Author: Ntobeko Mangqwengqwe

In the photo: Tyron Jeyi, GO GEORGE Community Liaison Officer, demonstrates to the Meyer family of Rosemoor how to scan and use the QR code on a GO GEORGE poster.

BLURP: “Innovation is only meaningful when it makes daily travel easier.”

As the year comes to an end, GO GEORGE reflects on another year of growth, service delivery, and community support. Since launching its first four routes on 8 December 2014, the system has grown into a cornerstone of public transport in George. Eleven years later, the service now operates 133 buses across 33 routes, transporting an average of 20 185 passengers every weekday. More than six million passengers were conveyed over the past 12 months.

GO GEORGE Manager, Morné Lakay, expressed heartfelt appreciation to passengers for their loyalty and feedback throughout the year. “We are deeply grateful to every passenger who chooses GO GEORGE daily, and to those who share their experiences with us. Your support and input help us continually improve the service, ensuring that public transport remains a reliable, affordable and accessible option for all,” he said.

Infrastructure upgrades lead the way
Lakay highlighted the extensive infrastructure upgrades as one of the year’s most significant achievements. “Funded by the National Department of Transport’s Public Transport Network Grant, these improvements are reshaping the city’s transport landscape, and have at the same time already created 587 job opportunities through the construction projects,” Lakay noted.

According to Western Cape Mobility Minister Isaac Sileku, GO GEORGE demonstrates how well-planned, integrated public transport can improve daily mobility while supporting local economic growth. “The Western Cape Government remains committed to investing in safe, reliable and innovative transport systems that connect communities to opportunity,” he said.

Smarter travel through innovation
2025 has also seen steady progress in making travel easier and more connected. New digital tools — including a chatbot, the GO GEORGE App, and information screens at busy hubs — are being phased in to give passengers quicker access to service updates and route information. QR codes have already become a familiar sight, linking travellers directly to schedules and notices.

“Introducing these innovations is about more than technology,” said Lakay. “It’s about listening to our passengers and giving them practical tools that make their daily journeys smoother. Innovation is only meaningful when it makes daily travel easier. We appreciate the feedback we’ve received so far, and our team is committed to guiding passengers as they explore these new features with confidence.”

Looking ahead
As GO GEORGE celebrates its 11th anniversary this December, the team remains dedicated to building on the progress of 2025. “We look forward to another year of serving the George community with dignity, reliability and innovation, while expanding our routes to connect even more residents to the places they need to be,” Lakay concluded.

GO GEORGE bedank passasiers ná ’n vol jaar

INVOEGSEL: “Vernuwing is net betekenisvol wanneer dit daaglikse busry makliker maak.”

Met die einde van die jaar voor die deur, besin GO GEORGE oor nog ‘n jaar van groei, dienslewering en gemeenskapsondersteuning. Sedert die bekendstelling van sy eerste vier roetes op 8 Desember 2014 het die stelsel gegroei tot ‘n hoeksteen van openbare vervoer in George. Elf jaar later bedryf die diens nou 133 busse oor 33 roetes en vervoer gemiddeld 20 185 passasiers elke weeksdag. Meer as ses miljoen passasiers is die afgelope 12 maande vervoer.

GO GEORGE-bestuurder, Morné Lakay, het opregte waardering teenoor passasiers uitgespreek vir hul lojaliteit en terugvoer deur die jaar. “Ons is diep dankbaar teenoor elke passasier wat daagliks GO GEORGE kies, en teenoor diegene wat hul ervarings met ons deel. Julle ondersteuning en insette help ons om die diens voortdurend te verbeter, sodat openbare vervoer ‘n betroubare, bekostigbare en toeganklike opsie vir almal bly,” het hy gesê.

Infrastruktuuropgraderings maak impak op verskeie terreine
Lakay het die uitgebreide infrastruktuuropgraderings as een van die jaar se belangrikste prestasies uitgelig. “Befonds deur die nasionale departement van vervoer se openbarevervoertoekenning, hervorm hierdie verbeterings die stad se vervoerlandskap terwyl dit ook reeds 587 werksgeleenthede geskep het deur die konstruksieprojekte,” het Lakay opgemerk.

Volgens die Wes-Kaapse minister van mobiliteit, LUK Isaac Sileku, demonstreer GO GEORGE hoe goed beplande, geïntegreerde openbare vervoer daaglikse mobiliteit kan verbeter terwyl dit plaaslike ekonomiese groei ondersteun. “Die Wes-Kaapse regering bly daartoe verbind om te belê in veilige, betroubare en innoverende vervoerstelsels wat gemeenskappe met geleenthede verbind,” het hy gesê.

Slimmer reis deur vernuwing
2025 was ook die jaar van bestendige vordering om busry makliker te maak en die prosesse beter te verbind. Nuwe digitale hulpmiddels soos ‘n kletsbot, die GO GEORGE-toepassing en inligtingskerms by besige oorklimpunte word ingefaseer om passasiers vinniger toegang tot diensaanpassings en roete-inligting te gee. QR-kodes wat reisigers direk met skedules en kennisgewings koppel, het reeds ‘n bekende gesig geword.

