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.
