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Author: Debra Sauer

Public Notice: Introduction of new Whatsapp line for reporting electrical faults

George Municipality hereby informs residents that a new WhatsApp line has been introduced for the reporting of electrical faults ONLY.

WhatsApp Number: 067 553 1728
Operating Hours: Working hours only (07h45 – 16h30)

Members of the public are encouraged to make use of this WhatsApp service to report electrical-related issues timeously, to assist the Municipality in improving response times and overall service delivery.

Please note, this WhatsApp service is only operational during normal working hours and also services Uniondale and all other areas under the jurisdiction of the George Municipality..

Alternative Reporting Channels

Office Hours (07h45 – 16h30):
• 044 801 9222 / 044 801 9202 / 044 801 9258
• 044 803 9222

After Hours:
• 044 801 6300

Uniondale Electrical Fault Reporting

Office Hours (07h45 – 16h30):
• 044 752 1024

After Hours:
• 044 801 6300

PUBLIC NOTICE: TEMPORARY CLOSURE – UNIONDALE SWIMMING POOL

The Uniondale Swimming Pool will be temporarily closed from today until Thursday, 15 January 2026, to allow for routine maintenance work.
The facility will reopen on Friday, 16 January 2026.
The George Municipality apologises for any inconvenience caused and thanks residents for their understanding.

Public Notice: Delay in refuse removal

George Municipality hereby informs residents that there will be a delay in refuse collection today (Wednesday) due to operational challenges.
Residents are kindly requested to keep their refuse bags/bins outside, as municipal teams will continue working and all scheduled refuse collection for today will be completed.
George Municipality apologises for any inconvenience caused.

Public Notice:Waboomskraal library closed for asset verification (Stocktake)

 

Please take note that Waboomskraal library will be closed to the public on Tuesday, 10 February and Wednesday, 11 February 2026, to allow for an asset verification (stocktake) to be conducted.
This process forms part of mandatory asset verification planning by the Provincial Library Service, as required in terms of Section 14 of Regulations PK.689/1980, which stipulates that a full asset verification must be undertaken at all libraries affiliated with the Provincial Library Service, Western Cape Department of Cultural Affairs and Sport.
Unfortunately, no checking in or checking out of library material will be permitted during this period, as it may compromise the accuracy and outcome of the stocktake.
The library will reopen to the public on Thursday, 12 February 2026.
For further enquiries, please contact the Main George Library at 044 801 9288.

Garden Route Dam Level and Haarlem Dam Level

Garden Route Dam Level

Percentage storage at new raised dam wall height 43,48 %
Rainfall for the previous days: 7.5 mm (Measured from 6 – 12 January 2026)

Haarlem Dam Level
Percentage storage 30,42 %
Rainfall for the previous days: 2 mm (Measured from 6 – 12 January 2026)

Please see the link to 2D water demand management measures being implemented currently: http://tinyurl.com/3439h4n7
The cooperation of all users of municipal water is essential and is greatly appreciated.

Public Notice: Delay in refuse removal

George Municipality hereby informs residents that there will be a delay in refuse collection today due to operational challenges.
Residents are kindly requested to keep their refuse bags/bins outside, as municipal teams will continue working and all scheduled refuse collection for today will be completed.
George Municipality apologises for any inconvenience caused and thanks residents for their patience and cooperation.

George Municipality Integrated Human Settlements Departement: Housing progress update for the last quarter of 2025

   In photo above, Mayor Browen Johnson takes a delightful “group selfie” with beneficiaries at the Metroground housing development.

George Municipality’s Integrated Human Settlements Department continues to make steady progress in providing safe and dignified housing to qualifying residents across the municipal area. Even as the year drew to a close, meaningful progress was achieved on several housing projects, with many families receiving the keys to their new homes during December 2025, just in time for Christmas.

The Metro Grounds housing development, which will ultimately deliver 632 units, saw the handover of 61 houses in December 2025. Since the start of the project, 497 homes have been completed and handed over. A total of 275 houses were delivered during the October to December 2025 quarter alone.

Speaking at a recent handover at Metro Grounds, Executive Mayor of George, Ald Browen Johnson, highlighted the significance of these milestones, saying: “The handover of these houses is about far more than numbers. Each home represents a family whose life is changing forever. These houses are symbols of dignity, hope and new beginnings.”

