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Author: Debra Sauer

IMPLEMENTATION OF NEW ERP SYSTEM AND UPDATED CUSTOMER ACCOUNT STATEMENTS

George Municipality is pleased to inform all residents and account holders that we have successfully implemented a new Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) system. This forms part of our commitment to modernising municipal systems, improving efficiency, and ensuring more reliable billing and customer services.

  1. New Monthly Debtor Account Statements

From this month onward, all municipal debtor accounts will be emailed to customers directly from the new ERP system. As a result, the layout and format of your monthly statement will look different from the previous version. All billing information remains accurate and compliant with municipal financial regulations.

In addition to the emailed statement, customers will also receive an SMS containing a secure link to view and download their monthly account statement.

  1. Old and New Account Numbers Displayed

During the transition period, your municipal statement will show both:

  • Your old account number, and
  • Your new account number, generated by the new ERP system.

This dual display is intended to assist customers with a smooth transition.

 Use of Old Account Numbers Until 30 June 2026

The old account number may still be used as a payment reference until 30 June 2026.

  • If you make an EFT payment using your old account number, the new system will still recognise it and correctly allocate your payment.
  • After 30 June 2026, George Municipality will fully transition to the new account numbers, and customers will be required to use the new number for all payments and correspondence.

URGENT PUBLIC NOTICE: WATER SUPPLY CHALLENGES IN WILDERNESS AREA

Dear Residents of Wilderness,

George Municipality is aware and is attending to the water disruptions in the Wilderness area. Over the past day and a half, our technical teams have been working tirelessly to identify and resolve the issue affecting the water network in Wilderness.

What we have done so far:
• We located and replaced several faulty components, including a valve that was faulty that we suspected was the problem.
• This resulted in the system partially restored to normal. Unfortunately, this did not fully resolve the issue.

Current situation:
• The problem still exists within the network, therefore we are actively investigating other potential issues along the network.
• Due to the complex nature of the network and many pipes running through difficult terrain (including dense bush areas), pinpointing the exact location of the fault is challenging.
• We have also observed air trapped in the pipeline which have been addressed.

Impact on residents and businesses:
• Some guesthouses/businesses and residents may experience intermittent or no water supply until the issue is resolved.
• We understand the full effect of this and ask for your patience and understanding during this time.

Next steps:
• All our resources are attending to resolving this outage.
• We do not yet have an estimated time of repair (ETR), but we will communicate immediately as soon as we identify the problem.
We appreciate your cooperation, and we sincerely apologise for the ongoing disruptions to the water supply. We view the situation seriously. We will keep you informed as more information becomes available. Thank you for your understanding and patience.

PUBLIC NOTICE: Preventing Drowning Tragedies

 

Stay safe around water this festive season by following these practical drowning prevention strategies: 

  • Learn life-saving skills, including the basics of swimming and cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR). 
  • Know who to call in an emergency.  
  • Fence ponds, pools and water storage: Install a four-sided isolation fence at least 1.2m high with a self-closing and self-latching gate to control access to bodies of water. 
  • Be on the lookout. Drownings happen quickly and quietly. Never leave children to supervise each other. A responsible adult must always watch out for children near a pool, Jacuzzi, or natural body of water. 
  • Stay within arm’s length of children under four around water. 
  • Don’t drink or be distracted by work, phone calls, technology, or anything else that may absorb your attention when watching children. 
  • Fit a pool net immediately after swimming and replace it every time. 
  • Don’t rely on armbands, floating toys, inner tubes, or devices to keep children safe. 
  • Teach children to swim, but never leave them unsupervised around water. 
  • Consider installing alarms. Various water alarms, such as a floating pool alarm or external security beams, can be installed to add to the precautions of fencing and supervision. 
  • Beware of drains. Children must be kept away from pool or Jacuzzi drains as hair or limbs could become trapped in the suction. 
  • Toilets, bathtubs, water features, fish tanks, pet water bowls and buckets. Children can drown wherever there is access to water, and a baby can drown in just 2.5cm of water. 

 

EMERGENCY NUMBERS: 

  • After-Hours and Emergencies: 044 801 6300 
  • Toll-Free Disaster Number: 087 152 9999 
  • NSRI (National Sea Rescue Institute): 082 990 5955 ǀ 087 094 9774 

 

Stay alert and make water safety a priority to prevent drowning tragedies. 

GEORGE FESTIVAL 2025_ TRAILS & TUNES

Experience the outdoors with Trails & Tunes! Join the Trail Run on 14 December, plus MTB and a Cross Hike with live music on 16 December. Fresh air, great vibes, and support for local trails — don’t miss it!
Explore the full line-up of events, activities, and entertainment by accessing the programme via the link: https://tinyurl.com/45dvp5d8   and follow official George Municipality and WC DCAS social media channels.

