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The George Municipality’s move to explore alternative energy-generating sources is gaining impetus, as the Executive Mayor of George Alderman Leon van Wyk accompanied by the Municipality’s Electrotechnical Services team participated in a Wheeling and Trading Symposium that was held on Wednesday, 8 February 2023 at the Hawthorn Boutique Hotel in George, in partnership with a private electricity trading company, Enpower Trading.

Energy Wheeling is generally defined as the delivery of electricity generated by a private operator in one location to a buyer or off-taker in another location via a third-party network (Utility or Municipality). Therefore, the George Municipality intends to do wheeling services to explore available energy sources, steering them towards the Municipal grid, while also looking at a cheaper cost of electricity than Eskom’s current cost. With all the privately generated energy coming into the grid, the Municipality hopes to lessen reliance on Eskom as well as become energy secure.

The speakers and panellists during the discussions were Phillip van Niekerk from the hosts, Enpower Trading, Jeandre van Zyl from Solar Energy Africa, Gerjo Hoffman from Open Access Energy, Josh Dippenaar from Sustainable Energy Africa, Nhlanhla Ngidi from SALGA, Bernhard Teuteberg from DEDAT Western Cape and Jemaine Cupido from Bitou Municipality facilitated the proceedings of the symposium.

The Symposium attracted representatives from the energy sector and companies from George and other parts of the Country, Municipalities from the Garden Route District such as Mossel Bay, Bitou, Oudtshoorn, Hessequa and Knysna as well as Municipalities outside the district such as Swellendam Municipality, Nelson Mandela Bay Metro from the City of Gqeberha in the Eastern Cape, and the Executive Mayor Mzimkhulu Thebolla of Msunduzi Municipality from the City of Pietermaritzburg in KwaZulu-Natal.

Welcoming the attendees, the Executive Mayor of George Alderman Leon van Wyk said in his opening remarks that the unreliability of Eskom’s electricity supply and the increasing intensity of load shedding is causing huge disruption and damage across many production sections and the economy. “From a municipal perspective, our KWH sales have naturally declined even with households having to do their chores at times when electricity is available.”

“While we are encountering power supply disruption, we need to look to innovation to take us forward into new opportunities. Today we will be discussing Wheeling. This new topic is the disruptive radical change that will take us forward into a new era of trading in electricity, creating generating facilities and transporting electricity to where it is needed,” van Wyk added.

“I am very proud of our team here in George which has moved the boundaries in their quest to find solutions. Last year as a team we set new challenges in saying we needed to mitigate the risks that our municipal infrastructure faced, i.e., water treatment works, wastewater treatment works, and pump stations during load shedding. As 2022 progressed we also concluded that the Solar PV route needed to be supplemented by the rapid introduction of Battery Energy Storage.”

The first wheeling transaction took place in May 2022 at George Municipality, following the signing of the use-of-system agreements in July 2021. The billing process has for many years been done manually, requiring extensive time for verification and preparation of bills once the data was retrieved from the meters.

“The need for this freely licensed software pilot became evident when we considered wheeling and renewable energy scaling on the George Municipality’s electricity grid. The manual billing process was one of the main challenges and resolving this meant reducing reliance and pressure on key human resources, reducing potential errors that could occur in the billing process,” said Mr Bongani Mandla, the director of electrotechnical services at George Municipality.

Mr Bongani Mandla highlighted that the current George Municipality wheeling pilot consists of trade between one generator and four off-takers through Enpower Trading (a NERSA licensed Energy Trader) and this entire process has now been automated using Open Access Energy’s software.

“The Municipality is working on further improvements to its wheeling projects and to incentivise the private sector (both generators and off-takers) to participate in this program. These include creating a platform for customers to view their accounts and access their consumption and billing data in real-time on a portal, working with DEDAT Western Cape Government to speed up standardising the use-of-system contracts as well as moving from the 30-minute reconciliation to a Time-of-Use reconciliation by latest end of March 2023,” Mandla concluded.

Gerjo Hoffman (Chief-Executive-Officer and co-founder at Open Access Energy), Phillip van Niekerk (EnPower Trading), Cllr. Mzimkhulu Thebolla (Executive Mayor of Msunduzi Municipality from the City of Pietermaritzburg in KwaZulu-Natal), Ald Leon van Wyk (Executive Mayor of George), Bongani Mandla (Director for Electrotechnical Services – George Municipality) Jeandre van Zyl (Solar Energy Africa), Josh Dippenaar (Sustainable Energy Africa) and Jemaine Cupido (Bitou Municipality)

Jemaine Cupido (Facilitator from Bitou Municipality), Gerjo Hoffman (Chief-Executive-Officer and co-founder at Open Access Energy), Josh Dippenaar (Sustainable Energy Africa), Phillip van Niekerk (EnPower Trading), and Jeandre van Zyl (Solar Energy Africa)

George Municipality received a Budget Facility for Infrastructure Funding (BFI) grant to the value of R1.107 billion from the National Treasury in the 2021/22 financial year. The BFI project with its various components has shown significant progress and expenditure to date in the 2022/23 financial year. George Municipality is actively working to keep our economy on the go – by ensuring adequate long-term planning and investment in our resources  – that is water, sewerage and electricity.

The full BFI project is to be completed in the next thirty (30) months. George Municipality provides water services to over 212 120 residents from 62 722 households (STATSSA 2017) across 28 wards including the coastal areas of Kleinkrantz, Wilderness, Victoria Bay, Herold’s Bay and Gwaing in the city of George area. The objectives of the project are to ensure adequate potable water supply to meet the demand of the current population and to provide security for future development, both social and economic, and to reduce pollution of certain main water courses.

Updates on the Potable Water Security and Remedial Works components funded by BFI
The project consists of 12 components, some of which will be executed in more than one construction phase.

Component 1 and 2
The 20 Ml/d extension to the New Water Treatment Works (New WTW) is component 2 of the 12.

Status: The first contract, valued at R263 million, has been awarded for the civil engineering works and construction has commenced on site. The tender for the mechanical, electrical and instrumentation (MEI) works was awarded R217 million. Component 2  is the largest single component of the BFI project

Earthworks have been completed, with the major excavation for the WTW extension consisting of some 20 000 metric cubes of earth material stockpiled on site for re-use elsewhere on other components of the BFI project as well as other municipal projects. The placing of concrete is progressing well and the structures are now above ground level.

The construction on the 600m long, 900mm diameter, clear water HDPE pipeline commenced towards the end of 2022 and is currently nearing 50% completion. The forestry permit was issued in early January 2023 and the remaining construction throughthe  sensitive indigenous forest can now proceed.

The dewatering facility for the water treatment process residuals (not sludge) is also progressing well and the concrete wall of the first of three tanks was cast at the end of January 2023. This forms part of component 2 of the BFI project and will eliminate the residuals from being discharged to the sewer system and therefore reduce the load on the sewage conveyance system andpump stationss, as well as reduce the load on the wastewater treatment processes and the main sludge dewatering facility.

Meul Pumpstation Inlet Works 

Component 3
The refurbishment of the existing Sludge Discharge System Phase 1 and 2 will take place at the Eden, Meul and SchaapkopPump stationss.

Status: Construction of the first phase is progressing well at the Meul and Eden Pump Stations

Phase 1: The first phase of the upgrading and refurbishment of the Meul Sewagepump stationn is underway and certain components have been completed, including a standby generator and new motor control centre panels. This is also the case for the new Motor Control Centre at the Eden Sewagepump stationn. Civil construction on the Meul SewagePump stationn is progressing well with challenging conditions having to be managed with regular flooding of the works occurring during high rainfall events. Phase 1 of the Schaapkop Sewage Pumpstation implementation was delayed, and the design process isunderwayy to incorporate both phases 1 and 2 to be implemented as a single project.

Phase 2: Consultants have been appointed for the design of the second phase of the pump station upgrades of the three sewage pump stations.

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 waterpump stations, with a new 800 mm diameter stainless steel pipeline to accommodate a higher flowratebyh the future raw water flow requirements.

Status: The project is currently in the procurement stage, with construction tenders closing mid-February 2023, and construction potentially commencing in May 2023.

Component 5
2 x 1250 kVA generators will be installed at the Garden Route Dam raw water pumpstation. This will mean 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: The construction contract has been awarded and construction is progressing well.  The delivery of the generators to the site is expected by mid-February 2023, with the full operation of the generators scheduled for the end of June 2023.

New Water Treatment Works clear water pipeline construction.

Component 6
An additional 30 mega litre raw water storage balancing dam will be constructed, that includes a 340m long 800mm diameter raw water pipeline, to secure sufficient raw water storage capacity to supply the 20Ml/day extension to the Water Treatment Works. The new raw water dam will supplement the existing storage dams that provide raw water to the two water treatment plants.

Status: The preliminary design process has been completed with consideration of two alternative positions in order to select the most cost-effective solution. Final designs are nearing completion, to be followed by the procurement of a Contractor to construct the works.

Component 7
The rehabilitation of the Old Water Treatment Works, located at 9th Avenue Denneoord will allow for the refurbishment of the 25 Ml/d treatment plant which is currently rated at only 20.5 Ml/ per day.

