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Author: Debra Sauer

Get your vaccine now for a safe summer season – Distributed by the Department of Health

Those who have not yet received their vaccine should do so now. If you want to be fully vaccinated by 1 December, the start of the festive season, you will need to:

• Receive your first dose of Pfizer by no later than 20 October 2021.
• Receive your second dose 42 days after. This means that you will have received your second dose by 1 December 2021 latest.

It takes approximately two weeks from full vaccination (after your second jab) for you to develop maximum immune protection. This means if you get your second jab on 1 December, you will have the best possible protection from around 14 December – just around the time that many people have planned to start their festive season plans.
Western Cape Government Health has set December as the target to ensure that residents have a summer that they can look forward to and aims to fully vaccinate 70% of those over 50 years old by December and 70% of the eligible population with at least one dose.

The recently held Vooma vaccination weekend drive saw 59 429 vaccines administered in the Western Cape of which 1104 were administered in the Garden Route.

“Although the turn-out was much less than anticipated, we commend every person who came for their vaccination, despite rainy and very cold weather. We want to encourage our communities to take up the offer of vaccination as it has been demonstrated to offer significant protection against severe COVID related disease and death”, said Mr Zee Brickles (Health Director: Garden Route and Central Karoo).

“We all want to enjoy the festive season which is why I have also launched the jabs b4jol campaign to encourage especially young people to get vaccinated. Vaccines are safe and very effective. We are seeing a lot fewer hospitalisations and deaths in people who get vaccinated. While some people have minor reactions after getting vaccinated like headaches or fever, these are often easily managed at home, and the benefit of getting vaccinated is much greater than being unvaccinated and getting COVID-19. Please use any one of our vaccine sites. Many who are 18 years and older, who received their jabs from 20 August, are now eligible for their second shot. Please do not hesitate, fully vaccinate”, said Minister of Health, Dr Mbombo.

Caption: Walk-about at Harry Comay Hospital’s Vooma vaccination site from left front: Mr Jewel Jonkers (Director Education Garden Route), Mr Memory Booysen (Garden Route mayor), Sr Linda Geweld (Nursing Manager Harry Comay Hospital), Back: Dr Terence Marshall (Health), Mr Zee Brickles (Health Director: Garden Route and Central Karoo District), Mr Leon van Wyk (George mayor), Dr Zilla North (medical manager George subdistrict)

George Olympians Honoured

George Olympians Honoured Issued George Municipality, 20th September 2021

George Municipality hosted an intimate gathering this week on Wednesday to honour two of our Olympian athletes who competed in this year’s 2021 Tokyo Olympics held in July. Executive Mayor Leon Van Wyk together with Deputy Mayor Charlotte Clarke, Director for Planning Lauren Waring, Tourism Manager Joan Shaw and Portfolio Councillor for Finance and Strategic Services, Dirk Wessels collectively applauded marathon runner Elroy Gelant and surfer Bianca Buitendag of George, for their dedication, talent and Olympic performance.

Quoting from Malcolm Gladwell’s popular book “Outliers” which discusses the 10,000-hours concept, Ald Van Wyk acknowledged the time, energy, sheer will and determination that got Elroy and Bianca to the Olympics this year. “Outliers”, according to Gladwell are the best and the brightest, the most famous and the most successful. He asks the question: what makes high-achievers different? And determines that 10 000 hours of practice plays a substantial role in the incredible achievements of elite artists, athletes and musicians.”

Yvonne and Stephen Gelant proud parents of Elroy Gelant, who is lecturing at Potchefstroom University, received a framed photograph of the George Mountains for their son, who competed for South Africa at the 2021 Tokyo Olympics earlier this year. Bianca Buitendag, professional surfer was the Silver Medal winner for Women’s shortboard competition at the 2021 Tokyo Olympics was thrilled with her framed photograph of a surfer standing on the rocks at Victoria Bay photographed by local Melanie Marè.

George Municipality is proud to announce that we will financially support and host the annual Elroy Gelant Night Race this year, to be held in Pacaltsdorp in December, a sporting and fun event for the whole family. The annual event is aimed at developing local athletics and promoting sports. The race falls within the approved SWD athletics calendar. In 2016 the race was named after local athlete Elroy Gelant, from Pacaltsdorp, in honour of him becoming an Olympic athlete in that year.

George Municipality partnered with Bianca Buitendag supporting her financially in her quest to win a medal at the Tokyo Olympic Games. Bianca was appointed as an ambassador for George and proved to be a key asset in promoting George as a tourist and great surfing destination. A spinoff of this support is a girl’s social surf which will be hosted by Bianca Buitendag at Victoria Bay in October, where she hopes to inspire young surfers to reach for their dreams. Watch the press for details.
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Photographs: Please note all Covid-19 protocols were observed at the gathering. Masks were removed for photographs only.
Bianca Buitendag with SA flag taken on day of her Silver Medal win in Tokyo.
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Mayor’s letter for 23 September 2021

Mayor’s Newsletter for Thursday 23 September 2021

George has become an attractive lifestyle city with re-location taking place from metropolitan areas and other parts of the country as citizens have come to realise what we offer. Over the past few years a growing number of “super-commuters” have established their homes in George to enable their families to live in a safe environment with good schools and healthcare facilities while the bread-winner would undertake weekly commutes to Gauteng for work purposes.

The re-location trend was very evident in the pre-Covid-19 times with the many daily flights in and out of George Airport to OR Tambo to cater for these commuters who would often spend three or four nights a week away from George. The pandemic interrupted this trend resulting in the rapid growth in virtual meetings held via Teams or Zoom. This shift has impacted the way of doing business. In many business arrangements there used to be a need to travel to Cape Town or Johannesburg on a monthly or quarterly basis for an important meeting often involving an overnight stay. Covid ensured that suddenly these meetings could now be held virtually without the need or expense of travelling to attend these meetings. It is likely therefore that during the time when air travel came to a standstill, the working arrangements for the super-commuters also changed.

The access to optic fibre technology has facilitated the migration to these virtual meetings and remote working. The prospect of virtual work has enabled anyone from accountants to insurance brokers, IT specialists and many others to work remotely from home offices.

Over the past 18 months, Covid has therefore effected a “disruptive” change for all of these sectors. It would therefore be interesting to understand how this affects George citizens who previously commuted. In some instances, the work may take place in sectors such as manufacturing where physical presence is required. Other examples could relate to dealing with clients on a face-to-face basis; or in sectors that would more easily accommodate remote work.
From the perspective of the municipality, it would be interesting to understand how the requirements of the “commuting” sector have changed and if any adaptations in service offerings are needed. We would welcome the establishment of corporate business units in George that could service operations elsewhere. Banks such as First Rand and Absa have recently indicated that they wish to establish fintech teams. We believe that George would be an ideal lifestyle location for such businesses or those wishing to establish data and high-tech centres, finance, insurance and administration related businesses, etc.

We would therefore welcome it if our super-commuters would promote George as a preferred investment location and also enter a discussion, possibly via supportbusiness@george.gov.za on how to secure growth of this sector.

GO GEORGE schedule on National Heritage Day

GO GEORGE SCHEDULES ON NATIONAL HERITAGE DAY

With National Heritage Day coming up on Thursday 24 September 2020, GO GEORGE passengers need to take note that the Saturday bus schedules will be followed on this public holiday.

In case of uncertainty about the Saturday schedules, please phone the GO GEORGE Call Centre on 0800 044 044 where agents are on duty from 05:00 until 20:00 seven days a week to help passengers plan their trips.

Passengers are reminded to keep to Covid-safety regulations and wear their masks, use the sanitiser supplied on the bus and not to close the bus windows.

GO GEORGE-SKEDULES OP NASIONALE ERFENISDAG

Met Nasionale Erfenisdag wat op Donderdag 24 September 2020 gevier word, is dit belangrik vir GO GEORGE-passasiers om kennis te neem dat die Saterdagskedule gevolg sal word op hierdie openbare vakansiedag.

