approach when offering assistance to persons using wheelchairs and mobility aids, the Deaf, and people with visual impairments or other invisible challenges who require support.

The GO GEORGE communications team will visit several schools, homes and care centres for people with disabilities and other special needs, with an educational yet entertaining programme. Activities will include an information session with carers and parents, exchanging thoughts and suggestions on the use of the public bus service by people with disabilities.

Any stakeholders in the disability sphere who would like to engage with GO GEORGE are welcome to send an email to info@gogeorge.org.za, phone the Call Centre on 0800 044 044, or leave a request on Facebook.

CAPTION:
The GO GEORGE mascot Georgie is always a firm favourite during engagements with children, as can be seen here during a visit to the George Association for People with Disabilities (APD) last year during Disability Rights Awareness Month.

PERSVERKLARING
BEWUSMAKINGSMAAND VIR DIE REGTE VAN PERSONE MET GESTREMDHEDE
GO GEORGE vestig die aandag op die regte van persone met gestremdhede
Uitgereik 9 Nov 2021

Novembermaand word gewy aan die skep van bewustheid van die regte van mense met gestremdhede. Die GO GEORGE-busdiens skakel jaarliks by die regering se nasionale veldtog in om bewustheid te verhoog deur ‘n spesiale program van aktiwiteite in die gemeenskap en die media.
Volgens James Robb, GO GEORGE-bestuurder, fokus die busdiens voortdurend op toeganklikheid en maniere om die reis en ervaring van alle passasiers te verbeter, insluitend dié met gestremdhede en ander spesiale behoeftes. “Die maandlange veldtog een keer per jaar dien net as ‘n ekstra geleentheid om die hele gemeenskap se aandag te vestig op die regte van diegene met gestremdhede, en om belangstelling te wek op maniere wat tot ‘n inklusiewe samelewing kan bydra,” het hy gesê.

Verskeidenheid bewusmakingsaktiwiteite
Benewens opvoedkundige inligting op mediaplatforms soos koerante, radio en sosiale media, sal meer persoonlike skakeling met belanghebbendes vanjaar plaasvind as verlede jaar, maar steeds streng in ooreenstemming met Covid-19-veiligheidsmaatreëls.

Een van die hoogtepunte van die program is ‘n spesiale dag van aktiwiteite by die George Link-busdepot, die tuiste van die GO GEORGE-busdiens, waar persone met gestremdhede die geleentheid sal kry om die funksies en fasiliteite wat deur die busdiens aangebied word om toeganklikheid vir alle passasiers te bewerkstellig, van naderby te bekyk.
As deel van ‘n deurlopende sensitiserings- en bewusmakingsprogram sal ‘n werksessie aangebied word vir passasiersdiensbeamptes en voorsteliniepersoneel wat direkte kontak het met mense met gestremdhede of ander spesiale behoeftes. Dit sal die tema van universele toegang insluit, asook die toepaslike benadering wanneer hulle hulp aanbied aan persone wat rolstoele en beweeglikheidshulpmiddels gebruik, mense met visuele en gehoorgestremdhede of ander onsigbare uitdagings wat ondersteuning benodig.

Die GO GEORGE-kommunikasiespan sal verskeie skole, huise en sorgsentrums vir mense met gestremdhede en ander spesiale behoeftes besoek met ‘n opvoedkundige, maar vermaaklike program. Aktiwiteite sal ‘n inligtingsessie met versorgers en ouers insluit waar gedagtes en voorstelle oor die gebruik van die openbare busdiens deur mense met gestremdhede uitgeruil sal word.

Enige belanghebbendes in die gestremdheidsfeer wat met GO GEORGE wil skakel, is welkom om ‘n e-pos aan info@gogeorge.org.za te stuur, die Inbelsentrum by 0800 044 044 te skakel of ‘n versoek op Facebook te laat.

BYSKRIF:
Die GO GEORGE-gelukbringer Georgie is altyd ‘n groot gunsteling tydens interaksie met kinders, soos hier gesien kan word tydens ‘n besoek aan die George Vereniging vir Mense met Gestremdhede verlede jaar tydens die bewusmakingsmaand.

Pacaltsdorp Library takes action against Illegal Dumping

Pacaltsdorp Library takes action against Illegal Dumping

Pacaltsdorp Library had a full book display set up recently on Illegal dumping to teach the public especially youngsters about the ills of illegal dumping.
Library Assistant Eurogene Carolus was in charge of the project.
All books on display were issued as block loans to schools and crèches in Pacaltsdorp to make a concerted effort to rid the community of this criminal activity.
Schools that took part in the project were Pacaltsdorp Primary School, New Dawn Park Primary School, Soete Uurtjies creche, Rooibootjie creche in Syferfontein, Vuurvliegies creche in Rosedale, Rosedale Early Childhood Development and Julios Early Childhood Development.

Lib 1: Teachers at Soete Uurtjies creche with some of the books on illegal dumping that was on loan to the creche.

Lib 2: Illegal dumping display by Library Assistant Eurogene Carolus at Pacaltsdorp Library. All books on display were issued as block loans to schools and crèches in Pacaltsdorp.

Lib3: Books available at the libraries deal with illegal dumping and waste disposal as well as recycling.

