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Author: Nadine Payle

PW Botha Boulevard Reopens Fully for Two-Way Traffic During Builders’ Holiday

PW Botha Boulevard is completely open for two-way traffic as of 10h00 this morning, for the duration of the annual builders’ holiday (Friday, 12 December 2025, until Monday, 12 January 2026) and will remain the responsibility of the Contractor.

All stop/go’s and traffic accommodation has been removed except the median island at Abattoir Road intersection which is secure and will be maintained throughout this period.

Regular inspections will be done by the Contractor during this period and as the need arises, maintenance will be done.

2025/26 Fire Season launched with Strengthened Ground, Aerial and Water-Rescue Readiness

Drone footage taken by Station Commander Santa Sternsdorff shows off the scale of the fire and aviation equipment available to the George Fire and Disaster Management Department.

George Fire and Disaster Management Department officially launched the 2025/26 Fire Season on Friday, 5 December, at the Denneoord Air Base, highlighting the city’s heightened state of readiness for protecting the region during the high-risk summer period. The demonstration of firefighting resources included the 35 000-litre water tanker, several fire engines, 4×4 skid units, two Jet-RIBs, and a rubber ducks, command vehicles and a Rescue vehicle, with the total fleet valued at approximately R60 million.

Kishugu Aviation, one of Southern Africa’s leading providers of specialised aerial firefighting services, showcased their aerial fleet, including two Huey helicopters, a fixed-wing bomber, and two spotter planes. The impressive display brought together firefighters, aviation support crews, and disaster management officials committed to safeguarding the region.

Executive Mayor Ald Browen Johnson said that the start of fire season is a moment that demands both reflection and resolve. “Every summer, our firefighters stand on the frontline of danger. You are the men and women who stand between disaster and safety — between fear and calm, between loss and preservation. As we mark the readiness of our teams to face the season ahead, I want to acknowledge the incredible heroes among us. Because of what you do — the risks you take and the skills you bring — we can face this season with confidence.”

The Mayor thanked Kishugu Aviation for its longstanding partnership with George Municipality noting that the aerial firefighting capability stationed at Denneoord remains one of the municipality’s most critical tools in rapid wildfire response.
“These aircraft, alongside our ground crews, make the difference between a small, controllable fire and a major disaster. George is fortunate to have some of the best-trained teams in the country.”

MMC for Community Safety and Mobility, Ald Daniel Cronje emphasised that preventing fires is as important as fighting them. “Almost all major wildfires begin with human behaviour — whether accidental, careless, or deliberate. We urge residents to follow all fire restrictions, report smoke immediately, and avoid any open flames. With stricter water demand management measures in place and ongoing dry conditions, the margin for error is extremely small.” Alderman Cronje further thanked George Fire Services for their commitment to excellence, their passion for protecting others, and their determination to remain prepared for any eventuality. “This is what good governance looks like in action, and it is this level of preparedness that sets George apart as a leader in municipal safety and emergency response.”

Chief Fire Officer Neels Barnard reassured the public that George Fire Services is fully prepared for emergencies on land or sea. The George Water Rescue Unit recently completed intensive beach-launch training with sea vessels at Wilderness Beach under the supervision of Fire Station Commander Johan Crouse. We now have 9 fully trained skippers ready to operate rescue vessels and provide essential support to the NSRI during sea rescue operations.”

Photographs by Dedrei Cloete

Fireworks Reminder
As the festive season approaches, residents are reminded that fireworks significantly increase the risk of wildfires. Fireworks may only be discharged in designated areas and never near vegetation, in residential suburbs, or on beaches. No designated area was approved for this season. Offenders may face fines or prosecution. Illegal fireworks should be reported immediately to law enforcement.

The George Municipality urges the public to report any signs of smoke or fire immediately by calling 044 801 6311 or 044 801 6300 after hours.

Official Launch: Attending the Fire Season launch from left are Matthew Carter, Kushigu Aviation Chief Pilot, Station Commander Santa Sternsdorff, Chief Fire Officer Neels Barnard, Executive Mayor Ald Browen Johnson, Divisional Commander Johan Brand, Deputy Mayor Ald Gert Van Niekerk and MMC Community Safety and Mobility, Ald Daniel Cronje.

