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Author: Debra Sauer

Mayor’s letter 14 for 12 August

Mayor’s Desk Newsletter for 12 August

A recent series of visits to a number of Ward projects is yet another reminder of the ravages of the Covid-19 pandemic that hopefully is slowly down its third wave in George. We have recently experienced the highest infection rate within the Western Cape. It is so important that we continually remain aware of the need to wear masks, observe social distancing, wash hands regularly and generally remain alert to be safe and conscious of changes in our health. The vaccination programme is also underway and we should be registering and obtaining our jabs.

The Municipality continues to support approximately 130 soup kitchens where dedicated “tannies” make sure that children who would not otherwise be fed, queue up after school to receive helpings of nourishing soup 3 times a week and in some cases 5 times a week. At one soup kitchen the chefs are up by 06h00 to commence with the day’s meal for 250 children. One is left with thoughts of how additional assistance can be provided in these desperate situations in the form of additional protein, flour, pots, ingredients. The Municipality assists with ingredients, electricity, gas while numerous businesses provide assistance in various ways.

In many cases, the parents have lost their forms of employment and are unable to afford keeping youngsters in creches. Some creches are also being vandalised with criminal elements breaking into premises to steal items that are then sold off cheaply.

Over the past year many forms of illegal dumping have emerged. The Municipality has been employing teams who move around clearing up these dumping sites. Invariably front-end loaders and tipper trucks are used to clear up and remove the waste. Soon after clearing up a site with the team having moved on to the next problem, communities once again start the dumping process. This continued cycle of ill-discipline is costly and means that funds are not being spent on worthwhile projects for communities. A roster exists for refuse collection in the form of black (household refuse), green (garden) and blue (recyclables) bags, yet communities do not encourage their neighbours to assist in keeping their surroundings clean and healthy. The Community Services Directorate is now exploring the introduction of incentive programmes in communities where monitors can be rewarded for keeping their areas clean.

It is encouraging to see individuals who have started vegetable gardens on their own and often neighbour’s properties to successfully grow vegetables for their own use and sale. We should now be looking to holding regular market days where excess produce can be sold.

Any suggestions on assistance for the plight of citizens living in these difficult circumstances can be sent to: smartideas@george.gov.za so that my office can attempt to facilitate.

Media Statement: Parking Market Street

Media Statement: Parking Market Street
Issued George Municipality, 6 August 2021

Following media queries and an article placed in the George Herald this week (5 August 2021), George Municipality would like to clarify the status of parking with regard to the Market Street upgrade.

Section 1 (York Street to Meade Street), Section 2 (Meade Street to Cradock Street) and Section 3 (Cradock Street to Mitchell Street)

Three sections of Market Street are currently under construction. A Public Participation Consultant was appointed by the Municipality to consult with all property owners and businesses prior to the commencement of construction to ensure that directly affected parties were fully informed of the works to be carried out.

The previous on-street municipal public parking in Market Street and on-street parking after construction is as follows:

Number of On-street Parking Bays before re-construction Number of On-street Parking Bays after re-construction
Section 1 (York to Meade) 37 21
Section 2 (Meade to Cradock) 28 13
Section 3 (Cradock to Mitchell) 17 15

No private parking is impacted and provision has been made for the same number of loading bays.

During the consideration of the public onstreet parking in Market Street, the availability of alternate parking was also investigated. During the parking evaluation it was found that the municipal off-street parking in the vicinity of Market street is currently underutilised. The available public parking in two such parking areas, behind the Old Town Hall and Donneraile Square, makes provision for more than those reduced within Market Street. The Municipality will provide improvements to these two parking areas during the upgrading of Market Street. The first improvement will be the realignment of the parking area behind the Old Town Hall followed by improved access to Donneraile Square. This work will also include the resealing of the existing parking area behind the Old Town Hall.

Section 4 (Mitchell Street to Merriman Street) and Section 5 (Merriman Street to Hope Street)

The contracts for these two sections of Market Street have not yet been awarded. Similar to the first three phases, no private parking will be affected, and only municipal public parking may be rationalised to enhance the public transport system and the provision of adequate and compliant pedestrian facilities.

Further Comment on Complaints and Matters Raised

The Municipality takes note of the concern expressed by property and business owners regarding the impact of construction works on their businesses. Pedestrian access to all businesses is maintained, and where special arrangements need to be made this will be done in consultation with the affected business.

Businesses are required to provide onsite parking, alternately to buy out on-street parking where this is permissible. Only municipal public parking has been rationalised in the planned upgrades in the interest of the public transport system as this area of the CBD is a Public Transport 1 (PT1) zone.

Market Street is not only being upgraded to rebuild the structure of the road but to improve pedestrian access and movement and replace aging and or inadequate infrastructure where necessary. Infrastructure upgrades include the replacement of old asbestos cement water pipelines and an upgrading of the stormwater network. The central business district is one of the oldest areas in George, certain infrastructure is old, and the infrastructure was not always installed to accommodate current growth and development and changes in legislative requirements.
Universal Accessibility (UA) is one of the legislative requirements that was not a consideration when the initial road reserve infrastructure was installed, and when the focus was on vehicular movement. George Municipality is committed to ensuring equitable access and focuses on ensuring that sidewalks meet the UA requirements. This will see a significant upgrade to sidewalks in Market Street and allow for improved pedestrian access and mobility.

The upgrades will also eliminate the past practise of illegal parking in pedestrian zones that impeded pedestrian movement and safety.

Impact of Roadworks on GO GEORGE bus service

Impact of Roadworks on GO GEORGE bus service

Issued Thursday 5 August 2021

As part of the Municipality’s series of road maintenance projects, construction work on the section of CJ Langenhoven Street between George Hospital and the Witfontein Road circle will take place from Tuesday 10 August until approximately the end of October 2021. Although no rerouting is foreseen, there will be a significant impact on the GO GEORGE bus service.
All the GO GEORGE bus stops in this section will be closed for the duration of the construction work to ensure traffic flow for all road users while one lane is closed. The buses will still travel along the normal route but will not stop at the affected stops. Posters on the temporarily closed stops will advise passengers regarding alternative bus stops behind the George Hospital and at the beginning of Witfontein Road.

The impact of the roadworks on the bus schedule will be closely monitored to inform possible adjustments if needed, but passengers should make provision for delays when they plan their time of boarding.

Affected stops
The following bus stops will be closed temporarily:
343 Stadium
715 Stadium
341 Myrtle B
342 Myrtle B
585 Hillwood B
586 Hillwood B
338 Heather
339 Heather

The bus routes impacted by the roadworks are Route 2 Blanco – CBD and Route 58 Heatherlands – Heather Park.