“Die bekendstelling van hierdie nuwighede gaan oor meer as net tegnologie,” het Lakay gesê. “Dit gaan daaroor om na ons passasiers te luister en vir hulle praktiese gereedskap te gee wat hul daaglikse reise gladder laat verloop. Vernuwing is net betekenisvol wanneer dit daaglikse busry makliker maak. Ons waardeer die terugvoer wat ons tot dusver ontvang het, en ons span is daartoe verbind om passasiers te lei terwyl hulle hierdie nuwe tegnologie met selfvertroue verken.”

Die pad vorentoe
Terwyl GO GEORGE hierdie Desember sy elfde bestaansjaar vier, bly die span toegewyd om voort te bou op die vordering van 2025. “Ons sien uit na nog ‘n jaar waarin ons die George-gemeenskap met waardigheid, betroubaarheid en vernuwing kan dien, terwyl ons ons roetes uitbrei om selfs meer inwoners met die plekke te verbind waar hulle moet uitkom,” het Lakay gesê.

ONDERSKRIF:
Tyron Jeyi, GO GEORGE-gemeenskapskakelbeampte, demonstreer aan die Meyer-familie van Rosemoor hoe om die QR-kode op ‘n GO GEORGE-plakkaat te skandeer en te gebruik.

In the photo is the official handover of minibuses: A momentous, historic occasion: Wester Cape Minister of Mobility, Isaac Sileku, and George Executive Mayor Browen Johnson (holding the key) officially handed over the 35 minibuses of the GO GEORGE fleet to the vehicle operating company, George Link. From left: Morné Lakay (GO GEORGE Manager), MEC Ricardo Mackenzie (Western Cape Minister of Cultural Affairs and Sport, former Minister of Mobility), Duggie Cloete (George Link), John Heathcote (George Link Director), Mayor Johnson, Minister Sileku, MEC Tertuis Simmers (Western Cape Minister of Infrastructure), and Gene Jansen, Hannes Wannenburg, John Ndamani and Lionel Fortuin (all George Link Directors).

35 minibuses officially transferred to George Link – a breakthrough in empowerment and transformation

GO GEORGE is celebrating a significant milestone in its transformation journey with the official handover of 35 minibuses to George Link, the Vehicle Operating Company responsible for running the city’s bus service. The ceremony took place on Saturday, 13 December 2025, marking a proud moment for both the municipality and the operator.

George Link, consisting entirely of individuals previously from the minibus taxi industry, has been at the heart of the GO GEORGE service since its inception 11 years ago. The transfer of ownership of the minibus fleet from George Municipality, the Contracting Authority and initial owner, represents a major step towards the empowerment and formalisation objectives set out in the National Land Transport Act (NLTA).

“The handover is more than a transfer of vehicles – it is a transfer of trust and responsibility,” said Morné Lakay, GO GEORGE Manager. “GO GEORGE was built on the principle of accessible, dignified transport, and today we celebrate the empowerment of George Link as custodians of that vision.”

Executive Mayor, Alderman Browen Johnson, emphasised the broader impact: “The people of George can be proud of this milestone. It demonstrates how local government, working hand in hand with communities, can deliver transformation that is both practical and meaningful. The empowerment of George Link is a shining example of what partnership can achieve.”

Western Cape Minister of Mobility, Isaac Sileku, highlighted the provincial significance: “The National Land Transport Act set out ambitious goals for transformation, and today we see those goals realised in George. The handover of the fleet is a first of its kind, and it shows how formalisation and empowerment can reshape public transport for the benefit of all.”

For George Link, the moment is deeply personal. Managing Director John Heathcote reflected: “Many of us come from the minibus taxi industry, and to now stand as owners of the GO GEORGE fleet is proof of what transformation means in practice. We are honoured to continue serving the people of George with pride and professionalism.”

With the 35 minibuses now reaching the end of their service life, George Municipality has initiated the transfer process in accordance with the Municipal Finance Management Act and Municipal Asset Transfer Regulations. This handover is the first phase of a broader process that will conclude with the transfer of the remaining standard- and midibus fleet by 7 December 2026.

GO GEORGE merk historiese vlootoordrag

In die hoof photo: ‘n Belangrike en historiese geleentheid: Wes-Kaapse Minister van Mobiliteit, Isaac Sileku, en George se uitvoerende burgemeester, raadsheer Browen Johnson (wat die sleutel vashou) het amptelik die 35 minibusse van die GO GEORGE-vloot aan die voertuigbedryfsmaatskappy, George Link, oorhandig. Van links: Morné Lakay (GO GEORGE-bestuurder), LUK Ricardo Mackenzie (Wes-Kaapse Minister van Kultuursake en Sport, voormalige Minister van Mobiliteit), Duggie Cloete (George Link), John Heathcote (George Link-direkteur), burgemeester Johnson, minister Sileku, LUK Tertuis Simmers (Wes-Kaapse Minister van Infrastruktuur), en Gene Jansen, Hannes Wannenburg, John Ndamani en Lionel Fortuin (almal George Link-direkteure).