Status: This component consists of four separate contracts and the tenders were awarded at the beginning of 2022. Construction is under way at the Old WTW and some condition assessments of the existing infrastructure necessitated design changes at the start of the contract, causing unforeseen delays. The air extraction from the filter galleries was completed and the emergency chlorine scrubbers have been ordered. Both shipments of filter media arrived in 2022 and fence construction is under way.

A temporary package water treatment plant was installed and commissioned in mid-December 2022 to facilitate scheduled plant shutdowns to enable work to proceed uninterrupted. This temporary plant also increased the volume of potable water available to meet the peak holiday season demand.

Component 8
Refurbishment of the Kaaimans River Pumpstation equipment will include the installation of 6 new submersible vortex impeller pumps in the sump, a strainer system and 6 new high lift centrifugal pumps and includes 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.

Status: The project is currently in the procurement phase, with tenders closing in February 2023, and it is anticipated that construction will commence in May 2023.

Component 9 and 10
The new 14,5 Ml Pacaltsdorp West Reservoir; 3 Ml Pacaltsdorp East Reservoir, 300 kl Tower and pumpstation will address the inadequate emergency and balancing storage in this suburb.

Status: The designs are in process, to be followed by the procurement of a contractor for the construction of the works. The detailed design process will be aligned with the environmental and town planning processes.

Residual tank construction.

Component 11 and 12
A new pumpstation and control valves will be provided at the existing Thembalethu West reservoir and tower; a new 8 Ml Thembalethu East Reservoir, 1000 kl tower and pumpstation will provide adequate potable water storage and increase security of potable water supply to Thembalethu as well as provide capacity to meet future development water demands.

Status: The design of the works is in progress and will be followed by the procurement of a contractor for the construction of the works.

The George Council tabled stricter water restrictions to curb the excess use of potable water (treated drinking water) in December 2022. Knowing how to read your water meter and monitoring it is a simple way of keeping track of how much water is being used on your property and can help prevent water wasted through undetected leaks and avoid unexpected high bills.

George experienced below-average rainfall in 2022 and the Garden Route Dam is currently at 63.82% (based on the raised dam wall). There is a real risk of another below-average winter rainfall season ahead, so we need to keep our dams fuller for longer. The continued load-shedding contributes to the disruption of drinking water production and we need to conserve what we have in our reservoirs.

How to read your meter?

• Open your water meter box. If the lid is closed, you can usually open it gently with something like a screwdriver. Please be careful not to break the lid.
• No matter what type of water meter it is, the black numbers represent thousands of litres, called kilolitres, and red numbers represent litres.
• Water charges are based on the number of kilolitres of water used on the property every month. If you are submitting your own readings to the City (e.g., if your meter is difficult for meter readers to access), you only need to supply the black numbers when submitting your reading.
• Water meters continually record the amount of water that passes into a property throughout the lifespan of the meter. The tally on the meter does not reset from month to month. Subtract the previous reading from your current reading to determine usage for the period between readings.
• Please email your water meter readings along with the account holder’s name, contact details and GRG account number and date of reading to meterreadings@george.gov.za.
• Please note that meter readings are done per area at different times of the month, and it is important that your meter reading email is submitted around the same time as your area’s reading time. Please check the date of the previous reading at the bottom of your account to determine your meter reading slot.

Monitoring your meter readings to check how much you’re using or to confirm a leak?

• Check by how much the numbers on the meter increase to see how much water is being used. Monitor this on a regular basis e.g., weekly or monthly, and keep a written record.
• To check if you have a leak, first stop all water use in the house (tightly close all taps) and note how much the meter reading is. Then wait about 15 minutes and check the meter reading again. If the numbers have gone up, it means you probably have a leak.
• One leaking toilet can waste between 2600 – 13 000 litres of water per month, and one leaking tap can waste between 400 – 2600 litres of water per month.

What are our Water Restrictions and how do they affect your household?

1. Every household is now limited to using 15 kilolitres of water per month. Emergency tariffs will be charged for any household which uses more than 15kl.
2. Businesses dependent on municipal water, including commercial car washes must reduce their use of water by 15% of their past 6-month average.
3. Large industry must reduce their use of municipal water by 10% of their past 6-month average.
4. Gardens can be watered any time of the day but only with watering cans or buckets, no hosepipes are allowed.
5. The Irrigation or watering of ALL sport fields using municipal water is prohibited.
6.  Washing of vehicles with a garden hose is prohibited. Only buckets are allowed.
7. Cleaning of any outside surface areas using a water hose is prohibited.
8. Filling up of swimming pools with municipal water is prohibited.
9. Applications for exemption can be submitted to the Deputy Director Water for consideration.
10. Those making use of their own water must display a visible sign stating, “Own Water”.
    (Please see www.george.gov.za for the full list of proposed restrictions.)

Treated Effluent and Raw Water for irrigation or construction purposes is available and details can be requested from the Directorate: Civil Engineering Services (gvanniekerk@george.gov.za)

Report contraventions of the current Water Restrictions on 0800 424477 – fines apply.
Report all water leaks on 044 801 9262/66 or A/ h 044 801 6300

Water Leaks can also be reported at your nearest Area Office or Thusong Centre, emailed to gmun@george.gov.za , via the Municipal App or phoned in to 044 801 9311.

Photograph for illustration only.

In the group photograph are the Executive Mayor for George, Leon van Wyk (centre) standing next to Pall Rikhardsson (From Iceland, CEO of Planet Youth), CEO Planet Youth Iceland (left of Ald Van Wyk, grey suit) at the launch today held in the George Civic. The programme is a joint operation by various western cape government departments, the University of Cape Town and various NGO’s and public partners.

Planet Youth, a whole-of-society programme focussed on mental health, was launched today 3 February 2023 in George.

The programme, coordinated by the departments of Health, Education and Cultural Affairs and Sports is an Icelandic prevention concept that has proved success in reducing substance abuse and is designed to strengthen protective factors and building healthy communities, especially young people.

“The Planet Youth programme being launched in the George subdistrict of the Garden Route provides us with a unique opportunity to positively influence the lives of our young people. The programme relies on intersectoral partnerships, interconnectedness with our communities and a whole-of-society approach to ensure that our youth reach their ultimate potential and realise their dreams. The coordinating team comprising representatives from various departments and spheres of government has been hard at work to set the scene for the good work that is to follow. Collectively, we look forward to the positive impact the programme will have on our communities at large,” said District Director for the Garden Route and Central Karoo health districts, Mr Zee Brickles.

“This concept has already kicked off with trial surveys at Jonga High, Thembalethu High and Pacaltsdorp High School in 2022. The official roll-out of the programme to the schools in George will take place in February 2023. We will start with a survey of all the Grade 8 and 9 learners of George, Uniondale and Haarlem this month. This will be followed by school and community meetings to assess the results of the surveys and identify possible community programmes to address the issues identified. A Convenors Group has been established, with the Department of Health, George Municipality, departments of Education, Cultural Affairs and Sports, Social Development, University of Cape Town, SAPS and several non-governmental organisations,” said Dr Zilla North, Medical Manager for the George subdistrict.

The aim of the programme is to enrol all children in George across the subdistrict in activities that promote protective factors to develop healthy futures. The local community aims to achieve significant reduction in youth alcohol harms which will be measured as decreased school dropout rates, improved school academic performance, and a reduction in violence. This is projected to alleviate the burden on the overwhelmed mental healthcare system, correctional services, judiciary, education and social development.

“I am very excited and proud that the Planet Youth programme is being launched in George. I had the opportunity to meet and engage with the core team that will be driving the introduction of this whole of society programme. Planet Youth will provide our youth in George with the opportunity to become part of the anticipated benefits ranging from wellness and employment, to food security and cultural and sporting achievements”, said Executive Mayor Mr Leon van Wyk

The local community aims to improve employment rates by producing employment-ready youth. By applying the Planet Youth vision of positioning the school as the hub, reducing the economic and social harms of youth substance use and by increasing employment rates, the local community aims to significantly improve food security in affected communities. It is also aiming to achieve a significant increase in sporting and cultural achievement which will improve mental health, physical well-being and competitiveness in affected schools.

Background to Planet Youth Programme:

Planet Youth George is a WOSA (whole-of-society approach) platform for community collaboration that aims to improve mental health by reducing youth substance use, violence, and school dropout rates using an evidence-based and internationally tested approach of youth development activities, community empowerment and rigorous auditing.

Planet Youth inc. is an international organisation, working in many countries worldwide, developed and underdeveloped, to alleviate alcohol harms in adolescence with benefits across the life course.

Planet Youth and the University of Cape Town commenced the George Planet Youth Programme in October 2022.

Core principles of the Planet Youth community programme

• The programme utilises an intersectoral approach involving a multitude of NGOs, enterprises, and departments of government using a WOSA  approach.
• The programme is a long-term investment with sustainable long-term outcomes (at least 10 years).
• The programme is community based, with schools becoming hubs of afterschool sports, cultural, food security and community development activities. Schools will collaborate with parents and organisations to engage them in encouraging youth participation and fostering good parenting techniques.
• The programme develops local expertise and skills to maintain the quality improvement cycles that are initiated.
• The programme will be rigorously audited through bi-annual surveys and reports to quantify the impact of interventions and guide further efforts.