For enquiries or assistance with trip planning, please phone the GO GEORGE Call Centre on 0800 044 044.

IMPAK VAN PADWERK OP GO GEORGE-BUSDIENS
Uitgereik Donderdag 5 Augustus 2021

As deel van die Munisipaliteit se reeks padinstandhoudingsprojekte vind konstruksiewerk aan die gedeelte van CJ Langenhovenstraat tussen die George-hospitaal en die Witfonteinweg-sirkel vanaf Dinsdag 10 Augustus plaas. Die projek sal tot ongeveer einde Oktober 2021 duur. Hoewel geen herleiding van roetes voorsien word nie, sal daar ‘n beduidende impak op die GO GEORGE-busdiens wees.

Al die GO GEORGE-bushaltes in hierdie gedeelte sal vir die duur van die konstruksiewerk gesluit wees om verkeersvloei vir alle padgebruikers te verseker terwyl een baan gesluit is. Die busse sal steeds volgens die normale roete ry, maar sal nie by die geaffekteerde bushaltes stop nie. Plakkate op die tydelik geslote bushaltes sal passasiers adviseer oor alternatiewe bushaltes agter die George-hospitaal en aan die begin van Witfonteinweg.

Die impak van die padwerke op die busskedule sal fyn dopgehou word om aanpassings te maak indien nodig, maar passasiers moet voorsiening maak vir vertragings wanneer hulle beplan hoe laat om ‘n bus te haal.

Geraakte bushaltes
Die volgende bushaltes sal tydelik gesluit word:
343 Stadion
715 Stadion
341 Myrtle B
342 Myrtle B
585 Hillwood B
586 Hillwood B
338 Heather
339 Heather

Die busroetes wat deur die padwerk beïnvloed word, is roete 2 Blanco – CBD en roete 58 Heatherlands – Heather Park.

Vir navrae of bystand met ritbeplanning, skakel asseblief die GO GEORGE-inbelsentrum by 0800 044 044.

GO GEORGE focuses on pedestrian safety around buses

GO GEORGE has embarked on a passenger- and pedestrian-safety campaign to remind passengers as well as the general public to be alert and stay safe around buses.

Champions can be seen in York Street at the bus stops in front of the Post Office as well as the stop next to Eden Technical High School where they currently hand out pamphlets. Engaging with passengers and pedestrians, they warn in particular about the unsafe crossing of busy streets in front of or from behind the bus, and especially at these stops in York Street.

“The safety of pedestrians at and near bus stops is as much the concern of GO GEORGE as the safety of passengers on the buses,” says GO GEORGE Manager, James Robb. “It is not safe to cross a roadway right in front of or behind a bus, even if it is stationary. Motorists overtaking the bus may not see you crossing.”

Robb notes that the bus stops have intentionally been placed to be near a zebra pedestrian crossing or an intersection with a pedestrian crossing. “In some instances, crossings are paved or built up to allow a seamless and direct walking experience and force motorists to slow down. This is where you want to cross to be safe. In suburbs or areas where there are no crossings, passengers should wait until after the bus has departed before they cross the road.”

Talking about visibility when people cross the street in front or from behind a bus, he explains that intersections are designed to allow maximum visibility of pedestrians.

“Cars are forced to reduce speed or to come to a complete stop. Please walk the short distance to the nearest crossing and be safe,” Robb urges all pedestrians.

GO GEORGE has compiled a passenger safety pamphlet containing important tips for passenger safety before boarding the bus, on the bus, and after leaving the bus. While adhering to Covid safety precautions such as wearing masks, sanitising their hands regularly and not getting too close to people they engage with, GO GEORGE communication champions use the pamphlets to alert the public to behave safely and responsibly.
For any information or assistance regarding the bus service, please phone the GO GEORGE Call Centre on 0800 044 044, visit www.gogeorge.org.za, send an email to info@gogeorge.org.za or visit the GO GEORGE Facebook page to stay up to date with the latest bus-related news.

CAPTION:
GO GEORGE Community Liaison Officer, Tyron Jeyi, explains to Bradley Claasen how close the pedestrian crossing is to the bus stop, and why it is safest to cross the busy street at that point and not in the vicinity of the bus. Bradley works at Fancourt and travels into town from Rosedale, transferring to the Blanco route at the Post Office.

PERSVERKLARING: GO GEORGE fokus op voetgangerveiligheid rondom busse
Uitgereik 30 Julie 2021

GO GEORGE het begin met ‘n passasier- en voetgangerveiligheidsveldtog om passasiers sowel as die algemene publiek te herinner om waaksaam te wees en veilig te bly in die omgewing van busse.

Passasiersdiensbeamptes is tans in Yorkstraat by die bushaltes voor die poskantoor asook die bushalte langs die Eden Tegniese Hoërskool besig om pamflette uit deel. In hul omgang met passasiers en voetgangers waarsku hulle veral oor die onveilige kruising van besige strate voor of van agter die bus, en veral by hierdie bushaltes in Yorkstraat.

“GO GEORGE is net so besorg oor die veiligheid van voetgangers by en naby bushaltes as oor die veiligheid van passasiers op die busse,” sê GO GEORGE-bestuurder, James Robb. “Dit is nie veilig om ‘n pad reg voor of agter ‘n bus oor te steek nie, al is die bus stilstaande. Motoriste wat die bus verbysteek, gaan jou moeilik raaksien.”

Robb wys daarop dat die bushaltes doelbewus naby ‘n sebravoetgangeroorgang of ‘n kruising met ‘n voetgangeroorgang geplaas is. “In sommige gevalle word kruisings geplavei of opgebou om ‘n naatlose en direkte loopervaring toe te laat en motoriste te dwing om stadiger te ry. Dit is waar jy wil oorstap om veilig te wees. In voorstede of gebiede waar daar geen kruisings is nie, moet passasiers wag tot nadat die bus vertrek het voordat hulle die pad oorsteek.”

Oor sigbaarheid wanneer mense die straat voor of van agter ‘n bus oorsteek, verduidelik hy dat kruisings ontwerp is om maksimum sigbaarheid van voetgangers toe te laat.

“Motors word gedwing om spoed te verminder of om volledig tot stilstand te kom. Stap asseblief die kort afstand na die naaste kruising en wees veilig,” doen Robb ‘n beroep op alle voetgangers.
GO GEORGE het ‘n pamflet saamgestel wat belangrike wenke vir passasiers bevat oor veiligheid voordat hulle op die bus klim, op die bus, en nadat hulle die bus verlaat het. Met inagneming van Covid-voorsorgmaatreëls soos die dra van maskers, gereelde ontsmetting van hande en ‘n veilige afstand van die mense met wie hulle kommunikeer, gebruik GO GEORGE-passasiersdiensbeamptes die pamflette om die publiek te waarsku om veilig en verantwoordelik op te tree.