35 minibusse is amptelik aan George Link oorgedra – ‘n deurbraak in bemagtiging en transformasie

GO GEORGE vier ‘n belangrike mylpaal in sy transformasiereis met die amptelike oorhandiging van 35 minibusse aan George Link, die voertuigbedryfsmaatskappy wat verantwoordelik is vir die bestuur van die stad se busdiens. Die seremonie het op Saterdag, 13 Desember 2025 plaasgevind – ‘n trotse oomblik vir beide die munisipaliteit en die operateur.y

George Link, wat geheel en al bestaan uit individue komende uit die minibus-taxibedryf, is sedert die ontstaan daarvan 11 jaar gelede die kern van die GO GEORGE-diens. Die oordrag van eienaarskap van die minibusvloot van George Munisipaliteit, die kontrakterende owerheid en aanvanklike eienaar, verteenwoordig ‘n groot stap na die bemagtigings- en formaliseringsdoelwitte soos uiteengesit in die Nasionale Landvervoerwet.

“Die oordrag is meer as net ‘n oordrag van voertuie – dit is ‘n oordrag van vertroue en verantwoordelikheid,” het Morné Lakay, GO GEORGE-bestuurder, gesê. “GO GEORGE is gebou op die beginsel van toeganklike, waardige vervoer, en vandag vier ons die bemagtiging van George Link as bewaarders van daardie visie.”

Uitvoerende Burgemeester, Raadsheer Browen Johnson, het die breër impak beklemtoon: “Die mense van George kan trots wees op hierdie mylpaal. Dit demonstreer hoe plaaslike regering wat hand aan hand met gemeenskappe werk, transformasie kan lewer wat beide prakties en betekenisvol is. Die bemagtiging van George Link is ‘n skitterende voorbeeld van wat vennootskap kan bereik.”

Wes-Kaapse Minister van Mobiliteit, Isaac Sileku, het die provinsiale betekenis beklemtoon: “Die Nasionale Landvervoerwet het ambisieuse doelwitte vir transformasie uiteengesit, en vandag sien ons daardie doelwitte in George verwesenlik. Die oordrag van die vloot is die eerste van sy soort, en dit wys hoe formalisering en bemagtiging openbare vervoer tot voordeel van almal kan hervorm.”

Vir George Link is die oomblik diep persoonlik. Direkteur John Heathcote het dit so gestel: “Baie van ons kom uit die minibus-taxibedryf, en om nou as eienaars van die GO GEORGE-vloot te staan, is bewys van wat transformasie in die praktyk beteken. Ons voel geëerd om voort te kan gaan om die mense van George met trots en professionaliteit te dien.”

Met die 35 minibusse wat nou die einde van hul dienslewe bereik, het George Munisipaliteit die oordragproses ooreenkomstig die Wet op Munisipale Finansiële Bestuur en Munisipale Bate-Oordragregulasies begin. Hierdie oordrag is die eerste fase van ‘n breër proses wat sal eindig met die oordrag van die oorblywende standaard- en midibusvloot teen 7 Desember 2026.

In the photo: Garden Route Dam’s dropping water levels highlight the urgent need for water conservation across George

The George Council, at a Special Meeting on Thursday, 04 December 2025, approved the implementation of stricter water demand management measures, moving from Level 2B to Level 2C with immediate effect. This follows the continued decline of the Garden Route Dam, now at 49%, with forecasts indicating further rapid decreases as the festive season approaches.

“Despite ongoing appeals and awareness campaigns, water consumption remains high, and non-compliance is increasing, while below-normal rainfall has placed the city’s water supply under significant pressure,” said Councillor Donovan Gultig, MMC for Civil Engineering Services, when tabling the item before Council.

Executive Mayor Browen Johnson said the Municipality can no longer rely on voluntary reductions. “We are entering a critical period. The dam is dropping by up to 2% per week, and seasonal demand will push the system even harder. I urge every resident, business, and visitor to use water sparingly,” Mayor Johnson said.

What Level 2C Water Demand Management Means for Residents and Businesses

Under Level 2C, all Level 2B measures remain in force, with the following additional mandatory reductions and prohibitions:
• Emergency water tariffs remain in effect.
• Households are limited to 15kl per month.
• Businesses and entertainment facilities must reduce consumption by 25% (based on the past six-month average).
• Industries must reduce consumption by 15%.
• Flow-reducing devices may be installed for non-compliance (offenders are liable for the
• installation cost, except for indigent households).
• No hosing of structures, roofs, or paved areas using municipal water.
• No hosepipe use by car wash businesses unless using non-potable or alternative water sources.
• Irrigation of sports fields with potable water is prohibited once the dam levels reach 25%.
• Public swimming pools may not be filled with potable water once the dam levels reach 25%.
• Enhanced public awareness campaigns and intensified monitoring of high-use consumers.
Additional maintenance teams are deployed to fast-track leak repairs.

In terms of Section 5 of the By-law, residents may apply in writing for exemption from specific restrictions. No potable water may be used for construction. Contractors may apply to the Civil Engineering Services Directorate to collect treated effluent from the Gwaiing Wastewater Treatment Works. A raw water supply point at the Wilderness Water Treatment Works (WTW) is planned, and the public will be notified once this has been implemented.

