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Seen at the event are Neels Barnard, George Fire Chief; Ald Jackie von Brandis; Dawie Adonis, Community Services Director; and Santa Sternsdorff, George Station Commander. Photograph by Deidre Cloete

Neels Barnard, George Fire Chief and Disaster Manager for George Municipality, received a Certificate of Recognition on Friday, 6 December 2024, at the National Fire Indaba on behalf of the department.

The certificate was presented by the Minister of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs, Mr. Velenkosini Hlabisa, alongside Mayor Jackie von Brandis who commended the George Fire Services in her opening speech, saying: “Your dedication to safeguarding lives and property stands as a beacon of hope and strength for our community. You are the unsung heroes who step forward when others must step back, and we are deeply proud of your service.”

Santa Sternsdorff, Station Commander, presenting the George Fire Department’s rescue and recovery efforts during the Victoria Street Building Collapse.

This accolade honours the George Fire Brigade’s outstanding hands-on commitment and service in humanitarian efforts, including search, rescue, and recovery operations for the victims of the “Victoria Street Building Collapse” in George in May 2024. Several stakeholders who assisted during the building collapse event were also recognised at the ceremony, which concluded the successful two-day Indaba hosted in George.

In addition, Santa Sternsdorff, Station Commander, delivered a sterling presentation at the National Fire Indaba, detailing the department’s rescue and recovery efforts during the Victoria Street Building Collapse.

Executive Mayor Jackie von Brandis and Minister of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs, Mr. Velenkosini Hlabisa, presenting George Fire Chief Neels Barnard with a Certificate of Recognition.

Her insights highlighted the team’s technical expertise, coordination, and resilience in managing one of the most challenging disasters the municipality has faced. She received a standing ovation following her presentation on 5 December 2024.

For more on the event, visit CoGTA’s LinkedIn post: https://tinyurl.com/4jmsz8ef

Minister Velenkosini Hlabisa of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs (CoGTA) delivered the keynote note address at this year’s seminal National Fire Services Indaba hosted by the National Disaster Management Centre (NDMC).

During his address Minister Hlabisa paid tribute to the fallen firefighters citing their exemplary and unwavering dedication to protecting lives and property, driven by a profound sense of duty and a commitment to the needs of our community. “Their exceptional bravery will always be remembered, resonating in the hearts of those they served. Through their selfless actions, they have left a lasting legacy that will continue to inspire and touch the lives of many,” said Minister.

In keeping with the apt theme of the Indaba, Minister Hlabisa remarked that, repositioning fire services as a cornerstone of community safety offers a significant opportunity to foster resilience in South Africa to address the complex challenges of rapid urbanisation, climate change, and socio-economic dynamics. The expansion of traditional firefighting and rescue functions to become proactive partners in risk reduction and community engagement is critical for integrated response mechanisms.

This transformation calls for thoughtful integration of fire services into wider safety frameworks prioritising prevention, preparedness, and education. This will cultivate communities that are better prepared to anticipate, endure, and recover from emergencies, thereby enhancing the safety and sustainability of our socio-economic systems.

Delivering the welcoming remarks, the Mayor of George, Alderman Jackie Von Brandis highlighted the importance of the Indaba in promoting dialogue, peer learning and collaboration.

Cllr Mluleki Nkosi representing SALGA, called for further engagements on the National Fire Services Strategic Roadmap 2030.

Nkosi Minenkulu Joyi of the National House of Traditional and Khoi-San Leaders emphasised the importance of a community driven approach to fire services, underscoring the need to empower communities especially traditional and rural communities.

In the photo are some of the attendees of the Global Entrepreneurship Week 

The George Municipality proudly hosted the second annual Garden Route Global Entrepreneurship Week (GR-GEW) from 18 to 23 November 2024 at the George Civic Centre. Building on the success of its inaugural event in 2023, which drew over 200 SMMEs from across the Garden Route, the 2024 event showcased the region’s vibrant entrepreneurial spirit.

Organised in collaboration with Suff Academy, George Municipality (LED), Garden Route District Municipality, University of South Africa (Unisa), National Youth Development Agency (NYDA), National Development Agency (NDA), Government Information Communication Systems (GCIS), and the Western Cape Department of Economic Development and Tourism (DEDAT), the week-long event aimed to inspire innovation, support small businesses, and catalyse economic growth in the region.

Building One Global Entrepreneurship Ecosystem
The Global Entrepreneurship Network (GEN) operates programs in over 200 countries to simplify the process of starting and scaling businesses. Through cross-border collaboration among entrepreneurs, investors, researchers, policymakers, and support organizations, GEN fosters ecosystems that create jobs, accelerate innovation, and strengthen economies. With its comprehensive global reach and tailored programs, GEN offers unparalleled access to knowledge, networks, and resources, ensuring alignment with the size, maturity, and uniqueness of each economy.

Objectives of GR-GEW 2024
The GR-GEW 2024 set out to:
• Inspire and empower entrepreneurs in the Garden Route region.
• Organize the entrepreneurship ecosystem and promote synergy among stakeholders.
• Provide a platform for networking and collaboration between entrepreneurs, investors, and key players.
• Showcase innovative ideas driving regional economic development.
• Facilitate knowledge exchange through workshops, panel discussions, and keynote sessions.

KEY HIGHLIGHTS OF THE WEEK

Day 1 (18 November 2024) – Opening Ceremony

The week began with an engaging opening ceremony attended by 120 stakeholders from the Garden Route. The 2024 theme, “Creating Entrepreneurial Communities, Removing Barriers & Welcoming All!” set the tone for the event.
Notable speakers included:
• Cllr Marlene Barnardt (MMC Planning and Development, George Municipality): Discussed the municipality’s role in fostering economic growth.
• Ald. Rosina Ruiters (MMC Planning and Economic Development, Garden Route District Municipality)
• Mr. John Peters (Chief Director, WC Department of Economic Development and Tourism)
• Prof. Annemarie Davis (Inhlanyelo Hub, Unisa): Delivered the keynote address, emphasizing the importance of entrepreneurship in driving regional transformation.

Day 2 (19 November 2024) – Academic Symposium

This day highlighted the role of academia in fostering entrepreneurship. Keynote speakers included experts from NMU, UWC, Unisa, and South Cape TVET College, who explored themes such as access to markets, funding for innovation, and supporting entrepreneurs through education. The symposium concluded with success stories from local entrepreneurs and a call to action from the LOC organizers.

Day 3 (20 November 2024) – Investment Readiness Masterclass

Entrepreneurs participated in speed networking, masterclass training, and a panel discussion hosted by the George Business Chamber. These sessions provided actionable tools to help businesses grow, attract investors, and navigate challenges.

Day 4 (21 November 2024) – Funding Readiness Masterclass

Nedbank led this day’s session, equipping entrepreneurs with strategies to position their businesses for funding and growth. Topics included business law, strategic planning, and access to markets, with a highlight being a coffee session with local leaders such as Ald. Andrew Stroebel and Cllr Marlene Barnardt.

Day 5 (22 November 2024) – Reimagining Township Economies

The focus shifted to unlocking the potential of township economies. Discussions covered projects like the Ilisolethu Node Development in Thembalethu and strategies for township economic development led by the Industrial Development Corporation (IDC).

Day 6 (23 November 2024) – Business Breakfast and Closing Function

The final day featured a keynote address by Ms. Jeannine Van Straaten (Proudly South African) on building sustainable brands, localization, and market access. The breakfast provided a networking platform for entrepreneurs and stakeholders to forge meaningful connections.

A Call for Collaboration

The GR-GEW 2024 reaffirmed its commitment to organising the entrepreneurial ecosystem and fostering partnerships across the public and private sectors. The George Municipality invites all stakeholders to join future initiatives, ensuring continued support for entrepreneurs and unlocking economic opportunities in the region.

In its proactive efforts to maintain a safe and alcohol-free beach environment, the George Municipality launched its festive programme earlier this year. Since 15 November, Law Enforcement officers, supported by temporary beach monitors, have confiscated 84 litres of alcohol. All seized beverages have been recorded and handed over to SAPS for destruction.

Additionally, 45 litres of alcohol were voluntarily surrendered during searches, with individuals cautioned about municipal by-laws, and 30 litres of alcohol were discarded by individuals caught consuming it at beaches or within the Central Business District (CBD). Fines totalling R8,600 have been issued for by-law infringements related to alcohol consumption and other violations.

The George Municipality enforces a strict NO ALCOHOL policy at all beaches and public spaces, which will be closely monitored throughout the festive period. Law Enforcement officers, with the assistance of beach monitors, will patrol municipal beaches to ensure compliance with by-laws, fostering a safe and family-friendly environment.

Vehicle and bag searches at municipal beaches are conducted under the Access to Public Premises and Vehicles Act (Act No. 53 of 1985). Prohibited items, including alcohol, weapons, fireworks, and other contraband, will be confiscated, and fines may be issued. All confiscated items are handed over to SAPS for disposal. Additionally, no dogs or other animals are permitted on beaches unless explicitly indicated by signage showing allowed times and areas.

George Municipality encourages all beachgoers to cooperate with officials to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone. The Municipality is supported by various stakeholders, including Neighbourhood Watches, Community Police Forums, George and Provincial Traffic Services, SANParks, the National Sea Rescue Institute, private security companies, SAPS, and local business owners. The continued collaboration between these entities and the public has contributed to the success of previous festive seasons.

