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Author: Debra Sauer

Driver’s license training opportunities (Code B &C) for employed and unemployed persons from rural George Municipal area

Garden Route District Municipality (GRDM) invites employed and unemployed persons between the ages of 18 and 40, male and female, to apply for an opportunity to be trained for a Driver’s License Code B and C as part of a Garden Route Skills Mecca initiative.

Closing Date: 22 April 2026

Opportunities are currently available within the above-mentioned George rural areas:
– Uniondale;
– Haarlem;
– Avontuur;
– Waboomskraal;
– Touwsranten;
– Hoekwil;
– Kleinkrants; and
– Noll.

HOW TO APPLY: Applicants must register and apply by using a computer or laptop at this website: https://tinyurl.com/34unespk. Those unable to access the website can apply by printing this application form https://tinyurl.com/28m8vxnt and submitting it to the address listed.

Adverts are listed here: https://www.gardenroute.gov.za/2026/04/15/code-b-and-c-drivers-license-training-opportunities-for-employed-and-unemployed-persons-from-george-uniondale-haarlem-avontuur-waboomskraal-touwsranten-hoekwil-kleinkrants-and-noll/

For any enquiries, do not hesitate to contact Nolwando Sambokwe at 044 803 1345 or e-mail nolwando@gardenroute.gov.za, or Sisanda Sajini at 044 803 1450 or e-mail sisandas@gardenroute.gov.za during office hours only.

Only short-listed candidates will be contacted. Should candidates not be contacted within two months of the closing date, they must consider their application as unsuccessful.

Mobile Thusong Outreach programme – Lawaaikamp session postponed

The Mobile Thusong Outreach Programme scheduled for 17 April 2026 at Lawaaikamp Community Hall has been postponed to 27 May 2026.
The postponement is due to a potential march in the Lawaaikamp/Borcherds area, following a request from stakeholder organisations, and is in the interest of public safety.
The next outreach session will proceed on 23 April 2026 at Rosemoor Community Hall. The programme offers access to Community Development services, EPWP registration and enquiries, business support, jobseeker database registration, and other services.
For enquiries, contact Community Development Offcies on 044 802 2000 or 072 692 1880.
The Municipality apologises for any inconvenience and thanks the community for its understanding.

Guidelines for controlled burns from 1 May 2026

The official Western Cape fire season will end on 30 April 2026 and landowners and custodians in possession of controlled burn permits are allowed to perform burns with the usual safety requirements as of 1 May 2026.

Permit applicants are requested to contact the department by phone or email (information below) to make the necessary arrangements. The last allowable date for controlled burns this year will be 30 November 2026. Please note that this date is subject to change.

The municipality would prefer that only controlled burns for agricultural purposes – such as clearing fields for re-growth – take place and request landowners who are using fire to reduce biomass to consider alternatives such as chipping.

• A controlled burn permit is valid for 12 months from the date of issue but may not be used during the official fire season which is determined by Western Cape Disaster Management.

• On the day of the planned controlled burn, the permit holder must phone the fire station for permission to light the controlled burn. Permission may be withheld if the Fire Index for the day is too high.

• Controlled burns must occur Monday to Thursday, excluding public holidays, and all fires must be extinguished by 16h00 daily.

• Permits will not be issued inside the urban edge (among residential areas).

• The municipality appeals to the public to always be fire aware, no matter the time of the year.

• Please always exercise extreme caution, make fires in protected and designated areas only, and dispose of cigarette butts safely.

• Burning of garden refuse in residential areas is illegal.
Fire Emergencies must be reported to 044 801 6311.

For enquiries phone 044 801 6360
Email: Acting Fire Chief Johan Brand at jbrand@george.gov.za

George Municipal Internal Audit achieves Full Conformance with Global Internal Audit Standards

In the photo above the George Municipality Internal Audit team with the External Quality Assurance Review report.

The Internal Audit function of George Municipality has achieved a Full Conformance rating following a recent External Quality Assurance Review (EQAR), confirming alignment with the Global Internal Audit Standards issued by the Institute of Internal Auditors.

In addition to the Full Conformance rating, the review confirmed that the Internal Audit function has achieved its performance objectives and complies with applicable municipal laws and regulations. These outcomes reflect a high level of effectiveness and alignment with recognised professional practices.

The independent review assessed the Internal Audit function against the latest Global Internal Audit Standards, which represent the current international benchmark for the profession. The results indicate that the function is operating in accordance with the standards’ principles and requirements, and is positioned to provide consistent assurance and advisory support to governance structures.

The outcome reflects several key areas of maturity within the function, including:
• An established Internal Audit Charter and governance framework
• Structured audit planning, execution, and reporting processes
• A continued focus on risk management, control, and governance
• Demonstrated professional competence, independence, and objectivity
This result provides assurance to the Audit Committee, Council, management, and other stakeholders that the Internal Audit function is aligned with international standards and is effectively supporting oversight and accountability within the Municipality.