Vir enige inligting of hulp met betrekking tot die busdiens, skakel asseblief die GO GEORGE-inbelsentrum by 0800 044 044, besoek www.gogeorge.org.za, stuur ‘n e-pos aan info@gogeorge.org.za of besoek die GO GEORGE Facebook-blad om op hoogte te bly van die jongste busverwante nuus.

Onderskrif:
GO GEORGE-gemeenskapskakelbeampte, Tyron Jeyi, verduidelik aan Bradley Claasen hoe naby die voetgangeroorgang aan die bushalte is, en waarom dit die veiligste is om die besige straat daar oor te steek en nie in die omgewing van die bus nie. Bradley werk by Fancourt en ry vanaf Rosedale dorp toe met die bus en klim by die poskantoor oor op die Blanco-roete.

Mayor’s letter 13 for 29 July 2021

In recent weeks the Auditor-General (“AG”) has been speaking about the state of local government as they have commented about the serious lack of good governance and mismanagement at municipalities. They have expressed concern that at present, in many instances, the progressive and sustainable improvements required to prevent accountability failures and to deal with them, do not exist.

In their reporting on the 2019-20 local government audit outcomes they stress the need for ethical and accountable leadership to drive the changes to ensure that governance fundamentals are strengthened. The AG says that they believe that the responsibility to turn around local government is purely in the hands of its leadership to drive the change through “ethical and accountable leadership”. This would require the incoming leadership after the forthcoming local government elections to focus on building a strong administration that is fit for purpose, qualified and professional to run municipalities. The very same leadership should provide the space for the administration to do their work, effectively oversee and hold them accountable for the decisions they make.

These thoughts above, expressed by the AG are applicable to all municipalities in the country. We have foreshadowed this thought process in George in the work that has been undertaken since the beginning of 2021 through the appointment of Dr Gratz as acting municipal manager and three new directors, with a fourth commencing in August and interviews being held for the fifth intended appointment. This new team has already started to effect the improvements that require to be made to improve service delivery.

By way of example, we experienced difficulties with refuse collection some months ago. The underlying issues within this service needed to be analysed and resolved to ensure a smooth operation once more. Similarly, changes that have been made to improve turnaround times to obtain approval of building plans and town planning applications are already starting to take effect. Over the coming months we can expect the new leadership at electro-tech, finance and at civil and engineering services to contribute to improvements in those areas.

The turnaround process that George is undertaking is comprehensive as we need to ensure that our administration is geared to upgrade operating procedures and workflows to cater for the continued economic growth taking place and expected in the coming years.

Change management is however complex both in terms of the changes that need to be implemented and in dealing with the human factor. Changes take time to be implemented. It is therefore critical that the processes be put in place so that we can deliver a high standard of services while simultaneously undertaking improvements to infrastructure that will prove attractive for investment that will lead to increased employment and well-being for all citizens.

Parkdene/Maraiskamp netball court covering coming soon

The brand new netball court at the Parkdene/Maraiskamp Sport ground is fully tarred after it has been built from scratch and will get its final synthetic covering this financial year. This covering will be durable and flexible. All of George netball courts are upgraded to the same standard so our players can be World Cup ready for the South Africa 2023 Netball World Cup that will be held in Cape Town hosted at Cape Town International Convention Centre (CTICC).

This will mark the first time the tournament will be held in Africa. At the new court are George Executive Mayor Ald Leon van Wyk with the ball. To his right is Leveinia Botha (Sports Development), and to the far left is Shanold Marillac (Senior Manager: Sports Development, Social Development and Libraries) as well as Granville Campher (Manager: Sports Development).

Golden Valley Housing Project steadily moving forward

Golden Valley Housing Project steadily moving forward
Issued George Municipality, 14th July 2021

The Golden Valley Housing Project in Blanco is moving forward steadily and another three houses were handed over to families last week. The project is currently in Phase 1 which consists of the building of 136 top structures (actual houses) to qualifying beneficiaries. Six completed houses including last week’s three have been handed over to date . Only those houses where the electricity connections were fully finished were handed over.
Cllr Raybin Figland, Portfolio Councillor of Human Settlements, said this just another way George Municipality is saying “we care about our people. We will continue to build on our success and stay with our mandate to deliver to our people,” Figland said.
Cllr Jean Safers, Ward Councillor for the area, said the people who received homes are relieved that this day is here. “I help and attend to these people who have problems in the informal settlement with their huts as soon as we experience heavy weather. I feel happy with the beneficiaries today.”

One of the beneficiaries, Joseph Fouche, gave all the glory to God for his new home. Andrew Fortuin said “I am grateful and I feel wonderful.” Maria Saaiman said she is so happy.

According to Charles Lubbe, Director: Human Settlements, the beneficiaries had been identified earlier and the subsidies approved by the Western Cape Provincial Department of Human Settlements. The Golden Valley housing project will accommodate all residents of the informal areas in Blanco, although not all will receive top structures. Qualifying families where the participants are older than 35 years, and whose monthly income is less than R3 500, receive top structures. Other residents of the informal area who do not meet the latter criteria receive a serviced erf. A serviced erf contains sewerage services with a toilet, a water connection and electricity connection.

The contractor, Marnol, has been appointed by the Provincial Department of Human Settlements to complete the project. It is envisaged that the projected completion date of the project will be November 2021.

Captions:
Blanco 1: Cllr Raybin Figland, Portfolio Councillor of Human Settlements welcomes Joseph Fouche, his sister, Marinda Fouche and her daughter Jolene (3) to their new home. With them are from left, Mbulelo Suping from Marnol Projects, Ward Councillor Jean Safers and on the far right is Madoda Bokwe, a Human Settlements official.
Blanco2: Maria Saaiman receives her house keys from Cllr Raybin Figland with her daughter, Elizabeth, looking on.
Blanco 3: Andrew Fortuin with the handing over of his house. Officially handing over the home is Cllr Figland and to the far left is housing official, Madoda Bokwe.

MANDELA DAY: GO GEORGE supports community initiatives

MANDELA DAY: GO GEORGE supports community initiatives
GO GEORGE staff always enjoy demonstrating care and compassion by giving of their personal time to the community on Mandela Day.