 

George Municipality warns against illegal water connections and tampering

 PROHIBITION OF UNAUTHORISED / ILLEGAL WATER CONNECTIONS AND TAMPERING WITH MUNICIPAL INFRASTRUCTURE

George Municipality hereby issues a stern warning to all entities and individuals involved in property development and construction activities within the municipal area regarding the illegal connection to, and/or tampering with, the municipal water supply system.

It is a serious offence, and a direct contravention of the Municipal By-laws, for any person to:
• Make any connection to a main, bulk pipe, reservoir or hydrant without prior written permission.
• By-pass or tamper with a water meter or any part of the water supply system.
• Use municipal water that is not supplied through a registered and metered connection.

Unauthorised connections and tampering with municipal infrastructure compromise public safety, disrupt essential services, reduce water pressure and result in significant revenue loss — ultimately affecting service delivery to law-abiding residents.

Entities found to be in contravention of the By-laws will face immediate and severe penalties, which may include:
Substantial fines levied directly on the owner or developer’s account.

All developers and contractors are urged to ensure strict compliance with the municipal water and sanitation by-laws:
Applications for new water connections, including water meters, can be made at the Client Services section at the George Municipality main building in York Street.

For enquiries, please contact Zaahir Domingo, Engineering Superintendent: Water Distribution, via email at zdomingo@george.gov.za

Home of Golf Africa Strengthens Continental Leadership

Expanded partnership unites George, Wilderness and Uniondale Tourism, Mossel Bay Tourism, Visit Knysna, and Garden Route & Klein Karoo Tourism under a single destination brand celebrating South Africa’s premier golf coastline.

GEORGE, SOUTH AFRICA – 12 November 2025 – The Garden Route’s drive to position itself as The Home of Golf in Africa has gained major momentum with the addition of new regional tourism partners.

The initiative, originally championed by George, Wilderness and Uniondale Tourism through the George Joint Marketing Association (GJMA), now officially includes Mossel Bay Tourism, Visit Knysna, and Garden Route & Klein Karoo Tourism, solidifying a united front to promote one of the world’s most scenic golfing regions, marking a significant milestone in regional collaboration.

“This expanded partnership transforms Home of Golf Africa from a local initiative into a regional force,” says Charl Marais, Chairperson of Home of Golf Africa. “By bringing together our neighbouring tourism offices, we’re amplifying the region’s visibility on a global stage – from Mossel Bay’s dramatic cliffs to Knysna’s lagoon fairways, the Garden Route now speaks with one powerful voice.”

 

A GOLF DESTINATION WITHOUT EQUAL

The Garden Route’s golfing appeal lies in a concentration of excellence found nowhere else in Africa. Within just two hours’ drive, golfers can experience 12 world-class courses – seven of which rank among South Africa’s Top 30, and each a masterpiece of design, diversity, and scenery.

The Links at Fancourt, currently rated No.1 in South Africa, leads this prestigious collection, joined by The Links Experience, Montagu and Outeniqua courses at Fancourt, Kingswood Golf Estate, Oubaai, George Golf Club, Pinnacle Point Estate, Simola Golf and Country Estate, Pezula Championship Golf Course, Knysna Golf Club, and Mossel Bay Golf Club.

These courses carry the signatures of golfing legends, from Gary Player, Jack Nicklaus, Peter Matkovich, and Darren Clarke among them, and have hosted international tournaments such as the Presidents Cup, NTT Dimension Data Pro-Am, and SA Open events.

 

SCENERY THAT RIVALS ANY FAIRWAY ON EARTH

Every course along the Garden Route tells a story through its setting. From Pinnacle Point’s dramatic clifftop holes overlooking the Indian Ocean to George Golf Club’s classic parkland design framed by the Outeniqua Mountains, the region delivers a sensory experience beyond the game itself.

Knysna’s lagoon-side courses, Oubaai’s coastal cliffs, and Simola’s forested ridges create a diversity of landscapes that few golf destinations in the world can rival. This combination of ocean air, mountain vistas, and indigenous forest transforms every round into a journey and every swing into a memory.

 

DESIGNED FOR GOLFERS, BUILT FOR TRAVELLERS

The Garden Route’s allure extends far beyond the greens. It offers a complete lifestyle experience where golf meets adventure, relaxation, and discovery.

Players can enjoy Big Five safaris, wine tasting, culinary experiences or outdoor adventures within the entire Garden Route and Klein Karoo region. With its mild year-round climate, the region provides ideal playing conditions 365 days a year, making it a dream destination for international golfers escaping northern winters or extreme heat.

