The George Municipality’s Disaster Management would like to remind the public that flying drones in the George Municipality area is strictly prohibited, and permission from the George Municipality is required. Law enforcement agencies will decisively deal with those who fly drones illegally.
Under civil aviation law, George Airport has a 10km radius of a “NO FLY ZONE,” and recreational drone flying is prohibited.
Please note that even though Professional Drone operators have a “Pilot” license, they must have permission from the Civil Aviation Authority to fly within the 10 km range and permission from the local authority and landowner to fly outside the no-fly zone.
Mlungiseleli Henry-Stone Ciko is deeply committed to educating communities
The George Municipality has launched a public education campaign to improve emergency access in informal areas, particularly those with limited access to emergency services for fire response, police assistance, and medical assistance. This campaign is led by Mlungiseleli Henry-Stone Ciko, a Platoon Commander who joined the George Municipality in December 2023.
“As we respond to emergencies, especially in informal settlements like Thembalethu’s Gushindoda, New Valley, and Botswana, it has become evident that some areas are inaccessible. Many shacks are built on land that could serve as pathways or driveways, which blocks access for emergency vehicles,” Ciko explained.
The campaign began in September with a well-attended meeting that combined residents from New Valley and Botswana. Attendees included community members, councillors, ward committee members, and other key stakeholders. During the session, informational pamphlets on fire safety were distributed, and discussions were held on creating pathways for emergency services.
“We covered several critical points in our discussion, including sharing emergency contact numbers, explaining the importance of quick access for fire and medical services, and addressing illegal electrical connections that obstruct access and pose fire risks,” said Ciko. “We also spoke to children about fire prevention measures, like safely storing paraffin, handling gas stoves, and candle safety.”
The campaign’s focus on accessibility involves asking residents to commit to adjusting yard sizes and relocating structures that block pathways. Feedback from the initial meetings has been positive, with residents expressing willingness to make adjustments.
In the upcoming follow-up meetings, Ciko hopes to see progress. “As much as they want the Council to support them, we need their commitment to clearing pathways and reducing obstacles. This cooperative effort can significantly improve our ability to respond effectively in emergencies.”
Mlungiseleli Henry-Stone Ciko
With 30 years of experience in emergency response and fire safety, Ciko is deeply committed to educating communities to help minimise the impact of emergency incidents. His career began as a learner firefighter in 1994 with the Uitenhage Municipality, now the Nelson Mandela Metropolitan Municipality and he has since held roles such as Station Commander and Acting Divisional Commander.
He joined George Municipality in 2023, focusing on public education, mountain rescue, and firefighting in local communities. Ciko’s contributions have earned him the 2009 Centrum Guardians Project Award for heroism in South Africa’s emergency services, and he holds multiple certifications in firefighting, hazmat operations, and fire safety instruction.
Informational pamphlets on fire safety were distributedEducation Campaign on Emergency Access in Informal Settlements
In the photo from left to right: Jeandre Bernardo (Firefighter), Joseph Fortuin (Firefighter), Nico Russouw (Firefighter), Neels Barnard (Chief Fire Officer and Disaster Management), Kenny Jhonson (Junior Firefighter), Machiel Troskie (Platoon Commander) and Reagan van Beulen (Junior Firefighter).
The George Fire Services proudly participated in the inaugural Fire Expo, hosted by the Wilderness Fire Forum in collaboration with the Wilderness Ratepayers and Residents Association. Held at the Wilderness Village Green on Saturday, 26 October 2024, this first-of-its-kind event in the Garden Route highlighted essential fire safety awareness and preparedness in the Greater Wilderness and Garden Route area.
The Expo featured displays and exhibitions by the George Fire Department, which engaged the community with hands-on demonstrations, fun activities, and an impressive showcase of firefighting equipment. Among the event highlights were a display of fire engines, a helicopter flyover, and an exhilarating water drop demonstration, creating a memorable and educational experience for all attendees.
George Municipality’s Chief Fire Officer and Disaster Management, Neels Barnard, praised his team for their active participation in the Fire Expo. “This community-centred event reflects the Municipality’s commitment to enhancing fire safety awareness and fostering a resilient, fire-prepared region. I commend our team for their remarkable efforts and engaging display at the event,” Barnard said.
George displays fire engines and a helicopter at the Fire Expo.Demonstration – George fire engines and its water fire engines.
Restaurants, bars, and cafés are invited to gear up for a summer of al fresco dining. George Municipality is offering free ‘pavement permits’ to hospitality businesses, providing restaurants with additional floor space to place their tables.