These restrictions currently apply to George only, and not to Uniondale or Haarlem.

Public Participation Process

Together with the Level 2C water restrictions, Emergency Water Tariffs will be implemented at Level 2 as per the Municipal 2025/26 Tariff List. The public is invited to submit comments or objections about the Emergency Water Tariffs within 14 days of the publication of the notice, which will be displayed at the Civic Centre, the Civil Engineering Services Building, and on the municipal website and the George Herald website on Friday, 5 December 2025. Comments must be sent to Ms Gail van Niekerk at gvanniekerk@george.gov.za or delivered handwritten submissions to the Directorate: Civil Engineering Services, Old Town Hall, corner of York and Market Streets, GEORGE, or to the closest area office. The closing date for submissions is Friday, 19 December 2025, at 12:00.

If no objections are received, Level 2 Emergency Water Tariffs will come into effect immediately. Should objections be received, the Executive Mayor has been delegated the authority to consider them during the Council recess and finalise implementation.

Residents are urged to familiarise themselves with the full Level 2C water restrictions and the Level 2 Emergency Water Tariffs and to always use water sparingly. For more information, visit the George Municipality website: www.george.gov.za

In the photo: GO GEORGE bus stops are built close to pedestrian crossings as possible. 

Commuters may be surprised to find traffic officers riding alongside them on GO GEORGE buses this December — but it’s all part of a creative new campaign to keep pedestrians safe during the busy holiday season.

Starting 2 December 2025, GO GEORGE and the Traffic Education Unit of the George Traffic Department will join forces to raise awareness about pedestrian safety, focusing on the thousands of passengers who use the bus service daily. With holidaymakers flocking to George and unfamiliar visitors navigating in-lane bus stops, the risk of jaywalking and unsafe crossings increases significantly.

The campaign responds to the high incidence of pedestrian accidents in South Africa, many linked to ignoring traffic rules. Locally, officials have observed risky behaviour when passengers approach or disembark buses, despite ongoing education efforts. The initiative will highlight the importance of setting a good example for children, who often mirror adult behaviour in traffic situations.

For 10 days in December, three dedicated traffic officials will travel on morning-peak buses, sharing short, practical safety messages with passengers. They will be supported by GO GEORGE’s communication champions, who will reinforce the messages at busy transfer points such as York, Hibernia, Cradock and Market Streets. To add extra energy, the much-loved traffic safety mascot, Danny Cat, will make surprise appearances at transfer locations, delighting children and adults alike.

George Traffic Chief Janine Wells welcomed the collaboration: “We are thrilled to be working hand-in-hand with GO GEORGE on this important initiative. The enthusiasm and smooth cooperation between our teams show how committed we all are to protecting lives. By meeting passengers where they are — on the buses and at busy stops — we can make safety messages practical, memorable, and effective.”

GO GEORGE Manager, Morné Lakay, emphasised the importance of this educational initiative. “We appeal to passengers to ‘lend an ear’ and take note of the information that will be shared in the interest of a safer pedestrian environment around our buses and transfer facilities.”

With a target of reaching 2 000 passengers and pedestrians during the campaign, GO GEORGE and George Traffic Services are determined to make this festive season safer for everyone on the move.

Verkeersbeamptes ry bus om voetgangerveiligheid te bevorder

Pendelaars mag dalk verbaas wees om gedurende Desember verkeersbeamptes saam met hulle op GO GEORGE-busse te sien ry. Dit is egter alles deel van ‘n kreatiewe nuwe veldtog om voetgangers veilig te hou gedurende die besige vakansieseisoen.

Vanaf 2 Desember 2025 gaan GO GEORGE en die Verkeersopvoedingseenheid van die George Verkeersdepartement saamwerk om bewustheid oor voetgangerveiligheid te verhoog, met die fokus op die duisende passasiers wat daagliks die busdiens gebruik. Met vakansiegangers wat na George stroom en onbekende besoekers wat om bushaltes in die rybaan moet ry, neem die risiko van straat oorsteek en onveilige kruisings aansienlik toe.

Die veldtog reageer op die hoë voorkoms van voetgangerongelukke in Suid-Afrika, waarvan baie gekoppel is aan die verontagsaming van verkeersreëls. Plaaslik neem verkeersbeamptes riskante gedrag waar wanneer passasiers busse nader of afklim, ten spyte van voortdurende opvoedingspogings. Hierdie inisiatief sal die belangrikheid beklemtoon om ‘n goeie voorbeeld te stel vir kinders wat dikwels volwasse gedrag in verkeersituasies naboots.

Vir 10 dae in Desember sal drie aangewese verkeersbeamptes tydens oggendspitstyd saamry op busse en kort, praktiese veiligheidsboodskappe met passasiers deel. Hulle sal ondersteun word deur GO GEORGE se passasiersdiensbeamptes wat die boodskappe by besige oorklimpunte in York-, Hibernia-, Cradock- en Markstraat sal versterk. Om ekstra energie by te voeg, sal Daantjie Kat, die geliefde karakter wat kinders meer oor verkeersveiligheid leer, onverwagse draaitjies maak by oorklimpunte om kinders en volwassenes te vermaak.

