press-release

The George Municipal Council approved a revised Policy On House Shops And Other Residential-Based Retail Concerns in November 2021. The revised policy establishes sustainable land use management guidelines to allow the operation of house shops or similar micro-enterprises from residential properties, with specific focus given to low-income residential neighbourhoods such as townships, subsidy housing areas, and informal settlement areas – to ensure their short-term economic sustainability while also facilitating the long-term spatial strategy for these neighbourhoods.

The residential business survey conducted by the George Municipality’s Town Planning Department in March 2022 revealed that of the 308 house shops recorded in the George Municipal area, including Blanco. Pacaltsdorp, Thembalethu, Wilderness, Haarlem, and Uniondale, only five (5) are legal in terms of the Town Planning law. This has therefore necessitated a vigorous drive on rectification of illegal house shops in the greater George area.

As part of the rectification process, all owners and/or operators of illegal house shops or 3^rd party retail concerns, including those who have previously been served a notice, will now be granted an amnesty period of 3 months to rectify their operation and avoid the payment of any penalties or fines.

“The amnesty will only be granted if the operator can present proof of the shop’s existence prior to the implementation of the new zoning scheme on 1 September 2017 and accepts the General Conditions of Approval for house shops. The granting of amnesty shall not be construed as an indicator of support for their illegal businesses, or that their application will be approved,” said, Clinton Petersen, the Senior Manager in the George Municipality’s Town Planning Department.”

Petersen confirmed that the Municipality has already commenced the process of issuing notices directly to all unauthorised house shops in George. “The notice that we have issued is a ‘First Notice’, which basically informs and warns the property owner and the house shop operator that they have utilised the land outside the zoning scheme prescripts and without the approval of the municipality. The notice furthermore advises that they must rectify the contraventions (the illegal activity and/or building works) within 30 days of the date of notice being served. The notice will also request the owner/operator to contact and visit the Town Planning department to discuss options in rectifying the contravention,” Petersen said.

If the property owner and/or house shop operator does not adhere to the municipality’s ‘first notice’, the municipality will issue a second notice allowing the owner and/or operator a further 14 days to address the contravention. Should the owner and/or operator adhere to the above-mentioned notices, he/she will be assisted by the Planning department and advised on the requirements of submitting the necessary land use applications. They will also be advised that the submission of such an application does not give them the authority to continue operating the illegal shop and further, that submission of the application does not guarantee that their application will be successful.

Petersen says that the owner and/or operator will then be provided one (1) month to submit the required land use application. “Should the second notice not be adhered to, or the land use application is not be submitted, the matter will be handed over to the Department of Legal Services and Compliance for the instituting of further legal action. The Legal Department will issue a final compliance notice allowing the owner and/or operator a final opportunity (14 days) to address the contravention, failing which, said Department will be instructed to either lay a criminal charge with the SAPS or appoint an attorney to institute civil proceedings against the owner and/or operator,” he added.

The municipality may deviate from the above procedures and institute legal action if the activity and/or structure pose an imminent danger to life or property, or if illicit activities are suspected to be taking place on the property and pose a threat to the health and wellbeing of the community concerned.

The owners can contact the official who issued the notice on the phone number, or the email address provided thereon. They can also visit the offices on the 5th floor, municipal building, 71 York Street. For enquiries, the public can contact our office on Tel: 044 801 9477. They also send an email to town.planning.complaints@george.gov.za to register a service request. There will be a town planner on duty each day to assist with these queries.

Ends.

Vandalism of paving and manhole covers from the roads in Erf 325 East and Metro Grounds Developments areas, that have been serviced for future housing development is raising a huge concern for the Municipality, as it deprives citizens of deserving services.

“The vandalism of the road which is caused by members of the public is self-defeating because the infrastructure that has been built in this future residential area is meant for the development of the community. It also takes away from the public funds. Each destruction robs the community of what they deserve, and it hinders good quality service delivery. The Municipality has also noted that the manhole covers on the Metro grounds are also being vandalised, and this poses a danger to small children and animals,” said Lionel Daniels, acting director for Civil Engineering Services in the George Municipality.

“We plead to the community to assist by reporting these incidents. We implore the public to help us, as it appears that people continue to plunder Municipal property in many parts of the Municipal area. Assessments of the extent of the damages on the road and missing manhole covers is ongoing and it is unfortunate that funding earmarked for new infrastructure, now needs to be allocated for these repairs,” Daniels added.

Vandalism is a crime and ultimately costs ratepayers, money. Vandalism also results in communities being deprived of services. The public is requested to please report people tampering, painting, breaking, or stealing municipal property with the SAPS and George Municipality Law Enforcement (044 801 6350 or 044 801 6300 after hours) as soon as you see it happening. If you can take pictures of the culprits in the act without endangering yourself, it will help a lot. Thank you in advance for helping us protect our infrastructure.

