NSRI – STATION 23, Wilderness
NSRI – Pacaltsdorp – Wednesday, 24 June. A man is missing:
Jonathan Britton, NSRI Wilderness station commander, said:
At 12h49, Tuesday, 23 June, NSRI Wilderness duty crew were activated following reports of a drowning in progress along the shoreline, near Pacaltsdorp, between Victoria Bay and Herolds Bay.
NSRI Wilderness rescue swimmers responded directly to the scene while NSRI crew responded to Herolds Bay where the NSRI rescue craft V’s Rescuer was launched.
The SA Police Services, George Fire and Rescue Services, ER24 ambulance services and WC Government Health EMS rescue squad responded.
On arrival on the scene a search commenced for a 20 year old male, from George.
It appears that a group of young men, friends, 2 of them are cousins, were fishing (angling) along the shoreline when the young man was reportedly swept off rocks by waves. One of them had run to a local nearby resort where residents at the resort raised the alarm.
A George Fire and Rescue Services JetRIB rescue craft joined the NSRI rescue craft in a sea search while an EMS rescue squad drone unit conducted an aerial search.
Police (WPDS) Water Policing and Diving Services were activated and joined in the search.
Despite an extensive sea, air and shoreline search there remains no signs of the missing man.
Police have opened an investigation.
Police divers (WPDS) are continuing in ongoing search efforts.
Thoughts and care are with family and friends of the missing man in this difficult time.
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:
In the wake of three successive weather-related incidents that have affected George over the past month, George Municipality has enhanced public access to emergency services by introducing a dedicated toll-free emergency number, available 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
The new toll-free emergency number is 0800 424 477 and replaces the previous emergency number, 087 152 999.
In addition, the George Fire Services contact number, which was previously shared with other emergency services, is now dedicated exclusively to fire emergencies.
Given the impact of recent weather-related events on outlying areas, the Municipality has strengthened emergency communication channels for Uniondale and Haarlem with dedicated Fire Services and emergency reporting numbers.
These developments demonstrate the Municipality’s commitment to improving access to information, strengthening emergency communication, and enhancing rapid response and service delivery.
EMERGENCY CONTACT NUMBERS GEORGE
Toll-Free Disaster Management (24/07) 0800 424 477
Fire Emergencies (24/7) 044 801 6311
After Hours 044 801 6300
UNIONDALE & HAARLEM
Uniondale/Haarlem Emergency Only 044 801 9189
Uniondale/Haarlem Fire Service (07:45-16:30) 044 752 1225
Uniondale/Haarlem After Hours 044 801 6300
Residents are encouraged to save these numbers and share them with family members, neighbours, community groups, and businesses.
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!
Planned construction activities for the UPGRADING OF SCHAAPKOP SEWAGE PUMPSTATION, initially scheduled to take place on weekdays between 07:00 and 17:00, have now been extended to the weekend of 6 and 7 June 2026.
Construction activities will take place on Saturday, 6 June and Sunday, 7 June 2026 between 07:30 and 13:00 at the pump station.
SERVICE DISRUPTION:
Minor operational interruptions can be expected during the construction works. Advance notifications of planned temporary disruptions and the effects thereof will be issued via social media.
TRAFFIC IMPACT:
Residents, road users, and pedestrians are advised to exercise caution during the construction period. Please adhere to flag persons, temporary construction works and road signage.
ACCESS TO SITE:
Access to the construction site will be strictly controlled. In accordance with the Occupational Health and Safety Act, no members of the public will be allowed in the construction area.
The George Municipality apologises for any inconvenience and appeals to the public to be patient and exercise caution throughout the construction period. Thank you for your understanding and cooperation.
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.
George Municipality warns residents, account holders, and job seekers to remain vigilant against scammers impersonating municipal officials.
Residents are currently receiving fraudulent SMS messages stating that their municipal account is in arrears and that they have 14 days to make payment to avoid disconnection. These messages provide a so-called “Fake Account Number” or alternative reference number and instruct residents to make payment into private or unknown bank accounts.
George Municipality does not send SMS messages with alternative or “Fake Account Numbers” for payment, does not demand payment via SMS, WhatsApp or phone, and does not disconnect electricity meters or water supply for accounts in arrears.
Residents should also remain aware that other scam tactics continue to circulate. These fraudsters:
* Claim to be “Heads of Disconnections” or Finance officials.
* Threaten immediate electricity or water disconnections unless instant payments are made.
* Contact residents via SMS, WhatsApp or phone, instructing payments into private accounts.