 

A POWERFUL PARTNERSHIP FOR GLOBAL REACH

The Home of Golf Africa brings together 12 exceptional golf courses along one of the world’s most breathtaking coastlines. The collective effort ensures consistent international branding, shared marketing investment, and a stronger voice in attracting global tour operators, media, and travellers to South Africa’s southern coast.

Partner Courses Include:

  • Mossel Bay: Pinnacle Point Estate, Mossel Bay Golf Club
  • George: The Links, Montagu, Outeniqua, and The Links Experience at Fancourt, George Golf Club, Kingswood Golf Estate, Oubaai Golf Estate
  • Knysna: Simola Golf & Country Estate, Pezula Championship Golf Course, Knysna Golf Club

“This collaboration is more than symbolic; it’s a practical, strategic step to elevate the Garden Route’s standing in the global golf tourism arena,” adds Joan Shaw, Tourism Manager for George. “Together, we’re creating opportunities for growth, visibility, and community development across the region.”

 

A CONTINENTAL BENCHMARK FOR GOLF TOURISM

With its blend of championship golf, spectacular scenery, and five-star hospitality, the Garden Route’s Home of Golf Africa brand sets a new standard for golf tourism on the continent.

The region has already earned worldwide acclaim:

  • The Links at Fancourt is ranked #1 in South Africa and among the Top 100 courses in the world (Golf Digest).
  • Pinnacle Point Estate is hailed by Golfscape and Global Golfer as one of the Top 10 Most Scenic Courses on Earth.
  • Simola and Pezula are consistently featured among South Africa’s Top 30 courses.
  • Fancourt Hotel & Estate is the multiple winner of Africa’s Best Golf Hotel at the World Golf Awards.

 

ABOUT HOME OF GOLF AFRICA

Home of Golf Africa was established by the George Joint Marketing Association (GJMA) NPC with the mission to connect golf lovers around the world to South Africa’s most iconic fairways, hidden gems, and welcoming communities.

The initiative promotes the growth, sustainability, and accessibility of the sport throughout the Garden Route while driving economic and tourism development in the region.

Conville and Uniondale public swimming pools open to the public

The lifeguards are available at the Conville and Uniondale pools from 1 December 2025 until 10 April 2026, as per the following swimming pool operating hours.

Monday to Friday: 09:00 – 12:00 and 13:00 – 16:00 (with 2 Lifeguards on Duty)

Saturdays and Sundays (Public Holidays): 09:00 – 12:00 and 13:00 – 16:00 with 2 Lifeguards on Duty and one Lifeguard on standby.

The following safety precautions are to be adhered to:

Do not dive into a pool you have never been in before

Listen to the lifeguards

Do not swim alone

Do not let small children swim in the big pool.

No diving. No pushing

An adult must escort children under the age of 12

No weapons

No alcohol is allowed at the swimming pools

Right of admission reserved.

The tariffs for entry into both Conville and Uniondale swimming pools are as follows:

Non-Sporting events:

Entrance fee: Adult :  R 17, 00 per person

Children (16 years & under):   R 5, 00 per child

Sporting events:

Hire of Conville Swimming Pool:

Galas for Adults: R1 670,00 / full day

Deposit R1 670, 00 (Refundable)

Floodlights: R 334, 00 / hour

Touchpads: R 4 452, 00 / day – R 557,00 per set per day

PLEASE NOTE: Entry fee to the Swimming Pools is VAT INCLUSIVE

For enquiries/bookings: Conville Swimming Pool

Tel: 044 801 9488

Contact persons:

Mr J Bruinders Email: jbruinders@george.gov.za – Senior Clerk Sport Development

Ms LY Botha Email lybotha@george.gov.za – Sport Development Officer

For enquiries/Bookings: Uniondale Swimming Pool

Tel: 044-8019020 / 044 7521024 (Uniondale Office)

GEORGE FESTIVAL 2025 PROGRAMME IS LIVE!!!

The official George Festival 2025 programme has been released!
Explore the full line-up of events, activities, and entertainment by accessing the programme via the link:https://tinyurl.com/45dvp5d8

George Municipality hosted the Garden Route District Municipal Chief Audit Executive and Chief Risk Officer forum

In the photo above are at the forum front from left, Asathi Ngejane (Chief Risk Officer; George Municipality), Lauren James (Chief Risk Officer;GRDM), Jean-Pierre Rossouw (Chief Audit Executive; George Municipality), Pamela Lufele (Chief Audit Executive; GRDM), Elizmari Sieberhagen (Chief Risk Officer;Oudtshoorn Municipality).
Standing at back from left are Henry Laufs (Risk & Performance Management; Mossel Bay Municipality), Cheslin Coetzee (Risk Management;Bitou Municipality), Jan Oosthuizen (Chief Audit Executive;Hessequa Municipality), Carlos Koeberg (Chief Audit Executive;Bitou Municipality), Andriëtte Badenhorst (Representing Mossel Bay Municipality Internal Audit), Astrid Louw (Chief Audit Executive;Knysna Municipality) and Phillip Nel (Chief Audit Executive;Oudtshoorn Municipality). Also in attendance via MS Teams was Cedric Herrendoerfer from the Western Cape Provincial Treasury.