Municipal beaches under George Municipality include:
• Wilderness Main Beach
• Wilderness Lagoon
• Wilderness Steps
• Wilderness Leentjiesklip
• Victoria Bay Beach
• Gwaiing River Mouth Beach and Day Camp
• Herold’s Bay Beach and Tidal Pool

For further information or complaints, please contact:
• Law Enforcement Office: 044 801 6350 (07:45 – 16:30)
• After-Hours Assistance (By-Law Offences/Emergencies): 044 801 6300
• Email: sprins@george.gov.za
• Physical Address: Law Enforcement Office, 25B Cathedral Street

Let’s work together to ensure a safe and memorable festive season on George’s beautiful beaches.

Colourful posters have been put up at transfer points and kiosks all over town to remind passengers of the huge milestone: 10 years of service to the people of George!

As the sun rises on December 8, 2024, GO GEORGE marks a milestone moment – 10 years of proudly serving the people of George with safe, reliable, and affordable public transport. This decade of dedication, supported by the National Department of Transport, Western Cape Provincial Government and George Municipality, is a testament to what is possible when communities and authorities work together to improve lives.

Reflecting on the journey, it’s clear that GO GEORGE has become more than just a bus service. It has transformed into a lifeline for thousands of residents who rely on it daily to commute to work, schools, healthcare facilities, and more. From its humble beginnings, launching three routes with 12 buses in 2014, the service has expanded significantly, now transporting almost 20 000 passengers per weekday with a fleet of 133 buses, over a network of 33 routes and 465 km.

Klaas Loff (78) from Pacaltsdorp has been using the GO GEORGE service from the very beginning. He was the lucky recipient of a GO GEORGE birthday goodie bag on one the birthday buses on Monday. GO GEORGE communication champions are creating excitement on different routes every day this week.

Milestones that moved GO GEORGE forward
Over the past decade, GO GEORGE has celebrated numerous achievements, each contributing to its reputation as a model public transport system in South Africa. Key highlights include:
Passenger-centred innovations: The introduction of accessible buses and infrastructure for passengers with disabilities, continuous service enhancements based on community feedback, and user-friendly trip planning features using cutting-edge technology.

Sustainability in motion: Initiatives to minimise the environmental impact, including a modern fleet designed to reduce emissions.
Economic impact: Creation of hundreds of jobs within the system and through infrastructure upgrades, as well as indirect opportunities through improved access to education and employment.

Rising above challenges
The past decade has not been without hurdles. The early years were marked by intensive negotiations to integrate informal operators into the system, a process that required patience, collaboration, and resilience.

2017 and 2018 saw the bus service being deployed instantly to help evacuate people from threatened areas during the devastating fires in Knysna and George respectively – some of the most rewarding experiences in the existence of the GO GEORGE service with staff being on standby day and night and saying “yes, I’ll go” without thinking twice.

Tshaka Thanduxolo was one of the drivers taking the buses to the streets of George on 8 December 2014. Tshaka was awarded the title of George Link Driver of the Year on Monday, after a challenging track competition between 99 participants last week. Tshaka is one of 19 drivers who has been with the company since the beginning.

In 2020, the COVID-19 pandemic tested the system’s adaptability, prompting swift adjustments to prioritise health and safety while maintaining essential services. GO GEORGE lost several staff members to the pandemic – brave champions who will never be forgotten.

Not forgetting the shocking incidents that occurred in March 2023 when criminals hurled two petrol bombs into a GO GEORGE bus, injuring some passengers and causing severe trauma to all involved, as well as August 2015 when violent protest action saw five GO GEORGE buses set alight. Despite these challenges, GO GEORGE has emerged stronger, thanks to unwavering support from all stakeholders and the community it serves.

Looking ahead
As GO GEORGE embarks on its second decade, the vision remains clear: to continue improving mobility for all, deepening its impact on the community, and driving regional development. Plans are in place to extend routes, embrace cutting-edge technology, and further integrate green initiatives.

“We are incredibly proud to celebrate 10 years of serving this vibrant community,” says Morné Lakay, GO GEORGE Manager. “This milestone belongs to every passenger, staff member, and partner who has been part of our journey. Together, we’ve shown what a community-focused public transport system can achieve.”

Join the celebration
The anniversary festivities for the public will include lots of fun on special birthday buses during the week running up to the birthday, an outdoor radio broadcast at the Transport Hub in the CBD on Saturday, 7 December, and photo opportunities with the GO GEORGE mascots, Georgie and Smartie at the George Lights Festival later that afternoon.

A decade of progress, connection, and growth will be celebrated. With GO GEORGE, the journey never stops!

For more information, phone the GO GEORGE Call Centre on 0800 044 044, visit www.gogeorge.org.za, send an email to info@gogeorge.org.za, or follow the GO GEORGE Facebook page.

Jeanette Constance form Pacaltsdorp was on the right bus at the right moment to receive a GO GEORGE birthday goodie bag. She’s been a passenger since the roll-out of the first routes. GO GEORGE communication champions are creating excitement on different routes every day this week.

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GO GEORGE vier ‘n dekade van diens aan gemeenskap

Wanneer die son op 8 Desember 2024 opkom, breek ‘n mylpaaloomblik vir GO GEORGE aan – 10 jaar van trotse verskaffing van veilige, betroubare en bekostigbare openbare vervoer aan die inwoners van George. Hierdie dekade van toewyding, ondersteun deur die Nasionale Departement van Vervoer, Wes-Kaap Provinsiale Regering en George Munisipaliteit, is ‘n bewys van wat moontlik is wanneer gemeenskappe en owerhede saamwerk om lewens te verbeter.

Wanneer teruggedink word aan die reis tot hier, is dit duidelik dat GO GEORGE meer as net ‘n busdiens geword het. Dit het verander in ‘n reddingsboei vir duisende inwoners wat daagliks daarop staatmaak om na werk, skole, gesondheidsorgfasiliteite en ander bestemmings te pendel. Sedert sy nederige begin met die bekendstelling van drie roetes met 12 busse in 2014, het die diens aansienlik uitgebrei en vervoer nou byna 20 000 passasiers per weeksdag met ‘n vloot van 133 busse, oor ‘n netwerk van 33 roetes en 465 km.

Mylpale van vordering
Oor die afgelope dekade het GO GEORGE talle prestasies gevier wat elkeen bygedra het tot sy reputasie as ‘n model-openbarevervoerstelsel in Suid-Afrika. Belangrike hoogtepunte sluit in:
Passasiersgesentreerde innovering: Die bekendstelling van toeganklike busse en infrastruktuur vir passasiers met gestremdhede, deurlopende diensverbeterings gebaseer op gemeenskapsterugvoer, en gebruikersvriendelike ritbeplanningsfunksies met behulp van die nuutste tegnologie.

Volhoubaarheid: Inisiatiewe om die omgewingsimpak te verminder, insluitend ‘n moderne vloot wat ontwerp is om skadelike gasuitlatings te verminder.

Ekonomiese impak: Skepping van honderde werksgeleenthede binne die stelsel en deur infrastruktuuropgraderings, sowel as indirekte geleenthede deur verbeterde toegang tot onderwys en indiensneming.
Styg uit bo uitdagings.

Die afgelope dekade was nie sonder struikelblokke nie. Die vroeë jare is gekenmerk deur intensiewe onderhandelinge om informele operateurs in die stelsel te integreer, ‘n proses wat geduld, samewerking en veerkragtigheid vereis het.

In 2017 en 2018 is die busdiens onmiddellik ontplooi om mense uit bedreigde gebiede te help ontruim tydens die verwoestende brande in onderskeidelik Knysna en George – van die mees bevredigende ervarings in die bestaan van die GO GEORGE-diens met personeel wat dag en nag op bystand was en gesê het “ja, ek sal gaan” sonder om twee keer te dink.

In 2020 het die COVID-19-pandemie die stelsel se aanpasbaarheid getoets met vinnige aanpassings om gesondheid en veiligheid te prioritiseer terwyl noodsaaklike dienste steeds gehandhaaf word. GO GEORGE het verskeie personeellede aan die pandemie afgestaan – dapper kampioene wat nooit vergeet sal word nie.

Daar was ook twee skokkende voorvalle: in Maart 2023 het misdadigers twee petrolbomme in ‘n GO GEORGE-bus gegooi wat etlike passasiers beseer het en ernstige trauma vir alle betrokkenes veroorsaak het, en in Augustus 2015 is vyf GO GEORGE-busse aan die brand gesteek tydens gewelddadige protesaksie.

Ten spyte van hierdie uitdagings het GO GEORGE sterker na vore getree danksy die onwrikbare ondersteuning van alle belanghebbendes en die gemeenskap wat dit bedien.

Die pad vorentoe

Terwyl GO GEORGE sy tweede dekade aanpak, bly die visie duidelik: om voort te gaan om mobiliteit vir almal te verbeter, die impak daarvan op die gemeenskap te verdiep en streeksontwikkeling te dryf. Planne is in plek om roetes uit te brei en die nuutste tegnologie en groen inisiatiewe verder te integreer.

“Ons is ongelooflik trots om 10 jaar van diens aan hierdie lewendige gemeenskap te vier,” sê Morné Lakay, GO GEORGE-bestuurder. “Hierdie mylpaal behoort aan elke passasier, personeellid en vennoot wat deel was van ons reis. Saam het ons gewys wat ‘n gemeenskapsgerigte openbare vervoerstelsel kan bereik.”