Reward

George Municipality offers a R2500 reward for information that leads to the successful conviction of vandalism in a court of law. The witness will have to go on record to the authorities, giving his/her name and contact details to testify, but his/her identity will be protected. Report to 0860 044 044 to be eligible for the reward.

Ends.

Calling on operators to register to operate a tourism activity at Outeniqua Nature Reserve – Cape Nature applications close 26 August 2022

Issued by George Municipality 12 August 2022 for immediate release

George, Wilderness and Uniondale Tourism encourages tourism industry stakeholders, in particular those that are activity-based operators, to consider and apply for an opportunity being offered by Cape Nature to submit proposals to operate within their reserves.

In George, this opportunity will specifically be within  the Outeniqua Nature Reserve. Joan Shaw, Manager: George, Wilderness and Uniondale Tourism said, “This is a great opportunity for local entrepreneurs operating in the sports or tourism industries to benefit from our magnificent natural outdoor setting.  The Outeniqua Reserve is right on our doorstep – literally at the entrance to George from the Oudtshoorn direction and close to the new Hawthorn Boutique Hotel opening soon.  The area is mostly used for trails – hiking, trail running and mountain biking – as well as the Power Van which utilises the railway track up the mountain.  We encourage entrepreneurs to grab hold of this prospect, as it will benefit not only your potential business, but also the greater community of George, continuing to position George as a sports and tourism destination.”

Please follow the link below to apply- Cape Nature invite activity-based operators to submit proposals to operate in the reserves:

https://www.capenature.co.za/news/2022/concessionaire-opportunities-for-activity-based-operators#msdynttrid=uCQKBxmz9wusFdcC-yYzSOEvftBd8uUlw83j_c4s-20

The closing date for proposals is 26 August 2022 @ 12:00.

Features of the Outeniqua Nature Reserve:  forested areas, mountain peaks, rivers and streams as well as the George and Cradock peaks and part of the Outeniqua Mountains. Rock climbing and many other activities can be considered in the mountainous area. The Outeniqua Nature Reserve is a very scenic area and part of a world heritage site complex. It consists of endemic plants, rare species not found anywhere else, animals and insects such as  leopard, caracal, honey badger, scorpions, spiders and it is an important water conservation area.

For all enquiries about the application process please contact Cape Nature, Nicolette Mouries at 087 087 3022 or email her on tourism@capenature.co.za

Please contact Joan Shaw or Sharon House at George, Wilderness and Uniondale Tourism on 044 801 9295 if you would like to arrange a virtual meeting with representatives from the Outeniqua Nature Reserve

Captions:

DSC pics: Hiking in the Outeniqua Mountains. Photos: Andre Roux

During the July Council meeting, reference was made to expenditure that had been incurred in the January-June 2022 period to prevent occurrences that would adversely affect our citizens. This included R15,4 million to acquire back-up generators to keep key water and wastewater pumping stations operational during periods of loadshedding and R2,8 million to provide uninterrupted power supplies to traffic lights at 40 intersections.

On the other hand, our small law enforcement unit is at full stretch dealing with the effects of cable theft that has become very prevalent across George. In June 2022, there were 101 incidents of cable theft. The costs incurred in these investigations and the repairs are extremely costly.

These incidents are occurring throughout the country with detrimental effects on the economy. National Government has belatedly issued a government gazette draft policy to address the theft of infrastructure metals.

I would like to appeal to our citizens to be on the look-out for any activity that may indicate incidents of tampering, the digging of holes in the vicinity of electrical pylons, streetlights, etc. These incidents should be reported immediately to our 24 hour emergency number, 044-801-6300. The theft of such cables is also being enabled by the purchasers of these materials who are keeping the thieves in business by on-selling stolen goods. Citizens should be reporting such transactions to SAPS.

Improvements in the safety of our communities will receive attention during the present financial year. Additional law enforcement unit officers will be recruited with approximately R12 million to be spent on broadening the existing network of over 600 CCTV cameras across George. It is planned to expand the control room operation monitoring these cameras to a 24-hour operation by the end of 2022. The expansion will also make provision for the introduction of numberplate recognition cameras.

It is vitally important that collaboration with neighbourhood watches is improved to ensure coordination (with law enforcement agencies) and reaction from the control room. In due course, discussions will take place to encourage the business sector and neighbourhood watches to collaborate through the linking up of existing CCTV cameras. Additional cameras that are compatible with the existing operation can also be contributed by these groups to cover more areas across the municipal area.

We continue to experience incidents of illegal electrical connections in informal settlements as well as illegal dumping (R7,5m) that also costs the municipality millions.

It is crucial that all these issues are addressed within community groups (and by church leaders and in schools). Suggestions can be forwarded to: mayor@george.gov.za

The George Municipality wishes to thank the public for a successful open day for hazardous waste held on 29 July 2022 between 08:00 and 15:00 at the Outeniqua Stadium Parking area, on Augusta Street.

