We remind the public that you have three days only to take up our offer of a FREE 10 Point Check for your vehicle on the 3rd, 4th and 5th January 2022 (08h30 -15h30). Bring your vehicle to our VTS on the corner of Hibernia Street on the dates listed above and please note the policy will be first come first served.
The 10 Point inspection includes:
Identification of vehicle
Lights
Equipment and Body structure
Braking Systems
Wheels and Tyres
Suspension and undercarriage
Steering
Oil leaks
Exhaust System
Transmission
The full inspection will take approximately 10 minutes and you will be free to go with a clear bill of health – or know that something needs to be repaired before you leave for that long drive.
Safety is our first priority – make use of the opportunity to ensure you and your family travel safely this festive season.
SAFETY TIPS
Check that vehicle is roadworthy before you start your journey
Carry the necessary equipment and tools to assist you on the road in case of breakdown
Have enough rest before you start your journey and take a rest every 2 hours
Adhere to all road signs and rules of the road
Maintain a safe following distance
Adhere to and stay within the speed limits
Follow instructions that are given by Law enforcement or Traffic Officials
No overloading of passengers because it affects the braking system of the vehicle
Have the necessary contact numbers in case of emergency
In memorium of Archbishop Emeritus Desmond Tutu who was a champion for truth and justice in our nation the Condolence Book placed at the George Library last week, will be available for today before being removed and returned. Please use today to pay your respects by signing and leaving a message. He will always be remembered for his humanity, faith, conviction and passion for his country.
George Library 044 801 9288 Monday to Thursday 09h00 – 19h00 Friday 10h00 – 17h00 Saturday 09h00 – 12h00
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 wants all residents and visitors to enjoy a safe and peaceful festive season. To that end our Law Enforcement Officials aided by 30 beach monitors continue 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.
To date alcohol to the value of R1450 has been confiscated, alcohol to the value of approximately R15 890 has been returned to persons who left the beach and/or returned it to their vehicle. The official confiscation notice is completed in terms of Section 8(1) to (5) of Street Trading By-laws and is handed to the person offending. George Municipality then officially hands the confiscated alcohol over to SAPS who logs receipt thereof and stores it for a period of 30 days. The person issued with the notice is entitled to collect the alcohol within that 30 days from SAPS. Once the 30 days has expired, SAPS issues a Disposal Notice and the alcohol is destroyed. No alcohol confiscated remains in possession of the George Municipality.
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.
George Municipality Law Enforcement in collaboration with George Fire Brigade, SAPS and George SPCA has visited a total of 100 shops in the greater George as from the 17 December. Fines to the value of R 44 000 (18 fines) have been issued to date (as at 30 December) and illegal fireworks confiscated with an approximate retail value of R19 056.
We remind the public that due to the high fire risk, the setting off, and possession of fireworks, firecrackers, flares, paper lanterns and other such paraphernalia in the George municipal area is not allowed. The fireworks confiscated by our Law Enforcement Officials will be handed over to the SAPS Mossel Bay Explosives unit for disposal. Confiscation notices are issued to the offending shops.
George has strict firework legislation and according to the Bylaw on Community Safety, Section 58 (13) No person may discharge fireworks outside of a designated Fire Works Area. No Fire Works area has been made available in George and should someone be caught discharging a firework, a flare or lighting a Chinese lantern an immediate fine of R1000 is applicable as well as a potential charge of arson.
Setting off marine rocket flares for fun is hugely dangerous and irresponsible. NSRI is compelled to log and investigate each and every incident in case it is a real emergency which of course takes up their time and valuable resources and, more seriously, could detract from genuine flare sightings. It is also hugely dangerous for those setting off the flares, which, as they are quite costly, we suspect are also probably out of date.
Marine guidance notes explain that all old flares need to be disposed of correctly. Rocket flares degrade with time and there have been cases where the rocket propellant separates from the parachute and you are left with an uncontrolled flare which then comes back down and hits the person who has fired it off.