Sluit aan by die viering
Die herdenkingsfeeste vir die publiek sal gedurende die week voor die verjaardag baie pret op spesiale verjaardagbusse insluit, ‘n buitelugradio-uitsending by die vervoerkern (Transport Hub) in die middedorp op Saterdag, 7 Desember, en fotogeleenthede saam met die GO GEORGE-gelukbringers, Georgie en Smartie by die George-liggiesfees later die middag.

‘n Dekade van vooruitgang, verbintenis en groei sal gevier word. Met GO GEORGE hou die reis nooit op nie!

Vir meer inligting, skakel die GO GEORGE-inbelsentrum by 0800 044 044, besoek www.gogeorge.org.za, stuur ‘n e-pos aan info@gogeorge.org.za, of volg die GO GEORGE Facebook-bladsy.

Klaas Loff (78) van Pacaltsdorp gebruik al van die begin af die GO GEORGE-diens. Hy was Maandag die gelukkige ontvanger van ‘n GO GEORGE-verjaardagspakkie op een van die verjaardagbusse. GO GEORGE-passasiersdiensbeamptes skep hierdie week elke dag opwinding op verskillende roetes.

Tshaka Thanduxolo was een van die bestuurders wat op 8 Desember 2014 die busse aan George se strate bekendgestel het. Tshaka is Maandag bekroon met die titel George Link Drywer van die Jaar ná ‘n uitdagende baankompetisie tussen 99 deelnemers verlede week. Tshaka is een van 19 bestuurders wat van die begin af by die maatskappy is.

Jeanette Constance van Pacaltsdorp was op die regte oomblik op die regte bus om ‘n GO GEORGE-verjaardagpakkie te ontvang. Sy is ‘n passasier sedert die bekendstelling van die eerste roetes. GO GEORGE-passasiersdiensbeamptes skep hierdie week elke dag opwinding op verskillende roetes.

Kleurvolle plakkate is by oorklimpunte en kiosks regoor die dorp opgerig om passasiers te herinner aan die groot mylpaal: 10 jaar van diens

The highly anticipated annual Festive Light Festival is this upcoming weekend, promising a spectacular evening of celebration, music, and community spirit. Taking place on Saturday, 7 December 2024, the event will be hosted at Unity Park on York Street.
The festivities kick off at 4:00 pm with a lively line-up featuring light music, church choirs, and children’s choirs. Attendees can look forward to an uplifting segment of gospel and Christmas carols. The Executive Mayor, Alderlady Jackie Von Brandis, will officially switch on the dazzling lights at around 8pm. She encourages the community to join in the celebration, reminding all of the symbolic message that “Jesus is the light of the world.”
Local talents are set to grace the stage, including: Geraldo Lewis, Fernando Fredricks, Zintle Langa, Lorenzo Pretorius,Maxwell Matiwana and Fanatics-SA (Stage Band).
A vibrant array of approximately 40 stalls, coordinated by the municipality’s Community Development division, will offer food, toys, arts, and crafts. Although the application deadline for stalls was Friday, 29 November 2024, late applications will be accepted until Wednesday, 4 December 2024 provided applicants have their certificates of acceptability in order. No late submissions will be considered after this date.

According to Khanyisile Fortuin, Festival Coordinator, to ensure the safety of festival-goers, St Marks Street and a section of York Street will be closed from 12:00 pm to 9:30 pm on the day. Clear directional signage will be provided to assist drivers and pedestrians.
Fortuin said the George Municipality’s Traffic and Law Enforcement teams, supported by SAPS, neighbourhood watches, and private security firms, will be on hand to maintain order. Attendees are reminded that alcohol is strictly prohibited, with a zero-tolerance policy enforced to safeguard the community’s well-being.
The festival concludes at 9:30 pm.
“Residents and visitors are encouraged to come in numbers to support this special event, which celebrates both the season and the community’s unity,” Fortuin said.

In the photo from left to right: Cllr Marchell Kleynhans (MMC for Community Services), Alderman Jackie von Brandis (Executive Mayor of George), Mr Godfrey Louw (Acting Municipal Manager) and Cllr Marlene Barnardt (MMC for Planning and Development)

The George Municipality officially launched its Blue Flag summer season today, 2 December 2024, at Victoria Bay Beach. The occasion was marked by the hoisting of the Blue Flag by Executive Mayor Alderman Jackie von Brandis, accompanied by MMC for Planning and Development Cllr Marlene Barnardt, MMC for Community Services Cllr Marchell Kleynhans, and Acting Municipal Manager Mr. Godfrey Louw.

Speaking at the event, Mayor von Brandis said: “Three of our beaches have achieved full Blue Flag status: Victoria Bay, Herold’s Bay, and Wilderness Beach. Leentjiesklip Beach continues to hold pilot Blue Flag status. We are thrilled to welcome visitors to our stunning beaches. George truly offers the ultimate destination for the summer season.”

Celebrating Environmental Excellence

The 2024–2025 Blue Flag season, which began on 1 December, celebrates South Africa’s dedication to sustainable coastal tourism and environmental excellence. George Municipality’s achievement of Blue Flag status for three beaches highlights its commitment to environmental stewardship and visitor safety.

The municipality joined 13 others at the official launch ceremony held at the V&A Waterfront in Cape Town. Across South Africa, 48 beaches, four marinas, and seven sustainable tourism boats were awarded Blue Flag status this season.

About the Blue Flag Programme

Managed in South Africa by WESSA (Wildlife and Environment Society of South Africa) since 2001 and internationally by the Foundation for Environmental Education (FEE), the Blue Flag Programme is a globally recognised eco-label awarded to beaches, marinas, and tourism boats that meet 33 rigorous criteria. These include water quality, environmental education, accessibility, safety, security and visitor facilities.

“Achieving Blue Flag status is no small feat,” said WESSA CEO Cindy-Lee Cloete. “This accolade celebrates the commitment of municipalities, marinas, and tourism boat operators to environmental sustainability, visitor safety and caring for our marine environments and the people who enjoy these spaces. Through our Blue Flag and Green Coast Programmes, we collaborate closely with partners to tackle critical coastal management challenges and promote sustainable tourism.”

What Visitors Can Expect

The Blue Flag beach season runs from 1 December 2024 to 31 January 2025. Visitors can enjoy well-maintained facilities, clean ablutions, and enhanced safety measures, including lifeguards and first-aid equipment. Lifeguards will be on duty at Blue Flag beaches daily:
• 1–13 December 2024: 9 am–5 pm
• 14 December 2024–31 January 2025: 7 am–7 pm

Visitors to Blue Flag beaches can look forward to well-maintained amenities, clean ablutions, educational displays, and proactive safety measures, including trained lifeguards and first-aid equipment. Beaches are also tested regularly for water quality by independent laboratories, with results made publicly available on noticeboards and on WESSA’s website.

Strict regulations ensure the cleanliness and safety of these beaches. Dogs and other pets are prohibited on Blue Flag Beaches to minimise pollution and risks to visitors, with fines imposed for non-compliance. Our beaches may lose their Blue Flag accreditation should the municipality fail to uphold the required high standards for our beachgoers.

Accountability and standards

WESSA conducts frequent inspections of Blue Flag sites to ensure adherence to the programme’s stringent criteria. Sites failing to meet these standards risk temporary or permanent withdrawal of Blue Flag status, a measure aimed at maintaining the programme’s integrity. Visitors are asked to comply with the beach signs, and the directions of the lifeguards and security, and are encouraged to report any concerns to the beach manager or WESSA, whose contact details are displayed on-site.

Economic and Environmental Impact

Mayor von Brandis highlighted the programme’s dual impact: “The Blue Flag recognition not only boosts our appeal to local and international visitors but also drives significant economic benefits for the region. Our investment in this programme reflects our dedication to visitor safety, environmental conservation, and sustainable tourism.”

During the launch, the Mayor met visitors, including Izzy Rodrigues from France, who said: “I thoroughly enjoy South Africa, and Victoria Bay is breathtakingly beautiful, clean, and peaceful. I wish I could stay longer.”

George, proud recipient of the Green Coast Award

The George Municipality is also proud to have received the Green Coast Award for Gwaiing Beach and River. This prestigious award recognizes sustainable management practices at this biodiverse site. Launched in 2017, the Green Coast Award is presented to coastal areas with exceptional biodiversity, emphasizing community involvement in the stewardship of these natural environments. These awards further solidify George Municipality’s reputation as a premier eco-friendly tourism destination along South Africa’s coastline.

For more information on the Blue Flag Programme and a full list of award-winning sites, please visit https://www.wessa.org.za/blue-flag/

NOTES TO THE EDITOR:
About Blue Flag:
The iconic Blue Flag is one of the world’s most recognised voluntary eco-labels awarded to beaches, marinas, and sustainable boating tourism operators. To qualify for the Blue Flag, a series of stringent environmental, educational, safety, and accessibility criteria must be met and maintained. With over 5000 sites in over 50 countries around the world, Blue Flag is actively contributing to sustainable development goals. Blue Flag also campaigns against disparity, inequality, unemployment, health threats, depletion of natural resources, environmental threats, pollution and general environmental degradation. In South Africa, Blue Flag has been operational since 2001 and has proud municipal, marina and tourism boat partners in 18 coastal municipalities around the country. Blue Flag is voluntary, which shows a very strong commitment to environmental sustainability from those municipalities, marinas and tourism boat operators that are awarded annually. All properties and companies that apply for the Blue Flag award are assessed by a South African National Jury as well as by the Blue Flag International Jury in Europe.

