Prior to the December-January holidays, the George Administration made a commitment to participate in the Blue Flag rating status for our beaches. Participation in this project requires a dedicated approach for the rigorous testing of sea water, cleanliness of beaches and ablutions, keeping dogs off beaches, presence of lifeguards and a host of other requirements. Blue Flag status is internationally recognised by the tourism industry.
This process also triggered the decision for George to offer our visiting holiday-makers a memorable and quality holiday experience during their stay. This strategy was decided upon on the presumption that South Africans wanted to come and enjoy George over 2021/22. A seasonal monitoring committee of 20-30 members representing all Directorates was established that met every weekday at 08h00 from 1 December. Progressively, greater teamwork and work-processes began to emerge with NSRI, Sanparks and SAPS all playing their roles. Cllr Marlene Barnardt volunteered to hold the daily councillor watching brief and I attended occasionally.
Dr Gratz chaired these meetings as the various niggles were ironed out, from the sale of illegal fireworks to those of our citizens who insisted on trying to smuggle liquor onto beaches, those leaving their litter behind on the beaches, dog owners insisting on walking their dogs on Blue Flag beaches and campers ignoring bylaws (fully explained to them prior to the season) forbidding overnight camping on beaches.
Unfortunately, we also have property developers who have tried to operate businesses without the necessary planning and building control permissions. Our law enforcement staff were also called to deal with the theft of electrical cables and vandalism of equipment representing a considerable cost to George, with local scrap dealers no doubt facilitating these illegal transactions.
We believe the holiday season has boosted for our local economy with retail, tourism, accommodation and restaurant establishments all having above normal seasons. Many job opportunities would have resulted from this surge in business. We trust that the season will extend to late in January with coastal schools only returning to class on the 19th. We are very encouraged with the enthusiasm of the many temporary and permanent employees who joined hands in this team effort to showcase George.
It is worth remembering that George also had to tackle some huge challenges as our infrastructure took strain during the floods of 22 November following by further rain storms a few weeks later and water pipeline breakages. At present we are consuming virtually all the water that we are able to treat on a daily basis (due to the bumper holiday season). This means that at present we are unable to replenish our reservoirs to the levels that we consider to be safe. However, we continue to manage this process.
George Municipality Finance Directorate welcomed Gerard Goliath as the new Deputy Director: Expenditure and SCM on 3 January 2022. Goliath is a BCOM Accounting graduate from Nelson Mandela University and brings with him vast experience in his field. He has been working in municipalities since 2003 in various positions starting as a financial management intern up to Director’s level. Goliath says he views the highlights of his career as the achievement of two clean audits at Bergrivier Municipality in 2017 and 2018. Goliath is married with 3 children. Their eldest son is studying Civil Engineering in Port Elizabeth and the two younger children will be starting schooling in George this year.
“As a family, we are looking forward to making the Garden Route our new home and exploring what the region has to offer,” Goliath said. He added that he is looking forward to working at George Municipality and contributing to a culture of clean administration. “The warm welcome from the colleagues at George Municipality has been heartening,” he said.
George Municipality is proud to announce that Edward Ganza was appointed as Deputy Director: Administration in the Corporate Services Directorate on 1 December 2021. Ganza has a Post Graduate Diploma in Business Management (NQF 8) from the Mancosa Private University and a Bachelor of Administration degree from Nelson Mandela University. He has been working in municipalities since 1998 in various positions and brings with him extensive municipal experience. Ganza is fluent in three languages, Afrikaans, English and isiXhosa. He is residing in George currently and his family will join him at a later stage. “I am very happy to be part of the George municipal family”, said Ganza.
George Municipality welcomes Ntobeko Mangqwengqwe who joins our communications team within the office of the Municipal Manager as Senior Communications and IGR officer. Ntobeko comes to us from Oudtshoorn Municipality with over 12 years of local government communication and spokesperson experience.
He is 43 years of age and hails from Klipplaat, Eastern Cape. He moved to Oudtshoorn to continue his high school career and matriculated at Imizamo Yethu High School in George. He completed a Diploma in Journalism and was employed with SAPS Western Cape media center, George, as a media liaison official/spokesperson from 2006 to 2008. He also freelanced for the Oudtshoorn Courant from 2000 to 2001.
Ntobeko holds a diploma in Public Relations Management from Unisa. He has completed his NQF level 7 programme in Communication Science and is now studying towards BA Hons: Integrated Organisational Communication. He is registered with the Public Relations Institute of Southern Africa (PRISA), as a Chartered Public Relations Practitioner (CPRP). PRISA is a professional body for communication and Public Relations practitioners.
Daniel B Greeff Pr. Eng returns “home” and joined the George Municipality on 1 January 2022 as a Deputy Director for Planning & Design in the Electro-Technical Services Department. After obtaining his B.Eng. degree from the University of North-West in 2003, he started working as a consulting engineer for more than 13 years in the Garden Route area. During this time, he was registered as a professional engineer with the Engineering Council of South Africa in 2013. In 2017, he was appointed as the Manager Electro-Technical Services for Witzenberg Municipality.
In the photograph from the back left are: Martin Botha, Town Planner; Fakazile Vava, Town Planner; Khuliso Mukhovaha,Town Planner; Robert Janse Van Rensburg, Town Planner. In the front from left are Amelia Lombard, Town Planner; Eddie Koeberg, Assistant Building Control Officer; Luthando Fatyela, Assistant Building Control Officer; Mogamat Fickerie Toyer, Manager Building Control; Mkhululi Nyeka, Assistant Building Control Officer and Winsley Meyer, Intern Town Planner. Not present Michelle Lee, Intern ISDG GIS.