Businesses can apply free of charge for a licence to seat customers outside from 13 December 2024 to 17 January 2025. The municipality aims to boost the hospitality industry by taking advantage of the warmer weather and supporting business recovery by creating a festive atmosphere in the city while offering greater patron capacities.
“We hope to see hospitality businesses take us up on this offer to create a vibrant summer atmosphere through December and January. It’s an opportunity to develop fun, innovative outdoor spaces to maximise peak influxes,” says Delia Power, Acting Director of Human Settlements, Planning and Development.
The available space on the pavement and other factors are considered when deciding applications. Establishments must adhere to all trading and land use approvals. Applications will be accepted until 15 November 2024.
For submission of applications and enquiries, please contact Luvo Bomvana Manager: Economic Development via email: Lbomvana@george.gov.za
The George Municipality and Henque Waste handed over trollies to waste pickers during the launch
The George Municipality, in collaboration with Henque Waste, EWASA, Polyco, and the Department of Environmental Affairs, officially launched the Waste Picker Integration Programme on 17 October 2024. This initiative aims to formalise the role of waste pickers in George by transitioning them from informal waste collection to a structured and sustainable programme. To mark this milestone in South Africa’s waste industry, the Municipality and Henque Waste handed over fifteen trollies to waste pickers during the launch.
The MMC for Community Services, Cllr Marchel Kleynhans, expressed his excitement about the progress being made. “I’m thrilled to see the improvement in waste collection services through the formalisation of waste pickers,” he said. “This initiative will significantly benefit the public by boosting recycling rates, providing financial gains for waste pickers, and promoting public health, safety, and environmental sustainability.”
Waste pickers, also referred to as reclaimers, earn their living by collecting recyclable materials from waste and selling them into the recycling value chain. They also salvage reusable items for personal use or resale, contributing to the circular economy.
For generations, informal waste pickers have been crucial to South Africa’s waste management efforts. These individuals, locally known as reclaimers or “bag scratchers,” collect, sort, and sell recyclables, removing tonnes of waste from urban streets and diverting it from municipal landfills.
Douw Bezuidenhout of Henque Waste highlighted the impact of waste pickers, stating, “We purchase nearly 82 tonnes of recyclables monthly from waste pickers. The war on waste is larger than any of us can imagine, but together, we are stronger, and we can work towards a cleaner, more sustainable future.”
The municipality invites all waste pickers who are interested in joining the programme to register on the official database. To register, please visit the George Municipality’s Community Services at 82 Meade Street and contact Yolanda Malithe programme’s registration coordinator at 044 802 2900.
Local Reclaimers – Informal waste pickers have been crucial to waste management
George Municipality is pleased to announce the appointment of Bevan Ellman as the new Director for Corporate Services, effective 12 October 2024. Bevan brings over twenty years of experience in local government, with fifteen years in senior and middle management roles.
Bevan’s journey in local government began with a strong foundation in Human Resources Management, Administration, Records and Support/Secretariate Services, Legal, Contract and Compliance Services, Property, Facilities and Municipal Buildings, Security, Customer Care, Information Communication Technology, Public Participation, Performance Management, Risk Management, Committee Services, and Council/Political Office Bearers Support. His comprehensive background aligns perfectly with the key performance areas of his new role.
Holding a postgraduate honours degree in Public Administration (NQF 8), Bevan has consistently demonstrated his ability to develop, optimise, and implement policies, procedures, and systems that enhance organisational efficiency and ensure compliance with legislative requirements. His previous roles as Director of Corporate Services at Knysna and Corporate Service Manager at Hessequa Municipality have equipped him with the skills to handle complex issues and deliver results in high-pressure environments.
Bevan’s vision for George Municipality is to contribute positively to the growth of the institution’s human capital. “As an institution of excellence, my vision for George Municipality is to embed a culture of high productivity, service delivery, good governance, and institutional efficiency.
“I look forward to being a part of the transformation of George Municipality and enhancing the human capital to reach its full potential for the benefit of individual growth and development, but more importantly, for the communities we serve,” Bevan concluded.
Please use the following email addresses for all communication with the Finance Directorate about meter readings, payments, and enquiries:
• Meter Readings: Send to meterreadings@george.gov.za. Include a photo of your meter, the reading date, and your GRG account number. • Proof of Payments: Send to payments@george.gov.za. Attach a clear bank proof of payment and your GRG account number or reference number. • Account-Related Enquiries: Send to accounts@george.gov.za. Ensure you include your GRG account number with any enquiry. • General Enquiries (non-account related): Send to gmun@george.gov.za.