South Cape Children’s Choir, an amateur regional children’s choir based in George performed and finished the programme of the day with an unusual and stirring rendition of the national anthem.

Issued by George Municipality, on behalf of the Western Cape Department of Health

The Planet Youth delegates visited the Executive Mayor of George, Ald Leon van Wyk on Wednesday, 1 February 2023. The Department of Health and Wellness is launching a whole of society programme focused on mental health called “Planet Youth”. The Planet Youth Concept is an Icelandic Prevention Concept, that has proved a success in reducing substance abuse and is designed to strengthen protective factors building healthy communities, especially for young people.

This concept has already kicked off with trial surveys at Jonga High, Thembalethu High and Pacaltsdorp High School this year. The official roll-out of the programme to the schools in George and Uniondale will occur after the launinrom February 2023. A Convenors Group has been established, with the Department of Health, George Municipality, Departments of Education, Sports, Arts and Cultural Affairs, Social Development, University of Cape Town, SAPS and several Non-Governmental Organisations.

Background to Planet Youth Programme:

Planet Youth George is a WOSA (Whole of Society Approach) platform for community collaboration that aims to improve mental health by reducing youth substance use, violence, and school dropout rates using an evidence-based and internationally tested approach of youth development activities, community empowerment and rigorous auditing.

Planet Youth inc. is an international organization, working in many countries worldwide, developed, and underdeveloped, to alleviate alcohol harms in adolescence with benefits across the life course.

Planet Youth and UCT commenced the George Planet Youth Programme in October 2022.

Aims of the Planet Youth community program

By engaging with Planet Youth:

1. The community of George aims to enroll all children across the subdistrict in mass participation to proactively develop health and wellness.
2. The local community aims to achieve a significant reduction in youth alcohol harms which will be measured as decreased school dropout rates, improved school academic performance, and a reduction in violence. This is projected to alleviate the burden on the overwhelmed mental healthcare system, correctional services, judiciary, education and social development.
3. The local community aims to improve employment rates by producing employment-ready youth.
4. Applying the Planet Youth view of positioning the school as the hub, reducing the economic and social harms of youth substance use and by increasing employment rates, the local community aims to significantly improve food security in affected communities.
5. The local community aims to achieve a significant increase in sporting and cultural achievement which will improve mental health, physical well-being and competitiveness in affected schools.

Ends.

CAPTION:

FROM LEFT: Dr Zilla North (Department of Education), Dehran Swart (UCT), Lynn Le Grange (Department of Education), Councillor Raybin Figland (Executive Deputy Mayor of George), Alderman Leon van Wyk (Executive Mayor of George), Pall Rikhardsson (From Iceland, CEO of Planet Youth), Dr Herman Reuter (UCT and Sahara), Jonel Kerspuy (Planet Youth Programme)

In January, municipalities reflect not only on the results of the first half of the current financial year but also on the previous financial year that ended on 30 June.

We have achieved another clean audit for the 2021/22 financial year. This is an important achievement as it helps in our endeavours to procure additional grant funding to further improve our infrastructure. As our municipality grows and we successfully implement and maintain our infrastructure while ensuring good governance, we progressively seek to qualify for larger grants that are also earmarked for the larger intermediate and metropolitan cities.

Our draft annual report for 2021/22 which provides an insight into the past year’s activities and achievements is in an advanced state of preparation prior to public release.

During the July-December 2022 period, it is already evident how load-shedding has impacted negatively on revenue through lower electricity sales resulting from not having Eskom power for 6-10 hours per day. Businesses are also likely to be similarly affected. To exacerbate this further, there are additional costs associated with the diesel purchased to operate generators at the various water and wastewater treatment plants and pump stations.

Through the gloom of load-shedding, we recently received indications that an international company will shortly commence business operations in George and start hiring and training staff. I also had the privilege along with a few senior colleagues to attend a presentation by Harvard University’s Growth Lab team on how they utilise data on business activities to focus on potential economic sectors that can provide strong growth opportunities for a city. Although George falls outside of the 1022 cities worldwide with populations of over 300000 that are already incorporated into their data sets, the Growth Lab already has access to some relevant data on George. This presentation will no doubt spur our outreach to gain insight into business sectors that could grow employment in our economy.

Over the past weeks, we have continued our interactions with the Western Cape Government and key role-players internationally to explore the acceleration of implementing renewable energy projects that will benefit the George economy. It is crucial too that the business and agricultural sectors, in particular, engage with us on their challenges with load-shedding to maintain their production levels. It is becoming important for business to communicate their electricity capacity needs as we jointly search for solutions through collaboration and partnerships. The challenges include technical feasibility, the ability to connect to the grid, environmental approvals, legislative requirements, funding sources and identifying a range of power suppliers.

Stakeholders with challenges or parties who are interested in offering practical solutions are welcome to use the supportbusiness@george.gov.za email address as a point of contact to facilitate a discussion.

Ald Leon van Wyk

Executive Mayor of George

The Department of Water and Sanitation’s (DWS) Blue Drop programme which was established to encourage continued progress and to acknowledge excellence in drinking water services management in South Africa is in progress, and the George Municipality`s first round of evaluations took place from Tuesday 17 January to Wednesday 18 January 2023.

The Blue Drop and Green Drop Certification Programmes are forms of Incentive-based Regulation (IBR) pioneered by the South African Water Sector since 2008. legislation, Water Services Act; Act 108 of 1997, Section 82 d, e & f. The programme seeks to focus on Improvement in Performance, Compliance and Efficiency.

According to the Deputy Director for Water and Sanitation in the Civil Engineering Services Department in the George Municipality, Deon de Jager, the Blue Drop Certification is intended to monitor the drinking water quality supplied to consumers countrywide. “Both water quality and administrative aspects are combined in this certification with the emphasis being on the administrative aspects instead of water quality and George has put all the ducks in a row to be evaluated.”

“The first-round assessments for the upcoming Blue Drop evaluations were held on 17 and 18 January 2023.  After the first-round evaluations, the DWS will, if necessary, allow the George Municipality to implement and report on corrective measures to be implemented, to enable the Municipality to correct and submit the required information,” de Jager added.  The second-round discussions on the corrective measures will take place on 28 February 2023 after which the George Municipality will receive (if successful) its final Blue Drop certification/score.

De Jager confirmed that the revised water safety plans and treatment plant process audits have been completed, and the George Municipality was assisted by IX Engineers and Chris Swartz consultants.  “All relevant personnel reporting to DWS have been registered on the IRIS reporting system.  The George Municipal Water Treatment and Laboratory sections are working around the clock to ensure that we comply with all legislative requirements as set out by the DWS.  Furthermore, the George Municipality is still in the process of performing process audits on all its raw and potable water pump stations, towers, and storage reservoirs.”

Ends.

CAPTION:

From Left to Right: Deon de Jager (Deputy Director: Water and Sewer Services), Melvin Koopman (Senior Superintendent: Water Treatment), Geoffrey Bredenkamp (Manager:  Water Treatment), Dewald van Staden (DWS Lead Inspector), Nkosinathi Masilela (Inspector DWS), Tladi Dineo (Inspector DWS), Randy Wesso (Manager Laboratory Services), Alton Michaels (Consultant SMEC Engineering Group)

TO ALL
MEDIA/NEWS EDITORS

SATURDAY 21 JANUARY 2023

NATIONAL ENERGY CRISIS COMMITTEE RELEASES SIX-MONTH PROGRESS UPDATE ON IMPLEMENTATION OF THE ENERGY ACTION PLAN

The National Energy Crisis Committee (NECOM) has today, 21 January 2023, released a six-month progress update on implementation of the Energy Action Plan.

This update follows a period of load shedding which was escalated to stage 6 due to a high number of breakdowns across Eskom’s generation fleet.

The declining Energy Availability Factor of Eskom’s fleet reflects the cumulative impact of historical underinvestment in maintenance and assets, exacerbated by flaws in the design of new power stations in the last decade.

To respond to the severe impact of load shedding on households, small businesses and the economy as a whole, President Cyril Ramaphosa announced a range of measures in July 2022 to improve the performance of existing power stations and add new generation capacity as quickly as possible.

The Energy Action Plan was developed through extensive consultation and endorsed by energy experts as providing the best and fastest path towards energy security.

The NECOM has since been established to coordinate government’s response and ensure swift implementation of the plan.

During the past week, the President has convened the NECOM in order to accelerate government’s efforts to reduce load shedding. He has also engaged with a wide range of stakeholders, including political parties, labour unions, business associations, community groups, interfaith leaders, traditional leaders, premiers and mayors to ensure a collective response to this national challenge.

The progress update released today outlines important steps that have been taken to follow through on the commitments announced by the President.