To All Journalists
28 November 2024

The Minister of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs (CoGTA), Mr. Velenkosini Hlabisa, will lead the Fire Services Indaba, an important event focused on repositioning fire services in South Africa. The event will take place from 5–6 December 2024 in George, Western Cape, under the theme “ Repositioning Fire Services in South Africa.”

This year’s theme emphasizes a transformative shift in fire services—moving from reactive, response-driven methods to a forward-looking, fire risk reduction approach. The Indaba will spotlight proactive and predictive mechanisms for delivering fire services more effectively.

Given that fire risk reduction is a collective responsibility across all sectors of society, the Indaba will bring together a diverse group of participants, including the Premier of the Western Cape, Deputy Ministers, MECs, Traditional Leaders, Mayors, Councillors, Businesses, Practitioners, and Civil Society Organizations.

The Fire Services Challenge in South Africa
South Africa continues to grapple with a complex set of fire hazards. These challenges are exacerbated by:
* Rapid urbanization;
* The exponential growth of informal settlements;
* Increasing wildland-urban interfaces; and
* The impact of climate change.

The Fire Services Indaba aims to build informed, alert, and self-reliant communities while fostering collaborative solutions to reduce fire risks and vulnerabilities.

Objectives of the Indaba
The annual Indaba serves as a crucial platform for stakeholders to:
* Share progress, challenges, and best practices;
* Propose actionable solutions; and
* Develop recommendations to mitigate fire risks and losses nationwide.
The discussions will reinforce the importance of integrating fire safety and prevention into national and local government strategies while leveraging partnerships across sectors.

Members of the media are invited to cover the proceedings of the Fire Services Indaba scheduled as follows:

Day 1: Practitioners Session
Date: 5 December 2024
Time: 08:30
Venue: Protea Hotel, George, Western Cape

Day 2: Ministerial Session
Date: 6 December 2024
Time : 08:30
Venue: Protea Hotel, George, Western Cape

For Media Enquiries, Contact:

Ms. Pearl Maseko-Binqose
Media Liaison Officer for the Minister of CoGTA
+27 (82) 772 1709

Mr. Legadima Leso
COGTA Head of Communications
+27 (66) 479 9904

Issued on behalf of the Ministry of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs

George, Garden Route (Nov 2024) – If ever a title of “Royalty” were to be applied to a motorcar, that sobriquet would have to rest with Rolls-Royce. Since the first model, a Silver Ghost, was produced in 1907, the magnificent British machine was proclaimed as “the best car in the world“ and by and large Rolls-Royce products over the past century could stake a legitimate claim to that title.

Pierre Malherbe’s 1936 Bentley.
At the 28th George Old Car Show on February 8, 2025, Rolls-Royce and the equally exalted upper-crust British marque, Bentley, will be show-cased as the headline act in a special commemoration for British cars. A demarcated area on Field D at the show venue will comprise the large number of treasured classic Rolls-Royce and Bentley models owned by collectors hailing from many parts of the country.

Rolls-Royce has had a presence in South Africa going way back to 1910, when the first Silver Ghost model was imported here as the official car for the Governor-General of South Africa, Lord Herbert Gladstone. Since then, many Rolls-Royces were imported privately, until after World War Two when the Grosvenor Group were appointed as official Rolls and Bentley agents for South Africa.

The ever-green Mini Cooper, parked next to an MGA.

If Rolls-Royce is considered the monarch, then Bentley can be perceived as the extended, swashbuckling, adventurous branch of “Britain’s Royal Motoring Family.” Bentley was established in 1921 and gained world-wide sporting acclaim for victories in the Le Mans 24-Hour race in 1924, 1927, 1928, 1929 and 1930. Driven largely by upper-class British playboys, the company founded by W.O Bentley was acquired in a take-over by Rolls-Royce in the 1930s, and for decades afterwards, Bentleys were seen as the sporting variants of the more staid Rolls-Royce models.

The most popular British car in the 1920s and 1930s, the Austin Seven.

“While Rolls-Royce and Bentley are jewels in the British crown, we will be celebrating all British marques in our 2025 show on February 8,” says Waldo Scribante, chairman of the organising club, the Southern Cape Old Car Club. “A large number of our members own British classics, and we felt the time was ripe to give these cars their turn under the spotlight. In addition to our members’ cars, there are strong groups of British car enthusiast all along our coast line, and these will deservedly be a huge feature of the coming year’s show.”

Recently SCOCC member Pierre Malherbe completed a 1 200 km tour in his immaculate 1936 Bentley 4¼ Litre four door saloon, with tasty Park Ward coachwork. “The car performed perfectly for the duration of the Erfenis Tour to Tulbagh and back, cruising at 80 to 90 km/h,” said Pierre. In 2024 his yellow and burgundy Bentley was one of the star attractions on the main field near the stage, and this year he is looking forward to sharing lawn-space with some of the exotic Bentleys and Rolls-Royces on the D field at the Eden Technical College grounds in George.

The librarian’s choice in the 1960s, the British Morris Traveller.

In 2025 it will be a one-day show
The other big news for the 2025 event on Saturday, February 8 is that it will be a one-day show. In previous renditions the George Old Car Show has been a two-day event, held over Saturday and Sunday, but over the years attendance on the Sunday has dwindled, in terms of both spectators and especially car exhibitors.

“The reason for the fall-off of cars on the Sunday has been that over the years many of our exhibitors have driven long distances to attend the show,” explained Scribante. “These enthusiasts more often than not had to retrieve their cars early on Sunday morning and head home for a long return journey. Consequently, on the Sunday, big gaps were left on the fields, so that by mid-day on the Sunday only a small portion of classics remained.

“More and more, we felt this was not fair for spectators who had planned to attend the show only on the Sunday, as they were effectively seeing only half a show, or less. So for 2025, with something of a heavy-heart, we are running the George Old Car Show as a one-day event. To compensate for this, we are running the Saturday show an hour longer than before. So the show times for spectators will be from 9am to 6pm.

Other British brands
Apart from the ultra-exclusive marques, British cars sold very well in South Africa, and it is recorded that Austin was registered here as a make as far back as 1912. During the 1920s the diminutive Austin 7 was a top-seller as a city car, and in the 1950s the Austin Cambridge was very popular. The advent of the Mini in 1959 saw the Austin brand gain many new followers, as early Minis were marketed either as Morris or Austin variants of the same cars, bar a few trim differences.

The Morris Minor that preceded the Mini remains a mainstay on the classic car circuit today, the most popular versions being the Minor 1000 with useable performance, excellent road holding and sturdy construction. British Fords were huge sellers in this country in the 1960s, notably the Anglia and the Cortina models, and the Cortinas was amongst the top five sellers here for its entire model duration, ranging from late 1962 to 1983.

British sports cars have long been a favourite here amongst collectors, and the most famous marque is probably the MG. The MG was produced from the 1930s to beyond 2000 in various guises. The most popular models are the early TC with wire-spoked wheels from the 1940s, the TDs with steel wheels from the 1950s and the MGA with sleeker bodywork from the late 1950s to the ‘60s. The MGB that followed the A is probably one of the most popular classics of all in South Africa, with massive club support for these very usable cars from the 1960s and ‘70s.

More up-market cars from Britain include the highly desirable Jaguar E-Types, as well as the earlier XK models. The remarkably well-priced E-Type was perhaps the most desirable car in the world when it was launched with its sexy streamlined shape in 1961, and various versions will be on show on February 8. Back in 1961, the Jaguar E-Type was rated with a top speed of 240 km/h which was astounding for its day.

Less main-stream than the Jaguar are the Aston Martin, always a very expensive up-market car, and the quirky Morgan. The Morgan was hand-built with a wooden frame for its sleek body and low production numbers saw waiting lists of up to five years for these very retro-looking classics.

Decidedly un-retro, but rather cutting-edge in style and performance, is the British Lotus sports car. Produced by F1 racing car personality Colin Chapman in England, the Lotus first appeared as a kit car, but later evolved through delightful variants such as the Elite and the Elan. Screen idol Roger Moore famously drove a submarine version of a Lotus Esprit in the 1977 James Bond film, The Spy who Loved Me.

As an interesting aside, the British Royal family did not use Rolls-Royces as their official vehicles in the early part of the 20th century, preferring Daimlers. During the Royal Tour of South Africa in 1947, a fleet of five Daimlers was used for the tour. Daimler was eventually absorbed by the Jaguar company in the 1960s. Both Rolls-Royce and Bentley are still producing cars today and both marques are on sale in South Africa. In a complicated deal in the late-1990s BMW took over the Rolls-Royce brand, while VW-Audi took ownership of the Bentley nameplate.

Classic cars from all regions will be there in abundance
It should be noted that that up to 1 000 cars are being catered for at next February’s bumper event, and, as usual, a huge variety of vintage vehicles and classics with origins from Europe, America and Japan will be on display, as well as classic and vintage motorcycles, tractors, trucks, modern supercars, and more regular modern cars.

For those out-of-town car exhibitors who might want to extend their stay in the Southern Cape region, the SCOCC is considering organising a post-show tour to explore the scenery in the Overberg Strand region, starting at the show grounds at 11am and extending over a few days. The traditional Vet Tour for Vintage motor cars and motorcycles built before 1930 will also be held in the days leading up to show arriving in George on Friday, February 7, 2025.

The motorcycle display has become more and popular each year, and this year the organisers are planning to have twice as many classic and vintage motorcycles as there were last year.

