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In the photo above, the new Uniondale route will be operated with the GO GEORGE minibus.

In die foto hierbo, die nuwe Uniondale-roete sal met die GO GEORGE-minibus bedryf word.

The Western Cape Government and George Municipality have announced that GO GEORGE will launch a route to Uniondale and surrounding areas on Friday, 30 October 2026. Residents of this rural part of the George Municipality have been waiting a long time for a scheduled bus service – a need that is now being met.

George Executive Mayor, Alderman Browen Johnson, says the roll-out of the route marks an important milestone for the George Municipality. “Our communities in Uniondale, Haarlem and the surrounding rural areas have waited a long time for a service that recognises and responds to their daily realities. This route is about more than transport — it is about creating opportunities, improving access and ensuring that our rural communities feel included. This journey started with a request from the community. We listened, acted by engaging with Minister Sileku to explore a way forward, and now we are delivering through implementation. I am incredibly proud of the team whose hard work and commitment have helped make this possible.”

The service will initially run on Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays and Saturdays. Two minibuses will depart from Uniondale and Haarlem at 06:00, transfer passengers to one bus at the T-junction and make stops at Avontuur, Noll, Eenzaamheid, Ganzekraal, Ezeljacht, Herold and Waboomskraal. The bus arrives at the George Transport Hub in the city centre at approximately 08:00. The return journey departs at 15:00 from the same point. Road construction on the N9 road may affect arrival times.

Reservations and fares
Bookings are essential and can be made by calling 074 305 4180 or sending a WhatsApp message to this number. Passengers without a booking can be accommodated if space allows, but everyone is strongly advised to book in advance to avoid disappointment – each minibus carries only 15 passengers. A small trailer will be available to accommodate limited luggage for shopping or personal items.

Fares:
George ↔ Noll: R60
Haarlem/Uniondale ↔ Noll: R60
George ↔ Uniondale/Haarlem: R110
A return trip between Uniondale and George therefore costs R220 – a significant saving for residents compared to other transport services.

Unique roll-out
According to Morné Lakay, GO GEORGE Manager, the development of the service outside the main town required careful planning. “Every aspect of such a service looks different from the standard bus service in George – from needs assessment, permission for and construction of bus stops, frequency and timetables, to a non-electronic ticketing system and cash payment during boarding. We have been back to the drawing board again and again and now feel ready and eager to get the wheels rolling,” he says.

The Western Cape Minister of Mobility, Isaac Sileku, emphasises that the route is an important step in the province’s commitment to accessible and affordable mobility. “When we expand transport to remote communities, we are not just building routes – we are building dignity. This service is proof that the Western Cape Government is listening, learning and working with communities to create practical, safe and reliable mobility, no matter where residents live.”

Information and support
GO GEORGE communication champions will visit the communities in advance to explain the service and answer residents’ questions.
The www.gogeorge.org.za website provides complete route, fare and trip planning features. GoBot, the GO GEORGE chatbot, is available on WhatsApp at 078 090 6168, and the GO GEORGE Call Centre can be contacted daily (05:00 – 20:00) on 0800 044 044.
GO GEORGE stel roete na Uniondale en omgewing bekend
Uitgereik 16 Oktober 2026

Die Wes-Kaapse regering en George-munisipaliteit het aangekondig dat GO GEORGE op Vrydag 30 Oktober 2026 ‘n roete na Uniondale en omliggende gebiede sal loods. Inwoners van hierdie landelike deel van die George-munisipaliteit het lank vir ’n geskeduleerde busdiens gewag – ’n behoefte wat nou vervul word.

George se uitvoerende burgemeester, raadsheer Browen Johnson, sê die uitrol van die roete is ’n mylpaal vir die hele George-munisipaliteit. “Ons gemeenskappe in Uniondale, Haarlem en die omliggende landelike gebiede het lank gewag vir ’n diens wat hul daaglikse realiteite verstaan. Hierdie roete gaan oor meer as net vervoer — dit gaan oor die skep van geleenthede, die verbetering van toegang en die versekering dat ons landelike gemeenskappe ingesluit voel. Hierdie reis het begin met ‘n versoek van die gemeenskap. Ons het geluister, opgetree deur met Minister Sileku te skakel om ‘n pad vorentoe te ondersoek, en nou lewer ons deur implementering. Ek is ongelooflik trots op die span wie se harde werk en toewyding gehelp het om dit moontlik te maak.”

Die diens sal aanvanklik op Maandae, Woensdae, Vrydae en Saterdae loop. Twee minibusse vertrek om 06:00 uit Uniondale en Haarlem, laai passasiers oor op een bus by die T-aansluiting en doen haltes aan by Avontuur, Noll, Eenzaamheid, Gansekraal, Ezeljacht, Herold en Waboomskraal Die bus arriveer teen ongeveer 08:00 by die George-vervoerkern (Transport Hub) in die middedorp. Die terugrit vertrek om 15:00 vanaf dieselfde punt. Padkonstruksie op die N9-pad mag aankomstye beïnvloed.

Besprekings en tariewe
Besprekings is noodsaaklik en kan gedoen word deur 074 305 4180 te skakel of ’n WhatsApp-boodskap na dié nommer te stuur. Passasiers sonder ’n bespreking kan geakkommodeer word indien daar plek is, maar almal word aangeraai om vooraf te bespreek om teleurstelling te voorkom – die minibus dra slegs 15 passasiers. ’n Klein sleepwa sal beperkte bagasie akkommodeer vir inkopies of persoonlike items.

Tariewe:
• George ↔ Noll: R60
• Haarlem/Uniondale ↔ Noll: R60
• George ↔ Uniondale/Haarlem: R110
’n Retoerrit tussen Uniondale en George kos dus R220 — ’n beduidende besparing vir inwoners vergeleke met ander vervoerdienste.

Unieke uitrol
Volgens Morné Lakay, GO GEORGE-bestuurder, het die ontwikkeling van die diens buite die dorp deeglike beplanning vereis. “Elke aspek van so ’n diens lyk anders as die standaard busdiens in George – van behoeftebepaling, toestemming vir en oprigting van bushaltes, gereeldheid en tydroosters tot ’n nie-elektroniese kaartjiestelsel en kontantbetaling tydens opklim. Ons is telkens terug tekenbord toe en voel nou gereed en lus om die wiele te laat rol,” sê hy.

Die Wes-Kaapse Minister van Mobiliteit, Isaac Sileku, beklemtoon dat die roete ‘n belangrike stap is in die provinsie se verbintenis tot toeganklike en bekostigbare mobiliteit. “Wanneer ons vervoer na afgeleë gemeenskappe uitbrei, bou ons nie net roetes nie – ons bou waardigheid. Hierdie diens is bewys dat die Wes-Kaapse regering luister, leer en saam met gemeenskappe werk om praktiese, veilige en betroubare mobiliteit te skep, maak nie saak waar inwoners woon nie.”

Inligting en ondersteuning
GO GEORGE-passasiersdiensbeamptes sal die betrokke gemeenskappe vooraf besoek om die diens te verduidelik en vrae te beantwoord.
Die webtuiste www.gogeorge.org.za bied volledige roete-, tarief- en ritbeplanningsinligting. GoBot, die GO GEORGE-kletsbot, is op WhatsApp beskikbaar by 078 090 6168, en die GO GEORGE-inbelsentrum kan daagliks tussen 05:00 en 20:00 geskakel word by 0800 044 044.

The Executive Mayor of George, Alderman Browen Johnson, has extended his sincere condolences to the families of the three men who lost their lives following a chemical-related incident on a farm near Herold’s Bay on Tuesday, 13 October 2026.

“This is a deeply tragic incident that has affected our community. On behalf of George Municipality, I extend my sincere condolences to the families, friends and colleagues of the three men who lost their lives. Our thoughts are also with everyone affected by this tragedy,” said Mayor Johnson.

Lee-Anne Meiring, Director of Community Safety and Mobility at George Municipality, confirmed that the Municipality’s Fire and Rescue Services received an emergency call reporting that people had reportedly fallen into a tank. “The first fire vehicle arrived at the scene at 11:22. Metro Ambulance personnel were already on site, and all casualties had been removed from the container and building. Ambulance personnel were conducting triage and providing medical treatment,” Meiring said.

George Fire and Rescue Services assisted with the emergency response in accordance with applicable procedures, using specialised protective equipment where required.

Meiring confirmed that the circumstances surrounding the incident, including the events preceding the arrival of emergency services and the cause of death, remain subject to an ongoing South African Police Service (SAPS) investigation. “The Municipality respects the investigative process and will refrain from commenting on details that could potentially compromise the ongoing investigation,” Meiring added.

The relevant Department of Employment and Labour, environmental authorities and law enforcement agencies have been informed. Enquiries regarding the investigation should be directed to SAPS.

Ends

In the photo above, is a role play session of the Yeboneers (the mouse and the lion).

Pacaltsdorp Library celebrated Literacy Month in September, by using its Reading Tree at the library, to encourage youngsters to read books. With every book finished by a young reader, their name and the title of the book are added to the Reading Tree.
The initiative, the brainchild of author, poet and Pacaltsdorp Library staff member Mandy Rose Naidoo, was launched in 2025 to encourage children to read for enjoyment while celebrating their achievements.