Passasiers wat onseker is oor die Saterdagskedule kan gerus die GO GEORGE-inbelkantoor by 0800 044 044 skakel waar agente van 05:00 tot 20:00, sewe dae per week, beskikbaar is om passasiers te help om hul ritte te beplan.

Passasiers word herinner om steeds te hou by die Covid-veiligheidsmaatreëls en maskers te dra, die handreiniger op die busse te gebruik en die busvensters oop te hou.

Short Term Urgent Electrification projects – Ten homes for Blondi Electrified

Media Release: Short Term Urgent Electrification projects – Ten homes for Blondi Electrified
Issued George Municipality, 10 September 2021

The electrification of 10 homes in Blondi Informal Settlement is the second of the three Short Term Urgent Electrification projects that were prioritized by Council (March 2021) in terms of the R800 000 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.

Executive Mayor Leon Van Wyk visited the site yesterday (8 September) to switch on the power. Each resident received their own electrical prepaid meter, in their own name with power supply of 40 amps. Executive Mayor Leon Van Wyk was pleased that the municipality has linked these residents to the available resources, in this case to provide electricity.
Ward councillor, Sivuyile Dikilili was overjoyed at the event on behalf of the recipients and thankful that the municipality was able to assist. Resident Ncumisa Ntsendwana was thrilled and said “ This means so much to me, now my children can write at night, at first they couldn’t do this because we used candles. Thank you so much Mayor.”

Nandipha Botman and her brother Xolani Mguzula were incredibly happy at the difference this would make in their day to day lives. “This will make our lives a little easier. The children will be coming in the holidays. They can now do their schoolwork and we will now be able to cook. It just makes everything so much safer, “ said Mguzulu.

Captions:

104456: Mayor Van Wyk flipping the switch to electrify Blondi Informal Settlement.

103655: At the electrical switch on at Blondi Informal Settlement are from left: Executive Mayor Van Wyk; Portfolio Councillor for Electrotechnical Services Nosicelo Mbete, Director Electrotechnical Services Bongani Mandla, Joubert Theart from Zutari, Ward Cllr Sivuyile Dikilili, Garden Route District Municipality Cllr Khayalethu Lose and Ralton Abrahams from BDE Consulting Engineers.

110011: Nandipha Botman and her brother Xolani Mguzula (brother and sister) who also had their home electrified were all smiles as Nandipha flipped the switch and put on the electricity in their home. Here they are with Portfolio Councillor for Electrotechnical Services Nosicelo Mbete, Ward Cllr Sivuyile Dikilili and Ald Van Wyk. Video link https://www.dropbox.com/s/3v9c1wkqgg8c5n5/20210909_105918.mp4?dl=0

105345: Cllr Dikilili and Ald Van Wyk watch an elated Ncumisa Ntsendwana switch on her electricity.

First ever Open Day for Disposal of Household Hazardous Waste in George a success

George Municipality’s first ever open day for the disposal of Household hazardous waste, at no cost to the consumer, was a great success with 110 members of the public making use of the service.
Mayor Leon van Wyk also made use of the service by dropping a box full of used light bulbs last Friday at the parking lot opposite the Outeniqua stadium. He encouraged Georgians to make use of this service in future.
“It’s very pleasing to see what citizens have brought in for disposal. You can be sure that every household has something to dispose of safely. This initiative will be repeated and we are looking to make it a regular event. The next open day will be held on 3 December 2021,” the Mayor said.
He asked residents to bring their old television sets, cables, paint tins, batteries, light bulbs and more to the next open day.
Sivuyile Mtila, Senior Manager: Environmental Services, said the municipality have had good feedback from the community and they are impressed by this initiative as it can be dangerous to keep household hazardous waste in your home.
Mtila thanked the community for the positive response and making use of the open day. The success of the day would not have been possible without the public responding to the call.
Items received were 210 liters of medical waste, a 2,4 meter long box with fluorescent tubes, 210 liters of household batteries, one ton of e-waste and 4 bale bags containing paint.
Items that are considered household hazardous waste that you can keep aside to discard properly at the next open day are:
• 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)
The following items are 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, labeled containers.
• Do not EVER mix products together.
• Be prepared to leave your containers. Because of permitting requirements, and the volume of people that 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, kindly contact Grace Notshokovu on 044 802 2917.

Captions:
Haz 1: Sivuyile Mtila, Senior Manager: Environmental Services with a bunch of fluorescent lights that was discarded.
Haz2, haz3, haz6, haz 7, haz8,haz 9, haz12: All the household waste the public discarded at the open day.
Haz 5: Bev McDavid from Groenkloof came to discard used batteries at the open day and went back to fetch an old broken television set.
Haz10: At the open day receiving the goods from the public are in front, Yolanda Mali, Ethan Stoffels, Grace Notshokovu and Lorenze Gelderblom (LG E-Waste). At the back are Tanja Botha, Janine Fernold, Mayor Leon van Wyk, Wessel Robertson and Sivuyile Mtila. All officials are from Environmental Services, George Municipality.

Mayor hands over houses in Erf 325

George Mayor, Ald Leon van Wyk handed over a total of 37 homes to beneficiaries in the new development in Rosedale.
Van Wyk, other councillors and officials was in Rosedale recently to do the handover to beneficiaries.

A total of 388 beneficiaries received housing already in the new development. In Phase C a total of 279 beneficiaries must still receive housing. The development have 3 phases starting with phase C and ending with phase A.
Construction of the Mixed-Use development began in 2018 and after completion will yield a total of 1650 Breaking New Ground (BNG) units, comprising of double storey, semi-detached and freestanding units. It will also include 258 Financed Linked Individual Subsidy Programme (FLISP) units and 186 Affordable housing units. The project will also provide one general residential erf, 7 creches, 3 churches, 1 community and 7 commercial/ business erven.
Mayor Van Wyk told residents that they just became R150 000 richer because of the homes they have now.

“As beneficiaries, you now have something to pass on to the next generation. As a municipality, we are proud that we could be a part of this special day in your lives and we want you to enjoy your new homes,” the Mayor said.

Cllr Raybin Figland, Portfolio Councillor of Human Settlements, encouraged the beneficiaries to take pride in their homes and neighbourhood. He encouraged them to get to know their neighbours and not allow negative elements to take over their community and home. He asked them not to sell their homes as there are other people still waiting and desperate for the opportunity they have.

Figland urged beneficiaries to lodge any complaints to the area office in their vicinity.
Deputy Mayor Charlotte Clarke also told residents that they now have a place that they can call their own. She implored them to look after these homes and respect each other.

Captions:
Raybin Figland: Cllr Raybin Figland addresses beneficiaries at the housing handover in Erf 325.
Solomon Jantjies: At the handing over of a house to beneficiaries are from left Cllr Regina Windwaai, Cllr Raybin Figland, Portfolio Councillor for Human Settlements, Executive Deputy Mayor, Cllr Charlotte Clarke with beneficiaries, Solomon Jantjies and Fanny Beatrice Jantjies and Executive Mayor Ald Leon van Wyk.
Maria Moos: Mayor Leon van Wyk handing the house keys to the birthday girl, Maria Moos. Ms. Moos was particularly emotional and thanked the mayor for this birthday present.

Progress report on road upgrades across George

Market street
The three phases are progressing well, noting that the project did experience ongoing challenges with intermittent and frequent rain that is always problematic with deeper excavations. The optic fibre service provider is nearing completion of their works that has impacted on sidewalk space in certain areas.

The full project extends from the York Street to Hope Street (all 5 phases with the first 3 currently under construction) and the asphalting of the pedestrian walkway has started, which includes the paving of the furniture zone within the first section of Phase 1. (The furniture zone is the area for all street furniture (benches), street lights, waste bins etc. and acts as a buffer between the roadway and the pedestrian sidewalk.)

The first three sections (phases) are being carried out simultaneously and will as far as is possible, maintain property accesses with the necessary arrangements /provisions in advance with any affected business owner via Mr Alewijn Dippernaar, should access not be possible. Business and property owners affected by the road construction are requested to contact Alewijn Dippenaar at dyndev@mweb.co.za or on 082 457 5675 if they have any queries or concerns, and must not communicate directly with, or request information from, the Contractor’s personnel.