A number of new appointments in the Planning and Building Control division is already reaping rewards for the George Municipality. In previous year’s the municipal buildings have been closed between Christmas and New Year with only minimal staff on standby. This year the buildings were only closed on the Public Holidays and work continued at the usual pace. In terms of plans – 158 were processed in the season with 86 approved, which was 80 residential, 6 non-residential. 16 applications (14 residential and 2 non-residential) remain in circulation. The remaining 56 (52 residential and 4 non-residential) were not approved due to either not complying and/or additional information being required. Furthermore, a total of 55 (54 residential and 1 non-residential) Certificates of Occupancy were issued.
Five new town planners, one intern town planner and one ISDG GIS intern are welcome additions to the team.
Robert Henk Janse Van Rensburg is married and moved to George from Durban where he worked as Town Planner at K2m Environmental (Pty) Ltd. He achieved his Bachelors in Urban and Regional Planning and Masters in Environmental Sciences from North-West University, Potchefstroom. His hobbies of hiking and running, fit right into the lifestyle offered by working and living in George. He is looking forward to experiencing all of the activities the Garden Route has to offer.
Khuliso Jafter Mukhovha is a registered planner with over ten years working experience at both local and provincial government level. He achieved his Bachelors in Urban and Regional Planning from the University of Venda as well as a certificate in GIS and Public Management. He is originally from Ha-Mashua in Limpopo Province and is looking forward to enjoying his hobbies of travelling, hiking and soccer to name a few in George.
Amelia Lombard obtained her MSc in Urban and regional planning at the North-West University Potchefstroom Campus. She has a passion for sustainability and hopes to make a positive change in the world. She is excited to be a part of the team at George.
Phillippus Martinus Botha, known as Martin obtained his Masters in Urban and Regional Planning and his Bachelors in Spatial Planning Honours at the University of the Free State. He also has a Batchelors in Development and Environment from Stellenbosch University. He worked as a Town Planner for seven years at Urban Dynamics, Cape Town) for 7 years and is professionally registered with SA Council for Planners since 2017 (SACPLAN): Pr. Pln. A/2518/2017). He is married to Talitha and a great sports fan, in particular of Manchester United. He hopes to make a positive contribution to George Municipality.
Fakazile Vava was appointed Town Planner in November 2021 after completing his two year internship at George Municipality.
Winsley Leighton Meyer is a local born and raised in George. He has been appointed as an Intern town planner and obtained his B-Tech Town and Regional Planning at Cape Peninsula University of Technology. He started his internship way back in 2014 with George, has interned at Oudtshoorn Municipality and most recently worked as a Candidate Planner at Delplan Urban Consulting. He joins the sporty group with his love of rugby and golf.
Michelle Lee joins us as GIS Intern for Planning and Development. She has a Bachelor of Science Geoscience( Geology & Geography) and Bachelor of Science Honours Geographical Information Systems from Nelson Mandela University.
BUILDING CONTROL Our Building Control division was equally busy with building control contraventions and complaints that were able to addressed expeditiously over the festive season. A total of 54 residential occupation certificates and 1 non-residential were issued. 19 complaints were received and addressed.
Our new Manager Building Control is Mogamat Fickerie Toyer who comes to us with over 25 years’ experience within the build environment in both the private (10 years) and Local Government environment (+20 years). He obtained his qualifications in both Architecture and Interior Design from the Port Elizabeth Technikon (NMMU) and has computer programming studies under his belt as well. He is married with 3 children aged 15, 12 and 11 years old. Fickerie spent 20 years at Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality, and then moved to Drakenstein as Manager Building Control in 2017 before accepting the post at George Municipality.
Eddie Koeberg has been appointed as Assistant Building Control Officer. He studied Building and Civil Construction at Northlink College in Cape Town and worked as a building inspector at Bitou Municipality previously. He is a local to Plettenberg Bay and married to Gillian. He is a rugby, football and soccer fan(Arsenal) and has reached the top 30 in Idols SA 2013 and 2014. He is a passionate musician, vocalist and performing artist skilled in the acoustic guitar
Luthando Fatyela appointed as Assistant Building Control Officer obtained his National Diploma in Building and Btech in Construction Management at the Cape Peninsula University in Cape Town. He has worked as a Building Inspector for the Drakenstein Municipality and worked as a Construction Supervisor for several companies around Cape Town. He was born and raised in a small township called Zwelethemba in Worcester and is another soccer fan, Kaizer Chiefs being his team of choice. He is also an avid chess player.
Our third Assistant Building Control Officer is Mkhululi Nyeka, known as MK. He obtained his National Diploma in Building and BTech in Construction Management at Cape Peninsula University of Technology CPUT and previously worked at Mossel Bay Municipality as an Assistant Building Inspector with an assignment of 28 areas of the town. He was born and raised in Cape Town and slo enjoys working outside and spending his free time exploring.
The George Municipality wishes to commend the law enforcement agencies and SAPS for the swift action that led to the arrest of five suspects in connection with theft and vandalising of a power supply cable connected to the 66kv that is situated at the back of the sewer pump station at Gwaing on Saturday, 1 January 2022.
The municipality suffered a huge financial blow with an estimated 1800 meters of cable stolen with an approximate value of R1 million. The retrieved cable is useless and cannot be reused.
The municipality cannot provide extensive detail with regards to the police investigation, but we are satisfied to report that the police have arrested two adults and three minors from Syferfontein in connection with this incident. The arrested persons will appear in court soon.