A former educator and librarian, and a lifelong reader herself, Naidoo believes strongly in the power of books to open minds, build confidence and create opportunities.
What began as a tree on a library wall has since grown into a lush Willow Tree – a colourful display of the reading achievements of local children.

And the numbers show just how far the initiative has grown.

In 2025, 12-year-old Genova Geduld of Pacaltsdorp Primary School read an impressive 116 books. In 2026, fellow Pacaltsdorp Primary School learner Joshley-Ann Arendse had already reached 62 books at the time of recording.
“Every book read, every page turned, adds a new leaf to our growing Reading Tree,” says Naidoo.
The Reading Tree formed part of Pacaltsdorp Library’s Literacy Month activities, which highlighted the importance of developing a culture of reading among children and young people.

The library’s literacy celebration brought together 85 participants, including 60 children and 25 adults, for a programme filled with reading, creativity and community spirit.

Activities included singing and dancing, impromptu storytelling and two dramas carrying meaningful messages. Outstanding readers in the community were also recognised with certificates and medals in acknowledgement of their commitment to reading.

Role play session of the Yeboneers with the hare and the tortoise.

Shaun Esterhuizen bringing Peter Pan, the book character to life.

Hierbo is ‘n foto van  die rolspelers by die welstandsdag in Waboomskraal.

Die Waboomskraal Thusong-dienssentrum het onlangs ’n suksesvolle Gemeenskapswelstandsdag aangebied, waartydens inwoners toegang gekry het tot belangrike inligting, ondersteuning en dienste wat op hul gesondheid en welstand fokus.
Verrigtinge het by die dienssentrum in Waboomskraal plaasgevind.

Verskeie diensverskaffers en belanghebbendes byeengebring, wat inwoners die geleentheid gebied het om direk met organisasies te skakel, vrae te vra en meer uit te vind oor die dienste en ondersteuning wat in die gemeenskap beskikbaar is.
Die rolspelers is deur Adam (Attie) Lewie van die Waboomskraal Thusong-dienssentrum by die geleentheid verwelkom. Hy het die doel van die dag aan die gemeenskap verduidelik en die verskillende belanghebbendes aan inwoners bekendgestel.
Een van die belangrike temas van die dag was die bevordering van ’n gesonde leefstyl en die belangrikheid om na ’n mens se fisiese, emosionele en sosiale welstand om te sien.

Zelda Barnard van Stop Trafficking het met die kinders gesels oor die ernstige kwessie van kinderhandel. As deel van haar boodskap aan die kinders het sy vir hulle klein poppies uitgedeel om hulle daaraan te herinner dat hulle spesiaal is en geliefd is.
Adjudant-offisier Wendy Lee van die Herold polisie het ook aan die dag deelgeneem en bygedra tot die bewusmaking rondom kinderhandel en die beskerming van kinders.

Die dag het inwoners die geleentheid gebied om in ’n vriendelike en ondersteunende omgewing met diensverskaffers te skakel en meer te leer oor hulpbronne en programme wat tot hul beskikking is.

Die deelname van verskeie organisasies het ook beklemtoon hoe belangrik samewerking tussen die gemeenskap, diensverskaffers en ander rolspelers is om dienste en ondersteuning nader aan inwoners te bring.

Die volgende rolspelers het aan die Gemeenskapswelstandsdag deelgeneem: People Against Substance Abuse, FAMSA, Options Care Centre, Herold SAPD, Waboomskraal E-Centre, TB & HIV Care, Bethesha, Waboomskraal Primêre Skool, HIV en Vigs kantoor, Gemeenskapsontwikkeling, George Munisipaliteit en Stop Trafficking.

Lewie het al die rolspelers namens die George Munisipaliteit bedank vir hul bydra wat tot die sukses van die dag bygedra het.
Die sentrum sal voortgaan om saam met rolspelers te werk om dienste, inligting en geleenthede nader aan die mense van Waboomskraal te bring, het hy gesê.

Fotos:

Attie Lewie spreek die gemeenskap toe by die welstandsdag in Waboomskraal.

Van die rolspelers by die welstandsdag in Waboomskraal.

Adj-Off. Wendy Lee van Herold Polisie praat met die kinders en grootmense oor mensehandel en die gevare waarvoor om uit te kyk.

Zelda Barnard van Stop Trafficking het tasbare materiale soos plakkate, prente en poppies gebruik om veral die jongspan oor mensehandel in te lig.

Van die leerders met die poppies wat Zelda Barnard in haar aanbieding gebruik het.

Van die leerders met die poppies wat Zelda Barnard in haar aanbieding gebruik het.

In the photo above, the Executive Mayor of George, Ald Browen Johnson (back middle) at the ranking ceremony of Law Enforcement and Traffic officers and two firefighters who have received training certificates.  To the left of the mayor are Mawethu Gobozi (Assistant Superintendent:Traffic), Jaymee Jaftha (Law Enforcement Officer), Ald Daniel Cronje, MMC for Safety and Mobility and Cynthia Gounder (Assistant Superintendent: Traffic). To the mayor’s right are Dr Dean O’Neill, Acting Municipal Manager of George Municipality, Lee-Anne Meiring, Director of Safety and Mobility and Neels Barnard, Fire Chief at George Municipality. Infront are from left Junior Firefighter, Regan van Beulen, Akhona Bonga, Jona Julies, Lorendo Damons (all three promoted from assistants to Law Enforcement Officers and Junior Firefighter Shawn Platt.

George Municipality recognised the achievements of its Law Enforcement, Traffic Services and Fire and Emergency Services personnel at the Ranking Ceremony of new employees in the Directorate: Community Safety and Mobility, held on Friday at the George Municipality Junior Traffic Training Centre.

Two firefighters received training certificates, while four Law Enforcement officers and two Traffic officers were recognised for their promotions. The two Traffic officers progressed from Traffic Officer to Assistant Superintendent.

Executive Mayor Ald Browen Johnson thanked George Municipality’s firefighters, Law Enforcement officers and emergency services personnel for their dedication and service to the community.

He congratulated the employees who received promotions and the two firefighters who received training certificates, noting that internal promotions demonstrate the skills, experience and potential within the Municipality’s workforce.

With George continuing to grow, the Mayor highlighted the increasing responsibility on safety and emergency services to protect residents and respond to emergencies. He encouraged the recipients to perform their duties with integrity, courage and professionalism, always placing the safety and well-being of the community first.

MMC for Safety and Mobility, Ald Daniel Cronje, also congratulated the recipients, noting that their achievements reflected their growth, commitment and dedication to serving the community.

He highlighted the important role officers play in promoting public safety and supporting the well-being of George’s growing communities. He encouraged them to embrace greater responsibility and continue developing their careers.

Acting Municipal Manager Dr Dean O’Neill delivered the vote of thanks and encouraged the officers to further their education by pursuing diplomas and degrees and applying for internal bursaries.

He described the ranking ceremony as a stepping stone towards further career development and called on the Mayor and Directors to continue investing in their teams. He encouraged more women to consider careers in the field of Traffic Services.

Director of Safety and Mobility, Lee-Anne Meiring highlighted the importance of professional development and career progression. She congratulated the recipients and encouraged them to lead by example and continue serving the people of George with integrity, fairness and professionalism.

She said as part of Transport Month, George Municipality will host activities focused on road safety, compliance and service delivery.

These include workshops at local high schools on computerised learner’s licence tests, a Pay Your Fine roadshow at Pacaltsdorp Civic Centre from 26 to 29 October, and joint roadblocks with partner agencies and road safety role players.

Photos:

Ismail Patel, Senior Manager: Public Safety (middle) at the event with some ranking officers and supporting staff. From left are Sharon Marsow (Law Enforcement), Mawethu Gobozi (Traffic), Jona Julies (Law Enforcement), Jaymee Jaftha (Law Enforcement), Cynthia Gounder (Traffic), Lorendo Damons (Law Enforcement), Akhona Bonga (Law Enforcement), Jama Bonga (Traffic) and Vuyiswa Ndzonda (Administration: Public Safety).

Fire Chief of the George Fire Brigade, Neels Barnard (middle) with junior firefighters, Shawn Platt (left) and Regan van Beulen.

Jaymee Jaftha reads the Oath of Office aloud at the ceremony while Ismail Patel, Senior Manager: Public Safety looks on. To the front are her colleagues from left, Jona Julies, Lorendo Damons and Akhona Bonga.

Merwin Soonies, Principal Inspector: Law Enforcement, attaches epaulettes and shoulder flashes to Jona Julies during the ranking ceremony. The officers were promoted from assistant law enforcement officers to law enforcement officers.

At the ranking ceremony from left are, Mawethu Gobozi, Cynthia Gounder, Ismail Patel, Marlene Gerber and Jama Bonga.

 Lafras Boesak, Chief Superintendent: George Traffic confers attaches epaulettes and shoulder flashes to Cynthia Gounder, who was promoted from Traffic Officer to Assistant Superintendent during the ranking ceremony.