Makriel Street
The construction in Makriel Street in Maraiskamp, which serves as a link road between Conville and Parkdene, has been hampered by unforeseen issues with water, stormwater, electrical installations and weather delays. This has resulted in the project completion date being extended to the end of the year.

Rosedale Access road
The rehabilitation of a portion of the Rosedale Access Road, eastwards from Beach Road, continues to progress well despite weather challenges and remains on schedule for completion at the end of October 2021.

Tabata street Phase 1
The upgrading of the first portion of Tabata Street, Thembalethu, from Nelson Mandela Boulevard to Mfayana Street (about 760m), continues on track and the contractor has made significant progress in the past two weeks. The improvements to this main arterial through Zone 12, 13 and 15 will most certainly improve the experience of road users, pedestrians and the lives of residents.

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

Resealing of roads (asphalt resealing)
CJ Langenhoven Road between Forest and Witfontein Road has been resealed, is in process of being cleaned up and road markings will be completed soon. The resealing of following roads have been completed: Frylinck Str, Kollege Road, Stinkhout Str, Kiepersol Str, Haycinth Str, Bosbok Str, Kandelaar Str, Deerling Str, Delport Str, Comay Str, Van Briesies Str, Mackay Str, Dahlia Str, Begonia Str, Amaryllis Str, Cherry Maur Close, Hurter Str, Melford Notshokovu Cres, Ellen Vena, Sofasilahlane Str, Toto Str, Xiphu Str and Ncamanza Str.

Paving of roads
The upgrading from gravel road to block paved roads in Zabalaza Str, Parkdene Pumpstation Road and Crescent Drive / River Street are in process,

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

 

GO GEORGE refines mobile schedule for Smart Card users

GO GEORGE has announced refinements to their current Smart Card mobile vehicle schedule to benefit passengers who are not within easy reach of fixed top-up facilities.

The Smart Card is currently the only means of payment for trips since the adoption of a no-cash policy in June last year as one of the bus service’s Covid-19 precautions. Passengers can top up their cards with trips at any of the fixed Smart Card kiosks or businesses/individuals registered as top-up vendors, or at one of the two Smart Card vehicles that travel and park around town on a fixed weekly schedule. The mobile kiosks also sell Smart Cards.

According to James Robb, GO GEORGE Manager, the addition of top-up vendors in the various areas of town has partly prompted the revision of the mobile vehicle schedule. “We are delighted with the number of businesses that have been joining the vendor network over the past few months. This enables us to remove the mobile kiosks from some of the areas where we now have sufficient vendor footprint and we really want to encourage passengers to support their local businesses by topping up in their neighbourhood,” Robb said.

“A few mobile locations where weekly sales are very low will also be moved to areas where we believe they will serve our passengers better. For instance, feedback from our teams on the ground indicated that passengers would appreciate a mobile kiosk at Shoprite in Market Street in the CBD on Friday afternoons when people do their weekly shopping.

Another request came from Pacaltsdorp where there seems to be a need for a mobile kiosk at the Protea terminus during peak time on Monday mornings. We were able to reshuffle the schedule to comply with both these requests.”

The new schedule will be implemented on Sunday 19 September 2021. As new vendors continue to be added to the network, the schedule will be reviewed from time to time.

The mobile kiosk staff have been handing out flyers at the affected mobile stops since last week, notifying passengers that the service at a specific point will be terminated and indicating the location of top-up vendors in their area. The GO GEORGE communication champions will start distributing flyers with the new schedule this week. The flyers will also be available at all Smart Card kiosks and mobile kiosks, as well as the info kiosk at the Transport Hub in Cradock Street. Passengers can also visit the GO GEORGE Facebook page for the mobile schedule and the latest bus-related news, the website www.gogeorge.org.za, write an email to info@gogeorge.org.za, or phone the Call Centre on 0800 044 044 to enquire about their closest mobile kiosk spot.

CAPTION:
The Smart Card mobile vehicles are clearly branded and cannot be missed where they park for about three hours at a time to render service to passengers who do not have close access to other top-up points. The vehicles also sell Smart Cards.

GO GEORGE verfyn mobiele skedule vir Slimkaartgebruikers
Uitgereik 13 September 2021

GO GEORGE het verfynings aan hul huidige skedule vir die mobiele Slimkaartkiosks aangekondig ter wille van passasiers wat nie binne maklike bereik van vaste herlaaifasiliteite is nie.

Die Slimkaart is tans die enigste manier om vir ritte te betaal sedert kontantbetalings op die bus in Junie verlede jaar opgeskort is as een van die busdiens se Covid-19-voorsorgmaatreëls. Passasiers kan hul kaarte met ritte herlaai by enige van die vaste Slimkaartkiosks of sakeondernemings en individue wat geregistreer is as herlaaipunte (vendors), of by een van die twee mobiele Slimkaartkiosks wat deur die dorp rondbeweeg en parkeer volgens ‘n vaste weeklikse skedule. Die mobiele kiosks verkoop ook Slimkaarte.

Volgens James Robb, GO GEORGE-bestuurder, het die toename van herlaaipunte in die verskillende dele van die dorp deels die hersiening van die mobiele skedule genoodsaak.

“Ons is verheug oor die aantal besighede wat die afgelope paar maande by die netwerk aangesluit het. Dit stel ons in staat om die mobiele kiosks uit sommige van die gebiede waar ons nou genoeg herlaaipunte het, te onttrek en ons wil passasiers regtig aanmoedig om hul plaaslike besighede te ondersteun deur in hul woonbuurt te herlaai,” het Robb gesê.

“‘n Paar mobiele stilhouplekke waar weeklikse verkope baie laag is, sal ook verskuif word na gebiede waar ons glo dit ons passasiers beter sal baat. Terugvoer van ons spanne op die grond het byvoorbeeld aangedui dat passasiers Vrydagmiddae ‘n mobiele kiosk by Shoprite in Markstraat in die middedorp sal waardeer wanneer mense hul weeklikse inkopies doen.

Nog ‘n versoek het gekom van Pacaltsdorp waar dit lyk of daar Maandagoggend in spitstyd ‘n behoefte aan ‘n mobiele kiosk by die Protea-terminus is. Ons kon die skedule herskommel om aan albei hierdie versoeke te voldoen.”

Die nuwe skedule sal op Sondag 19 September 2021 geïmplementeer word. Aangesien nuwe herlaaipunte steeds by die netwerk gevoeg word, sal die skedule van tyd tot tyd hersien word.

Die mobiele kiosks deel sedert verlede week pamflette uit wat passasiers in kennis dat die diens op ‘n spesifieke punt beëindig word en wat die ligging van herlaaipunte in hul gebied aandui. Die GO GEORGE-passasiersdiensbeamptes sal vandeesweek pamflette met die nuwe skedule ersprei. Die pamflette sal ook beskikbaar wees by alle Slimkaartkiosks en mobiele kiosks, sowel as die inligtingskiosk by die Vervoerkern (Transport Hub) in Cradockstraat. Passasiers kan ook gaan inloer by die GO GEORGE Facebook-blad vir die mobiele skedule en die jongste busverwante nuus, die webwerf www.gogeorge.org.za, ‘n e-pos aan info@gogeorge.org.za stuur, of die Inbelsentrum by 0800 044 044 skakel om navraag te doen oor die naaste stilhouplek van ‘n mobiele kiosk.

BYSKRIF:
Die mobiele Slimkaartvoertuie is duidelik gemerk en is maklik sigbaar waar hulle vir ongeveer drie uur op ‘n slag parkeer om diens te lewer aan passasiers wat nie nabye toegang tot ander herlaaipunte het nie. Die voertuie verkoop ook Slimkaarte.