George Municipality cannot overemphasize the danger of stealing or tampering with energised cables. “We would like to warn the public to refrain from stealing municipal property as it is not only causing huge losses from the public’s coffers but also poses danger to the lives of those tampering with energised cables,” said Dr Michele Gratz, acting municipal manager.
“Information available at this stage suggests that, although no spillages or damage to the pump station were caused, the electrical line was tripped by the thieves. The alleged thieves could have been seriously injured or killed if the line had fallen on them or they touched it while energized,” Dr Gratz added. If a sewerage spill did occur, the environmental and health implications would have been far-reaching for the community.
A reward for information leading to a successful prosecution
George Municipality will pay a reward of R2500 to any person who offers information on vandalism and theft incidents, and which information leads to the successful conviction of the perpetrator in a court of law. The paying of a reward is seen as a necessary step to combat the expenditure on the repair of vandalized and stolen infrastructure. These assets are managed by the municipality on behalf of the public and it is George Municipality’s request to all our residents to assist us in looking after and protecting these assets.
The public can contact the Anti-fraud toll-free number 0860 044 044 or report vandalism and theft verbally, by email, or any municipal or SAPS telephone numbers. The member of public reporting will have to supply their name and contact details as their testimony may be required for the successful conviction of the perpetrators. The identity of those helping will be protected.
George Municipality calls on the community to please assist us in eradicating theft and vandalism, to allow the municipality to improve service delivery levels and continue to improve the quality of people’s lives.
Report Illegal connections to 044 801 9222 or after hours on 044 801 6300. Report to 0860 044 044 with details to be eligible for the reward.
To ensure that traffic congestion is minimised, the George Municipality has made alternative arrangements for the dropping off and collection of large groups of passengers for Public Transport Vehicles (incl Taxi’s) and/or private vehicles.
George Traffic Officials and Pointsmen will be in place to ensure the smooth flow of traffic as far as possible. Traffic controllers are assisting with general parking as well as at the designated Drop and Go / Collection areas at all beaches. Clear signage is in place.
Victoria Bay:1 January 2022: 07h00 – 19h00 All Public Transport Vehicles including Taxis : Drop and Go Area / Collection Point (16h00 – 19h00) at Top Parking Area entering Vic Bay on the left at stop sign.
Private vehicles, Elderly and Disabled ONLY: Drop and Go Circle at the boom.
Herold’s Bay: 1 January 2022: 07h00 – 19h00 Drop and Go / Collection Points are located at the Caravan food stalls and to the left of the Public Ablution facilities.
No Public Transport Vehicles including Taxis are allowed to park at the main parking area facing the sea.
Motorists are also allowed to park on the verges of the R404 Road entering the beach area provided they are completely off the road and not causing any obstruction
Wilderness Beach: 1 January 2022: 07h00 – 19h00 All Public Transport Vehicles including Taxis: Wilderness Common Drop and Go / Collection Point (16h00 – 19h00)
Private vehicles, Elderly and Disabled ONLY: Salina’s Drop and Go
Swimming Regulations for Wilderness Beach Area: Please swim between the Lifeguards Flags No swimming under the bridges; in the Mouth of the river due to dangerous streams and deep slopes; left of the Main Beach or at Kleinkrantz due to no lifeguards present.
Map legend Yellow arrows indicate Parking areas. Purple arrows indicate Access to Beach Red Stars indicate Location of Lifeguards Red Triangle. Area / Access closed off. Green Arrow indicate DROP and GO for public and Elderly and Disabled. Blue Arrow indicate Drop and Go for Taxis. Collection Points for Taxis.
OPENBARE KENNISGEWING: Aflaai-en-ry / oplaaipunte vir privaat en openbare vervoer-voertuie op strande op 1 Januarie 2022 Uitgereik deur George-munisipaliteit, 31 Desember 2021
Om te verseker dat verkeersopeenhopings tot die minimum beperk word, het die George-munisipaliteit alternatiewe reëlings getref vir die af- en oplaai van groot groepe passasiers deur openbare vervoer-voertuie (insluitend taxi’s) en/of private voertuie.
George-verkeersbeamptes en puntdiensbeamptes sal in plek wees om die gladde vloei van verkeer so ver moontlik te verseker. Verkeersbeheerders sal help met algemene parkering sowel as by die aangewese aflaai-en-ry / oplaaigebiede by alle strande. Duidelike aanwysings is in plek.
VICTORIABAAI: 1 Januarie 2022: 07:00 – 19:00 Alle openbare vervoer-voertuie, insluitend taxi’s: aflaai-en-ry / oplaaipunte (16:00 – 19:00) by die boonste parkeerarea by stopteken aan die linkerkant waar u Victoriabaai binnekom. SLEGS privaat voertuie, bejaardes en persone met gestremdhede: aflaai-en-ry-sirkel by die valhek
HEROLDSBAAI: 1 Januarie 2022: 07:00 – 19:00 Aflaai-en-ry / oplaaipunte by die karavaankosstalletjies en aan die linkerkant van die openbare toiletgeriewe Geen openbare-vervoervoertuie, insluitend taxi’s, mag by die hoofparkeerarea wat op die see uitkyk, parkeer nie. Motoriste mag ook aan die kante van die R404-pad parkeer, mits hulle heeltemal van die pad af is en geen versperring veroorsaak nie.
WILDERNIS-STRAND: 1 Januarie 2022: 07:00 – 19:00 Alle openbare-vervoervoertuie, insluitend taxi’s: Wildernis se gemeenskaplike aflaai-en-ry / oplaaipunt (16:00 – 19:00) SLEGS privaat voertuie, bejaardes en persone met gestremdhede: Salina’s aflaai-en-ry-punt.