A word of gratitude goes to the 150 people who came to turn in hazardous waste as the open day was a resounding success.

The following wase was collected:

• 315 litres of medical waste
• 200 fluorescent tubes / globes
• 10kg of household batteries
• 2 tons of e-waste and
• 1 ton of paint

The next open day will take place on 28 October 2022, the following items are acceptable as hazardous waste:

• Motor oil, oil filters, brake fluid
• Used antifreeze
• Paint, paint thinner, turpentine
• Pesticides or herbicides
• Household batteries
• CRT’s old TVs, miscellaneous electronics, Tyres, Fluorescent tubes, and Globes
• Household medical waste (needles and old medicine and tablets)

The following items are not acceptable as hazardous waste:  

• Explosives – Ammunition
• Radioactive Materials
• Controlled Substances

Remember to bring the items you wish to dispose of in a strong box preferably in their original, labelled containers and do not mix products. For further enquiries please contact the George Municipality’s environmental services on 044 802 2900.

Ends.

 Buses rerouted during road upgrades in CJ Langenhoven Road

Issued Friday 5 August 2022

Planned construction activities on CJ Langenhoven Road during August and September 2022 will have an impact on GO GEORGE services. Hospital staff and visitors to George Hospital and Geneva Clinic will be impacted, amongst other bus users. Construction will commence on Thursday, 11 August.

The section to be upgraded is between George Hospital and York Street, with one lane open in each direction, allowing access to road users along this section of road. Since traffic congestion is expected, it was decided to reroute Route 2 Blanco-CBD via Davidson Street on its way from Blanco to the CBD. The rerouting will be from the hospital circle to the York Street circle, where the route will run along York Street and turn left into Hibernia Street on its normal route to the Transport Hub in Cradock Street.

Affected bus stops

Bus stop 346 Sports Club on the hospital side of the street behind George Hospital will be closed temporarily. Passengers who usually board the bus at this stop are advised to use stop 143 Hospital in Davidson Road.

The other two bus stops that will be closed temporarily are 144 Herrie and 587 Palm. Passengers disembarking at these stops will now be deviated via Davidson and York Streets to Hibernia Street, and those usually boarding at these stops will now have to board at stop 313 York D in Hibernia Street.

Passengers who need assistance with planning their trips are welcome to phone the GO GEORGE Call Centre on 0800 044 044 or send an email to info@gogeorge.org.za.

CAPTION:

Three bus stops in CJ Langenhoven Road will be closed temporarily during the planned roadworks.

 Busse herlei tydens padopgraderings in CJ Langenhovenweg  

Uitgereik Vrydag 5 Augustus 2022

Beplande konstruksieaktiwiteite in CJ Langenhovenweg gedurende Augustus en September 2022 sal ‘n invloed op GO GEORGE-dienste hê. Hospitaalpersoneel en besoekers aan die George Hospitaal en Geneva-kliniek sal onder meer geraak word. Konstruksiewerk sal op Donderdag 11 Augustus begin.

Die gedeelte van die pad wat opgegradeer moet word, is tussen George Hospitaal en Yorkstraat, met een baan oop in elke rigting, wat toegang tot padgebruikers langs hierdie gedeelte van die pad toelaat. Aangesien verkeersopeenhopings verwag word, is daar besluit om Roete 2 Blanco-CBD via Davidsonstraat te herlei in die rigting van Blanco na die middedorp. Die herleiding sal strek van die hospitaalsirkel tot by die Yorkstraat-sirkel, waar die roete in Yorkstraat sal indraai en dan weer links in Hiberniastraat op sy normale roete na die Vervoerkern (Hub) in Cradockstraat.

Bushaltes wat geraak word

Bushalte 346 Sports Club aan die hospitaalkant van die straat agter die George-hospitaal sal tydelik gesluit word. Passasiers wat gewoonlik by hierdie halte op die bus klim, word aangeraai om die 143 Hospital-halte in Davidsonweg te gebruik.

Die ander twee bushaltes wat tydelik gesluit word, is 144 Herrie en 587 Palm. Passasiers wat gewoonlik by hierdie haltes afklim, sal nou via Davidson- en Yorkstraat na Hiberniastraat herlei word, en diegene wat gewoonlik by hierdie haltes opklim, sal nou by die 313 York D-halte in Hiberniastraat aan boord moet gaan.

Passasiers wat hulp nodig het met die beplanning van hul ritte is welkom om die GO GEORGE-inbelsentrum by 0800 044 044 te skakel of ‘n e-pos aan info@gogeorge.org.za te stuur.

ONDERSKRIF:

Drie bushaltes in CJ Langenhovenweg sal tydelik gesluit word tydens die konstruksietydperk.

The George Municipality’s Civil Engineering Department successfully and meticulously executed a five-day emergency repair work into the Eden Sewage Pump Station.