George Municipality will firmly enforce the applicable by-laws and additional Law Enforcement officials will be deployed at various areas and beaches on New Year’s Eve to attend to fireworks complaints. This will hopefully assist in reducing the noise levels and allow people (and their pets) to plan for “noisy” periods thus allowing for a quieter, safer environment for all concerned. For some pets, especially dogs and cats with particularly noise-sensitive ears, the sound of fireworks can cause intense fear responses. Some pets will go to extremes to hide, others get startled and run away, and general anxiety caused by unexpected loud sounds can have long-lasting effects on animals.
Please report the illegal setting off of fireworks to 044 801 6350 or after hours at 044 801 6300. Please report the illegal trade in fireworks to 044 801 6350 or after hours at 044 801 6300.
In the lead up to New Year’s Eve, George Municipality has visited a total of 26 shops in the greater George area over the past 11 days, issued six (6) fines totalling R14000 and confiscated illegal fireworks with an approximate retail value of R9200. We remind the public that due to the high fire risk, the setting off, and possession of fireworks, fire crackers, flares, paper lanterns and other such paraphernalia in the George municipal area is not allowed. The fireworks confiscated by our Law Enforcement Officials will be handed over to the SAPS Mossel Bay Explosives unit for disposal.
George has strict firework legislation and according to the Bylaw on Community Safety, Section 58 (13) No person may discharge fireworks outside of a designated Fire Works Area. No Fire Works area has been made available in George and should someone be caught discharging a firework, a flare or lighting a Chinese lantern a fine of R1000 is applicable as well as a potential charge of arson.
Setting off marine rocket flares for fun is hugely dangerous and irresponsible. NSRI is compelled to log and investigate each and every incident in case it is a real emergency which of course takes up their time and valuable resources and, more seriously, could detract from genuine flare sightings. It is also hugely dangerous for those setting off the flares, which, as they are quite costly, we suspect are also probably out of date.
Marine guidance notes explain that all old flares need to be disposed of correctly. Rocket flares degrade with time and there have been cases where the rocket propellant separates from the parachute and you are left with an uncontrolled flare which then comes back down and hits the person who has fired it off.
George Municipality will firmly enforce the applicable by-laws and additional Law Enforcement officials will be deployed at various areas and beaches on New Year’s Eve to attend to fireworks complaints. This will hopefully assist in reducing the noise levels and allow people (and their pets) to plan for “noisy” periods thus allowing for a quieter, safer environment for all concerned. For some pets, especially dogs and cats with particularly noise-sensitive ears, the sound of fireworks can cause intense fear responses. Some pets will go to extremes to hide, others get startled and run away, and general anxiety caused by unexpected loud sounds can have long-lasting effects on animals.
Please report the illegal setting off of fireworks to 044 801 6350 or after hours at 044 801 6300.
Please report the illegal trade in fireworks to 044 801 6350 or after hours at 044 801 6300.
The George Municipal Vehicle Testing Station (VTS) is again offering a FREE 10-Point Check for your vehicle from 8 January 2024 to 12 January 2024 (08h30 -15h30).
Bring your vehicle to the VTS situated at Hibernia Street, George on the dates listed above and please note that the first-come, the first served rule will apply. Visitors are welcome!
Bring your vehicle to the VTS situated at Hibernia Street, George on the dates listed above and please note that the first come, first served rule will apply.
The 10 Point inspection includes: • Identification of vehicle • Lights • Equipment and Body structure • Braking Systems • Wheels and Tyres • Suspension and undercarriage • Steering • Oil leaks • Exhaust System • Transmission
The full inspection will take approximately 10 minutes and you will be free to go with a clean bill of health – or know that something needs to be repaired before you leave for that long drive.
Safety is our priority – make use of the opportunity to ensure you and your family travel safely this festive season.