George-verkeershoof, Janine Wells, het die samewerking verwelkom: “Ons is opgewonde om hand aan hand met GO GEORGE aan hierdie belangrike inisiatief te werk. Die entoesiasme en gladde samewerking tussen ons spanne wys hoe toegewyd ons almal is om lewens te beskerm. Deur passasiers te ontmoet waar hulle is — op die busse en by besige haltes — kan ons veiligheidsboodskappe prakties, onvergeetlik en effektief oordra.”

GO GEORGE-bestuurder, Morné Lakay, het die belangrikheid van hierdie opvoedkundige inisiatief beklemtoon. “Ons doen ‘n beroep op passasiers om aandag te gee en kennis te neem van die inligting wat gedeel sal word in die belang van ‘n veiliger voetgangeromgewing rondom ons busse en oordragfasiliteite.”

Met ‘n doelwit om 2 000 passasiers en voetgangers tydens die veldtog te bereik, is GO GEORGE en die George-verkeersdepartement vasbeslote om hierdie feestyd veiliger te maak vir almal op straat.

In the photo: Reviewing approved building plans on-site.

The George Municipality wishes to address concerns raised in a recent media release issued by the GOOD Party on 20 November 2025, titled “GOOD DEMANDS ANSWERS AS MUNICIPALITY DRAGS ITS FEET ON CRITICAL REVIEW.”

The Municipality rejects the assertion that it has delayed any action relating to the review or adjustment of internal processes. During her tenure, former Portfolio Councillor Kyd was informed that while legislative limitations restrict the extent to which certain processes can be amended, operational improvements had already been implemented to strengthen internal controls. The Councillor was also briefed that the workflow had been reviewed and that no material errors were identified on the Municipality’s side. In addition, she was informed of the legally defined roles and responsibilities of the various agencies involved in oversight during the construction phase.

The Municipality has repeatedly emphasised that, in South Africa, the primary responsibility for any building project rests with the owner. In terms of the National Building Regulations and Building Standards Act, 1977, accountability is shared between the owner and their appointed professionals. Owners must submit approved plans, appoint competent and professionally registered persons, ensure compliance with the National Building Regulations (NBR), and obtain a Certificate of Occupancy before a building may be used.

The Municipality cannot exercise oversight over functions assigned to other organs of state, such as those regulated under the NHBRC and labour legislation. Additionally, the Municipality cannot act beyond the mandate provided by national legislation. When issues arise on construction sites, the Municipality will halt work where necessary and hold the competent persons responsible for rectification within the scope of the NBR.

The Building Control Officer (BCO) performs a regulatory and administrative oversight function on behalf of the Municipality, ensuring compliance with the NBR. The BCO verifies that plans meet legal requirements, conducts inspections, confirms that competent persons have been appointed where rational design oversight is required, and issues occupation certificates only when all legal obligations have been met.

However, the law recognises that municipal officials cannot carry full technical liability for the structural integrity of a development. The construction industry—comprising owners, contractors, engineers, architects, and other professionals—collectively carries responsibility for quality and safety. The BCO cannot act as project manager or site supervisor and must rely on the accuracy and integrity of reports submitted by appointed competent persons.

The legal responsibilities of clients, designers, and contractors are further reinforced through the Construction Regulations, 2014, under the Occupational Health and Safety Act, the regulatory role of the NHBRC, and the mandates of the various Built Environment Professional Councils. Following the tragic incident, the Building Control division has substantially reinforced its building control framework through enhanced oversight, strengthened inspection protocols, improved inter-agency coordination, and increased internal capacity to ensure higher standards of safety and regulatory compliance.

Legislative changes remain the responsibility of the national government. The Department of Trade, Industry and Competition (DTIC) is the custodian of the National Building Regulations and Standards Act (Act 103 of 1977). Municipalities are required to implement national legislation, and local by-laws cannot exceed or alter the constitutional and legislative mandates assigned to municipalities.

The Municipality is exploring the use of Artificial Intelligence to enhance safety oversight and improve regulatory compliance. These tools aim to shorten approval times, improve risk detection, and support more proactive decision-making throughout a building’s lifecycle.

The George incident has underscored the need for continuous improvement across the built environment sector. While the Municipality remains committed to strengthening oversight and capacity, the law is clear that the primary responsibility for safe construction lies with the owner and their appointed professionals.

The Building Control Division remains committed to improving internal controls, enhancing partnerships with industry bodies, and ensuring that buildings in George meet the standards that communities deserve. The Municipality acknowledges public frustration at the slow pace of national legislative reform and shares this concern, as the built environment sector has long called for updates to the National Building Regulations.

In the interim, the Municipality continues to exercise all powers lawfully available to it. Professionals in the construction sector can attest to the increasingly stringent controls applied by the Building Control Division and the efforts to hold appointed professionals accountable in line with industry standards.

In the photo is the Executive Team: (From left to right) Speaker Cllr Sean Snyman, Executive Deputy Mayor Ald Gert van Niekerk, Executive Mayor Cllr Browen Johnson, and Municipal Manager Godfrey Louw.