These include:
– Schedule 2 of the Electricity Regulation Act has been amended to remove the licensing requirement for generation projects, which will significantly accelerate private investment.
– Since the licensing threshold was first raised to 100 MW, the pipeline of private sector projects has grown to more than 100 projects with over 9000 MW of capacity. The first of these large-scale projects are expected to connect to the grid by the end of this year.
– The NECOM has instructed departments to cut red tape and streamline regulatory processes for energy projects, including reducing the timeframe for environmental authorisations to 57 days from over 100 days previously; reducing the registration process from four months to three weeks; and ensuring that grid connection approvals are provided within six months.
– Project agreements for 19 projects from Bid Window 5 and six projects from Bid Window 6 of the renewable energy programme, representing 2800 MW of new capacity. These projects will soon proceed to construction.
– A new Ministerial determination has been published for 14771 MW of new generation capacity from wind, solar and battery storage to accelerate further bid windows.
– An additional 300 MW has been imported through the Southern African Power Pool, and negotiations are underway to secure a potential 1,000 MW from neighbouring countries starting this year.
– Eskom has developed and launched a programme to purchase power from companies with available generation capacity through a standard offer. The first contracts are expected to be signed in the coming weeks.
– A team of independent experts has been established to work closely with Eskom to diagnose the problems at poorly performing power stations and take action to improve plant performance.

Six power stations have been identified for particular focus over the coming months through a comprehensive Generation Recovery Plan, with oversight from the new Eskom board.

While the power system remains constrained in the short term, these measures will reduce the frequency and severity of load shedding as new capacity is brought online.

President Ramaphosa said: “South Africans are right to demand immediate action to address the devastating impact of load shedding on our lives and on the economy.

“The Energy Action Plan provides a clear way out of this crisis. We do not need any new plans – we are focusing on implementing this plan fully and effectively to achieve energy security for all South Africans.”

The President has further instructed law enforcement agencies to ramp up efforts to protect electricity infrastructure.

A special meeting of the National Security Council will be convened in the next week to receive a report on operations underway to disrupt criminal syndicates and address theft and sabotage at several power stations.

Addressing the ongoing shortfall in electricity remains government’s single most important priority.

Further updates will be provided on a regular basis regarding progress in implementing the Energy Action Plan.

The full update can be accessed at http://bit.ly/3D4243A

Media enquiries:

Vincent Magwenya,
Spokesperson to the President

ISSUED BY THE PRESIDENCY OF THE REPUBLIC OF SOUTH AFRICA

www.thepresidency.gov.za

As we reflect with gratitude on George’s busy holiday season and its benefits for the economy and employment, we are immediately confronted with Eskom’s Stage 6 loadshedding disaster at a time when industry, business and schools are only beginning to return to work after the holidays.

Stage 6 is extremely debilitating for businesses and households alike. Electrical equipment is not designed for ongoing loadshedding and requires ongoing maintenance; diesel costs for generators approximate R120 000 per day; crime and vandalism also thrive under cover of darkness. Water and waste-water networks are constantly at risk. Teams are therefore at full stretch.

In March 2022, Council already took decisions to spend R220m over three years to start providing electricity security. As 8-10% of our bulk purchases of electricity are used on our own municipal infrastructure, we decided to procure Solar PV plants for these installations as a first step towards reducing our reliance on Eskom to avoid Stage 1 of loadshedding with the objective to avoid Stage 2 within the next 2-3 years.

We also decided to procure generators to ensure that important installations could still operate during loadshedding. These include the water and waste- water treatment works as well as key pump stations with many generators already operational. Uninterrupted power supply units were installed to ensure that traffic lights at 60 intersections could continue functioning. We have started installing energy efficient streetlights. Extensive preventative maintenance has been undertaken on the electricity network.

The procurement for 1,9MW of Solar PV plants is approaching the construction stage. The environmental approval process for the 9MW plant is underway which should permit construction to commence after July 2023.

It has now become clear that decisions on the early introduction of battery energy storage options are necessary. Technical solutions are being sought to integrate battery energy into sub-stations and the electricity network. The municipality is seeking technical and funding advice from leading specialists.

Various scenarios involving capital expenditure of R750m-R1500m to avoid up to Stages 3-4 of loadshedding within 3 years have been prepared. For George to avoid the implementation of Stage 1 loadshedding, we need to reduce Eskom’s current load availability of 85MW by 13MW. It is clearly in the interests of all citizens that this is urgently achieved. Every household can assist by requesting the municipality to lower their domestic 60amp usage capacity to 40 amps or below. These measures can reduce load capacity by 5-6MW and thereby contribute to bringing forward the avoiding of Stage 1 loadshedding.

As we strive to alleviate the loadshedding burden for users, the municipality will shortly be meeting with large business electricity users to explore innovative and collaborative solutions.

Ald Leon van Wyk

Executive Mayor of George

Issued on behalf of the Western Cape Ministry for Local Government, Environmental Affairs and Development Planning.

16 January 2023

Anton Bredell, Western Cape Minister of Local Government, Environmental Affairs and Development Planning today supported the City of Cape Town’s recent call to the public to use water sparingly. “All Western Cape residents must help to conserve the water available in our dams as we continue to experience a hot and dry summer. Weather patterns are increasingly unpredictable, so we cannot assume there will be plentiful rain in the next winter season. The best strategy is to adopt a permanent water-saving culture.”

Bredell was reacting to the latest data released by the Department of Water and Sanitation, showing a current combined Western Cape dam level of 57.79%. This is down from 59.57% last week. In terms of the dams supplying Cape Town, it is at a combined level of 65.16%, also down from 67.12% last week. Compared to the same time last year, the provincial combined dam level was 74.51%, and for the Cape Town dam system it was 90.64%.

Minister Bredell said the link between water availability and current high levels of load shedding is compounding the challenges many municipalities are facing to provide uninterrupted water and sewage services to residents. “Without rain in our catchment dams, there is no water security, and without reliable electricity, it becomes very difficult to purify and deliver water to household taps. Also, without electricity, it is a challenge to remove and treat wastewater in a hygienic and environmentally safe manner. We are therefore urging the public to save water, as this will improve our water security profile, while also helping municipalities to manage water and sewage services during increasingly high levels and prolonged periods of load shedding.”

Issued by Corporate Communication, Department of the Premier

PRESS RELEASE: GET READY TO USE THE BUS TO SCHOOL THIS YEAR

Issued: Monday 9 Jan 2023

With the new academic year starting next week, parents’ transport schedules will be taking on the regular frenzy of dropping off and picking up their children at school. Parents of learners who make use of the GO GEORGE bus service to get to school are encouraged to help their children get equipped in time.

It is important to get a GO GEORGE Smart Card and load enough trips before schools start, and not to wait until they have no trips left before topping up again. The Smart Card should be treated with the same care as any bank card or cash; if it gets lost, trips on the card cannot be refunded or transferred to a new card.

Smart Cards can be bought at any of the GO GEORGE Smart Card kiosks at the Transport Hub in Cradock Street, Blanco Triangle, Garden Route Mall and the Smart Card counter in the George Municipality’s finance hall. Two mobile kiosks are currently stationed at the Protea terminus in Pacaltsdorp and next to Cheap Foods, just off Nelson Mandela Boulevard, near the entrance to Parkdene. Feel free to phone the Call Centre on 0800 044 044 for the exact mobile kiosk location at a specific time.

School route maps

GO GEORGE communication champions will be present at the bus stops near high schools during the first few weeks of the school term to hand out route maps and inform learners about the different routes to school. Unique maps depicting the different options available to school and back home have been created for each school. These maps can also be downloaded from the GO GEORGE website by visiting www.gogeorge.org.za/school-routes.

Learners are advised to discuss the best boarding time, route and transfers with the champions. In most cases, there will be different options to avoid full buses during peak time.

To request an on-site visit and direct engagement from GO GEORGE, schools are welcome to phone the GO GEORGE Call Centre on 0800 044 044 or send an email to info@gogeorge.org.za.

CAPTION:

This is an example of the school route maps developed by GO GEORGE. These maps can also be downloaded from www.gogeorge.org.za/school-routes.

PERSVRYSTELLING: MAAK GEREED OM VEILIG BUS TE RY SKOOL TOE

Uitgereik: Dinsdag 11 Jan 2022

Met die nuwe akademiese jaar wat volgende week afskop, begin ouers se uitdaging met dol vervoerskedules om hul kinders by die skool af te laai en op te tel. Ouers van leerders wat van die GO GEORGE-busdiens gebruik maak om by die skool uit te kom, word aangemoedig om hul kinders te help om betyds alles hiervoor gereed te kry.

Dit is belangrik om ‘n GO GEORGE Slimkaart te kry en genoeg ritte te laai voordat skole begin, en nie te wag totdat leerders geen ritte oor het voordat hulle weer herlaai nie. Die Slimkaart moet met dieselfde sorg as enige bankkaart of kontant hanteer word; as dit wegraak, kan ritte op die kaart nie terugbetaal of na ‘n nuwe kaart oorgedra word nie.