Mawethu Gobozi who was also promoted from Traffic officer to Assistant Superintendent with Lafras Boesak, Chief Superintendent: George Traffic.

Top winners in all three languages (from left): Samkelo Gwaza (isiXhosa 1st Place – M.M. Mateza Primary School), Caydee-Leigh Cherry (Afrikaans 1st Place – Pacaltsdorp Primary School), and Ferguson Van Wyk (English 1st Place – Pacaltsdorp Primary School).

George Municipality’s Annual Branch Libraries’ Spelling Bee brought together eight primary schools for a highly contested celebration of literacy, language and learning at a packed Conville Library on 11 September 2026. This year’s competition was particularly significant as learners competed in all three official languages of the Western Cape – Afrikaans, English and isiXhosa – highlighting the Municipality’s commitment to promoting multilingualism, inclusion and a love for reading and language among young people.

All Nine Winners, three per language: The top nine participants across the Afrikaans, English, and isiXhosa categories display their trophies and medals following the George Municipality’s Annual Branch Libraries’ Spelling Bee

The judges: The panel of judges who oversaw the competition across all three official Western Cape languages during the annual event at Conville Library.
The competition was marked by a high level of participation and competitiveness, with learners demonstrating their spelling, vocabulary and language skills across all three languages. The winners in each language category will represent George Municipality at an Inter-Municipality Spelling Bee Competition in Oudtshoorn.

George Librarians and organisers of the Spelling BEE: George Municipality library staff and event organizers gathered on stage at Conville Library following the successful hosting of the Spelling Bee.

The participating schools were:
1. Pacaltsdorp Primary School
2. New Dawn Park Primary School
3. Heidedal Primary School
4. St Paul’s Primary School
5. M.M. Mateza Primary School
6. Thembalethu Primary School
7. Tyolora Primary School
8. Kretzenshoop Primary School

According to Janetta Rhode from George Municipality’s Libraries, the initiative is aimed at creating an inclusive environment in which learners can develop essential language skills, build self-esteem and connect with their peers through a shared love of learning. “The Spelling Bee emphasises inclusivity, innovation and community engagement to inspire learners from diverse backgrounds. We believe that every child deserves the opportunity to excel and discover the joy of words,” said Rhode.

The Spelling Bee aims to cultivate a lifelong passion for words and learning, improve literacy and vocabulary skills among young people, and foster confidence, public speaking and critical thinking. It also provides an opportunity to promote diversity and inclusion through educational and extracurricular activities.

In front are some of the judges and the attendees: Judges seated in the foreground as learners, parents, and supporters fill Conville Library during the Spelling Bee competition.

Dr Kosie Haarhoff, who was Acting Director: Community Services at the time of the event, said initiatives such as the Spelling Bee provide valuable opportunities for learners to develop their skills in a supportive and engaging environment. “Schools, libraries and community organisations interested in participating in the Spelling Bee programme are encouraged to contact their local library for more information,” said Haarhoff.

Afrikaans winners
• 1st Place: Caydee-Leigh Cherry – Pacaltsdorp Primary School
• 2nd Place: Lawrendo Muller – Pacaltsdorp Primary School
• 3rd Place: Kaylen Bruinders – St Paul’s Primary School
• Winning School: Pacaltsdorp Primary School

English winners
• 1st Place: Ferguson Van Wyk – Pacaltsdorp Primary School
• 2nd Place: Si Yan Di – St Paul’s Primary School
• 3rd Place: Uthandolwethi Dingawayo – Thembalethu Primary School
• Winning School: Pacaltsdorp Primary School

IsiXhosa winners
• 1st Place: Gwaza Samkelo – M.M. Mateza Primary School
• 2nd Place: Matewu Okuhle – M.M. Mateza Primary School
• 3rd Place: Asante Ganto – Thembalethu Primary School
• Winning School: M.M. Mateza Primary School

Prize-giving
The Afrikaans prize-giving was conducted by Dr Kosie Haarhoff, Acting Director: Community Services; the English prize-giving by Mr Franklin Lamini, representative of the Western Cape Education Department’s Safe Schools Programme; and the isiXhosa prize-giving by Mr Wayne Windwaai of the Youth in Action Foundation, sponsor of the floating trophies.

Growing the Spelling Bee
The Spelling Bee initiative was launched in 2022 at Conville Library, with only one school, Conville Primary School, participating. The initiative has grown over the years, with schools such as Heidedal Primary School, which were last year’s winners in both the Spelling Bee and Book Review competitions, and Rosemoor Primary School subsequently joining the programme.

The continued growth of the initiative demonstrates the important role that libraries can play in supporting literacy, language development and lifelong learning among young people.

ENDS

Full Blue Flag status for the 2026-27 season: Receiving the 2026/27 Blue Flag award for George Municipality’s beaches are (from left) Cindy-Lee Cloete (WESSA Chief Executive Officer), Thandiwe Mayile (Superintendent: Beaches and Public Ablution Facilities, George Municipality), Sisanda Velembo (Superintendent: Parks and Recreation, George Municipality), Kathy Young (Foundation for Environmental Education International board member), and Jansen Davies (WESSA board Chairperson).

George Municipality is pleased to announce that Herold’s Bay, Victoria Bay and Wilderness beaches have retained their full Blue Flag status for the 2026/27 season, while Leentjiesklip Beach continues as a pilot Blue Flag site. Gwaing Beach has also received the WESSA (Wildlife and Environment Society of South Africa) Green Coast Award for 2026/27 for the third consecutive year.

The awards ceremony took place at Grotto Beach in Hermanus on 8 October 2026, co-hosted by Overstrand Municipality. The event marked 25 years of the Blue Flag Programme in South Africa and WESSA’s centenary. Sisanda Velembo, Superintendent: Parks and Recreation, and Thandiwe Mayile, Superintendent: Beaches and Public Ablution Facilities, attended the ceremony on behalf of George Municipality to receive the award certificates.

Wilderness received additional recognition for maintaining Blue Flag status continuously for five years, highlighting the Municipality’s ongoing commitment to responsible coastal management, environmental conservation and sustainable tourism.

Blue Flag is an internationally recognised environmental award programme that assesses beaches against criteria covering bathing-water quality, environmental management, safety, accessibility and environmental education. Maintaining the status requires ongoing compliance with these standards, including regular water-quality monitoring and appropriate beach facilities and safety measures.

Executive Mayor of George, Alderman Browen Johnson, commended the officials responsible for coastal management for their continued efforts. “The continued recognition reflects the ongoing work required to maintain our coastal assets, promote environmental awareness and provide safe, clean and well-managed beaches for residents and visitors. We commend the officials involved for their contribution to protecting George’s coastline for current and future generations,” said Alderman Johnson.

Gwaing Beach recognised for coastal conservation

The WESSA Green Coast Programme recognises coastal sites that demonstrate effective conservation management, community participation, environmental education and responsible tourism. Gwaing Beach’s third consecutive year of recognition highlights the continued importance of protecting natural coastal environments while promoting their responsible use and appreciation.

Green Coast Award: Celebrating Gwaing Beach’s third consecutive WESSA Green Coast Award for 2026/27 are (from left) Cindy-Lee Cloete (WESSA Chief Executive Officer), Sisanda Velembo (Superintendent: Parks and Recreation, George Municipality), Thandiwe Mayile (Superintendent: Beaches and Public Ablution Facilities, George Municipality), Kathy Young (Foundation for Environmental Education International board member), and Jansen Davies (WESSA board Chairperson).

Victoria Bay surfing: Victoria Bay received special recognition at the awards ceremony for maintaining continuous Blue Flag status for five consecutive years, highlighting George Municipality’s commitment to clean, safe, and world-class coastal management.

Acting Municipal Manager Dr Dean O’Neill emphasised the importance of maintaining these standards as the festive season approaches. “As we prepare to welcome residents and visitors to our beaches during the festive season, it is important that we continue to maintain our coastal facilities and protect our natural environment. These recognitions reflect our commitment to responsible coastal management and to ensuring that our coastline remains a valued asset for generations to come,” said Dr O’Neill.

For more information on the national awards and the 25-year milestone of the Blue Flag Programme in South Africa, read WESSA’s media release: WESSA recognises 62 Blue Flags and 19 Green Coast sites as South Africa marks 25 years of coastal stewardship and a more inclusive future.

George Municipality’s Electrical Engineering Services Directorate received the “Excellence in Revenue Management” award at the Ontec User Conference held at Fancourt, George, from 21 to 23 September 2026.

From left to right:
Mr Michael Rhode (Director: Electrical Engineering Services, George Municipality), Mr Kobus Wilken (Deputy Director: Specialised Engineering Services, George Municipality), Mr Charles Jackson (Senior Manager: Operations, Ontec), Mr Jemaine Cupido (Manager: Energy Security, George Municipality), Mr Dashi Naidoo (Chief Strategy & Commercial Officer, Ontec), Mr Henty Waker (Director, Ontec), and Mr Damian Padachi (Chief Executive Officer, Ontec).

George Municipality’s Electrical Engineering Services Directorate has been recognised for its contribution to effective electricity revenue management, receiving the “Excellence in Revenue Management” award at the Ontec User Conference held at Fancourt in George from 21 to 23 September 2026.