Mayor visits Conville Library – Assisting public with registration process for Covid-19 vaccination

Reissued 7 September 2021 , George Municipality

George Municipality continues to provide venues for the public to receive assistance with their registration process on the Electronic Vaccination Data System (EVDS) for the Covid-19 vaccination. The system is currently open for persons over 18 years of age.

“George Municipality is delighted to be able to assist the Department of Health with their Vaccination programme by providing venues and computers, where the public can come in to register themselves. Our librarians have been specially trained to assist with the process which takes no more than five minutes,” said Acting Municipal Manager, Dr Michele Gratz.

If you or a senior family member do not have access to the internet or data, please visit one of the libraries listed below from 09h00 Monday to Friday and our librarians will assist you with the EVDS registration process. Please ensure you bring your ID Book or ID number; if you belong to a Medical Aid then the Medical Aid Card and or the number; and a working cellphone number, as you will be receiving follow up SMS from the system about where to go for your vaccination.

Those who have registered will then receive an SMS with a date, time and venue. SMS messages will be sent out a few days in advance in order for clients to make the necessary arrangements. Please do not visit vaccination sites if you have not received your SMS to confirm your appointment.

If you are over 18 and registered for your COVID-19 vaccine, you can expect:
• An SMS confirming your registration.
• A second SMS with an appointment date and the place – for those who have already registered this should come in the next 2-3 weeks.
• Get vaccinated with your first dose.
• Proof of vaccination card.
• An appointment date for your second dose (if two-dose vaccine).
Additional Venues for Registration, 09:00 – 16:30 Monday-Friday
Please note all Covid-19 protocols are in place and no access without a mask will be allowed.

Thembalethu Thusong Centre (Cnr Jeriko Street & Sandkraal Road) – Cape Access Centre Office
Waboomskraal Thusong Centre (Main Road) – Cape Access Centre Office

The following libraries will be assisting members of the public to register from 9:00 – 16:30 daily from Monday – Friday.
Please note all Covid-19 protocols are in place and no access without a mask will be allowed.

Blanco Library (3 George Avenue)
Conville Library (Cnr Pienaar Street &Nelson Mandela Boulevard)
Pacaltsdorp Library (Mission Street)
Thembalethu Library ( Bacella Street)
Touwsranten Library (Bester Street)
George Library (Caledon Street)

The times for registration vary at our smaller libraries:
Avontuur Library (Ou Bains Road)
Monday 12:30 – 15:00 / Tuesday 10:30 – 13:00 / Wednesday 12:30 – 15:00 / Thursday 12:30 – 15:00 / Friday 12:00 – 14:00
Haarlem library (Hope Street) 14:00 – 17:00 daily Monday – Friday
Noll Library (Dieprivier Primary School, Nolls Halte) Mondays & Wednesdays 12:00- 15:00
Waboomskraal Library 10:00 – 11:00 daily Monday – Friday
Uniondale Library (39 Voortrekker Road) 10:00 – 16:30 daily Monday – Friday

Please be reminded that our librarians are only able to assist you with the registration process for the Vaccination and cannot assist with any medical related queries with regard to Covid-19 and/or the vaccination. See details below for any further queries you might have.

Access to Internet – Self Registration on EVDS
If you or a family member do have access to the internet, please register your over 18 family members and friends as soon as possible.
To register for the vaccine, you will need to visit: https://vaccine.enroll.health.gov.za/#/. This portal can also be found via www.westerncape.gov.za
You can also dial *134*832# and follow the prompts (FREE on all South African Networks), or WhatsApp the word REGISTER to 0600 123456.
Should you need assistance with the registration process, do not hesitate to visit www.sacoronavirus.co.za/evds/support/ or contact the call centre on 0860 142 142

Caption:
Executive Mayor, Leon Van Wyk paid a visit to Conville Library recently to observe how the library officials are assisting members of the public with registration for the Covid-19 vaccination. With him at the visit are from left Rachel Williams: Manager: George Libraries; Cllr Sean Snyman, Portfolio Councillor for Community Development; Deputy Mayor Charlotte Clarke looking on while Victor Arries from Cape Access registers a resident for vaccination.

George MROR, 2019 Hersiening en wysigingsproses: Uitnodiging om deel te neem

George is die tuiste van ‘n magdom besighede, individue, families, organisasies en groepe. Ons moet saamwerk om die positiewe aspekte van ons unieke, bedrywige, altyd-veranderende omgewing te beskerm, op ‘n regverdige manier, terwyl positiewe, beheerde groei aangemoedig word. Die aanvraag na grondgebruik en dienste en impakte soos klimaatsverandering, energie regulasies, provinsiale beleidsdokumente, nasionale ontwikkelingsriglyne en wetgewing, om net ‘n paar te noem, beinvloed hoe ontwikkeling in George ondersteun en bestuur moet word.
Die goedgekeurde George Ruimtelike Ontwikkelingsraamwerk, 2019 (GROR,2019) illustreer die George Munisipaliteit se benadering tot die bestuur van landelike- en stedelike groei op ‘n volhoubare, aanpasbare en regverdige wyse. Die ruimtelike visie en strategieë om sodanige visie te bereik word uiteengesit in ‘n dokument en planne: Die GROR,2019.
Die GROR2019 is ‘n belangrike koordinasie instrument, wat gebruik word om ontwikkeling in George te lei en om publieke- en privaat besteding te rig op ‘n manier wat geintegreerde ontwikkeling aanmoedig en stedelike kruip/sprei verhoed.
Die bestaande GROR2019 wys die stedelike ontwikkelingsgrens, waar besighede, behuising, verkeersroetes, oop ruimte, gemeenskapsfasiliteite, kultuurhistoriese-, natuurlike-, industriële- en landbou areas, toerisme fasiliteite en verskeie ander komponente, wat die leef-omgewing in George vorm, ondersteun word. Die GROR2019 (Engels: George Municipal Spatial Development Framework) dokument en meegaande planne fokus op die aard en ligging van ontwikkeling in die groter George area (insluitend Heroldsbaai-, Haarlem-, Wildernis-, Hoekwil-, Kleinkrantz-, Uniondale- die landelike hinterland en die George stedelike area) om ekonomiese groei en werkskepping aan te moedig, die natuurlike- en erfenis hulpbronne te beskerm en om sosiale-, ekonomiese-, ontspanningsfasiliteite en infrastruktuur te plaas tot die maksimum voordeel van al die inwoners.
Verskeie stelle wetgewing (Die Munisipale Stelselswet, 2000 (Wet 32 van 2000), die Wet op Ruimtelike Beplanning en Grondgebruik, 2013 (Wet 16 van 2013) en die George Grondgebruiksbeplanning Verordening , 2015) maak voorsiening vir die hersiening en wysiging van munisipale en plaaslike ontwikkelingsraamwerke. Gevolglik wil die George Munisipaliteit die GROR2019 opdateer en her-belyn om tred te hou met die veranderende omgewing/konteks en om ‘n bemagtigende omgewing te skep.
Alle lede van die publiek, groepe, besighede en organisasies word uitgenooi om kommentaar te lewer op die bestaande GROR2019, wat beskikbaar is vir besigtiging op die munisipale webwerf (https://www.george.gov.za/george-documents/spatial-development-framework/municipal/). Afskrifte van die GMSDF2019 sal ook beskikbaar wees vir besigtiging by die George munisipale kantoor: Beplanning- en Ontwikkelingsdepartement, Yorkstraat 71, George (vyfde vloer ontvangs), by die Haarlem munisipale kantoor (Hopestraat) en by die Uniondale munisipale kantoor (Voortrekkerstraat), gedurende weeksdae tussen 9h00 en 13h00 van 30 Augustus 2021 to 30 September 2021. Indien die dokument by die munisipale kantoor besigtig word, moet COVID protocol streng nagekom word, insluitend die dra van ‘n masker ten alle tye, hou van sosiale afstand en ontsmetting.
Soos genoem in die formele kennisgewings, sal ‘n tydperk van 30 dae, tussen 30 Augustus 2021 en 30 September 2021 opsygesit word vir die indiening van kommentaar op die bestaande GROR2019 of om te registreer as ‘n geintereseerde/belanghebbende party. Alle kommentare en/of registrasie van geinteresseerde- en geaffekteerde partye moet ‘n naam, van, of u ‘n organisasie/firma verteenwoordig en gedetailleerde kontakbesonderhede (insluitend ‘n epos adres en/of tel/ selfoon nommer) insluit. Kommentare en registrasie vir deelname kan ingedien word by Keith Meyer by die volgende epos adres: kbmeyer@george.gov.za, of ingedien word by die Beplanning- en Ontwikkelings-afdeling by die George Munisipale kantoor (vyfde vloer), om hom te bereik voor of op 30 September 2021.
Navrae of versoeke vir inligting aangaande die proses kan gerig word aan die Beplannings- en Ontwikkelingsdepartement: Ruimtelike Beplanning: Lynette Groenewald (Tel: 044 801 9436 of epos: lgroenewald@george.gov.za).
Kommentare wat ontvang word voor of op 30 September 2021 sal ingesluit word in die hersieningsproses waartydens spesifieke veranderingsvereistes en/of gapings in die GROR2019 geidentifiseer sal word. Verdere geleentheid vir publieke deelname sal voorsien word gedurende die proses om die GROR2019 te wysig.
Dit is baie belangrik dat alle inwoners van George deelneem om ‘n George te skep wat vir almal werk. U ken u area/werksplek/situasie/vereistes/besigheid/uitdagings beter as enige een en as u kommentaar het wat kan bydra om ‘n beter omgewing te skep, neem asseblief deel en dien u kommentaar in en/of registreer.