This year, as was the case in 2020, Covid-19 lockdown restrictions and safety measures limited the ways of reaching out and making a difference. However, there is always some way to send a message of care to those in need, and to support the organisations and volunteers dedicated to improving their lives.

Generous donations from the GO GEORGE staff in their personal capacity made it possible to deliver 20 care packs to the Phambili Refuge for Women and Children, as well as bread and soup ingredients to CREMHOG, an organisation providing food to the homeless, amongst other initiatives. A few staff members also decided to donate blood.

James Robb, GO GEORGE Manager, expressed the commitment of the bus service and all stakeholders to the upliftment of the George community. “Our staff’s personal contributions towards the Mandela Day initiative are but a token of our commitment towards building the caring society that Madiba has envisioned and strived for,” he said.

CAPTIONS:
PHAMBILI:
Contributions from GO GEORGE staff made it possible to deliver 20 care packs to the Phambili Refuge for Women and Children. Receiving the donation is Megan October from Phambili (left), with Basil Myners (GO GEORGE Communications Team) and Tyron Jeyi (GO GEORGE Community Liaison Officer).

CBD FOOD INITIATIVE:
GO GEORGE staff donated soup packs and bread in support of CREMHOG, a volunteer organisation providing food to the homeless. Handing over the donation to André Olivier (far right) are Basil Myners (GO GEORGE Communications Team), left, and Tyron Jeyi (GO GEORGE Community Liaison Officer).
BLOOD DONATION – 2 photos:
To support the Mandela Day initiative of giving back to the community, Cecil Barry and Nondumiso Buthelezi, members of the GO GEORGE system planning team, donated blood at the Western Cape Blood Service.

MANDELA-DAG: GO GEORGE ondersteun gemeenskapsinisiatiewe
Uitgereik 18 Julie 2021

GO GEORGE-personeel geniet dit altyd om omgee en deernis te toon deur van hul persoonlike tyd aan die gemeenskap te gee op Mandela-dag.

Vanjaar, soos in 2020 ook die geval was, het Covid-19-inperkings en -veiligheidsmaatreëls die maniere waarop mense kan uitreik om ‘n verskil te maak, beperk. Daar is egter altyd ‘n plan te make om ‘n boodskap van omgee te stuur aan diegene in nood, en om die organisasies en vrywilligers wat toegewy is aan die verbetering van hul lewens te ondersteun.

Ruim skenkings van die GO GEORGE-personeel in hul persoonlike hoedanigheid het dit moontlik gemaak om onder meer 20 sorgpakkies aan die Phambili-toevlugsoord vir vroue en kinders te oorhandig, asook brood- en sopbestanddele aan CREMHOG, ‘n organisasie wat kos aan die haweloses verskaf. ‘n Paar personeellede het ook besluit om bloed te skenk.
James Robb, GO GEORGE-bestuurder, het die verbintenis van die busdiens en alle belanghebbendes tot die opheffing van die George-gemeenskap uitgespreek. “Ons personeel se persoonlike bydraes tot die Mandela-dag-inisiatief is maar ‘n klein gebaar van verbintenis tot die bou van die omgee-samelewing wat Madiba gevisualiseer en nagestreef het,” het hy gesê.

Byskrifte:
PHAMBILI:
Bydraes van GO GEORGE-personeel het dit moontlik gemaak om 20 sorgpakkies aan die Phambili-toevlugsoord vir vroue en kinders te lewer. Hier ontvang Megan October van Phambili (links), die skenking van Basil Myners (GO GEORG-kommunikasiespan) en Tyron Jeyi (GO GEORGE-gemeenskapskakelbeampte).
CBD FOOD INITIATIVE:
GO GEORGE-personeel het soppakkies en brood geskenk ter ondersteuning van CREMHOG, ‘n vrywilligersorganisasie wat kos aan die haweloses verskaf. Hier ontvang André Olivier (heel regs) die skenking van Basil Myners (GO GEORGE-kommunikasiespan), links, en Tyron Jeyi (GO GEORGE-gemeenskapskakelbeampte).
BLOEDSKENKING – 2 foto’s:
Om die Mandela-dag-inisiatief om terug te gee aan die gemeenskap te ondersteun, het Cecil Barry en Nondumiso Buthelezi, lede van die GO GEORGE-stelselbeplanningspan, bloed by die Wes-Kaapse Bloeddiens geskenk.

Mayoral letter 12 for 15 July 2021

Mayoral Newsletter for 15 July 2020

While the core function of municipalities is to provide essential services such as water, treatment of wastewater, refuse removal, electricity, streets and stormwater, efforts are also undertaken within communities to assist on many other fronts.

Within many of our communities there is a need to encourage and foster the development of small businesses, ranging from house and neighbourhood grocery shops to hairdressers, cellphone shops and internet cafes, repair shops and other business facilities. I have been discussing this need with individuals who aspire to setting up small businesses.

Recently the Municipality has commenced with the placing of vendor stalls in certain areas to assist informal traders with the marketing of their wares. The development of small business hubs is also being investigated in terms of available sites and after assessing the needs in communities. Initial pilot sites are likely to be erected possibly using containers to test the market. Ultimately the development of small business centres housing a number of shops and services is to encouraged.

It will also be important to assist emerging entrepreneurs to acquire the training and skills to run these businesses successfully. Training, understanding and support will need to be facilitated to ensure their success. Work on this project take some time and be rolled out progressively.

While mentioning communities, we have commenced a discussion with neighbourhood watches to understand their roles and needs within communities. We have engaged with the Dept of Community Safety at the Western Cape Government who have provided guidance on the accreditation and training process that is being offered to these pro-active citizens who care for their communities. Quite a few of our neighbourhood watch organisations still need to become accredited. These discussions will continue in a spirit of collaboration to ensure facilitation and effective functioning.
Another project being launched in the near future will be a process of reaching out to the corporate sector to harness and facilitate the efforts that many corporates are making to improve the lives of citizens and the environment. We recently met with representatives of SA Breweries who expanded on the role they have played in the Waboomskraal area to eradicate alien vegetation to improve water security for the hops farms. The project we are undertaking will assist in the further facilitation of these efforts.

In closing, I would like to appeal to all citizens to take all the necessary health precautions to counter the third wave of Covid-19 in George and the Garden Route. It is crucially important to wear masks, wash hands, apply social distancing, not meet in crowds, etc. There are many cases where families who have been affected following family gatherings. Please seek medical attention when you feel sick.

