last-news

Executive Mayor Leon Van Wyk and Ricus Fivaz, Municipal Project Manager show off the newly refurbished sidewalk along Market Street.

The upgrade of Market Street established in 1836, extends from York Street to Hope Street and includes a full rebuild and upgrade of the full road reserve and the asphalting of the pedestrian walkways that include the paving of the furniture zone. (The furniture zone is the area for all street furniture (benches), streetlights, waste bins etc. and acts as a buffer between the roadway and the pedestrian sidewalk.) Of the five (5) phases, three will be completed by end of September 2022 and the latter two phases,  are progressing well with completion set for February 2023.

Additional grant funding was gazetted in March 2022 and savings elsewhere on the GIPTN overall 2021/22 budget allowed for phases 4 and 5 of the Market Street upgrade to proceed to construction earlier than planned. An important requirement of the GIPTN funding agreement with the Municipality is that all road upgrades on GO GEORGE bus routes must be upgraded in terms of Universal Accessibility(UA) as well. What this means is that any individual (whose mobility, communicative ability, or understanding is reduced) should be able to access and use a pedestrian walkway, a bus stop and so on,  freely and independently.

George Municipality has made huge strides in drafting the necessary UA design criteria and is currently one of few that have produced a design criteria document. Retrofitting a street such as Market Street in terms of UA is not an easy task with provision having to be made for both property and street universal accessibility access, while maintaining the longitudinal slope along Market Street’s walkways.  The science of universal accessibility is not exact due to the variability of existing roads that must be adapted to, and a number of lessons learnt during the construction of Market Street will be carried forward to future road projects.

Executive Mayor Leon Van Wyk visited Market Street recently following an ad hoc inspection undertaken by UA specialists to assess the implementation of UA along Market Street. “These improvements for universal accessibility allow for wider pavements and will go a long way in ensuring mobility and access for all users; those making use of wheelchairs and people with other disabilities. Although this has been a challenging project that included the repositioning of streetlight poles to allow for universal access compliance, these challenges have been adequately managed by our highly skilled civil engineering services department.  This is a world class improvement along one of the most important and most used stretches/sections of road for our Go George bus services. These improvements are most welcome and will go a long way in servicing all residents,” said Ald Van Wyk.

The UA specialists noted that significant progress has been made by the Municipality and solutions were provided for any shortcomings which were identified during the inspection.  Further regular inspections are planned to ensure that the ongoing construction achieves the maximum level of UA compliance given the complex urban environment that is being upgraded.

In the past week, we had the privilege of hosting a visit by Premier Alan Winde and members of his Cabinet to George. During the engagement, there was recognition of the work that is ongoing to maintain and improve infrastructure while also visiting a few of the tourism-focused businesses ahead of this month being Tourism Month. During our discussions, attention was also given to the sharing and gathering of data that is so essential to interpreting trends that would influence growth and employment. We also raised matters that could be of mutual benefit to the Province and George.

Even though the visit had this focus, we remain ever mindful of the importance of ensuring that our citizens remain safe, that a caring environment is fostered and how citizens, civil society and businesses can assist in making the city a better place for all.

I have recently written about how the municipality is spending more of its budget to ensure that the safety of our citizens is improved. As mentioned, we will be increasing our complement of law enforcement officers and the size of our CCTV camera network beyond the current plus 600 cameras. There is no doubt that citizens should become more safety conscious and alert at home and in moving about.

Neighbourhood watches should be supported, and it would be a great benefit if additional cameras can be sourced by neighbourhoods and the business sector to complement those already in the municipal network. In this way, there will be greater surveillance over more parts of the city.

The tough economic and social conditions also contribute to many homeless and destitute persons on our streets. Even though this is not a municipal function, we are concerned about the wellbeing of these citizens. We are appreciative of the work that is being done within civil society to assist these persons and encourage further assistance.

The municipality has also been approached by citizens and businesses who are keen to play a role in improving the lives of George citizens. Some of their ideas range from education, the environment, sport to business.

We welcome discussion on these ideas and proposals as some could be turned into opportunities or possibly form part of the corporate social responsibility framework approved by council. The latter framework enables the corporate sector to benefit communities and society through projects that will simultaneously meet social responsibilities.

We would therefore like to encourage discussion of these ideas covering the above broad range of categories from safety, caring, social improvements to the facilitation of more opportunities that will be to the benefit of George. Suggestions can be sent to smartideas@george.gov.za and will be channeled to the appropriate Directorate for further interaction.

Ald. Leon van Wyk

Executive Mayor of George

On Friday, 2 September 2022, the Executive Mayor of George, Alderman Leon van Wyk accompanied by the Portfolio Councillor for Electrotechnical Services Cllr Nosicelo Mbete, the Director of Electrotechnical Services in the George Municipality Bongani Mandla, and the Electrotechnical Services team visited an Uninterrupted Power Supply (UPS) installations on traffic intersections to mark the completion of the UPS installation programme.

As of 29 August 2022, 57 intersections with traffic lights have been installed with UPS units in George. The remaining intersections will be installed once the current road construction has been completed.

The first phase comprised installations of UPS units in the 40 major road intersections with traffic lights that were completed in the previous financial year (2021/2022), ending in June 2022. The second phase included 17 more intersections that were covered and were completed at the end of August 2022.

These units, which are eco-friendly and energy-saving, automatically kick in and operate the traffic lights should the electricity supply be interrupted for any reason with an average duration of 4 hours, before the battery needs recharging. This means that traffic intersections in George are free from Eskom’s load shedding and unplanned power outages for the durability of the batteries, thereby allowing seamless traffic flow.

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The Department of Water and Sanitation’s (DWS) Blue Drop programme which was established to encourage continued progress and to acknowledge excellence in drinking water services management in South Africa is in the loom, and the George Municipality is ready to partake in this year’s programme that is set to start in September 2022.

The Blue Drop and Green Drop Certification Programmes are forms of Incentive-based Regulation (IBR) pioneered by the South African Water Sector since 2008. legislation, Water Services Act; Act 108 of 1997, Section 82 d, e & f. The programme seeks to focus on Improvement in Performance, Compliance and Efficiency.

George Municipality’s state of readiness for the upcoming Blue Drop Certification Programme

According to the Deputy Director for Water and Sanitation in the Civil Engineering Services Department in the George Municipality, Deon de Jager, the Blue Drop Certification is intended to monitor the drinking water quality supplied to consumers countrywide. “Both water quality and administrative aspects are combined in this certification with the emphasis being on the administrative aspects instead of water quality and George has put all the ducks in the row to be evaluated.”

“The first-round assessments for the upcoming Blue Drop evaluations are scheduled for September 2022.  After the first-round evaluations, the DWS will, if necessary, allow the George Municipality to implement and report on corrective measures to be implemented, to enable the Municipality to correct and submit the required information,” de Jager added.

De Jager confirmed that the draft water safety plans have been completed. He also said that the water treatment process audits are underway, and the George Municipality is assisted by IX Engineers and Chris Swartz consultants.  “All relevant personnel reporting to DWS have been registered on the IRIS reporting system.  The George Municipal Water Treatment and Laboratory sections are working around the clock to ensure that we comply with all legislative requirements as set out by the DWS.  Furthermore, the George Municipality is in the process of performing process audits on all its raw and potable water pump stations, towers, and storage reservoirs.”

Green Drop Certification – Updating its wastewater risk abatement plans and wastewater treatment process audits underway for George

Green Drop Certification is awarded to wastewater systems that obtain scores of 90% when compared against the criteria set for wastewater management. This assisted Water Services Authorities to strive for improvement in their management of wastewater as part of the incentive-based regulation approach.  Green Drop Certification is awarded to wastewater systems that obtain scores of above 90% when compared against the criteria set for wastewater management, while a system that achieved less than 31% is regarded as a dysfunctional system which would require appropriate interventions.