MEDIA STATEMENT: GEORGE MSDF, 2019 REVIEW AND AMENDMENT PROCESS: INVITATION TO PARTICIPATE
ISSUED GEORGE MUNICIPALITY, 7 SEPTEMBER 2021
George is home to a wide range of businesses, individuals, families, organizations and groups. All must work together to protect the positive aspects of living in this unique, vibrant, ever-changing environment in an equitable way, whilst enabling positive, managed growth. Land use- and services demands and impacts such as climate change, energy regulations, provincial policy documents, national development imperatives and legislation, to name a few aspects – all influence how development in George must be managed and supported.
The previously adopted George Municipal Spatial Development Framework, 2019 (GMSDF2019) illustrates the George Municipality’s approach to managing rural- and urban growth, in a way that is sustainable, resilient and equitable. The spatial vision and strategies and policies to achieve this is set out in a document with related plans.
The GMSDF2019 is a vital coordination instrument, used to guide development in the greater George and it directs public and private spending in a way that fosters integrated development and limits urban sprawl. The existing GMSDF2019 shows the urban development boundary, where business, housing, transportation routes, open space, community facilities, heritage-, natural- and agricultural areas, tourism facilities, industrial uses and various other components that shape the living environment in the Greater George area, are supported. The document and related plans focus on the nature and locality of development (the Greater George area, including Herolds Bay-, Haarlem, Wilderness, Hoekwil, Kleinkrantz, Uniondale, the rural hinterland and the George City area) to promote economic growth and job creation, to protect natural- and heritage resources and to place social-, economic-, recreation- and educational facilities and infrastructure, to the maximum benefit of the residents.
Various sets of legislation (Municipal Systems Act, 2000 (Act 32 of 2000), the Spatial Planning and Land Use Management, 2013 (Act 16 of 2013) and the George Land Use Management Bylaw, 2015) allow for the review and amendment of Municipal and Local Spatial Development Frameworks. As such, the George Municipality wishes to review and update/realign the GMSDF2019 to keep pace with the changing environment/context and to facilitate an enabling environment.
The public and all interested and affected parties are hereby invited to participate in the process of reviewing and updating the Municipal Spatial Development Framework. This process will be divided into two components: Firstly, the review of the existing GMSDF2019 and secondly the drafting of an amended GMSDF. You may submit your comments on the existing GMSDF2019 and such comments will then be considered in the GMSDF2019 review process and/or you may submit your name and clear contact details so that you may be included in a list of Interested and Affected Parties to partake in the review and amendment process.
All members of the public, groups, businesses and organizations are invited to comment on the existing GMSDF2019, which is available for view on the Municipal Website https://www.george.gov.za/george-documents/spatial-development-framework/municipal/
Copies of the GMSDF2019 will also be available for view at the George Municipal offices, 71 York Street, George (fifth floor reception: Planning and Development Division, the Haarlem Municipal offices (Hope Street) and the Uniondale Municipal Office (Voortrekker Street), during weekdays between 9h00 and 13h00 from 30 August 2021 to 30 September 2021. When viewing the document at the municipal offices, strict COVID protocol must be adhered to including always wearing a mask, maintaining social distance and sanitizing.
As noted in formal announcements, a period of 30days, between 30 August 2021 and 30 September 2021, is set aside for submitting comments on the existing GMSDF2019, or registering as an Interested and Affected Parties. Registration/comments must show your Name, Surname, whether you represent a company/organization, and detailed contact details (including email address and/or Cell number). Comments and representations may be submitted to Keith Meyer at the following email address: kbmeyer@george.gov.za , or delivered to the Planning and Development offices at George Municipal offices (fifth floor), to reach him by/on 30 September 2021.
Enquiries or requests for more information on the process may be directed to the Town Planning Department on Telephone: 044 801 9436 or via e-mail to the responsible Spatial Planner (Lynette Groenewald) (lgroenewald@george.gov.za).
Comment received before/on 30 September 2021 will be included in the review process where specific change requirements and/or gaps in the GMSDF2019 will be identified. Further opportunity for public participation will be provided during the process to formally amend the GMSDF.
It is very important that all residents of George participate in creating a George that works for all. You know your area/work/situation/requirements/businesses/challenges better than anyone and if you have any comments which may contribute to create a better environment, please participate, and submit your comments and/or register.

Register now for the George Tens Sport and Lifestyle Festival

The George’s 10s is set to become South Africa’s biggest social sport and lifestyle event!

Kicking off in 2019 as a rugby only festival, the event is now set to include Trail running, Mountain Biking, Men’s and Women’s Rugby, Golf, Netball and Lawn bowls.

Presented in collaboration with The George Municipality the festival will be returning to Outeniqua Park and surrounds, from 2 – 5 December 2021.
Co-founded by former Springbok Coach Heyneke Meyer and IG van der Merwe, the 2021 event is proud to welcome some of SA’s biggest icons as ambassadors, including the likes of Victor Matfield, Ernie Els and AB De Villiers.

Team registrations are open for the 3-day golf tournament, taking place on Kingswood Golf Estate, George Golf Club and Oubaai Golf Estate & Spa, 2 – 4 December ‘21. (Teams can opt to enter for the on-day tournaments, on the course of their choosing).
The 2-day bowls tournament will take place on the Outeniqua- and George Bowls Club grounds on 3 & 4 Dec. The netball and women’s and men’s rugby tournaments will be presented at Outeniqua Park on 3, 4 & 5 Dec.
But wait – there’s more! The Mountain Biking and Trail Running events, set to take place on the 4th and 5th of December respectively, are sure to boast some of the most awe-inspiring views of the picturesque landscape of the Garden Route.

“The George Municipality is delighted to support this important and exciting event and I encourage all role-players in the George economic community to get behind this initiative,” says Portfolio Councillor for Finance and Strategic Services, Dirk Wessels.
“Working with Heyneke Meyer is a delight and we remain committed to our cause in identifying new events in order to stimulate and develop the George economy “

Meyer reiterates, “I am grateful for the support from the George Municipality and that of the George community! One of the elements I’m most looking forward to is how the local community will benefit from George Tens. Like many local tourism industries, they’ve been hard-hit by lockdown and we’re optimistic that this beautiful town and the surrounding areas will benefit greatly.”