Asset Assist Programme for MSMEs- Call for Applications

The Department of Small Business Development (DSBD) is re-launching the Asset Assist Programme which was previously implemented through the Small Enterprise Development and Finance Agency (SEDFA).

Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSME’s) are hereby invited to submit applications for assistance with machinery, equipment, working capital and acquisition of raw material from a maximum grant of R250 000. Only up to 20% of the grant applied for, may be used for raw materials and stock.

All qualifying MSMEs including those who applied in the previous Call for Applications but did not get the financial support are invited to re-apply.

How to apply:
Apply online at: https://systemsnew.sefa.org.za/SMMEPortal

Closing date:09 January 2026, at 23:59.

For enquiries email: servicedesk@sedfa.org.za

COUNTDOWN TO GEORGE FESTIVAL 2025 – JUST 9 DAYS TO GO!

With just nine days to go, excitement is building as George gears up for the vibrant George Festival 2025, set to bring an unforgettable mix of culture, music, and sport to the city. This year’s festival will unfold across multiple venues, with cultural and musical showcases at Unity Park and the Kaptein Dikkop Amphitheatre in Pacaltsdorp, while an extensive line-up of sporting events will energise communities in Thembalethu, Rosemore, and Unity Park.

Festival-goers can look forward to major highlights over four days, including the Annual Lights Festival, the Gospel Festival, the Jazz Festival, and a Multicultural Day of sport and entertainment with the sports finals being played at Unity Park on 16 December. Apart from the promise of thrilling sporting action, crowds will be entertained with live music, family activities, and festival vibes for a truly unforgettable day.

Residents and visitors are encouraged to familiarise themselves with road closures scheduled for 13, 14, and 16 December as they plan their festival routes. The updated festival programme is now available and can be explored here: https://www.george.gov.za/planning-development/local-economic-development/tourism/george-festival-2025-culture-sport-art/

A FESTIVAL POWERED BY PARTNERSHIP
The George Festival 2025 is the result of dedicated collaboration between government, business, and community organisations. The festival proudly acknowledges the invaluable contributions of its lead sponsors and partners:
• MTN – Key festival sponsor championing youth participation and community sport
• Heineken Beverages – Enhancing the festival atmosphere through financial and product support
• SportPesa – Sponsor of the Home of Golf Sundowner Challenge and supporter of sporting excellence
• Knox Hydrate – Official hydration partner for athletes and festivalgoers
Additional supporting partners include:
SCAVA, ATKV, MTB Hillbillies, George Trails (GTR), Home of Golf Africa, George Joint Marketing Association (GJMA) NPC, George Naturally, ASWD, Outeniqua Harriers, Rocket and the Garden Route Botanical Garden Trust, alongside collaboration with the Eden Sport Council, George Museum and the Garden Route District Municipality.

FOUR UNFORGETTABLE DAYS AWAIT
From 13 to 16 December, the George Festival 2025 will transform the city into a vibrant landscape of entertainment, culture, music, and sport. Activities will be hosted across Unity Park, the Garden Route Botanical Gardens, Thembalethu, Rosemoor, Pacaltsdorp, and the George Museum.
Saturday, 13 December
A full day of sport starting with the George Parkrun, Home of Golf Sundowner Challenge — including 5-a-side soccer, Indigenous Games, 7’s Rugby, Netball, and Table Tennis — followed by the much-loved Annual Lights Festival at Unity Park, with live music, markets, and family fun.
Sunday, 14 December
The popular George Street Mile, the George Trails/GTR Trail Run (14km and 7km), ongoing community sport, and the uplifting Gospel Festival at Unity Park.

Monday, 15 December
A cultural showcase at the Long Table Literary and Arts Experience at the George Museum; a Kiddies Fun Zone at the Botanical Gardens; Bowls for the Blind; and the Louis Massyn ROCKET 10KM and 5KM Fun Run.

Tuesday, 16 December
Finals across all sporting codes; Chess, Dominoes, and Scrabble at Unity Park; Live music, stalls and performances at Unity Park, the thrilling George Trails/MTB Hillbillies Dam Dash (55km, 20km, 10km); the GTR Cross Hike (6km); and the Jazz Summer Festival at the Kaptein Dikkop Amphitheatre in Pacaltsdorp.