The next Green Drop Evaluations is scheduled for 2023 (dates to be confirmed by the DWS). In the meantime, the George Municipality is in the process of updating its wastewater risk abatement plans and wastewater treatment process audits.  Furthermore, the George Municipality appointed an external professional services provider to evaluate all sewer pump stations within the George Municipal area.  All of this contributes to the evaluation criteria.

What is a No Drop Programme?

The Department of Water and Sanitation developed the No Drop Programme to draw attention to and encourage progress in water use efficiency and water loss / Non-revenue Water management in the South African municipal sector.  No Drop Certification means that a municipality is accomplished in its water conservation and water demand management practice and receives public accolade and acknowledgement of its excellence in water supply management against a set of strict criteria.  The No Drop has been developed in a similar framework to the Blue Drop (drinking water quality) and Green Drop (wastewater management) in 2013, followed by a partial rollout to all non-metro municipalities in 2014 and a full rollout to all 8 metropolitan municipalities in 2014/15.  The No Drop evaluations form part of the Blue Drop evaluations.

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Link to Ald Leon van Wyk, Executive Mayor of George on the PV Solar Plant and SCADA: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CwA1TMBSAb0

The Western Cape MEC for Local Government, Environmental Affairs and Development Planning, Minister Anton Bredell, Western Cape Minister for Mobility Daylin Mitchell, Executive Mayor Leon Van Wyk, Deputy Mayor Raybin Figland, and a delegation including members of the George Mayoral Committee, Municipal Manager Dr Michele Gratz, and senior officials s visited the 300 Kilo Watt peak Photovoltaic (PV) solar plant at the Civic Centre parking lot On Wednesday, 31 August 2022. This is the first solar project in a George Municipal property and was completed and commissioned last year September.

They also visited the Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA), a monitoring system which is basically an online web-based portal that allows remote monitoring of the performance of the PV plant in real-time. SCADA also allows viewing of historical production and other data such as the carbon dioxide emissions avoided.

This was part of the Western Cape Provincial Government’s oversight visit to several developments of infrastructural, civil engineering and electrotechnical services in the city of George. Minister Bredell applauded George Municipality for setting a leading example within the Western Cape by ensuring adequate long-term planning and investment in those resources – that is water, sewerage and electricity – which are required to keep our economy working.

“Today, we are visiting our solar PV Plant at the main building of the Municipality, and we are in the control room where we run the inverters as well as all the board which indicates how much solar we are generating in terms of Kilowatts,” said Mayor van Wyk. “This plant is typical with other plants we going to introduce in George in the next months and years.

The George Municipality is in a process of introducing seven envisaged solar projects that are to be rolled in three years to the following plants and buildings:

• 400 kilowatts (kW) PV at the Outeniqua wastewater treatment facility
• 500 kW at the PV Gwaing Wastewater treatment facility
• 400 kW PV plant at the Denneoord New Water Works facility
• 20 kW PV + 40-kilowatt hour (kWh) battery storage for the Electrotechnical Services building
• 4 kW PV + 10 kWh battery storage for the Tourism building
• 2 kW PV + 10 kWh battery storage for Schaapkop substation
• 9 MWp bigger solar farm (location still to be finalised)

The PV Plant coupled with the SCADA system is certainly starting to help the Municipality already and perform efficiently, Mayor van Wyk said. “The next step is to move towards battery storage, while we will also be rolling out these plants across various Municipal installations in due course.”

The installation of PV solar plants in municipal facilities and buildings is aimed at reducing Energy Consumption from Eskom and thereby cutting down on electricity costs while increasing sustainability.

From left: Deputy Mayor Raybin Figland, Bongani Mandla (Director: Electrotechnical Services), Thabo Yiga (Candidate Engineer: Electrical), Western Cape Minister for Mobility Daylin Mitchell, Portfolio Councillor Jacqulique Von Brandis (Civil Engineering Services: Capital Projects & FBI), Portfolio Councillor Nosicelo Mbete (Electrotechnical & Fleet Management), Dr Michel Gratz (Municipal Manager),  Western Cape MEC for Local Government, Environmental Affairs and Development Planning Minister Anton Bredell, and Executive Mayor of George Ald Leon Van Wyk.

 Frome left: Thabo Yiga (Candidate Engineer: Electrical), Dr Michel Gratz (Municipal Manager),  Western Cape MEC for Local Government, Environmental Affairs and Development Planning Minister Anton Bredell, and Executive Mayor of George Ald Leon Van Wyk.

Link to Video Clip MEC Anton Bredell Oversight Visit 31 August 2022 https://youtu.be/e6K5y64rE4c

Link to Video Clip EM Leon Van Wyk WC Oversight Visit 31 August 2022 https://youtu.be/-dknYuvudpg

Minister Anton Bredell Western Cape MEC for Local Government, Environmental Affairs and Development Planning, yesterday  applauded George Municipality for setting a leading example within the Western Cape by ensuring adequate long-term planning and investment in those resources  – that is water, sewerage and electricity  – which are required to keep our economy working.

MEC Bredell joined Daylin Mitchell, Western Cape Minister for Mobility, Executive Mayor Leon Van Wyk, Deputy Mayor Raybin Figland and a delegation including members of the George Mayoral Committee, Municipal Manager Dr Michele Gratz, senior officials and contractors on Wednesday, 31 August 2022 in an oversight visit to the 20 Ml/d extension to the New Water Treatment Works (New WTW).

Executive Mayor Leon Van Wyk viewed the foundation and steelworks construction taking place and was impressed by a three-dimensional presentation which gave insight into the finished product. “The presentation highlighted the complexity of this multi-year project which will see R263 million in civil engineering construction works  and approximately R220 million spent on the mechanical and electrical works,” he said.

George Municipality received a Budget Facility for Infrastructure Funding (BFI) grant to the value of R1.107 billion from National Treasury and the BFI projects and sub-projects have shown significant progress and expenditure in the 2021/22 financial year, with the remaining funding tranches to be provided over the next thirty-six (36) months.

George Municipality provides water services to over 212 120 people from 62 722 households (STATSSA 2017) across 28 wards including the coastal areas of Kleinkrantz, Wilderness, Victoria Bay, Herolds Bay and Gwaing in the city of George area. The objectives of the project are to ensure the ability to provide adequate potable water for the current population and for future developments, to provide security of water supply, to support social and economic development and to reduce water pollution.

Updates on the Potable Water Security and Remedial Works components funded by BFI
The project consists of 12 components, some of which will be executed in more than one construction phase.

Component 1 and 3
The refurbishment of the existing Sludge Discharge System Phase 1 and 2 will take place at the Eden, Meul and Schaapkop Sewage Pumpstations and will include a new treatment facility at the water treatment works.
Status:  The residual de-watering facility construction is progressing well and current focus is on the concrete works including the tank bases. Work was completed on the Schaapkop Donga Stabilisation Project. Construction took place to stabilise and rehabilitate the slope on the riverbank to protect the pump station from an encroaching donga and create a safe working space for the pump station construction to proceed.

Phase 1:The first phase of the upgrading and refurbishment of the Meul sewer pumpstation has commenced. This contract includes a new Motor Control Centre at the Eden Sewage pump station.  Civil construction on the Meul Sewage Pumpstation is progressing well, while the mechanical designs and manufacturing are also on track. Emergency works had to be carried out at the Eden Sewage Pumpstation to install new gate valves and non-return valves and which included the construction of a temporary emergency storage dam. The Schaapkop Sewage Pumpstation construction has been delayed due to a supply chain issue and will commence when the matter is resolved.

Phase 2:Consultants have been appointed for the design of the second phase of the pump station upgrades of the three sewage pump stations.