George Municipality busy with platform B of new composting plant

George Municipality is currently busy with the construction of platform B of the new composting plant to be established at the George Landfill site on the R102 (airport road). The main reason for this facility is to address the extraction of organic and garden waste. Currently, collected household waste is disposed of at the Petro SA landfill site, and the ability to extract organic waste means that food waste and garden refuse will be taken to the compost facility rather than being disposed of at Petro SA. The end goal is that only non-recyclable material must go to the landfill.

The facility will assist the municipality in the reduction and re-use of waste, in particular green and organic waste. The Western Cape Department of Environmental Affairs and Development Planning (DEADP) has set targets for all local municipalities to have an organic waste management plan with targets. The first target will be that by 2022 the municipality is diverting 50% of their organic waste, and by 2027 there must be a total ban of organic waste at the landfill site. This facility places the municipality in a better position to respond to these targets. The portion of organic waste currently disposed of at the Petro SA landfill site equates to approximately 15340 tons per year. This waste is currently landfilled and it could be utilised if composted.

According to Allen Paulse, Director of Community Services, the plant should start operating in early 2022 as soon as a service provider is appointed through the Supply Chain Management process. Green waste will be diverted from the landfill to the platforms where it will be further processed into compost by the service provider. Once garden refuse is diverted to the composting facility, there will be an opportunity to use a portion of the Gwaing WDF as a facility for the crushing of builders’ rubble and re-use it for other purposes.

The project is currently halfway with the completion of platform A and platform B that is in process. The plant has also been fenced. The city is committed to waste reduction, not only because the region was running out of landfill space but also because it is the environmentally right thing to do. Waste management is increasingly expensive, which ultimately impacts on our citizens.

Our residents are encouraged to recycle their waste by using the blue and green bag system.
Uncollected BLACK bags 044 802 2900/20/27 or ymali@george.gov.za / jstuurman@george.gov.za
Uncollected GREEN and BLUE bags: 044 878 0688/ lgewaste@george.gov.za mabotha@george.gov.za /jstuurman@george.gov.za

Caption
Platform B of the new composting plant is in process.

CWP Clean green team assisting George Municipal Cleansing team

CWP Clean green team assisting George Municipal Cleansing team

More than 200 workers from the Community Worker’s Programme of government are assigned to a clean and green project to assist the Community Services Directorate’s cleansing department. These workers work twice a week to pick up litter on sidewalks and illegal dumping sites. They are assigned to work in Rosemoor, Parkdene, Borcherds, Blanco, Uniondale and Pacaltsdorp. The Community Work Programme (CWP) was established to provide an employment safety net to eligible members of target communities by offering them a minimum number of regular days of work each month.

The governmental programme targets unemployed people. The stipends participants receive from the government programme supplement their existing livelihood means and provide them with a basic level of income security. They also assists those whose livelihood activities are insufficient to lift them out of abject poverty.

The programme provides them with extra cash to support them in their search for full-time or part-time employment. Programme participants do community work thereby contributing to improvements that benefit all community members.

Captions:
1.The clean green team cleans in Rosedale.

Voter Registation Weekend Rescheduled to 31 July – 1 August.

Electoral Commission delays voter registration weekend by two weeks
Centurion – The Electoral Commission has postponed the voter registration weekend
by two weeks in the light of the third wave of the COVID-19 pandemic currently
sweeping the country.

At a special meeting today, the Commission resolved to reschedule the voter
registration weekend from 17-18 July to the weekend of 31 July – 1 August.
The decision was made following a review of the current conditions including rate of
infections and hospitalizations over the past seven days and its impact on preparations
for the registration weekend.

The Commission also considered concerns raised by political parties through the
National Party Liaison Committee of proceeding with voter registration as well as
warnings from health officials and other experts during last week’s oral submissions
before the Moseneke Inquiry regarding the risks of proceeding with a voter registration
weekend under the current conditions. Health experts told the Inquiry last week that
the current third wave of infections was likely to persist until at least the end of the
month.

Taking into consideration the various factors including the constitutional timeframe
which requires the elections to be held before 1 November 2021 and the minimum
period required for the election timetable, the Commission resolved to postpone the
voter registration weekend to the latest possible date which is 31 July – 1 August.

The two-week postponement will have a knock-on effect on certain dates and activities
associated with the proclamation and election including delaying proclamation by four
days until 6 August. However, the Commission remains confident that successful
elections can be held within a reduced election timetable of 82 days rather than the
original 86 days.

The Electoral Commission today briefed the National Party Liaison Committee on the
decision and the revised timelines and plans.

The Commission has taken this very difficult decision in the interests of saving lives of
voters, election staff, party representatives and all citizens while still preserving the
Constitutional requirement to hold elections.

While the Commission accepts that two weeks’ delay may not be ideal to allow the
third wave to begin to decline in all provinces, the Commission has very limited scope
to move the registration weekend without postponing the elections themselves.
Most party representatives at the meeting welcomed the decision to postpone for two
weeks although parties in favour of a postponement of the elections urged for a longer
postponement.

The Commission is still awaiting the final report of the Moseneke Inquiry into whether
the elections can be free and fair if they proceed as scheduled on 27 October. The
Inquiry is being led by Former Deputy Chief Justice Dikgang Moseneke who is
scheduled to present his report and its recommendations to the Commission by 21
July 2021.

The Commission will continue to monitor developments regarding the COVID-19
pandemic, the outcome of the Moseneke Inquiry and all other relevant factors over the
coming weeks.

Any further changes to the election plans will be made in consultation with political
parties, government authorities and other key stakeholders and will be communicated
with all stakeholders.
ENDS
ISSUED BY THE ELECTORAL COMMISSION
Ensuring free and fair elections

George mourns the loss of two officials

George Municipality is saddened by the loss of two officials in the past week.

Mr Melvin Jansen, Acting Supervisor: Cemeteries for Community Services has worked at the George Municipality for 15 years in various roles with the management of burial areas and beaches resorting under his care. Melvin was 51 years old and will be sorely missed by his colleagues who will miss his jokes and hard work ethic.

Mr Freddy Booysen, a Civil Engineering official worked at the Municipality for 35 years and was a Process Controller in the Sewer Network Department, Pump Stations. Acting Municipal Manager Dr Michele Gratz extended the municipality’s condolences to the families, loved one’s and colleagues of both officials.


Freddy Booysen


Melvin Jansen

YOUTH MONTH: GO GEORGE focuses on youngsters and Covid safety

The GO GEORGE bus service has made extra effort during Youth Month to get the Covid-safety message across to the youth and to create awareness of the role each member of society needs to fulfil during the pandemic.