All-in-all, a wonderful 28th rendition of the George Old Car Show is being planned for early 2025. Waldo Scribante has stressed that pre-booking of tickets will once again be encouraged through iTickets, at a price of R125 for adults, R100 for pensioners, and children accompanied by adults admitted free of charge.

In the photo above, Department’s Ms Maggie Sekwati (centre) hands over toilet caring equipment to a resident of Pacaltsdorp after quick education about World Toilet Day. She is with Miss Margo Adonis and Mr David Nazombe.

The Department of Water and Sanitation, in collaboration with the George Municipality, commemorated World Toilet Day today in Pacaltsdorp, a community within the Garden Route District Municipality.

World Toilet Day aims to inspire collective action to address urgent sanitation challenges, urging governments, private sector stakeholders, and civil society to invest in sustainable solutions. It also seeks to raise awareness about the millions of people who still lack access to safe and adequate sanitation facilities.

This year’s theme, “Toilet – A Place for Peace,” highlights the threats to sanitation services posed by conflict, climate change, disasters, and neglect. It emphasises the need for governments to ensure sanitation systems are resilient, effective, sustainable, and accessible to all. More investments and better governance of sanitation systems are critical for achieving equity and building a more peaceful world.

The Department of Water and Sanitation chose George Municipality to host this year’s celebration due to its innovative approach to sanitation. The municipality has introduced a pilot project featuring alternative sanitation technology that addresses the needs of informal settlements, rural, and semi-rural areas.
The innovative, Bio-Separator technology operates independently of sewer reticulation systems, poses no risk to environmental health, and utilises recycled water for flushing. Maintenance costs are minimal, estimated at less than R150 per toilet per year, as it eliminates the need for honey sucker services.

“This technology ticks all the critical boxes for sustainable sanitation solutions,” said Mr Jacob Ngo, Deputy Director for Water and Sanitation Services at the Department of Water and Sanitation.
The George Municipality’s Ms Debra Sauer said this initiative exemplifies the integration of innovative technology with quality service delivery to enhance the quality of life for the residents.
“Sustainable and alternative sanitation solutions are vital for informal settlements tha lack sewer networks. They are also offering a more efficient and environmentally friendly replacement for chemical toilets while reducing the financial strain on the Municipality. It is achievements like these that make the Municipality proud to join in the celebration of World Toilet Day,” said Ms Sauer.

As part of the commemoration, departmental officials conducted a door-to-door campaign in Pacaltsdorp to raise awareness about the importance of sanitation, the need to protect government infrastructure from vandalism, and the critical role of water conservation. The campaign will conclude tomorrow, 20 November 2024.

Bio-separator which stores the human waste, sanitise it and then safely releases it to the environment.

Mr Jacob Ngo

George Municipality is pleased to announce the successful completion of the Token Identifier (TID) Rollover across all areas within the George Municipal precinct, including Uniondale, Haarlem, Wilderness, and surrounding areas.

Reports indicate that even areas serviced by Eskom have largely completed the TID rollover process. However, a few meters with irregularities, such as outdated meters or instances of tampering, have been identified. These will be addressed on a case-by-case basis.

With the 24 November 2024 deadline for all prepaid users in South Africa to switch to Key Revision Number (KRN 2) approaching, the Municipality assures residents that nearly all users in the George, Municipal area have been successfully updated. The remaining exceptions are limited to the identified irregularities, which are being managed.

The Municipality commends the officials and stakeholders involved such as Ontec and Eskom in this rollout for their dedication to the campaign, which included a robust communication strategy launched in 2022. Their meticulous planning and execution ensured the prompt completion of this important initiative. A special thanks is extended to the residents of George for their cooperation throughout the process.

Should residents encounter issues with purchasing electricity after 24 November 2024, they are encouraged to contact the Municipality or Ontec for prompt assistance.

Enquiries:
George Municipality: 044 801 9222
Ontec: 044 873 5474

In the photo above, mayor Jackie von Brandis with from left clockwise, Frank Tamboer, Manager: Cleansing, Cllr Donovan Gultig, Ward Councillor for Ward 18, Muriel Hau-Yoon and Pauline Lourens.

George Municipality recently held a series of public participation sessions as part of the annual review of the 2024/2025 Integrated Development Plan (IDP). The sessions provided Ward Councillors and Ward Committee members with a platform to update and discuss the progress of their ward priorities across all 28 wards in the municipality.

“These sessions provided an interactive space for Ward Councillors and Committees to discuss their ward priorities and service delivery concerns,” said Whitney Prins, Manager: IDP and Public Participation, one of the session organisers. “It was an opportunity to ensure that municipal planning and budgeting aligned with community needs.”
The focus of the sessions was to provide feedback on the implementation of the ten capital and ten operational priorities for each ward, as elected by the communities outlined in the IDP. Attendees also had the chance to engage with various municipal departments to address service delivery issues beyond the set ward priorities. Each department set up service desks for one-on-one discussions with attendees.
The sessions took place from 4 – 12 November in Rosemoor, Thembalethu, George Civic Centre, Pacaltsdorp and Uniondale.

Alongside the ward-level sessions, the municipality utilised the District Development Model (DDM) to address sector-specific concerns. This process involved submitting feedback from all 28 wards to provincial and national departments through the Inter-Governmental Relations (IGR) process. Despite resource constraints due to budget cuts, the municipality remained confident in its ability to continue collaborating with other levels of government to ensure progress on these issues.

Dr. Kosie Haarhoff, Deputy Director of Strategic Growth and Development, highlighted the importance of regular feedback in maintaining a strong relationship between government and the public. “In South Africa, increasing community protests and unrest have often been fuelled by the lack of timely feedback and meaningful participation in decision-making,” Dr. Haarhoff remarked. “By providing quarterly updates to Ward Councillors and Committees on the status of IDP projects, we hope to foster trust and reduce dissatisfaction among residents.”
He continued, “When municipalities fail to provide updates, it creates a sense of neglect, leaving citizens feeling disempowered. Regular feedback reassures communities that their concerns are being addressed, reinforcing their involvement in governance.”

Ward Councillors are tasked with engaging their committees in discussions about the progress of capital and operational projects, ensuring that all members are aligned with the IDP priorities before the public participation sessions. The municipality encouraged Ward Councillors to involve their constituents and foster discussions that would prepare them for a productive participation process.
Cllr Sean Snyman, Speaker of George Council, also called on residents to take an active role in the process. “As the public representative responsible for public participation, I encourage all residents to contact their committee members and get involved in the IDP process,” said Cllr Snyman. “Together, we can achieve more. Your committee represents you—hold them accountable.”

To ensure smooth proceedings, the Community Services Directorate was requested to deploy law enforcement officers during the sessions to maintain order and prevent disruptions.

The public participation sessions provided an important opportunity for Ward Councillors, Committee members, and residents to actively contribute to the planning and decision-making processes that shaped George Municipality’s development. By fostering transparent, accountable governance, the sessions helped strengthen community engagement, addressed service delivery concerns, and aligned municipal projects with the needs of local communities.
For more information or to get involved, residents were encouraged to contact their Ward Councillor or the IDP office at 044 801 9074.

Photos:

Herman Pienaar, Ald Iona Kritzinger and Henell Nimb for Ward 19.

Ward Committee Member, Siphokazi Ncacha being assisted with a query in Thembalethu by Edward Nqumse from Electrotechnical Services.

Assisting with queries from Electrotechnical Services are from left Danie Greeff, Louise Botha and Edward Nqumse. In front of the table are Speaker Sean Snyman and Ben Redelinghuys from Ward 28.

Arnols Bruiners and Derick Scheepers, Ward Committee Members at the event for Ward 22.

From left are Theresa Malan, Ken Field and Cllr Browen Johnson for Ward 23.

Louis Strumpher from Ward 3 being assisted by Ilané Huyser, Fakazile Vava and Henko Lourens from Planning.

From Law Enforcement, ready to assist are from left, Verona Botha, Maunette Benson, Sinovuyo Robile, Richard von Willingh, Manager: Law Enforcement and Security, Vernique Sparks, Timu-Charlie Peterse at the George Civic Centre.

Dr. Kosie Haarhoff, Deputy Director of Strategic Growth and Development fielding a question from Christa Alaart from Ward 16 in Pacaltsdorp.

Christina Fredericks and Antoinette Fredericks being assisted by Kirwin Joubert and Alphonso Titus.

Aldon Meyer and Catherine Damons from Ward 14 with officials sitting, Sivuyile Mtila, Senior Manager: Environmental Services, Peter Noble, Manager: Area Offices and Thusong Centres and Jonique Claasen-Gozongo.

Roger Solomons and Des Gordon from Ward 27 being assisted by Lionel Daniels, Deputy Director: Streets and Stormwater, Ernest Claassen, Deputy Director: Waste Water and Deon de Jager: Deputy Director: Water Services from Civil Engineering Services.

Simamkele Gweva from IDP, PMS and Public Participation, Kevin Abrahams from Economic Development and Melanie Martins from George Tourism.

The team that organised the IDP feedback sessions are from left, Simamkele Gweva, Paulina Saaiman, Ronél Valla, Dr Kosie Haarhoff, Whitney Prins, Siphokazi Maku and Thomas Mart.

The initiates’ tents structures will be visible from the N2

The summer season for Ulwaluko, a traditional initiation rite practised mostly by the amaXhosa, amaHlubi, and Basotho communities in George, officially began on 1 November 2024 and will conclude on 31 January 2025. This rite of passage marks the transition from boyhood to manhood within these communities.