The award acknowledges the Directorate’s work in strengthening revenue management processes within the electricity services environment and comes as recognition of the team’s ongoing efforts to improve operational efficiency and support the Municipality’s financial sustainability.

Director of the Electrical Engineering Services Directorate, Mr Michael Rhode, congratulated the officials involved in the achievement. “This award is a wonderful recognition of the dedication and commitment of our team. I am extremely proud of our officials and the work they do every day to ensure that our electricity services are managed effectively and responsibly,” said Rhode.

Rhode said effective revenue management plays an important role in supporting sustainable municipal service delivery. “Sound revenue management is essential to ensuring that the Municipality has the resources to maintain our electrical infrastructure, invest in improvements and continue delivering services to our communities. This recognition demonstrates what can be achieved when we work together, continuously improve our processes and remain focused on our responsibilities,” he said.

He added that the award should be viewed as a collective achievement, while extending a special acknowledgement to the Municipality’s Finance colleagues for their contribution. “I want to thank every member of the team who contributed to this achievement. Awards such as this belong to the entire team. I would also like to extend a special thank you to our colleagues in Finance for their contribution and support in attaining this award. Their collaboration with the Electrical Engineering Services Directorate has been important in strengthening our revenue management efforts,” said Rhode.

“It is encouraging to see the work of our officials being recognised, and I hope this motivates us to continue raising the standard and looking for further opportunities to improve,” he added.

George Municipality congratulates the Electrical Engineering Services Directorate and the Finance team on this achievement and acknowledges the officials whose commitment, collaboration and professionalism contributed to the recognition.

The Municipality remains committed to strengthening its revenue management systems and operational performance as part of its broader efforts to ensure financial sustainability, reliable infrastructure and quality service delivery to residents.

ENDS

In the photo above is a group of attendees at the George Pride Imbizo 2026 Pre-Launch and Stakeholder Engagement

George Municipality hosted the pre-launch of the 4th Annual George Pride Imbizo on in this past week, bringing together local government, civil society organisations, LGBTQIA+ community structures, health-sector partners, Nelson Mandela University (NMU) and other stakeholders.

The 4th Annual George Pride Imbizo takes place on 10 October 2026 in Thembalethu. The starting point for the march is the open space next to the Thembalethu Fire Station. Participants in the march can start gathering at 12 noon and the official march will then start at 13:00. The official event will be held after the march at Thembalethu Community Hall, where health services will be available and speeches will be delivered.

The pre-launch engagement provided an opportunity to reflect on progress within the LGBTQIA+ sector, strengthen partnerships and identify ways to address ongoing challenges affecting LGBTQIA+ communities.

George Municipality LGBTQIA+ Project Coordinator Khanyisile Fortuin said the Pride Imbizo is about more than an annual event. “The launch is more than just a programme; it is an opportunity for us as a sector to reflect on our journey, celebrate our progress, acknowledge the challenges that remain, and strengthen our collective commitment to an inclusive and safer George.”
Fortuin said Pride represents visibility, dignity, safety, equality, health and belonging.
She said, “Pride is more than a celebration. It is about creating a society where every person can live openly and with dignity, regardless of sexual orientation, gender identity or gender expression.”

Prince Mathe, Garden Route District Manager at TB HIV Care, highlighted the importance of continued efforts to address HIV-related stigma among key and priority populations.
He emphasised the need for inclusive, respectful and non-judgemental healthcare services, as well as a shared responsibility to strengthen HIV prevention, treatment and support.

Vuyolwethu Ngcofe, Transformation Officer at NMU George Campus, welcomed the partnership between the University and George Municipality.
“We are happy to start this partnership with the Municipality because before you are a university student, you are a member of the community.”
Ngcofe said the partnership would support advocacy and awareness around Pride both within the university and the broader community.

Neviron Meyer, Operations Manager at Gender Dynamix (GDX), highlighted the organisation’s commitment to promoting the rights, dignity and inclusion of transgender and gender-diverse people.
GDX is a trans-led human rights organisation working across Southern Africa on community leadership, advocacy, access to healthcare and public services, and legal and policy reform.
Meyer said the organisation values opportunities to work with local communities and partners to turn dialogue into practical action.
GDX’s message to George is that transgender and gender-diverse people belong, have valuable contributions to make and deserve to live safely, freely and with dignity.

The Western Cape Provincial Chairperson for the LGBTQIA+ Sector within the Civil Society Forum of the South African National AIDS Council (SANAC), Gita November, participated virtually in the George Pride Imbizo Pre-Launch and Stakeholder Engagement and delivered her address during the programme. She emphasised the importance of ensuring that the lived experiences of LGBTQIA+ people inform policies, programmes and services.
“Our role as the LGBTQIA+ Sector within the Civil Society Forum is not simply to represent a constituency in meetings. Our role is to bring the voices, lived experiences, evidence and realities of LGBTQIA+ people directly into the spaces where policies, programmes and services are designed, implemented and monitored.”
The Chairperson said meaningful advocacy must result in practical action and ensure that constitutional rights are reflected in the everyday experiences of LGBTQIA+ people.
The pre-launch demonstrated the value of collaboration between government, civil society, academic institutions, health-sector partners and LGBTQIA+ communities.
The 4th Annual George Pride Imbizo will continue to provide a platform for dialogue, advocacy and community engagement, with a focus on issues including stigma and discrimination, HIV and healthcare access, gender identity, safety, human rights and social inclusion.

Photos:

Khanyisile Fortuin – LGBTQIA+ and HIV/AIDS Project Coordinator, George Municipality.

Neviron Meyer – Operations Manager, Gender Dynamix.

Vuyolwethu Ngcofe – Transformation Officer, Nelson Mandela University, George Campus.

Prince Mathe – Garden Route District Manager, TB HIV Care.

George Municipality Council has approved and adopted its Consolidated Capital Expenditure Framework (CEF) for 2026/2027, which will guide how the Municipality plans and prioritises its infrastructure projects.

During the discussion, of the item in a Special Council sitting online on 28 September 2026, Council also considered the cost of employing workers on projects funded wholly or partly through the Integrated Urban Development Grant (IUDG).
Acting Municipal Manager Dean O’Neill said the Municipality must carefully balance the need to create employment opportunities with the need to ensure that grant-funded infrastructure projects are delivered within their available budgets.
“Grant funding is limited and needs to be used carefully. If the cost of a project increases, there is less funding available for the project itself and potentially fewer people can be employed during the construction phase,” said O’Neill.

He said the Expanded Public Works Programme (EPWP) also provides an opportunity for more people to benefit from temporary work and earn an income while projects are being implemented, at the applicable EPWP rates.
“Our responsibility is to make sure that the funding is used for the purpose for which it was provided, while creating as many work opportunities as possible and delivering the infrastructure that communities need,” he said.

It was also noted that the Municipality cannot determine the wages that independent contractors pay their employees beyond the requirements of applicable legislation and the conditions contained in the relevant contracts. Contractors remain responsible for complying with labour legislation and applicable wage requirements.

As part of the discussion on Item 4.11, the Patriotic Alliance put forward a counter proposal relating to wages on IUDG-funded Civil Engineering projects.
The counter proposal was proposed by Cllr Raphael Goeieman and seconded by Cllr Marcell Kleynhans.

It proposed that workers on Civil Engineering projects funded wholly or partly through the IUDG be paid at applicable industry-related wage rates, in accordance with the National Minimum Wage Act, Basic Conditions of Employment Act and applicable Bargaining Council agreements or Sectoral Determinations.
The proposal also called for these requirements to be included in IUDG applications, project budgets, tender specifications and contractual conditions. It further proposed that the Municipal Manager or delegated officials monitor contractual compliance, while the Department of Employment and Labour remains responsible for enforcing applicable labour legislation and wage determinations.

While the proposal may seem to be beneficial on the face of it, the unintended consequences are not and Council considered the proposal against the available funding for infrastructure projects, the potential impact on project costs and the number of people who could be employed during the implementation phase.

The CEF brings together the Municipality’s infrastructure needs, spatial planning and available funding. It is aligned with the Integrated Development Plan, Municipal Spatial Development Framework and budget, and supports the Municipality’s requirements for accessing and retaining IUDG funding.
Projects are considered according to factors such as service backlogs, growth, infrastructure needs, affordability, technical readiness and the potential social and economic benefit.
The CEF does not approve funding for individual projects. Projects still have to go through the annual budget process and can only proceed once funding has been approved and is available.
O’Neill said the CEF gives the Municipality a clearer basis for making decisions about where limited capital funding should be directed.

“We need to make sure that the money available to the Municipality is used where it can have a meaningful and lasting benefit for residents. That means looking not only at the immediate cost of a project, but also at the infrastructure we are able to deliver and maintain over the longer term,” said O’Neill.