Swemregulasies vir Wildernis-strandgebied: Swem asseblief tussen die lewensreddersvlae. Geen swem toegelaat onder die brûe, in die riviermond (as gevolg van gevaarlike strome en diep hellings), links van die hoofstrand of by Kleinkrantz aangesien daar geen lewensredders is nie.
Kaartsleutel: Geel pyle dui parkeerareas aan. Pers pyle dui toegang tot strand aan. Rooi sterre dui ligging van lewensredders aan. Rooi driehoek: Area / toegang gesluit Groen pyl dui aflaai-en-ry-punt vir publiek, bejaardes en persone met gestremdhede aan. Blou pyl dui aflaai-en-ry / oplaaipunt vir taxi’s aan.
Executive Mayor Leon Van Wyk today (30 December 2021) wished everyone a safe and peaceful new year. “We should all remember to adhere to the health and safety guidelines during the holiday season. We have together faced the many challenges of 2021 and the George Council sends our best wishes to all residents and visitors for the blessings the New Year holds!“
BEACH ACCESS Beaches, grassy areas and parking lots at beach sites remain open to the public and will be monitored by municipal Law Enforcement officials , beach monitors and SAPS in terms of adherence to municipal by-laws including the consumption of alcohol, fireworks etc.
LIFEGUARDS Lifeguards are on duty at Gwaing Beach, Herold’s Bay, Victoria Bay, Wilderness Leentjiesklip and Wilderness Salina’s on a full-time daily basis until 31 January 2021. They are at beaches in the George municipal area from 7 am-7 pm every day, including weekends and public holidays. Please swim between the Lifeguards Flags.
Wilderness – No swimming under the bridges, in the Mouth of the river due to dangerous streams and deep slopes, left of the Main Beach, at Kleinkrantz due to no lifeguards present.
PLEASE SWIM BETWEEN THE FLAGS AT BEACHES AND OBEY LIFEGUARD INSTRUCTIONS.
PARKING, DROP AND GO, COLLECTION POINTS AT BEACHES George Traffic appeals to motorists to please park considerately and not to cause any traffic obstructions. If any vehicle is found to be contravening traffic law and causing a disruption to traffic flow, either through parking, blocking entrances or any other violation, they will be prosecuted. VEHICLES WILL BE TOWED away if they are causing a traffic hazard. Traffic Controllers are assisting at the beaches and Separate Drop and Go/Collection Points will be designated to allow for the collection of large groups of passengers on Saturday 1 January 2021 at each beach site. Traffic officials and pointsmen will assist with the smooth flow of traffic for safe access and exiting of the beach areas.
NO FIREWORKS OR ALCOHOL WILL BE TOLERATED Municipal traffic officials together with provincial traffic officials will hold several roadblocks to ensure compliance with the municipal by-laws and the Road Traffic Act. Offenders are warned that a policy of zero tolerance will be followed and that strict action will be taken against non-adherence to municipal by-laws.
Our Law Enforcement Officials aided by 30 beach monitors will be deployed to enforce and implement the ZERO TOLERANCE OF ALCOHOL ON OUR BEACHES. Beachgoers should take note that NO DRINKING is allowed at beaches, any open space, car parks, in or outside vehicles at these places. Law Enforcement will adopt a policy of ZERO TOLERANCE for any person who wants to enter the beach areas under the influence of alcohol, who tries to enter the beach area with alcohol and/or use alcohol while on beaches.
We encourage all beachgoers to assist our officials in ensuring that their day at the beach is a safe and pleasant experience. . Please do not drive under the influence of alcohol. Alcohol is strictly prohibited on all beach areas under the control of the George Municipality which include Herold’s Bay, Gwaiing River Mouth, Victoria Bay, Wilderness, and Leentjiesklip areas. We encourage all beachgoers to assist our officials in ensuring that their New Year’s Eve and Day at the beach is a safe and pleasant experience
The George Municipality reminds residents and visitors that fireworks, firecrackers, flares, paper lanterns and other such paraphernalia are considered a major fire risk and are not allowed in public or private spaces in the municipal area. Under the George Municipal Community Fire Safety By-Law no fireworks may be discharged and there are no designated sites for fireworks in the George municipal area. Should someone be caught discharging a firework, a flare or lighting a Chinese lantern an immediate fine of R1000 is applicable as well as a potential charge of arson.
Report illegal trade and setting off of fireworks to Law Enforcement at 044 801 6350 or 044 801 6300 (a/h) Report illegal, irresponsible and unsafe fires to the Fire Department on 044 801 6300 with fire emergencies reported to 044 801 6311
NO DOGS ON BEACHES George Municipality wishes to again remind all dog owners that NO dogs are allowed on any of George’s beaches (SAND areas) at any time as per the Municipal By-Law. The municipality has attained Blue Flag status as well as Pilot Blue Flag status for Wilderness Beach, Victoria Bay and Herold’s Bay and to adhere to the Blue Flag international standards we are strictly enforcing this regulation this festive season. Dog owners are therefore urged to keep dogs on a leash and off the sandy areas at the beaches. This regulation is clearly visible on our regulation signage boards located at each beach area.
MUNICIPAL SERVICES All George Municipal offices will close at 13h00 on 31 December 2021 with the exception of the Traffic Department, Vehicle Testing Station and Motor Vehicle Registration offices that will close at 12h00. Emergency and other essential services will continue during these periods.