George Raises Blue Flag to Launch a Safe and Enjoyable Summer Season

Executive Mayor Browen Johnson (centre), flanked by Nosidima Vumindaba, Manager: Parks and Recreation (left), and Cllr Erika Brown, MMC for Community Services (Refuse, Environmental and Parks), together with the George lifeguard team and law enforcement officers at the launch of the 2025/26 Blue Flag summer season at Herold’s Bay.

The George Municipality officially launched its Blue Flag summer season on 1 December 2025 at Herold’s Bay Beach, one of the municipality’s fully accredited Blue Flag beaches. The day also marked the deployment of over 60 lifeguards across George’s beaches and public swimming pools for the festive season.

Executive Mayor Alderman Browen Johnson hoisted the Blue Flag to signal the official start of the season, joined by Executive Deputy Mayor Ald Gert van Niekerk, Cllr Erika Brown (MMC for Community Services: Refuse, Environmental and Parks), Municipal Manager Godfrey Louw, councillors, senior officials, and the 2025/26 lifeguard team.

George proudly maintains three full-status Blue Flag beaches — Wilderness, Herold’s Bay, and Victoria Bay. In addition, Leentjiesklip Beach retains its status as a pilot Blue Flag site. The Blue Flag season runs from 1 December 2025 to 28 February 2026.

Speaking at the launch, Mayor Johnson said: “Victoria Bay, Herold’s Bay, and Wilderness Beach have once again achieved full Blue Flag status, while Leentjiesklip continues as a valued pilot site. We are thrilled to welcome visitors to our beautiful coastline — George truly is the ultimate summer destination.”

Highlighting the impact of the programme, Mayor Johnson added: “The Blue Flag recognition not only enhances George’s appeal to visitors but also strengthens the local economy. Our continued commitment to this programme reflects our promise of safety, environmental conservation, and sustainable tourism.”

“Visitors can look forward to clean, well-maintained facilities, visible safety personnel, and high water-quality standards monitored by independent laboratories,” Mayor Johnson said.

About the Blue Flag Programme
The internationally recognised Blue Flag Programme is managed in South Africa by WESSA (Wildlife and Environment Society of South Africa) on behalf of the Foundation for Environmental Education (FEE). Sites must meet 33 stringent criteria covering:
• Water quality
• Environmental education
• Accessibility
• Safety and security
• Visitor facilities

WESSA CEO Cindy-Lee Cloete emphasised the importance of the programme: “Our Blue Flag and Green Coast programmes are more than symbols; they’re a promise. Each flag represents South Africa’s commitment to environmental stewardship.”

WESSA conducts regular inspections throughout the season to ensure compliance. Failure to maintain standards may result in the temporary or permanent withdrawal of Blue Flag status.
Visitors are urged to comply with beach signage, follow directions from lifeguards and security personnel, and report concerns to the beach manager or WESSA (details displayed on site).

Lifeguard Deployment
Lifeguards will be stationed at Victoria Bay, Herold’s Bay, Wilderness Main Beach, and Leentjiesklip as follows:

1–13 December 2025:
* Daily from 09:00–17:00

14 December 2025 – 28 February 2026:
* Daily from 07:00–19:00

1 March – 7 April 2026:
* Weekends, public holidays, and school holidays only, from 09:00–17:00
* Hours may be extended during good weather at Blue Flag sites.

Additional lifeguard sites (December–January):
* Gwaing River Mouth
* Wilderness Lagoon
* Steps Beach

From 8 April to 30 November 2026, no lifeguards will be on duty at beaches or swimming pools.
Strict Blue Flag regulations apply. Dogs and other pets are not permitted on Blue Flag beaches. Non-compliance may result in fines, and repeated violations could jeopardise Blue Flag status.

George Receives Green Coast Award
George Municipality is also proud to announce that Gwaing Beach has received the Green Coast Award, recognising excellence in sustainable coastal management and community-led stewardship. This award further strengthens George’s reputation as a leading eco-friendly tourism destination along South Africa’s coastline.

For more information on the Blue Flag Programme and the full list of accredited sites, visit:
https://www.wessa.org.za/blue-flag/

Ends.