Electrical theft results in death and serious injury

George Municipality is facing an uphill battle with ongoing illegal connections and vandalism of electrical infrastructure. An incident in the early hours of Thursday 4 November is currently under investigation following the death of one man and injury and subsequent hospitalisation of another, while alledgedly  attempting to steal a copper earth bare conductor.  SAPS has opened a case of inquest into the death, and George Municipality has opened a case for theft and damage to municipal infrastructure

Theft and vandalism of infrastructure
The continual targeting of municipal electrical infrastructure by cable theft, damage to kiosks, and illegal connections is a highly concerning matter to the municipality, as such incidents affect electricity supply to the rest of the community during the repair period, incur extremely high repair and replacement costs, loss of revenue as well as in this case loss of life. It is extremely important that SAPS, Municipal Law Enforcement, officials, community leaders and residents work cohesively together, to fight this issue of theft and vandalism in our communities.

In the past four months alone, George Municipality has opened 20 cases of either theft or vandalism and more than eight arrests of individuals have been made due to the integrated approach and collaboration between various stakeholders. The average cost to the municipality in terms of repair and replacement over the past six months is over R1 million rand.

In terms of the Occupational Health and Safety Act, George Municipality has a responsibility to maintain a safe electrical network and for that reason a service provider has been appointed to clear illegal connections, on an as and when basis. Municipal officials are unable to work on or maintain the network unless all illegal connections on the line have been cleared.

Report offenders
The municipality asks that law-abiding citizens take it upon themselves to report illegal connection activities to SAPS as soon as they see them taking place. Legal consumers should also seriously consider how these illegal connections affect them and their families. An illegal connection not only puts the perpetrator in danger of electrocution, risking injury and death but also the rest of the community. Illegal connections should be reported to 044 801 9222 or after hours on 044 801 6300.

Dangers of illegal connections
The dangers of illegal connections have consistently been re-emphasized to the communities of George, with such actions having cost several lives in recent years. These connections lie across pathways and walkways where anyone passing can easily be electrocuted. An additional risk is that illegally connected wires can also make contact with other items such as roofs, gutters and washing lines, making these items live and able to conduct electricity.

The human body can only withstand about 50 milli-ampere (less than 1% of the current drawn by an average kettle) through it, before a medical condition called ventricular fibrillation sets in. To safeguard people against this, each house with legal electricity and a tariff meter is fitted with an earth leakage protection unit.  Children can easily be killed, due to their lower weight, because of illegal connections not having earth leakage protection.

An electricity connection is considered illegal when it is connected to the George Municipal network without the organisation’s permission. Wires are connected to a mini-substation or overhead pole. The forms of electricity theft include illegal connections, illegal electrification schemes and meter tampering and bypassing. These illegal electrical thefts are mostly in areas where illegal informal structures are built.

Where people have connected themselves illegally, George Municipality will continue to actively find the perpetrators and lay criminal charges against them. In terms of the Criminal Matters Amendment Act 18 of 2015, a maximum term of imprisonment of thirty (30) years can be given, as the interference with, and damage to Municipal property, can be regarded as sabotage.

Reward for information leading to successful prosecution
George Municipality will pay a reward of R2500 to any person who offers information on vandalism and theft incidents, and which information leads to the successful conviction of the perpetrator in a court of law.  The paying of a reward is legal in terms of the MFMA (Municipal Finance Management Act) and is seen as a necessary step to combat the expenditure on the repair of vandalized and stolen infrastructure. These assets are managed by the municipality on behalf of the public and it is George Municipality’s request to all of our residents to assist us in looking after and protecting these assets.

The public can contact the Anti-fraud toll free number 0860 044 044 or report vandalism and theft verbally, by email or to any of the municipal or SAPS telephone numbers. The member of public reporting will have to supply their name and contact details as their testimony may be required for the successful conviction of the perpetrators. The identity of those providing assistance will be protected.

George Municipality calls on the community to please assist us in eradicating theft and vandalism, to allow the municipality to improve service delivery levels and continue to improve the quality of peoples lives.

Report Illegal connections to 044 801 9222 or after hours on 044 801 6300. Report to 0860 044 044 with details to be eligible for the reward.

 

Youth Development programmes held in George Municipal areas

Youth Development programmes held in George Municipal areas

George Municipality Youth Development subsection in conjunction with other stakeholders recently had training sessions in George area to benefit the youth.
A Community Awareness session, with the South African Police Service (SAPS) and Youth Ambassadors from the Municipality was held in New Dawn Park, about the role of civil society in combatting and addressing crime.
Information around job opportunities, as well as health related and human rights matters was also provided by the Youth Office, HIV Office, as well as the Social Health Empowerment Organisation in New Dawn Park.
According to Jonel Kerspuy, Coordinator in the Youth Development Officer, some of the programmes were held during the month of October but job readiness sessions and leadership and lifeskills training happens on a weekly basis at different venues.
A Job Readiness Session was held in October at the Inkcubeko Youth and Science Centre in Thembalethu, with the aim of registering jobseekers on the unemployment database of the Department of Labour and Expanded Public Works Programme. The outreach assisted the youth to apply for available opportunities and an information session on CV and Application letter compilation was held.

A Leadership and lifeskills session were held on invitation with Bricklaying students from the Expanded Public Works programme. The training session focused on responsible citizenship through leadership, vision creation and stimulating public participation by the youth.

Seven Passes Initiative held a training session recently in Pacaltsdorp for young mothers, with children between the ages of 2 – 9 years old from Pacaltsdorp and Parents of youth did an online information session led by a Career Guidance Counsellor from the Department of Labour. The information session was held to capacitate parents on the services that the Department offer for parents of youth in and out of school.
The Municipality arranged for an Afterschool Tennis programme for learners from Pacaltsdorp Primary School on
13 October 2021.