The Erf 325 East, Syferfontein project includes 57 houses for persons with disabilities as well as an additional 217 units. All 57 houses allocated to people with disabilities have been completed and handed over. In December 2025, 144 of the 217 units were handed over, and the municipality is currently continuing with the handover of the remaining houses.

The Thembalethu Upgrading of Informal Settlements Programme (UISP) consists of 100 units. During December 2025, 25 houses were handed over. This is an in-situ upgrading project, meaning beneficiaries receive new homes in the areas where they have been residing, helping to preserve community ties and minimise disruption.

Construction is continuing on the remaining top structures at the following projects:

  • Thembalethu UISP: 75 houses still to be completed
  • Metro Grounds: 135 houses outstanding
  • Erf 325 East, Syferfontein: 73 houses outstanding

Housing beneficiaries were selected from informal settlements, surrounding farms, backyard dwellers and applicants on the municipal housing waiting list, in line with approved housing policies and procedures.

Addressing new homeowners, the Executive Mayor emphasised the long-term value of homeownership, stating: “Becoming a homeowner is one of the most important milestones in a person’s life. These homes are not only places of safety and belonging, but also a legacy that families can pass on to future generations.”

 

184: Simnikiwe Mbekushe, Deputy Director: Integrated Human Settlements, Planning and Development address the crowd at Metrogrounds housing development.

Mayor Browen Johnson comforts one of the beneficiaries at the Metrogrounds when she became emotionally overwhelmed.

 Councillors and officials hands keys over to beneficiaries of houses at Metrogrounds.

 Councillors and officials hands keys over to beneficiaries of houses at Metrogrounds.

 

Illegal dumping awareness campaign engages Pacaltsdorp community

In photo above, Lunga Pieters left and Luthando Bada is on board fighting illegal dumping.

An educational illegal dumping awareness campaign was successfully held recently at the shopping centre in Pacaltsdorp, aimed at engaging and informing residents about the harmful effects of illegal dumping on the environment, public health and municipal service delivery.

The campaign created an opportunity to interact directly with community members in a busy public space, allowing officials to reach a broad cross-section of residents. Information was shared on proper waste disposal practices, available municipal refuse removal services, and the importance of making use of legal disposal and recycling facilities.

Community members were encouraged to take a pledge against illegal dumping, symbolising their commitment to keeping their neighbourhoods clean, safe and healthy. The initiative was well received, with residents showing keen interest and willingness to play their part in protecting the environment.

Executive Mayor Browen Johnson and MMC Erika Brown for Environmental Services joined the campaign, reinforcing the municipality’s commitment to combatting illegal dumping through education, community participation and shared responsibility.
The positive response from residents highlighted the importance of awareness and community involvement in addressing illegal dumping. George Municipality remains confident that through continued education initiatives and cooperation with communities, cleaner and healthier living environments can be achieved for all.

Photos:


Taking the pledge is Clive Caroulus.

 


Gurshwin Lewies took the pledge

Blowers Battle Grass Fires While Saving Water

With severe water restrictions currently in place across George and surrounding areas, the George Municipality’s Fire and Disaster Management Services are using smart, water-wise methods to fight grass and veld fires. High-powered blowers are being deployed by trained fire crews to knock down flames by blowing heat away and separating fire from dry grass fuel. This technique is highly effective on fast-moving grass fires, fire edges and small flare-ups, often stopping fires in their tracks without using a single drop of water.

Blowers are especially useful in hard-to-reach areas and during mop-up operations, helping crews contain fires quickly while conserving limited water supplies. This innovative approach allows the municipality to protect lives, property and the environment while using water responsibly during a critical period. Residents are reminded to stay alert, report fires immediately to 044 801 6311 and to comply with all fire safety regulations.

#Every drop counts.

UPDATE 3: Road Closed cnr Knysna Road and Madiba Drive

Following the failure of a SEWER mainline which created a sinkhole on the corner of Knysna Road and Madiba Drive, the intersection has been FULLY CLOSED with a single lane of Knysna Road CLOSED in the direction Garden Route Mall.

Motorists are requested to reduce speed and drive with caution in this area due to heavy machinery being used in the repair.

A detailed notice will be issued on the repair itself later this morning.