Component 2
The 20 Ml/d treatment plant extension to the New Water Treatment Works (New WTW) is component 2 of the 12.
Status: The first contract valued at R263 million has been awarded for the civil engineering construction and construction has commenced on site. The tender for the mechanical, electrical and instrumentation (MEI) works has closed and will be awarded shortly. This component  is the largest single component of the BFI project and is valued at approximately R500 million.

Earthworks are almost completed, with the major excavation for the WTW extension consisting of some 20 000 metric cubes of earth material to be stockpiled on site for re-use elsewhere on other components of the BFI project as well as other possible municipal projects. Placing of concrete commenced recently and for this purpose two tower cranes of 23m and 18m height respectively were installed on site.

The construction on the 600m long clear water HDPE pipeline of 900mm diameter will be able to start soon  as the updated environmental management plant has been approved. The forestry permit is still required to be issued before construction can start fully.

Component 4
The Upgrading of Garden Route Dam Outlet and Supply project  includes the replacement of the existing 600 mm diameter raw water pipeline from the intake tower at the Garden Route Dam to the raw water pumpstation, with a new 800 mm diameter stainless steel pipeline to accommodate a higher  flowrate in accordance with the future raw water flow requirements.
Status: The design is progressing well and tenders will be advertised in the latter of 2022/23 financial year.

Component 5
2 x 1100 kVA generators will be installed at the Garden Route Dam raw water pumpstation. This will mean that during loadshedding or any other power outage, raw water can continue to be pumped uninterrupted to the Water Treatment Works for processing for drinking water supply.
Status: The construction contract has been awarded and construction will commence soon.

Component 6
A new additional 30 mega litre raw water storage balancing dam will be constructed, together with a 3.4km long 600mm diameter raw water pipeline which will be installed to secure sufficient raw water storage for supply to the New Water treatment plant (11^th Avenue, Denneoord). The new raw water dam will supplement the existing storage dams for provision of raw water to the two treatment plants.
Status: The preliminary design process has been completed with consideration of two alternative positions in order to select the most cost-effective solution.  Final designs and procurement of a Contractor will commence soon.

Component 7
The rehabilitation of the Old Water Treatment Works, located at 9^th Avenue Denneoord will allow for the refurbishment of the 25 Ml/d treatment plant which is currently operating at only 20.5 Ml/ per day.
Status: This component consists of four separate contracts and the tenders were advertised towards the end of 2021. Construction is under way at the Old WTW and some condition assessments of the existing infrastructure have necessitated design changes at the start of the contract, causing unforeseen delays. The planning for the air extraction from the filter galleries is under way and equipment is being designed. Construction is due to commence in September 2022. The first shipment of filter media arrived in June 2022 and fence construction is under way.

Component 8
Refurbishment of the Kaaimans River Pumpstation equipment will include the replacement of 2 x 100l/s pump sets, 2 x 50 to 100 l/s VSD pump sets, and 2 x 0 to 25 l/s VSD pump sets, with appropriate new pump sets, and includes the replacement of electrical control equipment. The Kaaimans Pumpstation discharges into the Garden Route Dam and can supply approximately 25% of the raw water requirement during periods of good rainfall.
Status: Site inspections have taken place and alternative pumps are being investigated. Durable pumps that are resistant to the abrasion caused by suspended material in the raw river water are required.

Component 9 and 10
The new 14,5 Ml Pacaltsdorp West Reservoir; 3 Ml Pacaltsdorp East Reservoir, 300 kl Tower and pumpstation will address the inadequate emergency and balancing storage in this suburb.
Status: The design process is progressing well and tenders will be advertised during the latter part of 2022/23. The detailed design process will be addressed in parallel to ensure compliance with all environmental requirements and the land re-zoning processes.

Component 11 and 12
A new pumpstation and control valves will be provided at the existing Thembalethu West reservoir and tower; a new 8 Ml Thembalethu East Reservoir, 1000 kl tower and pumpstation will provide adequate potable water storage, and increase security of potable water supply to Thembalethu as well as provide capacity to meet future development water demands.
Status: The design process  is progressing well and tenders will be advertised during the latter part of 2022/23.

The saying that, “a healthy body breeds a healthy mind” is, according to the newly elected chairperson of the George Municipality’s Internal Municipal Sports Club, John Bruiners, what drives more than just over 80 employees of the George Municipality to look forward to the Better Together Games that will take place in Riversdale on 30 September 2022.

The Better Together Games (BTG) is an annual sports event that is hosted by Sport and Recreation Services of the Western Cape Department of Cultural Affairs and Sport involving government officials in the various districts of the province as well as in the metropole to try their hand at soccer, mini-cricket, volleyball, tug of war, chess, athletics and many other codes at the Better Together Games (BTG) for government officials.

“The two-year gap caused by the arrival Covid19 pandemic certainly did not deter sportsmen and women’s interest in participating in the Better Together Games hosted by the Western Cape Provincial Government but has, instead, stimulated more interest to look forward to participating in these games,” said Bruiners.

The George Municipality has always been part of the Better Together Games since its inception in 2007 and successfully brought back gold, silver and bronze medallions and gone through to the final games. The George Municipality has last attended the finals known as the Corporate Games in 2019 and won gold in both Rugby cricket and dominoes.

The George Municipality has put all their ducks in a row to be prepared for these games. On Thursday, 26 August Internal Municipal Sports Club held its Annual General Meeting (AGM) and adopted its constitution. A new committee consisting of the following members was elected:

• John Bruiners (Chairperson)
• Herman Janse Van Rensburg (Deputy Chairperson)
• Josephine Mpembe (Secretary)
• Rene Hendricks Treasurer
• Desmond Jumat (Additional member)
• Cathrone Muller (Additional member)
• Marius Windvogel (Additional member)

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George Municipality is proud to announce that Bongani Mandla, Director for Electrotechnical Services has been nominated as one of five finalists in the 2022 TransUnion South Africa Rising Star Awards 2022 in the Services: Public and Private category. The finalists that made it to the 11^th TransUnion Rising Star Awards were announced on 26 August 2022.

The Municipal Manager for George Municipality, Dr Michele Gratz congratulated Mandla for representing George very well to reach the final stage of the TransUnion South Africa Rising Star Competition. “We are proud to have one of us reaching the finals of this coveted Rising Star Competition and flying the flag of the George Municipality and Georgians high.”

Mandla, a registered Professional Engineer (ECSA) and a member of the South African Institute of Electrical Engineers (MSAIEE) joined the George Municipality last year, as Director for the Electrotechnical Services Directorate bringing a wealth of experience spanning over 10 years in the electrotechnical services engineering.

“This nomination demonstrates the rich talent and great quality of the employees in the George Municipality, we are looking forward to the announcement of winners per category during the finals of the TransUnion South Africa Rising Stars Awards in September this year,” Dr Gratz added.

Ends.

ADDITIONAL BACKGROUND INFORMATION:

Background about the Rising Star Awards

The Rising Star Programme, operated by BlackBark Productions, has been established for the purposes of recognising, celebrating, and connecting young talented people who have a capacity for achievement and success and who contribute in an inspirational manner to the future of our nation. The qualities that elevate Rising Stars to the top go beyond performance and technical excellence. Rising Stars are polished, brilliant individuals with tremendous promise and great talent who excel for reasons that go far beyond their technical abilities alone. Talented people make things happen, are highly committed to achieving goals, innovate very rapidly, and create a great deal of value (for companies and/or themselves) when their talent is spotted and harnessed.

The Programme aims to be a significant and sustainable vehicle through which organisations, our country and our continent can identify and nurture these “organisational and national assets” who are set to play a key role in shaping the future of our country and our continent. The Rising Star Programme is establishing a living community of young African talent that will be developed, mentored and provided with platforms for development and communication, therefore enabling them to become role models, opinion leaders and the inspiration for other future African Talent.

Nominations

• Entrants are either nominated by their peers, or managers or are self-nominated for entry.
• All entrants are required to complete the first assessment, which consists of a questionnaire.
• The Master Judge will assess all entries and select the semi-finalists. These are the Top 10 in each category.