044 801 9111 Work Hours 044 801 6300 After Hours 044 801 6311 Fire Only 044 801 6316 Disaster Management
COVID-19 preventive measures: Carefully maintain a 1.5-meter distance between yourself and the next person. This is especially important should you have to queue anywhere. Wear your face mask diligently, and always ensure that the rest of your family wear their masks. The face mask helps prevent the spread of the coronavirus. The correct and consistent wearing of a face mask when in public remains mandatory and is a punishable offence if not adhered to. Disinfect and/or wash your hands regularly, especially before touching objects handled by other persons and before touching your face. Keep your family gatherings small and keep the curfew in mind.
George Municipality wishes citizens and visitors a safe and happy festive season
Issued by George Municipality 24 December 2021
Remember to adhere to all By-laws and rules to make this Festive Season an enjoyable one for you and others. Please familiarise yourself with all signage and notices put up especially at our beaches.
• George Municipality has a ZERO TOLERANCE OF LIQUOR on all our beaches. Alcohol is strictly prohibited on all beach areas under the control of the George Municipality which include Herold’s Bay, Gwaiing River Mouth, Victoria Bay, Wilderness, and Leentjiesklip areas. NO DRINKING is allowed at beaches, any open space, car parks, in or outside vehicles at these places. Law Enforcement has NO TOLERANCE for any person who wants to enter the beach areas under the influence of alcohol, try to enter the beaches with liquor, or drink alcohol at beaches. We will not hesitate to prosecute people and or confiscate their liquor if they do not comply with the municipal by-laws. We encourage all beachgoers to assist our officials in ensuring that their day at the beach is a safe and pleasant experience.
• George Municipality is once again urgently appealing to motorists at the beach areas to please adhere to all traffic laws and avoid putting themselves and other road users in danger.
George Traffic appeals to motorists to please park considerately and not to cause any traffic obstructions. If any vehicle is found to be contravening traffic law and causing a disruption to traffic flow, either through parking, blocking entrances or any other violation, they will be prosecuted. VEHICLES WILL BE TOWED away if they are causing a traffic hazard. Traffic Controllers are assisting at the beaches and at some beaches drop and go parking bays are available for easy and safe accessing and exiting of the beach areas.
Point duty officers are also posted at all busy intersections in town to allow for the safe flow of traffic.
• George Municipality wishes to again remind all dog owners that NO dogs are allowed on any of George’s beaches (SAND areas) at any time as per the Municipal By-Law (Keeping of Dogs, cats and animals). The municipality has attained Blue Flag status as well as Pilot Blue Flag status for Wilderness Beach, Victoria Bay and Herold’s Bay and to adhere to the Blue Flag international standards we are strictly enforcing this regulation this festive season. Dog excrement can contaminate the water and jeopardise the Blue Flag status of our beaches, even if the dog poop is picked up. Dog owners are therefore urged to keep dogs on a leash and off the sandy areas at the beaches. Law Enforcement officers will not hesitate to act against those that do not adhere to this regulation which is clearly visible on our regulation signage boards located at each beach area.
• Lifeguards are on duty at Gwaing Beach, Herold’s Bay, Victoria Bay, Wilderness Leentjiesklip and Wilderness Salina’s on a full-time daily basis until 31 January 2021. They are at beaches in the George municipal area from 7 am-7 pm every day, including weekends and public holidays. Public swimming pools in Conville and Uniondale remain closed as a Covid-19 precaution. PLEASE SWIM BETWEEN THE FLAGS AT BEACHES AND OBEY LIFEGUARD INSTRUCTIONS.
• FIREWORKS
Due to the high fire risk, there is a general ban on the setting off, selling and possession of fireworks, firecrackers, flares, paper lanterns and other such paraphernalia in the George municipal area. Fines will be imposed and all fireworks will be confiscated. Report Fireworks to Law Enforcement on 044 801 6350/6300 and Fires to 044 801 6311.
• REFUSE COLLECTION
Refuse Collection black, blue and green bags will continue throughout the festive season including public holidays. The CBD cleaning crews will work throughout with an extension of their hours as and when required.
The international Blue Flag programme aims to connect the public with their surroundings and encourages them to learn more about their environment. 50 countries world-wide participate in this programme with 4831 beaches, marinas and tourism boats registered as blue flag sites.
Education activities must be offered and promoted in addition to a permanent display of information relevant to the site in terms of biodiversity, ecosystems and environmental phenomena. George Municipality printed and installed Coastal Care information boards at Wilderness Blue Flag Beach, Victoria Bay and Herold’s Bay. Educational activities would usually be aimed at the youth of George, however this festive season due to ongoing Covid-19 regulations group educational visits are not advisable. As such George Municipality is harnessing the power of social media to spread the word about the Blue Flag programme and will provide nuggets of environmental information over the next few weeks which can be read, and shared by all of our residents.
In September this year, George Municipal officials together with the Department of Environmental Affairs, EPWP workers and Pacaltsdorp Primary School used the International Coastal Cleanup theme day to clean in Covid-19 hotspots Thembalethu and Pacaltsdorp. The municipal Environmental section chose to shift the focus from cleaning at the beaches, to cleaning the two communities in George that have been most affected by illegal dumping and the highest numbers of infections for Covid-19. Flyers on the dangers of illegal dumping were handed out to residents living near the illegal dump sites to provide them with the necessary information they need to report illegal dumping as well as to educate them in the potential dangers to their health.
In October for National Marine Week 2021, SANparks visited a number of high schools in George and discussed the concept of ghost fishing with Grade 11 learners. Ghost fishing is the
term that describes what happens when derelict fishing gear ‘continues to fish’. Derelict fishing gear, sometimes referred to as “ghost gear,” is any discarded, lost, or abandoned, fishing gear in the marine environment. Ghost nets choke coral reefs, damage marine habitats and entangle fish, marine mammals and seabirds. They are also a danger to boats, catching in vessel propellers. Locating and then removing the nets is a major challenge.