The executive mayor of George, Alderman Leon van Wyk commended the team for their success. “I would like to congratulate the team for painstakingly repairing the pump station. The pump station was experiencing frequent and costly breakdowns, and this threatened the integrity of the sewage system it serves. We can safely say that the emergency repair work was completed excellently and I’m happy to confirm that the pumps are up and running again.”

According to Deon de Jager, Deputy Director for water and sanitation in the George Municipality, one of the isolating valves on the delivery manifold of the sewer pump station failed, therefore the Municipality had to cut in a new isolating valve on the sewer rising main outside the pump station to isolate the effluent inside the sewer rising main to enable us to replace the isolating valve on the pump station delivery manifold.

“The emergency work was completed from Saturday 23 July to the morning of 28 July at 5h30, with the most important part taking place on Wednesday night 27 July, from 08h00 to the morning of 28 July 2022 at 05h30,” de Jager said.

“All work was completed, but the emergency has been minimised with two duty pumps available to pump sewage from the Eden Pump Station.”

The work was completed with no incidents, and the raising-main (pump-line) is operational with 2 x pumps available to pump into the rising main that can now be isolated for emergency and maintenance purposes.

Stakeholders involved include George Municipality which managed the sewage sumps with honey-suckers and Fire Department provided lighting. The replacement of valves inside the pump station was done by Coastal Armatures, meanwhile, Hidro -Tech / Rudcor – Manufacturing specialists assisted with cutting in a T-Piece and isolating valve on the rising main and constructing emergency overflow. IX Engineers and Sharples Environmental assisted the Municipality with the facilitation of the emergency works.  Other stakeholders assisting the Municipality on the legal and compliance side included the Department of Environmental Affairs and Development Planning (DEADP) and Breede Gouritz Catchment Management Agency (BGCMA).

Mayor van Wyk also thanked residents of the affected areas. “I would also like to thank the residents of Eden, Denver Park and Loerie Park for heeding our call to use water sparingly and limit water discharge into the sewer network.”

Ends.

George Municipality has as landowner, on 2 August 2022, addressed the illegal land invasion of Erf 125/1, a portion of land which is located outside the urban edge of Touwsranten. The illegal occupation of this portion of land took place in September 2020. An interdict was issued by the court and was served on the illegal occupants in November 2021, giving 90 calendar days to vacate the property.

ERF 125/1 is an environmentally sensitive area with falls within the SANParks buffer area. The illegal settlement encroaches on water courses, critical biodiversity areas and on ecological support areas and is not earmarked for future housing developments. The eviction order was executed by the Sheriff of the Court assisted by Public Order Police, Municipal Traffic and Law Enforcement Officials.

The illegal structures, approximately 219 have been demolished and the “building” materials removed have been stored at a temporary site with security for a limited period, as per the court order. Measures have been taken to assist vulnerable individuals as defined by the Prevention of Illegal Eviction from and Unlawful Occupation of Land Act, 1998.

As per the court order, the unlawful occupiers have been given an opportunity to either check their registration on the housing database, or to register, should they qualify. Municipal officials from the Human Settlements division were on hand to assist with such registration.

Construction of two new traffic circles in York Street starting shortly will impact road users, including the GO GEORGE bus service.

Work on the planned circles on the section of road between the Hope Street circle and the George Link bus depot, near Mount View Resort, will start on the 5^th of August if all goes according to plan, and will last until at least the end of the year. The circles are required to accommodate the additional traffic which is expected to be generated by proposed developments in the area and are funded by private stakeholders.

According to Morné Lakay, acting GO GEORGE Manager, no rerouting of buses is being planned. “Since the project will be executed with one lane open at all times, we will be able to keep our Pacaltsdorp buses on route, but passengers will unfortunately have to prepare for delays, especially during peak times,” he said. “For this reason, we encourage passengers to take an earlier bus than usual, to still reach work and school on time. We apologise for the inconvenience but trust that everybody will find a way to plan around the delays which are out of our control.”

Affected bus stops

The two Skatelab bus stops close to the George Link bus depot will be closed during the construction period, with passengers normally using these stops being requested to use their closest alternative stop in the area. Stop Hope 112 between the Mount View entrance and the Hope Street circle will temporarily be moved to the bridge side of the circle for passengers’ convenience.

Passengers who need assistance with planning their trips are welcome to phone the GO GEORGE Call Centre on 0800 044 044 or send an email to info@gogeorge.org.za.

Following a recent discussion with some citizens about the new electricity tariff structure that was introduced from 1 July 2022, I believe it is useful to provide the following explanation.

George is one of the last municipalities to shift over to the separation of fixed and energy charges for electricity as required by NERSA. The principle being applied is that there needs to be a recovery (in the form of a fixed charge) for the operational and maintenance costs relating to the fixed network infrastructure owned by the municipality valued at R2,5 billion. This network comprises the transformers, substations, powerlines, etc.  This makes up the distribution network that delivers energy to households and businesses. Each consumer has a different capacity requirement depending on their specific needs and usage patterns.