CAPTION (20 SEP 2026)
A group of excited stakeholders travelled to the George Airport on Route 19 on Sunday morning to celebrate the activation of the trial route. From left are: George Cllr Given Masase (Chairperson GIPTN), Lee-Anne Meiring (George Director of Community Safety and Mobility, Ald. Browen Johnson (George Executive Mayor), Western Cape Minister of Mobility, Isaac Sileku, Branda Vorster (Manager Airport), Dirk Wessels (Western Cape MPL), Morné Lakay (GO GEORGE Manager), and Marek Houba (GIPTN Project Manager).

George Municipality and the Western Cape Government have announced the activation of a GO GEORGE trial route between the George CBD and George Airport on Sunday 20 September 2026, providing bus passengers, including anyone working at the airport, with new travel options seven days a week.

Route 19 AIRPORT will operate from 05:00 to 20:00 daily. During peak hours, buses will depart approximately every 22 minutes, with a 45 minute frequency during off peak times.

Departing from the Transport Hub in Cradock Street, the route will stop at all existing bus stops between the CBD and MediClinic, and thereafter at the AIRPORT 711 stop inside the airport grounds. The service demand and uptake will be monitored carefully with a view to continuous refinement and adjustment to passenger needs.

Early-morning trip for early birds
To accommodate staff starting work early, two early-morning routes, each running just one trip, are scheduled to depart from Parkdene and Thembalethu at 05:10 daily. These routes will not board passengers at the airport and will return to the depot directly.

According to Morné Lakay, GO GEORGE Manager, additional stops may be added as passenger demand grows. “After years of discussion with George Airport management, our aim is to get the route going with our usual infrastructure-light approach while we monitor the needs of workers and students on the route,” he said.

George Airport Manager, Brenda Vorster, said the trial route coming to life is deeply meaningful for all stakeholders at George Airport. “We have hoped for this connection for many years, knowing how much it would support the people who keep the airport running every day. A reliable public transport link makes it easier for staff to plan their transport, and we are proud to support GO GEORGE in making this goal a reality.”

George Executive Mayor, Alderman Browen Johnson, said the new route would help make mobility more accessible to residents and connect them to opportunities. “This is not just about a new bus route. It is about connecting people to opportunities, supporting our growing economy and making sure that, as George grows, our transport network grows with it,” he said.

Western Cape Minister of Mobility, Isaac Sileku, is looking forward to seeing Route 19 become a valuable link for the George community. “Good transport connectivity is important for our local economy. It helps residents get to work, supports businesses and makes it easier for residents to move around the region. We will continue working with GO GEORGE and our partners to build a public transport system that responds to the everyday needs of our communities,” he said.

For full route details and trip planning support, visit www.gogeorge.org.za or contact the GO GEORGE Call Centre at 0800 044 044 between 05:00 and 20:00 daily.

In the photo: A wide-angle view of the solidarity demonstration held outside George City Hall on 18 September 2026, drawing municipal staff and community members together to protest against GBVF.

In solidarity with efforts to end gender-based violence and femicide (GBVF) in South Africa, George Municipality officials, accompanied by Executive Mayor Alderman Browen Johnson, joined millions of South Africans in taking a stand against violence against women and children.

Officials gathered outside George City Hall on Friday, 18 September 2026, at 13:00, following reports of nine women who lost their lives to alleged gender-based violence in Kempton Park and surrounding areas.

Dressed in black as a sign of mourning, the officials observed a moment of silence following a prayer led by Pastor Ahene Jonathan. An empty coffin was placed at the gathering as a symbol of the call for an end to the killing of women.

According to one of the organisers, Khanyisile Fortuin, a George Municipality official, LGBTQI+ and HIV/AIDS Project Coordinator, and GBVF activist, the empty coffin represents the demand that no more women lose their lives to gender-based violence.

“Enough is enough! We can no longer normalise women being killed and buried because of gender-based violence. We say, as women: my body, my choice; my body is no one’s crime scene. We have had enough, and this coffin in front of us will remain empty of women’s bodies,” Fortuin said.

The Executive Mayor expressed his sadness at the ongoing killings of women in South Africa and emphasised that such incidents should not simply be treated as crime statistics. “This is a great concern. We cannot just take these killings as another statistic in the crime records of South Africa,” Mayor Johnson said.

“We are standing behind an empty coffin that symbolises that enough is enough. Women should not be judged because they choose to wear certain types of clothes, go for a jog or simply go to the post office. This is not fair to our women, young women, and women of all ages in this country.

“We say to the men: please stop this behaviour and work with us. And to the women: speak out. Let us not allow this to continue,” Mayor Johnson said.

Ms Marilyn Olifant, Founding Director of Legally You, an organisation working against GBVF, also attended the gathering in support of the demonstration. “We will not allow any further gender-based violence or domestic violence in this district. This is the end. This is enough. We will continue our collaborative approach with all stakeholders within this jurisdiction to fight GBVF,” Olifant said.

Speaking on behalf of men, George Municipality official Mongameli Kaliko called for moral regeneration and a renewed commitment among men to protect women and children and promote safer communities. “There was a time when women could walk freely without fear in the streets of George. Where is our humanity? Where is the love, peace, harmony, and protection? “I want to say to men: when women meet you, they must see protection and love, and when children meet you, they must see care. Moral regeneration must begin in our homes and families. As men, we need to lead young boys by example and show them that love can overcome violence,” Kaliko said.

The gathering also featured placards carrying messages such as “Silence protects the perpetrator of the victim” and “April 2026 – June 2026: 11 532 Sexual Offences – End GBV”. Officials also expressed their solidarity through song, including the isiXhosa song “Senzeni Na?”, meaning “What have we done?”

The Municipality continues to support initiatives that promote awareness, prevention and collective action against gender-based violence and femicide.

“Thank you to the staff of the George Municipality who came out in solidarity against gender-based violence and the brutal killing of women and children,” Mayor Johnson concluded.

A united effort to tackle litter, promote recycling, and encourage greater community responsibility for the environment will get underway in George this week as the Municipality and its partners launch a series of clean-up and recycling activities. George Clean-Up and Recycle Week 2026, taking place from 15 to 19 September, will bring together community organisations, waste-management partners, government stakeholders and residents in a range of activities across George.

The initiative combines practical clean-up activities with recycling education, waste-picker support and initiatives aimed at demonstrating the value of separating and recycling waste.

PROGRAMME
📍Edameni, Thembalethu | 09:00–10:00
🗓️Tuesday, 15 September
Recycling and buy-back information session with the Asivikelane Campaign.

📍Blanco and Malgas River area | From 09:00
🗓️Wednesday, 16 September
Targeted river clean-up and the first community swop-shop pilot.

📍Thembalethu Mobile Buy-Back Centre and Inkcubeko Training Centre
🗓️Friday, 18 September
Waste-picker training, recycling and buy-back activities, a swop-shop pilot, environmental education and a local clean-up.

📍Thembalethu
🗓️Saturday, 19 September
Community clean-up launch.

📍Kleinkrantz Beach
🗓️Saturday, 19 September
International Coastal Clean-Up involving local soccer youth.

The activities combine environmental action with practical education and community participation. The swop-shop pilots will demonstrate how clean recyclable materials can be separated and exchanged, helping communities to understand the value of recycling.

Senior Manager for Environmental Services in the George Municipality, Mr Sivuyile Mtila, said the initiative provides an opportunity to take practical action while strengthening public awareness about responsible waste management. “Clean-up campaigns are important, but their impact goes beyond removing litter. We want to use these activities to encourage better waste practices, increase recycling awareness, and demonstrate what can be achieved when communities and partners work together. Every kilogram of recyclable material recovered is material that can be diverted from the waste stream, while every area cleaned contributes to a healthier environment.”

Executive Mayor Ald. Browen Johnson said keeping George clean is a shared responsibility that requires active participation from residents, businesses, organisations, and government. “A clean George is something we must build together. Our public spaces, rivers, beaches, and neighbourhoods belong to all of us, and we all have a role to play in protecting them. This week is an opportunity not only to clean up, but to strengthen a culture of responsibility, pride and care for our communities and environment.”

George Municipality is participating in the initiative alongside Henque Waste, Work for Liberation, Asivikelane, eWASA, Garden Route District Municipality, Western Cape Government and SANParks, Shoprite, with additional partners supporting various activities. The Municipality encourages residents to support the campaign by disposing of waste responsibly, separating recyclable materials where possible and taking pride in keeping their neighbourhoods and natural spaces clean.

WEATHER ADVISORY

As some of the activities are outdoors, the programme remains subject to weather and site safety conditions. Activities may be delayed, postponed or cancelled where conditions pose a risk to participants. Residents and participants are encouraged to check the latest official communication before travelling to an activity.

ENDS.

Mayor Ald Browen Johnson cutting Ribbon:
Executive Mayor of George, Ald Brown Johnson, cuts the ribbon to officially open the Integrated Operational Centre on 1 September 2026, marking a major milestone for the municipality’s Safer City Strategy.

George Municipality has officially opened its new Integrated Operational Centre, marking a significant milestone in strengthening public safety, operational coordination and municipal responsiveness across the city. The centre was officially opened by the Executive Mayor of George, Ald Brown Johnson, on 1 September 2026 at the facility on Mitchell Street, George.

Community Safety team:
Members of the Community Safety team gather inside the new facility, which houses the 24-hour Safer City Call Centre and CCTV Command Centre.