Semi-finalists:

• Each candidate will complete a short video interview and is required to answer a set of leadership-focused questions.
• The Judging Panel will select 5 candidates from each category, based on their video submissions – the finalists.

Finalists:

The finalist will be invited to another round of assessments including an interview in front of a panel of experts in September 2022. Subsequent to this final round of assessments, the TransUnion Rising Star Awards Finalists will be invited to attend the Celebratory Gala Awards Evening where the winners will be announced. The following 5 frontrunners in the Services: Public and Private category are; 

• Boitumelo Mancoe, Civil Engineer, Department of Police, Roads, and Transport
• Leanne Emery, Chief Marketing and Client Officer, Youth Employment Service
• Farai Mubaiwa, Chief Partnerships Officer, Youth Employment Service
• Bongani Mandla, Director: Electrotechnical Services, George Municipality
• Tebogo Mashifana, Head of Department and Senior Lecturer, University of Johannesburg

Minister of Finance and Economic Opportunities, Mireille Wenger, Minister of Mobility, Daylin Mitchell, Premier of the Western Cape, Alan Winde and the Mayor of George, Leon van Wyk, kicked off the start of Minister Wenger’s Tourism Month Tour in George, on the Garden Route.

Speaking at the first stop, Wonki Wear pottery, in George, Minister Wenger said: “I am thrilled to begin my tourism tour right here in George, on the Garden Route which is a popular stop for both local and international travellers, and I am looking forward to visiting other regions during the course of September.”

Wonki Wear pottery was started roughly 20 years and has grown in popularity, as more locals became interested in learning pottery and in the product.

Minister Wenger said: “The story of Wonki Wear is the story of so many of the wonderful tourism orientated businesses we have in the Western Cape. The tourism sector is an important contributor to our economy and creates many jobs. Wonki Wear, for example, produces roughly 3 000 pottery items per day and employs approximately 100 local people – a few have become world renowned potters.”

The next stop was Redberry farm, an agri-tourism business, which offers many different options for the family to enjoy, such as berry picking, a giant strawberry, and the biggest standing hedge maze in the southern hemisphere. Last year alone, the farm produced 500 tons of strawberries.

“Redberry farm is a truly impressive example of the berry industry, which is the single biggest employer in the region. But it also doubles as a tourist attraction, with around approximately 30% visitors coming from abroad. Like locals, they will take stories of their fantastic experiences back home and encourage others to visit our beautiful destination again”

“The story of local businesses like Wonki Ware and Redberry Farm should be the story for all entrepreneurial ventures in the Western Cape: one of being brave, taking initiative, tapping into unique ideas, and building your business up through a combination of hard work, resourcefulness, and passion,” said Premier Alan Winde.

He added: “Job creation is a core priority for the Western Cape Government. Wonki Ware alone employs dozens of locals and that must be lauded. As the business grows I hope it will offer even more employment opportunities to the community.”

While trying his hand at a bit of pottery at the Wonki Ware factory in George, the Premier praised the owners and staff for all they do in helping to “mold” job creation in the town. “This is exactly the kind of entrepreneurial spirit we as the Western Cape Government want to nurture in the province,” he added, “Where a pastime or hobby like pottery is transformed into a fully-fledged, thriving business which helps create employment.”

At Redberry Farm Premier Winde said: “I am immensely impressed at all that this one business offers to locals and tourists. There seems to be something for everyone who visits here.” The Premier encouraged other would-be entrepreneurs to consider basing their businesses in their passions. The Premier said: “Tourism is a major job creator in the Western Cape and we need to utilise the sector to its full potential.”

Leon Van Wyk, Executive Mayor of George Municipality said he was excited to be able to host the Premier and the Minister of Finance and Economic Opportunities and accompanied the team to the Wonki Factory and Redberry Farm.

Mayor Van Wyk said: “We believe that this will be a most interesting morning for our visitors from the Western Cape Government, we would certainly like to see many more tourists coming to visit George and explore the myriad tourism opportunities we have to offer within our municipal area.”

Minister Wenger concluded: “I encourage our residents to get out and explore our province this tourism month, as I will be doing in the coming month. Many tourism businesses will be offering specials to celebrate Tourism Month, and this is a great opportunity to support this industry which struggled so much during the pandemic.”

George Municipality celebrates ARBOR WEEK  – 5 – 9 September 2022

Issued by George Municipality for immediate release 26 August 2022

George Municipality: Parks & Recreation will be planting 100 trees from the 05- 09 September this year in commemoration of National Arbor Month. South Africa celebrates Arbor Week in the first week of September annually. National Arbor Week is an opportune time to call on all South Africans to plant indigenous trees as a practical and symbolic gesture of sustainable environmental management. The greening plan includes planting of trees to replace the historic Oak trees that were lost due to the Polyphagous Shot Hole Borer beetle in various sections of George, as well as tree replacement of the trees removed in street avenues.

The theme for Arbor Month as declared by the Department of Forestry, Fisheries and Environment is ‘’Forests and sustainable production and consumption”. George Municipality Environmental Services: Parks and Recreation calls out all interested parties, organizations, schools etc who would like to participate by either the donation of trees, and/or in the planting of trees to indicate their availability / interest and would like further details. Please contact Ms Nosidima Vumindaba at email address nvumindaba@george.gov.za or call 044 802 2900.

I have on occasion been asked why the Municipality promotes events and how these benefit local communities and citizens. It is therefore good useful to reflect on what is termed the “tourism multiplier effect” and the impact that it has on the local economy.

The traditional December five week holiday period has in the past often contributed 25-30% of the annual turnover to businesses directly dependent on tourism. The Municipality is actively seeking to encourage new additions to the calendar through events that will attract tourists to George over weekends and holiday periods.

Tourists arriving in George would firstly need accommodation at hotels or guest houses and may hire cars. These direct transactions will immediately trigger indirect transactions of employment at these establishments, purchases of fuel, cleaning of bedding and eating as examples. Tourists will buy food at restaurants or markets that benefit farmers or fishermen. Tourists will also seek out activities such as hiring canoes or going on boat trips.

If our tourists are mountain bikers, runners or participate in activities (that could range from sport, craft workshops to conferences) their entry fees will indirectly benefit the employees or suppliers contributing to the staging of these events.

The more tourists that we attract could result in part-time employment becoming full-time jobs. We have recently been privileged to host a film production unit with a crew of 70 based in local accommodation for three weeks making use of our scenic locations. Local individuals who acquire technical skills on film sets are then retained by film crews during future visits.

Stallholders at markets in the vicinity also benefit from tourists attracted to buy crafted products. Examples of locally produced products range from bread, cheese, preserves, clothing items, jewellery, to artistic works, etc. This sector provides employment to many either part-time or full-time, with even greater benefit flowing when local produce is being used.

The more events that are attracted will increase the annual turnover of businesses, improve sustainability, add more jobs and income for our citizens either directly through their employment or indirectly as more guest houses, services, entertainment facilities are constructed. Service charges and taxes that are paid to the municipality and government help to improve infrastructure that benefits the tourism sector.

One example of the infrastructure spending presently taking place in George is the upgrade of main roads where our provincial and national government partners have made grant funding available for these improvements on the proviso that the funding is spent within specified timelines.

We applaud those tourist operators who have added new activities to the annual calendar; and encourage even more iconic crafts and tourism product to be developed to further boost economic activity and employment.

George, Garden Route (August 2022) – All wheels are in motion to ensure that this year’s Outeniqua Chair Challenge (OCC) can be hosted once again, with continued support from George Municipality and George Tourism since 2002. Taking into account the two-year hiatus necessitated by Covid-19, this year’s much-anticipated event may well be more of a mammoth production than ever before.