Due to the tariff changes, all customers had to be placed in a certain capacity. The Municipality has used the historical kWh usage patterns to determine this capacity. Although this is not a definitive factor to determine the capacity required it is the most realistic data available.  If the actual installed capacity were to be applied, the majority of consumers would be on 60 Amps which would expose consumers to a fixed charge of more than R350 per month.  That is why consumers are requested to make the selection themselves or remain with the capacity selected by the municipality based on historical consumption.

In this way, domestic consumers using less than an average of 600 units (Kilowatt Hours) monthly (approximately 75% of domestic users) are placed on a 20 Amp capacity. If they manage their load well, they should be able to function on this capacity. A 20 Amp supply is equal to 4.6 kW.  There are on average 730 hours in a month which means if used continuously more than 3300 kWh can be consumed per month.  A consumer using 600 units per month therefore only uses about 18% of the capacity of the supply.

If a consumer is able to manage with 20 Amp capacity, they will only pay an all-inclusive tariff (240 cents/unit plus VAT) without the additional basic or capacity charge. A consumer using more than 600 units may require 30-40 Amp capacity depending on their usage patterns. The capacity needed is determined by different appliances being used simultaneously. A geyser would require 15-16 Amps while water is being heated, while hairdryers could use 7-8 Amps. Other appliances such as kettles, toasters, ovens or tumble-dryers would require capacities between these ranges.

The capacity charge has been introduced for those domestic consumers using more than a 20 Amp capacity. There will be a lower energy charge of 208 cents (plus VAT) for users paying fixed and capacity charges.

Consumers should call 044 801 9243 during office hours (with account and meter numbers at hand) to select their Amp capacity or email their request to elec.applications@george.gov.za

George Tourism is thrilled to announce that George has been nominated as Best Dorpie by the Kfm 94.5 #bestofthecapeawards together with Best Hotel: Views Boutique Hotel and Spa and
Best Pet Friendly Eatery: The Marshmellow Garden Café and Best Tourism Attraction: Redberry Farm.

“George is becoming increasingly popular as a family holiday destination and holiday makers and residents are appreciating the quality of service and the value that they receive from our top-class tourism businesses.  We encourage every user of these properties to please vote for them, so that George can take its rightful place as an excellent, value for money destination on the Western Cape, and South African stage,” said Joan Shaw, George Tourism Manager.

The best Tourist Attraction – Redberry Farm  has been nominated https://kfm.co.za/bestofthecape/categories/best-tourist-attraction

The Cape’s Best Hotel – Views Boutique Hotel & Spa has been nominated https://kfm.co.za/bestofthecape/categories/best-hotel

Best Dorpie – the town of George is a nominated https://kfm.co.za/bestofthecape/categories/best-dorpie

Best Pet Friendly Eatery – The Marshmallow Garden Café https://kfm.co.za/bestofthecape/categories/best-pet-friendly-eatery

Portfolio Councillor for Finance and Strategic Services, Dirk Wessels was delighted with the nominations and warmly congratulated all for getting this far ! “I am seeing how consistent efforts by our tourism department are reaping rewards, with more people wanting to visit George to attend more events, conferences, and activities than ever before.  With the added benefit of the Kfm94.5 and other media exposure, we are looking forward to reaching pre-COVID numbers by this summer holiday season and then growing our destination from strength to strength into the years beyond,” he said.PLEASE vote for George and our fellow George nominees on the #KFM website:  https://kfm.co.za/bestofthecape/

Voting closes on 3 August AND everyone who votes will be entered into KFM’s lucky draw to win your share of R10 000!

#BestOfTheCape #KfmBestoftheCape#George#TourismGeorge #ViewsHotel #Wilderness #GardenRoute #Winter #ViewsWelllnessEmporium #WellnessWednesday #WinterWellness
#fullbody #massage#LovingWhatsLocal #LocalIsLekker#WePromoteGluttony#redberryfarm#strawberry #thegiantstrawberry #fun #smile #happy #adventure #pictures #big #huge
#strawberries #berry #berries #holiday #landmark #new #george #gardenroute #tourism #southafrica #adventure #explore #blessed #explorer

George, Garden Route (July 2022) – Father, spouse, actuarial analyst, professional para-athlete, motivational speaker – meet Pieter du Preez, and find out how your business can be part of the fun!

Electric anticipation reigns in the inner sanctums of Outeniqua Chair Challenge (OCC) participants and organisers, many months into the planning of this year’s event – the largest wheelchair affair of its kind in Africa.

As usual, Carpe Diem School serves as start and finish hub for a 5km fun event and races over various distances on Saturday October 15. Routes include a 42.2km marathon and 21.1km half-marathon, as well as 10km and 5km races. Carpe Diem also facilitates pre-registration and an official opening function on Friday the 14th.