Addressing the attendees, which included members of the MMC for Community Safety, Cllr Danie Cronje, the Executive Mayoral Committee, councillors, senior management and municipal officials, Director of Community Safety and Mobility Lee-Anne Meiring said the Integrated Operational Centre brings together technology, information and municipal operational services to strengthen the monitoring and coordination of incidents, improve situational awareness and support the efficient deployment of resources.

Jovial Attendees outside the Integrated Operational Centre:
Municipal officials and dignitaries share a light-hearted moment outside the Integrated Operational Centre after celebrating its official opening.

“The facility houses the Safer City Call Centre, which operates 24 hours a day, seven days a week, as well as a CCTV Command Centre with cameras monitoring areas across George. The centre also supports Municipal Law Enforcement, Traffic Services and Anti-Land Invasion operations, enabling these services to work more closely together in responding to incidents,” Meiring said.

Speaking at the official opening, Mayor Johnson said the centre represents the Municipality’s commitment to smarter governance, stronger coordination and safer communities. “This centre is far more than a building equipped with technology. It is the operational heart of a modern municipality. It is where information becomes action, where incidents are monitored, coordinated and managed, and where municipal safety services come together to ensure that the right resources are dispatched to the right place at the right time,” said Mayor Johnson.

Ald Johnson said the centre is an important milestone in the implementation of George Municipality’s Safer City Strategy, as the Municipality moves beyond planning and strategies towards practical implementation and execution.

“A safer city is created through deliberate investment, visible law enforcement, responsive service delivery, informed decision-making and strong community partnerships. That is exactly what we are building here in George,” said Johnson. “One year ago, we committed to 24/7 Law Enforcement services. On 1 September 2026, we took the next step by officially launching our Integrated Operational Centre — strengthening our ability to monitor, respond and keep our communities safer, around the clock,” he added.

24-Hour Safer City Call Centre Launched

As part of the new operational arrangements, George Municipality has officially launched its 24-hour Safer City Call Centre, providing residents with direct access to municipal services at any time of the day or night.

Residents can report safety-related concerns, suspicious activities, by-law transgressions, traffic-related matters, and other incidents through the following numbers:

Safer City Call Centre:

044 801 6350
044 801 6310
044 801 6389

A dedicated Safer City WhatsApp reporting service has also been introduced on 082 423 5082, providing residents with an additional channel to communicate with the Municipality.

Mayor Johnson with Safer City Call Centre Operators:
Executive Mayor Ald Brown Johnson visits operators at work inside the newly launched 24-hour Safer City Call Centre, which provides residents with direct access to municipal services around the clock.

When submitting a complaint via WhatsApp, residents are required to provide their full name and surname, contact number, a brief description of the incident, the full address or exact location, and any relevant photographs or videos. Once all the required information has been received, the complaint will be logged and a reference number issued.

Residents are reminded that WhatsApp calls and voice notes are not accepted. Complaints must be submitted in writing via WhatsApp text. The WhatsApp service and Safer City Call Centre should not be used for emergencies requiring an immediate response.

For fire emergencies in George, residents should call 044 801 6311, available 24 hours a day, seven days a week. The Toll-Free Disaster Management line, 0800 424 477, is also available 24/7 for disaster-related emergencies. For after-hours municipal emergencies in George, residents can contact 044 801 6300. In Uniondale and Haarlem, residents requiring emergency assistance should contact 044 801 9189.

The Uniondale/Haarlem Fire Service can be reached on 044 752 1225 during operating hours (07:45–16:30), while after-hours emergencies should be reported on 044 801 6300.

Traffic Operations Extended to 24 Hours

The Municipality has also introduced a new 12-hour shift system for Municipal Traffic Services, providing 24-hour traffic law-enforcement coverage across the municipal area.

The new shift system commenced at 06:00 on 1 September 2026 and is intended to strengthen road safety interventions, visible enforcement, incident response and support for broader public safety initiatives throughout the day and night.

Mayor Johnson said the extended operational capacity would contribute to improved road safety, compliance, crime prevention support and overall public safety in George.

The Integrated Operational Centre forms part of the Municipality’s broader approach to strengthening collaboration between municipal services and external stakeholders, including the South African Police Service, Provincial Traffic, Emergency Medical Services, Disaster Management, neighbourhood watches, community organisations, businesses and residents.

Acting Municipal Manager Dr Dean O’Neill thanked Council, municipal officials and all stakeholders involved in establishing the centre, saying the facility demonstrates what can be achieved when there is a shared commitment to strengthening municipal operations and public safety.

“Had Council not had the vision to establish this facility and invest in that vision, this would not have happened. We are already seeing the value of having an integrated operational platform, with several arrests having been made since the centre was established.

“I particularly appreciate the integration and cooperation with the South African Police Service, which is already yielding positive results. This demonstrates that when information, technology and the capabilities of different agencies are brought together, we are better positioned to respond to incidents and improve the safety of our communities,” said Dr O’Neill.

He said the establishment of the centre should be viewed as the beginning of a broader operational journey. “The Integrated Operational Centre is not the destination. It is the platform from which we will continue to strengthen our Safer City operations, improve coordination, and deliver a more responsive service to the residents of George,” Dr O’Neill concluded.

END

George Municipality has confirmed the arrest of a local scrap yard owner who was found in possession of stolen municipal infrastructure during a coordinated enforcement operation by the South African Police Service (SAPS) and Municipal Law Enforcement on Thursday afternoon, 3 September 2026.

During a targeted raid at the scrap metal dealership, authorities discovered and seized 10,9kg of stripped copper cables, which were confirmed to be the property of George Municipality.

The arrest forms part of an intensified enforcement campaign aimed at disrupting the illegal trade in infrastructure metals and holding businesses that create a market for stolen municipal assets accountable.

George Municipality says the financial impact of cable theft and vandalism remains severe, with repairs and replacement of damaged electrical infrastructure having cost more than R10 million in ratepayer funds.

“We are sending a clear message to both the perpetrators who damage our infrastructure and the businesses that purchase stolen materials: the municipality will not tolerate the destruction of critical infrastructure. Cable theft disrupts basic service delivery, leaves residents without power, and diverts millions of rand from essential community services,” said Lee-Anne Meiring, Director of Community Safety and Mobility at George Municipality.

Executive Mayor Alderman Browen Johnson welcomed the arrest, stating: “Our infrastructure is continuously damaged by perpetrators who then sell the stolen materials to scrapyards. Just last week, I was in Borcherds and Protea Park, where we saw the direct impact of cable theft and the damage it causes in our communities.

“The message is clear: we are cracking down on everyone involved — those who steal and those who buy stolen materials, Mayor Johnson added. “Every time our infrastructure is stolen or damaged, it comes at a cost to our residents. Instead of using our resources to upgrade communities, we are forced to spend millions repairing infrastructure that has been deliberately damaged.

“I also urge our communities to remain vigilant and report theft, vandalism and suspicious activity using our new Law Enforcement WhatsApp number. Working together, we can help protect the infrastructure that our communities depend on,” Ald Johnson said.

The suspect is expected to appear in court on charges related to possession of property believed to be essential infrastructure.

Municipal Law Enforcement and SAPS will continue conducting unannounced inspections and enforcement operations at scrap metal facilities across the region.

Help Protect Our Infrastructure

George Municipality appeals to residents to report vandalism, theft or suspicious activity through the official reporting channels below:

George Municipality Safer City Call Centre:
044 801 6350
044 801 6310
044 801 6389

WhatsApp:
082 423 5082

In the photo: Heavy rain blankets parts of George as severe weather moves across the area.

George Municipality has activated its contingency plans and placed relevant municipal services on high alert following weather warnings issued for George and surrounding areas.

The South African Weather Service (SAWS) has issued a Level 4 warning for disruptive rain affecting George and surrounding areas from 12:00 today, Thursday, 3 September, until 23:59 tonight. Rainfall accumulations of 20–40 mm are expected, increasing to 50–70 mm in mountainous areas.

A Level 2 Yellow Warning for strong to near-gale-force southeasterly winds of 40 to 50 km/h is also in effect from today through Friday morning. Along the south-west coast, winds could reach gale-force speeds of 65–70 km/h.

According to SAWS, the predicted conditions may result in flooding of roads and settlements, including informal and formal settlements; fast-flowing streams posing a danger to life; possible damage to roads and bridges; and major disruptions to traffic flow where roads are flooded or closed.

The George municipal area, including George, Uniondale and Haarlem, may be affected, along with other parts of the Garden Route.

Municipal services on high alert

An integrated, multi-sectoral and multidisciplinary response has been mobilised across the Municipality to ensure effective disaster prevention, mitigation, preparedness and response.
Since the weather warning was issued, the Municipality has been assessing its readiness and coordinating response measures ahead of the anticipated weather event.

Municipal services currently on high alert include Disaster Management, Community Services, Planning and Human Settlements, Traffic Services, Civil Engineering Services, Electrotechnical Services and Technical Services.

Personnel and resources have been placed on standby to enable a rapid response to incidents arising from the anticipated weather conditions. Response arrangements also extend to Uniondale and Haarlem.