A Substance Abuse Awareness Programme was held with the Haarlem community between 12 and 13 October 2021. The programme was facilitated by 4iR/ED Solutions (Pty)Ltd in partnership with the Department of Social Development and the Department of Agriculture. The need for the programme was identified through a Census survey where Haarlem was highlighted as a hot spot for drug abuse by the Department of Agriculture. The aim of the Programme was to create awareness around the following topics, Substance Abuse, Fetal Alcohol Syndrome (FAS), Planning an Awareness Programme, Gender Based Violence Awareness and to form a support group. Different members of the community attended the programme, including former drug abusers and current drug abusers.

An Absa Consumer Financial Education Training programme was facilitated in Haarlem at the “Help Mekaar Hall” on the 13th of October 2021.The aim of the programme was to share useful information skills on finances.
On the 14th of October 2021 a motivational session was held with the Grade12 class at Uniondale High School. One of the speakers was local hero De Walt Human, from SA 7’s rugby. It was held in conjunction with the Department of Social Development. Each learner received a stationary pack from the Municipality.

Captions:
youthunion2: Parent Programme with Young Mothers by Seven Passes Initiative
youthunion3: Jonel Kerspuy from the Youth Development Office, gives active citizenship training to learners from from the Department of Transport and Public Works at the Eagles Nest Ministries building.

Youthunion4: Afterschool tennis training at Pacaltsdorp Primary School.

Youthunion5: Substance Abuse Awareness Training and Community Engagement at Haarlem Community Hall.

GO GEORGE surveyors spreading out to neighbourhoods

PRESS RELEASE: GO GEORGE surveyors spreading out to neighbourhoods
Issued 2 November 2021

The 2021 George Integrated Public Transport Network (GIPTN) Macro-, Transport- and Socio-Economic Study is well under way with surveyors also spreading out to individual households across various suburbs in George, Wilderness and surrounding areas from this week.

Passenger travel surveys at GO GEORGE bus stops, business surveys and special interest group surveys are being carried out primarily through telephonic and personal interviews as well as distribution of electronic questionnaires.

Safe access to surveyors
Surveyors will be wearing GO GEORGE-branded identification cards showing the person’s photo and ID number. An appeal is made to residents to allow certified surveyors safe access to their property and to assist with the valuable feedback needed to continuously assess and improve the bus service.

For more information or enquiries, the GO GEORGE Call Centre can be phoned on 0800 044 044.

CAPTION:
Surveyors approaching individuals or visiting households in the George area are carrying GO GEORGE-branded identification cards. Algerchen Hendricks (left) from Conville was happy to give a few minutes of his time to answer surveyor Mauchan Koelman’s questions.

PERSVERKLARING: GO GEORGE-navorsingsbeamptes versprei na woonbuurte
Uitgereik 2 November 2021

Die 2021 makro-, vervoer- en sosio-ekonomiese studie van die George Geïntegreerde Openbare Vervoernetwerk (GIPTN) is goed op dreef met navorsingsbeamptes wat ook vanaf hierdie week individuele huishoudings in verskeie woonbuurte in George, Wildernis en omliggende gebiede sal besoek.

Passasiersopnames by GO GEORGE-bushaltes, besigheidsopnames en spesiale belangegroep-opnames word hoofsaaklik uitgevoer deur telefoniese en persoonlike onderhoude asook die verspreiding van elektroniese vraelyste.

Veilige toegang vir beamptes
Navorsingsbeamptes sal GO GEORGE- identifikasiekaarte met die persoon se foto- en ID-nommer dra. ‘n Beroep word op inwoners gedoen om gesertifiseerde beamptes veilige toegang tot hul eiendom te gee en om te help met die waardevolle terugvoer wat nodig is om die busdiens deurlopend te assesseer en te verbeter.

Vir meer inligting of navrae kan die GO GEORGE-inbelsentrum by 0800 044 044 044 gebel word.

BYSKRIF:
Navorsingsbeamptes wat individue nader of huishoudings in die George-gebied besoek, dra GO GEORGE-identifikasiekaarte. Algerchen Hendricks (links) van Conville het met graagte ‘n paar minute van sy tyd afgestaan om Mauchan Koelman se vrae te beantwoord.

PERSVERKLARING: GO GEORGE-navorsingstudie om ekonomiese impak van busdiens te meet
Uitgereik 11 Oktober 2021

‘n Onafhanklike studie onder die gesamentlike vaandel van die Wes-Kaapse departement van vervoer en openbare werke en die George-munisipaliteit sal volgende week van stapel gestuur word met die doel om die algehele ekonomiese impak van die implementering van die GO GEORGE-busdiens in George te bepaal en te meet.

Die 2021 makro-, vervoer- en sosio-ekonomiese studie van die George Geïntegreerde Openbare Vervoernetwerk (GIPTN) sal van Oktober 2021 tot Mei 2022 in George uitgevoer word.

Makro-, vervoer- en sosio-ekonomiese impak gemeet
Die algehele impak sal gemeet word in drie hoofareas, naamlik makro-ekonomiese, vervoer-ekonomiese en sosio-ekonomiese impak. Verskeie opnames sal oor ‘n tydperk van twee maande gedoen word, van 18 Oktober 2021 tot middel Desember 2021.