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OPENBARE Kennisgewing: Korrekte e-posadresse vir finansiesverwante sake
Gebruik asseblief die volgende e-posadresse vir alle kommunikasie met die Direktoraat Finansies oor meterlesings, betalings en navrae:
• Meterlesings: Stuur na meterreadings@george.gov.za. Sluit ‘n foto van u meter, die lesing datum en u GRG-rekeningnommer in. • Bewys van betalings: Stuur na payments@george.gov.za. Heg ’n duidelike bankbewys van betaling en u GRG-rekeningnommer of verwysingsnommer aan. • Rekeningverwante navrae: Stuur na accounts@george.gov.za. Maak seker dat u GRG-rekeningnommer ingesluit is by enige navrae. • Algemene navrae (nie-rekeningverwant): Stuur na gmun@george.gov.za.
Issued by George Municipality, 19 October 2024 @22:54
The operational team is currently attending to a faulty valve on the water network at the intersection of Fiskaal and Makou Streets, Conville. As a result, portions of Conville and Maraiskamp will experience an unplanned water shutdown during the repairs.
The estimated time for repair is 3 hours.
We apologise for the inconvenience and appreciate your patience.
Issued by George Municipality, 19 October 2024 @08:50
A pipe burst has occurred at 34 Maitland Street in Blanco. To assist affected residents, a standpipe has been installed at the intersection of Maitland and Factory Street. The estimated time for repair is 3 to 4 hours. We apologise for the inconvenience and appreciate your patience.
Issued by George Municipality, 18 October 2024 @20:25
An unplanned power outage has occurred in Edameni, Thembalethu. The affected areas include illegal connections that must be removed before power can be restored.
Due to safety concerns, repairs will continue during daylight hours. This means the areas currently without power will remain off throughout the night. Work will resume tomorrow during daylight.
We apologise for the inconvenience and appreciate your understanding.
George Municipality is spearheading the multi-million-rand upgrade of the Rosemoor Stadium, a key multi-code sports facility located in the heart of the community and will turn it into a world-class venue.
The new tartan athletic track will not only meet international standards but also ensure that the times and achievements of athletes are officially recognised. This upgrade is expected to enhance the overall sports infrastructure in the region, fostering greater participation and development in athletics.
The aim is to host various athletic events and serve as a central hub for local sports clubs and schools. The cost of the total upgrade is calculated to be R40,590,000.00. Construction on the site commenced in May 2024 and the planned completion of specifically the tartan track is January 2025.
Upon completion, the upgraded Rosemoor Stadium will be equipped with a state-of-the-art athletic track and facilities which will enable the stadium to host regional, national, and potentially international events, boosting the local economy and promoting sports tourism.
George Municipality encourages events to take place in the destination provided they are covered under the legal framework. It is important that any events planned for the upcoming Festive Season that runs from 1 December 2024 – 30 January 2025, that require municipal approval as per the details below, must be applied for a minimum of thirty (30) days prior to the event taking place; and the final deadline for submission of Event Applications for this season is 15 November 2024. Click here for GM Event Application Form
POPULATION CERTIFICATE
Please note that any event with more than 200 people attending, must apply for a Population Certificate, which is obtained from the Fire Department. There is a fee applicable and a number of requirements which must be attended to well in advance.
This includes but is not limited to:
• Fire Department Population Certificate application forms and proof of payment
• All Events require SAPS Risk Categorization
• 1000 people or more Department of Health Western Cape medical approval
• Engineering Certificates of Compliance (COCs) for relevant structures involved – for example, tents and stages
• Electrical Certificates of Compliance for any electrical boards and generators
• Public Liability Insurance
• Medical service provider’s registrations
• Security service provider’s registrations
• Appointment letter for Safety Officer
• Permission letter from property owner
Events Safety Management Plan that addresses the following:
Contact details of role-players, emergency services and authorities
• Traffic Plan
• Parking Plan
• Public address system and backup system
• Catering setup/use
• Electricity setup/certificate of compliance for any temporary DV boards
• Waste Removal Plan
• Medical Plan
• Evacuation Plan / Emergency Procedures
• Security Plan
• Site Plan/Sketch
Any other documentation the Fire Department deems necessary to complete the application process.