SAFETY TIPS Check that vehicle is roadworthy before you start your journey Carry the necessary equipment and tools to assist you on the road in case of a breakdown Have enough rest before you start your journey and take a rest every 2 hours Adhere to all road signs and rules of the road Maintain a safe following distance Adhere to and stay within the speed limits Follow instructions that are given by Law enforcement or Traffic Officials No overloading of passengers because it affects the braking system of the vehicle Have the necessary contact numbers in case of emergency Be patient towards other road users
Update on water quality – 28 December 2021 at 15h00
Water samples taken late yesterday afternoon have failed for the Touw River, and as a precautionary measure SWIMMING and WATER SPORTS are again not PERMISSIBLE in the river, at the river mouth or the lagoon.
Water sampling will continue to be taken twice daily to monitor water quality and as soon as the situation has stabilized the municipality will advise the public accordingly.
The Municipality apologises for this unforeseen event.
All George Municipality 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.
EARLY CLOSURE @ 12H00 for 31 December (all customers within gates will be assisted)
Traffic Department Offices, Driving and Learners Licences: Mission Street, Pacaltsdorp 044 878 2400
Vehicle Testing Station Hibernia Street (next to train station) 044 801 9312
Motor Vehicle Registration and Licencing Hibernia Street (next to train station) 044 801 9310
All after-hours George Municipality (including Uniondale and Haarlem)emergencies: 044 801 6300 Fire Emergencies: 044 801 6311 General public email for all matters: gmun@george.gov.za Garden Route District Municipality Disaster Management emergencies: 044 805 5071 (all hours)
Ratepayers are requested to use one of the below-mentioned methods to make payments:
Accounts can be paid via electronic transfer (EFT – see details below), via pay@ mobile applications (see details below) and at Pick n Pay, Checkers, Shoprite, USave and SPAR. Please take your most recent available account statement with you so that the shop can access the bar code that connects your payment to your GRG account number.
Meter readings Online submissions of water meter readings are welcomed and can be provided via the below email address along with the accountholder’s name, contact details and GRG account number.
Bank Details for electronic payment (please note bank details changed 1 December 2020)
First National Bank (FNB) Account Type: Public Sector Cheque Account Account Name: George Municipality Account Number: 62869623150 Branch Code: 210554 Swift Code: FIRNZAJJ
Reference: your GRG account number (please enter your account number without the GRG in front and without any spaces in-between) Proof of payment to be sent to payments@george.gov.za
pay@ mobile applications Download Masterpass, Snapscan or Zapper application on your mobile phone and complete your profile.
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.
Please note the George Municipal Court is closed for the remainder of today (22 December 2020) due to Covid-19 measurements and will reopen on Monday, 3 January 2022 from 7h45
Representations can still be dropped at the entrance to the court, security will accept. The prosecutor will continue to process representations – Email to ifelix@george.gov.za
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.
George Municipality has been made aware of refuse workers asking members of the public for donations. Please note that no municipal official may ask for a gratuity or any money in lieu of services rendered. We request that the GM Number on the vehicle is provided to our Community Services Directorate when reporting any such requests to 044 802 2900. Should you want to give a token of appreciation voluntarily that is in order.
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.
George Municipality in welcoming tourists to George, and as a signal to the start of our festive season will be putting up and switching on our Christmas lights soon. Although no official event is planned for the official switching on of the lights this year, mainly due to COVID restrictions, the lights bring holiday cheer to tourists and resident alike, and our teams are working on having the lights fully operational by Friday. Executive Mayor Leon Van Wyk will switch lights on at Unity Park, Saturday, 11 December at 20h00.
For those wondering about loadshedding and energy saving, please be reminded that loadshedding is essentially Eskom’s inability to provide reliable electricity. George Municipality has implemented a number of energy-saving initiatives, including the commissioning of the newly built PV Plant at the Main Municipal Building, as well as the conversion of a large part of George’s streetlights and traffic lights to LED. All municipal buildings have been converted to energy saving lights.
George is a holiday town and tourism destination for many, the switching on of festive lights plays a part in celebrating unity, joy and are a symbol of life and happiness. They are also a beloved attraction of visitors to George, who often make a special family trip to view the lights in the different areas of George and the now famous Denneoord home displays. We have noticed that more communities are joining in on this practice, so if you want to show off your display this year, please list your property with George Tourism by sending an e-mail to info@visitgeorge.co.za and they will put you on the viewing list.