George-inwoners sal genader word vir terugvoer deur middel van die volgende vier opnames:
• Passasiersopnames wat by GO GEORGE-bushaltes oor die netwerk van roetes uitgevoer sal word;
• Huishoudelike opnames, wat deur-tot-deur by individuele huishoudings oor verskeie voorstede in George, Wildernis en omliggende gebiede uitgevoer sal word;
• Besigheidsopnames (bv. algemene besighede, GIPTN-diensverskaffers sowel as besighede by oorklimplekke rondom die groter besigheidskern) wat hoofsaaklik deur telefoniese en persoonlike onderhoude uitgevoer sal word;
• Spesiale belangegroep-opnames (bv. gebruikers met spesiale behoeftes en spesifieke belangegroepe), wat hoofsaaklik uitgevoer sal word deur telefoniese en persoonlike onderhoude asook die verspreiding van elektroniese vraelyste.

Navorsingsbeamptes maklik om te identifiseer
Navorsingsbeamptes sal GO GEORGE- identifikasiekaarte met die persoon se foto- en ID-nommer dra. ‘n Beroep word op die George-gemeenskap gedoen om vyf minute af te staan wanneer hulle genader word en te help met die waardevolle terugvoer wat slegs bekombaar is van diegene wat die busdiens gebruik, of op een of ander manier deur die busdiens se bedrywighede geraak word.

Data wat deur die studie verkry word, sal opgeteken en ontleed word vanaf middel November 2021 tot April 2022, met finale resultate, gevolgtrekkings en verslae wat aan die einde van Mei 2022 voltooi moet word.

Vir meer inligting of navrae kan die GO GEORGE-inbelsentrum by 0800 044 044 044 gebel word.

BYSKRIF:
Navorsingsbeamptes wat individue nader of huishoudings in die George-omgewing besoek, sal identifikasiekaarte dra. Hier werk Siphiwo Mathys deur ‘n vraelys met Patience Tisani, ‘n passasier wat in Thembalethu woon.

Recycling training for Municipal creches and Food garden coordinators

Recycling training for Municipal creches and Food garden coordinators
Issued by George Municipality, 29 October 2021

The Community Development Food Gardens and Creches subsection, in partnership with Landmark Foundation and LGE Waste provided recycling training to ten municipal creche employees and ten Food Garden Co-ordinators recently. The two training sessions were recently held at the Illingulethu creche in Thembalethu and at Rosedale Educare
According to Allen Paulse, Director: Community Services, during the training, creche employees were taught alternative ways to manage their refuse. Notes were provided on what can be recycled and what not. All the creches that participated were registered in the Landmark Foundation’s Creches Recycling programme and also received resources which they can use to assist them on their recycling journey. All staff were also encouraged to involve the learners in the process as much as possible.
Once the creches have begun their recycling programme successfully, further training with regards to Food Gardens will also take place. Landmark foundation will conduct the gardening training as well.

Photo 1 – 121813: Representatives from Landmark Foundation and LGE Waste, George Municipality, staff from Kwakhanya, Mzomhle, Masibambane, Illingelethu and Isiseko Creches.

Photo 2- 124012: Representatives from Landmark Foundation, George Municipality and principals from Golden Valley, Kekkel en Kraai, Pophuis, Rosedale Nursery and Rosedale Educare.

New George Junior City Council announced and “Tannie Liza” says goodbye

The 2021 George Junior City Council (JCC) held its last official event Wednesday, 27 October with the Executive Mayor of George, Ald Leon van Wyk and Cllr Liza Stroebel in attendance and announcing the new executive committee of the JCC for 2022.

The function was held at the George Methodist Church Hall and was attended by the parents of the Junior City Councillors.
Ald Van Wyk said in his address, he has been enormously impressed with the leadership qualities the junior council has shown during their tenor in council the last year. “I inherited a substantial challenge to lead the turnaround of our municipality and to restore a high standard of service delivery to our ratepayers. I want to thank my colleague, Cllr Stroebel, for the role she has undertaken on behalf of our George Council in mentoring you,” Ald Van Wyk said.

He said we live in a country that faces enormous challenges – we live in crisis – in an environment where the government has seemingly lost its way through lack of leadership. He said the members of the JCC are some of the young leaders that will have to craft philosophies and skills that will enable them to tackle the changes, challenges, and adversity and the opportunities that will result.

He thanked the JCC for outstanding leadership roles displayed and for becoming involved and making a difference in civic duties. He also thanked the parents and teachers of the youngsters for their encouragement.
Cllr Liza Stroebel, (affectionately known by the JCC members as “Tannie Liza”) the Mayoral Representative who oversees the Junior City Council on behalf of the Mayor of George, has served her last term in Council and said this moment is bittersweet.
She said the leadership qualities of the JCC members displayed the past few years, gives her tremendous hope for our youth. She honoured God for His grace in allowing her this opportunity. She said she will never forget all the greatness that was achieved through and by the JCC. She said God shared with her a message when she started out in her overseeing role saying to her, “learn, love, serve.”
She asked the audience to take these words with them. “Learn as much as you can … to show yourself approved,
Love as much as you can…to gain love in return,
And Serve as much as you can… to reap your harvest.
Ludolph Pedro and McKaya Kroon both made magnificent speeches about their tenor in the JCC about how they grew as human beings, how being involved in helping with civic issues groomed them for the future and how the JCC members became a family and friends for life.