After two years during which Covid 19 prevented hosting of the OCC, excitement about its 19th edition is palpable. Not only does this George institution attract participants from all over SA, but also athletes from neighbouring countries such as Zimbabwe, Namibia, and even Ghana.

Pieter du Preez is an OCC mainstay, having attended every event since 2005 – except when he had to participate in the UCI Para-cycling world championships at the same time in 2019.

And a world champ is Pieter indeed: he was the only South African Paralympic athlete who won a medal for his country in the wheelchair division. And he’s particularly pumped up for his 16th experience of OCC camaraderie.

People inspire
Pieter says his family, his faith, fellow disabled folk, and many a sports hero have motivated him over the years. “Of course there’s also my will to win. But people in general remain my biggest incentive.

“I might inspire strangers who cross my path. They often mention this fact and usually offer some form of assistance. In turn, their feedback and helpfulness motivate me to live fully, because of the positive impact it has on others.”

Pieter believes that you don’t need to be a superhero to inspire – just be a normal person with a smile. “Even a simple thing like a smile can make someone’s day and motivate others.”

George rocks!
Pieter says that apart from George being a beautiful town to visit, he greatly admires its residents and local leadership for their willingness to host this unique event annually, to the benefit of hundreds of differently-abled participants.

“Us professional athletes constitute but a minor part of the OCC machine. The enjoyment experienced by participants in all other categories is immeasurable. Few will be able to fully understand what this opportunity – being part of something so immense – means to every participant.

“It’s always a joy to see George locals presenting a united front, and jumping in to assist. Some help to push participants who can’t get along on their own steam, and many others encourage us along the way. The patience of motorists as we take over the streets on

OCC Saturday speaks volumes about this special George community.
“We as participants are eternally grateful for this privilege we only get in George, but unfortunately nowhere else in our country. For many disabled athletes, the OCC paves the way to a Para-Olympic podium… from the horse’s mouth! Thank you, George.”

Covid-19 impact
In the run-up to the last OCC, held in 2019, Pieter was looking forward to a possible English Channel swim, and to complete a sub-12 hour Ironman. Do those goals still apply, now that C19 has given us a little bit of leeway?

“It’s wonderful that our post-C19 world has started to move a little once again. I will continue to pursue those two challenges – if life allows. The reality is that I’m going blind, so C19 has robbed me of valuable sight time.”

Pieter says he is focusing on Paris 2024, depending on his eyesight and general health: he broke his shoulder and tore ligaments in August 2020, when he went to collect his son from school and suffered a terrible fall from his chair.

“Life happens, and I’ll have to see how my shoulders and body will brave the road ahead. There will always be dreams to realise and, God willing, a sub-12 IM and English Channel swim remain long-term goals.

“But the most important thing is that we spread positive vibes en route to our destination. If we have to adapt along the way, then we’ll do just that.”

Boost your business
OCC organisers have added a special category that enables businesses to get involved: for only R3000 you can enter someone from your company in the fun run. Just provide the wheelchair and a team to push it along the 5km route.

Use this excellent opportunity to market your business with banners and brochures at the Carpe Diem School race centre, while at the same time supporting people in wheelchairs.

Visit www.onlines.co.za for pre-registration and contact Alewijn Dippenaar on 082 457 5675 or dyndev@mweb.co.za with enquiries. The OCC once again enjoys generous support from George Municipality

George Municipality Civil Engineering Services opened their hearts to the Phambili Women’s Shelter in Rosemoor for Mandela Day

#GMunMandelaDay2022

George Municipality Civil Engineering Services opened their hearts this past Mandela Day to the Phambili Women’s Shelter in Rosemoor, which provides a safe shelter for battered women and children. The Civil Engineering Directorate donated much needed items to the organisation including toiletries, blankets, clothing and toys.

At the handover are from left,  Jackie Pyler (Civil Engineering Services), Teresa Barnard (Civil Engineering Services), Alicia Johnson (Matron at Phambili Women’s Shelter) and  Eloise Pedro (Employee at Phambili Women’s Shelter).

Mandela Day activities for the George Municipality, were led by the Executive Mayor, Ald Leon Van Wyk, and members of the Mayoral Committee when they donated several items to the Phambili Women’s Refuse. The items were officially handed over to a thrilled Acting Manager Ms. Colleen Stoffels and on-site Social Worker Ms. Karen Arendse. Ms Stoffels noted that the contribution and will go a long way in providing meals and other needs for the women and children who currently occupy the shelter. Located in Rosemoor, Phambili Women’s Refuge provides shelter for women and children who have been subjected to gender-based violence.

Mayor Van Wyk implores all residents to do their part in commemorating Mandela Day and stated that communities need to support establishments such as Phambili Women’s Refuge so that we can ensure that those who are vulnerable are able to access help and can do so in a dignified way.