Climate Change and the Oceans According to studies from CSIR , the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change concluded that there is consensus that the increase of atmospheric greenhouse gases will result in climate change which will cause the sea level to rise, increased frequency of extreme climatic events including intense storms, heavy rainfall events and droughts. Climate change is increasing the pressure on water bodies. From floods and droughts to ocean acidification and rising sea levels, the impacts of climate change on water is intensifying over the years.
According to Conservation International some of the impacts of Climate change on sea water is a rise in sea levels. Climate change affects ocean temperatures as well as wind patterns — taken together, these can alter oceanic currents.
The Western Cape Government Climate Change Advisory 2021 states that we need to both reduce our contribution to greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions (through renewable energy, energy efficiency, ‘climate-smart’ agriculture, radical re-imagining of transport and planning to name a few) whilst also adapting to the, now unavoidable, changes and preparing for a continued increase in climate impacts.
Blue Flag Season 01-12 to 31-01 Free entrance for all public
Facilities and characteristics
Kiosk
Disabled friendly
Lifeguards on beach
The beach is sandy
The site is coastal
About the site
Wilderness Beach is one of those locations that truly lets one know that they are in Africa. Besides from the African Sun in the summertime, one can view the dense vegetation that grows right up to the beach, giving a complete wild coast feel to it. It is located between Mossel Bay and Knysna, which in themselves, are worth the trip.
This is one of those beaches that you can be enjoyed during the day and the evening. During the day one can absorb the warm waters of the Indian Ocean, and the expanse of white sand, giving one all the room in the world to relax, or to run around like a wild person. A walk along this beach is a really calming experience, as well as a feast for the eyes. During the evening, one can witness some of the most spectacular sunsets, as well as a variety of sea creatures, such as the brightly coloured sea snails, that form into mass groups, and seem to enjoy their organized chaos.
Many fishermen flock to this shore, as there is apparently great fishing to be had in these parts. A variety of fish are on the menu in Wilderness, due to these fishermen, and their abundant catches.
There areplenty of accommodation venues to stay at, which are right on the beach, offering those fantastic views, from your very own balcony. This is a unique beach experience, and one that should not be missed by anyone traveling along the Garden Route.
Dogs on beaches(sand area) detrimental to Blue Flag status Reissued by George Municipality 22 December 2021
George Municipality wishes to again remind all dog owners that NO dogs are allowed on any of George beaches (SAND Areas) at any time as per the Municipal By-Law (Keeping of Dogs, cats and animals). The municipality has attained Blue Flag status as well as Pilot Blue Flag status for Wilderness Beach, Victoria Bay and Herolds Bay and in order to adhere to the Blue Flag international standards we are strictly enforcing this regulation this festive season.
Dog excrement can contaminate the water and jeopardise the Blue Flag status of our beaches, even if the dog poop is picked up. Dog owners are therefore warned to keep dogs on a leash and off the sandy areas at the beaches. Law Enforcement officers will not hesitate to act against those that do not adhere to this regulation which is clearly identified on our regulation signage boards located at each beach area.
Further to this By-Law no dog or other animal may be in any public street or public space (any open public space the public has access to which falls under the George Municipal jurisdiction for example beachfronts, parks, sport fields and sidewalks) except on a leash and under control. This is unless the animal is in an area designated by the George Municipality as a free-running area. A person is not allowed to walk a dog other than a guide dog, ON A BEACHFRONT i.e not on the sand, a public street, public place, without carrying enough plastic or paper bags or wrappers, to place the excrement of the dog into, in the event of the dog defecating.
Please note that dogs are allowed on the sidewalk areas, (tarred, brick-paved etc.) of beachfronts, if these conditions are adhered to. The beach areas under the control of the George Municipality include Herold’s Bay, Gwaiing River Mouth, Victoria Bay and the Leentjiesklip areas.
The public must also note that By-laws relating to dogs on a street or public place relate to the George Municipal jurisdiction and it might differ from other municipalities. The public is also requested to humanely muzzle and keep dogs under control, which could be considered dangerous, vicious or ferocious. No animals should be left in an unattended and or a closed vehicle or open bakkie in any public street or space. If this by-law is not adhered to, a fine of R1000 will be imposed.
We ask dog owners to familiarise themselves with the Sanparks infographic attached, to see where dogs are allowed on Wilderness Beach.
The electrification of 27 homes in Ikapa Informal Settlement have been finalised just before Christmas, as the final of three Short Term Urgent Electrification projects that were prioritized by Council (March 2021) using the available budget for the 2020/21 Financial year. The cost per structure for electrification is between R10 000 – R13 000 which includes a prepaid meter.
Each resident receives their own electrical prepaid meter, in their own name with power supply of 40 amps. In the photograph are from left: Kevin Grunewald, BDE Consulting Engineers; Portfolio Councillor for Electrotechnical Services, Nosicelo Mbete; home owner Ms Nosango Silangulana; Ward Councillor Thembinkosi Lento and Director for Electrotechnical Services, Bongani Mandla.
The Blue Flag is one of the most recognizable beach flags in the world and equates to the confirmation of a clean coastline and transparent ocean water. Raising the Blue Flag means offering a higher level of standard when it comes to beach and saltwater quality. Wilderness beach is one of 48 locations in South Africa that has achieved Blue Flag Status for the 2021/22 season.