Captions:
JCC3: The old and the new Executive Committee of the George Junior Council with Executive Mayor of George, Alderman Leon van Wyk and Cllr Liza Stroebel. In front from left are: Carla Kruger (Outeniqua High School – Deputy Mayor 2022), Mayor Van Wyk, Cllr Liza Stroebel, Ruan Coetzee (Outeniqua High School – JCC Mayor 2022).
At the back are: Aine Ferreira – (Outeniqua High School – Deputy Mayor 2021), Inga Jijingubo (York High School – JCC Municipal Manager 2022), Clara Campbell (Glenwood House -Deputy Speaker 2022), Lindy Prinsloo (Glenwood House- Deputy Speaker 2021), McKaya Kroon (York High School – Speaker 2021), Jordan Meyer (York High School – Speaker 2022) and Ludolph Pedro (York High School- Mayor 2021). Absent: Brenco de Kock (George High School – Municipal Manager 2021).

Jcc2: Ludolph Pedro (York High School- Mayor 2021) drapes the ceremonial mayoral chain around Ruan Coetzee (Outeniqua High School – JCC Mayor 2022).

Jcc5: The new JCC executive committee are in front from left: Carla Kruger (Outeniqua High School – Deputy Mayor 2022), Mayor Van Wyk, Cllr Liza Stroebel, Ruan Coetzee (Outeniqua High School – JCC Mayor 2022).
At the back are Clara Campbell (Glenwood House -Deputy Speaker 2022) Inga Jijingubo (York High School – Municipal Manager and Jordan Meyer (York High School – Speaker 2022).

Khomanani Day held in Waboomskraal

Khomanani Day held in Waboomskraal
Issued George Municipality, 28 October 2021

Caption: Willbedine Jordaan (left) from the HIV subsection, George Municipality at the Khomanani Day event in Waboomskraal and Rose Josephs, Maria Khumalo,Katy Plaatjies, Getruida Camper and Dolfien Daniels and Sister Katrina Maritz.

The Community Development HIV subsection celebrated Khomanani Day in Waboomskraal by hosting a wellness programme with the focus on cancer awareness and HIV on Tuesday at Waboomskraal Community Hall. Cllr Sean Snyman, Portfolio Councillor for Community Services addressed the attendees and represented the Executive Mayor, Alderman Leon van Wyk.
Cllr Snyman said viruses do not only come in the form of diseases but social issues are like a cancer in society. “If we do not have the discipline to take action against gangsterism, crime or even poverty or any other social ill while it can still be cured, the “cancer” can eat away at our society. He said it is like the illness, if you treat it in time you have a better chance of beating the disease.

The councillor thanked all of the participants who had stalls at the event, inlcuding subsections of the Municipality’s Community Services and the Department of Health, Cansa and Bethesda, a frail care organisation. Food hampers were given to members of the community to help them in a time of need. Inspirational talks and health screenings for HIV testing, breast examinations, pap smears and vaccinations were given during the event.

Khomanani Day is a national social mobilization campaign focusing on the impact of HIV and AIDS in society and promoting community action, partnership and awareness against the disease.

90-year-old woman signs transfer for her house after living in it for 70 years

A 90-year-old woman, Martiena ‘Meisie’ Pietersen, yesterday signed transfer documents for a historic house in Pacaltsdorp in which she has lived for 70 years.

George Executive Mayor Alderman Leon van Wyk paid a visit to Aunt Meisie yesterday to help her complete the paperwork for the house. She is one of six households signing transfers for houses known as the Urban’s properties, which the former Pacaltsdorp Municipality had bought for the purposes of subdivision and sale to the then inhabitants many years ago. The transfer had never taken place and the George Municipality had inherited the properties when the local authorities amalgamated in 1995.

Ald Van Wyk said the Urban’s houses were estimated to be about 100 years old and the municipality had hoped that it could make some repairs to the homes before transfer. “George Municipality had pursued options to fund repairs via government grants because Council did not have the finances to make such repairs itself, but there were no grants applicable to these types of housing.

“George Municipality did not want to delay transfer of ownership any longer, especially since most inhabitants are elderly and the municipality wanted to ensure the rights of the current beneficiaries as well as their legal heirs.

“Officials of the Provincial Department of Human Settlements have confirmed the houses are structurally safe and liveable, but the municipality will continue to assist the new owners to obtain funding through other government or organisation programmes,” said Ald van Wyk.

Aunt Meisie said she was grateful that she would finally own the house she had spent her life in. “Thank you to everyone at the municipality that has helped to make this happen after so many years.”

Caption1
Martiena ‘Meisie’ Pietersen in her favourite chair in the house for which she signed transfer documents yesterday. She has lived in the house for 70 years.

Caption2
George Municipality Executive Mayor Leon van Wyk help Aunt Meisie with the paperwork for the transfer of her house after living there for 70 years.

Blue Flag for Wilderness and two Pilot Blue Flags for Victoria and Herolds Bay

George Municipality will be hoisting a Blue Flag and putting up two Pilot Blue Flag boards at local beaches for the 2021/22 summer season.

Wilderness Beach has regained full Blue Flag status after two years of Pilot status following a change in criteria and Covid-19 implications. Victoria Bay and Herold’s Bay this year both gained Pilot status following application by the George Municipality.

Blue Flag is an international coastal management programme that accredits beaches that meet standards of excellence in water quality, environmental management, environmental education and information as well as safety and services. In South Africa the programme is implemented by the Wildlife Environmental Society of South Africa (WESSA).

George Acting Municipal Manager Dr Michele Gratz and George Municipality Manager Parks and Recreation Nosidima Vumindaba received the flag and boards at a WESSA function in Hermanus yesterday (27 October 2021).

