Author: Ntobeko Mangqwengqwe

In the photo: Gee Swart from EDR rescue with role players

Despite unfavourable weather conditions, emergency response teams from across the Garden Route remained committed to strengthening disaster preparedness and inter-agency coordination through a tabletop emergency response exercise hosted at the George Fire Department yesterday.

The exercise brought together various emergency services and response agencies to improve collaboration, strengthen communication, and enhance operational readiness during emergency incidents.

The primary objective of the exercise was to foster cooperation among all role players, ensuring a comprehensive understanding of each discipline’s capabilities, equipment and operational procedures, while promoting a unified approach to emergency response. These exercises play a vital role in preparing emergency personnel to respond effectively to incidents and ultimately improve the service delivered to the community.

Practical exercises such as these provide an opportunity to review emergency procedures, identify areas for improvement, and strengthen coordination between responding agencies in a controlled environment before real-life emergencies occur.

The participating agencies included:
• George Fire Department
• South African Police Service (SAPS) Search and Rescue and Dive Unit
• Emergency Medical Services (EMS) Rescue
• Fire Protection Services (FPS) Special Operations Response Team
• EDR Rescue

The continued commitment and professionalism demonstrated by all participating teams reflect their shared dedication to protecting lives and ensuring the safety of communities throughout the Garden Route, regardless of weather conditions.

In the photo: Stakeholders and exhibitors who participated in the Construction and Property Development Expo pose for a group photograph. The expo brought together representatives from George Municipality, SANParks, the Development Action Group (DAG), national and provincial government departments, regulatory bodies, funding institutions, business support organisations, and industry partners committed to supporting the growth of local SMMEs.

Local construction and property development SMMEs gained direct access to compliance support, funding opportunities, and industry networks through a Construction and Property Development Expo held at the Conville Community Hall on 18 June 2026.

The expo was presented through a partnership among the George Municipality’s Economic Development Division, SANParks, and the Development Action Group (DAG), aimed at strengthening local businesses by improving compliance, expanding access to funding opportunities, and providing industry support services.

According to Luvo Bomvana, Manager for Economic Development at George Municipality, a total of 163 Small, Medium and Micro Enterprises (SMMEs) attended the event, which brought together more than 22 organisations from the public and private sectors. “Participating organisations included the South African Revenue Service (SARS), the Department of Employment and Labour, the National Home Builders Registration Council (NHBRC), the Construction Industry Development Board (CIDB), the Companies and Intellectual Property Commission (CIPC), the Western Cape Department of Economic Development and Tourism, as well as several funding institutions and business support organisations,” said Bomvana.

He added that the expo equipped business owners with practical knowledge on regulatory compliance, procurement opportunities, and financial support mechanisms available within the construction and property development sector. “Private-sector stakeholders also showcased a range of funding products designed to support business growth and sustainability,” he said.

Through a series of panel discussions and presentations, participants gained valuable insights into industry requirements, funding opportunities, and best practices for operating competitively within the sector. The programme also included discussions on small-scale rental housing as an emerging economic opportunity within the George municipal area.

Officials from George Municipality’s Town Planning and Building Control sections highlighted the importance of integrated human settlements and housing planning that promotes sustainable development, economic empowerment, and equitable access to housing opportunities.

SANParks presented its interest-free purchase order funding initiative in partnership with SANLAM and guided suppliers through registration processes, procurement requirements, and available opportunities for qualifying businesses.

The event further created opportunities for direct engagement between SMMEs, government departments, funding institutions, and industry bodies, helping businesses build networks and access support services that can contribute to their long-term growth and success.

The Municipality’s MMC for Planning and Development, Councillor Gert Niehaus, said the initiative forms part of the Municipality’s broader commitment to inclusive economic growth and local enterprise development. “This expo is an important platform that brings together government, the private sector, and local entrepreneurs in a meaningful way,” said Councillor Niehaus.

“By improving access to compliance information, funding opportunities, and procurement systems, we are actively enabling SMMEs to participate in and benefit from the local economy. As a Municipality, we remain committed to creating an environment where small businesses can grow, create jobs, and contribute to sustainable development in George,” he said.