Slimkaarte kan by enige van die GO GEORGE-slimkaartkiosks by die vervoerkern in Cradockstraat, Blanco-driehoek, Garden Route Mall en die Slimkaarttoonbank in die George-munisipaliteit se finansiële saal gekoop word. Twee mobiele kiosks is tans by die Protea-terminus in Pacaltsdorp en by Cheap Foods, net langs Nelson Mandela Boulevard, naby die ingang van Parkdene gestasioneer. Skakel gerus die inbelsentrum by 0800 044 044 vir die presiese ligging van die mobiele kiosks op ‘n spesifieke tydstip.

Skoolroetekaarte

Go GEORGE-passasiersdiensbeamptes sal gedurende die eerste paar weke van die skoolkwartaal by die bushaltes naby skole wees om leerders in te lig oor die verskillende roetes skool toe. Unieke kaarte wat die verskillende opsies skool toe en terug huis toe uitbeeld, is vir elke skool geskep. Hierdie kaarte kan ook afgelaai word vanaf die GO GEORGE-webwerf deur www.gogeorge.org.za/school-routes te besoek.

Leerders word aangeraai om die beste opklimtyd, roete en oorklimhaltes met die passasiersdiensbeamptes te bespreek. In die meeste gevalle sal daar verskeie opsies wees om vol busse tydens spitstyd te vermy.

Om ‘n besoek op die skoolterrein en direkte skakeling met die leerders aan te vra, is skole welkom om die GO GEORGE-inbelsentrum by 0800 044 044 te skakel of ‘n e-pos na info@gogeorge.org.za te stuur.

BYSKRIF:

Hierdie is ’n voorbeeld van die skoolroetekaarte wat deur GO GEORGE ontwikkel is. Die kaarte kan ook van die webblad afgelaai word by www.gogeorge.org.za/school-routes.

As Executive Mayor of George Municipality, I am writing to you on behalf of the citizens of George, to object in the strongest possible terms to NERSA granting Eskom an increase in the price of electricity of 18,65% for the 2023/24 financial year.

This enormous price increase is unaffordable, unfair and unjust.

Our customers, inclusive of residents, small and medium businesses, simply cannot afford these continuous price increases that is once again well above that of the consumer price index (CPI). The majority of South Africans are already struggling to make ends meet.

Our communities are also struggling to keep businesses open with stage 6 blackouts being implemented by Eskom. On most days, communities are left without electricity for 8 – 10 hours per day and the situation is not expected to improve in the short term.

Eskom is proving to be unable to be a reliable supplier of electricity. NERSA as the regulator is seemingly unable to provide the necessary guidance and direction to ensure that Eskom fulfils its mandate. Eskom has been permitted to continue its mismanagement and practices of corruption for years. Further its Board of Directors has failed in its responsibilities in not ensuring that corrective action is taken to reduce the bloated workforce, collect its outstanding debtors, stop the purchasing of sub-standard coal, ensure an appropriate and financially sound equity structure, proper and timely maintenance of its generating facilities or support for its Chief Executive Officer and Chief Operating Officer.

It is therefore totally unfair and unjust for South Africans to be constantly expected to pay more for electricity while receiving less of it. Our residents will now be expected to pay even more exorbitant prices for electricity they simply do not get. South Africans are rightfully tired of having to foot the bill for years of corruption and mismanagement at Eskom.

Municipalities are expected to distribute electricity and maintain their networks, but this is becoming increasingly difficult as Eskom is clearly unable to supply electricity on a consistent 24-hour basis. As a result, municipal revenue from electricity is declining through lower sales of kilowatt-hours.

Any increase should be in line with the CPI. A 18,65% increase is outrageous and unjust, especially given the fact that we are experiencing the worst loadshedding on record.

In addition, Eskom provides no preference to its good customers who regularly pay their accounts, in terms of price increases or regular supply of electricity.

As a Municipality, we are continuing with our plans to mitigate the risks of the unreliable supply of electricity by having to secure alternative energy to protect our communities from Eskom’s load shedding. This includes the installation of solar PV plants and battery storage to supply our own infrastructure and to assist our business and domestic consumers. We are also undertaking wheeling transactions and encouraging independent power producers.

It is an extreme injustice to expect that ordinary citizens of George (and, indeed, residents of every municipality in the country) should be forced to bear the cost of Eskom’s inability to supply electricity and to fix its own problems. It is likely that the approved increase will be widely condemned, destroying chances of economic recovery in South Africa and adding to our burden of unemployment and poverty.

I trust that this letter will receive your urgent attention to reverse the price increase that has been granted.

Yours faithfully
Ald Leon van Wyk
EXECUTIVE MAYOR
GEORGE MUNICIPALITY

The Thembalethu Library held a holiday programme in December, stretching from 8 to 20 December 2022 at the library. Fourteen (14) children participated in a story reading from an Isi-Xhosa book called, “Isibedlele siyandoyikisa” (A hospital scares me). On 15 December 2022, 22 children participated in another story reading event from an Isi-Xhosa book titled “Ekhaya” (At home) and another one titled “Icikilishe eliluhlaza elinamaqhinga” (A cunning green lizard). And lastly, on 20 December 2022, 19 children participated in a story reading from an Isi-Xhosa book titled, “Ukuzalwa kukaYesu” (The birth of Jesus).

10 January 2022

George and surrounds have once again experienced a bumper festive season showing a distinct increase in accommodation bookings, restaurant and activity visits, shopping, traffic, and more. One local activity reported as many as 6 200 visitors on one day, while a local restaurant accommodated 1 000 covers in one day.

Executive Mayor for George, Leon Van Wyk noted that informal discussions held with restaurants and local business indicate a bumper season with at least a 30% increase in turnover. “By all accounts, George has experienced a very busy holiday season with some businesses recording new turnover and attendance records and improvements returning to and exceeding pre-Covid levels. These achievements should assist in stabilising employment levels as we continue to focus on growing our tourism sector and adding events to extend the offering well beyond the traditional summer season.”

Events including the George Tens held over four days from 15 December, theatre productions, markets, and concerts right up to the new year were well attended. Our  tourism offices recorded 398 enquiries received at the George and Wilderness Tourism offices during December 2022.  Although this is less than those received last year, considering the increased accommodation occupancies, this indicates that accommodation and activity planning was done well in advance for 2022, and not at the last minute, as was experienced last season.  This returns us to more normal trends.  The tourism section distributed QR codes to establishments to enable speedy digital access to information for visitors to the area.  This was also advertised on all social media platforms and through the local print media.

69% of enquiries were related to Things to do and general tourism information, 20% were accommodation related and 11% were general enquiries, not particularly related to tourism, but looking for estate agents, etc.  Occupancy figures in Quarter 4 2022 (Oct, Nov) increased by 24% from Quarter 4 2021 (Oct, Nov). Preliminary feedback is that the private sector has experienced a bumper festive season, with many establishments still being too busy to share their stats with our office.  Accommodation establishments remain quite busy, and it is likely that the season will be extended considerably with international visitors returning to our area over the next few months.

PAVEMENT PERMITS
In a bid to boost the local economy, the Municipality repeated last year’s initiative  of a ‘pavement permit’ to assist restaurants in terms of capacity constraints with the implementation of social distancing measures due to COVID-19. The ‘pavement permit’ would provide restaurants with additional floor space to place their tables. The initiative was very well-received by local businesses although no applications were received.

SAFE SEASON
The multi-stakeholder Festive Season Monitoring Committee met daily from the 1 December and held its final meeting on 9 January 2023. A debriefing will be held to review and begin planning for the 2023 Festive Season.

The daily committee meeting was attended by municipal as well as external stakeholders such as NSRI, SAPS, SANParks and others. The purpose of the daily meeting is to assess available resources, identify possible risks  and to put in place actions plans to address these risks so as not to impact on our holidaymakers. The municipality’s goal is to ensure consistent service delivery during this busy period and to keep George running as efficiently as possible.

A new safety initiative launched was the use of QR codes (widely publicized) that provided public with quick and easy access to websites containing information on tourist activities and events, important municipal contact details as well as water and other safety tips for our visitors.

Links to relevant sites:
https://www.george.gov.za/planning-development/local-economic-development/tourism/safety-for-visitors/
https://www.george.gov.za/contact/
http://www.visitgeorge.co.za/

Positive feedback has been received from residents, businesses and visitors on the season management:

“I am hugely grateful to the George Municipality, Law Enforcement, traffic officials, monitors, NSRI security companies and SANParks for the enormous difference they made in our village this past season. One felt safe, looked after and protected on so many levels during what can only be described as a bumper season. Our village was swamped with visitors and I believe that we showed how things can be done.”

”Our children have been visiting from Cape Town, and have been so impressed by the beach monitors, helpful traffic cops and general cleanliness.”

“Please convey our compliments to George Municipality on their excellent strategies they put in place to manage the influx of holidaymakers. Well done!!!”

STAKEHOLDER COLLABORATION
The Festive Season Monitoring Committee and operations over the festive season were undertaken in collaboration with SANParks and NSRI Wilderness. Jonathan Britton, Acting Park Manager for the Wilderness National Park expressed his gratitude to all staff, municipal and otherwise who worked long hours over the season.