Here follows the registration information for the all the specific codes:

Women’s & Men’s Rugby: 3 – 5 December
Outeniqua Park
School: Primary Schools U/13. High Schools U/18
Students: Hostel teams
Social: Amateurs: (U/35), Veterans (Above 35)
Premier Division: Professional, Semi-Professional
All prices, registration information and more on www.georgetens.co.za
Golf: 2 – 4 December
3 courses: Kingswood Golf Club, Oubaai Golf Estate, George Golf Club.
4 ball for all 3 days
All prices, registration information and more on www.georgetens.co.za

Netball: 3 – 4 December
Outeniqua Park
Social/Amateurs (U/35), Veterans (O/35)
All prices, registration information and more on www.georgetens.co.za

Lawn Bowls: 3 – 4 December
Outeniqua Bowling Club, George Bowling Club
Men’s, Women’s and Mixed Fours
R625 pp
All prices, registration information and more on www.georgetens.co.za

Mountain Biking: 4 December
20km @ R150pp
40km @ R200pp
All prices, registration information and more on www.georgetens.co.za

Trail Running: 5 December
10km @ R160pp
21km @ 360pp
All prices, registration information and more on www.georgetens.co.za

The George Tens sport festival will be subject to applicable Covid regulations at the time of the event.

Follow @George10s on Facebook to stay up to date on all the latest details.

George Tens is supported by George Municipality and Jacaranda fm.

ENDS

Delegation from Taipei Consulate donates wheelchair to George Municipality

A delegation from the Taipei Liaison Office in Cape Town visited George and the Executive Mayor of George, Ald Leon van Wyk last week and donated a wheelchair with “love from Taiwan” (printed at the back of the wheelchair) to the Municipality. David Yintso Lin said Taiwan provides medical equipment globally in support of different countries. “We have a saying in Taiwan, true friends stick together and this is the idea behind this gesture. We would like to be of help during these difficult times,” Lin said. Douglas Chang, First Assistant Director: Taipei Liaison Office in Cape Town, was part of the delegation visiting George.

Mayor Van Wyk said he is very grateful for the gift from the Taipei office and is sure the wheelchair will make a recipient very happy. He said they will decide later on a recipient for the wheelchair.
The Mayor with the delegation and members from Council visited Meals on Wheels Community Services (MOWCS) in Loerie Park from where the George branch cooks daily meals and provides food parcels for several schools, 120 elderly beneficiaries, 40 crèches and several institutions such as the George Night Shelter and children’s homes. The consulate recently made a donation of R45 000 to Meals on Wheels George.

Love: With ‘love from Taiwan’ written at the back of a wheelchair that the Taipei Liaison Office in Cape Town donated to George Municipality. Here are David Yintso Lin, Director General: Taipei Liaison Office in Cape Town with Mayor Leon van Wyk and Deputy Mayor of George, Cllr Charlotte Clarke.

Thanks: Mayor Leon van Wyk thanked David Yintso Lin for the delegation’s visit and gifted them with George coffee table books and George shopper bags.

Mayor’s letter for 9 September 2021

Mayor’s newsletter for George Herald on 9 September 2021

George Municipality recently held an engagement with the George Business Chamber to discuss collaboration between business and local government.
The Municipality is improving systems to reduce “red tape” in the processing of building plan and town planning approvals as one example and is addressing other aspects of services affecting business decisions. The Chamber in turn will collate instances where improvements could be made and share these with the Municipality.
It is crucial that we constantly simplify and encourage investment into George.
One of the questions we were asked relates to the Vision that we have for George. In our response, we put forward the following themes of what such a vision should encompass:
• Inclusivity: to ensure that all our citizens could participate in a future covering all facets, one of which would be economic activities that added jobs;
• Best secondary / small city: George is part of the “league” of 19 secondary cities (outside of the 8 metropolitan areas) where it competes against the likes of Emfuleni, Mbombela, Rustenburg, etc and we need to position ourselves as the best managed, most attractive, most sought after small city;
• Sustainability: we need to ensure that we are sustainable in terms of finances, economy, environmentally, energy and infrastructure;
• Lifestyle: George offers attractive features such as access to nature, outdoor activities, safety, relaxed, quality of life with good schools and health care;
• Service Delivery and Infrastructure: we need to maintain a high standard of services to enable development;
• Communication: it is critical that two-way communication channels exist in our connected world to ensure collaboration and team effort benefits all our stakeholders;
• Economic growth: George is a city with substantial infrastructure and a population that needs an enabling environment to attract investment that will increase economic activity and levels of employment to improve the lives of all citizens;
• Environment: being part of the Garden Route we need to actively protect our green environment and manage invasive vegetation; and
• “Producing” economy: We consciously need to advocate the importance of being a “producing” economy (i.e. producing products and services for “export” out of George such as berries, cheese, vegetables, tourism, BPO services, etc) rather than simply being just a “consuming” economy (e.g. buying products and services produced elsewhere in the country).
The “economic engines” driving the George economic sectors also have their visionary requirements of key success factors to drive successful growth. A collaborative discussion is needed to formulate the future George Economic Development Strategy in the coming months. Partnership between business, local government and other key stakeholders in collectively driving a converging vision is the ultimate objective. Thoughts on necessary factors and on such a conversation can be forwarded to: supportbusiness@george.gov.za

George Traffic Department road safety outreach in Thembalethu

George Traffic Department road safety outreach in Thembalethu

The Traffic Department recently focused on Road safety in Thembalethu with the aim to educate drivers on sharing the road with one another, not to speed and to be tolerant on the road. Officers distributed road safety educational pamphlets to educate pedestrians on safe walking and the proper method of crossing roads. The road safety mascot, Danny Cat, also visited schools Tyholora and Thembalethu Primary Schools where officers spoke about road safety and used the opportunity to explain the importance of sanitising your hands.

Captions:
Group: George Traffic Officers put a gazebo up in Thembalethu with road safety information for the public. From left are Florina Prins, Elrico Daters, Shubeida Masou, Leigh Laws, Gaynor Rixana, Steven Tatana, Ruben Lakata (Provincial Traffic officers) and Edwin Felix.

Danny Cat: Traffic Officers and Road safety mascot, Danny Cat, educate the children at Thembalethu Primary School on road safety and sanitising their hands.

Thembalethu primary: Road Safety mascot Danny Cat and Edwin Felix, Senior Traffic Officer at Thembalethu Primary school.

Prins: Florina Prins, Traffic Officer, hands a driver information on road safety.

National Tourism Month kicks off 1 September

Get away to these universally accessible hotspots in the Garden Route

It’s Tourism Month in South Africa and the travel industry is ready to strut their stuff after a crippling year due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Spearheaded by the National Department of Tourism, this month-long travel carnival will add much needed muscle to the Tourism Sector Recovery Plan aimed to support and rejuvenate this important economic driver.
A big headliner during Tourism Month is the importance of domestic tourism. This sector is a huge contributor in creating employment through inclusive economic growth, as well as a competent and dynamic workforce to support an inclusive growth path.

With this in mind, the Department of Economic Development and Tourism (DEDAT) Western Cape has identified four themes to celebrate Tourism Month this year. During Week 1, the topic of universal accessibility will be explored, Week 2 is all about affordability, Week 3 revolves around responsibility and Week 4 covers transformation. Each week provincial attractions and activities applicable to these respective themes will be highlighted.
Starting off Week 1, “universal access” can be defined as products, environments, programmes and services that can be used by all people to the greatest extent possible without the need for adaptation or specialised design. It means the removal of cultural, physical, social and other barriers that prevent people with disabilities from entering, using or benefiting from the various systems of society that are available to other citizens (abbreviated extract from UN Convention Article 2).

The Garden Route is known for its smorgasbord of getaways and activities rendering access to all. Whether it’s nature, history, adventure or culture they are after, everyone from all spheres of life is covered. Here is a roundup of a few of these gems that offer universal access:

For those into nature, there is no better escape than the Wilderness section of the Garden Route National Park. It’s a place of unlimited beauty and explorers can spend many dreamy hours in, on or next to rivers, lakes, estuaries, beaches, forests and mountains. The cherished Wilderness section rests comfortably between George and Knysna.