Office of the Municipal Manager
Dr Michele Gratz, Municipal Manager was heartened by the efforts of the various directorates noting that every little bit helps in some way. “There are so many needy organisations out there and to me it is important that our officials are actively involved within the communities they live and work in. No contribution is ever too small, as every little thing makes a difference in a person or animal’s life. Our officials will continue to build on their 67 minutes for Monday, Mandela Day with their committed and diligent service to the residents of George.”

Officials from the Office of the MM donated items to the SPCA charity shop. This charity shop located in the CBD and functions as not only an important fund-raiser for the SPCA, but also enables the community to buy quality second hand clothing, kitchen items, toys and books at reasonable prices.

Worker’s Collection Point
36 men waiting for a job at the Workers’ Collection Point situated on Industrial Avenue in George, were surprised with a cup of soup and bread thanks to two officials of the George Municipality’s Economic Development, Rosina Munroe and Amy Kearns. The Workers’ Collection Point is a central point for private individuals and businesses who wish to collect workers who have registered with the facility.

Disaster and Emergency Services
George Municipality Disaster and Emergency Services hoisted a banner in remembrance of the late President Nelson Mandela in front of the George Fire Station on Monday, 18 July 2022.

Building control and Planning
Officials in the Building Control section of the Development and Planning Directorate opened their hearts and donated soup packets to four soup kitchens in the areas of Thembalethu, Pacaltsdorp, Parkdene and Rosemoore. The soup ingredients that the officials donated to the soup kitchens are 2x 3kg carrots, 2x 3kg potatoes, 2x 2.5kg Butternut, 2x 3kg onions, 1x 2kg Rice, 2x box soya mince, 2x soup mix, 3x spaghetti, 6x soup powder and 2x beef/chicken stock.

Internal audit and Risk
George Municipality’s Internal Audit and Risk Management offices visited the SPCA in Pacaltsdorp for their 67 minutes of goodwill. The group took with them four big bags of dog food, one small bag and some toys and accessories for the dogs. They also spoiled the workers at SPCA with some biscuits. After handing over the gifts, the officials walked around the dog area and played with the dogs in their cages. According to Barbara Madolo, one of the officials at Internal Audit, they have enjoyed the visit very much and loved spoiling the dogs.

Civil Engineering Services
The Civil Engineering Services Directorate chose to support the Rosemoor House for Battered Women and Children. They have collected clothes, toiletries, toys and food for delivery on Friday.

Community Services
Officials donated blankets and dog food to the SPCA on Mandela Day and other officials got their hands dirty and helped the cleansing teams in Blanco to clean up the litter in the area.

Finance
Finance officials donated blankets and dog food to the People’s dispensary for sick animals in Rosemoor as well as food and toys to Kingdom Kids Creche located in Blanco.

Corporate Services – Human Resources, Social Services and Uniondale
The Corporate services and HR management team all contributed towards food parcels and blankets that were delivered to Parkdene Creche and  Golden Valley creche in Blanco.  The Social Services division cleaned the house and garden of a senior citizen in Thembalethu and later held a soup drive for the People living on the Streets.  Officials in Uniondale representing all of the directorates in George, jointly organized a soup drive for children and adults in the community as well as a paint drive to update refuse bins and a clean-up in the community.

The newly established Ward Committees for George consisting of 274 ward committee members from 28 wards are undergoing an induction into the council and their responsibilities in a series of orientation and training sessions throughout the greater George.  The first induction session was held at the George Civic Centre on Thursday, 7 July 2022.

According to Dr Kosie Haarhoff, the deputy director for George Municipality’s Strategic Growth and Development, the George Municipality concluded the process of the Ward Committee’s establishment in February this year and the immediate expectation is to ensure that they are functional and effective in discharging their roles and responsibilities.  “The legislation for Local Government obliges municipalities to provide support to the ward committees and to build their capacity.  However, the form of this support and the institutional and financial investment is at the discretion of the municipality. To be effective ward committee members must know and understand their work environment, it is therefore imperative that ward committees are capacitated to fulfil their roles democratically,” said Dr Haarhoff.

“The latter must be preceded by a comprehensive induction and training programme aimed at empowering Ward Committees to ensure their meaningful participation in municipal affairs. The induction will capacitate ward committee members in that they will have a better understanding of the municipal operational environment and their role within a democratic environment. Furthermore, ward committee members would get a better understanding of the intergovernmental framework, budget and resource allocation and community development,” he added.

Speaker Snyman pledges his support to Ward Committees

Addressing the ward committees, the Speaker of the Council, councillor Sean Snyman, assured the ward committee members that as the custodian for ward committees he will ensure that everything in the ward committees runs smoothly as he must do so, “I, as the speaker of George, am responsible to ensure that all in our Council and administration must be exercised fairly; and as a democratic government, the people must rule and drive the Council, now this is where you come in as the ward committees,” Speaker Snyman said.