“The Wilderness National Park and surrounding ecological and environmental assets is interwoven with the urban infrastructure of Wilderness and this combination of natural, social and economic systems is a complex interaction and requires a collaborative and integrated approach between various organisations to make it all work together.

The influx of visitors to the Garden Route during the summer holidays is an important boost for the local economy but requires planning and deployment of resources in an integrated and co-ordinated manner between various role players to ensure that local systems can manage the additional pressure. Building on the success of the previous year, the George Municipality continued to lead a multi stakeholder collaborative approach to ensure high standard of service delivery in and around Wilderness.

Daily presence of lifeguards, Traffic Officials, Law Enforcement officials, cleaning steams and SANParks staff were a common sight in Wilderness all working together ensuring a safe and environment for all. Impactful leadership and a hands-on approach were the order of the day with senior managers and directors meeting daily and overseeing the implementation of operational plans. This holiday season again proved the value of partnerships, dedication, and teamwork.”

Michael Vonk, CEO of George Regional Hospital and Station Commander for National Sea Rescue Institute (NSRI) Station 23 lauded the successful management of this past festive season, which was one of the busiest in recent years. He did however qualify that a measured response should be adopted to the success of the season, as we did experience three fatal drownings, two at Wilderness Beach and one at Victoria Bay and a number of non-fatal drowning incidents. We extend our sincere condolences to the families of those who lost loved ones.

“The close collaboration, teamwork and partnerships between all role players to ensure the necessary preventative measures were in place, along with a coordinated emergency response were extremely effective to limit the number of serious incidents on our beaches.  In particular, the lifeguards should be recognised for their effort in preventing more drownings.”

EMERGENCY SERVICES
Lifeguards were deployed at Gwaing Beach, Herold’s Bay, Victoria Bay, Wilderness Leentjiesklip, Steps, Wilderness Main and Conville Public Swimming Pool on a full-time daily basis from 7am – 7pm and will remain in place until 31 January 2023 at the Blue Flag Beaches (Herold’s Bay, Victoria Bay and Wilderness Main). A total of 3 drownings, 35 rescues, 66 help outs, 66 First Aid incidents, 336 Bluebottle stings and 8 Emergency Medical Assistance were undertaken by the team of Lifeguards, NSRI and emergency personnel at the various beaches.

The newly acquired Jet rib, a 1800cc jet ski built into a rubber duck pontoon structure proved invaluable this season and a huge asset to the summer safety measures.  The mobile JOC was deployed for 10 days of high season and the Fire Brigade drone was used to survey sea conditions, for shark spotting , searching of missing persons and during rescue operations once again showing the value of expenditure on technology to aid in safety measures.

Emergency Services were kept busy and attended to 8  formal structure fires and 23 informal structure fires. Regrettably, two lives were lost in the  informal structure fires. Fire officials also attended to 59 veld fires, 2 building fires, 4 motor vehicle fires, 47 motor vehicle incidents, 32 other emergency incidents, 4 drownings and 23 false alarms.

TRAFFIC MANAGEMENT / PARKING / POINT DUTY
George Traffic Services actively patrolled all municipal areas in collaboration with Western Cape Provincial Traffic including participating in regular vehicle check points focussing on drunk driving, vehicle and driver fitness. Traffic flow was managed as best possible in particular at congested intersections such as the N2/Victoria Bay, Garden Route Mall, the exit ramp to Mossel Bay on Knysna Road, N2/Station Road (Wilderness), N2/Caltex (Wilderness), N2/Sanparks and N2/Salinas.

Temporary road signs and traffic cones were placed at dangerous locations to ensure compliance (prevention of illegal parking/obstruction/encroachment on roadways) causing danger to other road users. To ease traffic flow, each beach had an area demarcated for Drop and Go. Staff deployed over this period at beaches were 8 traffic wardens and 20 EPWP staff assisting with Drop and Go, monitoring and enforcement of parking, road closures and directing motorists to suitable parking locations.

Aside from the beaches and high-pressured traffic points attended to throughout the city, traffic officials assisted with 12 funeral escorts as well as traffic control at various events including the Christmas Lights Festival, George Tens, Palm Tyres 21km race etc.  43 vehicle accidents were attended to without recorded injuries, 10 with injuries and three with fatalities. 322 notices for a variety of traffic and vehicle offences were issued, 32 impoundments and fine collection totalling R70 000 was brought in.

The Vehicle Testing Station offered 3 days in December where a free 10 Point check could be done on your vehicle before traveling. This is the second year the service was offered and  40 motorists took advantage of it. The same service will be offered 10 – 13 January 2023, 08h30 – 15h30 (VTS, Hibernia Street).

BLUE FLAG BEACHES AND CLEANSING
Wilderness, Main Beach and Herold’s Bay Beach remain full Blue Flag beaches until 31 January 2023, and Victoria Bay retains Pilot Blue Flag status. Compliance is required in terms of the international standards, which includes high standards of water quality monitoring, public safety, lifeguard services and  well-maintained coastal amenities.

Oil spills consisting of hydrocarbon, low-sulphur oil droplets were found on several beaches along the Garden Route in early December with a multi-agency command centre established to resolve the issue. There have been no reports linking the oil spill to humans, birds, or marine life and all affected George beaches were declared green status (i.e., monitored and open for use) by 8^th December 2022. George Municipal cleaning teams together with Working for the Coast teams, worked non-stop for days to clear Herold’s Bay, Victoria Bay, Ballot’s Bay, Wilderness beach from Leentjiesklip to Salina’s beach, Gwaiing Beach, and Kaaimans mouth.

Municipal beach cleaning teams started working at 06:00 until 21h00 on many nights and started at 04h00 on New Year’s Day to ensure that the beaches were clean for the first beachgoers the next morning. The cleaning teams also did sterling work in keeping the beach ablution facilities in excellent condition despite heavy usage. Our CBD cleansing teams kept the town clean and neat for visitors.

BEACH MONITORS, LAW ENFORCEMENT AND ANTI-LAND INVASION OFFICIALS
George Municipality was adamant that no alcohol would be allowed on our beaches and confiscated 317 litres of alcohol with a retail value of approximately R21 110 from the start of the festive season.   Neighborhood Watches, Community Police Forums as well as the SAPS worked closely with the Municipality with regards to Community Safety. The confiscated alcohol will be handed over to SAPS for disposal.

The department of Forensic Pathology Services for George assisted by the Community Police forum, SANParks, George Law Enforcement, Neighbourhood Watch and Bambanani members at the Wilderness and LeentjiesKlip beach areas handed out 8000 orange and yellow armbands to children. The yellow and orange armbands are written up with the parent or caregivers name and contact details and recorded in a register to assist in the event of them being separated from their parents or caregivers. Two children were reunited with their families using this system at Wilderness Lagoon.

FIREWORKS
George Municipality continued to implement a complete ban on the setting off of fireworks, firecrackers, flares, paper lanterns, and other such paraphernalia in the George municipal area. Over 292 visits were undertaken to a variety of retail outlets and an estimated R4500 worth of fireworks was confiscated (retail value) with fines issued totalling R14 500. It is encouraging to see that the value of fines and confiscations has declined on last year and we thank those retail outlets who have adhered to the applicable regulations.

MUNICIPAL OFFICES REMAINED OPEN  – SERVICE DELIVERY ONGOING
The municipal offices  were only closed on the Public Holidays and for a few days after the 27^th December following a burst pipe which caused extensive water damage to the third, second and first floor of the main building in York Street.

Our Planning division processed 309 building plans in-season with 113 approved, which was 104 residential, 9 non-residential. 144 applications (124 residential and 20 non-residential) remain in circulation. A total of 196 (170 residential and 26 non-residential) were not approved due to either not complying and/or additional information being required. A total of 46 (44 residential and 2 non-residential) Certificates of Occupancy were issued. Furthermore, a total of 106 Building Control related inspections were conducted. These include 13 commencement inspections, 12 drainage inspections and 81 completion inspections.

The Building Control division was equally busy with building control contraventions and complaints that were able to be addressed expeditiously over the festive season. A total 35 complaints were received and attended to.

Our human settlements division dealt with the aftermath of several fires which took place in December with a large incident totalling 20 informal housefire cases in Edameni reported on 10 December 2022. All 20 families lost their structures with belongings during this incident. Temporary accommodation was given to the 20 families at the All-brick Community Hall. The municipal Social Services division assisted those affected with mattresses, blankets, food  and other items. Assistance was given to four families who accepted second hand building material. Another five families have been  prioritised and will receive assistance soon. The remaining families must still provide the balance of documentation required for assistance in terms of the approved Emergency Accommodation and Assistance Policy.

Two BNG (Breaking New Ground) houses affected by fires  will be investigated where after an application in terms of the Emergency Housing Programme will be submitted to the Western Cape Provincial Department of Human Settlements.

George Municipality maintains a monthly river sample programme year-round, downstream of our pumping stations near or next to any rivers within George and surrounds. This monitoring program is not a legislative requirement but was implemented by the George Municipality as a precautionary management measure to monitor the infrastructure, and protect our environment, where a risk of possible pollution may occur.