Victoria Bay

Dr Gratz said Blue Flag status offered many benefits including improved tourism facilities, enhanced management of coastal ecosystems, increased awareness of the coast and capacity building of coastal municipalities. “Local and international tourism to our region have taken a major knock since the start of Covid-19 and impacted countless local livelihoods. Blue Flag status has significant international merit and achieving these accolades are important to stimulate and confirm international and high-end interest in the city and district as a desirable, quality tourism and lifestyle destination.”

“We thank Garden Route District Municipality for their role in the application for Wilderness, as well as other roleplayers such as SANParks Garden Route National Park who shares jurisdiction of Wilderness beach with the George Municipality.”

Marlene Barnardt, and Mayor Leon van Wyk

“We look forward to achieving full Blue Flag status for Victoria and Herolds Bay in the near future and will continue working with other relevant roleplayers to ensure compliance.”

The Blue Flag season runs from 1 December 2021 to 31 January 2022. Compliance includes high standards of water quality monitoring, public safety and lifeguard services, and well-maintained coastal amenities.

South Africa has participated in the Blue Flag programme since 2001.

 

Preparations start in anticipation of grant funds for water infrastructure project

George Municipality has started procurement processes for the development of major drinking water infrastructure projects in anticipation of national funding over the next few years.

George Executive Mayor Alderman Leon van Wyk said application had been made to National Treasury for a Budget Facility for Infrastructure (BFI) funding of approximately R 1.1 billion for the second and third phases of the Potable Water Security and Remedial Works project. To qualify the project must be ‘shovel ready’ meaning that they must be ready for immediate procurement, contracting and construction, by the time funding becomes available.

“We await formal announcement of an initial allocation of R81.345 million grant funding for the 2021/22 financial year as a Regional Bulk Infrastructure Grant. We are grateful for the treasury’s faith in the municipality as a responsible recipient of grant allocation funds and are committed to provide services in line with the city’s ongoing needs as one of the fastest growing municipalities in the country.

“This is a major milestone project for the sustainability of our city that will stimulate housing and economic developments that had to be halted in recent years as bulk water and sanitation infrastructure had reached capacity. The project will also eradicate the current sludge spillage in municipality’s river and dam water sources, in turn, improving the water quality of the municipality.”

The entire project includes an extension of the current water treatment works (WTW) by an additional 20 million litre (Mℓ) per day plant; remedial works to downstream pump stations impacted by current WTW sludge discharged into the network; pipework extensions and upgrades; reservoirs for Pacaltsdorp and Thembalethu; a back-up generator for the Garden Route Dam to ease supply of water to balancing dams during power failures, raw water pump station upgrades, an additional 30 Mℓ balancing dam; (6) and an on-site sludge dewatering facility.

Phase one of the project was completed earlier this year and included the upgrade of the sludge pumping station at the New WTW.

The BFI submission is for the extension of the George water treatment capacity to be implemented over two phases over three years (2022 – 2025): Phase 2 is an additional 20 Mℓ/day extension to the New George WTW and Phase 3 is an additional 30 Mℓ balancing dam at the New George WTW.

Rosedale Access Road close to completion

The road, providing access to Rosedale and the new Erf 325 housing development is approaching completion with the final road surface having been completed last week. Road markings will be added within the next few days.  Additional funding was utilised to create a universally accessible sidewalk on the northern side of the road (Rosedale side), which is also scheduled to be completed within the next two weeks.

The public is reminded to still treat the area, especially the sidewalks,  as an active construction site, until the full construction works have been completed.  Once the road marking has been completed, the GO GEORGE bus service will return to the normal schedule.

The Municipality would like take this opportunity to thank the residents and road users for their patience during the construction phase.

From right to left is Dean Jacobus (V3 consulting engineers); Ryno Schraader (V3 consulting engineers );Melvin Roelfse (Ward councillor); Sybrand Otto (Entsha Henra); Leon van Wyk (Executive Mayor); Jacky von Brandis (Portfolio councillor Civil Engineering Services); Ricus Fivaz (Project Manager, George Civil Engineering Service)

Outeniqua Wastewater Treatment Works: Upgrading and 10Ml/d Capacity Extension

Executive Mayor for George, Leon Van Wyk visited the Outeniqua Wastewater Treatment Works (OWWTW) on Monday  25 October, to review the construction works underway for the upgrading and capacity extension of the plant . This project was initially delayed due to contractual matters and again later with the onset of Covid-19 and the subsequent challenges introduced by lockdown.

Certain materials had to be imported and international travel restrictions due to the pandemic resulted in material shortages. The construction programme was however revised as a result to allow for new interim deadlines while still completing the project within the approved project timelines.

“This significant upgrade is essential for the ongoing growth we are experiencing throughout George and the increased capacity from 15Ml/dl to 25Ml/d  will provide us with the ability to continue with construction activity and development to move forward at a fair pace going into the future,” said Ald Van Wyk.

Two of four new aerators has been installed on the old works’ carousel activated sludge biological reactor. Each has a 130 kW motor on top of the gearbox, which is connected below the concrete slab to an aerator. This combination adds air to the water to dissolve oxygen for bacterial growth in the water to enable aerobic biological treatment of the sewage.

The concrete platforms and beams had to be rehabilitated and retrofitted with carbon strips to provide additional reinforcement for the new heavier aerators to be installed on the existing platforms. Two of the four new aerators are already operational and the concrete remedial works under way on the two remaining bays to allow the installation of the other two new aerators.