George Municipality sees this award as a feather in its tourism cap, as the Blue Flag is regarded by the World Tourism Organisation as the most coveted and respected international award that could be bestowed on top beaches. Blue Flag standards are only enforced at the participating beach’s stated season, which varies from just one month of a year to the full 12 months. The status is awarded one season at a time and municipality must apply annually to renew the status of their beaches. The Blue Flag reviewing panel reserves the right to accept or withdraw membership should the qualifying criteria not be fulfilled and impromptu inspections are carried out during the festive season with no prior warning.
To achieve Blue Flag status, 33 main criteria have to be met, including:
Compliance with Blue Flag criteria
Information relating to local eco-systems
Environmental Management of beaches
Beach facilities such as parking, access points, public facilities, cleanliness
Access for the physically disabled.
Safety services provided on the beaches and enforcing of regulations such as no alcohol, no dogs etc.
The Blue Flag international award focuses on the environmental management of coastlines and coastal waters that aims to promote tourism and development, but is also a symbol for beach quality. WESSA rates Blue Flag status as one of the world’s most acknowledged eco-labels awarded to beaches, marinas, and sustainable boating tourism operators. The programme provides an excellent international standard for municipalities and tour operators to strive toward. Sites flying the Blue Flag are showing their commitment to conserving the fragile marine and coastal environment, raising environmental awareness and increasing sound environmental practices.
Wilderness beach is managed as a collaborative effort by George Municipality with key stakeholders including South African National Parks, National Sea Rescue Institute, and GRDM. Victoria Bay and Herold’s Bay this year both gained Pilot status following application by the George Municipality.
Acting Municipal Manager for George, Dr Michele Gratz said that Blue Flag status offered many benefits besides improved tourism facilities and that the resources allocated to maintaining daily compliance play an important role in job creation. George Municipality has established a festive monitoring committee which meets daily to review facilities, safety and cleanliness at all of the beaches across George, including Wilderness Salina’s, Wilderness Leentjiesklip, Herolds Bay, Victoria Bay and Gwaing River Mouth beach.
The Blue Flag season runs from 1 December 2021 to 31 January 2022. Compliance includes high standards of water quality monitoring, public safety and lifeguard services, and well-maintained coastal amenities. South Africa has participated in the Blue Flag programme since 2001.
Issued by George Municipality 20 December 2021 for immediate release
Captions: Some of the liquor that beachgoers tried to smuggle onto the beach areas.
George Municipality has sent a stern warning to beachgoers yesterday by sending them away from beach areas with liquor to the value of more than R10 000, which people still tried to bring onto beaches, despite the ZERO TOLERANCE OF ALCOHOL ON OUR BEACHES.
According to Richard von Willingh, Law Enforcement Chief, people tried to bring a total of 332.3 litres of various kinds of liquor to the approximate value of R10 129 onto the beaches yesterday, Sunday, 19 December 2021. Alcohol would have been confiscated if the offenders did not leave the beach area.
Beachgoers should take note that NO DRINKING is allowed at beaches, any open space, car parks, in or outside vehicles at these places. Law Enforcement has NO TOLERANCE for any person who wants to enter the beach areas under the influence of alcohol, try to enter the beaches with liquor, or use alcohol at beaches.
Von Willingh said, “We will not hesitate to prosecute people and or confiscate their liquor if they do not comply with the municipal by-laws.”
George Municipality will strictly enforce its no alcohol allowed on our beaches policy. The Municipality appointed 30 Beach Monitors to assist with beach patrols and bag searches.
We encourage all beachgoers to assist our officials in ensuring that their day at the beach is a safe and pleasant experience. Neighbourhood Watches, Community Police Forums, George Traffic Services, Provincial Traffic Services as well as SAPS also work closely with the Municipality with regards to Community Safety.
Alcohol is strictly prohibited on all beach areas under the control of the George Municipality which include Herold’s Bay, Gwaiing River Mouth, Victoria Bay, Wilderness, and Leentjiesklip areas.
Beachgoers should take note that NO DRINKING is allowed at beaches, any open space, car parks, in or outside vehicles at these places. Law Enforcement has NO TOLERANCE for any person who wants to enter the beach areas under the influence of alcohol, try to enter the beaches with liquor, or use alcohol at beaches.
Von Willingh said, “We will not hesitate to prosecute people and or confiscate their liquor if they do not comply with the municipal by-laws.”
George Municipality will strictly enforce its no alcohol allowed on our beaches policy. The Municipality appointed 30 Beach Monitors to assist with beach patrols and bag searches.
We encourage all beachgoers to assist our officials in ensuring that their day at the beach is a safe and pleasant experience. Neighbourhood Watches, Community Police Forums, George Traffic Services, Provincial Traffic Services as well as SAPS also work closely with the Municipality with regards to Community Safety.
Alcohol is strictly prohibited on all beach areas under the control of the George Municipality which include Herold’s Bay, Gwaiing River Mouth, Victoria Bay, Wilderness, and Leentjiesklip areas.
Dogs on beaches(sand area) detrimental to Blue Flag status Issued by George Municipality 20 December 2021 George Municipality wishes to inform all dog owners that for us to adhere to the Blue Flag international standards at all our beaches, it is imperative to enforce strict rules of NO DOGS ON BEACHES (SAND AREAS) that is in line with the Municipality’s By-law, Keeping of dogs, cats and animals.
Dog excrement can contaminate the water and jeopardise the Blue Flag status of our beaches-even if the dog poop is picked up. Dog owners are therefore warned to keep dogs on a leash and off the sandy areas at the beaches. Law Enforcement officers will not hesitate to act against those that do not adhere to the By-law.