The confirmation of sites and dates for this season was discussed and finalised on 6 November 2024 during the Section 80 Committee meeting for the Planning and Development Portfolio Committee which includes, Planning, Building Control, Investment Property, IDP, Performance Management, Economic Development, Agriculture and Tourism.

Councillor Marlene Barnardt, MMC for S80: Planning and Development expressed the Municipality’s support for Ulwaluko. “This significant cultural practice symbolises a formal entry into adulthood and is deeply respected in the community,” said Councillor Barnardt. “The George Municipality supports and recognises the importance of preserving this cultural heritage.”

Mr. Mzwandile Gingcana, Chairperson of the George Initiation Forum from Thembalethu, confirmed that initiation will take place at the following sites:

1. LTA (Erf 1821)
2. Phelandaba (Erf 197/56)
3. Ramaphosa (Erf 107/58)
4. Zone 9 (Erf 5006)
5. Rosemore (Erf 7342)
6. Pacaltsdorp (Erf 197)
7. Lawaaikamp (Erf 462)
8. Plazini (Erf 197/577)

Furthermore, Mr. Mncedi Bongoza, Chairperson of the Hoekwil Initiation Forum, noted that the Touwsranten commonage (Farm 125/1) will also serve as an initiation site this season.

The public is herewith informed that the initiates’ tents/structures will be visible from the N2.

The initiation process traditionally concludes with homecoming ceremonies and celebrations marking the graduates’ entry into adulthood. Councillor Barnardt concluded, “We encourage families and attendees of these celebrations, called Umgidi, to celebrate responsibly throughout the season.”

In the photo: Minibus hoist: The minibus has been equipped with a hydraulic hoist giving access to passengers with mobility impairment.

“Universal access” (UA) is a familiar term in the sphere of disability and certainly a buzzword in the public transport industry, including the GO GEORGE bus service. If you don’t move in these circles, you might think that it refers to access to anywhere in the universe. It is, however, important that every citizen should understand the term and how it fits into the picture and expectations for society to create and provide “universal access”.

Equal opportunity
Universal access refers to the ability of all people to have equal opportunity and access to a service or product from which they can benefit, regardless of their social class, ethnicity, ancestry as well as their age, gender and whether or not they have a disability. In this framework, the universal accessibility of public transport can be critical for different purposes such as commuting to work, joining in entertainment activities, or buying products and services.

Under South African law and in terms of international commitments that have been made, passengers with different ways of moving (children, young people, the elderly, people with disabilities, people carrying babies or shopping, pregnant women, etc.) must be able to use public transport services in comfort, safety, speed and capacity; in other words, with dignity.

How is GO GEORGE implementing UA?
According to Morné Lakay, GO GEORGE Manager, being universally accessible is about much more than being able to get on the bus. He explains: “Most people know that we provide accessible boarding through the ramps and hoists on our buses and that priority seats are reserved for passengers with special needs. However, we also need to consider the condition of the sidewalks that people have to use to get to the bus, the placing of shelters on narrow sidewalks and the space left for people using mobility devices.

“We have to consider the legibility of the bus stop sign and as a matter of fact, all our communication products, such as the font types, colour contrasts and descriptors of visual material on our website. Tactile paving with specific patterns at the bus stop communicates to passengers who are blind where to wait, at the same time not causing obstruction.

“We have to consider the proximity of bus stops to pedestrian crossings, and in the future, we must look at the planning of our city to make sure people can easily access their destinations. We have to consider making public space safe, easy and pleasant to use, including contrasting colours on what we call ‘street furniture’ and wayfinding signage, to maximise visibility.

“Finally, we have to sensitise our service providers to be responsive and considerate. We have a very committed driver and customer care team due to an innovative training approach. Passengers must be able to experience improvements in the service and know that we will respond where we got it wrong. Behind the scenes, we are continually striving to adapt the way professional teams deliver services so that they implement improvements in a coordinated fashion, using universal design.

“Universal access is more complex than many people think, but it is a challenge that GO GEORGE gladly accepts and tackles with enthusiasm,” Lakay says.

Anyone interested to know more about universal access and how it is applied within the public transport industry, is welcome to contact GO GEORGE by phoning the Call Centre on 0800 044 044 or sending an email to info@gogeorge.org.za.

Dropped kerb:

George sidewalks are progressively being upgraded to be more accessible. Pedestrian crossings have kerb drops which are accessible to people with mobility impairments.

Boarding on kneeling bus:

The larger buses can “kneel” to meet the elevated bus stop to accommodate passengers using mobility devices or who cannot comfortably step up to the bus entrance.

Minibus hoist:

The minibus has been equipped with a hydraulic hoist giving access to passengers with mobility impairment.

Tactile paving:

Robin Mouton is a blind passenger who uses the bus service with ease. Here, he navigates the tactile paving to board the bus.

*

BEWUSMAKINGSMAAND VIR DIE REGTE VAN PERSONE MET GESTREMDHEDE: Wat is universele toegang?
“Universele toegang” (Universal Access of UA) is ‘n bekende term in die sfeer van gestremdheid en beslis ‘n gonswoord in die openbare vervoerbedryf, insluitend die GO GEORGE-busdiens. As jy nie in hierdie sirkels beweeg nie, kan jy dink dat dit bloot verwys na toegang tot enige plek in die heelal. Dit is egter belangrik dat elke burger die term moet verstaan en hoe hulle inpas by die prentjie en verwagtinge vir die samelewing om “universele toegang” te skep en te verskaf.

Universele toegang verwys na die vermoë van alle mense om gelyke geleenthede en toegang tot ‘n diens of produk te hê waarby hulle kan baat vind, ongeag hul sosiale klas, etnisiteit, afkoms sowel as hul ouderdom, geslag en of hulle ‘n gestremdheid het of nie. In hierdie raamwerk kan die universele toeganklikheid van openbare vervoer van kritieke belang wees vir verskillende doeleindes soos pendel om by die te werk te kom, by vermaaklikheidsaktiwiteite in te skakel of produkte en dienste te koop.

Ingevolge die Suid-Afrikaanse reg en in terme van internasionale verbintenisse wat aangegaan is, moet passasiers met verskillende maniere van beweging (kinders, jongmense, bejaardes, mense met gestremdhede, mense wat babas by hulle het of inkopiesakke dra, swanger vroue, ens.) openbare vervoerdienste met gemak, veiligheid, spoed en kapasiteit kan gebruik; met ander woorde, met waardigheid.

Hoe pas GO GEORGE universele toegang toe?
Volgens Morné Lakay, GO GEORGE-bestuurder, gaan universele toegang oor baie meer as om op die bus te kan klim. Hy verduidelik:
“Die meeste mense weet dat ons toegang tot die bus deur skuins loopvlakke en hystoestelle op ons busse verskaf en dat prioriteitsitplekke gereserveer word vir passasiers met spesiale behoeftes. Ons moet egter ook kyk na die toestand van die sypaadjies wat mense moet gebruik om by die bus uit te kom, die plasing van skuilings op smal sypaadjies en die ruimte wat oorbly vir mense wat mobiliteitstoestelle gebruik.

“Ons moet die leesbaarheid van die bushalteteken in gedagte hou, asook die toeganklikheid van al ons kommunikasieprodukte, met byvoorbeeld die lettertipes en kleurkontraste wat gebruik word en beskrywings van visuele materiaal op ons webwerf. Tasbare plaveisel met bepaalde patrone by die bushalte kommunikeer aan passasiers wat blind is waar om te wag en terselfdertyd nie obstruksie te veroorsaak nie.

“Ons moet die nabyheid van bushaltes aan voetgangeroorgange in ag neem, en vorentoe sal ons moet kyk na die beplanning van ons stad om seker te maak mense kan maklik toegang tot hul bestemmings kry. Ons moet daaraan werk om openbare ruimte veilig, maklik en aangenaam te maak om te gebruik. Dit sal kontrasterende kleure beteken op wat ons ‘straatmeubels’ en rigtingaanwysingsborde noem, om sigbaarheid te maksimaliseer.

“Ten slotte moet ons ons diensverskaffers sensitiseer om bedagsaam te wees en te reageer wanneer nodig. Ons het ‘n baie toegewyde busdrywer- en kliëntediensspan te danke aan ‘n innoverende opleidingsbenadering. Passasiers moet verbeterings in die diens kan ervaar en weet dat ons sal reageer waar ons verkeerd was. Agter die skerms streef ons voortdurend daarna om die manier waarop professionele spanne dienste lewer aan te pas sodat hulle verbeterings op ‘n gekoördineerde wyse implementeer deur universele ontwerp te gebruik.

“Universele toegang is meer ingewikkeld as wat baie mense dink, maar dit is ‘n uitdaging wat GO GEORGE met graagte aanvaar en met entoesiasme aanpak,” sê Lakay.

Enigiemand wat belangstel om meer te weet oor universele toegang en hoe dit in die openbare vervoerbedryf toegepas word, is welkom om GO GEORGE te kontak deur die Inbelsentrum by 0800 044 044 te skakel of ‘n e-pos na info@gogeorge.org.za te stuur.

BYSKRIFTE:
Dropped kerb:

George se sypaadjies word stelselmatig opgegradeer om meer toeganklik te wees. Voetgangeroorgange het ‘n verlaging van die randsteen wat toeganklikheid verseker vir mense met mobiliteitsgestremdhede.

Boarding on kneeling bus:

Die groter busse kan “kniel” om die verhoogde randsteen van die bushalte te ontmoet om passasiers wat nie met gemak op die bus kan klim nie, te akkommodeer.