George Municipality remains committed to supporting initiatives that stimulate local economic development, promote entrepreneurship, and create an enabling environment for businesses to thrive.

In the photo: Growing shade, beauty, and resilience—one tree at a time

Following the severe storms and strong winds that recently affected the George municipal area, including George, Uniondale, and Haarlem, hundreds of trees have been lost across public and private spaces.

As residents, businesses, and community organisations begin the recovery process and consider replacing damaged or lost trees, George Municipality is releasing updated lists of recommended tree species suitable for planting in the George, Uniondale, and Haarlem areas.

The recommended tree lists have been compiled to assist property owners in selecting species best suited to local environmental conditions, while promoting the planting of indigenous trees that contribute to biodiversity, ecosystem resilience, and the unique natural character of the region.
The lists will also guide future tree-planting initiatives undertaken by the Municipality’s Parks and Recreation Section and form part of the broader vision contained in the George Tree Master Plan, which is currently being finalised.

Executive Mayor Alderman Browen Johnson said the loss of so many trees during the recent storms serves as a reminder of the important role trees play in our communities. “Trees provide shade, improve air quality, support biodiversity, and enhance the beauty of our towns and neighbourhoods. As we rebuild after the storms, we encourage residents to plant suitable indigenous species that will thrive in our local conditions and contribute to a greener, more resilient future.”

Tips for Successful Tree Planting

George Municipality encourages residents and businesses to consider the following guidelines when selecting and planting trees:
• All trees included on the recommended lists are indigenous to the George region. Residents are encouraged to visit SANBI’s PlantZAfrica website for photographs and additional information on individual species.
• Choose the right tree for the right location by considering soil type, moisture levels, sunlight, wind exposure, and nearby infrastructure such as pipelines, buildings, and roads.
• Prioritise indigenous trees naturally occurring in your area. Trees from other regions may struggle in local conditions or become invasive.
• Prepare the planting hole properly by digging it twice as wide and slightly deeper than the root ball. Mix compost with soil at a ratio of one part compost to three parts soil before backfilling.
• Create a basin around the tree to retain water and apply a 5–10 cm layer of organic mulch to conserve moisture and suppress weeds.
• In windy areas, stake young trees to provide support until they are established.
Consider companion planting with two or three faster-growing indigenous shrubs or small trees to provide shelter and encourage healthy growth of slower-growing species.

Residents are reminded that planting the right tree in the right place not only improves the survival rate of newly planted trees but also reduces future risks to infrastructure and public safety.

The recommended tree lists for George, and for Uniondale, and Haarlem can be downloaded from the George Municipality website:

George Recommended Tree List:
https://www.george.gov.za/george-document/recommended-tree-list-george/

Uniondale and Haarlem Recommended Tree List:
https://www.george.gov.za/george-document/recommended-tree-list-uniondale-and-haarlem/
For further information, residents may contact the Environmental Services Section of George Municipality.

In the photo: Late Ward 7 Councillor, Cllr Vulindlela Solomon Mruqhli (63)

George Municipality mourns the passing of Ward 7 Councillor, Cllr Vulindlela Solomon Mruqhli, who passed away on Saturday, 13 June 2026, at the age of 63 after a short illness.

Councillor Mruqhli joined the George Municipal Council in 2021 as the African National Congress (ANC) Ward Councillor for Ward 7 and served as a member of the Corporate Services and George Integrated Public Transport Network (GIPTN) Portfolio Committees. During his time in office, he remained committed to representing the interests of his community and contributing meaningfully to the work of Council.

Executive Mayor, Ald. Browen Johnson, expressed his condolences on behalf of Council and the municipality. “Today, we remember Cllr Mruqhli not only as a dedicated public servant, but as a sharp-witted leader, a devoted family man, and a wise elder whose counsel was valued by all who had the privilege of working alongside him. His humility, dignity, and unwavering dedication to his community have left an indelible mark on all who knew him,” said Mayor Johnson.