“The projects that are taking place in your wards, there are rules and regulations, everything that happens in the administration of the Municipality has rules and regulations, from the Ward Committee funds to the way committees are dealt with and how the stuff gets to the Council,” Cllr. Snyman added.

Speaker Snyman furthermore offered his confidence to ward committees to play a supervisory role to hold councillors accountable for their duties and institute discipline when deemed necessary. “I’m the one that has to keep your councillors accountable, so if there are any issues needing my attention, such as councillors not fulfilling their duties and responsibilities towards you and your wards, it is your responsibility to bring those problems to my attention so that we can investigate, and take the necessary action,” Snyman added.

‘Take up your places as ward committees,’ says Deputy Executive Mayor Figland

The deputy executive mayor of George, councillor Raybin Figland was assigned the role of welcoming the ward committees during the induction. In his opening remarks, councillor Figland thanked the ward committees for availing themselves to serve their communities. “This is your municipality, I’m glad to hear that the speaker is saying you need to keep your councillors accountable, you voted for them, and they are accountable to you, not the other way round,” Figland said.

“You are the representatives of your community, take up your places and responsibility as you represent your respective geographical areas and sectors such as youth, sport, safety, arts & culture, business et cetera. From here until the next election, it will be your responsibility to fight for your wards to ensure that there is proper public participation when this municipality deals with the municipal budget and the integrated development plan, among others. You ought to be positive brands and ambassadors for your wards,” Figland added.

What the induction entails

The first induction was held at the George Civic Centre on Thursday, 7 July 2022. The Ward Committees were orientated about the Municipality’s directorates. Directors introduced their portfolio councillors, presented their directorates’ organisational structures, their responsibilities, and the core business and gave an overview of their annual budgets.

Other induction sessions took place on Wednesday, 13 July 2022 at the George Civic Centre and Conville Community Hall as well as on Thursday, 14 July 2022 at the Thembalethu Community Hall and Pacaltsdorp covered training in the following areas:

• Functions of Local/Provincial and National Government
• Legislation on Public Participation and Ward Committees
• Roles and responsibilities of the Speaker, Ward Councillor, Ward Committees and the Community
• Ward Committee Meetings
• Code of Conduct
• Overview of the IDP and the role of Ward Committees in the IDP Process.

Following the induction sessions, the Ward Committee start their work that among other duties including monthly and quarterly meetings, know your ward committee campaign, attendance of formal and scheduled community- and sector report back meetings, assisting the municipality in service delivery improvement, overseeing development projects emerging from IDP/Ward Based Integrated Development Plan and attend and influence municipal budget meetings and processes.

Ends.

The Yeboneers, a youth development organisation, in partnership with the George Libraries conducted school holiday programmes at libraries in George, through indigenous games and story hour for the youth and children to assist them in spending their school holidays constructively.

YearBeyond, or YeBo, is a Youth Service partnership between the Western Cape Government, The Community Chest of the Western Cape, the Michael and Susan Dell Foundation and numerous NGOs. It aims to provide 18 to 25-year-olds with meaningful work experience and a pathway to further studies or work while at the same time encouraging a culture of active citizenship and volunteerism.

Fifty-five (55) Yeboneers are placed at nine (9) libraries in the George area. The nine libraries are: George, Conville, Pacaltsdorp, Thembalethu, Blanco, Touwsranten, Waboomskraal, Uniondale and Haarlem. Their main duties are to advocate reading and libraries as fun, recreational, educational, and cultural event, and places.

They are here to make sure that the literacy and numeracy skills of especially the young are addressed and improved (by the 2030 National Development Plan). They do this using the 1000 stories Library project.

The holiday programmes were also targeted at some creches for both, indigenous games, and the reading hour. The following are statistics of participation in the holiday programme from some of the libraries including creches.

Story Hours at Blanco Library

• Moreson Creche 96
• Golden Valley Creche 225
• Born To Win Creche 156
• Blanco Creche 344

Total= 725

The following are statistics of attendance of indigenous games for the past week:

• Monday 60
• Tuesday 53
• Wednesday 54
• Thursday 65
• Friday 63

Total= 295 children

An overall Total = of 1020 children participated in the holiday programmes in Blanco.

In Waboomskraal, participation in the holiday programmes is as follows:

• Franken Primary 179 children
• Herold Primary 40 children

Total= 219 children

In Thembalethu, children participated in the holiday programmes as follows:

• Thembalethu Primary School 1224
• Tyolorha Primary School 104
• Masizakhe Creche 36
• Thandi’s Day Care 37
• Ndiviwe Educare Creche 62
• Monica Soup Kitchen 14

The holiday club was attended as follows, in Thembalethu in terms of day for indigenous games:

• Monday 35
• Tuesday 60
• Wednesday 72
• Friday 43

Ends.