GARDEN ROUTE DAM LEVEL – 22 December 2025

Percentage storage at new raised dam wall height 46,63 %
Rainfall for the previous days: 4.2mm (Measured from 16 – 22 December 2025)

Please see the link to 2C water restrictions implemented as of 4 December 2025: http://tinyurl.com/3439h4n7
The cooperation of all users of municipal water is essential and is greatly appreciated.

Refuse Collection during the Festive Season

Households may put out SEVEN BLACK, FOUR GREEN, and an UNLIMITED number of BLUE bags on their weekly collection day.

Additional tied bundles of branches are allowed if they are shorter than a metre in length and can be picked up by one person.

*PLEASE TAKE NOTE OF HOUSEHOLD REFUSE REMOVAL SCHEDULE OVER THE FESTIVE SEASON*
25 December 2025 – Collection as per normal schedule – THURSDAY
26 December 2025 – Collection as per normal schedule – FRIDAY
1 January 2026 – Collection as per normal schedule – THURSDAY

*ALL BUSINESS REFUSE WILL BE COLLECTED ON MONDAYS, WEDNESDAYS, AND FRIDAYS, INCLUDING CHRISTMAS DAY.*
*ANY BUSINESS THAT WANTS EXTRA REFUSE COLLECTION DUE TO WASTE VOLUMES, CAN CONTACT THE REFUSE REMOVAL OFFICES TO MAKE SUCH ARRANGEMENTS AND MAKE PAYMENT ARRANGEMENTS.*

BLUE bags are for non-soiled recyclable materials, including plastic, paper, cardboard, glass, etc.
GREEN bags are for green waste, including organic kitchen waste such as fruit and vegetable peels, as well as garden waste, including grass cuttings, leaves, etc. No soil is allowed in green bags.
BLACK bags are for ‘wet’ waste, things that cannot be recycled.

*All refuse bags must be put out by 7 am on removal day.*

Please don’t put bags out the day or night before removal.

Please wrap broken glass in newspaper before placing it in bags to prevent injuries to workers.
A pack of 26 black bags is distributed to households quarterly.

Black and green bags are removed by George Municipality trucks, and blue bags are removed by service provider Henque Waste trucks, all on the same day.

Participating households will receive a maximum of two blue and two green replacement bags per week

Households or businesses that are actively recycling and require additional blue bags can collect from the municipality’s Environmental Services department or Henque Waste at the addresses listed below.

Households that regularly generate more than four green bags per week are advised to make use of a private garden or waste removal service.

*REFUSE REMOVAL DAYS*

*MONDAY:* Blanco, Riverlea, Heatherpark, Heatherlands, Glen Barrie, Kraaibosch, Groenkloof, Blue Mountain Village, Herold’s Bay, Victoria Bay, Rondevlei area (George side)
*TUESDAY:* Levallia, Rosemoor, Conville, Protea Park, Parkdene, Ballotsview, Borchards, Lawaaikamp, Thembalethu, Wilderness, Constantia Kloof, Kleinkrantz
*WEDNESDAY:* Camphersdrift, Fernridge, Denneoord, Bo-Dorp, Blommekloof, Tweerivieren, Hoogekraal, Hoekwil, Touwsranten farm areas
*THURSDAY:* Wilderness Heights, Dormehlsdrift, George South, Le Grand, Bos en Dal, Groeneweidepark, Sinksabrug, Herold, Geelhoutboom, Eselsjacht, Hansmoeskraal, Jonkershoek, Rooirivierrif, Pacaltsdorp, Rosedale, Waboomskraal, Touwsranten village
*FRIDAY:* Glenwood, Loerie Park, Eden George, Genevafontein, Denver Park, Bergsig, Eastern Extension

*BUSINESSES: Monday, Wednesday, and Friday*

*CONTACT DETAILS*

*REFUSE AND GREEN BAGS COLLECTION*
George Municipality Environmental Services
82 Meade Street, George.
Phone 044 802 2900
Black and Green bag-related enquiries: 044 802 2900

*Blue bag enquiries:*
Contact Person Name: Douw Bezuidenhout
Contact Number Office: 064 905 8180 (also WhatsApp)
Complaints Number: 072 592 6212
General Contact Email Address: admin@henquewaste.co.za
Complaints Contact Email Address: douw@henquewaste.co.za
Factory Address: 27 Rand St, George Industria, George, 6536
Website Address: www.henquewaste.co.za

Water scarcity requires temporary disconnection of public beach showers

Due to ongoing severe water demand management measures, all public showers at municipal beaches and public swimming pools in George have been temporarily disconnected with immediate effect. This intervention has the full support of WESSA with regard to the Blue Flag beaches.