The George Municipality is pleased to announce that, at a Special Council Meeting held today, 21 November 2025, Council elected Alderman (Ald) Browen Johnson of the Democratic Alliance (DA) as the new Executive Mayor of George. Ald Gert van Niekerk of the Freedom Front Plus (FF Plus) was elected as the new Executive Deputy Mayor, while Ald Jackie von Brandis (DA) will serve as the Chief Whip of Council.

In terms of Section 60(1) of the Local Government: Municipal Structures Act, 117 of 1998 (as amended), the Executive Mayor announced the members of his Mayoral Committee, mandated to assist the Executive Mayor in the executive governance of the Municipality.

The Mayoral Committee (MAYCO) is confirmed as follows:

Executive Leadership
• Executive Mayor: Ald Browen Johnson
• Executive Deputy Mayor: Ald Gert van Niekerk
• Speaker: Councillor (Cllr) Sean Snyman
• Chief Whip of Council: Ald Jackie von Brandis

Members of the Mayoral Committee (MMC):
• Social Development (Libraries, Sport & Customer Care): Cllr Melvin Roelfse
• Community Safety and Mobility: Ald Daniel Cronje
• Planning and Development (Planning, Building Control, Property & Agriculture): Cllr Gert Niehaus
• Human Settlements: Cllr Jean Safers
• Electro-technical Services: Cllr Monique Simmers
• Corporate Services: Cllr Johan Du Toit
• Human Resources: Cllr Jayze Jantjies
• Civil Engineering Services: Cllr Donovan Gultig
• Community Services (Refuse, Environment & Parks): Cllr Erika Brown
• Financial and Strategic Services (IDP, Performance Management, Economic Development & Tourism): Ald Iona Kritzinger

Mayor Johnson said in reaction to his election: “I am deeply honoured to serve as the Executive Mayor of George, and I take up this responsibility with humility and a firm commitment to all our residents. My focus is to govern transparently, deliver real solutions, and work with every councillor and every community to build a just, safe, and prosperous city. Together, we will strengthen service delivery, support our most vulnerable, protect our natural resources, and ensure that every resident feels the impact of responsive and accountable governance.”

Executive Deputy Mayor Ald Gert van Niekerk commented on the new mandate: “I am fully committed to supporting Mayor Johnson and the Council in delivering the services our community expects and deserves. This coalition represents a shared vision for stability, fiscal responsibility, and ensuring that all George residents, across every ward, benefit from efficient and ethical governance.”

Speaker Sean Snyman congratulated the new Mayor, saying: “I have had the privilege of working closely with Executive Mayor Johnson, and I have witnessed his steady, disciplined approach to leadership. He leads not with fanfare, but with quiet determination, respect for due process, and a genuine commitment to serving the people of George. His transition into this role is a natural progression for a leader who is prepared, grounded, and focused on stability and good governance. He has my full support as we continue the work of strengthening our municipality.”

In the photo: Leaders celebrating the official launch of the George Festival 2025 at the George Museum. From left: Cllr Melvin Roelfse (MMC for Social Development – Libraries, Sport and Customer Care), Cllr Browen Johnson (Executive Deputy Mayor of George), Alderman Jackie von Brandis (Executive Mayor of George), MEC Isaac Sileku (Western Cape Minister of Mobility), and MEC Ricardo Mackenzie (Western Cape Minister of Cultural Affairs and Sport).

The spirit of celebration is alive in George following the official launch of the George Festival 2025 on Friday, 14 November, at the George Museum. Hosted by the George Municipality in collaboration with the Western Cape Department of Cultural Affairs and Sport (DCAS), the event set the tone for what promises to be one of the region’s most vibrant celebrations of culture, art, and sport. The launch, attended by dignitaries, sponsors, partners, and community representatives, showcased the energy and unity driving this year’s festival theme — Culture. Art. Sport. Our community. Our celebration.

Executive Mayor Alderman Jackie von Brandis opened the proceedings, welcoming guests and reflecting on the journey that brought the festival to life. “When we said something big is coming to George, this is what we meant,” said Mayor von Brandis. “This festival represents who we are — a community full of creativity, talent, and heart.”

Western Cape MEC for Cultural Affairs and Sport, Ricardo Mackenzie, delivered an inspiring keynote address, encouraging residents to embrace the festival spirit. “The George Festival 2025 is more than an event — it’s an investment in people, creativity, and community.”

“When we bring together arts, culture, and sport, we build unity, create opportunity, and inspire hope that lasts far beyond the festival dates. This celebration will showcase the very best of George and the Garden Route — from our athletes and artists to our entrepreneurs and families. I want to thank our strategic partners — SportPesa, Heineken, MTN, and Knox — as well as the George Municipality, Council, and Garden Route District Municipality for believing in this vision. Together, we are proving that when government, business, and community stand side by side, we can build a legacy of growth, pride, and opportunity for generations to come

The morning included performances, sponsor recognitions, and the unveiling of the official George Festival 2025 programme, followed by networking and light refreshments.

A FESTIVAL POWERED BY PARTNERSHIP
The success of the George Festival 2025 is made possible through the dedication of multiple partners and sponsors who have joined forces to create a world-class experience for residents and visitors alike.