But come Saturday October 15, the OCC race village at Carpe Diem School as well as all routes, markers, marshals and meals, will have been secured and an army of helpers will be ready to roll – thanks to the efforts of event owner the Disabled Road Race Foundation (DRRF) and its many resourceful collaborators.

Roslyn Saptoe serves as DRRF chairperson and is tasked with directing the essential fundraising drives required to keep the race on the road, as it were. Two such initiatives are scheduled for the last weekend in August, allowing the general public to show their support for people in wheelchairs while contributing to OCC operational funds.

First up is a Fun Walk at Rooirivier Sports Grounds on Saturday the 27th at 12 noon. Entry fees are R30 for adults and kids pay R10 – register at the grounds from 11am onwards.

“The Fun Walk will follow the well-loved Colour Run-format, with rainbow-tinted powder ensuring no participant leaves the grounds looking drab or grey! Wear a white T-shirt and remember, donations are always very welcome,” smiles Roslyn.

She adds that Rooirivier grounds staff has been asked to trim the grass two days prior to the OCC Fun Walk, which should make it much easier for wheelchair participants to navigate their way.

Then, divot diggers of all skills levels must diarise Sunday August 28, when the OCC Golf Day fundraiser will be hosted at spectacular Oubaai Golf Estate. Entry fee is R2,000 per four-ball and includes green fees, golf carts, and a halfway snack. There’s also a plethora of prizes to be won for nearest to the pin, longest drive and suchlike, as well as an auction and lucky draws.

Various sponsorship options are available – call Roslyn on 073 450 2469 to find out more. Deposit your entry fee into Nedbank (branch code 198765) savings account 2033421546 and email proof of payment to ggtgolf01@gmail.com before August 26. For general golf bookings, WhatsApp Nick on 083 491 9133 or Hilton on 073 901 6638

OCC race director Alewijn Dippenaar explains that all funds raised during the run-up to this year’s event will help footing the bill for essential infrastructure such as tents, toilets, sound equipment, water points, delineators and the like.

Says Alewijn: “Consider that we are positioning 2,600 delineators along a 21km circuit, with an equal amount of sandbags. Funds raised will also support our opening ceremony on the Friday evening, when we provide a bite for athletes in attendance.

“Then add the fact that all participants receive medals, and it’s clear the list of expenses is nearly endless. Long story short, the total cost of hosting an event of this magnitude is around R750,000.”

Local business folk unable to attend this month’s fundraisers must take note that a special category has been created by OCC organisers to allow their involvement and support.

“In the lead-up to Boss’s Day on October 16, we’ve opened our 5km route and invite businesses to participate in their own unique challenge on Saturday’s race day. Put your MD or manager into a wheelchair, and get your crew to take turns pushing along the 5km circuit.

“Entry is only R3,000 and affords you brand bragging rights at the race village and during the 5km event, so don’t miss this opportunity for great publicity and a whole lot of fun,” says Alewijn.

The DRRF was established in 2004 as NPO with the specific purpose of enhancing races for people in wheelchairs; each one of its seven directors has a specific portfolio to further this cause. OCC pre-entries can be done by clicking on www.onlines.co.za or contact Alewijn Dippenaar on 082 457 5675 or at dyndev@mweb.co.za with queries.

Press release on behalf of the Road Race Foundation:
interface by goji
mimi finestone |  mimi@gojipr.net  |  +27 84 583 3144

With great beauty comes great responsibility is a twist on the old saying “With great power comes great responsibility”. George Municipality is well aware of the beauty of the natural resources we are surrounded by, and for that reason care was taken in setting up and formalising the George Filming Policy approved in 2021. The policy combined with ongoing promotion of the destination as an ideal filming location has meant that George is getting increasing requests for filming permits, from local as well as national producers.

The municipality recognises the valuable contribution of filming to the economic and cultural environment of George and surrounds and the policy aims to create a film-friendly environment while at the same time balancing the film industry requirements against community and environmental considerations to ensure the responsible use of public resources and the maintenance of community amenities.

George  Municipality has signed a Memorandum of Agreement with the Garden Route Film Office to market locations, promote the destination and train local staff and students to become well versed with the film industry, to foster a better understand of the requirements and the service levels expected from this industry.  The return on investment can be extremely lucrative, and although nominal fees are charged for permits, to ensure the sustainable and legal use of the locations, the main benefit is to the George business community.

Film crews can spend several million rand a week in a location, and this money is poured straight into the community for services such as accommodation, transport, arts  and crafts, hiring of equipment and casual staff.  A production company recently spent in the region of R3 million during their three weeks stay in George, which included a filming day on Victoria Bay beach. This economic injection into George’s economy was applauded by the Executive Mayor, Leon van Wyk. “We are privileged to have hosted a film production unit with a crew of 70 based in local accommodation for three weeks making use of our scenic locations. Local individuals who acquire technical skills on film sets are then retained by film crews during future visits” he said.

“Film Promotion, as with Tourism Promotion does not have a direct return on investment for the George Municipality but is rather strategically marketed to stimulate business for the local tourism and film-related businesses.  As Tourism Manager, Joan Shaw puts it “We promote the destination to make the town tills ring!  The beauty is that everyone can benefit as the requirements are diverse ranging from accommodation, transport, and catering to engineering, artist, and event actors for bit parts.”

If you wish to register a location of your business as a provider to future film productions, please register on www.gardenroutefilmcommission.com, register, and upload your product details.

For more information or assistance kindly contact Heloine America, at the George Tourism Office on 044 801 9293.

Find the GM Film Policy on www.george.gov.za

George Municipality is issuing ON BEHALF of 1 on York, Ruwacon and Urban Engineering

TOURISM STAKEHOLDERS TO GRAB HOLD OF SHO’T LEFT TRAVEL WEEK SALES OPPORTUNITY
Issued George Municipality, 18^th August 2022, for immediate release

The Tourism section of George Municipality, representing George, Wilderness and Uniondale Tourism, urge all tourism activities, accommodation, restaurants and event suppliers to make use of the Sho’t Left Travel Week opportunity to boost sales.

Sho’t Left Travel Week, an initiative of South African Tourism, is the annual tourism sale that offers South Africans up to 50% off when booking during the specified week. This year it’s taking place between 5-11 September.  A considerable investment of 24 million Rand is spent on marketing.   George, Wilderness and Uniondale Tourism strongly urge all tourism stakeholders to grab this opportunity to make known their offering and to sell.

“We call on all tourism experiences and providers to register on the Sho’t Left website and ensure our destinations are strongly represented in the domestic market space.  Through loading your individual offerings, you are ensuring that domestic tourists become aware of our destinations.  Visitors filter by region and experience.  At present, Knysna, Oudtshoorn and Plettenberg Bay are represented, and our destinations are not featured at all.  It will only take you a few minutes to load your deals, and it’s free.  Since you can set the redemption dates, your business could use this as a tactic to fill up your bookings during quieter times.  However, do keep in mind that domestic tourists prefer to travel during the school holidays so if you are not fully booked over these periods, allowing redemption during these windows could be beneficial to converting more sales.  Tourism products could work together to load deals – for example events and accommodation could offer a package.”, says Tourism Manager, Joan Shaw.

All participating businesses must complete their registrations and deals by 28 August 2022.  The vouchers loaded by the participating businesses are valid beyond the travel week, for whichever dates determined by the business.  Register here: https://deals.southafrica.net/

George Municipality has been inundated with comments regarding all the road upgrades taking place throughout the city in the past few days and this is understandable, considering the impact on all road users. George Municipality is aware of the inconvenience caused by these infrastructure upgrades but as stated a few months ago by George Executive Mayor Alderman Leon van Wyk, the municipality is committed to optimizing road upgrades across the city.

“George Municipality continually pursues other sources of funding to address as many issues as possible. The road upgrade projects will utilize funding from three sources over the next three financial years including George Integrated Public Transport Network (GIPTN) funding, own budget and Municipal Infrastructure Grant (MIG) funding as well as in the case of the York Street Circles, private funding,” said Ald Van Wyk.