For sporting events, the federation sanction of a game may be required.
OTHER COMPLIANCES
Please note that the land use of your venue must be compliant and certain events with higher risk categorisations will require a Joint Operations Command (JOC).
Please complete this CHECKLIST to determine if a land use application is required in terms of the Land Use Planning By-law for George Municipality (2023). If a property may as a primary right host an event, then no land use application is required (on all properties other than residential – refer to Addendum A).
HEALTH INSPECTIONS
Most events which have food vendors will have inspections by the Garden Route District Municipality Health Inspector.
Issued on behalf of WRRA in Collaboration with George Fire Services
The Wilderness Fire Forum, in conjunction with the Wilderness Ratepayers and Residents Association, will be hosting a Fire safety and awareness expo on Saturday, 26 October 2024 from 9.00 to 14.00 at the Wilderness Village Green. This will be the first of its kind in the Garden Route
The main aim is to create and strengthen awareness of and prepare for Fire safety in the Greater Wilderness and Garden Route area. further to be prepared for a potential wildfire disaster
To promote Wilderness as a safe, well-prepared area for residents, visitors and tourists. It also aims to strengthen community involvement and support for local Fire Management Units. To encourage cooperation and improve knowledge of all available emergency services in the area.
The event will feature displays and exhibitions of local Fire departments, Southern Cape Fire Protection Association, SANParks, Cape Nature, Working on Fire, and George Alert (among others) Aso suppliers of fire-fighting equipment and related for household and other firefighting and safety purposes. First aid and firefighting training companies will also be exhibited. Conservancies will supply information on alien and indigenous plants and how that may impact fire safety. Local volunteer services and volunteer Fire Management units. (FMU)
Some surprise fun activities will be prepared by the George Fire Department.
Entry is free:
Raffles and donations will be run in order to procure funds for equipping the Wilderness FMUs. Fire-fighting bakkies which are frequently used are few and far between and some vehicles need to be replaced. Other urgent needs include radios for communication and fire-fighting equipment for each of the FMUs.
Demonstrations of equipment, a display of Fire engines, a helicopter flying past, and a water drop demo will ensure an exciting and educational morning for all.
For further enquiries please contact André Hacquebord, WRRA fire Forum chairperson, at 084 401 3006. Or email hacqbord@iafrica.com
A planned construction of the New Pacaltsdorp (West) 14,5ML Reservoir, & Pump station, initially scheduled to take place on weekdays, will also include tomorrow, Saturday,19 October 2024 between 07:00 and 14:00.
SERVICE DISRUPTION:
Minor operational interruptions can be expected during the construction works. Advance notification of planned temporary disruptions and the effects thereof will be issued via social media.
TRAFFIC IMPACT:
Residents, road users and pedestrians need to exercise caution throughout the construction period. Please adhere to flag persons, temporary construction works and road signage.
ACCESS TO SITE:
Access to the site will be strictly controlled. No member of the public will be allowed access to the construction area, in terms of the Occupational Health and Safety Act.
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.
The George Municipality, Credit Control section will conduct an indigent re-application programme today. Residents of Ward 20, Borcherds area are invited, and officials will be at the Kidstop Hall to tend to any indigent-related queries they may have.
Details for the Outreach are as follows:
Date: 18th October 2024 Time: 09h00 – 11h00 Venue: KidstopHall
We urge all residents to make use of this opportunity as we endeavour to decentralize services, bringing them closer to you.
Deernis Herregistrasie Bewusmakingsprogram van stapel gestuur by Kidstop, Borcherds
Uitgereik deur George Munisipaliteit 18 Oktober 2024
Die George Munisipaliteit, Kredietbeheerafdeling sal vandag ‘n Deernis heraansoekprogram uitvoer. Inwoners van Wyk 20, Borcherds-omgewing word genooi en amptenare sal by die Kidstop-saal wees om na enige hulpbehoewende verwante navrae wat hulle mag hê, te beantwoord. Besonderhede vir die Uitreik soos volg:
Datum: 18 Oktober 2024 Tyd: 09h00 – 11h00 Plek: KidstopHall
Ons doen ‘n beroep op alle inwoners om van hierdie geleentheid gebruik te maak, aangesien ons poog om dienste te desentraliseer en hulle nader aan u te bring.
The George Municipality, in partnership with Henque Waste, EWASA (EPR Waste Association of South Africa), and PETCO, celebrated National Recycling Day on 20 September 2024 in Lawaaikamp. The event attracted about 70 participants, including Small Medium and Micro Enterprises (SMMEs), litter pickers, and potential waste pickers, all of whom were educated about the importance of recycling.