Lead Sponsors and Partners:
MTN – Key festival sponsor supporting community sport, youth participation, and local athletes.
Heineken Beverages – Contributing financial and product support to elevate the festival atmosphere.
SportPesa – Sponsor of the Home of Golf Sundowner Challenge, promoting sporting excellence and community upliftment.
Knox Hydrate – Official hydration partner, ensuring athletes and festivalgoers stay refreshed.
SCAVA (Southern Cape Association for the Visual Arts), ATKV, MTB Hillbillies, George Trails (GTR), Home of Golf Africa, George Joint Marketing Association (GJMA) NPC, George Naturally, and the Garden Route Botanical Garden Trust, have also pledged their invaluable support. The festival further enjoys collaboration with the Eden Sport Council and the Garden Route District Municipality.

Mayor Von Brandis extended heartfelt appreciation to all sponsors and partners, saying, “Your investment in this festival is an investment in George — in our people, our youth, our creativity, and our shared future.”

FOUR DAYS OF CULTURE, SPORT, AND CELEBRATION
The George Festival 2025, taking place from 13 to 16 December, will transform the city into a vibrant hub of entertainment and activity, with events hosted across Unity Park, the Garden Route Botanical Gardens, Thembalethu, Rosemoor, Pacaltsdorp, and the George Museum.

Festival highlights include:
Saturday, 13 December: A full day of sporting action — including 5-a-side soccer, Indigenous Games, Touch Rugby, Netball, and Table Tennis tournaments — culminating in the Annual Lights Festival at Unity Park, with live performances, markets, and family entertainment.

Sunday, 14 December: Eden Street Mile, George Trails/GTR Trail Run (14km and 7km), Gospel Festival at Unity Park, and ongoing sport.

Monday, 15 December: Long Table Literary and Arts Experience at the George Museum, Kiddies Fun Zone at the Botanical Gardens, Bowls for the Blind at the George Bowling Club, and the Louis Massyn 5km and 10km Fun Run.

Tuesday, 16 December: Finals across all sporting codes, Chess, Dominoes, and Scrabble competitions at Unity Park, the MTB Hillbillies Dam Dash (35km, 20km, and 10km), GTR Cross Hike (6km), and the Jazz Summer Festival at the Kaptein Dikkop Amphitheatre, Pacaltsdorp.

The festival’s diverse offering celebrates George’s cultural identity while promoting active living, inclusion, and local economic development. In closing the launch, MMC Melvin Roelfse encouraged residents and visitors alike to participate fully in the festival: “This festival is more than a series of events — it’s a reflection of who we are as a city. It’s about connection, pride, and the joy of being part of something bigger than ourselves. Let’s make George Festival 2025 unforgettable.”

The George Festival 2025 – Culture. Art. Sport. Our community. Our celebration. promises to bring the city together in a true celebration of creativity, unity, and local pride.

Explore the full line-up of events, activities, and entertainment by accessing the programme via the link: https://tinyurl.com/45dvp5d8 and follow official George Municipality and WC DCAS social media channels.

In the photo: Construction works underway on Plattner Boulevard, Heather Park — part of George Municipality’s major road and infrastructure upgrades to support the expansion of the GO GEORGE public transport network.

George Municipality is taking a decisive step forward in building a smart, connected, and accessible city through major road and transport infrastructure upgrades. Enabled through the Public Transport Network Grant (PTNG) administered by the National Department of Transport, this investment includes R505 million allocated in 2024/25 and a further R250 million secured for 2025/26.

The R750 million commitment is driving the expansion of the GO GEORGE bus service. The funding supports road rehabilitation, the construction of transfer locations, sidewalk upgrades to promote universal accessibility, and other associated infrastructure improvements.

ROAD REHABILITATION PROJECTS – PROGRESS UPDATE

George Municipality is committed to providing regular progress updates on the road upgrades across the city:

Pacaltsdorp
• Mission Street: 82% complete. Construction commenced on 18 October 2024, and the initial expected completion date was in June 2026; however, the revised completion date is now expected to be in March 2026. Current work includes concrete side drains, kerbing, stormwater structures, and sidewalks.
• Protea Street (Phase 1 & 2): Completed. Work commenced on 30 September 2024.
• Protea Street (Phases 3): 74% complete. Work commenced on 5 August 2025, and the scheduled revised completion date is in February 2026. Current activities include road layer works, kerbing, construction of stormwater structures, and sidewalks.
• Protea Street (Phases 4): 41% complete. Work commenced on 29 September 2025 and is scheduled for completion in March 2026. The contractor is currently removing concrete block pavers, box-cutting, and road layerworks.
• Heather, Haydn, and Rose Streets: 55% complete. Construction commenced on 25 September 2024 and is expected to conclude in July 2026. Current activities include kerbing, layerworks and stormwater structures. An investigation into road failures on Heather Street will commence in December 2025 when traffic is diverted away from the affected layer onto the new layer, with the cause and appropriate remedial actions to be determined thereafter.
• Beukes Street: 9% complete. Work commenced on 29 September 2025 and is scheduled for completion in May 2026. The contractor is currently removing concrete block pavers, box-cutting and road layerworks.
• Genesis Street: The revised commencement date is tentatively scheduled to commence in January 2026, with the expected completion in June 2026.