Minibus hoist:

Die minibus is toegerus met ‘n hidrouliese hyser wat toegang verleen aan passasiers met beweeglikheidsgestremdhede.

Tactile paving:

Robin Mouton is ‘n blinde passasier wat die busdiens met gemak gebruik. Hier voel hy sy pad na die bus met behulp van die tasbare plaveisel.

In the photo above a proud Deborah Booysen, a mother of four children, received her home keys from Mayor Jackie von Brandis. From left are Cllr Theresa Jeyi (Chief Whip of Council),Given Masase and Brumilda Kirchner (Official from the Human Settlements Department, George Municipality).

A total of eight houses were handed over last week, bringing the total number of houses completed and occupied at Metrogrounds Housing Project to 89. This initiative is part of a broader effort to address housing shortages in the community.

According to Clinton Petersen, Acting Deputy Director: Human Settlements at George Municipality, the beneficiaries of the Metrogrounds Housing Project were selected based on criteria from the Housing Demand Database. Priority was given to those who have been on the waiting list the longest, as well as individuals aged 60 and older, persons with disabilities, farm workers, and residents of informal settlements and backyards. The houses handed over last week were allocated according to a list provided by the contractor, indicating homes that are ready for occupation.

Mayor Jackie von Brandis said she is ecstatic for the new homeowners. “Most of them have waited a very long time for their homes and I hope even more new doors will be opened soon,” Von Brandis said.

The beneficiaries who received keys to their new homes include, Abraham Claassen (53) and Monica Frances Jonck (57), Koos Prinsloo (53) and Enrika Van Rooyen (36), Frederick Bruiners (52) and Lena Alexander (53), Piet Jafta (53), Deborah Booysen (40),Marike Jonk (37),Victoria Beginsel (51) and Sam Williams (52) as well as

Mogo Matilda Kanie (52) and Johannes Kanie (55).

Deborah Booysen said three of her four children will live with her in her home. She said she feels good to be able to move into her brand-new home. She said she lived at Palana Informal Settlement and have been on the waiting list since 2003.

Frederick Bruiners and Lena Alexander and their son Alfredo (22) will live in their new house after waiting for their new home since 2003. They’ve had their informal house burned down in Borchards and lived in a temporary structure. “Yoh, Frederick exclaimed almost in disbelief as he said he is so happy that they have their own home now.”

Good progress has been made on the project and 347 houses are still to be handed over in the Metrogrounds development.

During a progress meeting held on 30 October 2024, it was confirmed that snagging for the remaining houses in Phase 1, which consists of 236 housing opportunities, will be completed by 29 November 2024.

In addition, Phase 2 of the project, which includes 200 housing opportunities, is advancing with 150 houses in the final stages of completion. Approval was also granted in October 2024 for the construction of 196 top structures for Phase 3, with processes for construction and subsidy administration is set to commence pending the completion of the necessary statutory documentation.

Photo:

Mayor Jackie von Brandis handed the title deed of the home to Frederick Bruiners and Lena Alexander after receiving their new home at Metrogrounds. From left are Cllr Theresa Jeyi (Chief Whip of Council), Mayor Von Brandis, Alexander, Bruiners, Raylene Petrus and Vanessa Brandt from Human Settlements, George Municipality.

In the photo on the left, Andre Blaine V&A Waterfront Executive Manager Marine & Industrial and far right Wessa CEO Cindy Lee Cloete presented the George Blue Flag awards to George Manager Parks and Recreation Nosidima Vumindaba and MMC for Community Services Marchell Kleynhans.

George Municipality has proudly retained Blue Flag status for Wilderness Main, Herold’s Bay, and Victoria Bay beaches following the national awards ceremony hosted by the Wildlife and Environment Society of South Africa (WESSA) in Cape Town on Monday, 28 October 2024. Leentjiesklip Beach continues as a Pilot Blue Flag Beach, while Gwaiing Beach and River Mouth received the Green Coast Award, recognizing sustainable management at this biodiverse site.

Nosidima Vumindaba, George Municipality’s Manager of Parks and Recreation, and Cllr Marchell Kleynhans, MMC for Community Services, accepted the awards on behalf of the municipality. Vumindaba highlighted the benefits of Blue Flag and Green Coast status for enhancing local tourism, protecting coastal ecosystems, and raising environmental awareness. “Blue Flag status has international significance,” Vumindaba stated. “These accolades help establish our city and district as top tourism destinations. We are grateful for the partnership with SANParks Garden Route National Park, which shares management of Wilderness Beach with us.”

The Blue Flag season will run from 1 December 2024 to 31 January 2025, requiring high standards in water quality, public safety, and facility maintenance. The Green Coast Award, launched in 2017, is given to coastal sites with high biodiversity, promoting community engagement in managing these natural areas. These awards reinforce George Municipality’s reputation as a leading, eco-friendly tourism destination on South Africa’s coastline.

ABOUT BLUE FLAG:

• The iconic Blue Flag is one of the world’s most recognised voluntary eco-labels awarded to beaches, marinas, and sustainable boating tourism operators.
• In order to qualify for the Blue Flag, a series of stringent environmental, educational, safety, and accessibility criteria must be met and maintained.
• With over 4500 sites in over 45 countries around the world, Blue Flag is actively contributing to the sustainable development goals. Blue Flag also campaigns against disparity, inequality, unemployment, health threats, depletion of natural resources, environmental threats, pollution and general environmental degradation.
• In South Africa, Blue Flag has been operational since 2001 and has proud municipal, marina and tourism boat partners in 18 coastal municipalities around the country.
• Blue Flag is voluntary, which shows a very strong commitment to environmental sustainability from those municipalities, marinas and tourism boat operators that are awarded annually. All properties and companies that apply for the Blue Flag award are assessed by a South African National Jury as well as by the Blue Flag International Jury in Europe.

ABOUT GREEN COAST:

• Based on the success of the Blue Flag eco-label and the recognition that Blue Flag is only applicable to a limited stretch of urban coastline, WESSA developed a second coastal award for implementation along South Africa’s coastline. The Green Coast Award, officially launched in 2017, is an annual award programme that recognises inclusive and sustainable management at less-developed coastal sites with high biodiversity value.
• Green Coast is a platform for collaboration, innovation, and local public participation in coastal management. Successful coastal sites achieve Green Coast status by meeting a set of criteria that are designed to ensure environmental, developmental and participatory standards are continually maintained and improved. Where possible, Green Coast sites aim to include a resident’s association or public group that can mobilise active citizens to participate in the management of the site. The Green Coast criteria include aspects of basic ecological monitoring, encouraging citizen science initiatives that empower communities for civic action and influence localised decision-making. Coastal areas with Green Coast status appeal to a specific sector of the tourism market that is looking for experiences in adventure, outdoor living, and nature tourism along our coastline. The Green Coast Award assists these sites by putting them on the tourism map and promoting them all under one national eco-label.

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.”

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.

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 Municipality has made significant strides in its infrastructure development, thanks to a Budget Facility for Infrastructure Funding (BFI) grant of R1.115 billion received from National Treasury during the 2021/22 financial year. By the first quarter of the 2024/25 financial year, the BFI project, which includes multiple components, has shown considerable progress in both implementation and expenditure, with full completion expected by November 2025.

In a bid to bolster the local economy, George Municipality is focusing on long-term planning and investment in essential engineering resources—water, sewerage, and electricity. The municipality currently provides water services to over 294,942 residents from 85,931 households across 28 wards, including coastal areas such as Kleinkrantz, Wilderness, Victoria Bay, Herold’s Bay, and Gwaing, according to STATSSA 2022 data.

This ambitious project aims to secure an adequate potable water supply for the growing population, support future social and economic development, and reduce pollution in key watercourses. The initiative comprises 12 components, several of which will be rolled out in multiple construction phases.

Component 1 and 2
The 20 Mℓ/day (20 million litres per day) extension to the New Water Treatment Works (New WTW) and the new WTW Residuals Treatment facility are components 1 and 2 of the project. The completion of this project will significantly enhance the purified water treatment capacity of the Municipality to a total daily production capacity of 60 Mℓ/d.

It will also eliminate the current problematic practise of discharging residuals (settled “sludge”) into the sewer system by means of the new WTW Residuals Treatment facility, which will effectively treat it to produce dry mass that will be disposed of at an appropriate solid waste disposal site.

Status: The construction of the first contract, valued at R284 million, for the civil engineering works is scheduled for completion by December 2024. The progress status of construction and installation of the mechanical, electrical and instrumentation (MEI) works to the value of R217 million, is at 85% and scheduled for completion by early 2025.

It will be thoroughly tested through a series of trial operational sessions in order to ensure that the purified water will be in full compliance with the required standards, before it will be supplied to the residents.

Component 3
The upgrade of three sewer pumpstations, being Eden, Meul and Schaapkop Pumpstations, will improve the long-term capacity and reliability of the aged pump stations.

Status: Construction of the first phase has reached completion at the Meul and Eden Pump Stations
• Phase 1: The first phase of the upgrading and refurbishment of the Meul Sewage Pumpstation was completed in June 2023, which inter-alia included a new standby generator and motor control centre. This is also the case for the new motor control centre at the Eden Sewage Pumpstation.

• Phase 2: The construction of a sewer pipeline at the Meul Pumpstation has been completed and the Contractor to which the Mechanical and Electrical works has been awarded, is currently finalising detailed workshop drawings and manufacturing the equipment. At the Eden pumpstation the bulk earthworks for the civil works are underway.