Executive Mayor of George, Ald Browen Johnson, urged residents to take the weather warnings seriously and to exercise caution as the Municipality continues to prepare for the anticipated con-ditions.

“Our residents’ safety remains our priority. Our municipal teams and relevant services are on standby and ready to respond to incidents as they arise. We urge residents, particularly those in areas vulnerable to flooding, to take the necessary precautions, avoid unnecessary travel during severe weather and heed any evacuation or safety advice issued by the authorities. We ask residents to remain vigilant, report emergencies as soon as possible and continue to monitor official municipal communication for updates,” said Mayor Johnson.

Residents urged to take precautions

Residents living in low-lying areas, flood-prone zones and areas along natural stormwater flow channels are strongly advised to take extra precautions, monitor weather conditions closely and prepare for possible localised flooding.

Residents should make early arrangements to move to safer or higher ground if conditions deteriorate and evacuation becomes necessary.

IMPORTANT SAFETY PRECAUTIONS

Residents are urged to:
• If possible, stay indoors and avoid unnecessary travel, particularly during periods of heavy rain and strong winds.
• Never drive on a road covered by water.
• Avoid crossing rivers and swollen streams, particularly where water is above ankle height.
• If trapped in a vehicle during flooding, abandon the vehicle and move to higher ground if it is safe to do so.
• Switch off the electricity at the building’s main supply point if flooding threatens the property and it is safe to do so.
• In rural areas, protect or relocate animals to a safe place on higher ground.
• If evacuation is recommended, leave immediately and before floodwater cuts off access routes.

Residents are encouraged to monitor George Municipality’s official social media platforms, website and local media outlets for weather warnings, emergency notices and service updates.
Residents are also urged to save the emergency contact numbers below and report weather-related emergencies as soon as possible.

EMERGENCY CONTACT NUMBERS

GEORGE

Municipal Switchboard
(07:45–16:30)
044 801 9111

Toll-Free Disaster Management – 24/7
0800 424 477

Fire Emergencies – 24/7
044 801 6311
After Hours
044 801 6300

UNIONDALE & HAARLEM

Uniondale/Haarlem Emergency Only
044 801 9189

Uniondale/Haarlem Fire Service
(07:45–16:30)
044 752 1225

Uniondale/Haarlem After Hours
044 801 6300

CIVIL ENGINEERING CUSTOMER SERVICES
Stormwater-related complaints – 07:45–16:30
044 801 9262 / 044 801 9266

COMMUNITY SAFETY
The Safer City Call Centre is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week to receive and log safety-related complaints and incidents.

24-Hour Safer City Call Centre:
044 801 6350
044 801 6310
044 801 6389

GARDEN ROUTE DISASTER MANAGEMENT CENTRE
044 805 5071

ENDS

In the photo above, Vivian Kotzee from Bergrivier Municipality addresses the attendees at Institute of Municipal Practitioners South Africa (IMPSA) Cape Branch’s quarterly Knowledge Sharing Seminar in George. Looking on from left are Bevan Cassim, Deputy Director: Human Resources, George Municipality, Tamkazi Lombo from O.R Tambo District Municipality and Rorisang Sigenu from George Municipality.
HR3: Bevan Cassim, Deputy Director: Human Resources, George Municipality addresses the attendees at the event.

George Municipality hosted the Institute of Municipal Practitioners South Africa (IMPSA) Cape Branch’s quarterly Knowledge Sharing Seminar on 20 August 2026, followed by the Cape Branch Executive Meeting on 21 August 2026.

The two-day gathering brought together Human Resource and People Management practitioners from municipalities across the Western Cape, Northern Cape, Eastern Cape and Free State.

The seminar provided an opportunity for municipal HR professionals to share experiences, learn from one another and discuss practical ways of supporting employees and creating healthier, more effective workplaces.
For George Municipality, being part of these engagements helps ensure that its HR practitioners stay up to date with developments in the workplace and continue learning from the experiences of colleagues across local government.

A key focus of this year’s seminar was the well-being of HR professionals themselves.
The first presentation, by Christa Liebenberg, looked at “Help, My Inner Critic Will Not Stop!” and explored some of the pressures faced by professionals in the workplace. These include managing competing expectations, dealing with accountability and working under pressure.
Participants were given practical tools to help them deal with workplace challenges, build resilience and manage stress more effectively.
The second presentation focused on employee wellness and was delivered by Colleen Chandler-Hendricks, an Employee Assistance Programme (EAP) Officer. She shared examples of the work being done through Drakenstein Municipality’s Employee Wellness Programme.

The discussion covered a range of issues, including employee assistance and counselling, health promotion, occupational health and safety, absenteeism, productivity, policy development and ways of encouraging employees to take part in wellness initiatives.
One of the strongest messages from the seminar was that HR practitioners spend much of their working lives supporting others, but can sometimes forget to look after themselves.

The simple message was: you cannot pour from an empty cup.
Looking after their own mental well-being, resilience and personal development enables HR professionals to continue supporting employees and their organisations effectively.
The seminar was officially opened by Reginald Salmons, Chairperson of the IMPSA Cape Branch, while Bevan Cassim, Deputy Chairperson, welcomed delegates and outlined the programme.
Nokuzuka Matolengwe, Manager: Human Resources at Drakenstein Municipality, facilitated an interactive icebreaker session before the presentations.

The discussions also provided an opportunity for practitioners from different municipalities and provinces to connect, exchange ideas and share practical experiences.
The Knowledge Sharing Seminar was followed on 21 August by the IMPSA Cape Branch Executive Meeting, where members discussed the future direction of the branch and matters relating to its work within the national IMPSA structure.
Among the matters discussed were the IMPSA Constitution, the Cape Branch vision and mission, and the adoption of the branch slogan:
“Leading in Professional Excellence in Municipal People Management.”

The Cape Branch Terms of Reference were also approved to guide its engagement with the national IMPSA structure.
The next IMPSA Cape Branch Knowledge Sharing Seminar will be hosted by the City of Cape Town from 18 to 19 November 2026, followed by the Cape Branch Executive Meeting on 20 November.
George Municipality was pleased to host colleagues from across the region and to contribute to an event focused on learning, collaboration and the well-being of the people who support municipal employees every day.

Photos:

Attendees during the seminar in George.

Attendees at the Institute of Municipal Practitioners South Africa (IMPSA) Cape Branch’s quarterly Knowledge Sharing Seminar at the Conference Centre, George Civic Centre.

Attendees at the Institute of Municipal Practitioners South Africa (IMPSA) Cape Branch’s quarterly Knowledge Sharing Seminar at the Conference Centre, George Civic Centre.

Bevan Cassim, Deputy Director: Human Resources, George Municipality addresses the attendees at the event.

George Municipality officials and community safety personnel receive a briefing as part of preparations for community safety operations in George.

George Municipality is pleased to announce the appointment of Mr Ismail Patel as Senior Manager of Community Safety, effective 1 August 2026.

Community safety personnel line up during a briefing, highlighting the coordinated efforts to strengthen safety, law enforcement, and public service delivery across George.

In his new role, Mr Patel will manage the community safety functions of the George Municipality. His portfolio includes fire and rescue services, disaster management, traffic services, law enforcement and public safety.

Mr Patel holds a Bachelor of Laws (LLB), a Bachelor of Technology (BTech) in Policing, and a National Diploma in Police Administration. He has further strengthened his professional expertise through several occupational qualifications, including a Traffic Officer Diploma, a Metro Police Certificate and certification as an Examiner of Driving Licences.

With more than 35 years of experience in the law enforcement environment, Mr Patel has built an extensive career spanning operational, regulatory and strategic leadership roles. He began his law enforcement career at the age of 19 with the South African Police Service (SAPS), where he gained extensive experience in public safety, crime prevention and law enforcement.

Mr Patel brings more than 15 years of experience at middle and senior management levels, having served in leadership positions across all spheres of government. His career includes service with Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality Traffic Services, the Eastern Cape Department of Transport, the Road Traffic Management Corporation (RTMC), and the City of Cape Town’s Safety and Security Directorate.

Throughout his career, Mr Patel has contributed to the development and implementation of road safety, traffic law enforcement, public safety and regulatory compliance initiatives.

His combination of legal qualifications, specialised law enforcement expertise and extensive leadership experience has enabled him to drive service excellence, strengthen institutional capacity and contribute to safer communities across South Africa.

George Municipality welcomes Mr Patel to his new role and looks forward to his contribution towards strengthening community safety and service delivery across the municipal area.

In the photo above, Speakers at the the event are from left, Michael Rhode, Director of Electrical Engineering Services, George Municipality, Kenneth Samolapo, SARPA President, Dr Kosie Haarhoff, Acting Director: Community Services, George Municipality and Ald Browen Johnson, Executive Mayor of George singing the national anthem at the 2026 Southern African Revenue Protection Association (SARPA) Convention, held in George from 20 to 21 August.

George Municipality official Edward Nqumse received the Best Paper award at the 2026 Southern African Revenue Protection Association (SARPA) Convention, held in George from 20 to 21 August.