 

George • Wilderness • Uniondale – Your Ultimate Tourism Events Calendar

From vibrant local markets to outdoor adventures 🚴‍♀️, there’s something for every traveller, local and visitor alike!

📍 George Tourism | Wilderness Tourism | Uniondale Tourism

🔥 Don’t miss out on what’s happening in your town!

Download the full calendar here:🔗
https://tinyurl.com/32jpna4k

#GeorgeTourism #WildernessWonder #UniondaleAdventures #GardenRouteEvents #ExploreGeorge

GEORGE FESTIVAL 2025 – SCAVA Art & Craft Exhibition and Christmas Market

13–20 December | George Museum, Courtenay Street | Free Entry
As part of the George Festival 2025, the SCAVA Art and Craft Exhibition and Christmas Market brings together local artists and makers for a week of handmade art, festive gifts and creative expression.
Pop in at the George Museum to enjoy this vibrant showcase and support local talent.

Annual Lights Festival: GERELDO LEWIS

The Annual Lights Festival opens the George Festival on the Saturday 13th December at 14h00 – 22h00.
With a full programme and something for everyone, all residents are invited to attend – GERELDO LEWIS will perform at 18H30 @ Unity Park.

Explore the full line-up of events, activities, and entertainment by accessing the programme via the link: https://www.george.gov.za/planning-development/local-economic-development/tourism/george-festival-2025-culture-sport-art/

GEORGE FESTIVAL 2025

The Gospel Festival promises a day of worship and song on Sunday 14th December from14h00 – 20h00.
With a full programme and something for everyone, all residents are invited to attend – Beverley Fisher will perform at 19h10 for the evening programme @ Unity Park.

Explore the full line-up of events, activities, and entertainment by accessing the programme via the link: https://tinyurl.com/yx5bdbcs

No Fireworks Allowed in George and Surrounds

George Municipality reminds the public that, due to the high fire risk, the setting off and possession of fireworks, firecrackers, flares, paper lanterns, and other such paraphernalia in the George municipal area is not allowed.

Strict Fireworks Legislation
George has strict firework legislation, and according to the Bylaw on Community Safety, Section 58(13), no person may discharge fireworks outside a designated Fireworks Area. No fireworks area has been designated in George. If someone is caught discharging a firework, a flare, or lighting a Chinese lantern, an immediate fine of R1000 is applicable, as well as a potential charge of arson.

Confiscation Notices
Law Enforcement Services, together with other Role players, would start with the compliance campaign by conducting continuous inspections at shops in all areas. Confiscation notices and Fines will be issued to non-compliant shops, and confiscated fireworks will be handed over to the SAPS Explosives unit for disposal.

Marine Flares
Setting off marine rocket flares for fun is hugely dangerous and irresponsible. NSRI is compelled to log and investigate every incident in case it is a real emergency, which, of course, takes up their time and valuable resources and, more seriously, could detract from genuine flare sightings. It is also hugely dangerous for those setting off the flares, which, as they are quite costly, we suspect are also probably out of date. Marine guidance notes explain that all old flares need to be disposed of correctly.
Rocket flares degrade with time, and there have been cases where the rocket propellant separates from the parachute, and you are left with an uncontrolled flare, which then comes back down and hits the person who has fired it off.

Enforcement
George Municipality will firmly enforce the applicable by-laws, and Law Enforcement officials will be deployed at various areas and beaches throughout the season to attend to fireworks complaints.

Pets and fireworks
This will hopefully assist in reducing the noise levels and allow people (and their pets) to plan for “noisy” periods, thus allowing for a quieter, safer environment for all concerned. For some pets, especially dogs and cats with particularly noise-sensitive ears, the sound of fireworks can cause intense fear responses. Some pets will go to extremes to hide, others get startled and run away, and general anxiety caused by unexpected loud sounds can have long-lasting effects on animals.

Other impacts of fireworks- did you know?
Bees become so disorientated that they don’t go back to their hives.
Birds have panic attacks at night, causing mass deaths.
Fish and other animals perish after ingesting fireworks debris.
Companion animals have anxiety and panic attacks.

Fireworks can also trigger post-traumatic stress Disorder in people.
Please report the illegal setting off of fireworks to 044 801 6350 or after hours at 044 801 6300.
Please report the illegal trade in fireworks to 044 801 6350 or after hours at 044 801 6300.