George Municipality has with the award of Blue Flag Status for Wilderness Main Beach, Herold’s Bay and Victoria Bay (Pilot Status) implemented as of 7 November 2022, formal testing of the water at these beaches and where relevant, river mouth to ensure that the stringent requirements based on the most appropriate international and national standards and legislation are met. Blue Flag is an international eco-label and has one global standard for water quality. It is an international coastal management programme that accredits beaches that meet standards of excellence in water quality, environmental management, environmental education and information as well as safety and services. In South Africa the programme is implemented by the Wildlife Environmental Society of South Africa (WESSA).

Each appointed Blue Flag beach as well as Pilot beaches,  must fully comply with the water quality sampling and frequency requirements. There must be at least one sampling point, which must be located where the highest number of swimmers are. In addition, where there are potential sources of pollution, e.g., near streams, rivers or other inlets, storm water outlets, etc. additional sampling points must be established at these sites to provide evidence that such inflows do not affect bathing water quality.

Samples should be taken 30 cm below the water surface with a minimum of five samples required, evenly distributed during the season. The first sample must be taken within 31 days before the official starting date of the Blue Flag season. George Municipality has an appointed accredited service provider who takes samples approximately every third day, subject to public holidays. An independent person, officially authorised and trained for the task, must collect the samples and only results from an independent nationally or internationally accredited laboratory will be accepted.  Our own laboratory tests as a control measure when there is a pollution incident on a specific beach.

Herold’s Bay Blue Flag Beach showed contamination following testing and the beach (not the tidal pools) was closed for swimming on the morning of Sunday 1 January 2023 as per the results received from the accredited laboratory on Saturday (31 December 2022). The Blue Flag requirements for Escherichia coli (Faecal Coli bacteria) are below 250 cfu/100m ; and for Intestinal Enterococci (Stretococci) below 100 cfu/100ml.  Escherichia coli (Faecal Coli bacteria) limits of over 500/540 in coastal waters are deemed unsafe for swimming.

Herolds’s Bay was reopened for swimming at 12pm on New Year’s Day based on the follow up test results which came out midday 1 January. Subsequent thorough investigation by our Civil Engineering Department has confirmed that the pollution was caused by a sewer pipe failure  in the network that led to contaminated water draining onto the beach from the minor river tributary following the high rainfall. Repairs have been completed on the network and the spillage addressed as per protocol.

Testing of the Gwaing River Mouth as well as those areas of the river located near the Proefplaas pumpstation form part of the regular maintenance programme for George Municipality. The beach and river mouth do not form a part of the Blue Flag programme. On Sunday  4 December 2022, a possible pollution incident (discolouring in the water at the mouth was reported) and subsequent testing for Escherichia coli (Faecal Coli bacteria) was done by the Municipal Laboratory as well as the accredited service provider. Gwaing River Beach and Mouth was closed for swimming and remained closed based on daily test results until Friday 9 December 2022 when reopened for swimming.  The area was again closed on 21 December; reopened briefly on the 30 December and has since 31 December remained closed.

The Civil Engineering Services department has continued to investigate the source of the pollution as no pumpstations have failed during this period. It would appear that there are two sources, one of historic sludge on the riverbed which was disturbed following rough seas and the other is sewer spillage emanating from identified manholes located near or along Gwaing River as well as several tributaries which join the Gwaing River. Civil Engineering teams have walked the rivers, and the sewer network wherever possible to locate the source. Testing of water quality has continued further upstream on a regular basis in order to pinpoint any additional sources of pollutant.

Gwaing River Beach and Mouth remains closed based on the current accredited and own laboratory results, due to the inherent dangers of swimming in contaminated water. Illnesses caused by Ecoli can range from mild to severe and life-threatening. Most people get better within 5 to 7 days. Young children infected with Ecoli are at highest risk for developing severe symptoms and complications, such as kidney failure.

George Municipality acknowledges the frustrations of the public in this regard but In the interests of health and safety and to protect our residents, the municipality continues to urge the public not to swim until the levels are within acceptable norms. Notices will be issued as soon as test results clear the Gwaing Beach and River Mouth for swimming.

George Municipality continues to strictly enforce the NO ALCOHOL ALLOWED campaign on its beaches and this includes public spaces such as parks, parking lots, inside vehicles parked in public areas etc.

As of 3 January 2023, a total of 282 litres of alcohol have been confiscated from beaches in the George precinct, since 10 December 2022. It is noted with concern that a high amount of alcohol was still confiscated despite an extensive public awareness process and the Bylaws that are in place. We do, however, thank most residents and visitors who have taken heed of the ban and enjoyed their beach days alcohol-free.

All confiscated alcohol is recorded in a ledger and kept at a municipal storeroom before being handed over to the South African Police Service (SAPS) for destruction. The confiscation notice serves as proof for the offender of the alcoholic beverages that have been removed. The carbon copies of the confiscation notice serve as the municipalities record for administrative and control purposes when the final handover is done to SAPS. No confiscated alcohol will be returned, once it has been confiscated.

The George law enforcement officers continue to be assisted by 30 Beach Monitors who have focused on beach patrols and bag checks. Neighbourhood Watches, Community Police Forums, as well as SAPS, continue to work closely with the Municipality around Community Safety. All our Beach Monitors are clearly identifiable, whether by reflector jackets or reflector bands and carry identification cards. The municipality encourages all beachgoers to assist our officials in ensuring that their day at the beach is a safe and pleasant experience.

The carrying of and consumption of any type of liquor is strictly prohibited on all beach areas under the control of the George Municipality which includes Herold’s Bay, Gwaiing River Mouth Beach and Day Camp, Victoria Bay, Wilderness Main, Lagoon, Steps and Leentjiesklip areas.

Our officials will continuously search and confiscate alcohol for the entire period of the festive season and towards the end of the summer. For any further information or complaints please contact the Law Enforcement office on 044 801 6350 (7.45 am-4.30 pm) or 044 801 6300 (a/h)(standby team for bylaw-related emergencies only).

The public can email sprins@george.gov.za with complaints or related matters.

The physical address of the Law Enforcement Office is 25B Cathedral Street.

Please watch confiscated alcohol at the Municipality’s store: https://youtu.be/ObXW60Y8IjU

Ends.

It has come to the attention of the George Municipality that unauthorised New Year’s Eve events are being arranged by persons and organisations.

The public is alerted to the fact that in terms of the Municipality By-Law on Community Fire Safety as well as the SASREA (Safety at Sport and Recreations Events) Regulations 2010, anyone who wishes to organise an event must apply to the Municipality. The prospective organiser must provide detailed information regarding security and safety, medical assistance, an evacuation plan, and contingencies regarding load-shedding.

All the above are needed to ensure the complete safety of the event participants, and if the organisers cannot provide complete assurance that they have taken all steps required then the Municipality may not approve the event. Should an unauthorised event proceed, the organisers will be held personally liable for any actions, costs and liabilities and legal action will be taken.

Due to the amount of work required to ensure a safe and hazard-free event the Municipality requests 60 days’ notice of any event and the event must be dealt with formally by the internal Events Committee to assist the event organisers to ensure all the above requirements (and any others) are met.

Ends.

PUBLIC NOTICE: Drop-off/pick-up points for private and public transport vehicles on beaches on 1 and 2 January 2023

Issued by George Municipality, 29 December 2022

To minimise traffic congestion, the George Municipality has made alternative arrangements for the drop-off and pick-up of large groups of passengers by public transport vehicles (taxis and buses) and/or private vehicles.

George traffic officers and point service officers will be in place to ensure the smooth flow of traffic as far as possible. Traffic controllers will assist with general parking as well as at the designated drop-and-go/pick-up areas at all beaches. Clear directions are in place. These arrangements are made for the safety of all public transport users and pedestrians.

VICTORIA BAY: 1 and 2 January 2023: 07:00 – 18:00

Pick-up:

All public transport vehicles (taxis and buses): At the upper parking area at stop sign on the left where you enter Victoria Bay.

Private vehicles: Drop-and-go circle at the boom, until officials indicate otherwise.

Drop-off: Drop-and-go circle at the boom, until officials indicate otherwise.

HEROLDS BAY: 1 and 2 January 2023: 06:00 – 18:00

Drop-and-go/pick-up points at the caravan food stalls and on the left side of the public toilet facilities.

No public transport vehicles, including buses and taxis, may park at the main parking area overlooking the sea.

Motorists are also allowed to park on the sides of the R404 road, provided they are completely off the road and do not create any obstruction.

WILDERNESS BEACH: 1 and 2 January 2023: 07:00 – 18:00

All public transport vehicles, (taxis and buses): Wilderness common drop-off point and parking area

ONLY private vehicles, the elderly and persons with disabilities: Salina’s drop-and-go point.

Map key:

Yellow arrows indicate parking areas.

Purple arrows indicate beach access.

Red stars indicate location of lifeguards.

Red triangle indicates that area/access is closed.

Green arrow indicates drop-and-go point for public, elderly people, and persons with disabilities.

Blue arrow indicates public transport drop-off/pick-up point (taxis and buses).