Dive into history with a visit to the Transnet Transport Museum in George. This simply captivating collection of trains, ox-wagons, old-fashioned fire engines and a funeral hearse will keep visitors spellbound. There is an assortment of beautifully kept, privately-owned vintage cars, with the stately Royal White Train used during the British Royal Tour of 1947 as its crowning glory.

A visit to the Redberry Farm on the outskirts of George is a family outing like few other. Take a leisurely stroll through strawberry fields, picking out your own little red delights, or sip a cup of coffee while watching the kids enjoy themselves in the play area with its many intriguing fixtures. There are several eateries on the premises where guests can delight in the likes of artisan ice cream and pizzas, with even a wine tasting of superb local wines thrown into the mix.

Come marvel in the brilliant showcase of locally indigenous flora at the Garden Route Botanical Gardens. It’s a popular place to absorb the healing peace and harmony of Mother Nature. Tuck into a light lunch at their restaurant while taking in the views over the mighty Outeniqua Mountains.

Talking about the Outeniqua Mountains, why not get up close and personal with a trip up there in the popular Outeniqua Power Van? This former rail inspection trolley trails through breath-taking scenery, dotted by ferns, waterfalls and the occasional bush buck. Sit back and listen to the interesting commentary on the indigenous fauna and flora before dismounting for a picnic and panoramic views over George.

The world is opening up again and George, Wilderness and Uniondale welcome travellers. Everyone knows the reviving power of a quick getaway – those special memories created with loved ones and the stimulation offered by visiting new places, meeting new people and trying out new things.

So don’t wait – escape the mundane life and go explore. All tourist activities and attractions in the area are COVID-19 safety compliant. For more information on what this exciting traveller’s paradise has to offer, visit the George, Wilderness and Uniondale Tourism website at www.visitgeorge.co.za.

Adjustment Budget approved – documentation may be viewed

NOTICE: FIN022/2021
2021/22 FINANCIAL YEAR
ADJUSTMENT BUDGET 25 AUGUST 2021

Notice is hereby given in terms of Section 28 28 (2)(b) and (2)(e) of the Local Government: Municipal Finance Management Act, 2003 (Act no.56 of 2003) and Section 23 of the Municipal Budgets and Reporting Regulations 2008 respectively, that the Adjustment Budget was approved during the Council meeting held on 25 August 2020.

In terms of Section 21A of the Municipal Systems Act, 2000 (Act No. 32 of 2000), George Municipality hereby notifies the local community that the Council Resolution, and all other relevant documentation may be viewed during office hours at the municipal offices and libraries in George and the surrounding area. The said documentation will also be available on the website of the Municipality: www.george.gov.za

Enquiries may be directed to the Director: Financial Services at 044 801 9035

DR M GRATZ
MUNICIPAL MANAGER

KENNISGEWING: FIN022/2021
2021/22 FINANSIëLE JAAR
AANSUIWERINGSBEGROTING 25 AUGUSTUS 2021
Kennis geskied hiermee ingevolge Artikel 28 28 (2)(b) en (2)(e) van die Wet op Plaaslike Regering: Munisipale Finansiële Bestuur, 2003 (Wet no.56 van 2003) en Artikel 23 van die Munisipale Begrotings en Verslagdoening Regulasies 2008 onderskeidelik, dat die Aansuiweringsbegroting goedgekeur is tydens die Raadsvergadering van 25 Augustus 2021.

Ingevolge Artikel 21A van die Munisipale Stelsels Wet, 2000 (Wet no. 32 van 2000), gee George Munisipaliteit hiermee kennis aan die plaaslike gemeenskap dat die raadsbeluit, en alle ander tersaaklike dokumentasie, beskikbaar is vir besigtiging gedurende kantoorure by die munisipale kantore en biblioteke in George en omgewing.

Die gemelde dokumentasie sal ook beskikbaar wees op die webwerf van die Munisipaliteit: www.george.gov.za
Navrae in hierdie verband kan gerig word aan die Direkteur: Finansiele Dienste by tel 044 801 9035

DR M GRATZ
MUNISIPALE BESTUURDER

Mayor’s Letter 15 for 26 August 2021

Mayoral newsletter for George Herald: 23/08/21 for Thursday 26 August

The Municipality has recently embarked on numerous networking engagements and efforts to promote collaboration with the private sector. We are very conscious of promoting partnership relationships with other stakeholders that will benefit our citizens either through the creation of jobs or in improving living conditions. Set out below are brief summaries of various efforts that are taking place:
• Regular networking engagements between the Business Chamber executive and the Municipality leadership are taking place to explore ways in which the needs of Chamber members can be improved. A short-term objective is to develop a memorandum of understanding. A “First Thursday” virtual meeting is planned where Chamber members can meet senior Municipal staff to discuss how some of the recent changes and improvements to service delivery can be beneficial.
• A similar engagement is also being planned between the built-environment practitioners and Municipal staff to explain the improvements being made to speed up approvals for town planning applications and building plans.
• A Corporate Social Investment Policy will shortly be presented to Council which sets out guidelines whereby the corporate sector can participate and support worthy community projects. SA Breweries has already expressed their willingness to participate in such a programme.
• A Film Policy being finalised will enable film directors to make use of many George locations for film shoots thereby promoting film industry in our area.
• Discussions are being undertaken with international BPO companies who are exploring opportunities to establish contact centre operations in George that could offer employment to potentially hundreds of our young citizens.
• At a sporting level we have recently held discussions with investors from rugby, cricket and tennis sporting codes wishing to invest into sporting infrastructure in George.
• George is becoming an attractive location for inward semi-gration as citizens seek safe and functioning lifestyle opportunities away from areas with poor municipal services and/or prone to unrest. We are also engaging with business groupings to promote George as an attractive investment location.
• We have recently advertised for proposals from event organisers wishing to stage unique events that can attract tourism – here we think of MTB, trail running, golf and many others. We would like to encourage organisers to create some special events that become “must-do” calendar items for participants and their families.
• The recent collaboration with the faith-based organisations where prayers were held for Covid-19 was a wonderful example of how the thoughts of Cllr Johan du Toit culminated in this engagement – my thanks to all who made this possible.
• Recent visits to soup kitchens, vegetable gardens and the Garden Route Pantry are likely to result in further collaborative efforts to facilitate the assistance of many of our citizens enduring hardship.
• Council recently made land available in our industrial area for the Garden Route District Municipality to build their fire station base here in George.