* Demand money for EPWP or other job opportunities, including job interviews.
Important to note:
* The Municipality never demands instant payment via WhatsApp, SMS or phone.
* The Municipality will 𝗡𝗘𝗩𝗘𝗥 request payments via e-wallet or any informal payment method.
* The Municipality does not send SMS messages with alternative or “Fake Account Numbers” for payment.
* The Municipality does not charge money for job interviews or employment.
* Officials will not visit your property to block/unblock prepaid meters or collect payments.
* Bank account details for the Municipality are reflected on your official municipal statement. No other bank details are valid for George Municipality.
* If you receive any suspicious calls, SMS messages, or requests for payment or personal information related to municipal accounts, please report the matter immediately to the South African Police Service (SAPS) and/or via the Municipal Fraud Hotline 0860 044 044.
For Assistance, please contact:
Account access or billing (Monday to Friday, 07:45 – 16:30)
044 801 9111 or accounts@george.gov.za (please quote your municipal account number).
Human Resources: 044 801 9367 | recruitment@george.gov.za
Stay alert. Verify before you pay. Report suspicious activity immediately! George Municipality – Working together to protect our community.
Issued by George Municipality, 12 May 2026 @ 13:40
George Municipality acknowledges the frustration and inconvenience experienced by residents and businesses affected by the ongoing weather-related power outages across various parts of George.
The Municipality would like to assure the public that all available electrical teams are actively attending to faults and working continuously to restore the electricity supply as safely and as quickly as possible.
The Municipal Electrotechnical Services Department has identified all problematic high-voltage and medium-voltage circuits, and teams are currently attending to these faults. As the high- and medium-voltage faults are repaired, the associated low-voltage circuits are also being restored.
All available teams are deployed on-site and are actively reinstating affected circuits. The damage to the electricity network is widespread, and it is currently not possible to provide accurate estimated times of restoration (ETRs).
It is important to note that, unlike isolated or sporadic outages experienced under normal circumstances, the current outages have been caused by multiple faults occurring simultaneously across the network due to severe weather conditions.
The strong gusting winds have resulted in a range of infrastructure-related faults, including:
• Vegetation and trees falling onto power lines
• Broken poles and overhead lines
• Loose and damaged poles
• Lines lying on the ground
• Single-phase faults
• Faults linked to the damaged Glenwood substation
In several affected areas, damaged poles must be replaced before power can be restored. In many instances, dense vegetation must first be cleared to allow teams safe access to damaged infrastructure to carry out necessary repairs and replacements.
Unfortunately, criminal elements are also taking advantage of the situation to steal electricity infrastructure, which is further complicating restoration efforts.
To accelerate restoration efforts, the Electrotechnical Services Department has appointed two additional contractors to assist municipal teams with fault repairs and the reinstatement of electricity supply.
Residents are encouraged to report any additional electricity-related challenges or faults not already listed or reported to the Municipality.
The Municipality appeals to residents to remain patient and to continue reporting power outages and hazardous electrical infrastructure, such as live cables, via the following channels:
• WhatsApp: 067 553 1728
• Office Switchboard: 044 801 9222 / 044 803 9222 (07:45 – 16:30)
• Customer Care: 044 801 9202 / 9258
66kV teams on-site working to restore damaged infrastructure
The George Municipality reminds all residents to follow responsible waste practices to help maintain clean and safe neighbourhoods.
Refuse must only be placed outside on the morning of the scheduled collection day (by 07:00) and not the night before. Early placement of refuse contributes significantly to bags being torn open, litter being spread in public spaces, and increased activity by waste pickers.
The Municipality is aware of increased complaints regarding waste pickers in residential areas, including the tearing open of refuse bags, littering, and incidents of intimidation or confrontation. Such behaviour is unacceptable and raises legitimate public health and safety concerns. At the same time, the matter requires a balanced, lawful, and sustainable response.
Law enforcement continues to support waste management efforts through ongoing high-visibility patrols in identified areas, with dedicated shifts deployed from the early hours. However, resource constraints require teams to balance responses to service complaints with proactive patrols addressing bin rummaging and related issues.
The Municipality continues to promote recycling and waste minimisation initiatives and encourages residents to separate waste at source and make use of available services.
The George Municipality remains committed to improving waste management services and working with communities to find practical, locally appropriate solutions.
Enquiries and Reporting:
Refuse Removal and Solid Waste: 044 802 2900 / 044 802 2911
Law Enforcement: 044 801 6350 / 044 801 6389
The George Municipality wishes to inform the public about the upcoming refurbishment of the Transfer Station. Construction is expected to begin at the end of March or the beginning of April 2026.