Engaging with learners in a safe way without visiting schools and addressing groups of children, the GO GEORGE communication champions have been visiting bus stops near the schools to hand out small, refillable bottles of hand sanitiser branded with a message from Georgie, the GO GEORGE mascot: Your safety, our concern. Learners were also reminded to keep a safe distance, to wear their masks correctly, covering both the mouth and nose, and never to pull it down when talking to someone.

Commemorating Youth Month, young people between the ages of 12 and 20 were invited to participate in a lucky draw which could be accessed from the GO GEORGE Facebook page. The lucky winner has received a GO GEORGE drawstring bag with a variety of branded items.

For more information or any bus-related enquiries, please phone the GO GEORGE Call Centre on 0800 044 044, visit the website www.gogeorge.org.za, or follow the GO GEORGE Facebook page for the latest news and service updates.

CAPTION:
The George High School learners were surprised and happy to be handed a pocket-sized and refillable bottle of hand sanitiser from the GO GEORGE communication champions.

JEUGMAAND: GO GEORGE fokus op jongmense en Covid-veiligheid
Uitgereik 5 Julie 2021

Die GO GEORGE-busdiens het gedurende Jeugmaand ekstra moeite gedoen om die Covid-veiligheidsboodskap aan die jeug oor te dra en om bewustheid te skep van die rol wat elke lid van die gemeenskap tydens die pandemie moet vervul.
Om op ‘n veilige manier met leerders te kommunikeer sonder om skole te besoek en groepe kinders toe te spreek, het die GO GEORGE-passasiersdiensbeamptes bushaltes naby die skole besoek om klein, hervulbare botteltjies handreiniger uit te deel. Leerders is ook daaraan herinner om ‘n veilige afstand te hou, hul maskers korrek te dra, beide die mond en neus te bedek, en dit nooit af te haal wanneer hulle met iemand praat nie.

Ook om Jeugmaand te gedenk, is jongmense tussen die ouderdomme van 12 en 20 genooi om deel te neem aan ‘n gelukstrekking via die GO GEORGE Facebook-blad. Die gelukkige wenner het ‘n GO GEORGE-toerygsak ontvang met ‘n verskeidenheid handelsmerkitems.
Vir meer inligting of enige busverwante navrae, skakel asseblief die GO GEORGE-inbelsentrum by 0800 044 044, besoek die webwerf www.gogeorge.org.za, of volg die GO GEORGE Facebook-blad vir die jongste nuus- en dienskennisgewings.

Byskrif:
Die Hoërskool George-leerders was verras en bly om ‘n sakgrootte, hervulbare botteltjie met handreiniger van die GO GEORGE- passasiersdiensbeamptes te ontvang.

Garden Route COVID Update 5 July 2021

The Garden Route District has seen a 95 % increase in cases the last 7 days compared to 7 – 14 days ago. The district had an increase of 2 311 new cases the past 7 days. All sub-districts had large percentage increases.
District hospitals are seeing an increase in admissions, especially Mossel Bay Hospital. George Hospital continues to admit a large number of patients with COVID-19. The hospital currently has 44 COVID-19 patients of which 15 are in high care. All sub-districts are de-escalating non-essential services to cope with the increased load at primary health care facilities and hospitals.

COVID-19 stats as of 5 July 2021

Sub-district TOTAL Active Recovered Deaths
Bitou 3 029 115 2 811 103
George 14 277 1 433 12 373 471
Hessequa 2 278 190 1 974 114
Kannaland 997 71 877 49
Knysna 5 367 350 4 850 167
Mossel Bay 9 412 1 188 7 978 246
Oudtshoorn 4 532 243 3 985 304
Sub-total 39 892 3 590 34 848 1 454

Vaccination roll-out
A total of 46 902 vaccines have been administered since the start of the vaccine program. This includes healthcare workers, old age homes and public sites.

Registration for people 50 years and older frequently asked questions:

Has registration opened for people of 50 years and older?
Yes, people 50 years and older who want to receive the vaccine can now register on the available platforms.
Will people aged 50 – 59 years receive their appointments now?
Yes, the EVDS system will start allocating available appointments as from 5 July 2021.
What about people of 60 years and older who have still not received their 2nd SMS, will they be prioritised?
Yes, people aged 60 years and older will be prioritised over those of 50 – 59 years. We ask that those older than 60 who have not received their first dose to please come to a vaccination site as a walk-in, where they will receive their vaccination.
Will people of 60 years and older who must receive their second dose be prioritised over people aged 50 – 59 years? Yes, our current priority is those above 60 years, for both their first and second dose of the vaccination.
Will sites assist walk-in people aged 50 – 59 years who are registered? Yes, if the site has enough vaccines, you will be assisted. However, those with appointments will be assisted first.

The following sites in the Garden Route District will administer vaccinations on the following days for week 5 – 9 July.

SUB-DISTRICT Town Dates 5 – 9 July
Knysna sub-district Knysna Community Day Centre 5 – 9 July
Knysna sub-district Knysna Town Hall 5 – 9 July
Knysna sub-district Sedgefield Clinic 5, 8, 9
Knysna sub-district Keurhoek Satellite Clinic 9
Bitou sub-district Plettenberg Bay Clinic 5 – 9 July
Bitou sub-district Kranshoek clinic 8
Bitou sub-district Kwanokuthula Community Day Centre 5, 9
Bitou sub-district Crags Clinic 6
George sub-district Harry Comay TB Hospital 5 – 9 July
George sub-district Thembalethu CDC (Sandkraal road) 5 – 9 July
George sub-district George Central Clinic 5 – 9 July
George sub-district Uniondale Hospital 5 – 9 July
George sub-district George & Herald Mobile Routes 5 – 9 July
George sub-district Touwsranten Clinic 9
George sub-district Pacaltsdorp Clinic 5 – 9 July
Hessequa sub-district Riversdale Civic Centre 5 – 9 July
Hessequa sub-district Heidelberg Duivenhoks Hall 6, 7 , 9
Hessequa sub-district Albertinia Theronsville Hall 5, 8, 9
Hessequa sub-district Melkhoutfontein Satellite Clinic 7
Hessequa sub-district Still Bay Civic Centre 5, 6, 8, 9
Hessequa sub-district Slangrivier Satellite Clinic 5 ,9
Hessequa sub-district Witsand de Duine Hall 8
Hessequa sub-district Gouritsmond Hall 6
Kannaland sub-district Ladismith DRC Church Hall 5
Kannaland sub-district Zoar Sports Club 7
Kannaland sub-district Calitzdorp DRC Church Hall 8,9
Kannaland sub-district Van Wyksdorp Kerksaal 6
Mossel Bay sub-district Alma Community Day Centre 5 – 9 July
Mossel Bay sub-district Wolwedans Community Hall 5 – 9 July
Mossel Bay sub-district Hartenbos NG Kerksaal outreach 6
Mossel Bay sub-district Mossel Bay Town Hall 5 – 9 July
Mossel Bay sub-district Rheebok outreach 5
Mossel Bay sub-district D’Almeida Community Hall 5 – 9 July
Oudtshoorn sub-district Toekomsrust Community Hall 5 – 9 July
Oudtshoorn sub-district Dysselsdorp Clinic 6
Oudtshoorn sub-district De Rust (Blommenek) Clinic 8
Oudtshoorn sub-district Oudtshoorn Clinic 5 – 9 July

Disclaimer: Dates and sites are subject to change.