Visitors to the Gwaiing Landfill site will be pleasantly surprised at the number of changes that have taken place over the past few months. In August this year stricter access control was implemented to address safety concerns and ten Expanded Public Works Programme (EPWP) workers were employed to assist around the site and to address safety concerns.
ACCESS CONTROL IMPROVED All vehicles now use the access gate for the refuse transfer station, and must go over the weighbridge for weighing and then proceed via the 2nd gate inside the transfer station, towards the Gwaiing landfill site. Every vehicle entering the facility is then recorded and weighed when it enters, and when it exits. This system enables the municipality to capture correct waste management data and complies with the Provincial Department of Environmental and Development Planning’s requirements.
All household and office refuse must be dumped at the refuse transfer station. Only green waste, organic waste, woodcuttings, sawdust, builders rubble, construction waste and soil are permitted on the landfill site.
No hazardous waste, light tubing, any vehicle parts, tyres, all asbestos products, e-waste, plastic or cartons are permitted on the landfill site.
No mixed waste: waste must be separated at the source and disposed of at the right waste facility. (Landfill site or refuse transfer station) If you are not sure ask one of the officials on duty at the weighbridge.
FESTIVE SEASON CLOSURES
The municipal garden refuse site and transfer station is closed on 25 and 26th, December and will be open on New Year’s day for business as usual,weekdays 7am-6pm and Saturdays 7am to 5pm. The site is situated on the R102 (airport road turn-off from York Street). For queries contact 044 802 2296 or email cplubbe@george.gov.za
The municipality asks the public to assist and work together with the security personnel and municipal officials at these facilities to ensure that all occupational health and safety regulations, COVID -19 protocols and all licensing conditions of the refuse transfer station and Gwaiing landfill site are adhered to.
HOUSEHOLD HAZARDOUS WASTE
To address the disposal of household hazardous waste, the George Municipality will host its second Open Day for the collection of household hazardous waste on 10 December, in the parking lot opposite Outeniqua Stadium, Augusta Street. Open from 08:00 – 15:00, the public to please note all Covid-19 protocols will be observed.
SUITABLE HOUSEHOLD HAZARDOUS WASTE
Motor oil, oil filters, brake fluid
Used antifreeze
Paint, paint thinner, turpentine
Pesticides or herbicides
Household batteries
CRTs, old TVs, miscellaneous electronics
Tyres
Fluorescent tubes and Globes
Household medical waste (needles and old medicine and tablets)
HAZARDOUS WASTE NOT ACCEPTED
Explosives
Ammunition
Radioactive Materials
Controlled Substances
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
Bring the items you wish to dispose of in a strong box preferably in their original, labelled containers.
Do not EVER mix products together.
Be prepared to leave your containers, due to permitting requirements, and the volume of people that may utilise the program.
This is your opportunity to get rid of these items at NO COST and at a convenient, nearby location. For any enquiries, Grace Notshokovu 044 802 2917.
George Municipal Fire and Rescue Services are ready for the fire season, which officially runs in the Western Cape from December 2020 to March 2021.
George Fire Chief Neels Barnard said the municipality’s own fleet was well-equipped and the Southern Cape would once again have additional air support from its Denneoord Emergency Airbase ensuring a comprehensive response to the diverse firefighting challenges in our municipal area.
A chopper, three spotter planes and two water bombers will serve the Garden Route district from the airbase during the 2021/22 fire season with a second chopper on standby.
The municipality appeals to residents and visitors to be mindful of hot summer conditions and to act responsibly to ensure that there are no unnecessary fires to contend with during a time when emergency services are stretched to the limit. The public is reminded that fireworks are illegal because of the fire risk and that no controlled burns are allowed until fire season is over. Always remember to make fires in protected and designated areas only and dispose of cigarette butts safely.