Commenting on the outcome, Chief Audit Executive Jean-Pierre Rossouw noted that the review outcome affirms the function’s role in strengthening governance and supporting informed decision-making across the organisation.

The Internal Audit function acknowledges the support and cooperation of the Municipal Manager, Audit Committee, management, and stakeholders throughout the review process. The function remains committed to continuous improvement and sustaining alignment with evolving professional standards.

George Junior City Council inaugurated for 2026

In the photo above are members of the new JCC, previous JCC, Councillors and Official. Infront from left: Mzivuyo Gumede (Glenwood House School) Chief Whip of JCC 2026, Matthew Taylor (Outeniqua High school) Junior Speaker of JCC 2026, Cllr Melvin Roelfse, MMC Community Development, Sport and Libraries, Anouk van Coller (Outeniqua High School) Junior Mayor for 2026, Xaney Janse van Rensburg (Outeniqua High school)Deputy Speaker for 2026, Cllr Thandiswa Qatana and Jonel Kerspuy (Coordinator of George Municipality Youth Office).
Second row are Andrea Mouton(Eden Technical High school), Stacey-Lee Blaauw (Parkdene High School), Sharon-Rose Wentzel (George High School), Tamryn Bostander (Heatherlands High School), Naledi Ngxishe (York High School – JCC, 2025), Marné Van der Westhuizen (Outeniqua High School – JCC, 2025), Mia Mengel (Outeniqua High school – JCC, 2025) Niellin Bruinders (George High School – JCC, 2025), Iya Khuze (Glenwood House School – JCC, 2025).
Third row: Ethan Lee (Parkdene High School), Tyra-Lee Lindoor (George High school), Amber-Lee April (Eden Technical High School), Aphelele Damons (Jonga High School), Anneke Erasmus and Hendrik Stander (Outeniqua High School), Caleb Dickson, Okwethu Tsholeka and Marissa Nunns (York High School).
Absent in the photo: Mastoerah Davids (York High School – JCC, 2025), Liwa Robebe (Eden Technical High School), Skylar Sauer (Municipal Manager JCC 2026) and Liah Pennington (both from Glenwood House School).

 

The newly elected George Junior City Council (JCC) for 2026 was officially inaugurated at a special ceremony recently attended by the Speaker of Council, Councillor Sean Snyman, alongside overseers from the Office of the Executive Mayor responsible for the JCC.

Cllr Melvin Roelfse, MMC for Community Development, Libraries and Sport and Cllr Thandiswa Qatana. The event brought together young leaders, parents, teachers, municipal officials and community stakeholders to mark the beginning of a new term of youth leadership in George. It was held at the George Banquet Hall.

A highlight of the programme was the announcement of the 2026 JCC Executive Council by Councillors Qatana and Roelfse. The Speaker of Council administered the Oath of Affirmation, marking a significant moment as the newly elected members committed themselves to serving their peers and community. The newly elected Junior Mayor for 2026 delivered an inspiring inaugural address, setting the tone for the year ahead.

Cllr Roelfse delivered a keynote address emphasising the importance of active youth participation and ethical leadership in governance and community development. His message encouraged the newly elected members to lead with integrity, accountability and purpose, while recognising the important role young people play in shaping the future of the municipality.

Notably, two learners from Parkdene High School were affirmed as members of the JCC, marking the school’s first participation in the programme. Other schools represented in this year’s JCC are Eden Technical High School, George High School, Glenwood House, Heatherlands High School, Jonga High School, Outeniqua High School, Parkdene High School and York High School.

The presence of parents and teachers added meaningful support to the occasion, highlighting the important role of mentorship and guidance in developing future leaders. The event underscored the strong partnership between schools, families and the municipality in building a brighter future for George.

The inauguration also marked the conclusion of the 2025 JCC term. Outgoing members reflected on their leadership journey, sharing insights and experiences, and extended messages of encouragement to the incoming council. In her reflection, 2025 Junior Mayor, Mia Mengel, highlighted the positive impact of youth leadership within the municipality.

Key initiatives undertaken during the previous term included the donation of clothing to assist families affected by a fire in 2025 that destroyed nearly 50 informal structures, participation in the inaugural Western Cape Boys Parliament, awareness programmes addressing gender-based violence and femicide during the 16 Days of Activism for No Violence Against Women and Children campaign, as well as various other community-focused initiatives.

Certificates of recognition were presented to the outgoing 2025 council members in appreciation of their dedication and service. The event celebrated not only youth leadership, but also continuity, growth and the ongoing commitment of young leaders to serve their communities.

Photo:

Cllr Melvin Roelfse, Community Development, Sport and Libraries, Cllr Thandiswa Qatani, Anouk van Coller, Junior Mayor of 2026, Mia Mengel, Junior Mayor of 2025, Xaney Janse van Rensburg, Junior Deputy Mayor of 2026, Naledi Ngxishe, Deputy Junior Mayor of 2025, Mathew Taylor, Junior Speaker of 2026, Mivuyo Gumede, Junior Chief Whip of 2026. With Cllr Sean Snyman, Speaker of George Council at the back at the event.