GO GEORGE female staff juggling work, family and Covid

GO GEORGE female staff juggling work, family and Covid
Issued 23 Aug 2021

Each August, we celebrate women. We point out their strength, their achievements, their invaluable contributions; in the case of GO GEORGE, often in a so-called “man’s world”.
In August 2020, everybody was still in shock and hoping to beat the virus within a few months. This year, women’s voices sound different. Some talk of hope, of caring, of doing what’s got to be done. Others don’t see light at the end of the tunnel; actually, they don’t see the end of the tunnel.
Unlike previous years when it was interesting and enlightening to sit around a table with a number of female bus drivers, for instance, GO GEORGE now requested feedback from female staff members about their experience of womanhood during the Covid-19 pandemic via a short list of questions.
Most of the women who have responded, work shifts, from as early as 04:30 in the morning, only getting home after 20:00 when they start later. Many are single mothers. Most have a support system for their children’s care, be it a grandmother, neighbour or elder siblings, or husbands when their work hours allow. However, many still need to help children with “lockdown schoolwork” after they get home, on top of daily household duties. Noticeable was how many taught their children who couldn’t attend school for long periods of time, how to carry out essential household chores.
“I just find it sad to tell my children they cannot go play with friends. We try to keep them busy indoors, but it’s not easy, and it’s not good,” one mother said. Without exception, they try to answer their children’s many questions and to keep their hopes up, that life will get better and easier again, that “this too shall pass”.
Many remain positive. “I can’t wait for Covid-19 to get over and done with. I can summarise the past year as me being retrenched by a previous employer, employed again, becoming a promoter of good hygiene, a teacher, infected (asymptomatic), but refusing to get tired, and defined by my desire to be even more!”
Those with younger children struggle from time to time: “2021 is a very hard time for me as I have to leave my kids alone at home because they are doing turns at school and the aftercare is closed due to Covid,” says a mother of two children, aged eight and 12.
Depending on their personal circumstances, some struggle to stay positive. “I don’t see any future anymore, no hope and no dreams. I am worried about my child’s future.”
Apart from one young woman, those interviewed are all mothers, some single, some wives or partners, daughters to their parents, and pillars in their communities.
Stanley Fortuin from George Link says the perseverance and courage to face all the challenges of a bus driver is handled with grace and responsibility by their female drivers. “Although they admit that it is some days harder than others, they still find balance between motherhood, being a wife and their profession. You will seldom hear our ladies complain and we really want to thank every one of them this month, for the incredible contribution they make in their personal lives to their families as well as their vital service to our community.”
“The women working for GO GEORGE are specialists in their respective fields, dedicated workers who keep the wheels of the bus service rolling,” says James Robb, GO GEORGE Manager. “We celebrate, salute and applaud our female staff for their contribution to our service, the way in which they carry out their duties under the most difficult and uncertain circumstances, always going the extra mile. Because every step these days, is a marathon.”
Box:
GO GEORGE asked:
What does it feel like to be a woman in 2021?
• Awesome, challenging, protective yet exciting to be alive.
• Wow, a lot of responsibility, but very happy when I see the appreciation and love in my family’s eyes.
• Sometimes anxious and frustrated by the uncertainty, but then I remember that I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.
• The love for my child and the need to protect her makes me strong.
• I’m scared for the future of our kids.
• I will always be a rock, no matter what the situation is.

CAPTIONS:
Campions early morning:
The GO GEORGE communication champions start work when it’s still dark and work mostly outdoors, engaging with passengers. Here Dieketseng Mosesane (champions’ supervisor) reminds some learners how to stay safe when using the bus service.
Call Centre agent coming home:
Mandie Bayman is a GO GEORGE Call Centre agent whose early shift starts at 04:30. On such days, four-year-old Raynechia sees her mom for the first time when she welcomes her back home after lunch.

GO GEORGE vroulike personeel balanseer werk, familie en Covid
Uitgereik 23 Aug 2021

Elke jaar in Augustus vier ons vroue. Ons wys op hul krag, hul prestasies, hul waardevolle bydraes; in die geval van GO GEORGE, dikwels in ‘n sogenaamde “manswêreld”.
In Augustus 2020 was almal nog in skok en vol hoop om die virus binne ‘n paar maande te klop. Hierdie jaar klink vroue se stemme anders. Sommige praat van hoop, van omgee, van doen wat gedoen moet word. Ander sien nie lig aan die einde van die tonnel nie; eintlik sien hulle nie die einde van die tonnel nie.
Anders as vorige jare toe dit interessant en insiggewend was om saam met ‘n aantal vroulike busbestuurders om ‘n tafel te sit, het GO GEORGE hierdie jaar via ‘n kort vraelys terugvoer van vroulike personeellede versoek oor hul ervaring van vrouwees tydens die Covid-19-pandemie. vrae.
Die meeste van die vroue wat gereageer het, werk skofte, van so vroeg as 04:30 in die oggend, en kom na 20:00 eers tuis wanneer hulle later in die dag begin. Baie van hulle is enkelmoeders. Die meeste het ‘n ondersteuningstelsel wat hom om hul kinders te versorg, hetsy dit ‘n ouma, buurvrou, ouer broers en susters of hul mans is wanneer hul werksure dit toelaat. Baie moet egter steeds kinders help met “inperking-skoolwerk” nadat hulle by die huis kom, en nog daaglikse huishoudelike pligte ook afhandel. Opvallend was hoeveel van die vroue hul kinders wat vir lang tydperke nie skool kon bywoon nie, geleer het hoe om noodsaaklike huishoudelike take uit te voer.
“Ek vind dit net hartseer om vir my kinders te sê hulle kan nie saam met maats gaan speel nie. Ons probeer om hulle in die huis besig te hou, maar dit is nie maklik nie, en dit is nie goed nie,” het een ma gesê. Sonder uitsondering probeer hulle hul kinders se baie vrae beantwoord en om hul hoop dat die lewe weer beter en makliker sal word, dat “dit ook sal verbygaan” aan die gang te hou.
Baie bly positief. “Ek kan nie wag vir Covid-19 om verby te kom en klaar te kry nie. Ek kan die afgelope jaar opsom as ek wat deur ‘n vorige werkgewer afgelê word, weer in diens geneem word, ‘n promotor van goeie higiëne, ‘n onderwyser, en (asimptomaties) siek word met Covid, maar weier om moeg te word, en steeds gedefinieer word deur my begeerte om selfs meer te wees!”
Diegene met jonger kinders sukkel van tyd tot tyd: “2021 is ‘n baie moeilike tyd vir my, want ek moet my kinders alleen by die huis los omdat hulle beurte maak by die skool en die nasorg is gesluit weens Covid,” sê ‘n ma van twee kinders tussen die ouderdomme van agt en 12.
Afhangende van hul persoonlike omstandighede, sukkel party om positief te bly. “Ek sien geen toekoms meer nie, geen hoop en geen drome nie. Ek is bekommerd oor die toekoms van my kind.”
Afgesien van een jong vrou, is diegene met wie onderhoude gevoer is almal moeders, sommige enkellopend, sommige eggenote of lewensmaats, dogters vir hul ouers en pilare in hul gemeenskappe.
Stanley Fortuin van George Link sê die deursettingsvermoë en moed om al die uitdagings van ‘n busbestuurder die hoof te bied, word met grasie en verantwoordelikheid deur hul vroulike bestuurders hanteer. “Hoewel hulle erken dat dit ‘n paar dae moeiliker is as ander, vind hulle steeds balans tussen moederskap, vrouwees en hul beroep. Jy sal ons dames selde hoor kla en ons wil regtig elkeen van hulle vandeesmaand bedank vir die ongelooflike bydrae in hul persoonlike lewens aan hul families, sowel as hul noodsaaklike diens aan ons gemeenskap.”
“Die vroue wat vir GO GEORGE werk, is spesialiste op hul onderskeie gebiede, toegewyde werkers wat die wiele van die busdiens aan die rol hou,” sê James Robb, GO GEORGE-bestuurder. “Ons vier, salueer en loof ons vroulike personeel vir hul bydrae tot ons diens en die manier waarop hulle hul pligte onder die moeilikste en onsekerste omstandighede uitvoer en altyd die ekstra myl loop. Want deesdae is elke tree ‘n maraton.”

Kassie:
GO GEORGE het gevra:
Hoe voel dit om in 2021 ‘n vrou te wees?
• Wonderlik, uitdagend, beskermend, maar tog opwindend om te lewe.
• Sjoe, baie verantwoordelikheid, maar baie gelukkig wanneer ek die waardering en liefde in my familie se oë sien.
• Soms angstig en gefrustreerd weens die onsekerheid, maar dan onthou ek dat ek alles kan doen deur Christus wat my versterk.
• Die liefde vir my kind en die behoefte om haar te beskerm, maak my sterk.
• Ek is bang vir die toekoms van ons kinders.
• Ek sal altyd ‘n rots wees, maak nie saak wat die situasie is nie.

ONDERSKRIFTE:
Campions early morning:
Die GO GEORGE-passasiersdiensbeamptes begin werk wanneer dit nog donker is en werk meestal buitenshuis om met passasiers te skakel. Hier herinner Dieketseng Mosesane (passasiersdienstoesighouer) ‘n paar leerders hoe om veilig te bly wanneer hulle die busdiens gebruik.
Call Centre agent coming home:
Mandie Bayman is ‘n GO GEORGE-oproepsentrumagent wie se vroeë skof om 04:30 begin. Op sulke dae sien die vierjarige Raynechia haar ma vir die eerste keer wanneer sy haar ná middagete terug van die werk af verwelkom.