National Recycling Day serves to raise awareness about recycling’s vital role in environmental preservation. By reducing waste and conserving resources such as water used in manufacturing, recycling is essential for sustainable development.
Henque Waste, a municipal recycler, expressed excitement about participating in the event. “It was a phenomenal day that brought the Municipality, service providers, and the community together. We’ve recognised the value in waste, and by working together, we can eradicate illegal dumping, reduce landfilling, and promote environmental conservation,” said Henque Waste. “We are eager to establish partnerships with waste pickers, SMMEs, and businesses committed to fighting waste.”
EWASA echoed these sentiments, emphasizing the need to empower communities to embrace recycling. “We aim to put people at the forefront of waste-related issues, transforming waste from a challenge into an opportunity,” said eWASA. “Through collaboration with George Municipality and other stakeholders, we can build resilient, sustainable societies.”
The George Municipality reaffirmed its commitment to creating opportunities for SMMEs to engage in the circular and green economy through waste management initiatives. The event underscores the municipality’s dedication to advancing recycling efforts and fostering a more sustainable future for all.
George Municipality Celebrates National Recycling Day with Key StakeholdersGeorge Municipality Celebrates National Recycling Day with Key Stakeholders
Businesses are kindly requested to only put Refuse Bags out on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays and only at designated spots, not on the sidewalk.
• All refuse bags must be put out by 7 am on removal day.
• Please don’t put bags out the day or night before removal.
• Refuse bags will be collected on all public holidays, on the usual delivery day, including blue and green bags.
• Please wrap broken glass in newspaper before placing it in bags to prevent injuries to workers.
Additional Collection Application
• Should any business require an additional collection day during the Festive Season, they should please contact ftamboer@george.gov.za, ykibido@george.gov.za or jjacobs@george.gov.za well in advance.
• The additional days required, as well as the estimated number of bins to be collected must be included in the email request.
• The Cleansing Department will confirm the application and provide the relevant tariffs applicable for the additional collection.
George Municipality Environmental Services
82 Meade Street, George. Phone 044 802 2900
Black bag-related enquiries: 044 802 2900
Blue and green bag enquiries: Henque Waste, 064 905 8180 (also WhatsApp) / admin@henquewaste.co.za
On 19 September 2024, the George Municipal Council approved the new revised By-law on liquor trading days and hours within the municipality. These changes specifically focused on taverns operating on Fridays, Saturdays, Sundays, and non-religious public holidays, as well as the off-consumption sales being extended to Sundays.
Prior to the final adoption of the amended By-law, a public participation process was conducted, ensuring the public’s comments were considered. The By-law was officially gazetted on Friday, 4 October 2024, with immediate effect.
Below is the updated amended schedule for liquor trading days and hours for licensed businesses within the George Municipal area:
33.1(b) Retail sale of liquor for consumption on the premises where the liquor is being sold: House taverns
• Monday to Thursday 10:00 to 22:00
• Friday 10:00 to 02:00
• Saturday 10:00 to 02:00
• Sunday and Non-Religious Public Holidays 10:00 to 22:00
Places of entertainment, restaurants, accommodation establishments and hotels (excluding house taverns house taverns)
• Monday to Saturday 10:00 to 02:00
• Sunday and Religious Public 10:00 to 23:00
Holidays (Christmas and Good Friday)
Casino’s 24 hours per day
33.1 (c) Licenced liquor outlets including bottle stores and House Taverns for consumption off the premises, where the liquor is being sold:
• Monday to Saturday 09:00 to 20:00
• Sunday 09:00 to 17:00
The eye test machines (LEUs) at the Driving Licence Testing Centre in Pacaltsdorp are currently offline. These machines capture eye test results, fingerprints, and photographs, and depend on the Driving Licence Card Account and the National Traffic Information System for data processing and uploads related to learner and driver licences.
This is a national issue, and the specific cause remains unclear at this stage. We apologise for any inconvenience, as the situation is beyond the Municipality’s control. We appreciate your understanding and patience as the issue is being resolved.
The eye test machines (LEU’s) at the Driving Licence Testing Centre in Pacaltsdorp are currently offline. The information available at this stage suggests that this is a national issue. As a result, eye test services are temporarily unavailable until the problem is resolved. We apologise for the inconvenience and will keep you informed of any updates.
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