George Fire emergency number: 044 801 6311 General emergency number: 044 801 6300
George Municipality has successfully applied for a Budget Facility for Infrastructure funding (“BFI”), the first non-metro municipality to ever receive such a grant in South Africa. The overall funding required for the project is R1.197 billion, to be formally gazetted, and which will be provided over the next forty (40) months for the full phases of the Potable Water Security and Remedial Works projects.
The BFI funding is allocated to George Municipality through the Regional Bulk Infrastructure Grant managed by the Department of Water and Sanitation. Acting Municipal Manager Dr Michele Gratz said that the impact of this funding will be immense for George and the 212 120 residents we service. “The Department of Water and Sanitation in a meeting noted that George Municipality is extremely privileged and a trailblazer being the first B-municipality to receive such a grant. Out of a total of 17 applicants which included government departments, George Local Municipality was the only approved application.”
The potable Water Security and Remedial Works projects include a new sludge treatment plant; new 20 Ml/d Water Treatment Works (“WTW”) Plant upgrade; refurbishment of the existing sludge discharge system; upgrade of Garden Route Dam outlet supply; new generator for Garden Route Dam pump station to ease supply of raw water during power failures; new 30Ml Balancing Dam and pipeline to New Water Treatment Plant; rehabilitation of Old water treatment works; replacement for Kaaimans River Pump station pumps; new Pacaltsdorp (West) Reservoir; new Pacaltsdorp (East) Reservoir, Tower and pump station; new Thembalethu (West) Reservoir and Pump station and a new Thembalethu (East) Reservoir, Tower and pump station.
Executive Mayor Leon van Wyk made the announcement of the successful application in the Ordinary Council of Friday 26th November during the tabling of the Adjustment Budget 2021/22. “We are grateful for the show of National Treasury’s faith in the municipality as a responsible recipient of grant allocation funds and are committed to provide services in line with the city’s ongoing needs as one of the fastest growing municipalities in the country.
“This is a major milestone project for the sustainability of our city that will stimulate housing and economic development that had to be halted in recent years as bulk water and sanitation infrastructure has reached capacity. The project will also eradicate the current sludge spillage in municipality’s river and dam water sources, in turn, improving the water quality of the municipality. Water security is a key component of the Medium-Term Strategic Framework 2019 – 2021 (MTSF) which calls for increased investment in water infrastructure funded by both the public and private sector. Water security is required to improve the quality and amount of investment to support growth and job creation.”
This project is aligned with the South African Economic Reconstruction and Recovery Plan specifically in relation to investment in infrastructure , employment creation and support of tourism recovery and growth by a) maintaining the planned level of investment in the public sector b) ensuring that local communities particularly historically marginalised communities are removed from the cycle of under-development and c) strengthening the production capacity of the economy.
“The Council of George can rightly be proud of the team of senior management and officials who put together this funding application at short notice and the subsequent approval is a testament to the skilled and innovative Civil Engineering Services planning staff we have in George, “ said Executive Mayor Leon Van Wyk.
The BFI funding will extend the water treatment capacity and will be implemented in two phases over three years (2022 – 2025): Phase 1 and 2 is an additional 20 Mℓ/day extension to the New George WTW and Phase 3 is an additional 30 Mℓ raw water balancing dam at the New George WTW.
The first allocation approved of the total amount of R1.197 billion, is R81.345 million and this amount was included in the 2021/22 Adjustments Budget tabled at the Ordinary Council of Friday 26th November.
The municipality has started the procurement processes for the development of major drinking water infrastructure projects in anticipation of national funding over the next few years.
The BFI was introduced in 2016 to cater for large strategic infrastructure projects. It is well-known that there is widespread concern about the state of water and waste-water infrastructure in South Africa and that significant amounts of funding will be required to rehabilitate this infrastructure within municipalities.
The George management team recognised that the capital expenditure required for this project would be significant and place enormous strain on the municipality’s financial resources. The initiative was taken to approach National Treasury to search for a solution. This approach culminated in the application being launched. In being awarded the BFI facility, George becomes the flag-bearer among non-metro municipalities to lead the restoration of water treatment as well as waste-water facilities in the country.