Acting Municipal Manager, Bevan Ellman, said both elected representatives and municipal officials would remember Councillor Mruqhli’s contribution to local government. “Councillor Mruqhli served the people of George with distinction and integrity. His commitment to public service, his institutional knowledge, and his ability to build relationships across communities and within Council earned him the respect of colleagues, officials, and residents alike. His passing is a great loss to the municipality,” said Ellman.

George Municipality extends its heartfelt condolences to the Mruqhli family, friends, fellow councillors, members of the ANC, and the residents of Ward 7 during this difficult time. He is survived by his wife and children. Rest in peace, Tata Mruqhli, Mpinga, Mawawa, Senzwa!

George Municipality has today, announced the lifting of emergency water tariffs and the easing of water restrictions from Level 2D to Level 2B following the significant recovery of dam levels after recent widespread rainfall across the region. Council resolved at a Special Council Meeting held on 22 May 2026 to lift the Level 3 Emergency Water Tariffs with effect from 12 May 2026, and to reduce water restrictions to Level 2B with immediate effect. The decision follows a substantial improvement in storage levels at the Garden Route Dam, which increased from 46,09% to nearly 89% within two weeks after heavy rainfall in the catchment areas. The Haarlem Dam has also fully recovered and is currently at 100%.

Executive Mayor of George, Aldm Browen Johnson, welcomed the relief brought by the recent rains but cautioned residents against returning to wasteful water use habits. “The recent rainfall has brought much-needed relief to our municipality and residents after an extremely challenging drought period. Council’s decision to ease restrictions and lift emergency tariffs provides financial relief to households and businesses, while acknowledging the tremendous efforts made by our community to reduce water consumption, over the past several months,” said Mayor Johnson. “We sincerely thank residents, businesses, institutions, and visitors for their cooperation and responsible water use during restrictions. However, we remain a water-scarce region, and responsible water usage must continue to form part of our daily culture.”

MMC for Civil Engineering Services, Cllr Donovan Gultig, said the municipality would continue to apply a cautious and responsible approach to long-term water security. “While the recent rainfall and improved dam levels are encouraging, the municipality must continue planning responsibly for the future. Climate patterns remain unpredictable and we cannot afford complacency. Residents are thanked for their ongoing cooperation and are encouraged to continue using water responsibly as we work together to protect our available resources,” said Cllr Gultig.

The amended Level 2B water restrictions include the following measures:

• Mechanical or automatic irrigation devices and sprinkler systems for gardens remain prohibited.
• Gardens may only be watered using a handheld hose between prescribed times and on allocated days according to even and uneven-numbered households.
• Igation of sports fields remains prohibited, except for golf course greens, bowling greens, and cricket pitches during permitted hours.
• Washing of vehicles using a hosepipe is prohibited, except by commercial car wash enterprises.
• Cleaning of outdoor surfaces using hosepipes or mechanical means remains prohibited, although buckets may be used.
• Filling of swimming pools remains prohibited.
• Properties making use of borehole or reservoir water must display “OWN WATER” signage.

George Municipality confirmed that dam levels, rainfall trends, and water consumption patterns will continue to be closely monitored in line with the Municipal Drought Management Policy.

Although restrictions have been eased, residents are urged to continue using water sparingly and to avoid unnecessary wastage, particularly as forecasts from the South African Weather Service still indicate the possibility of below-average rainfall during the coming winter months. The municipality cautioned that, should dam levels decline again as a result of prolonged below-average rainfall, stricter water restrictions and emergency water tariffs may need to be reintroduced in accordance with Council-approved policy and tariff structures. Any such changes will be communicated to the public accordingly.

Residents are encouraged to familiarise themselves fully with the amended Level 2B water restrictions available on the municipality’s communication platforms.

Billing Implications
Residents and consumers are advised that the lifting of the Level 3 Emergency Water Tariffs may not result in a substantial reduction in the municipal water charges reflected on the May 2026 accounts. This is due to the fact that a number of meter reading routes had already been closed and processed prior to the effective implementation date of 12 May 2026.

Consequently, portions of the May 2026 billing cycle were still calculated in accordance with the previously approved emergency water tariffs. Consumers are therefore expected to observe a more significant reduction in the water tariffs charged on accounts issued during the June 2026 billing cycle, when the revised tariffs will be fully incorporated across all billing routes.