As part of the Municipality’s water-saving interventions, flow restrictors have been installed at all public beach facilities for some time. These devices reduce the volume of water released by limiting the flow rate, helping to conserve water while still allowing basic use. The current severe water demand management measures in place however, require additional action to protect the municipal drinking water supply.

Residents and visitors are urged to use water sparingly and responsibly at all times. If you notice a tap dripping or a shower running unnecessarily — whether at a gym, at home or any public facility — please take a moment to switch it off or report it. George Municipality thanks residents, businesses and visitors for their continued cooperation, understanding and commitment to saving water during this challenging period.

Every Drop Counts.

Uniondale Youth Office hosts Career Day at Kommandantsdrift Primary School

In the photo above, Paul Fienies, a paramedic shows excited learners how he does his job.

The Uniondale Youth Office, in partnership with municipal officials and key community stakeholders, successfully hosted a Career Day at Kommandantsdrift Primary School earlier this month. The initiative formed part of the Municipality’s ongoing efforts to support youth development by exposing young learners to a broad range of career opportunities within their community.

The event reached 35 learners and 42 community members, creating an interactive platform where young people could engage directly with professionals from various sectors.

A wide range of stakeholders participated in the Career Day, generously sharing their time, knowledge, and experience. These included representatives from the Department of Health, CapeNature, Traffic Services, Fire Department, Bethesda, SAPS Uniondale, Correctional Services and the Department of Social Development from both the George and Uniondale offices.

The primary objective of the Career Day was to inspire, motivate, and empower learners by providing insight into different career paths and the roles these professions play in serving and developing the community. Through direct engagement with professionals, learners were able to ask questions, explore their interests, and gain a clearer understanding of potential future opportunities.

Key outcomes of the event included increased awareness of career options among learners, meaningful interaction through rotational sessions at stakeholder stations, and a strong display of community collaboration. The multi-sectoral participation highlighted a shared commitment to investing in the future of the youth.

The Uniondale Youth Office extends its sincere appreciation to all participating stakeholders for their support and dedication. Their collective efforts ensured a successful and impactful event, contributing positively to the personal growth and future career aspirations of the learners in attendance, according to Christal Jansen, Youth Coordinator in Uniondale.

 

Photos:

Children from Kommandantsdrift Primary School curiously look at what Denzil Saaiman, Fireman from George Fire Brigade have to show them.

Christal Jansen, Youth Coordinator from Uniondale, introduces members from Correctional Services to the learners.

 A member from Correctional Services addresses the learners on Career Day.

 

 

George Municipality celebrates official opening of new Protea Entrance at Garden Route Botanical Garden

George Municipality marked a significant milestone on recently with the official opening of the new Protea Entrance at the Garden Route Botanical Garden (GRBG). The facility represents the Garden’s first purpose-built entrance infrastructure developed to international standards and signals an important new chapter in the Garden’s growth and development.

The opening comes 27 years after the Garden Route Botanical Garden first opened its gates in November 1998 and reflects the Municipality’s continued commitment to investing in high-quality public spaces that enhance tourism, environmental education and community wellbeing.

According to Nosidima Vumindaba, Manager: Parks and Recreation, the formal programme included a welcome by GRBG Trust Chairperson Ray Smith, followed by an address from Speaker Sean Snyman, who highlighted the Garden’s value as a municipal asset and its role in promoting conservation and outdoor recreation. Curator Christiaan Viljoen also addressed guests, outlining how the new facility will create opportunities for improved visitor services and future development.

The Protea Entrance was fully funded by George Municipality, making this landmark project possible. In addition, several sponsors contributed to specialised finishing elements such as interior décor, carpentry and enhanced security features, underscoring a strong spirit of partnership and shared commitment to excellence.

Following the ceremonial ribbon-cutting by Cllr Snyman and Cllr Erika Brown, MMC Community Services (Refuse, Environmental and Parks) and Ward 3 Councillor guests were invited to tour the new facility, enjoy refreshments and celebrate this important achievement. The Garden Route Botanical Garden expressed its sincere appreciation to the Municipality, sponsors and partners whose support helped bring the project to fruition.