Mayoral letter 11 for 1 July 2021

Mayoral Newsletter for 1 July 2021

This past week we have experienced two contrasting perspectives in the ongoing struggle to restore our local economy from the ravages of the Covid-19 pandemic.

Last week-end saw the holding of the George MUT (Mountain Ultra Trail) where tough trail-runners participated in a 60km event in the Outeniqua Mountains. This event epitomises what we are trying to achieve through sustainable events in George – encouraging and welcoming Tourism.

On the other hand, the country has returned to lockdown 4 regulations of the Covid-19 pandemic as the third wave affects Gauteng that could spread in the Garden Route and elsewhere. Once again, apart from the need for all of us to observe safe health protocols, our economy is facing another setback through the negative impact on events, accommodation establishments, restaurants, etc.

While we deal with the pandemic, it will be useful to plan for the restoration and reinvigoration of Tourism in George and the Garden Route through the systematic re-building of our events calendar so that everyone in our tourism economy can benefit: from our airport, car hire businesses, accommodation establishments, restaurants through to all the retail operations and employees who would all share in the money being spent by tourists visiting the area.

George is the ideal location for a whole range of sporting, adventure and activity pursuits from mountain biking, to running, golf, paragliding, surfing, hiking and much more. Just as the MUT has taken place, other sporting codes are encouraged to actively explore how events can be organised that can attract participants to George.

By way of illustration, the golf and bowls clubs could organise annual events where clubs from around the country are invited to send teams to compete in events in designated weeks of the year. We need to roll-out our hospitality talents where everything that our visitors experience will result in good messages being conveyed across the country. Their visit to George should not only be about a fantastic event and accommodation or the great climate, but also special food and activity experiences. The message that each of our visitors should remember is that they enjoyed their time so much that they wish to return for the same event in the next year and bring their friends along as well. This is how we will grow tourism.

There are many and varied activities that take place around George that can be turned into events that will attract tourists to George. Increased levels of tourism should also spur growth in the various arts and crafts being practised in George.

We need to develop all tourism activities, arts and crafts. Interested parties are welcome to forward their suggestions to supporttourism@george.gov.za so that collaboration opportunities can be explored.

Mayoral letter 11 – for 1 July 2021

Mayoral Newsletter for 1 July 2021

This past week we have experienced two contrasting perspectives in the ongoing struggle to restore our local economy from the ravages of the Covid-19 pandemic.

Last week-end saw the holding of the George MUT (Mountain Ultra Trail) where tough trail-runners participated in a 60km event in the Outeniqua Mountains. This event epitomises what we are trying to achieve through sustainable events in George – encouraging and welcoming Tourism.

On the other hand, the country has returned to lockdown 4 regulations of the Covid-19 pandemic as the third wave affects Gauteng that could spread in the Garden Route and elsewhere. Once again, apart from the need for all of us to observe safe health protocols, our economy is facing another setback through the negative impact on events, accommodation establishments, restaurants, etc.

While we deal with the pandemic, it will be useful to plan for the restoration and reinvigoration of Tourism in George and the Garden Route through the systematic re-building of our events calendar so that everyone in our tourism economy can benefit: from our airport, car hire businesses, accommodation establishments, restaurants through to all the retail operations and employees who would all share in the money being spent by tourists visiting the area.

George is the ideal location for a whole range of sporting, adventure and activity pursuits from mountain biking, to running, golf, paragliding, surfing, hiking and much more. Just as the MUT has taken place, other sporting codes are encouraged to actively explore how events can be organised that can attract participants to George.

By way of illustration, the golf and bowls clubs could organise annual events where clubs from around the country are invited to send teams to compete in events in designated weeks of the year. We need to roll-out our hospitality talents where everything that our visitors experience will result in good messages being conveyed across the country. Their visit to George should not only be about a fantastic event and accommodation or the great climate, but also special food and activity experiences. The message that each of our visitors should remember is that they enjoyed their time so much that they wish to return for the same event in the next year and bring their friends along as well. This is how we will grow tourism.

There are many and varied activities that take place around George that can be turned into events that will attract tourists to George. Increased levels of tourism should also spur growth in the various arts and crafts being practised in George.

We need to develop all tourism activities, arts and crafts. Interested parties are welcome to forward their suggestions to supporttourism@george.gov.za so that collaboration opportunities can be explored.

George Municipality backs local surfer, Bianca Buitendag for the 2020 Tokyo Olympic Games

GEORGE MUNICIPALITY BACKS LOCAL SURFER, BIANCA BUITENDAG FOR THE 2020 TOKYO OLYMPIC GAMES

George Municipality has partnered with local, soon- to be- Olympian, Bianca Buitendag, a surfer who has qualified for the upcoming global event, in her quest to win a medal at the Tokyo Olympic Games. This partnership shall see the municipality support the Victoria Bay born and raised Bianca Buitendag in her preparation for the Olympic Games set for 23 July to 8 August 2021 in Japan. Owing to the challenges caused by the Covid-19 pandemic, the municipality decided to support and extend financial assistance to the local superstar in their bid to support local talent, while at the same time promoting the destination as a premier surfing destination.

Bianca is a well-seasoned surfer who has been competing on the World Surfing League (WSL) Championship Tour from 2013 to 2019 as South Africa’s top female surfer. In 2019 she was the captain of the South African team at the International Surfing Association (ISA) 2019 World Championships where she finished 3rd (Bronze) and subsequently qualified for the Olympic Games together with Jordy Smith. Out of the water, she holds a Bachelor of Science in Finance & Accounting Management attained at North-Eastern University in Boston, USA.
Surfing will be featuring in the 2020 Tokyo Olympic Games for the first time ever and South Africa shall be represented by Bianca and Jordy Smith.