To prepare for the refurbishment and ensure the safety of both staff and residents, the municipality will implement temporary changes to the disposal of domestic waste during the construction period.
Residents are requested to take note of the following important information:
Project Start:
Refurbishment works are scheduled to commence at the end of March and or the beginning of April 2026.
Waste Diversion:
All domestic waste will temporarily be disposed of at an alternative area within the same vicinity of the Transfer Station.
Traffic Advisory:
Due to the high volume of domestic waste being diverted to the alternative site, residents should expect possible traffic congestion near the facility.
Safety & Vigilance:
Residents are urged to exercise extreme caution and remain vigilant when navigating the temporary disposal area to ensure the safety of staff and other users.
Call for Patience:
The municipality kindly requests the public’s patience and cooperation during this period. These upgrades are essential to improve the long-term reliability and efficiency of our waste management system.
For enquiries, please contact the Projects, Solid Waste & Shared Services Office’s Nombuyiselo Majola at 044 803 9297 ext. 1860
It is with great sadness that George Municipality has learnt of the passing of Mr. Milton Nobakada, who served in the Corporate Services Directorate, Building Maintenance Section, as a handyman. Mr. Nobakada passed away on Friday, 13 March 2026, at the age of 52.
Mr. Nobakada dedicated 21 years of service to George Municipality, working within the Facilities Maintenance Division. Over more than two decades, he played a vital role in maintaining municipal buildings, contributing significantly to ensuring safe and well-maintained facilities.
His commitment, reliability, and warm presence left a lasting impression on his colleagues and the broader George community.
On behalf of George Municipality, Acting Municipal Manager, Mr Bevan Ellman, extended heartfelt condolences: “We are deeply saddened by the loss of Mr Nobakade. His dedication and contribution will forever remain in our hearts. Our deepest sympathy and prayers are with his family and friends during this difficult time.”
Funeral arrangements will be communicated once confirmed by the family.
In the photo: Cllr Donovan Gultig is next to a water-saving tap fitted with an aerator that can reduce water use by up to 50% or more
As South Africa observes National Water Week 2026 from 16 to 20 March, George Municipality highlights its ongoing commitment to intensifying water-saving interventions as the city remains under pressure due to prolonged below-average rainfall and ongoing drought conditions.
In recent weeks, the Civil Engineering Services Directorate has installed aerators on more than 50 bathroom taps across municipal offices as part of the Municipality’s Internal Water Savings Campaign. Additional flow restrictors are planned for installation in other municipal buildings.
Departments assisting with the installation of aerators in their respective facilities include the Fire Services Department, Community Services, Electrotechnical Services, Community Safety, and Mobility.
The devices reduce water flow to between 0.6 litres and 3 litres per minute, significantly lowering water consumption at each tap. Officials and visitors are requested not to tamper with the devices, as they form part of the Municipality’s broader water conservation efforts.
The MMC for Civil Engineering Services, Cllr Donovan Gultig, said: “This is one of the many practical steps the Municipality is taking to reduce internal water consumption. These flow restrictors can reduce water use at taps by up to 50% or more. Every drop truly counts.”
“We encourage businesses, institutions, and households across the George municipal area to implement similar water-saving measures wherever possible,” MMC Gultig added.
Weekly Water Statistics (as of Monday, 16 March 2026)
• Garden Route Dam: 55,89%
• Current daily demand: 38.7 ML (target: 36 ML per day)
• Rainfall recorded this week: 0 mm
• Estimated water supply remaining approximately 22 weeks, subject to rainfall patterns and consumption trends
• Haarlem Dam: 20,21%
• Rainfall recorded this week: 0 mm
Executive Mayor Browen Johnson emphasised the importance of water conservation during National Water Week. “National Water Week reminds us that water is a precious and limited resource. While George continues to experience water shortages, it is encouraging to see how residents, businesses, and visitors have responded to our call to save water. I would like to sincerely thank our community and local businesses for the meaningful role they have played in helping us reduce water consumption and protect our supply.
He further emphasised that sustained improvement is still required: “Although we welcome occasional improvements in dam levels, the situation remains fragile. We must maintain disciplined water use to protect our remaining supply. I urge every resident, business and institution to continue complying with Level 2D Water Demand Management Measures. Responsible water use today safeguards our community tomorrow.”
Level 2D Water Demand Management Measures and Level 3 Emergency Water Tariffs remain in place.
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