FIRE EMERGENCIES: 044 801 6311
TOLL FREE DISASTER NUMBER: 087 152 9999

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GEEN VUURWERKE WORD IN GEORGE EN OMGEWING TOEGELAAT NIE

George Munisipaliteit herinner die publiek daaraan dat weens die hoë brandrisiko, die afvuur, en besit van vuurwerke, klappers, fakkels, papierlanterns en ander sulke toebehore in die George munisipale gebied nie toegelaat word nie.

Streng vuurwerkwetgewing
George het streng vuurwerkwetgewing en volgens die Verordening op Gemeenskapsveiligheid, Artikel 58 (13) mag geen persoon vuurwerke buite ‘n aangewese Vuurwerkgebied afvuur nie. Daar is geen vuurwerkgebied in George beskikbaar gestel nie en sou iemand gevang word wat ‘n vuurwerk, ‘n fakkel of ‘n Chinese lantern aansteek, is ‘n onmiddellike boete van R1000 van toepassing asook ‘n moontlike klag van brandstigting.

Beslagleggingskennisgewings
Wetstoepassingsdienste sal saam met ander rolspelers met die nakomingsveldtog begin deur deurlopende inspeksies by winkels in alle gebiede te doen. Beslagleggingskennisgewings en boetes sal uitgereik word aan winkels wat nie aan die vereistes voldoen nie en gekonfiskeerde vuurwerke sal aan die SAPD se plofstofeenheid oorhandig word vir vernietiging.

Mariene vuurpylfakkels
Dit is uiters gevaarlik en onverantwoordelik om mariene vuurpylfakkels vir die pret te laat afgaan. NSRI is verplig om elke voorval aan te teken en te ondersoek ingeval dit ‘n werklike noodgeval is, wat natuurlik hul tyd en waardevolle hulpbronne in beslag neem en nog ernstiger, afbreuk kan doen aan werklike fakkelwaarnemings. Dit is ook uiters gevaarlik vir diegene wat die fakkels afvuur aangesien dit redelik duur is en waarskynlik verouderd. Luidens Mariene handleidingnotas moet alle ou fakkels korrek vernietig word. Vuurpylfakkels versleg mettertyd en daar was al gevalle waar die vuurpyldryfmiddel van die valskerm skei en jy sit met ‘n onbeheerde fakkel wat dan terugkom en die persoon wat dit afgevuur het, tref.

Handhawing
George Munisipaliteit sal die toepaslike verordeninge streng toepas en Wetstoepassingsbeamptes sal deur die seisoen by verskeie gebiede en strande ontplooi word om aandag te gee aan vuurwerkklagtes.

Troeteldiere en vuurwerke
Hierdie sal hopelik help om die geraasvlakke te verminder en mense (en hul troeteldiere) in staat stel om te beplan vir “geraas” periodes en sodoende ‘n stiller, veiliger omgewing vir alle betrokkenes, moontlik te maak. Vir sommige troeteldiere, veral honde en katte met besonder geraas-sensitiewe ore, kan die geluid van vuurwerke intense vreesreaksies veroorsaak. Sommige troeteldiere gaan tot uiterstes om weg te kruip, ander skrik en hardloop weg, en algemene angs wat deur onverwagte harde geluide veroorsaak word, kan langdurige uitwerking op diere hê.

Ander impakte van vuurwerke – het jy geweet?
Bye raak so gedisoriënteerd dat hulle nie teruggaan na hul korwe nie.
Voëls ondergaan paniekaanvalle in die nag wat massa-vrektes veroorsaak.
Visse en ander diere vergaan nadat hulle vuurwerkrommel ingeneem het.
Geselskapsdiere het angs- en paniekaanvalle.
Vuurwerke kan ook posttraumatiese stresversteuring by mense veroorsaak.
Rapporteer asseblief die onwettige afvuur van vuurwerke by 044 801 6350 of na-ure by 044 801 6300.
Meld asseblief die onwettige handel in vuurwerke by 044 801 6350 of na-ure by 044 801 6300 aan.

BRANDNOODGEVALLE: 044 801 6311
TOLVRYE RAMPNOMMER: 087 152 9999