The Mechanical and Electrical works contract has been awarded and will commence late October 2024. At the Schaapkop pumpstation the bulk earthworks and retaining walls are progressing well.

The progress of the Mechanical and Electrical works is at 4%, with finalising of detailed workshop drawings and manufacturing of equipment being done. A third part of the works consist of a pipe bridge across the river, for which environmental and geotechnical investigations are being done.

Component 4
The upgrading of the Garden Route Dam Outlet and Supply project includes the replacement of the existing 600 mm diameter raw water pipeline from the intake tower at the Garden Route Dam to the raw water pumpstations, with a new 800 mm diameter stainless steel pipeline and a section consisting of a 900 mm diameter HDPE pipe, to accommodate a higher flowrate in accordance with the future raw water flow requirements.

The project also includes upgrading of a section of the pump pipeline from one of the raw water pumpstations to improve flow and reduce risk of pipe failures.

 Status: The construction contract was awarded for an amount of R 34.2 million in May 2023. Construction progress is currently at 90%. The estimated completion date for the project is November 2024.

Component 5- COMPLETED
Two 1250 kVA generators have been installed at the Garden Route Dam raw water pumpstation. These generators are ensuring that during loadshedding or any other power outage, raw water can continue to be pumped uninterrupted to the Water Treatment Works for processing for drinking water supply.

Status: Construction and installation have been completed and the project has been commissioned. The generators automatically start and can operate during load-shedding.

Component 6
An additional 40 million litre (40 Mℓ) raw water storage and balancing dam is being constructed, as well as a 340m long 800mm diameter raw water outlet pipeline and a 1000mm diameter raw water pump main extension, to secure sufficient raw water storage capacity to supply the 20Mℓ/day extension to the Water Treatment Works and the existing two treatment plants.

The new raw water dam will supplement the existing storage dams that provide raw water to the two water treatment plants.

Status: The project construction contract was awarded for an amount of R 93,1 million in December 2023. Construction commenced on site in May 2024 after receiving all statutory approvals. Construction progress is currently at 38%, with the key activities being the excavation of the dam, placing, shaping and compacting the spoil material and pipe laying. The estimated completion date for the project is August 2025.

Component 7- COMPLETED
The rehabilitation of the Old Water Treatment Works, located at 9th Avenue Denneoord consisted of the refurbishment of the existing treatment modules.

Status: This component consists of four separate contracts and the tenders were awarded at the beginning of 2022. All work has been completed under this component.

Component 8
Refurbishment of the Kaaimans River Pumpstation equipment included the installation of six (6) new robust pumps in the sump in the river, a strainer system and six new high pressure pumps and included the replacement of the electrical control equipment.

The Kaaimans Pumpstation discharges into the Garden Route Dam and contributes significantly to the George raw water resource requirements. It operates fully automated and the operational personnel will monitor it daily through the SCADA telemetry system.

Status: The project construction contract was awarded for an amount of R 16.5 million in June 2023. Construction progress is currently at 90%, with the main scope of work completed and the pumpstation undergoing trial operations since mid September 2024. The estimated completion date for the project is November 2024.

Component 9
The new 14,5 Mℓ Pacaltsdorp West Reservoir and Pumpstation will address the current inadequate emergency and balancing potable water storage and provide adequate water security for the medium term future developments in the western area of Pacaltsdorp.

 Status: The project construction contract was awarded for an amount of R 106,9 million in January 2024. Construction commenced on site in May 2024 after receiving all statutory approvals. Construction progress is currently at 32%. The estimated completion date for the project is November 2025.

Component 10
The new 3 Mℓ Pacaltsdorp East Reservoir, 300 kl Tower and pumpstation will address the inadequate emergency and balancing potable water storage in the eastern area of Pacaltsdorp.

Status: The project construction contract was awarded for an amount of R 59,9 million in December 2023. Construction commenced on site in May 2024 after receiving all statutory approvals. Construction progress is currently at 38%. The estimated completion date for the project is July 2025.

Component 11
A new pumpstation and control valves will be provided at the existing Thembalethu West Reservoir and Tower and an existing bulk supply pipeline will be upgraded to ensure adequate potable water storage and increased security of potable water supply to the western area of Thembalethu, as well as provide capacity to meet future development water demands.

Status: Two construction contracts were awarded for a total amount of R 23,9 million on December 2023 and March 2024. Construction commenced on site in May 2024 after receiving all statutory approvals. Construction progress is currently at 80% and 40% for the respective contracts. The estimated completion date for the project is June 2025.

Component 12
A new 8 Mℓ Thembalethu East Reservoir, 1000 kl Tower and Pumpstation will be provided to ensure adequate potable water storage and increased security of potable water supply to the eastern area of Thembalethu, as well as provide capacity to meet future development water demands.

Status: The project construction contract was awarded for an amount of R 106,5 million February 2023. Construction commenced on site in April 2024. Construction progress is currently at 41%. The estimated completion date for the project is June 2025.

According to a joint announcement by the Western Cape MEC of Mobility, Isaac Sileku, and George Executive Mayor, Alderman Jackie von Brandis, another bus route to Thembalethu will be activated by GO GEORGE on Monday 28 October 2024.

Route 10 Thembalethu – George Industria will be the second route servicing the residents of Thembalethu. R18A rolled out in November last year and connects Thembalethu with Blanco.

According to Minister Sileku, the GO GEORGE network is typical of what can be achieved in public transport development if all partners work together. “I am looking forward to experience the new line and to meet some of the commuters who will benefit from even better public transport opportunities,” he said.

Mayor Von Brandis expressed her delight at this next step in rolling out a comprehensive service to Thembalethu. “The full implementation of the GO GEORGE bus services to our residents of Thembalethu has always been a top priority. It is essential that our residents have access to dignified and reliable transportation in all areas. Although the implementation of the bus services was temporarily hindered by the congestion caused by the N2 bridge construction, residents can be assured that we are fully committed to ensuring that the bus service is operational and available to all who intend to use it,” she said.

Route 10 will start out with a temporary deviation from the planned routing to accommodate roadworks in PW Botha Boulevard. Maps and timetables have been adjusted accordingly and are available on the GO GEORGE website.

Community engagement
The GO GEORGE communications team members are engaging with Thembalethu residents working in the industrial area, explaining the new route to current and future bus users. Any businesses in this area, who would like the team to visit their staff to share route information are welcome to phone the Call Centre with such a request.

The GO GEORGE website, www.gogeorge.org.za, offers valuable information on how to use the system as well as user-friendly features to plan a trip. Contact GO GEORGE by phoning the Call Centre on 0800 044 044 or sending an email to info@gogeorge.org.za, or like the GO GEORGE Facebook page to stay up to date with developments.

GO GEORGE ROL TWEEDE ROETE NA THEMBALETHU UIT

Volgens ‘n gesamentlike aankondiging deur die Wes-Kaapse LUR vir mobiliteit, Isaac Sileku, en George se uitvoerende burgemeester, raadsheer Jackie von Brandis, sal nog ‘n busroete na Thembalethu op Maandag 28 Oktober 2024 deur GO GEORGE geaktiveer word.

Roete 10 Thembalethu – George Industria sal die tweede roete wees wat die inwoners van Thembalethu bedien. R18A is in November verlede jaar uitgerol en verbind Thembalethu met Blanco.

Volgens minister Sileku is die GO GEORGE-netwerk tipies van wat bereik kan word in die ontwikkeling van openbare vervoer as alle vennote saamwerk. “Ek sien uit daarna om die nuwe roete te ervaar en om van die pendelaars te ontmoet wat by nog beter openbarevervoergeleenthede sal baat,” het hy gesê.

Burgemeester Von Brandis het haar vreugde uitgespreek oor hierdie volgende stap in die bekendstelling van ‘n omvattende diens aan Thembalethu. “Die volle implementering van die GO GEORGE-busdienste aan ons inwoners van Thembalethu was nog altyd ‘n topprioriteit. Dit is noodsaaklik dat ons inwoners toegang het tot waardige en betroubare vervoer op alle gebiede. Hoewel die implementering van die busroetes tydelik belemmer is deur die opeenhoping wat deur die N2-brugkonstruksie veroorsaak is, kan inwoners verseker wees dat ons ten volle daartoe verbind is om te verseker dat die busdiens operasioneel en beskikbaar is vir almal wat van plan is om dit te gebruik,” het sy gesê.

Roete 10 sal begin met ‘n tydelike afwyking van die beplande roete om padwerke in PW Botha-boulevard te akkommodeer. Roetekaarte en skedules is dienooreenkomstig aangepas en is beskikbaar op die GO GEORGE-webwerf.

 Skakeling met gemeenskap
Die GO GEORGE-kommunikasiespanlede is in gesprek met Thembalethu-inwoners wat in die nywerheidsgebied werk en verduidelik die nuwe roete aan huidige en toekomstige busgebruikers. Enige besighede in hierdie area wat wil hê die span moet hul personeel besoek om roete-inligting te deel, is welkom om die inbelsentrum te skakel met so ‘n versoek.

Die GO GEORGE-webwerf, www.gogeorge.org.za, bied waardevolle inligting oor hoe om die stelsel te gebruik, sowel as gebruikersvriendelike funksies om ‘n reis te beplan. Kontak GO GEORGE deur die inbelsentrum by 0800 044 044 te skakel of ‘n e-pos aan info@gogeorge.org.za te stuur, of volg die GO GEORGE Facebook-blad om op hoogte te bly van verwikkelinge.