Nqumse was recognised for his presentation, “Case Study of Best Practices to Combat Essential Infrastructure Crimes in George Municipality”, which shared the municipality’s approach to combating infrastructure-related crime and protecting essential services and municipal revenue.

The award was a highlight of the two-day convention, hosted by George Municipality and attended by municipal leaders, revenue protection practitioners, technical experts, business representatives and delegates from South Africa and abroad.
Held under the theme “Protecting Revenue in a Changing Landscape: Balancing Enforcement and Equity through Change Management, Innovation and Consequence Management”, the convention focused on the growing pressures facing municipal revenue and the need for municipalities to adapt to a changing energy, water and technology landscape.

The keynote address by Lerato Phasha of the South African Local Government Association (SALGA) highlighted the financial pressures facing municipalities, including declining collection rates, consumer debt, inaccurate billing, infrastructure failures, electricity and water losses, illegal connections and increasing costs associated with infrastructure theft and vandalism.
Phasha said reforms in the electricity, water and local government sectors presented both opportunities and risks for municipalities. While municipalities have opportunities to modernise their systems, introduce new technologies and diversify their revenue sources, traditional revenue streams are increasingly under pressure.

The growing use of rooftop solar, embedded generation and energy efficiency, is changing the municipal electricity environment, while water losses, ageing infrastructure, theft, vandalism and affordability pressures continue to affect water revenue.
Phasha emphasised that revenue protection must become a strategic priority, with municipalities investing in smart metering, advanced metering infrastructure, data analytics, customer database verification and stronger enforcement.
Furthermore, she highlighted the importance of revenue certainty – the ability of a municipality to accurately measure, bill, collect and forecast its revenue. This is essential for financial sustainability and can influence a municipality’s ability to access infrastructure financing and attract investment.

George Municipality used the convention to share practical examples of how it is responding to these challenges.
Three municipal presentations formed part of the programme, covering smart metering implementation by Jemaine Cupido, Manager Energy Security, the Digital Water Network Twin by SP Van Zyl GLS Consulting – Water Services Department and best practices in combating essential infrastructure crime Edward Nqumse, Superintendent Illegal Connections.
Other sessions focused on revenue protection best practices, power quality monitoring, digital revenue recovery, change management, smart water meter deployment and innovative approaches to combating cable theft.
The programme also explored how municipalities can balance enforcement with equity while using technology to improve revenue collection and reduce losses.

George Municipality has already begun adapting to changes in the energy environment through initiatives including wheeling agreements and Independent Power Producer (IPP) arrangements. The municipality has entered into a three-year IPP agreement expected to generate savings on bulk electricity purchases and is working towards a 20MW IPP contract. These initiatives form part of the municipality’s broader efforts to manage resources responsibly, strengthen financial sustainability and ensure that municipal services remain viable in a changing environment.

The theft and vandalism of essential infrastructure was a recurring theme during the convention.
Damage to electricity infrastructure and other municipal assets can interrupt services to communities while placing additional financial pressure on municipalities.

SARPA President Kenneth Samolapo said revenue protection was no longer simply a matter of collecting money, but was closely linked to protecting infrastructure, maintaining services and ensuring the sustainability of municipalities.
SARPA also highlighted its involvement in efforts to strengthen the response to infrastructure-related crimes, including collaboration with organisations such as SALGA, the Association of Municipal Electricity Undertakings (AMEU), CIGFARO, National and Provincial Treasury and the Department of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs (COGTA).

The convention marked an important milestone in SARPA’s professionalisation programme.
The association introduced a structured professional designation pathway for revenue protection practitioners, ranging from Junior Revenue Protection Officer through to Master Revenue Protection Officer.

The designations recognise increasing levels of competence, experience and contribution to the profession and are supported by continuous professional development requirements.
The initiative supports the broader professionalisation of the public sector and aims to strengthen revenue protection as a specialised professional field.
A strong message emerging from the convention was that municipalities cannot rely solely on traditional revenue streams as the operating environment changes.

Potential opportunities discussed included renewable energy, electricity wheeling, telecommunications infrastructure, property development, land value capture and green finance.
At the same time, municipalities need to focus on improving collection rates, reducing non-revenue water and electricity losses, maintaining infrastructure, strengthening financial controls and supporting local economic growth.
George Executive Mayor, Ald Browen Johnson, welcomed delegates to the city and said the convention provided an important platform for municipalities to share practical solutions to the challenges created by growth and a changing operating environment.

“George is a city that continues to grow. Our population has increased significantly over the years, bringing with it greater demand for housing, infrastructure, electricity, water, roads and other essential municipal services,” said Mayor Johnson.
He said the municipality wanted George to become a smarter city in the Garden Route that embraces innovation and responds practically to the challenges of a growing population and changing environment.
The convention brought together local and international expertise, including a contribution from the UK Revenue Protection Association, and provided an opportunity for delegates to exchange knowledge and experiences.

The overall message was clear: protecting municipal revenue is fundamental to ensuring sustainable service delivery.

Photos:

 A view of the attendees standing to observe the national anthem.

 Thembalethu Primary School choir entertained the attendees at the SARPA convention

Lerato Phasha, Portfolio Head for Municipal Finance, Fiscal Policy and Revenue Enhancement at the South African Local Government Association (SALGA) delivered the keynote address at the convention.

 Edward Nqumse, Superintendent Illegal Connection received the Best Paper award at the Convention.

Ahead of the festival’s return, stakeholders, officials, sponsors, sporting bodies and cultural organisations came together to build excitement and strengthen collaboration for an even bigger celebration.

The George Festival 2026 is set to return in December with an expanded programme, additional sporting codes and greater use of George’s natural assets, including its beaches and other natural spaces. Western Cape Minister of Cultural Affairs and Sport Ricardo Mackenzie and Executive Mayor of George Ald Browen Johnson announced this year’s festival at a soft launch held at the George Museum on Wednesday afternoon, 19 August 2026. The event brought together stakeholders, officials, sponsors, sporting and cultural organisations ahead of the festival’s return.

Western Cape Minister of Cultural Affairs and Sport Ricardo Mackenzie

Minister Mackenzie highlighted the importance of the George Festival in bringing communities together through sport, culture and recreation, while creating opportunities for local economic development. He said the festival aligns with the Department’s vision of building a socially inclusive, creative, active and connected Western Cape.

“Our commitment is to create inclusive spaces that nurture personal growth, community cohesion and economic opportunity. The George Festival reflects this vision, bringing people together through sport, culture and recreation while creating opportunities for communities and local businesses. It contributes to building a socially inclusive, creative, active and connected Western Cape,” said Minister Mackenzie.

Looking ahead to December, Minister Mackenzie highlighted the opportunity to make greater use of what George already has to offer, including its beaches and natural spaces, with beach sports and additional activities forming part of the expanded 2026 programme. He strongly encouraged residents and visitors to make use of George’s bus services to travel to and from Festival activities, where possible, as activities take place across different parts of George.

Working together to bring sport, culture and recreation closer to communities – representatives from the Western Cape Government and George Municipality at the soft launch of the George Festival 2026.

Executive Mayor of George Ald Browen Johnson echoed the Minister’s sentiments and reaffirmed the Municipality’s ambition to build on the success of last year’s inaugural festival. “Last year, we promised something big was coming to George, and we delivered. This year we promise even bigger and better,” said Mayor Johnson. He also confirmed the expansion of the festival’s sporting programme, reinforcing the festival’s role in bringing communities together through sport, culture, tourism and entertainment.

A festival with something for everyone

The 2026 George Festival will offer a diverse programme aimed at bringing people of all ages and interests together through sport, music and entertainment. The programme will feature a range of sporting codes and cultural events, including:
• 10s Rugby
• Soccer
• Track and Field Athletics
• Vlakkie Cricket
• Beach Volleyball
• Table Tennis
• Netball
• Sport for People with Disabilities
• 10 km Road Race
• Gospel Music Festival
• Jazz Music Festival

The broad programme reflects the festival’s ambition to create an inclusive platform where communities can participate, compete, celebrate and connect. With activities taking place across different parts of George, the festival will also encourage residents and visitors to explore the city and make use of its sporting, cultural and natural spaces.

Cllr Melvin Roelfse, MMC for Social Development, Libraries, Sport and Customer Care, welcomed the support of returning sponsors and the interest from potential new partners, noting the growing interest in the festival following the success of last year’s event.

The festival’s commitment to inclusivity was also highlighted, with disability sport included in the 2026 programme. Cllr Roelfse reflected on his and Mayor Johnson’s experience of participating in blind bowls, highlighting the festival’s inclusive approach to sport and community participation.

The festival also promises significant economic benefits for local businesses. Ald Iona Kritzinger, MMC for Financial and Strategic Services, IDP, Performance Management, Economic Development and Tourism, highlighted the festival’s contribution to tourism and local economic development.
“Every visitor in George adds to our economic development,” said Ald Kritzinger.

More information about the George Festival 2026, including further details on dates, venues and participating organisations, will be shared in due course.

Mayor Johnson concluded the launch with a message that captured the spirit of the festival: “As jy nie hier is nie, waar is jy?!” meaning, “If you’re not here, where are you?”

ENDS