 

Strengthening collaboration and promoting best practices in municipal governance took centre stage at the recent Garden Route District Chief Audit Executive (CAE) and Chief Risk Officer (CRO) Forum, hosted by George Municipality. The forum brought together senior audit and risk management officials from across the district to share insights, tackle common challenges, and drive continuous improvement within local government.
The combined CAE and CRO Forum plays a vital role in enhancing accountability, transparency, and service delivery through the advancement of internal audit and risk management functions. It serves as a platform for municipalities to collaborate, exchange knowledge, and align with professional standards and best practices in the sector.

The event was held on 6 November 2025 at the George Municipal Offices, 46 on Market Street (Old York Hostel). Attendees included representatives from the Western Cape Provincial Treasury, as well as Internal Audit and Risk Management teams from municipalities across the Garden Route District.
The Forum has evolved into an influential voice for local government CAEs and CROs, representing their interests at leading professional bodies such as the Institute of Internal Auditors South Africa (IIASA), the Public Sector Audit Committee Forum (PSACF), the Institute of Risk Management South Africa (IRMSA), and at both provincial and national levels.

Key topics discussed included updates on the Auditor-General’s audits, district training initiatives, progress reports from task teams, Municipal Standard Chart of Accounts (mSCOA) business modules related to municipal systems, and reviews of Quality Assurance and Improvement Programmes for Internal Audit Functions. The day featured lively discussions and valuable knowledge sharing, underscoring the Forum’s role as a catalyst for learning and professional growth.
Jean-Pierre Rossouw, Chief Audit Executive from George Municipality extended the organisation’s sincere appreciation to its Internal Audit team for their commitment and hard work in successfully hosting this significant event.

GJMA Brings Sport, Adventure and Outdoor Energy to the George Festival 2025

George Festival 2025 – Culture. Art. Sport. Our community. Our celebration.

The George Joint Marketing Association (GJMA) NPC is proud to join the George Festival 2025, contributing a vibrant mix of sport, outdoor adventure and family-friendly activities that highlight the natural beauty and dynamic spirit of the Garden Route. Through its well-loved brands, Home of Golf Africa and George Trails, GJMA will offer a series of experiences designed to uplift the festival’s sports, arts and cultural focus while encouraging community participation.

Home of Golf Africa – Sundowner Golf Experience
In partnership with George Golf Club and Kingswood Golf Estate and proudly supported by Sport Pesa, Home of Golf Africa will host the Sundowner Golf Experience on 13 December 2025. Participants can enjoy an unforgettable round of golf set against the spectacular Outeniqua Mountain sunset, blending sport, scenery and social connection.
Bookings are essential at www.homeofgolf.africa

George Trails – Outdoor Adventures for All
In collaboration with GTR and Hillbillies, George Trails presents three outdoor activities that invite festivalgoers to explore the region’s landscapes and active lifestyle:

  • Trail Run – 14 December: A refreshing morning run suitable for all fitness levels.
    Hike to the Cross with Live Music – 16 December: A guided hike to one of George’s iconic viewpoints, concluding with live local music.
    MTB Ride Around the Garden Route Dam – 16 December: A thrilling mountain biking outing surrounded by the renowned Garden Route scenery.
    Bookings are essential at www.georgetrails.org.za

These offerings form part of the broader George Festival 2025 programme, celebrating community, wellness and pride in place. Whether you’re a sports enthusiast, nature lover or simply exploring the festival with family and friends, GJMA’s activities promise memorable moments and a warm George welcome.

Further updates and the full festival programme, including venues and times, will be shared via the George Municipal Website: https://tinyurl.com/5e5u8hhm, as well as on the official George Municipality and WC DCAS social media platforms.

George Festival 2025 – Culture. Art. Sport. Our community. Our celebration.

 

GARDEN ROUTE DAM LEVEL – 11 November 2025

Percentage storage at new raised dam wall height 55,22 %
Rainfall for the previous days: 6.5 mm (Measured from 4 – 10 November 2025)

Please see the link to 2B water restrictions implemented as of 1 May 2024: http://tinyurl.com/3439h4n7
The cooperation of all users of municipal water is essential and is greatly appreciated.