The most frequently asked question is why these road upgrades on major routes are all being implemented within a short time period and were not staggered to lessen the overall impact of road users. The main reason for this is the source of funding, and the timeframes in which expenditure must be incurred.  Grant funding has very specific conditions attached, one being the period during which the allocated funding must be spent – if the funding is not used it does not rollover to the next financial year and it is returned to the source.

With this in mind, it must also be noted that certain government departments work on the premise that if a Local Municipality achieves a certain expenditure percentage by November/December of the municipal financial year,  additional funding may be diverted from under-spending municipalities and additional grant funding can be allocated during the national adjustment budget process.

Funding received from Western Cape Provincial Government for the upgrading and maintenance of Proclaimed Roads must be fully spent by 31 December (CJ Langenhoven, York Street), while achieving expenditure targets i.e., percentage of spend achieved on the Public Transport Network Grant Funding projects (Airways, Golf, Market and Tabata Streets) places the George Municipality in a very good position to receive additional funds during the national adjustment budget process.

George has been blessed this year with large grant and external allocations, far more than in any other financial year, to upgrade infrastructure for residents. The upgrading of this infrastructure is very costly and for the Municipality to fund these upgrades would require many millions that could only be generated by drastically increasing rates and taxes as the cost would have to be funded by revenue from municipal sources. “The municipality is grateful for these additional income sources that have enabled us to upgrade overall infrastructure and pedestrian experience, which ultimately benefit business, promote investment and improves quality of life,” said Browen Johnson, Portfolio Councillor for Civil Engineering Services.

As far as is possible major construction work is scheduled annually for completion by December , or for commencement in January of the next year. George is a major tourist and holiday destination, and the annual December-January peak holiday season is also the peak economic season for many businesses in George, both big and small . Apart from its abundant natural attractions, George’s main attraction is also it’s excellent services and infrastructure. These road upgrades will significantly improve the main accesses to George, as well as other well-travelled routes.

For the duration of the construction period, Traffic officials and/or point duty officers will be utilized during peak hours where possible to try and assist with traffic flow.

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YORK STREET TRAFFIC CIRCLES
This project is funded by various private stakeholders.

Construction of the two new traffic circles in York Street next to the old tourist resort (Mount View Resort) between Hope Street Circle and the GO GEORGE Bus Depot commenced on Monday, 8 August 2022 and is expected to be completed during December 2022. These road upgrades are required to accommodate the additional traffic which is expected to be generated by the proposed Mediclinic, 1 on York and residential developments where the Crocodile Farm was previously situated.  The designs adhere to Municipal and Provincial requirements, but the project is funded by various private stakeholders.

The construction will take place in two phases, which entails the following:
Phase 1 has commenced in August 2022 and entails the construction of two “half circles” in the western carriageway. During this phase, the western dual lane carriageway (indicated in yellow) will be closed to traffic. Motorists will be diverted to the eastern dual lane carriageway (indicated in red) which will be used for two-way traffic.

Phase 2 is expected to commence in October 2022 and entails the construction of the remain “half circles” in the eastern carriageway. During this phase, the eastern dual lane carriageway (indicated in red) will be closed to traffic. Motorists will be diverted to the western dual lane carriageway (indicated in yellow) which will be used for two-way traffic.

MARKET STREET
This project is funded mainly from the Public Transport Network Grant.
This project will see a significant positive upgrade in the Central Business District. The five phases are progressing well, noting that the project did experience ongoing challenges with intermittent and frequent rain that is always problematic with deeper excavations. The optic fibre service provider co-ordinated their installations with the works and impact on sidewalk space in certain areas, but this work has been concluded.

The full project extends from York Street to Hope Street (in 5 phases with two phases completed, one nearing completion (End of August 2022), and the latest two progressing very well (set to be completed February 2023) and includes a full rebuild and upgrade of the full road reserve and includes the asphalting of the pedestrian walkways that include the paving of the furniture zone. (The furniture zone is the area for all street furniture (benches), streetlights, waste bins etc. and acts as a buffer between the roadway and the pedestrian sidewalk.)

As far as possible direct property access is maintained with the necessary arrangements /provisions made in advance with any affected business owner via Mr Alewijn Dippenaar.  Business and property owners affected by the road construction are requested to contact Alewijn Dippenaar at dyndev@mweb.co.za or on 082 457 5675 if they have any queries or concerns, and must not communicate directly with, or request information from the Contractor’s personnel.

AIRWAY ROAD
This project is funded mainly from the Public Transport Network Grant.
The introduction of the GO GEORGE public bus transport service and the increased traffic volumes in Airway Road has led to serious degradation of the road structure, requiring a rebuild to renew the life cycle of this important transport asset. The work consists of rehabilitation of the 600m of Airway Road, while including realignment of the traffic circles.  The project is set to be completed by mid-October 2022.

GOLF STREET
This project is funded mainly from the Public Transport Network Grant.
The introduction of the GO GEORGE  public bus transport service and the increased traffic volumes in Golf Street has led to serious degradation of the road structure, requiring a rebuild to renew the life cycle of this important transport asset. The work consists of rebuilding the majority of Golf Street and is set to commence in the second portion of 2022, subject to the securing of sufficient funding.

TABATA STREET PHASE 2
This project is funded mainly from the Public Transport Network Grant.
The upgrading of the next portion of Tabata Street, Thembalethu, from Mfayana Street to Mbewo street (about 600m), commenced in July 2022 and the contractor is progressing with the works. This phase of construction is set to be completed end February 2023. The improvements to this main arterial through Zone 12, 13 and 15 will most certainly improve the experience of road users, pedestrians and the lives of residents.

The road, sidewalk (similar to other community routes) and stormwater system upgrades will improve vehicle and pedestrian movement and reduce flooding of the street and properties. The entire intended Tabata Street upgrade extends from the intersection with Nelson Mandela Boulevard (Fourways) to where the road re-joins Nelson Mandela Boulevard and will be implemented in phases, subject to the securing of sufficient funding.

THEMBALETHU / N2 BRIDGE WIDENING
Project funded jointly by SANRAL and the Public Transport Network Grant
This strategic upgrade is long overdue and involves the doubling of the original bridge, significant improvements to sidewalks and non-motorised transport facilities, upgraded N2 on-off ramps and the widening of Nelson Mandela Boulevard between Main/Ncamazana Streets in the north and Tabata/Ngcakani Streets in the south. It has taken more than 12 years to secure funding for this project that is now jointly funded by SANRAL and the Public Transport Network Grant. This project will see a marked improvement in traffic flow and safety of all road users, and especially residents of Thembalethu, this being the only access to Thembalethu. Construction work has commenced with an anticipated completion date in May 2024.

RESEALING OF ROADS (ASPHALT RESEALING)
Provincial Government Western Cape provides 80% of the funding for these projects
CJ Langenhoven Road and York Street are both Proclaimed Roads within the Municipal Road Network. As part of the Grant Funding for maintenance of these roads provided by Western Cape Government: Transport and Public Works (which are the Road Authority of both Roads), George Municipality was fortunate to get a significant portion of the Provincial Budget for such roads. The condition of the Grant Funding is that it be spent before the end of December 2022, which calls for an overlapping of the two projects to meet the condition. Consideration has been given to coordinate the two projects to ensure that traffic disruptions are limited to the absolute minimum. With the projects being rolled out in winter, it makes it difficult to programme night work, due to a drop in the temperature which makes it difficult to work with asphalt and the placement thereof.

Resealing of CJ Langenhoven Road (Phase 2) between Davidson Road (Provincial Hospital) and York Street has commenced and follows on Phase 1 that took place between Witfontein and Davidson Road. The remedial work will require the milling and removal of existing bituminous layers as well as milling and removal of existing gravel base layers. The milling operations will be followed by the placing of new bituminous base layers and surface layers. The above work will be carried out in half widths and CJ Langenhoven Street will be restricted to one-way traffic at times.