The construction of this mechanical, electrical and instrumentation works contract is being executed in three distinct components i.e. the inlet works, the carousel (refurbish existing 15 Ml/d reactor) and completion of the equipping of the new 10 Ml/d reactor. All of these components  are due for completion in February 2023 while the first two components are expected to be fully operational by May 2022. For the most part the Civil engineering construction is  nearing completion and only some roadworks remain.

The waste skips for screenings and grit will be housed inside the new skip handling building, after the screenings and grit has been washed and compacted, in order to allow for air collection from the building and to pass this air through the odour control system, where the air is to be treated to a less odorous state before being released back into the environment through the chimney.

The 10 Ml/d new reactor is the main component for the provision of additional capacity at the plant. The component was also constructed in phases and the civil engineering structures were completed previously including the concrete structures of the reactor and settling tanks plus the building to house the blowers and motor control centre.

The first of four new aerators has been installed on the old works’ carousel activated sludge biological reactor.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Inside the new skip handling building with mechanical new equipment showing in the background. From left to right: Gerard de Swardt ( George Municipality, Project Manager), Jannie Koegelenberg (RHDHV, Project Manager), Luvoyo Dondolo (Khubeka Construction, Health & Safety), Cllr Leon van Wyk (Executive Mayor), Irwin Ross (Khubeka Construction Civil & Building, Member/Contract Manager) Dion Kuter ( WPCP , Contracts Manager)

 

 

Onsite are from left to right: Cllr Leon van Wyk (Executive Mayor), Jannie Koegelenberg ( RHDHV, Project Manager), Dion Kuter (WPCP, Contracts Manager), Gerard de Swardt (George Municipality, Project Manager).

Pointsmen to help alleviate festive season traffic congestion

 

 

 

 

 

 

George Municipal Protection Services directorate has today confirmed receipt of funding from the Western Cape Provincial Department of Community Safety to employ 30 Pointsmen /women for the period 1 November to 31 January 2022. The 30 appointees will start with on-the-job training on the 1 November, and be easily identifiable with their reflective vests, white gloves and caps. A month of intensive training will prepare the “pointsmen” for their duties during the festive season which is always accompanied by additional traffic congestion.

George Traffic Department will identify the most congested intersections on a daily basis, and the flexibility of having an additional 30 officials will allow the traffic department to move the pointsmen to where they are most needed. Pointsmen are there to assist with traffic flow and we ask that their friendly smiles and waves are responded to and that all motorists on the road during the busy festive season, be considerate and spare a thought for the people out there making your life just that little bit easier and safer.

Ensuring a safe 2021 Festive Season for George

Executive Mayor, Leon Van Wyk announced today that for the 2021 Festive Season, safety and service delivery will be key focuses for the municipal administration of George. To ensure a smooth festive season, a multi-disciplinary Season Committee will meet daily Monday to Friday, online, to discuss all problems being experienced and to find immediate and reasonable solutions where possible. The Season Committee will start on 1 December and continue operations to mid-January 2022.

Municipal departments will all be represented and meet daily with all role players, including SAPS, Tourism and other tourism-related role players, SanParks, NSRI, Lifeguard representatives, and more to ensure optimal service delivery standards during the festive season and to ensure the safety of residents and visitors to George and surrounds. Topics will include lifesavers, parking issues, safety, service delivery in terms of refuse collection, water and electricity, traffic and management of beaches.

OPEN OVER FESTIVE SEASON
The municipal offices will remain open throughout the Festive Season operating Monday to Friday from 07.45am – 4.30 pm apart from weekend and Public Holidays:
16 December 2021 – Public Holiday and offices are closed.
27 December  – Public Holiday and offices are closed

Please note Covid-19 Regulations apply and offices will clearly indicate the number of persons allowed in at any given time. Where possible, the public is encouraged to continue using our online services.

All essential services will be provided during this time. The Municipal Call Centre will be operational and all service delivery matters can be reported either on the Municipal App, 044 801 9111 or admin@george.gov.za. Emergencies must be reported to 044 801 6300 and Fire to 044 801 6311.

 

 

 

 

 

 

LIFEGUARDS
Lifeguards will be deployed at Gwaing Beach, Herold’s Bay, Victoria Bay, Wilderness Leentjiesklip and Wilderness Salina’s on a fulltime daily basis from 1 December 2021 to 31 January 2021.

TRAFFIC
George Traffic Services will actively patrol all municipal areas in collaboration with Western Cape Provincial Traffic over the festive season with regular roadblocks to be set up at various strategic points in and around George. We appeal to motorists and road users to always obey all road and traffic rules and to exercise patience during peak traffic, especially during the busy holiday period. An additional 30 pointsmen/women will be addressing congested traffic intersections from 1 December to 31 January to ease traffic flow.

BEACH MONITORS AND LAW ENFORCEMENT
George Municipality will strictly enforce no alcohol allowed on our beaches and the George law enforcement officers will be augmented by at least 30 Beach Monitors who will start service as of the second week of December to assist with beach patrols and bag checks. We encourage all beachgoers to assist our officials in ensuring that their day at the beach is a safe and pleasant experience.  Neighbourhood Watches, Community Police Forums as well as the SAPS also work closely with the Municipality with regards to Community Safety.