Telephones system down at Old Town Hall (Civil Engineering)

Please note that the telephone system at the Old Town Hall building (Civil Engineering) in York Street, CBD is currently offline. As a result, no telephonic services are available at this facility.
Technicians have been notified and are attending to the matter.
The Municipality apologises for any inconvenience caused and will provide updates once the system has been restored.

NATIS back online

Please note that the Natis system is now back online.

All services at the Driving Licence Testing Centre (DLTC) in Pacaltsdorp, as well as the Vehicle Testing Station (VTS), have resumed and are operating as normal.

Natis system offline

The public is hereby informed that the NATIS system at the Driving Licence Testing Centre (DLTC) in Pacaltsdorp, as well as the Vehicle Testing Station (VTS), is currently offline. As a result, no services are available at these facilities at present.

The Motor Vehicle Registration (MVR) offices are operational.

Further updates will be communicated as soon as the system has been restored.

George Municipality apologises for any inconvenience caused which is out of our control.

George Municipality hosts Bitou Municipality for Internal Audit Knowledge-Sharing and Benchmarking Engagement

In the photo above are from left in the front, Zimasa Bulo, Sanelisiwe Kopeshe, Carlos Koeberg, Jean-Pierre Rossouw, Margot Volmink , Thembisa Xakekile  and Kloper Mabunda. At the back are Natacha Martins, Nompilo Xoxani, Bongiwe Mgwali, Sikelelwa Masiza, Xolisile Sotushe and Heybrè Ellis.

George Municipality successfully hosted a knowledge-sharing and benchmarking engagement with Bitou Municipality on 8 April 2026, focusing on Internal Audit practices within the local government environment. The engagement formed part of the Municipality’s ongoing efforts to promote good governance, transparency, and continuous improvement across municipalities. It also provided an opportunity to share Internal Audit processes and exchange practical insights with a peer institution.

Discussions covered key components of an effective Internal Audit function, including governance frameworks, risk-based planning, audit execution methodologies, reporting practices, performance management, and the use of data analytics and emerging technologies. Attention was also given to aligning Internal Audit activities with strategic municipal frameworks such as the Integrated Development Plan (IDP), Service Delivery and Budget Implementation Plan (SDBIP), and identified risk areas.

George Municipality’s Internal Audit unit outlined its current approach, which includes:
• An Internal Audit Charter supporting independence and authority
• Reporting lines to Executive Management and the Audit Committee
• A Quality Assurance and Improvement Programme (QAIP)
• Risk-based strategic and annual audit planning
• The use of data analytics and emerging technologies, including AI tools
• Ongoing monitoring, reporting, and follow-up processes

The sessions further provided an overview of audit lifecycle processes, including planning, fieldwork, reporting, and issue tracking, as well as performance measurement and stakeholder engagement practices.
“These benchmarking engagements reflect our commitment not only to maintaining high Internal Audit standards within George Municipality, but also to contributing meaningfully to the broader local government sector,” said Jean-Pierre Rossouw, Chief Audit Executive at the George Municipality. “We believe that collaboration and knowledge-sharing are key to strengthening governance across all municipalities.”

The visiting municipality was afforded the opportunity to engage in discussions, raise questions, and explore areas for possible future collaboration, including peer learning initiatives and follow-up technical engagements. George Municipality remains committed to supporting initiatives that strengthen governance and enhance institutional capacity within the local government sector.

Jean-Pierre Rossouw, Chief Audit Executive.

Senior Internal Auditor-Zimasa Bulo

George Municipality and stakeholders unite to strengthen early childhood development in George

In the photo above are representatives from the Western Cape Education Department, Commissioner of children with delegates from ECD centres at the Meet and greet in George.

George Municipality Community Development, in collaboration with the Western Cape Commissioner for Children, recently hosted a successful meet-and-greet at Conville Community Hall. The session brought together stakeholders in the Early Childhood Development (ECD) sector, along with representatives from the Western Cape Education Department, to strengthen cooperation and support for young children.

The engagement was led by Sarah Roberts. She was joined by Christo Titus and Samuel Witbooi, who work closely with schools and ECD centres. Their participation highlighted the importance of working together to ensure that ECD centres meet all required standards.

The purpose of the session was to guide local ECD centres on the importance of complying with Department of Education requirements and the Children’s Act. Compliance was explained as essential for accessing funding, operating legally, and ensuring that children are cared for in safe environments.
Stakeholders also highlighted the importance of early childhood development, noting that the early years play a key role in a child’s growth and future success. ECD practitioners were recognised for their important role in shaping young children’s development.

The event was well attended by ECD centres across George, showing a strong willingness to learn and improve. Discussions focused on how compliance can help improve the quality of services and support long-term growth in the sector.

George Municipality thanks Roberts, Titus and Witbooi for their continued support and contribution to the ECD sector.
ECD centres are encouraged to attend the Western Cape Education Department Road Shows for further guidance and practical support.

 

Photo:


Officials from the Department of Education the Commissioner of children addresses the ECD centre leaders at the event.