Traffic will be managed by means of Stop and Go or rerouted. This will lead to traffic congestion and delays. Access to businesses will be maintained, however parking between Palm Road and York Street will be impacted. Reconstruction and repairs to kerbs will have no major traffic impact. The anticipated completed date is mid- October 2022.

Similar to CJ Langenhoven Road (Phase 2), York Street also requires the milling and removal of existing bituminous layers as well as milling and removal of existing gravel base layers that will be followed by the placing of new bituminous base layers and surface layers. The anticipated commencement date is mid-September 2022 with a completion date projected by end of December 2022.

GENERAL CONSTRUCTION INFORMATION
The impact on traffic movement varies for each project depending on the nature of the work done, and the details are published in advertisements in local print media and on the George Municipality social media channels ahead of commencement of construction. If the GO GEORGE service will be affected this is communicated by GO GEORGE champions on location as well as via the usual social media and other communication platforms. Municipal services such as water, sewer and electricity may be temporarily disrupted, and planned disruptions will be communicated via social media when required.

Pacs High learner wins GO GEORGE rap competition

To loud and joyful applause, Pacaltsdorp High School learner Olwethu Sayidini was announced as the overall winner of the GO GEORGE Anti-vandalism Rap Competition for high schools held at the George Arts Theatre on Wednesday 10 August 2022. His catchy chorus lyrics will certainly stay on repeat in the minds of the audience: “Please stop the vandalism … It is part of gangsterism … Do you wanna end up in prison?”

The runners-up are both from George High School: Graziel Heathcote (second place) and Likho Ntshohgontshi (third place). The three winners were selected from 10 finalists entered by eight high schools in George.
The competition formed part of a focused, multi-pronged campaign by GO GEORGE to raise the alarm and to focus attention on the vexing social issue of vandalism, and specifically the vandalism of GO GEORGE infrastructure (buses and shelters) provided at high cost for the benefit of the community.

Entrants had to comply with specific criteria relating, amongst others, to the use of the words GO GEORGE and vandalism, in addition to the requirement that the content should not be offensive in any way and be suitable for distribution. The original lyrics the contestants came up with were inspiring and powerful, speaking about the negative influence of vandalism on the bus service and their communities, as well as the consequences to the perpetrator. Their messages will be strengthened by using the media to which the youth respond, such as Facebook, TikTok and Instagram.

George Executive Mayor, Alderman Leon van Wyk, handed over the prizes to the three winners. He reiterated the importance of preventing vandalism. “We are acutely aware that the GO GEORGE and overall municipal anti-vandalism drive has been born out of the necessity to put a stop to the scourge of vandalism in our town and in our communities,” he said. “Vandalism is not a prank or a game; it is a criminal offence that can have lasting consequences for the perpetrators. I am truly heartened by what I have seen and heard tonight – vandalism needs to be discouraged at all costs. I believe that this competition represents a very relevant and powerful form of expression, used by our youth who have the power to influence their peers.”

The winner of the competition received Beats Solo3 wireless on-ear headphones, the second-prize winner a set of Skullcandy wireless earbuds, and the winner of the third prize went home with a JBL flip 5 Bluetooth speaker. Each finalist received a goodie bag containing vouchers or products from various sponsors including Margot Swiss, Watsons Meat, Coca-Cola, Root Café, Nando’s, RocoMamas, Spur and Panarotti’s.

CAPTIONS:
Winner of the GO GEORGE Anti-vandalism Rap Competition, Olwethu Sayidini
First runner-up of the GO GEORGE Anti-vandalism Rap Competition, Graziel Heathcote
Second runner-up of the GO GEORGE Anti-vandalism Rap Competition, Likho Ntshohgontshi

Rap winners with Mayor:
George Executive Mayor, Alderman Leon van Wyk, handed over the prizes to the three talented winners of the rap competition. Posing with him are, from left, Olwethu Sayidini (winner), second runner-up Likho Ntshohgontshi, and first runner-up Graziel Heathcote.

Judges 1:
Three of the four competition judges are well-known entertainers: from left, Yoma, Moses Williams and Jason Hakkiesdraad Hartman.
Judges 2:
Robyn Mouton (right) is a local youth who is sight impaired, knows and sincerely loves rap music and listens with a fine-tuned ear. He was part of the panel of judges, assisted here by his father, Alberto Mouton.
Rap finalists:
The rap competition finalists who shared their wisdom and talent with an appreciative audience were, from left, front: Jade van Harte (Eden Technical High School), Jamil Pretorius (Outeniqua High School), Franwill Frazenberg (Van Kervel School), Kirstan Keffers (Parkdene High School), and Liyema Nsasane (George High School); from left, back: Jerome Appels (Olympia School), Baynalekhem Misland (Outeniqua High School), Liko Ntshohgontshi (George High School), Graziel Heathcote (George High School), Jerico Manies (Olympia School) and Olwetho Sayidine (Pacaltsdorp High School).
Winners with ambassadors and VIPs:
Posing with the three winners after the final competition event were George Executive Mayor, Alderman Leon van Wyk (middle, back), Cllr Gert Niehaus, chairman of the Section 79 committee of the George Council (second from right), and James Robb, acting Public Transport Oversight Official of the Municipality (second from left), as well as three of the six GO GEORGE anti-vandalism ambassadors: Moses Williams, actor and comedian (far left), Lizette da Silva, George Herald editor (middle), and behind her, Morné Pietersen, Station Manager, Eden FM. Three of the ambassadors, Peter Jaftha, Lloyd Bosman and Zane Kirchner, were not able to attend the event, but sent their best wishes to the finalists and winners. Olwethu Sayidini (winner) and second runner-up Likho Ntshohgontshi are standing next to James Robb, with first runner-up Graziel Heathcote far right.

AFRIKAANS:

PERSVRYSTELLING: Hoërskool Pacaltsdorp-leerder wen GO GEORGE rap-kompetisie

Olwethu Sayidini, ’n leerder van Hoërskool Pacaltsdorp, is onder luide en vreugdevolle applous aangekondig as die algehele wenner van die GO GEORGE Anti-vandalisme Rap-kompetisie vir hoërskole wat op Woensdag 10 Augustus 2022 in die George Kunsteteater gehou is. Sy treffende koorlirieke sal nog lank bly draai in die gehoor se geheue: “Please stop the vandalism … It is part of gangsterism … Do you wanna end up in prison?”

Die naaswenners is albei van Hoërskool George: Graziel Heathcote (tweede plek) en Likho Ntshohgontshi (derde plek). Die drie wenners is gekies uit 10 finaliste wat deur agt hoërskole in George ingeskryf is.

Die kompetisie het deel gevorm van ‘n gefokusde veldtog deur GO GEORGE om aandag te vestig op die kommerwekkende sosiale kwessie van vandalisme, en spesifiek die vandalisering van GO GEORGE-infrastruktuur (busse en skuilings) wat teen hoë koste tot voordeel van die gemeenskap verskaf word.

Deelnemers moes voldoen aan spesifieke kriteria soos die gebruik van die woorde GO GEORGE en vandalisme, benewens die vereiste dat die inhoud op geen manier aanstootlik moet wees nie en geskik moet wees vir verspreiding. Die oorspronklike lirieke waarmee die deelnemers vorendag gekom het, was inspirerend en kragtig en het verwys na die negatiewe invloed van vandalisme op hul gemeenskappe en die busdiens, asook die gevolge vir die oortreder. Die boodskappe sal versterk word deur die media te gebruik waarop die jeug reageer, soos Facebook, TikTok en Instagram.