OPENBARE KENNISGEWING: Aflaai-en-ry / oplaaipunte vir privaat en openbare vervoer-voertuie op strande op 1 en 2 Januarie 2023

Uitgereik deur George-munisipaliteit, 29 Desember 2022

Om te verseker dat verkeersopeenhopings tot die minimum beperk word, het die George-munisipaliteit alternatiewe reëlings getref vir die af- en oplaai van groot groepe passasiers deur openbare vervoer-voertuie (taxi’s en busse) en/of private voertuie.

George-verkeersbeamptes en puntdiensbeamptes sal in plek wees om die gladde vloei van verkeer so ver moontlik te verseker. Verkeersbeheerders sal help met algemene parkering sowel as by die aangewese aflaai-en-ry / oplaaigebiede by alle strande. Duidelike aanwysings is in plek. Hierdie reëlings word getref ter wille van die veiligheid van alle openbare vervoergebruikers en voetgangers.

VICTORIABAAI: 1 en 2 Januarie 2023: 07:00 – 18:00

Oplaai:

Alle openbare vervoer-voertuie (taxi’s en busse): By die boonste parkeerarea by stopteken aan die linkerkant waar u Victoriabaai binnekom.

Privaat voertuie: Aflaai-en-ry-sirkel by die valhek, totdat beamptes anders aandui.

Aflaai: Aflaai-en-ry-sirkel by die valhek, totdat beamptes anders aandui.

HEROLDSBAAI: 1 en 2 Januarie 2023: 06:00 – 18:00

Aflaai-en-ry / oplaaipunte by die karavaankosstalletjies en aan die linkerkant van die openbare toiletgeriewe

Geen openbare-vervoervoertuie, insluitend busse en taxi’s, mag by die hoofparkeerarea wat op die see uitkyk, parkeer nie.

Motoriste mag ook aan die kante van die R404-pad parkeer, mits hulle heeltemal van die pad af is en geen versperring veroorsaak nie.

WILDERNIS-STRAND: 1 en 2 Januarie 2023: 07:00 – 18:00

Alle openbare-vervoervoertuie, (taxi’s en busse): Wildernis se gemeenskaplike aflaaipunt en parkeerarea (Wilderness common)

SLEGS privaat voertuie, bejaardes en persone met gestremdhede: Salina’s aflaai-en-ry-punt.

Kaartsleutel:

Geel pyle dui parkeerareas aan.

Pers pyle dui toegang tot strand aan.

Rooi sterre dui ligging van lewensredders aan.

Rooi driehoek dui aan dat area / toegang gesluit is.

Groen pyl dui aflaai-en-ry-punt vir publiek, bejaardes en persone met gestremdhede aan.

Blou pyl dui aflaai- /oplaaipunt vir openbare vervoer (taxi’s en busse) aan.

ISAZISO SIKAWONKE-WONKE: Ukwehla nokuHamba (Drop and Go) / iindawo zokuQokelela kwiZithuthi zaBucala kunye nezoThutho lukaWonke-wonke elunxwemeni ngomhla 1& 2 Januwari 2023

Ikhutshwe nguMasipala waseGeorge, ngowama-29 Disemba -2022

Ukuqinisekisa ukuba ingxinano yezothutho iyathotywa, uMasipala waseGeorge wenze amanye amalungiselelo okwehlisa kunye nokuqokelelwa kwabakhweli beZithuthi zikaWonke-wonke (kuquka neeTaxi) kunye/okanye izithuthi zabucala.

Amagosa ezendlela eGeorge kunye nama Points-man aza kube ekhona ukuqinisekisa ukuhamba kakuhle kwezithuthi kangangoko. Abalawuli bezendlela bancedisa kwindawo yokupaka jikelele kunye nakwiindawo ezichongiweyo ze-Drop and Go / Collection kuzo zonke iilwandle. Iimpawu ezicacileyo zikhona. La malungiselelo enziwa ngeenjongo zokhuseleko loluntu olusebenzisa izithuthi zikawonke-wonke kunye nabahambi ngeenyawo.

IVictoria Bay: 1 & 2 Januwari 2023: 07:00 – 18:00

Ukukhwela:

Zonke izithuthi zikawonke-wonke (iiteksi kunye neebhasi): Kuphawu lokumisa olusekhohlo kwindawo yokumisa izithuthi ephezulu xa ungena eVictoria Bay.

Izithuthi zabucala: Kwisangqa sokwehla-ukhwelise kwisango elilawulwa yibhum, ade amagosa anike eminye imiyalelo.

Ukwehlisa: Kwisangqa sokwehla-ukhwelise kwisango elilawulwa yibhum, ade amagosa anike eminye imiyalelo.

Herold’s Bay: 1 & 2 Januwari 2023: 06:00 – 18:00

Iindawo zokuLahla kunye nokuHamba / zokuQokelelwa zikwindawo yokutyela yeKharavani kwaye ngasekhohlo kwendawo yokuGcina uLuntu.

Akukho ziThuthi zoThutho lukaWonke-wonke kuquka iiteksi neebhasi ezivumelekileyo ukuba zipake kwindawo yokupaka ejongene nolwandle.

Abaqhubi nabo bavumelekile ukuba bapake kwincam yendlela i-R404 engena kunxweme lolwandle ukuba ngaba baphumile ngokupheleleyo endleleni kwaye ababangeli mqobo.

Wilderness Beach: 1 & 2 Januwari 2023: 07:00 – 18:00

Zonke iZithuthi zoThutho lukaWonke-wonke kuquka iiteksi neebhasi: I-Wilderness Common Drop kunye ne-Go/Ndawo yokuqokelelwa

Izithuthi zabucala, abaDala kunye nabakhubazekileyo KUPHELA: I-Salina’s Drop and Go

Imephu ilivo:

Iintolo ezityheli(Yellow) zibonisa iindawo zokuPaka.

Iintolo ezimfusa (Purple) zibonisa uFikelelo eLwandle

Iinkwenkwezi eziBomvu(Red) zibonisa Indawo yabaKhuseli bokuphila

Unxantathu obomvu. Indawo / Ufikelelo luvaliwe.

Utolo oluluhlaza(Green) lubonisa UKULAHLA kunye ne-HAMBA kuluntu kunye naBakhulileyo nabaKhubazekileyo.

Utolo oluBlue lubonisa ukuLahla kunye nokuya kwiiteksi neebhasi. Amanqaku okuqokelelwa kweeTaxi.

George Municipality holds a daily Festive Monitoring Committee meeting with all directorates which includes external stakeholders such as SAPS, SANparks and NSRI. The committee jumped in and added preparation for the Storm Alert issued last week to the regular agenda about festive safety and service delivery in George as result keeping the damages to a minimum. External stakeholders such as SANPARKS made immediate arrangements to breach the Touws River in advance of any possible flooding in Wilderness.

Stormwater Clearance
Stormwater infrastructure in the usual problematic areas were cleaned days in advance after receipt of the alert and where possible damaged infrastructure was repaired in anticipation of potential flooding. The storm water division has followed a stringent programme of cleaning throughout George and surrounds prior to the festive season starting.

A total of 19 storm water complaints were received and addressed. One stormwater pipeline collapsed in Dormehlsdrift.  It  must be noted that a number of areas have recently had their stormwater networks upgraded using municipal grant funding (MIG) and that these areas had no problems over the past weekend,  highlighting the value of the investment in our neighbourhoods.

George Fire and Disaster Services
The Disaster Centre filled and issued 84 sandbags in preparation of the poor weather with sand supplied by our Civil Engineering Services Directorate. Three additional personnel were added to the Disaster Call Centre to handle the influx of calls and two additional Emergency cellphone numbers were issued for public to make contact with the Disaster Centre. A number of senior officials were tasked with moving around the city during the periods of high rainfall to continuously monitor any potential flooding and report back to the Disaster Centre for action. One motor vehicle accident was reported in the Outeniqua Pass and one informal house fire was addressed on Saturday afternoon.

Traffic control and road closures
CJ Langehoven and Courtney Street were partially closed for a short period on Friday. Traffic officials or pointsmen were placed at the critical busy intersections impacted by flooding on Friday. Additional batteries were placed at critical intersections to accommodate the extended loadshedding periods over the weekend which affected the ability of the UPS’s to recharge. Where a battery could not be added, traffic officials or pointsmen were placed for short periods to resolve traffic flow.

Debris cleanup by Community Services
Community Services teams cleared the CBD of storm debris on Saturday and continue to clear the beaches each morning with some debris visible early this morning. Cleanup generally takes place before 8am of each day.

Formal Housing
A total of 51 requests were received for gunplast in various areas for persons residing in backyards and houses with roof leakages, however in terms our policy in this regard gunplast cannot be distributed to persons living on private property and in  formal housing. Priority was thus given to persons residing in the informal settlements.

Informal Settlements
A total of 113 requests for gunplast was received from the informal areas with 43 pieces issued to date. Human Settlement officials will continue with the distribution of gunplast in the informal areas for the remaining requests.

Power outages due to inclement weather
A power outage in the Herold’s Bay farming area was weather related. Other outages in Heather Park. Blanco, Herold’s Bay beachfront, Oubaai and Breakwater Bay were related to loadshedding.