Wilderness Beach has full Blue Flag status and Victoria Bay and Herold’s Bay both gained Pilot status. Blue Flag is an international coastal management programme that accredits beaches that meet standards of excellence in water quality, environmental management, environmental education and information as well as safety and services. In South Africa the programme is implemented by the Wildlife Environmental Society of South Africa (WESSA).
Blue Flag beaches promote tourism which stimulates the economy and assist with job creation. The status offers many benefits including improved tourism facilities, enhanced management of coastal ecosystems, increased awareness of the coast and capacity building of coastal municipalities as well as carrying significant international merit.
Further to this By-Law no dog or other animal may be in any public street or public space (any open public space the public has access to which falls under the George Municipal jurisdiction for example beachfronts, parks, sport fields and sidewalks) except on a leash and under control. This is unless the animal is in an area designated by the George Municipality as a free-running area. A person is not allowed to walk a dog other than a guide dog, ON A BEACHFRONT, a public street, public place, without carrying enough plastic or paper bags or wrappers, to place the excrement of the dog into, in the event of the dog defecating.
Please note that dogs are allowed on the sidewalk areas, (tarred, brick-paved etc.) of beachfronts, if these conditions are adhered to. The beach areas under the control of the George Municipality includes Herold’s Bay, Gwaiing River Mouth, Victoria Bay and the Leentjiesklip areas.
The public must also note that By-laws relating to dogs on a street or public place relate to the George Municipal jurisdiction and it might differ from other municipalities. The public is also requested to humanely muzzle and keep dogs under control, which could be considered dangerous, vicious or ferocious. No animals should be left in an unattended and or a closed vehicle or open bakkie in any public street or space. If this by-law is not adhered to, a fine of R1000 will be imposed.
Mr Richard von Willingh, Manager Law Enforcement at George Municipality, requests that animal owners leaving on vacation have their animals cared for by a reliable person or at an animal boarding facility such as kennels or catteries.
We ask dog owners to familiarise themselves with a map of Sanparks attached, to see where dogs are allowed on beaches and where not.
Issued by George Municipality 17 December 2021 for immediate release
George Municipality is allowing restaurants to apply for ‘pavement permits’ over the festive season, to assist restaurants to inch closer to their original capacities as they have to implement social distancing measures due to COVID-19.
A ‘pavement permit’ will provide restaurants with additional floor space to place their tables, taking Covid-19 amended level 1 regulations into account. These permits will be applicable until 16 January 2022.
Issued by George Municipality on 15 December 2021 for immediate release
The George Municipality Community Development Section hosted an Appreciation Service dedicated to the Nutritional Centre representatives on Tuesday, 14 December.
There are currently 125 active centres across the George Municipal area.
The ceremony took on a formal programme and certificates of appreciation were handed over to all the representatives of the nutritional centres. Candles were lit during the programme in memorium of those who lost their lives in the past two years. The Executive Deputy Mayor of George, Cllr Raybin Figland, did the official address at the event and thanked all the good Samaritans from the centres for all their hard work and dedication to their communities.
Apostle Charlotte Roberts, the Guest Speaker at the event, shared a powerful motivational message with the attendees. After the formalities, the ladies and gents were treated to a cooked meal with dessert. The meals were sponsored by EBK Distributors who regards this as their part in giving back to the community that they are a part of. The function was well attended and appreciated by all who were present.
The newly appointed Portfolio Councillor for Community Development, Cllr Brendon Adams, did the official opening and welcoming at the event.
Nutrition 1 and 2: The representatives from the 125 Nutritional Centres across George attended an Appreciation Service at Lawaaikamp Community Hall. Here they are proudly showing off their appreciation certificates for a job well done.
Mayor Leon van Wyk switched on the Festive Lights at Unity Park tonight. With him him are the Electrotechnical team that worked tirelessly to get the lights ready during wet and difficult weather conditions the past two weeks. Deputy Mayor of George, Cllr Raybin Figland, more Councillors and Acting Municipal Manager of George, Dr Michele Gratz, supported the mayor at the switch on.
George Municipality wants to bring good cheer and signal the start of our festive season by switching on our Christmas lights. Although no official event was planned for the official switching on of the lights this year, mainly due to COVID restrictions, the lights bring holiday cheer to tourists and residents alike.
George is a holiday town and tourism destination for many and the Mayor of George and Coucil wish everyone a happy and safe festive season. ISSUED BY GEORGE MUNICIPALITY 11 December 2021 at 20h26
ALERT: MR347/404 GEORGE AIRPORT ROAD TO THE N2, NOW OPEN AND SAFE TO USE10 December 2021 at 17h00Issued by Garden Route District Municipality CommunicationsSince last week the Roads and Transport Planning Department of Garden Route District Municipality (GRDM) worked non-stop to repair the MR347/404 Road between the George Airport and the N2 highway.This followed the appearance of a sinkhole that was as a result of the torrential rain that largely impacted infrastructure in George and Oudtshoorn. Consequently, the section of the road from the entrance of Bargain Nursery and Elvis Brew to the entrance of the George Airport, was prioritised and repaired. Executive Manager for Roads and Transport Planning at GRDM, John Daniels, said: “Our Roads team worked non-stop since Wednesday, 1 December 2021, to repair the road. We know that this road gets extremely busy over the festive season as many visitors to our region arrive by plane. Two popular businesses would also have been severely impacted if we didn’t prioritise this project. We also want the experience of those visiting our region be the same as those who already reside here.””The road is now open and safe to use,” Daniels said.
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