George se uitvoerende burgemeester, raadsheer Leon van Wyk, het die pryse aan die drie wenners oorhandig. Hy het die belangrikheid daarvan om vandalisme te voorkom, beklemtoon. “Ons is deeglik bewus daarvan dat GO GEORGE en die munisipaliteit se anti-vandalisme-dryfkrag gebore is uit die noodsaaklikheid om ‘n einde te maak aan die plaag van vandalisme in ons dorp en in ons gemeenskappe,” het hy gesê. “Vandalisme is nie ‘n poets of ‘n speletjie nie; dit is ‘n kriminele oortreding wat blywende gevolge vir die oortreders kan hê. Ek is werklik bemoedig deur wat ek vanaand gesien en gehoor het – vandalisme moet ten alle koste ontmoedig word. Ek glo hierdie kompetisie verteenwoordig ‘n baie relevante en kragtige vorm van uitdrukking wat deur ons jeug gebruik word en wat die mag het om hul portuurgroep te beïnvloed.”

Die wenner van die kompetisie het Beats Solo3 draadlose oorfone ontvang, die tweede pryswenner ‘n stel Skullcandy draadlose oorfone, en die wenner van die derde prys is huis toe met ‘n JBL flip 5 Bluetooth-luidspreker. Elke finalis het ‘n geskenksak met koopbewyse of produkte van verskeie borge ontvang, waaronder Margot Swiss, Watsons Vleis, Coca-Cola, Root Café, Nando’s, RocoMamas, Spur en Panarotti’s.

BYSKRIFTE:
Wenner van die GO GEORGE Anti-vandalisme Rap-kompetisie, Olwethu Sayidini
Eerste naaswenner van die GO GEORGE Anti-vandalisme Rap-kompetisie, Graziel Heathcote
Tweede naaswenner van die GO GEORGE Anti-vandalisme Rap-kompetisie, Likho Ntshohgontshi

3 wenners met burgemeester:
George se uitvoerende burgemeester, raadsheer Leon van Wyk, het die pryse aan die drie talentvolle wenners van die rap-kompetisie oorhandig. Saam met hom op die verhoog is, van links, Olwethu Sayidini (wenner), tweede naaswenner Likho Ntshohgontshi, en eerste naaswenner Graziel Heathcote.

Judges 1:
Drie van die vier kompetisiebeoordelaars is bekende vermaaklikheidskunstenaars: van links, Yoma, Moses Williams en Jason Hakkiesdraad Hartman.

Judges 2:
Robyn Mouton (regs) is ‘n plaaslike jongman wat siggestremd is, baie lief is vir rap-musiek en met ‘n fyn ingestelde oor luister. Hy was deel van die paneel beoordelaars, hier bygestaan deur sy pa, Alberto Mouton.

Rap finalists:
Die rap-kompetisiefinaliste wat hul wysheid en talent met ‘n waarderende gehoor gedeel het, was van links, voor: Jade van Harte (Eden Tegniese Hoërskool), Jamil Pretorius (Hoërskool Outeniqua), Franwill Frazenberg (Van Kervel-skool), Kirstan Keffers (Hoërskool Parkdene) en Liyema Nsasane (Hoërskool George); van links, agter: Jerome Appels (Olympia-skool), Baynalekhem Misland (Hoërskool Outeniqua), Liko Ntshohgontshi (Hoërskool George), Graziel Heathcote (Hoërskool George), Jerico Manies (Olympia-skool) en Olwetho Sayidine (Hoërskool Pacaltsdorp).
Winners with ambassadors and VIPs:
Saam met die drie wenners ná die finale kompetisiegeleentheid was George se uitvoerende burgemeester, raadsheer Leon van Wyk (middel, agter), rdl. Gert Niehaus, voorsitter van die Artikel 79-komitee van die George-raad (tweede van regs), en James Robb, waarnemende toesigbeampte van openbare vervoer van die munisipaliteit (tweede van links), asook drie van GO GEORGE se ses anti-vandalisme-ambassadeurs: Moses Williams, akteur en komediant (heel links), Lizette da Silva, George Herald-redakteur (middel), en agter haar, Morné Pietersen, stasiebestuurder, Eden FM. Drie van die ambassadeurs, Peter Jaftha, Lloyd Bosman en Zane Kirchner, kon nie die geleentheid bywoon nie, maar het hul beste wense aan die finaliste en wenners gestuur. Olwethu Sayidini (wenner) en tweede naaswenner Likho Ntshohgontshi staan langs James Robb, met die eerste naaswenner Graziel Heathcote heel regs.

The George Municipal Council approved a revised Policy On House Shops And Other Residential-Based Retail Concerns in November 2021. The revised policy establishes sustainable land use management guidelines to allow the operation of house shops or similar micro-enterprises from residential properties, with specific focus given to low-income residential neighbourhoods such as townships, subsidy housing areas, and informal settlement areas – to ensure their short-term economic sustainability while also facilitating the long-term spatial strategy for these neighbourhoods.

The residential business survey conducted by the George Municipality’s Town Planning Department in March 2022 revealed that of the 308 house shops recorded in the George Municipal area, including Blanco. Pacaltsdorp, Thembalethu, Wilderness, Haarlem, and Uniondale, only five (5) are legal in terms of the Town Planning law. This has therefore necessitated a vigorous drive on rectification of illegal house shops in the greater George area.

As part of the rectification process, all owners and/or operators of illegal house shops or 3^rd party retail concerns, including those who have previously been served a notice, will now be granted an amnesty period of 3 months to rectify their operation and avoid the payment of any penalties or fines.

“The amnesty will only be granted if the operator can present proof of the shop’s existence prior to the implementation of the new zoning scheme on 1 September 2017 and accepts the General Conditions of Approval for house shops. The granting of amnesty shall not be construed as an indicator of support for their illegal businesses, or that their application will be approved,” said, Clinton Petersen, the Senior Manager in the George Municipality’s Town Planning Department.”

Petersen confirmed that the Municipality has already commenced the process of issuing notices directly to all unauthorised house shops in George. “The notice that we have issued is a ‘First Notice’, which basically informs and warns the property owner and the house shop operator that they have utilised the land outside the zoning scheme prescripts and without the approval of the municipality. The notice furthermore advises that they must rectify the contraventions (the illegal activity and/or building works) within 30 days of the date of notice being served. The notice will also request the owner/operator to contact and visit the Town Planning department to discuss options in rectifying the contravention,” Petersen said.

If the property owner and/or house shop operator does not adhere to the municipality’s ‘first notice’, the municipality will issue a second notice allowing the owner and/or operator a further 14 days to address the contravention. Should the owner and/or operator adhere to the above-mentioned notices, he/she will be assisted by the Planning department and advised on the requirements of submitting the necessary land use applications. They will also be advised that the submission of such an application does not give them the authority to continue operating the illegal shop and further, that submission of the application does not guarantee that their application will be successful.

Petersen says that the owner and/or operator will then be provided one (1) month to submit the required land use application. “Should the second notice not be adhered to, or the land use application is not be submitted, the matter will be handed over to the Department of Legal Services and Compliance for the instituting of further legal action. The Legal Department will issue a final compliance notice allowing the owner and/or operator a final opportunity (14 days) to address the contravention, failing which, said Department will be instructed to either lay a criminal charge with the SAPS or appoint an attorney to institute civil proceedings against the owner and/or operator,” he added.

The municipality may deviate from the above procedures and institute legal action if the activity and/or structure pose an imminent danger to life or property, or if illicit activities are suspected to be taking place on the property and pose a threat to the health and wellbeing of the community concerned.

The owners can contact the official who issued the notice on the phone number, or the email address provided thereon. They can also visit the offices on the 5th floor, municipal building, 71 York Street. For enquiries, the public can contact our office on Tel: 044 801 9477. They also send an email to town.planning.complaints@george.gov.za to register a service request. There will be a town planner on duty each day to assist with these queries.

Ends.