 

 

 

 

 

 

DOGS
The following beach areas under the control of the George Municipality which include Herold’s Bay, Gwaiing River Mouth, Victoria Bay and the Leentjiesklip areas do not allow dogs on the beach although dogs are allowed on the sidewalks of the beach areas but must be on a leash. Wilderness Beach from the estuary onwards falls under the control of SANPARKS and as such they have an infographic which clearly demarcates where dogs are allowed and where not. In terms of the Municipal Bylaw no dog or other animal may be in any public street or public space (any open public space the public has access to which falls under the George Municipal jurisdiction for example parks, sport fields, beachfronts ( not on the sand) and sidewalks) unless on a leash and under control.

 

 

 

 

 

FIREWORKS
Due to the high fire risk, there is a general ban on the setting off, selling and possession of fireworks, fire-crackers, flares, paper lanterns and other such paraphernalia in the George municipal area. Fines of R300 may apply, all fireworks will be confiscated. Report Fireworks to Law Enforcement on 044 801 6350/6300 and Fires to 044 801 6311.

REFUSE COLLECTION
Refuse Collection black, blue and green bags will continue throughout the festive season including public holidays. The CBD cleaning crews will work throughout with an extension of their hours as and when required. As with previous years, an additional Saturday Refuse Collection for businesses (restaurants) will start on 1 December and end 1 January 2022.

Phase 3 – Operation Cleanup – Project Pacaltsdorp

Phase Three of Operation Clean up swung into action yesterday  (Monday 25 October 2021) in Pacaltsdorp with cleaning teams from Community Services moving in to clear up illegal dump sites and raise awareness around the dangers of illegal dumping. A total of 44 areas will be targeted over the next two weeks with JCB and tipper trucks. Community Service Officials will hand out flyers on the dangers of illegal dumping in the areas that are cleared.

The first area cleared was an illegal dumpsite behind AFM Church, Pacaltsdorp which yielded a total of 486 full black bags. Seen here with a portion of the black bags collected is Mervin Olivier, one of the team co-ordinator’s.

 

 

PROTECTION SERVICES
George Municipal Law Enforcement officials will carry out patrols and create awareness around the safe keeping of animals, illegal dumping, dangers of cable theft, vandalism and other municipal by-law related matters.

 

COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT

The Youth office will be hosting a Parenting Programme jointly with Seven Passes, every Tuesday morning with young women from Pacaltsdorp with children, between the ages of 2 – 9 years old. This is a closed group, so if anyone is interested in this programme, they can contact  the municipal office on 044 802 2900.

Various outreaches have been completed,  and are still in progress with Pacaltdorp Primary and Pacaltsdorp Secondary School over the next two weeks. Programmes will also be run with Youths who have completed their schooling. These programmes are run in conjunction with the Pacaltsdorp Business Chamber, and includes entrepreneurship training/mentoring, job readiness, leadership and life-skills training.

At Pacaltsdorp Secondary School, the municipal team provided Career Counselling together with the Department of Labour for Grade 12 learners. This included Leadership and Positive Citizenship encouragement at their Grade 12 Valedictory ceremony.  An afterschool programme, incorporating tennis, to instill discipline and life-skills will take place with learners from Pacaltsdorp Senior Secondary School through the peer educator programme.

 

PARKS AND RECREATION

The parks teams will be addressing the trimming of trees where necessary,  cutting of grass on sidewalks as well as spraying for weeds this week. In the photograph Jonathan McKenzie Small Plant Operator for Parks and Recreation is seen cutting verges.

 

FINANCE

Finance Officials will be stationed at the Pacaltsdorp Community Hall on Wednesday 27 October from 9am – 1pm to assist members of the public with the completion of indigent applications, assist with account queries and facilitate arrangements on overdue accounts. Please bring along a copy of your monthly municipal account, any other relevant paperwork and your ID.

 

PACALTSDORP LIBRARY
Pacaltsdorp Library has installed an exhibition on Illegal Dumping as well as one in honour of Breast Cancer Awareness Month set up by library assistant, Eurogene Carolus. The library will be running an extensive programme over the next two weeks,  including book lending to various creche’s Soete Uurtjies, Grade R New Dawn Park Primary, Grade R Pacaltsdorp Primary, Rooibootjie in Syferfontein, Rosedale Community Creche and Vuurvliegies.

The 10 books loaned to each creche will contain information on illegal dumping to raise awareness amongst our youngest residents. Illegal Dumping Awareness activities will also be run together with officials from Community Services, this Friday and next with older learners of Pacaltsdorp Primary School.  The creche Soete Uurtjie will be treated to a story hour as well as colouring exercise.

 

Information jamborees in New Dawn Park and Pacaltsdorp

George Municipality held ‘Information Jamborees’ in New Dawn Park and Pacaltsdorp today.

The initiative is the second in a series of pop-up sessions in which service departments set up in communities to provide information and deal with complaints. Areas in which new government subsidised housing projects have been completed are being prioritised for now to assist new beneficiaries with building-related issues that might have come up since they have occupied their new homes. The sessions, however, are open to all residents.
The municipal departments Housing, Community Development, Cleansing, Libraries, Civil Engineering Services (water, sanitation and streets), Finance, Electrotechnical Services, Tourism, Traffic and GO GEORGE were represented.
George Executive Mayor Leon van Wyk, who visited both sites this morning, encouraged locals to make use of the one-stop initiatives to address as many service-related issues as soon as possible.

Caption
Environmental Services staff from left Grace Notshokovu, Abongile Nontshikiza and Jody Stuurman promoted the municipality’s recycling programme.