Photo: Speaker Sean Snyman (right) , Cllr Erika Brown MMC Community Services (Refuse, Environmental and Parks) and Ward 3 Councillor and Sivuyile Mtila, Acting Director: Community Services at the ribbon-cutting of the Protea Entrance at the Garden Route Botanical Garden

Early closure due to fumigation at Community Development Services

Please be advised that the Community Development Offices, situated at the corner of Varing and St John’s Street, will close earlier than usual on Friday, 19 December 2025, at 15:30, to allow for scheduled pest control fumigation.
For more information, please contact the office at 044 802 2000.
We apologise for any inconvenience this may cause and thank the public for their understanding and cooperation.

The Long Table creates space for dialogue, art and cultural exchange at George Festival

Video link: https://youtu.be/Kl3iLFE-AAg

The Long Table initiative as part of the George Festival that included, arts, sports and culture, provided a vibrant platform at the George Museum on Monday 15 December, for open conversation, shared experiences and creative expression, as artists and community members from George and surrounding areas came together to exchange ideas, stories and perspectives.

According to Rachel Williams, Manager: George Libraries, the event encouraged dialogue through discussion, demonstrations, dancing and singing, creating an inclusive space where diversity and creativity were celebrated.

Ministers Ivan Meyer and Ricardo McKenzie addressed attendees and shared valuable insights on the importance of engaging with one another through meaningful conversation. They emphasised that the sharing of ideas and opinions plays a critical role in building understanding, mutual respect and social cohesion within communities.

Poets Mandy Rose Naidoo and Thabo Leholo captivated the audience with heartfelt performances that reflected their love, inspiration and sense of wonder for the Outeniqua Mountains. Their poetry highlighted the strong connection between art, place and identity. Ruby Marks, a well-known figure with a deep understanding of George, shared biographical stories from her travels around the world and reflected on her life and work as an ambassador, offering personal perspectives that resonated with many attendees.

The Executive Mayor of George, Ald Browen Johnson, underscored the importance of festivals such as these, noting their role in promoting art, books and poetry as vital tools for learning, expression and community development. The mayor highlighted that creative platforms contribute to a vibrant, inclusive city and strengthen George’s cultural landscape.

Adding a unique cultural dimension to the event, Khoisan elder Neil ‘Dikwex’ Edwin Carelse constructed and showcased a traditional Khoisan hut. Visitors were invited to experience head massages and learn about various medicinal plants, which were supplied by the Garden Route Botanical Garden. This interactive display provided insight into indigenous knowledge systems and traditional healing practices.

The Long Table successfully brought together voices from different backgrounds, reinforcing the value of dialogue, creativity and cultural heritage in building a connected and respectful community in George.

Photos:

Cllr Melvin Roelfse, MMC Social Development (Libraries, Sport and Customer Care), Honourable Ricardo Mackenzie, Provincial Minister of Cultural Affairs and Sport and Ald Browen Johnson, Executive Mayof of George, Ald Browen Johnson enthralled by the speakers at the Long Table event.

Attendees at the Long Table event.

Attendees at the Long Table event.

Attendees at the Long Table event.

Ruby Marks addresses the attendees at the Long table event, part of the George Festival.


Rachel Williams, Manager: George Libraries and poet, Mandy Rose Naidoo at the Long Table.

George Municipality temporary closures over the festive season

Finance Section Temporary Closure & Year-End Operating Hours

George Municipality would like to inform all residents of the temporary closure of the Finance Section at 46 on Market Street from 22 December 2025 to 9 January 2026.
During this period, all available finance staff will operate from the Main Building in York Street to assist residents with financial enquiries.

📆 Municipal Office Closures & Adjusted Hours:
* All George Municipality administrative offices will close at 12:00 on 24 December 2025 – the Cashier hall closes at 11:30 on the day
* Offices will also close at 12:00 on 31 December 2025 – the Cashier hall closes at 11:30 on the day
* All libraries of George Municipality will be closed on 2 January 2026.
* Municipal offices will be open on Friday, 2 January 2026.
🚨 Emergency Services:
All essential and emergency services will remain fully operational during this period.
📞 After-Hours & Emergency Contact Numbers:
* Fire Emergencies: 044 801 6311
* General After-Hours Emergencies: 044 801 6300
* Toll-free disaster number: 087 152 9999
We thank all residents for their cooperation and wish you a safe and peaceful holiday season.