George Municipality and the engineering community this week celebrated the success of the award-winning Garden Route Dam spillway as the dam overflowed for the first time since the spillway and dam wall was raised in 2019/20.
George Municipality Civil Engineering Services Acting Director Lionel Daniels said the heavy rainfall and flash floods that occurred on Monday had understandably overshadowed the dam’s overflowing on the same day (22 November 2021), but it remained a significant milestone in the city’s long-term water security. “There are many reasons we are celebrating this project including an increased capacity of 25% by raising the full supply level of the dam by only 2.5 metres. The ingenious duckbill-shaped spillway design improved the dam’s safety in a practical and cost-effective way that earned the designers, Zutari (formerly Aurecon), a win in the Technical Excellence category at the South African Institute of Civil Engineering (SAICE) Awards in November 2020.
“The design is relatively new in the engineering world, and as far as we know is not being used in this way in South Africa. It was extensively researched and tested at the University of Tshwane and its shape is designed to slow down water flow using basic physics principles. The design is brilliant in its simplicity and it was a real victory to see the dam overflow and the spillway working so effectively,” said Mr Daniels.
The Garden Route Dam, situated just outside the north-east urban edge of George, is the main source of potable water for the city and its capacity had become a concern as the municipal area continued to grow exponentially since the early 2000s.
In addition, the Southern Cape had experienced two major droughts in seven years, which had been unheard of in this prolific all-year rainfall area. The dam recorded its lowest ever level of 16.9% in February 2010 and again dropped to 41,2% in September 2017.
The Garden Route Dam spillway and wall project was completed in January 2020 and increased the dam storage capacity by 25% from 10 million cubic metres to an estimated new capacity of 12,5 million cubic metres.
Project details:
The previous Garden Route spillway was 25m wide, which was extended to 80m by curving the spillway in the upstream direction. The new spillway consists of a reinforced concrete cantilever structure, which is unusual for hydraulic structures of this type, as these are normally self-stable by their mass. To enhance the stability, the structure is provided with rockfill on the upstream side of the wall footing, in addition to rock anchors.
Although the full supply level (FSL) of the dam was raised by 2.5 m, due to the local terrain the tallest portion of the new spillway wall is 4.9 m tall. A total of 1,780 m3 of concrete was used (750 m3 mass concrete, 300 m3 for the walls, 390 m3 for the wall footing, and 340 m3 for the channel).
The main dam wall was also raised by 1.76m to prevent overtopping by placing earth fill on top of the existing embankment. Selected material was placed as follows: general fill (12,500 m3), rip-rap (2,500 m3), filter sand (750 m3), and topsoil (2,050 m3).
Caption
The Garden Route Dam overflowed for the first time since its spillway had been raised in 2019. The award-winning bill-shaped design increased the dam’s overall capacity by 25% by raising the spillway by only 2.5m.
Executive Mayor Leon Van Wyk photographed at the Oewer Street repair site this morning for an update on the status of repairs. The repair work is progressing well and it is expected that the pipeline repair will be completed by 14h00. “I would like to thank the residents of George for their patience and understanding during this unprecedented weather disaster. We have now seen the extensive infrastructure damage that such flash flooding can do, with our water infrastructure taking the bulk of the force of the water.”
George measured 105mm of rainfall in a two-hour period on Monday 22nd November which led to extensive flash flood damage to private as well as municipal infrastructure. In total George received 148.5 mm of rain from Monday to this morning (Wednesday 24 November). It is with immense gratitude that the municipality can advise that no injuries or fatalities were reported following the storm. The George Fire and Emergency Services is aware of 26 formal houses that flooded, and to date over 800 families of informal structures have been identified as affected by flooding and requiring assistance. Emergency Services responded to one motor vehicle accident on Monday.