Bianca will be an ambassador for George and a key asset in promoting George as a tourist, and particularly a great surfing destination. George Municipality is situated in the Garden Route District of the Western Cape, often revered as “the Garden Route’s crown” owing to its majestic views and pristine beaches. The partnership will be the first of its kind for George Municipality, with the Olympic Games providing the perfect platform.
Commenting on the significance of this partnership, Bianca said, “Having grown up and raised in Victoria Bay, it’s an absolute privilege to represent my community and make them proud as I compete at the Olympic Games”. George offers some of the best surfing conditions owing to its high-performance waves at Victoria Bay and she hopes her efforts at the Olympics will be good enough to inspire young girls from across South Africa to pursue their dreams.

George Municipality will benefit from Bianca’s significant social media following along with her support for locally based charity initiatives. She is currently involved in several local projects and hopes to make a bigger impact working much more closely with the Municipality than ever before. “We look forward to partnering with Bianca to promote the town as an attractive tourist destination. Bianca’s profile and professionalism are exemplary to the kind of role models the town wishes to produce and inspire; we wish her all the best of luck at the Olympic Games”, says Executive Mayor of George Municipality, Alderman Leon van Wyk. Commenting on the developments, Joan Shaw, George’s Tourism Manager remarked, “George is fortunate to have a high-calibre surfing beach and we are delighted that our waves have played a role leading up to Bianca competing at the Olympics, the pinnacle of her surfing career so far. We are thrilled that a surfer at her level of influence will be promoting our destination to surfers worldwide as a preferred destination to enjoy the waves. We wish her all the best as she competes – George is rooting for you!”

For further information, please contact:

Head of Sponsorships: Kudzi Nzombe – Accelerate Sport
+27 (0)736402029/021 671 7573
kudzi@acceleratesport.com

Photographs by Ian Thurtell

George Mayor announces winners of Municipal Poster Competition on Energy Sustainability

George Mayor announces winners of Municipal Poster Competition on Energy Sustainability

The George Municipality’s Poster Competition on Energy Sustainability came to an end on Monday 7th June, when the two winning schools in the high school and primary school categories, Outeniqua High School and Outeniqua Primary School were announced and the Mayor of George presented them with their prizes.

Mayor van Wyk was in awe of the standard of work of both the primary and high school learners. He told the learners that he is not only impressed by their artwork but by their thinking. “We are all experiencing the inconvenience of loadshedding. We need to move into other forms of energy by wind, sun and other methods. This is the future of our world and our world is changing rapidly. It is awesome that you are part of that change,” he said.
Van Wyk said to the learners that you are the generation that will use renewable energy and it is great that you had this opportunity to showcase your thoughts. He congratulated the winners and thanked all of the schools that participated and made the competition a success.

The first prize winners (Primary and High School) both received a R5000 stationery voucher. The second prize in the primary school category went to Mzoxolo Primary school who received a R2000 stationery voucher. The third prize winner in the Primary School category is Holy Cross Convent and won a R1000 stationery voucher.
The second prize winner in the High School category is Parkdene High School and won a R1500 stationery voucher. There is no third prize for high schools as there were only 3 participating schools.

In total 10 schools participated, 3 High Schools and 7 Primary Schools. All the learners who participated in the competition received goody bag packages as a token of appreciation. The other schools that participated were Kretzenshoop Primary School, Hibernia Primary School, Dellville Park Primary School, McKinley Reid High School and Thembalethu Primary School.

Thabo Yiga from the Electrotechnical Directorate who drove the project with the other interns at the Directorate, thanked all the ten schools for participating in the George Municipality’s Energy Sustainability Competition. “The posters clearly show that the learners took the competition seriously and worked hard to produce quality work,” Yiga said.

Learners were meant to reflect their understanding of Energy Sustainability in the poster. The posters were judged by effort, art and creativity and message.
Some of the teachers and learners shared their experiences during the competition.
Leoni Selzer, Art teacher at Outeniqua Primary School said the process taught them how very important it is to save the world we live in and it was an incredibly great opportunity for the learners to research their own work and work on their art pieces.

Kyla Nel (12), a grade 6 learner, said she wanted to make people aware that our earth is dying.
Linske Steenkamp (11), also a grade 6 learner, said she drew an eye with the idea to change people’s view on how they saw the world, how we are to fix people’s eyes on the problem we need to solve.

An-Sophie Buchholz (12), a grade 7 pupil, said her painting depicted the earth warming up to the extent that it has a detrimental effect on the survival of wildlife like the polar bear.
Mari Coetzee, Art teacher at Outeniqua High School, said it was important to them to participate in the competition to get our younger generation thinking about preserving nature and thinking of alternative solutions to our energy needs.

Marlo Barnard (16), a grade 11 learner, said it was great coming together as a team, while his teammate, Wessel Janse van Rensburg (17), grade 11, said they are grateful for the opportunity and had loads of fun. They have used recycled paper from old exam books and magazines for the task.

George Municipality is part of the Energy Efficiency and Demand Side Management (EEDSM) programme funded by the Department of Mineral Resources and Energy. The Municipality received grant funding of R4.5 million for the solar PV project at the George Municipality Main Building parking area and part of the requirements is to spend 1% of that grant funding on creating an energy awareness campaign.

Sustainable energy is power which is able to be replenished within a human lifetime and so cause no long-term damage to the environment. Sustainable energy includes all renewable energy sources, such as hydroelectricity, biomass, geothermal, wind, wave, tidal and solar energies.

Captions:

Outeniqua High School: Outeniqua High School is the winner out of the three competing high schools in the George Municipality’s Energy Sustainability Poster Competition. Here Mayor Van Wyk hands over the winning cheque to principal Christo Vorster (with black jacket). At the back from left are Mphielo Ramotsai, Electrotechnical Directorate, two of the winning learners with the winning poster, Wessel Janse van Rensburg, Marlo Barnard, Art teacher Mari Coetzee and Thabo Yiga, Electrotechnical Directorate. The poster that was made mostly of recycled material says: Power “of” Nature. The “of” word is cleverly formed and hidden into one of the windmills. All the prize-winners are mentioned in the full page advert in the George Herald 10 June 2021.

Outeniqua Primary: Outeniqua Primary School is the winner in the category Primary Schools, in the George Municipality’s Energy Sustainability Poster Competition. They have beaten six other schools to the first prize. In the middle of the picture is the Executive Mayor of George, Ald Leon van Wyk (with the dark suit) handing the winning cheque of R5000 to Dr Nico Venter, School Principal. To the Mayor’s left are Mphielo Ramotsai and Thabo Yiga, Electrotechnical Directorate who drove the project. To Dr Venter’s right is the Art teacher that assisted the learners in the project, Leoni Selzer. Around them are all the learners who are part of the group that won the competition.