Thembalethu
• Ngcakani and Ncamanza Streets: 88% complete. Work commenced on 21 October 2024 and is scheduled to conclude in January 2026. Current activities include road layer works, kerbing, stormwater structures, and sidewalks on Ncamanza Street, with only limited work remaining on Ngcakani Street.
• Tabata and 26th Streets: 90% complete. Construction commenced on 25 September 2024 and is expected to conclude in March 2026. Current activities include stormwater structures and sidewalks.
• Tabata Street (Phase 4): The revised commencement date is tentatively scheduled to commence in November 2025, with expected completion in May 2026.

George Industria
• PW Botha Boulevard: 57% complete. Construction commenced on 26 September 2024 and is scheduled for completion in July 2026. Current works include box-cutting, road layerworks, kerbing, stormwater structures, and sidewalks. Stop-and-go traffic management remains in place.

Rosemoor
• Beer and Woltemade Streets (Phases 1 & 2): 96% complete. Construction commenced on 13 August 2024 and is expected to conclude in November 2025. Outstanding works include the finalisation of defects highlighted during practical completion inspection.
• Beer Street (Phase 3): 30% complete. Construction commenced on 04 August 2025 and is scheduled for completion in February 2026. Current works include box-cutting, relocation of existing services, road layerworks and stormwater structures.
• O’Connell Street: 92% complete. Work commenced on 19 August 2024 and is expected to conclude in December 2025. Outstanding works include the finalisation of defects highlighted during practical completion inspection.

Heather Park
• Airway Street: Completed. Work commenced on 27 September 2025.
• Pine Street: 68% complete. Work commenced on 4 August 2025 and is expected to conclude in December 2025. Current works include stormwater structures and road layerworks.
• Plattner Boulevard (Phase 1): 8% complete. Construction commenced on 29 September 2025 and is scheduled for completion in March 2026. Current works include box-cutting, road layerworks, and stormwater structures.
• Plattner Boulevard (Phase 2): Scheduled to commence in January 2026 with completion expected in June 2026.

Bo Dorp
• Wellington Street: Completed. Work commenced on 19 June 2025.

George Central
• Cradock Street: Scheduled to commence in November 2025 with completion expected in April 2026.

TRANSFER LOCATIONS – CRITICAL SUPPORT INFRASTRUCTURE FOR GO GEORGE

In addition to road upgrades, the construction of GO GEORGE Transfer Locations (TLs) is progressing. These facilities are essential for improving route connectivity and allowing commuters to transfer safely and efficiently between routes.
• Beach/Panther Transfer Location: 95% complete. Construction commenced in March 2025 and is expected to conclude in November 2025. Outstanding works include the finalisation of traffic signals.
• NMB/Jonga Intersection Transfer Location (Phase 1): Completed. Construction commenced in February 2025.
• 26/Ncamanza/NMB Transfer Location (Phase 1): Completed. Construction commenced in February 2025.

IMPACT OF ONGOING CONSTRUCTION

George Municipality acknowledges the impact of ongoing construction on bus operations and general traffic flow, particularly in Pacaltsdorp and surrounding areas. GO GEORGE is monitoring the situation closely and implementing mitigation measures, including temporary route adjustments and the deployment of additional buses where possible.

Passengers are encouraged to stay informed about service changes and construction-related adjustments by using the official GO GEORGE communication platforms. Real-time updates on routes and timetables are available through the trip-planning tools on the website (www.gogeorge.org.za). Commuters can also follow the GO GEORGE Facebook page or subscribe to the WhatsApp Channel for instant notifications and service alerts. The WhatsApp Channel can be joined directly via this link: https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VanooYO002T09OyaKM3x

In the photo: Ward 18 Councillor Donovan Gultig (standing, second from left) with members of the Ward 18 Committee and Denneoord Neighbourhood Watch during the handover of safety equipment. Standing from left: Denise Human, Cllr Donovan Gultig, Bridget Viljoen, and Viljé Maritz.
Seated from left: Zak Edgar (Chairperson, Denneoord Neighbourhood Watch) and Cheré Vivier (Treasurer, Denneoord Neighbourhood Watch).

The Ward 18 Committee has strengthened community safety efforts by donating equipment valued at R20 000 to the Denneoord Neighbourhood Watch on 6 November 2025.

According to Councillor Donovan Gultig, Ward 18 Councillor and Portfolio Councillor for Electrotechnical Services, the initiative aims to bolster local crime-prevention activities and support the dedicated volunteers who work tirelessly to keep the community safe.

“This partnership is about empowering those who give their time to protect others,” said Cllr Gultig. “Neighbourhood Watches play a vital role in promoting safety and fostering community trust. We are proud to support their ongoing efforts.”

The Municipality extends sincere appreciation to the Ward 18 Committee for championing this initiative, and to the Denneoord Neighbourhood Watch for their ongoing commitment to safeguarding residents. Together, we are building a safer George.

Ends.