Roads which remain closed
Our traffic officials dealt with 10 traffic callouts from early morning on Monday, which included the closure of four roads that were completely impassable for a number of hours. Saasveld Road from Madiba Driver (Pine Lodge) to NMU is closed with extensive damage and repair work to be undertaken by Garden Route District Municipality which has jurisdiction over this road. In George itself, the Pienaar Street Bridge remains closed and the railway line opposite Correctional Services, Union street has been damaged.
Gunplast requests
The George Municipal Human Settlements directorate has worked solidly since Monday addressing requests for gunplast. Members of the public who require assistance with the supply of “Gunplast” please register their requests as follows:
Telephonically report the matter to the George JOC on 044 801 6316 or After Hours 044 8016300
Visit your nearest Area Office or Ward /other Councillor who will report on your behalf.
Email to gmun@george.gov.za providing the necessary Contact Details, Names of residents affected and Street Address.
Log via the Municipal App, Housing Queries OR General Request with the necessary Contact Details, Names of Residents affected and Street Address
Such faults will be assigned to the Human Settlements Directorate for assessment and assistance where possible. An application form must be completed and the resident must provide an Identity Document.
Beaches, streets and rivers being cleaned, refuse collection backlog being cleared Community Services have been hard at work cleaning up the beaches including Victoria Bay (79 black bags collected), Herold’s Bay (220) and Ballots Bay(137 ) and will continue today.. Community Services thanks members of the public who voluntarily assisted with the clean-ups. Street cleaning teams will be clearing the streets which are full of debris. Community Workers will begin assisting the municipality with the clearing of debris from the Meul, Kat and Molen Rivers today.
Refuse Collection was unable to take place on Monday due to impassable roads. The backlog for Monday will however be addressed on Wednesday 24 November, after the Wednesday areas are cleared. The refuse teams will work until the backlog has been cleared.
Water outages, roads cleared
George Municipality has experienced severe infrastructure damage following the flash flooding. This resulted in several pipebursts affecting water supply to a large portion of the city. The municipality is managing this crisis and continues to circulate water trucks to strategic areas throughout mostly the eastern side of the city. The water situation remains critical with reservoir levels supplying the eastern and CBD areas very low. Currently Thembalethu, Pacaltsdorp , Blanco, Conville, Borcherds, Lawaaikamp, Protea Park, New Levallia, Blue Mountain and surrounds are the only areas not affected by the water outage. The civil engineering road teams will also continue clearing sand and flood debris as they are able to throughout the city.
Power outages Our electrotechnical teams have attended to over 30 high voltage repairs and countless low voltage matters over the past days. Currently the only areas that remain affected are the Strydom Line (Wilderness Heights) which remains off due to two broken poles that will be replaced and lines repaired and a portion of Victoria Bay where one transformer needs replacement.
Humanitarian Relief The Social Services department has spent most of yesterday collating a list of families and structures worst hit by the floods and which are located in informal settlements. This list will be used for the various humanitarian relief operations currently underway in George. A family of 7 persons was sheltered in a Thembalethu community hall on Monday evening and have since returned to their structure.
The municipality has been inundated with offers of assistance for those affected by the flash flooding.
Any donations of food, blankets, clothing, mattresses, bedding, toiletries can be delivered to the Garden Route Food Pantry located at 1 Glaze street, next door to Takelot depot.
Contact Carl on 0828260731 or Tillie on 0721881207 in this regard. George Municipality will handle the assigning of donations to those in need.
Municipal Offices closed, except Finance Cashier Hall
Due to lack of water supply in the city centre, all municipal administration in the CBD except the Finance/Client Services Hall in the main building, are closed. Chemical toilets are available nearby – please enquire from security as to their location should you need to use the facilities. Phones of administration staff have been transferred to relevant numbers and staff are working remotely.
George Municipality remains committed to service delivery. Thank you for your support, understanding and cooperation during the challenging time.
South African Weather Service has released a Level 4 Yellow Warning for Damaging Winds for George and other areas from Friday 26 November in the morning. Gale force winds gusting up to 80-100km/h are predicted. Updates will be issued by the SA Weather Services, please pay attention to local news and social media.
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